Your neighborhood. Your magazine.
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Vol. 4, Issue 2, Feb. 2016
The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine Directly Mailed To 15,000 Homes In Carrollwood, Lake Magdalene & Avila
Cigar City Brewpub is Much More than Beer
Shrimp Grits a customer favorite at Cigar City Photos by MikeBird.US
by Deborah Bostock-Kelley If you think Cigar City Brewpub is filled with pretentious old men puffing on smelly cigars while enjoying craft beer and edible masterpieces, you’d be half right. There are no cigars sold at Cigar City; the name pays homage to Tampa history, to the men and women who worked in its local cigar factories – and the beer is renowned and the food is an incredible work of art. Created by Chef Gerry Malymowski and often incorporating the varieties of house-made craft beers, the menu is an unexpected pleasure in the eclectic gastro pub at 15491 N Dale Mabry Highway. See “Cigar City” on page 28.
Alvarez Audiology and Hearing – Take Control of Your Hearing Health! By Alexis Selby Directly affecting your personal relationships, quality of life, and even your ability to go about a normal day, hearing is an important part of life and is something people often take for granted – that is, until they experience hearing loss. At Alvarez Audiology and Hearing in Citrus Park they know how important it is to not only address hearing loss, but to be proac-
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Remembering our Friend Bruce Boore......................3 Community Calendar/ News Briefs..................4-5 Tropical Smoothie Café.....................................8-9 Charitable Benefit for St. Peter Claver................15 Divine Connections Massage & Spa...............16-17 PostNet Neighborhood Business Center.............20 JCC North Campus Events................................26
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 1185
Tampa Teens Organize Charity Art Showcase.....18
tive about the health of your hearing in order to help prevent hearing loss, and their dedicated team of trained professionals go above and beyond to help you take full control of your hearing health! “At Alvarez Audiology we help people live better lives,” says Indira Alvarez, Au.D., CCC-A, owner of Alvarez Audiology. James C. from Odessa writes, “I believe that my purchase of Hearing Aids from Alvarez Audiology has im-
proved my quality of life tremendously. I am an investigator for the State. Hearing the little details can make or break a case. My new Hearing Aids have been a miracle. In addition to voice, I have been able to hear buzzers on appliances, alert buzzers in my car and other things that I could not hear before. Last week I was at an awards ceremony and was sitting at a table in the back of a meeting room See “Audiology” on page 24.
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Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle
From The Publisher Matt Selby
Remembering our Friend Bruce Boore of Hattie’s Cafe and Beanery This isn’t an easy editorial piece. The community has lost a great man, and like so many of you whose lives Bruce has impacted, we’ve lost a friend. Not long after hearing about Hattie’s Cafe and Beanery closing its doors due to Bruce’s medical issues, Bruce Boore tragically passed away after a long, hard fight. Bruce had been battling Crohn’s disease, and over the years I’ve known him there were a few times flare ups sidelined him for a short time; but he would always be back to work not long after with a big smile on his face as if nothing was wrong. He never let anyone know how bad it really was because he wasn’t the type of guy that needed anyone to feel sorry for him. When we heard Hattie’s was shutting down due to Bruce’s health I knew it must be worse than normal, but I am still in shock that he’s actually gone. I honestly thought he was going to surprise us all and beat any health issues plaguing him and re-open the cafe. He was, and always will be, a spe-
cial man to so many people whose lives he became a part of. I first met Bruce in February 2013. I walked into Hattie’s Beanery looking for the owner so I could tell them all about my new publication I was starting in the Carrollwood area. He was gracious enough to listen to my pitch and give me feedback on what he thought. He wasn’t convinced that people from Carrollwood would drive past other cafes in the area to come visit him. I understood his
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concerns and simply asked him to think about it and give me a chance. About 5 pm the same day Bruce called me back and said he wouldn’t mind giving me a shot for one month to see how it goes. Even though it wasn’t a long term contract, Bruce was the first business to believe in me by signing up to advertise, and it really meant a lot. Fast forward to December 2015 Bruce never missed an issue since he started! He loved our magazine, and was a major reason our publication grew over the past few years, because he was always telling other local businesses about his great experience with us. I’ll always be grateful for his kindness and regret never getting the chance to tell him how much it meant to me that he gave me a chance before anyone else did. We will never forget you Bruce. Thank you for providing this community with your wonderful soul and passion for some of the best coffee and delicious food this town has ever seen.
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Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle Directly mailed once a month to 15,000 households in zip codes 33618, 33624 & 33613 220 S. Safford Ave. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 Phone: (813) 928-6124; Fax: (727) 942-2432 Advertising E-mail: info@nnlflorida.com Editorial E-mail: alexis@nnlflorida.com © 2016 Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle Publisher Matt Selby Advertising Sales Jared Nager (Manager) Linda Viega Mike Bird Accounting Manager Alexis Selby Marketing & Development Ashley Knoblach Art Director Tony Sica
Editor Alexis Selby Correspondents Julie Kanehl Marcy Sanford Pamela Sica Katie Thomas Kim Thomas Dara Tucker Deborah Bostock-Kelley
Nothing that appears in Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The management of Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle is always happy to accept outside editorial submissions to the paper. Please call for outside editorial submission and advertisement deadlines. Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle will not return unsolicited editorial materials. Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle 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.
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Community Calendar & News Briefs Show Your Sweetheart How Much You Care This Valentines Day! Looking to make a lasting impression this Valentines Day? Want to do something really special for your loved one or significant other? A great and memorable way to say "I Love You", how about sending your loved one a singing Valentine! Make your sweetheart the center of attention and really catch his or her attention with this one-of-a-kind, romantically wonderful singing Valentine! Serving all of Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, and vicinities, Heralds of Harmony barbershop quartet will be performing Singing Valentines as part of a fundraiser for the Heralds, a 501c3 organization. Here’s how it works – a barbershop quartet dressed in tuxedos will show up unannounced at the “sweetheart’s” workplace or home (designated by the one who purchases the Singing Valentine), and sing two love songs, “Let me call you sweetheart”, and “Heart of My Heart”. The sweetheart will then be presented with a personalized Valentines Day card, and
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a special Valentine Coffee Mug filled with chocolate kisses. Chorus member Andy says, “this is one of the most fun days I have as a barbershop singer, as everyone at the workplace enjoys the festivity and the sweetheart becomes the center of attention.” This is really a memorable way to say “I Love You” on Valentines Day. The Heralds of Harmony will be performing Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, February 12, 13, and 14. For more information or to purchase the singing Valentine please visit www.HeraldsOfHarmony.org.
Cosmic Driving Range is Coming to the Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf & Family Sports Complex Feb. 18-20th February 18th – 20th from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m., at the Chi Chi Sports Complex, 2987 N McMullen Booth Rd, Clearwater Come enjoy the Brightest Night in Golf for a three night event benefitting the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation. From Thursday, February 18th to Saturday, February 20th Chi Chi’s will host skills competitions, food and fun for the whole family
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from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Sign up your group of four or five for an hour of unlimited glow balls and test your golf skills in the Cosmic Skills Challenge. Special prize opportunities provided by the Valspar Championship presented by BB&T. About the Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf & Family Sports Complex: Rated a GRAA Top 50 Stand Alone Range in Florida, the Chi Chi Sports Complex offers over 40 hitting bays with mats and grass, with two 100 ft. long covers providing plenty of
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shade. With over 1.25 acres of putting and chipping greens, the facility offers plenty of area to practice all shots. Inside the Pro Shop enjoy certified club fitting onsite and a wealth of knowledge offered by the PGA/LPGA coaching staff. All proceeds from the Sports Complex go to support educational programming at the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation. The Foundation funds Chi Chi Academy public partnership school, the Chi Chi The First Tee of Clearwater and offers a licensed Boys & Girls Club in collaboration with the Boys & Girls Club of the Suncoast for After School programming on its Clearwater campus. RSVP at www.chichi.org or www.cosmicdrivingrange.com . For more information call (727) 7268829 x 207 or email jose@chichi.org.
Come Meet Their Horses! Saturday, February 20, at 5 p.m. at Suncoast Stables, 1108 Altamont Lane in Odessa Suncoast Stables invites the community to its FREE EVENT on Feb-
Events and Activities at the Carrollwood Cultural Center in February The Carrollwood Cultural Center, located at 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa, will host several events, activities and workshops in February, including:
ruary 20th. The fun will begin at 5 p.m. with a barn tour, a horseback riding demonstration, and a grooming station, with the evening wrapping up with a FREE kid-friendly horse movie under the stars! For purchase, there will be some food vendors and face painting, and Suncoast Stables is giving away a 4-pack of FREE riding lessons! Proceeds from this fundraising event will benefit Saving Grace for Equines (savinggraceforequines.org) and the Suncoast Stables Youth Club. Suncoast Stables is located at 1108 Altamont Lane in Odessa. For more information about the Suncoast Stables & Riding Academy and their free event, please visit www.SuncoastStable.com or call (813) 368-0666.
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ART RECEPTION: Mark Gonzalez and Art from the Heart When: Friday, February 5 from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Admission: Free Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: Art from the Heart is an initiative started by Tampa artist Mark Gonzalez. In 2014, Mark donated works to 17 local non-profit organizations. Many of the pieces were auctioned, raising more than $22K for local charities. In February, Gonzalez will donate more pieces from his magnificent collection of contemporary collage art to benefit more than 22 charities. His goal is to help bring attention to organizations that have made a significant impact on our community. Gonzalez will also host a Charity Appreciation Night on Thursday, February 18 to honor the organizations benefiting from his fundraiser.
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In addition to the featured exhibit by Mark Gonzalez, the Center’s lobby will feature works donated by local artists that will be part of a silent auction to benefit the Center. The exhibits will remain on display through February. FREE WORKSHOP: “Bucket Brigade Drumming” When: Tuesday, February 9 from 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: Buckets are more than something you use to carry stuff. Did you know that they can also carry a beat? Bucket brigades are improvised drums made from empty containers. This workshop will teach you to keep a beat while having a whole bucket full of fun! (ba dum chhh) This workshop will be taught by Matthew Jones and is for ages 6-12. Admission: Free FREE WORKSHOP: “In Touch with Social Media” When: Wednesday, February 10 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Where: Carrollwood Cultural See “Calendar/Briefs” on page 12.
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Carrollwood Welcomes Tropical Smoothie Café to the Neighborhood! By Alexis Selby Get a healthy dose of delicious at Tropical Smoothie Café in Carrollwood, where you will find a refreshing variety of omelets, wraps, sandwiches, flatbreads, tacos, salads and of course, smoothies! Serving up deliciously fresh, made to order food, in a fun, tropical setting, the Carrollwood community is proud to welcome this fantastic new business to the neighborhood. Opening their doors on December 7, Tropical Smoothie Café has already started off with a bang, and has encountered a remarkable response from guests who are thrilled to have this great new option for healthy eating right in their own backyard. Located at 14394 N Dale Mabry Hwy in the Palms of Carrollwood Shopping Cen-
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ter next to Starbucks, if you haven’t been to Tropical Smoothie Café yet, I recommend you check them out – you will not be disappointed! Wanting to start a business here in Carrollwood, husband and wife duo David and Dara Pettinato decided opening a Tropical Smoothie Café would be the perfect fit! They saw the need for more healthy options for those on the go, and, already familiar with the Tropical Smoothie Café brand, loved the concept and business model that the company had to offer. “I have been going to Tropical Smoothie Cafe for many years,” says Dara. “I love the food and the smoothies, and the whole concept of healthy eating. Coming from a culinary background – I went to culinary school after college – I love to cook and I love being around food. Com-
bining all of my experience with cooking and retail, I thought this would be a great opportunity.” Offering delicious options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, including vegan-friendly choices, whether you need to grab a quick smoothie on the way to work or want to come in with the family for a relaxed sit-
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down meal, their fabulous selections will provide you with the necessary nourishment and sustenance to get you through the day. “Everything is made fresh to order,” says Dara. “Our whole philosophy is to eat better and feel better. People want healthier options, especially for their kids. We have a lot of
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Roasted Jalapeno Chicken Flatbread & Mojo Cubano Pork Flatbread parents that come in with their children for our smoothies. The Island Green is our number one selling smoothie. It’s loaded with spinach and kale – and it tastes great. When else are you going to be able to get your kid to eat spinach and kale and actually enjoy it?”
For a better way to a healthier you, try Tropical Smoothie Café’s delicious live better smoothies, including their Chia Banana Boost, made with roasted banana, chia seeds, coconut, almonds, dates, cinnamon and whole grain oats, with your choice of peanut butter or strawberries, or their Immune Blast – a
The Pettinato family welcomes you to Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Carrollwood! yummy blend of oranges, bananas, green apples, orange juice and vitaminC immune complex. The Island Green smoothie – the number one selling smoothie at Tropical Smoothie Café – is another great option and features spinach, kale, mango, pineapple, banana, and fresh ginger. You also have the ability to create your own smoothie from their long list of available ingredients, which also include supplements, such as vitamin c, vitamin b12, multi-vitamin, whey protein, pea protein, flax seed, energizer, probiotic, fat burner and more. For those looking to put on some muscle, add a scoop of whey protein to your favorite smoothie! As more incentive to get up early, Tropical Smoothie Café Carrollwood offers Happy Hour daily, from 7 a.m. – 9 a.m., where guests can enjoy 50% off all smoothies. Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle
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With their dedicated commitment to offering fresh food and healthy options, Tropical Smoothie Café in Carrollwood will help you start the new year off right! Visit them today and see just how great it feels to eat healthy! Tropical Smoothie Café Carrollwood is located at 14394 N Dale Mabry Hwy in the Palms of Carrollwood Shopping Center next to Starbucks. They are open Mon. – Fri. 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. For additional information please call them at (813) 252-3750, visit them on Facebook by searching Tropical Smoothie Café Carrollwood or check out www.TropicalSmoothieCafe.com and type Carrollwood into the location search bar. FEBRUARY 2016
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“Calendar/Briefs” Continued from page 5 Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: Don’t let your computer and new technology scare you. You can be in charge. Come and see how you can overcome some of the fears of the new age. Bring your laptop, phone and camera to class and get comfortable with these technological tools. This workshop will be taught by Ruth Levy and is for adults. Admission: Free NORTH TAMPA MARKET When: Saturday, February 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: The outdoor market will include fresh food, hand-crafts and live music. For more information, visit www.tampabaymarkets.com. Admission: Free “LET ME CALL YOU SWEETHEART” with the SOUNDS OF SOUL When: Saturday, Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa
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More Info: It’s a special Valentine’s Day dance with the Sounds of Swing! Band director Jim Burge will lead the group through a series of big band love songs that would even make cupid’s heart go pitter-patter. Dance shoes aren’t required to attend this concert…but we guarantee your toes will be tappin’. (SwingDance Lesson at 6:30pm, taught by Swing Time. The lesson is free for all ticket holders, and no partner is needed.) Admission: $12-$18 WOMEN AUTHORS BOOK CLUB presents “Trail of Broken Wings” by Sejal Badani When: Monday, February 15 at 7:15 p.m. Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: The Women Authors Book Club is a group of readers who get together about every six weeks at the Carrollwood Cultural Center to discuss a contemporary or classic, fiction or nonfiction, piece of literature written by a woman. For more information, please contact group facilitator, Debbie Doliner, at doubled@tampabay.rr.com. Admission: Free
FLORIDA TREASURES presented by A.C.T. for Youth When: Wednesday, February 17 and Thursday, February 18 at 10:30 a.m. Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: When two tourists discover a treasure chest full of historical artifacts, they are magically transported back in time in a fun-filled journey through Florida’s history. Laugh and learn about Ponce De Leon, the settlement of Pensacola (Florida’s “Almost Oldest” city), the founding of St. Augustine, and the “Original” Pocahontas story. Florida Treasures is presented by Atlantic Coast Theatre for Youth (A.C.T. for Youth). Admission: $7 members / $8 general admission / $28 Family 4Pack / Free for ages 4 and under JAZZ WITH JIM When: Friday, February 19 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: Jazz with Jim is a monthly concert hosted by Jim Burge and The Jazz Directions. The concert is best known for fusing personal sto-
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ries by the musicians with popular jazz tunes suited for that month’s theme. Patrons can purchase home baked goods donated by the Center’s volunteers, which help complete the intimate ambiance. Admission: $12-$18 CCC BOOK CLUB present “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr When: Monday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: The CCC Book Club is friendly, informal and open to all. At club meetings, the group explores a wide variety of books and interests — fiction and non-fiction, male and female authors, selections old and new. The reading list is determined by a democratic process in which members of the club promote a book of their choosing for addition to the list. For more info, please contact the group facilitator, David Brayshaw, at david8463@verizon.net. Admission: Free WORKSHOP: “ABCs of Auditions” When: Tuesday, February 23 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
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Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: Learn what you need to land that role. From monologue selection, cold readings and character development this workshop will give you the confidence and skills to stick that next audition. This workshop will be taught by Beth LaBaren-Root and Aaron Washington and is for teens and adults. Admission: $20 PEACE OF WOODSTOCK When: Friday, Feb. 26 at 8 p.m. Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa More Info: Peace of Woodstock is a show paying tribute to Woodstock, the famous three day festival of Peace, Music, Love, and Fun, in upstate New York that defined an entire generation! This show will take you on a musical journey from the acoustic opening act of the Woodstock experience, Richie Havens through the closing moments of the festival with the explosive, electric sounds of Jimi Hendrix. Also featured are songs from Crosby, Stills, and Nash, The Who, Janis Joplin, Sly and the Family Stone, Joe Cocker, Arlo Guthrie, Country Joe McDonald, Santana, the Jefferson Airplane,
$50 each and anyone can buy them – just provide your company logo in a .tif or .eps file upon donating. Gary says, “Each year we have raised more – last year we raised $20,000 and hope we might be able to get to $25,000 this year!” For more information or to register contact Gary Dassatti at gdassatti@verizon.net or (413) 530-6523, or mail registration and payment to: 6106 Cognac Circle, Lutz, FL 33558.
and others. Admission: $20-$26 THE GALLERY AT CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER Exhibits and artists displaying this month in The Gallery at Carrollwood Cultural Center through January: Mark Gonzalez’s Art from the Heart (Featured Exhibit) Deborah Rodriguez (Featured Artist: Corridor Lobby) Peter Stilton (Atrium) All performance tickets can be purchased at the box office, online at www.CarrollwoodCenter.org, or by calling (813) 922-8167.
4th Annual Golf For ALS – Play For Those Who Can’t Monday, March 28 at 9 a.m. at the Cheval Golf & Athletic Club, 4142 Cheval Blvd, Lutz Benefitting The Ride To Defeat ALS Ride Operations Team, the 4th annual Golf For ALS golf tournament will be held at the beautiful Cheval Golf & Athletic Club, located at 4142 Cheval Blvd in Lutz. “This is our 4th Annual tournament and has grown to where we had
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140 golfers last year and expect to max it out at 144 golfers or 36 Teams this year,” says tournament organizer Gary Dassatti. “All of the proceeds go directly to the ALS Association Florida Chapter through our Ride Operations Team for our Ride / Run to Defeat ALS, which is held in November each year. The funds stay her in Florida to help our ALS patients and their families struggling with this horrific disease; it helps them with things they might need, like a wheel chair, ramp to their home, and rides to our ALS Clinics throughout the state (1 of which is right here in Tampa at USF).” The tournament will be a scramble format with three divisions: Men, Ladies and Mixed (with at least two ladies per team). Cost is $90 per player or $360 for a foursome. Registration includes lunch, cart and green fees, tee gifts, range balls, prizes Registration will be from 7:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. with tee off at 9 a.m. There will be light pastries available at registration. The raffle will occur during registration and the silent auction will run from registration through lunch. Lunch will be served right after completion of the tournament, with announcements, awards and finalizing of the silent auction following that. Hole Sponsorships are available for
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PATIENT ADVOCATE SERVICES, INC. – Striving to Help Patients with Health Insurance and Medical Billing Problems Patient Advocate Services, Inc. (PASi), a local 501(c)(3) non-profit, was founded by Kim Petro McCrum after experiencing many of the problems common to patients dealing with the health care systems. The nonprofit was formed to improve the experience of patients overwhelmed by illness and medical bills. The US has a very complicated medical billing system - with 68,000 different codes that are both complicated and time consuming for anyone trying to understand the complexities. Eighty percent of medical bills that are generated by medical providers contain errors, according to Medical Billing Advocates of America and 60 percent of all bankruptcies are due to medical bills, according to NerdWallet, and out of that 60 percent, 70 percent have health insurance. The US healthcare system, according to the World Health Organization, ranks 37th in quality of healthcare, but ranks in at number two for having one of the most expensive healthcare systems. PASi strives to provide assistance See “Calendar/Briefs” on page 22.
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Charitable Benefit for one of Florida’s oldest schools, St. Peter Claver. (Est. in 1894) Thursday March 3, from 6:20 p.m. – 10 p.m. at the historic Centro Asturiano de Tampa, 1913 N Nebraska Ave in Tampa. Experience worldly entertainment and first class cocktails at the historic Centro Asturiano de Tampa at their fabulous Ybor Culture & Cocktails event! This benefit will feature the Bay Area’s best cultural performers, offer a catered VIP experience, full service bar, silent auction and general admission seating in one of Tampa’s most beautifully preserved cultural clubs; Centro Asturiano. All guests are invited to dress in festive cultural or cocktail attire as they celebrate diversity and support one of Florida’s oldest schools. About St Peter Claver St. Peter Claver School is one of Florida’s oldest elementary schools. Established in 1894 the St. Peter Claver School continues to thrive due to the generosity of
people like you! 97% of the students families earn $26,000 or less annually. Fortunately S.P.C. offers 100% financial assistance for qualifying students; reflecting the founder’s intentions to provide equal educational opportunities to all children, regardless of race, religion or financial status. Your ticket purchase, silent auction donation and/or sponsorship will provide uniforms, lunches, scholarships and academic resources to S.P.C. students in need. There are two available op-
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tions for tickets: General Admission Seating ($25) which includes the show, and VIP Seating ($75), which in addition to the show, also includes a culturally diverse array of food and drinks prior to the performances. If your organization is capable of sponsoring and or donating an auction item, your contribution will aid in providing uniforms, lunches, scholarships and aca-
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demic resources to the children of St Peter Claver. Any donation is appreciated. Please contact Ashley T Lowe, Creative Director, at (813) 928-3228 or at YborCultureAndCocktails@gmail. com for more information or to contribute. Additional information can be found on their website at YborCultureAndCocktails.com.
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By Marcy Sanford Since opening Divine Connections Massage & Spa in June, sisters Mercy Terrill and Maggie RamirezMalast have expanded the services they offer and feel like they have expanded their family. “So many of our clients have told us that they feel like this is a second home,” says Mercy. “We have really become friends with our clients and it is such a blessing to be able to help them overcome their pain.” Located at 6052 Van Dyke Road in Lutz, Divine Connections Massage & Spa has become the place to go to if you’re looking for therapeutic massages to help you live a happier, healthier life with less pain, or want skin care services that make your skin glow with vibrant health. Divine Connections Massage & Spa has even begun helping some four-legged friends live better lives by
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offering equine therapy services from a therapist who specializes in working with horses. Massage: When Maggie talked her sister Mercy into becoming certified in massage therapy three years ago, Mercy did not realize how much she would enjoy the healing powers of massage therapy, or that it was something she had been training for her entire life. Mercy, who has been legally blind birth, said, “I’ve been practicing my whole life to be a therapist. I’ve always used my hands to discover the world. They are my way of seeing. Being a massage therapist has been very rewarding. One of my areas of specialty is neck issues. I’ve had many clients come to me who say they’ve tried everything to get rid of neck pain but have not had any relief. It is great to be able to help their pain go away. Many of my clients have found they can even stop taking pain
medication. Massage is so wonderful because it helps Mercy Terrill and Maggie Ramirez-Malast people and doesn’t have any side hot bamboo, hot stone, trigger point effects.” therapy, and muscle energy technique. “You don’t have to live with Thanks to their therapeutic pain,” says Mercy. “The average pertouch, Maggie and Mercy have helped son does not realize how tense they clients get relief from conditions such are. Pain and tension can have a as sciatic and peroneal nerve pain, domino affect on you life in many plantar fasciitis, frozen shoulder, ways. We treat the causes of your pain thoracic outlet syndrome, and other and help get rid of it. We also like to painful injuries and conditions. educate our clients so that their pain Bio Mat for Chronic Pain & does not come back. Our long-term Stress Relief: If you suffer from goal is to eliminate a person’s need to chronic pain and stress, have an injury, come see us. But we still hope they’ll are about to have surgery, or have just come back, even after their pain is had surgery, you could benefit from gone.” the Amethyst Bio Mat at Divine ConDivine Connections offers many nections. “The bio mat technology massage modalities including Swedish, has been around since the late 60s sports, prenatal, Thai foot massage, rewhen NASA discovered its healing flexology, lymphatic, neuromuscular,
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properties to the human body. The mat was originally developed in the Orient to help people recuperate from surgeries,” says Maggie, “but we’ve found clients with many different types of injuries, illnesses, and pain have benefited from the bio mat.” “The bio mat promotes repair at a cellular level,” explains Mercy, “and it helps your cardiovascular and lymphatic system flow more optimally.
We’ve had a client come in before and after knee surgery to lie on the mat. He has told us that his surgeon is impressed with how quickly he is healing. We’ve also had individuals with cancer who have found that they aren’t nauseous or tired after they’ve spent time lying on the mat. We have another client who has found relief from joint pain and rheumatoid arthritis after time on the mat. We’ve seen incredible results in many on our clients.” “God has given us so many blessings,” says Maggie. “We want to be a blessing to others. We want people to feel good and be relieved of their pain.” Facials: In addition to healing your body, Divine Connections offers spa treatments that will leave you relaxed and refreshed and looking years younger. Maggie is an expert aesthetician who offers a variety of facials, microdermabrasion, micro-current, micro needling, TCA peels, waxing, eyebrow and eyelash tinting and more. Maggie customizes each facial to meet her clients’ needs and even makes her own masques with highquality, organic materials. “I have some wonderful facials that have great anti-aging benefits and one that treats
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acne. It is so gratifying to see my clients walk out of here with a natural glow after a facial or spa treatment.” Equine Therapy: Growing up in Odessa, both Maggie and Mercy have spent plenty of time taking care of and loving all types of animals including horses. Recently they partnered with a massage therapist who has 28 years of experience in equine therapy to provide massage therapy for horses. “The therapy is very beneficial to the horses,” says Maggie. “It is especially great for show horses, race horses, or jumpers. We go to the barns and it so gratifying to be able to help these beautiful creatures. Equine therapy is really helpful for any ailing horse or for horses with arthritis.” If you are in pain or are just looking to relax, call Divine Connections Massage & Spa today to make an appointment. “We want people to escape their daily stress when they come here,” says Mercy. “We want this to be like a mini vacay for them and we want them to leave here feeling better, happier, healthier, and pain free.”
Valentines Day Specials Divine Connections is offering some fabulous Valentine’s Day Specials and Exclusive Spa Packages.
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The Sweetheart package includes a 60 min. custom massage, along with a chocolate hand or foot scrub, for only $60. The True Love spa package, includes a 60 min. custom massage, as well as a 30 min. chocolate-strawberry facial & 30 min. of their infared therapy. You get all this for $99! Invite your loved one or significant other for the Be My Valentine couples massage, where any length of massage is Buy One get One 1/2 Off - a 25% Savings. All of their Valentine’s packages come with delectable chocolates and romantic rose petals - a fabulous way to show your loved one how much you really care! So give some love to your Valentine with one of Divine Connection’s relaxing spa packages! Divine Connection Massage & Spa is located at 6052 Van Dyke Road in Lutz. Book your appointment online by logging on to www.divineconnectionmassage.com or call 813-402-2959. Walk-ins also are welcome. Divine Connections is open 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Mon. – Sat. and 11 a.m.–5 p.m. on Sun. “Like” Divine Connections Massage & Spa on Facebook for news and updates.
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Tampa Teens Organize Charity Art Showcase Of Their Peers Two Tampa high school seniors have set out to recognize the artistic talent of their peers and raise funds for a worthy cause in the process. After touring the finest art museums in Europe last summer with a group led by his art history teacher, Matt Cannella, a Plant High senior, founded Artists in Action because he saw how art “deeply moved the masses across continents”. Although he’s not an artist himself, his love for art motivated him to inspire others in the same way that he was inspired when he visited places like the Louvre and Uffizi Gallery. A 3rd generation Tampa native Cannella has chosen to inspire those in his own backyard – right here in Tampa. Cannella even retired from his high school football career so he could concentrate on producing an inaugural teen artist showcase and give back to the community. Cannella has teamed up with Hadley Chillura, a senior at the Academy of the Holy Names, who just so happens to be an accomplished artist. Chillura has been expressing herself through art her whole life and feels that art gives herself a unique voice. She says she has no calling in writing or singing, but can “write through her brushstrokes and sing through her use of color”. The teens are putting together this fabulous showcase to give a diverse group of artists the chance to speak to the community through their art. The Artists in Action charity fundraiser will be held Friday, February 19th, from 6pm to 9:30pm at the historic 1901 Anderson House in Hyde Park, located at 341 South Plant Avenue. The perfect place to host this extraordinary event, the 1901 Anderson House is one of Tampa’s last and finest examples of Queen Anne architecture and is designated on the U.S. National Registry of Historic Places. Most of the work will
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Hadley Chillura and Matt Cannella have teamed up to showcase a diverse group of artists who will represent a variety of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture, and much more. be displayed in the mansion’s 3rd story ballroom. Net proceeds from the $12 ticket sales will benefit the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay. The Community Foundation will earmark the funds to benefit the arts. Light refreshments will also be served. So far, 14 teen artists representing a variety of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture and more, have committed to participate. The artists come from a variety of schools across Tampa Bay, such as Academy of the Holy Names, Berkeley Prep, Jesuit, Plant, Robinson, and Tampa Catholic. Cannella and Chillura want others to know that art is important and es-
sential. They want to leave their legacy of art appreciation when they graduate in May, hoping this will become an annual event. The Artists in Action charity fundraiser will be held Friday, February 19th, from 6pm to 9:30pm at the historic 1901 Anderson
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House in Hyde Park, located at 341 South Plant Avenue in Tampa. For sponsorship opportunities, advance ticket sales or more information, contact Matt Cannella at cannella2@live.com or (813) 4174301. Limited tickets will also be sold at the door.
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Carrollwood Neighborhood Lifestyle
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“Calendar/Briefs” Continued from page 13 to patients of all ages, their families and caregivers, in managing their medical bills and providing referrals to patients who need specialized advice or assistance. Even though the Affordable Care Act has attempted to address some of the deficiencies in the healthcare system, it has fallen short of correcting many of the problems that frustrate patients and continue to force others into bankruptcy. PASi Introduces Wellness Program A Mayo Clinic study showed that 70 percent of Americans take at least one prescription drug on a regular basis, while 50 percent take two or more. In addition to PASi's primary goal of helping patients with medical billing problems and referrals, it also strives to promote good health and a healthy lifestyle. To this end, PASi recently introduced a member-based wellness program. Membership in the PASi Wellness Program entitles mem-
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PASi President Kim McCrum introducing the PASi Wellness Program at the Trinity Meeting Center in November 2015
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bers to take advantage of a variety of holistic and/or alternative treatments. There is a perfect opportunity coming up to find out more in person: PASi invites you to its Wellness Program Meet & Greet on February 24th at 6:30 p.m., which is being held at Trinity Ultimate Fitness, located at 11108 Challenger Avenue in Odessa, FL. PASi's desire to help individuals improve their health by participating in the Wellness Program stems from the hope that by improving health, we can all rely less on the healthcare system. Working tirelessly to accomplish the goals of PASi is President Kim Petro McCrum, along with the newly elected Board, Vice-President Dayna Stiteler, Treasurer Charlene Finerty, Secretary Sandra Petro Hart, and Directors-at-Large, Chet Pietras and Renee Mays. The team at PASi strives to promote and improve the Wellness Program, along with the other services offered. Working to utilize their varied areas of expertise – including accounting, nursing, insurance and business – the PASi team helps patients under-
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Physician Seminar and ChefLed Cooking Demonstration
stand complex and often confusing medical invoices, Explanation of Benefit forms, reimbursement forms and other documents, so that PASi can provide the best advice and referrals to help patients, families and caregivers when contacting medical providers, facilities and hospitals. PASi helps patients with problems such as billing errors, overcharging, double charges, and services billed but not provided,
as well as where and how to obtain specialized services depending on individual need.
Wednesday, February 24 from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. at St. Joseph’s HospitalNorth, Garden Lobby Classrooms, located at 4211 Van Dyke Road in Lutz Hosted by St. Joseph’s HospitalNorth, come join their cardiologist, Chetan Khamare,MD, for a seminar to learn heart disease risk factors and how to minimize them. Then stay for a cooking demonstration by their chef and taste heart healthy options.
Free heart-healthy screenings will be available from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. They will check your blood pressure, body mass index, and cholesterol, as well as assess your risk for diabetes. If the assessment suggests your risk is high, an Alc test will be offered. Cost is $10 and includes free parking and a heart-healthy lunch. Preregistration in required. Please call (813) 644-4370 or visit BayCareEvents.org.
Patient Advocate Services, Inc. (PASi) can be contacted by phone at 727-372-0567 or by email at patientadvocate123@gmail.com. For more information about PASi and the services provided, log on to www.patientadvocateservices.org
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“Audiology” Continued from page 1 and actually heard my name called. Before Alvarez Audiology, I would not have heard my name. The only thing greater than the product I purchased is the quality of service that I receive from all the staff at Alvarez Hearing.” Dr. Alvarez is a leader in the field, graduating with honors from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and a clinical Doctorate in Audiology. During her training, Dr. Alvarez completed residencies with the Department of Veteran's Affairs, All Children's Hospital, and several private practice clinics. Dr. Alvarez is a board certified Audiologist, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology. Dr. Nicole Lynch joined Alvarez Audiology & Hearing in June 2015, but has been diagnosing hearing loss and fitting hearing technology for almost ten years. Dr. Lynch is a native of the Tampa Bay area, and graduated with honors from the University of Florida. She obtained her Doctor of Audiology degree from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, which is ranked the number one Audiology
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program in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. She completed a one-year residency at the Bay Pines V.A. Medical Center in St. Petersburg, and has Dr. Nicole Lynch worked in a private practice setting for nearly ten years. Like Dr. Alvarez, Dr. Lynch is a board certified Audiologist, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology. Dr. Lynch has served on multiple boards and committees at both state and national levels. The doctors of Audiology at Alvarez Audiology specialize in geriatric aural rehabilitation and provide services to children as young as five to adults a hundred years and older. As highly trained audiologists we are able to expertly identify, diagnose and treat many different forms of hearing loss and focus not only on hearing loss and prevention, but on how hearing loss affects you. Dr. Alvarez and Dr. Lynch are joined by Practice
Administrator Blair Driscoll, who has ten years of experience in a private practice medical setting, Patient Care Coordinator Janet Howell, and 4th year Audiology Resident Julie Unger, who will earn her doctorate in Audiology from Nova Southeastern University in June! Together they provide the Tampa Bay Area with a welcoming experience for all. The doctors at Alvarez Audiology & Hearing spend quality time with each patient and go to great lengths to ensure that every patient leaves 100% satisfied. Dr. Alvarez says, “I place a strong importance on follow up and keep an open line of communication with my patients. I see my established patients about every three months for routine evaluations and ear check-ups and conduct follow-up tests at least once a year.” To Dr. Alvarez, listening to her patients is just as important as the tests she conducts and alongside Dr. Lynch, goes above and beyond to establish long-lasting relationships with all of the patients at Alvarez Audiology. When it comes to hearing aids there is no such thing as “one hearing aid fits all,” which is why Dr. Alvarez and her team work with each individual patient with attentiveness and genuine care. They believe fitting you
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successfully with a hearing aid is more than just fitting your hearing loss – it is listening to you and your personal needs and taking the time to get to know you and what is Julie Unger best for you! “Dr. Alvarez is not an ordinary hearing professional,” states happy patient Mercedes. “She goes above and beyond the call of duty in providing exceptional hearing health care. She has always been there for my hearing aids. I have called and she has provided help on the same day. She is very attentive of my needs and does an outstanding job. My daughter is very pleased with how well I am now hearing and I owe it all to Dr. Alvarez!” “I told my doctor, if any other patients complain about hearing loss, he’d be doing them a disservice to send them anywhere but Alvarez Audiology & Hearing. Dr. Lynch has been wonderful to work with,” says patient R.A. “Some people may call her Dr.
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Lynch, but I call her MIRACLE WORKER!”-G. Guth People experience hearing loss for many different reasons, and regardless of the cause, loss of hearing – whether it be minor or substantial – should never be ignored. Presbycusis, the most common cause of hearing loss, is the gradual loss of hearing that occurs as people get older and many people believe that this is a normal result of aging – this is not at all true! “Hearing loss is never normal,” explains Dr. Alvarez. “It just happens to become more prevalent as people age.” Noise Exposure is the second most prevalent cause of hearing loss, and is something that can be easily
avoided, which is why Dr. Alvarez stresses the importance of taking special precautions to help prevent hearing loss and preserve healthy hearing – such as the use of customized noise-protection ear plugs for those who are constantly exposed to loud noise and custom audio monitors, which carefully control levels of sound heard while maintaining pristine sound quality. From basic behavioral tests to sophisticated computerized otoneurological evaluations, Alvarez Audiology is well-equipped to fully test all aspects of your hearing and using advanced technologies and procedures is able to properly administer the hearing aid that is perfect for you and
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your lifestyle. “Choosing the right hearing aid makes a huge difference,” says Dr. Alvarez. “Not all hearing aids are the same.” Before hearing aids are implemented Dr. Alvarez administers a thorough history check – including medical history, details regarding your lifestyle and any medications you are taking – and conducts a variety of hearing tests to gage the exact level of your hearing loss. These comprehensive hearing exams allow the doctor to determine the cause and extent of your hearing loss and enable her to isolate the problem and provide a solution. “The use of a hearing aid is the most effective treatment for hearing loss,” says Dr. Lynch. “When you put on a hearing aid the only side effect is hearing better and the best part is if you don’t like it you can take it off.” Alvarez Audiology administers free hearing screenings for everyone, so if you suspect to have hearing loss or are over the age of 50 you should consider stopping in to get a complimentary evaluation. Together Dr. Alvarez and Dr. Lynch are extremely passionate about their work and take pride in delivering exceptional service and quality patient care. “I really enjoy helping people,”
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says Dr. Alvarez. As a patient at Alvarez Audiology you can expect oneon-one personalized service by a professional audiologist who truly understands the limitations and capabilities of hearing aids. Whether you are experiencing hearing loss and need a diagnosis, or just want to get a routine hearing evaluation, you can trust the caring professionals at Alvarez Audiology. Don’t let hearing loss hold you back – come in to Alvarez Audiology and Hearing today! "In my 28 years of wearing hearing aids I've had several audiologists in several states,” writes patient B.K. “Dr. Alvarez is the best I've ever had. As I live out the rest of my life I'll feel peace in knowing she will be there to help me hear what's going on in the world." Alvarez Audiology is located at 6615 Gunn Hwy. in Tampa, in the Gunn Executive Center. Office hours are Mon, Wed, and Thurs. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Tues. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Fri. 9:00 – 12 p.m. For more information or to schedule a consultation please call (813) 2652255, email admin@alvarezaudiology.com or visit www.AlvarezAudiology.com.
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JCC North Campus Events The following are offered at the Jewish Community Campus North, located at 13009 Community Campus Drive in Tampa, (just off of Gunn Hwy. and the Veterans’ Expressway. New Coin Collecting Series at the JCC, starting February 9th from 10:30 am -11:30 am––Please join us for an exciting coin collection series hosted by John Frost, owner of Gilder Shop Coins & Currency. He will be giving free appraisals on your coins and will provide information on how to become a coin collector. Classes will start on Tuesday, February 9th from 10:30 am -11:30 am and will be once a month. Light refreshments will be served. To RSVP
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and for more information to register, please contact Marissa Rosenthal at Marissa.rosenthal@jewishtampa.com or 813-769-4724. Mar. 2–23, 11 AM – 12:30 PM––Chocolate Making Classes–– with Michelle Palisi, owner of 2 chocolate shops (New Port Richey and Carrollwood), and a past winner of West Pasco Chamber of Commerce Small Business Person of the Year. Cost: $85 for members, $95 non-members.
has been in the floral industry for 15 years and has been teaching small local classes for 10 of those years. Cost: $72 members, $80 non-members. Please bring a vase and shears for the class. Mondays, starting March 21, 11 AM–12 PM––Book Club facilitated by Adrianne Sundheim. Ongoing at JCC¬––JFIT at JCC¬¬––A wide variety of fitness classes for people of all fitness levels. Classes include Salsa, Aerobics,
Vinyasa Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Pilates, Stretch & Flex, Tai Chi, Meditation, Water Aerobics, 20-20-20 combo class, cardio circuit and SilverSneakers®. Fitness classes are open to the public and are $4 per class for nonmembers. Find complete list of classes at www.jewishtampa.com or call Pam Cotner at 813-769-4748 for more information. For more information and to RSVP for any of the JCC events, please contact Marissa Rosenthal at Marissa.rosenthal@jewishtampa.com or (813) 769-4724.
Mar. 8–29, 1–2 PM––Flower Arranging Classes––Learn the basics of flower arranging in 4 easy classes. Dorelle, owner of Brides & Blooms,
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“Cigar City” Continued from page 1 When asked to describe beer to a novice, Chef Gerry explained, “it is the art of fermenting. You can put any fruit in it, any spice, even chocolate to make it more complex in flavor. A lot of our sauces that we make in-house incorporate beer; we reduce our beer to a thick syrup, and add the concentrated flavor to the different sauces. It’s not alcoholic; it’s just the flavor profile. As a beer-lover, people will pick up on it.” Head Brewer Nick Streeter added, “Typically beer has four ingredients – malt, hops, water and yeast. You use yeast to ferment it to give it the certain flavor profile that’s unique. You create an idea of what you want to make and then you choose the particular ingredients to create a complexity.” Similar to a wine Sommelier, Cigar City staff go through intense training to be certified as beer experts through the Cicerone Certification Program, which covers five areas: serving beer, styles of beer, beer flavor and evaluation, brewing process and ingredients, and lastly, beer pairing. So, for example, if you don’t know what beer will compliment General Manager Russell Simons’ favorite menu item, the Cuban on La Segunda Cuban bread, your Cicerone-certified staff will be able to point you in the right direction and answer all your questions regarding beer pairing. Cigar City Brewpub has a 15-beer line up on tap, including one specialty cider and one beer from the Brew Bus division of brewing. Additionally, they have a full liquor bar, craft cocktails (some of which even incorporate beer into the cocktail), and wine personally selected by Russell. “We do make a quite a few craft cocktails that are clas-
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Cigar City’s newest addition, Chicken and Waffles, features grilled or fried chicken breast with roasted corn and black bean salsa, and pickled cabbage, cushioned between a warm waffle with maple syrup.Yum! sically inspired, innovative and new,” said Russell. ”The naming of a lot of the drinks and beer speak to the history of Tampa.” Their India Pale Ale, Jai Alai, the flagship beer for the brewery, named after the once popular sport who called South Dale Mabry home during the 70s through 90s, has even garnered a gold medal in the Best Florida Beer Championship. Giving them a rating of 97, DraftMag.com describes Jai Alai as, “Soft breadiness supports an intense tropical bouquet of orange, tangerine, melon and a touch of pine. Likewise, the bright, playful swallow sends a fresh, fruity blend of grapefruit, peach, melon and tangerine
across the tongue, backed by light grainy bread notes. Gentle bitterness cleans up the swallow, resulting in a smooth finish that caps off the incredibly delicious sip.” But you don’t even have to like beer in this brewpub, as the food alone will entice a teetotaler to enter its door, take a seat, and await a plethora of deliciousness. You wouldn’t think beer-friendly meals would feature a gourmet touch, but Cigar City’s seasonal menu reads like a who’s who of things one would definitely want to eat. “We are doing pub food in more refined direction,” explained Russell. From handcrafted salads to all
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natural beef burgers, fresh seafood to mouthwatering sandwiches, they offer something for every taste and preference; they even have a delicious selection of deserts for those with a sweet tooth. In their Shrimp grits – a customer favorite at Cigar City – blackened plump jumbo Gulf shrimp nestle atop southern-style creamy grits with cheddar cheese, and are surrounded by spicy shrimp bisque and topped with house bacon and shallot pan sauce. Or try Cigar City’s newest addition, Chicken and Waffles. Grilled or fried chicken breast with roasted corn and black bean salsa, and pickled cabbage, cushioned between a warm waf-
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fle with maple syrup. Are you drooling yet? Besides a Happy Hour 4pm-6pm Monday through Friday, featuring small plates and specialty cocktails, each Tuesday from 5pm-10pm, Cigar City offers a 3 course dinner deal featuring a Caesar or house salad, entrée and bread pudding. On Saturday and Sunday, guests can enjoy a special expanded brunch menu service from 11am-3pm. It is Russell’s goal to make a visit to Cigar City Brewpub an immersive experience. “We want our food to have a visual impact,” said Russell. “We often do dinner specials on the weekend and when we have a meal that is well-received we will consider bringing it on to the menu. By changing the menu frequently, it keeps things relevant and fresh.” Russell relayed how Head Brewer Nick Streeter went above and beyond recently to explain the brewing process to two inquisitive young men dining out with their father. Nick explained the brewing process in laymen’s turns, explaining the function of the equipment used to brew their specialty craft beers. “That’s elevating their experience and I think Nick did a great job at that,” said Russell. “This environment is unique. There is a sense of camaraderie in the brewing community. We want to reflect the beer community accurately. This is not a job; this is a passion for us.”
Cigar City Brewpub has a 15-beer line up on tap, including one specialty cider and one beer from the Brew Bus division of brewing. Additionally, they have a full liquor bar, craft cocktails (some of which even incorporate beer into the cocktail), and wine personally selected by Russell.
Cigar City Brewpub is located at 15491 North Dale Mabry Hwy. in Tampa. They are open Sunday – Thursday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Bar is Open Late. For more information please call (813) 962-1274 or visit www.CigarCityBrewpub.com or connect on Facebook at facebook.com/cigarcitybrewpub.
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