Meet Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

May 15, 2013 By Nina Stanley Leave a Comment

Panache: Why did you choose this business or line of work?

Larry: To change people’s lives – health & beauty. To help people who fear the dentist feel comfortable, less fearful & gain trust.

Panache: What is your primary role or duty in your company?

Larry: Owner, dentist, leader – set the tone for a warm, caring, nurturing environment. To set a standard for always growing and learning.

Panache: What sets you apart from your competition?

Larry: Leader in the field of state of the art, high tech dentistry. I treat people with kindness & compassion – the way I would want to be treated.

Panache: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?

Larry: Donating my time and abilities to people who need it. 5 Years ago several of us co-founded Gulf Coast Dental Outreach to help people in need. Now we have over 100 dentists who donate their time for this cause. It has served as an example around the state.

Panache: What do you do for fun?

Larry: Many sports – golf, work out, bike – anything with my family and friends.

Panache: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?

Larry: Balance my life between work, play, family and religion.

Panache: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!

Larry: For 18 years of my life I spent most of my time working and coaching my 3 son’s baseball and soccer teams (42 teams) in all!

Panache: What are your personal and professional mottos?

Larry: To treat people in a way that I would want to be treated – with caring and excellence. If you are not growing you must be dead.

Panache: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?

Larry: To be a baseball player or a doctor.

Panache: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?

Larry: Professionally – I have an incredible profession. I love dentistry and have a great team who feel this way too. We all strive to improve the lives of our patients each and every day.

Personally – I have my health, a wonderful marriage of 32 years, 3 grown fantastic sons – I have surpassed my dreams!!

Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

Dr. Larry Lieberman began his career as a dentist over 30 years ago. After his undergraduate studies at SUNY Cortland, NY he continued his education and graduated from the prestigious NYU College of Dentistry. He furthered his dental training as a resident at Bergen Pines County Hospital, Paramus, NJ. After a few short, snowy winters he moved south and has practiced in the Palm Harbor area for over 24 years.

Dr Lieberman in his commitment to provide the best and most up-to-date care, has a strong belief in continuing education. Yearly he and his staff complete numerous hours of continuing education. He has graduated from the Pankey Institute of Dental Excellence and the Misch Institute for Implantology. Some other institutions of study are:

Pride Institute for Practice Management
Seattle Study Club
Institute of Aesthetic Advantage for Advanced Dental Studies
Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation
Various local study groups
In addition, he has lectured both locally and nationally on subjects such as cosmetic dentistry, practice management, snoring and sleep apnea, nutrition, non-surgical periodontal disease and lasers in dentistry.
Also important to Dr. Lieberman is his role in the civic and professional community.
He proudly belongs to:
American Dental Association
West Coast Dental Association
Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
Florida Dental Association
Upper Pinellas Dental Association
Academy of Laser Dentistry
Fellow of the American Academy of General Dentistry
Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology
Upper Pinellas Association Peer Review Advisor
Oldsmar/Palm Harbor Youth League – Baseball and Soccer Coach
Most recently he became a founding member and co-director of the Gulf Coast Dental Outreach Clinic for adults near or at the poverty level.

Filed Under: 2013, May 2013, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Business, D.D.S., Larry Lieberman, People to Know, South Tampa, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Panache People to Know – Leanne Cross, M.D.

April 19, 2013 By Nina Stanley Leave a Comment

Leanne Cross. Photography by Don Shepherd XOPIXO

Panache: Why did you choose this business or line of work?

Leanne: As both an artist, and a physician who is able to listen to and identify with my patients, this career really chose me.

Panache: What is your primary role or duty in your company?

Leanne: As co-owner of Lecada Medical Artistry, I perform all facial injectables. My business partner, Dana Martinez, manages the administrative duties which allows me the freedom to focus on the artistic and clinical side of the practice.

Panache: What sets you apart from your competition?

Leanne: My ability to assess and treat the face as a whole. Maintaining balance gives the most natural-looking results, and I believe this is why my work has received so much recognition.

Panache: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?

Leanne: I might be an aerial artist for Cirque du Soleil. There is nothing like the feeling of soaring through the air, combined with constantly improving and challenging yourself.

Panache: What do you do for fun?

Leanne: I play with my daughters (Ellery, almost 20, USF senior and talented amateur photographer, and Emily, who just turned 7). I draw pencil portraits, do flying trapeze, invent gadgets, ride my motorcycle, and play with my pet squirrel.

Panache: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!

Leanne: I have no credit cards and I don’t watch TV. I love my artwork so much that I would do facial injectables for free if I could. Also, if I am running errands and I do something extra, I will add it to my list after the fact, just for the satisfaction of crossing it off.

Panache: What are your personal and professional mottos?

Leanne: Personally: Another physician once said of me, “There are ‘glass is half empty’ people’ and there are ‘glass is half full’ people. You are a ‘what we have here is a surplus of glass… We should be selling glass!’ person”.

Professionally: If you work with integrity, treat people right and always do your best, you don’t need to fear competition.

Panache: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?

Leanne: Yes, daily. My dreams involve living each moment to the fullest, learning continually, treating people with kindness, not being too critical of myself or others, and always trying to leave the world a better place than the way I found it.

Leanne Cross, MD- Bio
Leanne Cross, M.D. graduated from Medical College of Georgia in 1997. She scored in the top two percent of the nation on the Medical Licensing Exam and was inducted into the Medical Honor Society for her superior performance and exemplary ethical standards. Dr. Cross has received training in surgery, as well as extensive training in non-surgical aesthetics. She has been actively practicing Aesthetic Medicine for nearly ten years, serves on the advisory board for Merz Aesthetics, and trains other physicians in the art of facial analysis and injectable recontouring. Leanne Cross, M.D. cofounded Lecada Medical Artistry in 2010, and her unparalleled artistic techniques garnered her the prestigious Best Facial Injectable Enhancement Award at The Aesthetic Show in Las Vegas in 2011 and 2012. Clients travel from numerous states and countries for her work, and she is respected by her peers for her professional integrity, innovative contributions, artistry, and excellent technique.

Filed Under: 2013, April 2013, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Business, Leanne Cross, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Panache People to Know – César A. Lara, M.D.

March 21, 2013 By Nina Stanley Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara and Family - Photo: Lisa Sibley

Panache: Why did you choose this business or line of work?

César: For me, it wasn’t necessarily a choice. I always knew, from the time I was small, that I wanted to be a doctor.

Panache: What is your primary role or duty in your company?

César: I am very actively involved in all aspects of my company. I stay current with industry trends and research, train doctors, see patients, and monitor all aspects of the business.

Panache: What sets you apart from your competition?

César: Our program is individually designed and totally health oriented. We work on a healthy mind as well as a healthy body for success that will last. And our staff really knows their patients and become “personal coaches” to motivate patients to keep going until they reach their goal. Many of our staff have been our patients, so they understand the day to day struggle of patients changing their lifestyle.

Panache: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?

César: I can’t imagine doing anything different. I love being a doctor. It’s what I always wanted to do. I have always wanted to make a difference in people’s lives.

Panache: What do you do for fun?

César: Spend time with my family. We enjoy traveling together, skiing, boating, and just being together.

Panache: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?

César: My family is God’s gift to me, and they are most important. I enjoy being with them – I am blessed with a beautiful wife and three wonderful children. In addition I still have my mom, dad and sisters that I remain close to.

Panache: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!

César: That I live the life I teach! I eat what I tell my patients to eat, and exercise regularly. I run marathons and have even done a “Tough Mudder” event. But probably the most surprising secret is that I would love to do some amateur race car driving.

Panache: What are your personal and professional mottos?

César: Visualize and realize! I visualize what I want, and continue that visualization until it happens. I work with my patients to help them discover their wants, then visualize the result and make that their mantra.

Panache: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?

César: I always knew I wanted to be a doctor. It was a calling for me – bigger than even a dream.

Panache: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?

César: My dreams are being actualized every day.

As a young boy in Guatemala, I had always dreamed of becoming a doctor. It would take me years of growing and developing to realize that the reason I wanted to become a doctor was to change peoples lives. This is what I love about what I do today.

Immigrating to Chicago at the age of 12 with my parents and 4 sisters created a life that was not always easy. Learning the language and going through school with as English as my second language was challenging. My parents both worked and as the eldest, I had to help take care of my sisters. Through it all I knew that the reason for their immigration and hard work was that education for us was at the forefront of all their endeavors. I proceeded to graduate college and attend the University of Iowa Medical School where I decided to specialize in family practice to give me a broad spectrum of medicine to practice and I could treat the whole family.

Soon after residency, I decided to venture out of the cold with my wife, Penelope and our baby son Julian to be the first settlers from both of our families to move to sunny Clearwater. This turned out to be a good move for us and we have since raised two sons and a daughter and have truly enjoyed being a part of this wonderful Tampa Bay community.

For about 16 years, I practiced as a board certified family practice doctor and treated a wide range of illnesses including diabetes, heart disease and high cholesterol, to name a few. Although I knew I was helping these patients and making a difference, I soon realized that all of these problems could potentially be resolved if the patients lost weight. I then began to visualize and research the idea of weight loss as the main focus for my patients.

Initially, I began with a willing patient…my mother, who was struggling with diabetes. I reduced her insulin, helped her lose weight and she was able to eliminate the insulin. This was the beginning of my dream and my vision: to eliminate the medication, disease and optimize health.

From this point forward, I have been blessed to help thousands of patients to lose weight, optimize their health and eliminate their need for medications. This has not only helped them change their lives and do things that they would never dream they could possibly do, like travel or run a marathon…but it has allowed me to live my dream “to change peoples lives.”

Filed Under: 2013, March 2013, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Panache People to Know – Ken Koenig

February 10, 2013 By Nina Stanley Leave a Comment

Ken Koenig, Founder of Dunedin Doggie Rescue walking some of his rescues

Dunedin Doggie Rescue started in 2006. We are a small but determined group of volunteers, driven by our love of dogs, to save them. Knowing that the rescue had to be sustainable to survive, it was built on a Co-op model: each adopter is asked to give back so we can save another shelter dog. Dunedin Doggie Rescue is a 501c; www.facebook.com/people/Dogeden-Rescue/1749329026

Panache: Why did you choose this business or line of work?

Ken: My significant other, Cathy and I had adopted a dog from a Cat Rescue called Home at Last. She had two dogs of her own, but she always found “room for one more dog” in her home and adopted them out one at a time. She cried her heart out when she gave CJ to us, and we said “we could never do that”. We became close friends with her and after a year of gently prodding us, we took the bait and found “room for one more “in our home and began adopting dogs… one at a time. Within 6 months friends in the community offered to help and it just grew and grew and…

Panache: What is your primary role or duty in your company?

Ken: Event planner, pseudo veterinarian, food nutritionist. Cathy does the other half, Foster Coordinator, pseudo psychologist and feeder of the Dogs.

Panache: What sets you apart from your competition?

Ken: Several new concepts to rescue… we are a Co-Op, meaning when you adopt a dog from us the adoption fee is based on how much time you can help the rescue to continue rescuing more dogs. In addition the Co-Op is a community in which the rescue offers several benefits to adopters: Medical and Behavioral support, Free dogs wash and nails at our monthly Suds on Sunday, Dog sitting, and Volunteer Thank You parties. We have a very detailed adoption process… each adopter does three different length trials. Lastly, we are big on educating our adopters about feeding good food to their dogs.

Panache: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?

Ken: Traveling the country in a RV with our dogs. P.S. We are all independently wealthy, not in money of course, but in dog kisses.

Panache: What do you do for fun?

Ken: Camping with our dogs at Music Fests at Sertoma Youth Ranch

Panache: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?

Ken: Making a Difference by knowing there are about 500 dogs that would have been put down at a shelter, who are now living with a GREAT Family.

Panache: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!

Cathy Schulz with some rescues

Ken: I used to be BIG into the craft beer movement, from home brewing and President of Dunedin Brewers Guild to Board member of the state’s Brewery Guild and judging beer at competitions as a nationally ranked beer judge.
Panache: What are your personal and professional mottos?

Ken: More like “sayings” associated with doing rescue work)
“The more Humans I meet the more I like my Pets”, and “Do unto others as Karma will do to you”

Panache: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?

Ken: To be just like my dad, he was a hard worker who had a lot of fun friends, and (I was his shadow).

Panache: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?

Ken: Not even close. Working a regular job and doing the rescue has put a lot on hold. My biggest short-term dream is adopting out our hardest to adopt dog (who probably has been with us over a year).

Filed Under: 2013, February 2013, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Dogs, Dunedin Doggie Rescue, Ken Koenig, Non-Profit, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Panache People to Know – John Kent

February 10, 2013 By Nina Stanley Leave a Comment

John Kent North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO

John Kent began his professional fitness career in an unconventional way. He was a stage performer and had to be in peak physical condition at all times. Once John discovered the benefits of health and fitness for himself, he studied to become a Certified Personal Trainer. For many years, he worked one on one with people seeking to get in shape.

But then John saw a Boot Camp from Southern California and liked the format. He quickly realized he could help more women reach their health goals at a fraction of the cost of hiring a personal trainer. John’s Adventure Boot Camp for Women is a convenient way to add a fun-filled hour of activity and movement into your life to achieve your fitness and weight loss goals.

John’s fitness philosophy is unique. He believes exercise should not be what you live for, but the thing that helps you live better. John also understands that you need Boot Camp to be fun, exciting and different every day. If it’s not, it’s just drudgery. At Boot Camp, time moves so fast that BAM! It’s over before you know it.

A 30+-year resident of Tampa Bay, John currently lives in Dunedin, Florida with his wife, three daughters and a son.

Panache: Why did you choose this business or line of work?

John: After owning a personal training service for about 10 years, I discovered the fitness boot camp model out in Southern California in 2007. It provided two key elements to my clients that personal training could not: 1) The boot camp model makes time fly and working out fun! 2) It was affordable – you can come to 5-days of boot camp for the price I used to charge for 1 session of personal training. For me, the added value I was able to give my clients by switching from personal training to boot camp was a no-brainer.

Panache: What is your primary role or duty in your company?

John: There are only 2 employees in my company, me and my wife. So obviously that means that we both wear multiple hats, but my primary duties are Program Design and Fitness and Nutrition coaching for our 100+ monthly campers. My wife handles most of the office administration. We made a very conscious decision to not expand our business and be “Small, but GREAT”.

Panache: What sets you apart from your competition?

John: We live in a world where “instant gratification” is king and marketers have learned to play on that. There are many fitness and weight loss programs that offer “quick fixes and magic bullets”, but just like the get-rich quick schemes that most of us would never fall for, they seldom work in the short-run and almost never work in the long run.

At North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women, we don’t sell outrageous (and sometimes harmful) programs that promise you’ll “lose 30 lbs. in 30 days while you sleep, eating all of the foods you love and with no exercise needed”. There are many programs out there that will provide quick weight loss, but the results and methods to get there are not sustainable for life (and many times, not healthy).

North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO

Instead, what we offer is a habit-based nutrition coaching program which teaches you how to develop habits and rituals to help you lose weight and maintain long-term success. We like to focus on what you can do and not on what you can’t do.

But, that’s not all, we also provide expert, science-based fitness instruction so you don’t have to do it alone and so you can be assured that you are doing “purposeful exercise”…not just some random stuff that will never help you reach your goals. Time flies in our fast and fun, never-a-dull-moment, one-hour boot camp. Our boot camp meets outside so you’re not stuck inside all of the time. (Our 9 AM camp does move indoors for the summer due to the heat, but other than that, we are a completely outdoor boot camp and the ladies in our camp love it that way!)

The combination of the habit-based nutrition coaching and our science based exercise program, is our recipe for your long-term success.

This way your weight loss effort is not like the movie Groundhog Day where you’re always starting over with the next new diet, new exercise program, new pills, new gadget, etc.

Panache: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?

John: As shocking as it may sound, I would like to go into the ministry (possibly even as a pastor) and go on missionary trips.

Panache: What do you do for fun?

John: I own my own business and I have 4 children (11 and under), but with all the free time I have besides that…LOL…my wife and I love to travel whenever we get the opportunity and go on little adventures with our family.

Panache: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?

John: God and my family

Filed Under: 2013, February 2013, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Fitness, Health, John Kent, North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Weight loss

Panache People to Know – Patrick Shane Pendley

December 19, 2012 By Nina Stanley Leave a Comment

Patrick Shane Pendley

Panache: Why did you choose this business or line of work?
Shane: I don’t think anyone chooses to be an artist. Its more like it chooses you though being able to share what I see and feel is exciting and haunting all at the same time.

Panache: What is your primary role or duty in your company?
Shane: Keeping a healthy balance between artist, business owner and my family is a task within it self but I thrive on constantly being engaged in everything I do.

Panache: What sets you apart from your competition?
Shane: I learned a long time ago…if one constantly wonders what everyone else is doing or saying they can fall short of their own true potential of being an individual. I guess I don’t look at it as competition. I want to compliment the industry with the work I create.

Panache: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?
Shane: I have not a clue… a connoisseur of sort or living in the mountains as a happy ski bum. Who knows, I just know I am happy where my life currently resides.

Panache: What do you do for fun?
Shane: I could give the typical…I love to cook and pop corks (I do) but I am a sucker for family fun… or any social event I am usually all in, so sign me up, even for a local 5K run.

Panache:Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?
Shane: My wife, daughter, family, integrity, good living’ and my boots…

Panache:A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!
Shane: I am a marketing coach to many and just finished my first book…The Boot, the Heart and the Feather “the heartbeat to any business”

Panache:What are your personal and professional mottos?
Shane: “If you don’t have room in your living room for ART, don’t become friends with an ARTIST.” Kidding, I believe, if you want to be great, make others around you even greater…

Panache:When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
Shane: A fireman or a baseball player for the Cincinnati Reds

Panache: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
Shane: I don’t even know how to begin to answer that… Yes, I just need deeper roots. But honestly, I tend not to do things that don’t interest me, so I believe I’m on the right path.

Patrick Shane Pendley, born in Taipei, Taiwan in 1971. Originally from Dayton, Ohio he has lived in the Tampa Bay area for the past 10 years with his wife and daughter. He received a BFA from Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida (2000). His artwork is included in many public and private collections across the country. Mr. Pendley currently resides and works in the Tampa Bay area as an artist represented by Michael Murphy Gallery, as well as an entrepreneurial business owner of a Florida based marketing company. Please visit www.ShanePendley.com for more information.

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Artist, Painter, Patrick Shane Pendley, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Panache People to Know – Juli Halifax – Fresh Threads

November 18, 2012 By Nina Stanley Leave a Comment

Juli Halifax - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO Photography

PV: Why did you choose this business or line of work?
Juli: I enjoy retail, quality clothing, handbags and shoes, and yet I’m frugal so to me, designer consignment is the perfect marriage.

PV: What is your primary role or duty in your company?
Juli:My primary role is to grow the business, oversee the operation of the boutique, and to handle social media, customer service, and community involvement.

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
Juli:I am genuine in building relationships with my customers. I want to remember your preferred style of dress, your name and your child’s name.

PV: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?
Juli: I would travel the world with my family for months at a time and find a happy, safe home for every parent-less child.

PV: What do you do for fun?
Juli: Silly time with my best girlfriends, ride go carts and dance.

PV: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?
Juli: The moments I have with my son Gavin; who is truly a miracle and a gift. A supportive husband who is my friend and has taken on raising my nephew with me; I’m honored to have the opportunity to be a parent.

PV: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!
Juli: I once had a very thick New York, Bronx girl accent.

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
Juli: I believe in the law of attraction and the customer is always right, even when they are wrong.

PV: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
Juli: A businesswoman.

PV: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
Juli: A few important ones yes. I will be dreaming and aspiring for the rest of my life.

Juli Halifax - Fresh Threads - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO Photography

Mother. Entrepreneur. Friend. Giver.

A caring, casual, encouraging person, Juli Halifax is a new mom, wife, entrepreneur and owner of a gem of a consignment boutique in South Tampa. She’s that person you meet who makes you feel like you’ve known her for a long time or will welcome you in her boutique as though you are family. She takes the time to know what you like, what you want, and what you need. She has passed along that motto to her staff and it shows. Juli is a new mom to little Gavin, her son who was born at less than 24 weeks gestation and weighing 1.5 lbs. And although it was a very rough road to getting him well, he is home, healthy and thriving. She currently balances her time with her son, his care, being in the shop part time and working on social media, attending networking events and advertising from home. For enjoyment, Juli enjoys consignment and thrift shopping and dining at other small businesses, attending local festivals, traveling and spending time with her family. She is also working on a children’s grieving journal and hopes to have it published in early 2013.

With a rapidly growing list of consignors who bring in designer and contemporary “threads”, her small shop is chock full of fabulous merchandise at a fraction of what style savvy ladies would spend at the mall or the designers’ stores. A little off the “boutique row” path, Fresh Threads Designer Consignment is located in the quaint neighborhood of Palma Ceia on S Macdill between Euclid and Wallcraft. In addition to building their inventory from fashion forward local residents, Fresh Threads receives consignment items from out of state and has ties with fashion stylists and traditional high end boutiques and spas in the Tampa Bay community. A generous portion of their inventory arrives new with original tags; making it a great buy at often 1/3 off retail and a wise choice for gift giving. What makes this Fresh Threads different than most consignment boutiques is that Juli and her staff appreciates and support local designer’s goods and vintage handbags and jewelry. One of their best selling categories is repurposed vintage jewelry from a local designer. Juli made the choice to step outside the box with “designer” when she took over the business back in 2010. Women like to support other women. Women like to have one of- a-kind-items and we often like to know the story behind something we buy. Oftentimes, Fresh Threads will be able to tell you that the Louis Vuitton handbag they have was purchased in France by an attorney who treated herself to a special gift for her birthday or that the Jimmy Choo shoes were one lady’s first big purchase she ever made for herself but they hurt her so she could not wear them. Fresh Threads offers select items for sale on their website and fans snap up freshly posted merchandise by commenting “sold” or calling to purchase. They are launching an ebay store January 1st as well to reach buyers on an international level.

Another thing about Juli and Fresh Threads is that they are involved in the community. Giving is a big part of the business model. Their tag line is “consign for a cause”. Every month, bags of unsold, unwanted or donated merchandise is offered up to local charities in support of women in need. In addition, they find creative ways to give back like auctioning items, donating a portion of profit and conducting their prom dress drive every spring.

Filed Under: 2012, November 2012 - Tampa Bay, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Boutique, Consignment, Fresh Threads, Juli Halifax, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Panache People to Know – Tampa Bay Singer/Songwriter Shane Meade

October 22, 2012 By Nina Stanley 52 Comments

Shane Meade - Photo: Joel N. Cocker

PV: Why did you choose this business or line of work?
Shane: In all honesty, I feel the music and arts chose me

PV: What is your primary role or duty in your company?
Shane: Singer Songwriter/Musician and Manager for Shane Meade & the Sound.

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
Shane: Originality, diversity, professionalism, and drive for success.

PV: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?
Shane: Probably trying to stay competitive in today’s rat race of a corporate world.

PV: What do you do for fun?
Shane: Travel, check out original live music, golf, and head to the beach with my dogs Justice & Abigale.

PV: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?
Shane: Without a doubt, my family and incredible musicians who serve as the SOUND for each performance.

PV: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!
Shane: No prior singing or musical training. Political Science and Criminal Justice background.

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
Shane: (Personal) Live, Laugh, and Love. (Professional) Sing it like you mean it, and play it like you believe it.

PV: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
Shane: Probably a crime fighting superhero or professional athlete.

PV: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
Shane: Certainly not all, as I am constant dreamer, but have been able to check off a few from my bucket list.

Shane Meade is a gifted singer songwriter and catalyst behind the Tampa based soul-infused folk rock project Shane Meade & the Sound. His music captivates the imagination, and audiences connect to his inspirational lyrics and universal subject matter. His unique and soulful style helps deliver an engaging live performance that is both powerful and uplifting.

Whether it’s an intimate acoustic performance, or full-band experience with the SOUND, SMS strives to continue to create a style of music that not only passes the test of time, but builds a bridge between people and will touch the souls of all walks of life.

www.shanemeade.com

Filed Under: 2012, October 2012 - Tampa Bay, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Shane Meade, Shane Meade & the Sound, Singer, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Panache People to Know – Casey Banales – Tampa Bay Singing Sensation

September 21, 2012 By Nina Stanley 742 Comments

Casey Banales - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO Photography

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
Casey: I love to entertain people and am not shy or nervous in front of large groups.

PV: What do you do for fun?
Casey: I LOVE to cheer! (I cheer for the Westchase Colts), play volleyball, piano and of course sing!

PV: Who or what is most important to you personally or professionally?
Casey: My family is the most important thing in my life!

PV: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you.
Casey: I can sing with my mouth shut!

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
Casey: My parents always tell me and my sisters and brother that we can do anything that I set my mind to and always treat other people how I want to be treated.

PV: When you were a little girl, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
Casey: To be a famous singer and actress…that’s still my dream!

PV: Have you achieved some of your dreams thus far?
Casey: I am on my way to achieving them…I sang the national anthem at the Tampa Yankees and the Clearwater Threshers games! It was so much fun! I also won the Italian Idol contest for 2011 here in Tampa!

Casey Banales is 11 years old and lives in Westchase. She is a 6th grader at Cambridge Christian School here in Tampa. Casey loves to sing! She has won the Tampa Italian Idol (featured in Ybor at the Italian Festival) when she was 8 years old and again this past year at age 11. She has been in Standing Ovation, a vocal group under the teaching of her singing coach Jennifer Ochoa-Rowland for the past 5 years. Casey loves to act also and has been in many productions in the Westchase Community Theater. She has recently been singing the National Anthem and has performed it at the Clearwater Thresher’s and Tampa Yankees games. She also enjoys cheering for the Westchase Colts, playing piano, and playing volleyball for Club Storm. In 5 years Casey hopes to be on American Idol and in 10 years she hopes to live in New York performing on Broadway!

Filed Under: 2012, Panache People to Know, September 2012 – Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Casey Banales, Singer, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tampa Italian Idol, Westchase

Panache People to Know – LaJoya Boutique Owner – Myriam Castellano

May 19, 2012 By Nina Stanley 725 Comments

Myriam Castellano - LaJoya Boutique

PV: Why did you choose this business or line of work?
Myriam: My parents traveled frequently to Tampa and the more they visited the more they grew to like the American way of life. We finally moved here, a couple of years before the Castro take over. Needless to say, they were very smart. We came as residents and were not refugees. My father has always worked for himself and I guess that’s where I developed the desire to always own my business.

PV: What is your primary role or duty in your company?
Myriam: My goal in opening a boutique was to bring beautiful and different items to other women like myself. I do make every effort to make the price reasonable I think that is one of my main goals. Everyone has the dream of looking and feeling beautiful.

PV: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?
Myriam: If I wasn’t in this business and managing my husband’s practice, and did not have to think of money, I would be traveling all over the world. Nothing compares to traveling in my book.

PV: What do you do for fun?
Myriam: What do I do for fun? I spend time with my husband, children and grand-children.

PV: Who or what is most important to you, personally and professionally?
Myriam: The most important person in my life, in every aspect is my husband.

PV: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
Myriam: When I was five I dreamt only of running and playing at the beach. I never thought about what to be when I grew up at that age. Did anyone? I do run and play at the beach every week-end at our little get-away with my grand-children.

LaJoya Boutique

PV: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you.
Myriam: Shocking little secret? I love lemon drop martinis!

PV: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
Myriam: I consider myself a very lucky person, I have achieved most of my dreams; married a wonderful man, have two fabulous children who also found great partners and they have given me four beautiful grand-children. I have always been surrounded by an amazing family and friends that have enriched my life in every way. Then there is my husband, always pushing me to move on and reach for yet another dream.

Myriam Castellano is the owner of the LaJoya Boutique, an upscale ladies boutique. Located at 4816 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa, minutes from South Tampa, 813-833-0736.

Filed Under: 2012, May/June 2012 - Tampa Bay, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Boutique, LaJoya Boutique, Myriam Castellano, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Panache People to Know – Tampa Artist – Taylor Ikin

March 19, 2012 By Nina Stanley 293 Comments

Taylor Ikin

PV: Why did you choose this business or line of work?
Taylor: I did not choose it…it embraced me. Looking for friends while living on an island in the Caribbean, I joined a group of painters. And so my life began.

PV: What is your primary role or duty in your company?
Taylor: As an artist, I am a one man band. I am a studio of one.

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
Taylor: : I am known as an environmentalist with a paint brush. I try to educate, inform and encourage the viewer to preserve for the future.

PV: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?
Taylor: Painting and teaching art are my job and my pleasure. I would not change a thing.

PV: What do you do for fun?
Taylor: Anything that has to do with people, especially relating to the arts, a party and travel!

PV: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?
Taylor: My family, friends and doggie Abby are most important, followed by doing the best work I can. My long term relationship with Nuance Galleries in Tampa has also given me the much appreciated personal and professional support.

PV: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!
Taylor: My full name is Anna Robinson Taylor Newton (Gray) Ikin!

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
Taylor: “Defer not to tomorrow to be wise, for tomorrow’s sun may never rise!” unknown

PV: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
Taylor: My dream was to have horses and especially show jumpers.

PV: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
Taylor: Yes. I had a horse; I have enjoyed painting all over the world, including 18 years in Antigua. I teach workshops and lecture around the country and the class I teach at the Dunedin Fine arts Center is a total joy. The public recognition of my work is the icing on the cake.

Taylor Ikin is widely known for her work on YUPO, a synthetic tree free surface. Her environmentally sensitive images have been exhibited in Museums throughout the South as well as Florida house in Washington DC. Her unique approach and joy in making art are the frequent topic of articles in multiple art magazines, books and the local press, and can be enjoyed through her DVD, Dancing With YUPO. She has taught regionally, nationally, and in the Caribbean as well as 15 years at the Gulf Coast Museum of Art and recently the Beach Art Center. Ikin now teaches at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center in Dunedin, FL.

She has served on the Boards of the Arts Council of Hillsborough County and was the President and a Board Member of the Florida Watercolor Society for a total of 16 years.
Ikin is currently on the Board of the Gasparilla Festival of Arts, the Education Committee of the Tampa Museum of Art and the Restoration Committee of the Tampa Theater. She was awarded Signature Membership in the Florida Watercolor Society as well as the Suncoast Watercolor Society and is an award winning member of the Florida Artist Group. In 2012 her work was juried into the National Water, www.TaylorIkin.com

Filed Under: 2012, 2012, Culture & Arts, March 2012 - South Tampa, March 2012 – Tampa Bay, Panache People to Know, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Art, Art Gallery, Artist, Dunedin, Dunedin Fine Arts Center, Fine Art, Gallery, Painter, Paintings, Tampa Bay, Taylor Ikin, Watercolor

Dr. Tim Doerner

March 19, 2012 By Nina Stanley 29 Comments

Our motto is to treat our patients like they are our family

Dr. Tim Doerner and Nicole Grunsfeld - Photo: Lisa Sibley

PV: Why did you choose your line of work?
Tim:When I was very young my best friend’s dad was a dentist and it interested me. It’s a great way to help people and be your own boss.

PV: What is your role in your business?
Tim: I am a sole practitioner, meaning I am the only doctor working with a wonderful staff to provide excellent dental care for our patients.

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
Tim: Being a general dentist, I provide a wide variety of services. We do everything from implant surgery to Invisalign to Botox. The conservative caring attitude we have, gives the patients options when they need dental treatment

PV: What would you be doing now if this weren’t your business, taking money out of the equation?
Tim: If I was not practicing dentistry I would probably be traveling.

PV: What do you do for fun?
Tim: Go on cruises, traveling, boating, and motorcycling.

PV: Who or what is most important to you?
Tim: My fiancée Nicole, my children Aaron and Alexa, also my mom who just turned 94 are most important personally. My excellent staff and longtime patients are most important professionally.

PV: A little secret about you that would shock people that don’t know you.
Tim: People are always surprised when I tell them I own an ice cream /cookie store. We have to keep the sweet tooth happy too, don’t forget to brush. We also treat the Phillies baseball players.

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
Tim: Our motto is to treat our patients like they are our family. Also work hard, play hard…

PV: When you were five, what was your dream job?
Tim: When I was five I loved baseball I played in college and would have loved to be a major league pitcher but dentistry has been an excellent alternative.

Filed Under: 2012, 2012, March/April 2012 - North Pinellas/Pasco, March/April 2012 - Tampa Bay, North Pinellas / Pasco, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Botox, Dentist, Dentistry, Dr. Tim Doerner, Features, Health, Invisalign, Philanthropy, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Dr. Carl Conforti

January 22, 2012 By Nina Stanley 328 Comments

PV: Why did you choose your line of work?
Carl: After years of suffering from terrible headaches as a child, my parents were willing to try anything to allow me to be pain free. One of their friends suggested that they take me to see a chiropractor. The doctor explained misalignment and promised my parents that he could provide the relief that they sought for me. Sure enough after countless MRI’s, CT scans and prescriptions from other doctors, the chiropractor was finally able to relieve the pain that seemed to elude all of the other professionals. As I got older I realized that freeing people from pain and providing health and wellness to the Tampa Bay area was my passion. C hiropractic was the perfect fit.

PV: What is your role in your business?
Carl: While I exclusively see patients in my Oldsmar office, I also partner with our other outstanding doctors located in Trinity, Wesley Chapel, and Tampa. As the owner and partner of the other offices, I along with my team of doctors have changed the lives of thousands of people throughout the Tampa Bay area.

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
Carl: The doctors and staff at Conforti Chiropractic strive to make each patient their number one priority. With individual consultations and adjustment rooms, each patient is given the attention they need in order to achieve their fullest potential for health and wellness.
In addition to the service, Conforti Chiropractic is a full wellness clinic. Our patients receive adjustments, therapeutic massage, therapeutic exercise, spinal decompression, and hot and cold therapies through their treatment plans. In addition, our Oldsmar office also offers a full medi-spa with facials, microdermabrasions, etc. As a whole health and wellness office, Conforti Chiropractic sets a new standard in health!

PV: What would you be doing now if this weren’t your business, taking money out of the equation?
Carl: I would be volunteering in the community to provide health and wellness services to those who do not have the means to provide for themselves. I would spend time in the schools working with children and teaching them how to make the choices that will make them healthy for their entire life. Educating the public on the importance of wellness is the most important aspect of my job, and it is something that I am passionate about every day.

PV: What do you do for fun?
Carl: On my days away from the office, I enjoy fishing, boating, wave running, golfing, and spending time with my 3 amazing children.

PV: Who or what is most important to you?
Carl: My three beautiful kids and my parents, they have the most amazing passion for love and life. They have supported me my entire life and I would not be who I am without them.

Dr. Carl Conforti

PV: A little secret about you that would shock people who don’t know you.
Carl: I was a competitive body builder for 6 years. I won 5 overall championships and appeared on ESPN.

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
Carl: I treat every single person that I encounter in my office and in my life as I would a member of my family. It is amazing how far truth and fairness will get you in business and in life. There is nothing more important than surrounding yourself with people you love and trust.

PV: When you were 5 what was your dream job?
Carl: I wanted to be an accountant. My family’s business taught me a lot about managing money and keeping track of everything.

PV: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
Carl: I am so happy with what I have achieved in life, but I will never stop dreaming. Dreams make us strive for excellence each and every day…and that is something that I will pursue for my entire life.

“Dreams make us strive for excellence each and every day… and that is something I will pursue my entire life.”

Dr. Carl Conforti has been a licensed Chiropractor since March 1998.

Dr. Carl Conforti has been freeing people from pain since May 1999 in his clinic in Oldsmar, FL. As a Chiropractor with experience, he is committed to promoting the health and well being of his patients.

Dr. Conforti uses a “whole person approach” when taking care of his patients. By combining the very best hands-on-technique, state of the art physiotherapy procedures, and providing the newest and best natural vitamins and mineral supplements on the market today, Dr. Conforti is able to help you to accelerate and/or maintain your journey to good health.

Although Dr. Conforti works exclusively out of our Oldsmar office, he also owns clinics in Trinity, Tampa, and Wesley Chapel. His collegues Dr. Todd Bodanza, DC of the Trinity location, Dr. Damien Rogers, DC of the Tampa location, and Dr. Bill Scheu, DC of the Wesley Chapel location work continuously with Dr. Conforti to provide the best in spinal care and wellness.

Education:
University of Florida
Life University

Memberships & Associations:
Florida Chiropractic Society
Florida Chiropractic Association
Certified in Cox Flexion/Distraction technique

Filed Under: 2012, 2012, Feature - North Pinellas/Pasco, Feature Articles, January/February 2012 - North Pinellas/Pasco, January/February 2012 - Tampa Bay, North Pinellas / Pasco, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Chiropractor, Dr. Carl Conforti, Features, Philanthropy, Tampa, Tampa Bay

There’s Only One Tammy Levent…!

January 21, 2012 By Nina Stanley 23 Comments

Tammy Levent

PV: Why did you choose this business or line of work?
Tammy:Because of a series of personal tragedies I experienced in 1995, details in my bio.

PV: What is your primary role or duty in your company?
Tammy: Everything, from marketing, to selling, growing the company and keeping peace at the office and at home at the same time.

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
Tammy: What Competition?

PV: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?
Tammy: I would travel the world!

PV: What do you do for fun?
Tammy: Travel… lol. And spend time with my family!

PV: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?
Tammy: Personally my partner and best friend Rob, my children and parents, professionally – my customers and strategic partners like you!

PV: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!
Tammy: Okay Nina tons of secrets!! I never went to college, I graduated high school at 16, and I was the first born here in the USA, with immigrant family from Greece!

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
Tammy: Integrity with both!

PV: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
Tammy: When I was five I was in kindergarten and telling my mom I wanted to get skipped to first grade and was. I wasn’t thinking that way ahead! Okay, maybe a princess! Now I’m a princess with WHIPS!

PV: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
Tammy: Every time I think I do I keep having more freakin dreams!! Thank God they are not nightmares!

Photo: Joel Cocker (left) | Photo: Mark Wemple (right)

Tammy Levent

Entrepreneur, Travel Expert, Author and Renowned Speaker

Imagine that within six months you lost your business and your savings to a violent robbery, then lost your grandmother in a fatal car accident that left your two children, ages nine and two, in the hospital’s intensive care unit. Picture quitting the telemarketing job you took to keep your home so you could sit by your children’s bedsides and wonder if your daughter would ever be able to speak again and if your son would lose his sight. What you would say if a nurse came up to you in the ICU and asked “If it had nothing to do with money, what would you do?”

Tammy Levent didn’t have the energy to think of an intricate answer, so she said the first thing that came to her mind: “I would travel the world.” From that moment, she realized that was her passion and her goal. In 1995, with no assets, she leveraged strategic partnerships to build Elite Travel, which has since skyrocketed into one of the fastest growing, most trusted travel groups in the nation for corporate incentive, leisure, destination wedding and honeymoon travel. Elite Travel has the distinction of being named an American Express agency.

I WHIP IT with Tammy Levent
Levent devotes herself to helping other women discover the power they have to change their lives, no matter what their circumstances. She sums up her mantra of success in the acronym “I WHIP IT” – meaning Incredible Women Have Infinite Power In Themselves. I WHIP IT was born when Tammy held her first whip while sitting at her desk training employees in sales at her telemarketing job. For the first time in years, she felt like she had control. She took that feeling and ran with it.

With her new web show I WHIP IT Out at whipitoutshow.com and her day-long WHIPshops™ that “take the work out of it,” Tammy guides other women – whip in hand – to find their courage, declare their goals, and use strategic partnerships to make those goals happen. Unlike many speakers, Tammy doesn’t stop at motivation; she gives immediately usable step-by-step instruction on how to create a business and lifestyle around your passion. And, with Levent’s travel expertise, you won’t find yourself in a stuffy conference room at one of her retreats unless you get lost on the way to the resort penthouse.

Tammy Levent is the CEO of Elite Travel and single mother of Katie, 25 and Jordan, 20. She is the author of the bestselling book Women Who Mean Business, and lives in Tampa, Florida with her better half, Rob. She owns an impressive collection of whips. For more information on the I Whip it out show and WHIPshops visit
www.whipitoutshow.com and www.TammyLevent.com

Tammy Levent
Tammy@EliteTravelGroup.net
www.EliteTravelGroup.net
www.TammyLevent.com
1-866-726-9090

Filed Under: 2012, 2012, January 2012 - South Tampa, January 2012 – Tampa Bay, Panache People to Know, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Author, Elite Travel, Entrepreneur, Palm Harbor, Speaker, Tammy Levent, Travel Agent, Whip IT Out, WHIPshops

Panache People to Know – Changing Perceptions at Forty

December 14, 2011 By Nina Stanley 28 Comments

It is a known fact that beauty and age have a complicated relationship. More and more in our youth-driven entertainment world, certain age markers signify the locking shut of the door to society’s access to acceptable beauty. Every now and then, though, someone busts the door down. Standing in the open doorway with sledgehammer in hand is Karyn Anjali. Though her primary career lies in real estate, it is in the area of fitness that Karyn Anjali Mathura Glubis is making her presence known these days.

Karyn Anjali - Photo: Smooth Photography

Coming from a background and story that sent a slew of conflicting messages regarding female fitness, Karyn Anjali fought through a number of trials to come to a place of self-actualization that let her release her inner beauty. A divorce and a period of caring for her illness-stricken mother left Karyn Anjali little focused on personal improvement.

She has moved beyond her difficulties to build a successful real estate career in the Tampa Bay area. She has also authored two books: “The Treasure Hunt, Trinidad’s Magnificent Seven”, a children’s book about a scavenger-type hunt through Trinidad’s historic landmarks, and “Trinidad Transcending Time 150 Years After Cazabon’s 1857 Album of Trinidad”, a book combining 1857 Trinidadian paintings with modern photography to celebrate the Caribbean island’s historic beauty. Topping it off, she runs several other companies, including Karysma Custom Jewelry and Smart Way 2 Date.

This all is already a larger resume than most people can list. But it was in the realization that life just might begin at 40 that turned Karyn Anjali towards competing in the NPC Bikini Competition at the 2011 Southeastern USA Bodybuilding, Fitness & Figure Championships. Losing more than 30 pounds, she struck a shimmering, confident pose in her golden-earth tone 2 piece. Although she still did not place, this first step was only the beginning. The experience has emboldened Karyn Anjali, and she plans to compete next in the Sheru Classic in September of 2012.

Karyn Anjali - Photo: Jonathan R. Photography

Photos: Jonathan R. Photography

Karyn Anjali’s experience both with her East Indian culture and mother’s loss to cancer led her to altering her diet, specifically with the focus on foods containing turmeric, known to hinder the growth of cancer cells. She recently alluded to this in a comment made on her Facebook, stating that “Hinduism is less … a religion and more of a culture. It is a cast, deep, ancient, inexhaustible, timeless and yet everadapting reservoir of wisdom…” She has been returning to that culture as a partial source of her new focus on personal wellness.

Her coach, Bradley McNeff of Relentless Nutrition states “I’ve never seen a woman so determined to be selfless in her quest to get fit with a purpose and direction.” Other than an altered East Indian diet low in sodium, developed by Saravana Pat Bhava, owner of TUN-DU-REE Restaurant in Tampa, and Lean Rescue fat burners from Nutec Performance Labs, Karyn Anjali’s journey has been all natural.

In her own bio she states “My life hasn’t been difficult nor has it been easy but my story is written in my blood and sweat with SOUL behind it.” That soul is an inspiration to other women, especially in the small business world and East Indian communities. With daughter Justine always close by, this single mother, author, entrepreneur, and now fitness competitor, is aiming to set new standards, as opposed to being set by them.

Filed Under: 2011, 2011, December 2011 - South Tampa, December 2011 – Tampa Bay, Panache People to Know, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Author, Entrepreneur, Features, Fitness, Karyn Anjali, Karyn Glubis, Karysma Custom Jewelry, Smart Way 2 Date, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Trinidad

Lisa Sibley Photographic Artist

November 15, 2011 By Nina Stanley 25 Comments

Lisa Sibley

PV: Why did you choose this business or line of work?
LS: I come from a creative family that includes photographers. Photography came naturally and I fell in love with working with people in order to help document their lives. I started very young and my focus has changed as my life has changed. When my children were young I photographed mostly young children so I could take my kids to work with me. Now my primary client is a business who needs marketing images or women over 35 who are rediscovering themselves and want to be captured in an Intimate Portrait.

PV: What is your primary role or duty in
your company?
LS: I am the owner and chief photographer of Graffiti Atelier Gallery and Lisa Sibley Photography. I do it all. From photography to marketing, sales, writing business plans, and teaching classes. I also restore old or damaged photographs. Often I am asked to restore an image of a family member for a memorial or family book. I am always honored to be included in people’s lives at such an emotional time.

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
LS: As an individual we each see things differently. I am able to create a fun, inviting environment where all of my subjects feel comfortable to allow their inner spirit to shine through so I can capture the real person. I connect with people.

“It is my soul inspired passion to capture moments in time for me and those who walk through the world.”

PV: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?
LS: I would be traveling as a documentary photographer for National Geographic or Life Magazine.

PV: What do you do for fun?
LS: Photography is still what I do for fun. You may find me shooting a landscape, an old building, or even a protest rally. But I do have big fun shopping with my daughter.

PV: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?
LS: Personally my children, hands down. They have been the center of my life. They are now grown but I am fascinated everyday by watching them grow into meaningful adults. I am a perfectionist in all parts of my life. Professionally I strive to do my very best to meet the needs of all my clients and provide them with a quality product that will last their lifetime and beyond.

PV: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!
LS: I’m a NASCAR fan!

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
LS: There are several things that I use in my everyday life but the two most important are treat others as you would like to be treated and “the glass is always half full!” Of course I use those both professionally too but the other that I use professionally is “do what you love and the money will come.” For me it’s not about the money.

PV: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
LS: Well this will shock everyone that knows me but I was influenced by my grandmother but mostly by Sally Field, I wanted to be a nun. I probably wanted to fly off balconies like she did in “The Flying Nun”.

PV: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
LS: No and I probably will not. I dream every day. If I achieve all of them then it’s “game over”. However, I am very blessed and I have achieved many of my dreams. I look forward to many, many more.

My professional career began in 1992; however, my interest in photography began in 1974, first being influenced by two uncles who were photographers.

I have worked as a photographic portrait artist, photojournalist, photo-restoration artist, and commercial photographer; capturing my images using various traditional and non-traditional techniques such as infrared photography, SX 70 Polaroid manipulations and transfers, black and white photography, and mixed media which include digital ART and acrylics.

My memberships include Professional Photographers of America, the Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce, Tarpon Springs Historical Society, and Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce. Recently I have been named to the Creative Advisory Board of the Florida Center for Creative Photography.

I have been a contributing photojournalist to the Jupiter Courier, in Jupiter, Florida, a member of the National Press Photographers Association, and the Lighthouse Camera Club. Following Hurricane Katrina I traveled to New Orleans with Operation Photo Rescue where I assisted in restoring water damaged photographs. I have taught summer photo camps to tweens and teens, and led Photoshop classes for adults.

I have been featured in Tampa Bay Woman’s Women in Business and I am a featured artist in the Tampa Bay Business Journal Book of Lists 2011 and 2012.

Currently I am a senior Visual Arts student at Eckerd College, the photographer for Panache Vue’ Magazine and owner of Graffiti Atelier Gallery and Lisa Sibley Photography in Tarpon Springs, FL.

Filed Under: 2011, 2011, Culture & Arts, North Pinellas / Pasco, November/December 2011 - North Pinellas/Pasco, November/December 2011 - Tampa Bay, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Art, Art Gallery, Artist, Fine Art, Gallery, Graffiti Atelier Gallery, Lisa Sibley, Lisa Sibley Photography, Photographer, Photography, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tarpon Springs

Panache People to Know – Ruth Byrd

September 18, 2011 By Nina Stanley 15 Comments

Ruth Byrd

PV: Why did you choose this business or line of work?
Ruth Byrd:Practically every glass painter uses opaque paint. Looking for something unusual I chose translucent glass paint, only available from international sources.

PV: What is your primary role or duty in your company?
Ruth Byrd: I’m strictly the artist, leaving all marketing and publicity to my husband.

PV: What sets you apart from your competition?
Ruth Byrd: Twenty years ago I wanted more from traditional watercolor, oil and acrylic paint I’d used for years. Then we visited Moreno, Italy and I fell in love with local stained and blown glass. Since, I’ve attempted to capture innate richness on glass by reverse painting, using stunning translucence. Executive VP of International Corporation said he’d traveled world markets for 40 years and never seen anything unique as my work.

PV: What would you be doing now if it weren’t for your business, taking money out of the equation?
Ruth Byrd: Wishing I was doing what I’m doing.

Ruth Byrd - Plate

PV: What do you do for fun?
Ruth Byrd: Previously my husband and I golfed and boated weekly and annually traveled entire US and all except one continent. Now we devote spare time to church activities.

PV: Who or what is most important to you, personally or professionally?
Ruth Byrd: Being sincerely true to myself and those I love.

PV: A little secret about you that would shock those who don’t know you!
Ruth Byrd: Were I to tell, it wouldn’t be secret.

PV: What are your personal and professional mottos?
Ruth Byrd: Do the best with what you have the most, most often.

PV: When you were five, what was your dream to be when you grew up?
Ruth Byrd: To teach, which I did for a short span.

PV: Have you achieved all or most of your dreams thus far?
Ruth Byrd: Who knows, I continually have new, constantly changing dreams.

Ruth’s art interest was first fascinated by color and contour in grade school, then encouraged and enhanced by her talented aunt, a highly-regarded artist. In adulthood she was inspired by top-ranking Japanese artists, vibrant Brazilian jungles and picturesque South Carolina Low Country. After years of successfully using oils, acrylic and watercolor, she experimented extensively reverse-painting glass with stunning translucence, enhancing vivid landscapes and seascapes with innate ambivalence of abstract. Proclaimed Executive VP of international mega-corporation, “I’ve traveled the entire world over 40 years and have never seen anything like her work. Anywhere! Ever!” Work sold worldwide under ruthbyrd creations, 813-286-0727, www.RuthByrdCreations.com

Filed Under: 2011, 2011, Culture & Arts, Panache People to Know, September 2011 - South Tampa, September 2011 – Tampa Bay, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Art, Artist, Ruth Byrd, Tampa Bay

Our motto is to treat our patients like they are our family

Tammy Levent

Entrepreneur, Travel Expert, Author and Renowned Speaker

PanacheVue' May 2013