Entrepreneur | Panache Vue' Magazine - North Pinellas/Pasco

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, Entrepreneur, February 2012, South Tampa 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, January/February 2012, 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, December 2011, Entrepreneur, South Tampa 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, North Pinellas / Pasco, November/December 2011 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, Entrepreneur, November 2011, South Tampa 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, Entrepreneur, October 2011, South Tampa 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, September 2011, South Tampa Tagged With: David King, DOMA, Entrepreneur, Furniture, Home, Home Furnishings, South Tampa, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Dr. Myron Graff… Fun, Caring, and Professional

September 18, 2011 By Nina Stanley

Dr. Myron Graff

Smiles by Graff and Dr. Myron Graff are just that! Dr. Myron S. Graff opened his first practice in Orthodontics, Smiles by Graff in 1976 has been creating beautiful smiles ever since.

Dr. Graff graduated from NYU in 1968 with a Bachelors degree, majoring in Biology. He then went on to the University of Pennsylvania in 1972 and received his DMD degree. Between 1972 and 1976 prior to opening his practice in New Port Richey, he served our country with the elite title of Captain in the US Army Dental Corps., in 1976 he graduated from Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery.

Dr. Graff chose to practice Orthodontics because it combines working with adolescents and adults, helping to remove impediments to excellent self-image, helping give confidence to young people, making a difference not only in his local community but the world, all very important elements to him and his practice.

Dr. Myron Graff focuses on assisting each and every person (patients and staff) to realize that they can achieve everything and anything to which they are determined if they set their goals and work towards achieving them. Smiles by Graff is the only full time Orthodontic practice in West Pasco County, set in a spectacular 3,300 sq. ft. space with cutting edge technology and equipment, all to serve their patients. It’s a “boutique” like practice offering individualized treatment and personal interaction with patients, young and old.

Dr. Graff is also heavily involved in community and believes in giving back. His community involvements include: over $55,000 in scholarships for graduating seniors from each of the local high schools, sponsorship of two local baseball/softball teams and soccer teams. He is a Life member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, American Association of Orthodontists, West Coast of Florida Dental Association, Florida Association of Orthodontics, past President of the West Pasco Dental Association, American Association of Pediatric Dentists, a 20+ year member of the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce and a past president of Temple Ahavat Shalom (a reform synagogue located in Palm Harbor, FL).

Smiles by Graff has patients who not only live in Pasco, but Hernando, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. People recognize Smiles by Graff Orthodontics when they see the adorable and always smiling Giraffe. This unique self-branding goes together like peanut butter and jelly, Graff = G(i)raff(e), and is the cutting edge branding created by Mindshare Advertising, especially for Dr. Graff.

Panache asked Dr. Graff to share his most memorable work related experience with our readers. Dr. Graff stated, “Each time I hear from a past patient who has chosen to make a career in dentistry, I feel that I have (especially) contributed to the perpetuation and enhancement of our noble profession. When we argued for water fluoridation in the New Port Richey area, I realized that dentistry is the only profession that has labored for eradication of dental disease, even though it would detract from the profitability of the dental profession.”

Dr. Graff’s favorite part of owning his practice is helping others and giving back. “Owning a small professional practice allows me to create the type of society that I would like to live in. We offer professional (financial) courtesy to people who work in the educational, health care, law enforcement, military, fire and clergy fields. People in these professions are often underappreciated and I am doing my part to acknowledge their worth to our community.” Discounts are offered to patients in these professions, and in 2009, Smiles by Graff gave the community $177, 568 in discounts!

Myron Graff is not only an Orthodontist; he is the father of three adult children and a loving and generous grandfather to his wonderful grandchildren. His success can be attributed to many things, past and present and he tells us. “When I entered college, I quickly realized that I was not as smart as I previously thought. This observation was reinforced when I entered dental school. Since I couldn’t get smarter, I understood that I would have to work harder. The attribute of perseverance has served me well. To this day, I’m first to arrive at the office and the last to leave. Often more times than not, my car has been spotted on a weekend at my office, I always get caught! Through the years, many people have encouraged me and I am eternally thankful to all of them. My belief in the inherent good in most people has reassured and rewarded me, again and again.”

Filed Under: 2011, Entrepreneur, North Pinellas / Pasco, September/October 2011 Tagged With: Dentist, Dr. Myron Graff, Entrepreneur, Tampa Bay

Living Their Dreams, One Vibe at a Time

August 12, 2011 By Nina Stanley

Vibe Fit Club - Theresa DePasquale and Nabilah Shamseddine

Theresa and Nabilah

Theresa Depasquale & Nabilah Shamseddine, Co-owners & founders of Vibe Fit Club are doing just that. The first Vibe Fit Club opened in January 2010 in Oldsmar and the second only ten months later here in South Tampa. They have created a brand that everyone recognizes, all by themselves! Both ladies are young, smart and very savvy business women, and they are also moms to toddlers. To see them in person, you are in awe at how remarkably fit and toned their bodies are, especially after having babies.

Panache Vue’ asked the ladies why they chose this type of business to embark on. “From a young age we have been involved in high level sports and it is because of this experience we learned that your performance wasn’t just based on your skill but what you put in your body to fuel it. Sharing the same passion for fitness, Theresa and I stumbled on a machine that changed the way we looked at fitness. As active moms, we were in need of an effective workout that was done in a fraction of the time. Acceleration training on the Power Plates does just that. After our revelation, we put down our business plan on paper and Vibe Fit Club was born”.

At Vibe, Theresa and Nabilah along with their highly educated staff of professionals focus on teaching their clients the VIBE philosophy: Wellness with a side effect of fat loss, as well as bringing Acceleration Training to the Tampa Bay area. Vibe Fit Club’s commitment to our community is to educate, motivate and inspire people to take their health and fitness in their own hands with a program that is effective, fast and easy for anyone to do. What sets Vibe apart from their competition? Besides the fact that they conduct personalized group fitness classes on the Power Plate, Vibe offers a nutrition plan to every member that joins, weekly fitness assessments to keep their clients on track and motivated, and an “anti-gym” environment that takes the stress out of going to the gym.

Vibe Fit Club has taken the Tampa Bay area by storm, and in a very short time. The ladies plan on opening a few more corporate clubs around Florida and their ultimate goal is to franchise Vibe and license their Vibe Fit X classes to be taught in every Power Plate studio around the country and the world!

We asked the ladies of Vibe “what’s your favorite part of owning the business”? Theresa stated: “Executing our vision. Not many people have an idea and make it happen”. Nabilah stated: “Doing what I love and believe in. Not many people do what they love and we are blessed to have this opportunity to make life long friends and change lives”.

Although running their clubs is a full time career for this dynamic duo, “we are both working moms that still make time to do the things we love and take care of our bodies. We want to inspire women to do what they believe in and what they love with their families by their side”. The ladies are extremely grateful and humble, and feel they are blessed to have what they have. Their families and loved ones have played a huge role in the success of Vibe, along with various coaches and business partners. Their love and respect for each other and everyone around them fuels their passion to be the best they can be.

What does VIBE stand for? Vibrant, Innovative, Beautiful and Energetic! Theresa and Nabilah are living their dream, one Vibe at a time!

Filed Under: 2011, August 2011, Entrepreneur, South Tampa Tagged With: Entrepreneur, Exercise, Fitness, Health, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Vibe Fit Club

Changing Lives…A Smile at a Time

July 14, 2011 By Nina Stanley

Dr. Paul Duryea

Dr. Paul R. Duryea is not your typical Orthodontist, there is so much more to this gracious man that many don’t know. His smile lights up every room he walks into and just exudes friendliness and happiness, he’s someone you just want to get to know better!

His background is interesting and his life’s accomplishments even more so. Dr. Duryea had gone thru four years of Dental School at the University of Detroit at which he graduated as Valedictorian and with Summa Cum Laude distinction. He started his private practice in 1981 and was the 1st full time Orthodontist in Palm Harbor! He treats not only adolescent patients, but also has a very large adult practice.

The scope of his practice is from minor correction with appliances to the correction of severe dental and skeletal problems with the need for jaw surgery. He is a Preferred Provider of Invisalign and has been for 10 years.

Dr. Duryea got involved in Orthodontics in a very odd way. He had completed his Dental School clinical requirements by the end of his junior year.

“Because of that fact I was asked to find “something to do” for my senior year, I had decided I wanted to become an Oral surgeon initially, but was attracted to the Orthodontic department to finish up my senior year before applying to a surgery program. I became very interested in Orthodontics because of treating a wide range of patients and was very interested in Surgical Orthodontics. By the time I completed my fourth year of Dental school, I had completed the clinical requirements of the masters Program in Orthodontics. I never applied to the Orthodontic Program formally and was asked into the program by the Chairman of the Department. As an enticement, I was offered to run the Chairman’s private practice as a first year graduate student. I completed the program with not only a certificate in Orthodontics, but also a Master’s Degree in Orthodontics”.

Dr. Duryea’s primary focus is to offer the highest standard of Orthodontic treatment in a casual and intimate setting. His practice is different from many others in that he has a small but well trained staff of four, 2 as administrative assistants and 2 that are certified Orthodontic Assistants who take personal time with every patient.

There are no satellite offices, and he is in the same office all of their normal business hours. He sees to all emergencies himself, unless he is out of town golfing or lecturing. One of his goals is to stay on time. Since his patients arrange their day around their Orthodontic appointment, Dr. Duryea is respectful of all of his patient’s time and maintains their appointment on time!

His patients come from a very large geographic area, from Pinellas to Pasco. His associations and affiliations are too many to mention. Dr. Duryea continues to offer state of the art in Orthodontic treatments and anticipates bringing in an associate in the near future.

One of his most rewarding and memorable work related experiences involved a 17 year old young lady with not only a severe malocclusion (bad bite), but a severe skeletal problem that was a major contributing factor to her bite. During their initial consultation, Dr. Duryea knew her problem was very severe. She did not look at him and said nothing. Sadly, she was totally lacking self-confidence. But, after two years of Orthodontic treatment and corrective surgery was completed, her Mom took him aside and gave him a big hug filled with love and gratitude! Her daughter finally looked like the rest of the family. “The most amazing part was during her retention phase of treatment. She would come in all smiles and was amazed how her social life had improved. Her self-confidence soared! That’s what makes what I do so rewarding. To be able to profoundly change a person’s life by restoring their smile and facial appearance is unbelievable and gratifying”, states Dr. Duryea.

Dr. Duryea’s family life is another great accomplishment. Married to Nan, his best friend for 37 years, they have raised 2 great kids, Becky and Scott. Paul and Nan’s newest treasure is grandson Harrison.

Paul’s hobbies include Travel, Cooking, Golf, and of course Halloween! He is our very own, Walt Disney! For the past 19 years, he personally builds a display outside of his house call the “Mansion of the Macabre”. It takes a month to set up and take down and is open for only 2 nights a year. He does this as a fund raiser for Susan G. Komen, For the Cure and The Suncoast Hospice. There is no admission fee; they only accept donations to one of these charities every year. He’s been told by more than one visitor, it’s the “Disney of Palm Harbor” It truly is his labor of love!

Dr. Paul Duryea is so many things to so many of us. Caring and compassionate, loving, and always striving to be better and do what is best for others. He is a role model to all and someone we can all learn from. He changes lives.

Filed Under: 2011, Entrepreneur, July/August 2011, North Pinellas / Pasco Tagged With: Dentist, Dentistry, Entrepreneur, For the Cure, Orthodontist, Paul Duryea, Susan G. Komen, The Suncoast Hospice