east lake AREA
Vol. 6, Issue 6, June 2013
Neighborhood News & Lifestyles
®
®
The Business & Dining Guide Directly Mailed To 15,000 Homes In East Lake & Surrounding Areas
This Independent Community News, Business & Dining Guide Is Directly Mailed Once Each Month To: Anchorage, Bay Arbor, Boot Ranch, Brookers Landing, Crescent Oaks, Cypress Cove, Cypress Lakes Estates, Cypress Run, Cypress Trails, Deer Hollow, Grey Oak, Eagle Cove, Eagle’s Cove at Lake Tarpon, Eagle Ridge, Eagle Trace, Eagle Watch, East Lake Oaks, East Lake Woodlands, Hunters Wood, Keystone Bluffs, Keystone Palms, Keystone Ranchettes, Lansbrook, Lansbrook Village, Meadow Ridge, Nature’s Watch, Oak Hill Acres, Pine Ridge, Regina Estates, Ridgemoor, Tarpon Woods, Wentworth, Whispering Lakes, Woodfield
“One Call Does It All!” at Midway Services By Katie Thomas Our homes are safe havens; providing a roof over our heads, a place to gather with friends and shelter for our families. Keeping your home in great shape is necessary and with the help of Midway Services, it has never been easier. Midway Services has been offering complete, unparalleled, quality residential services to the Bay Area for more than 55 years! You can depend on Midway Services to give you top-notch customer service for all of your residential needs, from the plumbing to the wiring, heating and air conditioning repair or replacement, and complete remodeling services. Midway Services does it all!
The Brain Balance Achievement Center in Oldsmar
Changing Children’s Lives
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Free Golf For Kids.................3 ELHS’s Robotics Team..........4 “The After School Specials”....5 Pasco County Stand Down...6-7 Anthony’s Italian Restaurant..10-11 Seal Swim School...........14-15 Attorney Spiro J. Verras..18-19 JMI Financial Group......22-23 Area Rugs Direct............26-27 Realtor Sandy Papadakis.30-31 Brooker Creek Preserve..34-35
ECRWSS
Susan, a Sensory-Motor Coach at Brain Balance in Oldsmar works with student Autumn McGinnis
Postal Customer
See “Brain Balance” on page 42.
The Community Dining & Business Guide that your neighbors READ!
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 1185
Let’s be honest, being a parent is the hardest, most wonderful thing you’ve ever done. But hard gets harder when your child is diagnosed with a learning disability or disorder. The label in itself can be hard to swallow, even when you know that a label doesn’t make a child and even when you know that a label doesn’t make any difference in who your child really is, what they can become or what they can achieve. That said, it can still be hard to know what to do next with regard to your child’s individual success at home, in school and in life in general. When your child is diagnosed or
given a label of ADHD, ADD, dyslexia, autism, Tourette’s, an Asperger’s Spectrum disorder, a learning disability or a processing disorder, it’s hard to know what to do. For parents and families this can be a scary and overwhelming time, and while these issues have become almost commonplace over the last two decades, the answer to the root of the problem has not been agreed upon. The popular although controversial approach to “fixing” it, however, is to use modern medicine. There is another option. Brain Balance Achievement Centers offer a medicine-free, education-based Brain Balance Program that comprehensively helps each child reach their
See “Midway Services” on page 38.
Dated Material Please Rush!
By Julie Kanehl
John J. Wolf established Midway Services in 1957 as a plumbing company focused on providing exceptional service. John’s son, William Wolf, acquired Midway Services from his father in 1985 after experiencing great success from his own plumbing company, Reliable Plumbing. William knew he wanted to branch out and offer other services in addition to plumbing so he pursued his State of Florida Contractors License and began the process of expanding Midway Services. Since ’57, Midway Services has experienced exponential growth; becoming a leader in residential services that include renovations, remodeling, air conditioning, heating, electrical and plumbing. Wolf’s experience in construction, renovation, plumbing, mechanical and electrical
2
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
From The Editor Kim Thomas
Free Golf For Kids All Summer What can parents do this summer to pry kids away from video games and get them doing something healthy and enriching without costing a lot of money? And, how about a sport that adults and kids can do together for the rest of their lives – Golf! Every day this summer, Ace Golf is offering kids from age 5 to 15 a free small bucket of balls to hit on the golf range at any one of their five locations. Now in its third year, the Kids Free Bucket Program has attracted over 500 kids. It is completely free and available at Ace Golf Range in Brandon and Riverview, Pebble Creek Golf Club in New Tampa, and Wentworth and Crescent Oaks Golf Clubs in Tarpon Springs. Just stop by and pick up a punch card anytime now through August. No purchase is necessary. An adult must accompany the participating child. In addition, kids age 5 – 15 can play golf for free any day this summer with a paying adult at Pebble Creek, Wentworth and Crescent Oaks Golf Clubs. All three clubs welcome public play and also offer memberships.
Besides the free programs, Ace Golf also offers Summer Junior Golf Camps, Adult Golf Schools, Summer Golf Round Package Discounts, and “Everyday Heroes” golf discounts for active duty police and first responders. “Golf is a mainstream sport that anyone of any ability can play at just about any age,” says Ace Golf owner Bill Place. “Our facilities are open to welcome people in to the game and show them how easy and fun it can be. Anyone may take advantage of our lesson programs, dine in our restaurants, and play at our courses. We also offer additional privileges and events with membership.” Ace Golf is locally owned by Bill Place and Su Lee. The company has two golf ranges and three golf courses. All are open to the public. Ace Golf Ranges are located at 820 S. Kings Avenue in Brandon (phone 813 651-4653) and at 12910 Boyette Road in Riverview (phone 813 672-7750). They are open daily until 10pm. The facilities feature
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News Directly mailed once a month to nearly 15,000 households in zip code 34685, 34688 & 34677 220 Safford Ave. S. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 Phone: (727) 943-2946; Fax: (727) 942-2432 Advertising E-mail: info@neighborhoodnewsfl.com Editorial E-mail: editorialdept@neighborhoodnewsfl.com © 2013 Eastlake Area Neighborhood News is published by Ads 2 Publications, Inc. Correspondents Publisher Tim Selby General Manager Jim O’Reilly Editor Kim Thomas Advertising Sales Matt Selby Tim Selby Jim O’Reilly Ken Burke
18-acre Golf Practice Ranges, Miniature Golf, and Batting Cages. For more information, go to ace-golf.com. The Pebble Creek Golf Club is at 10550 Regents Park Drive in New Tampa. Call 813 973-3870 x3 or go topebblecreekclub.com. The Wentworth Golf Club is at 2990 Wentworth Way, Tarpon Springs, FL (East Lake Road, 1light south of Tarpon Avenue). Call 727-942-4760 or go to wentworthgolfclub.org. The Crescent Oaks Country Club is at 3300 Crescent Oaks Boulevard, Tarpon Springs, FL 34688. Call 727 9374653 or go to Crescentoaksgolf.com.
Alexis Selby Julie Kanehl Katie Thomas Dara Tucker Amy Paterson
Art Director Dat X. Do
Graphic Artists Dat X. Do Tony Sica
Accounting Manager Doreen Selby
Nothing that appears in the East Lake Area Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by East Lake Area Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The management of East Lake Area Neighborhood News is always happy to accept outside editorial submissions to the paper. Please call for outside editorial submission and advertisement deadlines. East Lake Area Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. East Lake Area Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. East Lake Area Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. East Lake Area Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. East LakeArea Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, not for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. East Lake Area Neighborhood News is published by Ads 2 Publications, Inc.
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
3
ELHS’s Robotics Team Proudly Thanks Generous Sponsors & Mentors
This past school year, the students of East Lake High School’s Robotics Team, FIRST® Team 79 Krunch, had their most successful competitive robotics season in the club’s16-year history. Sweeping the competition, FIRST® Team 79 Krunch was on the winning alliance that became the 2013 Orlando Regional Champions as well as the 2013 Washington D.C. Regional Champions. They have a message for all of the sponsors and mentors who helped them achieve this prestigious recognition: “We could never have achieved the success we have had without your support. We Thank You! We Salute You!”
FIRST® (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) hosted the 2013 FIRST® Robotics Competition challenge called ‘Ultimate Ascent,’ a game that combines the skills of ultimate Frisbee and discgolf. In order to be eligible to participate in the competitions, robots must meet stringent requirements including height, weight, materials, and other variables set forth by FIRST®. “The challenge was to build a robot capable of launching a Frisbee upwards of 20-30 feet across the field into one of three goals. The higher the goal, the more points the team scored. The robot also had to ascend a pyramid to reach a maximum height of ten feet, climbing three feet at a time,” according to the team’s President, Richie Vitraelli. FIRST® combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Under strict rules, limited resources, and time limits, teams of students are challenged to build and
program robots to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. In addition to winning the Ultimate Ascent robotics competition at both the Orlando and Washington, D.C. regionals, FIRST® Team Krunch collected other honors. It won the Team Spirit Award at the Washington, D.C. Regional. This award “celebrates extraordinary enthusiasm
and spirit through exceptional partnership and teamwork to further the objectives of FIRST®.” A special thanks goes out to the team sponsors and mentors for their exceptional support! The 2013 sponsors included: Honeywell®, GE, Mitre, Career Technical Educational Foundation, Inc., KP, Rotary International and Brothers Powder Coating.
The After School Specials – PHUHS A Cappella Singing Group The a cappella student singing group from Palm Harbor University High School is collecting firsts. They call themselves “The After School Specials.” You may have heard them this spring singing at one of the local Publix stores, at the Blues and Brews Fest, the First Friday/Food Truck Rally in Palm Harbor or maybe…on the airplane en route to New York City! On Feb. 16 in Orlando, The After School Specials competed against seven other groups in the southeastern regional semi-finals of the International Championships of High School A Cappella (ICHSA) to win the first time! The southeast region included groups from Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and Mississippi. In addition to winning the Southeastern regional title there were individual achievements as well. • Senior Angel Coleman received an award for her arrangement of Muse’s “Undisclosed Desires.” • Five outstanding soloists received an award for a mash up of Rufus Wainwright’s “Release The Stars” and Scott Allen’s “I’m a Star.”
The soloists were: Hannah Bach, grade 10; Miguel Corteo, grade 11; Kayley Kinports, grade 10; Christina Solazzo, grade 12; and Amanda Springer, grade 12. With the help of families, friends and community members, in about two months, the students raised $20,000 to finance the trip to NYC, said Director Justin Havard. The hours of rehearsals paid off and so many nice people contributed donations to our Big Apple fund, or participated in the silent auction! Winners from the seven ICHSA semi-final regions across the United States gathered in New York City on April 19th for the finals. This was the first time any students from the PHUHS group have competed in the Big Apple. The competition was held on stage at the New York Society for Ethical Culture of the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. The talent of all the performers was amazing! The After School Specials didn’t win this year, but they did receive a standing ovation! One graduating member, Angel Coleman, re-
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
ceived an award for Outstanding Vocal Percussion. It was a tremendous opportunity also made possible by the chaperones and mentors Justin Havard, Graham & Lu Howard and Mrs. Carla Webster. The students also got to ride subways, eat street vendor food and soak up the city sites…sometimes while sharing their gift of song with the passing crowds! A private tour of the Metropolitan Opera, visit to the 911 Memorial, and a Broadway show, “Once” were other highlights of the trip. The following 24 students are members of the After School Specials: Sopranos: Amanda Springer, grade 12; Christina Solazzo, grade12; Lauren Hale, grade 10; Kayley Kinports, grade 10; Danielle Denninger, grade 11; and Karinne Davis, grade 12.
Alto/Tenor/Bass: Sarah Mobley, grade 11; Aly Fiegle, grade 12; Hannah Bach, grade 10; Angel Coleman, grade 12; Gabby Michaels, grade 12; Megan Feldman, grade 12; Sebastian Marin, grade 12; Miguel Corteo, grade 11; Jimmy Hadaway, grade 12; Cameron Phillips, grade 12; Johnny Biewer, grade 12; Colter Moos, grade 11; Tim Hart, grade 11; Jas Scott, grade 11; Elijah Chatham, grade 11; Josh Perlin, grade 11; Kyle Turner, grade 11; Ryan Cocks, grade 10.
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
5
community to connect with our homeless veterans and to begin to break down the barriers that are keeping these heroes on the streets. The “hand up, not a handout” philosophy of Stand Down requires the work of countless volunteers, businesses and local, state and national organizations.
Become a Corporate Sponsor for the Pasco County Stand Down Pasco County Stand Down is seeking sponsors that want to help homeless veterans. The Stand Down – No One Left Behind event will be held on Friday and Saturday, September 13th and 14th at the Veterans Memorial Park, 14333 Hicks Road in Hudson. What is a Stand Down? The Term Stand Down was used in the military, during the times of war, to remove exhausted combat units requiring time to rest and recover from the battlefields to a place
6
of relative security and safety. Today, Stand Down refers to a grassroots, community-based intervention program designed to help the nation’s estimated 67,000 homeless veterans “combat” life on the streets. “Stand Down” began in San Diego in 1988. Twenty-five years later, that organization has celebrated many successes and now there are more than 200 Stand Downs throughout the country. Pasco County Stand Down will reach out to homeless and at risk veterans in Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Hernando counties. Stand Down is a time for the
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
HELP IS HERE – No One Left Behind Veterans and their families who are living on the streets or who do not have permanent housing will get free access to: hot meals for two days; showers, clothes and haircuts; court service and legal counseling; medical and mental health services; dental cleaning and examination; housing vouchers; state photo identification cards; job and employment counseling; personal hygiene kits; AA , NA , & Celebrate Recovery Meetings; women and children services and much more! Ways you can help: Donation of Goods—Reading glasses, boots, backpacks, personal hygiene items and more are needed. Donation of Time—Volunteers
JUNE 2013
are needed to cut hair, serve meals, set-up, clean up, sort donations, provide medical and dental services, massages, therapy and more. Become a Vendor—Stand Down is looking for organizations and businesses that provide needed goods and services to Veterans and their families. Become a Corporate Sponsor— Various levels of sponsorship are available. (See below) Become a Financial Donor–– Pasco County Stand Down needs funds to purchase food, personal hygiene items, tents, port-o-lets, sleeping cots and other necessary supplies. Sponsorships Available: Squad Sponsor $100—Recognition on the website as a Squad Sponsor. Platoon Sponsor $250—Recognition on the website as a Platoon Sponsor, 2 X 2 “Thank You to Our Veterans” Sign on one of the Stand Down Veterans Tents with company or family name. Company Sponsor $500—Recognition on the website as a Company Sponsor, 2 x 4 “Thank you to Our Veterans” Sign on one of the Stand Down Veterans Tents with company
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
name and logo. Battalion Sponsor $1,000— Recognition on the website as a Battalion Sponsor, 2' X 4' Sponsor Banner with company name and logo on the Entertainment Stage or Food Tent for the Stand Down, Company name and Logo on all marketing materials prior to the Stand Down (fliers, brochures, newspaper ads). Brigade Sponsor $2,000— Recognition on the website as a Brigade Sponsor, 2' X 4' Sponsor Banner with company name and logo on the Entertainment Stage or Food Tent for the Stand Down, Company name and logo on all marketing materials prior to the Stand Down (fliers, brochures, newspaper ads), Company name and logo on banner at the entrance gate of the Stand Down, Company name as a primary sponsor in press releases. Does it Make a Difference? Yes. Stand Down has been successful in matching the right services to those Veterans who are struggling to get their life back together. The Stand Down is an opportunity to introduce homeless veterans to society
and as Americans let them know we are proud of the service they gave for our Country. Even for those veterans who return to life on the streets, Stand Down is an opportunity for them to take a safe harbor from ”Combat on the Streets” for one weekend of the year. Partnering Organizations: Metropolitan Ministries, Career Central Connections, BayCare, Behavioral Health, FL Dept. of HWY Safety, PC Housing Authority, PC Health Department, Generations Christian Church, St. Thomas Aquinas, Unity Truth Center, HPH Hospice, Paws for Patriots, Bay Area Legal Services, Dept. of Children and Family, Steps to Recovery, Celebrate Recovery, Pasco County Vet Center, Pasco County VA Services, FL Dept. Of VA, V O A Medical/ Dental Van, National Guard, H. E. P., and Disabled American Vets. For further information about the Pasco County Stand Down, go to www.PascoStandDown.org. You also can contact Patti at sponsorships@pascostanddown.org or call 727-375-8801 ext. 2232.
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
7
8
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
9
If you Love Homemade Italian Food, Dine at Anthony’s Italian Restaurant By Julie Kanehl Anthony’s Italian Restaurant is probably best known for its mouth-watering, 24-inch, New York-style, feedeverybody-with-one-pie, pizza. Which at my house isn’t complete without Anthony’s homemade, melt-in-yourmouth, get-your-own-dozen, garlic knots. That said; Anthony’s Italian Restaurant is exactly that, a charming restaurant that serves Italian favorites and specialties that transport you to Little Italy. With real New York flare, Anthony’s is ideal for any night of the week, from date night to family night, with quiet booths set aside for
couples, and large tables ready for busy families. It’s an “everybody’s welcome, rub your tummy with a smile on your face, but still make room for a cannoli” dinner destination. Offering carryout and delivery options as well, it is no surprise that Anthony’s is a family favorite in Trinity. Located in the Mitchell Crossing plaza at 8809 Mitchell Boulevard, Anthony’s Italian Restaurant is a convenient place to meet friends, family, or that someone special for a great meal. Rich Baker and Karla Barkdoll have owned Anthony’s Italian Restaurant since 2007, and just recently, remodeled their dining room and added premium wines to their already popular wine menu. Already focused on providing classics, they are always adding new items to the menu as well, like their “7” whole wheat pizza with unlimited toppings. Soon, they will be offering some new seafood options to the menu including Parmesan Crusted Tilapia and a Salmon
Fillet. A former U.S. Marine who served on the Presidential Helicopter Squadron from 91-95, Rich is no stranger to the restaurant world. In fact, he’s been working in restaurants since he was a teenager, and that’s where he met Karla-when they were just 16. Karla also is a successful business owner and Massage Therapist for her other business, Barkdoll Massage Therapy. Rich says, “We are very proud to be involved in the Trinity community.” One Anthony’s Italian Rich Baker and Karla Barkdoll, owners of Restaurant customer said, “This Anthony's Italian Restaurant place has one of the best New American love of pizza can’t get any York-style pizzas in Pasco.” bigger, Anthony’s offers the biggest The Pizza Everyone is Talking About pizza in town. Their largest pizza is actually 30 inches around, but don’t Just when you think that our
toppings you order, you’ll rave about Anthony’s pizza. By the way, they serve calzones too. Rich says, “While we’re known for our pizza, we have Pictured are just a few of the so much more delicious choices at Anthony’s: to offer. Everything is fresh, 30-inch Pizza Caprese with Fresh Mozzarella made-to-order and hand-prePenne alla Vodka pared.” worry, they don’t sacrifice taste for size. Karla says, “We only offer the 30inch pizza at the restaurant, because we can’t find pizza boxes big enough to offer it for carryout!” They do offer the 24” pizza for delivery and carryout, and as I already mentioned, that’s a popular favorite at our house. The New York-style crust has just the right amount of bend in it to fold it in “properly,” and the marriage of cheese and fresh toppings makes everyone ask, “Where did you get this pizza?” Anthony’s has pizzas in regular
sizes and in a myriad of different crusts. Their Thin Crust Pizza is very popular and their thick, Sicilian Pizza is so special that people call ahead to make sure that they will be able to reserve one. Rich explains, “Sicilian Pizza takes longer to bake, so we make a certain amount of Sicilian pizza dough every morning.” Probably about the time they’re making the homemade lasagna, the meatballs and preparing the madefrom-scratch soups and sauces! Other pizza options include Veggie Pizza, Brick Oven Pizza, Corleone Pizza and White Pizza. Whatever size, style or
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
Lunch & Dinner Specials Definitely more than a pizza place, Anthony’s is open for lunch and dinner, and offers specials all day every day, as well as its signature recipes of Italian classics like lasagna and manicotti, as well as chicken, eggplant and veal cooked in a variety of Italian ways, whether you like Chicken Parmigiana, Eggplant Rollatini, or Veal Piccata, your favorites are here and made-to-order. Catering to a wide variety of Italian-American tastes, the menu features everything from the aforementioned classics to favorites like wings, pastas of practically every style and taste. If you like sandwiches, you’ll have to try their subs, hot sandwiches and clubs. When it comes to pasta, it’s the homemade sauce that makes all the difference in the world. While anyone might be able to throw some “sketti” in the pot, the homemade Italian sauces that come out of the kitchen at Anthony’s can’t be found in a jar. So, if you love pasta, you’ll have to try one of their pasta dinners. Each of which is served with soup or salad, bread and your choice of linguini, spaghetti or penne. Karla says, “The penne ala Vodka is my personal favorite.” Anthony’s Italian Restaurant offers daily specials that make dinner delicious
and affordable. On Monday, you can get a 16” cheese pizza for less than $9, and Tuesday is two-for-one dinner entrees when you order pasta, eggplant or chicken. Wednesday is going to be twofor-one glasses of wine from 4 p.m.-9 p.m. and Thursday is probably the most popular day of all because kids eat free! Karla adds, “Families love coming on Thursdays and getting a balloon from ‘Tony the balloon guy’ with their dinner. He’s really great with the kids.” On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Anthony’s offers an affordable dinnerfor-two special, making a date with your sweetheart that much sweeter! Speaking of sweets, what’s an Italian meal without an Italian dessert? The hardest part will be saving room! Chocolate cake, tiramisu, cannoli, zeppoles and more temptations! Anthony’s is already a popular spot for having small parties, from birthday parties to celebration dinners for local sports teams, so it’s no surprise that people love ordering from Anthony’s Catering Menu when they are having a special event at their home or office. The Catering Menu features more than 20 of their most popular meals, all served in trays that can feed between 820 people at a time. Your guests can enjoy appetizers, salads, wings, fried calamari and popular sides like sausage and peppers, meatballs and more, so if you love serving Italian, don’t forget Anthony’s for your next big event! Anthony’s also offers gift certificates, so surprise someone you love with a meal made like “mama” used to make. Anthony’s Italian Restaurant is located at 8809 Mitchell Blvd. in the Mitchell Crossing plaza in Trinity and is open Mon. – Fri. from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. and from 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. on Sat. and Sun. To make a reservation, order take-out, delivery, or for information on catering, call 727-372-1663. Find the full menu and delicious choices online at www.anthonysoftrinity.com.
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
11
12
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
13
Swim Smarter, Swim Safer, Swim Seal! By Sydney Holmquist Summertime is here, pools are open, the water is warm and children of all ages are ready to enjoy the water! Swimming and Water Safety should be a huge priority to most parents. This time of year is wonderful; however, it is imperative that our little ones are prepared and ready for the swim season. Swim lessons should be on your summer fun checklist and do we have the place for you! We invite you now to dive in and take a closer look at this Tampa Bay area treasure, Seal Swim School. Seal is an amazing swim school that is helping to save lives by being committed to producing safer, skilled, and happy swimmers while building selfesteem and a love for the water. Seal Swim School’s swimmer success rate is unsurpassed. Teaching all ages, from infants to adults, this incredible swim school is truly making a difference with every single life that enters their pool. Seal Swim School instructors are more than qualified, as they are required to complete 45 plus hours of
14
Seal Swim School training. They hold National Water Safety Instructor certifications, Lifeguard Training, and Infant Toddler Specialist training through the United States Swim School Association. The instructors are current with their CPR and First Aid certifications and continue their InWater Education training monthly throughout the year. Seal Swim School instructors are dedicated and passionate about teaching as well as knowledgeable. The personal family feeling comes across with every team member that works there. The enthusiasm and energy is apparent as soon as you walk through the parking lot. Don't be surprised if one of the instructors walks by and greets you by name, with a huge smile, and gives your little one a high-five on their way out to the pool deck. Laughter and cheering fills the air. As soon as you begin watching the lessons take place it becomes evident that all of the instructors absolutely love what they do! Seal Swim School prides itself on having something to offer everyone. Depending on what the best learning environment is for your child, group
or private lessons are available. In their group classes the ratio is four children to one instructor, this small class size creates a structured, positive and personal situation for your child to learn. Or, if you feel a one-on-one is better suited for your little one, they offer private lessons to tailor to your child’s individualized needs. Classes are taught in sessions of 12 lessons, and by the end of those 12 lessons you will be amazed by the
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
progress and success that your child has made. Just go watch a Seal Swim School lesson. When you stand on the pool deck, be prepared as you might see a one-year-old baby swimming over 8 feet to the pool’s edge, a fouryear-old learning butterfly or even a group of 2½-year-olds learning proper diving technique. Seal prides itself on the success of their students. Just ask one of the teachers or parents if Seal really can teach any
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
child regardless of their fear or personality. "Absolutely!" they will reply without hesitation. Seal can teach anyone how to swim! From the beginner swimmers who are now able to swim independently, to the more advanced swimmers who can swim all four strokes across the pool. The change from day 1 to day 12 is truly something to talk about. One of the parents who has two of their children enrolled had this to say, “I have never been so impressed with a swim school in my life. The staff is wonderful and very positive! Positive
reinforcement is so important and they build on each child’s strengths and work on each child’s individual weaknesses. I love the way they build my children's self-confidence and swimming skills. Just their positive and loving nature towards my children is genuine and so awesome. I am so pleased with the way they teach lifesaving skills to young children!” The instructors use the Seal Swim School techniques that have been developed through 37 years of experience, learning and innovation. Seal Swim School is constantly improving
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
and developing its techniques. Shannon Seal, owner of the North Pinellas location, said, “We will never be complacent with our teaching methods as we understand the importance that growing and learning has to teaching.” Seal Swim School is changing the lives of families that bring their children to their swim school for lessons; there is no challenge too great for them. Seal Swim School creates safer, confident swimmers and also helps give parents another layer
of safety for their little ones. We urge you to contact Seal Swim School to get your child swimming. Trust the leaders in swimming. Swim Smarter, Swim Safer, Swim Seal. Seal Swim School is located at 1888 S. Pinellas Avenue in Tarpon Springs (behind Total Fitness). For more information, visit online at www.SealSwimSchoolNP.com or call Seal Swim School at (727) 943-8782.
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
15
16
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
17
Spiro J. Verras – Proudly Serving the Community Since 1993 By Marcy Sanford Throughout his 20-year career, attorney Spiro J. Verras has been a tireless advocate for his clients. Now, with his own law firm focusing on estate planning, probate and trust, as well as real estate transactions and business services, he brings the same personal passion to his transactional work that he has always brought to litigation; taking the time to truly understand his clients’ concerns and working with them on an individual basis. As an added bonus, Spiro’s office is tri-lingual, speaking English, Spanish and Greek. Spiro Verras received his B.A. at Yale University and his law degree at Tulane Law School. After graduating from Tulane Law School, Spiro joined a large New Orleans law firm, where he focused on corporate and business law, and eventually became managing partner. After branching off to open a
18
new firm with two colleagues, Spiro championed civil rights suits, serious personal injury, environmental law, and consumer cases for his clients. Spiro’s years of expertise and knowledge coupled with his open manner and friendly demeanor mean that when you work with him, you are getting a lawyer who will not only take the time to help you and listen to your needs, but also one who genuinely cares about you and your well-being. Spiro grew up in Tarpon Springs, and after working in large law firms across the United States, he moved back to Tampa and currently resides in the Westchase area. “Several years ago, I was working as the in-house lawyer for a social media company,” says Spiro. “I realized that I missed helping clients solve problems and so I decided to open my own firm. I enjoy the fact that I can take my time to truly help each client.”
Estate Planning No matter your net worth, it is important to have a plan in place for your assets after you die. “Everyone has a natural tendency to avoid thinking about death,” says Spiro. “But it is very important that you have a plan in place so that your assets are protected for your loved ones. If you don’t, the state of Florida will determine how your assets are distributed.” Estate planning not only guarantees that your assets will be distributed the way you want, but it also means you are covered if an accident or health issue leaves you incapacitated. Who do you want handling your financial affairs? Who do you want making medical decisions for you? Do you want a Living Will? All of these questions and more can be answered with a thorough estate plan, and with the help of Spiro, you and your family will remain protected should the unthinkable happen. It is important to have the answers to these questions documented
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
because if you don’t, the state will be the ones deciding who answers these crucial questions about your health. “Many Spiro J. Verras times people Attorney at Law come to my office and they are not sure where to start or what documents they need,” says Spiro. “I can guide them through the process of setting up an estate plan. Many people don’t realize that it’s really not a big expense to set up these crucial documents, while the peace of mind they deliver is priceless.” Whether you need a comprehensive estate plan or not, you should at
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
the very least have a will; especially if you own property. A will tells the world exactly where you want your assets to be distributed when you die. It’s also the best place to name guardians for your children. Again, if you don’t have this important document in place, the state will decide how your assets are distributed and who takes care of your children.
Probate and Trust Administration Probate planning is what helps protect your assets after you pass away. If you have the right plan in place, you can be assured that your assets will go to the people, charities, or institutions that you want them to, both quickly
and easily; without being tied up in court for months and months. If you own property in other states, a revocable trust can help you avoid probate in those states, making the process easier and more cost efficient for your heirs. Spiro knows the right questions to ask and can help you determine what approach to probate planning would be beneficial for your estate. There are many different types of trusts that Spiro can help you set up, including those that can lessen the sting of estate taxes and a living trust that allows your estate to avoid probate and protects your privacy.
In addition to helping you make plans to benefit your heirs, Spiro can assist you in major steps throughout your life – like buying a new home or setting up a family business. Spiro says, “In addition to helping my clients set up a company if needed, I can help them ensure that their company is secure and that their heirs are protected in case of an accident.” Spiro also offers title and closing services. “Many people, especially those from the Northeast, prefer to have a real estate lawyer handle closings. Since title companies and lawyers charge the same rates for title insurance throughout Florida, the choice is really a matter of personal preference.” Life is full of surprises and challenges, and it is good to know that you can have someone like Spiro Verras looking out for you and making sure that you and your family are protected no matter what challenges may
come your way. “I really enjoy getting to know my clients on a personal level and making sure we have protected them and are working to fulfill their wishes,” says Spiro. “I follow up with clients regularly to make sure their documents are up-to-date and to see what changes may have occurred since the last time we talked. You should always be sure to update your estate plan after any major life event.” Spiro Verras has two convenient office locations – one in Palm Harbor at 31640 U.S. Hwy. 19 N, Suite 4 (located behind Pier One Imports) and the other in Tampa’s Hyde Park Village at1509 W. Swann Ave., Suite 240A. To schedule an appointment call (813) 2286800 for his Tampa office, (727) 493-2900 for his Palm Harbor office, or email him at contact@verras-law.com. For more information visit www.Verras-Law.com.
Real Estate Transactions & Business Incorporation
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
19
20
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
4/2/2+ 2187 htd sf. This great room plan offers large lv w/built in entertainment center, entertaining sized dr, kitchen w/white cabinets & granite counters w/tile backsplash. 18" tile flooring in all the main area. Tranquil view from the extended lanai w/hot tub of the golf course & pond! $329,000
1536 htd sf 2+/2/2 This home offers entertaining sized living & dining rooms w/soaring ceilings, great kitchen w/breakfast bar and large storage closet. Den or home office, master w/walk in closet. Fabulous patio w/view of golf course & ponds! $189,900
2389 hts sf 3/2/3 This home has formal living & dining rooms plus family room. The kitchen has ecru cabinets w/pullout shelves, under cabinet lighting, breakfast bar w/pendant light. Master w/2 walk in closets & 2 generous sized bedrooms. enclosed lanai w/tile flooring and an extended lanai w/hot tub to relax w/a view of the pond! $299,000
4/2/2 2534 sf This home has formal Living & dining rooms w/soaring ceilings and 16" tile flooring throughout for easy care. Kitchen has white cabinets w/pullout shelves and overlooks the family room. The master has two walk in closets and master bath has walk in shower, garden tub & linen closet. You'll enjoy the lanai that has a pool and a tranquil view of the forest. $299,900
2/2 1085 sq ft. This second floor, end unit condo w/no neighbors upstairs is perfect! move in ready w/style & today's color! Plenty of room in the dining room & living room w/custom valances, sliders to the tiled floor lanai. Great kitchen w/newer appliances & designer style counters. guest bedroom w/2 closets. Master bedroom w/walk in closet & bath w/seamless shower. Desirable area of the east lake corridor. $79,900
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
21
“Total Wealth Management Working for You” By Katie Thomas JMI Financial Group, conveniently located on East Lake Road, is an independent financial firm that works to personalize clients’ portfolios based on what will work for them as individuals. This is accomplished through careful consideration of each client’s immediate needs, as well as their short-term and long-term finan-
22
cial goals. JMI Financial Group offers clients extensive resources and complete knowledge that encompasses the everchanging and evolving world of finance. With high ethical business standards, personalized professionalism and a comprehensive approach to client situations, JMI Financial Group works to bring every client complete satisfaction and thorough financial management. John Monte has been in the fi-
rience. Monte also worked for eight years with a large nationally known financial institution where he learned the ins and outs of insurance and investments. Monte’s career experience prior to opening JMI Financial Group is beneficial to his clients – they feel a step ahead because they can trust that John has the extensive knowledge necessary to help make appropriate decisions for their particular situation. John stays current within the financial world and explains that there is always something to be learned in his business and he takes pride in keeping upto-date on current financial situations.
John Monte, CLU, ChFC nancial business for 30 years; he began JMI Financial in 1998 and has been at his East Lake office for more than 13 years. He began working in finance at a very young age and developed a true passion for helping others. Monte offers his clients a wealth of experience and knowledge. Starting his career on Wall Street as a stock and bond trader gave John an insider’s view and provided him with insight in investing and an understanding of how things work behind the scenes – it was a tremendous expe-
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
JMI Helps You Develop A Plan With a goal to always work for the client on a personal level, JMI Financial Group devotes the necessary time and energy to delve into the future with folks to explore what is available to them and what changes they need to make to potentially enjoy the future of their dreams. Every individual has different financial needs and objectives and JMI is able to address a variety of needs, from those of the very wealthy to those who simply desire a healthy
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
financial future. “We treat people equally here,” says Monte. “We communicate, work together and base our work on old school values and morals. I believe the whole package for success is respect, integrity and honesty. We incorporate those values into our everyday business practices.” JMI Financial Group offers services including, but not limited to, asset management, financial services, estate planning, retirement planning, fixedrate annuities, income annuities, 401(k) and IRA rollovers, as well as alternative investments. JMI can advise you regarding social security and pension, and will help you find the insurance you need including life, long-term care and disability, as well as investment guidance for trustees. Monte bases his practice on comprehensive financial planning; JMI Financial Group’s resources and business affiliations allow for coordination that brings clients the best financial planning that the company can provide. Rest assured that your most personal information is protected with JMI Financial Group through a secure and compliant-approved, offsite data imaging system.
Monte can help simplify your finances and answer any questions you may have because he speaks the language of the business as a CLU (Certified Life Underwriter) and ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant), two of the highest titles one can earn in dealing with insurance and financial planning. He has trained in all aspects of the business and continues building his knowledge. You’ll find his neighborhood office welcoming and friendly. John Monte’s office manager Nancy is a vital part of JMI Financial Group and has been working with John since 2006. She is detailoriented and tech-driven, allowing John the time necessary to spend with each client for as long as they need him. John Monte and his family have enjoyed being a part of the East Lake community and he is dedicated to supporting local interests. He is a member of the Upper Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and the new North Pinellas Chamber, a Board Member of Clearwater Arts Alliance and an Officer of Dunedin Masonic Lodge. Monte also co-founded a networking group called Bucks Business Network that meets on a
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
weekly basis. The Bucks Business Network is a community of diverse, business professionals dedicated to cultivating long-term relationships through the sharing of ideas, experiences, resources and business referrals. Married for 26 years to his wife Diane and father to their two sons, Vincent and Robert, John says, “I am a family man and I treat all of my clients with the respect that they deserve and welcome them to become a part of the JMI Financial Group family.” Securities offered through Sigma Financial Corporation; member “Fortune” the Dolphin will greet you at the door FINRA/SIPC. at JMI Financial Group in Palm Harbor Investment advisory services offered through Sigma PlanJMI Financial Group is located ning Corporation; a registered investat 3490 East Lake Road, Suite B in ment advisor. Palm Harbor. Please call (727) JMI Financial Group is inde771-1200 for an appointment or pendent of Sigma Financial Corporamore information. Visit the website tion and Sigma Planning at www.jmifinancial.com. Corporation.
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
23
24
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
25
Area Rugs Direct – Shop at Home
“From Our Van to Your Home” By Katie Thomas If you’ve ever been to the store shopping for a rug, then struggled to fit it into a sedan only to get it home and find that it just isn’t right for your home, then you know the frustration that comes with going from store to store without any real satisfaction. Don’t despair – you will love shopping
26
with Area Rugs Direct! Servicing Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Manatee, Hernando, Sarasota and Bradenton, Area Rugs Direct provides a unique in-home shopping experience that is both convenient and enjoyable. Area Rugs Direct has exquisite and affordable collections of area rugs (in sizes that range from 3’x5’ to 10’x14’) that are brought right to your home
or business, so you can see first-hand exactly what they will look like with your home décor. Area Rugs Direct is a great solution when it comes to outfitting your home with area rugs. This company brings its decorative magic to your home, which allows you the convenience of shopping in comfort right from your favorite chair. From helping you find the perfect match to delivery and complete installation, Area Rugs Direct works with you every step of the way for the perfect finish! Owner Tony Mogavero came up with the innovative concept for bringing the “rug store” to the customer via in-home shopping in 2005. Area Rugs Direct provides customers with design expertise and a great selection of quality rugs through a shop-athome experience that is like no other, allowing you to see how a rug fits in with your style, aesthetics and personal taste – before you buy! “When you have the opportunity to see the rug in your home, you know exactly what you’re getting,” says Tony, whose professional manner and friendly, trustworthy demeanor is greatly appreciated by homeowners. With Area Rugs Direct, you can
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
skip the hassle of shipping fees, and it takes the guessing game out of how the rugs you choose to outfit in your home will fit by allowing you to see, touch and properly match a rug to your home before any purchase is made. Just imagine, you can actually get the perfect size rugs for every area in your home to match, or if you like an eclectic look, you can choose the right mix of rugs. That is hard to find when you are out shopping and even harder to visualize – especially if you have to go to more than one store. Area Rugs Direct provides an affordable solution to purchasing one rug or a houseful of rugs, and the priceless design expertise and in-home consultation that comes along with service is unbeatable! In addition to bringing rugs to your home, Area Rugs Direct assists you in selection, layout, installation and design techniques. With a goal to exceed customer expectation, they take the steps necessary to ensure quality service and satisfaction. You will first receive a free consultation over the phone to ensure that your expectations can be met including budget, décor, colors and size. Area Rugs Direct will then set up a free, no-
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
obligation appointment. This visit is to educate customers in options, styles and buying information and even if the customer doesn’t buy right away, the knowledge gained during this appointment is invaluable. Once you have taken a look at the wide variety of rugs offered and make a decision, the Area Rugs Direct team will help you redecorate, move furniture and set up your room for installation so you get exactly what you want. The inventory is endless and contains all different styles: casual, contemporary, retro, traditional and transitional designs. “Our customers are always impressed with our work,” says Tony. “We work with businesses that are li-
censed ASID (Associates of Interior Designers). Working directly with decorators, designers and window treatment specialists has provided us with expertise in many aspects of design.” Odessa resident Jill E. Cotten had Area Rugs Direct visit her new home right after the family moved in. Jill says, “A total experience. We asked for rugs and received those and so much more! Tony was generous with the sharing of his decorating expertise, offering added suggestions regarding wall hangings, furnishings and paint colors. His ideas were a welcome bonus at the time of overwhelming activity!” Rob and Deb Scott, also of Odessa, appreciated their shop-at-
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
home experience and Area Rug Direct’s great prices. “Tony provided a one-stop shop custom solution that saved us two of our most precious resources; time and money.” Lutz resident Chris Decker says, “I have purchased area rugs in the past only to return after they didn’t work in my home. Tony knew what rugs to pull and what might look good. He helped me choose an awesome rug to match my sofa, love seat and armchair. It was a pleasure and no traveling back to return rugs!” Globally Aware, Locally Responsible When starting Area Rugs Direct, Tony recognized that many countries
break child labor laws, so they actively sought out manufacturers that adhered to humane guidelines and were monitored by Woolmark and other regulatory agencies. Area Rugs Direct is A+ rated by the better Business Bureau and Arated on Angie's List. In 2011 and 2012 Area Rugs Direct won Angie’s List Super Service Award. Tony’s friendly demeanor and knowledge is something you won’t find in many places. He has incredible decorating sense and he’s always willing to share design ideas with customers. His passion flows into his work, making him a pleasure to be around. Area Rugs Direct always follows up and is flexible in working with your schedule. Enjoy the affluent expertise that Area Rugs Direct provides from their van to your home! Area Rugs Direct, LLC is appointment based and is available seven days a week for customer convenience. Call (813) 505-3174 or (727) 210-0900 for a free in-home consultation. Make sure to visit www.ARugDirect.com for more information and special coupons!
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
27
28
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
29
“The Difference Between For Sale and SOLD!” Sandy Papadakis with RE/MAX Realtec Group By Katie Thomas With over 19 million dollars in sales last year, Sandy Papadakis is your go-to agent for residential real estate. A licensed RE/MAX agent working for RE/MAX Realtec in East Lake, Sandy’s professionalism and business knowledge is widely recognized in the real estate market. She was 9th in the state of Florida for RE/MAX sales last year. “I’ve already closed 33 homes this year and I have 15 more pending sales,” says Sandy, who handles short sales as well as traditional sales. If you are looking for a Realtor, you will appreciate Sandy Papadakis, who has the dedication, professionalism, honesty and explicit market knowledge that you want and need from your Realtor. Sandy Papadakis will work hard for you in all of your residential real estate needs. Sandy has been an East Lake resident for 37 years and received her real estate license in 1996. She has always
30
worked with RE/MAX and is proud to be part of the RE/MAX Realtec office in East Lake, which is the number one RE/MAX office in the state. Whether you are buying a new home, selling or looking to relocate, Sandy knows the ins and outs of her business, which will help you to receive the greatest possible outcome. Sandy says, “Since I’ve been licensed, I have experienced many market changes. I have sold in good, hot and bad markets. Real estate is on the road to full recovery and becoming
stabilized again. We are all looking forward to growth.” Sandy believes property values are increasing and says that statistics have shown sales are picking back up in the real estate industry. RE/MAX is a reputable company and has been serving people with outstanding agents and outstanding results for over 40 years. RE/MAX grew from a single office in Denver, Colorado into a global real estate network. Sandy says, “I love the company I work for. RE/MAX is a strong name backed by strong agents! Being a part of the RE/MAX team gives me a competitive advantage.” RE/MAX has bestowed Sandy with numerous awards and recognitions. With millions sold she has been inducted into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame and has been presented with the RE/MAX Life Time Achievement Award. As a top 1% ranked salesperson for RE/MAX, Sandy has been a part of the RE/MAX Chairman’s Club and Platinum Club.
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
As a RE/MAX agent, Sandy is able to provide clients with excellent resources that help both the seller and the buyer. If you are looking to sell your home, Sandy Sandy Papadakis constantly updates her MLS listings, helping get your house listed in as many outlets as possible. She will help you stage your home in any way necessary and fully has your back during your selling process. When looking to buy a home or relocate, Sandy has an endless amount of sources to help you find the perfect place to call home. She utilizes her RE/MAX connections and the strong
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
and dedication is unbeatable and I have relied heavily on her opinions dealing with buying and selling. I am originally from Connecticut and I am currently living in Sarasota. Sandy has helped me with over six houses; she always follows up and performs the appropriate research for the market. She always come through and advises me correctly.” Sandy Papadakis is a lively and energetic Realtor with a drive for helping her clients, whether they need to sell a home or are looking to buy a new home. She has a heart of gold and truly cares about her community relationships she has built within the community over the past 30 years. Sandy feels that it is very important to stay involved within her own community. She, her husband Tom and their two children, Mary Frances and Shelly, are active members of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Clearwater. Tom and Sandy have been married for 36 years and work together to build relationships and trust within the community where they can. Sandy has been involved with the Suncoast Chapter of the Leukemia Lymphoma Society for many years and was on the Board of Trustees for the organization up until
and making a difference. You will not be disappointed in her work ethic and if you are looking to sell, she has the expertise and drive to sell your home. As Sandy likes to say, “I am the difference between For Sale and Sold!” Sandy Papadakis’ office is RE/MAX Realtec Group, Inc, located at 4175 Woodlands Pkwy. in Palm Harbor. Call Sandy directly at (727) 463-7653 or (727)-7895555, or email sandyfla@aol.com. Find more information at www.sandypapadakis.com where you can see most of her listings.
last year. Sandy recently supported local J.W. Mitchell High School students who are involved in the Odyssey of the Mind program to attend and compete at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals by helping to raise $1,700 for their trip. “I have a lot of fun getting involved with community events,” says Sandy. “I am always ready to lend a helping hand where I can.” Her longtime client, Anthony, says, “I have been utilizing Sandy’s service for the past 13 years. She is the only realtor in the Tampa Bay area that I work with. Her professionalism
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
31
32
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
33
Make Time for Nature and Visit Brooker Creek Preserve By Marcy Sanford Located in Tarpon Springs and an easy drive from the East Lake area is the largest natural area in Pinellas County – Brooker Creek Preserve. With 8,700 acres of wetland forest next to Brooker Creek, the main feeder for Lake Tarpon, the Preserve is home to many animals such as white tailed deer, otters, gopher tortoises, bobcats, and coyotes and even some endangered species of plants, insects, and birds including orchids, Bachman’s sparrows, and Tiger Swallowtail butterflies. The Preserve has hiking trails, an educational and resource center, a nature store, and a viewing blind for bird watching. Open since 2004, the education and resource center at Brooker Creek Preserve was designed with sustainable methods and materials. The 6,000 square foot center features exhibits of the different habitats found on the Preserve. The nature store, which is run by the Friends of Brooker Creek, has books, t-shirts, toys, and snacks for sale. They even have a native plant nursery where you can find wildflower seeds, Firebush, Beauty Berry, Tropical
34
Sage, Spider Lilly Bulbs and many other plants that are native to this area. The resource center has information to help you with projects such as native plant landscaping and retention pond reclamation. They also have a library and database with information about many different environmental topics. Brooker Creek’s four miles of hiking trails meander through forested wetlands, oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, cypress domes, and swamps. The education center trail is an easy stroll for hikers of all ages and abilities. The elevated boardwalk made of reclaimed plastic and wood materials keeps visitors’ feet dry as they walk over and through bottomland swamps to the drier areas of the preserve. From the end of this trail, you can choose hikes of varying length and difficulty or the bird path, which will take you to a bird viewing blind overlooking a freshwater marsh. Brooker Creek Preserve is host to a wide variety of special events throughout the year for all ages and interests – many of them free. Regular monthly events at Brooker Creek Preserve:
Book Time @ Brooker, Every Thursday, 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. This program is designed to connect pre-schoolers to the wonders of the natural world. In addition to hearing a great story, children will participate in a craft, game, or other hands-on activity related to the story. Recommended for ages 3 to 5. Brooker Book Club, First Saturday of the month, 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. This book club is for adults who want to discuss novels by Florida au-
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
thors. The book for July is “Star Island” by Carl Hiaasen. Guided Hikes, Saturdays throughout the month, 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Volunteer Guides take visitors on a three-fourths of a mile hike along the Education Center Trail to look at how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. All ages are welcome. Wildflower Garden Club, Last Saturday of the month, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. Get your gardening hands dirty in
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
the Preserve’s wildflower garden. Morning snacks are usually provided. Upcoming Special Events Guided Photography Hike, Friday June 28 & Saturday June 29, 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Hike the preserve in search of that perfect shot. This program provides opportunities for photographers of all levels to hone their skills. In a brief classroom session, local photographers and master naturalist Karl and Kathleen Nichter highlight the seasonal features that help participants capture the natu-
ral beauty of Brooker Creek Preserve. Then you’ll hike the boardwalk and trails looking for those shots that reflect the season. Recommended for adults and children 12 and over. Botany Hike, Friday, July 12, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Join a Brooker Creek Naturalist to explore the fascinating plants found on the Preserve. Learn how to identify wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees, and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also be examined. Best suited for adult participants. Birds of Brooker Hike, Saturday,
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
July 13, 8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Learn how to identify common birds during a one-mile trail hike. Bring water and binoculars if you have them. Tree ID, Saturday, July 20, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join your local Natural Resource Agent as she discusses the basics on how to identify trees in your area. The presentation includes a guided tree ID walk. Wildlife Hike, Friday, July 26, 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. An experienced naturalist will guide a hike along the boardwalks and natural trails. This is a learning experience for everyone. Come prepared with binoculars, cameras, and questions. Any questions the guide cannot answer will be researched in the resource room upon return to the Education Center. All events in this listing are free
but registration is required due to limited space. You can get more information about the events and register for them at http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrit e.com/. The Center and Store hours are Thursday through Saturday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The trail hours are Sunday through Saturday: 7 a.m. to approximately one hour before sunset. There are picnic shelters, parking, and restrooms available. Admission to the center and preserve is free. For more information about Brooker Creek Preserve visit http://brookercreekpreserve.org/. For more information about the Friends of Brooker Creek, visit http://www.friendsofbrookercreekpreserve.org. Brooker Creek Preserve is located at 3940 Keystone Road in Tarpon Springs, 727-453-6800.
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
35
36
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
37
“Midway Services” Continued from page 1 allows for Midway Services to fulfill its clients’ needs in a wide variety of ways. The Midway Difference: The Midway Services team has a motto to always go “Above and Beyond,” especially when it comes to customer service. Midway offers fast 60-minute service, no travel charges, 24-hour emergency assistance, flat rate pricing, and always guarantees to be on time. You will never experience hidden fees with Midway Services, since they charge by the job, rather than by the hour. Over the past five decades, Midway Services has striven to be a frontrunner in the industry by providing home repairs of all types, quality work, and complete customer satisfaction. Customer service at Midway Services is based on the Wolf family’s traditional values – fair, ethical and reliable work is what you get with Midway. One of Midway’s many satisfied customers says, “Midway Services is dedicated to customer satisfaction and works with you very quickly to resolve any problems. Their staff comes to
38
your home well prepared and ready to fix any issues you may have. Chris C. came to our house for plumbing issues we were having and did not leave until they were all addressed and were back in fully functional condition. Chris took the time to tell us what the problems were and what options we had for fixing them. He also gave us some helpful tips and checked his work a couple times before he left. The job he did for us could have been extremely messy, but Chris cleaned up after himself and left our bathroom spotless. This is a sign of a true professional! We were very satisfied with Chris and Midway Services and would not hesitate to use them again as well as telling our friends about them.” Midway’s plumbing services include leak detection/repair, water closet service, water heater repair/installation, water filtration systems, drain cleaning, re-piping, sewer repairs, ECU hookups, water softening systems, garbage disposal repairs and more! The Midway Services team knows that having the knowledge and tools to find and diagnose the problem you may be having with your plumbing is critical in repairs. A small leak can raise your water bill enor-
mously and Midway takes pride in repairing any plumbing problem right away, the right way, the first time you call! Midway Services only uses high quality products such as Bio-Clean for plumbing solutions, in order to protect the environment and the Florida aquifer. Midway Services is a leading expert for air conditioning in Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties. If you have ever experienced a Florida summer with a broken A/C, you can
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
commiserate with anyone who has to go without air conditioning – it really is a necessity! Midway’s 24-hour, nowait service is incredible and reliable; so if your A/C breaks you won’t have to suffer. As a licensed and state-certified company, Midway Services ensures that you will receive the best help available. The professional experience and long-standing reputation for excellence is what makes Midway Services “Florida’s most trusted Service Company.”
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
Offering fail-safe suge protection, Midway has the necessary tools to protect your home against electro-static damage and voltage spikes. Electrical spikes can ruin your electronics within your house (even if they’re turned off) and can be very dangerous if fire from a power spike causes electric wires to melt. Midway Service’s whole home protection solutions safe-
guard all outlets and appliances in your entire home. Your home is a great asset and whether you are looking to increase the value or give it a fresh, new look – Midway’s remodeling services are fantastic in design, fabrication and durability. This company’s employees are qualified, fully trained and are dedicated to making the customer happy and the remodeling process as easy as possible. They will assist you on every step of your remodeling journey, from planning to clean up, and will make certain that you are 100% satisfied with the outcome. Midway utilizes “turn-key” remodeling, so you won’t be inconvenienced! As industry leaders, Midway Services provides customized designs, personalized onsite consultations and site evaluations for additions and new construction. You can count on them throughout the entire process for master planning, construction administration and management of the project. The company also uses top quality brands. “Great staff! And the technician did a wonderful job,” says Mr. J.E. “I
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
have been with other companies before, but none of them matched up to Midway as far as service and professionalism. I look forward to doing a lot of business with Midway. I think the idea of combining all the different trades under one company is great AND convenient for customers!” And Ms. D.S. writes, “Your technicians are the best! They did a great job and were very professional. Now that we’ve found you, we’ll use Midway Services for everything!” When you hire Midway Services, you can get to know the Midway team and build a relationship with your
technician. Offering fair prices, professionalism, courtesy and quality work, Midway Service offers the familiarity of “small town service” backed by 55 years of experience and a solid reputation. Remember, it’s so much easier when “One Call Does It All!” For more information about Midway Services, and for amazing “One Call Does It All!” service, please call (727) 202-4375. You can find more information online at www.MidwayServices.com and on their facebook page.
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
39
40
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
41
“Brain Balance” Continued from page 1 fullest academic, social, and physical potential. The Brain Balance Center of Oldsmar, located at 4022 Tampa Road, is one of more than 50 Brain Balance Centers in the nation. Steadily growing because of their proven success with children diagnosed with issues like these, parents and families are embracing the individualized programs available for their entire family. Using personalized and comprehensive assessment tools, the educated and certified teachers, nutritionists, coaches and professionals at Brain Balance assess your child’s difficulties, and then work with your child, your entire family and even his or her teachers to facilitate growth. Brain Balance Center of Oldsmar is owned by Director Larry Polnicky, whose own son, Ben, made incredible advances in the program that they attended out of state. Larry was so impressed with the program that he opened the Oldsmar location so that other children like Ben would be able to make progress without medication. How? The Brain Balance program believes that your brain can change. That’s a bold statement, but when your child begins to speak, after being told that they would not be able to do so, or when your child’s grades improve dramatically despite being told that they wouldn’t be able to succeed, the reality kicks in. There is another option, indeed, and thousands of children’s lives have been improved based on this program. Program Director, Heather Lascano, takes the time to find out what the world looks like from your child’s perspective. She comes to Brain Balance of Oldsmar after years in pharmaceutical drug development as well as
42
years of patent, business, and contract law, and has used tools like yoga in her own small business to aid many people with a variety of ailments. Her experience, her “out of the box” approach and her dedication to truly helping people make Heather a unique fit. Is your Child Disconnected? This “brain-based, not drugbased” program is based on Dr. Robert J. Melillo’s research on neurobehavioral disorders. Dr. Melillo, who is a world-renowned neurologist, professor and author, believes that all of these conditions, which were previously thought to be unrelated, are in fact related, and can be grouped into what is called Functional Disconnection Syndrome. Brain Balance is not a medical facility, and so it does not employ doctors, write prescriptions for medications, or accept insurance. What it does do is offer hope, options, proven techniques and a personalized approach. In his book, Disconnected Kids, he explains how these conditions all find a commonality in the way that the brain works, and while if you were to take a child with any of these conditions and give them an MRI Scan, or any other number of medical tests, there would be nothing to find. The brain is not damaged. These issues are all connection issues, and research has proven that the left hemisphere of the brain and the right hemisphere of the brain have distinct responsibilities, abilities and functions. Most of us can easily be labeled “left-brained” or “right-brained” but research has found that when one-half of the brain has a deficiency, it leads to these connectivity issues, which can result in a “disconnect” between a child and their ability to learn, communicate and succeed. The goal is to challenge the hemisphere of the brain that is showing a deficiency and to stimulate it so
(top row, L-R) Heather Lascano (Program Director), Andrea Bartelloni (Academic Evaluator and School Liaison), Henri Lasane (Sensory Motor Evaluator), Bonita van Dorseer (Teacher and Parent Group Leader) (bottom row, L-R) Anne Sweeny (Teacher), Maria Mogollon (Assistant Director), Patricia Hoover (Sensory Motor Coach) Not pictured Susan Rose (Sensory Motor Coach) that it will learn to function. One parent said, “We drive 2-1/2 hours one way and our son is worth every minute and mile spent on the road. Just 20 sessions and my son’s reading fluency and word reading has markedly improved. We are so proud of him! He loves coming to Brain Balance. His confidence has improved greatly too. Thank you to such an awesome team of professionals who understand and care about children with learning challenges. It’s also a soft place to land as a parent.” Another parent writes, “”I am so proud of Jalon. I’m also so thankful to Brain Balance for all that they have done and are continuing to do for him. I have been telling everyone about Brain Balance and I will keep trying to spread the word because I believe in this program. Unlike any other therapy, Brain Balance treats the whole child. They were the first to run
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
blood tests and do other extensive testing to test every level from Jalon’s primitive reflexes to food sensitivities and identify the weaker hemisphere of Jalon’s brain. Once they received these results they were able to come up with a program that addresses his sensory, academic and dietary needs. The result is that in just a couple months Jalon has made amazing strides and is now meeting or surpassing his peers in many areas.” The Brain Balance program is tailor-made for each individual child and generally works with children from kindergarten age to ninth grade. Each program generally consists of one or two 12-week after-school programs, where each child participates in a range of activities that help them to improve the connections between both hemispheres of their brains. One of the best parts of the Brain Balance Program is that the educated
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
to kids and their families is priceless!”
and experienced staff realizes that when a child is effected, the entire family is effected, and as a team, they gather around to give the child the support that he or she needs from every angle. The program itself gives the child a physical and cognitive activity program that will, in time, change the way the brain reacts. Combined with the right nutrition, and armed with the role that nutrition plays in your child’s behavior, certain behaviors can be changed right away. While we’re all comfortable with traditional allergies, there are foods that may affect the way your child learns, or reacts. It may be strawberries that are the trigger, or the ingredient that holds their favorite candy together, but with an understanding of all of these things, progress can be made. Focusing on areas such as academic performance, social abilities, cognitive
function, sensory and motor skills, visual-spatial organizational skills and nutrition, your child will be given every opportunity to make advances that you might not have thought possible. Polnicky says, “In a study where 60 of the students had ADHD, 82% of those students were shown to no longer exhibit any signs of ADHD after one 12-week program.” He adds, “Two-thirds of the students improved by two grade levels, and one-third of the students actually improved by four grade levels; 100% had some improvement, and 0% had no improvement, so even if I didn’t know from personal experience that this program worked, we have the research to back us up.” One parent wrote a testimonial saying, “Brain Balance truly made our home more peaceful. He is a completely different child than when he started the program. What you offer
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
Is this Program for your Child? The Brain Balance Mission Statement is “to make the Brain Balance Program available to as many children as possible, that each child may reach their greatest physical, mental, social and academic potential.” If your child has been diagnosed with a neurobehavioral disorder like ADHD, Dyslexia, Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome, Tourette’s, or any number of learning disorders, don’t lose hope. There are answers beyond the drug store. The best way to find out more about Brain Balance is to come to one of their free information events. The Brain Balance Center of Oldsmar holds parent lectures where parents and professionals alike can gain a unique window into a child’s brain function. Their lectures offer insight into how the brain normally develops and what may interfere with the stages of typical development. Parents can also come in for a free tour, sit down one-on-one with the Center Director and see for themselves what all of the buzz is about. The truth is that people come
from all around the world, and cross state lines to come to Brain Balance Centers. Their innovative, holistic approach to children and families has changed the lives of thousands of people. We are lucky to have a Brain Balance Center right here in Oldsmar. The Brain Balance Achievement Center of Oldsmar is located at 4022 Tampa Rd., Suite 6. For more information or to schedule a tour, please call 813-475-6977. You can also email them directly at oldsmar@brainbalancecenters.com, or visit www.brainbalancecenters.com.
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
43
TRINITY DENTAL CARE IES C N RGE ME! E M E ELCO W
(727) 372-2001 Toll Free: 1-888-tooth AK www.trinitydentalcare.com
We perform the following procedures: - Preventive Dentistry Dr. S. Shayes - Dr. A. Eskandari - Crowns, Bridges - Dentures, Partials, Repairs - Tooth Colored Fillings - Gum Treatment #DN15492 #DN15013
. Sat & ing ailable n e Ev s. Av t App
- Root Canals - Teeth Whitening - Dentistry for Children and Adolescence - Invisalign (the clear braces) - etc.
1843 Health Care Drive, Building #1 Trinity, FL 34655 (at the corner of Mitchell Blv &Little Rd, behind Walgreens)
Complimentary Second Opinion (D9310) Exp. 07/30/2013. New patient only. Valid weekdays only. Coupon needs to be presented at time of service.
• Nitrous Gas (Happy Gas) • Warm blankets, neck rolls and head phones in everyroom • 12 Month Interest Free Financing Available • Most Insurances Accepted • Evening & Sat. Appts. Available • Now Accepting Care Credit ®
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL Exam (D0140) and X-Ray (D0272 or D0220)
$39.99 EXP. 07/30/2013. WEEKDAYS ONLY. New patient only. Cannot be used with insurance. Coupon needs to be presented at time of service.
The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for another service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted or reduced fee, service, examination or treatment.
44
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
45
SHARPE PROFESSIONAL ROOFING, LLC
STATE CERTITIED ROOFING CONTRACTOR Lic. CCC1327547
Specializing In: • Wind & Hail Damage Assessment • Residential Re-Roofing & Repairs • Insurance Claims
$500.00 OFF Any Complete Re-Roof over 1200 square feet, Discount Available with this Coupon/Ad Only, One Time Offer, Offer Expires 12/31/15
813.240.1019 - 727.375.7055 SharpeProRoofing@aol.com References Provided / Free Estimates
46
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
47
48
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
JUNE 2013
East Lake Area Neighborhood News