small business of the year awards - special edition

Phone: 657-2418 Fax: 657-4469

www.ospreyobserver.com

WINSee Inside for

Details

Inspiring Small BusinessHow these 15 Business Owners Made It and So Can You

Advice From Area Business Owners & Leaders

What It Takes to Succeed

Tips, Tricks & AdviceFrom The Finalists

Inside:A Message From

Our Chamber President

H I G H L I G H T I N G T H E S M A L L B U S I N E S S E S O F T H E Y E A R

Photos by Huth and Booth Photography

Learn From BusinessOwners Who Have BeenThere

For 30 years, the Brandon Chamber has

been celebrating Small Business success in

our community and this year is no exception.

What started as an annual recognition for one

business and its growth and accomplishment

over the years, has grown into the highlight of

the year for the Brandon Chamber and for the

15 Small Businesses who have made it to the

finals of this year’s celebration.

There will be five winners crowned, but

there is something to be learned from each of

these Small Businesses! Whether you are

starting out, growing or adjusting your busi-

ness model to the current business climate,

we encourage you to sit down, learn from oth-

ers who have done it and enjoy the celebration

of 15 local business owners.

And, if you like what you see, ask them

how Chamber membership has helped them

on this business journey and/or stop in and

meet them for yourself.

Jill Ferguson, Darren Dennington and Mary OwensSmall Business Development Committee

Home-BasedB&W PC Consultants Bill Thomas

Immaculate Janitorial Service, LLC

LaShunda & Jerald Mangum

Yard Guards on Doody, LLC

Cheresee Rehart

Minority & Women OwnedCampbells Dairyland, Inc.

Jill & Jay Paules/James & Leesa Lee

Leonard's Academy of Dance

Leonard Mardis

Tutoring Club of Valrico

Susan Prestridge

1-5 EmployeesCommunity Insurance Group

Bill Puckett

Green Lizard Lawn Care, LLC

Thaddeus & Nicole Davis

Hi Tech Automotive

Joe and Melissa Canfield

6-15 EmployeesBusciglio Orthodontics

Dr. Derek Busciglio

Park Square Cellar Shawn & Mary

Sarkisian & Kevin Fulcher

Valrico Animal Clinic

Dr. David Thomassy

16+ EmployeesHess Orthodontics

Dr. Michael A. Hess, DMD, MS

KnowledgePoints

Rod Burkhardt

Superior Residences of Brandon

Becky Preidis

2011 Finalists

• Brandon Chamber Small Business of the Year Special Edition • 2011/2012 30THAnniversary

11970 Boyette Road, • Riverview 33569

813-645-4377www.hessorthodontics.com

2011/2012 • Inspiring Small Business •

“Desire is the key to motivation,but it’s determination and commitment

to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal– a commitment to excellence – thatwill enable you to attain the success

you seek.” – Mario AndrettiCongratulations to the 2011

Small Business of the Year

Finalists!

Not only did you desire success,

but you have also attained success

and now your community is cele-

brating your victory.

Success is not a final destina-

tion or a single victory that one

achieves, but is more of a journey –

a lifelong pursuit that allows us to

celebrate the triumphs along the

way. The Small Business of the

Year Award is truly one of those tri-

umphant moments and we are hon-

ored to help you commemorate

your achievement – especially dur-

ing the 30th Anniversary of these

prestigious awards.

Finalists, we encourage you to

continue on your journey – building

on the motivation, deter-

mination and com-

mitment that has

earned you this

prestigious

honor. Your jour-

ney is more than

just a legacy of

your pursuit of excel-

lence as it is also an inspiration to

others who may have just started

their journey or have encountered

obstacles that may seem insur-

mountable. As you travel new road-

ways, remember that The Greater

Brandon Chamber of Commerce

will be just around the bend cheer-

ing for your continued success.

Congratulations!

Tammy C. BracewellPresident & CEO

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce

“Success Is Here!”

Cheering Success For 30 Years

TAMMY C. BRACEWELL, PRESIDENT

A letter to the finalists

“The person who goes furthest is gen-erally the one who is willing to do and

dare. The sure thing boat never gets farfrom shore.” – Dale Carnegie

My sincere congratulations to the

finalists for the 2011 Greater Brandon

Chamber Small Business of the Year

Award! Being a previous recipient of

this prestigious award, I have a good

idea of how you feel right now. You

have worked extremely hard at some-

thing you hold a passion for, and now

you can finally take few moments to

reflect and enjoy your accomplish-

ments.

It did not come easily though, did

it? Starting and operating your own

business is one of the most difficult

undertakings an entrepreneur can take.

It takes planning, diligence, patience

and persistence – not only at the begin-

ning if your venture, but every single

day. Many people do not possess the

necessary skills and competencies it

takes to be a successful business

owner. The willingness to take on risks

and challenge yourself regularly is not

for the faint-at-heart. However, if you

can not only tolerate risk, but can thrive

on it, then the possibilities and rewards

are endless.

My advice to you at

this time is to savor

every moment of this

success and under-

stand that you are in

an elite category of

winners. Whether you

take home the final

prize or not, be very

proud of all that you have achieved to

get you and your business to this point.

But after your moment is over, never

get comfortable.

Remember that if you plan to stay

at the top, you must continue to take

risks and challenge yourself even fur-

ther. Your spirit, business acumen and

determination will always distinguish

you from the rest. Congratulations

again on your commitment to excel-

lence!

Melissa Snively2011 Chairman of the Board

The Greater Brandon Chamberof Commerce

Be Proud And Celebrate Excellence

MELISSA SNIVELYCHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

A Message From The Chairman

BrandonRegionalHospita l

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B&W PC Consultants has been pro-

viding quality PC sales and services to

the community for 19 years. Owner Bill

Thomas works hard and not only pro-

vides outstanding work, but also first class

customer service.

“I just treat the customers the way I

would like to be treated,” said Thomas.

After obtaining his first computer in

the early 1990s and dealing with PC

repairs with other companies; Thomas

believed that he had learned enough to

create his own business selling and

repairing personal computers. His beliefs

were right because 19 years later he is

still providing solid PC service.

“The reason why we have become

successful is because the customer differ-

ently,” said Thomas. “I believe in going

beyond the customer expectations.”

In its early years, most customers

came to Thomas by referral or word of

mouth. After working in the automotive

industry for 31 years and working for

TECO in customer service; Thomas

decided to take on the PC business full

time. Networking, meeting people and

connections through the chamber has

also helped to grow Thomas’ business.

“I put the customer first because that

is the most important thing,” said Thomas.

If a customer

bought a product

from B&W and

something goes

wrong with it

under a manu-

facturer warranty;

Thomas will come pick

up a product, box it, and send it back to

the manufacturer at his own expense.

This is the type of service that B&W PC

Consultants provides customers in the

community.

“We focus on providing our services

with the local consumer in mind,” he said.

B&W PC Consulting deals with

everything in the world of personal com-

puters. Customers can schedule times

with Thomas at an hour convenient to

their schedules. This goes right in line

with the theme of putting the customer

first.

“The thing that inspires me is seeing

a very satisfied customer who I have per-

sonally helped. Nothing is more important

than exceeding a customer’s expecta-

tions,” said Thomas. Call 621-7574 or

visit www.bwpcconsultants.com.

B&W PC Consultants ProvidesQuality Service for 19 Years

Photos By Huth & Booth B&W PC CONSULTANTS OWNER

BILL THOMAS

By Josh Massaro

Home-Based

Immaculate Janitorial Services has

been living by their motto “if it’s dirty, we

will make it pretty” for 11 years. The fam-

ily-owned business provides services in

helping keep both residential and com-

mercial buildings clean.

Immaculate provides services

including residential housekeeping, jani-

torial services, carpet and upholstery

cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, repair

work and more. Open seven days a

week starting at 8 a.m., the business is

dedicated to providing customers with

genuine trust, exceptional value and

excellent service.

LaShunda D. Mangum, president,

was inspired to start the company due to

her father’s influence. “My father worked

in environmental services for more than

30 years. He always wanted to have his

own janitorial business but was never

able to reach his goal. He’s retired now

but I definitely got my passion for janitori-

al services from him,” she said.

The passion Mangum has for her

business as well as her drive for contin-

ued success naturally leads her to think

of the future of Immaculate. Along with

growth and expansion of the company,

she wishes to continue build long lasting

relationships with Immaculate’s cus-

tomers. One day she hopes

to provide housekeeping

and janitorial services

world-wide.

Mangum’s goals

for prospective

employees are

also very important

to her. “I want to continue to

build a company that rewards employees

for extraordinary service by creating an

environment that both educates and

empowers them.”

As a self-starting woman, Mangum

has advice for anyone looking to start up

their own business. “It’s very important to

get involved in the community where

your business is located. Running a

business is tough and getting involved in

the community can and will make a big

difference in your success,” she said.

“Most importantly, stay focused and don’t

give up.”

Immaculate Janitorial Services is

located in Brandon and provides service

for Hillsborough, Polk, Pinellas and

Sarasota counties. Call 506-4156 or e-

mail [email protected] or

visit

www.immaculatejanitorialservices.com.

Keeping Homes Spotless And GettingInvolved With Immaculate Janitorial

Photos By Huth & Booth ‘JUNEBUG’ & LASHUNDA MANGUM OFIMMACULATE JANITORIAL SERVICES.

By Alissa Bridges

Home-Based

Since 1985

"The Lieberman Team"Steve & Kathy Lieberman

RE/MAX SOUTH SHORE REALTYSteve & Kathy are celebrating 25 Years of helping hundreds

of area families accomplish their real estate goals!

Direct: 813-335-6559Web Site: TampaFLhomes.com

10445 Gibsonton Drive, Riverview, FL 33578

Thanking the Brandon Community!With your support, we have been nominated as a semi-finalist

for the 2011 Brandon Chamber Small Business of the Year Awards.

WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT

Sharon R. Hunter, DVM4338 Bell Shoals Road • Valrico

www.noahsarkanimalhospitalvalrico.com(813) 662-7275

Hours: Monday through Friday 8:30-5:30 and the first Saturday of the month from 8am until 12 noon

Grooming by Ginny and HirokoGeneral Medicine • Dentistry • Radiology • Advanced Diagnostics • Spays • Neuters

Surgery • Skin Care • Flea and Heartworm Preventative • Prescription FoodsSafe and Reliable • Guaranteed On-Line Pharmacy


Cheresee Rehart’s businessstinks. Literally. She is the owner ofYard Guards on Doody, a residentialand commercial poop scooping serv-ice.

She treats her business with atongue-in-cheekiness that is neededfor a job like this. On her Website, andin her logo is the tagline, “We TakeCrap� Seriously!”

Rehart and her team will come outweekly, twice a week or bi-monthly toscoop the yard. Rehart hasn’t picked aside in the dogs versus cats debate,as the business will also clean out lit-ter boxes for cats as well.

When asked what and/or who hasinspired her the most in her businesssuccess, Rehart replied, “I was origi-nally inspired by Tim Stone fromScoopmasters in California to get into

the poop scooping (or pet wasteremoval) business.”

Rehart has been in the businessof picking up pets’ business since2003 and hopes to follow in the foot-steps of her local inspiration, MarieGilmore from the Osprey Observer.

“Although our businesses are notin the same field, I have alwaysadmired her business and work ethic,”

Rehart explained. “Marieis continually help-

ing others tosecede and in

my opinion isa pillar in thiscommunity.”

YardGuards On

Doody Of Floridaprovides pet

waste removal for Tampa BayHillsborough County Southern PascoCounty and Pinellas County.

The service is available Monday-Friday during daylight hours andSaturday and Sunday for one-timeclean-up, special clean-up and parties,etc.

In addition to being nominated forthe Small Business of the Year Awardin the home-based category, YardGuards on Doody also won the 2010Keep Hillsborough county Beautifulaward for the Most Committed Group.

Yard Guards on Doody can bereached by calling 1-800-DOG-POOP(813 and 727 area code) or 657-9797or visitwww.YardGuardsOnDoody.com.

Poop Scooping Service Wants To BeNo. 1 In Picking Up No. 2

Photos By Huth & Booth CHERESEE REHART, OWNER OF YARD GUARDS

ON DOODY

By Jennifer Silverstein

Home-Based

Member FDIC

Brandon Division1217 Oakfield Drive Brandon, Florida 33511

813-998-2660

www.bankoftampa.com

2011 Small Business of the Year

Nominees andWinners

The Bank of TampaCongratulates the

Assets Over $1 Billion

16637 FishHawk Boulevard, Suite 104, Lithia, FL 33547

813-662-3622www.snivelyinsurance.com

CONGRATULATIONSto all the 2011 Small Business nominees!

I am honored by the trust you have shown in me and proudto be a part of our community.

Compiled By Nan HagerDirector of Business Development and

Community RelationsEmail [email protected] or call 657-2418 for

an invitation to the next seminar.

Small BusinessMarketing

Professionalism in Small Business:A professional image reaches far wider than your

own personal appearance It is what you portraywhen you answer the phone, greet a customer com-ing into your store or office, and how you respondto emails, phone messages and written correspon-dence.

Name tags, logo'd apparel and a neat personalappearance certainly make a good first impression.Follow that with a business card that allows yourcontacts to communicate with you quickly and easi-ly and you're on the right track. Remember thatyour cell phone is as much a part of your businesstoolbox as your desk phone and answer accordingly.

Check your voice mail messages regularly andrespond promptly! If a client is calling you, theyare ready to do business.


Since first opening its doors 26 years

ago, Campbell’s Dairyland, Inc. has provid-

ed the Brandon area with its own hidden

treasure, supplying citizens with comfort-

food munchies and delicious desserts.

The family-friendly restaurant and ice

cream shop provides patrons with made-

to-order food that can be eaten at leisure

in their indoor or outdoor seating or

whisked back home after a quick run

through their drive-thru.

Original owners Boyd and Pam

Campbell first opened the doors to

Campbell’s Dairy Isle in 1985. “Boyd and

Pam had such a desire to make a restau-

rant that families could come and enjoy

both their time together and great food,”

said Jill Paules, co-owner of Campbell’s

Dairyland with her sister Leesa Lee. “From

the very beginning they worked tirelessly

to make a success of the restaurant.”

Before retiring and selling Campbell’s,

Boyd trained Jay Paules and

James Lee to run the busi-

ness as he had and instilled a

great sense of pride in his

“baby.” “He taught us that

quality of product would win

with customers,” said Jill

Paules.

Boyd and Pam sold the

business to Jill and Leesa in

1998 and the two couples

have run the restaurant

ever since. In

2002, a fire

closed the

restaurant for 8

months, but it

was rebuilt to the

original specs and reopened in 2003.

“We had learned so much from Boyd

and Pam. We all share a great desire to

continue the Campbell’s legacy that we

have been blessed with,” said Jill Paules.

“Each time we meet customers that come

in as children, who now bring their own

children, we are extremely moved. Seeing

Boyd and Pam’s dream realized has

become and continues to be our inspira-

tion.”

Campbell’s Dairyland is located at 200

S. Parsons Ave. near Oakfield Dr. and

near Brandon Regional Hospital. With

comfortable outdoor patio, a small play

area and indoor seating, it is a great place

for a family meal or worth the trip for a

sweet ice cream treat. Campbell’s is open

Mon -Thurs from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Friday

10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. -

11 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. For

more information, call 685-1189, visit its

Facebook page or find the menu on

www.couponclipper.com.

Campbell’s Dairyland Continues FamilyDream For Family-Friendly Treats

By Alissa Bridges

Minority & Women-Owned

Leonard’s Academy of Dance and

Centre for the Arts is owned and oper-

ated by Leonard Mardis. Mardis, who

was a member of the United States

army for 21 years, has dedicated his

life to teaching the art of dance to peo-

ple in a unique way. He strives to inte-

grate technical training and multi-cultur-

al themes to his dance instruction.

“Dance crosses borders,” said

Mardis. “The language of dance is the

same everywhere.”

Mardis, who has traveled the world

due to dance and the military, has been

impacted by many cultures and

believes it is important for all dancers

to experience.

Mardis was inspired by dance for

the first time at Alvin Ailey Dance

Theater in Germany while in the mili-

tary.

“Alvin Ailey American Dance

Theater was my first inspiration after

seeing their performance in Frankfurt,

Germany in 1991 and today my broth-

er, who dances, and the children and

adults I now teach continue to keep

that inspiration alive,” said Mardis.


Centre for the Arts is open to students

ages three and up. Mardis and his pro-

fessional dance instructors provide

instruction in any type of dance.

This year, Leonard’s Academy of

Dance and Centre

for the Arts

was chosen

to be a

Small

Business of

the Year finalist

by the Brandon

Chamber of Commerce.

“I’m completely thrilled to be recog-

nized by the community after only

being in business for five years. In

spite of uncertain economy, we are still

growing and this pays tribute to God,

the community, and the great people at

the academy,” said Mardis.

Right now, Mardis has about 100

students, but the academy is growing

rapidly. Mardis is looking to grow the

academy by adding a after school pro-

gram, drama program, and satellite

locations.

For more information about


Centre for the Arts call (813) 653-0400

or visit www.LADBRANDON.com. The

studio is located at 302 W. Robertson

St. Brandon.

Leonard’s Academy of Dance And ArtsProvides Opportunities For Dancers

Photos By Huth & Booth LEONARD’S ACADEMY OWNER

LEONARD MARDIS

By Josh Massaro


Photos By Huth & Booth THE OWNERS OF CAMPBELL’S DAIRYLAND,

JAY AND JILL PAULES AND LEESA AND JAMESLEE.

Our business continues to grow thanks to your kind

referrals of friends and family members. Have them call

today so they can enjoy state-of-the-art dental care in a

warm, relaxing environment just like you do! Thank You!

From All of Us at Sip Signature Dentistry.

Office (813) 689-9623

Michael A. Sip,D.M.D.

CONGRATULATIONSTO ALL

2011SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

NOMINEES AND FINALISTS!

813.447.9909WWW.HBPHOTO.COM


One of the most basic keys to

becoming successful in any career field

is through education, particularly for

children in school. The Tutoring Club of

Valrico’s main goal is to help children

achieve a greater understanding of

knowledge in a variety of subjects.

There are more than 150 Tutoring

Club franchises locations all over the

United States. Children can receive

tutoring in a variety of subjects includ-

ing math, reading, writing, science,

study skills and even SAT and ACT

prep courses.

Susan Prestridge, Executive

Director and owner, opened the

Tutoring Club of Valrico five years ago

for students in the Brandon, Valrico and

Lithia areas.

“When it comes to opening a busi-

ness, it’s very important to pick one that

you are passionate about. Aiding chil-

dren in their education is something

that I am very passionate about,” said

Prestridge. “One of the greatest things

about the Tutoring Club for me is that I

have been, and continue to be inspired

by the 1,000 or more Tutoring Club stu-

dents who have reached their academ-

ic potential.”

The Tutoring Club operates a Tutor

Aide system, which accurately

identifies children’s skill

gaps and generates

lesson plans that

build mastery in

areas of weakness.

Using its proprietary

methodology, the

Tutoring Club system

enhances each tutor’s skills and is able

to offer parents an unparalleled guaran-

tee to improve academic performance

in less time and at a lower cost than

any other program. A low tutor-to-stu-

dent ratio also allows students to have

plenty of individual attention.

“My goal for the future of the

Tutoring Club is that I hope to continue

delivering outstanding tutoring services

for the Brandon, Valrico and Lithia com-

munities,” said Prestridge.

The tutoring Club of Valrico is locat-

ed at 4385 Lynx Paw Trail. Its hours

are Monday through Thursday from 2

p.m. - 7:30 p.m. For more information,

contact Susan Prestridge at 681-9900

or e-mail [email protected]. To

learn more about the Tutoring Club,

visit its website at

www.tutoringclub.com.

Tutoring Club Heaps Students ReachLearning Potential With Custom Lessons

Photos By Huth & Booth TUTORING CLUB OWNER

SUSAN PRESTRIDGE

By Alissa Bridges


NOMINEES AND WINNERS

2010 Small Businessof the Year

Flooring Americapast Small Business of the Year Winner

knows how diffi cult it is to be nominated much less win this award.

We congratulate the

Carrollwood13145 N Dale Mabry Highway

(813) 321-0140

Brandon/Tampa9329 Adamo Drive

(813) 642-7270

www.FlooringAmericaFL.com

One Time, Weekly and Bi-WeeklyCat Litter Box ServiceResidential, Commercial & Dogi-Pot ServiceLicensed, InsuredWaste is Double-Bagged and Hauled Away“Dooing” Business Since 2003

CALL

1st month’s serviceor 1 time cleanup





Networking & ProfessionalAssociations:

Networking can’t be done sitting in a chair inthe corner of the room! Attend regular meetings,get involved, and set yourself some goals for everynetworking meeting you attend. Always be pre-pared with plenty of business cards. Be on time andvalue the time of those around you. Set a goal foreach meeting to meet at least two new people thatyou don’t know. Really find out what they do!Prepare a :30 elevator speech for your introductionthat will be remembered.

Look outside the normal networking groups.The chamber offers a vast array of groups that meetat varied times, as do many service organizations inthe local area. Check out meetings for Rotary,Kiwanis, your local church groups and neighbor-hood events such as Bunco, book clubs and Momsgroups. And remember, GIVERS GAIN.


“After 24 years working as store manag-

er for Gordon’s Jewelers, I have developed a

large customer base, leading to relationships

that are very personal, and play a vital role in

the success of my current business,” said

Brandon resident Bill Puckett, who switched

gears and careers to continue to grow those

relationships with his current business,

Community Insurance Group, Inc.

Community Insurance Group, Inc., is a

full-service independent insurance agency,

representing many insurance companies that

gives its clients a wide and affordable selec-

tion of superior insurance products.

Puckett started Community Insurance

Group, Inc., with the help and support of Bill

Hoge with Nationwide Insurance and former

Honorary Mayor of Brandon, James Young.

Referring back to his previous experi-

ence as a store manager, Puckett empha-

sized the reason for building a successful

business, when he said, “I have taken the

years of success that I had with Gordon’s as

well as the relationships that I have built and

have created a very successful Insurance

agency.

The company's primary objective is to

establish a partnership between the clients,

the insurance company and the staff, which

assures the quality protection, valued cus-

tomer service, and most importantly excellent

claims support.

Community Insurance Group, Inc.,

promises to offer a broad variety of products

and services to meet all of its

clients' needs, includ-

ing a free review of

current auto and

homeowners

insurance poli-

cies, while offer-

ing financial servic-

es which includes,

estate planning, long term care

insurance, life insurance, investments, health

insurance and much more.

Proud of serving the insurance needs of

thousands of individuals, families and busi-

nesses, Puckett said that most of his clients

not only renew their policies, but that they

refer their friends.

Being available 24 hours a day on the

Web or by calling the office during business

hours, area residents are encouraged to sub-

mit a request for an auto or homeowners

insurance quote to receive a no-obligation

quote for all insurance needs.

“Our office is staffed with bright, intelli-

gent people, who have many years of experi-

ence providing service above and beyond the

call of duty,” Puckett said. “Over the years, we

have gained the expertise to match the right

person to the right insurance company.”

Community Insurance Group, Inc., is

located at 505 Westbrook Avenue in Brandon,

and can be reached by phone at 685-8040 or

by email at [email protected].

Community Insurance Group, Inc.Uses Customer Service Background

Photos By Huth & Booth COMMUNITY INSURANCE GROUP OWNER

BILL PUCKETT.

By Tamas Mondovics

1-5 Employees

It is safe to say that a main

ingredient one must add to running

a successful business is passion,

which is something Nicole and Thaddeus

Davis had plenty of when the two decided

to start Green Lizard Lawn Care, LLC., in

2002.

“Our passion for gardening and beau-

tiful landscaping was the perfect fit and

Green Lizard Lawn Care and Landscaping

was born,” Nicole said.

With careers in Archaeology and

International Business, as well as a grow-

ing family that includes Olivia, 6, and

Alexander, 4, the Davis' took a look at

something that would require less travel

while fulfilling their dreams of success.

“We decided that the best way for us

was to begin our own company,” Nicole

said. We wanted to also set an example

to our kids and possibly pass the business

off to them as they get older.”

Since its inception, the business has

been a local, family owned and operated

company offering full-service landscaping

and lawn maintenance specializing in both

commercial and residential lawn care.

Inspired to be successful by its clients

through feedback, Green Lizard Lawn

Care, LLC, is able to tailor its services to

offer exactly what the customers need

and, at a fair price.

“Our current service area includes the

Brandon, Dover, Lithia, Valrico, Riverview,

Apollo Beach and Seffner areas,” Nicole

said, adding, “We feel very fortunate to be

offering our services in such a great

area.”

Further explaining the reason for the

business suc-

cess, Nicole

mentioned that

as owners of a

small business,

both her and

her husband

understand the

needs of local

homeowners and companies such as their

own.

“We are active in the community, and

are dedicated to our clients,” she said.

“The Green Lizard team works hard every

day to ensure complete customer satisfac-

tion.”

Offering free estimates, and promis-

ing lawn care and landscaping for both

residential and commercial properties as

well as Landscape Design and

Implementation along with the respect

each property deserves, customers are

encouraged to give Green Lizard a call.

Open Monday through Friday from

8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Green Lizard can

be reached by phone at 334-7768.

For more information please visit

www.greenlizardlawns.com

Green Lizzard Lawn Care Puts PassionInto Lawn Care Business

Photos By Huth & Booth GREEN LIZARD LAWN OWNERSNICOLE AND THADDEUS DAVIS.

By Tamas Mondovics

1-5 Employees

Congratulations to all Nominees and Winners of the2011 Small Business Awards!

Lake Brandon Village11325 Causeway Blvd., Brandon

(813) 655-1237www.chickfilabrandon.com


For years, to Joe and Melissa

Canfield, owners of HiTech Automotive,

running a full service auto repair shop was

the “American Dream.”

Moving to Brandon from St.

Petersburg, 10 years ago, with two small

children, Sydney 2, and Rhys, who was

just four months old at the time, such a

notion was by no means without merit.

“We had always talked about owning

our own business and having something to

pass on to our children,” Melissa said as

she explained that she and husband Joe,

who had worked for Goodyear for ten

years, had decided it was time to take the

leap into self employment.

Melissa said at first, small business

ownership was hard since Joe was work-

ing so much and spent a lot of time away

from the family, yet every night the two of

them would sit down to dinner and tell

each other about our day.

And, once the children were tucked in

bed, and the house was quiet, the reason

for the hard work always became clear.

“We would look at each other and say

“THEY” are what inspire us,” Melissa said.

Seven years later, the Canfields—

children and all—are running HiTech

Automotive,a full-service, family-owned

and operated auto repair shop, located at

119 South Montclair Avenue, Brandon,

open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to

6 p.m., specializing in brakes, air condi-

tioning, and check engine light diagnostics.

The children have grown up at the

garage and, observing mom and dad,

have seen how

important cus-

tomer service

is and how

important it

is to do a job

right, the first

time.

They inspire us

to continue to work hard and show them

how our dreams, and theirs, can be

achieved,” Joe said. “Every night at dinner,

we still share what we have learned that

day and the children continue to amaze

and delight us.”

As for the future of HiTech

Automotive, the Canfields— inspired by

their children—are determined to keep

their dream alive, while offering the kind of

auto and customer service they know their

clients in the Brandon and surrounding

areas deserve.

“Even on the roughest day at work,

our children are what inspire us to contin-

ue working hard and moving toward our

“American Dream.”

For more information about HiTech

Automotive please visit

www.hitechautomotiveofbrandon.com, or

call the shop at 684-1556.

Family Continues To Drive Focus OfHiTech Automotive Owners

Photos By Huth & Booth HITECH AUTOMOTIVE OWNERSMELISSA AND JOE CANFIELD.

By Tamas Mondovics

1-5 Employees

TEACHERS’ HELPER, INC.

Parent/Teacher Store

109 Margaret Street, Brandon, FL 33511684-0688 fax: 689-0624www.teachershelperonline.com

$5 OFFPURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE

Exp. October 31, 2011

Congratulationsto all 2011 Small Business finalists!

RIVERVIEW

10837 Boyette Rd., Riverview, FL 33569

671-1919

PLANT CITY

2001 N. Park Rd., Plant City, FL 33563

754-7788

BRANDON/VALRICO

2549 ST Rd 60 E, Valrico, FL 33594

689-7212

3 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

• Reading • Math • Writing • Study Skills

• SAT/ACT • Algebra & Pre-Algebra

www.knowledgepoints.com

WE GUARANTEE* your child will improve at least one full year in Reading or Mathwithin the first 40 hours of instruction.

• Geometry• Starting Points with ZooPhonics

• Grades Pre-K thru 12

Thanking the Brandon Community!2 0 1 1 S M A L L B U S I N E S S O F T H E Y E A R F I N A L I S T





Think Outside the Box Marketing your business is not as simple as an

ad in the paper. While consistent, targeted printadvertising is important, get creative in your efforts.Becoming a constant visual in and among yourlocal market area is key and involvement is a must.Use partnerships, cross-marketing campaigns andcharity events to spotlight your business. Not onlyis it good for the community, it’s good for the econ-omy. By working with other local businesses youcreate a sense of unity and as you build a networkyou provide that “one-stop shop” for the client.

Create a feeling of the “go-to” place for yourclients. Whether you can directly provide the prod-uct that they need or if it is a referral only, you areproviding a service that is truly appreciated and willgive your client more confidence in your abilities &skills.


Inspiring small businesses

everywhere with longevity and growing

success, Busciglio Orthodontics opened its

doors in 1972 to offer the Brandon commu-

nity quality, patient-based orthodontic care.

Since then, the practice has remained in

the Busciglio family and despite a strug-

gling economy has grown to manage 13

employees in three locations.

“Choosing Brandon took some vision

in those years because it was a small

town, but he (founder Dr. John Busciglio)

saw the enormous potential in it and he

was right. It takes more than just being a

good doctor, you have to be a good busi-

nessperson, my father is both,” Dr. John

Busciglio’s son, Dr. Derek said. John start-

ed the practice and handed it over to his

son in 2008 and now remains on as a con-

sultant.

“Since my father started the practice,

it has always been focused around the

absolute highest quality of care for the

families of the Greater Brandon area. We

are proud to continue operations with the

patient in mind first, all of our success has

been second to that,” Derek explained.

Busciglio Orthodontics specializes in

Invisalign and braces both for children and

adults and in the past two years has

expanded to two new locations, in Plant

City and Wesley Chapel.

Sensitive to the uncertainty of the cur-

rent economy, the practice has implement-

ed changes to to allow for continued

growth without compromising quality serv-

ice. There are now more payment options,

it is accepting more insurances as well as

third party financers

and appointment

times have

increased.

Motivated by a

staff that enjoys

going to work every

day and patients

pleased with their service, Busciglio contin-

ues to grow. Dr. Dana Busciglio, Derek’s

younger sister will be joining her family’s

team at the Plant City location with her

services in pediatric dentistry.

“Our practice is family-owned and

operated and has been for nearly four

decades now. With more prodigies in the

pipeline, it should remain this way for

years to come,” Derek said.

With John at the root of the business

helm, the Busciglio family can guarantee

success by never forgetting where they

come from. “He is liked and respected by

his peers, this is what I aspire to be and

therefore a large part in why I look up to

him so much,” Derek said of his father.

Busciglio Orthodontics’ Brandon loca-

tion is at 515 Corner Dr. and is open

Monday-Friday. Call 681-9473 or visit

www.theorthodoc.com.

Valued Orthodontic Care Since 1972 AtBusciglio Orthodontics

Photos By Huth & Booth BUSCIGLIO ORTHODONTICS OWNER

DEREK BUSCIGLIO

By Roxanna Pacheco

6-15 Employees

Few small business’ success stories are

evidence that the root of the inspiration for

growth and success is loyal patrons like Park

Square Cellar’s development in recent years.

Partners Mary Sarkisian, her husband Shawn

and business partner Kevin Fulcher have mar-

ried a quality product and a quality concept

with an infallible resource: customer satisfac-

tion.

“What motivated us to grow was our cus-

tomer support and involvement in the

process,” Mary said. Park Square sent out a

survey to its customers and, “Their positive

responses inspired us to grow the business

into a full-scale restaurant and bar,” Mary

explained.

Mary and Shawn knew they had a com-

munity worth serving when they opened in

2005. In the summer of 2009, Fulcher came

on as partner along with improvements. The

former Fireside Grill was purchased, an

expansion in space from 1,800 sq.ft. to 5,000

sq.ft. that allowed for indoor and outdoor

seating to accommodate 150 people, a full

bar, lounge, which now hosts the occasional

live band, and a retail area for wine, spirits

and cigars.

“As small business owners, we need to

constantly ask ourselves: how are we differ-

ent than our competitors? By offering com-

petent solutions to these questions you are

on your way to success,” Mary said.

Those solutions have resulted in Park

Square’s customer-centered accomplish-

ments: The Cellar Club with benefits like five

percent off all purchases and a choice of

Wine Club, Beer Club

and Bistro Club mem-

berships. It has grown

from 20 members to a

whopping 420 in just

two years. Also, the

semi-annual wine fest, which hosts 12 wine

vendors and over 100 wine tasting selec-

tions and sees 500-600 attendees, some

from as far as Orlando and Sarasota.

Joining The Brandon Chamber this year

is a step towards accomplishing Park

Square’s long-term goal of solidifying its com-

munity involvement through philanthropic

endeavors with local schools, groups and

charities.

“We have seen customers grow with us,”

Mary explained, sharing the growth of

FishHawk residents Josh and Emily House

who became engaged at Park Square Cellar,

hired it as vendors for their wedding and are

now planning Emily’s baby shower at Park

Square Cellar. “Because we are a small, fami-

ly operated business, many of our customers

have become close friends over the years,”

she said.

Park Square is located at 16132

Churchview Dr. in the heart of FishHawk

Ranch. For more information visit

www.parksquarecellar.com or call 689-4560.

Customer Loyalty And RelationshipsValued At Park Square Cellar

Photos By Huth & Booth PARK SQUARE CELLAR IS OWNED BY

SHAWN AND MARY SARKISIAN AND PART-NER KEVIN FULCHER-NOT PICTURED.

By Roxanna Pacheco

6-15 Employees

Thanking the Brandon Communityfor supporting us!119 S. Montclair Avenue

Brandon(813) 684-1556

Owners: Joe and Melissa Canfield

“For the best in auto care for your vehicle or RV, weservice brakes, transmissions, oil changes and tires.”

2011 Small Business

of the YearFinalist

Thank you to our business partners, parents & studentsfor helping to make Tutoring Club a leader in

academic enrichment in our community!We appreciate all of your support and look forward to

many more years of working with your children to maketheir academic future a success!

681-99004385 Lynx Paw Trail • Valrico


Congratulations Finalists!

www.ospreyobserver.com 900 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. 657-2418

Fan Us!

Inspiring stories of small

business success are sweet when hard

work pays off, much like it did when

Valrico Animal Clinic relocated from S.R.

60 to Lithia Pinecrest Rd. this summer.

A pay off that came after Dr. David

Thomassy spent two years in continuing

education to ensure that the expansion

would meet his growing goals and his

patients’ needs.

“Our new state of the art facility is

unlike any in this area. It was designed

to be comfortable for pets and owners,

while being efficient in servicing and

caring for them,” David explained. The

relocation allowed the clinic to offer

boarding and grooming services thanks

to the 6.5 acres of land and the 7,000

sq.ft. facility.

The clinic is a full-service veterinary

hospital offering medical and surgical

care for domestic (dogs and cats) and

exotic (birds, rabbits, rodents etc.) ani-

mals, not to mention grooming and

boarding services, with 22 noise-con-

trolled and hygiene-focused rooms.

Another hint of sweetness added to a

successful business is that David’s wife,

Lorie is also a doctor there.

“We can discuss difficult to treat

cases or questions regarding every day

business at any time. Our experiences,

both business and medical, have

shaped us and inspired us to be a

strong, successful team,” David said.

Lorie and David have been practic-

ing in the Brandon/Valrico area for 19

and 13 years

respectively. They

became owners of

Valrico Animal

Clinic, which has

been in business

for 17 years, six

years ago. Raising

three kids and building a life here is no

accident.

“We love this community and have

watched it grow. We now live in

FishHawk where our three children go to

school and we wouldn’t want to be any-

where else, the people and community

are great,” David said.

The clinic is stocked with well-

trained staff and experiences low staff

turnover that means clients and their

pets get to walk in and feel at home with

familiar faces that recognize the animals

and remember cases. David said,“We

treat all of our patients as f they were

our own and clients really appreciate

and notice that.”

Hours of operation are Monday-

Friday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday 8

a.m. – 12 Noon. For more information

call 681-6389 or visit

www.valricoanimalclinic.com.

Treating Pets Like People At Family-Owned Valrico Animal Clinic

Photos By Huth & Booth DRS. DAVID AND LORIE THOMASSY,OWNERS OF VALRICO ANIMAL CLINIC

By Roxanna Pacheco

6-15 Employees

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Congratulations!

This is such an exciting time

for you and everyone involved in

your business.

As I reflect on the challenges

facing all businesses today it

reminds me what made this coun-

try so successful. The small busi-

ness is the heart and soul of

America’s success. With over 200

successful businesses nominated

this year, we know that small busi-

ness is alive and well in Brandon

Florida!

According to Webster, an

entrepreneur is an owner of a busi-

ness enterprise who makes money

through risk and initiative. What

brought you here today was that

entrepreneurial spirit.

The true entrepreneur finds

their driving force. Your driving

force enables you to keep focused

when the road is winding or you

are lost in problems. Your driving

force is your passion and purpose.

It’s the one thing that keeps you

going no matter how

hard it gets.

When facing

challenges and

risks unlike

any prior years

you did not

shrink away.

You focused

on your passion and purpose and

chose to take initiative, think out

side the box and change the things

that were not working.

Today your business is

stronger than ever before!

Regardless of the final out-

come at the gala, you are already

a winner!

Sincere Congratulations,

Mary Owens

Executive Coach

Black Diamond Associates

Small Business Is Soul Of Success

MARY OWENSPAST SMALL BUSINESS OF YEAR WINNER

A Message From Mary Owens


When asked what or who inspired

him the most in his business success, Dr.

Michael Hess, owner and orthodontist at

Hess Orthodontics in Riverview, men-

tioned his parents, Donald and Pauline

Hess.

“They also instilled in me that being

successful is not only about making

money, but also delivering a top quality

product, taking good care of the mem-

bers on your team, and giving back to the

community that supports you,” he

explained. “With all of these things in

place, it creates a synergy in the office

that allows for excellence.”

With these ideals instilled in him by

his parents, Hess attended the University

of Florida’s College of Dentistry, where he

received his Doctorate of Dental Medicine

(DDM) and graduated as the valedictori-

an of his class.

He continued his education at the

prestigious University of Michigan and

earned his master’s degree in orthodon-

tics.

Eight years ago, Hess put down

roots in Riverview in the form of opening

his facility and, in the near future, is plan-

ning an expansion into the Apollo Beach

area with a second location.

The second location will

provide all of the same

services, utilizing the lat-

est technology in ortho-

dontics, such as i-Cat,

TADS, the Magic

Wand, the Damon

System, Invisalign and

SureSmile.

“We strive to be Florida’s

leading Orthodontic Practice based on

our quality, innovative orthodontic care

and outstanding customer service,” Hess

said. “We pride ourselves in our contin-

ued involvement with our community,”

Hess commented.

In addition to his company’s nomina-

tion for the Small Business of the Year in

the 16-plus category, Hess received the

2011 Successful Doctors Award and the

2011 Greater Brandon Chamber of

Commerce People’s Choice Award.

Hess Orthodontics is located at

11970 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. It is open

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday

from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Wednesday from

8 a.m.-7 p.m. To schedule an appoint-

ment, please call 645-4377 or visit

www.hessorthodontics.com.

Hess Orthodontics Inspired To ContinueTo Give Back To Community

Photos By Huth & BoothDR. MICHAEL HESS, DMD, MS, OWNER

OF HESS ORTHODONTICS


16+ Employees

KnowledgePoints has been serving

the local community with quality tutoring

at an affordable cost for the past 10

years. As president of KnowledgePoints,

Rod Burkhardt and his wife, Elyse, are

providing help for young people in need.

“We are committed to making a dif-

ference,” said Burkhardt.

Students ranging from Pre-K through

twelfth grade can come to

KnowledgePoints and get help with sub-

jects they are behind in, master subjects

they want to excel in, or prep for exams

like FCAT, ACT, and SAT.

“We believe that we creating success

by changing lives,” said Burkhardt, “We

aren’t just helping academically, but

changing these children’s lives for the

better.”

Each student that comes to

KnowledgePoints receives individualized

tutoring because not every child learns

the same way. KnowledgePoints is help-

ing children by educating them and open-

ing doors of possibilities.

“Elyse and I are driven and inspired

each day by the personal knowledge that

education opens the doors to success,

and one of the nation’s biggest issues is

that those doors of opportunity are closed

for most children, but our business is

changing lives and making

a difference in our

community,” said

Burkhardt.

Not all chil-

dren learn the

best in a large class-

room setting and

KnowledgePoints understands that prob-

lem. Here, students are given the founda-

tion that will helped them learn to the best

of their ability in the classroom.

“It is such an honor to be considered

for the Small Business of the Year,” said

Burkhardt, “This is such a great commu-

nity and it is an honor to make a differ-

ence in children’s lives here.”

KnowledgePoints has locations in

both Brandon and Riverview, and is open

Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and

Friday and Saturday by appointment only.

Call 689-7212 (Brandon) and 671-

1919 (Riverview) or visit

www.knowledgepoints.com. The Brandon

location is at 2549 State Road 60 East,

Valrico and the Riverview location can be

found at 10837 Boyette Road, Riverview,

FL 33569.

KnowledgePoints Provides QualityTutoring at Affordable Prices

Photos By Huth & BoothKNOWLEDGEPOINTS OWNER ROD

BURKHARDT

By Josh Massaro

16+ Employees

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“Live the moment�Love themoment,” is the adage used by the staff

and residents of Superior Residences of

Brandon Memory Care.

Superior Residences, located at

1819 Providence Ridge Blvd. in Brandon,

is an assisted living facility that special-

izes in Alzheimer’s and other memory

related illnesses, according to new

Executive Director Becky Preidis.

The approximately 33,000-sq.-ft.

community is equipped with two entire

neighborhoods and a town square, where

large group activities take place twice a

day. “In the neighborhoods, we have a liv-

ing room, dining room, library [and] coun-

try kitchen. We also have an interior court

yard and an exterior courtyard that allows

the residents to venture outside and not

feel confined.”

It is important to Preidis that the indi-

viduals who live at Superior Residences

have an active lifestyle. Her father-in-law

was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and, “I

watched as the family wanted to protect

him by doing everything for him, even

refusing to allow him to participate in his

hobbies because of safety concerns.”

“With his independence taken away,

he ended up each day sitting in front of

the TV doing nothing,” she

described. “The disease

progressed quickly

and he passed.”

“Then started

looking for a com-

pany that worked

with Alzheimer’s

residents that strived

to provide a quality life

for them,” she continued.

“That is what I found in Superior

Residences.”

Superior Residences has two spe-

cialty licenses: a Limited Nursing Services

License and an Extended Congregate

Care License that allows it to provide

additional care such as tube feedings and

total care with personal assistance.

All 49 employees are trained in ALZ l

and ALZ ll as well all other state required

training. Employees must also have a

level two background check, drug and

alcohol test. The 24-hour nursing staff are

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).

For more information on Superior

Residences of Brandon Memory Care,

please call 657-8587 or visit

www.SuperiorAlf.com/brandon.php.

Superior Residences Offers Superior Care,Specializes in Alzheimer’s

Photos By Huth & BoothSUPERIOR RESIDENCES EXECUTIVE

DIRECTOR BECKY PREIDIS.


16+ Employees

AREAS OF PRACTICE:

FAMILY LAW

BANKRUPTCY

CRIMINAL LAW

FORECLOSURE DEFENSE

ESTATE PLANNING

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WIN APRIZE FROMTHE OSPREYOBSERVER

1. What is your favorite locally owned restaurant?

2. Name one business that is a finalist for this year’s Small

Business of the Year.?

3. Who was named the first Small Business of the Year?

4. Who is one of the sponsors of the Small Business of the Year?

Name:

Address:

Phone:

Email:

Community:

Email answers to [email protected], fax to 657-4469 or mail to

900 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511.

Winners will receive gift certificates or prizes fromOsprey Observer Shop Local Advertisers.

Also, enter online at Shop Local tab on www.ospreyobserver.com

social media and technology, so that

we aren’t left behind.

For our business, this has includ-

ed the addition of video, Facebook,

an active, archived Website and the

continuation of building our brand at

events, festivals and with sponsor-

ships in the community.

In addition to our community

office on Lithia Pinecrest Rd., we

have leased a second space in our

plaza to allow for our staff meetings.

This is the Small Business Center

which is also open to the public for

small, intimate business meetings and

trainings for up to 20 people and is a

service to our customers.

As a community newspaper, we

find that this is what sets us apart and

keeps our readers interested as we

cover the news.

I can’t say that in your local, com-

munity newspaper, you aren’t going to

find a typo or two, here and there, but

you will find an earnest effort by a

team of people who live, work and

love their community, to make the

world a better place.

In addition to concentrating on our

main business, publishing newspa-

pers that people read, we also have

been active in our local Chamber and

encourage businesses to not just join,

but actually get involved and attend

events.

The best advice we can give any

small business owner, is to find your

niche in what you do best, and be the

best, treat every customer like your

absolute best customer and follow the

general small business rules that will

set you apart:

Be On Time

Send a Thank You Note

Follow Up

Stick to Your Core Business

The Osprey Observer offices are

located at 900 Lithia Pinecrest Rd.

Call 657-2418 or visit

www.ospreyobserver.com.

Marie Gilmore is the ManagingEditor of the Osprey Observer

Newspapers and is available [email protected].


In February

2012, the OspreyObserver

Community Newspapers will cele-

brate 10 years of publishing local,

positive community news in the South

East Hillsborough County area.

Needless to say, starting out as a

one-sheet newsletter and home-

based business and now, with two

offices and publishing more than 200

pages in five monthly editions with a

team of more than 25 people, it is a

little bit of a different workplace envi-

ronment here at the OspreyObserver.

The main goal when we started,

was to make an impact on the local

community, it was never in the original

plans to educate our staff on the ever-

changing local and federal tax and

employment laws and become

human resources experts.

But, as a small business owner, it

is important that every task and every

job in an organization has been done

by the owner before we create a job

description and procedure to get it

done.

I would like to say that the OspreyObserver is a well-oiled machine and

that job descriptions and office proce-

dures are masterfully documented

and available to new trainees so that

expectations are always met.

Instead, I admit that the OspreyObserver has been extremely fortu-

nate in our staff hiring and retention

policies and that our environment of

fostering growth and encouraging

change has made for a very flexible

workspace.

But, when you are publishing one

monthly--to the point of now publish-

ing five monthlies--along with one

special edition per year, giving us six

deadlines in a month, we have found

the need to be creative, flexible and

contantly update and adjust our pro-

cedures.

At the same time, it has been

important for us as a company to stay

current, trained and active in the

changing economic market and with

By Marie Gilmore, Publisher, Osprey Observer Newspaper

Celebrating 10 Years Of Osprey Observer Newspapers


For more than 35 years Dr. W.

Edward Gonzalez has been doing what

he loves every day at work, and he

does not plan to stop doing what he

loves any time soon.

Gonzalez, a Tampa native, earned

his B.S. from St. Leo University and

graduated from University of Louisville

School of Dentistry. He did his

residency at the Children’s

Hospital of Philadelphia, where

he was Chief Resident.

After graduation, he returned

with his family, wife and dental

hygienist Mayling, whom he met

at St. Joseph Catholic School in

Tampa and started dating in 9th

grade and two children. The fami-

ly, including daughter Frankie

who manages the South Tampa

office, and son Sean, owner of

Dr. Vinyl of West Central Florida,

selected the Brandon area to

start Pediatric Dental Center. “I

always knew I wanted to start my

own business and came to

Brandon because while at the

time it was a small area, but it

was a growing area,” he said.

Back in 1970s, pediatric dentistry

was an up-and-coming field that wasn’t

widely known, so much so that he even

had some difficulty trying to get a loan

to start up his business. “The bankers

didn’t know what a pediatric dentist was

and they had concerns about whether

or not I would even be successful.”

Gonzalez, got the last laugh,

though, because Pediatric Dental

Center has been a success from the

very begin-

ning. “On

our first day

open, I think

we had 10 patients and we’ve been

growing ever since,” he said. “We’ve

managed to grow along with the growth

of the community.”

When it first opened, Pediatric

Dental Center was located at

Robertson and Parsons but it quickly

grew and in 1984, the practice moved

to its current location on Corner Dr. “We

used to have a lot of patients come in

from Tampa; they would take the

Crosstown to get here,” said Gonzalez

After Business Of Year Win In 1985, Pediatric Dental Continues SuccessBy Alissa Bridges

who continues to run the business with

Mayling, now general manager. “That’s

what inspired me to put another loca-

tion in Tampa, which opened in 2001.”

Proof of Pediatric Dental Center’s

success can be found simply by looking

at their patient history; Gonzalez is

starting to see second generations and

even some third generations of

patients. “To me, the ultimate compli-

ment is that former patients like and

trust me enough to let me do dental

work on their children,” he said. “It

means that I must have done some-

thing right and it makes me feel great.”

In addition to patient success,

Pediatric Dental Center was named the

Small Business of the Year by the

Brandon Chamber of Commerce in

1985 and has continued its momentum

ever since. This year alone, Pediatric

Dental Center was named the Best of

Brandon 2010-2011 by the TampaTribune reader’s poll and in February,

Gonzalez was awarded recognition by

his peers with a special accolade.

He was the recipient of the

American Orthodontic Society's Dr.

Richard L. Moore Lifetime Achievement

Award, named for the society’s founder.

Much of his success can be attrib-

uted to the example and support his

parents gave him. “My parents helped

me tremendously. My dad always used

to say ‘I don’t care what you turn out to

be, whether you’re a plumber, an elec-

trician or a doctor, just be the best you

can be.’ So that’s what I did, I told him

I’d be the best I could be. That’s how I

got to where I am today.”

After winning the Small Business of

the Year award in 1985, Gonzalez said,

“It was truly an honor to be recognized.

You strive at all times to have a busi-

ness that people like and and we have

worked hard to live up to that standard.”

Gonzalez truly understands how to

make a business a success and is very

happy to share what he has learned

throughout the years. “It’s important to

be innovative, keep up with the times

and try to stay ahead of your peers,” he

said. “Start every day with a smile.”

Pediatric Dental Center is located

at 517 Corner Dr. in Brandon. Visit

www.kidtooth.com or call 685-0804.

DR. W. EDWARD GONZALEZ WON THEBRANDON CHAMBER SMALL BUSINESS OFTHE YEAR AWARD IN 1985, AND HIS SUC-CESS HAS CONTINUED FOR HIS PRACTICE,

PEDIATRIC DENTAL CENTER.

“To me, the ultimate compliment is that former patientslike and trust me enough to let medo dental work on their children,”

Dr. W. Edward GonzalezOwner, Pediatric Dental Center

2010"1-5" Dr. Michael Sip Signature Dentistry"6-15" Dave & Karen West Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium"16+" Greg Celestan & Lewis Jolly Celestar CorporationHome-Based Business Dave Kemp & Barbara Kemp Kemp Design ServicesMinority or Woman-Owned Rinky Parwani Parwani Law, P.A.2009"1-5" Jay Polizi Electric Today, Inc."6-15" Scott and Gay Lynn Love Love’s Tire & Service Center, Inc."16+" Lori Bukaweski Brandon Sports & Aquatic CenterHome-Based Business Sherry Leybovich Cruises For U / Cruise PlannersMinority or Woman-Owned Emma Hemness Law Offices Of Emma Hemness, P.A.2008"1-5" Betty Huth and Ed Booth Huth & Booth - The Portrait Gallery"6-15" Frank Fiume i9Sports Corporation"16+" Ron and Jamie Seagren ServiceMaster 24 HourHome-Based Business Mary Owens and Lisa Huetteman Black Diamond Assoc., LLCMinority or Woman-Owned Rohini Rustogi The Brandon Montessori School2007"1-5" Jeff Sheffer I.T. Computer Solutions"6-15" Marie Gilmore Osprey Observer"16+" Jon and Lisa Yob Creative Recycling SystemsHome-Based Business Jake and Debbie Piascik Dream Limousine, LLCMinority or Woman-Owned Tim Kilpatrick Kid's Community College2006"1-5" Bobby Slate Mr. Electric of Tampa Bay, Inc."6-15" Anne Nymark Professional Accounting & Consulting Services"16+" James Young Golden Corral/Brass Bell CateringHome-Based Business Rich Carey Lionheart.netMinority or Woman-Owned Melissa Snively State Farm Insurance/ Melissa Snively2005"1-5" Tracy Halfman Drug Screen Solutions"6-15" Michael Wick Serenity Meadows Memorial Park

Funeral Home & Creamatory"16+" Heather Ochalek Music ShowcaseHome-Based Business Jana Broder Drum Magic

2004"1-5" Darren Denington Service With Style"6-15" Lela Lilyquist Nature's Health Foods, Inc."16+" J. Floyd Hall Sunshine State Fed. Sav & LoanHome-Based Business Chuck and Terri Long Ice-Pro Mechanical2003"1-5" Pat Magruder Magruder Agcy-Nationwide Ins."6-15" Ken and Susan Fearnow Fearnow Insurance, Inc."16+" Rufus Ashby Flooring AmericaHome-Based Business Carole Gill CRG Training & Consltg, Inc.2002"1-5" Dr. Tim Russin Tim Russins, DDS"6-15" Jack Ratcliffe Pro Golf Superstore"16+" Mathew Peeples Advanced MarketplaceHome-Based Business Chris Tucker AAA Apple Roof Cleaning2001"1-5" Doug Tibbits Premier Outdoor Lighting, Inc."6-15" Taffy Coleman Bloomingdale Travel"16+" Dr. John McCoy Hawthorn VillageHome-Based Business Tony and Fran Harring A Quick Sign2000"1-5" Bruce Waterman Bruce Waterman, DMD, P.A."6-15" Ron Glass and Barrett Smith Brandon Paint & Body, Inc."16+" David Combs David Andrew Hair SalonHome-Based Business Janet Costarell and Sharon Mulligan Welcome Newcomer, Inc.1999"1-5" Janine Nickerson Brandon-Valrico Journal"6-15" Sharon Kelly and Kelly Kenny Network Credit Services"16+" Wingfield Hughes Forrester Smith, Inc.Home-Based Business LeAnne Crabtree LeAnne's Old Fashioned Cookies1998"1-5" Jim and Sue Harbridge Mail Boxes, Etc."6-15" Gene Smith Brandon Business Machines"16+" Kevin Donofrio Athletic Club of AmericaHome-Based Business Bill Wimble Redstone Resources1997"1-15" Judy Gettle Deja'vu Laser Services"16-29" Dr. Sanford Schwartz & Dr. Craig Oldham Family Dentistry"30+" Michael T. McEnany McEnany Roofing, Inc1996"1-19" Amy Kowalski K2 Engineering, Inc."20-49" Paul Senory Sencommunications, Inc."50+" Paul Fournier ReMax Realty, Unlimited1995"1-10" Donald B. Pate Donald Pate & Associates"10 +" Dr. Richard Kane Care Animal Hospital1994 Sandy MacKinnon Yale Industrial Trucks1993 Marilyn Kitman Medical Billing Specialists1992 Vincent Ferraro Ferraro & Associates1991 John Lynch Flags Unlimited, Inc.1990 Clifton C. Curry Curry & Associates, P.A.1989 James Taylor Trennex Enterprises1988 Ed West Little Ceasers Pizza1987 Jack Bishop Bishop Insurance Agency1986 Bob Dykes Dykes, Johnson Architects1985 Dr.W.Edward Gonzales Pediatric Dental Care1984 Julian Craft Craft Equipment Co.1983 Phillip Reed Phil Reed Equipment

*merged with Bobcat of Central Florida

1982 Dick Stowers Stowers Funeral Home

Home-Based B&W PC Consultants - Bill ThomasImmaculate Janitorial Service, LLC - LaShunda & Jerald MangumYard Guards on Doody, LLC - Cheresee Rehart

Minority & Women Owned Campbell's Dairyland, Inc. - Jill & Jay Paules/ James & Leesa LeeLeonard's Academy of Dance & Centre for the Arts - Leonard MardisTutoring Club of Valrico - Susan Prestridge

1-5 Employees Community Insurance Group - Bill PuckettGreen Lizard Lawn Care, LLC - Nicole DavisHi Tech Automotive - Joe and Melissa Canfield

6-15 Employees Busciglio Orthodontics - Dr. Derek BusciglioPark Square Cellar - Shawn & Mary Sarkisian & Kevin FulcherValrico Animal Clinic - Dr. David Thomassy

16+ Employees Hess Orthodontics - Dr. Michael A. Hess, DMD, MSKnowledgePoints - Rod BurkhardtSuperior Residences of Brandon Memory Care - Jill Andrew


Won Best Dentistin Brandon

2010-2011!

- Tampa Tribune Reader’s Poll

small business of the year awards - special edition

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