WESTCHASE AREA
Vol. 3, Issue 1, January 2014
Neighborhood News & Lifestyles
®
Your neighborhood. Your magazine.
The Community & Local Business Magazine Directly Mailed To 16,000 Homes In Westchase & Surrounding Areas This Independent Community News, Business & Dining Guide Is Directly Mailed Once Each Month To: Arlington Park • Aston Villas • Bay Arbor • Berkeley Square • Calf Path Estates • Enclave At Citrus Park • Fawn Ridge Fawn Lake • Forest Lakes • Hampton Lakes • Highland Park • Lake Chase • Mandolin • The Eagles • Tree Tops Twin Branch Acres • Waterchase • West Hampton • Westchase • Westchester • Westwood Lakes • Windsor Place
Enjoy Delicious, Healthy, Internationally Inspired Cuisine at Fresh Bites in Westchase!
The Vegetarian Plate at Fresh Bites is a must try for anyone taking it easy on animal proteins!
Find your R.A.W. Ambition Today! By Marcy Sanford Since opening this summer, Real Athletics and Wellness has been the talk of the town. Local residents have been buzzing about the energetic trainers and teachers at this incredible new workout place, who have been giving them genuine encouragement and motivating them to get in shape. “Most of our members have come to us after hearing their friends talk about the classes and set-up here,” says Real Athletics and Wellness (R.A.W.) cofounder Jamil Thompson. “The classes that we have at R.A.W., combined with the nutritional information
we give our clients, help people get results. This is not a gym that you come to and get lost in, or don’t know what to do. We’re here for our members, providing motivation and creating a healthy community.” This brand new 5,000 square-foot facility, located minutes from Westchase at 13323 W. Hillsborough Avenue, has a custom made TRX suspension training area called “the Beast”, brand new equipment, including weights, kettle balls, and Bosu balls, and a cushioned floor, in addition to a turf covered floor for athletic training. “Much of our boot camp style work outs are centered See “Real Athletics” on page 20.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: A New Year. A New Beginning...3 Community Calendar............4 News Briefs........................4-5 Palm Harbor Dermatology...6-7 My Tampa Agent..............10-11 Clothes Mentor..............14-15 Our Community! Our Homes! Our Businesses!....................22-23
ECRWSS
Real Athletics and Wellness –
Postal Customer
See “Fresh Bites” on page 18.
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 1185
When you’re rushing home from work or from one after-school activity to the next, is it possible to get fresh, healthy, delicious food from a restaurant? Samir and Anissa Khalife used to face this same issue that many Westchase families struggle with every evening. Before opening Fresh Bites, the Khalifes found it difficult to find healthy food that they could quickly
pick up to feed their family. “We would be rushing around after work with our 4 children trying to figure out what we could feed them before they had to do homework or before soccer practice or other activities,” says Anissa “We’ve lived in Westchase for 13 years and especially in the beginning it was hard to find good, healthy, food for them. This, combined with
Dated Material Please Rush!
By Marcy Sanford
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Westchase Area Neighborhood News
From The Editor Alexis Selby
A New Year.
Directly mailed once a month to 16,000 households in zip codes 33626 & 34677
A Fresh Start. A New Beginning. For me, the beginning of the New Year signifies a time for hope, inspiring you to make changes or do things differently. It can be an exciting time, filled with enthusiasm and anticipation, as we think about our potential for the upcoming year. It is a time of reflection – honoring what has happened, what is currently happening, and what is yet to come. Celebrating milestones in our life such as the New Year allows us to contemplate our lives in a way we often don’t do. Constantly moving through life on autopilot, it is easy to get caught in the daily grind, dragging along week by week with our routines and schedules. The New Year is a break in this pattern. It is both an ending and a beginning. It is an opportunity to stop, reflect, and start again. As we move into this next chapter of life, it is important to think about what we accomplished in 2013. A lot can happen in the span of a year, and I'm sure for most of us 2013 was filled with many wonderful experiences, and
challenging ones as well. Take a moment to look back upon the beautiful memories you created this past year. I'm sure if you think about it, there were many. Too often, memories are forgotten and as we get caught up in our routines we lose sight of what is truly important to us and forget about just how lucky we are. Also – just as important – take some time to reflect on what didn't go so well, as it is only by acknowledging these hardships that we are able to let go of the past and move forward into the future. The challenges we have faced give us strength and courage, and in some way or another have helped shape us into who we are today. What is your favorite memory from 2013? I would love to hear about it! Please submit all entries, along with a picture of you and your family, by mail to the Neighborhood News, 220 S Safford Ave., Tarpon Springs, Fl 34689, email at Alexis@NeighborhoodNewsFl.com or by
Westchase Area Neighborhood News
Neighborhood News & Lifestyles 220 Safford Ave. S. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 Phone: (813) 928-6124; Fax: (727) 942-2432 Advertising E-mail: info@neighborhoodnewsfl.com Editorial E-mail: editorialdept@neighborhoodnewsfl.com © 2014 Westchase Neighborhood News is published by ADS 2 Publications, Inc. Publisher Tim Selby General Manager Matt Selby Advertising Sales Jim O’Reilly Linda Viega Mike Bird Accounting Manager Doreen Selby Billing Assistant Tina O’Reilly Marketing & Development Ashley Knoblach
Matt and Alexis Selby fax at (727) 942-2432. We will randomly select a few entries to be featured in our next month’s publication. As we look towards the future, embrace it with an open heart. Honor your past, cherish the beautiful memories, and be willing to let the challenging times go. In the words of Brad Paisley, “Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Write a good one!”
Editor Alexis Selby Correspondents Kim Thomas Julie Kanehl Katie Thomas
Marcy Sanford Lenay Ruhl Dara Tucker Erin Aldrich Art Director Tony Sica Graphic Artist Dat X. Do
Nothing that appears in Westchase Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Westchase Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The management of Westchase Neighborhood News is always happy to accept outside editorial submissions to the paper. Please call for outside editorial submission and advertisement deadlines. Westchase Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Westchase Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Westchase Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. Westchase Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Westchase Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, not for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. Westchase Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is published by ADS 2 Publications, Inc.
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Community Calendar Greek Children’s Fund 3rd Annual Golf Tournament The Greek Children’s Fund Invites you to Their 3rd Annual Golf Tournament, Dinner and Entertainment Fundraiser on Sunday, January 26 at the East Lake Woodlands – South Course, located at 1055 Eastlake Woodlands Pkwy in Oldsmar. This 18 HOLE/4 Person Scramble/Best Ball tournament is a great opportunity to have fun while helping an awesome organization. There will be a 1 p.m. shot gun start. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. Every player is a WINNER!!!!! There will be Free driving range practice/golf balls before tee off. Golf Goodie Bag sponsorship opportunities are available – Contact Mary Ann Saravanos at (727) 992-1003. Awards will be given to Top Three Teams. There
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will also be contests for Longest Drive, a Putting Contest, Closest to the Pin as well as a Hole in one Prize. Cost for the tournament is $100 per golfer. If you are not a golfer and would like to join just for the dinner and entertainment the cost is only $35 per person at the same location at 5:30 p.m. Please pay for dinner prior to the event, on or before January 20. The Greek Children’s Fund 3rd Annual Golf Tournament will be held at East Lake Woodlands – South Course, located at 1055 Eastlake Woodlands Pkwy in Oldsmar, on Sunday January 26 from 11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. For more information or to register please call Mary Ann Saravanos at (727-992-1003) or email her at saravan@tampabay.rr.com.
Community News Briefs Tampa’s Kristen Anne Flores Chosen for Congress of Future Medical Leaders in Washington, DC Kristen Anne Flores, a Sophomore at Citrus Park Christian School of Tampa has been nominated to attend the Congress of Future Medical Leaders in Washington, DC on February 14-16, 2014. The Congress is an honors-only program for high school students who want to become physicians or go into medical research fields. The purpose of this event is to honor, inspire, motivate and direct the top students in the country who aspire to be physicians or medical scientists, to stay true to their dream and, after the event, to provide a path, plan and resources to help them reach their goal. Kristen Anne Flores was nominated by Dr. Connie Mariano, the Medical Director of the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists to represent Florida based on her academic achievement, leadership potential and determination to serve humanity in the field of medicine. During the three-day Congress, Kristen Anne Flores will join students
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from across the country and hear Nobel Laureates and National Medal of Science Winners talk about leading medical research; be given advice Kristen Anne Flores from Ivy League and top medical school deans on what is to expect in medical school; witness stories told by patients who are living medical miracles; be inspired by fellow teen medical science prodigies; and learn about cutting-edge advances and the future in medicine and medical technology. “This is a crucial time in America when we need more doctors and medical scientists who are even better prepared for a future that is changing exponentially,” said Richard Rossi, Executive Director, National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists. “Focused, bright and determined students like Kristen Anne Flores are our future and she deserves all the mentoring and guidance we can give her.”
Westchase Area Neighborhood News
The Academy offers free services and programs to students who want to be physicians or go into medical science. Some of the services and programs the Academy plans to launch in 2013 and 2014 are online social networks through which future doctors and medical scientists can communicate; opportunities for students to be guided and mentored by physicians and medical students; and communications for parents and students on college acceptance and finances, skills acquisition, internships, career guidance and much more. The National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists was founded on the belief that we must identify prospective medical talent at the earliest possible age and help these students acquire the necessary experience and skills to take them to the doorstep of this vital career. Based in Washington, D.C., the Academy was chartered as a nonpartisan, taxpaying institution to help address this crisis by
working to identify, encourage and mentor students who wish to devote their lives to the service of humanity as physicians, medical scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians.
Playtime Learning Academy Hosts “Around the World” From Antarctica to North America to Asia, on December 19, students at Playtime Learning Academy got the chance to travel the world. Hosting an “Around the World” celebration of holiday culture, each classroom at the
Westchase Area Neighborhood News
academy was transformed into one of the seven continents and were opened up for families to tour with their children. The atmosphere was festive, with a great selection of food, music and culture, accompanied by beautiful decorations and cultural displays, handmade by the students throughout the month of December. Each of the children were given a passport that was stamped in each continent they visited to help doc-
ument their wonderful journey. Playtime Learning Academy, located at 4701 Ehrlich Road in Carrollwood, has an accredited preschool program with full time and part time students. For younger children the Academy also offers both full time and daily rates. For more information please visit their website at www.PlaytimeLearningAcademy.com or become a Facebook fan.
How To Shape A Child’s Behavior By Shambray Levy Director of Citrus Park Children’s Learning Academy Children are growing personalities who benefit from strong role models. As a parent or caregiver you need to be cognizant of a child’s various temperaments. For a small child, there are often moments of intense negative emotions that when handled as a teachable moment can be transformed into a lesson for character growth. Some children can move from one emotional situation to another with ease and respond appropriately, while others need some guidance. Areas that help to shape a
child’s personality for the better include teaching a child how to forgive, share, and let go of anger so that they can move on and not dwell in negativity. Trying to refocus a child in the midst of an interchange may not be as appropriate as waiting until the incident has passed to discuss what transpired and the benefits of an alternative approach. For instance, you might discuss with your child that rather than having a temper tantrum there are more positive strategies for getting their needs addressed such as asking, waiting, or letting it go. Parents and caregivers need to teach children how to express their strong reactions in a socially appropriate way.
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Palm Harbor Dermatology Welcomes You to Visit Their Northwest Tampa Cancer & Laser Institute By: Katie Thomas Palm Harbor Dermatology, a thriving medical practice with offices in Palm Harbor and Brandon has recently opened a 4,140 square foot building on Sheldon Road in Westchase to better accommodate patients. Originally opening five years ago in Palm Harbor, since then Palm Harbor Dermatology has experienced a wonderful response from the community. The quality and experience of its doctors and staff has put Palm Harbor Dermatology in the forefront of skin cancer surgery, cosmetic enhancements and complete skin care, and as a premier provider of Mohs Micrographic Surgery, skin care solutions, routine skin checks, specialized treatments and surgical procedures, Palm Harbor Dermatology is leading the way for the future of skincare! Palm Harbor Dermatology’s physicians are board-certified and fellowshiptrained experts in the care and treatment of skin conditions, including skin cancer. President of Palm Harbor Dermatology, Amy S. Ross, MD, is one
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of only nine-fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons (and the only female of the nine) in the Tampa Bay area, according to the American College of Mohs Surgeons. Dr. Ross’ outstanding attention to detail and passionate drive to deliver superior service to all customers has enabled her to compose her practice with a phenomenal team of professionals, dedicated to enhancing the lives of each individual patient. Dr. Ross says, “We adhere to our mission statement and plan to keep the same foundations and beliefs we have built our practice on. Keeping our core values are important during our time of growth, we want our patients to know that we are consistent and precise at each practice.”
The mission of Palm Harbor Dermatology: 1. The patient comes first and will be treated just as we wish to be treated when we are patients. 2. Our patients receive the right procedures, treatments and routine skin care, supported by science and experi-
ence and only when their circumstances requires it. 3. The physicians and staff across multiple sites of Palm Harbor Dermatology are a team, joined together by commitment to our mission and values, as well as the respect, integrity and concern we demonstrate for each other.
7. Palm Harbor Dermatology is a place to grow, personally and professionally. Take advantage of both. We are no better than the weakest link.
4. Each of us is a steward of Palm Harbor Dermatology. No work is too menial. What needs to be done is the task of all Palm Harbor Dermatology physicians and staff alike. 5. We will never knowingly violate an ethical, legal or regulatory proscription. 6. Palm Harbor Dermatology is a learning organization. Without continuous learning by each physician and staff, Palm Harbor Dermatology falls behind and fails in its mission,
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Palm Harbor Dermatology physicians are members of numerous organizations, including the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Academy of Dermatology, American Board of Dermatology, American College of Mohs Surgery, and the American Society of Dermatopathology. Both highly accredited and committed
Westchase Area Neighborhood News
of the American College of Mohs Surgery, the most selective organization of skin cancers surgeons, doctors must complete at least a year of advanced fellowship training beyond their dermatology residency. Both the Palm Harbor and Brandon locations have Mohs surgery centers and Westchase will be adding theirs in a few months.
Medical Skin Care Services and Cosmetics- Look and feel your best, brightest self!
to excellence, Palm Harbor Dermatology is a one-stop shop for all your dermatological needs.
Palm Harbor Dermatology’s Mohs Surgery Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a specialized procedure for the removal of skin cancer. Named after Frederick Mohs, this specialized surgery focuses on finding and removing the root of the cancer, while preserving as much of the surrounding normal tissue as possible, offering less damage and faster healing. Mohs surgeons are specialists in dermatology, pathology and reconstruction. In order to become a Fellow
All three of Palm Harbor Dermatology’s skin care centers offer dermatological needs for patients, including the treatment of acne, psoriasis, hyper pigmentation, eczema, rosacia and full skin cancer screenings. In order to provide the best treatment and services, Palm Harbor Dermatology educates patients in skin health and treatment options. You do have options and Palm Harbor Dermatology will talk you through steps in treating any skin conditions you may have! Along with treatments that work to clear your skin of marks, itchiness or unwanted blemishes, Palm Harbor Dermatology offers an extensive list of services to patients interested in cosmetic enhancements. Enhance your natural beauty and aesthetic look with the help of their wonderful physicians, who will
Westchase Area Neighborhood News
address your concerns and design a custom plan, utilizing the latest in non-surgical procedures. From injectables to hair removal and laser treatments, you will enjoy the professional, world-class services at Palm Harbor Dermatology. The Retreat MedSpa at Palm Harbor Dermatology offers patients personalized treatment plans for those looking for more from their skin care providers. Rejuvenating facials, micro-dermabrasion, massages and more are all offered in a tranquil environment – made to soothe your soul, while pampering your body. Immerse yourself in complete relaxation at The Retreat and allow one of the wonderful estheticians and therapists to customize a treatment for you with the finest ingredients to protect your complexion’s natural beauty!
New Westchase Center! Dr. Ross and the Palm Harbor Dermatology team are very excited to be expanding into Westchase and invite the community to come check out the services provided. Dr. Ross and Dr. Careccia have made certain that Westchase is in sync with the Brandon and Palm Harbor locations, so patients never have to worry about receiving a different type of service. Westchase will be offering complete dermatological services, as well as tattoo removal, Mi-
radry for hyperhydrosis, medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, surgical dermatology and The Retreat spa! Dr. Ross plans on continuing her work in each practice, as well as overseeing the growth and expansion of the new Westchase location. Dr. Ross says, “The whole idea is to provide a one stop shop for skin care. We take care of all generations and ages.” Whether your four year old needs treatment for a wart, your teen needs an acne solution, your father needs a skin cancer removed, or you are just looking for an opportunity to rejuvenate and freshen your own, Palm Harbor Dermatology offers the best of all dermatology treatments. Palm Harbor Dermatology has 3 convenient locations to better serve you: Westchase – 11601 Sheldon Road, (855) 743-4968 Palm Harbor – 4197 Woodlands Parkway, (727) 786-3810 Brandon – 621 Medical Care Drive, (813) 657-3330 Hours are Mon – Fri. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. for all locations (select earlier and later appointments are available). Patients are seen by appointment only. For more information or to book an appointment please call (855) 743-4968, (855) PHD4YOU, or visit their website at www.PalmHarborDermatology.com.
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Westchase Area Neighborhood News
Westchase Area Neighborhood News
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Anthony Malafronte and Gregory Silvestro – Experience you can Count on, Service you can Trust! As the leaders of the My Tampa Agent @ Coldwell Banker team, Anthony Malafronte and Gregory Silvestro consider themselves to be very lucky. They take such pride and joy in their jobs that it can barely be considered “work.” How do they do it? Quite simply, they make the home buying and selling experience an enjoyable one. Malafronte says, “The main thing I want to get across is that our job is FUN. Buying real estate can be FUN. Yes, it can be fraught with stress, but it’s our job to handle the logistics, the contracts, the process. If we can lighten that load or eliminate that strain for our clients, we do that.” Professionalism, patience, and the ability to communicate are always at the forefront of any thriving business. In real estate, listening takes an even bigger seat. Asking the right questions to better achieve a true understanding of a client’s wants and needs is paramount to the team’s success. “We set reasonable expectations and are genuine with our quality of service,” says
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Silvestro. “One of us is always available and on call; we establish a level of trust and you are guaranteed two points of view on each and every home purchase or sale.”
“There is nothing better than the feeling of sitting across the table as a deal comes to fruition for a client and to experience the happiness they feel – that’s real estate; it goes far beyond the sale.” On the listing side, homes are aggressively marketed, getting each property the needed exposure to help find the perfect buyer promptly. “In today’s world, sure, it’s easy to get pictures taken and market a property online and off,” says Malafronte. “But it's about the skill, the resources put into marketing a property, putting in the work to have it ready to get a
buyer’s attention, right from the beginning. You only get one chance to make a first impression. It’s not just people; it’s houses. We put in the work to get it right the first time.” The team has recently added five buyer’s agents, to provide better service for both types of clients. Malafronte can now focus his energy on the listing side of the business, while any new buyer gets concierge treatment from their own dedicated specialist. Both longtime Tampa-area residents, Malafronte and Silvestro know the area well –but more importantly, they’re invested in it. The team actively supports the One Voice Foundation, Quantum Leap Farm, Big Cat Rescue, and other local organizations. The members of the My Tampa Agent team care about their neighbors; they care about their neighborhoods; they care about Tampa Bay. They make contributions quarterly, on behalf of the team’s clients. “It’s good that we
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can do this and involve our clients. If we’re just a small part in connecting good people with great organizations, I’m happy, our community benefits.” says Malafronte.
Testimonials Dr. David Palmer recently presented My Tampa Agent with a rather urgent case – he needed a house, as he put it, “yesterday”. He also needed to sell his existing home. So, the team leapt into action, taking the Palmer family's needs into account, and they were able to navigate the deal in a matter of days. In only four total showings, a new home was found and
Westchase Area Neighborhood News
the deal was sealed for Dr. Palmer and his wife, Linda. According to Dr. Palmer, “If you want someone that knows Tampa real estate, Anthony is your guy. Anthony has been an advisor, counselor, friend and confidant – many roles he was not expected to be but willingly fulfilled.” Major Ryan Hall and his wife, Erica, relocated to Tampa through the military. The couple and their family had a limited amount of time to view, select, and move to a new home, but this did not present a problem. Major Hall says, “The biggest thing was the services that were not typical and kind of unexpected, like picking my family and me up from the airport and showing us home options daily – they didn’t have to do those things, but went above and beyond to make myself and my family comfortable with moving to a new place and finding the home that was right for us." Since working with the My Tampa Agent team in 2012, Eddie Wilson highly recommends their services, saying, “Gregory and Anthony helped me find my first home. Naturally, I had several questions and concerns throughout the process. They were both responsive and knowledge-
able. I never thought that buying a home would be so easy and I will definitely work with them again in the future.” Someone already took Eddie’s recommendation – his mother recently purchased a home with the help of My Tampa Agent. Find more reviews like the ones below at Zillow.com: “The My Tampa Agent Team are among the best in the business. (Anthony) maintains a professional yet friendly atmosphere while helping clients like us navigate through this new style of real estate market. From our perspective, we are picky when it comes to choosing a place to live and somewhat demanding when it comes to the customer service aspect of the business. He was patient and considerate as well as a very good advisor on the aspects of buying in Tampa. His advice was truly about what was in our best interests and not his own.” “Anthony Malafronte delivers everything a realtor should to a buyer/seller and more. He helped my family move to the Tampa area and really educated us about the city and the surrounding community. He took time to really understand what we
Westchase Area Neighborhood News
were looking for in a home and community. He was very easy to communicate with and overly responsive. There was never a time when I called him that I did not hear back right away, no matter what the question or request. Anthony is just a quality person, I am glad I met him and worked with him on my home and I will work with him again! I would highly recommend Anthony to anyone looking to buy or sell a home.” Want to know your home’s value? Visit TampaHomeValue.net and the team will send you a free report. Searching for a home? Visit the new mobile-friendly MyTampaAgent.com to search for homes in Westchase and all across Tampa Bay. They have two convenient locations to serve all your needs: Carrollwood Office: 14502 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33618 Westchase Office : 9632 Linebaugh Ave. Tampa, FL 33626. For more information please call Anthony at (813) 390-1424 or Gregory at (813) 263-8723.
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Anthony Malafronte
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Westchase Area Neighborhood News
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This New Year Be Fabulous Yet Frugal by Shopping at Clothes Mentor! By Julie Kanehl Ladies, if you’re like me, and you want to have all of the latest brands and dip a toe into all of the latest trends, but don’t want to spend the money, then you’ve got to start shopping at Clothes Mentor in Palm Harbor. Located in the Fountains Plaza at 34888 US Hwy 19 N, right behind The Wing House, Clothes Mentor is a fashionista’s best-kept secret. At Clothes Mentor you can get all of the brands you love for less than even the discount stores! Owned by husband and wife team Dick and Kathleen Murdock, the Clothes Mentor in Palm Harbor has seen a successful launch since they opened their doors in 2011. The Palm Harbor location is just one of 98 retail locations within 25 states. It is also one of the fastest growing stores in the country and it’s not hard to see why. When you step foot into the beautifully merchandised store, you’ll think
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you’ve just stepped into a high-end women’s boutique! Well, you have! Everything in the store is recent merchandise from some of the hottest brands on the market, from White House Black Market, BCBG and Ann Taylor to Michael Kors, Steve Madden, Coach, Brighton and more. Whether you’re looking for an LBD (little black dress) to wow them at your next party, or you want to rock the hottest jeans on the market, a girl can get an entire wardrobe of all of the hottest clothes at a fraction of the cost by shopping at Clothes Mentor. Women come from all over the Tampa Bay Area not just for designer goods, but Clothes Mentor has all the popular brands together under one roof including favorites like the Gap, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor Loft, Old Navy, Express, Nine West, Vera Bradley, NY&CO, Chicos, Talbots and lesser known brands. It’s an exceptional assortment of choices not only of clothing but jewelry, shoes and accessories. They come to purchase
the brands they love at reduced prices, sell their own items, and see the constantly changing inventory that makes Clothes Mentor so unique. Dick says, “Clothes Mentor is retail therapy that women can afford. We offer a great selection for women size 0 to 3X. We have over 15,000 items in stock, and today we have 170 designer purses available to our customers.” Dora, a customer who comes all the way from Tampa on a regular basis to shop, says, “I have been coming here regularly since the beginning of the summer because I love the boutique atmosphere and the attention that they give you. They have a lot of high-end items here that I love, and you cannot beat the prices.” I Received Cash on the Spot! While you can come to shop, come to sell or come to do both, the truth is, Clothes Mentor is the affordable designer boutique that it is be-
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cause they only accept the finest merchandise. Unlike traditional consignment shops, Clothes Mentor will only take in freshly laundered, very gently worn merchandise of all popular brands and designers. They don’t just take any old thing, which is good because that’s what keeps this store hopping with customers who can’t believe how they found a Calvin Klein sweater that still had its original tags on it for around $20, or a pair of brand name, kneehigh leather boots for half the price as the store down the street. It’s good that they are picky! It’s what makes the store such a fabulous place to shop! Kathleen says, “There are thou-
Westchase Area Neighborhood News
sands of items in our store that still have their original tags on them! That makes a great deal for you, and these items make great gifts for others as well!” Another thing that makes Clothes Mentor so special is that they pay cash on the spot for the things that you probably still have hanging around in your closet. You know, those shoes that you thought you’d wear but never did, or the purse that you wore for a week before you went back to your old standby? How about the designer bag that your mother-in-law bought you? Gorgeous, but not for you? This is the place to turn the items from your closet that you’re not wear-
ing, into the items that you’ve been longing for. When I came into Clothes Mentor, I brought three bags of goodies from my closet. I brought mostly old purses and jackets from major brands. While I looked around the store and marveled at their selection of shoes, eveningwear, jeans and handbags, they inspected and input my items into their database. Clothes Mentor’s database can tell them how old an item actually is and what it’s worth, which takes all of the guesswork out of the equation! In fact, after just a few minutes they may know more about your clothing than you do! Did you know that designer labels change every few years, or even months? Some brands actually date stamp them! That’s just one of the ways that Clothes Mentor keeps their inventory fresh and at the top of its game. While I shopped I was impressed to find that each item that I saw in their store looked brand new and, honestly, didn’t look like consignment clothing. While I was shopping I found an amazing new name-brand jacket and a large Steve Madden bag that still had its original paper stuffing
and included its protective dustcover. I was really impressed with the prices, and while I shopped I saw brands items by all of my personal favorite brands, like Coach, Born, Cache and Lucky Brand. After a few minutes, my name was on the board, which signaled that they were ready to discuss the items that I had brought in for consignment, and were ready to pay me cash on the spot! When all was said and done, I found that while Clothes Mentor took a small portion of my items, they paid very well for them! Their system insures that the items in their store are truly the highest quality. I was completely pleased with my experience, and in the end, I walked out with a brand new jacket and a new handbag that I could be proud of-paying only a dollar difference for what I brought in for trade. You can’t beat that! And, if they don’t accept your items for resale, they will donate them for you to one of the women’s charities they support. Clothes Mentor purchases 1,500 items of merchandise a week from women like you and me, and the new inventory is placed on the floor immediately, which makes for a lot of variety! Some customers come in every day or two to see what’s changed!
Kathleen says, “We follow a strict authentication guideline within our company, so our customers can feel comfortable buying designer labels from us like Louis Vuitton, Coach, B. Makowsky, Prada, Dolche Gabbana, Chanel, Gucci, Dooney Bourke and others.” Stay tuned to Clothes Mentor’s facebook page for all of the latest deals and specials, including their Hump Day Deals, their clearance schedule and many fun educational workshops that help women find their personal style! Whether you’re looking to make a few bucks on the items that aren’t being worn in your closet, or you’re looking for a wonderful deal on the brands you love, put Clothes Mentor on your shopping list this year and look fabulous for less! Clothes Mentor is located at 34888 U.S. 19 N in Palm Harbor, Florida. They are open Mon. – Fri., 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sat. from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and noon – 5 p.m. on Sun. For more information on Clothes Mentor, call 727-2166101, visit their website at www.clothesmentor.com or find them on facebook.
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Westchase Area Neighborhood News
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JANUARY 2014
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“Fresh Bites” Continued from page 1 their love of cooking for friends and family led them to open their restaurant Fresh Bites, located at 11665 Countryway Boulevard. “On week nights, the majority of our business is families picking up food to take home,” says Samir. Customer Brenda says, “I have known this family for 9 years, and they are such a wonderful family! They are always very kind and open-minded and have a big heart and love for everyone! They really care about people and it shows in their service and preparation of food. Their food is made fresh to order with a lot of love, and the taste is awesome!” “We spent almost a year planning our restaurant,” says Samir. “While we were deciding on the menu, we knew we wanted to focus on all natural Mediterranean cuisine. During this time, I also talked to a friend of mine who is a doctor who told me about the Maximized Living plan and so we decided to offer meals that fit into that plan. Everything on our menu is made fresh daily and is non-processed. We don’t have a single can opener in our restaurant. We buy local produce
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Fresh Bites has so many authentic, delicious Mediterranean dishes made with all-natural, fresh ingredients. and use organic items whenever possible. The meat and chicken we serve are free of antibiotics and hormones. Our goal is to serve healthy, delicious food at a reasonable price.” Fresh Bites also recently got their liquor license and is now serving organic beer and wine, including some great Lebanese selections. The minute you walk through the door at Fresh Bites, you feel welcome and comfortable. Samir and Anissa and the rest of their family are so friendly and inviting that you feel like you’ve instantly become part of the family. On top of that, their food is ex-
cellent. On our last visit, everything my family and I ate at Fresh Bites was absolutely delicious – from their hummus and baba ghanouj, which is made fresh daily, to their moist and delectable namoura, turmeric cake, and baklava that ended our meal with a sweet finish. In fact, the desserts at Fresh Bites are so popular that Anissa posts what’s available each day on their Facebook page. In addition to the tasty hummus and baba ghanouj, we had yummy, tangy grape leaves, and mouth-watering fattoush. This scrumptious salad of vegetables and greens, accompanied by
roasted pita bread with a special house dressing, was enough for several people to share and will spoil you from eating other salads. We also had the scrumptious beef shawarma, roasted Niman Ranch beef marinated in a special blend of house herbs and spices, and their crispy, flavorful falafel (one of only two fried items on the menu). The falafel was perfectly seasoned and fabulous, especially when dipped in the accompanying tahini sauce. Fresh Bites has so many authentic, delicious Mediterranean dishes, you’ll have a hard time choosing. The mudardara, a scrumptious blend of
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lentils, rice, cumin, and other spices, is both delicious and nutritious and is a great example of one of the best things about Fresh Bites – no matter what you decide to eat it is going to taste good and be good for you. “I do not make anything I would not want to eat myself,” says Samir. Known for its culinary expertise, with all natural ingredients and internationally inspired dishes, Fresh Bites has definitely developed a devoted following in the year that it has been open. Whether it's a power-lunch for ten, a wedding party, or a low-key family meal, Fresh Bites offers the perfect Mediterranean experience that makes any occasion unforgettable! Anissa says, “We have groups who come in each week to get together for lunch or dinner. We’ve really enjoyed getting to know our regular customers. Many are on special diets or have food allergies and we are always happy to accommodate them and do
whatever we can to create a delicious meal they will enjoy.” Fresh Bites even has a devoted following for their drinks, including their green coffee drink, which is reputed to help you lose weight. She adds, “We have many people who bring in empty jugs for me to fill up each week.” “I Just had a business lunch here today,” says customer Kathy. “The food is phenomenal; the green coffee – WOW! Fresh Bites lives up to its name and promise. This will be where I take clients from now on. Seriously, the food is beyond right. It's completely perfect.” Fresh Bites is located at 11665 Countryway Boulevard. They are open Mon. –Thurs. 11:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m., and Sat. 12:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. For more information call (813) 336-4936, visit their web page www.FreshBites.org or their Facebook page.
Westchase Area Neighborhood News For Ad Info Call (813) 928-6124 or Visit NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JANUARY 2014
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“Real Athletics” Continued from page 1 around the core,” says Jamil. “It is functional training to make your body stronger.” R.A.W. offers a Results Boot Camp and Yoga classes for adults and R.A.W. Athletic classes for children aged 6-to-10. Jamil says, “This summer we offered a sports camp. It was so successful that we decided to have a class every day for children. We concentrate on speed, agility, and quickness in a friendly, supportive atmosphere. We also have a boot camp class for adults at the same time so parents can work out while their children are training. We’ve started to have many families sign up who are all working out at the same time which is a great.” “Jamil is honestly an incredible personal trainer,” says client Stephanie. “His drive and passion for all aspects of health and fitness is inspiring. My son, Chase has been training with Jamil for the last seven months and what a difference it has made. He has completely ignited a passion for fitness and also healthy living. Chase’s main goal was strength and core building for wrestling. Jamil has exceeded that goal and much more throughout this
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process. I would highly recommend Jamil to anyone looking to improve his or her health and life. Thanks for helping Chase get this far.” Jamil’s passion for fitness started at the University of Rochester, where he was actively involved in football, basketball, and track, and over the years has earned numerous personal training and nutrition certifications. Jamil says, “I believe that fitness is not only about training your body to look and feel fit, but it is also important to be fit from the inside out with proper nutrition and supplementation.” Co-founder Michele Elia worked with Jamil for several years before they decided to open R.A.W. Michele says, “When I was going to other gyms, I would see many people get frustrated and give up because they did now know how to use the machines or what to do to get a good workout and they didn’t receive any help from the staff. Jamil is a great trainer because he shows you how to get a full body workout with minimal equipment and combines strength training, cardio, stability, flexibility and core work. The members who come to our classes get a great work out. I also love the fact that we have a gym where the whole family can work out together and children can be active.”
Jamil and Michele want to make sure that R.A.W. is a place where everyone feels welcome and get the motivation and instruction they need to lead a healthier lifestyle. They routinely hold contests to get members motivated and have had several potluck style workouts and social gatherings so all the members can get to know each other. “When you know the people in your class, you know someone else is holding you accountable for showing up,” says Jamil. “With the sense of community we have developed, it isn’t just me encouraging people during a work out but everyone there is encouraging and pushing each other to do their best.” Jamil, who has trained many professional athletes, including professional boxer Antonio Tarver, offers private and semi-private personal training sessions, as well as group classes. In addition to a customized workout, people in the personal training classes receive a diet plan to help them reach their goals. Jamil adds, “People get personal training for all different reasons. They may have a specific athletic goal they want to reach but I also have clients who have injuries they are trying to recover from. I also work with a lot of older clients who need a work-out designed specifically for them.” Jamil uses his knowledge and ex-
Real Athletics and Wellness co-founder Jamil Thompson pertise as a personal trainer to create boot camp classes that tone and improve your entire body. “I make sure that I rotate exercises in the class so that every muscle is worked out throughout the week,” says Jamil. “I also want people to come to class and be challenged each time they are here.” Once you are a member of R.A.W. you can come to as many of the classes during the week as you want. Classes are limited to 20 people per class so everyone can get personal attention and direction from Jamil but
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members can conveniently register for class online through R.A.W.’s web site. R.A.W. also recently started providing corporate wellness programs. “In our corporate wellness program, I will give a seminar on a topic of interest to the employees: nutrition, detox, general wellness and then lead them in a workout,” says Jamil. “This is a great way for a company to really take great care of employees.” “I have been working with Jamil Thompson as my personal trainer for almost two years,” says client Chris. “Prior to that I had another trainer. Jamil’s level of knowledge is much greater in all areas of fitness and healthy eating. Through Jamil’s guidance I have focused much more on my diet, and have lost almost
30 pounds. Heart disease runs in my family and I want to take care of myself so I don’t end up with the need for a bypass, or worse. I am in the best shape that I have been in since I was a teenager, and I am almost 40 years ago.” If you’re ready to get in shape, Jamil and Michele encourage you to come try out a class for free. R.A.W. is conveniently located at 13323 West Hillsborough Avenue, Suite 101, in the United Business Park behind NAPA Auto Parts. Look for the R.A.W. logo by the American flag. For a full schedule of classes visit www.Raw-Tampa.com. For more information please call (813) 701-2641.
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JANUARY 2014
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Our Community! Our Home! Our Businesses! By Matthew Selby Our magazine has been promoting shopping local long before it was the cool thing to do; before "Small business Saturday" – which American Express promotes like crazy for one day per year. In fact, it's been everyday since 1994 when my Dad Tim Selby and his former brother in-law Gary purchased an 11month old publication, consisting mostly of articles about national news, on whitewoven paper and turned it into the original "New Tampa Neighborhood News." People learn enough about what is going on in the Nation by turning on the TV. But what is going on in our hometown? Where do we find out about that? Taking this into account, the theme of the magazine was changed. Immediately tossing the canned information out the window, Tim and Gary focused their attention on what was going on in the local community. Twenty years later, Gary still has the New Tampa Neighborhood News, as well as another in Wesley Chapel, and my parents Tim and Doreen Selby, who have since parted ways with Gary, expanded into Trinity, East Lake, Odessa/Lutz/Land O' Lakes and Westchase, reaching over 70,000 mailboxes monthly. In 2013, my wife Alexis
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and I expanded the Neighborhood News and Lifestyles into the Carrollwood area, extending the reach of the Neighborhood News name to another 14,000 homes and businesses. We hope you've enjoyed reading about what is going on here in Westchase over the past couple of years and have had a chance to frequent the local businesses we help promote. We really want to thank all of you who have supported small businesses in 2013 and we hope you will continue to support them in 2014. It makes all the difference in the world to this community. By shopping at small businesses it keeps almost 75% of the money right here in our own economy. If we want Westchase and surrounding Tampa Bay areas to thrive it's our responsibility to support our neighbors. The following are just a few things some local business owners had to say about their experience with us this past year. "We started running out of food at 10 in the morning,” says Bruce from Hattie's Cafe and Beanery. “We've never seen such a rush! We've been in the Tampa Tribune and that got us a little bump, we had a 2 and 1/2 minute spotlight on Fox News, that barely got us anything. In my 50 years plus of being in this industry I’ve never felt such a push from local advertising in my life! People
come in here and tell me why they came in and they say they came in because they saw us in "their" Neighborhood News magazine. They know it's about their community and they love it!" "Everything about the magazine, I absolutely love! It actually brought me around 200 new customers after the article came out!" - Angel from New Beijing Lea from Great Clips says, "This publication is so great for our community businesses and has certainly been outstanding for mine. I have advertised for the past several months in the magazine with great results. Alexis did a front-page article on my Great Clips salon at Fletcher and Dale Mabry in the November issue of their Carrollwood magazine. The feedback we received was amazing! Friends, neighbors and customers get this magazine and mentioned it to me and to our staff as well. I would highly recommend putting an ad in the Neighborhood News & Lifestyles magazine. These ads are reasonably priced and provide great exposure for your local business. And, Alexis and Matt are terrific to work with." Robert from Twinz Big City Hotdogs says, "Not only did we have our best Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday ever since being open, but we had our best days by at least 30%. I admit I was
skeptical at first, but I am a true believer in what you guys can do now. By far the best thing we've ever done! We got to meet so many great people in this community that came in directly because of what you wrote about us and people were telling us they would be back before they even tried the food. They were so sure they were going to love it based off what you wrote about us. After tasting the food, people were telling us it's the best burger or the best hot dog or the best wings they have ever had and they didn't even know we were here! Thank you! Hearing these kind of success stories gives me chills because I'm a small business owner too; we are not owned by some huge corporate media conglomerate. My wife and I are locals who know this area – who love this area – and we know how much work goes into making a business successful. You have to believe in what you are doing; you have to live it and you have to love it. People can tell which businesses operate simply to make a buck and which truly have a passion for what they offer. The business owner who understands that it's his or her name on the line and their reputation is all they have – that's who we strive to promote. The small business owner that just needs people to know his story to be successful!
For Ad Info Call (813) 928-6124 or Visit NeighborhoodNewsFL.com Westchase Area Neighborhood News
Westchase Area Neighborhood News For Ad Info Call (813) 928-6124 or Visit NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JANUARY 2014
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For Ad Info Call (813) 928-6124 or Visit NeighborhoodNewsFL.com Westchase Area Neighborhood News