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Viva La Vida Aviva

May 14, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Aviva Drescher

Meet Real Housewives’ of New York Aviva Drescher

Having joined the cast of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York in season five, the beautiful and charming Aviva is so much more than what you see on the hit reality show. She is a wife, mother to four precious children, a REAL housewife, a business woman, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Aviva is “Living the Life!”

Passionate about everything she does, but extremely evident in her charity work for amputees with The One Step Ahead Foundation. Aviva lost her leg at age six and it has never stopped her from accomplishing anything and everything she sets her mind to. Strong and determined, this lady is more beautiful on the inside than she is on the outside. After the recent Boston Marathon bombings, she opened her heart to the victims, that’s just what she does.

How did you get involved with the Real Housewives of New York?

Through a mutual friend of Bethenny Frankel’ and the rest is history!

What sets you apart from the other housewives?

Each one of us is different in many ways. I sometimes feel like a goldfish swimming with the sharks. I was a rookie when I came on board; the other ladies are much shrewder than I am. I don’t feel like I’m a celebrity nor am I a diva. My intention was to make great television, unfortunately for the sake of drama; we are not always represented in our true form, don’t believe everything you see. My biggest reason for wanting to be on the show was to inspire other amputees, to be their voice.

What do you do for fun?

We have close friends that we enjoy spending time with and celebrating joyous occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries.

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

My family is number one! After that, my charities and the work I do daily for amputees.

What is your most memorable Housewives’ experience?

The day I met Andy Cohen! Not only is he the executive producer of the show, but a wonderful human being.

When you were five years old, what was your dream to be when you grew up?

A ballerina

Aviva Drescher and FamilyWhat are your personal and professional mottos?

Personal would have to be “why be normal, everyone interesting has a past.” Professional is “Cease the day, life is not a dress rehearsal!”

Three words that best describe you are:

Silly, Assertive and Compassionate

Who do you owe your success to?

Any good that I am today, comes from positive reinforcement, love and encouragement from my parents and my husband

Have most of your dreams come true so far?

Yes, even more than I ever dreamed possible!

For More information on Aviva’s Charity One Step Ahead Visit: 

http://onestepaheadfoundation.wordpress.com/ To connect with Aviva on Social Media; Follow her on Twitter @avivadrescher 

Like her page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/avivadrescher. 

 

When Aviva was six years-old, she was in a farm accident when her left foot got severely hurt at a friend’s upstate New York dairy farm. A few months later her leg was amputated as a result of that accident. Aviva has never let this tragedy define who she is.

Aviva has a solid education. She attended New York’s The Fieldston School as a child and went on to earn a Bachelors of Arts degree from Vassar College, a Masters in French Literature from New York University and a Juris Doctorate from The Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law.

At a chance meeting at Bed Bath & Beyond, Aviva a single mother at the time met Investment Banker Reid Drescher as their young children played together in the aisles. It was only a matter of time before the two got married and grew their family together. The Dreschers now have the quintessential contemporary modern family with four children – Harrison, 11, Veronica, 10, Hudson, 5, and Sienna, 2.

Aviva is also passionate about working with different philanthropies. Whether it is her role as the National Spokesperson for One Step Ahead, an organization for amputees, her work with Cancer Schmancer/Trash Cancer alongside her cousin Fran Drescher, Live4Life a charity that raises funds for Melanoma research and recently signing on as the ambassador for the So Gay So What Campaign (part of the Shine Out Music Festival) as a straight ally. Aviva continually teaches her family the importance of giving back.



Filed Under: 2013, Feature Articles, May 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Diabesity

April 18, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Dr. César Lara

Dr. César Lara

It affects one out of every two persons. This condition makes people sick, fat, tired and eventually limits their life and livelihood. It causes heart disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, infertility, dementia, sexual dysfunction, cancers and many other life limiting problems. Diabesity refers to the process and continuum from mildly elevated glucose and insulin levels to the full-blown diagnosis of Diabetes. It is in direct correlation to the degree of insulin resistance. Eighty percent of overweight persons are affected by it along with forty percent of persons with normal weight (skinny fat people who are normal weight but metabolically fat).

Insulin resistance develops as a consequence of social, genetic and environmental factors but its primary driver is the food we eat. The main offenders are the simple, refined and processed carbohydrates like pasta, bread, rice, and most starches, along with the use of rapidly observing sugars and liquid calories. These foods increase our cellular glucose and insulin levels and over a period of time, the cells develop resistance to insulin. In turn the pancreas produces more insulin to process the normal and elevated glucose levels. Insulin although necessary for life at normal levels, when elevated causes disease, rapid cellular aging and is the strongest fat making hormone in our bodies.

The good news is that diabesity is completely reversible. Insulin resistance is propagated by the persistent and progressive elevation of blood glucose, which in turn is elevated as a consequence of the high glucose producing foods we eat.

The key to the reversal of diabesity is first and foremost understanding and appreciating that regardless of the state of health that one may be experiencing, we have the power and ability to effect a positive change if we so desire and commit to the change we want. The mind and the thoughts we nurture and listen to color our experience and influence the creation of the life we live.

What we eat directly influences the cellular function of the human body and to reverse Diabesity requires that we focus our life’s journey on incorporating a healthier life style, where we make smarter choices in the foods we put in our mouth.

The goal with proven scientific evidence is to stop eating the foods that create the high glucose surges that are making us ill and instead focus on a nutritional plan where we eat more lean proteins like chicken, fish and tofu. Our plates should be full of color with different vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans and whole grains. These will complement a healthier choice.

Exercise, especially in our sedentary society is extremely important. Although aerobic exercise like walking, biking, treadmill, jogging are mentally and physically helpful as it relates to diabesity, anaerobic exercise like weight training, where the goal is to increase lean body mass has been shown to be very valuable in decreasing insulin resistance.

As we incorporate a lifestyle of a less carbohydrate load to our bodies and begin to increase our lean body mass, not only will our waistlines shrink but more importantly, the insulin resistance will resolve and your sense of well being and energy will return.

Supplements that will reinforce and strengthen your path to resolve diabesity are:

  1. Omega fish oils with a daily EPA/DHA of 2500-5000 mg
  2.  Vitamin D-3 with optimal blood levels around 70
  3. Alpha Lipoic acid 150-300 mg twice daily
  4. Chromium Polynicotinate 200-400 mcg daily
  5. Green tea
  6. A good multivitamin and biotin
  7. A prescription medicine that is very helpful is Metformin.

The supplements that are best for an individual should be decided through a medical consultation.

Other factors that are important components of a healthier lifestyle are:

  1. Drinking eight to ten glasses of water daily.
  2. Sleeping an average of 7-8 hours per night.
  3. Stop drinking or eating foods whose list of ingredients reflect chemicals made in a lab, or ingredients you do not recognize.
  4. Whenever possible and as often as possible buy and eat organically grown foods and keep away from genetically modified foods (GMO).
  5. Stress increases cortisol levels in our bodies, which in turn increases insulin resistance. You need to be mindful of the stress you experience or are exposed to and remember to breathe and engage in stress management techniques or exercises that will help keep you alert and focused and not overwhelmed. Yoga and meditation are excellent choices.

You have the power to change, so visualize the life you want, the health you desire; practice reinforcing a belief in the positive outcome that is to come and let life’s miraculous creative ways actualize in the life you live.

 

Dr. César A. Lara

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: 2013, April 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

She’s On Fire!

April 16, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Courtney Harter

Photography by Jorge Alvarez. Styling by Steven Anderson

The beautiful and talented woman gracing our cover is Courtney Harter, a professional golfer and model! She’s currently a member of the LPGA Symetra Tour, Ladies European tour, Canadian Women’s Tour and Suncoast Ladies Series. She turned professional in June 2011 after graduating from the University of Alabama. 2012 was her first full season playing professionally during which she successfully Monday qualified for the 2012 LPGA Shoprite Classic and 2012 LPGA Jamie Farr Classic. Playing in these two LPGA events along with playing on the other tours greatly enhanced her transition from Collegiate to Professional Golf.

“One of the biggest challenges making this transition, is that in addition to continuing working on and improving my golf game, is that I must also focus on learning the business/entrepreneurial skills necessary to be a successful touring professional.”

Her father introduced her to the game of golf at a very young age. At first golf started as a way to spend time with her father, but quickly grew into a passion and love that she knew would hold on to for a lifetime. “I began playing competitively around the age of 10. I started competing locally, and then moved on to regional and national events. Not only did I realize my love of the game but that I also loved the competition, traveling and the process of preparing and training for each event. The game of golf helped give me purpose and focus through my adolescence, and taught me valuable and important life lessons that have shaped me into the person that I am today. I loved how the games challenges me mentally, emotionally, and physically and that in many respects gets harder the better you become because your expectations grow along with your game.

“I was also drawn to the game because I did not need anyone else in order to play or practice; the game of golf can be a very social game or solitary one, just you against the course. Because of these reasons I knew at a very early age that I was hooked and wanted do this professionally.”

Courtney’s primary goal is to learn and improve each day and to become an elite performer on the LPGA and Ladies European Tour. Her ambition is not only for herself, but to give back to this game that she Loves, by paying forward the opportunities that she has had through mentoring and supporting the groups and people who have enabled her to do what she does.

What sets Courtney apart from the competition is her passion and desire to learn and grow as an athlete and a person, she is never satisfied!

Short and longs terms goals for Courtney are to be recognized globally as one of the faces of Women’s professional golf; to have her brand, “Play Harter’ fully developed and recognized globally; and her foundation “Build U” making a difference in young peoples’ lives by giving them support to believe in themselves so they can build their interests into their passions.

Courtney is in the process of developing a foundation called “BUILD U”. “Everybody has their own set of challenges and go through difficult times or moments when they do not know what to do. Whenever I went through difficult times or challenging periods in my life my parents’ advice to me was always to look within and Build U; Build U was their way of guiding me to focus on my strengths rather than my failures by focusing on building my interests. However, I realized that a lot of kids don’t have that type of support and guidance so I believe that through mentoring that I could help others identify their interests, find their passion, grow their lives and to ignore those who say they cant. I believe passion brings confidence, independence, strength, and happiness. Many people get lost or lack direction because they stop growing and building themselves and instead look to others to provide their happiness.

I want to start my mentoring here in the Tampa Bay Area but realize this is something I can share wherever my travels take me. My plan is to go to local schools and speak to students about finding their passion and explaining the principles of BUILD U.”

Some of her Courtney’s most memorable experiences include her first hole in one on the 15th hole at the 2009 NCAA Women’s National Championship at Caves Valley; making the 12 foot put to win a playoff to get into her first LPGA event at the LPGA Shoprite Classic in 2012; qualifying for the US Women’s Amateur National Championship at age of 15, her first National USGA event, and her travels to fascinating and interesting places both within the United States and Internationally

Family has always played a huge part in her life. Her family is extremely close and they spend a great deal of time together. When she’s not golfing she’s attending sporting events, Courtney is a big Tampa Bay Rays, Lightning and Buccaneers fan. She loves the Arts and has her younger sister Alexis to thank for bringing that into her life. Alexis is a Musical Theatre major at Emerson College in Boston, MA. “I am so proud of how talented and disciplined she is and I enjoy watching her perform every chance I get. Although what we do is so very different I think it helps keep us both balanced. We are constantly learning from one another.”

Panache asked Courtney, who you owe your success to. “So many people have played a part in my success. No one does this alone it takes a team. I have had the support of coaches, teachers, family, and friends along the way. I am also thankful for the Companies and individuals who sponsor me and provide financial support. It takes a lot of people to backing you and believing in you to play at this level. I probably owe the most to my parents who have always challenged me to be my best, held me accountable through the good and bad times, and taught me how to believe in myself. They are incredible role models, and they are the hardest working and most selfless people I know.”

To learn more about this amazing woman, visit www.courtneyharter.com, follow her on Twitter and Instagram @CourtneyHarter.

Born January 23, 1989 in Clearwater, Florida and has lived in Clearwater her entire life. Daughter of Craig and Tami Harter has a sister, Alexis. Graduated from Palm Harbor University High School in 2007 receiving a diploma from the International Baccalaureate Program, then attended the University of Alabama on an athletic scholarship for Women’s golf. Won first collegiate event (Wildcat Fall Invitational in 2007), named to SEC All-SEC Freshmen team. Four year letterman with 32 career starts, named 2007-2008 SEC Freshmen Academic All-America and 2008-2011 member of Southeastern Conference Academic Honor Roll. Graduated with Honors in May 2011 with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Communication Studies, also received a minor in Business Administration and inducted into Lambda Pi Eta- National Communications Honor Society, turned Professional June 2011. When she’s not on tour traveling, Courtney still considers Clearwater her home.

 

Filed Under: 2013, April 2013, Feature Articles, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Choosing the Right Clubs and Choosing the Right Dentist

April 16, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Debbie and Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

Debbie and Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

One of my passions outside of the dental office is golf. I started playing when my oldest son began to play 15 years ago. I love being outdoors, exercising and sharing the camaraderie of the game with my golf buddies. One key to enjoying the game is having the right clubs. Choosing clubs has changed over the years as I have changed. When getting new clubs I ask myself: Are they the right fit? Will they do the job well? What’s the cost factor? Do they fit my need? Can I trust them?

In many ways golf parallels life and I suggest that choosing the right clubs may parallel choosing the right dentist. Today, finding the right dentist and staff that will fit your needs, caring for you and your teeth is an overwhelming task. We now know that your dental health is directly related to your overall health. Choosing a dentist is more than just finding someone to clean your teeth. In addition, as we have recently heard about the importance of sterile dental practices, finding a dental office you can trust is equally an important decision.

Making an informed, wise decision is difficult. There are a lot of choices available- please consider these questions when making your decision:

  • Does the dentist seem compassionate and caring? Does he listen to your needs?
  • Does he educate you and give you all of the options available.
  • Does he have wonderful credentials with many affiliations and continuing education
  • Is there a highly trained staff and hygiene team eager to help you maintain your dental health
  • Does the office appear fresh, clean and up on all the latest technology
  • Is the staff friendly & caring and do they make you feel welcome
  • Is the office environment warm, calm and serene
  • Is the office insurance friendly and helpful with other financial options
  • Are you treated as a unique individual- not just a number

Practicing dentistry in Palm Harbor for over 28 years my goal has always been to treat people the way that I would want to be treated and to help them achieve the smile that they’ve always wanted. Our office offers a wide range of dental and smile solutions, many with immediate results. If there is something that you have always wanted to change about your smile, this is the time to do it. I welcome you and would like to personally meet with you and discuss how you can have the smile you have always wanted. I invite you to call 727-785-8017 and ask for your complimentary examination. You deserve it!

Wishing you good health,

Larry Lieberman, DDS

Filed Under: 2013, April 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , ,

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

March 21, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Dr. César Lara and Family

Dr. César Lara and Family - Photo: Lisa Sibley

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

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

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

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

Panache: What sets you apart from your competition?

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

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

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

Panache: What do you do for fun?

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

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

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

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

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

Panache: What are your personal and professional mottos?

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

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

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

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

César: My dreams are being actualized every day.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Filed Under: 2013, March 2013, Panache People to Know, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Beauty and Brains

March 18, 2013 By 50 Comments
Dana Martinez - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO

Dana Martinez - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO

Dana Martinez is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Lecada Medical Artistry. In this role, Dana is responsible for managing all aspects of this highly-successful aesthetic practice, known as the “go-to” place in Tampa for affordable, results-driven services. A native Floridian and graduate of the University of South Florida, Dana combined an extensive background in the aesthetic industry, with her abundant business savvy and formidable sales skills, to open Lecada’s doors in March, 2010.

Dana recognized, through her particular experience and insight, that there were many people interested in receiving aesthetic services that did not pursue treatment, because they believed the procedures were cost-prohibitive. Understanding the difference, even a small change in one’s appearance, could make in one’s life, Dana was determined to make available the most effective, yet affordable aesthetic services possible, without compromising either ethics or integrity.

Lecada provides non-surgical, award-winning aesthetic, anti-aging, and wellness solutions designed to help you look and feel your best. Dana’s vision for Lecada remains a continuing commitment to exemplary customer service, and providing quality medical care and innovative treatments at an affordable price.

What makes Lecada unique in a large sea of competitors is the palpable difference patients immediately feel upon arriving for their initial, complimentary consultation. There is warmth, a personal touch with attention to the smallest detail, in a positive, welcoming environment. Patients receive the most advanced treatments available, delivered by an award-winning physician and professional staff, with outstanding results, and an incomparable level of customer service. Patient satisfaction is the #1 priority and is ensured by adherence to open communication and consistent follow-up. As a result, Lecada enjoys a phenomenally loyal patient base; an astounding 50% of new patients are referred by existing patients.

Lecada offers a full-menu of services and wellness treatments, including non-surgical facelifts, cosmetic lasers (including Fraxel), lip augmentation, Exilis body shaping/skin tightening, bio identical hormone replacement therapy, sclerotherapy, facials, Revision skin care, Latisse, and a customized, medically directed weight-loss program. Dermal fillers, including Radiesse, Sculptra, Juvederm, and Artefill are available, as well as, Botox.

Favorite Part of Owning the Business?

“The patients, by far, are my favorite part of owning Lecada Medical Artistry. It may sound trite to say, “They’re like family”— but, it’s true! Always delivering what we’ve promised, has in turn, rewarded us with extraordinary patient loyalty. They really have become family and it’s gratifying to see the changes they achieve outwardly and inwardly. Their success is truly our success.”

Who Do You Owe Your Success To?

“I was fortunate to be raised in a close-knit family where I was encouraged to discover my own, unique strengths and gifts. Along with a ferocious work ethic, my mother instilled my sister and me with a profound confidence that we could achieve anything we set out to do. She would not accept excuses for imagined roadblocks or limitations, always encouraging us to aim high, and strive for excellence. That relentless striving, tenacity, and determination remains with me to this day. Further advancing my success is the benefit of having an amazing husband, Jay, who has helped me realize my dream with unconditional support and encouragement.” n

Lecada Medical Artistry is conveniently located at 3710 West Azeele St., Tampa 33606. Call 813.874.2332 to schedule an appointment or visit www.lecadatampa.com.

Filed Under: 2013, Entrepreneur, March 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Confusing World of Dental Products

March 17, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Debbie and Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

Debbie and Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

Have you looked at your bathroom counter lately or worse looked in the cabinet below. Amongst the hair and grooming products there’s probably an array of dental products too. From the variety of toothpaste, toothbrushes, rinses and whitening products – how many and which ones do you really need? I’d like to help you “spring Clean” your bathroom counter and educate you on the confusing world of dental products.

With the dizzying array of dental product choices in a typical drugstore aisle, it can be daunting to try and find one that’s right for you. One almost needs a PHD to weather the dental aisle of confusion. Let me try to give you some education to help you make informed choices when caring for your mouth.

• TOOTHPASTE – When choosing a toothpaste, make sure it is safe and will do what it claims. Toothpastes containing fluoride are regulated by the FDA since they make disease-fighting claims. They will display a drug facts listing on the package along with active ingredients & warnings. Those without fluoride are considered cosmetics and are not FDA regulated. In either case ingredients should be listed . Also look for the ADA seal of approval which means the product has participated in a testing program by the ADA. A key ingredient in toothpaste, fluoride benefits all of us – not just kids. It heals and remineralizes the teeth, hardens the tooth surface and slows down the action of acid-producing bacteria. Our patients love the prescription strength paste that we provide in our office. Take caution, very often whitening toothpaste will cause tooth sensitivity. No matter what your oral health needs are, there’s a toothpaste for you. From sensitive teeth, excessive tartar buildup or bad breath there’s a product for you.

• ORAL RINSES – Anti-plaque, anti-gingivitis, alcohol-free- your pharmacy’s oral health section has dozens of mouth rinse products to choose from. The major types of rinse products are: ones that contain fluoride, anti plaque rinses and cosmetic ones. Fluoride rinses as stated before helps prevent tooth decay. In addition people who suffer with dry mouth may also benefit from a fluoride rinse. Anti plaque/gingivitis rinses help by killing bacteria that can cause gum disease. We provide a stronger, prescription strength mouth rinse for our patients with advanced plaque and gum disease. Cosmetic rinses reduce mouth odors and kill bacteria for a short time ,but there is usually no lasting health impact. Whitening rinses are really a waste of your money. Mouth rinses do serve a purpose, however, they are not a substitute for regular and effective brushing and flossing. And when choosing a rinse pick one that has the ADA seal of approval.

• TOOTHBRUSHES – Although some ancient civilizations used twigs to clean their teeth, these days toothbrushes come in a variety of manual and powered forms. Choose a good quality brush that has the ADA seal, whose bristles are not too hard and one that fits comfortably in your hand. For those individuals that wear braces or have difficulty brushing manually, electric toothbrushes are an affordable must. These toothbrushes have been shown to be very effective in reducing plaque. A toothbrush alone can’t do everything to maintain your oral health. They can’t get between your teeth. So don’t forget to purchase good quality floss that can do that. Our patients love their ”goody” bags filled with a good quality brush, floss and rinse.

• TEETH WHITENING – Everyone wants a whiter, brighter smile these days. There are various options to consider. Is one option better than the other? The option you choose will depend on your budget and the severity of your teeth discoloration. Of the various drugstore teeth whitening choices the strips are less likely to cause you to swallow the bleach or damage your gums. However, these strips generally whiten the front teeth and may be too mild to get dramatic results. More lasting alternatives to this would be in office laser whitening and custom made whitening trays. The laser whitening can be done in one office visit and provides instant gratification. You leave with a beautiful whiter smile. Custom home whitening trays usually takes about 2-6 weeks to obtain similar results.

I wish you a healthy, safe journey down the aisle of dental products.

Larry Lieberman, DDS

Filed Under: 2013, Health, March 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , ,

Spring Into Action

March 17, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Dr. César Lara

Dr. César Lara

Flowers are in bloom, leaves are returning to the trees…Spring is in the air! All of the messages in nature are telling us that a new day for growth and possibility is here. At each of our locations, we meet hundreds of new faces every single week. These people come from different walks of life and each have unique motivations for their weight loss goals, however, they all have one thing in common; they are “springing into action” to create their life of optimal health.

Unlike the bumble bee, which innately follows the cues of nature, we often times need a bit more of a “nudge” to move in the right direction. Sometimes that nudge is a physical one and at other times it is less tangible. Whether it’s waiting for the right offer or being educated more in the specific area of focus, the proverbial “nudge” helps us spring into action and take the next steps towards our goals. We have consistently recognized this need, and have launched our “Spring Lecture Series” which serves to provide both important information relative to topics such as obesity, diabetes, nutrition and the role each of these plays in the personal journey of weight loss. In these lectures we strive to provide information which can quickly empower people to be educated about the potential health threats they are facing and ultimately be motivated to make a change for the better. Below is a sample of some key elements we focus on to help inform people about the potential risks they may be facing:

Waist Circumference (Relative Risk of Diabetes) 1
28” – 29” : 1.6 times GREATER RISK of having Diabetes
30” – 31” : 4.6x
31” – 33” : 8.7x
34” – 35” : 12.1x
36” – 37” : 16.7x
> 38” : 22.4x

BMI (Relative Risk of Diabetes) 2
< 21 : 1x
21 – 22.9 : 1.2x
23 – 24.9 : 3.1x
25 – 28.9 : 9.6x
29 – 30.9 : 12.7x
> 31 : 18.1x

Excess Weight 3
For every 2.2lbs of excess weight, the risk of diabetes increases by 9%

Diabetes and Obesity are epidemics in our country with over 68% 4 of the population either Obese or overweight and 44% 5 Pre Diabetic or Diabetic. The good news is, however, that there are simple and practical ways to live a life of optimal health. At our practice we understand that, although the solutions may be simple in theory, the journey is a challenging one. Many of our staff have walked this journey and are able to provide valuable insight and support for success. If you want to live a healthier, happier and more successful life, I invite you to visit us online or call and RSVP for the next date in our “Spring Lecture Series” which provides additional information about Diabesity and how to live a life of optimal health. Come as my personal guest, and be empowered, as we perform a personalized assessment which will include complimentary blood pressure check, accu check, body fat analysis and metabolic testing as well as healthy refreshments. My staff and I will be there to answer any questions you have and help you “Spring into Action” so that you can BE THE BEST YOU in 2013!

1 Carey et al. American J. of Epidiol. 1997
2 Carey et al. American J. of Epidiol. 1997
3 Mokdad AH. Diabetes Care. 2000
4 Flegal KM. JAMA 2012
5 CDC.Diabetes Public Health resource. 2011, ADA.Standards of Diabetes Care. 2011, US Census Bureau. 2011

Dr. César A. Lara

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: 2013, Health, March 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Picture Perfect – Model – Angee Killian Huntley

February 10, 2013 By 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

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

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: , , , , , ,

A Match Made in Heaven

February 10, 2013 By 9 Comments
Art and Diane Whitney - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO

Art and Diane Whitney - Photo: Don Shepherd XOPIXO

Art and Diane Whitney, owners of A-1 Custom Cabinets is truly a unique couple. Art is a rare bird as he is a lifelong resident of Pinellas County. His cabinet career started in 1976 at a small cabinet shop. The name of that shop was A-1 Custom Cabinets. After two years of perfecting the fundamentals, he went on to work in other high end cabinet shops, followed by working directly for building contractors in custom homes.

In 1980 he sought fame and fortune moonlighting as the drummer for “The Fanatics”, with a huge following throughout Florida. As the flame of fame began to dim, he again followed his passion for construction and worked as project manager for a local builder. Never one to be still, he entered the competitive world of off-road motorcycle sports earning class champion status. His competitive spirit fueled his desire to be his own boss, and there was no question as to what business he would pursue.

In 1994, he returned to A-1 Custom cabinets with a silent partner and an offer to buy out the company. His destiny seemed fulfilled once he bought the company where he started his career. However, there was a new buyer on the horizon, a not- so- silent partner who sparked a whole new fire within him. Two years later his partner became his wife and he never looked back.

Diane grew up in the small town of West Milton, Ohio. After graduating high school, she went to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where she majored in Interior Design. Upon graduation she promptly got married and followed her husband to New York. There she worked as an Interior Designer in a major furniture store. Realizing that marriage and the bitter cold were not for her, she migrated to Florida like so many Midwesterners do. Upon her arrival, she took a position in an area interior design studio before seeking her fortune in sales. Diane worked for 7 years as a regional manager for an automotive marketing company, after which she ignited her creative flair as a freelance designer. About this time, she was overseeing a major project when she happened upon a dashing cabinet maker named Art Whitney. Apparently she was so desperate for a date that she bought into his company. The two hit it off splendidly and within two years they were married. The rest is history!

As a husband and wife team, they bring both masterful cabinet making and exquisite design together under one roof. The original A-1 Cabinets was a small cabinet shop that built mostly laminate cabinets. Art and Diane moved the shop to a new location, four times the original size, upgraded to automated machinery, and dramatically increased the volume of business. They now focus primarily on wood cabinetry with intricate detailing. Their focus is building credibility of A-1 Custom Cabinets so that their name is synonymous with life-long quality. Art and Diane want to create a legacy. A-1 Custom Cabinets provides top quality workmanship to both residential and commercial markets, wood and laminate, indoor and outdoor. They always extend personal service and strive to exceed their clients’ expectations, each and every time. Their clients can choose from hundreds of styles and finishes, and have much more versatility in their design than other companies. A-1 also offers full remodeling services such as lighting, wall coverings, flooring, furniture, accessories and more!

Their goal is to be the premier remodeling resource center in Tampa Bay! When not working, Art and Diane devote much of their time to local organizations as sponsors and contributors; they have a very strong belief in giving back and are Members of NARI and an Allied Member of A.S.I.D. They both love the outdoors; are loving parents to their 24 year old daughter Ryan, their dog Roxie and cats Sam and Gato. Both feel they owe a large part of their success to their parents who were inspirations for them and always believed in them. They taught them the value of hard work, honesty, integrity and a belief in God. Without their constant guidance and support, they WOULDN’T be the people they are today! Art is fun-loving, compassionate and discriminating while Diane is intelligent, focused and very, very classy. Truly, a match Made in Heaven!

A-1 Custom Cabinets can be reached at 727.447.6815 or visit their website at www.A-1CustomCabinets.com. Showroom hours are by appointment.

Filed Under: 2013, Entrepreneur, February 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Journey To Be the Best You

February 10, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Dr. César Lara

Dr. César Lara

Many people see the path of weight management and creating lasting change in life as somewhat challenging. Feelings of fear, insecurity, and inadequacy can creep into the mind and heart, leaving some people unable to move forward toward addressing the issues they wish to change. I recognized early that in order for my team, my practice, and myself to help patients create their life of excellence, we were going to have to take an active role as partners on our patients’ journeys. It would be essential for us to not only educate patients from the beginning about what to expect, but also to have a continued role of educating and motivating them every step of the way.

At some point in our life, we have all been faced with creating new behaviors by changing existing habits. Whether it’s weight loss, smoking cessation, starting an exercise routine or committing to personal enrichment, this time of transition holds for you challenge and uncertainty. To maximize success during a given period of change in your life, there are a few key elements which will help:

Education – Learn as much as you can about the journey ahead. Speak with people who have been successful in making the same transition. Speak to professionals in the field, read literature, visit online focus groups, absorb as much as you can about what to expect and how to successfully overcome the challenges that you may face. This will help in alleviating fear and anxiety about the unknown. It is also one of the reasons we spend so much time in our practice working to educate patients each and every step of the way. Then continue to research and learn as you progress along your journey towards the life you desire.

Motivation – Identify in the beginning why you are seeking this change. Is it for better health, to improve mental clarity, spend more time with your loved ones, set an example for your children, to return to activities you used to participate in – whatever your reasons, identify what your motivations are. They will serve as a focusing tool when you are facing moments of doubt and will help realign you with your true path to living the life you desire on the other side of your journey of change.

Support – This key to success should never be overlooked. No matter what journey you are facing, you should not be alone. Rest assured, that there are others in the world who have walked, or are walking, the same path. By finding support through formal groups and other resources, you are increasing your ability to successfully manage the obstacles and transition that exists between who you are today and who you want to be. We provide our patients with online resources of guidance and inspiration, recipes, nutritional, supplements and various support groups to ensure that every tool possible is being provided to assist in this challenging journey of change.

As I tell all of my family, friends and patients…CONGRATULATIONS on taking the first steps to create change in your life! Change is certainly inevitable and can be a beautiful and enriching process. However, no matter how daunting the journey ahead may seem, do not underestimate the power you have within you and the momentum you can gain from properly embarking on your journey. Leverage the guidance of education, the strength of motivation and the stability of support as you move every step closer towards being THE BEST YOU!

Dr. César A. Lara

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: 2013, February 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Kissing May Not Be Good For Your Health

February 10, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Dr. Larry Lieberman

Dr. Larry Lieberman

Valentine’s Day with its cheesy Hallmark cards and roadside flower stands is a great day to honor and cherish the one you love. In my house, bringing home a romantic card, flowers and delicious chocolate is almost a guarantee to receive some warm hugs and kisses. Those loving kisses, however, may not only be sharing your affection with your sweetheart – they have serious potential to also share the harmful bacteria that causes and spreads periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is an oral condition which involves the breakdown of the structures which support the teeth such as the bone surrounding each tooth and the fibers which anchor the teeth to the gums. Currently, it is felt that the start and progression of periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis) is determined by the body’s response to infection caused by bacteria in plaque.

Research has been done investigating whether or not the bacteria which cause periodontal disease can be passed between people through kissing, or among family members, much like the way the flu or a cold can be spread from individual to individual.

Adults with periodontal disease may indeed be a source of infection of these bacteria to their partners or family members. However, it is important to recognize that a person may have these bacteria in his/her mouth, but not develop periodontal disease.

How can you prevent developing periodontal disease if your partner has it? You, your partner and family members can: 1) Practice better oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly after meals and before bed. By reducing the amount of plaque you leave on your teeth and gums, you also reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth. 2) Seeing your dental hygienist who can alert you to potential problems sooner rather than later. Our hygienist’s, Laura and Marla recommend many service and product options that help this problem. In addition, for over 10 years our office has used lasers to treat and heal gum disease. The first in our area to use this state of the art technology, we have enabled many patients to avoid the “cut and suture” traditional gum surgery and replace it with a faster, more comfortable and long lasting laser procedure. If you notice any of the following you may be at risk of having some form of periodontal disease: bad taste in your mouth, bad breath that doesn’t go away, itchy or bleeding gums, loose teeth, pus coming out of your gums or a change in the fit of your denture.

As I’ve mentioned before, periodontal disease can affect not only your dental health but medical condition as well. I urge you to take this disease seriously and get treatment just as you would for a medical disease. It is my wish that you have many years of healthy, sweet and loving kisses with all of those you care about.

Larry Lieberman, DDS

Filed Under: 2013, February 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , ,

Facts and Figures About Florida

February 10, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Here are some facts and figures about Florida, some of which you will already know and some that will surprise you.

1. The United States city with the highest rate of lightning strikes per capita is Clearwater.

2. Gatorade was named for the University of Florida Gators where the drink was first developed.

3. The St. Johns River is one of the few rivers that flows north rather than south.

4. The longest lake in Florida is Lake Okeechobee.

5. The Pinellas Trail is a 47 mile hiking/biking trail that connects St. Petersburg with Central and North Pinellas County. It is the longest urban trail in the eastern United States.

6. Orlando attracts more visitors than any other amusement park destination in the United States.

7. St. Augustine is the oldest European settlement in North America.

8. Florida has over 1300 miles of coastline and 800 miles of beaches!

9. Florida covers 54,560 square miles of area, of which 4,424 square miles are water! It is roughly the size of England and Wales.

10. The Florida Everglades are the only place where alligators and crocodiles coexist.

11. Jacksonville is the most populous city in Florida.

12. Florida means “feast of flowers” in Spanish.

13. Florida has over 40 million visitors per year!

If you need any mortgage advice to see if refinancing your existing mortgage will save you money, or to see if you qualify for a HARP loan please call me. Rates are now at an all-time low. I have many clients that refinanced their current mortgage from a 30 year term to a 15 year term and the payment did not change much. I just closed one where the payment was actually lower and we shaved 10 years off the term of their loan. 727-787-2299 X 1

JoAnn RooneyJoAnn Rooney is President of Your Mortgage Source, Inc. JoAnn is also a member of Dunedin Rotary North, a Paul Harris recipient, a 2007 Leadership Pinellas Graduate, a Member of the Mortgage Bankers Association, serves on the board of the Pinellas County Economic Development Council, a member of the Florida Association of Mortgage Brokers, as well as the National Association of Mortgage Brokers. Your MortgageSource, Inc. is located at 29399 US 19N, Ste. 365 Clearwater, Florida 33761. JoAnn can be reached at ex. 1 727-787-2299 or email jorooney@urmortgagesource.com.

Also visit
YourMortgageSourceInc.com
www.facebook.com/FLMortgageLady and follow on www.twitter.com/FLMortgageLady
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Company NMLS # 150934

Filed Under: 2013, Business, February 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Dr. Carl Conforti

December 19, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Dr. Carl Conforti - Photo: Lisa Sibley

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 SibleyOver 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: , , , ,

Plaid About You

December 19, 2012 By 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

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: , , , , , ,

Buzz Stop – In and Around Tampa Bay

December 18, 2012 By 49 Comments

Derrick Brooks & Tony Dungy Leadership Breakfast

Tony Dungy & Derrick Brooks - 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

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

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: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

A New Year, A New You, A New Smile

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

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: , , , , ,

Empowering You: To Achieve Your Life of Excellence

December 17, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Dr. César Lara

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

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: , , , , , , , ,

Things I Learned in 2012

December 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment
JoAnn Rooney

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
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Filed Under: 2012, Business, December 2012 / January 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Hip Pain

November 18, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Henry William Hanff, MD; Jennifer Lynne Cooke, MD; and Stephen Anthony Hanff, MD - Florida Joint Care Institute

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-RayA 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: , , , , , , , , , ,
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