Lutz/Land O' Lakes/Odessa - Vol. 7, Issue 4, April 2016

Vol. 7, Issue 4, April 2016

Your neighborhood. Your magazine.

The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine Directly Mailed To 20,000 Homes In Odessa, Lutz & Land O’ Lakes Areas This Independent Community News, Business & Dining Guide Is Directly Mailed Once Each Month To: Ashley Lakes, Ballantrae, Belle Meade, Calusa Trace, Canterbury, Cheval, Citrus Greens, Concord Station, Devonwood, Dolce Vita on Lake Keystone, Echo Lake, Farmington Village, Fern Glenn, Grey Hawk at Lake Polo, Heritage Harbor, Ivy Lake Estates, Keystone Groves, Keystone Manors, Keystone Reserve, Keystone Shores, Lake Charles, Lake Church, Lake Parker Estates, Lakeside Grove Estates, Northlake Village, Northbridge at Lake Pretty, Northton Groves, Oakstead, Orange Blossom Creek, Reflections, Steeple Chase, Stillwater, Stonegate, Suncoast Crossings, Suncoast Meadows, Swan Cove, Van Dyke Estates, Van Dyke Farms, Villa Rosa, Wyndham Lakes

Authentic Mexican Cuisine on Cinco de Mayo & Every Day!

For most of us, our pets are more than our animal companions. They are our family members, our fur-babies, and our best friends. That’s why when it comes to choosing a veterinarian for their care, it’s important to choose doctors who are experts in their field, up-to-date on all of the latest medical advancements, and most of all, caring, respectful and compassionate. St. Francis Pet Care Center is all of these things and more.

St. Francis Pet Care Center is located at 3591 Keystone Road in Tarpon Springs, a mile east of East Lake Road. An amazing facility and animal hospital, St. Francis can provide the best for your pet whatever they may need, a simple checkup or advanced surgical care. The focus at St. Francis Pet Care Center is on preventative health care, keeping your pet healthy through each stage of See “St. Francis” on page 22

Barns & Beer..............................3 Calendar & News Briefs......4-5 Cornerstone Pros................8-9 J. Joseph Salon...............10-11 Ann Poole Recognized by TFP’s Tampa Bay Making a Difference Award..........14-15 Tampa Friendly Divorce.16-17 Medical Center of Trinity is Blue Distinction® Center for Maternity Care............18-19 Fifth Annual Substance Abuse Prevention Conference...28-29

ECRWSS

By Julie Kanehl

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Postal Customer

Choose St. Francis Pet Care Center for Advanced Medicine & Loving Care

See “Vallarta’s” on page 26.

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 1185

If you want authentic Mexican food, a fun and friendly atmosphere, and excellent service from happy servers, then drive straight over to Vallarta’s Restauranté Mexicano, conveniently located just off of State Road 54 and just east of the Suncoast Parkway at 16540 Point Village Drive at Northpointe Village in Lutz. The expansive menu is bursting with flavor and choices of delicious Mexican specialties and combination platters.

Vallarta’s is the place to go for your Cinco de Mayo celebration this

year! Throughout the day on May 5, Vallarta’s will have fun giveaways for customers and there also will be a DJ to keep the party upbeat and exciting.

Speaking of parties, Vallarta’s isn’t only fun on Cinco de Mayo, it is a great place to have a party for any occasion. There is an outside seating area that can be rented for private parties even on Friday and Saturday nights. Otherwise, the al fresco area, which seats about 40 people, provides an airy and spacious dining spot perfect for those who want to enjoy the fresh air with their fresh food!

Dated Material Please Rush!

By Kim Thomas

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Old McMicky’s Farm Presents Barns & Beer Old McMicky’s Farm invites the community to the next Barns & Beer, (age 21-and-up event) on May 14th at 7 p.m. Guests will be entertained with live music performed by one of Tampa Bay’s favorite bands, The Black Honkeys, while enjoying the beautiful, classic farm with its big red barn set on a picturesque 40-acre lake.

Old McMicky’s Farm has gathered the best local beer making geniuses for your sampling pleasure. There will be more than 75 craft beers and wine, great entertainment, great food and many new friends to meet. Mark your calendar to do something new, different, and fun! And you’ll support a great cause!

Old McMicky’s Farm knows how to provide a good time with farm-inspired games such as Egg Races with farm eggs, a Barn Maze and more!

This event makes giving back fun with Mechanical Bull Rides ($5 donation) and the Lighted Hay Ride ($3 donation). Photo opportunities abound with hay bales at the entry barn, photo boards with Mr. & Mrs. Farmer, farm animal faces and more! Enjoy food for sale from some of the area’s best food

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trucks! Food not included with admission price.

If you decide to attend the Barns & Beer event, add to your enjoyment by knowing you are supporting Old McMicky’s Farm (Camp Keystone) – a 70-year tradition (Est. 1946) dedicated to serving kids and families in our Tampa Bay community. Barns & Beer benefits the Old McMicky’s Farm Foundation, a registered 501©(3).

Here are just a few of the Foundation’s programs and organizations that your attendance helps to support: “1000 Kids” Program––Each year, the farm’s “1000 Kids” Program has the goal of welcoming 1,000 kids in the Tampa Bay area who are facing challenges to come out for a great day at the farm and enjoy amazing moments with animals and activities in an atmosphere of love and fun – no charge.

“Mission I Do” - Mission I do provides free all-inclusive weddings for veterans and active duty military.

Child Adoption Education and Support - over 450 potential adoptive parents recently attended the farms Child Adoption Education Day in

2015 to learn about adoption and to help find more families for local children. The farm also holds Adoption Match days and 15 local children have been matched with their Forever Families at OMF’s last two match days.

Organizations and groups served by the Farm’s Foundation: The Children’s Home, Metropolitan Ministries, Eckerd Community Alternatives, The Junior League of Tampa, Heart Galleries, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Children’s Cancer Center, Guardian Ad Litem, Camelot Community Care, Adoptive Related Services, Hillsborough County Foster Care, Pacso/Pinellas Foster Care, Explorer K8, Morning Star School, Fit4Truth, HOPE Camp, Monarch House, Lighthouse of Pinellas, UPARC, Sydney’s Academy, Florida Autism Center of Excellence, Homeless Emergency, Project Learning Center, Neurorestorative Clearwater Group, Spinabifida Support Group, Joshua House, March of Dimes, Hope Youth Ranch, Champions for Children, Fostering Youth of Florida, A Reel Future, Jackson in Action 83 Foundation.

Tickets & Info: Please visit www.oldmcmickys.com.

Neighborhood News & Lifestyles Directly mailed once a month to 20,000 households in zip codes 33556, 33558 & 34638

220 Safford Ave. S. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 Phone: (813) 928-6124; Fax: (727) 942-2432 Advertising E-mail: info@nnlflorida.com Editorial E-mail: editorial@nnlflorida.com © 2016 NeighborhoodNews & Lifestyles is published by ADS 2 Publications, Inc. Publisher Tim Selby General Manager Jim O’Reilly Editor Kim Thomas Advertising Sales Manager Matt Selby Advertising Sales Jim O’Reilly Linda Veiga Alexis Selby Jared Nager

Correspondents Julie Kanehl Marcy Sanford Katie Thomas

Dara Tucker

Art Director Dat X. Do Graphic Artists Dat X. Do Tony Sica Accounting Manager Doreen Selby Billing Assistant Tina O’Reilly

Nothing that appears in Neighborhood News & Lifestyles may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Neighborhood News & Lifestyles writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion.

The management of Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is always happy to accept outside editorial submissions to the paper. Please call for outside editorial submission and adver-

tisement deadlines.

Neighborhood News & Lifestyles will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Neighborhood News & Lifestyles reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Neighborhood News & Lifestyles will not return unsolicited editorial materials.

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Odessa, Lutz, Land O’ Lakes Area

Community Calendar & News Briefs Premiere Native Gardens Tour Sun., Apr. 24, 10 AM–4 PM–– The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society is presenting the first Native Gardens Tour in Pasco County. Seven sites, including a business, residences and a wildflower nursery, along State Road 54, will be highlighted. See how native plants have been incorporated into the landscape to attract wildlife and create healthy habitats!

Call Steve Joyce at (813) 7673131, or visit PascoNativePlants.org, for ticket information.

Florida Native Plant Society Meetings 2nd Tuesday, Monthly, 7 PM–– The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society meets at the Land O’ Lakes Community Cen-

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ter, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd/US 41 in Land O’ Lakes, between SR 52 and SR 54. The subject of the Tuesday, April 12, 2016 meeting is “Bats of Florida” presented by Shari BissetClark, a member of the Florida Bat Conservancy, Bat Conservation International, the Xerces Society, and the Florida Native Plant Society. Her education includes wildlife biology and habitat conservation and she has worked in both the public and private conservation sectors for decades.

Not long ago Florida habitats supported the most diverse plant and animal communities in North America. Bats, one of the most significant players in habitat health, ate their own weight in insects each night, keeping insect populations balanced and contributing to the overall health of Florida’s landscapes. Today Florida’s bats are fighting to survive, but myth and misconception continue to plague these important mammals. This program dispels the myths and replaces them with fascinating facts about bats, their irreplaceable contribution to Florida’s

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habitats and their partnership with native flora and fauna. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet live Florida bats!

Meetings of the Chapter are free, and all interested parties are invited to attend, to bring questions about their yard, and participate in light refreshments and the native plant drawing. Telephone inquiries are taken by Sandy at (727) 207-1853.

Chapter website: http://www.pasconativeplants.org.

“Wine & Win” at Seven Springs Golf & Country Club Sat., Apr. 30, 5:30–10 PM––“A Wine & Win Social” fundraising event is being held at Seven Springs Golf & Country Club located at 3535 Trophy Blvd. in New Port Richey. Tickets are on sale now for $25 each through our website: www.disabilityachievementcenter.org or by calling Disability Achievement Center at (727) 539-7550.

The event features a silent auction containing hotel stays at Sirata Beach Resort, Alden Beach Resort, and Sheraton Sand Key, green fees for Southern Hills Plantation Club and The Abbey at St Leo University, aerial adventure from TreeHoppers,

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handmade quilts, confections from Kilwins, and so much more!

The evening kicks off with a dance lesson from Paul Friedlander, a live music set by PJ, and Lady DJ Myrtle will spin the tunes to keep you on the dance floor!

Disability Achievement Center is a 501(c)(3) not for profit resource center serving people of all ages and all disabilities in Pasco and Pinellas Counties to improve independence.

Barns & Beer Craft Beer Festival Old McMcMicky’s Farm May 14th, 7 PM––The Black Honkeys will perform, and there will be more than 75 craft beers and wine choices - all at a beautiful farm! It will be a great time, benefiting the Old McMicky’s Farm Foundation, a 501 (C) 3 organization. Log on to OldMcMickys.com for ticket and sponsorship information.

Nar-Anon Group Meetings The Nar-Anon Family Groups are a worldwide fellowship for those affected by someone else’s addiction.

As a 12-step program, Nar-Anon offers help by sharing experience, strength and hope. Florida Website: Naranonfl.org; Help Line: 1-888-

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947-8885 Thursdays, 7 PM––Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 2348 Collier Pkwy. (Immaculata Hall - Rm. E Back Entrance) Mondays, 7 PM––Turning Point Mary Martha Bldg., 6227 Sheldon Rd., Tampa Thursdays, 7 PM––Christ the King Church, 821 So. Dale Mabry (Mary Martha Center – Buidling 717 – Rm 203). Newcomer Meeting held on the 4th Thursday of the month @ 6:30 PM Mondays 7 PM––The Grace Place, 732 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon Thursdays, 7 PM––First Presbyterian Church, 121 Carver Ave., Brandon (near Parsons Ave. & 60E) Tuesdays, 7 PM––Hope Church, 5107 Lutz Lake Fern Rd., Lutz Saturdays, 10 AM––United Methodist Church, 207 Buckingham Ave., Oldsmar Wednesdays 8 PM––Asbury United Methodist Church, 4204 Thys Rd., New Port Richey *NARATEEN MEETING (*Same day, time and location) Tuesdays 6:45 PM––All Saints Church, 1700 Keystone Rd., Tarpon Springs

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“Second Night Seder” at Heritage Springs Country Club Sat., Apr. 23––Congregation B’nai Emmunah, the Reform Jewish synagogue located at 3374 Keystone Road in Tarpon Springs, invites the community to join them and Rabbi Lynn Goldstein in celebrating Passover at their “Second Night Passover Seder” at Heritage Springs Country Club on Saturday, April 23.

Tickets for non-members of the congregation are $50 for adults ($36 for members) and $10 for children aged 6 to 12. (Children aged 5 and under are free). For reservations and more information, call the CBE office at 727-938-9000.

Endless Discoveries at Brooker Creek Preserve Fri., Apr. 15, 9–10:30 AM––Wildlife hike along boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. Binoculars and cameras are recommended.

Sat., Apr. 16, 8–11 AM––Residents can join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve to remove exotic vegetation and nuisance plants from the preserve. Participants are asked to

bring work gloves, clippers, shovels, hand saws and loppers. This is hard work and recommended for strong volunteers ages 12 and up.

Sat., Apr. 16, 7:30–9:30 PM––Residents are invited to join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve for a one-mile night hiking experience along the Ed Center Trail.

Experienced guides will lead participants through the evening. Space is limited to 20 people per hike and a $3 donation is requested.

Sat., Apr. 16, 9 AM–2 PM––Children 12 years of age or younger may participate in the program “Wildlife Safari,” sponsored by Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve.

Kids will begin with a blank Wildlife Passport and walk along a one-mile loop of adventure with live owls, snakes, baby raccoons, hawks and more. As the children visit each Wildlife Station, their passport gets stamped. At the end of the walk, they get a special prize for completing the journey. This program takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and costs $5 per child.

Fri., Apr. 22, 10 a.m.–noon––, participants are encouraged to join Brooker Creek Preserve in building children’s interest in the natural world. This week’s program is titled “Alien Extraction.” Closed-toed shoes are required.

Sat., Apr. 23, 10:30 AM–Noon––Participants can join a UF/IFAS Pinellas County Extension specialist as they introduce Florida’s freshwater wetland wildflowers. This program is recommended for adults.

Sat., Apr. 23, 9 AM–Noon––Participants will join in a 2.8 to 4 mile walk to view how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those

changes. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must, and water and a hat are recommended. All ages are welcome, although children younger than age 10 may find the hike challenging. Children younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Ongoing, Thurs. – Sat., 9 AM–4 PM (except holidays)––Pinellas County Extension offers classes, programs and activities at the Environmental Education Center. This permanent, hands-on educational exhibit features 22 discovery-oriented experiences that help visitors of all ages understand how natural Florida has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. The Windows to Our Wildest Place exhibit allows visitors to experience the life of a gopher tortoise, educational videos and a touch and feel display of animal, insect and reptile skins and skeletons that have been preserved. The center is operated by the Pinellas County Parks and Conservation Resources Department.

For more information about Brooker Creek Preserve’s programs and events, call (727) 453-6800 or register at brookercreekpreserve.org.

Community Yard Sale Sat., May 14, 8 AM–3 PM––A Community Yard Sale will be held at Temple Elijah, located at 21021 SR 54 in Lutz.

Reserve a space for $20. Great location on State Rd. 54 & U.S. Route 41.

For reservations and additional information please contact: Elizabeth Melendez (813-) 949-9917 or email monroejjje@aol.com See “Calendar” on page 20.

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Cornerstone Pros – Your Trusted Partner for Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electrical Needs

By Marcy Sanford Cornerstone Pros has been a trusted name in the area for more than 10 years, consistently receiving the Angie’s List Super Service Award.

Now, the company that thousands of homeowners have turned to when they need plumbing and HVAC service has added another feather to their cap by providing electrical services.

“Cornerstone Air, Plumbing & Electrical can help homeowners with all their residential plumbing, HVAC, and electrical needs,” says owner Dana Spears. “We’ve had really great response to our electrical service. If needed we can send two technicians to a home which is very convenient for homeowners.”

Cornerstone Pros is dedicated to helping make your home a safe and comfortable environment. Dana says that Cornerstone’s certified technicians are trained to expertly handle any HVAC need in your home, from repairs to installing new units, as well as plumbing and electrical. Corner-

stone Pros does everything possible to complete your project on budget and on time.

Time for a HVAC System Check-Up Summer’s consistently hot days are right around the corner and Dana says now is a great time to get a HVAC system check-up and clean-up to insure that your home stays pleasantly cool during the upcoming 90degree days. A properly functioning HVAC system not only keeps you cool

on hot, summer days but it can also save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your unit.

Cornerstone Pros customer Glenn A. says, “I can see why Cornerstone has such high ratings. I purchased the $49 coupon and scheduled an appointment. Scott J. was the tech who arrived. He was professional, polite, and very knowledgeable. He performed a thorough inspection of my heat pump and provided a receipt showing all readings and

specifics of what he did. Not only was this informative for me, but it provides a record for any future visits - and I will call them for any future issues.”

Right now is a great time to schedule your system’s spring checkup and clean up because Cornerstone Pros is offering a special for only $39.95.

If you do find yourself with an AC unit on the fritz, Cornerstone Pros’ skilled technicians are there for you 24-hours a day whenever you need help. Cornerstone Pros services all brands and is always happy to provide you with a free estimate on installations or a second opinion on repairs.

They make it a point to get to emergency calls within the same day so that you can get back to living your life.

Cornerstone Pros Plumbing Services It isn’t just the HVAC repairs and installation services that keep Cornerstone Pros’ customers happy. Another reason that Cornerstone Air, Heating, Plumbing & Electrical is the highest

rated service provider in the fourcounty area is their honest, reliable plumbing service.

“The service from Cornerstone was perfect,” says Dianne P. “There was an issue with one of the faucet parts and the plumber from Cornerstone took the time to call the manufacturer about the warranty. He even showed me how to put it in. He went over, above, and beyond.”

Now Offering Electrical Services Cornerstone Pros’ customers love that the trusted and reliable company now provides electrical service, too!

Cornerstone Pros’ client Michelle N. states, “Cornerstone was very re-

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them again for future work.”

A few of the electrical services that Cornerstone Pros now offers: • Adding or replacing lighting and fixtures • Adding or replacing landscape lighting • Installing LED Dana & James Spears, pictured above and with their – energy efficient family, and Cornerstone Pros’ expert team (far left) lighting • Home safety inspections sponsive, professional, and knowledge• Adding or replacing ceiling fans able. I had an extensive amount of • Installing cables for cameras work that needed to be done in my home that included replacing the Cornerstone Pros can even perbreaker box, repairing outlets, inform a home safety inspection if you stalling a ceiling fan, and replacing the are buying a new home or if you live water heater. The price they quoted in an older home. me was reasonable and fair for the Thanks to hard work and dependamount of work done and the service able, friendly and honest service, Cortechs that came out to my home were nerstone Pros has become the area’s terrific. They knew exactly what they top choice to call for heating, air, were doing, completed the work in plumbing, and electrical issues. From less than half a day, and were very renovations and new equipment instalpleasant and friendly. I like Cornerlations to emergency repairs or service stone because they offer not only eleccheck-ups, their team of certified techtrical repair, but plumbing and HVAC nicians and plumbing specialists blend services as well. I would not hesitate innovation with old-school values to to recommend them and plan to use

deliver 100-percent satisfaction.

Born and raised in the area, it is important to Dana that Cornerstone Pros is known as a company that her community can trust. The family owned business prides itself on hiring the best local technicians and customer service professionals available. She and her husband, James Spears, also support local charities and schools.

For honesty, reliability, and expertise, give Cornerstone Pros a call today at (813) 949-4445. To find more information about the specials and services they provide, log on to CornerstonePros.com.

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J. Joseph Salon, Affordable Luxury from Head-to-Toe

By Marcy Sanford J. Joseph Salon’s owner, Roy Naccour, says there is nothing more rewarding than making people feel beautiful and good about themselves.

And when you can walk out of a salon feeling like a princess, or a prince, without having to spend a small fortune it makes that awesome “I just left the salon” feeling even better. With locations in Land O’ Lakes and Lutz, J. Joseph Salon offers its clients something valuable – affordable luxury!

Roy, who was born in Lebanon and grew up in Sweden, moved to Lutz when he was 18. He studied how to do hair in Sweden and took courses from hair artists all over Europe, gaining valuable experience.

After a few years of living in Florida, Roy realized he loved the weather and wanted to stay but that, more important, he saw a need for a higher-end European salon in the area. Now ten years later, J. Joseph Salon is the favorite salon in the area for many women and men thanks to the handpicked expert stylists’ custom cuts and award-winning color techniques, pampering spa services, and expertly

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applied manicures, pedicures, and hair extensions. Additionally, J. Joseph Salon prides itself on excellent customer service and knowledge of all the latest styles and trends.

“I’ve been going to J. Joseph for several years now and I’ve never been disappointed,” says J. Joseph Salon in Lutz client Victoria.

“I’ve used several different stylists “We believe in exceptional customer here, and each brings something service and ongoing education and unique and different to the table that training. We fly educators in from all I love each time. Niniveth just did my over the nation, and we gain educahair tonight and I’m in love! She took tion ourselves by going to fashion a broad idea that I had and really hit week in Europe. We have participated the nail on the head and used prodin fashion weeks in Paris and New ucts that were perfectly suited to my York and are planning to go to Milan hair type. Not only will you enjoy her in 2017. We talk to our clients to deservices, but the conversation, too!” termine the style and look they want “The secret to our success is that and then we educate them on how to we are passionate about helping our keep their hair looking salon beautiful clients look beautiful,” shares Roy. weeks and months after their visit.”

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Roy Naccour, Owner of J. Joseph Salons in Land O' Lakes and Lutz The Spa at J. Joseph Salon in Land O’ Lakes If you really want to pamper yourself and take luxury to the next level, book a visit to The Spa at the J. Joseph Salon located in Land O’ Lakes. All services are completely customized to each individual client’s wants and needs. The Spa at J. Joseph Salon is a full service spa, offering the finest facial services. The skin care experts at the spa will provide you with

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J. Joseph Salon at Land O’ Lakes This location also offers pampering skin care and spa services at The Spa deluxe skin care services to help reduce pores, soften wrinkles and lines, and give you an overall glowing complexion. While you’re there you can treat yourself to a customized body treatment or massage. You’ll also find waxing experts with a gentle touch and masters of eyelash and brow extensions. When you visit The Spa at J. Joseph Salon be prepared for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Sometimes your salon bill might ruin your relaxed, beautiful feeling but not at J. Joseph Salon. J. Joseph Salon

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regularly offers specials for new customers with select service providers.

They often offer $59 color, cut, and blowout or $79 highlight, cut, and blowout specials that will ensure you have money left over to buy that cute outfit to go with your new hairstyle.

And clients are always quoted a price prior to any service, so you can relax and enjoy your pampering knowing that you haven’t spent outside your budget. And at J. Joseph Salon the hair stylist will give you the knowledge and tools to keep your style looking

great for weeks, even months, after your visit.

Working at one of the most successful salons and spas in the area makes the staff happy to join Roy in giving back to the community and helping out others. They have donated thousands of dollars to local non-profits and recently hosted a beauty day for foster children. Roy and his team at J. Joseph Salon look forward to doing similar events in the future. “It is such a joy to be able to treat these children and make them feel special,” says Roy, who is very proud of the J. Joseph Salon team. He adds, “One of my employees, Linda B. (Master Stylist/Leadership), is the one responsible for putting events together to give back to the community. Jeremy B. is another very successful Master Stylist/Leadership who has been with us many years, and there are many more.

We grow our team from the training program to them being able to run

their own salon. We have employees that have been with us for over 10 years. We have all worked together and have grown this company to where it is today.”

If you are ready to for an up-tothe-minute hairstyle, vibrant color or highlights, a relaxing facial or pedicure, or even a day of head-to-toe pampering, you’ll love the hair, skin and nail experts at J. Joseph Salon and The Spa at J. Joseph Salon.

J. Joseph Salon has two convenient locations – 5132 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Suite 103 in Land O’ Lakes and 18861 State Road 54 in Lutz. Both are open Monday from 9 a.m. – 6 pm.; Tuesday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m.

– 7 p.m. The Lutz location is also open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.jjosephsalon.com or call the salon at 813-235-6848.

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And the Award Goes To…Ann Poole of Heritage Springs Chosen for the Trinity Family Physicians’ Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award

By Kim Thomas Making a difference matters, and when we hear about those very special people who tirelessly work to help others, it inspires us to do what we can to try to make a difference on an individual level. That is why local doctors and husband-and-wife team, Stephanie Eldridge, MD and Amir Shirmohammad, MD decided to come up with a way to recognize individuals who live here in Tampa Bay and make a difference for others with their Trinity Family Physicians’ Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award.

Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is honored to have been chosen by Trinity Family Physicians to help search for nominees and to share these inspiring stories with our readers and we are excited to announce that Ann Poole of Heritage Springs is the most recent recipient of the Trinity Family Physicians’ Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award. Dr. Eldridge and Dr. “Shirmo” (as he is known to most of

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his patients and to many Heritage Springs residents) have been a part of many fundraising events sponsored at Heritage Springs and have great respect for Ann Poole due to her work with the Special Olympics of Pasco County.

Dr. Shirmo says that since he and Dr. Eldridge have been supporters of the Special Olympics (since 2008), Ann has helped to raise $20,000 a year on average, and this year, $25,500 was raised.

Ann Poole, a little fireball of energy, has what I call “good vibes” and she has been a true force behind the Pasco County Special Olympics for 13 years, but she gives a lot of the credit to her neighbors at Heritage Springs.

“There is just something special about the people of Heritage Springs,” says Ann. “I’ve been living there 15 years and when it comes to the Special Olympics, they open their hearts and their wallets and checkbooks!”

Ann truly loves life and when she isn’t in her dancing shoes – she is a dancer with Silver Follies – she is busy with many volunteer projects. She has

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definitely helped to make a difference for the Special Olympic athletes of Pasco County. In its first year, Night at the Races raised $1200 and now fifteen years later, that sum is raised to more than $25,000 and over the past 15 years, Night at the Races has given more than $240,000 to Special Olympics of Pasco County.

Night at the Races, held annually in January at Heritage Springs, is the largest fundraiser for the Pasco County Special Olympics.

This year’s event was attended by 270 people, and part of the proceeds raised were used to sponsor some Land O’ Lakes kids to travel to California where they will compete at the World Special Olympics!

“The Special Olympics does so much for these kids,” says Dr. Shirmo. “Anne invites some of the athletes to come out and talk to the Ann Poole, Recipient of the Trinity sponsors every year, and it is always a Family Physicians Tampa Bay Making A tearjerker for everyone.” Dr. Shirmo Difference Award with and Ann shared how proud they are Dr. Amir Shirmohammad

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of Elise, who has Down’s Syndrome and for years has played a big part in helping with Night at the Races. Elise spoke along with 28-year-old Mark Miller who is blind and competes in basketball and golf with the assistance of a ringing bell. Ann says, “Sometimes I go over to Seven Springs Middle School where they do a lot of practicing,” shares Ann. “I stand there in awe of these kids and the excitement they have to do this.”

Another thing Ann loves about her neighbors in Heritage Springs, “They recognize our sponsors and support them!” So get your budgets in order to be part of Night at the Races in 2017 – Neighborhood News & Lifestyles will be getting back in touch with Ann later in the year and will let readers know how they can help.

Dr. Shirmo said to Ann, “Dr. Eldridge and I are very excited to present you with the Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award and on behalf of myself and the community, I want to thank you. Every year we have something exciting to look forward to. You inspire us and you inspire the community.

If you’d like to help, email Anne Poole: annpoole925@hotmail.com.

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Your Voice Matters! Nominate Someone for the Next Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award Trinity Family Physicians’ Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award will continue to honor individuals who make a difference. If you know someone who makes a difference in the lives of others in Tampa Bay, Trinity Family Physicians and Neighborhood News & Lifestyles want to hear from you! Please submit your nominees (and tell us why they qualify) for the next Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award by email at editorial@nnlflorida.com.

Trinity Family Physicians and Neighborhood News & Lifestyles ask that you please share your thoughts and comments with us on our facebook pages: facebook.com/trinityfamilyphysicians and facebook.com/neighborhoodnewslifestyles.

Trinity Family Physicians is located at 1817 Cypress Brook Drive, Suite 101 in Trinity, FL. Log on to trinityfamilyphysicians.com for more information about Dr. Eldridge and Dr. Shirmohammad of Trinity Family Physicians.

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Tampa Friendly Divorce – “A Friendly, Civil, Respectful Way”

By Marcy Sanford Divorce is never easy. Not only is it a huge change in your life, but it can also drain your family’s finances, take years to settle, and create friction and animosity among family members.

Tampa Friendly Divorce offers couples a mediation process that can make your divorce as easy, painless, and inexpensive as possible. Located at 5111 Ehrlich Road, Tampa Friendly Divorce uses a two-mediator, team approach to save you time, money, and unneeded conflict. Along the way, Attorney Chris Shulman and Brenda Evans – both are Florida Supreme Court Certified Family, Circuit, and County Mediators – provide help to couples who want a divorce. They help them make decisions together in a way that meets their family’s needs, now, and in the future.

“When two people are able to communicate, they are better off sitting together to make decisions about the future of their lives rather than letting a court decide,” says Brenda. “We provide a forum for mature, respectful

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conversations about issues that need to be decided when going through a divorce. We help couples set up a coparenting plan and determine child support. Our process is very proactive.

Together, we develop a plan for the future and try to eliminate any foreseeable issues.”

“Tampa Friendly Divorce empowers couples to make their own personal decisions,” says Chris. They strive to help couples develop a divorce plan both agree on, and if the couple agrees before the mediation process begins, Tampa Friendly Divorce attorneys will file all the necessary forms with the court so that clients can ease into the next phase of their lives.

“Going through a divorce was a journey I did not want to take and the horror stories I heard from several people caused a lot of anxiety,” says Tampa Friendly Divorce client C.D.C. “However, in working with Tampa Friendly Divorce I was able to work alongside a team of professionals that cared about both parties and helped us to think through issues that

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had the potential to cause both financial and emotional hardships had they not been addressed at that time. I am very grateful for their approach and have recommended them to others facing a similar situation.”

One of the only Divorce Mediation services of its kind in Tampa, Co-founder and Attorney Chris Shulman recognized that there was a lack of this type of service for couples when he was going through his own divorce. Chris is a professional neutral with almost 20 years of experience. Between service as a mediator, arbitrator, hearing officer, and federal-sector EEO complaint adjudicator, Chris has resolved or, in the case of medi- Attorney Chris Shulman and Brenda Evans ation, helped the parties resolve, – both are Florida Supreme Court Certified more than 4,200 matters. Chris Family, Circuit, and County Mediators may occasionally use humor to Brenda Evans’ experience includes lighten tension, but he never takes corporate award-winning recognition lightly the importance each case holds for repeated successful change manfor the people in the dispute. agement – helping lead people With over 25 years in business,

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through difficult transitions. As a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family, Circuit, and County Mediator, she now leverages her award-winning skills to help Tampa Friendly Divorce clients navigate the divorce process.

With insightful questioning, she helps couples verbalize their intentions, thus

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creating appropriately detailed terms for their Marital Settlement Agreement and Parenting Plan – ensuring the documents will serve as useful future references. This attention to detail provides clients a sense of security, allowing them to focus on all the other details of transitioning to their separate (yet, if co-parenting, parallel) lives.

“Many people don’t realize that a ‘Friendly’ divorce is an option,” says Chris. “Whether you are thinking about a divorce or know someone who is, Tampa Friendly Divorce can help transition to your new normal.”

Unlike divorce involving litigation, which can end up with spiraling costs for both parties, Tampa Friendly Divorce provides all costs upfront so that there are no surprises for either party. They have the resources to help with additional professional recommendations if necessary but will ensure that every step

of the way, you will not be blindsided by additional costs to your resources or time.

“Once you’ve made the difficult decision that it is time to divorce, many people then ask themselves ‘Now what?’” says Brenda. “We offer a friendly, civil, respectful way to help you make the right decisions for your family so that you can live separately but without undue animosity.”

For the last week of April, Brenda and Chris have set aside time for complimentary consultations with couples to help them determine if Tampa Friendly Divorce is the right process

for their divorce. Call 813-935-9922 to schedule your appointment.

Tampa Friendly Divorce is located at 5111 Ehrlich Road in Tampa. They are open Monday through Saturday by appointment.

The attorneys realize that your life continues throughout the divorce process and therefore offer evening and weekend appointments at no additional charge. For more information, visit TampaFriendlyDivorce.com and to schedule your complimentary consultation, email Brenda@TampaFriendlyDivorce.co m or call (813) 935-9922.

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Medical Center of Trinity Designated Blue Distinction® Center+ for Maternity Care

Medical Center of Trinity is proud to announce that it is one of four Tampa Bay Area hospitals to receive Blue Cross and Blue Shields’ designation as a Blue Distinction® Center+ for Maternity Care. In an effort to help prospective parents find hospitals that deliver quality, affordable maternity care, Florida Blue announced that Brandon Regional Hospital, Citrus Memorial Hospital, Medical Center of Trinity and St. Pe-

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tersburg General Hospital have been designated as some of the first hospitals to receive the Blue Distinction® Center+ for Maternity Care designation, a new designation under the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program.

Nearly four million babies are born in the U.S. annually, making childbirth the most common cause of hospitalization. The new Blue Distinction Centers+ for Maternity Care pro-

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gram evaluates hospitals on several quality measures, including the percentage of newborns that fall into the category of early elective delivery, an ongoing concern in the medical community. Compared with babies born 39 weeks or later, early term infants face higher risks of infant death and respiratory ailments such as respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, and respiratory failure, among other conditions. These babies also have a higher rate of admission to Neonatal

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Intensive Care Units.

In addition, hospitals that receive a Blue Distinction Center+ for Maternity Care designation have agreed to meet requirements that align with principles that support evidence-based practices of care. This includes initiating programs to promote successful breastfeeding as described in the BabyFriendly Hospital Initiative by BabyFriendly USA or the Mother-Friendly Hospital program by the Coalition for Improving Maternity Services (CIMS) through its “Ten Steps of MotherFriendly Care.” The program also evaluates hospitals on overall patient satisfaction, including a willingness to recommend the hospital to others.

Blue Distinction Centers+ for Maternity Care, an expansion of the national Blue Distinction Specialty Care program, include hospitals recognized for delivering quality, affordable specialty care safely and effectively based on objective measures developed with input from the medical community. To receive a Blue Distinction Centers+ for Maternity Care designation, a hospital must also meet requirements for cost efficiency.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) companies across the nation

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have recognized more than 650 hospitals as Blue Distinction Centers+ for Maternity Care. Hospitals recognized for these designations were assessed using a combination of publicly available quality information and cost measures derived from BCBS companies’ medical claims.

Since 2006, the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program has helped patients find quality providers for their specialty care needs in the areas of bariatric surgery, cardiac care, complex and rare cancers, knee and hip replacements, spine surgery and transplants.

Research shows that, compared to other facilities, those designated as Blue Distinction Centers demonstrate better quality and improved outcomes for patients. On average, Blue Distinction Centers+ are also 20 percent more cost-efficient than non-Blue Distinction Center+ designated health care facilities.

For more information about the program, visit www.bcbs.com/bluedistinction.

About Blue Distinction Centers Blue Distinction Centers (BDC) met overall quality measures for patient safety and outcomes, developed with

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input from the medical community. A local Blue Plan may require additional criteria for facilities located in its own service area; for details, contact your local Blue Plan. Blue Distinction Centers+ (BDC+) also met cost measures that address consumers’ need for affordable health care. Each facility’s cost of care is evaluated using data from its local Blue Plan.

Facilities in CA, ID, NY, PA, and WA may lie in two Local Blue Plans’ areas, resulting in two evaluations for cost of care; and their own local Blue Plans decide whether one or both cost of care evaluation(s) must meet BDC+ national criteria. National criteria for BDC and BDC+ are displayed on bcbs.com. Individual outcomes may vary. For details on a provider’s in-network status or your own policy’s coverage, contact your local Blue Plan and ask your provider before making an appointment. Neither the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association nor any Blue Plans are responsible for non-covered charges or other losses or damages resulting from Blue Distinction or other provider finder information or care received from Blue Distinction or other provider.

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“Calendar” Continued from page 1 Kids ‘n Art 2016 Exhibit Mar. 25–Apr. 22––Pasco Fine Arts Council, Inc. recognizes rising artists with Kids 'n Art 2016. Pasco County art instructors from public, charter, private, and home-schooled networks were invited to select art from their currently enrolled students in elementary school.

The public is invited to view the exhibit which runs from March 25 through April 22, at the Pasco Fine Arts Council located at 4145 Fairford Drive, New Port Richey, during regular operating hours: Tuesday through Thursdays 9:30 AM-3:30 PM; Friday and Saturdays 9:30 AM-12:30PM; closed holidays.

The awards ceremony for Kids 'n Art will be held at 1 to 3 PM on Sunday, April 10th. Prizes will be awarded.

For additional information on events and classes at Pasco Fine Arts Council, Inc. visit www.pascoarts.org or call (727) 845-7322.

The Pasco Fine Arts Council, Inc. is a non-profit organization established in 1979 by the Pasco County Board of Commissioners as the official local agency for the promotion and preservation of the arts and culture in Pasco

County. It is supported primarily through donations, memberships, classes and workshops, gift shop sales, and Florida Arts License Comedy Play “Grandma Goes Off Her Rocker” May 22, 2 PM––Heritage Springs Performing Arts Center. A comedy play for all ages, directed by Stephan Alpert. Rose, a quiet widow, unexpectedly meets a sweetheart from her youth. The granddaughter is a conspirator, the daughter is shocked and the son-in-law is trying to be peacemaker in a house full of women.

Open to the public; tickets $15.

This performance is by the new acting troupe, SAGES, presenting plays with a positive message on aging. Sponsored

by Congregation B’nai Emmunah Sisterhood. For tickets or directions, please call Linda Goldman of SAGES at 727-536-7076 or Reva Finlay of CBE Sisterhood at 727-375-9049.

Webster, LCSW, of Medical Center of Trinity’s Behavioral Health Services.

Mr. Webster, a Licensed Certified Social Worker, what will discuss what everyone needs to know: •Who is at risk •The impact on the family, community, and future generations •10 false beliefs about suicide •What you need to know to save a life Admission is free and a complimentary light lunch will be provided.

Seating is limited and reservations are required. For more information and for reservations call 727-834-5630 or email MedicalCenterTrinity@HCAHealthcare.com.

Medical Center of Trinity Seminar Series Presents: “Suicidal Thoughts: Helping a Friend” Wednesday, April 20, Noon––Medical Center of Trinity, located at 9330 State Road 54 in Trinity, will continue its seminar series with “Suicidal Thoughts: Helping a Friend.”

The seminar will be presented by Doug

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“St. Francis” Continued from page 1 life. St. Francis has the technology that can help provide your pets with the very best quality of life possible, from using digital x-rays and keeping electronic records, to applying advanced techniques like therapeutic laser therapies that can dramatically improve your pet’s quality of life. St. Francis Pet Care Center is even on the cutting edge of researching stem cells as a way to heal animals at a cellular level. It may sound like science fiction, but it’s right around the corner, giving animals that would have suffered in the past, a chance to be healed very quickly with no side effects.

Michael Amsberry, DVM, says, “We are one of a few clinics in the country to be selected for stem cell research for pets, and while we can apply all of the best technologically advanced approaches, it’s our compassionate care that makes us who we are.” Adding, “I always think of the quote: ‘People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.’ Our pets and our pet owners know how much we care.”

Dog owner Julie wrote, “The

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doctors, technicians, office and kennel staff at St. Francis pet care center are the most caring, compassionate and loving people we know! Our black lab, Champ, loved to go and visit the center even through his toughest times.

We feel truly blessed to call everyone here ‘family’.”

Dr. Amsberry, who is originally a farm boy raised in Oregon, attended college at Franciscan University in Ohio, and then graduated from Oregon State College of Veterinary Medicine, earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1990. After having a successful practice in Oregon, he and his family moved to Florida to be near their extended family in 2008, opening St. Francis Pet Care Center in 2010. Since then, St. Francis Pet Care Center has become an integral part of the surrounding communities of East Lake, Tarpon Springs and now, Trinity and Odessa will benefit from St. Francis Pet Care Center’s satellite Pet Care Clinic that will serve those local families and their pets!

Opening Soon: St. Francis Pet Care Clinic in Trinity!

The St. Francis Pet Care Clinic in Trinity is scheduled to open very

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Michael Amsberry, DVM

Thomas Callahan, DVM

shortly, and the entire staff is very excited about the opportunity to meet new families and new pets! Dr. Amsberry says, “We are all set up and ready to go in Trinity!” Located at 2156 Corporate Center Drive, just off of S.R. 54 in the Mobil/7-Eleven plaza, this office will be very convenient to residents of Trinity, Longleaf, Odessa and beyond.

In addition to Dr. Amsberry, St. Francis Pet Care Center is also home to Bay-area native Thomas Callahan,

DVM. Dr. Callahan has been a popular veterinarian in the Tampa Bay area for nearly 30 years, and he has recently joined the team at St. Francis Pet Care Center. A graduate of University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Callahan specializes in providing preventative health care for your pet, internal medicine, dentistry and soft tissue surgery. Always current, Dr. Callahan attends the Central Florida Academy of Veterinary Medicine for continuing education classes

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to bring the very latest in veterinary care to his furry patients.

Coming soon to the team is Carlos Garcia, DVM, who has recently earned his DVM from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Garcia is skilled at surgical care and, until now, has been working at a very busy 24-hour emergency hospital for pets in Miami.

Dr. Amsberry says, “We have a combined experience of 57 years!”

Adding, “I am most proud of the culture we have nurtured and maintain among our entire staff…one of compassion and respect for each other, for our patients and for their families. We have an amazing team. They truly

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love our patients, and treat them with both knowledgeable and heartfelt care.”

Don’t Just Board, Send Your Dog to the Pet Resort!

In addition to offering state-ofthe-art and compassionate medical care to your pets, St. Francis Pet Care Center is also home to their popular Pet Resort! The pet resort offers boarding for both cats and dogs to suit every taste, from comfortable, climate controlled runs, comfortable beds, “room service” and play time throughout the day, to luxury accommodations that include a large private bedroom, cable TV, lamb’s wool cov-

ered bedding and more coziness.

Charlotte said, “Our dog has only been happy while boarding at St. Francis Pet Care Center & Resort.

The facility is clean, the prices are reasonable and the caregivers are kind and attentive. When we return, our dog is clean, well-nourished and relaxed. … the good experience really takes the guilt out of leaving town!”

Brandie said, “There are no words that can express the depth of my appreciation and love that I have for the entire staff at St. Francis. I think of them not only as doctors, technicians, clerks but part of my family. I have been with them for many years and they have seen me through the happy times and the devastating times. The love and care that they have for animals is shown through their actions.”

If you are looking for place that you can trust to put your pet’s health first, choose St. Francis Pet Care Center and St. Francis Pet Care Clinic in Trinity. You will love their expert care, their communicative approach, and their devotion to animals. Your pets will simply love them, because pets know best.

St. Francis Pet Care Center is

located at 3591 Keystone Road in Tarpon Springs. It is open Monday- Friday, 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday. St. Francis Pet Care Clinic in Trinity is due to open shortly! Stay tuned! To make an appointment or for more information, call 727-937-7600 or log on to www.SFVET.us.

St. Francis Pet Care Center Cares About its Community St. Francis Pet Care Center believes in giving back and supports the community by providing: • “Nip the Bite” presentations to area 3rd graders every year • “Vets for Pets” is St. Francis’ non-profit devoted to educating the community about the human animal bond and pet health-care • “Tending the Flock” is St. Francis’ free clinic day for people with financial hardship • Amanda, the nursing supervisor at St. Francis Pet Care Center, is an Ambassador for the Pinellas Veterinary Medical Foundation, which focuses on educating area students in schools about proper pet care

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“Vallarta’s” Continued from page 1 Vallarta’s menu alone is enough to bring you in, but mix it up with the refreshing choices from the bar and add in the traditional and deliciously fresh tableside guacamole and you’ve got the perfect combination for a great time and a great meal.

If you are 21 or older, try one of Vallarta’s famous margaritas. Served frozen or on-the-rocks, margaritas are the perfect refreshing beverage to make any occasion – even just an everyday lunch or dinner – feel like a celebration! Vallarta’s also offers a variety of Mexican and domestic beers, wine and sangria.

Fresh, Authentic & Delicious!

Vallarta’s starts you out right with a friendly greeting, fast seating and the best salsa and chips you can ask for! Vallarta’s salsa is fresh-made and the perfect pairing for the salty, crunchy chips unless you want to make it even better with some tasty queso or guacamole made just the way you like it.

Bring your appetite when you visit Vallarta’s because it’s hard to

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control yourself with chips and salsa so fresh, delicious and plentiful, but just wait until you see the size of your entrée!

Vallarta’s portion sizes are generous and the prices are affordable, which makes this restaurant a favorite dining spot of local families for the past five years.

Vallarta’s has a great selection of Mexican specialties and classics. In addition to specialty dinners, Vallarta’s has all of your traditional favorites including quesadillas, burritos, enchiladas, tamales, tostadas, tacos, and Steak Ranchero entree paired with a strawberry margarita and tableside guacamole – Yum! more. And the best part is, all the delicious dishes are available in a dishes to choose from. The mushlarta’s kitchen use only the freshest wide variety of combinations. There ingredients to create their Mexican room quesadilla with a side of guais truly something for everyone in masterpieces like the Burrito Vallarta camole is amazing, and so are the your party with plenty of pork, steak, stuffed with shrimp and covered in a cheese enchiladas. chicken, seafood, and vegetarian The expert cooks in the Valdelicious green sauce or the Parril-

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Pollo Fundido lada, a mixed grill of beef, chicken, pork, chorizo, and shrimp with tomatoes, peppers, and onions. Some recent additions to the menu might convince you to try something new.

The Tilapia Vallarta is a delightful dish of grilled tilapia served with a savory guacamole salad, rice, and tortillas. The new Coctel de Camarones appetizer is sure to get your meal off to the right start with plump, succulent shrimp marinated in a spicy, hot sauce with fresh avocados, tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime. Or if

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Yolandas Chicken Enchiladas you’re in the mood to try something new, order the new Tacos al Pastor with seasoned pork, pico de gallo, salsa verde, and refried beans or the Enchiladas Vallarta stuffed with shrimp and covered with a ranchero and cheese sauce.

Vallarta’s serves flavorful food that is sure to satisfy your cravings without hurting your wallet. They have twenty-four lunch combo specials Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., and thirty $10 combo specials available every day.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays feature $1 tacos. And happy hour is every day from 2 to 7 p.m.

Mark your calendar for the Cinco de Mayo celebration at Vallarta’s at Northpointe Village where

you’ll enjoy great food, fun entertainment, and you may even win a prize! When you are craving Mexican, Vallarta’s Restauranté Mexicano is perfect any day or night! There is inside seating and dog friendly outside seating. Stop by today and enjoy a relaxing evening on their comfortable patio or grab a group of friends and catch up over drinks and dinner. You’ll be glad you did.

Vallarta’s Restauranté Mexicano is located in the Northpointe Village at 16540 Point Village Dr. in Lutz. The restaurant is open: Sun., 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Mon. – Thurs., 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; and 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. on Fri. & Sat. Find more information online at www.MyVallartas.com. No reservations are required. Takeout is available; call (813) 920-8833 to place your to-go order.

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BayCare Behavioral Health and Pasco ASAP to Host Fifth Annual Substance Abuse Prevention Conference BayCare Behavioral Health and the Pasco County Alliance for Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP) will host the Fifth Annual Substance Abuse Prevention Conference Friday, April 29, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Saddlebrook Resort, 5700 Saddlebrook Way, Wesley Chapel. The conference is designed for anyone who is interested in learning how to create a safer and healthier community.

Throughout the day, speakers and presenters will share their expertise, solutions and tools that address the theme “Strengthening Our Community: Creating Healthy Solutions.”

More than 20 vendors representing behavioral health providers and businesses also will have exhibits.

“This is an opportunity for those in the Tampa Bay area to learn about innovative health and wellness solutions that can be implemented in our communities as we work together on the issue of substance abuse prevention,” said Gail Ryder, vice president,

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BayCare Behavioral Health Services.

“Substance use disorders affect all aspects of our community not just the families of those who suffer from the disease,” adds Monica Rousseau, Pasco County ASAP Coordinator and conference co-chair. “As the conference title suggests, to strengthen our communities we must all work together on creating healthy solutions that will propel lasting change.”

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano, who served in the Florida House of Representatives and the Florida Senate for almost two decades, will emcee the conference.

BayCare Health System’s CEO Steve Mason will speak at 9 a.m.

At 9:30 a.m., Lieutenant Commander USMC Michael Muni will deliver the keynote speech. Muni is a public health officer with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. He serves as a Federal Project Officer at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administra-

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tion (SAMHSA) Center for the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy’s (ONDCP) Drug Free Communities Support program.

Kurt Browning, superintendent, Pasco County Schools; Doug Leonardo, executive director, BayCare Behavioral Health; Kelly Mothershead, owner, A Focus on Fitness Transformation Studio and Salon; Michael J. Napier, administrator, Florida Department of Health Pasco County; Chris Nocco, Pasco County Sheriff, and Kathryn Starkey, Pasco County Commissioner will participate in a panel discussion at 11 a.m. addressing the community’s response to substance abuse in Pasco County.

The afternoon will feature breakout sessions covering the themes of Community Connectedness, Workplace Health/Organizational Learning, and Health Care Quality and Integration. Presenters will be representatives of local, state and national organizations with an interest in pro-

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moting population health and health care initiatives.

Sessions are scheduled to include: • The Future of Healthcare: How the Affordable Care Act Impacts Florida and Behavioral Health • Helping Employees Quit Tobacco: Good For Business, Great For Health • Innovative Uses of the Trauma Informed Care Model • Plug Into E-Therapy: Today’s Alternative Counseling Solution • The Impact of Changing Marijuana Laws • Why Your Voice Matters: How You Can Help to Drive State and National Conversations • Integrating Behavioral Health and Child Welfare Practice: A Treatment Based Framework • Resources + Resilience = Retention • Afraid of Burn Out? How to Create Balance

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• Collaboration as a Solution – This is why we CHAT! Presenters include former U.S. Congressman Jason Altmire; Summer Robertson, district director for Congressman Gus Bilirakis; Amy Ronshausen, deputy director, Drug Free America Foundation, and Victoria L. Hummer, director of training and outreach, Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. Registration is $15 until April 20.

After that, it is $25. CEUs/CHES will be offered, and lunch will be provided.

Pasco ASAP was founded in 2006 and has become a large prevention coalition in Pasco County. The mission is to develop, motivate and encourage strategic relationships that reduce countywide risk factors, thereby preventing and decreasing substance abuse in a comprehensive and long-term manner. For more information about Pasco ASAP initiatives and meetings, please visitwww.pascoasap.com.

To learn more about the conference and to register, please visit www.pascoasap.com/annualconference.

About BayCare Behavioral Health: As part of BayCare Health System, a leading community-based

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health system in the Tampa Bay area, BayCare Behavioral Health is committed to clinical excellence, innovation, and access to a continuum of recovery-focused therapeutic services.

Care options include: inpatient; outpatient; early intervention and prevention; an employee and student assistance program; and case management services. Convenient treatment sites are located throughout the Tampa Bay area. For more information, go towww.baycare.org/services/behavioral-health.

About BayCare Health System: BayCare is a leading not-for-profit health care system that connects individuals and families to a wide range of services at 14 hospitals and hundreds of other convenient locations throughout the Tampa Bay and central Florida regions. Inpatient and outpatient services include acute care, primary care, imaging, laboratory, behavioral health, home care, and wellness. Our mission is to improve the health of all we serve through community-owned, health care services that set the standard for high-quality, compassionate care. For more information, visit BayCare on the Web at www.BayCare.org.

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