2012 | Panache Vue' Magazine

Picture Perfect – Model – Angee Killian Huntley

February 10, 2013 By Tom Castaneda Leave a Comment

Angee Killian Huntley - Photo: Andre Belmont

Meet Tampa Bay’s Hardest Working Model – Angee Killian Huntley

Angee Killian Huntley looks familiar to you, you’re probably right. For the last five years, the Dover, Florida native has been working full-time as a model and making her mark in Central Florida with her strikingly beautiful photos, including a golden goddess-like image used for the cover of Panache Vue in January 2012.

“It was gorgeous; a stunning cover,” professes Huntley, who dressed to impress in several of Dali Hernandez’s garments as part of a profile on the designer. “I’d rank that shoot up there in the Top 5 of awesome shoots I had in 2012. The team was phenomenal; I couldn’t have asked for a better team of individuals. And the editors did a fantastic job of showing off House of Dali’s designs.”

It was the latest in a series of high-profile projects that Huntley has participated in since landing her first cover for The Tampa Tribune’s 2010 Wedding Guide: Florida Bride, an assignment that included a six-page spread in the magazine.

“It was one of my most proud moments as a model,” gushes Huntley, who admits it’s not easy to get noticed for your talents in this business. “To accomplish something so amazing in such a short amount of time in this industry, and to get it on my own, that’s an even better feat!”

Angiee Killian Huntley- Photo: Robert Covington

It’s no small accomplishment landing coveted cover shoots, but it’s all Huntley has really dreamed about since she was eight years old.

“I remember my mother taking me to castings, to meet with agents, numerous photo shoots and fashion shows,” recalls Huntley, who looks up to supermodels Cindy Crawford and Christie Brinkley for their timeless beauty. “Being so young and new to the industry, everything looked very exciting and I loved everything about it!”

Huntley’s passion for modeling hasn’t dwindled in the least, thanks to exhilarating projects like portraying Gala Dalí at the opening of the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg.

“Playing the part of Dalí’s wife, I made myself look like her for the guests in attendance,” says Huntley. “It was a lot of fun walking around such an amazing place, looking at all the wonderful works of art and seeing everyone enjoy us being there. It was a huge hit!”

And Huntley believes the hits will keep on coming in the years to come, despite the added responsibility of being a wife and mother these days.

“I have a very large support group when it comes to my husband and daughter,” declares Huntley, who says that she wouldn’t be where she is today without the support of everyone around her. “I’m not going to say its easy juggling being a mom and wife, but somehow I manage to make it all come together and work best for us, which allows me to pursue what I love to do.”

Huntley, who has worked with prominent Tampa Bay designers like Hernandez, Ivanka Ska and Nicole Mabalot and Michelle Cobble of Wicked Betty during her career, is ready forher next picture-perfect close-up.

Photographer: Robert Covington Wardrobe Stylist: Dionka Scott / Wardrobe Assistant: Bria Bass / Hair by: Myrna Ortiz Garcia / Makeup by: Ilona Wyszynska (White & Brown Gown)

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.

Filed Under: 2012, A La Moda, December 2012 / January 2013, Feature Articles, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Designer, Fashion, Features, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tom Castañeda

Dr. Carl Conforti

December 19, 2012 By Nina Stanley Leave a Comment

Dr. Carl Conforti - Photo: Lisa Sibley

Dr. Carl Conforti has been a licensed Chiropractor since March 1998. He attended the University of Florida and Life University.

Dr. Carl Conforti has been helping patients achieve wellness 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 and his team of doctors use a “whole person approach” when taking care of 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 and his team are able to help you to accelerate and/or maintain your journey to good health.

Although Dr. Conforti works exclusively out of his Oldsmar office with Dr. Michael Turner, he is also partners in clinics located in Trinity, Tampa, St. Petersburg and Wesley Chapel. His colleagues Dr. Todd Bodanza, DC of the Trinity location, Dr. Damien Rogers, DC of the Tampa location, Dr. Michael Gialousis, DC of the St. Petersburg 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. Most recently he has expanded his business to include natural weight loss with the Lasting Impressions Weight Loss Program.

In coordination with the Lasting Impressions Weight Loss Program, Dr. Conforti is also a principal of Multi Shot Health, which has developed Thin Energy. Dr. Conforti is committed to fighting obesity and health related disease and Thin Energy is a energy shot that allows people a quick, drug free boost when they need it the most. Thin Energy is a healthy alternative for anyone wanting to infuse their daily activities with increased energy and wellness. If you are looking to gain energy, why not lose weight as well. You can experience One Shot…Multiple Benefits™ using Thin Energy® .

At Conforti Chiropractic and Wellness Centers, you can expect highly trained doctors and staff who have one goal in mind: to help you and your family reach and maintain your health potential. While other doctors choose to limit their scope of practice to pain relief only, Dr. Conforti’s team goal is to detect and eliminate root causes of health problems that you may be suffering from now and in the future. Expect V.I.P. treatment when you walk into their practice! They utilize a customer service model equivalent to first tier organizations to ensure that you receive the best experience each and every time, whether you are an existing patient or a new patient of their practice. You can expect a highly trained doctor and staff who has one goal in mind: to help you and your family reach and maintain your health potential. Their doctors are trained to detect and eliminate root causes of health problems that you may be suffering from now – or be headed towards in the future. Therefore, a focused exam and x-rays if necessary, time analyzing your exam and marking your x-rays, and high level patient education is something you can expect in their office.

Dr. Carl Conforti - Photo: Lisa Sibley Over the next 5 years, Dr. Conforti plans to continue to improve the health and wellness of the community by educating and treating each individual throughout the community. In addition to providing outstanding care, he also plans on opening more offices to be sure that everyone throughout the Tampa Bay area has the ability to receive the one on one care they need and deserve to achieve and maintain optimal wellness.

Although their practice focuses on whole health, they also provide individualized care for back pain, neck pain, stenosis, car accident injuries, work related injuries, sports, injuries, and sciatic pain. Using his whole body approach, their treatments and techniques set Conforti Chiropractic apart from the rest. Each patient is fully evaluated and treated based on whole health, not just pain!

Most recently, Dr. Conforti and his team expanded their efforts to provide health and wellness to the Tampa Bay area by incorporating an all natural weight loss into their practices. Lasting Impressions Weight Loss provides a natural weight loss program without the harmful shots and pills. By providing patients with individualized consultations and programs, each person attains their personal weight loss goals. They give patients the attention they DESERVE in order to obtain LASTING weight loss results!

Dr. Conforti belongs to: Florida Chiropractic Association, ACA, Oldsmar Chamber of Commerce, Upper Pinellas Chamber of Commerce and the Florida Chiropractic Society. In addition to all the organizations he belongs to, Dr. Conforti raises money for many worthy causes throughout the year. One of his latest community efforts includes a Tampa Bay family who recently lost their daughter/sister to a brain tumor. Dr. Conforti and his team are working with the community to collect gift cards, monetary donations, and hand made Christmas cards for this loving and deserving family. (Please call 813.818.7499 for more information on how you can help)

Dr. Conforti does not see his practices as a business, but rather a means of improving the health and wellness of the community. The buildings and structures are only the beginning to something way more important. Dr. Conforti views his offices as belonging to the patients that come through those doors and achieve optimal health. They are the ones who dedicate themselves to being well and they are the ones that make his business thrive and grow each and every day through education and wellness.

Dr. Conforti has 3 beautiful kids. Cole who is 11, Toby who is 8, and Michaela who is 5. His children truly are all the light of his life. Dr. Conforti enjoys spending time with them, his girlfriend, Catalina, and her son Carter. Together they enjoy fishing, boating, wave running, golfing, traveling and just enjoying family time.

Three words that describe him and his business are service, dedication, and integrity. He believes you cannot have anything unless you selflessly serve the people, dedicate your life, and believe in truth and honesty.

Dr. Conforti owes his success to his wonderful parents. They both have such large and giving hearts and have always taught him to love, give, serve, and treat people with respect and kindness. Dr. Conforti has also learned the business mind from both of them as he watched them build there business to great success.

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Feature Articles, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Chiropractor, Dr. Carl Conforti, Features, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Taking the “tox” out of Botox

December 19, 2012 By Leanne Cross Leave a Comment

Leanne Cross, MD

Who would have thought so many people would be excited about an injectable product, whose name contains more than half of the word “toxin”? Yet Botox is the single most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment performed in the US today. Why is this? And is it actually dangerous or toxic?

Let’s first learn more than you ever cared to know about Botox. 200 years ago, it was discovered that improperly handled meats could be responsible for a flaccid paralysis known in the early 1800’s as “sausage poisoning”, and later, cleverly called “botulism” after the Latin word for sausage. It wasn’t until 1895 that the bacteria producing it was isolated, 1928 when the toxin was first purified, and 1949 when it was discovered how it worked. By the late 1960’s someone finally said, “Hmmmm, this stuff could be useful”, and in 1973, monkeys wound up on the receiving end of this idea. Finally in 1980, humans were officially injected for muscle-related eye problems, and cosmetic uses were first being documented in 1989. The first formal study for glabellar frown lines was published in 1992, but It wasn’t until 2002 that the FDA approved the first use of Botox in the U.S. for the “angry 11’s.”

Since Botox functions by blocking the signal from the end of the nerve to its target tissue (muscle, sweat gland), new, innovative uses are being explored. Aside from an ever widening array of cosmetic techniques, numerous other medical uses of Botox are currently employed or under investigation, including everything from treatment of anal fissures to injections for migraines, TMJ, and excessive sweating, to name only a few.

Despite its ominous name, Botox has proven to be very safe. Realistically speaking, you are taking much greater risk by stepping into a crosswalk than by having cosmetic Botox injections.

On the other hand, poorly injected Botox can lead to the highly toxic syndrome of “Spock eyebrows”, “frozen face” or “cro-magnon brow”, and beautifully injected Botox has been shown to be highly addictive and has proven to be a “gateway drug” for the non-surgical cosmetic industry.

Movies have painted a picture of Botox causing a frozen, unnatural expression. While it makes for good comedy, this does not have to be the case. You unknowingly run into people every day with well done Botox. They’re the ones who look like they don’t need it.

For many years, injectors have attempted to lift the eyebrows by paralyzing the central part of the forehead while leaving the edges untreated, so that when the outer part of the forehead attempted to compensate for the immobilized center, it would lift the outer ends of the eyebrows. Unfortunately, this gave rise to angry eyebrows reminiscent of Jack Nicholson in “The Shining”. There are improved injection techniques now which can lift the brows in a natural and attractive fashion.

When treating horizontal forehead lines or “Crow’s feet” around the eyes, it is no longer considered necessary to eliminate all trace of movement. There is a delicate balance between frozen and wrinkled, in which lines are minimized but some movement is retained in areas that create positive expressions.

On the other hand, a stronger treatment for the frown lines between the brows is desirable. Let’s face it, unless you have small children or incompetent employees, you don’t really need to scowl as much as most people do. In fact, ongoing research is showing that cosmetic Botox has the potential side effect of improving depression, aside from the improvement in appearance. The inability to scowl seems to trick the brain into perceiving things as being less scowl-worthy.

Talk to your injector about your desired results. Would you prefer to remain natural-looking but rested, or are you are aiming to beat those lines into submission? A talented injector can give you the look you desire without creating an artificial appearance.

Call 813-874-2332 for an appointment or visit www.lecadatampa.com. Lecada Medical Artistry is conveniently located at 3710 West Azeele St., Tampa, 33606.

Filed Under: 2012, Beauty, December 2012 / January 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: aesthetic medicine, anti-aging, Botox, clinical aestheticians, Leanne Cross, Lecada, Lecada Medical Artistry, liquid face lift, M.D., skin, skin care, South Tampa, Tampa, wrinkles

Plaid About You

December 19, 2012 By Tom Castaneda Leave a Comment

Make a Bold Statement in This Season’s Tartan Styles

It’s easy to stand out in the crowd this holiday season. Simply sport one of fall/winter’s hautest trends: plaid. It’s not only a chic-yet-classic pattern, but it’s easily wearable and available in every possible iteration you can imagine—everything from tops and skirts to stylish accessories.

There’s no denying that noted designers like Oscar de la Renta, Michael Kors and Roland Mouret are passionate about plaid, as evidenced by their tartan-infused fall/winter collections.

But this season they’ve taken the trend and really turned it on its ear, more than we’ve seen in seasons past. Designers like Thakoon and Tory Burch have managed to breathe new life into the classic fabric by reinvigorating it with bold colors, dramatic contrasts and larger-than-life scales.

And the world’s oh-so-stylish celebrities have taken notice. Fashionistas like Olivia Wilde, Kylie Minogue and Rihanna have been photographed in plaid. Even the world’s newest style icon, Kate Middleton, is apparently wild about plaid. The Duchess of Cambridge recently returned to her alma mater dressed in a navy and green Alexander McQueen dress coat, which matched the green and plaid outfits worn by the prep school students.

Whether you’re glamming it up with tailored and structured pieces or mixing it with leather and sheer fabrics for a more laid-back look, ‘tis the season to be mad about plaid!

So if you’re ready to stand out in the crowd this season, here are some ways to introduce plaids into your wardrobe.

Accessory to the Crime
If you’re not too comfortable with wearing the popular pattern on your clothing, choose a plaid accessory. Investing in a tartan handbag or shoe is a great way to rock the trend without going completely over the top. Designers like Betsey Johnson have created some plaidtastic pieces that will keep you on trend without making you feel too self-conscious.

Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire
This season, printed pants are all the rage; it’s a trend that has proven to have some serious legs. So if you’re ready to walk tall in an eye-catching look, why not don a pair of plaid pants? Sure, it may seem a bit risky to wear bold bottoms. But if you pair them with a solid colored blouse, you’ll keep the drama to a minimum while letting the pants do all the talking. Be sure to choose a top that matches one of the colors in your pants to insure a beautifully blended look.

Mix & Match
If you’re not afraid to boldly go where few fashionistas have gone before, consider pairing your plaids with equally bold patterns. Sure it isn’t easy to mix patterns, but once you’ve mastered it, you won’t be able to stop mixing and matching all the patterns and prints in your wardrobe. For example, pairing a high-waisted plaid skirt with a polka dot top will give you a chic an effortless look.

From pants to outerwear, plaid is covering everything this season. So don’t be surprised if you end up going wild for plaid, a pattern synonymous with crisp, fall days. And embracing the power of plaid will no doubt take you straight into winter in sophisticated style! So get ready to go mad!

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2012, A La Moda, December 2012 / January 2013, Feature Articles, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Designer, Fashion, Features, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tom Castañeda

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

Fun, Passionate, and Patient

December 18, 2012 By Laurie Talerico Leave a Comment

Jeffrey Thomas - Awesome Jewelry - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO Photography

Jeffrey Thomas - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO Photography

Awesome Jewelry. The name says it all. Jeffrey Thomas, master jeweler and custom jewelry designer, has been creating exquisite jewelry in the Tampa Bay area for nearly 20 years. When Panache Vue asked him why he chose this business, Jeffrey, a third generation jeweler, said he believes it is the business that chose him. At Awesome Jewelry, Jeffrey believes in staying true to what he was taught by those before him: that it is really about the people. He takes time to get to know his clients so he can design a piece specifically to suit the individual. Jeffrey will create a unique piece that will be cherished in a family for many generations. Heirlooms are created at Awesome Jewelry. When asked what sets Awesome Jewelry apart from the competition, Jeffrey said it is the personal service with special attention to the details. There are four jewelers on staff and each jeweler specializes in a different area. “There is nothing we cannot do and do right.”

Top of the line name brands are also available at Awesome Jewelry. The newest addition is the Scott Kay sterling silver and cobalt wedding rings for men. Awesome Jewelry is very proud to offer this line as there never seems to be enough choices for men in the jewelry industry. Other lines available are Galatea carved pearls (with award winning designs), Skagen watches, and Nancy B sterling, as well as Debbie Brooks purses.

The precious metals market is constantly changing, especially in today’s economy. When asked about his goals for Awesome Jewelry, Jeffrey stated that flexibility is the only option. “We set shorter goals so that we can stay relevant in our industry. Being able to change on the fly is our biggest asset. Our main focus is on being the best we can be every day.” Aside from designing masterpieces for his clients, Jeffrey’s other passion is contributing to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children. He says helping the Shriner’s is what keeps him grounded. In his spare time, Jeffery enjoys live music, art, Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games and having dinner with friends.

Awesome Jewelry is located at 6305 South Dale Mabry, Tampa.

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Entrepreneur, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Awesome Jewelry, Entrepreneur, Jeffrey Thomas, Jewelry, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

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

December 18, 2012 By Zac Pease Leave a Comment

Zac Pease

Hello, my name is Zac Pease with Ultra Custom, and I have been building “Total Outdoor Living Spaces” my whole career. Winter is approaching, and right behind it will be spring and then inevitably Summer. A lot of you are looking behind your home and hoping to get more out of your back yard this upcoming season. Some of you are looking to design and build the grand plan but you just don’t know where to start. I’m here to tell you that like anything in life, it starts with a vision. The single most important thing a homeowner can do is to understand the caliber of project they are looking to build. The second is selecting the right firm to build to those expectations. The popular trend for the last few years is “Total Outdoor Living” which the embodiment for all outdoor features in one appropriately laid out plan. Form and function need to be considered in the laying out of all outdoor spaces. Not unlike the interior of the home, every feature must be appropriately placed to insure that the general flow and feel of the room is adequate and suits your needs. Selecting a firm that handles your project is essential for these diverse and integrate projects. Finding one that specialized in total outdoor living is a bit more of a challenge. Several state licences are needed to execute these types of projects and seldom do you find these licenses shared by one company. Often the homeowner is forced to select several companies to execute these types of projects. You want a project containing Pool Construction, Outdoor Kitchen, and Accessory Structure ECT to be handled in one concise effort. This insures total responsibility of the contracting firm and a synergistic approach to the project. I can tell you that there are only a handful of companies that can insure this approach. Call me today or visit our indoor-outdoor showroom located in South Tampa. I would be happy to get the ball rolling on your Outdoor Dream.

We are conveniently located at 1416 W. Kennedy Blvd., 813-258-8878.

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Home, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Home, Outdoor Living, Pools, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Ultra Custom Group

Designing Your Little One’s Bedroom Is Child’s Play!

December 18, 2012 By Cheryl Perotti 21 Comments

Cheryl Perotti

Creating a safe and stimulating space for your small child or toddler can be as easy as ABC, if you allow yourself to reach out at their level- keeping their love of color, their need for both excitement and security, and their desire to explore their world first and foremost in your mind.

So how do you start? Reaching out at their level begins with literally dropping to all fours to check out their space, their reach, and the view from their perspective. You will want toys to be readily accessible but keepsakes and collectibles not so much. Ditto for the things that messes are made of like paints, glitter, glue…well you get the picture. Until your child is older, most art supplies can be weapons of mass destruction.

While we are on the subject of art, let’s talk about the display of all things created by your budding Artiste’. You know of course they have to be displayed and occasionally rotated out (do that when they are not around or you will find that every thing is their” favorite”)! For this you’ll need flexible space and simple solutions. What could be easier than a combination of narrow shelves for their 3 dimensional creations and a line of wire or ribbon strung horizontally or vertically in their space using old fashion clothespins, gator clips, playful paper clips or even hair barrettes to attach their creations. Chalkboard paint can convert an eye level wall into their personal canvas, like wise, a giant whiteboard or art easel.

Toys are synonymous with havoc! Little teensy, tiny parts coupled with ginormous playthings means you need to employ smart space planning and provide storage. The space planning part is easy, measure first, then buy. If the super duper bounce house or the gourmet chef kitchen doesn’t fit into your child’s space, then for goodness sake, do both of you a big favor and downsize! Creative play requires space, the alternative is mayhem and not good for your child’s psyche, or yours!

Environs-December-2012 But most important is not the space but the lesson. The lesson? Organization and caring for your personal belongings is easy! Toy bins are key, but labels are an absolute necessity plus they provide opportunities! “ B” for books or the word “books” is the perfect vehicle to encourage reading or phonetic skills. Add to that the organizational habits you can encourage and you have scored one for the home team! Those keepsakes we mentioned can be displayed on wall to wall shelving installed a couple of feet below ceiling level, And while on the subject of neatness, please keep the closet storage at a height that is accessible so they can hang up their clothing and store their shoes. Really Mom, you know that if your own closet is over packed or your shelves are out of reach, you become less than tidy yourself!

For that energy and imagination that is a natural part of child hood, try inexpensive curtains and a trunk of costumes to create a theatre nook, or a knotted rope hung securely from the ceiling for a climbing opportunity. A platform bed with storage underneath might include a perfect hideaway for the big imaginations in your small child.

By the way, while you were on your hands and knees did you look up? Oh no? Well that’s because you forgot to lie down and embrace the moment. Then you would have noticed that ceiling, one of the biggest canvases in your child’s room! The perfect place for stars that glow in the dark, a map of the world with illustrations, word play with messages of love and wisdom, or mobiles of fun or fantasy.

Finally, let’s consider the bed…you know, that big thing in the room that if left unmade makes the rest of the room look less than cute! Please, please, please make their bedding ensemble simple- that will encourage pulling up the covers and job done! I often see parents spend vast sums of money on costly coverlets or spreads that either are destroyed by the simple art of being a child or are turned down for sleeping and rarely pulled up unless company is coming or it’s housekeeping day…so now where is the wisdom in that?

Add to all of this their favorite colors and interests and you will have a room that “works”! Keep in mind that these favorites are attacks of whimsy and subject to change on a dime. That means invest wisely, keeping the color story and the thematic touches inexpensive and easily updated for your growing child. And when you get up off the floor and look at the room through your own grownup eyes, keeping in mind that the materials you use must be safe and durable. Oh yeah, being the parent can be booooring!

Cheryl Perotti
Fountainhead Design

Do you have a design question or dilemma that has you stumped? Email your questions or problems to:

Cheryl Perotti
c/o editor@panachevue.com

We will share your questions and our answers in following issues.

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Home, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Cheryl Perotti, Decorating, Home, Home Accessories, Home Decor, Home Furnishings, South Tampa, Tampa

There’s a New Sheriff in Town

December 18, 2012 By Chris Warren Leave a Comment

Every now and then someone or something comes along to buck the establishment. Think Norma Rae or Martin Luther King. The type of in your face, there is no-way I’m leaving, defiance. A kind of passion, ingenuity and dedication reserved only for the exploration of space. I would like to share with you a little-known gem called the MP4 12C Spider. This, my car loving friends, is a game changer.

In the 1960’s there was a man named Bruce McLaren. He had one desire, one focus and one passion; motor racing. And he was great. His racecars dominated race circuits all over the world from North America to Europe to Asia. But Bruce had other dreams as well. He wanted to build the best on-road sports cars in the world. In the mid-sixties McLaren set out on this project. Sadly Bruce McLaren died on the Goodwood racetrack testing a new racecar and never saw the completion of his dream. Only 2 M6 GT’s were ever built; these were the first McLaren Sports Cars.

Fast-forward 44 years and witness a New McLaren Sports Car, the MP4 12C Spider.

The McLaren MP4 12C is truly the most amazing sports car I have ever driven. And I have driven most sports cars offered in the last 20 years. From Bugatti and Bentley to Ferrari 458 and Ford GT to everything in-between. If you are privileged to be able to say yes to own a sports car in this class all you’ll need to do is spend about 10 minutes behind the wheel to feel as I do. Amazed.

MP4 12C Spider

I never thought a sports car could behave like this one. McLaren refers to it as the “and” car meaning it is the most comfortable “and” the most capable, the highest fuel economy “and” the best performance, etc. A car McLaren describes as, “The 12C is the uncompromised supercar that provides discerning drivers with breathtaking performance because it was inspired by Formula One innovation.” The beauty of this car is its carbon fiber chassis, which McLaren calls a monocell. No other car in its class offers such a feature and this is why no other car can compete either. While ALL other makes have to add braces and supports when they assemble their convertibles, McLaren, with their carbon fiber monocell, simply takes the top down with no need for additional bracing and NO decline in performance. Amazing.

From the F1 dominating carbon monocell racecars of Senna and Prost in the late 1980’s, to the still iconic McLaren F1 road car of late 1990’s to the Mercedes SLR McLaren, McLaren has been perfecting carbon fiber manufacturing. This expertise has allowed McLaren Automotive to offer a sports car like no other. The competition is being left behind, literally. The performance enhancements enabled by this chassis design is the genius being realized by the sports car buying public. The ride quality on urban commuter roads is unmatched PERIOD. While still allowing the MP4 12C the BEST on-track performance numbers PERIOD.

McLaren did not stop there either. This cars stunning motor design whips-out 616 bhp and propels the MP4 12C Spider 0-62 mph in 2.9 seconds! There is so much more to tell. I welcome you to visit www.mclarenautomotive.com; www.dimmitt.com or McLaren Tampa Bay is located at 3333 Gandy Blvd in Pinellas Park Florida.

Chris Warren

Chris Warren – McLaren Brand Manager – McLaren Tampa Bay – Dimmitt Automotive Group / 3333 Gandy Blvd., Pinellas Park, FL 33781 – 727-822-2019

Filed Under: 2012, Auto, December 2012 / January 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Auto, Cars, MP4 12C Spider, Spider

Buzz Stop – In and Around Tampa Bay

December 18, 2012 By Karyn Anjali 49 Comments

Derrick Brooks & Tony Dungy Leadership Breakfast

Tony Dungy & Derrick Brooks - Leadership Breakfast

On Nov. 3rd, 2012 Hangin’ 10 for Frankie’s Friends was a great success! $56,000 was raised to help Tampa Bay pets. Held at the Pepin Center in Tampa and sponsored by Candy & Eddie DeBartolo & Family, the DeBartolo Family Foundation and many others.

2012 Hangin' 10 with Frankie's Friends

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.

Enjoyment is defined by you. We hope to see you soon!

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.

Filed Under: 2012, Buzz Stop, December 2012 / January 2013, Events, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Candy Debartolo, Debartolo Family Foundation, Derrick Brooks, Eddie Debartolo, Event, Events, Features, Frankie's Friends, Karyn Anjali, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tony Dungy, Vinoy Park

98% Percent of All Self-Directed Weight-loss Programs Fail

December 17, 2012 By John Kent Leave a Comment

John Kent

Here’s How You Can Succeed in 2013 By John Kent, North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women

The New Year is coming. That means you are getting ready to be bombarded with the long parade of weight-loss offerings. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself against weight-loss offerings that don’t deliver.

But before I give you the information that you will need to protect yourself against these poorly designed weight loss offerings, let’s talk about some of the things that you may have tried in the past?

Low calorie diet
Atkins diet
Low-fat diet
Meal replacements
Over-the-counter pills for weight loss
Not eating past a certain time a day
Supplements found in health food stores
Aerobics or strength training
Exercise-at-home videos
TV shows
Infomercial products
Programs like Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig?

The truth is, most of these are not permanent solutions or they are only partial solutions at best.
If you’re going to succeed with your weight-loss goals in 2013 your weight-loss solution needs to have these crucial five elements:

Nutritional Control
Resistance Training
Cardio & Interval Training
Habit-Based Coaching
Fun

1) Studies have shown repeatedly that although exercise is important, without nutritional control you will not be successful with your weight-loss goals. What you need to do is create a negative energy balance. If you have a negative energy balance you have put your body in a state where weight loss is possible. If you are in a neutral energy balance, your weight will stay the same. This is called homeostasis. And if you’re in a positive energy balance you will gain weight. But, oh, if it was only that simple! The problem is when we cut our calories too drastically we slow down metabolism and all the processes in the body. The body does not know the difference between drastic voluntary calorie restriction and starvation. Also, highly processed foods disable our natural satiation mechanisms. So, we need to find a way to consume lower calorie whole foods that taste great, fill you up, satisfy you and are easy to incorporate into our lives.

2) Resistance training is key. 70% of all the calories you burn everyday come from your resting metabolic rate (RMR). The problem is, as we age, our resting metabolic rate declines. We cannot make ourselves get any younger but we can slow or even reverse our declining metabolic rate by adding muscle. We do this by incorporating resistance training. Not only does this speed up our resting metabolic rate (we burn more calories at rest) but it also helps us to feel stronger, helps our moods, helps us have a sense of well-being and helps prevent osteoporosis along with many other great benefits. Feeling strong feels good!

3) Cardio/Interval Training this is where we burn excess calories. If you’re doing traditional steady-state cardio for longer duration you’ll burn more calories while you are exercising, but not much after you’re done. Interval training is a great option. Although you may not burn as many calories while you’re training, you will burn more calories in the hours after you have trained with this shorter duration/increased intensity exercise training. If weight-loss is the goal, it is best to have a combination of traditional steady-state cardio and interval training incorporated into your weight-loss program.

4) As mentioned earlier, 98 percent of all self-directed weight-loss programs fail and this is where Habit-Based Coaching comes in. The main reason is people try to change too much too fast. But if you focus and work on changing one habit at a time, you have a 76% chance of being successful in changing that habit. If you try to change two habits at the same time your chance of success drops to 35%. Most people approach the New Year and New Year’s resolutions with a kamikaze, 100% or nothing mentality. But just like sprinting, you can’t give 100% long-term. So within one, two, or maybe three weeks after the New Year most resolutions are dropped and forgotten about until the next year or until that “I’m fed up with being fat” feeling comes back again. And then it is like Groundhog’s Day every time one wants to lose weight…they start a new diet and start completely over again. It is like Yogi Bear says, “It’s like déjà vu all over again”.

5) Fun! As complicated as we think we are, anything we do or don’t do is done for only two reasons. Not 100, not 50, not 10, not 5…but only two reasons. The reason you do or don’t do anything is either to gain pleasure or to avoid pain or some combination of the two. It really comes down to just that. So, if you’re going to be successful with a weight-loss program or fitness program it needs to be FUN! Hopefully it has a social element where you can find people that you have things in common with, where you can make friends, and even do other things together.

So, whatever weight loss solution you choose to go with over this next year, remember it should include nutritional control, resistance training, cardio/interval training, and have habit-based coaching to help you take one step at a time. And above all it needs to be fun!

Now that you know why 98% of all other people will fail with their weight loss attempts, now you can succeed!

About the Author, John Kent : John’s North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women was recently voted #1 Best Boot Camp on the Tampa’s A-List for 2012. Time flies in this fast and fun, never-a-dull-moment, one-hour boot camp. Register for the next camp at www.BootCampRocks.com or call John directly at 727-420-8139.

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Fitness, Health, John Kent, North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women, Tampa Bay, Weight loss

Here’s to a New You – Get a Pilates Body

December 17, 2012 By Patricia Massey Welter Leave a Comment

The holiday season will soon be over and the New Year is just around the corner. Did you take time to gift yourself? What better time to give yourself a gift that keeps on giving, a healthy and strong body. Want to shape up, improve your stamina and endurance, manage your stress and lose a few inches? It is time to get your body into shape with a Pilates body.

Is your current exercise regimen not giving you the results you want? Pilates exercise, created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900’s, is a proven exercise regimen that will yield a sleeker, slimmer, toned physique while strengthening and stretching the entire body. Not exercised in a long time or having a hard time getting started? Pilates is for everybody – the beginner exerciser or the seasoned athlete. Pilates can be performed on the mat (floor) exercises or specialized equipment, providing both assistance and resistance. Exercises on the equipment can be performed lying, kneeling, sitting or standing.

Suncoast Pilates - Palm Harbor, Florida

Tired of feeling beat up after your workout? While extremely challenging, Pilates leaves you feeling energized, relieves stress yet able to move, sit and stand the next day. Bored with the same old fitness routines with only so many ways to do a bicep curl? Pilates equipment provides hundreds of exercises and variations. Each workout can be tailored with no session seeming the same, yet all body parts are worked simultaneously. Resistance training, the essence of Pilates, has been proven to create lean muscle and rev up your metabolism to burn calories all day long.

How to get started? Find a Certified Pilates Instructor to assist in developing a program to fit your needs. Pilates exercise should be practiced two – three times weekly to achieve maximum results, whether in the home, studio or gym. Suncoast Pilates specializes in Pilates private equipment sessions. With services to fit everyone’s budget the studio also offers duet and group Pilates equipment classes and Pilates Mat (floor) classes. Come in and get your Pilates body today!

Patricia Massey Welter

Patricia Massey Welter, PMA®-CPT, Lolita San Miguel Pilates Master™, Second Generation Pilates Teacher – Suncoast Pilates – 34080 U.S. Hwy 19 North – Palm Harbor, Florida 34684 - Phone: (727) 772-6772 - www.SuncoastPilates.com

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Clearwater, Fitness, Health, Joseph Pilates, Palm Harbor, Patricia Welter, Personal Trainer, Pilates, Pinellas, Suncoast Pilates, Training

A New Year, A New You, A New Smile

December 17, 2012 By Dr. Larry Lieberman Leave a Comment

Dr. Larry Lieberman

Another holiday season is coming to a close. Time to put away the gifts, take down the decorations and loosen the belt buckle. It seems we all give ourselves permission to “overdo it” over the holidays and then, in January promise ourselves to get back on track for the New Year. The gym is packed with everyone and their good intentions and new diets. I suggest you look at the state of your dental health in the same way. If your teeth are out of shape, the New Year can offer you hope. Many of you also have dental insurance with a new calendar year maximum available. There are many exciting ways to achieve better dental health.

Here are my top ways to improve your dental health in 2013:

If you drink soda STOP now. Even diet soda and carbonated waters contain carbonic acid which eats away the enamel on your teeth (try pouring soda on a car battery and see what happens). I have seen many patients with significant tooth decay due to drinking “liquid acid”. Recently a patient came to our office and was bewildered as to why she had severe dental problems. She said “I’m healthy, I eat well and I only drink carbonated water”. To her surprise the “healthy” flavored, carbonated water ate away her teeth.

Throw out the cigarettes. It’s a known fact eliminating smoking can reduce your risk for oral cancer, dental cavities, periodontal disease, partial or complete tooth loss, not to mention heart attack and stroke. I have seen many long time smokers give up cigarettes using Chantix, Wellbutrin or the patch.

Keep on a regular dental maintenance schedule. Although it may seem like “just a cleaning”, your hygiene visit is extremely important. In our office, in addition to a thorough probing and periodontal cleaning, our hygiene team will check your blood pressure and screen you for oral cancer. At this important visit many silent problems can be detected early.

Remove old, unsightly silver fillings. The amalgam or silver fillings of the past are not only cosmetically unattractive, they have been proven to fracture teeth and leak causing decay and infection. A simple visit is all that is necessary to replace these fillings with beautiful, strong, white composite bonded fillings.

Don’t be self-conscious any longer. Replace a missing tooth or anchor a loose denture with a strong and stable implant. This wonderful advance in dentistry is the next best thing to having your own teeth.

Give yourself a boost in self-confidence and consider an improvement in your smile. Today’s dentistry offers many innovative ways to do this. Some are quick and affordable while others take more time and a financial investment. Simple, inexpensive solutions like bonded tooth colored fillings, home teeth whitening and the Snap on Smile can easily brighten a smile. More extensive treatment using crowns, veneers and Invisalign (removable teeth straightening) can take years off of your age and give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

As I look back on the past year I am full of gratitude and thanks. I have a wonderful staff, family, friends and most importantly my health. As I look ahead I am optimistic and eager to help you achieve your dental goals, improve your dental health and provide you with the best dentistry available.

Wishing you good health and smiles in 2013!

Larry Lieberman, DDS

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Dentist, Dr. Larry Lieberman, Features, Palm Harbor, Tampa Bay, Teeth

Empowering You: To Achieve Your Life of Excellence

December 17, 2012 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

“There are so many weight loss programs out there, why is yours any different?” This is a question which regularly gets asked of my staff and myself. Simply put, two words: Educate and Motivate.

These are the two tenants by which we partner with our patients to help them achieve the life of excellence that they desire. Throughout our program, we educate each individual about the specific plan which they will be on, and we motivate them to arrive at a place of understanding that whatever is possible is doable – the power lies within them!

When a patient makes the decision to walk through our doors, our first hurdle is not their weight, or even their medical condition, but instead their mind! One of the first steps of the Awakening Phase is empowering our patients to believe that they CAN HAVE the weight which they desire, they CAN LIVE healthy lives, and they CAN ACHIEVE their goals once they choose to change their mindset which is a key element to creating lasting results. Many times, patients come to us and say “I’ve tried every diet out there. I hear you have a great program…but what makes you think that this diet is going to work for me.” The moment you begin this journey of excellence, you must leave “what has happened to you” behind, focus on the things you want and focus on the opportunities that will come into your life as a result of your new mindset and evolved approach to accomplishing your goals.

Once we have established a foundation for motivating our patients, we are ready to help educate them about the program, and how it will assist them on their specific and very personal journey to living a life of excellence. That involves a holistic, science based, approach where we work with each patient to identify an optimal program path towards excellence which includes:

Identifying Healthy Target Weight
Physical & Current Health Assessment
Identify Nutritional Plan
Identify Medicinal Support Tools

During this phase, we Awaken the patient’s perspective to help them understand they have a chronic medical condition. This condition traditionally is created, to a large extent, from behavioral practices, genetics, biochemical responses and many other pathways, but at its core – is a true medical problem, not a function of weakness in character which makes them inadequate. This is unfortunately, a very common thought process for many people who deal with the challenges of excess weight; a thought which, even our medical community as a whole, has continued to support over the years. We use this time to integrate the scientific foundation, that the nutritional program which they are about to begin will create the biochemically driven solution to stabilize the imbalances that may occur as a result of excess weight. This is an important part of the educational process, which motivates patients to feel empowered for the first time in their efforts to achieve their weight loss goals. As well, we educate our patients about the negative impacts that insulin has been having in their body and how making certain nutritional and lifestyle choices can support them in their efforts and propel them closer to their desired life.

Our program has helped thousands of patients achieve their weight loss goals, live healthier lives and ultimately attain new levels of success in all aspects of their life. Our patients understand that as they move closer towards their life of excellence they have the support of our staff, many of whom have been through the program and can empathize with the journey. As well, we offer support groups, recipes, nutritionals and other resources to assist our patients in achieving their goals! Once educated and motivated to truly take ownership in their journey, our patients realize that they are able to maintain a lifestyle of balance, success and happiness. They are responsible for the magnitude of their achievements, and we serve as partners, acting as a light on their journey to the life which they desire. So as you move into the New Year, and are searching for the path to a new you, remember; anything which is possible is doable…the choice is yours – Make the choice today to live YOUR LIFE OF EXCELLENCE!

Cesar Lara, MD

Dr. César A. Lara

César A. Lara, M.D. is a Board Certified family physician and a leading expert in the field of medicine, the treatment of obesity, and weight loss management. For more than 20 years, it has been Dr. Lara’s passion to become a positive force in America’s ever-growing obesity crisis…one patient at a time. Dr. Lara’s dream of helping men and women overcome diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and other chronic conditions related to obesity was realized with the emergence of the César A. Lara, MD; Center for Weight Management as a premier weight loss center in Tampa Bay. A graduate of the University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Dr. Lara is known for his strong personal faith and his generous contributions to the Tampa Bay community. Dr. Lara regularly appears on television as a medical contributor to Brighthouse Network’s Bay News 9 en Español and WTSP-TV Studio 10. He frequently participates in corporate health fairs promoting an active lifestyle and healthy weight loss options. He is the founder of St. Michael’s Free Clinic and Weight Away Tampa Bay, charitable organizations that provide free medical treatment to those who cannot afford it.

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

As the New Year Approaches

December 16, 2012 By Dr. Paul Duryea Leave a Comment

Dr. Paul Duryea

As the New Year Approaches the craziness of the hectic holidays seems to always raise havoc on us

Starting with Thanksgiving brings a season of reflection and inner warmth that hopefully changes us for the better. We realize that we are all blessed in many ways, some extremely simple to others that are complex. It may come as mending a broken friendship or extending ourselves to others beyond what in the past was our comfort zone. This is life at its’ fullest when we can do for others that are unable to do for themselves. That helping hand that at one or more times in our life we all need. That is what makes us unique in the animal kingdom. Let us all take some time this Holiday season and pay it forward. Going out of our way to be friendly and courteous and being cognitive of others around us and what may be going on in their lives. Maintaining our own health is so very important and needs to be high on everyone’s list. From losing those few extra pounds or obtaining that great healthy smile that we have always wanted. We are here to help you in your quest for self improvement. Please call us if we can help you get to your goals for the New Year.

I would like to make my articles relevant to our readers, if you have any questions about Orthodontics please send them to me at drduryea@duryeaortho.com or to my Office 2595 Tampa Rd. Suite 1 Palm Harbor FL 34684 and I will try to answer them in upcoming articles. Have a great Holiday season and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Braces, Dentist, Dentistry, Health, Orthodontist, Palm Harbor, Paul Duryea

Simple Ways to a New You

December 16, 2012 By Diane Whitney Leave a Comment

Art and Diane Whitney

It starts with excess clutter and loose receipts, builds through the holidays and by the time the New Year rolls around it’s everywhere! It’s clutter, and chances are, it’s driving you crazy. However, A-1 Custom Cabinets has a few secrets to get it under control, so you can focus on more important things—like tackling that extra holiday weight!

#1—Do a paper purge in your office. What—no office? Find a nook where you can install a custom desk to create your “command central.” New file drawers help find homes for organizing important contracts, personal documents, receipts and product warranties.

#2—Divide and conquer your kitchen. There’s one pot you need for dinner, but reaching into the back of the cabinet triggers a culinary avalanche. With a couple extra shelves and drawer pullouts, we can help you take advantage of the space between shelves. Tiered organizers make it easier to see and reach the items at the back of a shelf.

#3—Find a home for all your clothes. Who needs a leopard print dress when your closet is a jungle? A-1 Custom Cabinets can organize your hanging space, add shelves for sweaters and shoes, a pullout bar for dry cleaning, and a home for your hamper. Sorting “like” items together makes the whole space easier on the eyes.

#4—Harness hidden space in your bathroom. Rummaging to find your favorite body butter while getting ready in the morning is not the way to start your day. A-1 has an assortment of drawer organizers that help maximize storage space. We can even create additional storage under the sink.

Call A-1 Custom Cabinets today for your free consultation. We’ll address notoriously difficult clutter issues for your first step towards a whole New You.

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Green Living, Home, Tampa Bay Tagged With: A-1 Custom Cabinets, Art Whitney, Bamboo, Bathrooms, Business, Cabinets, Clearwater, Diane Whitney, Green, Green Living, Home, Home Organization, Kitchens, Lyptus, Organization, Outdoor Kitchens, Pinellas County, Recycled, Recycled Glass, Remodeling, Space Organization

Things I Learned in 2012

December 16, 2012 By JoAnn Rooney Leave a Comment

JoAnn Rooney

Buying or refinancing a home was not easy. Short sales and foreclosures had title issues, leaky roofs and black pools. Appraisals came in short and sellers took it out on buyers and buyers blamed realtors. Contract dates meant nothing to lenders as rate locks expired and underwriters asked for more and more paperwork. I have worked for fifteen years in this industry and this year was the most challenging by far.

Buying a home in 2012 was like going to Bush Gardens and riding a roller coaster. Finding your dream home is the first part of the ride and after that comes the ups and downs. If all parties involved in your real estate sale transaction (buyer, seller, Title Company, realtors, mortgage broker, lender) keep their heads and work well together, your roller coaster ride will have a happy ending.

There are still incredible buys available on homes in the Tampa Bay area. In 2012, we saw rates at their lowest levels in 40 years. If you are in a position to buy a home to own, a second home or an investment property, 2013 may be your year.

If you read the headlines in the paper or listen to the news, you will hear that you need a 20% down payment to purchase a home, but if you look beyond the headlines, you will find that very few lenders are requiring a 20% down payment. The majority of first-time home buyers used a loan from the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) which allows a 3.5% down payment and is NOT just for first time homebuyers. There are plenty of lenders offering 95% financing and the Veterans Administration offers 100% financing for Veterans.

Even in a tough economy, people continue to graduate from college, marry, have babies, and buy homes. While potential homebuyers remain cautious, the abundance of affordable housing combined with historical low rates will draw more buyers to the closing table in 2013.

Remember that in the midst of turmoil, uncertainty and change….lies opportunity…

Here’s to a great 2013!

Call JoAnn Rooney today 727-787-2299 X 1
www.facebook.com/FLMortgageLady
www.twitter.com/FLMortgageLady

Filed Under: 2012, Business, December 2012 / January 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Business, Clearwater, Features, Florida, JoAnn Rooney, Lender, Mortgage, Mortgage Broker, Real Estate, Refinance, Tampa Bay

Leaving His Mark

November 18, 2012 By Tom Castaneda Leave a Comment

Sugar Ray’s Mark McGrath Talks Life, Love & Fatherhood

“In a million years, I didn’t think I had the talent to become successful,” declares Mark McGrath, the lead singer of the pop rock band Sugar Ray. “I was not put on this earth to be a singer.”

Panache Vue' Magazine - Cover - November 2012

But the 44-year-old music maker has defied his own doubts about his potential to front a band that has left an indelible mark on pop culture with hit songs like “Fly,” “Every Morning” and “When It’s Over,” tunes that still get radio airplay nearly a decade after their release.

“I’m influenced by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Beastie Boys and the Sex Pistols, bands that don’t have the greatest voices in the world. But there’s something about them as a collective that makes them work,” proclaims McGrath, who has been Sugar Ray’s front man for more than a quarter-century. “And that let me think that I could get on stage and make an ass of myself and sing a few songs.”

It’s that mindset that led to McGrath’s discovery in the first place. During his high school days in Newport Beach, California, he attended a party where his favorite band, The Tories, was performing.

“The singer didn’t know the words to AC/DC’s ‘Back in Black’ and I did, so they let me sing,” remembers McGrath, whose rock-star good looks would lead to him being named People’s Sexiest Rocker in 1998. “I was drunk and I screamed the lyrics, and I dove into the pool when I was done. And Stan [Frazier] and Rodney [Sheppard] thought, ‘If we ever go hard edge, that might be our guy!’”

Mark McGrath and Family

McGrath was that guy when The Tories broke up and re-formed as the Shrinky Dinx in the late ‘80s. The band would eventually change its name to Sugar Ray after signing with Atlantic Records. And nearly a decade later McGrath and company would strike gold with the insta-classic “Fly,” a song on Sugar Ray’s sophomore album Floored.

“I hated it at first ‘cause it was so different than anything we were doing,” recalls McGrath, who retooled the song at the request of a longtime friend. “I rearranged the song, added some vocals. It slowly started taking shape; and then producer David Kahne added his magical touches. And we thought we had something special. But I never knew how big it was going to be!”

Mark McGrath

Following its release in the summer of 1997, “Fly” would become the band’s first massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart and the Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart. Sugar Ray would release subsequent hits like “Someday,” “Falls Apart” and a cover of Joe Jackson’s “Is She Really Going Out with Him?”

“It’s such a blessing still hearing these songs on the radio after all these years, learning what they mean to people and seeing how they react when we perform them,” asserts McGrath, who performed for the third straight year at the Eat to the Beat concert series during the 2012 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in Orlando. “I’m honored and humbled to have a few songs that really resonated with people.”

But McGrath’s career has taken him beyond music. In 2004, he became the co-host of Extra after a producer noticed his work hosting various VH1 and MTV programs and saw his potential as an entertainment news anchor.

“She must’ve really believed in me ‘cause I was learning in front of America,” says McGrath with a laugh. “And they were really tolerant of my learning skills. I remember six months after working on the show I walked into 7/11 and this heavily tattooed guy came up to me. I really thought he was going to punch me in the face! But he said, ‘Dude, you’re getting better. You sucked when you started, but you’re getting good!’”

But after a four-year stint at Extra, a gig hosting Don’t Forget the Lyrics! and competing on The Celebrity Apprentice, McGrath’s life would forever change on April 29, 2010, with the birth of Lydon Edward and Hartley Grace, his adorable twins with longtime love Carin Kingsland.

“I’m a dad first and foremost, that’s what I do.” says McGrath, who admits he was glad he waited until he was 42 to start a family because he was “pretty selfish” professionally and personally in his 20’s and 30’s. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but the greatest thing I’ve ever done. You get little moments when they’ll look at you, hug you, say they love you. And that’s what it’s about.”

This September, McGrath married Kingsland, whom he describes as his best friend and soul mate, at an intimate ceremony at Santa Barbara’s historic San Ysidro Ranch.

“It was like the final piece of my personal puzzle,” says McGrath, who has been with Kingsland for 18 years. “I kind of did everything backwards. We started living together first, had kids and then got married. But my life is complete now. We’re a team; we’re a family unit. We got all the craziness out of the way, survived all that. So we’re pretty indestructible at this point!”

It’s that sense of completeness that’s now fueling McGrath’s next fire… the recording of a solo album.

“It’s helped me be hungry again… to hustle, make music and enjoy life. So I’m just gonna make a Mark McGrath record in 2013, at my own pace. It may have five songs; it may have 15,” announces McGrath, who recorded a duet with Shania Twain on the song “Party for Two.” “The Mark McGrath band will always play Sugar Ray hits. After all, I wrote those songs and sang them. But it’s time to pepper new music into the set.”

If McGrath’s determination and commitment to becoming a singer and finding his voice during those early years is any indication, there’s no doubt McGrath will find success as a solo artist. After all, he’s the same artist who gained acclaim singing the lyric “I just wanna fly.” And fly he shall.

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2012, Celebrity, Feature Articles, November 2012 - Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Celebrity, Mark McGrath, Singer, Sugar Ray, Tom Castañeda

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

Hip Pain

November 18, 2012 By Jennifer Cook Leave a Comment

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

When I ask patients to point to their hip, I get a variety of locations. Some point to their buttock area, some to the outside part of their thigh, and some to their groin. Buttock pain is often due to spine problems such as osteoarthritis of the spine or disc problems such as a herniated disc in the spine. Pain on the outside of the thigh is typically due to hip bursitis, inflammation of the bursa sac on the outside of the hip. True hip pain manifests itself as deep groin pain which can extend down the front of the thigh to the knee. The most common cause of this type of pain is osteoarthritis, or wear and tear changes of the hip joint itself. Osteoarthritis of the hip can range from mild to severe and accompanying symptoms can vary as well. Mild pain can often be controlled with anti-inflammatory medications. These can either be over the counter (non-prescriptive) or require the prescription of a doctor. When taken on a daily basis, these medicines can help to keep the inflammation associated with arthritis to a minimum, thus reducing pain. More progressive arthritis can interfere with one’s ability to walk or participate in sports such as golf. Hips X-Ray A course of physical therapy may be helpful to strengthen the muscles around the hip, thus taking the force off the damaged hip joint and relieving pain. Sometimes, a cane or walker is needed to minimize the stress across the joint. Cortisone, a concentrated dose of anti-inflammatory medicine, can be injected directly into the damaged hip joint under image guidance. This medicine can provide months of relief of pain, allowing individuals to return to activities in a pain free manner and can be repeated several times a year as needed. In severe arthritis, often the only cure is hip replacement surgery. This surgery removes the worn out hip joint and replaces it with artificial components. Only you and your doctor can determine the etiology of your pain and the treatment regimen that is best for you!

Jennifer L. Cook, M.D.

Filed Under: 2012, Health, November 2012 - Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Dr. Henry William Hanff, Dr. Jennifer Cook, Dr. Stephen Hanff, Entrepreneur, Features, Florida Joint Care Institute, Health, Medicine, Orthopedic Services, Tampa Bay, Trinity

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