Vol. 6, Issue 06, June 2015
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
A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies Everything You Need for Cleaning! A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies is the place to go for everything you need to make cleaning easy. Melissa and Tom will help you simplify your shopping and help you save money at the same time because they offer commercial grade cleaning supplies that cost a fraction of what you pay elsewhere. A+ Discount Vacuums has toprated vacuums, both brand new and refurbished. Plus, the store services and repairs all makes and models of See “A+Vacuums” on page 30
By Marcy Sanford At the heat turns up this summer, it’s good to know you have a locally owned company you can turn to if your AC begins to lose its cool. Odessa resident Jaime Guerrera, owner of Jaime Central Air Conditioning & Heating Specialist, has years of experience in the air conditioning and heating business and knows that honesty with your customers and performing high quality work is what keeps a company in business. “Much of our business is in the Lutz, Land O’ Lakes,
Odessa area and many of our new customers come from referrals,” says Jaime. “I live in Odessa and am proud that when I go places in the community, I run into so many happy clients. We stand behind our work and are proud of the loyalty our customers have to us. We always treat our clients with the utmost respect and are proud that when we’ve finished the job, we’ve earned their trust and loyalty.” Jaime Air has probably helped one of your neighbors and friends keep their air conditioners running smoothly. “Jaime Air did a great instal-
lation. My wife was very happy with how clean they kept our home during this difficult renovation here. The new system cools fast and it's very quiet due to the new ductwork they installed. Now all our rooms are the same temperature. We got a new Trane system for less than the price the other company quoted us,” says one happy family. Whether you need your AC repaired or replaced, would like to find out how to cool a room better, or want to lower your energy costs, Jaime See “Jaime AC” on page 34
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Making a Difference Award....3 Calendar & News Briefs......4-5 Old & New SAT Exams.......10 Pasco Co. Public Transit....14-15 Kids’ Summer Camps...........16 Sejpal Law Firm.............18-19 Drs. Making a Difference........20 Brooker Creek Preserve........22 Everglades Farm Equipment Opens in Odessa............26-27 Bangkok Sushi................32-33 The Red Cross................36-37
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Call Jaime, Your Central Air Conditioning & Heating Specialist!
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Don’t Lose Your Cool –
The Community Dining & Business Guide that your neighbors READ!
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Cleaning is not a favorite chore for most of us, but having a clean home is such a comfort! A clean environment is more than just pleasing to our senses; it’s simply healthier. As many “clean freaks” know, a good vacuum cleaner is a necessity that you just can’t live without. A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies is a fantastic source for all of your cleaning supply needs and the store has a great selection of vacuum cleaners offered at
very competitive prices. Located on Collier Parkway in Lutz, just off of State Road 54, A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies is convenient to get to, the superior cleaning products are fairly priced, and the service is excellent. A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies is family owned and operated by Melissa and Tom Burkhiser. The two have more than twenty years of combined experience, offering honest advice and personable service that you just don’t get at a big box store.
Dated Material Please Rush!
By Katie Thomas
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Trinity Family Physicians’ Tampa Bay Making a Difference Award Trinity Family Physicians has teamed up with Neighborhood News & Lifestyles along with other community sponsors to bring recognition to outstanding leaders in our community who are making a difference in the Tampa Bay Area. Amir Shirmohammad, MD MPH and his wife and partner Stephanie Eldridge, MD MPH wanted to think of a way to honor those who selflessly and tirelessly work to make a difference here in the Tampa Bay Area, and decided on the Tampa Bay Making a Difference Award. When they approached us here at Neighborhood News & Lifestyles to help them get the word out, we were honored that they chose us to share this news, and we are excited to read about all of the great nominees our readers will be sending in. Trinity Family Physicians is committed to improving the lives of their patients, friends, family, colleagues, and everyone in their community both locally and globally. Their motto of “Let our family care for yours” resonates with their newest endeavor of the Tampa Bay Making a Difference Award. “We want to think our local sponsors the Neighborhood News & Lifestyles, and everyone who continues to contribute monthly to making a difference in the Tampa Bay Area,” says Dr. Shirmohammad. Neighborhood News & Lifestyles will be give a generous gift certificate to the chosen award winner, and we will share the stories of the award winners – one will be chosen every three months – in all seven of our publications that deliver to residents in the Tampa Bay Area.
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Trinity Family Physicians would like to have more sponsors for the Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award. Dr. Shirmohammad says they have already received some commitments from area businesses that want to participate in showing award winners great appreciation with gift certificates for goods or services. Sponsors also will be recognized along with the award winner in an article that will run in the six Neighborhood News & Lifestyles publications, as well as the New Tampa Lifestyles publication. Dr. Amir Shirmohammad says, “Trinity Family Physicians continues to recognize and donate to wonderful charities and causes in our community. We continue to be educators with local medical schools trying to inspire the new generation of physicians so that they can continue to make a difference each and every day in their patients’ lives as well as in their community. “However, with budget cuts and a tough economy, and what we see every day in the news, it is difficult to continue to stay inspired and we hope that this award reminds all of us of how to feel good. We hope that you feel good reading this today and in the future.”
serve to be honored and how they are making a difference in Tampa Bay. The first award winner will be announced in the September issues of Neighborhood News & Lifestyles’ and another winner will be announced in December, then again in March 2016, June 2016 and so on. So there really isn’t a deadline as we will continue to accept nominations. But if you want your nominee to be considered to be the first recipient of the Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award, then please send us the information no later than August 7th.
Nominations can be mailed to: Neighborhood News & Lifestyles at 220 South Safford Avenue, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. Or, we prefer email at editorial@nnlflorida.com. Now send in those names!
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 © 2015 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. Neighborhood News & Lifestyles reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, not for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is published by ADS 2 Publications, Inc.
Send Your Nominee for the Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award Nominees for the Tampa Bay Making A Difference Award should be individuals who continually strive to make a difference – you know who they are so send us their names! Please include your nominee’s name and tell us why you believe they de-
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Odessa, Lutz, Land O’ Lakes Area
Community Calendar & News Briefs Free Health & Fitness Seminar Sat., Jun. 20, 1:30 PM––Sign up now for a FREE Health & Fitness Seminar led by health and fitness expert Samantha Taylor. To register log on to: www.samanthataylorseminars.com Vacation Bible School Fri. & Sat., Aug. 7-8, 6–8:30 PM––Kids ages 3 years old to 5th grade are invited to participate in “Outback Rock,” vacation Bible school at Keystone Community Church in Lutz. Participants will enjoy Bible activities with an Outback theme. A special VBS church service will take place on Sunday at 10:30. Keystone Community Church is a non-denominational church located at 21010 State Road 54 in Lutz. VBS and other activities are free to the public. To register your child or for more information call 813.948.4522. Keystone Community Church Presents, “Sing a Song of Freedom” Sun., Jun. 28, 10:30 AM––You
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are invited to this special service led by our music and drama ministries, as we honor all who have sacrificed their lives to maintain our freedom! If you have served, or are currently serving in the Armed Forces, Coast Guard, or you are one of our own hometown emergency personnel, please come so that we may honor YOU! Keystone Community Church is located at 21010 S.R. 54 in Lutz. Nursery Provided. (813-948-4522) FREE GOLF for KIDS Ace Golf offers a free summer golf practice program for kids ages 5 to 15. Every day from June 1 through the end of August, kids can sign up to receive a free small bucket of range balls each day for the whole summer. Kids hit the balls on the Ace Practice Ranges in Brandon and Riverview or at the Pebble Creek Golf Club in New Tampa, Wentworth Golf Club or Crescent Oaks Country Club in Tarpon Springs. “There are a lot of families out there that just can’t afford to put kids in camps but still want the
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kids to be out learning a skill or just getting some exercise,” says Bill Place, owner of Ace Golf Ranges and Golf Courses. “We want to help, and hopefully in the process we will find some kids that love golf.” Children may sign up for free at any of five Ace Golf locations in Brandon, Riverview, Tampa and Tarpon Springs. Each child receives a daily stamp card for one free small bucket each day. Each time the child redeems their free bucket they will get a stamp on their card noting the redemption. An adult must accompany them. No purchase is necessary. Kids should bring a golf club with them or may rent one. 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 10 p.m. The facilities feature 18acre Golf Practice Ranges, Miniature Golf, and Batting Cages. For more information, go to ace-golf.com. Ace Golf Courses include the Pebble Creek Golf Club at 10550 Regents Park Drive in New Tampa (phone 813 973-3870, website: pebblecreekclub.com), the Wentworth
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Golf Club at 2990 Wentworth Way in Tarpon Springs (phone: 727-9424760, website: wentworthgolfclub.org), and the Crescent Oaks Country Club at 3300 Crescent Oaks Boulevard in Tarpon Springs (phone: 727 937-4653, website: crescentoaksgolf.com). Ace Golf Courses are open to the public and offer membership, dining, and banquet centers. Ace Golf is locally, family-owned by Su Lee and Bill Place since 1993. In addition to the free bucket golf program, Ace Golf locations offer summer golf camps, clinics, and private golf lessons by PGA Professionals. Italian American Social Club of TB The Italian American Social Club of Tampa Bay is a nonprofit 501(c)3 that seeks members who have the common goal to carry on the Italian heritage, culture, laguage and traditions for future generations. Started in October 2014, the Italian American Club is open to all individuals 21 years and older of Italian and non-Italian decent. Annual Membership is $50 per person. There are currently over 120 members. Social events include lan-
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guage and cooking classes, the upcoming Family Picnic in September, the Columbus Day Gala in October and an annual Christmas party. Find meeting schedule online at www.Italianamericanclubtampa.com and on Facebook @ Italian American Club for event information. Alzheimer’s Family Organization Support Group Fri., Jun. 26, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM––The Alzheimer’s Family Organization will hold our next Support Group Orientation/In-Service at Connerton Court ALF & Memory Care, located at 21021 Betel Palm Lane in Land O Lakes. The purpose of this meeting is to instruct individuals in the running and proper functioning of a Support Group. Upon completion of this program, the Support Group Leader will receive a certificate and will be eligible to affiliate a Support Group with the Alzheimer's Family Organization. This training is open to the public and is free. You must register for this event by calling our office at 727-848-8888 or 888-496-8004. Thank you for your support of the AFO.
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The Global Leadership Summit Aug. 6-7––This leadership conference delivers vision, inspiration, and practical skills. Van Dyke Church is a host site for this live broadcasted event presented by Willow Creek Association. Speakers include Bill Hybels (Willow Creek), Ed Catmull (Pixar/Walt Disney), Craig Groeschel (LiveChurch.tv), Brian Houston (Hillsong Church), Jim Collins (author of Good to Great), and more! Conference early bird rate is $199 before June 23 and student/faculty/military rate is $89. Location: Van Dyke Church, 17030 Lakeshore Road, in Lutz. Please call Andrew Davis at 813-968-3983, ext. 147 or log on to www.vandyke.org for more information. Vendors Wanted for Holiday Craft Fair Sat., Nov. 14––St. Timothy's Catholic Church, located at 17512 Lake Shore Road in Lutz, is seeking vendors for its Women’s Club Holiday Boutique Craft Fair on Saturday, Nov. 14th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call Joanna at (813)909-4469 or email Joanna_Stomski@aol.com for info. See “Calendar & Briefs” on page 6.
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“Calendar & News Briefs” Continued from page 5 Family & Friends Support Group Meetings The Pasco County Chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers two types of support group meetings each month, one for *family and friends of those with mental illness, and one for ** those living with mental illness. This includes all brain disorders, including, but not limited to OCD, depression, bi-polar, schizophrenia, multiple personalities, and other. *FAMILY & FRIENDS SUPPORT MEETINGS 2nd & 4th Monday, Monthly, 7:30–9 PM––Medical Center of Trinity West Campus in Conference Room C, 5637 Marine Pkwy., New Port Richey 1st & 3rd Thursday, Monthly, 6:30–8 PM––Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, Shoreline Café Meeting Room, 14000 Fivay Rd, Hudson, 1st & 3rd Tuesday, Monthly, 7–8:30 PM––Atonement Lutheran Church, 29617 State Road 54,
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Wesley Chapel For additional information, NAMI: 727-992-9653
**NAMI CONNECTIONS Recovery support group for those living with mental illness. Group meets 90 minutes and facilitated by trained peers, at two locations. Further information: 727-992-9653 Wednesdays, 7–8:30 PM––at Medical Center of Trinity West Pasco Campus, 5637 Marine Parkway, New Port Richey, Conference Room C2. 1st & 3rd Saturday, Montly, 11:30 AM–1 PM––Prevention Counseling Center, 137430 US 98 Bypass, Dade City Three HCA West Florida Hospitals Earn an “A” Patient Safety Score Medical Center of Trinity, Oak Hill Hospital and Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point have been recognized with an “A” safety score by The Leapfrog Group, an independent non-profit run by employers and other large purchasers of health benefits. The score was awarded in the latest update to the Hospital Safety
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ScoreSM, the ABCD or F scores assigned to U.S. hospitals based on preventable medical errors, injuries, accidents, and infections. The Hospital Safety Score was compiled under the guidance of the nation’s leading experts on patients’ safety. “Earning an ‘A’ on the Hospital Safety Score demonstrates that our hospital continues to strive for excellence,” said Leigh Massengill, CEO, Medical Center of Trinity. “This demonstrates that the three hospitals in our Pasco-Hernando Area value patient safety. This is one more indication that we are ‘walking the walk’ in fulfilling its mission, vision and values,” she added. Several HCA hospitals received an “A” rating demonstrating that Tampa Bay’s largest health system focuses on making hospitals safe for its patients. To see the hospitals’ scores as they compare nationally, visit the Hospital Safety Score website at www.HospitalSafetyScore.org, which provides information on how the public can protect themselves and loved ones during the hospital stay.
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Reaching Out to Long-Term Care Residents Florida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program has advocate positions available in the Pasco and Pinellas county area. Volunteers visit with residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult-family care homes to ensure they are treated with dignity and respect. Training and certification are provided and volunteers participate in council meetings, administrative assessments and complaint resolution in facilities. Candidates need to: •Enjoy working with seniors and those with disabilities •Plan to volunteer 20 hours a month •Pass a background check (paid for by the Program) •Complete certification training •Communicate well •Attend a monthly meeting If you would like to become an ombudsman and make a difference in your community, visit ombudsman.myflorida.com, search for us on Facebook or call (727) 588-6912.
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OLD AND NEW SAT EXAMS By Dr. Wayne Adams Many parents and students are wondering about the old and new SAT Exams. This school year, 2015 – 2016, is a transition time with the new SAT Exam being required starting in the spring of 2016 for all students, and a shortened form is an option for the PSAT Exams in October, 2015, for rising juniors. THE NEW SAT EXAM IS MUCH MORE DIFFICULT The Essay is much more difficult. It has been lengthened from 25 minutes to 50 minutes and now looks like an analytical essay from the AP Language and Composition Exam. The student will have to know and to apply “how an author uses (1) evidence, such as facts or examples, to support claims, (2) reasoning to develop ideas and to connect claims and evidence, and (3) stylistic or persuasive elements, such as word choice or appeals to emotion, to add power to the ideas expressed.” In other words, the new Essay is twice as long and requires far more “critical thinking and analysis”. Reading is much more difficult for two reasons. (1) It still requires a high level of vocabulary. Consider this beginning of a Reading section with high-level words underlined: “Today, I am an inquisitor. An hyperbole would not be fictional and would not overstate the solemnness that I feel right now. My faith in the Constitution is whole; it is complete; it is total. And I am not going to sit here and be an idle spectator to the diminution, the subversion, the destruction, of the Constitution.” (2) The format requires a much higher level of critical thinking, being very similar to the multiple choice sections of the AP Language and the AP Literature exams.
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Math is much more difficult. There are now two sections: one where a calculator can be used, and a second where it cannot. More charts and graphs are used, with many questions like the Science Reasoning section of the ACT. In general, the questions are more difficult. Unlike before, now the student is required to know all formulas and equations needed. Grammar is about the same level of difficulty as with the old exam. THREE MAJOR RISKS The first major risk is that students will “shy away” from the new SAT Exam and continue migrating to the ACT. Because the ACT is equally acceptable to college admissions officers, I believe more will “go with the known”. Second, the SAT is keyed directly to the Common Core Curriculum, which many states have rejected and many parents do not like because it is viewed as a major expansion of the government trying to increase control over education of high school students. Third, it will take several years for college admissions officers to become comfortable with the new SAT because there is no track record and correlation with college performance. In other words, who needs to take the more unknown SAT when the ACT is just as acceptable and easier?
separately. My normal student improves 200 – 350 points on the SAT superscore, and 4 – 7 points on the ACT composite. Effective July 15th, I will also have a full SAT Prep Class to prepare students for the new SAT Exam, and for the PSAT “New-Exam” option for rising juniors in October. This SAT Prep Class will also contain an optional AP Prep Module with one section to quickly learn over 100 key definitions students must know for both the essay and the multiple choice sections of AP Language and AP Literature exams, and a second section showing how to write the required synthesis, analysis, and rhetorical essays for AP Exams. This module can also be very helpful for students who want a “head start” to achieving their best possible score if they are taking either of these AP courses in the fall. If You Would Like To Talk More About How I Can Help Your Student, please contact me at 727-253-0639 or wwa0811@mykolab.com. Dr. Wayne Adams is one of the leading SAT and ACT tutors in the country. His students normally improve 200 – 350 points on the SAT su-
perscore, and 4 – 7 points on the ACT composite. They have been admitted to eight of the top ten universities in the country, fifteen of the top twentyfive, and many schools in Florida. These schools include Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Stanford, U Chicago, Duke, U Penn, Johns Hopkins, Cornell, Notre Dame, Emory, UC Berkley, UCLA, USC, UNC (Chapel Hill), NYU, Northeastern (Boston), Boston College, Georgia Tech, Air Force and Merchant Marine Service Academies, Penn State, LSU, Auburn, UF, U Miami, FSU, USF, UCF, Florida Atlantic, Florida Gulf Coast, FIU, New College of Florida, Stetson, and Julliard – Manhattan New England - and Berkley Conservatories of Music. Many have received academic, athletic, or music scholarships. He is a former Dean of a Graduate School of Business and Full Professor, and began college teaching at the University of Maryland in 1968. He has degrees and advanced studies at Harvard, Yale, Vanderbilt, Columbia International, and Luther Rice, and has been tutoring for five years.
SUMMER SAT AND ACT PREP CLASSES During the summer, I am offering my prep classes for the current SAT Exam (which all rising seniors will take), and the ongoing ACT Exam. Many students prefer tutoring in the summer because of more flexibility in class scheduling and not having the time pressures of the school year. I also offer a combination class that saves 15 class hours from taking each prep class
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Pasco County Public Transit: The Safe, Affordable Solution for Local Summer Travel By Julie Kanehl Have you ridden the bus lately? The Pasco County Public Transit (PCPT) is an incredible service that is provided for Pasco County residents by the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners. Taking the bus is a fantastic way to avoid the headaches of driving through busy traffic, it saves a lot of money, and it’s safe and convenient! In short, the bus is the smart way to travel this summer! What’s more, PCPT is offering discounts on their already low fares to qualifying residents, including seniors, veterans and students. In fact, the Summer Haul Pass is the perfect way for students to travel, offering unlimited travel from June 1st to August 31st for just $20. That’s fantastic, considering you can get Hudson Beach to the Shops at Wiregrass and everywhere in between! PCPT is a fixed
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route transit system that operates 16 busses, running in both eastern and western parts of the county, and even into Tarpon Springs where riders can then travel on the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (Pinellas County’s public transit). While it’s easy to buy a one-daypass on the bus, the smarter way to ride the bus is to buy a 31-day-pass or a 20-ride-pass. If you think that you’re eligible for a discount, it’s important to sign up for your PCPT Reduced Fare Photo ID. This ID, which only costs $2.50, will cut the already affordable bus fare fees, in half. Bus passes are affordable and easy to purchase. If you’re just jumping on the bus for the day, one-way bus fare or one day passes can be purchased on any bus from the bus driver. Other pass options can be purchased in a variety of ways, including buying passes by mail, or by purchasing them from
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any local county library, The PHSC bookstore (West campus), or at a PCPT office. The PCPT administrative office is located at 8620 Galen Wilson Blvd. in Port Richey with a satellite operations office in San Antonio. PCPT reports to the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners and is a Department under the Public Services Branch. In addition to passenger fares, funding for PCPT is primarily received through state and federal grants, with additional subsidies obtained through county ad valorem taxes. Having a public transit system like PCPT makes it possible to easily access all of the wonderful and important places in Pasco County, from hospitals and restaurants along main thoroughfares, to malls, movie theaters, beaches
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and more. Pasco County has so much to offer, and the public transit makes it affordable, reliable and stress-free! Accessibility is the name of the game, and PCPT has you covered! That’s right, and they’ve been making sure that you are truly “covered” by providing additional shelters at bus stops all over the county, protecting their riders from afternoon showers and Florida’s hot sun. Another fun fact: All of the shelters on the PCPT route have solar powered lights and meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. Offering amenities such as bike racks and wheel chair accessibility, the goal of PCPT is to help people save money by providing safe, dependable transit services as well as providing the opportunity for
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independence and increasing flexibility for many people who are without their own, personal transportation. If you use PCPT to get to and from work at least two days a week, you are eligible to register for the Emergency Ride Home Program. This program guarantees you a ride home for family emergencies, personal illness, or unscheduled overtime. Just check on-line at http://www.tbarta.com/en/erh/co mmuter/emergency-ride-home for more information. PCPT also offers what’s called the Paratransit system, which provides door-to-door public transportation for a very small fee. The Paratransit system is the answer for people who suffer from a verifiable disability that prevents them from reaching a bus stop, as well as people who cannot reach a bus stop due to distance or an environmental barrier. Personal care attendants ride for free on the Paratransit system, and this kind of transportation may be provided once the individual is qualified and registered and makes a reservation. Demand response service is also provided to the mobility impaired and the transportation disadvantaged through the PCPT Paratransit service.
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PCPT is Ready When You Are! Offering an impressive schedule of routes and riding Monday-Saturday from the wee-hours until after dark, PCPT has a reliable system of busses that will get you to your destination safely. Rain or shine, you can depend on PCPT to be there when you need them. Additionally, in the event of a severe weather event such as a tropical storm or hurricane, PCPT works with the Pasco County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to assist with the important task of evacuation by providing transportation to designated shelters in the area. As Pasco County grows, it’s important that residents know that they can continue to depend on their public transportation. PCPT will be growing with the population, and will continue to provide reliable, safe, high quality transportation to residents all across the county. To find out more about Pasco County Public Transit, please call (727) 834-3322 or (813) 2356073 or visit their website at www.ridepcpt.com. You can view maps of all the PCPT routes online as well. Also like PCPT on Facebook or visit them on Twitter.
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Kids’ Summer Fun - Ride A Horse or Explore Florida Wetlands Haven't you always wanted to learn how to ride a horse? Come take lessons at Avalon or join their summer camp. Lessons are continuous throughout the year and riders participate in various shows throughout the year depending on skill and ability. Avalon invites you to check them out, take pictures, and meet the favorite four legged friends! Call Avalon at (813) 765 7162. Summer Camp Dates: Camps are offered weekly throughout summer with the 1st camp on June 15–20 until the last camp week August 10–14.
Avalon is a fully insured horse back riding program with certified instructors. Avalon has won the state highpoint academy team for the past 5 years. Follow your dream... come be a part of the team! Avalon staff teaches saddleseat primarily, but also teaches huntseat, western, and driving. The staff at Avalon would love to introduce you to their chosen breed... the American Saddlebred! Log on to avalonstables.com for more informtion. We are also on facebook under pages, “Avalon Stables.” Kids Learn & Have Fun at Brooker Creek Preserve Summer Camps Kids and teens can learn while having fun in summer day camps at Brooker Creek Preserve in Tarpon Springs. Herpetology Summer Camp is a sciencebased, hands-on day camp. Inquisitive children will be able to explore the
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world of amphibians and reptiles with George Heinrich, a professional herpetologist. The camp will be held at Brooker Creek Preserve beginning on Monday, July 20 and runs until Friday, July 24, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., for children ages seven to 11. For more information or to sign up, call (727) 865-6255. The camp costs $175 per camper. Wetland Adventure Camp takes place Monday, July 27 to Friday, July 31, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Brooker Creek Preserve. Kids will meet all things that walk, wiggle and unfurl in the Florida wetlands while exploring swamps, marshes and gooey mucks with Sensing Nature’s professional biologists and master naturalist educators. The camp costs $150 per participant. Before and after care is available for an additional fee. The deadline to register is Monday, July 13, and the camp is open to children ages seven to 12. Those interested should call (727) 3972306. Junior Naturalist Camp will allow young campers to test their investigative skills while identifying tracks and signs of native Florida wildlife. The
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camp runs from Monday, Aug. 3 through Fri., Aug. 7, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Brooker Creek Preserve. The camp costs $150 per participant and is open to children ages seven to 12. Before and after care is available for an additional fee. The deadline to register is Monday, July 20. Those interested should call (727) 397-2306. Brooker Creek Preserve is located at 3940 Keystone Road in Tarpon Springs.
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Sejpal Law Firm – Business, Real Estate, and Family Law By Marcy Sanford Business owners and individuals throughout the Tampa Bay Area turn to Sejpal Law Firm to help them when they have legal issues. Attorney Kunal Sejpal has been helping his clients with real estate, business, and family law since 2007. Kunal practices in the areas of business and corporate law, real estate law, estate planning, family law, and general civil litigation. Kunal established his law firm to provide the local community with affordable legal services that are provided with care and compassion, and with an emphasis on accessibility and excellent service. “I always give my clients a very personal level of service,” says Kunal. “They know they can call me at any time and if I cannot speak to them personally at that time, I will call them back as soon as possible.” Business & Corporate Law Sejpal Law Firm helps many
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business owners with legal issues. “We can help people who want to start their own company,” says Kunal. “Or we can represent them in litigation matters. I come from a family of entrepreneurs and business owners so am familiar with the different issues that can arise and know the documents and agreements business owners should have in place to protect them, their families, and their businesses.” Client and owner of a Tampa area Pinch A Penny pool supply store, Kiran Patel, says, “I have known Kunal for a very long time. He is an excellent attorney. If we ever have an emergency, I can call him and he will take care of it immediately. He is very honest, reliable, and detail oriented. He always meets our deadlines, which is very important when you are running a business.” Real Estate Law In addition to Business & Corporate Law, Sejpal Law Firm also
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helps many property owners with legal issues. “Sejpal Law Firm can handle all matters related to buying or selling real estate for both business owners and individuals,” says Attorney Sejpal. “We have an in-house title company which is a benefit to our clients because if any legal issues arise, we can handle them. At Sejpal Law Firm, we get to know our clients as individuals so we can be there to help them every step of the way.” Clients like Jill Bosack, owner of the Dance and Gymnastics Academy, appreciate Kunal Sejpal’s dedication to his clients. Jill shares, “Kunal has been my attorney for five years. He has helped me with employee agreements and guided us through a major expansion. He was able to help us with all of our real estate issues. As a business owner it is comforting to know you have someone like Kunal that you can count on. He is always on time, very professional and responsible. He has been a big help to the Dance and Gymnastics Academy.”
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Attorney Kunal Sejpal In addition to helping you navigate the legal issues involved when buying or selling property, Sejpal Law Firm can help you with commercial or residential leases. “We represent both residential and
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commercial landlords to help them with leases and tenant issues,” says Kunal. “We also are here for our clients if they need dispute resolution.” Additionally, Sejpal Law Firm can help you if you find yourself unable to afford your home or property. “We have helped people who can no longer afford their homes with foreclosures and short sales,” says Kunal. With the right legal guidance, a foreclosure or short sale can be handled more quickly and can be easier on you and your finances. “My clients know they can call me for any issue that comes up,” says Kunal. “Sejpal Law Firm has helped clients in matters of construction litigation when contractors have not completed the work they promised they would do. We work for the property owner to make sure that the finished result is the one that was promised.” Family Law & Estate Planning As Kunal’s list of clients has grown, so too have their needs. In addition to real estate and business law, he also provides legal services in
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the areas of family law and estate planning. Kunal will discuss all of your options with you and help you make a decision that will protect you, your family, and your assets. Kunal Sejpal is a resident of Land O’ Lakes. He graduated from the University of South Florida and the Shepard Broad Law Center at Nova Southeastern University. Sejpal Law Firm represents clients locally, statewide, and internationally. The Firm has many clients who have been with them since Sejpal Law Firm first opened. If you are looking for an attorney you can count on and one who will give you the personal attention your legal matters deserve, give Kunal Sejpal a call today. Sejpal Law Firm is located in The Commons Office Complex at 14039 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa. They are open Monday through Friday by appointment. For a complete list of Sejpal Law Firm’s services, visit them on the web at www.sejpalfirm.com. For an appointment or more information, please call 813-964-8664.
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Making A Difference Matters to These Doctors! Trinity Family Physicians would like to share some very exciting news. Dr. Amir Shirmohammad was nominated and accepted the position to join Dr. Roger Brainard as team doctors for Jesuit High School in 2014. This past year was an incredible year for Jesuit High School sports and Dr. Shirmohammad is excited about the opportunity to help his alma mater and these excellent athletes in their quest for championships. He will continue with his role there and sees volunteering as a passion that we all should strive for to make a difference in others’ lives. In fact, Dr. Shirmohammad and Dr Eldridge have now partnered with Neighborhood News & Lifestyles to start the Tampa Bay Making a Difference Award. This unique award will recog-
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Dr. Roger Brainard & Dr. Amir Shirmohammad
nize and honor individuals in the community who are doing things. You can participate in helping us by sending in nominees – those who deserve to be recognized for the things they do to better our Tampa Bay communities and the lives of the people who live here. Find all the details on page three of this issue of Neighborhood News & Lifestyles and submit your candidate today!
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Birds, Books and Beyond at Brooker Creek Preserve Brooker Creek Preserve offers environmental events and interactive activities, providing citizens the perfect opportunity to explore the outdoors. This June, visitors to the preserve can enjoy a variety of nature hikes, learn about the ecosystems that surround them, and even learn all about different kinds of insects and birds! Most events and activities are free, unless noted otherwise, and registration is required. Starting Thursday, June 4, children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a storybook, craft, game or other handson activity. Book Time at Brooker meets every Thursday from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Starting Saturday, June 6, Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve is hosting the Brooker Book Club. This club meets the first Saturday of each month, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. This club is geared toward adults. Registration is required due to a limited amount of seats. Meet in the conference room inside the Visitors Center. This month’s book is “The Trouble with Panthers” by William Cuyler Hall. Please bring your own book, as books are not provided. Let’s get a closer look at our featured creature, the coyote. On Saturday, June 20, participants can join UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan to learn about the coyote. The class runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon and will
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explore the life history of the coyote as well as its ability to adapt and survive in urban environments, including Pinellas County. On Saturday, June 20, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., be sure to check out the Footprints on the Land hike. Certified guides will lead a hike along the Education Center Trail where participants can learn of the many “footprints” that can be found during this .75-mile walk. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must and water and a hat are recommended. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult, those younger than 6 may find the hike challenging. Get an early start with Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve to remove exotic vegetation and nuisance plants from the preserve, from 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 27. 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. Water and snacks provided. For additional information and to sign up, call Evan Earle at (727) 515-9545. Interested in flowers? The Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve will be getting their gardening hands dirty in the Preserve’s wildflower garden Saturday morning on June 27, from 8 to 10 a.m. Participants should bring garden gloves and hat. Morning snacks are usually provided. Permaculture design is an effective
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tool to help you really make a difference, whether by gaining access to healthier food, reducing pollution, healing the earth, creating more economic stability, or building stronger and healthier communities. Join Koreen Brennen of Grow Permaculture on Saturday, June 27, from 10:30 a.m. to noon for an informative presentation on this topic. Also on Saturday, June 27, join us for another hike from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve certified guides lead the hike along the Education Center Trail. Participants will learn why the preserve has been called “Our Wildest Place” during this .75-mile walk. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must; water and a hat are recommended. All ages welcome although children younger than 6 may find the hike challenging. Children younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Brooker Creek Preserve protects more than 8,700 acres of natural ecosystems and is located at 3940 Keystone Road in Tarpon Springs. The Preserve, the horse trails and the Friends Trail are open daily, but closed on Christmas Day and the day after Thanksgiving. UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County offers classes, programs and activities at the Environmental Education Center. This permanent, hands-on educational exhibit features 22 discoveryoriented experiences that helps visitors of all ages understand how natural
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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. Visitors will also find interpretive trail signs located throughout the boardwalks of the preserve that feature educational information about the ecosystems. The center is operated by the Pinellas County Parks and Conservation Resources Department and is open Thursday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed all Pinellas County holidays. To learn more about Brooker Creek Preserve and its upcoming programs and events, call (727) 453-6800. To register for programs and events visit www.brookercreekpreserve.org. Videos featuring Brooker Creek Preserve can be viewed at www.youtube.com/pcctv1.
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Everglades Farm Equipment Opens in Odessa A Third Generation Florida Family Business Built On Integrity By Katie Thomas Family owned and operated since 1963, Everglades Farm Equipment is one of the largest John Deere dealers in the world. Through hard work, dedication and perseverance in hard times, Everglades Farm Equipment has grown exponentially since its humble beginning in a small barn down in the Everglades. Now, the company is one of the largest John Deere tractor dealerships in the world with twelve locations in Florida offering John Deere products, parts and repair services. There is an Everglades Farm Equipment store located near your neighborhood too, at 2240 Success Drive in Odessa, and the friendly folks there want to show you why there is no better place to purchase John Deere products. President and CEO John O.
Schlechter says, “We believe our investments in product availability, quality parts, outstanding service and our focus on meeting our customers’ needs as efficiently and effectively as possible is the only way to keep you coming back. Our family initially began and continues to operate a farming operation, so we understand what it takes to make a business, no matter what industry, a success.” Back in 1963, under a cypress tree that still stands on the property today, Walter Schlechter started Everglades Farm Equipment. He’d sold his radish farm in Belle Glade, Florida and with that money Walter started his business to meet the needs of fellow farmers by providing John Deere products and parts, as well as service centers for John Deere products. Understanding farmers’ needs and meeting them with dependability has
become a family tradition at Everglades Farm Equipment, which celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2013. Walter’s son John (J.O.) is the current CEO and president of Everglades Farm Equipment. He and his wife Eleanor took over the business in 1967 and viewed the business as an opportunity and a challenge. Despite hard times, the Schlechter family and Everglades Farm Equipment persevered with hard work, sacrifice and dedication. “With every employee, we shared what we had with them and if we had a little, we shared a little and if we had a lot, we shared a lot,” recalls J.O. He says that trusting in God to provide was really the foundation that he built the business on. “We went through some times and there wasn’t any bridge there, but when we got there – there was a bridge and we did it more than one time.” In 1968 J.O. brought in a friend,
W.L. Cunningham, Jr., who had been in the agriculture business all his life and brought with him many agricultural customers that were native to the area. John O. says, “When W.L. came into the area, he was familiar with most people in South Florida in agriculture because he was in the inspection service so he had a great basis for our customer clientele, and most of the people we did business with were native to the area and invariably we were able to talk to them.” In 1969 the growing Everglades Farm Equipment family built the location in Belle Glades to continue expansion, and by 1975 more than 7,000 sq. ft. had been added to the original building. Service Manager Roger Walker came into the business in 1977. Walker was a mechanic, but had never even seen a John Deere tractor but he learned the John Deere machines inside and out in no time. “I
think we might had about five of us back in the shop at that time,” says Walker. “We were on call seven days a week, 24 hour a day.” Walker adds, “John Schlechter [J.O.] is one of the top three people I’ve ever known in my entire life. I can’t say enough good things about him – friendship, boss, mentor, everything. I really love the Schlechter family – we had a great working relationship together and somehow developed a really good relationship with [John] Deere. It was
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just a fun job. It was just a pleasure to get to get up and come to work in the morning and I liked what it stood for – honesty and integrity and giving you the best product we had to offer and standing behind it.” That same commitment to service that Roger Walker reminisces about and that was instrumental in building the stellar reputation of the company is still a cornerstone of Everglades Farm Equipment stores today. In 1989, J.O.’s son Mike saw that
growth was the way of the future and he decided to take actions to make that growth for Everglades Farm Equipment possible. By 2000, Everglades Farm Equipment had expanded from one location to eight locations across Florida. Mike, who is the company’s chief operating officer, says, “Ultimately it has been a great move for everyone at Everglades Farm Equipment.” Mike acknowledges that his father put together a team that laid that groundwork early on, building the business on hard work, integrity and relationships. “They did a lot of things that we are reaping the benefits of today, but I think we’ve taken those same qualities and propelled it even further along the ladder. I think it’s our responsibility. We are being held accountable – me as a family member of the Schlechter family, to maintain and improve the quality of Everglades Farm Equipment.” Everglades Farm Equipment has embraced John Deere’s advancements as they rolled out over the years, in both small and large equipment. Now, Everglades Farm Equipment offers product inventory that includes: tractors, mowers, Gator utility vehicles and commercial worksite products.
With their fleet of trucks, Everglades Farm Equipment offers free delivery for your equipment and takes the steps to make sure your product arrives to you safely and in perfect working order. In addition to new equipment, Everglades Farm Equipment offers used equipment and rental equipment. So whether you need something that will fit your budget, a short rental, new big-daddy tractor or parts for your already existing John Deere – Everglades Farm Equipment has what you are looking for. Everglades Farm Equipment carries the full line of John Deere products and each of the locations has a fully stocked parts inventory to keep your John Deere running at optimum performance. Your local Everglades Farm Equipment store is located at 2240 Success Drive in Odessa and can be reached by phone at (727) 8428618. Hours are Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturday during the summer months. Please log on to evergladesfarmequipment.com for more information, a video and a list of locations, products, and services.
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“A+Vacuums” Continued from page 1 vacuum cleaners. The store even takes trade-ins, so don’t throw out your old vacuum just yet – trade it in for a new model! A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies is an authorized dealer for top-rated vacuum manufacturers including Miele, Bissell, Simplicity, Sebo, Lindhaus, Electrolux/Eureka, Hoover and Royal, and they service all makes and models. They have bags and belts for all makes and models. If your vacuum is worth saving, A+ Discount Vacuums has everything necessary to get your machine back on the job, and they offer free estimates. If you want the best vacuum on the market for your home environment, then ask Melissa and Tom about the Miele. Barron’s magazine rated the Miele as the number one vacuum (of all canisters and uprights) for allergy sufferers and pet owners because of its advanced, filter bag system that safely traps 99.9 percent of lungdamaging particles. All of the vacuums offered at A+ Discount Vacuum & Janitorial Supplies are top-notch machines and
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Melissa and Tom have their customers’ best interests in mind. If you buy a vacuum from A+, you can rest assured that they will help you find the right vacuum cleaner to meet your needs. A good vacuum will even add longevity to the life of your carpets. “We don’t have quotas to reach and we’re not here to sell you a specific brand,” says Melissa. “We want to get people the right vacuum for their needs.” Professional Janitorial Supplies Work Better & Save Money! When shopping at a supermarket or big box store for cleaning supplies, the bill can add up quickly. If you are
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looking for a way to safely and thoroughly clean every surface of your home and you also value your hardearned money, then stop by and check out how much you can save by purchasing the professional grade cleaning products offered at A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies. The selection on hand smells great and cleans even better! Nilium is an odor neutralizer that completely eliminates odors and at only $9.50 for a quart, each cleaning will cost you pennies because the product is concentrated and it only takes one teaspoon to make up a spray bottle. There are some amazing scents including Citrus, Red Clover, Spring
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Mint, Coconut-Lime, and Melissa’s favorite, Soft Linen. Another product that customers love is the Daily Mop, which cleans all types of flooring in your home, from hardwood to laminate, from ceramic to marble. Like most of the cleaning products offered, Daily Mop is super concentrated, you can simply add 1 ounce to a gallon of water for the perfect cleaning solution that leaves no sticky residue, no streaks, only clean floors! And it is only $8.99 a gallon, which means you can mop your house 128 times for less than nine dollars! Talk about a money saver! It only takes a tiny shake of Nilofresh carpet deodorizer to make
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Melissa and Tom are your local experts on vacuums and superior cleaning products that give professional results and save you money! your house smell great and it’s a really good deal at $4.99 for a 14-oz. size; plus, it’s a much better choice for your vacuum than leading powder carpet deodorizers because it’s made from treated corn cob which is heavier than powder and will not ruin your vacuum cleaner’s motor. Pet owners swear by the Bio-Active Eliminator carried by A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies. It actually becomes live bacteria when mixed with water and will completely eliminate urine – no stains, no smell! Offering convenience and afford-
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ability, A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies is the place to go for one-stop-shopping for cleaning supplies and tools, paper products and so much more. A+ Discount Vacuums & Janitorial Supplies is located at 1903 Collier Pkwy. in Lutz and is open from 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. on Mon.–Fri., and from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. on Sat.; by appointment only on Sun. For more information, call 813-949-4994 or log on to: aplusdiscountvacuums.vpweb.com.
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Dine at Bangkok Sushi for a Taste of Thailand By Katie Thomas Thailand is known worldwide for its flavorful dishes and world-class hospitality, but you don’t have to travel to Thailand to experience Thai dining. Bangkok Sushi in Lutz is a hotspot for those looking to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine and sushi. Located at the North Pointe Village plaza, just off of State Road 54 and east of the Suncoast Parkway, Bangkok Sushi is sure to pleas your palate! Everything is made with the freshest, finest ingredients. Bangkok Sushi’s dishes are artfully presented just as you’d expect from a high-end restaurant, but the prices at Bangkok are very affordable, so you can enjoy the tastes of Thailand as often as you’d like. Bangkok Sushi’s owner, John Chieopanich, sets a high standard for his restaurant. Bangkok Sushi sets the bar high when it comes to mouthwatering, delicious, and healthy menu items. Having grown up in Thailand, John tried to bring as much of the country to his restaurant as possible, from the amazing Thai dishes and
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sushi served, to the way it is presented and even the restaurant’s décor and the dress of its servers is authentically Thai. The chef at Bangkok Sushi studied culinary arts in Thailand, where he gained experience in five-star restaurants, and he puts true talent into every dish he creates. The traditional Thai restaurant presents beautiful, freshly prepared menu items that are presented with such care that that they seem “too pretty to eat” according to many diners, but the delicious aroma tells your stomach its time to enjoy a delicious meal. Once you begin eating, your taste buds will be greeted with fresh, perfectly cooked ingredients that will have you thanking Thailand for its original and delicious fare. Nathan of Odessa says, “Bangkok Sushi has the best atmosphere. The music is relaxing and the service is always great. You don’t find many places like this - with delicious food and a great ambiance.” Mandy, who also resides in Odessa, says, “Bangkok Sushi has amazing food, from the sushi to the
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traditional Thai dishes. They are great with my son and it is always a nice, peaceful place to enjoy a wonderful family meal! The staff all dresses in customary Thai outfits, which adds to the experience of an evening out. I truly cannot say enough about how amazing the food truly is!” Bangkok Sushi is a great choice when you want a fine dining experience that everyone in your party can enjoy. Crisp white linen tablecloths and fresh flowers are placed at every table. The atmosphere is relaxing, well appointed and spacious enough to ac-
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commodate a party. And while diners do love the atmosphere, the food is the real star! Bangkok Sushi offers some of the best Thai food in the area according to many online reviews. R.G. from Lutz says, “An amazing dining experience! The staff is the best-trained and most friendly staff in all of Tampa. Always smiling and they go out of their way to give you the best dining experience possible. We have been going a couple times a week for years now and it is our number one choice for dining. The food gets five stars! The green curry is to die for,
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the Thom Ka soup is perfect and the spring rolls are heavenly. No one anywhere comes close to matching their Pad Thai. You can never go wrong dining at Bangkok Sushi! John and Angie are the most wonderful restaurant owners you will ever know, enjoy!” John says, “Here at Bangkok Sushi, our kitchen makes everything fresh from scratch, which allows diners to modify dishes to their liking. We never use preservatives, artificial flavors, MSG or other unhealthy additives. Even our jasmine rice is made to our standard of perfection - steamed with no butter, sugar or added salt.
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The rice needs no extra boost in taste when paired with our fresh-made Thai sauces. All the flavor at our restaurant comes from fresh ingredients, spices, herbs and vegetables.” For the Love of Sushi! It seems as if a lot of restaurants add sushi to the menu because, well, people just love sushi! At Bangkok Sushi, the delicate masterpieces of raw fish are not just an addition - they are a complete experience with careful and meticulous thought and preparation behind each roll. If you ask customers, Grade-A sushi is what you will always get at
Bangkok Sushi. Michael from Tampa says, “I was with a coworker when I visited and figured we could dodge in and grab a couple sushi rolls. Considering it was decorated mainly in Thai decor, I was skeptical about the sushi...many restaurants try to add a sushi bar, but don’t always do sushi well, but I was pleasantly surprised at the sushi selection. The sushi is really well prepared, the ingredients fresh and the staff were wonderful. We had various rolls, all of which were delicious.” Another Bangkok Sushi fan says, “I sat at the sushi bar during my visit and tried the Rainbow Roll, as well as the Spicy Crunchy Roll. Both
came with ten large pieces in the roll and I could not finish my serving! The fish was fresh and the rolls were delicious!” When it comes to traditional Thai with the freshest ingredients and sushi that has been hand-selected and cut to perfection - Bangkok Sushi is your place! Impeccable service, delicious food and a gorgeous atmosphere will not let you down. Bangkok Sushi serves lunch and dinner, and offers take-out for busy days at the office or for stay-at-home nights. You should definitely try Bangkok Sushi to find your favorite menu items, or you can try mine – the Lobster Roll, composed of a delicious whole tempura lobster tail rolled with avocado, lettuce, cucumber mayo, I/O masago and sesame seeds with eel sauce – it is truly Thai-riffic! Bangkok Sushi is located at 16541 Pointe Village Drive, Suite 101 in Lutz. Hours are 11:30 a.m.– 10 p.m. on Mon. – Fri., 4–10 p.m. on Sat. and 4–9 p.m. on Sun. For more information or to order takeout, call 813-920-9777. Log on to www.bangkok-sushi.com to view the delectable menu.
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“Jaime AC” Continued from page 1 Air can help you. The company offers free estimates and second opinions and guarantee they have the lowest prices with the highest quality work. Air Conditioning Repairs Air Conditioning Units take a beating in the hot Florida weather where they rarely get a break. Jaime Air can repair all major brands of air conditioners. If your unit needs repairs, Jaime is personally involved to make sure everything is done correctly and in a timely manner. And since Jaime Air’s service techs aren’t paid on commission, you can rest assured that they won’t try to sell you unnecessary parts or services. Air Purification & Duct Sanitation There are several signs that could indicate you have mold growing in your ductwork. If you see staining or water damage around ductwork, condensation inside, or smell a musty smell, you should get your ductwork checked for mold. If left untreated, mold can make you and your family sick. Jaime Air can
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install UV-C lights to prevent mold growth in your system. They can also install electronic air cleaners to help remove pollen and dust. However, in some cases you might want to have your ductwork replaced and the professionals at Jaime Air are experts at doing this in a timely, cost effective, and unobtrusive way. In fact, dirty ductwork that is over 12 years old in Florida can be replaced for about the same cost as having it cleaned. As an extra bonus, you might find that the airflow throughout your house improves with new ductwork. “There is no reason for one room to be hotter than others in your house,” says Jaime. “But some times the ductwork that was originally installed is too small for the room to get sufficient air or the purpose of the room has changed over the years and therefore new ductwork is needed to get more air into the room. We can fix your ductwork so that every room in your house will be cool as you want it to be.” New Air Conditioner Installation The average life span of an air conditioning unit in Florida is 7 to 10
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years, although some higher end models can last as many as 17. If you find yourself in need of a new air conditioning unit, Jaime Air will help you find a system to fit your home and budget. They install many different brands of air conditioning units and are licensed dealers for two of the top brands – Trane and Bryant. “Jaime Air installed a new Bryant system for me. I got proposals from a
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few of my local dealers and Home Depot. The sales person Jaime Air sent did not try to up sell me. He explained the brands available for my home as well as the size and the model. He was the only one who measured my home to be sure I had the right size unit. All of this took less then an hour and he exposed a bunch of myths the other dealers told me. The system I chose was a Bryant two-
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stage model that is now keeping every room in my home at the same temperature. The install took 7 hours and they double sealed all of the ducts and put a plaster like seal on it. I needed a new duct box, plywood stand, and electrical breaker and Jaime Air did not charge me extra for it.” “Jaime Air did a great job in our home. We had 5 bids for the same Trane system. They came to our home and explained which system was the best one for us to buy. The installers were able to finish the job the same day. They did a great job and left our house clean. We saved $1,000 on the same system quoted by others.” When he isn’t helping people beat the heat, Jaime is active in local charities including the USO, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and Oldsmar Cares. Jaime Central Air Conditioning & Heating make service calls Monday through Saturday. You can call
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them any day of the week, whenever you have a problem, at 813-601-0764. En Espanol 813-601-3147. Log on to www.jaimeair.com for more information.
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The Red Cross Needs YOU Do you know what your American Red Cross does? I'll bet you are nodding your head – you think you do. Everyone thinks of the Red Cross as the big disaster people – hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes – especially here in Florida where we get all three. It is what you see on television, whenever there is a big crisis. They are at every major disaster before the TV cameras arrive, and long after they are gone to help feed and shelter those who have lost everything. They give hugs. They give hope. They help communities endure. But the biggest disaster they respond to is not a tornado, flood or hurricane. It’s not a man-made disaster like a train derailment or a plane crash. More than 90% of the disasters they respond to are local home fires right here in our community every day. On average here in Tampa Bay there is a home fire nearly every single night – about 350 per year. To the family that loses everything that night it’s a big disaster – one of the worst days of their lives – and the
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Red Cross is there. When a family loses their home and has no place to go, the fire department calls the Red Cross, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Volunteers from the Red Cross respond immediately, having a continuous commitment to be on scene within 2 hours. They verify the situation and take care of the family’s needs, making sure they have a roof over their heads that night, that they have food and clothing, that the kids are ready to go to school the next day. Nurses are on call that can help replace medications and eyeglasses, and the Red Cross gives a small toy to the child who lost all of their cherished belongings and needs something soft to cuddle; but that’s just the beginning. In the days and weeks that follow, trained Red Cross volunteer caseworkers help that family on their road to recovery; making sure they aren’t alone; making sure they have access to every community resource available. Unless you’ve been in the unfortunate circumstance to suffer a
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More than 90% of the disasters the local American Red Cross responds to are home fires. On average, there are approximately 350 home fires per year in the Tampa Bay Area and the Red Cross is there to help every time! house fire you probably don’t know that’s what keeps our local Red Cross volunteers busy every day. Over 90% of the work done by the Red Cross is done by volunteers. These special people make a difference in someone’s life every day. Volunteers like Lisa, who tells the story of one of the fires she responded to:
JUNE 2015
“I was called to the scene of a burning house at 8:30 one night. The elderly lady who lived there had left a space heater too close to a curtain and it sent her wood frame home up in flames very quickly. She called 911 and ran out with nothing in her hands but her cat and car keys. She was left with nothing. Nothing.
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When my team arrived she was sitting in the back of a police car shivering. We wrapped her in a Red Cross blanket and hugged her tight. Crying, she was able to give us her daughter’s phone number to call for her – but her daughter was in Ohio. It would take some time for her to get to Tampa. The Red Cross is a support system, a safety net. We were able to put her in a hotel for 3 nights, and help her with other immediate needs until her daughter was
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able to come down. It was important to stay in constant touch with her – she needed our support system. She could have been my mother, my grandmother. I could only imagine how grateful I would have been for Red Cross volunteers. Her relief at seeing us and knowing she would be safe was palpable. And her hugs and thanks gave more back to us as volunteers than we ever imagined. I love my work with the Red Cross.” This amazing organization has
hundreds of wonderful volunteers just like Lisa who want to give back to their community. But, the Red Cross desperately needs more. In addition to responding to house fires they're helping their community get prepared- installing smoke alarms and teaching kids how to be ready for disasters. They are deep in plan-
ning for the upcoming hurricane season that begins in just a few weeks and are training volunteers in logistics and sheltering, etc. Many of their volunteer jobs are yet to be filled this season and they need your passion for helping others to help make a difference. Whether you have 20 hours a week to give, or just 2, won’t you consider joining this group of caring and compassionate people? To learn more about Red Cross volunteer opportunities in your local community visit them for Open House on Thursdays from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at the Tampa office, 3310 W. Main St. Or, call (813)-348-4820, or email Margaret.brown@redcross.org for more information.
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For Ad Info Call (813) 928-6124 • www.NNLFlorida.com
JUNE 2015
Neighborhood News & Lifestyles
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For Ad Info Call (813) 928-6124 • www.NNLFlorida.com
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