Hair and Makeup – From Daytime to Event Time

Andrew Ashton - La Posh Salon

Andrew Ashton - La Posh Salon

The holiday season is upon us again and parties, planning and cooking are all on the agenda. We get so busy that we tend to stick to our daily hair and makeup regimen simply because we’re short on time. Let this be the time of year that you allow yourself to try something different and experiment with new looks for holiday functions. Don’t allow the stress that comes along with the holidays add up – have some fun with your style! There are a variety of looks in hair and makeup that can be perfect for a get-together and easier than you think. Many of the events we attend are more formal and therefore our look needs to transition from daytime to evening. This can be simple and stress-free if you plan ahead. For example, if you wear your hair straight on most days, add volume and waves as this is a popular look for the coming season. Big hair is back! Incorporating those waves involves using a big-barrel curling iron or hot rollers. And, for those on-the-go ladies, you don’t even have to wash your hair that evening as the natural oils and products from that morning will give curls more bounce and make them last longer. Also, don’t be afraid to pull out that teasing comb and add some volume to the crown to create additional height. Tease into the first inch of you roots and then smooth the section in front of it to cover the teasing. If you have finer hair and teasing doesn’t always stay, spray the teased area with a bit of hairspray, then smooth over. The key with teasing is not to overdo it.

Andrew Ashton - La Posh Salon - Ad

As far as make-up for a holiday evening goes, play up your eyes by adding a bit more shadow. If you prefer a more natural or nude look on the eyes, play up the lips by adding a pop of color. Choose a deep berry or red shade for a more dramatic evening look. Don’t be afraid of color, this is the time of year to stand out and find colors to compliment your skin tones. For more tips on new holiday styles or to transition your look from day to evening, schedule an appointment with one of our many talented stylists and makeup artists. Wishing all of you an enjoyable and happy holiday season and hope to see you at La Posh Salon soon! 727-726-1600.

Buzz Stop – In and Around Tampa Bay

Buzz Stop - 2011-12

Another year is coming to an end! It’s that time once again to eat, drink and be merry with lots of things to do while buzzing in and around Tampa Bay. A traditional holiday season must, The Nutcracker, will again take center stage at Carol Morsani Hall at David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts from December 16th thru the 18th. This classic holiday favorite will have international guest artists performing with the awardwinning dancers of Next Generation Ballet. Visit: www.StrazCenter.org

Keeping in the spirit of the season, experience an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas Stroll of the former 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel with its Grand Hallway, 14 exhibit rooms and other decorated areas. This year’s theme includes whimsical teacups, antique toys and ringing bells with costumed carolers singing from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol along for the visit. This runs from December 1st to 23rd, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm daily. Proceeds fund museum restoration and preservation projects. Visit: www.PlantMuseum.com

On December 18th, offer your support to the Interbay-Glover YMCA’s Great Amazing Race. Teams of two will race around a 1-mile cross country course that includes games, relays, obstacle courses and more. Visit: www.GreatAmazingRace.com

Lisa Casalino’s 2nd Annual Caroling in the Park is scheduled for December 19th to celebrate the holiday cheer through song at Hyde Park Village from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Visit: www.LisaCasalino.com

The Holiday Lighted Boat Parade can be viewed from Channelside, the SS American Victory Ship, Davis Islands, Harbor Island and the Convention Center on December 23rd at 6:30 pm. Decorated boats bring holiday cheer as they sale around Davis Island, Harbor Island and through Garrison Channel.

Ring in the New Year at The Rooftop Eve party on December 31st at Timpano’s Italian Chop House. There will be a number of luxury amenities including private cabanas, engraved metal tickets, live models and live music. Visit: www.TimpanoChopHouse.net

The 142nd Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus’ “Greatest Show on Earth” will be rolling into town on January 4th thru 8th at the St. Pete Times Forum. This year’s theme is Dragons in honor of The Year of the Dragon and uses a mix of renowned spiritual and real life legends with superhuman stunts, the world-famous clown alley and lots of animals. Visit: www.Ringling.com

Panache Vue’ Magazine is proud to offer our support to these events. This is just a tease of what’s happening around Tampa Bay… visit PanacheVue.com to get more event information. And in case we’ve missed something, email us at events@PanacheVue.com.

We hope to see you soon!


Karyn Anjali

Karyn Anjali

Karyn Anjali is a published author and Tampa Bay’s resident socialite spends time out and about attending events and supporting charities. A successful business owner of a custom jewelry line, Karysma, and a Real Estate Broker, writing remains a preferred hobby.

Born in Trinidad, and having lived in Toronto, London, Miami and Vancouver prior to moving here 9 years ago, she enjoys the small town feel within a large city with daily dynamic things happening. She has an MBA and a BA in Communication Arts.

To the Max – Meet Iconic Artist Peter Max

Peter Max - Panache Vue Magazine

Peter Max

Peter Max may be 74-years-old, but the internationally renowned artist isn’t showing any signs of slowing down his brightly hued career, which spans a remarkable six decades.

“It comes from being very prolific and having a tremendous desire to work,” declares Max, who was born in Berlin in 1937 and lived all over the world with his parents before settling in New York in 1953. “I have this tremendous will to paint. And, it intensifi es as I come up the elevator to my studio. My heart starts pounding knowing I’m going to be at the canvas.”

There’s no denying Max’s pop culture influence. After all, his expressive works of art have become an integral part of the fabric of modern American culture with their stunning imagery and vibrant colors.

“It’s just something I love,” professes the internationally acclaimed master of pop art known for his Cosmic ‘60s style of painting. “I have a knack for putting different color combinations together in a million different ways. That’s why I have been able to create so many different beautiful posters.”

Along with painting Lady Liberty each year since the country’s bicentennial, Max has received numerous important commissions, including the creation of the nation’s first “Preserve the Environment” postage stamp and 235 border murals at entry points to Canada and Mexico. His work has even appeared on a Continental Airlines Boeing 777.

“It’s mind-boggling,” admits Max, who has served as the official artist of the 2006 U.S. Winter Olympic Team, the Super Bowl, the World Cup, the Grammy Awards, the U.S. Open, the Indy 500, the NYC Marathon and the Kentucky Derby. “I never dreamt my life would be like this. I love it all—every second of it.”

It’s hard to believe Max didn’t initially plan on becoming an art superstar. He actually wanted to study the stars. After meeting an astronomer during his early childhood summers in Tibet, Max became fascinated with all things celestial.

“We’d sit in the garden and look at these astronomy books and he’d say, ‘Have you ever seen all these stars and planets?’” recalls Max. “I just became so unbelievably interested in the universe. It just fascinated my complete being—my soul, my heart. And for all my life, I desperately wanted to become an astronomer.”

But the stars would align differently for Max, who had even taken several math and science courses to prepare for a career in science. After graduating from Brooklyn’s Lafayette High School, he was persuaded to take summer classes at Manhattan’s Art Students League of New York, where Norman Rockwell had studied.

“I got the bug and I begged my mother if I could stay in art school for the rest of the year,” remembers Max, who had taken already proven to be a budding artist after studying drawing and painting while living in places like China and Israel. “She convinced my father to let me continue studying art, despite his fears that I’d be a starving artist.”

Peter Max - Panache Vue Magazine - Paintings

Max wouldn’t go hungry. He’s open a small arts studio in Manhattan after seven years studying fi gure drawing and composition under noted painter, illustrator and muralist Frank J. Reilly; and he’d combined his love of astronomy and passion for art to create his famed Cosmic ‘60s style and launch a highly successful poster business.

“I had a printer who loved my work and allowed me to print a couple of posters and I gave him a couple of paintings ‘cause I had no money to pay him,” says Max, who has created more than 1,000 posters over the last 40 years. “He helped me sell the posters, which became hugely popular all over the world and led to a lucrative licensing career.”

Max’s art was licensed by 72 corporations and made him a household name. His rising star status led to an eight-page cover story in Life magazine, as well as appearances on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and the Ed Sullivan Show. Since then he’s seen his work featured at more than 100 international museums and galleries and created works of art for six U. S. presidents, including Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George Bush and Bill Clinton.

“In the beginning, I just couldn’t believe all the attention. It’s still pretty unbelievable,” exclaims Max. “With some of them, I’m on a phone-call basis. I’m really blessed to know such amazing people.”

Max is currently preparing for two high profi le museum shows and the completion of a highly anticipated book.

“It has about 45 stories in it, all short stories about my life—from living in China to standing in front of an empty canvas,” explains Max. “All beautiful stories.” So where does the iconic artist see himself next?

“Hopefully just where I am now; it’s a great place,” recognizes Max. “I love where I am, I love what I’m doing and every day is different. It’s a wonderful rollercoaster!”

One that doesn’t seem to show signs of decelerating as long as he’s standing in front of a canvas with paintbrush in hand.

A Display of Peter Max’s Works in Tampa Bay A collection of Peter Max’s paintings—including portraits and album covers he designed for country superstar Taylor Swift—will be exhibited and available for acquisition at Safety Harbor’s Syd Entel Galleries. The special retrospective will begin with previews on Saturday, January 14, 2012 and conclude with special appearances by Max on Saturday, January 21 and Sunday, January 22, 2012.

For more information, visit www.SydEntelGalleries.com or call
(727) 725-1808 RSVPs are kindly requested.


Tom Castañeda

Tom Castañeda

Tom Castañeda is a creative writer, blogger, and award-winning broadcast journalist who has worked at Architectural Digest, In Touch Weekly, and Latina – a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle magazine for today’s bi-cultural Latina woman. Throughout his career in publishing, Tom has planned and executed numerous celebrity, fashion, and beauty programs throughout the country, including fashion shows, and shopping events for brands like Bloomingdale’s, Chanel, Mikimoto, David Yurman, Givenchy, Armani Fragrances, Macy’s, Southpole Collection, and more. Additionally, Tom has drawn on his strong journalism background to create various print, online, and video reports on various subjects, including fashion and beauty.

The Midas Touch

Matthew and Jori Zarra

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.

Panache People to Know – Changing Perceptions at Forty

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

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.

What Will You Be Doing on The Biggest Night of The Year?

Celebrate the New Year South Tampa Style!

It’s December the holiday season is in full swing, Holiday celebrations abound. Though if you’re like me you are wondering where the year has gone, and already thinking about how to ring in the New Year. Well, I decided to do the leg work for you coming up with some great options for you whether you are staying at home, or hitting the town.

Byblos Cafe a unique S Tampa destination offers authentic Lebanese Cuisine. Live Belly dancers entertain the crowd at two seatings 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM the later will offer 1 appetizer per couple, an entrée, a dessert, a bottle of wine, champagne toast, party favors at midnight for $65.00 ea. Reservations are required and are made by calling 813-805-7977.

Ciro’s Speakeasy and Supper Club, S. Tampa’s hideaway opens it’s door on NYE from 6:00 PM – 3:00 AM. Three options will be available. Each will receive a complimentary cocktail upon arrival, (starting @ $25.00) champagne toast @ midnight, party favors and Guest DJ. For the $55.00 ticket you will receive passed hors d’ oeuvres, and first selection of exclusive seating in one of their booths. 3rd tier ($65.00), additionally includes an open bar from 8:00 PM -11:00 PM. Ticket prices do not include tax or gratuity. Ciro’s is located at 2109 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa. Valet parking is onsite and reservations are required. 813-251-0022

717 South one of Soho’s Trendiest Night Spots & fine dinning facility features a fusion menu from the Pacific rim and Italy. Located at 717 S. Howard Ave the restaurant will offer a choice of Soup or Salad, Appetizer, Entree and Dessert for $75.00 per person. Reservations are requested by calling 813.250.1661 or online @ 717south.com

The Rooftop Party in Hyde Park is another great way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. From 9pm – 2 am. The Rooftop Eve will feature a variety of complimentary hors d’ oeuvres and champagne. An open air cigar lounge, & the sounds from DJ Papi. Tickets should be purchased in advance @ http://www.therooftopeve.com/#!tickets

Consider The Fox Jazz Club if you are looking for a sultry feel for the evening. The venue offers a night club and a back den area each featuring live music. A 4 course dinner for 2 with champagne toast, and party favors is $170.00 per couple, reservation required, dinner will be served from 7:30 to 10:30 PM. If you want to join the party walk -ins are welcome at the door $50.00 which includes a toast at midnight and party favors. Call for resevations @ 813.639.0400

Entertaining at home with family and friends is always a great option especially if you have little ones. The tips below will help you throw your NYE bash, and create the perfect atmosphere for your soiree. The party should start a few hours before midnight; around 9:30 or 10:00 pm.

A cocktail party, with a New Year’s theme, is meant for mingling, and nibbling on delicious bites of food. Don’t bother with a full bar, do just sparkling wine, or arrange the ingredients for three or four cocktails out on the table along with shakers so guests can create their own drinks. Hang a few white paper lanterns to give your space a festive. Mirrors make very festive trays and with the addition of a few tea lights will make the serving table twinkle all night long.


Linda Baldwin

Linda Baldwin

Linda Baldwin, is a Credentialed Diet & Nutrition Expert and a Professional Catering Executive (CPCE) whose skills have been honed by 25 years in the catering, restaurant, and event production industry. She is know as local foodie, ultra healthy prepared foods specialist, educator – columnist and creator of Amore and Amore To-Go a lifestyle company, based in South Tampa since 2006. She leads a team of professionals that include chefs, and educators in the field of health and wellness.

Santa Baby

I found myself a bit frustrated when a local radio station began playing Christmas music before the Thanksgiving holiday. I mentioned to my wife how crazy I thought this was. She, of course, corrected my mistake by indicating how short the Christmas season truly is. She was correct yet again. Shortly thereafter I awoke from my Thanksgiving dinner and began to embrace the holiday. All that is left now is the shopping!

Chris Warren - Article - Santa Baby - Elder Automotive Group

In my 25+ years in the automotive industry I have seen many folks purchase new cars for Christmas gifts. My first was in 1985 when I was sneaking through a gate on Bayshore Boulevard late on Christmas eve with a shiny new car and a huge red bow. It was very cool. The sad truth is, especially now, many of us are not able to consider a gift such as a new car. There are many other items available for the car lovers in your life however so do not despair.

Most auto manufacturers offer accessories which can spice up your ride for the New Year. These accessories are specifically made to fit your vehicle. Some options require may require installation, painting or both. There are also a myriad of non-factory options available as well. There are many electronic items such as radios, navigation, Bluetooth, etc. which can be purchased and installed by your local dealer. But perhaps the greatest gift might be a service gift card or gift certificate from your dealer. These can be used for most anything the dealer offers from oil changes, annual services to full detailing services.

All of us with the Elder Automotive Group in Tampa wish all of you the happiest of holiday seasons with your families. We wish you peace and prosperity in 2012. Elder Ford of Tampa, Jaguar / Fisker of Tampa, Tampa Mitsubishi and Saab of Tampa are all collecting sporting goods for needy children through Replay Tampa Bay so please stop in with whatever you have or can give. We also are available for all of your shopping needs for the car lovers in your family. Happy Holidays!


Chris Warren

Chris Warren

Chris Warren – GM of Saab & Mitsubishi of Tampa, A division of The Elder Auto Group / 813-579-2309
11608 N. Florida Avenue Tampa
CWarren@elderautogroup.com www.ElderAutoGroup.com

Winter Blues – Lighten Up in This Season’s Haute Hue: Cobalt

Paris Fashion Week - Elie Saab - Haute Couture

Paris Fashion Week - Elie Saab - Haute Couture

There’s no denying the power of winter on our psyches. The shorter days and cooler nights can lead to a lack of motivation, lower energy levels and even a mild case of depression. But there’s one surefi re way to fight the winter doldrums… Infuse your wardrobe of the season’s usual suspects in browns, blacks and grays with the of the moment color: cobalt blue. After all, it’s a shade that not only adds just the right amount of light to those dark-too-soon days, but looks fi erce on any skin tone.

This season, designers like Zac Posen, Jil Sander and Nicole Miller aren’t afraid to show they’re crazy for cobalt! During this year’s fall/winter runway shows, they featured the oh-so-complimentary color on everything from sweaters and jackets to pants and dresses.

It’s really the go-to color for day or night. A cobalt blue dress is seriously stylish for a night out on the town; a pair of pants in that shade paired with a casual top give you a fun, yet simple day look.

So if you’re ready to lift your spirits during the dark days of winter, here are some ways to brighten up your style with this season’s vibrant hue:

POP GOES THE WORLD
There’s no reason to take the cobalt craze to the extreme. Simply adding a single piece in the icy-hot shade—like a sweater or pants—will not only provide a nice contrast to a basic black outfi t, but will give it just enough pop to help you stand out in the crowd.

BLOCK PARTY
It’s easy to combine this season’s haute hue with this year’s bold color-blocking trend, which requires incorporating multiple hues in an outfi t or a single garment. So whether you’re layering different shades of blue or a combination of jewel tones into your overall look, there’s no doubt you’ll add some visual punch to your appearance and be the belle of the (color) block. Just remember to limit yourself to a maximum of three shades to avoid looking like Rainbow Brite.

GRAPHIC DESIGN
From striking tribal designs to charming fl oral patterns, graphic prints are all the rage this season, especially when soused with a splash of cobalt blue. One look at Alberta Ferretti’s black, white and blue abstract print beadeddress proves it’s worth going bold!

2. Milan Fashion Week – Alberta Ferretti, 3. Milan Fashion Week – Jil Sander, 3. Paris Fashion Week – Gareth Pugh

So whether you dress in head-to-toe cobalt or incorporate splashes of the energetic shade into your wardrobe through color-blocking, picture-perfect print pieces or brilliant accessories, banishing the winter blues has never been easier. And, you’ll look stunning doing it!


Tom Castañeda

Tom Castañeda

Tom Castañeda is a creative writer, blogger, and award-winning broadcast journalist who has worked at Architectural Digest, In Touch Weekly, and Latina – a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle magazine for today’s bi-cultural Latina woman. Throughout his career in publishing, Tom has planned and executed numerous celebrity, fashion, and beauty programs throughout the country, including fashion shows, and shopping events for brands like Bloomingdale’s, Chanel, Mikimoto, David Yurman, Givenchy, Armani Fragrances, Macy’s, Southpole Collection, and more. Additionally, Tom has drawn on his strong journalism background to create various print, online, and video reports on various subjects, including fashion and beauty.

Is It Time To Service Your Water Treatment System?

Matthew and Jori Zarra

Matthew and Jori Zarra

Have you noticed that your water bills have been increasing and cannot figure out why? Do you experience low water pressure at times? Does your softener seem to be going through more salt than normal? If you answered yes to any of these questions you have a problem with your water softener. Water softeners like any other appliance have seals, motors, and timers that may go bad over time. The extreme hardness and high amounts of chlorine in our water tends to break down water softeners very quickly. The good news is that most of these problems can be fixed with a simple service call. The majority of water softeners are built using the one size fits all approach and are not designed to handle the harsh water conditions we encounter in the Tampa Bay area.

With the tough water restrictions now in place it is important that your water softener is running effectively and efficient. Depending on the system you have will determine how often it will regenerate (go through it’s cleaning cycle using salt or potassium). In today’s market there are generally two types of systems available – a time clock or metered system. A time clock valve is usually on a day clock and it set to regenerate on certain days of the week regardless if it needs to or not. These valves if not set properly can waste a large amount of water backwashing, use a lot of salt, and put needless wear and tear on the softener shortening its life. A metered valve regenerates based on your water usage, it is set to a certain amount of gallons (example-every 1200 gallons). This only allows the softener to regenerate when needed based on the water being used in the home. A metered water softener is very efficient, typically uses less salt, and does not put as much wear and tear on the unit from unnecessary regenerations.

Water softeners today need maintenance like any other appliance, they have many parts that need to be cleaned and calibrated to maintain their effectiveness. At Florida Water Treatment we service all makes and models of water softeners. Call today to schedule your annual maintenance and ask about our service special for Panache Vue’ Magazine readers.

Florida Water treatment has been providing customized water treatment solutions since 1951 at wholesale prices. Our water softeners are custom built to meet the needs of your water; FWT does not offer the “one size fi ts all approach of all National Brands.” To schedule a free water analysis call Florida Water Treatment at 727-736-2747 or visit us on the web @ www.flawatertreatment.com for all of your water treatment needs.

Fierce Flair for Fashion

Celebrating Tampa Bay Fashion Week

There’s no need to travel to Miami or New York City to discover exceptionally haute fashions. This year’s Tampa Bay Fashion Week proved there’s a plethora of dazzling designers right here in Central Florida. And, they’re putting the area’s sensational style on the map!

During this year’s week of high style happenings in September, Tampa Bay fashionistas had the opportunity to celebrate the region’s unique design spirit at a series of events, including a phenomenal exhibition of vintage designs and a swanky soiree that helped shine a spotlight on the region’s best local fashion designers, artists and restaurants.

The week culminated with a night of high-energy runway shows featuring the chic Spring/Summer 2012 collections from nine of Tampa Bay’s brightest design stars, including Terri Funaro, Kimberly Hendrix and Audrey “Pat” McGhee.

“It was a great experience,” professes Dali Hernandez, a rising star who participated in her first Tampa Bay Fashion Week. “There was a lot of media exposure, as well as incredible photo shoots and fashion challenges. It was wonderful!”

Held at Palm Harbor’s Innisbrook Golf & Spa Resort, the two-hour fete featured everything from stunning swimsuits to glamtastic gowns. Standouts included Hernandez’s show-stopping “Golden Girl” collection and Funaro’s oh-so-creamy cluster of elegantly refined clothing.

“Whether you’re going to the beach, a club or a catered affair, Tampa Bay has plenty of talented designers with fresh ideas and their own distinct style,” asserts Funaro, who admits she’s already started thinking about next year’s Fashion Week. “It’s good to come together, swap stories and share experiences while promoting what this area has to offer.”

By the looks of the nine dazzling and diverse collections displayed at this year’s runway event, there’s no denying that Tampa Bay is truly a fashion force with plenty of talent and style to meet your every style need.

For the complete list of designers and more information on this year’s events, visit www.FashionWeekTampaBay.com. Photos courtesy of Anne Phillips Photography.


Tom Castañeda

Tom Castañeda

Tom Castañeda is a creative writer, blogger, and award-winning broadcast journalist who has worked at Architectural Digest, In Touch Weekly, and Latina – a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle magazine for today’s bi-cultural Latina woman. Throughout his career in publishing, Tom has planned and executed numerous celebrity, fashion, and beauty programs throughout the country, including fashion shows, and shopping events for brands like Bloomingdale’s, Chanel, Mikimoto, David Yurman, Givenchy, Armani Fragrances, Macy’s, Southpole Collection, and more. Additionally, Tom has drawn on his strong journalism background to create various print, online, and video reports on various subjects, including fashion and beauty.

Buzz Stop – In and Around Tampa Bay

Photo: Michael Blitch

What’s the buzz? Tell me what’s a-happening… from Jesus Christ Superstar is the song of choice as we tell you about just a few of the things happening in and around Tampa Bay.

Sanding Ovations Master Sand Sculpting Competition and Music Festival from November 17th to 20th will be held at the Bilmar Beach Resort on Treasure Island. There are lots of great bands performing to entertain spectators while the master sand sculptors spend hours to create works of art. Visit: MyTreasureIsland.org

Right around the corner, plan on attending the coolest outdoor party in The Bay, Chillounge Night at Straub Park on November 19th. 5 trucks of beautiful furniture will help to transform Rainer Scheer’s vision into a magnificent lounge. This year’s event supports Creative Clay and The Woodson Museum. In its’ fourth year, this event promises to be bigger and better with Phoebe Vecchioni’s Samba Team performing an authentic Brazilian style samba and Mustang providing two very special pool tables for the VIP area. Visit: ChilloungeNight.com

Elmo’s Super Heroes zooms into Tampa on November 29th and 30th. Join Elmo, Zoe, Abby Cadabby, Telly Monster and Zoe’s pet rock Rocco for Sesame Street Live’s fantastic musical production at the St. Pete Times Forum. Visit: SesameStreetLive.com

Lowry Park Zoo is where the Red Ribbon Run takes place on December 1st which is World AIDS Day. You can have a team or just run as an individual. Walk, run or “virtually run” to help others in need. Visit: TampaBayRedRibbonRun.org

Enjoy another of The Florida Orchestra’s Masterworks Series with Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21. Award-winning Austrian pianist Cornelia Herrmann performs Mozart’s sunny and buoyant Piano Concerto No. 21 on a program with Haydn’s La fedelta premiata overture and Bruckner’s monumental Symphony No. 3 from December 2nd until the 4th. Visit: FloridaOrchestra.org

Miniature Train Rides are available for kids of all ages on December 4th at Largo Central Railroad. It is free to ride with donations for train maintenance appreciated.

On December 6th, The Rising Tide of Hate in America, Talk by Heidi Beirich, Director of Research for the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) will be held at the Florida Holocaust Museum. The event is free to FHM Members or $9 general admission to non-members. Visit: FLHolocaustMuseum.org

Panache Vue’ Magazine is proud to offer our support to these events. This is just a tease of what’s happening around Tampa Bay… visit PanacheVue.com to get more event information. And in case we’ve missed something, email us at events@PanacheVue.com.

Why should you want to know? Don’t you mind about the future? Don’t you try to think ahead?
We hope to see you soon!


Karyn Anjali

Karyn Anjali

Karyn Anjali is a published author and Tampa Bay’s resident socialite spends time out and about attending events and supporting charities. A successful business owner of a custom jewelry line, Karysma, and a Real Estate Broker, writing remains a preferred hobby.

Born in Trinidad, and having lived in Toronto, London, Miami and Vancouver prior to moving here 9 years ago, she enjoys the small town feel within a large city with daily dynamic things happening. She has an MBA and a BA in Communication Arts.

Georgette’s 23rd Annual Celebrity Fashion Show

 

Mark your calendar for Wednesday, Dec. 7 for an entertaining look at 2011’s most trendy fashions during the 23rd Annual Georgette’s Holiday Fashion Show, presented by Georgette and Tashia Diaz and emceed by Gayle Sierens. Join us as the runway transforms into mid-town Manhattan and experience the holidays in New York. From the Rockefeller Christmas tree and snow in Central Park to a night at the Opera and high-kicking Rockettes, this is a winter wonderland experience you will not want to miss.

With festive musical entertainment, professional dancers, celebrity models, 50/50 raffle drawings and live and silent auctions, this Broadway-style show is the perfect start to get you in the mood for the holiday season – the Big Apple way.

This annual fashion festivity started as a labor of love for a few ladies in the Avila Women’s Club, and more than two decades later, it has grown into one of Tampa Bay’s signature events, attracting nearly 600 stylish attendees each year.

WHERE: Hyatt Regency Tampa
211 North Tampa St., Tampa
WHEN Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2011
Doors open at 10 a.m.
Fashion show begins at noon, followed by lunch

Individual tickets are $75 and sponsorships are also available. Proceeds from the event to benefit St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.

For more information or to register, please contact the St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation at (813) 872-0979 or visit www.SJHFoundation.org.

Sleep

Theresa DePasquale

Theresa DePasquale

SLEEPWe love it; we need it; but most people don’t get enough of it. How much we need, precisely, is a subject for debate.

Sleep is as vital to our survival as food and water and the repercussions of sleep deprivation, or even minor sleep disturbances, are much more than most are aware. Our brains need sleep to function properly and our bodies need it to repair and heal our tissues….but what most people don’t know is that sleep is one of the most important factors in the efficiency of their metabolisms.

Have you ever wondered why babies sleep so much? It’s because our bodies only release Human Growth Hormone (HGH) during deep sleep. HGH, is not only important for the growth of children, it is a hugely important hormone involved in Lipolysis (Fat Burning) and protein synthesis. With out its involvement, the body will turn to other, more efficient, sources of fuel, like carbs (Glucose) or even muscle tissue. And this, we all know, is not conducive to losing stored fat. A new study, in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that even sleep fragmentation (interrupted sleep) can decrease physical activity, increase exhaustion, sleepiness and carbohydrate metabolism and decrease fat utilization. All predisposing factors to obesity, these are not your friends on your journey to lose unwanted fat

Nabilah Shamseddine

Nabilah Shamseddine

The moral of our story: Get enough sleep! We have numerous clients who eat right and train hard but can’t get all the way to their goals. More often than not, we find they aren’t getting nearly enough sleep, and when they do start sleeping more they finally get the results. Make sure you are getting between 7-9 hours per night, if your goal is fat loss. This isn’t always easy, but you won’t regret it.

DATZ DUET

Suzanne and Roger Perry

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.”

Reminiscing Thanksgiving

Linda Baldwin

Linda Baldwin

As Pat and I are in the car heading north to visit our children in Gainesville, the landscape makes a dramatic change about 30 miles outside of Tampa. We begin to see rolling hills, and fields that are strewn with freshly cut bales of hay. This sparks for us an instant reminder of the season, and initiates our reminiscence of Thanksgiving Day celebrations we have shared with family and friends.

We come from different parts of the country, the midwest and the northeast and have lived in Florida for over 20 years. One thing we know for sure is that even though there are many different traditions when it comes to celebrating Thanksgiving, there are also some common threads across the nation. No matter where you live you can count on the fact there will be football, the Macy’s parade, and a turkey dinner with all the trimmings.

If you are from the south that may mean your bird is deep fried or smoked, and your side dishes probably consist of mac “n” cheese, sweet potato pie and corn bread stuffing. Those of us from the north prefer our stuffing made with white bread and lots of fresh herbs, like sage, and thyme. Depending on how far up the coast you are, you can find anything from sausage to oysters and lobster in your stuffing, and apple pies in addition to the pumpkin pies for dessert. In the midwest and on the west coast there is an emphasis on foods prepared from the local harvest and seasonal specialties determine much of whats on the menu. My husband who grew up in the midwest enjoyed harvest staples like corn pudding, bean casseroles with onion straws, and sweet potato with marshmallows each year. The evolution of Thanksgiving has families trying things like Turducken a dish originated in Louisiana where a turkey is stuffed with a duck, stuffed with a chicken, which sounds a little strange but is in actuality is a wonderful alternative to the traditional bird. Through the years our family has adapted a dish or two from all over making our meal a true cornucopia of cultures.

Reminiscing ThanksgivingThough we should be mindful through out the year Thanksgiving by way of it’s name is a perfect opportunity to remind us all to be grateful, for the blessings in our lives. It is a terrific opportunity to give back to the community and there are multiple opportunities to do just that locally. Consider volunteering or making a donation to one of the charities in the community, listed below are just a few of the many who need our support.

Metropolitan Ministries will use 150 – 200 volunteers per shift at their distribution centers, at times they feed up to 1700 meals in a day. You can sign up for volunteer opportunities or learn more about making a donation on their website http://metromin.org

The Salvation Army – Tampa, has year round food, toiletry, and linen drives and are currently in need of items for both men, women and children. To participate or help organize a drive, please contact: Jessica_vick@uss.salvationarmy.org (813-223-5288)

Kids Charity of Tampa Bay provides Holiday Gifts for abused, abandoned and neglected children in the Tampa Bay area through an annual Holiday Gift Drive. This community initiative brings individual and group donors together to “Help Us Fill the Wagon” with gifts for children who otherwise would not receive them. go to http://www.signupgenius.com/go/help286 to select a child or family to sponsor.


Linda Baldwin

Linda Baldwin

Linda Baldwin, is a Credentialed Diet & Nutrition Expert and a Professional Catering Executive (CPCE) whose skills have been honed by 25 years in the catering, restaurant, and event production industry. She is know as local foodie, ultra healthy prepared foods specialist, educator – columnist and creator of Amore and Amore To-Go a lifestyle company, based in South Tampa since 2006. She leads a team of professionals that include chefs, and educators in the field of health and wellness.

What’s All This Talk About HARP?

JoAnn Rooney

JoAnn Rooney

What’s all this talk about HARP (Home Affordable Refinance Program) and is this something that I would benefit from?

THE HARP PROGRAM
The Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) allows homeowners to refinance into low mortgage interest rates or lower terms even if the property has significantly decreased in value. Established in 2009, for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the Home Affordable Refinance Program provides an option for homeowners to refinance “Under Water Mortgages.” A HARP refinance addresses situations where the homeowner’s property value has fallen causing them to no longer qualify under traditional underwriting criteria.

The HARP program helps underwater borrowers who have made their payments on time but have been unable to refinance. There are 11 million underwater borrowers estimated in the United States.

Who is eligible for a refinance under this enhanced program?
Borrowers who fulfill the following criteria will, in general, qualify for a HARP refinance:

  • Borrowers must be current on their mortgages and have no record of late payment within the last six months, and may only have had one late payment over the past 12-month period.
  • The mortgage must have been sold to or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac on or before May 31, 2009. You can go to their web sites to see if either one owns your loan; http://www.FannieMae.com/loanlookup or https://www.FreddieMac.com/mymortgage
  • You cannot consolidate multiple mortgages with the HARP refinance program. It is for first liens only. All subordinate/junior liens must be resubordinated to the new first mortgage.
  • Mortgage Insurance providers have reportedly agreed to automatically transfer mortgage insurance coverage to the new loan. If this is true this will be a major change from the current program because currently borrowers with MI insurance cannot qualify for a HARP loan.

Are appraisals required for all refinances?
NO an appraisal is not required when there is a reliable automated valuation model (AVM) value estimate on a property. If there is no reliable AVM estimate available, a new appraisal is necessary so that lenders can make sure your house is “standing.”

Why are these changes being implemented now?
The FHFA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac have been working with the mortgage industry to create a plan that would boost the number of homeowners who qualify for refinancing through HARP. The new changes to the HARP program will take advantage of today’s historically low interest rates and, by spreading the opportunity to refinance, provide benefits to homeowners, housing markets, taxpayers and government enterprises alike.

Do second homes and investment properties qualify for refinance under HARP?
YES, this program will apply to a refinance of an investment home even if that home was once your primary residence. You can also refinance a second home. The loan must meet program eligibility and once again be guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

Do mortgages on condominiums qualify for refinance under HARP?
Yes, condominiums already qualify for HARP loans and will continue to qualify under the enhanced program as long as they meet the original requirements by Fannie and Freddie.

When will these HARP enhancements be made available?
Each mortgage lender will enact its own schedule for implementing these enhancements. Lenders should receive instructions from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac before November 15. We will have more details later this month and expect the revamped program to be available the beginning of 2012.

Call me to see if you qualify for a refinance under the HARP program! 727-787-2299. ext 1

Call JoAnn Rooney today 727-787-2299 X 1
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In Vino Veritas

William Lucius

William Lucius

One of the great things about working in the wine industry is having the chance to meet with truly visionary individuals and learning their histories and backgrounds. Having the pleasure recently of having lunch with Matt Hobbs, the younger brother of Paul Hobbs, I had the reaffirmation of what I already knew. Paul Hobbs wines are a testament to his background and deep understanding of what it takes to make world-class wines. Wine, while being about the balance of fruit, acid, and tannins, is also about conveying a sense of place, something the French call ‘terroir’. Paul Hobbs has been a visionary in the Napa Valley for over four decades, pioneering the use of single-vineyard designates, and his wines are not only a testament to place, they are truly a culmination of his background and understanding of the farming principals he grew up with.

Born in upstate New York, Paul Hobbs grew up with his ten siblings on a five hundred acre farm planted to various orchards. At night, around the dinner table, powdered milk was the beverage most often consumed by the Hobbs family. One night Paul’s father brought home a beverage for the family to try, poured a small taste in paper cups for everyone, and waited to see their reaction. That beverage was a 1962 Chateau d’Yquem, and the sweet nectar of the gods that is d’Yquem set Paul’s palate ablaze and led him down the path to his present day winemaking genius. Inspired, he petitioned his father to rip up some of their apple orchards and plant grape vines. He was put in charge of the care of these vines, and, the rest is history.

Paul Hobbs launched his eponymous label in 1991, sourcing and working with some of the very best vineyard sites in both California and Argentina. Highly regarded by critics and wine mavens alike, his wines are in high demand and sometimes hard to find. I can assure you, the reward of seeking out and enjoying the many wines of Paul Hobbs is well worth the effort. To me, it is wonderful to taste and recognize the vision and prowess of great winemakers. Paul Hobbs is truly one of these individuals.

Some of my Recommendations:

2009 Paul Hobbs Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, CA.

2008 CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA.

2008 Paul Hobbs ‘Stagecoach Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA.

2008 Riglos Gran Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina

  • Wine professional for the past 18 years
  • Sommelier with a diverse background having worked in the retail, restaurant and importing facets of the wine industry
  • Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits – Wine Merchant

William C. Lucius – Fine Wine Consultant
(813) 250-9463 – vinoman40@hotmail.com

Is He Real?

Super Dog Max

Super Dog Max

The answer is YES! “Super Dog Max” came into my life a few months ago. His dad/trainer, Carl entered Max into our Panache Pooch contest. After viewing all the photos Carl sent in, I couldn’t believe my own eyes! I had already chosen him as the winner for the contest, but did not let Carl know immediately.

As a dog lover, I was absolutely smitten by this beautiful and smart animal. Max came across as more human than canine! Once I finally let Carl know that Max was the winner for our Sept. / Oct. 2011 issue, I asked if I could please meet Max in person after the magazine had been printed. My intention was to hand deliver the magazine to our Panache Pooch contest winner- something I had never done before – still having reservations whether he was a real dog. He is!

From our very first meeting at their home, and many thereafter, I really got to know Max. I also fell in love with my buddy Max, more and more, after each visit. I was invited by Carl to see Max in his best element, outside in the malls interacting with everyone. We spent over three hours one evening just walking and talking about Max! The response from everyone was overwhelming, I felt as though we were celebrities. I am not, nor is Carl, but Max is!

I hope all of my readers enjoy the photos of Max and learn more about him. I am smitten by him, and cannot get enough of Max. He is truly the most remarkable dog I have ever met and I love him dearly, as I know you all will. Here I go, please enjoy!

Max is a 100% red, male standard poodle, 2 years old and weighs 60 lbs. He is actually a bit larger than most standard poodles. Max is a tall boy! The standard poodle is regarded as the first or second most intelligent breed of dog; Max falls into the category of first, of course!

Max has been through several hundred hours of training by Carl, who continues to train him daily! Max is a licensed service animal, as well as a certified therapy dog.

Super Dog Max - Swing

Super Dog Max

Carl has taught Max more tricks than I have ever seen, sorry Lassie and Rin Tin Tin! With over 25 years of training animals; from dogs to cats and even exotic birds, Carl has what it takes to teach Max and all other animals, like no other trainer out there! His love and patience is very obvious in the way Max acts and reacts to everyone and every situation. Max is available and more than happy to attend events; he is also available for photo shoots, movies, modeling and just about anything. Max is a quick learner. He can learn a new trick taught by Carl within one – two weeks, something that might take humans a lifetime! Max also has a website, www.SuperDogMax.com and a Facebook page. Follow by little buddy, see his tricks and adorable antics- like, stealing the keys from his daddy to the boat or the convertible! Last but not least, my interview with “Super Dog Max”, learn more about him and fall in love.

PV: Are you a real dog?
Max: I am! I’m a 100% standard poodle, thank you.

PV: Max, what do you love doing the most?
Max: First and foremost, I love lying around and relaxing with my dad. Secondly, I love all the attention I receive from others when I’m out and about with dad.

PV: Do you like all the attention you receive and do you ever get tired of it?
Max: Sometimes I get tired. When dad and I are enjoying a meal, some people don’t respect our privacy.

PV: What’s your favorite food Max?
Max: I love medium rare steak, chicken and my favorite treat to share with dad is Welch’s grape popsicles, yummy! In his bed, of course!

PV: What is a typical day for you like?
Max: I get a half-hour walk in the morning and evening with training in-between. I run all errands with dad like dry cleaning; banking and wrestling. I enjoy a spa bath fit for the prince that I am. We even cut the lawn together. I get to sit on the front of the mower, yeah!

PV: Max, who do you love more than anyone in this world?
Max: My daddy Carl!

PV: Is there anything you would like to do or learn that you haven’t already?
Max: Sit in the cockpit of a plane, but not fly it!

PV: Max, you’ve traveled all over the country and met so many wonderful people. Is there anyone you have not met that you would like to?
Max: President Obama’s dog, Bo!

For more information regarding Max or his trainer, please visit www.SuperDogMax.com

All photography of Max was shot by Carl: 800-324-1311

Your Mortgage Source – Help! I owe more on my mortgage than my house is worth. Is there a mortgage for me?

JoAnn Rooney

JoAnn Rooney

HARP is the Homeowner Affordability Refinance Program being offered for those homeowners who do not otherwise qualify to refinance their current home loan.

If your current loan is owned by either Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac you may be eligible to refinance your home with HARP funds, take advantage of the new low interest rates, and reduce your monthly payment. We have several lenders offering this program NOW.

How do I find out if I have a Fannie or Freddie mortgage?

Visit the webpages below and complete the short form online.
www.fanniemae.com/loanlookup
www.freddiemac.com/corporate
You will know immediately if Fannie or Freddie owns your loan. Only your first mortgage can be refinanced (if you have a first and second mortgage, the second mortgage remains as is). We can finance up to 105% of the current value of your home. In some cases HARP loans are available up to 125%.

How do I know if I am eligible?

1. You owe more than the house is worth OR you have lost significant equity.
2. You have a fixed mortgage rate higher than current interest rates.
3. You have an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) that has reset or will soon reset.
4. You are current on your mortgage and have not been 30 days late making a payment in the last 12 months.

Can I get cash out to pay other debts?

No. Unfortunately, the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) will not allow cash back to the borrower in excess of $250. The goal of this loan is to reduce your current monthly payments.

What about closing costs and mortgage insurance?

All closing costs can be included the mortgage, so except for a credit report fee and appraisal fee (if required), HARP loans do not require cash at closing. The credit report and appraisal fees typically run $300 or less. This expenditure will be offset by your reduced mortgage payments savings in a matter of a few months.

Typically you would be required to pay mortgage insurance, making the refinance transaction not worth paying the closing costs. Mortgage Insurance is not required for HARP loans.

Here is an example of a HARP refinance that I did for clients Jack and Kate:

Jack and Kate have steady jobs. They pay their bills on time including their monthly mortgage payment. Like many homeowners in Florida, Jack and Kate felt they were unable to refinance to a lower interest rate because the value of their home has declined. They met the following requirements; They own a one-to-four unit home with a $310K balance on their first mortgage and an appraised value of $300K. Their Adjustable Rate Mortgage currently at 6.25% was owned by Fannie Mae and was scheduled to reset in June 2011. They are up-to-date on their mortgage payments and have not been more than 30 days late in the past 12 months.

With my assistance, Jack and Kate were able to secure a 4.50%* 30-year fixed rate loan through the HARP program. Their payment went down by $368 a month, greatly reducing their stress over other bills each month and freeing up funds for other cash needs. Their credit score will not be affected and they now have peace of mind knowing their payment is fixed and they can remain in their home indefinitely. *4.769% APR

Loan to Value Ratio (LTV) can be used to estimate the amount of equity you have in a property. Example: $300,000 (loan balance) divided by $286,000 (market value) = 105% LTV

The HARP program is not just for folks “upside down” on their mortgages. If your LTV is anywhere from 80% to 125%, you may be eligible.

Call me to see if you qualify for a refinance under the HARP program! 727-787-2299. ext 1

Call JoAnn Rooney today 727-787-2299 X 1
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Ultra Custom Group – Tampa Bay’s Only Premier Resource for the Home, Pool, and Outdoor Living Design and Build

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!

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