Entrepreneur | Panache Vue' Magazine - North Pinellas/Pasco

Gene McDonald – Green Interior Artist Extraordinaire

April 16, 2012 By Nina Stanley

Gene McDonald - Photo: Lisa Sibley

PV: Why did you choose this business or line of work?
Gene: I love art and woodworking, especially fixing things.

PV: What is your primary role or duty in your company?
Gene: ALL phases, mainly project management and researching design trends.

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
Gene: I personalize kitchens, baths and furniture. While many sell the most popular, I tend to attract those who want something which is not as popular. Recycled Glass, precious stone slab, and Paperstone; My own blend of Crystal top that customers can put whatever they want into the tops as well as backlight.

PV: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?
Gene: Helping people who need a chance in life, I don’t like to give hungry people fish too much; I’m one of those who would rather teach them how to fish.

PV: What do you do for fun?
Gene: WORK and Dance!

PV: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?
Gene: Personally it is my mom who passed away too young of Leukemia. I can actually feel my heart swell up as if she says, Keep doing the next right thing. She always told me to be kind, but not a doormat and make as many friends as possible (she would have loved Facebook). Professionally I want to always be able to give back, many of my heroes in Tampa Bay give back. They welcomed me to help out even though I did not have much money, I was able to offer my hands, my smile, my countertop scraps, and my shop to help inspire the Children of CASA, Boys and Girls Clubs and countless others. It feels like my Mom swells up my heart when I am around these people…It’s my own personal awesomistic feeling. I love life like crazy!

PV: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!
Gene: I don’t drink alcohol, I don’t do Drugs, I don’t smoke Cigarettes and I love Hardcore Thrash Punk rock as well as Motown music. People always think I am on something because I enjoy wherever I am at. They spend big money on booze to act like me…LOL

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
Gene: Personal~ you cannot make a plant grow by pulling on it! Professional~ you cannot discover new oceans unless you have courage to lose sight of the shore.

PV: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
Gene: Bruce Lee and a cartoonist

PV: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
Gene: Yes, I am so glad I didn’t sign a contract because I achieved that dream 5 years ago. I am also grateful for all the friends and business I got. I feel that if my life doesn’t get any better than it is right now. I am ok with that. But I am Gene, Gene the dancing machine. Life is getting better by the minute…

About the President

Gene McDonald, President of Refresh Interiors Inc., is an active member of the Tampa Bay U.S. Green Building Council Chapter, the Florida Green Building Coalition, and the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA). As a countertop fabricator specializing in green products, McDonald has worked on many LEED-certified projects in the area. He has recently earned Master Fabricator status from Vetrazzo Recycled Glass Surfaces, a status reserved for fabricators who have fabricated 50 Vetrazzo jobs that have demonstrated superior craftsmanship. Since then McDonald has quadrupled that number! He also won the International Surface Design Expo’s Best Commercial Application Award in 2006 for his illuminated cobalt glass bar. In 2009, he won the Best Green Residential Kitchen award. He also won Best Green Small Application for his recycled paper toilet seat that glows in the dark. His top employee Hugh Simon won the Best Green Kitchen in 2010 and Best Design in Green Application in 2011. The newest edition of the Refresh Family, to lead the cabinet division is Chris Kessler. Master Cabinetmaker. Gene McDonald has spoken at The National Association of Home Builders and numerous Green Expos from Orlando to Las Vegas. Gene McDonald is proud to be what some call a Green Interior Artist. He shares his green projects with the world to smash the misconception that green design is bland and boring. His very own creation called Crystal Top was used in the upcoming film Step Up 4 from Touchstone Pictures.

Filed Under: 2012, 2012, April 2012 - South Tampa, April 2012 – Tampa Bay, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - ST, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Artist, Bars, Bathroom, Counters, Countertop Fabricator, Designer, Entrepreneur, Features, Gene McDonald, Green, Green Interior Artist, Kitchen, Master Fabricator, Recycled, Recycled Glass, Refresh Interiors Inc, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Commitment, Pride & Experience – S.T. Anthony Contracting

March 18, 2012 By Nina Stanley

Julia Anthony, Benjamin Anthony, and Stephen T. Anthony - Photo: Nicole Geller

Steven T. Anthony literally has business in his blood having grown up spending his summers working with his father who is a general contractor and his uncle, a custom home builder. In the summer of 1997, he decided to branch out by starting S.T. Anthony Contracting, Inc., a full service home improvement and building company based in the Tampa Bay Area.

He chose this business because of a fascination with the process of transforming something that is considered at the end of its usefulness into a thing of beauty and ready for people to enjoy. It was a natural fit for him to carry on the family business while helping people improve their homes through providing quality construction services. With the economy the way it is today, clients are happy with the affordability of their services.

The difference from other contractors and their competition is that Steven has a strong desire to provide his lifelong expertise with a high level of professionalism during the build/remodel process. They strive to make the customers home improvement project experience a pleasant one without the worries that may occur when beginning a renovation or improvement project. It is his priority to be present on every job site and to personally lead the project.

In five years, it is the hope that the company be recognized, respected and trusted in the South Tampa community as well as continually developing their reputation for high quality home improvements and superior service. They want to be the first one a client thinks of as a referral to a future customer. In the long run like any other successful business, being able to employ and serve more customers is a goal.

Steven volunteered recently alongside other general contractors using donated construction materials to assist a homeowner who would not have been able to do necessary repairs. Giving back is a big part of their business. The company belongs to Tampa Bay Business Builders and the Better Business Bureau.

The success of the business is a direct result of the planning and dedication that their family puts into ensuring that each of their clients has a positive, memorable experience working with us. He is married to his childhood sweetheart and biggest fan, Julia, and is father to son, Benjamin. Also in the family are two ShihTzus, Max and Bailey.

Filed Under: 2012, 2012, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - ST, Feature - South Tampa, March 2012 - South Tampa, March 2012 – Tampa Bay, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Construction, Entrepreneur, Features, General Contractor, Home, Home Improvement, S.T. Anthony Contracting, South Tampa, Steven T. Anthony, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Patient Satisfaction – Florida Joint Care Institute

March 18, 2012 By Nina Stanley

Henry William Hanff, MD; Jennifer Lynne Cooke, MD; and Stephen Anthony Hanff, MD

In November 2011, Florida Joint Care Institute was cofounded by Henry William Hanff, M.D., Jennifer Lynne Cook, M.D. and Stephen Anthony Hanff, M.D. Among the three, they have a combined experience approaching 50 years. Together they are committed to providing exceptional orthopaedic care to the community in an efficient and compassionate manner. They bring with them a diverse and comprehensive knowledge of bone and joint pathology to deliver gold standard care that is unrivaled. They have affirmed their commitment to their vocation by building their new state of the art facility in Trinity.

Although the partners have diverse backgrounds, they unite with the one common goal to provide comprehensive and unparalleled orthopaedic care. Dr. Henry Hanff has been serving the community as an orthopaedic surgeon since 1973. He started working in an operating room as an orderly at age 17 and never looked back. The depth of his experience with joint replacement is unparalleled. Having performed more than 8,000 joint replacements, he brings a practical fund of knowledge to the group that is invaluable. He also is a world-renowned lecturer in fracture care as faculty for the AO foundation and travels to Europe every year to teach surgeons from around the world.

Dr. Jennifer Cook has been practicing in the community since 2006 and has already made tremendous contributions. After completing both her medical and orthopaedic training at M.I.T. and Harvard, she spent an additional year at the Insall Scott Kelly Institute in New York where she mastered knee and shoulder reconstructive surgery. She is also an expert in fracture care as an alumnus of the AO Foundation. Here in the community she has volunteered her expertise at the Good Samaritan Health Clinic of Pasco and has poured her heart and soul into the organization WOGO that she cofounded. WOGO, or Women Orthopaedist Global Outreach Program, is a nonprofit organization that performs joint reconstructive surgery in third world countries. Having recently performed dozens of knee replacements in Nepal and Guatemala sets her apart as a true humanitarian.

Dr. Stephen Hanff has been in practice for nearly three years after completing five years of orthopaedic residency at the University of Florida. There he had the privilege to work with some of the finest surgeons for the Gators, and additionally focused his time mastering joint replacement and revision reconstruction. As an alumnus of the AO Foundation, he brings a level of expertise in fracture care to a community beset with fractures secondary to osteoporosis. Having been born and reared in the community, he is privileged to live here with his wife and two daughters to serve those who shaped and inspired him.

They stand apart from the rest by being able to provide necessary comprehensive joint care within the community. In addition to offering a wide array of orthopaedic services including fracture care, sports medicine, arthroscopy and joint replacement, they routinely perform revision joint replacements and complex deformity reconstructions. With a growing need for revision reconstruction in the community, they look forward to address the problems the community will face in the future.

Their new facility in Trinity was built to meet these growing needs. A new and beautiful state of the art building with over 13,000 sq ft provides the serene atmosphere for patients to meet the experts. Within the building they can perform X-rays, physical exams, injections, schedule surgery and perform physical therapy. With most insurances accepted, they are able to see almost anyone. Although they work exclusively out of their new location in Trinity, they routinely see patients from Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Hernando and Citrus counties. They are proud to be small business owners where they have the autonomy to put patient care first and not be beholden to a parent corporation and its profits.

Although their collective experience is diverse, they present with one common goal- to provide exceptional orthopaedic care to the community. Their humanitarian efforts extend far beyond the office walls and transcend the confines of the workweek. They are proud to continue the tradition of volunteering their services pro bono to the high school athletes by performing annual physicals. They continue to be an educational resource to the community on topics such as arthritis and osteoporosis. All three share the same gratitude for their blessings and are grateful for every opportunity they have to give back. They exemplify everything it means to truly be a physician.
Florida Joint Care Institute… diligent, efficient and compassionate.

Filed Under: 2012, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - NP / P, Feature - North Pinellas/Pasco, March/April 2012 - North Pinellas/Pasco, North Pinellas / Pasco Tagged With: Dr. Henry William Hanff, Dr. Jennifer Cook, Dr. Stephen Hanff, Entrepreneur, Features, Florida Joint Care Institute, Health, Medicine, Orthopedic Services, Tampa Bay, Trinity

Passionate About Food & People

February 22, 2012 By Nina Stanley

Patrick and Linda Baldwin

Founder and CEO of Intelligent Gourmet, a “clean” lifestyle food company, Linda Baldwin started in the business 15 years ago with Amore Catering. Since then, she has worn many hats as a Manager, Chef, and Managing Partner. In 2010, the company’s focus shifted to preparing prepackaged “clean” meals and “clean” food products under the brand name, Intelligent Gourmet.

She had the good fortune of growing up watching her mother, father, grandmother and aunt prepare weekend and holiday meals. The care and effort they put into their cooking ignited a spark in her. She says, “Sometimes I think this profession is just in your blood.” She began her culinary career managing fine dining restaurants in the North East training and working with some of the top Chefs from around the country.

Intelligent Gourmet’s, Linda’s brain child, uses food that is all-natural, low-sodium, low-fat, gluten-free, and low-glycemic-carbohydrate. Their “clean” food line includes snacks, salad dressings, sauces, and individually prepackaged gourmet quality meals and “clean living” meal plans. Traditionally, consumers wanting to eat healthy had to put up with low quality, small portion, and bland meals. Now everyone can eat healthier and make changes that will improve the quality of their lives. Liz Keiffer, Certified Holistic Health and Nutrition Counselor, describes it as “Solving a problem created by food with food.”

The biggest difference in Intelligent Gourmet’s food is not a weight loss specific diet; weight loss is merely a byproduct of eating “clean.” Eating “clean” is also not about fueling your body; it’s about satisfying your taste buds, it’s about learning to eat well, and most importantly it’s about an eating/dietary lifestyle change. The company changes the menu every week with a large variety of items that include wild caught and fresh fish, prime beef tenderloin, pork tenderloin, all natural chicken breast, as well as vegan and vegetarian options. Nothing gets served or put on one of the menu unless it meets her expectations.

The restaurant is a fun upscale environment where one can always find an expert to talk about meals, allergies, and specific likes and dislikes so customers can build a custom meal plan. Everything is made onsite from scratch so it is easy to adapt a recipe as necessary for sensitivities to allergies with family and kid friendly meals under the Intelligent Gourmet and Amore Catering (Amore ToGo) brands.

Linda plans that within the next five years that the company will expand throughout Florida and regionally to satisfy the growing demand for high-quality healthy food products and prepackaged meals. She is actively seeking strategic investors who share the same vision. Her long term goal is to see Intelligent Gourmet products distributed nationally through retailers. For now, service is offered to Tampa, St. Petersburg, New Tampa and Lutz and they also can ship overnight anywhere in a 400 mile radius of their current store.

A member of the Culitvar Team, a group of chef’s hand selected to help support recipe development within the online community for Kraft Foods, Linda keeps busy. She is the community blogger in the neighborhood for WTSP and writes the dining out series for Panache Vue’, South Tampa. She holds a C.P.C.E designation from the National Catering Association and is a member of the American Association of Nutrition Consultants and is in the process of finalizing her C.N.C. designation. Amore’s Intelligent Gourmet was selected by Fit Kids Playground to provide the nutritional and educational component for the grant they received from WE CAN. Amore is recognized as a leader in the field of healthy cooking through Intelligent Gourmet and have written a curriculum that is used to educate pre-school and elementary children in Hillsborough County about the benefits of eating “clean” healthy.

In her personal life, Linda is a wife, mother and grandmother. She is blessed to be married to her best friend. Their shared love of the water gives them an escape to run around in the bay on their Boston Whaler whenever there is free time. Her children live in Gainesville and when she gets the opportunity to sneak out of town, she loves spending family time her children and grandchildren. She loves cooking in her kitchen for family and friends as well as at work.

She owes her success to God, her family and parents. Her Faith provided the confidence to pursue her passion. Her family never questions Linda’s dedication to them despite long work hours and her parents set the example for hard work. Her mentors, Dr. Joseph Guggino and His Son Joseph Guggino gave her the necessary “hand up.”

Being passionate about food and people, she owns a business that allows her to combine both. “Every day I get the satisfaction of helping customers to achieve their goal of taking a proactive approach to their own health by eating “clean” healthy meals!” says Linda with pride.

Filed Under: 2012, 2012, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - ST, February 2012 - South Tampa, February 2012 – Tampa, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Amore, Amore To-Go, Catering, Dining, Entrepreneur, Features, Gourmet, Green, Health, Intelligent Gourmet, Linda Baldwin, Organic, Patrick Baldwin, Restaurant, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Wine & Dine

Dreams Do Come True

January 21, 2012 By Nina Stanley

Jim and Elaine Trotter

Jim and Elaine Trotter own and operate Budget Blinds of Greater Tampa, a custom window covering company that offers a convenient shop-at-home experience for window coverings and home décor accessories. The Trotter’s became involved with custom window treatments for a number of reasons. Jim worked as an executive in the apparel industry for almost 20 years and the Trotters moved to Tampa about ten years ago when the company where Jim worked relocated them yet again. But after giving the new location and management approx. 6 years, he decided to leave the company and the corporate world behind. On the flip side, Elaine had been out of the work force for over 20 years raising a family, managing the household and finances, and serving on charity boards. “We took almost 9 months off and decided that after 27 years of marriage we still liked being around each other, wanted to stay in Tampa, and eliminate Jim’s extensive travel schedule. We decided to pursue a life-long dream of owning a business together. Through a local career transition company, called Right Management, Jim met Rick Bisio with FranChoice. We both went through extensive personality profiling and interviews with Rick at FranChoice and based on our skill sets, goals, management backgrounds etc.; Rick recommended three franchises for consideration. We did extensive due diligence, and found that a gentleman and his wife, who were Budget Blinds pioneers in the state of Florida, wanted to sell their three Budget Blinds territories. Their storefront was conveniently located 10 minutes from our house.”

The Trotter’s chose Budget Blinds because of their strong business model, quality products and outstanding corporate support. Even in a downward economy Budget Blinds, Inc. has been ranked in the top 20 for financial strength 3 years in a row- #2 in 2011. Budget Blinds has also been ranked #1 in the window covering industry since 1996. “We pride ourselves on customer service- from the time you make an appointment to the professionalism of our design consultants, who are extremely knowledgeable and educated, all the way to our experienced installers. Really for us it’s all about customer service and our staff really makes it happen.”

What sets them apart from the competition? They are locally owned and operated but are proud to be affiliated with the #1 window covering franchise in North America. Having over 860 franchises in the US and Canada gives Budget Blinds great buying power. They have partnered with leading manufacturers to bring their clients quality window coverings at great prices. “We can then pass along those savings and exclusive warranties to our customers. We offer a very personalized shopping experience by bringing all of our samples to our clients’ home”. There’s no better place to shop for window coverings than in the rooms where the treatments will reside. They offer free in-home consultations and provide expert measuring and installation. They also offer peace of mind by eliminating all of the guesswork and answer all of your questions. In addition to manufacturers warranties, Budget Blinds stands by their products by offering an industry anomaly, a 5- year “no questions asked” warranty up to a lifetime warranty that is exclusive to Budget Blinds’ customers from their select manufacturers such as Hunter Douglas, private label Enlightened Style and Signature Series window treatments. Budget Blinds, through these select manufacturers, will replace your window treatments for any reason as well as any crazy scenario that happens to damage your product.

One of their most memorable experiences is their latest partnership with Ravinia Luxury Courtyard Villas as their preferred window covering provider, working with their wonderful sales and construction team and designing the window coverings for their models and new residents has been both fun and rewarding. They recently completed a project where they provided window treatments for 350 apartments at The Preserve at Alafia in Riverview and provided window coverings for the new Florida Medical Clinic building on State Road 54 in Land O’Lakes.

Their favorite part of owning a business is working together. Jim and Elaine are active members of Van Dyke Church. Jim loves to relax on the golf course, Elaine is an avid lover of all things organic, and enjoys writing for various publications. Both can be found working out together at LA Fitness. Panache asked Jim and Elaine who they feel they owe their success to. “First and foremost we owe our success to God. Secondly to an incredible team of experienced, caring individuals – true professionals who give the personalized design, service and quality our customers deserve. We have owned our Budget Blinds franchise for over 3 years now and in looking back, all the reasons we bought the franchise have come true. It has been a good fit for us and we could not be happier”.

Filed Under: 2012, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - NP / P, January/February 2012 - North Pinellas/Pasco, North Pinellas / Pasco Tagged With: Budget Blinds, Budget Blinds of Greater Tampa, Elaine Trotter, Entrepreneur, Features, Jim Trotter, Land O' Lakes, Window Covering

The Midas Touch

December 14, 2011 By Nina Stanley

Matthew and Jori Zarra

When it comes to water, how does someone go about choosing the right water treatment company for their family, home and business? Our options are plentiful but can also be very confusing for the consumer. Florida Water Treatment is the answer!

Florida Water Treatment and its President, Matthew Zarra is a family owned and operated business serving the Tampa Bay area since 1951. Florida Water Treatment was originally established by Matt’s father-in-law, Herb Bloom. Matt took over the company in 2004 when Herb was nearing retirement and contemplating selling the well established water treatment business, located in Dunedin on Main Street.

Although Matt had no previous experience in the water treatment industry, he did have great success in sales as a top producer with a very large pharmaceutical company; he holds an MBA and has the Midas touch when it comes to building longterm relationships with his customers.

Matt is the driving force behind Florida Water Treatment. He is the sales force, runs the day-to-day operations, and a Certifi ed Water Specialist after having learned everything about the business from his father-in-law. Herb taught Matt everything from the ground up, Matt had to learn every aspect of the business from delivering salt, servicing equipment and installing equipment.

Matt and Florida Water Treatment continue to offer the best customer service in the water treatment industry. The equipment is designed to handle the harsh water of the West Coast of Florida. The water here is consistently some of the hardest and most heavily chlorinated in the United States.

Florida Water Treatment employees no sales personal which means no pushy, high pressure scare tactics, or long in-home demonstrations. You will get one of the owners of the company or a factory trained service technician to help you size the right water treatment equipment for your home. Their equipment is custom built for your homes water. This means the equipment will have a long life and give your family the quality water you expect. At Florida Water Treatment their goal remains that following every sale service is provided second-to-none. Their pricing is half the price of the majority of water treatment companies out there. Florida Water Treatment is an OEM. They build all of their own equipment; this gives them the ability to use only the highest quality products to treat the water at the home it is being installed at, and the flexibility to build a variety of different water treatment units. No two homes water is a like.

Matt along with his wife Jori continues the family legacy that Jori’s dad started in the water treatment business. Their goal is to continue to build Florida Water Treatment as the dominant water treatment brand in the Bay area, and making it a household name, building upon their reputation as the most trusted name in the water treatment industry. Florida Water Treatment services Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough, Polk, Citrus and Hernando counties. They have won the Angie’s List Super Service award for the last two years; they are a proud member of the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating for WQA (Water Quality Association); a Pentair residential fi ltration platinum dealer and a GE platinum dealer. They also contribute to many local organizations; Jori is also a member of the Clearwater/Dunedin Junior League.

Having both grown up in Dunedin, Matt and Jori, along with their two kids, furry kids, Bailey and Zane who are also the offi cial greeters at the offi ces of Florida Water Treatment, love the outdoors and the water. They enjoy all types of water sports, boating, fi shing, wakeboarding, skiing and anything else having to do with water! They also spend a lot of time with family and friends and love going in search of new restaurants.

Matt’s success comes from two of the most infl uential people in his life. He learned a very strong work ethic at a young age from his dad who has successfully run a small business for over 30 years. His dad instilled the values and morals that Matt uses every day to run his own business now. His huge success in the water treatment industry he owes to his father-in-law, Herb for teaching him the right way is the only way. This is a company people love to do business with.

Filed Under: 2011, 2012, December 2011 - South Tampa, December 2012 - Tampa Bay, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - ST, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Dunedin, Entrepreneur, Features, Florida Water Treatment, Green Living, Home, Jori Zarra, Matthew Zarra, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

César Lara – Creative, Passionate and Purposeful

November 15, 2011 By Nina Stanley

Dr. César Lara

“Creative, Passionate and Purposeful” – These three words describe Dr. César Lara best! For more than 20 years now, it has been his passion to become one of the most powerful forces in America’s ever growing obesity crisis…one patient at a time.

Dr. César Lara is a Board Certified Family Physician and a leading expert in the treatment of obesity and weight loss management. Dr. Lara’s dream of helping men and women overcome diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and other chronic conditions related to obesity was realized with the emergence of the César A. Lara, MD Center for Weight Management as a premier weight loss center in Tampa Bay.

Although Dr. Lara has been treating obesity for over 20 years now, dating back to the day he first hung his shingle, it was about seven years ago that he changed the focus of his medical practice to tackle obesity head on! His main focus and his philosophy that drives him and his practice are to help people change their lifestyle, not to just lose weight. The only true way to do that is to make real adjustments, to change behavior. Diet by itself is not the answer to the true problem. We asked Dr. Lara what sets him apart from the competition, his reply was very humble. “I try not to compare myself to other people; a lot can be learned from many in our community and world. My main focus is to treat each and every patient individually; I don’t use a cookie – cutter program. I address their problem that will be a lifelong change for them, not temporary. At all of my clinics, we first recognize that it is a spiritual journey, how you think, how you react. We utilize hypnosis, nutritional supplements and the newest technology available, that’s how we do it”.

Dr. Lara treats patients from all over, not just the Tampa Bay area. Some come from as far as California and Latin America. Currently, there are 3 locations to serve you, Clearwater, Palm Harbor and St. Pete. Soon Dr. Lara will be expanding to Hillsborough County as well.

Dr. Lara is also a member of many, many organizations, is known for his strong personal faith and his many generous contributions to the Tampa Bay community. He also regularly appears on television as a medical contributor to Bay News 9 en Español.

Each and every patient is memorable to him, he feels they are a gift to him, they are allowing him to take care of them. Dr. Lara feels blessed by all his patients, but one in particular stands out just a little bit more that the others, his mom. Dr. Lara began treating her about five or six years ago. She was a diabetic, over weight and insulin dependent. He first told her to stop taking the insulin. She said to him “are you trying kill me?” Of course he wasn’t, he loved his mother, but he knew there were other ways to treat her diabetes. She questioned her own son, who was a doctor and a good one at that! He was right. Today, Mrs. Lara is 50 lbs. lighter and not on insulin.

When not treating patients, Dr. Lara is a family man, first and foremost. With his beautiful wife Penelope by his side and their three beautiful kids; Julian, Marcus and Zoe, his home is where his heart is. Zoe, who is fourteen, is the only child still at home, and she is daddy’s girl. Dr. Lara tries to spend as much time with her as possible and makes it a point to have a family dinner, each and every night, with his two favorite girls, Penelope and Zoe.

As much as he is out and about in our community, attending many events, César Lara is a very private man with only a very few close friends. He cherishes his friendships just the way he cherishes his family and all of his patients. He loves to relax with them in his home, enjoy a good glass of wine and philosophize about life. Panache Vue’ also asked Dr. Lara if there was something special he wanted to share with our readers, something that only those very close to him knew. His answer, he loves to dance and let his feet do the talking!

César Lara is someone you will never forget, if and when you are fortunate to meet him. Extremely handsome and very humble. Soft spoken, smart and exudes kindness and sincerity. He is also the founder of St. Michael’s Free Clinic and Weight Away Tampa Bay, his charitable organizations that provide free medical treatment to those who cannot afford it. His heart is bigger and heavier than its weight in gold!

Filed Under: 2011, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - NP / P, North Pinellas / Pasco, November/December 2011 - North Pinellas/Pasco Tagged With: Bay News 9 en Español, Center for Weight Management, Clearwater, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Entrepreneur, Features, Health, Palm Harbor, Physician, South Tampa, St. Michael’s Free Clinic, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Weight Away Tampa Bay, Weight loss, Weight Management

DATZ DUET

November 15, 2011 By Nina Stanley

Suzanne and Roger Perry

Everybody’s had those dreams. You know the ones – giving up the corporate life and opening a bed-and-breakfast in an old mansion. Launching a restaurant and spending your days surrounded by great food and drink.

Everybody dreams it. But what’s it like to actually do it? “Absolutely insane,” says Suzanne Perry with a tired, but genuine laugh. And as the co-owner of Datz, she should know. “It’s completely different than what we had imagined,” she adds. The reality of running a restaurant is a lot grubbier than expected, especially one as wildly successful and community-embraced as Datz.

“There’s a ton of work that goes on behind the scenes that has absolutely nothing to do with food,” adds Roger Perry, the other half of the dynamic Datz duo. Of course, that reality has been especially hard for Roger, the foodie of the entrepreneurial couple, who dreamed of a kitchen where all of his ideas could come to life. Unfortunately, sometimes those ideas just don’t translate, whether its food cost, manageability or simply that the customers don’t like it.

Indeed, Suzanne likes to joke that the restaurant is actually all Roger’s fault, but that’s just the good-natured ribbing that goes in the Perry household. In truth, her business and marketing acumen is as integral to the genesis of Datz as Roger’s passion for food and entrepreneurial spirit. And after three years, the couple can honestly say that starting Datz has been a spicy blend of an enterprise that feeds their spirit and a blur of unexpected 20-hour days.

Not that either is afraid of hard work. In his first go ‘round, Roger purchased a small pet food and supply company in Columbus in 1984 and, over the next decade, turned it into the largest chain of pet food superstores in the Midwest. When Roger sold the company in 1994 to Petsmart (you know the one), he had a total of 31 superstores, more than 1,000 employees. In his second career, his long days were spent at the barn and the track breeding, racing and selling quarter horses. Similarly, Suzanne spent more than a decade as a high-level retail executive before transitioning into her second career as a magazine contributor, philanthropist and community activist.

That said they both credit their success to their combined ability to roll up their sleeves and attack the issues head on – even if means giving up some of their rose(mary)-colored expectations about how the business ought to run.

“Our success has definitely been in our ability to adapt,” says Suzanne. “We really listen to our customers and respond to their needs, and that has totally guided the changes in the restaurant.”

In fact, part of Datz’s charm has been its constant evolution. What started as a deli has now morphed into a charmingly vivacious, if eclectic, restaurant where overstuffed sandwiches are served comfortably beside bone-in ribeyes, beer-butt chicken and $1,500 bottles of scotch.
Which, if you know the Perrys, is exactly like they are – the kind of couple who likes to kick off their shoes, nosh on good ol’ comfort food while sipping extraordinary wines and hard-to-find bourbon.

Indeed, that might just be the favorite part of this whole experience, that they’ve created the very kind of casually upscale restaurant they were always searching for. “We joke that we never leave the restaurant, but even if we weren’t the owners, this would be exactly the kind of place where we would want to come,” says Suzanne.

Datz doesn’t really have a five or ten year goal other than to continue to grow and to innovate. And, well, it is a business, so being profitable is ideal. “Datz is so busy all the time that people think we’re landing our helicopter on the roof, but that’s far from the truth,” Suzanne says. “As a restaurant in this economic environment we are grateful to be doing as well as we are, but we are a new business, paying off start-up costs and investments like anyone else. I’d like to think that the helipad might come some day, but it’s not today’s reality,” she says with a laugh.

Roger, perhaps, sums it best: “When Suz and I look back over the last few years, the menu might have changed 1,000 times, but our mission is still the same: to be an everyday oasis from the bland and mundane. Which we are. We deliver amazing hand-crafted food and specialty products in a warm-hearted, fun-loving atmosphere and we still strive to serve every guest with a nice-to-see-you and thanks-for-coming attitude. And, of course, to invigorate the neighborhood and give back to those in need. Datz has definitely supported the community, giving generously to charities and school and families. And I believe that has come back to us tenfold. Even when we make mistakes – which we definitely have – we can still look back at this and see that we’re still living up to our mission. Somehow that makes all the blood, sweat and sleepless nights worthwhile.”

Filed Under: 2011, 2011, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - ST, November 2011 - South Tampa, November 2011 – Tampa Bay, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Datz, Dining, Entrepreneur, Features, Gourmet, MacDill Avenue, Restaurant, Roger Perry, South Tampa, Suzanne Perry, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Ultra Custom Group – Tampa Bay’s Only Premier Resource for the Home, Pool, and Outdoor Living Design and Build

October 14, 2011 By Nina Stanley

Panache Vue' Magazine - Entrepreneur - South Tampa - 10-2011 - Ultra Custom Group

Jay Puig and Zac Pease - Ultra Custom Group

Ultra Custom Group has been designing and building some of the Bay area’s finest home finishing’s for more than 25 years combined. Jay and Zac first met on a mutual project and impressed with one another’s attention to detail, forged what is today considered by many as the Bay area’s only premier resource for the Home, Pool and Outdoor Living Design and Build. Jay, having been part of many award winning design accomplishments throughout the Bay area and having worked on some of the most prestigious homes built in the Tri counties for the past twenty years. Zac, having been applauded in several design magazines for his impressive attention to detail in pool building and outdoor living spaces, well, it was obvious to both, that a mutual partnership was in the works. It was only a matter of time before they realized that it only made sense to unite the industries and offer a full spectrum of services that is Ultra Custom group today.

In an interview with Zac and Jay, Zac said, “It’s truly rewarding to see Jay’s ideas start on a piece of paper and to have the opportunity to materialize those ideas into the execution of the project.” Jay says, “The home is the most important aspect of the family structure. It is the foundation to which families are forged.” Zac says, “My home is exactly the way I want it. A certain amount of power comes with knowing that every finish detail, room by room, is a representation of who I am. I feel this makes me a better businessman and a better person.” Jay says, “A certain amount of comfort comes from living in an area that truly reflects who you are. I want to pass that feeling on to as many people as I can.”

The main focus of Ultra Custom Group is: Individual client wants and needs, custom design, and client satisfaction is a standard. “We are focused on building it faster and with a higher standard of quality!” Panache Vue’ asked Zac and Jay what sets them apart from their competition. “What competition? We are a one of a kind company. We offer the opportunity for our clients to set up a long term relationship with a single company for all of their home improvement needs. We want people to know that they can get everything they want from one place. That construction has changed because we changed it.”
Ultra Custom Group carries quality and well-known brands such as :Lloyd & Flanders, Pentair Pool Products, TrendUSA, Onyx, Mohawk, Jeffrey Court, Inner Styles, Calise Grills to name a few. Catering to those with a palette for taste and distinction!

Their long term goals, to continue to prove to their clients that this process can, and should be, an enjoyable experience. That they have to look no further on projects present and future. Ultra Custom Group services areas all over Tampa Bay and beyond! Although their main showroom, located at 1416 W. Kennedy Blvd. in South Tampa showcases a huge sampling of tile, granite, stone, flooring, cabinetry, hardware, pool & spa products, closet systems, pavers, and hardscape needs. Ultra Custom service areas include the following: The Tampa Bay Area, South Tampa, Davis Island, Tierra Verde, Snell Isle, Hyde Park, Orlando, Boca Grande, and all surrounding areas.

The most memorable or interesting work related experience they can remember was their first collective job. “The first time we were ever asked to do a finish package, pool remodel, outdoor kitchen and structure all as part of one job on a very impressive South Tampa home. It seems like forever ago, but I remember the feeling of gratitude I felt towards our client for believing in us and allowing us to show them they can get it all in one place. We are still friends with this client today, and have worked with him on the remodeling of his beach condo as well as the design and construction of several of his doctor’s offices. Today he is a member of a long list of people that can tell you, we are the last company you will ever need for your Home, Pool, and Outdoor Living Spaces!”

Their favorite part of owning the business is simple and very humble! “We cherish the thrill of the design process and the satisfaction of constructing the quality we design and knowing that no one can do it better!”

When you hear the name Ultra Custom Group, remember Home, Pool and Outdoor Living, custom without question!

Filed Under: 2011, 2011, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - ST, October 2011 - South Tampa, October 2011 – Tampa Bay, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Entrepreneur, Home, Outdoor Living, Pools, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Ultra Customs Group

David King – The Master Creator Behind DOMA Home Furnishings

September 18, 2011 By Nina Stanley

David King

What does DOMA stand for? The name is of Slavic origin and means “at home” which is exactly what you’ll feel like when you visit one of two exclusive designer showrooms and meet Mr. David King, the Master Mind behind DOMA!

After 20 years in the corporate world, with experience in Commercial & Interior design, Sales, and Human Resources in the Wholesale and Retail sectors, David made the decision to become his own boss and start a company that both fulfilled his passions for design and creativity. David was recruited out of college by a Furniture and Design firm called Scandinavian Design Gallery based in Natick, Massachusetts. They were a powerhouse in the industry in the 70s and 80s with over 200 locations. David quickly moved up the ranks to regional VP of Sales and Design in New York City and the surrounding tri- state area. Over the next 20 years and a few companies later, he found himself drifting away from what he enjoyed most – Home Furnishings and Design. “Subsequently, in my search to determine what way I’d accomplish this, I realized there was a void in the local marketplace for a full line contemporary home furnishings retailer that offered full customization and supported with design services. Hence, DOMA was born”!

David and his highly trained staff of professionals focus on providing a full line of contemporary and transitional furnishings with a concentration on quality build standards, customization and sourcing in a consultative, friendly, relaxed atmosphere. High quality construction and an ongoing focus on supporting American made products where possible.

DOMA Home Furnishings is unlike many other furniture stores, this is not a chain store but a family owned and operated business with a knowledgeable sales staff who will treat like family, not just a customer! David and his staff work hard to customize and provide you the piece you’re looking for, by listening to and getting to know all their customers on a personal level, because furniture is extremely personal and your home is a reflection of your personality.

David is involved in the community through many different ways, all coming from his heart. DOMA’s community outreach focused on the Arts – from 10 local artists whose work they display throughout their showrooms to their partnerships with various local organizations such as Pepin Heart Hospital and Pet Pal Rescue.

DOMA has an extensive line card that includes manufacturers that are synomous with quality such as API, Ekornes, BDI, Carter, Weiman, Dinec, Elite, Schillig, Lazar, Jaymar, Johnston Casual, Calligaris, Rossetto, Younger plus many lighting, Accessories, Rug and Art lines.

David’s five and ten year goals for DOMA are to grow in the local market with additional showrooms as well as develop a web presence. DOMA provides white glove delivery and set up locally from Ocala to Orlando and south to Naples. They also ship anywhere in the Continental US.

Panache asked David what his most memorable or interesting work related experience was and his favorite part of owning a business. “I’d have to say, it was the Grand Opening of the 1st store in St Pete. Seeing your vision and plan, from an idea to its inception, come to fruition through the support and help of family and friends was a very rewarding. There are several things I enjoy greatly, the independence of your decision making, seeing your ideas help transform the lives of others and the ability to provide for my family”.

In David’s spare time, he spends quality time with family and friends. “I’ve been with my partner for over 25 years, while not directly involved in the daily operations; he is actively involved and provides ongoing inspiration. Our dog, Darby, is the store greeter and the DOMA mascot with an ongoing following. Our home in St Petersburg is our ‘hobby’ as we are never ever finished with making it a reflection of us … it’s a constant work in progress. Many of my clients ask … ‘Your home must look beautiful’ … based on what we’ve been able to do for them, I reply that it’s like the cobbler that had no shoes … our home is never done”.

Three words that best describe David King and DOMA are Unique, Committed, and Evolving. David feels he owes his success to his family, especially his mother Lynn and his partner Ed and his core staff, Connie, Barbara and of course Darby!

If you’ve been searching for that one extra special piece to complete a room or are ready to redo and entire house, visit DOMA Home Furnishings today! 1916 South Dale Mabry, Tampa, 813-258-4500; 2540 22nd Avenue North, St. Petersburg, 727-327-9400. www.DomaHomeFurnishings.com

Filed Under: 2011, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur - ST, September 2011 - South Tampa, South Tampa Tagged With: David King, DOMA, Entrepreneur, Furniture, Home, Home Furnishings, South Tampa, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Tampa Bay