Panache Vue' Tampa Bay Magazine December 13 -January 14 by Panache Vue' Magazine

Tampa Bay December 13 -January 14

Get to Know Entrepreneur

Krutika Patel

House of Dali Nutrition For The Soul

Holiday Glamour

You 2.0 Victory Over Vitiligo The Rules of ReGifting

César Lara

A GUIDING LIGHT TO OTHERS www.PanacheVue.com

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OUR MISSION:

FOCUS ON HEALTH CARE & NOT SICK CARE Our offices provide the most beneficial HEALTH care by providing spinal corrective care for the whole family

27 EXAM

$ Dr. Carl Conforti Chiropractic Physician

NEW PATIENT

($295 value) Includes exam, x-rays, and consultation with our team of doctors. CHIRO OFFER EXPIRES 01-30-14.

Conforti

CHIROPRACTIC

AND WELLNESS CENTER, INC. www.confortichiropractic.com

With 6 locations to serve you:

Dr. Michael Turner, DC

Dr. Todd Bodanza, DC

Dr. Damien Rogers, DC

Dr. Michael Gialousis,DC

Dr. Bill Scheu, DC

Dr. Elliot Sherman, DC

4040 Tampa Road Oldsmar, FL 34677

1811 Healthcare Drive Trinity, FL 34655

10935 N Dale Mabry Tampa, FL 33618

2312 Crestover Lane Ste. #102 Wesley Chapel 33544

2206 4th Street N. St. Petersburg, FL

813.818.7499 2

727.376.9611

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813.969.2225

813.994.6111

727.822.6700

Dr. Dex Alvarez, DC. 1502 S. MacDill Ave. Tampa, FL 33629

813-251-0246

THE PATIENT & ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY PAYMENT OR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE FREE, DISCOUNTED, OR REDUCED FEE, SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

* Individual results will vary

TMP Custom Scar Treatment • Breakthrough technology infuses silicone gel with a steroid, antihistamine and topical anesthetic plus all-natural Pracaxi oil • Especially ideal for treating and preventing abnormal scars like hypertrophic and keloid • Available by prescription only, TMP Scar Treatment Gel and Acne Scar Gel works on old and new scars, and is safe for all skin types • Also available by prescription: Melasma, Vitiligo and Stretch Mark Cream • Trinity Medical Pharmacy is a PCAB accredited, local compounding facility

ASK YOUR DOCTOR TO PRESCRIBE OUR INNOVATIVE SCAR GELS

SCAR TREATMENT Prevent and reduce scarring due to injury, acne, surgery or burns.

STRETCH MARKS Smoother, softer, and less noticeable stretch mark scarring.

MELASMA & VITILIGO Correct and dimish skin spots due to melasma or vitiligo.

Prompt. Personal. Professional.

9332 STATE ROAD 54 ¤ SUITE 203 ¤ NEW PORT RICHEY ¤ FLORIDA

727-495-6979 ¤ www.trinitymedicalpharmacy.com Proud supporter of the the American Cancer Society www.PanacheVue.com

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4 PATIENTPANACHE THE AND ANY OTHERVUE’ PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

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ST. PETERSBURG PANACHE VUE’

FEATURES December 13 | January 14

22 11 Get to Know Entrepreneur Krutika Patel 12 Clyde Butcher Preserving Eden

22 House of Dali Holiday Glamour

24 César Lara…

A Guiding Light to Others

PANACHE VUE’

27 The Rules of ReGifting 28 Wine, Women and Shoes 30 How Do You Know When Someone Deserves a Second Chance?

On the Cover Photographer: Lisa Sibley Model: Cesar Lara

Seek Alternative to Harmful Drugs and Surgeries

Tampa Bay, FL— As a chiropractor who has been freeing patients from pain for over 14 years I, Dr. Carl Conforti, D.C., would like to share my story. After consulting with various doctors and reviewing his treatment options, one of my most successful patients told me that a spinal surgeon told him after he questioned the finality of surgery that spinal decompression “couldn’t hurt, but more then likely wouldn’t help.” In fact, the surgeon told this patient that he wished him luck and would see him in a few months for surgery. WELL HE WAS WRONG! Luckily my patient took charge of his own health and continued researching my spinal decompression with the DRX9000. The DRX9000 that I have in my office is used to treat neck and back pain caused by disc problems. My patient came into my office, we completely reviews his MRI’s, x-rays, and medical history and determined that not only did he qualify, but he was the perfect candidate for the spinal decompression treatment. After his treatments, my patient was able to stop taking his medication. He walked into my office one day and said “Doc, I feel like myself for the first time in 15 years. I do not have that DRX9000

Dr. Carl Conforti Chiropractic Physician

groggy feeling I became accustomed to while taking my medication. And on top of that, I am finally able to get a restful night sleep!” And he was only half way through his treatment plan!! At the end of his plan, he was completely pain free for the first time in 15 years. AND HE DIDN’T HAVE TO TAKE A HAND FULL OF PILLS WITH EVERY MEAL! So now you are wondering, how do I know if I would be a great candidate for your treatment?! Well, typically we treat people who experience the following: • Back pain due to sciatica • Sleepless nights • Back or neck injury as the result of an accident • Back or leg pain when seated • Numbness in your hands or toes • Degenerative disc disease • Herniated and bulging discs • Toothache like pain that goes down your leg or in one of your buttocks • Relapse of neck or back pain following surgery • Spinal stenosis AND HERE IS THE BEST PART! Most patients come to us saying they have tried “everything” to get rid of the pain caused from herniated and bulging discs. Most patients list solutions such as pain management, physical therapy, cortisone injections, muscle relaxers, and personal trainers. All of these solutions have one thing in common. They offer a TEMPORARY solution to a more permanent problem. Our team is dedicated to providing lasting results that will change your life!

HEALTH

BACK & NECK PAIN Sufferers

LET’ SEE WHAT THEY HAVE TO SAY ABOUT OUR TREATMENTS! “I went to Conforti Chiropractic Centers and met with Dr Conforti and Dr Bodanza. They recommended spinal decompression. At the time I could barely walk and after the second visit I was pain free and was able to do normal activities. The care and professionalism exhibited by these Doctors was amazing. I was a doubter but I would recommend this to any person suffering from back pain.” Terry O. – Trinity, FL “Spinal decompression saved me from another back surgery. I suffered through my first surgery and recovery only to find myself back in severe pain within a year. After my relaxing treatments in the Benttree Clinic, I no longer have pain, and I did not even have to suffer to get pain free. In fact, after most of my treatments, the staff would have to wake me because they create such a relaxing setting. Check it out, Dr. Rogers has something special going here.” –Tim S. – Tampa, FL NOW IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO WRITE A SUCCESS STORY OF YOUR OWN!! The DRX9000 is a very specific technology that uses your spinal condition, your current body weight, and precise angles and measurements to customize the treatment for each patient. My team and I want the opportunity to review your current condition and provide you with the knowledge that the surgeons do not want you to know about. We will provide you with a consult, exam, and x-rays (if necessary), and provide you with the knowledge that will ultimately change your life forever. Please take this as a gift from us to create a better life for yourself or someone you know and love!

COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION AND CANDIDATE ASSESSMENT (A $295 VALUE) In this consultation you will receive a consultation, exam, and x-rays (if necessary). Dr. Conforti and his team of doctors will explain their recommendations for your treatment plan and their plan to eliminate your pain, burning, restlessness, and altered nerve function! Call the office nearest you today to schedule your consultation. Offer expires 2/1/2014 THE PATIENT & ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY PAYMENT OR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE FREE, DISCOUNTED, OR REDUCED FEE, SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

WITH 3 TAMPA BAY AREA LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:

Pinellas Conforti Chiropractic and Wellness 4040 Tampa Rd Oldsmar, FL 34677

813.749.8331

www.PanacheVue.com

Pasco Conforti’s Crossroads 1811 Healthcare Dr Trinity, FL 34655

727.376.9611

Hillsborough Benttree Clinic 10935 N. Dale Mabry Tampa, FL 33618

813.969.2225

PANACHE VUE’

DEPARTMENTS Dec 13 | Jan 14

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11 DEC 13-JAN 14 Publisher | Editor In Chief Nina Stanley Executive Art Director Shaun Drees Fashion Editor Dali Hernandez Photographer| Photo Editor Lisa Sibley Contributing Photographers Joel Cocker John Kantor Don Shepherd XOPIXO Media Consultants Tallia Keene Milinda O’Daniel Erica Turchin IT | Social Media Director Jason Longo

35 HEALTH & WELLNESS

02 “Health Care” Takes on a New Meaning

HOME & GARDEN

13 A New Year, A New You, A New Smile 15 Nutrition for The Soul 15

Victory Over Vitiligo

FITNESS 24 Get Back on Track with Pilates BEAUTY 17 Your Questions For Celebrity Stylist, Andrew Ashton of LaPosh Salon 8

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YOU 2.0

Swimming Pool Safety

Mastering the Mix of Color and Pattern

What’s Your Budget?

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE 38

From Dazzling Gems to Intriguing Explorations in San Francisco

Founder | CEO Nina Stanley CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Andrew Ashton Dr. Laurie De Luca Dr. Cesar Lara Dr. Larry Lieberman Audrey Mabrey Dana Martinez Gene McDonald Krutika Patel Zac Pease Patricia Welter Panache Vue’ Magazine PO Box 14033 Clearwater, FL 33766 Telephone: 727- 459-2361 Letters to the Editor: editor@panachevue.com Advertising Inquiries: advertising@panachevue.com www.PanacheVue.com Panache Vue’ Magazine is published by Panache Group. All rights reserved. Copyright 2008-2013. Reproduction of or use of editorial, pictorial, digital, advertising or design content in any manner is strictly prohibited without written permission of the publisher. Panache Vue’ Magazine is not responsible for statements made by advertisers and writers.

Publisher’s Note

s this year comes to an end, I sit back and think about all of the wonderful memories I will carry with me from 2013 and I also so look forward to the New Year and new beginnings. I am now and always have been blessed with such an amazing support system from family, close friends and my clients who have supported and believed in me for years. No one person can succeed in life without the help from others, no matter what it is! I want to thank all of our readers who have supported Panache Vue’ Magazine over the years, my team of wonderful designers, photographers and writers. My dedicated advertisers who many believed in me many years ago before I even had a product to show them, Thank You! You know who you are. This past year was also the first year I began to foster dogs through Dunedin Doggie Rescue. What a great experience for me and them. I have sponsored this great organization for many years now and reached out to them in a different way after my beloved “Kody Boy” passed on last year. I took in and almost adopted a very energetic “Riley”, a Wheaton Terrier who I fell so in love with and had for over a month but things just did not work out. Then I took in “Google”. Yes a strange name but the best pooch ever! He was a Jack Russell/ Pit mix and he gave me and my family so much love during the weekends we cared for him. I also took in a stray cat, “Tiggy Tiger”. I am not a cat person but this feline has stolen my heart and now she owns my house! I hope that everyone is as excited for the near year as I am. I know 2014 will be a great year for all of us. All of us from Panache Vue’ Magazine wish everyone a very happy, healthy and safe holiday season. Cheers to all! We would love to hear from you! Email us at editor@panachevue.com with story ideas, suggestions or events you feel we should be a part of. Don’t forget to “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Panachevue and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Panachevue. Enter our contests and read featured articles from our industry experts in our magazine and on our website at www.panachevue.com. Most of all please support all of the advertisers and organizations within the pages of Panache Vue’! Panache Vue’ is for you! Stylish, Classy and Full of Flair!

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www.PanacheVue.com

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Bond & Beyond Jan 17-19 Tampa Bay Times Masterworks

Bartók & Brahms Jan 24-26 © Dr. Dave Weiland

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Get to Know

Panache: Who are you, what is your role and when did you start your business? Krutika: My name is Krutika Patel. I am a Licensed Pharmacist (RPh.) and the CEO and co-founder of Trinity Medical Pharmacy. I studied at Kings College in London, England, but after visiting Busch Gardens, I fell in love with the warm weather and moved to Tampa shortly thereafter. Panache: Why did you choose this business? Krutika: I was, and continue to be, amazed at how one small pill can change a person’s health for better or worse! Not only is the science of pharmacology completely fascinating, but it has the power to change the course of history. Panache: What is your primary company focus? Krutika: Our sole mission at Trinity Medical Pharmacy is to make a difference in peoples’ lives for the better. Panache: What sets you apart from the competition? Krutika: Our singular commitment to excellence. We want to be the best, and we want to do it the right way! For example, we recently earned the unprecedented distinction as Florida’s only dual-accredited PCAB & HQAA hospital-preferred compounding facility. It was a long, laborious effort, but one that truly sets us apart. And it confirms our commitment to providing safe, personalized solutions that meet the medical needs of our patients – and the needs of the healthcare providers who rely on us. Panache: What name brands do you offer and do you offer anything exclusive to your pharmacy that other pharmacies do not? Krutika: What’s unique about Trinity Medical Pharmacy is that we create products that are better than name brand. These are unique formulations that are customcompounded to suit an individual patient’s needs whether that is wound care, pain management, allergy treatments, scar for-

to the individual who takes our products, as well as to the family and caregivers who support them, which is why we established the TRIMED Foundation to support patients and families with medical and pharmaceutical care. In keeping with our commitment to do the most good for the most people, The TRIMED Foundation works hard to ensure care is accessible to everyone who needs them, including veterans, senior citizens and families on limited incomes.

mulas, superior vitamin supplements and more. The possibilities and creative uses are endless! Panache: What are your 5 and 10 year goals for your pharmacy? Krutika: To establish ourselves as a Premier Compounding Pharmacy and to extend our products to a much larger patient base, and to show the nay Sayers that it DOES make a difference! Panache: What geographic area(s) do you service? Krutika: Right now, Trinity Medical Pharmacy works with doctors and patients in all of Florida, as well as certain other states such as Georgia, Pennsylvania and Tennessee. Panache: Tell us about any associations or community affiliations you are involved with. Krutika: We are actively involved in professional organizations like the Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA) and International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists (IACP), as well as the Chamber of Commerce. However, we firmly believe our greatest impact is made with community hospitals, delivering meds to the bedside. As individuals and as a business, we have a social responsibility and commitment

ENTREPRENEUR

ENTREPRENEUR Krutika Patel

Panache: Please share with us your most memorable or interesting work related experience. Krutika: Our custom-compounded wound care gel was able to save a limb! By using our product, the patient avoided amputation and has since returned to a fully-functional, healthy life. Medicine is a powerful gift, and I am so blessed to be able to share that. Panache: What is your favorite part of being a business owner? Krutika: I love the challenge! Every day, I learn something new and not only does that make me a better person, it makes our business that much stronger. Panache: Aside from being a very successful female business owner, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Krutika: The only thing more important than my work at Trinity Medical Pharmacy is my family… my incredible husband and two wonderful children. They constantly make me strive to be a better a person. I adore traveling, find balance in yoga and am perfecting my golf game. There’s nothing better than being outside, enjoying nature, and watching a Florida sunset. Panache: What three words best describe you and your business? Krutika: Tenacious, Creative and Professional! Panache: Who do you owe your success to? Krutika: My amazing team and the stars above!!!

Krutika Patel is a Licensed Pharmacist (RPh.) with over 20 year of experience in retail, hospital, and research and development settings. She is currently CEO of Trinity Medical Pharmacy which provides clinically formulated compounded drugs. Trinity Medical Pharmacy is proud to be an accredited PCAB (Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board). This accreditation is held by less than 2% of compounding pharmacies nationally! Her support team has over 100 years of combined Pharmacist experience and can help create formulations to meet your needs in dermatology, pain, oncology, wound care, and scar reduction. www.PanacheVue.com

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CULTURE & ARTS

Clyde Butcher (American, b. 1942), Loxahatchee River #1, 1991. Gelatin silver print, 48 x 72 in. On loan from the South Florida Museum, Bradenton.

CLYDE BUTCHER:

generously been sponsored through a grant from the Florida Humanities Council and includes public talks by the artist, collaborative programs with St. Petersburg College, the Center for Strategic Policy Solutions, and Brooker Creek Preserve.

EXHIBITING THROUGH FEBRUARY 16, 2014

DOMINIQUE LABAUVIE: FOUR SCULPTURES FOR A GARDEN

Preserving Eden

lyde Butcher has earned recognition as the foremost landscape photographer in the United States. Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns has described him as “a national treasure.” Butcher is a Florida resident best known for his large-format, black and white landscapes of Florida’s wilderness areas and his commitment to save Florida’s fragile environments through greater awareness. The exhibition, organized by the South Florida Museum, Bradenton, includes 35 photographs varying in size from 8 x 14 in. to 5 x 8 ft. accompanied by contextual panels and quotes. Interpretive panels on the Loxahatchee Wildlife Refuge and the Everglades, along with a first edition copy of The River of Grass by Marjory Stoneman Douglas, and two video components, including a documentary with Clyde and Niki Butcher, enhance the visitor’s understanding of the conservation themes in the exhibition. Programming for Clyde Butcher’s Florida Photographs - Preserving Eden has

PANACHE VUE’

Dominique Labauvie is an internationallyknown French sculptor who is also recognized for his drawings and fine art prints. His large-scale metal sculptures are fabricated using both new and recycled steel that are torch-cut and forged. Labauvie has worked throughout his career on public spaces in cities such as Paris, Dijon, Draveil and Livry–Gargan, France, and locally at the Vandenberg Airport and Tampa General Hospital in Tampa. Since 1998 Labauvie has lived and worked in Tampa.

It’s all about the art of shopping! You’ll find creative gifts for all ages including works by local artists and craftspeople. Watch for unique, new wearables by textile artists Diane Prekup, June Colburn and others this fall, along with art kits and books to

delight kids—all perfect for holiday giving. Isabelle’s is open to the public year-around during regular museum hours. At St. Petersburg College 600 Klosterman Road Tarpon Springs, FL 727-712-5762 www.spcollege.edu/museum Holiday Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday: 10 a.m.-5p.m. Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday 1 – 5 p.m. Closed Mondays & Dec. 25, 31, Jan. 1. Admission: $6 adults. $5 seniors Free to children, college students and active military Sunday admission free – suggested donation $5 Parking: free

“HEALTH CARE”

Tampa Bay Team of Doctors focuses on Whole Wellness Health Care

hiropractic care has become increasingly popular throughout the years. In a society where we are focused on sick care, we are seeing more and more people that are finally starting to understand that preventative care and natural health care are the answer to healthy living. At our offices, we focus not only on the chiropractic adjustment, but also on spinal correction. Our patients do not just come in, get adjusted, and go on about their days. Our focus is on education and corrective therapies that allow our patients to truly be well. It is our mission to provide whole health family chiropractic care, and we are 100% dedicated to making sure that every patient we see has the opportunity to live well. Our doctors are trained to provide our patients the information needed to maximize the mind, maximize nerve function, maximize nutrition, maximize oxygen and lean muscle, and minimize toxins. By focusing on these 5 essentials, we are able to provide chiropractic wellness care unlike

Dr. Carl Conforti Chiropractic Physician any other. Maximizing the mind starts with providing the education and information our patients need in order to make healthy life decisions. This includes proper amount of sleep, maintaining healthy relationships and minimizing stress. Keeping your mind sound is essential in overall health. Maximizing nerve function is where the chiropractic adjustments come into play. By allowing your body to communicate properly, your body functions at the proper levels. Unfortunately, everyday stresses can cause your nerve function to decrease and this allows disease to grow. Maintaining proper alignment and nerve function allows your body to function and prevent disease at optimal levels. Maximizing your nutrition provides your body with the fuel it needs to work

HEALTH

Takes on a New Meaning

properly. Eating properly always sounds easier then it really is. But knowing what your body needs to be at its best is key to obtaining and maintaining health. Maximizing oxygen and lean muscle is achieved through exercise. A regular fitness routine allows the building of lean muscle and burning of fat. Larger amounts of lean muscle keep both your body and mind healthy and functioning properly. Minimizing toxins is one of the hardest steps since we are surrounded by toxins everyday. Toxins exist in refined food, cleaners, medications and numerous other things we deal with day in and day out. Minimizing toxins allows our bodies to function the way we were built to function and is keep to obtaining health and wellness. Now more then ever, we need to focus on HEALTH care and not SICK care. Too many patients come to us with a laundry list of harmful medications and pills and they never understand why they are not getting better. We have the answer for these patients. We work with you to find the cause of the problem and not just mask the symptoms that are indicating a more serious underlying problem. Correcting the body and allowing maximum health to take over changes the lives of our patients every single day. Take the next step, be a part of the HEALTH care revolution. You are the biggest asset to your health and wellness.

$27 NEW PATIENT EXAM ($295 value) Includes exam, x-rays, and consultation with our team of doctors. CHIRO OFFER EXPIRES 01-30-14.

Dr. Carl Conforti has been practicing as a licensed Chiropractor since May 1999, helping to free people from pain in his Pinellas Chiropractic Clinic, where he practices with Dr. Michael Turner. His primary goal as an experienced Chiropractor is to promote the health and well being of his patients. Dr. Conforti believes in using a “whole person approach” to care for his patients. By combining the very best state of the art physiotherapy procedures, hands-on-technique, and providing the newest and best natural dietary supplements on the market today, Dr. Conforti focuses on helping you to accelerate and/or maintain your journey to good health. • University of Florida • Life University • Florida Chiropractic Society • Florida Chiropractic Association AND WELLNESS CENTER, INC. • Certified in Cox Flexion/Distraction technique

Conforti

CHIROPRACTIC

www.confortichiropractic.com

www.PanacheVue.com

PANACHE VUE’

A New Year, A New You, A New Smile

Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

he holiday season has come 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 with their good intentions and their 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. There are many exciting ways to achieve better dental health. Here are my top ways to improve your dental health in 2014: • 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 Jane S. 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, Laura will check your blood pressure and using the Velscope, 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 solutions like bonded tooth colored fillings, home teeth whitening and the new 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 and provide you with the best dentistry available. Wishing you good health and smiles in 2014! Larry Lieberman,DDS

LET US HELP YOU START THE NEW YEAR WITH A HEALTHY & WHITE SMILE! We thank you for your continued loyalty and support. We wish you a very happy and healthy holiday season!

NEED A LAST MINUTE GIFT?

Give the gift that keeps on giving – teeth whitening or facial rejuvenation

Proudly providing state of the art, compassionate dentistry since 1984

Larry Lieberman,DDS www.dentist-lieberman.com 35691 US 19 N, Palm Harbor (Next to the Longhorn Steakhouse)

727-785-8017

THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

PANACHE VUE’

NUTRITION for the SOUL ‘TIS THE SEASON – for family gatherings, seeing friends and loved ones, and sharing holiday joy and gratitude. When we plan these events, many times we are thinking about “the perfect gift” for someone. As we give, we enjoy seeing the delight on the face of the recipient as they open our gift and exclaim that it was just what they wanted! The gift is usually an expression of fellowship, friendship, or maybe love, for that person. For most of us, giving brings us happiness. Receiving is totally different. If we are given something and we have nothing to give in return, many times we feel embarrassed and uncomfortable. We may feel obligated to reciprocate. It is not easy for us to accept a gift that we feel we don’t deserve. We can apply that same

principle to our personal lives. Think for a moment about the gifts you have been given. Every day, you wake up, breathe in the air, enjoy the sunlight, maybe nourish your body with some breakfast, and plan what you are going to do that day. Those simple actions, and the ability that we have to perform them, are gifts to us. If we can stop for a minute, look inward, and truly experience our own thoughts and ideas, we can begin to appreciate our lives and how meaningful each day, even each moment is. New Year is a time when we become a little more introspective, but we tend to look more at our negative actions and what we want to “stop” or “quit”. When we think of those two words, we already have a negative feeling going into

HEALTH

César A. Lara, M.D.

the year. What if, this year, you really set positive goals – goals that help you achieve the life you dream about. What if your goals start with “I want” and end with your dream? You are an unlimited supply of potential. You have within you all you need to create your own abundance – whatever that means to you personally. Many of us let the fear of failure drive our dreams. That fear not only keeps us from achieving goals, but can actually paralyze us so that we can’t move in any direction. Fears can keep us stuck! How do we grow beyond our fears and doubts? The path begins by believing in yourself and your abilities. Thoughts have energy, and when you align your thoughts with your inner wishes and desires, the energy begins to move. As the energy moves, you will begin to see little signs that the wishes you visualized are beginning to take form. Take time to appreciate the movement you see, and appreciate the moment you are in. Listen to the inner voice that appreciates and respects all that you are. Ignore the voice of fear and doubt. They are based on old experiences, and are not reality in the moment. Develop the habit of affirming your dreams and desires, and expressing them out loud to yourself and the universe. They then become the thoughts that guide you to help you realize the life you want. This is the gift you give to yourself. It’s one that no one else can give you. It is already within you and well within reach. It is powerful and strong, and it is you. I wish you a happy, healthy, and peaceful holiday season – one that finds you closer to the people who are important in your life – one that finds you with a new ability to listen to your own inner voice. As you appreciate yourself, you will find that others miraculously have a new respect and admiration for you. Cesar Lara, MD

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.

www.PanacheVue.com

PANACHE VUE’

Your Questions For Celebrity Stylist, Andrew Ashton of LaPosh Salon

ear Andrew, I’ve been toying with going darker with my hair color but have been told that I will look older if I go darker. Is this true? From Keeping-it-Young-Kelly Palm Harbor

Andrew Ashton LaPosh Salon

Dear Kelly, That is absolutely not true! Given that we don’t really see all four seasons here in Tampa Bay, going darker is a great way to change your look a bit during milder temperatures. As we approach the winter months, we tend to lose some of our summer glow. Therefore, its nice to darken your hair color to offer a contrast between skin and hair. Many people notice that going darker with hair color can

also bring out more eye and lip color. Keep in mind that going too dark with hair color can have an artificial look, so it’s important to keep dark more natural looking by staying within the warm tonal family. Your stylist should advise you what warm shades look best with your skin tones and what color treatment best suits your lifestyle. As you age, ensuring your color remains warm will keep your skin from appearing sallow and keep you looking bright and fresh. Allow our expert stylists to give you a darker, fun shade for the months ahead! Best wishes to everyone for a wonderful holiday season and a blessed and happy New Year! Book your appointment today and create an exciting look for 2014 at La Posh Salon, 727-726-1600.

class, elegance and luxury...

727.726.1600

PANACHE VUE’

2566 D McMullen Booth Road - Clearwater

YOU 2.0 BY DANA MARTINEZ

www.PanacheVue.com

BEAUTY

he holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for many of us they don’t seem so merry. That’s because we spend the five weeks between Thanksgiving and the New Year, navigating a dietary minefield, filled with sugar cookies, pecan pie and buttery mashed potatoes. So, it’s not surprising that people tend to throw in the towel on their health and wellness goals. There is a “too late—I’ve already blown it”, outlook that quickly snowballs. Then comes the January push, where fitness clubs are packed with new members clamoring for every weight-loss product available. Rather than repeating this ill-fated cycle, why not try shifting gears and embrace the January refresh now, in December? Let the momentum carry you into a thinner, healthier new year. Here are 10 ways to help curb cravings, jump-start weight-loss and sail through the holidays. 1. Break out the belt. Don’t wear elastic pants, especially to holiday parties. Elastic pants can disguise fullness and give you subconscious permission to over-indulge. A comfortably cinched belt will not only make you look more shapely and slender, but will keep you away from second helpings. 2. Catch some Zzzzs. Studies have shown that people who get fewer than six hours of sleep have higher levels of ghrelin, which is a hormone that stimulates appetite, particularly for high-carbohydrate/high- calorie foods. In addition, less sleep raises levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, which can lead to weight gain. 3. Limit or avoid alcohol. Be conscious of the facts that alcohol lowers inhibitions, lowers metabolic rate and lowers blood sugar, which all combine to encourage excess consumption. There is a reason the snack tray looks even better when you’re buzzed. If you do have a drink, have two glasses of water for every one cocktail. 4. Calorie curfew. Stop eating three hours before bed, or at 7pm, whichever comes first. This goes for drinks that aren’t water also. Your sleeping body will struggle to digest and burn off all those evening calories when your metabolism is slowest. 5. Never leave home hungry. Prior to

going out for a meal, have a small snack of fruit before leaving home. This helps stop overeating. Drink up. According to the American Chemical Society’s recent research, drinking two 8 ounce glasses of water before breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with portion control will help you lose weight and keep it off. Plus, a pint of cold water when you first wake up kick-starts your metabolism. Oh! And did you know that the brain sometimes struggles to tell the difference between hunger and thirst? Drinking a glass of water when you feel hungry may do just the trick. Hormone check. Fluctuating hormones may be the culprit behind weight gain for men and women. Peri-menopause and andropause can start as early as 35, causing a gradual decline in muscle fitness, mood, sexuality and overall energy, all of which contributes to an increase in the scale. Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) can balance and replace those hormones, helping men and women lose weight and keep it off. Keep in mind - one size does not fit all. What each person needs is as unique as a fingerprint, therefore treatments must be customized. Boost your B. Vitamin B12 is essential to our nervous system, aides in our metabolism, cell reproduction and helps regulate sleep, mood, appetite and energy. It’s easy to get the nutrient in our diets just by eating animal products like dairy or meat, but if you’re a vegetarian or have an inability to absorb B12, or simply want the benefits of a boost, then look into Vitamin B12 injections. Plus, recent studies have shown that Vitamin B12 can help alleviate symptoms related to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and reduce the probability of heart diseases and strokes. Fat attack. Our bodies are composed of

three different types of fat: Structural fat found between the muscles and organs for protection; normal reserve fat which supplies energy; and abnormal fat, found in hips, belly, thighs, buttocks and more unwanted places. HCG Diet, based on the hormone HCG, helps to suppress hunger and trigger your body’s use of abnormal fat for fuel. The treatments also provide body-sculpting benefits, as well as reverse certain signs of aging. Other diets help lose weight, but only HCG actually reduces problem fat in areas such as double chins, droopy jowls and potbellies, three areas where the signs of aging show up first in most women. 10. Ask for help. Medically-assisted weight loss programs combine powerful weight loss drugs with customized diet and exercise plans that double or even triple weight loss success. The average person loses 30 pounds in the first month! Plus, weekly weigh-ins keep you accountable, and with a doctor’s support, you can finally feel like you aren’t in this alone. Just remember, falling off the wagon does not mean you failed. Lose the defeatist attitude — no harm done. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get back on track the next meal or even the next day. Call 813.874.2332 for an appointment or visit www.LecadaTampa.com. Lecada Medical Artistry is conveniently located at 3710 West Azeele St., Tampa, 33609

Dana Martinez

PANACHE VUE’

Get Back on Track with Pilates BY PATRICIA WELTER

he holiday frenzy often takes one off a regular exercise regimen. To get back on track, turn to an exercise regimen that engages you, makes you feel worked out yet energized, and that makes one feel strengthened yet lengthened. Get a new you through Pilates exercise! To kick off the New Year right, Suncoast Pilates will be offering a full By Patricia Welter, B.S. PMA®-CPT, weekend to immerse oneself in PiLolita San Miguel Pilates Master™, lates. Have you heard about Pilates Second Generation Pilates Teacher, but never knew what the hype was Balanced Body Faculty and about? Our studio is hosting the PiSuncoast Pilates Owner lates film documentary “A Movement of Movement” by filmmaker Mark Pedri on Friday, January 17, 2014. The film is appropriate for Pilates enthusiasts or anyone interested in Pilates and movement. The following day, Saturday, January 18, 2014, the studio will be offering three classes / workshops taught by Benjamin Degenhardt. Benjamin is the creator of 360° Pilates, an education program designed to reconnect movement teachers of all training backgrounds with the original teachings and guiding principles of Joe Pilates. Joining Benjamin on the Contrology (Pilates) History Workshop will be IC (Chuck) Rapoport. Chuck, currently a retired photojournalist, worked for many publications from 1959 through 1972. His published photo-essays and photographs appeared in numerous issues of LIFE magazine and PARIS-MATCH. Chuck will share the day in 1961 he spent photographing Joseph Pilates. Starting at 11:00am -12:15pm - 360° Pilates Mat Class - Ex plore the original Mat exercise repertoire and progressions to the lesser known archival and standing exercises by Joe Pilates. Following at 12:30pm - 2:15pm will be (Free w/ purchase of Mat or Reformer Workshop) Contrology History by Benjamin (with Chuck). As the original work further evolves and diversifies, and historical information continues to resurface, enthusiasts of the Pilates method have the exciting opportunity to familiarize themselves with the thought-process that went into the making of Contrology (Pilates). The last workshop of the day will be 2:30pm - 5:30pm - “The Universal Reformer” Workshop (for experienced Pilates Reformer enthusiasts). The Universal Reformer was designed as a tool to teach the body how to move better - on the Mat, and in everyday life. Its design and engineering feeds and facilitates ideal support and resistance for the Pilates vocabulary. Never tried Pilates? Come into Suncoast Pilates and check us out! Call our studio or check out our website for information today. And join us January 17 in celebrating “A Movement of Movement”. 18

PANACHE VUE’

SUNCOAST P I L A T E S

NORTH PINELLAS COUNTY’S FIRST AND PREMIER PILATES STUDIO Offering One-on-One, Duet and Group Pilates Equipment Training Mat Pilates Classes Barre Classes Authorized Balanced Body® Pilates Instructor Training Facility Listed under the PMA® Registry of Schools

727.772.6772

WWW.SUNCOASTPILATES.COM 34080 US Hwy 19 N. Palm Harbor PHOTOS COURTESY OF EXULTING IMAGES

BY KAY PATEL

magine waking up one morning with a white splotch on the side of your face, arm, lip or leg. No big deal, you think. Just a peeling sunburn. Just a fungus. But over time, the splotch grows, and is joined by others on your hands, your forehead, your mouth, your belly button, even your feet. People stare. They avoid you on the sidewalk. Your co-workers talk in hushed whispers behind your back. And nothing you do helps. Sound like a bad dream? It’s actually the sort of thing that happens on a daily basis to the 3-6 million Vitiligo sufferers around the world. The disease, which causes people to lose some or all of the pigment in their skin, had baffled medical researchers for years. However in April 2010 scientists confirmed that Vitiligo was an autoimmune disease (meaning the bodies own immune system turns on itself). This is the same disorder that plagued Michael Jackson and currently affects up to 1-2 percent of the world’s population. Scientifically speaking, this disease occurs when the cells that produce melanin (the pigment that determines the color of your skin, hair and eyes) die all together, or simply stop producing melanin, causing slowly enlarging white patches of irregular shapes to appear on your skin. Though it strikes without the regard to race, sex, or age, is not contagious and isn’t painful, vitiligo causes great emotional pain for those with the diagnosis, especially in sufferers with darker skin. The cause is unknown but research suggests that it may arise from autoimmune, genetic, or viral abnormalities. And, as yet, there is no cure. For medical professionals the world

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over, the primary goal of treatment is to stop or slow the progression of pigment loss and restore the skin’s function to as close to normal. Make up. Quite a few people with vitiligo find it more convenient to apply cosmetic agents to cover the white patches and make them blend with adjacent skin. Covermark, Dermablend and Cover FX are favorited by makeup artists and dermatologists, the custom-blendable

Krutika Patel

combination does an outstanding job camouflaging hypopigmentation. Amazingly easy even for makeup rookies, it not only restores a familiar evenness you can be comfortable with, it creates a finish that will make you feel beautiful every time you look in the mirror. Topical steroid therapy. Steroid creams may be helpful in repigmenting (returning the color to) white patches, particularly if they are applied in the initial stages of the disease. Corticosteroids are a group of drugs similar to hormones such as cortisone, which are produced by the adrenal glands. Doctors often prescribe a mild topical corticosteroid cream for children under 10 years old and a stronger one for adults. You must apply the cream to the white patches on the skin for at least 3 months before seeing any results. Prescription cream. Trinity Medical Pharmacy’s Prescription Vitiligo Cream is the first of its kind, custom-compounded topical solution combining Tacrolimus,

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AFTER

an immunosuppressive drug used to reduce the activity of the patient’s immune system; Fluticasone, a steroid used to reduce the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness and swelling; and Pseudocatalase, a synthetic topical cream that acts similar to natural catalase to breakdown the hydrogen peroxide thus helping with re-pigmentation. Patients apply the cream to affected areas, one or two times daily as directed by physicians for 8 weeks at time. When used as directed, it’s safe for all ages, and to date there are no known systemic side effects. Light therapy. Psoralen photo chemotherapy, also known as psoralen and ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy, this one of the most effective treatments for vitiligo available in the United States. The goal of PUVA therapy is to repigment the white patches. However, it is time-consuming, and care must be taken to avoid side effects, which can sometimes be severe. Psoralen is a drug that contains chemicals that react with ultraviolet light to cause darkening of the skin. The treatment involves taking psoralen by mouth (orally) or applying it to the skin (topically). This is followed by carefully timed exposure to sunlight or to ultraviolet A (UVA) light that comes from a special lamp. Typically, you will receive treatments in your doctor’s office so you can be carefully watched for any side effects. You must minimize exposure to sunlight at other times.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Victory Over Vitiligo

Trinity Medical Pharmacy 9332 State Road 54 Suite 203 Trinity, Fl. 34655 866-974-6979 www.TrinityMedicalPharmacy.com rx@trinitymedicalpharmacy.com

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AFTER

PANACHE VUE’

REFRESH & LIVE WELL

ICE SKATING Learn to Ice Skate • Birthday Parties Learn to Play Hockey Daily Public Skating

SERVICES INCLUDE: • Chiropractic • Therapeutic Massage

BUY ONE GET ONE ADMISSION Exp. 01-30-14

• Therapeutic Exercise • Weight Loss

COMPLIMENTARY

NEW PATIENT EXAM

$295 VALUE

INCLUDES EXAM, X-RAYS AND CONSULTATION. CHIRO OFFER EXPIRES 01-30-14. THE PATIENT & ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY PAYMENT OR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE FREE, DISCOUNTED, OR REDUCED FEE, SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

P A L M A

TBSA Oldsmar. 255 Forest Lakes Blvd. TBSA Countryside. Westfield-Countryside Photography by Kathy Dunagan

C E I A

CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTER

813.854.4010 ext. 0 727.723.7785

Dr. Dex Alvarez Chiropractor

S K AT E T O B E C O O L .

813.251.0246 • www.ConfortiChiropractic.com 1502 S. Macdill Ave. Tampa,FL 33629

ALL NATURAL

SOAPS Scenter of the Mind soaps and herbal creations protect your skin, support your body, uplift your spirit and make bath time more fun. Your body will appreciate the purity, your spirit will rejoice in the honesty! No artificial dyes or fragrances Quality, all natural ingredients • Safe for the environment Eco-friendly packaging • Made in the USA Won’t dry out your skin

www.ScenteroftheMind.com Find Us On Facebook at www.facebook.com/ScenteroftheMind

PANACHE VUE’

A MOVEMENT OF MOVEMENT Suncoast Pilates is proud to host the Clearwater / Tampa Bay area premier of Pilates film documentary “ A Movement of Movement” by filmmaker Mark Pedri. This is the first Pilates documentary ever made. This Red Carpet premier will be held at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa on Friday, January 17, 2014. Refreshments will be served at 6:00pm with the film premier at 6:30pm. Tickets are $12.00 and can be purchased by calling Suncoast Pilates at 727-772-6772 or through the studio website at www.SuncoastPilates.com. Suncoast Pilates is located at 34080 U.S. Hwy 19 North, Palm Harbor, FL 34684 I.C. (Chuck) RAPOPORT Honored Guest Speaker and Master of Ceremonies Chuck is currently a retired photojournalist. He worked for many publications from 1959 through 1972. His published photo-essays and photographs appeared in numerous issues of LIFE magazine and PARIS-MATCH. He has had several important photo-exhibitions of his work in the Pompidou Museum in Paris, and two other exhibitions of Paris - 1964 in Paris. Chuck is a writer and has been a writer / producer of three TV series (Law & Order included). More recently, he had a number of his exclusive, rare photographs of JOSEPH PILATES published in a number of current publications. Some of his iconic photos can be viewed at his website: www.rapo.com. Chuck will be in Tampa Bay the 17th and 18th of January. He will bring with him a selection of large photographs of Joe Pilates, signed and suitable for display in studios or homes.

Special Guest: Benjamin Degenhardt

www.PanacheVue.com

Benjamin Degenhardt is the creator of 360° Pilates, an education program designed to reconnect movement teachers of all training backgrounds with the original teachings and guiding principles of Joe Pilates - with a keen eye on current movement science. He shares his work through articles that he writes for his website benjamindegenhardt.com, and presents workshops around the world. Benjamin will be presenting workshops at Suncoast Pilates on Saturday, January 18, 2014.

SUNCOAST P I L A T E S PANACHE VUE’

HOUSE OF DALI

HOUSE of DALI

HOLIDAY GLAMOUR Holiday season is an opportunity to celebrate dressing up with excess! Some of my favorite holiday trends this year are Tuxedo dressing, Vintage Flapper Chic, Old Hollywood Siren, Rouge, and Lace.

Tom Ford

Christian Dior

1 Enjoy these looks!

FASHION LOOKS

Make an entrance this holiday season in rich jewel tones of emerald greens, ruby reds, majestic purples or vivid blues. Tuxedo dressing is always a hit for the holiday season. Make sure to pick tailored silhouettes that fit your body type with sequin jackets or a tuxedojacket-and-sequin shorts combo. It’s always a hit and never a miss! Metallic pieces are the perfect luxe glamour this holiday season. Check out Sandra Hagen’s designs, our local favorite designer. She has amazing delicate lovely pieces that can give you a very sophisticated glamour look for the holidays.

STATEMENT GEMS & ACCESSORY PIECES

Define your look or update your LBD with strong shrugs and bold unique one-of-a kind caplets pieces from my line “House of Dali”www.houseofdali.com, currently sold at “Don Me Now”, Hyde Park Village. http://donmenow.com While catching up with local stylist Danielle McFarland owner of Don Me Now states “We’ve got some awesome Gatsby inspired pieces now that I am obsessed with. Lots of jeweled items. The bauble is really going out and jeweled larger pieces are in. As for must haves for the holidays, I would say sparkle! From clutches to jewels, sequin dresses to shorts, the shimmery the better. It’s everywhere this season and we’ve embraced it. “

Alexander McQueen

House of Dali

Tom Ford

Yve Saint Laurent

BEAUTY HOLIDAY LOOKS

Set your lips on fire with red lipstick that flatters everyone. Red lips are a strong statement that symbolizes passion and seduction. Pick the latest 32 shades of Rogue Dior, $34, at Dior counters near you. Dramatic short nails are still trending, but must-have metallic nail shades in bronze, silver and gold looks chic and versatile. The perfect holiday party hair is slicked back for a clean and polished look or big curls for the Old Hollywood Siren look and my all time favorite loose braids. Check out my holiday board on Pinterest for more inspiration images. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! 22

PANACHE VUE’

Atelier Versace

Jenny Packham

Bobbi Brown

Tom Ford

Follow me Website: www.houseofdali.com Instagram: @houseofdali Facebook: www.facebook.com/dalifashiondesigner Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/houseofdali Twitter: twitter.com/HouseofDali E-mail: dali@panachevue.com

Sandra Hagen

www.PanacheVue.com

Dali Hernandez is the Creative Director and head designer for House of Dali. She is also a Real Estate Agent operating in the Tampa Bay area. Dali’s arrival to the fashion industry has been making numerous headlines; however designing is nothing new for this NY native. She recalls her childhood’s obsession with fashion magazines, and with the help of a pair of scissors, she would cut various designs to mix and match and ultimately transform her bedroom walls into the latest fashion show. The days she went fabric shopping with her mother gave her an early perspective on quality variation and how the same design can be completely altered due to fabric choice. Dali’s fashion line is for the woman who still maintains her social status and is not afraid to make a fashion statement. She feels that there shouldn’t really be a target age or group for her line, because she feels that women are sexy and edgy at any age. Dali was featured on FOX13, What’s Hot Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Pulse, Vocess International, Creative Loafing, tbttimes, St. Pete Times, Panache Vue, Remark Magazine, Libertine Magazine, Envie, and was Semi Finalist for “Fashion Star” NBC.

OPI

• House of Dali Andre Belmont Photography • Models Angee Killian Huntley & Lola Rogacheva • Hair Monique Wilson • Make up Shyn Midili

• Sandra Hagen • Photo Xong Hang • Model Hunter Denoyelles • MUAH Nerieda The Make up Artist

PANACHE VUE’

FEATURE

Panache: What one memory stands out to you the most early on in your career? César: One female patient stands out who I will never forget! She was in her mid-50s’, 80-100lbs. overweight, heart problems, taking large quantities of medications daily and was even refused by a surgeon to have gastric bypass surgery, all because of her health condition. She told me her life was not a life, she felt like “the walking dead”. I was her last hope. We worked together to get her to a healthy state of mind, body and spirit. She ended up losing 75 lbs., is down to only 5 pills per day and enjoys a life with her husband that neither she nor he ever dreamed would be possible.

CÉSAR LARA

A GUIDING LIGHT TO OTHERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA SIBLEY

Panache: Why did you decide to become a doctor? César: As a young boy at the age of five years old, I already knew I wanted to become a doctor. I was the type of child that always wanted to help others and, as a grown man, that yearning and desire has not changed. It continues to grow even stronger. As a young man, I spent time deciding which specialty in medicine I would choose – where I could make the most difference in people’s lives. The choice soon became very obvious. Because of my strong bond with my own family, Family Medicine was my calling. I loved taking 24

PANACHE VUE’

care of my family practice patients, but I did become frustrated with not being able to help patients become healthier. I felt like I was just giving them medicine to mask the problem. Many of my patients had weight problems, and had medical problems because of their weight. Most had tried every diet and gimmick out there. I made it my mission to try and help them once, forever. It was not to just put them on another diet but to help them change their lifestyle, educate them and assist them in their journey to a happier and healthier life. My motto has been and is: Visualize, Believe, and Actualize.

Panache: What is unique about your business compared to the competition? César: The energy, effort and thought our team of bariatric physicians and caring staff place into each and every patient that puts them on the right path from the beginning. My intent is always to make a difference on an individual level. I admire our patients because they have the courage to listen and learn how to change their lifestyle. It’s not just about shedding pounds. My staff and I, at all three of my locations, educate our patients on the science of weight loss medicine. We offer the most up to date and diversified evidence based data so each individual patient will have only the best knowledge and education to help them along in their journey. We educate, empower and motivate! Panache: Are you involved with any charities and do you do any non-profit work to give back? César: Our St. Michaels’ Clinic, in honor of the archangel St. Michael is open every 1st Tuesday of the month. In early Christianity, St. Michael was designated as the healer. Because of the many miraculous experiences and gifts that I have seen in my own life, I wanted to give back by helping people in a way that I knew best – healing. The clinic offers free medical care to those in our community that cannot afford medical care. Weight Away Tampa Bay is our own need-based scholarship program for our physician supervised weight loss plan. Those who need medical weight loss,

but lack financial means can apply for assistance. Another cause near and dear to my heart is the Wounded Warrior Project. I support this by competing with other teams in “Tough Mudder” events. I have learned mental and physical toughness doing these events, and the value of every member of a team. These hardcore obstacle courses test every bit of stamina and grit a person can muster. I feel that experiencing this challenge allows me to consciously appreciate the sacrifices that our military troops do for us, and in a small way lends support to improve the lives of our wounded heroes. I can’t even imagine what it would be like on the battlefield in dangerous situations all the time, yet these brave warriors face it willingly so we can all be free. I recently competed, along with my son Marcus, in my third “Tough Mudder” event. Working side by side with my son and seeing each other through the challenges was very special to me. In addition, I am honored to be involved with numerous social and philanthropic organizations within our community including Ruth Eckard Hall, YMCA, and Hands Across the Bay. www.PanacheVue.com

Panache: You are now also offering hormone replacement therapy at all of your clinics, why did you decide to do that in addition to weight loss? César: As a physician, I have always known the important role hormones play in overall health. Hormones also play a role in belly fat and weight loss, so it was a natural transition to introduce bio-identical hormone replacement in our centers. To be able to optimize health using a therapy that our body recognizes as natural, is a huge win for the patient. As we age, our body manufactures less hormones that are vital to optimal health. There are so many diseases associated with aging; heart disease, osteoporosis, and dementia are a few, and these diseases are associated with hormonal imbalances. If we can balance our hormones, we feel better and may prevent or delay failing health. Over the past 36 months, I have dedicated and committed myself to studying, research, and intense training regarding bio-identical hormone replacement and its relationship to optimal health. As a result, I have developed expertise in evaluation and management for the treatment of hormone

deficiencies and imbalances. In our medical community there is so much confusion, misunderstanding and hence, misinformation regarding the role of hormones in disease prevention and aging. Hormone optimization provides relief for symptoms of Peri-menopause , Menopause and Andropause ; but more importantly, we work with an evidence based medical model to prevent and treat debilitating medical problems with the goal of attaining and sustaining optimal health as we age gracefully . There is tremendous satisfaction and happiness that I experience every day as my patients express feeling renewed energy and vitality. Many of their debilitating medical symptoms resolve and their health parameters improve across the board. After all, making a difference in people’s lives, one person at a time, is my calling. Panache: What would you like to be remembered for most? César: My genuine compassion and perpetual desire to seek knowledge and to be a light, a guide, to others in their search for health and fulfillment. PANACHE VUE’

PHILANTHROPY

CRISIS CENTER of TAMPA BAY Receives a Day at a Spa BY MICHELLE BOUDREAU

s we move into the holiday season and reflect back over the past year typically we have so much to be grateful for, we look forward to spending time with our families and friends. This time of year our lives get very busy and yet filled with joy. When we do reflect back, at different times in life challenges do arise, at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay their vision is to be that extraordinary place where every person who is going through a serious life crisis can find the help, support and encouragement that they need to solve their problems and make tomorrow a better day. The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay brings help, hope and healing to people facing serious life challenges or trauma resulting from sexual assault or abuse, domestic violence, financial distress, substance abuse, medical emergency, suicidal thoughts, emotional or situational problems. It is with a generous heart, Dr. Fitzgerald better known as Dr. Fitz to his Largo/Belleair patients with 20 years experience and focus on Bio/Psycho/Social individualized care, extends his PureLife Medi-Spa on December 17th to give the gift of a spa day to an empowerment group of women from the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay who are finding their voice and confidence after crisis. The day is full of health and beauty as at PureLife 26

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they believe; beauty radiates from within and when you can look into the mirror and be happy with the reflection that helps to build confidence. At PureLife they have found women who have peace of mind with health and regularly getting beauty treatments naturally have more confidence in the world, it has even helped some with finding a better job! The Survivor Empowerment and Empowerment Services was developed by survivors to support the journey of recovery from trauma and celebrate their inherent resiliency. Empowerment Services provide opportunities for hope and a safe place to heal, which fosters authenticity, support and growth. Whether it has been a month or 40 years after the trauma they offer a variety of ways to participate. Dr. Fitz is the official local physician for Warner Bros. films… you may even see him at times with Harry Connick Jr. or Ashley Judd…to him each patient is a celebrity! To find out more about the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay or make donations visit: CrisisCenter.com

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The RULES

of REGIFTING BY MARY HUNT

wo weeks until Christmas. That’s right, I said it. Start thinking it over. And while you’re doing that, allow me to whisper just one word in your ear: Regifting. The act of regifting -- passing on as new a gift someone else gave you -- is controversial, but only because of those who do a noticeably bad job of it. After all, if every act of regifting were carried out flawlessly, no one would

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have the occasion to find it distasteful. And that brings me to the first Rule of Regifting: Never admit to regifting. If your friends know you’re a regifter, you’ll find yourself in the unpleasant situation of explaining why regifting is different from not caring. Worse, they will be suspicious of the gifts you give them. It’s best to keep regifting completely to yourself. Designate a location. Keep regifts in a convenient, albeit secret, place in a special box or cupboard with extra wrapping paper and ribbon. Some people shop for gifts in department stores. Never underestimate the utility of a gift stash that allows you to shop at home. Have a heart. Any gift made especially for you or given to you by a parent, child or close relative cannot be regifted. Even if it’s not ideal, consider its sentimental value. Don’t even think of regifting. It just wouldn’t be right. Label all regifts. Do this as soon as you determine you’ve received a regift to avoid the heartbreak of backgifting -- giving someone a gift they gave you. Simply make a detailed note of where this item originated. Check again. You cannot be too careful.

Let’s say the gift is a book. Take a peek to make sure it has not been inscribed to you. If it’s a boxed gift, make sure the gift tag has not dropped inside the box. These are the careless acts that give regifting a bad name. No telltale signs. A regift must look brand-new. If the box is damaged or shows any signs that it has been opened, it does not qualify as a regift. Not remotely acquainted. Your regiftee must not in any way be acquainted with anyone in the circle of friends or relatives of the person who gave this to you. Refer to rules 3 and 4 above. If there’s a time you want to use new paper and ribbon, it’s on a regift. Anything else is a dead giveaway. No matter how you feel about it, the practice of regifting is here to stay. If you participate, do it well. Want to make sure your gift doesn’t land in someone’s regift box? Put a little thought and effort into it to make sure it is something the receiver will truly enjoy -not just something that let’s you mark another name off your list. PANACHE VUE’

EVENT

The Swankiest Girls-Night-Out is a

SOLD OUT EVENT

ver 400 women attended the sold out Wine, Women & Shoes to benefit the Children’s Cancer Center presented by Landon Plastic Surgery. The event at the Renaissance Hotel, International Plaza was emceed by Jayde Donovan of 101.5’s Hot Mornings with Jayde. From the moment guests arrived, they enjoyed complimentary valet and were escorted by charming Sole Men through the main doors. Once inside, women had a chance to sip wine from around the world, shop at the marketplace with local and national vendors and nibble on scrumptious hors d’oeuvres. This was the ultimate girls-night-out event as women had a chance to socialize in person and even online in real-time at the Media Fusion Social Media Lounge. When the ballroom doors opened, guests heard a very touching and emotional speech from Jessica Fischer whose son Josh is in remission from Leukemia. She explained to guests how much the Children’s Cancer Center has meant to Josh and to her family. The festivities continued with a live auction that included once in a lifetime opportunities such as tickets to the Emmy Awards and a chance to visit locations James Bond movies were filmed. The evening concluded with a sophisticated fashion show with couture designs from Andrew Anderson, W by Worth, Urban Body Clothing, and Penelope t. Andrew Ashton and Steven Anderson of the Ashton Anderson line, debuted a stunning collection of nine ethereal evening gowns, all custom made. Both designers, celebrity stylists and fathers, they were honored to be a part of the charitable evening and look forward to showcasing more couture designs at the 2014 event. The event ended with the Key to Closet enter-to-win - all women who had purchased a special bling-ring had a chance to win a closet full of clothes, accessories and other merchandise worth over $15,000 from designers such as Tory Burch, BCBG, and local retailers such as Cotton Colors, DKM, Paradise Island, Pink Palm, Why Not Boutique, El’Lay and Lululemon. The Children’s Cancer Center is planning on making Wine, Women & Shoes their signature event and anticipate that next year’s soiree will be a sell-out even sooner. Ladies should be looking for their chance to purchase tickets to the swankiest girls-night-out event in Tampa Bay next autumn by visiting ChidlrensCancerCenter.org PHOTOS BY: LIMELIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

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ASK AUDREY

How do you know when someone

DESERVES A SECOND CHANCE?

s humans we must first recognize that we are all born to make mistakes. Some can be insignificant or unintentional, but others may have been out of spite, against our better judgment, or down right intentional. Nevertheless, if we all existed perfectly together then we would either be robots or this would be heaven. The worst part about making mistakes is the fact that it often entails harming those around us perhaps even more than ourselves. However, when we are the ones being wronged, we are suddenly faced with making a decision. So, how do we decide if someone 30

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deserves a second chance? While some of us are fairly good at making decisions others are extremely indecisive. It is my thought that the difference between us has to do with if we are guided by logic or emotion. Nonetheless, I believe that as with most things in life that you will become better and better at it with the proper knowledge and practice. We must first understand that it is a process. Second, we must be clear about what the decision is. That may sound trivial but it is common to become confused. It is also absolutely vital to identify our options. Knowing our options or that we have any at all always makes the process much easier because it reminds us that it is our choice. Collecting information is then naturally the next step because it allows us to line up the facts. Following all of that we must consider if any children will be effected and to what extent. This does not mean that we make the decision based on the little ones but instead it means that we should consider how they will be effected so that we may properly handle their needs after we have chosen what it is that we will do.

There are many things in life that are predictable but people are generally not one of them. So, we must follow certain indicators that should help guide us when resolving the issue. It is necessary to examine the persons past behavior. If this is a pattern of any kind then it is highly likely that whatever occurred shall occur again or become more serious the next time. It is also crucial to receive a sincere apology. The rule to follow here is to listen to our gut. When someone apologizes our gut should signal to us if it is from the heart or not. We also need to be in serious search of proof that they are trying to change. Actions are very important. Once we have gathered all of this information and collectively put it together then we should be well equipped to make the correct decision. Regardless of what we choose to do we must remember that we have to live with our decision. Stand firm and try not to go back on it. It can be difficult if it means walking away from a significant relationship of any kind but it is completely possible to love someone without them being a part of your everyday existence. Remember that we must always care for ourselves first. It is equally important to note that the largest part of life is about learning. If for whatever reason we are not able to stand by the choice we made and consequently end up getting hurt a second time, we can learn from it and make a wiser decision the next time. I wish you the best of luck in making your decision. Warmest Regards, Audrey Mabrey

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HOME & GARDEN 32

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Zac Pease | Owner/Designer

Swimming Pool

SAFETY

ello, and welcome back! Its Zac, with Ultra Custom Group, here this month to talk about Swimming Pool Safety. This December marks the 5th year of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act. Under the law, all public pools and spas must have ANSI/ASME A112.19.8 performance standard, or the successor standard ANSI/APSP-16 2011 compliant drain covers installed and a second anti-entrapment system installed, when there is a single main drain other than an unblockable drain. Since then the swimming pool industry has come out with several products that will assist you in assuring that your residential swimming pool is safe and sound, I will tell you about a few of these amazing and potentially life saving devices, but note that these percussion are second to parenteral supervision and the buddy system. Swimming Pool Child Safety

Fence: By Code residential swimming pools must have a minimum of 42” barrier fence encasing the pool area from outside. In addition to these barrier fences there are a few makers of removable child safety fences for the interior of your barrier fenced in area. These child safety fences are a great way to keep your children out of the pool while playing within the barrier fenced in area. Safety Vac System: Safety Vacs Function like an Electrical Breaker system, if the main drains are plugged by any object the Safety Vac will engage and all suction to the main drain is disengaged allowing what ever is covering the drain to be freed. Swimming Pool Safety Nets: Safety nets are a great addition to any swimming pool. They are sturdy nets woven on about 8” centers to ensure small children are not able to get into the pool while unattended. They are connected to the

decking or the pool beam, depending to the materials around your pool, via slim line steel hooks. They are so strong some companies claim that an elephant could walk across the pool while the net is attached. Child Safety Door Alarm: Door alarms are a great way to ensure you always know when someone is going out towards the pool area. They are simple to install and efficiently loud, so no matter what you have going on inside you will be notified. Door alarms can also be used on safety fence gates, this way you will be informed when someone from outside enters the pool area. Safety Bracelets: Swimming Pool Safety Bracelets are made for smaller children. When the bracelets get wet they will sound off an alarm notifying you the second your child is in the swimming pool. These are my top 5 recommended Swimming Pool Safety Features. These products can add peace of mind to any homeowner with children, but they are not a guarantee of safety. Every swimming pool owner should go over simple safety guidelines with their kids and teach them to enjoy but respect this area as well. For more information on swimming pool products, stop by our office and we will be glad to assist you in ensuring that your swimming pool is a safe and enjoyable area for you and all of the family. If you are looking to improve your overall health and need a pool at your home, Call me and lets design the ideal personal workout area for you today! Thanks for reading! Zac Pease (813) 900- 5595 ULTRA CUSTOM GROUP www.ultracustomgroup.com

Ultra Custom Group is located at 1416 W. Kennedy Blvd., South Tampa

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Colors that are alike and designs that differ dramatically are the basic secret to mixing patterns successfully. Photo: Kindra Clineff.

HOME & GARDEN

Mastering the Mix of

COLOR & PATTERN

BY ROSE BENNETT GILBERT

Q: I relate to that person who wrote about growing up in a bland white and beige house. Like her, I now want color and pattern in my life, but I have no clue how to go about mixing things up. I’m not afraid to use just one color and one pattern and leave everything else neutral. But I’d like a lot! Are there any tricks to mixing several patterns together? A: Oh, yes. And happily, once you get over your fear they are not hard to learn. Easiest route to a successful mix of patterns: Let a professional do it for you. There’s a wealth of home fashions coordinates on today’s market. The pros have already taken the worry out of putting a room together by creating entire collections, including wall coverings, fabrics, even rugs and pillows, that work perfectly together. Doing it yourself is no mystery, either, once you discover the magic formula: Choose patterns that have a common color denominator. As long as they share a prominent hue and vary enough in scale, many different patterns can co-exist beautifully -- say, a large floral and a mediumsized plaid with several stripes that vary in width, plus a mini-geometric and some solid colors in a variety of surface textures, just for the fun of it. To perfect their mix of patterns, professional designers work up a swatch board, using good-sized cuts of fabrics and wall coverings. By standing back and eyeing them altogether, even a beginner can see if they get on well -- or if they don’t. The photo we show here should help. Known for his down-home farmhousestyle, designer Terry John Woods has gone off on an interesting new tact in his latest book, “Farmhouse Modern” (Stewart, Tabori and Chang), wherein he updates www.PanacheVue.com

his relaxed, rustic rooms with surprisingly contemporary touches. Here he transforms his home office into a modern space with a couple of genius strokes: a dramatically over-scaled wallpaper pattern that plays a background role to an equally dramatic (but smaller) geometric pattern on the lamp shade. Note that they share the same color palette. And there in a nutshell, you have the secret of mixing patterns successfully. Q: Hounded by guilt when you leave your dog home alone? A: A clever solution promises to be stylish, too: It’s called Petcube, a 4-inch device that lets you watch and lay with your pet from afar. The thing has a wide-angle video camera, microphone and speakers, and it connects to your home wi-fi.

Petcube’s encased in aluminum so Phideau can rough it up without damage. And -- here’s the design angle -- customdesigned skins are also available so Petcube becomes a decorative accessory, according to the inventor. Click on petcube.net. Q: We put new curtains on our sun porch, and I never thought about how they’d look from the outside. Ugly! The curtains are not lined so you kind of see the pattern, but not really. We live on a corner, and I hate the way the windows look. What can you suggest? They cost too much to toss. A: Keep your curtains but install a lightweight roller shade or bamboo shade under them, preferably in white or a neutral color. The shades will present a unified color to the outside world while you get to enjoy the patterned side inside. PANACHE VUE’

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GREEN LIVING

What’s your Budget? It all starts with, “Gene I love that sparkling Recycled Glass countertop and Bamboo Cabinetry, I want that in my kitchen”. Now here comes that dreaded question, “what’s your budget? This seems to be an uncomfortable question and I still wonder why.

e usually hear “It’s out of my budget. Thanks.” I feel I am not Pricey but the materials and fabrication techniques they choose may be. The key word in this whole ordeal of Buying and selling is VALUE. I am always amazed at how anyone can even quote a job without a budget. I have been in the process of breaking down my business into price groups similar to the Olympics, (Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze) it helps focus the customer’s price point and make them feel like their financial status is not on display. After all, I want to www.PanacheVue.com

BY GENE MCDONALD “THE COUNTERTOP ROCK STAR”

make a friend and Customer relationship. The word “Budget” should not be used as an excuse word to stop the process, many of us Tampa Bay businesses are simply asking you this because we want to help you realize we aren’t out there to gouge you of all your worth. Even though many clients are super financially successful that doesn’t mean we make more money, they want what they want and they have a budget. They might order more premium materials and more luxurious products, but it all comes down to profit margin. How do we find out exactly how we can make a wonderful business transaction is based solely on that uncomfortable question. “What’s your budget? Personally, I feel uncomfortable asking people what amount they have to spend. If I walked into Publix and was stopped at the door to have my credit limit questioned, I would at least get that person in a headlock. For me it’s like trying to hit a target in the dark. I just want to somehow use this article to help ease the discomfort of asking or being asked. I also feel if many of us business owners could put on our website a price group section, it would help. Our potential customers can pick and choose. In the customer’s defense, how would we like to walk into a clothing store and see no price tags? We both should approach this question with better clarification. I had customers return to me and say “Gene, Although another

quote was cheaper, It didn’t include premium sealer for the countertops as you listed”. You see, they created their budget based on price rather than VALUE. If I would have known they were willing to settle for less, or not want soft close drawer slides, I could have got the job. It’s all about disclosure. I also don’t think we should lower our price because our customers balk at them. We need to make what they can afford. We should always offer them alternatives as well, that also makes me feel like the skilled business owner I think I am. If they can respect that,I know I will make a loyal customer for life. What’s wrong with diverting that potential customer away if you know your quote was truly accurate? FREE WORK only generates more Free Work. Lets have fun doing business, It’s up to us in Tampa Bay to boost this economy and see our businesses packed with smiling people. Gene McDonald, aka “The Counter Top Rock Star” is the President of Refresh Interiors Design.com. To schedule an appointment or Visit his showroom, visit www.ReFreshInteriorsDesign.com or Call 727.527.0206.

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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE This necklace of platinum, diamonds and emeralds by Bulgari is currently on exhibit at San Francisco’s deYoung Museum in Golden Gate Park. Photo courtesy of Patricia Arrigoni.

From Dazzling Gems to

INTRIGUING EXPLORATIONS in San Francisco BY PATRICIA ARRIGONI

hen I go to the deYoung Museum in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, it’s usually to see traveling art exhibits. My latest sojourn there, however, was to check out a collection of dazzling jewels from Italy. Called “The Art of Bulgari, La Dolce Vita and Beyond 1950-1990,” this exquisite collection of 150 luxury jewelry items is having an exclusive showing in the Bay Area until Feb. 17, 2014. Founded in Rome in 1884, Bulgari claims its name (pronounced “Bull-gar-ee”) has “become synonymous with innovation and luxury jewelry design.” The beginning of my tour led to the ear38

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liest classic designs, which reminded me of the crown jewels in the Tower of London. The only items missing were the royal crowns and tiaras, but this exhibit teemed with diamonds, sapphires, emeralds and rubies in the shapes of necklaces, extra-long necklaces called “soutoirs” and gold chokers. There were brooches, bracelets, rings and earrings -- all stunningly beautiful. By the 1970s designers had departed in a fresh way from classic jewelry and begun mixing precious gems with semiprecious ones as well as various metals. This was said to have attracted many celebrities to Bulgari as the jewelry became quite colorful, Other items included heavy gold purses, rare coins worked into jewelry pieces, a

champagne cork, place-card holders, a measuring stick, hammer, cigarette case from 1977 and paperweights. Because I play tennis, I was fascinated by a 1980 silver and gold tennis-ball canister. The highlight of the exhibit was the Elizabeth Taylor collection. It seems that at least two of Liz’s husbands, Eddie Fisher and Richard Burton, showered her with stunning pieces of Bulgari jewelry, several of which the company bought back at auction after the actress passed away. I was especially impressed by Taylor’s 23-carat emerald and diamond necklace, a wedding gift from Burton, plus rings, earrings, bracelets and brooches. The exhibit actually devoted an entire room to Taylor’s personal collection, which included a ruby heart-shaped necklace she designed and donated to raise money for AIDS prevention and treatment. It all added up to a fascinating tour. Another fascinating day took me to the Exploratorium. “When Frank Oppenheimer conceived of the Exploratorium in 1969,” writes Dennis Bartels, the executive director, in a current newsletter, “he imagined an institution that could look at the world from many different points of view -- through the eyes of educators and scientists, technicians and

to think with their hands and explore their creativity; the Osher West Gallery, which offers a new concept -- experimenting with thoughts, feelings and social behavior; the Outdoor Gallery, where visitors could see how wind, water and tides affect the city and the bay; and finally the upper- level Fisher Bay Observatory Gallery set up to “investigate the interaction of natural and human focus in the landscape.” Along the way we stopped by various exhibits such as displays of stem cells from mice being converted to beating hearts in mice, human interaction displays and an amazing look at swimming bacteria. We stood in front of a curved mirror that reversed our images (no hands-on here), and in another exhibit we saw our shadows frozen when an automatic flash went off. Doherty told us that the Exploratorium creates exhibits and ships them around the world. They also pay teachers $1,000 to come for 100 hours and learn science to teach their students. One very popular exhibit was the Tinkering Studio, where kids learn by working with electrical circuits and other hands-on displays such as stop-action videos. Students seriously involved with their projects was beyond a doubt the best thing we saw all day.

A curved mirror is part of the fun at the new Exploratorium in San Francisco .Photo courtesy of Patricia Arrigoni.

tinkerers, dreamers, investors and artists in every domain from painters to poets.” The facilities first opened in the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, where the staff welcomed schoolchildren from around the Bay Area to come play with their handson exhibits and learn a little science at the same time. People who worked on the original facilities traveled around the world to search for ideas. In April 2013, a new Exploratorium opened along the San Francisco waterfront in remodeled buildings covering an astonishing nine acres enclosed in old port facilities. The original 450 hands-on exhibits had grown to 600, and it appeared that all were in use. To get inside, I crossed the “fog bridge” and then joined a tour led by an enthusiastic guide, Paul Doherty, a former physics professor. He explained that the facilities installed 1.3 megawatts of solar panels on the roof that supply 95 percent of the energy they need. There are 26 miles of floor and wall pipes carrying heating and cooling water produced by heat pumps using what is known as “by water.” He told us that the facilities were earthquake proof up to an 8.3 quake and that the floor was designed to be able to move up to 4 feet. All of this cost $300 million, with $200 million more needed to repair old pilings. www.PanacheVue.com

“The Art of Bulgari, La Dolce Vita and Beyond, 1950-1990” is on exhibit at the deYoung Museum in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park until Feb. 12, 2014. Photo courtesy of Patricia Arrigoni.

I found it fascinating that the original redwood beams had held up and were used again, whereas the concrete had dissolved. For making all these repairs, the Exploratorium received 66 years of free rent from the city of San Francisco. We took a tour of the East Gallery, which our guide described as exploring living things big and small; Bechtel Central Gallery, where visitors experiment with light, vision and sound; the South Gallery, where kids especially are encouraged

WHEN YOU GO The Art of the Bulgari, La Dolce Vita and Beyond 1950-1990, to Feb. 12, 2014, deYoung Museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, Calif.. 94188; call 415-750-3600 or visit www.deYoungmuseum.org. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., closed Mondays, and Nov. 28 and Dec. 25. Admission is $21 Tuesday to Friday, $23 Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Seniors, college students and youths are $18, $17 and $11. Exploratorium, Pier 15 San Francisco, California 94111; www.exploratorium.edu; open Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays 10 a.m.to 5 p.m., plus 6 to 10 pm for adults only; closed Mondays except for select holidays. Admission is $25; seniors and students $19. Three public tours are available -- “Perception, Light and Color,” “Living Systems” or “Tinkering.” Tours last 45 minutes and cost $25. For advance purchase, call 415-528-4444 and choose option five. PANACHE VUE’

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