April/May 2017

105

OF TAMPA BAY’S

n by as voted oer their pe s

Up to Par

Fashion for on & off the golf course GREAT STEAKS IN TAMPA BAY

thetampamagazine.com $4.99

+

C. TODD MARKS, ESQ. EXPERIENCE MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

C

incinnati, Ohio native Todd Marks may not be originally from the Tampa area, but his heart and soul are now planted here. In 2006, Marks formed Westchase Law and Westchase title and now serves as a board member of the Westchase Charitable Foundation and is active in the Tampa community, including his service on the Land Use Appeals Board.

He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Cincinnati with a B.B.A. in marketing and finance. His early career was in politics, where he served as chief of staff and campaign manager to a Cincinnati city councilmember. Marks even worked with the Office of White House Advance.

“After watching some of the attorneys in action I decided to pursue a legal career and left Cincinnati to attend law school at George Mason School of Law in Arlington, Virginia,” Marks explains.

Before forming Westchase Law, P.A., Marks served as the symposium editor of the George Mason Law Review and subsequently began his law career in Washington, D.C. and Virginia with the law firm Shaw Pittman, L.L.P. A few years into working in Northern Virginia and D.C., Marks decided to move to Florida to pursue his dream of opening his own business.

After moving to Florida, the decision to open his own law firm and title company became a no-brainer. Since then, Marks has also opened a Downtown Tampa office and will soon expand to another location in Safety Harbor to make it easier for his firm’s clients across the Bay area.

“Having worked at the larger law firms, I understand what it takes to provide quality representation in a diverse number of practice areas without overwhelming my clients financially by employing a law and economics approach to legal matters,” says Marks.

The firm now has five attorneys and three offices representing clients in family law and divorce, estate planning and probate, business formation and contracts, litigation and employment law, bankruptcy, personal injury, foreclosure defense and short sales.

If you are in need of an attorney, Marks has some helpful advice. “You deserve to remain in the know and to have peace of mind when you are represented by an attorney,” he explains. “There should not be any guesswork involved. Seek advice early and implement that advice.”

In true Marks style, he leaves you with this: “Life is a journey . . . and sometimes you need an attorney.”

C. Todd Marks, Esq.

Come see the Westchase Law team at their new Downtown Tampa office The attorneys at Westchase Law, P.A. offer individualized attention in a range of legal matters: • • • •

Business Law Bankruptcy DUI Divorce, Child Support, Alimony, Time Sharing, Domestic Violence • Estate Planning & Probate

• • • • • •

Employment Law Foreclosure Defense Litigation Personal Injury Real Estate Law Short Sales

DOWNTOWN TAMPA OFFICE 1219 N. Franklin St. 813-490-5211 WestchaseLaw.com FREE CONSULTATIONS

WESTCHASE OFFICE 12029 Whitmarsh Lane (813) 490-5211 WestchaseLaw.com

24

Dry-aged cowboy ribeye from Rococo Steak

57

FEATURES 24 30 42

DEPARTMENTS

WATCHES

Keep time with a gorgeous watch for him or her

TOP LAWYERS See who local attorneys named the best of their fields

12

FOOD Toast goes beyond breakfast at these Tampa restaurants

14

WATER Gasparilla brought a tale of two unique ships to the Tampa Convention Center

18

FASHION Tee up the latest styles for a round of golf

48

ATTORNEY PROFILES

57

STEAKHOUSES

20 22

Get to know some of the lawyers in Tampa Bay

HOME Give your cabinets a new look with creative knobs BOOKS Grab your little ones and sit down with Tampa-themed reads from local authors TRAVEL Our group publisher gives readers her tips for exploring Havana

Find out where you can get a great steak across the Bay area

Luxury timepieces never go out of style

12 Try a unique spin on toast

THINGS TO DO 40 SOCIAL SCENE Last month’s happenings are this month’s eye candy

64 AROUND TOWN Events around Tampa this April/May

66 TAMPA

CONFIDENTIAL Featuring insiders with local knowledge

22

An insider’s guide to Cuba

about the cover This month’s fashion feature cover image was shot on location at TPC Tampa Bay in Lutz by photographer Gabriel Burgos. Find more golf-ready fashion starting on page 42.

Cover: GANT Pique Polo, $125; Scotch & Soda Chinos, $125; Anderson’s Stretch Woven Belt, $155, all from London Philips. FootJoy DryJoys Tour Golf Shoes, $200; FootJoy StaSof Gloves, $35; Titleist Lightweight Stand Golf Bag, $205, all from Golf Locker.

06 APR MAY 2017

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DEPRESSION STINKS THIS YEAR, RESOLVE TO END YOUR DEPRESSION ONCE AND FOR ALL

NeuroStar is the Only TMS System with Proven Durability Measured Over 12 Months 68% of study population in response, 45% in remission CGI-S Outcomes Post Acute Phase

% of Patients (N=257)

36.2% of patients received NeuroStar TMS reintroduction (avg. of 16 treatments) Physician directed standard of care Long term durability of effect has not been established in a randomized controlled trial

PUBLISHER/PRESIDENT Greg Jasso GROUP PUBLISHER Shawna Wiggs SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Gabriel Burgos SENIOR ART DIRECTORS Scott Tennant Jillian Baco ART DIRECTOR Heather Fitzpatrick

LOCF Analysis of intent-to-treat population Neuronetics, Data on file, NCT 00104611

24

TESTIMONIAL: “Wow! I am very happy with the results I am experiencing with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Treatment to date has far exceeded my expectations. I have searched for help for over 16 years, but the pharmaceutical solutions I received fell short. With the help of Dr. Pages, Neurostar TMS and his wonderful staff, I have significantly reduced or eliminated many prescription drugs with very few symptoms remaining.”

MANAGING EDITOR McKenna Kelley ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Aubreigh Roth Lauren Armbrust NATIONAL AD DIRECTOR Lia Beatty CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Erika Vidal Holmes Marcy Sanford Derek Herscovici EDITORIAL INTERNS Andrea Tanzi di Cosola Deeva Agravat Haley Ward

CONTACT US TAMPA MAGAZINE OFFICE Office Hours: M-F 9-5 708 Harbour Post Dr. Tampa, FL 33602 813.600.4000

“Tired of medications and years-long therapy that doesn’t work? TMS may be the answer for you.” — Dr. Kenneth Pages” • Without or in Addition to Antidepressants • FDA-Approved • Noninvasive To see if TMS therapy is right for you, call or visit us today,

thetampamagazine.com info@thetampamagazine.com ADVERTISING INFORMATION 813.600.4000 thetampamagazine.com Click on “Advertising” PURCHASE SUBSCRIPTIONS New and Gift Subscriptions 813.600.4000 thetampamagazine.com Click on “Subscribe”

PURCHASE SINGLE COPIES Current issue, back issues and gift copies 813.600.4000 thetampamagazine.com Click on “Purchase Copy” RETAIL STORES AND BOUTIQUE SALES Interested in selling single copies at your location?

Contact: Aubreigh Roth 813.600.4000 aubreigh@thetampamagazine.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 708 Harbour Post Drive Tampa, FL 33602 info@thetampamagazine.com

DR KENNETH PAGES

(813) 878-2100 www.TMSofSouthTampa.com 08 APR MAY 2017

TheTampaMagazine.com (813) 600-4000

Cheers to 10 Years Over the past 10 years, Dr. Kenneth Pages and his tight-knit staff at TMS of South Tampa have been fortunate enough to watch the city of Tampa evolve in so many ways. And they’ve evolved along with it, growing the business as needed to serve patients in need.

“Words can’t express how grateful we are to be part of the Tampa community,” says Dr. Pages. “It’s been a great 10 years — and we look forward to the next 10!” In honor of their 10-year anniversary, here are Dr. Pages’ top 10 memorable moments.

DR. PAGES’ TOP 10 MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS 10 9

Moving to a bigger, better office space

8

The completion of the Tampa Riverwalk

7

Introducing Neurostar TMS — the most advanced treatment for depression — to Tampa Bay residents

6 5

Schedule your consultation today by calling (813) 878-2100.

Growing the TMS family from two to nine employees

Turning 50!

Entering the digital age!

Everything is electronic!

4

The creation of Curtis Hixon Park, the Tampa Museum of Art and Glazer Children’s Museum

3

Cheering on the Tampa Bay Lightning through several thrilling playoff runs

2

Changing the lives of countless Bay area residents who have struggled with depression

1

Getting married!

KENNETH P. PAGES, M.D. | (813) 878-2100 | www.TMSofSouthTampa.com 508 S. Habana Ave., Ste. 320, Tampa, FL 33609

G R OU P P U BL ISHER ’ S

LETTER before booking your trip. It’s easier than you think and it’s well worth the effort — at least that’s our verdict.

Speaking of verdicts, this issue just so happens to be our second-annual Top Lawyers Edition. How it works: We mailed a survey to every attorney in the area and asked them to vote anonymously for their choice of top lawyers in a variety of different practice areas. The jury is in, and you can check out the results starting on page 30. In addition to our peer-voted list, we also have a special Attorney Profiles feature we invite you to check out.

For all you meat lovers out there, our food feature is one you can really sink your teeth into. We scoured the area for the Bay’s best steakhouses. You’ll find some expected and unexpected surprises on this list, starting on page 57.

Shawna hit the links at TPC Tampa Bay.

F

or this issue I took a trip to a certain Caribbean island that’s recently been the talk of the travel town: Cuba. I can now say I smoked a Cuban cigar in Cuba … and I think that’s pretty amazing! We know many of our readers are flirting with the idea of visiting this unique island, which was off limits for so long. That’s why I put together a short travel guide based on my trip, featuring places to stay, eat and play while you’re in Havana. I also included some insider advice on important steps you’ll need to take

We’ve teed off our fashion editorial with a look at the latest in men’s and women’s golf active wear, shot on location at TPC Tampa Bay. Even if you’re not a golf pro, you can still look like one. And don’t miss our photo essay on high-end timepieces (one of them costs over $30,000). Our featured local retailers have top-of-the-line options for every level of watch aficionado.

I’d love to hear what you think about this issue. Shoot me a note at shawna@thetampamagazine.com.

Shawna Wiggs GROUP PUBLISHER (813) 600-4000 shawna@thetampamagazine.com

For Our Advertisers: The Vacations issue of TAMPA Magazine is coming up next. This issue features summer travel destinations as well as a feature on best burgers, the peer-voted Top Dentists List and dentist profiles. Call (813) 600-4000 or email me (shawna@thetampamagazine.com) for more info.

10 APR MAY 2017

DAV I D O F F O F G E N E VA S I N C E 1 9 1 1 - TA M PA We have one purpose: to be the destination of choice for those who wish to explore, discover and enjoy the best premium cigars and spirits.

With unparalleled expertise, we are on hand to guide you through our unique collection of the finest cigars, accessories and carefully curated pieces. We invite you to fill your time beautifully with Davidoff of Geneva since 1911 Tampa.

C I G A R B A R A N D LO U N G E

MetWest International | 4142 W. Boy Scout Boulevard | Tampa, FL 33607 DavidoffTampa.com

Bruschetta with vine ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, extra virgin olive oil and fresh mozzarella, finished with a balsamic drizzle on toasted crostini. Bernini, 1702 E. 7th Ave.

Pork Neck Carnitas with pigeon pea aioli, mashed avocado and pickled red onions on charred ciabatta. Rooster & the Till, 6500 N. Florida Ave.

Toastmasters Written By Derek Herscovici | Photography by Gabriel Burgos

Toast has often been passed over on the breakfast plate in favor of more flavor, but not anymore. With a huge variety of toppings and spreads, it’s even made its way onto menus later in the day. Try some of these toast-centric dishes from around the Tampa Bay area, and taste the difference a balanced breakfast (or lunch or dinner) can make.

Avocado Toast topped with watermelon radish, microgreens, extra virgin olive oil and Maldon Salt on garlic butter ciabatta. Noble Crust, 8300 4th St. N., St. Petersburg

Chili and Lime Toast with poached eggs and avocado. Buddy Brew Coffee, 2020 W. Kennedy Blvd.

12 APR MAY 2017

Mediterranean Bruschetta Toasted Spanish bread topped with Jamón serrano, olives and tomatoes and drizzled with fig sauce. Café Olé, 10020 Cross Creek Blvd.

TAMPA’S

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Impeccable granite counter tops and handsome dark wood cabinets flawlessly accented by stainless steel appliances with double built-in ovens and separate cook top, perfect for any chef.

Absolutely beautiful 4,885 sq. ft. 6 bedroom, 4 bathroom contemporary home with a 3-car garage on half an acre in the Kensington area of Citrus Park.

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WATER

Ship Mates Written By McKenna Kelley | Photography by Gabriel Burgos

Around this year’s Gasparilla festivities, two striking but vastly different ships sat anchored just behind the Tampa Convention Center. One, a Tampa legend – the José Gasparilla II. The other, a visitor who first docked the weekend of the College Football Playoff National Championship – the Amarula Sun, a luxury superyacht. We plumbed the depths to find out how these two ships stack up.

José Gasparilla II Length: 147 feet Built: 1954 Made of: Steel Powered by: 2 tugboats Cruising speed: 5 knots PRICE: Priceless Toys: 20 cannons Holds: The Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla – around 700 pirates

Original name: This is it – it was commissioned by the Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla and is the only fully rigged pirate ship constructed in modern times in the world

Ports of Call: Tampa Yacht and Country Club, Tampa Convention Center, Bayshore Boulevard

14 MAR APR 2017

Amarula Sun Length: 164 feet Built: 2008 Made of: Aluminum Powered by: Two 3,384 horsepower Caterpillar engines

Cruising speed: 14 knots PRICE (To RENT): $230,000 per week,

← VS. →

plus expenses, to charter during high season

Toys: 2 Yamaha WaveRunners, 2 SeaDoo Sparks, JetLev boat and jetpack, extra large waterslide, inflatable Jet Ski dock, wakeboards and boogie boards Holds: 12 guests Original name: Mine Games Ports of Call: Bahamas, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, the Caribbean

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1/11/17 11:05 AM

HOME

It’s Handled

Whether you go flashy or classic, refresh the look of your kitchen, bathroom or bedroom with a collection of interesting knobs for cabinets or drawers.

Written By McKenna Kelley | Photography By Gabriel Burgos

2 3

1

11

4

10 12 5

9 7

6

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1. Analise Ethnic Aqua Knob, $8 (Anthropologie, anthropolgie.com) 2. Dakota Square Knob, $15-$17 (Restoration Hardware, restorationhardware.com) 3. Red Zagora Knob, $8 (Anthropologie) 4. Waterworks Millbrook Knob, $68 (Hollingsworth Decorative Tile + Plumbing, hollingsworthshowroom.com) 5. Ceramic Compass Knob, $8 (Anthropologie) 6. Vintage Glass Knob, $14-$16 (Restoration Hardware) 7. Vinery Knob, $3 (Pier 1 Imports, pier1.com) 8. Quincy Knob, $16-$18 (Restoration Hardware) 9. Starry Lilac Knob, $5 (Pier 1 Imports) 10. Round Ceramic Knob, $8 (Pier 1 Imports) 11. Strande Knob, $13-$15 (Restoration Hardware) 12. Blue Agate Knob, $6 (Pier 1 Imports)

18 APR MAY 2017

New Look. Same Promise.

Providing client focused legal service with integrity, passion, focus, and responsiveness. These core values inspire us to go above and beyond our clients’ expectations.

Our look may be new, but we are still guided above all else by our principles which are underscored in everything we do for our clients, our colleagues, and our communities.

Contact us today, and we’ll make your success our priority.

bradley.com

BOOKS

Tell Me A Story Written By Marcy Sanford | Photography By Gabriel Burgos

You can visit Tampa landmarks, follow puppies on new adventures, or cheer on a brave young girl as she takes on a band of scurvy pirates with new children’s books by Tampa residents. In the first published book for all three authors, Tampa – both in the past and the present – is the perfect backdrop for these engaging tales.

nkie nd Fra Riley oa the Beach Go t ks.com nkieBoo

yandFra $11, Rile ted by: & Illustra Written rk

Kim Cla llows story foiley and ’s rk Cla R s ibling re canine s as they explo to Frankie rld and learn their wo rt each other. suppo

The P i Fixab rate’s le Tee $16, Sil th lyDilly

TotSpo t.com Illustra Susan ted by: Robins A reso on u rceful, wit b Writte n Kate K by: yres

ha rave the dayspecial skill s girl ave (and th when s e teeth s h a band e befriends ) of pirat es.

Wooden Rattle $24, Oxford Exchange oxfordexchange.com

Good n

Red Hood Fox Plush $40, Silly Dilly Tot Spot sillydillytotspot.com

ight $19, G Tamp oodn a ightTa Writt mpa.c Meliss en by: om a Two Illust ra mey Donn ted by: Playfu a Cra l r h ig yme with s com bea take rutiful illust bined r eader engag s o ations in to all g nocturnn an thing s Tamal visit pa.

A FAMILY LAW TEAM WORKING FOR FAMILIES Michelle Brinner A partner of Older, Lundy & Alvarez, Brinner has a unique skill set to help families dealing with divorce. In addition to practicing family and marital law, she also leads the firm’s appellate practice and is trained in collaborative law.

“In my approach, I look at the family as a whole unit to try to meet the family’s needs without litigation if at all possible. If that is not possible, then I dig deep into the law to prepare the best case for my clients.”

Her work ethic and responsiveness to clients is her way of helping families in crisis. “Divorce is one of the worst experiences someone can go through,” Brinner says. “If I can make that less traumatic, I will.”

Frances Martinez Martinez began her career as a criminal defense attorney and has years of experience in the courtroom. After seeing the family law issues that existed in her criminal cases, she made the natural transition to family law.

“What I like best about family law is that you can provide actual solutions for people,” Martinez says. “If you can help parents figure out how to work together for their kids or you can give a spouse a system to support him or herself, it has real long-term, lasting consequences.”

Martinez, originally from Puerto Rico, grew up in Tampa and is married with two kids.

Jennifer Meister Meister has a strong passion for child advocacy that developed over years of working in dependency law with children’s legal service, a background few family law attorneys have. “Many of the core issues overlap,” Meister says. “Whenever children are involved, finding a resolution in their best interest is a paramount concern.”

Meister also assists families looking to adopt, a process she knows well as she and her husband are licensed foster parents who adopted twin boys.

No matter the case, Meister connects to her clients. “My clients experience empathy, compassion, and competency,” she says.

100 W. Cass St. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 254-8998 olalaw.com

SHAWNA IN Cuba

Havana Ball

Our group publisher, Shawna Wiggs, spent a weekend in Havana, Cuba, and is sharing her experiences with our readers.

A

few months ago, a friend and I were trying to decide where to go for a weekend vacation in late January when we had a thought – why not Cuba? The island is so close to Florida that it makes for the perfect Friday to Sunday getaway. Visiting Cuba is surprisingly easy and is an experience no Tampa resident should miss. Here are my tips for making the most of your trip to Cuba.

Stay in Style

Local Flavors

I only spent time in Havana, so I chose to spend the weekend in a rental from Airbnb. I stayed in a condo in Havana Viejo – Old Havana – and had an amazing experience. It was just outside the “touristy” area of the city, which was perfect for seeing a more authentic side of Cuba. Before booking, read the reviews of potential rentals carefully to ensure you know what to expect when you arrive. Be sure to set up your arrival with your host before landing in Havana, as you won’t have internet to access the Airbnb app.

While you might be told before your trip not to expect an amazing culinary experience, there are absolutely delicious meals on the island. I had the arroz con pollo at Hotel Saratoga, and it was worth the 45 minutes it took to prepare. The following day, I enjoyed a fourcourse lobster dinner at Hotel Armadores de Santander for 20 CUCs (Cuban convertible pesos – about $25 in U.S. dollars). One must-try restaurant is La Guarida. The building appears to be a destroyed mansion, but up the stairs you’ll discover the beautiful rooftop restaurant.

If you would prefer to stay in a hotel, there are a number of luxurious options. Make like Beyoncé and Jay-Z did in 2013 and snag a room at Hotel Saratoga. Go more modern at the IBEROSTAR Parque Central, or take a trip back in time at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, where Frank Sinatra, Ernest Hemingway and Winston Churchill all stayed. Even if you stay in an Airbnb or other privately owned lodging – known as a casa particular – stop by the hotels to admire the views and enjoy a nice meal.

22 APR MAY 2017

There are also plenty of great drinks in Havana. Delicious piña coladas and mojitos can be found just about everywhere, and don’t leave without trying a famous Cuba libre. For Cuban coffee, stop by Café O’Reilly and bring some beans home with you.

My 5 Favorite Things Riding around the city in the backseat 1 of classic Chevy convertibles (seen right) The view of Havana from the IBEROSTAR 2 Parque Central rooftop and bar Enjoying coffee and breakfast at Café 3 O’Reilly (which does not open until 9 a.m.)

Piña coladas from the roadside stand near 4 El Morro, a fort in Havana (seen left) Walking around the streets and stopping 5 in the squares, museums and parks

Taxis lined up at the Christ of Havana statue

Wander Freely Bring comfortable shoes and light clothing so you can take in the ambiance of the Cuban streets on foot. For longer distances, hire a driver by the hour to take you around the city in a colorful 1960s

Chevrolet convertible.

Know Before You Go • Because you cannot get a visa exclusively for tourism, I applied for and was granted a people-to-people visa.

• I flew on Southwest Airlines because they, as of printing, have the only direct flight from Tampa to Havana.

• The flight itself took just one hour.

• Southwest partners with Cuba Travel Services and provides a link to the visa and travel insurance application, both of which are required to enter Cuba, after you purchase your ticket. The process was simple – I filled out my information, paid a total of $50 for both the visa and the insurance, and picked them both up at the Southwest ticket counter at Tampa International Airport.

The view from the IBEROSTAR Parque Central

While knowing Spanish is not required, being able to ask basic questions is incredibly helpful, and the locals appreciate you at least trying to communicate with them in their language.

They also expect tourists to barter with them on prices for services. Be prepared to ask

“¿Cuánto cuesta?”

– how much does it cost – before committing.

pesos (CUCs) at the airport.

We carried only as much cash as we would need each day and kept the rest in a safe in our room. Internet is only available by purchasing access cards from places like hotels and the airport, so print out a map before you leave and mark the locations you want to visit to gauge whether walking or hiring a taxi is the best way to travel between them.

For more information about traveling to Cuba (and how to bring back a box of Cohiba cigars, like I did) visit

cubatravelservices.com

or gotocuba.org.

Plan Like a Pro Now is definitely the time to visit Cuba, as it still remains almost completely untouched by western commercialization.

The best way to ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible is to prepare. American debit and credit cards are not accepted in Cuba, so exchange your dollars into Cuban convertible

On the balcony of the Airbnb

TAMPA MAGAZINE 33

THE WATCH LIST PHOTOGRAPHER: Gabriel Burgos | ART DIRECTOR: Heather Fitzpatrick | WRITER: Erika Vidal Holmes

Stay up-to-the-minute with one of these luxury timepieces Breitling Navitimer 01 $9,620 → Ackerman Jewelers This quintessential pilot’s watch is a throwback model to one of the first chronomats Breitling ever created. With its 46mm diameter, this steel Navitimer not only makes a statement on your wrist – it also makes reading the dial easier. Its unique slide rule bezel makes for quick in-flight calculations, while a transparent caseback provides pilots and aeronautical enthusiasts alike the chance to admire the selfwinding chronograph movement.

24 APR MAY 2017

TAMPA MAGAZINE 25

Rolex Submariner DATE $36,850 → Harold Freeman Jewelers A new iteration of Rolex’s No. 1 selling watch, this 18-karat white gold Submariner features a one-of-a-kind bezel with a blue Cerachrom (ceramic) disc, meaning it won’t fade when exposed to sunlight or chlorinated water, and it’s virtually scratchproof. It’s classic enough to wear with jeans and a T-shirt or your tux.

26 APR MAY 2017

Tag Heuer Carrera Calibre Heuer 01 Automatic Chronograph $6,300 → International Diamond Center This modern iteration of the popular Tag Heuer Carerra is one of the most affordable luxury watches of its kind. The skeletonized dial allows you to see into the in-house movement, housed in a highly scratch-resistant black ceramic case.

TAMPA MAGAZINE 27

Patek Philippe Ladies Twenty-4

®

$12,195 → Harold Freeman Jewelers This watch is crafted from stainless steel with diamond hour markers, gold applied numerals and a diamond gold case.

Every part is hand-polished, and both the bezel and case are adorned with Top Wesselton diamonds. The crown of each Twenty-4® is studded with an onyx or a diamond solitaire.

28 APR MAY 2017

UPCOMING EDITIONS Ask About Discounted Special Edition Rates Call (813) 600-4000

Summer

IN STYLE AT HILLSBOROUGH RIVER STATE PARK

Staycations:

Anna Maria Island

Vacations:

Highlands & Cashiers, NC

32

+

OF THE BAY’S TOP RATED DENTISTS

SUMMER TRAVEL June / July

LEADING MEN & WOMEN August / September

Featuring vacation destinations in Georgia & The Florida Keys Plus: 2017 Top Dentists, Best Burger list, and Staycation/Vacation discounted rates

The Top 10 Movers & Shakers in our community Plus: Financial Planner Profiles and Top Salons

Eddie DeBartolo Jr.

Leading People

A local legend on championships, camaraderie and leaving a legacy of leadership

+ TOP SALONS www.thetampamagazine.com $4.99

www.thetampamagazine.com $4.99

Discover Swann Circle in South Tampa’s Beach Park Neighborhood

5

OF SOUTH TAMPA’S BEST PARKS

SUMMER IN TAMPA May / June

RESTAURANTS July / August

South Tampa Parks and Icons Plus: Summer Bodies Health & Beauty guide, Attorney Profiles, Mother’s Day Offers and Staycation offers

Chef Recommendations Plus: Restaurant Menu Guide

BEST

THING I Ever Ate 9th Annual Resturant Edition Sandwich Issue

SPONSORED BY

2017 Top LAWYERS Over 86,000 lawyers are eligible to practice law in Florida, and just over 11,000 of them practice right here in the immediate Tampa Bay area. Finding an attorney to meet your legal needs can quickly become overwhelming. To help, we asked Tampa Bay lawyers to nominate the peers they believe stand out from the rest.

2017 TOP LAWYERS Continued on next page

30 APR MAY 2017

FAQS WHO CHOOSES THE LAWYERS? In January, we mailed over 11,000 surveys to active attorneys in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties registered with the Florida Bar. We asked each one to nominate the peers they believe to be the best local lawyer in each of 74 practice areas then return the surveys in anonymous prepaid return envelopes or through our secure online process. We then tallied the votes from those surveys to compile this list. If there was no clear winner or runners-up in a particular practice area we did not include it in this list.

Was my attorney left of the list because he or she does not advertise in TAMPA Magazine?

No. Any instances of a lawyer on the list also advertising in the magazine is purely coincidental.

TAMPA MAGAZINE 31

David W. MCCreadie Admiralty & Maritime Law

Jacob J. Munich Admiralty & Maritime Law

Ceci Berman Appellate Practice

ADMINISTRATIVE/ REGULATORY LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

KRISTIN Y. MELTON

T

ampa Bay attorneys chose 105 of their peers from 74 practice areas as this year’s Top Lawyers. Here are the winners and runnersup in each area.

De la Parte & Gilbert, P.A. 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 2000 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-2775

ADMIRALTY & MARITIME LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

DAVID W. MCCREADIE Lau, Lane, Pieper, Conley & McCreadie 100 S. Ashley Drive Suite 1700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-2121

JACOB J. MUNCH Munch and Munch, P.A. 600 S. Magnolia Ave. Suite 325 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 254-1557

RUNNERS-UP

CELENE HUMPHRIES Brannock & Humphries 1111 N. Cass Street Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 223-4300

DUANE A. DAIKER Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 2800 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-2329

ARBITRATION VOTED #1 BY PEERS

JEFFREY E. WARREN

Robert B. Glenn Banking & Finance Law

BANKRUPTCY & CREDITOR DEBTOR RIGHTS/INSOLVENCY & REORGANIZATION LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

LARA ROESKE FERNANDEZ Trenam Law 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 2700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-7404 RUNNER-UP

JOHN A. ANTHONY Anthony & Partners 201 N. Franklin St. Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 273-5616

Bush Ross 1801 N. Highland Ave. Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 204-6423

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

RUNNER-UP

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

F. DENNIS ALVAREZ Genders, Alvarez, Diecidue 2307 W. Cleveland St. Tampa, FL 33609 (813) 254-4744

(INCLUDING LLCS AND PARTNERSHIPS)

CHARLES A. POSTLER Stichter Riedel Blain & Postler PA 110 E. Madison St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-0144

APPELLATE PRACTICE

BANKING & FINANCE LAW

CIVIL RIGHTS LAW

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

ROBERT B. GLENN

MATTHEW P. FARMER

Bradley 100 N. Tampa St. Suite 2200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 559-5533

Farmer & Fitzgerald PA 102 W. Whiting St. Suite 501 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 228-0095

CECI BERMAN

32 APR MAY 2017

Jeffrey E. Warren Arbitration

Brannock & Humphries 1111 W. Cass St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 223-4300

David S. Felman Commercial Finance Law

CLOSELY HELD COMPANIES & FAMILY BUSINESS LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

CHARLES A. POSTLER Stichter Riedel Blain & Postler PA 110 E. Madison St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-0144

Anthony J. Palermo Commercial Litigation & Transactions/UCC Law

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION & TRANSACTIONS/ UCC LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

ANTHONY J. PALERMO Holland & Knight 100 N. Tampa St. Suite 4100 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-6320

COLLABORATIVE LAW: FAMILY LAW

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION LAW

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

NANCY HUTCHESON HARRIS

NICKI FERNANDEZ ASMER

Harris & Hunt, P.A. 100 S. Ashley Drive Suite 300 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 223-5421 RUNNER-UP

JORYN JENKINS Open Palm Law 3839 W. Kennedy Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33609 (813) 870-3839

COMMERCIAL FINANCE LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

DAVID S. FELMAN Hill Ward Henderson 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 3700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-8483

FL Legal Group/ Fernandez Florida Law 501 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 810 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-9500

CONSTRUCTION LAW

John H. Rains III Construction Law

NEAL SIVYER

LAW LEADER:

Sivyer Barlow & Watson, P.A. 401 E. Jackson St. Suite 2225 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-4242

ARTHENIA JOYNER

CONSUMER LAW

ven before her 16-year service in the Florida state legislature, Arthenia Joyner had dedicated her career to fighting for equality for Tampa’s poor and minority communities. She was arrested twice for participating in protests against racial segregation while attending Florida A&M University’s College of Law, where she received her J.D. in 1968. A year later, she co-founded the law firm Stewart, Joyner & Jordan-Holmes, P.A., making her Hillsborough County’s first black female attorney. Joyner served as the president of the National Bar Association from 1984-85 and was chosen by President Bill Clinton to serve on the U.S. delegation to the United Nations 4th World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995. To cap off a historic career in the state legislature, Joyner was elected minority leader of the Florida Senate in 2014.

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

DAVID P. MITCHELL Maney Gordon 5402 Hoover Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33634 (813) 888-6700

COPYRIGHT LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

BRITTANY MAXEY Maxey Law Offices, P.L.L.C. 100 Second Ave. S. Suite 401 North St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 230-4949

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

JOHN H. RAINS III John H. Rains III, P.A. 501 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 750 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-2777 RUNNERS-UP

JOHN S. VENTO Trenam Law 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 2700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-7483

David P. Mitchell Consumer Law | Litigation: Insurance Robert C. Rasmussen Corporate Compliance Law

CORPORATE COMPLIANCE LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

ROBERT C. RASMUSSEN Bradley 100 N. Tampa St. Suite 2200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 559-5520 2017 TOP LAWYERS Continued on next page

FIRST LADY OF TAMPA LAW

E

TAMPA MAGAZINE 33

Christopher Hersem DUI/DWI Defense

Lorena Hart Ludovici Eminent Domian & Condemnation Law

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE LAW

CRIMINAL LAW: WHITE COLLAR LAW

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

CHARLES A. POSTLER

TODD FOSTER

Stichter, Riedel, Blain & Postler, P.A. 110 E. Madison St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-0144

Todd Foster Law Group 1881 W. Kennedy Blvd Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 229-7373 RUNNERS-UP

DOMINIC BACCARELLA

CORPORATE LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

CHARLES A. POSTLER Stichter, Riedel, Blain & Postler, P.A. 110 E. Madison St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-0144 RUNNER-UP

ROBERT J. GRAMMIG

Baccarella & Baccarella 3014 W. Palmira Ave. Suite 202 Tampa, FL 33629 (813) 254-8998

JOHN M. FITZGIBBONS The Law Offices of John M. Fitzgibbons 707 N. Franklin St. Suite 700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-8800

Holland & Knight 100 N. Tampa St. Suite 4100 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-6515

DUI/DWI DEFENSE

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: GENERAL PRACTICE

Christopher T. Hersem, P.L. 1550 W. Cleveland St. Suite 9 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 251-7291

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

ED SUAREZ The Suarez Law Firm 1011 W. Cleveland St. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 229-0040

ELDER LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

JIM WILKES, II Wilkes & McHugh 1 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. Suite 700 Tampa, FL 33609 (813) 873-0026

EMINENT DOMAIN & CONDEMNATION LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

LORENA HART LUDOVICI Gaylord Merlin Ludovici & Diaz 5001 W. Cypress St. Suite 100 Tampa, FL 33607 (813) 221-9000

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (ERISA) LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

CHRISTOPHER HERSEM

ALTON C. WARD Hill Ward Henderson 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 3700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 222-8703

EMPLOYMENT LAW: INDIVIDUALS VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

Alton C. Ward Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law

CHRISTOPHER K. LEIFER FL Legal Group 501 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 810 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 658-3397

Smith, Tozian, Daniel & Davis, P.A. 109 N. Brush St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 273-0063

CYNTHIA N. SASS Sass Law Firm 601 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33603 (813) 251-5599

FAMILY LAW: GENERAL VOTED #1 BY PEERS

MELISSA GONZALEZ

EMPLOYMENT LAW: MANAGEMENT VOTED #1 BY PEERS

JEFFERY L. PATENAUDE Thompson, Sizemore, Gonzalez & Hearing, P.A. 201 N. Franklin St. Suite 1600 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 273-0050

ENVIRONMENTAL LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

GEORGE F. GRAMLING III Gramling Environmental Law, P.A. 118 S. Newport Ave. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 259-1060

ETHICS & PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

34 APR MAY 2017

DONALD A. SMITH

FL Legal Group 501 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 810 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 658-3395 RUNNERS-UP

ALEXANDER CABALLERO Sessums Black Caballero Ficarrotta Family Law 307 S. Magnolia Ave. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 251-9200 Ext. 122

AUTUMN HANCOCK Hancock Law Firm 4437 Central Ave. St. Petersburg, FL 33713 (727) 222-0529

DAMIEN MCKINNEY The McKinney Law Group 1105 W. Swann Ave. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 906-0048

Donald A. Smith Ethics & Professional Responsibility Law

KATHERINE C. SCOTT Harris & Hunt, P.A 100 S. Ashley Dr. Suite 300 (813) 223-5421

MICHAEL LUNDY Older, Lundy & Alvarez 1000 W. Cass St. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 254-8998

VALERIE CORTES HODZ Cortes Hodz Family Law and Mediation, P.A. 501 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 1260 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 514-0909

FAMILY LAW: ADOPTION VOTED #1 BY PEERS

JEANNE T. TATE

Photo courtesy of Stetson University College of Law

Law Offices of Jeanne T. Tate, P.A. 418 W. Platt St. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 258-3355 RUNNER-UP

CAROLINE BLACK SIKORSKE Sessums Black Caballero Ficarrotta Family Law 307 S. Magnolia Ave. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 251-9200 Ext. 118

Nancy Hutcheson Harris

Family Law: Divorce | Collaborative Law: Family Law

Charles “Charlie” Stutts Financial Services Law

FAMILY LAW: DIVORCE

FIRST AMENDMENT LAW

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

NANCY HUTCHESON HARRIS

GREGG THOMAS

Harris & Hunt, P.A. 100 S. Ashley Drive Suite 300 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 223-5421

Gregg Thomas First Amendment Law | Litigation: First Amendment

Thomas & LoCicero 601 S. Boulevard Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 984-3066 RUNNERS-UP

FAMILY LAW: MEDIATION VOTED #1 BY PEERS

TAMALYN S. SBAR Tamalyn S. Sbar, P.A. 4315 W. Bay to Bay Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33629 (813) 831-5290

FINANCIAL SERVICES LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

CHARLES “CHARLIE” STUTTS Holland & Knight 100 N. Tampa St. Suite 4100 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-8500

JACQUELINE SIMMSPETREDIS Burr & Forman 201 N. Franklin St. Suite 3200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 367-5751

LUKE LIROT The Law Office of Luke Lirot, P.A. 2240 Belleair Road Suite 190 Clearwater, FL 33764 (727) 536-2100

GEORGE K. RAHDERT Rahdert Law, P.L.L.C. 535 Central Ave. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 823-4191

FRANCHISE LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

PAUL WATSON Sivyer Barlow & Watson, P.A. 401 E. Jackson St. Suite 2225 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-4242

2017 TOP LAWYERS Continued on next page

EDUCATION:

RAISING THE BAR

STETSON LAW CONTINUES TO EXCEL

S

tetson University College of Law, which is based in Gulfport and has a campus in Tampa, was Florida’s first law school. It was founded in 1900 in DeLand but moved to Gulfport in 1954. It has been ranked the No. 1 law school in the country for trial advocacy by U.S. News & World Report 18 times since 1995, including for 2017. Stetson was also ranked No. 3 for legal writing. Despite its age, the school is prioritizing diversity – minority students made up more than a quarter of the 2016 entering class, while the number of male and female students is almost exactly equal.

LAW.STETSON.EDU TAMPA MAGAZINE 35

Radha V. Bachman Health Care Law

Maria Del Carmen Ramos Immigration Law

TAMPA ICONS:

HUGH CAMPBELL MCFARLANE (1851-1935)

H

ugh Campbell Mcfarlane moved to Tampa at a time of great growth for the city – phosphate had been discovered, railroads, hotels and factories were being built, and cigars rolled in Tampa were in high demand. Macfarlane began practicing law immediately after moving to his new hometown and was soon considered the top criminal lawyer in the state. Macfarlane wanted to see the area grow and prosper and was one of the founding members of the Chamber of Commerce.

In 1893, the Scottish emigrant purchased 120 acres of swampland on the banks of the Hillsborough River across from Downtown Tampa. Macfarlane developed the new area, known as West Tampa, by offering free land and buildings to cigar manufacturers and helping finance the construction of a bridge across the Hillsborough River. By 1900, West Tampa was one of the largest cities in Florida.

36 APR MAY 2017

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS PRACTICE VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

T. TRUETT GARDNER Gardner Brewer Martinez-Monfort, P.A 400 N. Ashley Drive Suite 1100 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-9600

RICHARD A. HARRISON Richard A. Harrison, P.A. 400 N. Ashley Drive Suite 2600 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 302-7434

HEALTH CARE LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

RADHA V. BACHMAN Carlton Fields 4221 W. Boy Scout Blvd.

Suite 1000 Tampa, FL 33607 (813) 229-4382 RUNNERS-UP

ERIN SMITH AEBEL Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 2800 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-2357

T. Truett Gardner Land Use & Zoning Law

RONALD A. CHRISTALDI

AHMAD YAKZAN

JOSEPH W. N. RUGG

INSURANCE LAW

Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 2800 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-2357

Allen Dell, P.A. 202 S. Rome Ave. Suite 100 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 223-5351

IMMIGRATION LAW

Yazkan Law, P.L.L.C. 475 Central Ave. Suite M1 St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (813) 335-4938

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

MATTHEW D. BRUMLEY FL Legal Group 501 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 810 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 658-3524

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

MARIA DEL CARMEN RAMOS

Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 2800 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-2252 RUNNERS-UP

RICHARD MANEY

Maney Gordon 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 3170 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-1366

DILIP PATEL Buchanan, Ingersol & Rooney, P.C. 401 E. Jackson St. Suite 2400 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 222-1120

RUNNERS-UP

MICHAEL B. GERMAIN Germain Law Group, P.A. 3412 W. Bay to Bay Blvd.

Suite K Tampa, FL 33629 (813) 835-8888

LABOR LAW: MANAGEMENT VOTED #1 BY PEERS

GREG HEARING Thompson, Sizemore, Gonzalez & Hearing, P.A. 201 N. Franklin St. Suite 1600 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 273-0050

Barbara A. Hart Litigation: Banking and Finance

LAND USE & ZONING LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

T. TRUETT GARDNER Gardner Brewer Martinez-Monfort 400 N. Ashley Dr. Suite 1100 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-9600 RUNNERS-UP

JOHN B. GRANDOFF, III Hill Ward Henderson 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 3700 (813) 227-8445

DAVID MECHANIK Mechanik Nuccio Hearne & Wester, P.A. 305 S. Boulevard Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 276-1920

LITIGATION: BANKING AND FINANCE VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

BARBARA A. HART Stichter, Riedel, Blain & Postler, P.A. 110 E. Madison St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-0144

Edward J. Peterson, III Litigation: Bankruptsy

G. MICHAEL NELSON

George Gramling, III Environmental Law | Litigation: Environmental

SETH M. SCHIMMEL

Lee D. Gunn, IV Litigation: Insurance

RUNNER-UP

BRITTANY MAXEY

Phelps Dunbar 100 S. Ashley Dr. Suite 1900 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 472-7864

GEORGE K. RAHDERT

LITIGATION: BANKRUPTCY

LITIGATION: ENVIRONMENTAL

LITIGATION: HEALTHCARE

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

LITIGATION: PATENT

GEORGE GRAMLING, III

DAVID P. MITCHELL

Maney Gordon 5402 Hoover Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33634 (813) 888-6700

VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

Nelson Bisconti & McClain 1005 N. Marion St. Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-0999

EDWARD J. PETERSON, III Stichter, Riedel, Blain & Postler, P.A. 110 E. Madison St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-0144 RUNNER-UP

JOHN A. ANTHONY Anthony and Partners 201 N. Franklin St. Suite 2800 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 273-5616

LITIGATION: CONSTRUCTION

Gramling Environmental Law 118 S. Newport Ave. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 259-1060

DAVID B. WEINSTEIN Greenberg Traurig LLP 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 1900 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 318-5701

LITIGATION: FIRST AMENDMENT

VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

M. BRIAN CRIM

Thomas & LoCicero 601 S. Boulevard Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 984-3066

FL Legal Group 501 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 810 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 658-3405

GREGG THOMAS

Rahdert Law, P.L.L.C. 535 Central Ave St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 823-4191

LITIGATION: INSURANCE VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

LEE D. GUNN, IV

Gunn Law Group 401 E. Jackson St. Suite 3600 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 228-7070

DAVID P. MITCHELL

Maney Gordon 5402 Hoover Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33634 (813) 888-6700

LITIGATION: INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY VOTED #1 BY PEERS

Maxey Law Offices, P.L.L.C. 100 Second Ave. S. Suite 401 North St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 230-4949

BRITTANY MAXEY

Maxey Law Offices, P.L.L.C. 100 Second Ave. S. Suite 401 North St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 230-4949

WOODROW “WOODY” H. POLLACK Gray Robinson 401 E. Jackson St. Suite 2700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 273-5000

LITIGATION: REAL ESTATE VOTED #1 BY PEERS

MARSHALL DEASON Older Lundy & Alvarez 1000 W. Cass St. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 254-8998

2017 TOP LAWYERS Continued on next page TAMPA MAGAZINE 37

Micah G. Fogarty Litigation & Controversy: Tax | Tax Law

RUNNER-UP

ERIC E. PAGE Shutts & Bowen L.L.P. 4301 W. Boy Scout Blvd.

Suite 300 Tampa, FL 33607 (813) 227-8167

LITIGATION & CONTROVERSY: TAX VOTED #1 BY PEERS

MICAH G. FOGARTY Barnett, Bolt, Kirkwood, Long & Koche, P.A. 601 Bayshore Blvd.

Suite 700 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 253-2020

MASS TORT LITIGATION/ CLASS ACTIONS: PLANTIFFS VOTED #1 BY PEERS

GUY M. BURNS Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, L.L.P. 401 E. Jackson St. Suite 3100 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 225-2500 RUNNERS-UP

J. DANIEL CLARK Clark & Martino 3407 W. Kennedy Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33609 (888) 868-5615 38 APR MAY 2017

Jeffrey “Jack” Gordon Medical Malpractice Law: Plaintiffs | Personal Injury Law: Plaintiffs

JEFFREY “JACK” GORDON Maney Gordon 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 3170 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-1366

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAW: PLAINTIFFS VOTED #1 BY PEERS

JEFFREY “JACK” GORDON Maney Gordon 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 3170 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-1366

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

CHARLES POSTLER Stichter, Riedel, Blain & Postler, P.A. 110 E. Madison St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-0144

MORTGAGE BANKING FORECLOSURE LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

STEPHANIE C. LIEB Trenam Law 110 E. Madison St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-0144

David Abbey Personal Injury Law: Defendants

NON PROFIT/ CHARITIES LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

LESLIE J. BARNETT

Barnett Bolt Kirkwood Long Koche 601 Bayshore Blvd.

Suite 700 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 253-2020

Grace E. Dunlap Public Finance Law

LUIS E. VIERA

Ogden & Sullivan, P.A. 113 S. Armenia Ave. Tampa, FL 33609 (813) 223-5111

PERSONAL INJURY LAW: PLAINTIFFS VOTED #1 BY PEERS

JEFFREY “JACK” GORDON

PATENT LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

BRITTANY MAXEY Maxey Law Offices, P.L.L.C.

100 Second Ave. S. Suite 401 North St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 230-4949 RUNNER-UP

NATHAN SUEDMEYER Larson & Larson 11199 69th Street N. Largo, FL 33773 (727) 546-0660

PERSONAL INJURY LAW: DEFENDANTS VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

DAVID ABBEY

Abbey Adams Byelick & Mueller, L.L.P. 360 Central Ave. 11th Floor St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 821-2080

Maney Gordon 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 3170 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 221-1366 RUNNERS-UP

RICHARD ALVAREZ Older Lundy & Alvarez 1000 W. Cass St. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 254-8998

KEVIN MCLAUGHLIN Wagner McLaughlin 601 Bayshore Blvd.

Suite 910 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 225-4000

C. STEVEN YERRID The Yerrid Law Firm, P.A. 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 3910 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 222-8222

PRODUCT LIABILITY LITIGATION: DEFENDANTS VOTED #1 BY PEERS (TWO-WAY TIE)

AUBREY O. DICUS JR. Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. 5858 Central Ave. Suite A St. Petersburg, FL 33707 (727) 381-2300

FRANK H. GASSLER Banker Lopez Gassler 501 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 1700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 222-1167

PRODUCT LIABILITY LITIGATION: PLAINTIFFS VOTED #1 BY PEERS

MICHAEL K. BECK Wilkes & McHugh 1 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. Suite 700 Tampa, FL 33609 (813) 873-0026

PROFESSIONAL MALPRACTICE LAW: DEFENDANTS VOTED #1 BY PEERS

B. Michael Bachman, Jr. Real Estate Law

EDWARD O. SAVITZ

Bush Ross 1801 N. Highland Ave. Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 204-6413

PUBLIC FINANCE LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

GRACE E. DUNLAP

Bryant Miller Olive 201 N. Franklin St. Suite 2700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 273-6677

REAL ESTATE LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

B. MICHAEL BACHMAN, JR. Stichter, Riedel, Blain & Postler, P.A. 110 E. Madison St. Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 229-0144

Derek B. Alvarez Trusts & Estates Law

BRADFORD KIMBRO Holland & Knight 100 N. Tampa St. Suite 4100 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-6660

TAX LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

MICAH G. FOGARTY

Barnett, Bolt, Kirkwood, Long & Koche, P.A. 601 Bayshore Blvd.

Suite 700 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 253-2020 RUNNER-UP

VOTED #1 BY PEERS

RICHARD M. LEISNER

Trenam Law 101 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 2700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 227-7461

SPORTS LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

TRUSTS & ESTATES LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

DEREK B. ALVAREZ Genders Alvarez Diecidue, P.A. 2307 W. Cleveland St. Tampa, FL 33609 (813) 254-4744 RUNNER-UP

HARRY TEICHMAN Teichman Law 100 S. Ashley Drive Suite 600 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 225-1100

JOLYON D. ACOSTA

Bush Ross 1801 N. Highland Ave. Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 204-6462

TRADE SECRETS LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

SECURITIES REGULATION LAW

Douglas Manson Water Law

DON CONWELL

Conwell Business Law 12610 Race Track Road Tampa, FL 33626 (813) 282-8000

TRADEMARK LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

DON CONWELL

Conwell Business Law 12610 Race Track Road Tampa, FL 33626 (813) 282-8000

WATER LAW VOTED #1 BY PEERS

DOUGLAS MANSON Manson Bolves Donaldson Varn 1101 W. Swann Ave. Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 514-4700

WORKERS COMPENSATION LAW: EMPLOYERS VOTED #1 BY PEERS

DONALD S. BENNETT Banker Lopez Gassler 501 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Suite 1700 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 222-1143

Donald S. Bennett Workers Compensation Law: Employers

NUMBERS:

6

MORE THAN

,400

LAWYERS

PRACTICE IN THE CITY OF TAMPA MORE THAN 2,600 WORK IN OFFICES DOWNTOWN

D

espite the trend of law school applications dropping across the country, Florida’s highest ranked law schools are seeing their number of applications hold steady or even increase.

According to the universities’ reports, Florida State University’s College of Law’s application total decreased by just 71 applications between 2015 and 2016, while the number of applications to the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law increased by 1,344 in the same time period. Across the state, the percentage of students passing the bar exam is on par with nationwide averages.

Both the Florida and Hillsborough Bars have foundations that connect legal professionals to low-income individuals in need of legal services. The Florida Bar Foundation funds organizations across the state that provide aid to groups like immigrants, migrant farmworkers, and developmentally disabled individuals. In 2014-15, the foundation gave $8.7 million to organizations devoted to providing legal assistance to the poor and improving the administration of justice.

TAMPA MAGAZINE 39

SOCIAL SCENE

Cheer Leading A new kind of team-building works for the benefit of others

On Feb. 1, volunteers from Anderson Windows and Cheeriodicals delivered 400 big green boxes to patients at Tampa General Children’s Medical Center and St. Joseph Children’s Hospital.

With the help of Two Men and a Truck, the boxes were delivered to the hospital and then taken to patient’s rooms in children’s wagons.

Volunteers filled the boxes with games, stickers, puzzles, decorations, magazines and activity books for the children based on gender and age to brighten the days of the patients and their parents.

Cheeriodicals is a national corporate team building company that holds events to spread cheer at children’s hospitals, Veterans hospitals and other charities. The team building event is held over two days. The first day is spent coordinating and building “big green boxes of cheer” and the second is spent delivering them.

40 APR MAY 2017

Tampa Bay Aviation’s private charter service gets you delivered to your destination on your schedule and at your convenience.

We are available for all your travel needs 365 days a year, and 24 hours a day.

@tampabayaviation

1000 N. Hercules Ave. | Clearwater, FL 33765 | (727) 461-5229 | tampabayaviation.com

Dressed

TEE TO A

Your golf game may need work, but your style game can always be on par

PHOTOGRAPHER: Gabriel Burgos | STYLIST: Shawna Wiggs | ART DIRECTOR: Jillian Baco | WRITER: Erika Vidal Holmes ASSIST. PHOTOGRAPHER: Jimi Walker | MODELS: Felix Obas & Melissa Ferrer | LOCATION: TPC Tampa Bay

42 APR MAY 2017

1991 YEAR TPC TAMPA BAY WAS BUILT Michael Kors Garment-Dyed Blazer, $198; Michael Kors Garment-Dye Slim-Fit FlatFront Chino Pants, $128; Polo Ralph Lauren Lobster Print Short-Sleeve Woven Shirt, $90; Johnston & Murphy Topstitched Belt, $70, all from Dillard’s.

Vince Polo, $95, from London Philips. Titleist Sports Mesh Fitted Golf Hat, $30, from Golf Locker.

6,898 YARDAGE FROM THE CHAMPIONSHIP TEES 44 APR MAY 2017

On him: FootJoy Performance Pique Multi-Color Chest Stripe Golf Shirt, $75; FootJoy Athletic Fit 5-Pocket Golf Pants, $88; FootJoy Traditional Golf Belt, $75; FootJoy DryJoys Tour Golf Shoes, $200; FootJoy StaSof Gloves, $35, all from Golf Locker.

On her: Adidas Women’s Essentials Novelty Golf Shirt, $60; Adidas Women’s Rangewear Golf Skort, $65; Adidas Women’s 3-Stripes Golf Visor, $20; FootJoy Women’s WeatherSof Gloves, $22, all from Golf Locker.

46 APR MAY 2017

71 PAR FOR THE COURSE

21 CONSECUTIVE YEARS TPC TAMPA BAY HOSTED A PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS EVENT

On him: Nike Dri-FIT Breathe Stripe Golf Shirt, $70; Nike Dri-FIT Flat Front Stretch Woven Golf Shorts, $70; Nike TW Stripe G-Flex Golf Belt, $70; Nike Lunar Control Vapor Spikeless Golf Shoes, $175; FootJoy StaSof Golf Gloves, $35, all from Golf Locker.

On her: Nike Dri-FIT Precision Zebra Fade Sleeveless Golf Shirt, $75; Nike Dri-FIT Precision 2.0 Knit Golf Skort, $70; Nike Women’s Dri-FIT Lucky Azalea Full-Zip Golf Jacket, $90; Nike Lunar Control Vapor Women’s Spikeless Golf Shoes, $175, all from Golf Locker.

TAMPA MAGAZINE 47

* 2017 *

AT TORNEY PROFILES

For any number of reasons, most people will need an attorney at some point in their life. In the following pages, get to know some of the attorneys who make up Tampa Bay’s vast legal community and their practice areas.

48 APR MAY 2017

2017 Lawyer Edition

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THOMAS A. BURNS APPEALS Experience Makes the Difference Thomas Burns is a board-certified appellate lawyer who enjoys the storytelling aspect of appellate practice. “Trial is mayhem,” he says. “The essence of appellate practice is distilling that mayhem into briefs that acknowledge the imperfections of your clients’ cases while emphasizing their strengths.”

Before hanging his own shingle four years ago, Burns honed his appellate skills by clerking for the Hon. Susan H. Black of the Eleventh Circuit and toiling eight years in the appellate departments of respected firms such as Sidley Austin, Gibson Dunn, Hill Ward Henderson and Greenberg Traurig, where he worked alongside appellate luminaries such as Carter Phillips and Ted Olson. Since then, Burns has extensive experience briefing dozens of appeals in state and federal appellate courts throughout the country, including the Supreme Court of the United States, the Eighth, Eleventh and Federal Circuits, the Florida Supreme Court and every Florida district court of appeal.

In that regard, Burns is excited to be presenting his twelfth oral argument to the Eleventh Circuit this April. “Many oral advocates mistakenly try to force-feed their case to appellate judges or become defensive behind the lectern,” he says. “That doesn’t work. Instead, the trick is to recognize every question as an invitation to engage the judges in a candid conversation about their hesitations, the record and the law.”

Burns’ practice now focuses on tort, commercial, civil rights and white-collar criminal appeals. For instance, in the past year, Burns has argued a $10 million medical device case, won a Stand Your Ground appeal, reinstated a personal injury lawsuit dismissed due to its supposedly defective notice of claims, and defended six- and seven-figure judgments. Some of his current appeals involve a toxic tort, a pain management clinic, a $2.5 million Medicare fraud scheme, a $4.6 million defamation judgment, and a $10.5 million wire fraud scheme that implicates a circuit split regarding the “right to control” theory.

Education: Duke University, B.A.; Duke University School of Law, J.D.

Burns, P.A.

301 West Platt St., Suite 137 Tampa, FL 33606 (813) 642-6350 BurnsLawPA.com

2017 Lawyer Edition

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BLAIR H. CHAN III, PLLC DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW Focus on Helping People with Family Law Concerns “As an undergraduate student I studied psychology and spent a lot of time working with people,” says Tampa attorney Blair Chan. “When I went to law school, family law seemed like a natural fit because it was a way for me to help people every day.”

For more than 15 years, Blair Chan has been helping families resolve their legal issues and learn how to live their lives happily again. When you are going through a divorce or facing a family legal matter, it is good to have someone like him on your side.

With his experience in family law and dedication to putting his clients first, Chan has built a family law legal group that focuses on helping people transition through stressful times with positive outcomes.

In addition to his client-focused practice, Chan has the distinction of being recognized by the Florida Bar as a Board Certified family law attorney, the highest level of evaluation and expertise from the bar – it’s one that only 7 percent of Florida attorneys earn. The board certification recognizes Chan’s special knowledge in family law, skills and proficiency, and professionalism and ethics in practice.

Chan and his team of dedicated legal professionals offer expertise and experienced and compassionate legal counsel in all areas of family and matrimonial law. Whether you and your spouse are considering divorce or you need to revise custody or support agreements, they will help you reach an amicable solution so you can move on to the next chapter in your life without animosity or regret.

If you believe it is time to sit down with a family law attorney, call to schedule a free initial consultation to find out how they can help you.

Education: University of Texas at Arlington, B.A.; Stetson University College of Law, J.D.

Blair H. Chan III, PLLC 1112 Channelside Dr., Ste. 2 Tampa, FL 33602 813-280-5301 bchanlaw.com

2017 Lawyer Edition

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

JACK GORDON MEDICAL MALPRACTICE Do No Harm Jeffrey “Jack” Gordon is a highly skilled trial attorney who has twice been selected a Leading Attorney of the Southeastern United States in Forbes magazine. He has been selected for inclusion among Florida’s Legal Elite and recognized as one of the Top 100 SuperLawyers® in the state of Florida, and one of the Top 50 SuperLawyers® of Tampa Bay. Four times Board Certified in Civil Trial Law by the Florida Bar, Gordon is also certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy as an expert in both Civil Trial Law and Civil Pre-trial Litigation.

He is AV® rated preeminent by Martindale Hubbell.

Gordon earned 2014 and 2015 National Litigator Awards and is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum having achieved multiple seven figure jury verdicts and settlements. In 2016, Gordon was named the No. 1 Medical Malpractice Lawyer by his peers in TAMPA Magazine’s Top Lawyers edition.

While physicians may not cure every patient, sometimes improper diagnoses, surgical error and incorrect administration of drugs or treatment can cross the line and become medical malpractice. Medical error can cause serious injury and death.

Tampa Attorney Jack Gordon focuses his practice on fighting negligence by helping clients hold medical professionals accountable for their mistakes. While medical professionals in all specialties can commit error, mistakes are especially common in the hospital emergency room, Gordon says.

“The emergency room environment can be demanding and fast-paced, and this can unfortunately lead to error,” he explains.

“Misdiagnosis is the most common mistake we see in the ER. Heart attack can be shrugged off as indigestion or heartburn, a headache may actually be a stroke, and the simple flu may actually be septicemia. By holding doctors and hospitals accountable, we can help make medical care safer for everyone.”

Education: Tulane University, B.A.; Tulane University Law School, J.D.

T R I A L

L A W Y E R S

Maney|Gordon PA 101 E. Kennedy Blvd, 31st Floor (Suite 3170) Tampa, FL 33602 (866) 344-LAWS FightNegligence.com

2017 Lawyer Edition

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KEVIN ASTL

BARBARA BROWN

MARITAL LAW

REAL ESTATE LAW

Making A Tough Time Easier

Close to Home

No divorce is ever easy, but some can become so ugly or contentious that experienced, aggressive legal representation is required. For those reasons, attorney Kevin D. Astl confidently focuses on high-conflict divorce cases.

While hiring a lawyer is not required to buy or sell a home in Florida, an experienced, knowledgeable real estate attorney like Barbara Brown can make the closing process smoother and less convoluted.

Her 18 years of experience make her an asset to your transaction.

“When a relationship comes apart, it can be incredibly stressful, and the more complex a divorce gets, with children, investments, businesses, and the like, the more discouraging and worrisome it can get,” Astl says.

“At my firm, our goal is never to talk over our clients,” she says. “We are a firm of attorneys that you can rely on to listen to you and give legal advice in a way that is not intimidating.”

Having gone through a divorce himself, Astl uses his own experience to relate to his clients and give them the best advice and direction he can.

Brown, along with her team of attorneys, makes responsiveness a priority to ensure they are there for clients when they are needed.

“I don’t sugarcoat anything for my clients, but I always maintain sensitivity,” he says. “When clients come to me, they get over 17 years of experience and an honest effort to get it worked out amicably. The aggressiveness in the courtroom comes, unfortunately, when a trial is the only option.”

“Life doesn’t always happen between our office hours of 8:30 and 5:00,” Brown says. “In real estate, whether it is a purchase and sale contract or lease agreement, a lot of deals happen in the evenings and on the weekends, so we are always ready to assist.”

Astl also has a background in contract law, which helps him guide his clients when dealing with preand post-nuptial agreements, parental responsibility, spousal support and other agreements before, during or after a divorce.

Education: University of South Florida, B.A.; Mercer University Walter F. George School of Law, J.D.

Brandon Legal Group 20701 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.

Suite 202 Tampa, FL 33647 (813) 933-7200

The firm’s main priority is creating a relationship with a client rather than just working through a one-and-done business deal.

“It’s an amazing feeling to watch my clients grow,” she says. “Just as we want our business to grow, we want our clients to grow. Our mission is our client’s success.”

Education: Pitzer College, B.A.; St. Mary’s University, J.D. and M.B.A.

Brown & Associates Law & Title, P.A. 11373 Countryway Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33626 (813) 528-4044 brownlawandtitle.com

2017 Lawyer Edition

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

DAVID MITCHELL CONSUMER PROTECTION, HEALTH CARE LITIGATION

G. MICHAEL NELSON CORPORATE, BUSINESS, & BANKING LAW

Ending Consumer Harassment

A Voice of Reason

By the time David Mitchell’s clients call him, many are at their wit’s end. “When debt collectors start harassing someone, the consumer usually doesn’t know how to put an end to it. I help everyday people fight back against debt collectors and telemarketers.

When you are on the receiving end of massive amounts of robocalls from a collection company, it can be devastating.”

Michael Nelson is known as the lawyer other lawyers turn to when they need help with a case – more than 80 percent of his business comes from other attorneys. Thanks to his 30 years of experience and specialization in complex business litigation, Nelson is an expert at helping resolve the stickiest of legal quagmires.

David helps put an end to the calls and harassment.

“Whether people actually owe a debt or not, they should not be harassed by improper collection practices. Often times, what the collectors are doing is illegal. The consumer protection lawyers at Maney|Gordon concentrate in the federal and state laws that provide relief for our clients. We know how to prosecute the companies and how to make these companies pay for improper practices. We give our clients the best representation possible.”

David has helped consumers across the nation hold debt collectors, subprime auto lenders, payday and title loan companies, credit card companies, mortgage companies, student loan companies, and major banks accountable for their conduct. He represents both debtors and non-debtors who are the victims of abusive debt collection practices.

Education: University of Florida, B.S.B.A.; Stetson University College of Law, Juris Doctor; Stetson University, M.B.A.

T R I A L

“Lots of times clients need to be saved from themselves,” Nelson said. “They don’t understand how expensive and messy lawsuits can become. Even with a win, the legal costs can ruin a business. I’m often asked to give a second opinion and to help resolve business disputes with arbitration or mediation.”

A Tampa native, Nelson and his partners opened a state-of-the-art legal center in Downtown Tampa, which is home to lawyers with a variety of specialties and areas of practice.

Active in the local community, Nelson is a member of the Shrine and provides corporate legal service to charitable organizations and pro-bono legal services to those in need.

Nelson is also licensed to practice law in Washington, D.C. Education: University of Florida, B.S.; Cumberland Law School, J.D.

L A W Y E R S

Maney|Gordon PA 101 E. Kennedy Blvd., #3170 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 888-6700 endtheharassment.com

Nelson, Bisconti & McClain 1005 North Marion St. Tampa, FL 33602 813-221-0999 NBMLawyers.com

TAMPA MAGAZINE 53

2017 Lawyer Edition

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CHAD JUSTICE

KATHY C. GEORGE

BRIAN GIDDINGS

MARITAL AND FAMILY

PERSONAL INJURY

EMPLOYEE RIGHTS

Clients First

Ensuring Your Protection

Get Justice on Your Side

Kathy George, who has over 16 years of experience in family and marital law, makes the difficult process of a family law case easier on her clients.

She carefully evaluates each case to determine whether resolving the issue outside the courtroom or through litigation is the better option.

Brian Giddings began his career working for large insurance companies and saw firsthand the way the big companies would mistreat and mislead people. Now he uses his unique inside knowledge and expertise to help his clients.

During law school, Chad Justice took an opportunity to learn the intricacies of labor and employment law by clerking for a respected employee rights firm in Downtown Tampa.

“I am very organized, so if we have to go to court, we have everything ready to go,” George says. “I go in there with my exhibits and am as prepared as possible.”

No matter the case, George draws on her deep legal experience to ensure her clients have a clear idea of their potential outcomes.

“I am well-versed in the law, so I always like to make the client fully informed of the good and the bad,” she said.

Education: University of South Florida, B.S.; St. Thomas University School of Law, J.D.

“People are mistreated by insurance companies every day,” he said. “I work hard for my clients to make sure they are treated fairly and receive the compensation and support they deserve.”

If you’ve been the victim of unfair treatment, you can count on Giddings Law to help you navigate successfully through your claims and to help you put your life back together.

Licensed to practice in Florida and Georgia.

Education: Queens College; The Florida State University College of Law, J.D.

“Working for board-certified employee rights lawyers propelled me to be ready to practice immediately after law school,” Justice says.

Today, Justice litigates complex cases, like class action lawsuits, against the nation’s largest employers, including Walmart, Publix and Marriott in both federal and state courts. In Florida, where laws tend to favor employers, employees need attorneys like Justice.

“Working is very important to a person’s livelihood, and the moment that’s taken away, it can be devastating,” Justice says. “I step in when someone is at their most vulnerable to remedy an injustice and hopefully alleviate any financial turmoil.”

Education: University of Michigan, B.B.A; Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School, J.D.

Law Office of Kathy C. George

Giddings Law, P.A.

Black Rock Trial Lawyers

1177 Main St., Suite A Dunedin, FL 34698 727-734-1010 flmaritallaw.com

16765 Fish Hawk Blvd.

Lithia, FL 33547 (813) 551-4033 giddings-law.com

201 S. Westland Ave. Tampa, FL 33606 813-254-1777 blackrocklaw.com

54 APR MAY 2017

2017 Lawyer Edition

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Follow Us On Social Media!

Facebook: @TampaMagazine

JIM MAGAZINE PERSONAL INJURY

T.R. UNICE JR. CIVIL TRIAL

One of the Nation’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers

Aggressive Representation for All Clients

Several years ago James Magazine represented a client whose mom had been injured in a car accident in California and was in a coma.

Initially the insurance company said they would pay $100,000 but then came back and claimed there was an exclusion on the policy and said they would not pay anything. The young man only wanted to help his mother and was devastated by the insurance company’s actions. When James took the case he was able to see the faults and misinformation in the insurance company’s claim and after filing suit against them, the insurance company paid $4.2 million to settle the case.

When T.R. Unice takes on a case of any size or scope, he and his team are dedicated to successfully litigating it.

“Insurance companies know by reputation who has the knowledge, tenacity, and wherewithal to take a case to trial and win. I have been a personal injury lawyer from the beginning of my career. I firmly believe in my clients and appreciate the opportunity to help them against big corporations and insurance companies who are trying to intimidate them.”

Unice is board-certified by the Florida Bar and the American Board of Trial Advocates and has the experience to take cases ranging from mass transit accidents to governmental entity litigation.

Instagram: @tampamagazine

“My clients can expect immediate, hands-on attention to their case,” Unice says.

He has become known as a legal pinch hitter across the state of Florida. In multiple instances, clients have asked Unice to take over their case from another firm just days before a trial.

@SouthTampaMag

“We will dedicate the entire firm to successfully prepare for trial and litigate to the client’s satisfaction,” Unice says.

@southtampamagazine

Education: Washington & Jefferson College, B.A.; Ohio North University Pettit College of Law, J.D.

Education: Baldwin College, B.A.; Cleveland Marshall College of Law, Juris Doctor Lucas | Magazine

Unice Salzman Jensen, P.A.

8606 Government Dr., New Port Richey, FL 34654 (727) 849-5353 lucasmagazine.com

1815 Little Road Trinity, FL 727-723-3772 unicesalzman.com

Facebook: Instagram:

For even more of TAMPA, visit our websites: thetampamagazine.com southtampamagazine.com tampadowntown.com

TAMPA MAGAZINE 55

SPRING SPECIAL: CROQUE MONSIEUR - CRY BABY STYLE

Fresh baked croissant, house-cured ham, house blend cheese, cheese Mornay sauce

• • • •

House-Roasted Deli Meats Fried Egg Sandwiches Bagels Build Your Own Sandwiches & Salads • Freshly Roasted Organic Coffee • Fresh Squeezed Juices, Iced Coffees, Sodas & Beer • Catering & Private Events 710 Harbour Post Dr. Tampa, FL 33602 7:00am-3:00pm (Mon-Sun) (813) 443-4956 www.TheCryBabyCafe.com Find us on Facebook and Twitter

SPRING IS IN THE AIR Pan seared filet, fresh wild-caught crab salad, brussel sprout slaw, Left Hand Milk stout BBQ sauce (Spring special - available every weekend in April & May)

• New American Cuisine • Full Service Bar & Package Liquor • Happy Hour 3-7pm Monday-Saturday • Open-air Dining Room

• Public Boat Access • Dog Friendly • Private Dining / Events / Party’s /Catering • Stop #4 on the Pirate Water Taxi

EST. 2003

707 Harbour Post Dr., Tampa, FL 33602 11:30am-10pm (Mon-Sat) (813) 275-9701 www.CafeDufrain.com

Find us on Facebook and Twitter 56 APR MAY 2017

s k a e t S GREAT •

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’re ay, you B a p Tam ds g legen steak in in a n g in e in w v d re cra are som e r, awar r ia e il h t If you a m , a f pstarts . From ative u v in luck o n in ern, ices. to mod lar cho u c a t c e truly sp

Client meeting?

Date night? Enjoy Ocean Prime’s 16-ounce ribeye steak, available at both lunch and dinner.

SINK YOUR TEETH IN Three of the most popular cuts of steak in Tampa Bay area restaurants are the ribeye (shown right), filet mignon and New York strip.

STEAK WITH A SPIN TRY A NEW WAY TO ENJOY YOUR FILET AT TEXAS DE BRAZIL

T

he dining experience at Texas de Brazil is unique, interactive and customizable.

Unlike at traditional steakhouses, guests at Texas de Brazil can sample 16 different cuts of beef, lamb, pork, chicken and sausage and create their own accompaniments with a 50-item salad bar. Servings of both the meats and the salad area are limitless, allowing guests to control their own dining experience, as they can start eating immediately without needing to wait for the kitchen to prepare and send out their meal.

While there are several churrascarias (Brazilian steakhouses) now operating in the United States, Texas de Brazil is the largest with 43 domestic locations plus seven more restaurants internationally. Texas de Brazil embraces the traditional preparation of churrasco by cooking all their meat over natural wood charcoal. This style of cooking results in adding a deeper more intense flavor to the meats, with just a hint of smokiness.

A CUT ABOVE Cuts of grilled filet mignon, flank steak and Brazilian pichanha are brought directly to your table on skewers by the restaurant’s gauchos.

58 APR MAY 2017

TEXAS DE BRAZIL 4112 W. Boy Scout Blvd.

813.871.1400 texasdebrazil.com

BASCOM’S CHOP HOUSE 3665 Ulmerton Road Clearwater (727) 573-3363 bascoms.com

BLACK ROCK BAR & GRILL 11702 Dale Mabry Hwy. (813) 321-3577 blackrockrestaurants.com

THE ROUND UP Niman Ranch Prime Cowboy Ribeye and Filet at Malio’s Prime Steakhouse

PRIME TIME

TRADITION MEETS QUALITY AT MALIO’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE

T

he original Malio’s Steakhouse was opened in 1969 by Malio Iavarone, whose immigrant parents had owned and operated their own restaurant since 1945. Always striving to provide their clientele the finest dining experience, Malio’s Steakhouse, for over 35 years, has earned a reputation for serving the finest quality dishes with superior service and atmosphere.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Derek Iavarone opened and operates Malio’s Prime Steakhouse. In the tradition of the original Malio’s, Malio’s Prime Steakhouse offers Niman Ranch Certified Humane beef, pork and lamb, the freshest seafood available (featuring cold-water lobster tails and a wide selection of boutique northern coast oysters), accompanied by a selection of over 300 wines amidst unparalleled service and ambiance.

Malio’s Prime Steakhouse is located in one of Tampa’s most recognizable buildings.

Designed by Harry Wolf, the Rivergate Tower is one of the tallest limestone buildings in the world.

Cook one of Black Rock’s certified angus beef steaks yourself on a 755-degree tabletop stone, ensuring your steak is cooked precisely to your taste and each bite stays hot. For a lighter option, a number of seafood selections, like scallops, shrimp and ahi tuna, can also be cooked on the signature black rock.

CHARLEY’S STEAK HOUSE

Malio’s is proud to showcase many of the pieces of Joe Testa-Secca, a professor emeritus of art at the University of Tampa.

His work in past decades has made him an important artistic force in the community.

4444 W. Cypress St. (813) 353-9706 charleyssteakhouse.com

The restaurant’s proximity to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the Straz Center for the Performing Arts and the University of Tampa makes it a perfect place to host a business or social event. Featuring two private dining rooms, an outdoor patio and spacious accommodation in the main dining area, Malio’s Prime is sure to please you and your guests.

5223 Orient Road (813) 627-7600 seminolehardrock tampa.com/ tampa-fine-dining

prime steakhouse

MALIO’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE 400 N. Ashley Dr. 813.223.7746 maliosprime.com

COUNCIL OAK

EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD 4400 W. Boy Scout Blvd.

(813) 877-7290 eddiev.com

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR 4322 W. Boy Scout Blvd.

(813) 874-9463 flemingssteakhouse.com

TAMPA MAGAZINE 59

HAROLD SELTZER’S STEAKHOUSE

TAKE YOUR PICK At Bern’s, you customize every aspect of your steak, like this Delmonico

3500 Tyrone Blvd. N. St. Petersburg (727) 954-7777 seltzerssteakhouse.com

IAVARONE’S ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE 3617 W. Humphrey St. (813) 932-5241 iavaronessteakhouse.com

PARKSHORE GRILL 300 Beach Dr. N.E. St. Petersburg (727) 896-9463 parkshoregrill.com

ROCOCO STEAK 655 2nd Ave. S. St. Petersburg (727) 822-0999 rococosteak.com An elegant reimagining of the typical American steakhouse, Rococo Steak thrills guests with surprising, chic twists on the traditional steakhouse menu. Rococo’s wine selection has been lauded

by Wine Spectator three years running.

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 1700 N. Westshore Blvd.

(813) 282-1118 ruthschris.com

SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE 4860 W. Kennedy Blvd.

(813) 286-4366 donshula.com

STONEWOOD GRILL & TAVERN 17050 Palm Pointe Dr. (813) 978-0388

LOCAL LEGEND

60 YEARS IN, BERN’S STEAK HOUSE IS STILL DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY

I

t’s been said that a visit to Bern’s is more an experience than a meal. With its hand-cut, customized steaks, awardwinning wine selection and famous Harry Waugh Dessert Room all working in harmony, that assessment has held true since the restaurant’s opening in 1956.

Led by original owners Bern and Gert Laxer’s son, David, the team at Bern’s “does things differently,” as their motto goes. Many of the vegetables used in the restaurant’s dishes are grown at Bern’s private farm in North Tampa. Waiters train for over a year to guarantee they are fully prepared to provide guests with the best service possible. Seafood is flown in every day, and steaks are aged for long periods of time for the best taste.

Steaks are not merely chosen from a list of a few. Each guest chooses his cut – either a filet mignon, châteaubriand, strip sirloin,

Pair your steak with one of the over 6,800 selections from Bern’s Wine Cellar. The restaurant has won Wine Spectator’s Grand Award each year since the award program’s founding in 1981.

Only 87 restaurants in the world have won this award, given to restaurants with extraordinary wine lists that have at least 1,260 selections.

After dinner, climb the opulent stairs to the second floor, and you’ll find the 48 private booths, piano lounge area and pastry kitchen that make up the Harry Waugh Dessert Room. About 90 percent of diners end their Bern’s experience with one of the 40 different desserts or 14 homemade ice creams, including the Macadamia Nut Ice Cream, they serve.

BERN’S STEAK HOUSE

MODERN & METRO ELEGANCE MEETS ENERGY AT OCEAN PRIME

W

ith its selection of USDA Prime cut steaks and wild and naturally harvested seafood, Ocean Prime has become one of Tampa’s top destinations for an impressive meal and an outstanding guest experience.

The restaurant is located in International Plaza just minutes from Tampa International Airport, Raymond James Stadium and the Westshore business district, making it the perfect choice for drinks after work or a romantic date night.

Led by Executive Chef Adam Polisei, who was recently named one of the 40 restaurant stars on the rise by food-service magazine FSR, the menu focuses on the classic with a few twists mixed in. Filet mignon, New York strip, Kansas City strip and ribeyes are accompanied by traditional sauces and sides, while fresh salmon, tuna or grouper comes blackened or grilled. From the raw bar, try Ocean Prime’s custom-built smoking seafood tower for an unusual dinnertime adventure.

OCEAN PRIME 2205 N. West Shore Blvd.

813.490.5288 ocean-prime.com

DETAI LS MAKE THE DI SH

An award-winning menu and hand-crafted cocktails, delivered with genuine hospitality.

I N T E R N AT I O N A L P L A Z A , 2 2 0 5 N . W E S T S H O R E B O U L E VA R D R E S E R VA T I O N S : 8 1 3 . 4 9 0 . 5 2 8 8

ACCOMPANIMENTS

Modern. Social. Electric.

Ocean-Prime.com

THE CAPITAL GRILLE

Choose a side to go with your steak, and enjoy the Parmesancrusted Roma tomato that comes along with it.

2223 N. West Shore Blvd.

(813) 830-9433 thecapitalgrille.com

TIMPANO 1610 W. Swann Ave. (813) 254-5870 timpanochophouse.net

WATERCOLOUR GRILLHOUSE 1201 Gulf Blvd.

Clearwater Beach (727) 596-1100 clearwaterbeach experiences.com/ watercolour-grill

DINNER, WITH A SIDE OF HISTORY IT’S UPSCALE DINING, YBORSTYLE AT CARNE CHOPHOUSE

L

ocated in the El Centro Español Building in the heart of Ybor City, Carne Chophouse has been the go-to steakhouse in Tampa’s historic district since it opened in 2012. Jason Fernandez, a 25-year veteran restaurateur and owner of Carne Chophouse, loves nothing more than a great steak, so filet mignon, cowboy ribeye and Spanish-inspired

churrasco steak are the centerpieces of Carne’s menu.

Beyond steak, Carne serves up seafood, including grouper and stuffed snapper, rotisserie chicken and ropa vieja, all traditionally prepared and made with quality ingredients.

CARNE CHOP HOUSE 1536 E. 7th Ave. 813.341.9555 carnechophouse.com

400 BEACHSEAFOOD & TAP HOUSE 400 Beach Dr. N.E. St. Petersburg (727) 896-2400 400beachseafood.com

1200 CHOPHOUSE 5007 Gulf Blvd.

St. Pete Beach (727) 367-1300 1200chophouse.com

SOCIAL SCENE

Russian Winter Ball Celebrating the history of Tampa Bay’s own St. Petersburg

The Russian Winter Ball brought a touch of snow to the St. Petersburg Yacht Club on January 21, 2017. The elegantly dressed guests were treated to dancing by West Florida Ballet and ballroom champions Ekaterina Kolomgova and Carlos Mateu and music from The Dazzlers and Elona Krasavtseva, known as “the golden voice of Russia.”

This event brought to mind the history of the city in which it was held. According to local lore, the city’s co-founders, General John Williams, a land developer, and Peter Demens, a Russian aristocrat who brought a railroad to the city, flipped a coin to determine who would win naming rights to the city. Demens prevailed, and he named the city after his Russian hometown of St. Petersburg.

The Florida and Russian St. Petersburgs have been officially designated Sister Cities since 1961. St. Petersburg, Florida is home to a number of residents of Russian descent, including former Mayor Rick Baker. Baker welcomed partygoers at the ball and shared with them that he also has Russian roots.

The ball benefited the Russian Heritage organization, which supports educational and cultural programs in Tampa Bay, like the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society’s annual fair. A group of RussianAmericans in Tampa Bay formed the non-profit in 1995 after a successful Russian art exhibit at the now-closed Florida International Museum at St. Petersburg College.

62 APR MAY 2017

CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF IN YOUR BACKYARD Designed by Bobby Weed for the PGA TOUR, TPC Tampa Bay is an awardwinning, professional golf course in a beautiful setting. Come play a round and see why the course has earned a 4.5 star rating from Golf Digest and was named one of the top five golf courses in Florida by Florida Golf Magazine.

(813) 949-0090 • 5300 W. Lutz Fern Rd., Lutz, FL 33558

Genders Alvarez Diecidue, P.A. is an AV-rated law firm serving the Tampa Bay community since 1981. Collectively, the firm’s lawyers have more than 135 years of legal experience and service. The firm handles cases in probate, guardianship and trust law administration and litigation and offers estate planning, mediation, arbitration and appraisal services.

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EVENTS

AROUND

TOW N

14 TOP EVENTS

IN TAMPA & B E Y O N D

CHECK OUT WHAT’S GOING ON IN TAMPA THROUGHOUT APRIL AND MAY

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APRIL 7-9

Opera Tampa: Tosca

Maestro Lipton leads an international cast alongside the Opera Tampa Orchestra through the Italian melodrama. No worries if you don’t have time to brush up on your Italian, though – English translations will be projected above the stage. Tickets are $49.50-$109. 8 p.m. Straz Center for thr Performing Arts, 1010 N. MacInnes Place.

(813) 229-7827 // strazcenter.org

1 MAR 4 - APR 30

Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival The festival runs every weekend until the end of April from noon to 9:00pm with performances from artists such as DNCE, Matt Nathanson and Lynrd Skynrd starting at 7:00 p.m. Throughout the park, you’ll find themed games and, of course, food, wine and cocktails. Tickets are $99, $79 for ages 3-9. Check website for performance dates. Festival starts 12 p.m. daily. Busch Gardens, 10165 N. McKinley Drive.

(888) 800-5447 // buschgardens.com

64 APR MAY 2017

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2

APRIL 8

Chillounge Night

Every year, Chillounge takes an outdoor area and converts it into a relaxing space for guests. More than 20 local restaurants and 12 food trucks will come together for “The Taste Edition.” The outdoor lounge party will feature live music from Kafkasso, Jah Movement Reggae Band and the Bus Stop Band. Tickets are $38 in advance, $48 day of, $120 VIP. 6 p.m.

Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N. Ashley Dr. (941) 448-0995 // chilloungenight.com APRIL 1

A Night at the Tropicana

Hosted by the Lawrence A. Martucci Benefit Corp., which raises money for pediatric cancer research, the evening will include live music from Caribeno Tropical, dancing, a silent auction, food and drink.

Go all out in 1940’s themed attire for the best-dressed contest. Tickets are $100.

6:30 p.m. Centro Asturiano de Tampa, 1913 N. Nebraska Ave. (813) 541-8293 // lawrenceamartucci.com/event/a-night-atthe-tropicana

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APRIL 8-9

USF Spring Plant Festival

Spring is the perfect time to redo your front yard or garden. Over 70 vendors will be at USF’s Botanical Gardens selling plants and related items. Experts will be at the gardens to help answer any questions, and there will be a children’s craft area and a beekeeping basics talk at noon. Tickets are $5. Kids 12 and younger are free. 10 a.m. University of South Florida Botanical Gardens, 12210 USF Pine Drive.

(813) 974-2329 // gardens.usf.edu

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APRIL 14 - 15

Chris Rock

He was discovered by Eddie Murphy and quickly moved on to being in the cast of “Saturday Night Live,” numerous silver-screen comedies and producing his own television series. Help welcome the Emmy-winning comedian back to live comedy for the first time in nine years with his “Total Blackout” tour. Tickets are $49.50-$125. Times vary, see website for details. Straz Center for the Performing Arts, 1010 N. MacInnes Place.

(813) 229-7827 // strazcenter.org (813) 254-7866 // tampabayrun.com

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10 APRIL 22

Rugged Maniac

This is not your typical 5K obstacle, but a daylong festival. Rugged Maniac will be coming back to Dade City on Saturday, April 22 in what has become a yearly tradition for the area. Maniacs throughout Florida will challenge themselves with 25 obstacles on the 5K track including water slides, warped walls, tunnels and fire jumps, among other crazy, challenging, and most importantly, fun obstacles.

Tickets are $100. 9 a.m. Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City. // ruggedmaniac.com

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APRIL 27

Red Hot Chili Peppers With a mix of songs from their new album, “The Getaway,” and their greatest hits, such as “Californication” and “Give it Away,” the Red Hot Chili Peppers are making a stop in Tampa. Most upcoming shows are sold out, so get your tickets now to avoid missing out on their first tour since 2014. Tickets are $45-$100.

8 p.m. Amalie Arena, 401 Channelside Dr. (813) 301-6500 // amaliearena.com

MAY 2 - 7

The King and I

Watch the King of Siam and Anna, a schoolteacher from Britain, get to know each other in the critically acclaimed musical written by Rodgers and Hammerstein. The novel-turned-musical has had many Broadway revivals and Tony Award nominations throughout the years.

Tickets are $35.50-$86.50. Times vary.

Straz Center for the Performing Arts.

1010 N. MacInnes Place. (813) 229-7827 // strazcenter.org

APRIL 23

Neil Diamond

13

Train

“Hey, Soul Sister,” Train will be passing through Tampa on their “Play That Song” summer tour. Led by frontman Pat

Florida Orchesta: Pops in the Park

Enjoy a mix of pop and symphonic favorites under the stars in Curtis Hixon Park. This would make the perfect date night or family night out. Tampa Bay Harvest will be collecting cans for their annual food drive at the event. Admission is free.

7:30 p.m. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N. Ashley Dr. (727) 892-3331 // floridaorchestra.org

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MAY 12

The Weeknd

The “Starboy: Legend of the Fall” tour supports The Weeknd’s newest album, which was released in November. Sing along to songs like “The Hills,” “Can’t Feel My Face” and the “Starboy,” the title song and first single off the new album. Tickets are $35.75-$121.25. 7:30 p.m. Amalie Arena, 401 Channelside Dr. (813) 301-6500 // amaliearena.com

Help singer-songwriter Neil Diamond celebrate 50 years in the music industry by singing along to hits like “Sweet Caroline” and “Cherry, Cherry” on his North American and European tour. Tickets are $35-$351.

7 p.m. Amalie Arena, 401 Channelside Dr. (813) 301-6500 // amaliearena.com

MAY 26

11

MAY 7

14

MAY 27

Tampa Bay Margarita Festival

Come get a Sriracha Strawberry or Bacon Rita and listen to the Barenaked Ladies at Curtis Hixon Park. The full day of events will

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE From local folks Off the beaten path with Dr. Joseph Castellano Cosmetic Surgeon, Castellano Cosmetic Surgery Center Tampa resident for 37 years

Favorite date-night spot: Restaurant BT has great food that is extremely fresh, and the service is great. Chef BT is typically there to make sure your food is to your liking.

Favorite place for a power lunch: Barrow’s has sandwiches made fresh to order. I recommend the pastrami melt.

Favorite waterfront restaurant: Hula Bay Club has great views of the bay, lots of boat traffic, very good sushi and live music.

Favorite weekend brunch spot: Datz has comfort food taken to a whole new level. Everything on the menu is exceptional.

Favorite place for a craft cocktail and cocktail of choice: I love the Moscow Mule from Ciro’s Speakeasy & Supper Club.

Favorite thing to do on the water: Boating to Weedon Island is truly relaxing, scenic and fun. Calm, shallow waters allow you to jump in, play water sports or just float around.

Favorite beach spot: The Sandpearl Resort has great poolside food, a lively scene and the best beach in the Tampa Bay area.

Interesting Tampa fact: Tampa is rated the vainest city in America by Men’s Health.

Favorite Italian food: Caffe Paradiso is one of the few truly authentic Italian restaurants in Tampa. Try the Ossobuco Alla Milanese and the pasta fagioli.

Off the beaten path with Saloni Patel Coach at The Bod, Owner at Onicx Tampa resident for 16 years

Favorite place for a girls night out: Eddie V’s and Fleming’s! I love the energy and the atmosphere at Eddie V’s, and the ambiance at Fleming’s is great for large parties where we can still hear each other.

Favorite local boutique: Definitely Penelope T! I love the selection of clothing, and the jewelry is always different and beautiful.

Favorite place to grab a meal downtown: Taps is always a fun, lively place downtown with a great wine selection.

Favorite place for authentic ethnic cuisine: Thai Prime Kitchen & Bar has amazing Thai food! I love the spice levels and huge menu.

Favorite weekday breakfast spot: In Carrollwood, Keke’s Breakfast Café is always consistent with service, and their menu has the best breakfast bowls.

Hidden gem restaurant: I love Ella’s Folk Art Café in Seminole Heights! The food, the servers and the energy are amazing.

Best sushi: Kaisen Sushi in Carrollwood – we go with our two kids every Tuesday, and we all love the fresh fish!

The calamari and pressed salmon roll are amazing. In South Tampa, I like SoHo Sushi.

Favorite thing to do on the water: Taking the Cross-Bay Ferry for the 45-minute ferry ride from Downtown Tampa to St. Pete.

66 APR MAY 2017

Restaurants, Bars and Things to Do See more recommendations on our website: TheTampaMagazine.com/TampaConfidential

Off the beaten path with Shannon Sorbara Owner, Hair Solutions of Tampa Tampa resident for 10 years

Favorite place for a girl’s night out: CinéBistro Hyde Park. I love the quaint atmosphere. There are many choices to dine either while watching the show or with the newer restaurants that have opened up. We can pick where to eat and have drinks and conversation before the movie and then zone out and enjoy a drink while watching the show!

Favorite date-night spot: Our neighborhood bowling center, Pinarama. We have a blast getting a pitcher of beer and just having some good old fun!

Favorite boutique: Kit’s Well Dressed on Swann. Yasmeen is my stylist and is amazing at picking clothes for my body type – the clothes are amazing.

Favorite spot for a healthy meal: Palma Ceia Village Health Market & Cafe. I love the prepared foods and salad and soup bar for something healthy.

Favorite dive restaurant: Big Ray’s Fish Camp. Hands down the best grouper sandwich and Parmesan fries I’ve eaten thus far!

Favorite pizza: Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza. I’m obsessed with the Paul & Young Ron pizza, which has the little meatballs like my grandma used to make with the mix of ricotta cheese! Yum! Favorite place for a craft cocktail: Cru Cellars. I love the personalized treatment and choice of wines. The appetizers are delish, as well.

Favorite park: We love taking our 14-month-old to Curtis Hixon Park.

The wide area for him to zoom around keeps him content and entertained, and then we can pick a place to eat and enjoy a nice relaxing dinner outside.

Off the beaten path with Jeff Borysiewicz President, Corona Cigar Company & Davidoff Tampa Dual resident of Tampa & Orlando

Favorite place for a power lunch: Cooper’s Hawk. They have an awesome lettuce wedge salad, and The Prime sandwich is the bomb.

Favorite place for a client dinner: Del Frisco’s Grille. They have a great steak, plus the location is perfect and it’s a short walk to Davidoff Tampa, where we can finish the night off with a scotch and fine cigar.

Best place to watch a Lightning game with friends: The Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge in Amalie Arena. It’s one of the few professional sports cigar lounges where you can actually see the live action while inside the cigar lounge.

Favorite dive restaurant: Guanabo Coffee Shop on Columbus and Lincoln. They have an awesome tripleta sandwich.

Favorite pizza: Joe’s Pizza on Dale Mabry. It’s real New York-style pizza, plus they have an extra-large pizza that is so big you can hardly fit the box through your car door. No kidding!

Favorite local attraction: You get a little dirty, but my wife and kids love to go to the races at East Bay Raceway Park.

Favorite beach restaurant: The Boardwalk Grill in Johns Pass Village. They have the best lobster roll outside of Boston.

Favorite Tampa Bay-area beach: Clearwater Beach. There is so much to do around the pier area, and our kids love it.

TAMPA MAGAZINE 67

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