Vol. 5, Issue 3, March 2017
™
Your community. Your magazine.™ The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine Directly Mailed To 15,000 Homes In Carrollwood, Lake Magdalene & Avila
“It’s Fresh, It’s Healthy, It’s Good,” Opa! By Carla Dubis Carrollwood locals on the lookout for authentic, fresh and mouthwatering Greek food, don’t need to drive all the way to Tarpon Springs anymore. The Hungry Greek offers a fast-casual dining experience with an open kitchen design that allows guests to watch their meal roasting on a spit and capture the aroma of a wood-burning grill. Serving a wide variety of traditional Greek Dishes like gyros,
moussaka, Greek salads, baked pastitsio, dolmades and more, The Hungry Greek is the place to go for the freshest and most delicious Greek food in the area. The location is convenient, service is top notch, the food is delicious and beautifully presented, the place is immaculately clean and, best of all, the prices are extremely reasonable, especially when taking in consideration the big portions they serve you. The owners of this Greek See “Hungry Greek” on page 26.
Nutrition Smart Fills Gap for Healthy, Organic Shopping Option in Carrollwood By Deborah Bostock-Kelley The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has predicted by 2030, 42 percent of the U.S. population will be obese. With the new year fully upon us,
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: We Want to Publish You!......................................3 Community Calendar & News Briefs.................6-7 Gilman Ciocia...............................................10-11 Kampong Asian Restaurant................................13
Hiking Spree 2017........................................22-23 Tampa Bay Redzone Charity Golf Classic......28-29
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 1185
JC Audiology................................................18-19
many people resolved to drop a few pounds, live a healthier lifestyle at the close of 2016; but, to most, the concept of organic clean living is prohibitive to the piggy bank. With the lure of unhealthy fast food on every See “Nutrition” on page 14.
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From The Publisher Matt Selby
We Want to Publish You! As you know, our publication’s primary focus is to cover all the great things that Tampa Bay has to offer. We especially love to inform our community all about the fantastic local businesses in or around our area and help promote a “Shop Local First” mentality. No matter where I am, I constantly search for locally owned and run restaurants, coffee shops and retail stores. In my experience, the customer service is always of higher quality, the ingredients are fresher and I generally feel better about spending my money in the local economy, since I am supporting my neighbors and the families I interact with on daily basis. I know I am not the only one who thinks way. In fact, many people across Tampa are all about
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the shop local movement. Another large source of content you’ll find inside our magazine’s pages includes local events and charities. This is our home, this is where we grew up, this is where we decided to raise our kids. We know the best way to make an impact in Tampa Bay is to support the local organizations that make a difference every day. That is why it is so important to us to show our support for all things local to our beautiful city. With that being said, we would absolutely love to publish articles written by our readers! We live in such a wonderful area, where there are hundreds of things happening every month and we would love to publish everything our
community has to offer! So if you want to see your events, family, friends or community organizations in the pages of our Carrollwood area edition send over your article with photos if they apply! We will gladly publish your story with your full name and send you extra copies to show friends and family outside our zones. We also will send you the links to your article on our website so you can share it with everyone on Facebook and by E-mail. We can’t wait to hear from you! Please send in your article to info@nnlflorida.com. Cheers! Matt Selby Publisher
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Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles 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: editorial@nnlflorida.com © 2017 Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles Publisher Matt Selby
Art Director Tony Sica
Advertising Sales Jared Nager (Manager) Jim O’Reilly Mike Bird
Correspondents Julie Kanehl Marcy Sanford Katie Thomas Kim Thomas Dara Tucker Deborah Bostock-Kelley
Nothing that appears in Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The management of Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles is always happy to accept outside editorial submissions to the paper. Please call for outside editorial submission and advertisement deadlines. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles will not return unsolicited editorial materials. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles 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 Bay Area Renaissance Festival Take a time-travel adventure into the 16th century at the annual Bay Area Renaissance Festival! Join our Queen in a jubilee! Journey back in time as more than 100 merchants contribute to the atmosphere of this charming 16th century village. Experience live armored jousting, 12 stages of entertainment, 7 theme weekends, and fun and food for the whole family! The Festival is open from 10 am – 6 pm, Rain or Shine. Parking at the Bay Area Renaissance Festival is always free! Discount tickets are available at participating Walgreens stores and at MOSI. Each weekend is catered towards a specialized theme. Take the time to review which weekend suits your preference. Date(s): February 18, 2017 April 2, 2017 Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Location: 11315 N. 46th Street Tampa, FL 33617 (813) 983-0111
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Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival Savor your way through all-new culinary creations, an expanded beverage lineup and headlining concerts at 7 p.m. during the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. The Festival takes place for an extended nine weekends, starting Saturday, March 4 and runs through Sunday, April 30. The event is included with any Annual Pass, Fun Card or daily admission to the park. Food and beverage is not included with park admission and is available for an extra fee. Date(s): March 4, 2017 - April 30, 2017 Hours: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Location: 10165 N McKinley Drive Tampa, FL 33612 https://seaworldparks.com/en/ buschgardens-tampa/food-andwine?from=Home_Promo
Pints for a Purpose 2017 Walk MS Team Fundraising Page for Atlantic Bay We've formed a team for Walk MS—a charity walk that is changing the lives of people with MS and help-
ing fuel progress toward a world free of MS. We'd love your generous support as we prepare for this incredible experience. The money raised will drive groundbreaking research, provide lifechanging programs and guarantee a supportive community for those who need it most. Learn more at walkMS.org Date(s): March 9, 2017 Hours: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Location: 10047 N. Dale Mabry Hwy Tampa , FL 33618
Gasparilla Music Festival The 6th annual Gasparilla Music Festival is coming March 11-12, 2017. The festival takes place in downtown Tampa in various parks along Tampa’s Riverwalk and includes bands from a wide variety of genres performing on multiple stages centered around Curtis Hixon Park. GMF 2016 featured 55 bands over 5 stages. The festival is produced by the 501(c)(3) non-profit Gasparilla Music Foundation. Date(s): March 11, 2017 Hours: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
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Location: 600 N Ashley Dr Tampa, FL 33602 http://www.gasparillamusic.com
The Halo 5K Come support Angels Unaware and The HALO Foundation by participating in this year's 5K race! Angels Unaware is a local nonprofit organization that provides support, residential care facilities and services for the developmentally disabled in Tampa. Proceeds from the Halo 5K will support these services. Trophies will be given to the top runner in both the male and female categories, and trophies for the top three runners in each category will also be given. We'll also have a family fun run at 9AM, where we'll be doing a 1mile/1 lap run. Family fun runners will receive a t-shirt for participation. Date(s): March 11, 2017 Hours: 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM Location: 4810 North Himes Ave Tampa, FL 33614 http://www.thehalo5k.com/
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Repticon Tampa Reptile & Exotic Animal Show Repticon Tampa is a reptile event featuring vendors offering reptile pets, supplies, feeders, cages, and merchandise as well as live animal seminars and frequent free raffles for coveted prizes. Exciting, educational, family-oriented fun for everyone! Hours: Saturday: 10:00am-5:00pm Sunday: 10:00am-4:00pm Admission: Adults - $10, Children (5-12) $5, Under 5 - Free Date(s): March 18 & 18, 2017 Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Location: 4800 N US Highway 301 Tampa, FL 33610 http://repticon.com/florida/tampa/
2017 BOLTS FAMILY CARNIVAL The Lightning Foundation is excited to host the 3rd Annual Bolts Family Carnival presented by DEX Imaging and Shriners Hospitals for Children, right inside the Amalie Arena Big Top With carnival-style games on the event floor (Dunk Tank! High Striker! Ring a Bottle!), modern games on the Promenade level of the arena (Wii!
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Ping Pong!), and unique photo opportunities (Stanley Cup! Zamboni! Penalty Box!), the Carnival offers fun for all ages! This is your chance to see your favorite Lightning personalities outside of 'hockey' and challenge players and coaches to family fun carnival games for a good cause. Exclusive photo and autograph sessions with select players and coaches will also be available this year on the Arena's Suite Level. All proceeds will benefit the Lightning Foundation, which distributes funds and services to hundreds of local non-profit organizations. Date(s): March 19, 2017 Hours: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Location: 401 Channelside Dr Tampa, FL 33602 https://www.nhl.com/lightning/community/bolts-family-carnival
5th Annual BT5K Breakthrough for Brain Tumors The 5th Annual BT5K Tampa Bay Run & Walk is a fun way to raise awareness & funds to help the American Brain Tumor Association provide resources to those impacted by a brain tumor diagnosis and pursue critical research. Brain tumors are now the #1 cause of cancer-related deaths in chil-
dren. Many brain tumor fighters of all ages are right here in Tampa Bay and they need your help! The 5K run/walk is open to all levels. Register today. Come join the fun. Date(s): March 25, 2017 Hours: 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM Location: 4810 N Himes Ave Tampa, FL 33614 http://hope.abta.org/TampaBay2017
Gasparilla International Food Festival Join hundreds of Tampa Bay residents and tourists in the historic Ybor City for the only exploration that takes their taste buds on a culinary journey to explore spicy, savory, sweet, succulent cuisine brought to the city generations ago! Hosted by some of Tampa's most renowned restaurants and artisan food vendors in global dishes including American, Caribbean, Hispanic, Mediterranean, French Cuisine, Italian, African, and Asian Cuisine, the Gasparilla International Food Festival is a platform for the display of inventive creations around the world! Don't miss out on the event's Taste Competition featuring the Best
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of All-American, Asian, European, African, Mediterranean, Island Cuisine, Desserts, and Vegan as our local top chefs compete for the Gasparilla International Foodie Award! General Admission: FREE For more info: Visit www.cityfestivals.org Date(s): March 26, 2017 Hours: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Location: 1800 E 8th Avenue Tampa, FL 33605 http://cityfestivals.org
Event: Taste of Carrollwood Eat local, and enjoy free samplings from more than 30 area restaurants, with beverages available for purchase. Learn about local vendors, enjoy family activities, and even run the bases of George M. Steinbrenner Field, all courtesy of Carrollwood Area Business Association. Location: George M. Steinbrenner Field Address: 1 Steinbrenner Drive, Tampa, 33614 Price: Free admission and food samplings. Ticket URL: http://www.usecaba.com/events/details/taste-of-carrollwood-784385
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Let Gilman Ciocia Secure Your Financial Future! By Michelle Naktin Gilman Ciocia is a family owned and operated wealth management firm delivering comprehensive financial and tax services. With 28 offices from New York to Florida, Their staff of professionals has provided these services for more than 38 years. Gilman Ciocia works to customize and implement wealth care solutions for the growth and protection of their client’s assets. GC prides themselves on a high level of client care by building long term relationships based on trust. The GC approach to working with their clients allows them to deliver an exceptional experience and ensure what they do, they do right. In 1978 shortly after graduating from St. John's University with an accounting degree, Jim Ciocia worked every day doing what he loved. In no time he developed a passion for helping his friends and family secure their financial future. To be successful, the first thing you have to do is fall in love with your work. With
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that close to his heart, Jim opened a small tax preparation shop in New York. Before long, Jim helped pioneer the concept of an all-inclusive wealth management strategy. In 1983 he decided to add financial planning services to better serve his clients. He combined income tax, financial, and estate tax planning into one comprehensive wealth management strategy. Their client’s current and future financial needs were able to be addressed at every juncture of their lives. From day one, Jim has worked to provide clarity and insight to his clients when making important financial decisions. He specializes in risk management strategies by applying a combination of portfolio allocation and asset protection techniques. He currently holds several securities licenses including his Life Insurance, 6,7,63 and 66. For a family business, more than any other, values are the connecting piece. Values bring power to a business, help resolve conflicts and strengthen operations simply through the act of passing down a legacy. The
shared legacy of a family-owned enterprise can be a powerful motivator that can span generations. Carrying on this legacy and working alongside his father is James P. Ciocia or “JP”. JP holds many securities licenses and specializes in planning and preparing personal and corporate tax returns in addition to comprehensive financial planning including securities, insurance, and retirement account management. Core values are the guiding principles that help dictate your company’s action. They can help determine if you are on the right path to fulfilling your business goals and they create an unwavering guide. As a seasoned accountant, successful entrepreneur and a leader in the community, Rosa Quintela has connect with people and provided an insightful point of view in the financial arena. In 2005 Rosa opened an accounting firm, Vantage Point Tax Services, and worked with both the public and private sectors to optimize profitability, proactive communication and streamlined procedures to help
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the Carrollwood community reach their financial goals. For ten years she lead a team of knowledgeable and experienced experts who were dedicated to serve local business owners in their tax, accounting and consulting needs. Throughout her many years in the industry, Rosa was introduced to Mr. Ciocia and the team at Gilman Ciocia. She quickly found her business model and ethics to be very similar to those at Gilman Ciocia. In December of 2016 after over a decade of successful independence, Vantage Point Tax Services merged with Gilman Ciocia. Rosa believed the new affiliation will allow her to provide a wider array of services and more depth. Excited about what the future holds, this merger will allow both companies to advance as one and continue their tradition of excellent service, deep expertise, in an environment their clients and associates want to be a part of. Many of today’s successful family businesses are extending the power of their values to benefiting others—not only within their business but within the
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community. Community involvement is something that Gilman Ciocia feels strongly about. “I feel that community service is a part of a well-balanced life” says Jim Ciocia. “This is why for the past 10 years I have been an active donor to the Pat Covelli Foundation, the Diabetes Research Institute, the American Cancer Society and other local and national charities.” Rosa Quintela has grown an immense
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network with her community involvement. She is a long time member of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, a member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Tampa Bay and many others. Proud of her Cuban Heritage; she is also an active member in the Hispanic community with the Tampa Hispanic Heritage, Hispanic Professional Women’s Association and
Hispanic Professional Women’s Association. Rosa and her team at Gilman Ciocia are happy to offer their services to the surrounding Spanish speaking community. At Gilman Ciocia they look at the whole picture—taxes, investments, retirement, insurance, lending, and estate—which allows their clients to see their entire financial picture and understand how
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wise decisions will let them keep more of their money as well as provide them with a healthy and solid financial outlook. Reach out to your family at Gilman Ciocia and secure your financial future today. Gilman Ciocia is located at 14802 N Dale Mabry Hwy #101 in Tampa. They can be reached at 813-264-2555 or www.gtax.com.
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Kampong Asian Restaurant
KAMPONG .... means village. It is often describing dwelling places where Malay migrants live, but are also defined as traditional settlements of various Asian indigenous peoples. It is widely used in Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore. At Kampong, we are not serving one particular distinction of food but a culinary diversity originating from its multi-ethnic blend of Malaysian, Chinese, Thai, Singapore, and Eurasian
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dishes that are prepared and served fresh upon order. Special ingredient had been selected to prepare for Kampong specialty dishes. All ingredients are prepared and grinded from scratch for every preparation to ensure the best quality and taste. With a pleasant, relax dining environment and the service of our friendly staff. Kampong aims to provide the best experience for every customer. Come to savor our specialties!
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“Nutrition” Continued from page 1 corner, easily obtainable and cheap, the promised resolution gets kicked to the wayside and the prediction of obesity risks being fulfilled. Founded in Pembroke Pines, FL in 1996, Nutrition Smart is hoping to change this mindset. The organic foods and vitamin shop is the perfect resource for anyone wanting to change their eating habits, maintain the goal to live healthier, live better and most importantly, do this inexpensively in 2017. “Our store is all-inclusive. Everything you need is under one roof. You don’t have to go to multiple stores to find what you are looking for and we’re competitively priced,” said marketing coordinator, Ruth Bozeman. Located at 14847 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Nutrition Smart provides the Carrollwood community with a onestop shop for affordable high quality 100% organically grown fruits and vegetables, premium brand-name vitamins and minerals, hundreds of low-fat, no-fat, wheat and gluten-free grocery products, grass-fed meats, natural groceries and pet care, bulk foods, grab and go meals, wine, sports nutrition, herbs, aromatherapy, health and beauty care, and household products. “People are more educated now, so they understand the benefits of looking at organic groceries, supplements, proteins and items that are non-genetically modified. They want good clean products that aren’t going to be harmful to them and their families. They don’t want all the added chemicals and pesticides in items that have been genetically altered,” said Ruth. Rows of shelves are filled with products of companies that share the same philosophy as Nutrition Smart. In addition to being below manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) on all products, Nutrition Smart highlights weekly sales through its VIP Email Club and Text Club and rolled out Smart Buys providing its customers further price drops on top of already discounted prices on 500 products. While customers shop, they can also enjoy organic smoothies and juices purchased at the store’s juice bar and become a member of its loyal program. There’s also local brand Tampa Kombucha on tap in two different flavors that change frequently.
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Nutrition Smart marketing coordinator Ruth Bozeman (right) and an employee take a look at some delicious organic produce Customers can sign up to receive a weekly advertising email in-store, on the website or through the company’s Facebook page. “We only carry organic produce; there’s no conventional, so it’s a lot easier for customers to shop,” said Ruth. “We have the largest selection of gluten-free, non-GMO specialty items that people may be looking for. We have anything a person would be looking for, for a healthier lifestyle and we’re not just groceries.” For anyone following a glutenfree diet for intolerance or Celiac Disease, Nutrition Smart doesn’t just have a small meager section of products, but gluten-free options can be located throughout the entire store – from soups and crackers to frozen foods, beer, and desserts. Not only do they offer the means to live healthy, Nutrition Smart provides the education as well. Free monthly in-store customer seminars and cooking classes focus on this topic. A nutritionist is available to answer questions, to help create a personalized nutrition plan, and provide a wealth of other helpful information, without cost. “Customers can call and schedule an appointment for free,” said Ruth. Nutrition Smart is proud to offer first responders, active and retired military, and teachers a 10% discount off their purchase at any time. On Senior Discount Tuesdays, seniors over 55 can enjoy that benefit too. In addition, the shop will pricematch any big box store and takes
competitor’s coupon. With a Mission Statement that reads “to be an outstanding partner in the communities where we live and work,” Nutrition Smart supports organizations like Little League,
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school culinary programs, fundraiser walks, health fairs, Bronco 5K, and goes into the classroom to education children on what it means to be a healthy child. Ruth said, “We do our best to
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meet the demands of our Carrollwood community. As we’ve learned and understood what customers in this area want, we’ve adapted to that. We want to make it as convenient and affordable as possible for our customers.” Don't forget about the Nutrition Smart text alert program! Just text the word TAMPA to 90822 and receive a $5 off $35 coupon!
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Nutrition Smart Carrollwood is located at 14847 N Dale Mabry and open Monday through Saturday 9am-9pm and Sunday 10am-7pm. Text TAMPA to 90822 to join their Text Club, visit nutritionsmart.com to register to receive coupons and special offers. You can reach Nutrition Smart Carrollwood by phone at (813) 908. 9500.
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Imrove Your Life . . . Improve Your Hearing! “Oh wow!” Those are the first words Dr. Judith Reese, Audiologist, hears when a patient of hers hears the TV audio streaming directly into their new hearing aids. “Oh wow!” Those are also the first words a patient’s spouse says when they see their loved one hear the TV in Dr. Reese’s office at a significantly lower volume than they have it set on their home TV, thanks to the technology that pairs hearing aids to TV volume. For someone who has helped hearing-impaired people almost 30 years in the Tampa Bay area, Dr. Reese says this about these ‘Oh wow!’ exclamations: “It never gets old.” Dr. Judith L. Reese opened JC Audiology in 2005, more than 2,000 patients ago. Prior to that, she served as an audiologist at the James A. Haley and Bay Pines Veterans Administration hospitals, as well as the
University of South Florida, where she also taught future audiologists. Her passion for helping people hear better led her to open her own private practice where she can provide unbiased recommendations in an atmosphere that is warm, welcoming and comfortable. “Being a locally-owned small business,” Dr. Reese adds, “allows me to provide the best patient care and customer service I can. I have no corporate rules or home office in another country to meddle with. The only boss I have is the patient in front of me.” The desire to provide an exceptional level of personal care to the hearing-impaired is, indeed, personal with Dr. Reese. “My father, my husband, and other dear family members have endured hearing loss.” She explains. “What I recommend for my patients is no different than what I would do for them.” Dr. Reese cites medical studies that conclude how important optimal
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By Carla Dubis
MARCH 2017
Dr. Judith Reese Photo by MikeBird.us
hearing is to one’s overall health. A 2013 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, for example, showed that even mild hearing loss
equates to “7 years of cognitive decline when compared to a similar age group with normal hearing.” Other research showed that
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hearing loss can lead to social isolation, depression and accelerated brain atrophy. “I know how important hearing is for overall quality of life,” says Dr. Reese. “Maintaining hearing health keeps our brains stimulated, which offers us overall happiness in our primary health.” “Someone with untreated hearing loss can address these issues with hearing aids,” she adds. “The sooner hearing loss is treated, the better for one’s cognitive health and overall wellbeing.” Dr. Reese is licensed by the State of Florida Department of Health and certified by the Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology, and holds membership in the Florida Academy of Audiology and the Florida Speech-Language-Hearing Association, along with many other prestigious affiliations; patients can trust that they will receive the highest level of service at JC Audiology. Her patients at JC Audiology come from all over the Tampa Bay area, and she has more than a dozen who come from other states and countries. “Our service sets us apart,” she adds. “The best thing about this
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practice is the number of patients I have who have been referred by existing patients. It is the best compliment we can get.” Dr. Reese is very in tune with working with patients on an individual level. “We all have different preferences for volume and sound,” says Dr. Reese. “Taking the time to get to know my patients allows me to understand an individual’s preferences and make the necessary adjustments to their hearing aid for the best possible sound result.” That personal service includes taking the time to explain to a patient all they wish to know about their hearing and the available hearing solutions out there. “Many people aren’t familiar with hearing devices and the features and the range of costs for them. I’ll take as much time as they need to help them understand everything they need to know to get them on the road to hearing better.” Dr. Reese says that many patients who were frustrated with devices they got from big box stores or franchises really appreciate the difference in service they get at JC Audiology. “We only sell one consumer product: Hearing aids.” She emphasizes. “Our focus is on which
device fits your lifestyle the best.” Because hearing aids can be complicated electronic, computerized devices with multiple features and price points, the best thing Dr. Reese advises all those trying to educate themselves on the devices is to ask for a no-charge, no-obligation consultation. “I do these several times a week, and it really helps someone who isn’t familiar with hearing aids to get a basic understanding of everything hearing aids entail.” Larger companies, she said, spend a lot of money on full page advertisements that focuses on cost. “I focus on the patient and can often provide them with a better bargain than they can get anywhere else.” Dr. Reese also stresses, “And with the best service anywhere.” The technology in hearing aids has changed over the years, and Dr. Reese stays on top of the latest
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developments through continuing education and ongoing manufacturer’s training. Hearing aids now can function with multiple devices to help a hearing-impaired person with a busy lifestyle. They can interact with phones, TV streamers, hearing loops and other technologies to bring sound directly into an aid in the ear. This state-of-the-art technology can be demonstrated at JC Audiology by calling Dr. Reese at 813-949-1331. JC Audiology is located at 1541 Dale Mabry Highway, Suite 201, in the North Fork Professional Center in Lutz (across from Walmart). For additional information, please call (813) 9491331 or visit www.jcaudiology.com, where you can read the JC Audiology blog and view the list of news source links provided. Office hours are Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
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Put on Your Walking Shoes: Hiking Spree 2017 By Marcy Sanford This past November Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation kicked off Hiking Spree 2017, a new program to encourage residents to get out and take a hike in one of the beautiful parks we are blessed with in the area. “The program has been a huge success,” said Parks and Recreation Senior Event Coordinator Dana McDonald. “This is the first time we’ve done something like this in Hillsborough County and we’ve had a lot of great response from the community. Hiking Spree was suggested to us by an employee who used to live in Ohio where they had a similar program. We are really excited about the program as a way to get people outside exploring.” Hillsborough County has more than 100 recreational parks and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Hiking Spree 2017 celebrates those trails. Through March 31, people who register with the program and hike any 8 of 19 designated trails will receive a medallion to put on their hiking stick or an Access Hiker patch. New Tampa resident Claire Brantley earned her medallion in December and gained a new found love for hiking. “In July I had some bad health test results and I needed to lose weight. I had been successful with the Weight Watchers program in the past but have never combined exercise with the program because I’ve never enjoyed exercise. I am klutzy, have never found sport I enjoyed playing, and would rather be reading than working out.” Claire lost 30 pounds but knew that
without exercise, the pounds would come back. Fortunately a friend took her on a hike and she enjoyed it. “I had fun and when I got home I googled hiking in Hillsborough and found the information about
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Hiking Spree.” The week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve Claire and two of her friends did at least one, sometimes two, hikes from the Hiking Spree list and earned their medallions.
You can find a list of all the hikes and information to help you find the right trail for your skill level on the Hiking Spree website. They are rated for difficulty from all-purpose to primitive and easy to strenuous.
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“The hikes on our list are just a sample of the trails we have in Hillsborough County,” said Dana. “We tried to pick ones from different sides of the County and these were specifically chosen because they are great hiking trails.” Some of the trails close to Lutz, Odessa, and Land ‘O Lakes include Lutz Lake Fern Trailhead, Lake Rogers, Violet Cury, and Cypress Creek. Claire highly recommends Violet Cury, “it is really lovely and beautiful,” as well as Lake Rogers, which she says, is, “very unspoiled.” However her favorite has been Morris Bridge, “the Bald Cypress Trail is on the other side of Morris Bridge Road. The hike is beautiful, exquisite. You hike a mile into the woods and come to a gazebo overlooking the Hillsborough River. I have lived here for 18 years and never knew it existed and now it is my favorite place to go hike.” There are plenty of hiking selections throughout Hillsborough County and those looking for a day adventure may want to explore other areas of the County like the Golden Aster Scrub Preserve in Gibsonton
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which is home to endangered plants and birds like the Florida golden aster and the Florida scrub jay. Dana says that more than 800 people have signed up with the program since it started and that the County will definitely do it again. “We’ve had about 250 people join us for guided hikes. In February we did a moonlight hike at Blackwater Creek. Lots of people did not realize these parks were there in their backyards. Next time we will highlight different parks and trails.” Many County parks, like Lettuce Lake Park, hold program every weekend throughout the year with experts who can tell participants about the animals or plants they’ll encounter in the park or along the trails. It’s not too late to earn your Hiking Spree medallion. For more information about Hiking Spree and to register, visit Hillsborough County’s website at www.hillsboroughcounty.org. Maybe, like Claire – “It’s the first exercise in my life that I’ve really enjoyed.” – you’ll find a new hobby you love.
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“Hungry Greek” neighborhood gem are father Dino Constantinou and son George Constantinou, who, between them, have decades of experience in the restaurant industry. Dino Constantinou grew up on the Greek Island of Cyprus. In 1969, his life changed when he moved to the Big apple, New York City, where he completed his high school education and began working at his uncle’s diner. By the time he was 18, Dino was promoted to head chef, showing incredible talent and a promising future. In 1977, Dino moved again–to Florida. As we know Florida is a melting pot of cultures, and a great place for food lovers of any cuisine. While living here, Dino was able to explore more in-depth the restaurant business. He learned quickly and gained a greater understanding of the American culture, before ultimately building his own business with his son, George. With George’s background in business management and Dino’s knowledge of traditional Greek culture, The Hungry Greek was born.
Dino and George had a vision for their restaurant: They wanted to serve the freshest Greek cuisine using recipes passed down through their family, and that is exactly what they accomplished at the Hungry Greek. “All of our dishes are made following the original recipes of my Greek ancestors, and that’s why you can taste the difference in our food. It’s all fresh and it’s authentic,” George said. While I was snapping some pictures of the delicious food, I saw George walking from one side to the other, he was cooking behind the counter, he was cleaning the already spotless floors, he was serving customers and making sure everything was running smoothly. He is a man that wears many hats! I was impressed by the way he genuinely seemed to care about ensuring that every single person in the restaurant was enjoying their meal and having a good time. “I greet the customers, I cook, I serve the food, I clean, I do it all! You will see me, my dad or other family members at either one of our locations. It’s a family owned and operated business, and we do it all with love.” The first Hungry Greek opened in 2006 and has grown to four family owned and operated locations in Hillsborough and Pinellas County.
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George shared with me that the company has plans to keep on growing, and there’s already a 5th location in the making, which will be in Land O’ Lakes. They also have a location in Arkansas, and are hoping to attract possible franchisees who are as passionate about Greek cuisine and providing an excellent customer experience as they are. As I was talking to George and enjoying my delicious and HUGE Greek salad, which was overflowing
with juicy and flavorful gyro meat and big chunks of delicious feta cheese, an older couple came to our table and shook George’s hand. They told him “The food was simply delicious! The fish was wonderful… and the taste of the honey in the baklava… Oh my! it was just TO DIE FOR! We will definitely be back.” George said thank you and told them he was looking forward to seeing them again in the future. As the couple walked out George turned to me and said “That
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reaction right there… that is why I love what I do! We like to treat our customers and staff as if they were part of the family. We know we cannot please everybody, but we definitely try!” You could see it in his eyes and the way he talked about the Hungry Greek… that undeniable passion for providing customers a truly memorable dining experience. It is no surprise that the Hungry Greek has amazing 5-star customer reviews from many satisfied customers all over the
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internet. “Always fresh and delicious. Well portioned entrees. Affordable prices. They have the best Greek food in the area. Greek salads are loaded with gyro or chicken at your request. Friendly staff… I come about 4 times a month!” said Jose C. a regular Hungry Greek customer from Florida. After I finished my Greek Salad, I was craving something sweet… and I knew exactly what I wanted to try next… that “to die for” baklava. If you’ve never had it, you’re missing
out. Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. It is one of my favorite desserts EVER, and after hearing that couple rave about it, I wanted to try it even more. Let me tell you… It was hands down THE BEST I’ve ever had. Also earning praise was the baked pastitsio, which I tried during another visit to the Hungry Greek. The Pastitsio is a traditional Greek dish which consists of macaroni filled with generous amounts of savory ground beef, abundant romano cheese and topped with creamy béchamel sauce. The Baked Pastitsio is a common Greek dish, think of it as a “Greek Lasagna,” and it is served as a main course, with a side salad and warm pita bread. I highly recommend it! All meals at the hungry Greek come served with soup or Greek salad and pita bread. On Tuesdays, come
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enjoy their amazing $4.99 gyro special! They also offer a kid’s menu which includes smaller versions of some of their most popular dishes like; “Kiddy Souvlaki,” a “Kiddy Gyro Platter” and even a “Pita Pizza” topped with tomato sauce and cheese. The Hungry Greek offers catering services for a wide of variety of events, business meetings, school related events and private parties and functions. If you don’t take my word for it, or the online reviews of hundreds of happy customers, come try it for yourself. You will not regret it! whenever you stop by, come hungry… to the Hungry Greek. Hungry Greek Carrollwood is located at 10041 North Dale Mabry. For more information, call them at 813-405-8242 or visit their website at www.TheHungryGreek.com
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Charity Golf Classic April 22, 2017 Saturday 8:30am - 8:30pm Northdale Golf and Tennis Club 4417 Northdale Blvd, Tampa, FL 33624 The Tampa Bay Redzone Classic is a 100% proceed, non profit event geared towards scholastic programs for our youth here in the Tampa Bay area. It is focused on mentorship programs in the form of scholarships for first generation prospective college students out of high school. This program is meant to show the theme of “givers get,” all we ask our recipients of scholarship is to give back the same way they received. We have partnered with the local ASCS charity foundation to put an emphasis on community first, and connecting the Tampa area through foundational work and effort along with Unsigned Preps Charitable Organization. I personally have met with them over multiple events and they are the living truth of preach what you speak. I could not be more proud to have them partnering with our organization moving forward and continuing to build a foundation for youth in the Bay area.
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Each Scramble Prize Competitions: • 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winner • Longest Drive • Guess your Drive • Closest to Pin Player Package Includes: Greens Fees, Gift Bag, Event TShirt, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Raffle ticket into player exclusive drawing, Free Domestic Beers and House Wine on the course and at the Awards ceremony. Prizes Include: (To be announced at Awards Ceremony) • Event Trophy for both scramble, along with Personalized Trophy for winning teams • 50/50 Raffle with 50% of funds going towards our charitable organizations directly • Silent Auction - Vacation Getaways, Dinners throughout Tampa Bay, Outdoor Adventure Packages, Autographed Sports Memorabilia, and much more! • Players Only Raffle - Golf Equipment (Bags, Clubs, Apparel, etc) Sponsorship Packages: (All Advertisement to run 30 days leading up to event and day of) • Gold $750.00 - Radio Advertisement, Large Logo Advertisement on all print and multimedia, On site booth on one of the premier holes, Personal
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“The model employs many of the best practices recommended for college access and dropout prevention programs. There is a broad continuum of support that impacts all areas of the participant's lives. Most importantly, the organization begins its work with student athletes at the early and critical middle school years. ASCS has now reached a point where adult alumni have come "full circle" and are returning as mentors. Again, standard and proven college access and dropout prevention practices are being implemented in a highly effective manner.” - NFL FOUNDATION 48”x96” banner, Advertisement in event program. • Silver $400.00 Medium text Advertisement on all print and multimedia, On site booth on one of the course’ holes, Personal 36”x72” banner, Advertisement in event program. • Bronze $150.00 - Small text Advertisement on all print and multimedia, 18”x18” Hole sponsorship, Advertisement in event program.
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Awards Ceremony to take place at O’Briens Irish Pub & Grill 15435 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 4:30pm8:30pm. 100% of Proceeds to be named in Honor of John Reger to benefit All Sports Community Service Foundation. For more information contact: (813) 235-3459 • TampaBayRedzoneClassic.com • TBRedzone@gmail.com
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