FOCUS South Tampa 1-10

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We are now about two months into this adventure of publishing. It has

been filled with anticipation, disappointment, and exhilaration. In truth, it is more challenging than we could have ever imagined. However, it has also been very rewarding as I have had the opportunity to meet some amazing people. The south Tampa community is indeed rich with good people wanting to do their part to make the world in which they live...better. Inside this month’s edition are several real life examples. Our Spotlight feature this month is with south Tampa’s Kit Stewart. If you know Kit, then you already know what a fashion and fundraising dynamo she is. I had the pleasure of attending the interview and could almost feel the energy she has for helping others, especially children. Her “Florida Fashionistas” group is responsible for raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for the charities they have partnered with over the past five years. I am sure the stories that surround the lives they have touched and made better through their efforts could fill a book, but we have attempted to share some highlights with you. We often get so caught up in our daily routine, that we forget to stop and think about what we have versus what we don’t have. It is easy to focus on ourselves, what we want and where we want to be rather than being thankful for where we are, what we are, what we have and what we can be. We have just celebrated Thanksgiving and began the hectic holiday season of 2010. I challenge each of our readers to take a moment to think about what is good and what is positive in your life and what you can do to “pay it forward” and give someone else something to be thankful for as well. Yesterday morning while having a couple cups of coffee, checking the sports scores, tide charts, and making sure that my bio was not listed in the obituaries, I must have heard 3-4 advertisments for what I consider the most focal local charity in the Tampa Bay area. After making phone calls to a few charities, what I was told was pretty much what I expected to hear, and most likely what you would expect. There is an increased number of people in the area this holiday season that need a little lift. I don’t have to tell you how the economy continues to drag as months roll by, and how that puts increased needs and service opportunities in the hands of local help organizations. So, on behalf of our local help organizations, please do what you can to help by donating goods, making a financial donation or even a simple donation of your time to the charity of your choice. Your donation will make a difference in someone’s life. The holidays provide us a great time to reflect on what we hold true and the things in our life that make us what we are. I hope this holiday season brings you joy and that you and your’s give honor to the reason we celebrate the holidays. On the rare occassion our little family does not have to be at a baseball field, cross country event, basketball, race track, business function, etc. and we all sit down for dinner together, I will only have to look at the people around the table with me to realize how blessed I am. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukah!

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own Focus Magazine call Mike Floyd at 813-707-8783 ext. 26

6 LOCaLExperienced Fisherman brings his knowledge of fly fishing inland to share his passion with younger generations. South Tampa puppies get back to basics in Kindergarten with help of trainers at Courteous Canines while Mott’s Contracting protects the history and authenticity of South Tampa buildings and rebuilds their identity one renovation at a time.

14 FeatUreNationally recognized event Wine, Women & Shoes brings designers and vintners from across the country to raise funds for charity on the Riverwalk.

21 Dining prOFiLe

table of contents

ontheCoVeR Kit stewartphoto by ben DrummonD

December 2010volume 1 issue 10

Publisher Jim Duke

coPy editor Christina Drummond

advertising directorHarrison Tropp

sales Sophia HydeHolly FarmerHarrison Tropp

Production Anthony SassanoTony Cartagena

PhotograPhersBen Drummond

staff WritersChristina DrummondHarrison TroppJodi Lokay

contributorsAl Ruechel

Kit Stewart and the Florida Fashionistas put the “fun” back in fundraising with their unique charity events and dedication to the community. Learn more about the woman who started it all and her dedicated committee.

12 SpOtLight

Famous for its tapas with a distinct flavor from the homeland of Spain, Ceviche in South Tampa brings a refreshing menu to the area and is sure to spark interest and faithfulness in any patron.

Proprietor of Kirby’s Menswear in South Tampa shares the history of the family retail business and the reason behind their quality threads.

11 hiDDen hiStOrY


local » focus

DeDicateD fly shop opens in south tampa“eDucation ‘hooKs’ new anD experienceD fisherman at tampa bay on the fly” written by: KIm FrANCIS

Enver Hysni began his fly fishing education from the curb. At the age of 12 years old, Enver heard of a local fly

fishing guru giving casting and tying lessons at his home. As Enver approached the house and knocked, he heard two men arguing. After yelling at Enver that “no one knocks at this house” the man that looked like Santa Claus returned to his argument. To prove his point about distance casting, he walked passed a nervous Enver to the street, pulled one hundred feet of fly line from his reel, sat down and cast it all in a graceful motion. Then, he lay down on the street and repeated this awesome display. From the look of awe and amazement on Enver’s face, it was apparent to Carl Hanson that he was eager to learn. “Want to learn to fly fish, kid?”, he said cantankerously. Enver nodded quickly and reached for the rod that Carl pushed in his direction. Ten minutes later, and some rough attempts at throwing “loops”, Carl Hanson growled at Enver to come back next week for more lessons.

From that day forward, Enver was hooked.Today, 27 years later, Enver has himself become a mentor to local Tampa fly fishermen, and he is advancing the sport through education, instruction, and his new dedicated fly fishing shop, Tampa Bay On The Fly.

“Salt water fly fishing is one of the most exciting adventures you can experience, and I was lucky to discover it at a young age,” said Enver who, with his wife Sandra, opened Tampa Bay On The Fly in October. “I want younger generations to get outside and enjoy the natural thrill that this sport offers and video games can’t match.”

Education is at the heart of Tampa Bay On The Fly. A central point of the store is a 16-square foot fly-tying table equipped with vises and assorted tying materials and dozens of flies on display used for weekly fly-tying classes. Novice and experienced fly fishermen go there every Tuesday night to share techniques, find new products and swap

stories about where the fish are biting. True to Enver’s vision, once a month, families are the focus of a fly-tying class where even the youngest fishermen learn how to tie.

The store includes an entire room dedicated to fly tying materials, a second room for gear, including rods, reels and line, and a third for fly fishing aficionado clothing and accessories. Even the product selection was developed with education in mind.“We offer a wide variety of gear, accessories and tying materials made by dozens of manufacturers so that our customers can learn about the benefits and challenges of each and can choose the product that is best for them and the fish they’re chasing,” said Enver.

The store’s selection includes products by Greys, Sage, Tibor, Rio, Redington, AirFlo, Scientific Anglers and many others. Tampa Bay On The Fly’s owner can provide expert advice to customers in store seven days a week. Novice fly fisherman need not worry,

Tampa Bay On The Fly offers “get started” combo kits for holiday gifts and those just beginning.

Tampa Bay On The Fly’s website, TampaBayOnTheFly.com, follows up with more advice and fishing tips online; offering information about the area’s saltwater and freshwater fish under “The Fisherman’s View,” lists of upcoming fly fishing club meetings and events on their Event Calendar, and even a guide to what is in season under “What’s Biting Now.” The website will soon add an Online Store for customers to shop online, and the store is planning casting clinics as well as inshore and offshore excursions soon.

Tampa Bay On The Fly is located at 4203 El Prado Blvd., Tampa, FL, is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Open late every Tuesday night for a fly tying clinic. Call (813) 443-0660 or visit TampaBayOnTheFly.com for more details.


local » focus

somethinG to baRK about: couRteous canine eXpanDs to south tampa

For more than 15 years, Angelica Steinker and her experienced staff at Courteous Canine have trained hundreds of dogs

and cats throughout the Tampa Bay area, achieving purrfect results for pets and their owners the fun way. Now, she brings that expertise to South Tampa.

“We’ve had so many clients ask us to expand into the South Tampa area, and we’re very excited to have found a great partner in Wag Natural Pet Boutique to make it happen,” says Steinker, president and founder of Courteous Canine’s five locations, as well as a published author in the field of dog training and agility. “As we approach the holidays, now is the ideal time to make sure that your dog or puppy is on his best behavior for the company and festivities that come this time of year.”Classes currently offered at the South Tampa

location include an AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Kindergarten class (Socialization, Training, Activity, Responsibility), as well as an all-ages, Basic Manners class. Trick Training, the AKC Canine Good Citizen course and other classes will be added to the schedule soon. Class sizes are limited to six dogs and their handlers, and classes typically run for an hour per week for six weeks. “All of our training methods focus on creating bonds of trust between the pet and his handler. That means, rather than using fear or intimidation to train, we use positive reinforcement, games and fun,” Steinker explains. “This approach is just as effective, if not more so, than alternative training methods, plus it’s much more enjoyable for both the dog and his best friend.”Courteous Canine utilizes a training method called Empowerment Training, using positive reinforcement to modify dog

behavior by addressing his emotions. First, the school’s trainers identify the power motivators most appealing to each dog; it may be food, positive attention or even a great play session. Secondly, Courteous Canine’s trainers identify the stressors causing a dog to act out with problem behaviors. Understanding what stresses and motivates the dog allows trainers to begin to increase bonding between dog and owner through games, clear communication and motivators. Eventually, problem behaviors are replaced by positive ones.

“Over the years, I’ve seen Empowerment Training help dogs with issues become calm, and shy dogs become relaxed,” Steinker says. “For dogs without specific problem behaviors, this method is also a great way to build skills and fun with puppies and adult dogs.”

For pet parents looking to try competitive sports with their four-legged friends, Courteous Canine’s headquarters in Lutz offers Dog Dock Jumping, Agility and Rally Obedience. This location, situated on two acres, features one of the only competitive-standard Dog Dock Jumping pools in Florida, as well as a competitive-standard Agility Field for both beginner and experienced dogs.

Courteous Canine’s South Tampa classes are held at Wag Natural Pet Boutique at 304 East Davis Blvd. The school also offers classes in Lutz, Carrollwood, Tarpon Springs and Clearwater. To learn more about Courteous Canine’s positive-reinforcement-based training methods and locations, or to sign up for classes, visit www.CourteousCanine.com or call 813-949-1465.

submitteD by: KIm FrANCIS

fun-focuseD puppy KinDergarten anD Dog manners classes now available at wag natural pet boutique.


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contRactoR bRinGs specialty eXpeRtise to south tampanew leaD-safe certification anD aDa-compliant services are iDeal for area’s olDer homes

The charm and history of South Tampa’s bungalows are one of the main reasons so many residents come to this area. But

as any homeowner will tell you, with that charm comes additional upkeep and a few challenges.

One of the newest challenges facing South Tampa homeowners is the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rule that went into effect in April. Under this new rule, professional renovation projects that disturb lead-based paint, usually present in homes built prior to 1978, must be completed by a certified renovator who is trained to prevent lead contamination.“Many contractors are opting not to work

on homes constructed before 1978 because of the additional time, effort, liability and costs associated with the new regulations, and this is leaving many South Tampa homeowners in a bind,” says Stuart Alfonso, general contractor and founder of Mott’s Contracting Services. “We’re approaching this challenge differently – we want to be a resource for these homeowners. We’re a Certified Renovator for Lead Paint, and we have the education and the experience to tackle these tough jobs.”

Under the RRP rule, contractors are required to test for lead in the interior and exterior of the job site before beginning a project. If lead is found, special steps must be taken throughout the construction process to contain the work area, minimize dust, and

clean up thoroughly.

These are standards that Mott’s, with its slogan, “Clean to the Core,” has used throughout its more than 12 years in business. In fact, many of the practices required under the RRP rule, such as sealing the work area with layers of plastic to avoid escaping dust and dirt, are consistent with the operating procedures Mott’s follows as an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant contractor. These ADA safety steps ensure that the chronically ill or disabled can continue to live in their homes safely throughout the construction project.In addition to lead considerations, many older South Tampa homes, with their outdated kitchen and baths, need to be

updated as the homeowner ages. Finding a certified contractor for these specialty jobs can be a challenge, too.

“Look for a general contractor who is a Certified Aging in Place specialist,” advises Alfonso. “This designation is key to ensuring the finished project leverages the latest universal design practices to help the homeowner live in a more manageable, safer environment for years to come.” Most recently, Mott’s completed a bathroom renovation for an 89-year-old woman in South Tampa. The Mott’s team began by fixing damage caused by a sinkhole, then replaced the old tub with a walk-in shower surround, complete with a shower seat, an easy-to-reach showerhead and faucet knobs, and a no-step entry. The doorway to the bathroom was then widened for easier access for her wheelchair and walker with a pocket door installed to conserve space. All of which is now helping to keep the homeowner safe and independent in her home.

For more information about Mott’s Contracting Services or to request an estimate, visit www.MottsContracting.com or call 813-931-7596.

written by: KIm FrANCIS

local » focus

Photo by Stuart Alfonso


KiRby’s Retail leGacyshine family, Kirby’s tailors relationship with the community

For 51 years, Kirby’s Menswear has been tailoring suits for the South Tampa community and using their long

family line of retailers as an advantage in establishing a customer base. Kirby’s was started in 1959 by Mark and Audrey Shine. Both Mark and Audrey came from retail families and roots. Shine’s father opened a shop called The Palace in Ybor City at the height of the cigar industry. Audrey Shine’s father emigrated from Germany to work for his cousins, the Maas Brothers.

As the cigar industry declined, The Shine’s closed The Palace and started a new venture on Dale Mabry, Kirby’s Menswear. Building from the ground up, Mark Shine envisioned a store with on-site tailoring, reputable and high fashion men’s clothing with a personal touch and relationship as the key. Shine’s family, including his children worked in the store to make it successful, so it’s no surprise that his son, Martin took over the day-to-day operations of the business when Mark was ready to retire.

The defining separation between Kirby’s Menswear and the big name national chain stores providing men’s clothing is their solid long standing image in the community as well as the personal service provided. Kirby’s is considered an Independent Specialty Store and has never had more than three satellite locations at once. Currently, there is just the one store located at 1707 South Dale Mabry Highway. “The advantages of an Independent Specialty store are the attention to detail, personal service, and tailoring directly on premises. You get relationships here which you may not get in a department store,” Martin Shine says.

Shine says an advantage to the Specialty store is that the selection and purchasing of the clothing sold in their store is specific to the Tampa area. In a national chain, lines are put out and sold in each store, seasonal clothing included. With the unique climate in Florida, there may not always be a need for the clothing sold in a chain. “From a buying perspective, I buy directly for my

customer in Tampa, Florida. My buy is very focused.”

Most of Kirby’s customers have been with them for years. . “The basis of our business is our loyal customer base,” Martin Shine says. However, as customers retire and no longer need business suits or pass on, Martin Shine says they are “always trying to rebuild that base with a younger customer.” To appeal to the younger customer and younger generation of business, they have modified and adapted to the trends of today. “As the demand for dressing up has diminished, the importance of the sportswear category has grown. I’m expanding that area to find ways to attract customers,” Martin Shine says. Kirby’s still sells suits, sports coats and formal attire, but they have also shifted their focus to provide for younger customers with less emphasis on “dressy or formal” attire. The importance of community to Kirby’s cannot be dissuaded. Mark & Audrey

Shine both grew up in Tampa and attended local schools. Mark Shine graduated from University of Tampa in 1938 and raised all of their children in this community as well. It is because of this history that Martin Shine keeps the business running with store help from his brother Stephen and advertising and media help from sister, Barbara. “There’s a history here. You wouldn’t do it for this length of time if you didn’t enjoy it,” Martin Shine says.

Fortunately, Martin Shine has every intention of keeping Kirby’s open for the long haul. At market recently, he hand-selected fabrics and styles with members of this community in mind. Step into Kirby’s in South Tampa and you’ll appreciate the time and effort given to each item of clothing in the store…you’ll feel like it was chosen for you.

written by: ChrISTINA DrUmmOND

local » hiDDen history

martin shine, proprietorPhotos by Harrison Tropp


Kit stewart, fashionistas clothe success for local charities

Well-heeled, Well-Dressed…Fashionable Charitystory by christina Drummondphotos by ben Drummond & florida fashionistas

Nestled in the corner of Hyde Park Village is “Kit’s Well-Heeled, Well-Dressed”

boutique. Their primary day-to-day business revolves around high-end fashionable clothing and jewelry. So it was only natural for owner, Kit Stewart to use this store as a foundation and inspiration for the charitable work she chairs with the help of her fellow volunteers, self-named the Florida Fashionistas.

Kit stewart anD fashionistas with anita pointer Keep the fun in funDraising


Having lived in the Tampa Bay area for 25 years and owning a store in the heart of South Tampa for 13 years, the desire to expand into the community seems a natural one for Stewart. “I had the ability to do it. My heart’s always been there, and my store became the vehicle. It’s allowed me to meet wonderful women and build lasting relationships.” The Florida Fashionistas got their start five years ago after Kit offered to do a fashion show to grant a wish through the Children’s Dream Fund for dream child, Dana Burtach, who’s dream was to walk the runway. Dana, then seventeen, beautiful and petite had been diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. The event was to take place in the backyard of Stewart’s home on the Palma Ceia Golf Course. “I asked Brooke Palmer to Co-Chair; we were pretty much a two-man team as I recall… basically we emailed a bunch of friends and said ‘Hey we’re going to have a fashion show and got them on board, Stewart says. “Everyone just kind of came forward to help make dreams come true.”

Palmer says her involvement in Florida Fashionistas was simply because Kit Stewart asked for her help and because of their close relationship, it was natural for her to become involved in Stewart’s dream. “Before we were the Fashionistas (formal), we were a bit of a small volunteer driven army of Kit, myself and a few other key players. Kit had an idea and asked me to help, so we made her dreams a reality. It was a natural thing for me to get involved, and she means the world to me as a mentor, friend, and role model in business.”

Stewart cleaned the racks of clothing out of her store and set them up in the various rooms of her home and built a runway for the fashion show. Some of her friends, now Fashionistas, were volunteers and participated as dream models in the show. They were escorted by what they call “Dream Guys”. These are prominent men in the community who also feel a desire to give back. Dick Greco was among them in a white shirt and pink bowtie. Stewart says the Fashionistas can rely on these men as they rarely say “No” when it’s for a good cause. “Dream Guys” are special men who have contributed greatly to make our community a better place by giving their time, talent and money to support many of our local charities,” Stewart says.

The Stewart family restaurant, 717, provided catering for the event. Area vendors were invited to set up shop. “We had vendors come, like jewelry vendors. We set out little tables in our backyard. The event started at 10:30 in the morning. Women came and they shopped, they had wine, and it was a big deal for the Children’s Dream Fund…we had about 300 women show up,” Stewart says. A Fashion Show was the main event mixing in all the different styles of the year such as military and cowboy looks. “It was a really fun show. It was spontaneous and adlib. Everyone really had a great time, from the Dream Guys to the Dream Models. The end result was we raised almost $100,000.00 for the Children’s Dream Fund,” says Stewart. “We had a silent auction and a live auction. We had tables out in the backyard too that were set up to sponsor children’s dreams. My husband, Ron Stewart, was the emcee and our good friend Brad Welsh was the auctioneer. We put the ‘fun’ back in fundraising and that’s how it [Florida Fashionistas] got started”.

The fashion show was such a success the first time that they were asked to do it again by the Children’s Dream Fund the following year. After the second event, the Fashionistas became a “formally organized” group dedicated to charity. There is no monetary membership fee associated with being a Fashionista. The common bond is having a passion for fashion. “The dues are your time, and the rewards are the lasting friendships and knowing you helped a cause,” says Stewart. Long-time Fashionista Fracine Levine says “the Fashionistas is defined as a group

of business savvywomen who raise money for selected charities thru fashion oriented events involving Celebrities and nationally recognized entertainers.” Once they were formally organized, a friend of Stewart’s, Dr. Steven Maskin, asked that the Fashionistas rally to raise funds for an event entitled “Focus on Females”. The idea was that the Fashionistas would be the driving force behind the fundraising so

Dr. Maskin could host this event where any woman in the community could come to the Convention Center for a free health screening, seminars on women’s health and an overall look at their wellness. The Fashionistas organized this into a 3 part event. First was a formal seated dinner at the home of a fellow Fashionista, a fashion show in Hyde Park based out of Stewart’s store, and lastly, the Focus on Females event itself. Stewart thought this was a great cause and asked her good friend Natalie Cheeseman to be her Co-Chair. “We basically

sent out another email saying ‘Calling all Fashionistas, we have another event to do,” says Stewart. The Fashionistas organized this into a 3 part event. First was a formal seated dinner hosted at Blake Casper’s beautiful home on the bay. The main draw was a private concert by Rita Coolidge. “We raised almost $50,000.00 off the bat. Then the money just started rolling in,” says Stewart. The second and main event for this fundraising effort was the holiday fashion show by Kit’s Well-Dressed in Hyde Park followed by a live performance with Anita Pointer, lead singer for The Pointer Sisters! After pulling permits from the city the whole area was tented. A full sit-down dinner was served on tables resembling ice

cubes decorated with pink linens all around the Hyde Park Cul-de-sac where guests were greeted by a huge Martini class with a live model inside. Vendors including Timpano’s, The Wine Exchange, Bailey’s and 717 catered the event.

Stewart arranged the fashion show and even had special designer ball gowns flown in. The idea was to create “one-of-a-kind events and to put on something Tampa has never seen before,” Stewart says. To make that happen, Events Show Production was brought on to help choreograph the dances for the runway. Being scheduled in November 2008 just before the holidays, the theme revolved around the Macy’s Day Parade and holiday designs. For the live auction, stilt walkers, dancers and models acted out the gifts. “We made it very exciting so we could get higher prices on the items they were bidding on. For the California trip, the Beach Boys music was playing, so the surf board guys came down…and the girls in their bathing suits. It made it so much fun,” Stewart says. While Anita Pointer prepped and warmed up in the Hyde Park management office (just above Kit’s store), the holiday fashion show was in full swing. And then, seconds after the fashion show, Anita Pointer was on stage…for the Finale, we had our very own private concert! “When she started singing her closing number, ‘I’m so excited’, everybody jammed that stage and started dancing,” Stewart says. The Fashionistas fundraising efforts were a huge success for Focus on Females. Because of their dedication to the challenge, Dr. Maskin was able to put on his event free to the community, which was also a huge success.

These early events are held in high esteem and with fond memories by the Fashionistas who helped make them a success. Levine says her favorite and most memorable event “would by far be the Anita Pointer performance. It was an event on the Magnitude of a National Level---it could have been held anywhere in the country and been remembered forever!!!!! Anita Pointer literally incorporated the entire audience when she commanded that everyone get on stage and sing and enjoy the night away. There was one point where I was singing eye

CONTINUED ON pAgE 14

spotlight » Kit stewart


to eye with her ....This was by far the most Glorious Fashion and Show ever performed.”

The Fashionistas most recent event was with Wine, Women & Shoes (WWS) at the David A. Straz Center for Performing Arts in Tampa. While WWS is a nationally recognized event created by Elaine Hoenig, the Fashionistas were the driving force behind the fundraising and success of the event. Cynthia Lake, Executive Director of the Children’s Dream Fund approached Kit Stewart and told her of this WWS event and asked for the Fashionistas help. “We were a ready-made group that came together to make this a success,” Stewart says. Wine, Women and Shoes was separated into three parts, all of which the Fashionistas planned by pooling their resources and calling on neighbors in the community to make it successful. Stewart delegated the chair duties to Robin Roberts, and then

Robin brought on Joana Urie and Chrisi Stross all of whom spent countless hours preparing and organizing the event. The individual events were spread over three days. Starting with a Wine Tasting titled “Vintners & Vines” at Maestro’s Center. Wine was coupled with a silent auction. The “Signature Event” was similar to the first event the Fashionistas put on for the Children’s Dream Fund where vendors set up mini shops on the Riverwalk by the Performing Arts Center that allowed for shoe, bag, clothing and wine shopping for guests. After a light lunch, guests were entertained by a choreographed Fashion Show by “Kit’s Well-Heeled & Well-Dressed” with participating celebrity Dream Models and Dream Guys. The final night was reserved for “Vintner Dinners” where local residents allowed people into their homes for dinners and wine tastings. Stewart attended the dinner organized at the home of Dennis & Kelly Noto in Sunset Park. “It was a seated meal served on fine china. The food provider was

NoHo Bistro. Tina Hurless is the owner and chef; it was a 100% donation and the food was incredible,” says Stewart. Now recovering from the Wine, Women & Shoes event, Kit Stewart says the Fashionistas will start thinking about their next challenge. They certainly won’t be taking a break for long and will be back in the community with one-of-a-kind fundraising shortly. Events such as the Fashionistas Fashion Show, Focus on Females and Wine, Women & Shoes require hours of dedication, good attitudes and good spirits of volunteers, and the money of individuals in the community to make them successful. Kit Stewart and her group of Fashionistas make fundraising interesting, entertaining and well worth the investment. It is their dedication that has brought joy to so many lives and made dreams come true. Perhaps the most amazing aspect of the Fashionistas and Kit Stewart is that all of these women have other jobs or involvement in their families and community. They are

CONTINUED FrOm pAgE 13true volunteers with a dedication to giving back. For Brooke Palmer, the most rewarding aspect of her work with the Fashionistas is “that we have really made a mark. It is very true that a small group of dedicated people can really make a difference. These amazing, energetic ladies have raised quite a bit of money for some rather incredible causes. And Kit has done an amazing job making it about the group. She pours so much of her time and money into it, but doesn’t make it about her; she makes it about the cause. I love her humility,” Palmer says. While maintaining an active presence in her Hyde Park store and running the day-to-day business and administration, Stewart has also served on the Ballet Board, the Bishop Eaton School Board and is a Sustainer with the Junior League. The active involvement has become a lifestyle, rather than a job for these volunteers and that is what makes them stand out among the rest.

spotlight» Kit stewart

714 south village circle, tampa


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FREE to business owners and H.R. Staff

Health Care Reform SeminarDecember 15, 2010

RSVP to: info@benefi tresources.us

2802 N. Howard Ave. Tampa, Fl. 33607

813-259-0110


feature» wine, women & shoes

In an effort to raise money for the Children’s Dream Fund, the Florida Fashionistas chaired the fundraising and organization of the nationally recognized Wine, Women & Shoes event held at the Performing Arts Center and private homes in Tampa Bay Area. Reporters from FOCUS Magazine covered the first two events in the three day fundraising extravaganza.

Wine, Women & Shoes brings fashion to tampa


While each Wine, Women & Shoes event had a unique flare, Thursday night was dedicated to Tampa locals

dressed to impress for the Vintners & Vines affair. With the fall weather beginning to turn the wine was the perfect autumn coat. The entrance of the event was filled with towers of wine tasting glasses and the walls were lined with eclectic cheeses and vintners from a range of West Coast wineries. After speaking with each vintner, we quickly discovered each one had a story to tell about their vineyard to set them apart from the traditional winery. Each winery donated a portion of their proceeds to support the benefit. I admit my partner in crime and I went from table to table scoping our favorite wine of the night. We couldn’t believe that we compared each wine to the first wine we tasted upon our arrival! The Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon provided by Layer Cake Winery was fantastic. While it was a younger Cabernet, the layers of flavor continuously peeled back with each sip on the pallet. The wine opened up with a fruity flavor, only to transform into cedar and tobacco flavors while finishing with bold chocolate and

coffee finale. While the flavors lingered in my mouth it became the benchmark of the night for the other wines. However we quickly discovered this event was not your typical wine tasting event when striking voices filled the room over the laughter and chatter. With our shock, we whipped around to see a crowd surrounding a group of seven to ten young opera singers from Tampa Opera. To be honest, we bumped into each of these singers throughout the evening, so you can understand the surprise when we realized the young team of musicians, transformed a traditional classical opera with a

contemporary twist. The group carried on with a range of bellowing solos, duets, and dance while the room was in awe by what seemed to be exempt performance.

While sad to see the singers leave the crowd redirected their focus to the silent auction gallery. The wall was lined with towering gift baskets, brilliant local artists’ paintings, high heels, detailed designer bags, and gift certificates to South Tampa eateries and shoppes. It is still undetermined how much the event raised in capital but judging by the patrons’ eagerness to bid on the items I believe the Children’s Dream Fund had quite the turn out.

The second and main event of the Wine, Women and Shoes was held at the Riverwalk Promenade at the Straz Center for Performing Arts. Women walked the Riverwalk dressed to the nine’s in their stilettos and boots…not a flat shoe to be found. Designers like Angeleigh Anastasio flew in from Los Angeles for the event. His one-of-a-kind shoes hand-made in one of the top five factories in Italy were a huge success. I myself came home with a pair to wear for my wedding. “I believe it’s good

to give back, especially when it’s for kids. I get to meet my customers. It’s a good focus group,” Anastasio says.

Ben Falchi, nephew of designer Carlos Falchi flew in from New York for the event and sold items at one-half to one-third of their retail value. The bags on display were from their main brand (manufactured for over 30 years) as well as their secondary brand Chi. The bags in these collections were made of leather, python and anaconda. While women shopped and sipped on wine, volunteer “Sole Men” toured the area recommending wine and shoe pairings. A group from Mystic Salon & Day Spa in North Tampa was in attendance as part of a “Thank You” gift from owner MaryLynn Pearson. All twenty of the ladies in this group participated in a Breast Cancer Cut-a-Thon raising over $5,000.00 and earned a day at Wine, Women & Shoes.

The highlight of the Wine, Women & Shoes was a Fashion Show sponsored by Kit’s Well-Heeled, Well-Dressed in Hyde Park. The women took the runway in designs from the Hyde Park shop and showcasing some of the beautiful shoes sold at the event.

The event was gorgeous, a fashion conscious person’s dream come true! Shopping for high-fashion designs at a discount, sipping wine, and enjoying a fashion show all for a charitable cause was well worth the trip and the money involved.

feature» wine, women & shoes

Vintners & Vineriescovered by Jodi lokayphotos by ben Drummond

the signature eventcovered by christina Drummondphotos by Jan Duke


A lavish evening atop the world in the heart of Hyde Park Village benefiting Gasparilla International Film Festival

Delivered souvenir tickets is the only way to express what’s to follow …

Greeted by sponsored, gratis valet, we welcome you to set your feet on red carpeted ground level. Photo opps aplenty span an elegant stroll concluding

at an attended express elevator.

The rooftop welcomes you.Check and secure your outerwear as you prime yourself to enter our custom

designed and constructed ballroom. Rest assured, fresh as it may be, stargazing through the translucent roof will not be the only amazement!

Challenge the tolerance of your senses.Watch as the most advanced lighting moves you in ways never realized

possible. Listen to the sweet sounds of Belinda Womack, and the irresistible groove of DJ Papi. Taste the abundant sweet indulgences paired with the finest bubbly. Smell the occasional aroma of rich cigars as you near our

outdoor cigar lounge.

The public is entitled to all of this!Can you imagine the benefits

we customize for sponsorship?


December 31, 2010Details:

Tickets: Purchase online. Souvenir tickets will be delivered.

General Admission - entry, complimentary champagne and dessertsVIP / Cabana - entry, private area with downtown views. 2 complimentary bottles of premium spirits with mixers.

*** VIP Sponsor tent to include full service bar, appetizers, dessert

Elegant Touches: Arrival - Valet, red carpet entry, photo wall, & express elevator to coat check.

The Party - Grand ballroom within a 40ft tall, translucent roof tent on the Rooftop. National entertainment with exquisite lighting, sound. Outdoor patio area with view of

downtown and fireworks. Dance floor, seating, numerous bars, and an outdoor cigar lounge.

www.TheRooftopEve.com


ceViche…a taste of spain“local restaurant brings Distinctive european flavor”

I had the privilege of dining last week, along with my counterpart Jodi Lokay, at Ceviche restaurant located in the

heart of South Tampa. In addition to our working relationship, Jodi and I dabble in the culinary experience, sampling the wine, food, and generous hospitality our community offers. Combine a small writing ability with an obsession for good food and voila- The Supper Club.

Prior to my brief digression, the purpose of this article is to comment on the meticulously crafted yet comforting food of Ceviche. Located just off Bayshore Boulevard on Howard Avenue, Ceviche boasts a delectable menu of “tapas” menus items as well as the traditional “raciones” (full meal) options. For those of you unaware of what tapas means, it refers to a wide variety of small plates in Spanish cuisine. While the origin of the word is important, I am more concerned with the actual combination of flavorful ingredients, rooted in Spanish influence and made in the traditional fashion.

Upon our arrival to Ceviche, Jodi and I were greeted and taken to our table via a circuitous route of terracotta colored walls and wrought iron tables adorned in colorful tile. Upon our sitting, a waiter approached with Ceviche’s newest addition, the low calorie “Skinny Sangria” (low calorie does not equate to less flavor) and an abundance

of menu items. Per our waiters request Jodi and I chose their “Ceviche de la Casa” (house ceviche), served in a chilled martini glass and bedded with arugula. The ceviche itself consisted of shrimp, scallops, squid, and fish, marinated in lime juice and tossed with tomatoes, scallions, peppers, and cilantro.

For those who know good seafood, nothing should taste more extreme than it is. For example fish should never taste “fishy” and simple ingredients should be used to compliment the delicate flavor. And, well, Ceviche got it right. The tender seafood, paired with fresh citrus and a bouquet of cilantro, was a refreshing introductory course to our dinner.

Our courteous host further provided a sampling of manchego, tatia, mahon, and cabrralles chesses as a mid meal distraction and obvious addition to our “Muga Reserva” wine selection.

Following our palate cleansing ceviche and cheese, Jodi and I sampled their “Piquillos Rellenos”. After all, the name alone sounds enticing. Roasted red peppers stuffed with ground veal and mild chorizo sausage, adorned in a sherry sauce (used in several dishes) was a hearty yet delicate choice. While the roasted peppers emitted sweetness, the veal and chorizo provided a salty surprise in the delicate peppers. And

entertainment » Dining profile

written by: hArrISON TrOpp

Photo provided by Kim Francis Communications

Photo provided by Kim Francis Communications

CEvIChE

1502 SOUTh hOWArD AvEph: 813-250-0203hOUrS OF OpErATION - SUNDAy BrUNCh 11Am - 2:30pm DININg rOOm 5pm - 10pm (SUN-mON) 5pm - mIDNIghT (TUES-SAT)FLAmENCO rOOm 5pm - 11pm (SUN-mON)5pm - 1Am (TUES-SAT)

if that was not enough, the Sherry sauce was the metaphorical icing on an already delicious cake.

While my stomach seemed pushed to capacity, what meal is complete without dessert? And so Jodi and I began the pleasantly arduous task of searching for a final conclusion to our Spanish smorgasbord. We debated for several minutes as she wanted the “Crema Catalana” (Spanish crème brulee in a dark chocolate shell) and I the Pudin de Pan (Bread pudding made with dried fruits and Spanish brandy, served with ice cream.) As with most of our “arguments” I was of course victorious and she appreciated my suggestion.

Unlike Jodi who has spent months in Spain, Ceviche was not like any dining experience I have ever partaken in (Even though it reminisced her travel, Jodi later conceded our meal at Ceviche rivaled her experience). While the menu is extensive, each dish is artfully prepared, incorporating a touch of Mother Spain in all choices.


entertainment » event calenDar

south tampacalenDarof events

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to:

[email protected]

fRiDay, noV 19» Tampa’s Downtown on Ice Nov. 19th –Jan 2nd Mon–Thurs: 11am- 8pm Fri &Sat: 10am- 10 pm Sun: 12pm - 8 pm Details: $10 per person. Includes a skates and 90 minute skate time. For more information: www.tampasdown-townonice.com

fRiDay, noV 26» Enchanted Tree Lighting CeremonyNovember 26th through December 26th from 6 pm to 8 pm for 4 weeks Hyde Park Village at the FountainThe Enchanted Tree Lighting Cer-emony takes place at the Fountain in the heart of Hyde Park Village and at-tracts over 4,000 people. This family-friendly celebration kicks off the holiday season and has become one of Tampa Bay’s most highly recognized events. People of all ages will enjoy a variety of live entertainment, free cookies and cocoa, a splendid holiday light display, the lighting of the 30-foot Christmas Tree and an appearance by Jolly Old St. Nicholas!The Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony is sponsored by Tampa Bay Parenting, Ferman, Verizon, St. Petersburg Times and tbt*.Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony Entertainment Schedule5:30 - Gulf Coast Girls Choir6:00 - Karl & Di Marco6:30 - Holidaze Cirque6:40 - Christina Sanders

7:00 - America Ballet7:30 - Entertainment Revue7:50 - Santa Arrives7:55 - Last song with Santa and En-tertainment RevueLocation: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

weDnsDay, Dec 1» LEGO “Dream It, Build It, Win It” SweepstakesNovember 18th - December 25th Pottery Barn Kids in Hyde Park Call for details, 813-253-0946

» Mrs. Santa Luncheon 11 amSt. Petersburg Yacht ClubA fundraiser with fashions from Dillard’s, silent auction, boutique shopping to benefit All Children’s Hospital Guild Beach Branch. Tickets are $50. Contact: 727-392-5089

» New Mom’s Group10am-12 pm : 740 S. Village Circle at Tampa General Hospital’s Community Health Education Center in Hyde Park Village, Upper level, Tampa, 33606 This group provides new moms the opportunity to discuss issues that come with being a new mom, share advice and offer support. Bring your new baby and enjoy exchanging ideas with other new moms. Contact: Agnes Darland, (813) 844-8945

» Tampa Bay Stroke Education and Support Group5-6 pm TGH Community Health Education

Center at 740 S. Village Circle, Hyde Park Village This is an educational support group for stroke awareness, recovery and prevention. The group also discusses community offerings for people with disabilities. Contact: Ann LaPlaca, (813) 844-7641; [email protected]

thuRsDay, Dec 2» Holiday Cocktail Buffet & Victo-rian Christmas Stroll7-9 pm Henry B. Plant Museum, University of Tampa: Join event chair Lesley Dobbins and committee as they host an elegant party celebrating the season and feature the 29th Victorian Christmas stroll. Ticket Price: $75. Contact: Sally Shifke 813-258-7302

satuRDay, Dec 3» Diabetes Nurse- Specialist, Tampa General Hospital10 am Tampa General Hospital Diabetic neuropathy is a common complica-tion of diabetes, in which nerves are damaged as a result of high blood sugar levels. Approximately 50 percent of people diagnosed with diabetes will develop temporary or permanent damage to nerve tissue within 10 to 20 years of their diagnosis. It’s important to practice prevention and know the signs. Join us as we explain the diagno-sis, symptoms, treatments and progno-sis of this common condition.

» 21st LAMPLighters Christmas Silver Coffee11 am– 1pm Private home of Roger and Suzanne Perry in Hyde Park Ticket Price: $25 suggested donation. Description: A delightful luncheon of delicious hors d’oeuvres created by members to benefit the children at

Metropolitan Ministries. Contact: 813-928-5378

» Tampa Bay International Auto Show-Event Details Times: Friday, Dec. 3 - 12 noon to 10 pm, Saturday, Dec. 4 - 10 am to 6 Tampa Convention Center, 333 South Franklin Street, Tampa FL 33602 Tampa Bay International Auto Show Admission (cash only): Adults $9, Seniors $4, Military $4, Students $4, Children (ages 7-12) $4, and children under 6 are free. Free admission on

satuRDay, Dec 4» Plant High School Jazz Band Performance10 am to 1 pmHyde Park Village at the FountainThe Plant High School Jazz Band will perform holiday tunes and entertain shoppers at the Fountain. They will also be selling raffle tickets for their band fundraiser.

» St. Andrew’s Society Feast of the Haggis6:30 pm – 9:00 pmPalma Ceia Golf and Country ClubDetails: Ticket Price: Call for invita-tion. Description: Invitation only event celebrating Scottish heritage with food, cocktails and fun. Contact: 727-867-6616

» Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Colorado Avalanche7:30 pm - 10:30 pm St. Pete Times Forum.

tuesDay, Dec 7» Elegant evenings December 7, 2010, 7:30 p.m. Private home of Carolyn and David



Harbert. A classical concert to benefit Brighter Tomorrows. Ticket Price: $45. Contact: 813-868-7705

» Chanukah in the Park6 to 8pm Hyde Park Village at the FountainChanukah in the Park at Hyde Park Village is a family friendly Chanukah pary hosted by Rabbi Mendy Dubrows-ki of Chabad South Tampa. Menorah Lighting Cermony. Kosher Wine Tast-ing. Latkes. Doughnuts. Gelt. Cotton Candy. Arts and Crafts. Raffles. Face Painting. Live Music. Artist Gallery

weDnsDay, Dec 8» Early Release Day Special at Color Me Mine12 to 5 pmColor Me MineReduced Studio Fee. Adults: $5.00. All Students: $3.00. Call for more details, 813-258-8368.

thuRsDay, Dec 9» Free Blood Pressure, Glucose & Total Cholesterol Screening3 pm – 7 pmdetails onlineREGISTER VIA PHONE AT 1-800-822-3627 OR ON-LINE AT WWW.TGH.ORGSEATING IS LIMITED

» Georgette’s 22nd Annual Celebrity Holiday Fashion Show10 amHyatt Regency downtown TampaTicket Price: $75 Description: Annual fashion show and luncheon featuring celebrity models, Broadway-style entertainment, raffles and auction to benefit Shimberg Breast Ticket Price: $75

Description: Annual fashion show and luncheon featuring celebrity models, Broadway-style enter-tainment, raffles and auction to benefit Shimberg Breast Center at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Contact: 813-872-0979 or 813-254-1141

» Ryan’s Rockin Holiday Party6 pm Location: TBD Ticket Price: TBD The Ryan Nece Foundation hosts the Good Samaritan Celebration. Contact: 813-251-3624

fRiDay, Dec 10» “Home is Where the Heart Is” Holi-day Stroll6:30 pm – 9:30 pm Homes on Davis IslandsTicket Price: $150 The 6th annual event featuring a travel-ing party with dinner courses at various homes. All proceeds benefit Kids Char-ity of Tampa Bay. Contact: 813-843-1833 or kidscharitytb.org/events

» Curative Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation Bengt Herweg, MD, FACC, Florida Heart Rhythm InstituteREGISTER VIA PHONE AT 1-800-822-3627 OR ON-LINE AT WWW.TGH.ORG SEATING IS LIMITED» Musical Holidays with Andre Rieu8 pm the St. Pete Times Forum. On sale: Now Ticket Prices: $39.00, $75.00, $99.00 and $139.00

satuRDay, Dec 11» Red Cross Angels Gingerbread House Brunch9:30 am.– 1:00 pm University of Tampa Plant Hall Ticket Price: $75 adults, $50 children Annual brunch with supplies to build your own gingerbread house, prizes awarded, auction all to benefit Red Cross Angels. Contact: Melanie Koch at 813-348-4830 ext. 7665

» Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Winter Tour 20103pm-8pm St. Pete Times Forum.

» The Florida Orchestra: A Holiday Pops8pm – 10 pm Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa Share in this wonderful time of the year with family and friends in a joyous con-cert of all-time favorite yuletide tunes, Christmas carols, musical chestnuts and heart-felt holiday hits. Featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. Richard Kaufman conducts. Get directions: (813) 222-1002

sunDay, Dec 12» “Old Northeast Candlelight Home Tour3 pm Historic Old Northeast Neighborhood, St. Pete The 13th annual tour of homes features historic homes in beautiful Old North-east decorated for the season. Contact: honna.org (727) 269-5521 Ticket Price: $20 advance, $25 day of tour

» 93.3 FLZ’s Jingle Ball6:30 pm St. Pete Times Forum.

Ticket Prices: $9.33 (first 1,000 tickets), $20.00, $39.33, $59.33, $93.33 ( Jingle Ballin’ Floor) and $99.33 (MetroPCS Celebrity Club). On Sale: Now

tuesDay, Dec 14» Photos with Santa5 to 9 pm Santa Cottage Opens at Hyde Park Village Contact 813-251-3500HydeParkVillage.net

» Holiday Story Time Pottery Barn KidsCall Pottery Barn Kids for details, 813-253-0964.

» Paint with Santa Party at Color Me Mine4 to 5 pm Paint with Santa Party at Color Me Mine, Pre-registration is required. Limited space. Pizza will be served. Call to register and for more details - 813-258-8368

weDnsDay, Dec 15» New Mom’s Group10am-12 pm Location: 740 S. Vil-lage Circle at Tampa General Hospi-tal’s Community Health Education Center in Hyde Park Village, Upper level, Tampa, 33606 Description: This group provides new moms the opportunity to discuss issues that come with being a new mom, share advice and offer support. Bring your new baby and enjoy exchanging ideas with other new moms. Contact: Agnes Darland, (813) 844-8945

thuRsDay, Dec 16» 16th Annual Red Cross Angels Gin-gerbread House Brunch



10:30 am – 1:00 pm The Don CeSar Beach Resort, a Loews Hotel, St. Pete Ticket Price: $75 adults, $100 Elf Level. Enjoy a champagne reception and sup-plies to create your own gingerbread house to benefit Red Cross Angels. Contact: Melanie Koch at 813-348-4830, ext. 7665

» Block PAWty for Pets6 - 8 pm Hyde Park Village The HOWLiday block PAWty is a free festive neighborhood pet party featur-ing live music, drink + food specials, free pet photos with Santa, raffles, games, shopping specials and pet first aid + CPR demos. All proceeeds benefit The Humane Society of Tampa Bay and a $10 donation is suggested.

» Photos with Santa5 to 9 pm Santa Cottage Opens at Hyde Park Village Contact 813-251-3500HydeParkVillage.net

fRiDay, Dec 17» Kick Start Your New Year’s Resolution10:00 am Check-in / 10:30 am Program Location: details online Kick Start Your New Year’s Resolution Suzan Mekler, CHE, AHFS (Ad-vanced Health & Fitness Specialist), PRCS (Post-Rehabilitation Condition-ing Specialist), CPT (Certified Personal Trainer), Diabetes educator, certified Pilates instructor REGISTER FOR THESE PROGRAMS VIA PHONE AT 1-800-822-3627 OR ON-LINE AT WWW.TGH.ORG SEATING IS LIMITED

» BMI & Body Fat Screening

1 pm – 4pm details on lineBy Appointment Only REGISTER VIA PHONE AT 1-800-822-3627 OR ON-LINE AT WWW.TGH.ORG SEATING IS LIMITED

satuRDay, Dec 18» Photos with Santa12 to 7 pm Santa Cottage Opens at Hyde Park Village Contact 813-251-3500HydeParkVillage.net

» Ms. Lisa’s Dance School10am to 11am Hyde park Village at the Fountain Contact 813-251-3500 HydeParkVil-lage.net. Watch the talented dancers of Ms. Lisa’s Dance School perform live at the Fountain to a variety of holiday songs. Santa will also make an appear-ance!

sunDay, Dec 19» Photos with Santa12-5 pm Santa Cottage Opens at Hyde Park Village Contact 813-251-3500HydeParkVillage.net

» Justin Bieber My World Tour7 pm St. Pete Times Forum.

sunDay, Dec 21» Photos with Santa5-9 pm Santa Cottage Opens at Hyde Park Village

» Holiday Story TimePottery Barn Kids

Contact: Pottery Barn Kids for more information, 813-253-0964.

» Photos with Santa10am-5pm Santa Cottage Opens at Hyde Park Village

fRiDay, Dec 24» Photos with Santa10am-5pm Santa Cottage Opens at Hyde Park Village

monDay, Dec 27» Winter Holiday Painting WorkshopsDec. 27 - 30 Location: TBD Lunch is provided. $35 for ses-sion. Call for more details, 813-258-8368.

fRiDay, Dec 31» New Year’s Eve Rooftop Party at Timpano ChophouseTimpano Rooftop Tickets can be purchased online. Sou-venir tickets will be delivered. General Admission includes complimentary champagne and desserts. VIP includes entry private area with downtown views. 2 complimentary bottles of premium spirits with mixers.

» Aqua EveLocation: Florida AquariumTicket Price: $80 until Dec. 5, $90 from Dec. 6 – 19, after Dec. 20 - $100 Ring in 2011 with live music, food and fun. Attire is downtown chic. Contact: 813-273-4030 or flaquarium.org To order tickets please call 813-273-4030. Cost: $80 through December 5; $90 December 5 – 19; $100 after December 19(tickets include unlimited beer, wine, food and champagne toast)

» ChannelsideFireworks show will begin at midnight Channelside is pleased to announce their annual New Year’s celebration which includes food, drinks, fireworks and entertainment. Enjoy drinks at any of their local bars or stop by before the fireworks for a culinary experience that will be sure to last all through the new year. The fireworks show will begin at midnight December 31, 2010 so bring your friends and family out for a night of fun and celebration!

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FOCUS South Tampa 1-10