east lake AREA
Vol. 5, Issue 8, August 2012
Neighborhood News & Lifestyles
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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, 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
The Lucky Dill Offers Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Nightlife! By Julie Kanehl Ahh, the New York state of mind. It revolves around class, history, delicious food, and an exciting nightlife. Well, there is no need to get on a plane to NYC, when all of that can be found right here in Palm Harbor. The Lucky Dill is hopping morning, noon and night with people of all ages who have become regulars over the years. It’s not hard to see why. The Lucky Dill has long been a favorite destination for local residents and visitors alike, and when they outgrew their old location at the corner of Alt. 19 and Alderman Rd., they stepped it up a notch and opened their much larger location on U.S. 19 between Tampa Rd. and Nebraska Rd., raising the bar… literally by
adding space, adding a separate entrance for their popular bakery and by opening their NYC Bar. Owner Kimberly Mitow has been in the restaurant business for many years, so when she and her family moved to Pinellas County in the ‘90s, she opened up the original Lucky Dill, and it became a staple in the community. Families loved to come in for the great, quality food. Families loved their great kids’ menu, their giant sandwiches and their decadent desserts. People met there for business meetings, to hang out with friends, and to have a beer on their patio. The Lucky Dill was so popular that many panicked when they heard that they were closing their doors. There was a collective sigh of relief See “Lucky Dill” on page 42.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
ECRWSS
first ten years of business Arry focused on the booming new construction occurring in the 1980s and when the `90s hit he began focusing on service work, becoming a master at re-roofing projects. Many of Arry’s Roofing employees have over 25 years of experience in the roofing business and can expertly tackle any roofing situation, from finding and repairing small leaks See “Arry’s Roofing” on page 44.
Postal Customer
For nearly 25 years, Arry’s Roofing Services, Inc. has been providing the Tampa Bay Area with premium roofing solutions, building a solid reputation as a MasterElite Roofing Contractor – making them one of only two percent in the entire Nation to qualify for such an honorable title. With skillfully-trained staff, extensive knowledge
and experience Arry’s Roofing will expertly complete your roofing project, answer any questions you may have and leave you with no doubt about the quality of the roof over your head. Owner James “Arry” Housh has been actively involved in the roofing industry for over thirty years and runs his company alongside his wife Becky and sons Stephen and Matthew. Transitioning with the times, during the
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 1185
By Alexis Selby
Dated Material Please Rush!
Committed to Excellence in Roofing
Editorial................................3 Community Calendar..........4-5 Animal Rescues..................6-7 Birds Eye Spy.................10-11 Cleaning Angel Makes A Difference..12 All Star AC.....................14-15 Bayside Pool...................18-19 Firearm Safety................22-23 Oktoberfest Challenge Series..24-25 Aladdin Music................26-27 Brain Balance...................30-31 Florida Wellness & Rehab..34-35 SAT and ACT Update......38-39
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AUGUST 2012
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
From The Editor Kim Thomas
Suncoast Animal League Makes A Difference Every Day! Pinellas County’s Suncoast Animal League makes a difference every day for stray animals, whether it is sheltering them until they are adopted or rehabilitating an injured wild animal until it is well enough for release. Executive Director Rick Chaboudy has more than 30 years of experience working in the animal care business and has seen more than his share of neglected animals, not to mention many types of rescues. Barb Schultz wrote in about Rick’s help with the rescue of a fawn at risk for dehydration. (See story pg. 6) Rick instructed her to leave the fawn alone and not to touch, rather keep a check every two hours. It did end up that Rick came and rescued the fawn after many hours. Not everyone makes the right decision. Some fawns have been rescued after being moved from their hiding places by well-meaning but misguided people. Rick gave Barb the best advice for helping the fawn reunite with its mother, which
would have been best. Rick has also rescued an anemic and malnourished baby fox that was found lying in the middle of the road in Odessa. He has even helped to catch pet prairie dogs on the loose in a Dunedin park. Prior to founding the Suncoast Animal League in Palm Harbor in December 2006, Chaboudy was the longtime director of the Humane Society of Pinellas in Clearwater. He started the Suncoast Animal League with a desire to save as many animals as possible from euthanasia. The Suncoast Animal League only euthanizes animals with very serious medical conditions. Thanks to its extensive foster parenting program, with more than 100 foster pet parents, many “unadoptable” animals are able to become “adoptable” after being taken into volunteer foster homes until they are suitable for adoption. Suncoast Animal League is a nonprofit animal shelter and receives no government funding. It is completely
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: EastlakeNN@yahoo.com Editorial E-mail: EastlakeNNedit@yahoo.com © 2012 Eastlake Area Neighborhood News is published by Ads 2 Publications, Inc. Correspondents Publisher Tim Selby General Manager Jim O’Reilly Editor Kim Thomas
A little fawn is safe and doing very well thanks to an East Lake resident & the Suncoast Animal League dependent upon donations and bequests for survival. Facebook and Twitter is helping Suncoast Animal League to spread the word about upcoming fundraisers and the ongoing work. If you can volunteer for, or donate to, the Suncoast Animal League (1030 Pennsylvania Ave. in Palm Harbor), please call (727) 786-1330 or visit online at www.SuncoastAnimalLeague.org.
Alexis Selby Julie Kanehl Katie Thomas Dara Tucker Amy Paterson
Art Director Dat X. Do
Advertising Sales Matt Selby Tim Selby Jim O’Reilly Ken Burke
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.
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E AST L AKE A REA
Community Calendar
Explore the Wonders of the Brooker Creek Preserve at ELCL Aug. 20, 7–8:30 PM – Hear about the wonders of the nearby oasis of nature right in our back yard. This event is being held at the East Lake Community Library and will feature speakers from the preserve staff, the county and friends of Brooker Creek Preserve. You will learn more about the events at the preserve along with educational programs and much, much more. In fact there will be a talk on how to landscape with plants that are not “deer friendly.” Join us for a fun evening. Contact Don Ewing done@cncnpc.org or (727) 560-5586 or visit www.cncnpc.org for more information.
at the fabulous Crescent Oaks Country Club, at 3300 Crescent Oaks Blvd. in Tarpon Springs. Play yourself, or Sponsor one golf foursome in a Battle of the Neighborhoods. Support a great non-profit, youth-based organization! Enjoy Golf, Trophies, Lunch, Silent and Live Auction. Multiple Sponsorship opportunities abound to expose your non-profit or business in front of a great crowd! Donate items to be available for the silent and live auction during Lunch. Bring your spouse to lunch for only $15. Sign up at www.cncnpc.org and get ready to bring home the trophy as the best of the best and support the East Lake Youth Sports program!
CNCN’s 1st Annual Charity Golf Tournament Benefits East Lake Youth Sports Association Sept. 3, 8:30 a.m. – CNCN’s Board of Directors invites you to join us for a great day of Golf on Labor Day with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m.
ELHS Baseball Boosters 14th Annual Golf Tournament Sun., Oct. 7, 2 PM Shotgun Start– East Lake High School Baseball Boosters will hold its 14th Annual Golf Tounament (BUCS BYE WEEK). The tounament will feature a
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2 p.m. Shotgun Start, Chipping Contest, 4-Person Scramble, Giveaways, Prizes and Hole in One Contest. Early registration fee is $75 for Full Package which includes: golf fee, cart, dinner and silent auction. For those who do not GOLF, come join us for dinner and our silent auction for only $25, gratuity included. Dinner includes: salad bar, 2 entrée options, 2 sides, cake, gourmet coffee, ice tea, lemonade and water. Hole Sponsorships Available. All proceeds support the ELHS Baseball Program. Questions? Contact Michele Hamilton at (727) 253-9891or mhamilton@sunstarems.com. *ELHS Baseball Boosters Inc is 501(3)c non-profit corporation Tax ID 59-32663411 Last Chance for Yappy Hour at Brighthouse Field Wed., Aug. 8, 5 PM – We need blankees – Let’s beat the Yankees! Come out and enjoy the Final Yappy Hour® of 2012 starting at 5 pm at Frenchy’s Tiki Bar at Bright House Field. Yappy Hour® is a cocktail hour supporting the Humane Society of Pinellas.
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Dress your dog for the Best Pet Beachwear contest and bring a donation for the blanket drive! Every blanket, towel, or sheet you donate gives you another entry in the prize drawing. Come at 5 p.m. for the Yappy Hour® fun then root for the Clearwater Threshers as they take on the Tampa Yankees at 7 p.m. Dog tickets are $5 and people tickets range from $5 to $9.50. The Yappy Hour® event is free with your admission to the game. Yappy Hour® is a registered trademark of Animal Fair Magazine. Ticket information is available at (727) 467-4457. For sponsorship or vendor information, contact Tiffany Heier at (727) 797-7722 x229 or Tiffany@HumanePinellas.org. East Lake Community Library Calendar NEW LIBRARY HOURS: Mon., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Tues. & Wed., 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m. – 5 pm.; Sat., 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tues., Aug. 7, 6:30 PM – The Friends of East Lake Library will meet. New members are encouraged to attend!
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
Special Events Jul. 30–Aug. 14, 10 AM – 4 PM – Ballot Early Return Drop-Off: Drop off your ballots in the front lobby with an Elections representative from10:00 am to 4:00 pm, July 30 through August 14 (Primary election day). THE LIBRARY WILL BE CLOSED TUESDAY, AUGUST 14. Thurs., Aug. 9, 1 PM – ELCL Cinema: This month’s movie will be Happy Feet II. Donations are gratefully accepted. Seating is limited, so please register. Sat., Aug 11, 10 a.m. – Noon – November National Writers Month (NaNoWriMo): Writers Camp! Come prepare for the NaNoWriMo writer’s challenge being held in November. Tamara Rokicki will explain the procedures for this challenge and answer all your questions. Tues., Aug. 21, 6:30–8 PM – Authors Showcase: Featured author is Ray Weaver, author of the novels Tightrope to Justice and Miami Justice, as well as various stories in the Chicken Soup series. Come join us for an interesting talk. Saturdays, Aug. 4 – Aug. 25, 10 AM–Noon – Citizenship Classes: This class will prepare you for your U.S. Citizenship testing.
Sat., Aug. 25, 10:30 AM – Hose Down! Come join us and the East Lake Fire Department for this cool, annual hose down on the lawn! Children’s Programs Aug. 6 – Aug. 10, Noon–1 PM & 4–5 PM – Summer Art Camp with Lauren: A series for children ages 5-8! Enjoy a week of crafts and creativity! The class sessions will culminate with an art show! You must register in order to attend. Wed., Aug. 15, 11:45 AM – Read to Shorty! Children can read to Shorty, a wonderful therapy dog who can help you improve your reading skills. Come join the Tail-Wagging Tutor! Sat., Aug. 18, 1 PM – Saturday Matinee! Join your friends for The Lorax! Donations are gratefully accepted. Seating is limited, so please register. Wednesdays, 10:30 AM – Lego Club: (All ages) Join your friends and make new creations at this popular offering! Wednesdays, 1 PM – Kids Who Love To Read (KWLTR) Book Club: Discuss the new Sunshine State books and other popular and interesting books with Miss Cheryl!
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
Fridays, 10:30 AM – Origami with Miss Cheryl. Learn how to make fun paper creations! Tuesdays, 10:15 AM – Toddler Story Time: (Ages birth to 3 years) Children enjoy stories and songs while sitting with their favorite grown-up. Tuesdays, 11 AM – Preschool Story Time: (Ages 3 to 5 years) Come join Miss Cheryl for a story and a craft! 1st Tuesday of Month, 11 AM– Noon – Yoga Storytime: A new offering at East Lake Community Library! Bring the whole family for a special story intertwined with fun and healthy yoga postures! Teen Programs The tutors are taking a break for the summer, so there will not be tutoring classes for the months of July and August. Tutoring will resume in September. We hope this does not cause any inconvenience, and we thank you for your understanding. Saturdays, 3–4 PM – Teen Council: Gather with the ELCL Teen Council to help coordinate events for the teens in our community. Bring a friend! Aug. 11, 4 PM – Hunger Games
– Middle School Edition: Middle school students, come take the Hunger Games challenge! Bring your friends and your survival skills for a fun evening! Adult Programs 2nd & 4th Monday Each Month, 6–7:45 PM – ELCL Writer’s Critique Group: This is a workshop for writers of all levels. Read excerpts of your works in progress and receive helpful feedback. Sat., Aug. 11 & Sat. Aug. 25, 3– 4 PM – Freethinkers AA Meeting: Open discussion group. 3rd Wed. Each Month, 6–7:45 PM – Sit and Sew: Theme this month: “Dream Journals.” Share your NEEDLE ARTS skills! Bring any projects you are working on. All needle crafts are encouraged. Enjoy quality time stitched with tips and new ideas. Sewing machines are welcome! 4th Wed. Each Month, 6–7:45 PM – ELCL Quilters: The fourth Wednesday of every month from 6:007:45 pm. Get started on a lifetime of beautiful projects today! All skill levels welcome. Visit www.eastlakelibrary.org
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Do You Know Who to Call for Animal Rescues in East Lake? Contributed by Barb Schultz As a Board Member of both the Council of North County Neighborhoods (CNCN), and the Friends of Brooker Creek, I have always been interested in protecting animals and the environment. In the past, CNCN has worked with Pinellas County to inform our North County residents on how to handle the coyotes in our neighborhoods. Recently, I had to make a decision regarding what to do for a fawn that was abandoned in my backyard during one of the torrential downpours we experienced this month. I thought I would share my experience with this baby fawn to help the people in our community who might encounter something like this and not know what to do. Wednesday morning on July 18th started out in its usual way and promised to be a very busy day. I do Financial Planning and had planned to have a meeting at 11:30 a.m. to discuss some cases with Bob Host, a Financial Advisor I work with, have
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some coffee, check email and make calls to clients. But you never know what each day has in store for you. This Wednesday would be different. After doing a little work, I got the paper and prepared to have breakfast. It was about 8:30 a.m. It was raining heavily outside and as I glanced out my kitchen sliding doors there was a very tiny, shaking, stumbling and very wet baby fawn. He looked about 12 to 15 inches in height. No mother in sight. He stumbled under a bush adjoining my house. I called my friend Marilyn Weaver of the Feral Cat Coalition of Tampa Bay, to see if she knew what to do. She referred me to Bart Heflin, a volunteer at the Suncoast Animal League, who is knowledgeable about deer. Bart told me to leave the deer where it was in hopes the mother would be back. I was to check it every two hours to see if it was shaking, which would indicate it was in distress, and call him immediately if it was. The rain let up a little and became a drizzle. This was not how I had planned my day. I know there are a
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lot of deer out here in Crescent Oaks, but I think anyone would do what needed to be done in a situation like this. So it was on with the rain gear and the old shoes, manned with binoculars to check the little guy every two hours! It was frightening when again in the afternoon, we had another blinding downpour. As soon as it let up I checked him again; he was laying there with his eyes closed. I had a fright for a minute, but Look closely to see the hidden little fawn that he opened his eyes and Barb Schultz kept watch over on one very rainy day looked up. Whew! come back after 6:30 p.m. and take a This went on all day, no mother look at him and decide. The weather in sight and the baby spotted deer still appeared it might rain again, and under the bush. Bart called at 6 p.m. rather than wait much longer, since and we discussed how long we should the fawn had nothing to eat all day wait before intervening and removing and the mother had not returned, we the baby fawn. We decided he would decided Bart should take him home to
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East Lake Area Neighborhood News
feed him. Since we didn’t know how the fawn would react to being removed, I asked my daughter-in-law, Danell Schultz to help us. We had four of us, myself, Ron Schultz, my husband, Danelle and Bart all set to head off the fawn so he wouldn’t run into the nearby pond and drown. The little fawn didn’t put up any struggle or run. Bart knew what to do. He covered its eyes with a towel and put it in a cat carrier. We were sad to see the fawn leave after spending the day with it. I was instructed to watch out for the mother in case she returned and call Bart if she did. He could be back in 10 minutes to return the fawn if the mother showed up since he lives in nearby Cypress Run. Bart contacted Rick Chaboudy, the Executive Director of the Suncoast Animal League in Palm Harbor, which is a non-profit no-kill shelter. He is rehabilitating a baby fawn about the same age that lost an eye because of a snakebite. Rick agree to take “our” little fawn in too. I still watch for the mother every day, but she hasn’t been seen. I am happy to report the fawn that I found seems relaxed and is feed-
ing and playing with the other fawn that was also rescued, now at Suncoast Animal League. He will stay with Rick at Suncoast until he is released at a wildlife sanctuary when he is able to take care of himself. This was my first actual animal rescue, and I sure learned a lot. If you encounter any injured animal or see any abandoned baby animals, call Bart Heflin at 727234-7654 or Rick Chaboudy of the Suncoast Animal League at 727786-1330. They are available 24 hours a day to help you or answer any questions you may have. You can also call Marilyn Waldorf of Wildlife Haven at 727-515-3723. Editor’s note: It is always important when coming across a hidden fawn to give the mother a chance to return. Barb called for expert advice and checked on the fawn throughout the day for 10 hours before the fawn was taken in as a rescue animal. There are many things that could have happened to the mother, but experts who were called theorize the fawn’s separation from its mother could have been due to the unusually heavy downpours and quick flooding that we recently experienced throughout the area.
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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Meeting The Growing Need For Surveillance By Amy Paterson GPS tracking devices, digitalvideo recording devices, surveillance cameras and personal protection items are necessary for a multitude of reasons. Whether one is trying to catch a thief, protect their property and their loved ones, or even make sure the babysitter or caretaker is doing their job well, Birds Eye Spy shop on Old County Road 54 in New Port Richey has everything for your spying needs. Brothers Jimmy and Peter Bitzas are the owners of Birds Eye Spy. Jimmy first came up with the idea of a GPS tracking device in 2006 to keep
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track of his aunt who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. She kept getting away from home and couldn’t find her way back so Jimmy – with a background in electrical engineering – devised a tracking device as a way for the family to find her. With their aunt’s safety being monitored more closely, Jimmy and his family were finally able to have peace of mind. After seeing how successful the tracker was for them, Jimmy partnered up with his brother Peter to develop the software and hardware needed to start producing items for wholesale. In 2007, Birds Eye Spy was founded and has been growing globally ever since.
Jimmy and Tanya Bitzas welcome customers to come in and ask the experts how to best meet your personal surveillance needs. There are 28 distributors nationwide that are selling Birds Eye Spy’s products today. And the spy company’s products are sold worldwide as well, reaching over 120 countries. Over the years the business has expanded to offer all sorts of tracking devices, as well as recording devices, hidden cameras, and personal protection items. Most of the business generated by Birds Eye Spy is through wholesaling
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AUGUST 2012
their products; however, products are also available retail for personal use. The Bitzas decided to open their shop in New Port Richey to give customers the opportunity to be able to see the products in person and receive firsthand information from the technicians that work at Birds Eye Spy. Jimmy and his crew are happy to help you find the right equipment to assist your personal needs. If you are interested in knowing
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
to keep track of when and where your personal or fleet vehicles are traveling. Other reasons may be of a more personal interest, such as a spouse of questionable character; the popular reality-television show Cheaters actually uses the same type of surveillance equipment to track and record the cheaters with. Tiny hidden cameras and GPS tracking systems Whatever your reason may to full surveillance, Birds Eye Spy has it all! be, there are many options more about the business end of things, available at Birds Eye Spy that will sufget in touch with Jimmy; as he is alficiently track for you according to ways looking for new affiliates and dis- your specifications. tributors for the business. Tracking devices can be attached A plethora of products are also to any of your movable assets, so that available on their website’s online you can rest easy knowing where store at www.birdseyespy.com. You everything is at all times. can visit their easy-to-navigate site and Birds Eye Spy offers a vast variety see all of the merchandise, which is of surveillance equipment, so that you conveniently separated into categories will be sure to find exactly what you to help find exactly what you’re lookare looking for – from high-quality, ing for depending on your individual professional-grade surveillance systems needs. for your home and business, to a variTracking devices are useful for ety of hidden cameras, recording demany reasons. Perhaps you are a parvices, computer surveillance, and SIM ent, and you want to keep a close eye card readers. There is something for on where your child is when they are every need you may have in securing away from you. Or maybe you want your home, assets, and personal needs
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
at Birds Eye Spy. Hidden cameras come disguised as all sorts of everyday items. A popular hidden camera that you may have heard of is the “nanny cam.” Nanny cams are a secure way to ensure the safety of your child whilst under the watch of babysitter. In most cases this is just a safety precaution, but there have been cases where a child’s life has been protected by the parents’ use of a nanny cam, which is available at Birds Eye Spy disguised as a teddy bear. Cameras can be hidden just about anywhere, even right out in the open. Some popular hidden cameras are disguised as smoke detectors, wristwatches, wall clocks, calculators, alarm clocks, a clothes hook camera and much more. It really is mind-blowing how many different options are available. Along with tracking and surveillance are many other useful items; for instance, a phone-conversation recorder that can record all conversations happening on a designated line may be used for quality assurance in businesses that do most of their transactions by phone. Birds Eye Spy shop even has spygear detecting devices, or “debug-
ging” devices. These are programmed to detect any video and/or audio recording devices that are within a certain radius. There are also novelty items available for purchase at the spy shop, including a selection of kids’ spy gear. Novelty items include a variety of safes that are disguised as common household products. One that caught my eye in particular was a Dr. Pepper can, because I like Dr. Pepper. There was also one disguised as a can of Ajax household cleaner, and one that looks like a Barbasol shave cream canister. There really is a lot to consider when looking to purchase any sort of surveillance and recording devices. If you are considering trying something like this in your home or business, it would be wise to consult with an expert, someone like Jimmy or one of the other trained professionals at Birds Eye Spy shop. Birds Eye Spy is located at 8046 Old C.R. 54 in New Port Richey; hours are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon. – Fri. For a full list of products and pricing, visit online www.BirdsEyeSpy.com; for more information, call (727) 216-6725.
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The Cleaning Angel Family Hit Hard by Tropical Storm Debby By Kim Thomas Long-time advertiser and friend of Neighborhood News & Lifestyles, Donna Ferrante, came to us with a harrowing story of what one of her employees at The Cleaning Angel and her family went through during Tropical Storm Debby. Like so many in the area, Christine Bishop and her children are temporarily homeless in the aftermath of the storm that was surprisingly destructive. Christine is one of Donna’s Cleaning Angels and works in homes in the area polishing and scrubbing to meet her employer’s high standards in the cleaning industry. During Tropical Storm Debby, Christine left her children with a sitter while she ran out for a fiveminute trip to get toilet paper at the corner store. In that short time period, her house was hit by a tornado and flooded almost immediately. Firemen had blocked the road into the neighborhood and Christine frantically told them her children were inside her house. By the time
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she got to her children, who had been putting together a jigsaw puzzle before their babysitter corralled them into the hallway, their home was destroyed. The children, 10-year-old Dominic and his sisters, 8-year-old Sky-Lyn and Aliyah, 6, saw a tornado dip down at their sliding glass door just before part of the roof was ripped away. The family was rescued by the fire department via bulldozer and boat. Unfortunately everything they owned was destroyed in the wind and flood. Donna says that Christine is a dedicated mother who is very conscientious about her job, even coming to work the next day. “She wouldn’t let the Angels down,” says Donna, who asked if we could help in getting the children items that they need. Donna and her partner Steve Insolia are accepting clothing and other items at Donna’s businesses, The Cleaning Angel in Holiday and Madam Butterfly Fashion Outlet in Tarpon Springs. Christine says, “I just went into panic mode. The water rose up to my
chest! The kids get very clingy when it rains and I can’t sleep.” Her kids are brave and resilient though, giving their account of the storm. Sky-Lyn remembers, “The wind and the water came at me and it was so fast! It was splashing so hard and the roof was gone. Mommy’s room is torn apart and there was glass in the kitchen that fell out of the window. We had to throw all of our stuff away – all of my Justin Bieber stuff is ruined.” Her little sister Aliyah added, “The whole house got ruined.” And big brother Dominic says, “I saw the water all the way up to the mailbox.” FEMA has put the family up in a hotel. Christine says, “It’s about my kids right now. I really want to get them settled.” Domonic’s sizes are: pants–12 Husky, shirts–boys large, shoe size 4. Sky-Lyn and Aliyah wear girls sizes 5T and 6T, and shoe sizes 12 and 1. Donations of clothes and other items for the children are being accepted from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. at The Cleaning Angel, 5517
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AUGUST 2012
Christine with her children: Dominic, Sky-Lyn and Aliyah Chaparral Lane in Holiday, (727) 942-8289; and Madam Butterfly Fashion Outlet at 38799 US 19 N in Tarpon Springs/Palm Harbor, (727) 940-5848.
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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ALL-STAR AIR CONDITIONING
Installation Specialist · Commercial & Residential · Sales & Service By Dara Tucker When something goes wrong with your air conditioner, it is important that the company you call to your home or business is reputable. You want to find an air conditioning and heating company that is known for its honesty, knowledgeable technicians, and fast, reliable service. You want to find a company with happy customers who don’t mind giving out referrals; like the customers of ALL-STAR AIR CONDITIONING, which has been helping people in our area stay cool and comfortable for 20 years. A longstanding and trusted professional heating and air conditioning company, ALL-STAR installs and repairs all makes and models of air conditioning and heating systems throughout Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough Counties. Licensed and Insured State Certified Contractor Mark L. Perry, Owner and President of the company, is origi-
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nally from Massachusetts and has lived in this beautiful area of Florida since 1970. Mark, a skilled HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) Contractor with 35 years of experience in the Air Conditioning and Heating industry, has been in business in Pinellas County for 20 years. Mark and his ALL-STAR crew have worked within homes of all sizes, as well as many businesses and strip malls throughout the tri-county area. The company repairs, maintains and installs all makes and models of heating and air conditioning systems for both commercial and residential buildings, as well as installing thermostats and air conditioning ducts. Mark is an expert at installing exposed round metal duct work popular in many businesses that want a modern, industrial look. And, if you are remodeling, they can even move your unit and redo all duct work in your home or office. The purchase of a new HVAC system is a sizeable investment for your home or business and today’s
Mark L. Perry, owner of ALL-STAR AIR CONDITIONING, is a Florida State Licensed and Insured HVAC Contractor with 35 years of experience modern systems are very specialized and technical, which makes it even more important to hire a State Certified HVAC Contractor such as Mark. To help your unit have a long life and work optimally, Mark recommends changing your filters monthly. His company carries Allergy Gold® filters that have a lifetime guarantee and
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are custom ordered to the sizes you need. Allergy Gold® filters are made of a very durable hard plastic screen, allowing them to be taken out, hosed off, and reinserted. When you hire ALL-STAR AIR CONDITIONING, you are hiring a company owned and managed by someone who has not only been well
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
educated in his field; Mark also brings 35 years of experience with him. What ALL-STAR’s Customers Say: Those years of experience have made a difference for Realtor Mike Collins, who uses ALL-STAR AIR CONDITIONING himself, and recommends the company to homeowners. Mike says, “They come out when they say they will. They’re timely and are professional. When I’ve called them on weekends for emergencies they come out very quickly.” Chiropractor Dr. Paul Raveling says that you won’t find someone more honest than the owner and president of ALL-STAR AIR CONDITIONING, Mark Perry. Dr. Raveling says, “Mark has done work on my office and home. I’ve referred him to at least 20 different people who have had him do work, including my sister and my father. Mark is honest and stands behind his work. The world would be a much better place if everyone worked like Mark does.” ALL-STAR customer Barbara Seymore did not have experience with air conditioning units because she moved to Florida from the north. Barbara explains, “Mark gave us litera-
ture so we could learn about the different type of units we could purchase. ALL-STAR is honest, very efficient and on time. We replaced both our A/C unit and the air handler in the attic. When our air conditioning went out in July on a Sunday Mark brought the new unit to us Monday, and by Tuesday morning it was up and running. I actually went out to the hairdresser because I couldn’t stand the heat in the house and it was working when I came back! Mark provides yearly check-ups for free, and doesn’t require any service contracts, but I would only call him if I had a problem.” Whether you have a business, home or mobile home, ALL-STAR AIR CONDITIONING can help you maintain your HVAC system or guide you through your best options on a new system. As Tony Moretty of Dunedin says, “They are the best in the business.” If you would like more information about how ALL-STAR AIR CONDITIONING can meet your needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, please call (727) 772-2507. ALL-STAR accepts MasterCard and Visa and offers a senior discount.
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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Bayside Pool Service Has Kept Area Pools Pristine for 20 Years! By Dara Tucker For many homeowners, the pool is the largest investment you’ll make in your house. In the Tampa Bay area, it’s also where you’re likely to spend a lot of your free time. Of course you’ll want to carefully choose who you hire to maintain and protect your investment. Bayside Pool Services is professional, reliable and has been providing quality care to pools in our area’s homes and businesses for more than 20 years. Bayside Pool Service is a licensed and insured company offering complete swimming pool services including cleaning, maintenance, repair, remodeling and emergency service. Bayside Pool Services’ professional team starts with owner Frank Mast, who earned his Bachelors Degree in Engineering and Master of Business Administration (MBA) from New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), in New York. Frank, originally from New York, owned businesses and began raising his son in Virginia before settling in Florida.
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He would bring his son, Frankie, an avid motocross biker, to Florida for competitions. Because of our great weather, motocross can be a yearround sport in Florida. It didn’t take long for the Florida lifestyle to grow on Frank, and that’s when he found a solid business that he could continue to grow, Bayside Pool Service. Frank’s attention to technical detail compliments operations manager Marty Hutfilz’s 40 years of experience in the pool service industry. Bayside Pool Service provides
weekly pool and spa care by experienced, uniformed professionals. They service Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco Counties – 26 zip codes in all. When one of their fleet of eight professional trucks arrives at your pool it’s obvious they are a company committed to quality service. Their technicians alone have over 100 years combined experience in the industry! They are educated in using the correct chemicals for your pool’s needs, and if a problem comes up with the
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work they’ve done, they’ll come out and make it right without charging an extra call-out fee. Bayside Pool Service stands behind its work. Within 48 hours of your call someone will be at your home or business to care for your pool, and if there’s an emergency Bayside Pool Service will respond within 24 hours, even on weekends (weekend emergency calls may incur an extra charge). Because each customer and pool is different they strive
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
to have the same technician cleaning and servicing the same pools each week on the same day and time. This allows the technician to become accustomed to the customer and their pool. Commercial and community swimming pools have their own needs and requirements, so Bayside Pool Service tailors swimming pool cleaning and maintenance programs to meet the health and safety regulations, budget, and service scheduling of each pool. Frank explains other ways Bayside Pool Service goes above-and-beyond for their customers, “With no contracts or long-term obligations our prices are easy and affordable. Our prices include all pool and spa chemicals. We don’t try to up-sell our customers. Instead, we provide them what they need, giving them the best for their value. We also don’t bill you before, but at the end of the month, after our service has been provided so we can ensure our customers’ satisfaction. These are some of the reasons we’ve been rated an A company from our customers for the past four years on Angie’s List.” There are three different options
available when you choose Bayside Pool Service to keep your pool looking its best. A premium weekly testing and cleaning service includes checking and adjusting chemicals, skimming pool and spa surfaces, vacuuming pool, emptying pool and pump baskets, checking water levels, brushing wall and cleaning tiles (if necessary), cleaning or backwashing cartridge filter as needed and checking equipment for proper operation. You could also choose the option of a weekly testing of pool and spa with a cleaning every two weeks, or a weekly chemical and skim service which does not include pool or spa vacuuming or cleaning service. If you’ve purchased a home with an existing pool that’s been neglected, Bayside Pool Service can get it back to working order. Frank says, “We take pools with tadpoles, fish, completely green with algae, and make them crystal clear again.” Customer Dawn Frier says, “We have been with Bayside Pool Service for seven years, ever since we moved to Florida. Besides providing the ordinary pool services, Marty has been able to respond to emergencies, including fixing our pool pump, drain-
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
ing the pool, cleaning mold from the sides of the pool, cleaning out sand from our pool after sanding pavers in time for our party, and general trouble shooting. In addition, he had a contactor who quickly helped us to fix the structure holding pavers up that were caving. He is responsive and reliable. We appreciate this service that is so hard to come by these days.” In addition to Frank Mast & his son Frankie providing a quality service for 20 years, Bayside Pool Service also gives back Visit Bayside Pool Service’s at to the communities it serves. Most www.BaysidePoolService.com, or recently, the company sponsored Wacontact Frank or Marty at (727) terchase’s Movie Night at the Pool 408-5242 or you can email featuring Dolphin Tale and the info@baysidepoolservice.com to Clearwater Marine Aquarium. request an inspection and cusFrank and his team have a sintomized plan to maintain your cere commitment to make their cushome or community swimming tomers happy, even beyond happy. “That’s what we do,” explains Frank. pool and spa.
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East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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NRA Certified Instructor Teaches Firearm Safety & Responsibility By Amy Paterson The news is full of examples of the misuse of firearms, but there are also times when firearms have saved lives and stopped crimes in progress. Gun ownership is becoming more and more prevalent amongst Floridians, but it is important to remember that our right to bear arms also comes great responsibility. Owning and operating a firearm is not something that you should take lightly. A firearm safety class, along with a certification to carry a concealed weapon is something anyone owning a firearm should strongly consider. James Dowler, a NRA Certified Instructor (#127335824) and founder of Survival of the Fittest pistol courses, offers courses in firearm safety that are designed to familiarize you with your firearm and all of its features, while also teaching you how to properly carry and shoot your weapon. The NRA Certified Survival of the Fittest pistol courses exceed the training requirements for a Florida Concealed Weapons or Firearms License.
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James requires that all students properly shoot at least 50 rounds before he is convinced they are comfortable handling a firearm. James, with the help of his wife Helen, has thoughtfully designed the courses to educate their clients on how to protect themselves calmly and sufficiently. James was introduced to guns at a young age, and was taught to respect them and use them correctly. He became an avid hunter and target shooter. Growing up in Massachusetts, his mother worked at Smith & Wesson for most of his childhood. James eventually came to work at Smith & Wesson himself in the early 1990s. James also worked for an armored car company, where he became even more familiarized with gun safety and protection methods. In 2010, James and Helen moved to Florida where James worked as a range safety officer at a local gun club. When the range closed for business, James decided it was time to take his profession to another level.
While working at the range, he realized there was a need for people to be educated in gun safety. Oftentimes people that go through the certification classes are still not completely comfortable handling their firearm. The NRA Certificate that James provides his students upon completion of the course provides as proof in any state that the student went through the proper training to be competent in operating a firearm. Classes are important to take in order to fully respect and understand the mechanics and safety features of your firearm. One of James’ former students, John L., explains, “I took the basic NRA pistol course with instructor Dowler and found him to be one of the most knowledgeable and proficient trainers I could have hoped for. I'd recommend him for anyone seeking good solid NRA Certified instruction.” James offers smaller classes for a more personal and comforting environment. Adele, another one of James’ former students says, “It had been nearly 50 years since I held a pis-
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Helen and James Dowler tol but at 64 years old I was ready to try again. I bought a Smith & Wesson pistol but was literally afraid to take it out of the box. I found James Dowler through the NRA website and signed up for a basic course. We talked about my skill level (NONE!) and he arranged his schedule to make me his
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
only pupil. After a half-day course and time with him at the range I'm hooked! And I am confident that had I taken lessons with anyone else, the experience would not have been the same. James is a skilled professional. He is knowledgeable, enthusiastic and patient with beginners. With an emphasis on safety, he guided this novice through the very beginning stages of what I am confident with be a longterm love of firearms and shooting. I just wish there were more courses he offered!” Smaller classes seem to encourage students to ask more questions and get the one-on-one time that is necessary for adequate learning. The classes usually consist of about four people total and are priced well. Which Course is Right For You? There are several levels of courses available depending upon your needs. The NRA FIRST Steps Pistol Course is designed to provide a handson introduction to the safe handling and proper orientation to one specific pistol action type. Class sizes are small in this course, from private lessons to group instruction with no more than four students, and are at least three
hours long, which includes classroom and range time. Students completing this course will learn the NRA’s rules for safe gun handling. They will also learn about their particular firearm including pistol model parts and operation, ammunition, shooting fundamentals and cleaning the pistol. Students will receive the Basics of Pistol Shooting handbook, NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure, Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification booklet, FIRST Steps Course completion certificate, and they will be informed about continued opportunities for skill development. This NRA class exceeds the training requirement for a Florida Concealed Weapons or Firearms License. Classes start at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Monday through Friday, and at 4 p.m. on Saturday. $60 is the cost of this course (does not include ammunition or range fees). If you do not have your own pistol and need to use one of the instructors, the cost of the course is $75 for use of pistol and ammunition (does not include range fees). NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course includes eight hours of instruction with classroom and range time learning to shoot revolvers and semi-
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
automatic pistols. Students in this course learn the NRA’s rules for safe gun handling, pistol parts and operation, ammunition, shooting fundamentals, range rules, shooting from the bench rest position and twohanded standing positions, cleaning the pistol, and continued opportunities for skill development. Students who complete the course receive the NRA Guide to the Basics of Pistol Shooting handbook, NRS Gun Safety Rules brochure, and the Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification booklet. Students take a Basics of Pistol Shooting Student Exam and upon passing, receive a course completion certificate. This NRA class also exceeds the training requirement for a Florida Concealed Weapons or Firearms license and is available in private lessons or small groups (4 or less). Students must register for this course (call or email for availability). The $120 fee doesn’t include ammunition or range fees; $145 if you use instructors pistols and ammunition (does not include range fees). The NRA Home Firearm Safety Course is a four-hour, non-shooting course and teaches students the basic knowledge and skills, as well as the at-
titude necessary for the safe handling and storage of firearms and ammunition in the home. This course can be taught in the classroom or at home. Students learn NRA’s three rules for safe gun handling, primary causes of firearms accidents, firearm parts, how to unload certain action types, ammunition components, cleaning, care, safe storage of firearms in the hoe and the benefits of becoming an active participant in shooting sports. Students receive the NRA Home Firearm Safety handbook, NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure, Basic Firearm Training Program brochure and a course completion certificate. This course does not satisfy training requirements for a Florida Concealed Weapons or Firearms License. Classes, $70, are by appointment and are best held in your own home. If you are interested in signing up to attend one of James Dowler’s classes, or if you are interested in joining the NRA, visit online at www.SurvivalFittest.com. Email ConcealedCarry411@gmail.com for additional information or call James Dowler direct at 1-413-433-5155.
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Challenge Yourself With The Oktoberfest Challenge Series
By Alexis Selby Designed by United States Special Forces to test your endurance, competitiveness, mental and physical strength, fitness, stamina, camaraderie, and all around toughness, the Oktoberfest Challenge Series, sponsored by Yuengling Brewery and hosted by Sqwish Sqwash Challenges, is an event that will truly push you to the limit! The Oktoberfest Series features two specially designed courses inspired by Navy SEALs: Blazing Mud 8+ Mile Challenge Showcasing more than 20 killer obstacles and over 8 miles of rough terrain, the Blazing Mud Challenge is uniquely constructed for those seeking a real challenge.
Braveheart 5 Mile Challenge The ultimate in Fun Challenges for yourself and/or your teammates, the Braveheart Challenge boasts more that 18 crazy obstacles and approximately 5 miles of winding trail. Yuengling Post Party Brought to you by a Sqwish Sqwash major sponsor and partner, Yuengling Brewery – “America’s Oldest Brewery” – following the races, there will be a Yuengling Post Party; so if you are looking for fun way to spend your afternoon, join the Oktoberfest team and your fellow competitors for live music and entertainment. There will be plenty of beer, food and merchandise for sale, with a portion of all proceeds going to charity. Please bring cash for all purchases at the post party and don’t forget your ID. Pictures will also be available on site after the challenges.
Awards Ceremony All awards will be handed out at the Post Party at the end of each day of challenges. Everyone will receive a finishing award as you cross the finish line and at the ceremony, additional trophies will be handed out with top awards in the following categories: • Our Bad Ass American Made Military Challenge Coin • Top 3 Men and Women overall • Top 3 Men and Women active First Responders / Military • Most Respect (nominated by other challengers) • Best Costume • Best Team Effort (Awards may vary by challenge series participants entered) As a premier challenge series, Sqwish Sqwash Challenges aims to be at the top of the Elite. Sqwish Sqwash events are for individuals with a passion and goal. With their innovative
course designs, they challenge everyone – from the beginners learning their way, to the hardcore mudders and extreme athletes. “We are not fancy and pretty, but we are intense,” states Max Villalobos, founder of Sqwish Sqwash Challenges. We want everyone to be able to complete the courses, so it will take some team work to make sure that “No One Is Left Behind.” By inspiring their participants nationwide, Sqwish Sqwash events promote a way of life and not just an adventure. It goes as far as to bring togetherness in the work place, as well as in the communities their participants live in.
Max says, “We have helped our charities raise money through our events from donations and participant registrations. We offer a unique twist from other obstacle races. We are a challenge series that offers different levels of competitions to match the strength of the participants, whether as an individual or a team. We are not just a mud run; our challenges are not based on water or mud. Some will have water, some will have mud, and some will have both.” Sqwish Sqwash Challenges is a proud supporter of both the National Fallen Firefighter and Special Operations Warrior Foundations.
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Created by the United States Congress, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation leads a nationwide effort to remember America’s fallen firefighters. Since 1992 this nonprofit Foundation has developed and expanded programs to honor our fallen fire heroes and assist their families and coworkers. Their mission is to honor and remember America’s fallen fire heroes and to provide resources to assist their survivors in rebuilding their lives. Each October, the Foundation sponsors the official national tribute
to all firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. Thousands attend the weekend activities held at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The Weekend features special programs for survivors and coworkers, along with moving public ceremonies. Special Operations Warrior Foundation The Special Operations Warrior Foundation has been supporting the families of fallen and wounded Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps special operations personnel for over 31 years. The foundation provides
two primary programs – full college scholarships and educational counseling to the children of fallen special operations personnel. Scholarships include tuition, books, fees, room and board, in addition to providing laptops and printers. The SOWF also provides immediate financial assistance to severely wounded special operations personnel so their family can be bed-side during their loved one’s recovery. “What makes us different from other scholarship organizations is that we proactively reach out to all of our students and work with them to get them into school,” said SOWF President, John T. Carney, Jr. So if you are looking for a real adventure and think you got what it takes to conquer one of these upcoming challenges, sign up today and get ready to be pushed to the limit! The Oktoberfest Challenge Series will be held Saturday, October 13th at Starkey Ranch, located at 12959 State Road 54 in Odessa. For more information or to sign up for the event please visit www.sqchallenges.com.
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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.
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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Aladdin Music Instruction Brings the Lessons to You By Amy Paterson With summer coming to an end, many people are preparing their kids for a new school year. It is also a time when parents start thinking about after-school programs for their children to participate in. If you or your child is interested in learning a musical instrument, such as piano/keyboard, acoustic or electric guitar, voice and more, let Aladdin Music Instruction help you on your journey. Aladdin Music Instruction, Inc. is a network of music instructors span-
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ning throughout the tri-county area of Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas that offers in-home music lessons. Owners Colin and Christel Fewkes established Aladdin Music in 1993 in Pinellas County. In time, their business grew to reach Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Colin and Christel decided it would be advantageous for their family, as well as the students and their families, to offer music lessons conveniently taught in the home. Aladdin Music enrolls students from age five to senior adults. Colin and Christel make sure to enlist qualified and knowledge-
able teachers throughout the tricounty area for the Aladdin Music network of instructors. Their interview process is thorough and specific, which ensures that they are providing their students with only the best. Colin is originally from England, where he grew up with a love for music. He has been playing the piano since he was six years old, and eventually studied with the London College of Music, where he was classically trained. After college Colin was a professional musician for 20 years, performing worldwide. Traveling and music became his way of life until he met his wife Christel, and together they created Aladdin Music Instruction. Christel is a graduate from Florida State University, and had been teaching in Florida’s public school system until she and Colin began Aladdin Music Instruction, Inc. in 1993. She is involved in the office management aspect of the business along with Colin but still finds time to run an academic tutoring business as well. Colin and Christel, and all of the other instructors at Aladdin Music make sure that every student is being provided the best instruction available
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Colin & Christel Fewkes, owners of Aladdin Music Instruction according to their individual needs. Some benefits of in home lessons are: students feel more comfortable because they are in their own home, parents can enjoy the security of having their child taught at home, music materials can be brought directly to the student and lessons are scheduled around your needs without incurring travel or waiting time. One mom says, “Aladdin Music worked very hard to match the perfect teacher to each of my children. The instructors are always punctual, and always easy to work with. My children’s music related abilities constantly grew and expanded. Music is a huge part of both of my children’s lives every day.
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
Acoustic or electric guitar, piano, keyboard, voice lessons and more – Aladdin Music Instruction comes to your home for your convenience!
They appreciate their history with music education. I would absolutely recommend Aladdin Music; they are the best music company we have ever worked with. Colin and Christel are great to work with – courteous, kind, flexible and encouraging.” One of Colin’s students, Jonathan, says, “My experience with Mr. Fewkes has been superb. I always get to test my piano skills to their limits. Technically, I benefit by being able to apply unique concepts into my piano playing. I can incorporate music into my life by being able to interpret
students are encouraged to participate. Recitals give the students a chance to showcase all that they have learned. Playing in front of a live audience is rewarded by applause and a sense of accomplishment for the student. The recitals are also a lot of fun for the students. Each one of them has a goal to work hard on their solos or duets, and gather together to support one another during their performances. Colin and Christel reward all of their recital participants with ribbons or certificates and their famous “goodie bags.”
Aladdin Music Instruction will be celebrating their 20th Anniversary in 2013, and they are happy to say that it has been a great 20 years! With so much experience and love for music, Aladdin Music Instruction is comprised of a great group of instructors who truly enjoy teaching. For more information about how you can sign up for music lessons, contact Colin and Christel at (727) 375-2080 or email them at AladdinMusic@yahoo.com. For additional information and photos, visit www.AladdinMusic.com.
it better and by sharing it with others to enjoy. I would recommend Aladdin Music to anyone who wants to become the best they can be as a musician while still enjoying it.” Colin says, “Aladdin students receive a well rounded lesson that includes technique, reading music, theory, and aural training. Guitar students may also learn tablature. We work hard at making the best teacher/student combination. We aim to ensure strong two-way communication resulting in successful student progress.” The opportunity to perform in a recital is offered twice a year, and all
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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East Lake Area Neighborhood News
EASTLAKE WOODLANDS - CROSS CREEK
This 2+den/2/2 has contemporary style cabinets in kitchen w/closet pantry, desk and wonderful breakfast nook area. Tile flooring flows from the foyer into the kitchen & dining room w/window seat. The living rooms has wood flooring, sliders to the lanai w/your own pool. The den/office also has wood flooring and the master bedroom has a bay window, 2 walk in closets amd master bath has dual sinks, walk in shower. This home is turn key and is in move in condition!! $229,900
EASTLAKE WOODLANDS - CREEKSIDE
1877 sf 3/2/2 Pride of ownership shows in this home. As you enter into foyer you have soaring ceilings tile floors flowing into kitchen. Formal living & dining rooms w/hardwood floors. Kitchen w/white cabinet, breakfast bar, closet pantries overlook family room w/sliders to extended lania w/view of the trees. Master bedroom w/walk in closets & master bath w/walk in shower, linen closet, dual sinks and garden tub to enjoy! $243,000
3/2/3 2323 sqft. This home shows like a model! Absolutely move in! 20" tile flooring throughout! Brand new kitchen w/42" wood cabinets w/crown molding, granite counters w/tile backsplash w/listello inserts, applliance, garage, lazy susan, pot drawers, tray & cookbook cabinet, stainless steel appliances w/trash compactor. Formal living & dining rooms great to entertain in. Kitchen overloooks family room w/dry bar & cabinet w/glass doors. Updated bathrooms w/crackled glass raised sink w/waterfall faucet on granite counter w/wood vanity w/makeup drawers & storage. Fabulous lanai that overlooks pool w/pavers & solar panels w/view of a pond. Many extras including new a/c system, double pane windows & water softener. $375,000
2+/2/3 2099sqft Absolutely move in condition! This home offers formal living & dining rooms w/designer style laminate flooring and soaring ceilings. The kitchen has 42" wood cabinet w/built in desk and center island. The kitchen overlooks the family room w/built in entertainment center. Double door entry into the den/office w/built in desks & cabinets. The master has plenty of room for all your pieces plus two walk in closets. The master bath has dual sinks, walk in shower linen closet and a garden tub to relax in. This home also offers a fabulous view of the golf course & pond from the lanai and you also will enjoy swimming in the pool. this is a must see $269,000.
2395 sf The foyer has wood floors in this Kent III w/soaring ceilings throughout. The formal living room has sliders & the dr has plantation shutters & designer style lighting. This kitchen has wood floors, white cabinets w/solid surface counters w/tile backsplash set on a diagonal pattern plus a pot rack. The family room has carpet & plantation shutters. The two guest bedrooms has ceiling fans & the master has 2 walk in closets, plant shelves pocket door to master bath w/white cabinets w/solid surface counters, walk in shower & garden tub. The lanai is extended and includes a 33ft pool & spa w/pebble sheen finish & propane or solar panels w/temperature control for heating, salt water chlorinator, pop up cleaning system & a view of the golf course & forest. $374,900
3/2/3 2416 sf. The 20" tile flooring set on a diagonal pattern flows throughout all the main areas of this Kent III. The formal living room & DR has custom window treatment. The kitchen has new designer style foil refaced cabinets w/tile backsplash & solid surface counters w/breakfast bar w/pendant lighting. The kitchen overlooks the family room. There are 2 guest bedrooms & guest bath. The master bedroom has 2 walk in closets, master bath has walk in shower & jacuzzi tub. The extended lanai has an outdoor kitchen w/grill and a view of the golf course & forest! $319,900
4/2/3 2703sqft. This home offers a cul de sac location plus a private lot that overlooks the pond & forest. The formal living & dining rooms are great to entertain in. The kitchen has cabinets w/pullout shelves, pot drawers, under cabinet lighting, wall oven & microwave, range w/range hood, cabinet pantry, desk and solid surface counters. The kitchen overlooks family room w/wood flooring and built in entertainment center. There are two generous size guest bedrooms and an office. The master has two walk in closets and the master bath has dual sinks, walk in shower, linen closet and jacuzzi tub. The extended lanai has its own built in kitchen and there is also a hot tub to relax in. But don't forget the view of the pond and forest! $390,000
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. $324,900
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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Brain Balance Achievement Centers Where Every Kid Connects With Success By: Kristy Needham, proud mother of Zeke. Back story: My son Zeke is ten years old and is one of the joys of my life. He is a hard worker with an amazingly good attitude. Zeke is compassionate, kind and sincerely wants to please by helping and doing the right thing. He is kind to everyone he meets and smiles all the time. At three, he started speech and occupational therapy, which was recommended by his pediatrician and his preschool, and he tested within the normal limits of both. At five, he started to read, so instead of another year of preschool, we wanted him to be challenged and had him attend Kindergarten – he excelled! At six, his first grade teacher (with 15 years of experience) suspected he was not producing work commensurate with the amount of effort he pro-
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vided, stating, “He’s doing fine, but there is something there. He is so smart and he works so hard, but there is something there that we are missing and I can’t figure out what it is.” At seven, his second grade teacher, who has never met or communicated with his previous teacher, shared the same sentiment. She stated, “On a scale from 1-10 he is as smart as a 10 and works as hard as a 10, but he produces work at a five. I don’t know why, but he is working harder than he should have to and is not producing the work that he is capable of mentally.” I saw it. Homework was taking him a really long time and spelling words became brutal for him. He wasn’t distracted and he wasn’t lazy. Zeke was working hard, yet not getting a lot done. In all of his written work, letters were backwards. I would point out to him a backwards letter and he would erase it and write it the exact same way. He understood the concepts and got
the ideas, but he just couldn’t get through his homework. Even at home he was a hard worker, yet he would frequently forget instructions and have to check a chart several times a day for sequences in a daily routine. At eight, he was still struggling and was intimidated by kids his own age. His outgoing, jovial personality was changing and he became timid and withdrawn. His confidence plummeted. Homework that should’ve taken Zeke 15 minutes took him 1-1 ½ hours. His perception of himself, other kids and school changed and he started to have negative thoughts and talk derogatively about himself. It was not going in a good direction and everything was happening so quickly. After a lot of paperwork, a lot of meetings and several observations from two different school counselors, one counselor recommended that we tape a note to the top of his desk that said, “Stay focused on your task until it is finished.” I wanted to scream –
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this addresses minor symptoms, not the problem or the root cause of the problem. All of his teachers now see there is “something there” but they don’t know what it is. After testing Zeke’s vision, he started wearing glasses to school and started vision therapy sessions for an hour, twice a week for 6 months. In addition, Zeke worked half an hour to an hour of homework for vision therapy each day – there was no real success. Next, he was diagnosed ADHD inattentive. Upon pediatrician recommendation, Zeke tried three different medications with no real success - just varying side effects. He was proclaimed to have, “dyslexic tendencies” and “showing evidence of Audio Processing Disorder.” There was no plan to help him; no action items. There was nothing we could do. I know he is working incredibly hard and has a positive attitude I wish I had when dealing with difficulty.
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
involved in each and his confidence and self esteem are getting lower at each attempt to help him. He is still struggling and he knows it. After looking at Zeke’s work, the director made the following statements: “It looks like he is Pictures of Zeke, before (L) and after (R) beginning a hard worker. Is therapy at Brain Balance Achievement Centers. he a people pleaser? (Yes.) Does he have trouble My First Experience with Brain with bowel movements? (Yes, but I am Balance With a chip on my shoulder and a taken back by this question.) Is he asthmatic? (Just that week, his pediabad attitude, I attended a Brain Baltrician said he was borderline asthance seminar with examples of Zeke’s matic and gave us an inhaler.) I bet he work in hand. One paragraph of writhas allergies. (Yes, severe allergies.) ing that took him an hour to write included backwards letters in every word How is his vision? (He wears glasses and went through vision therapy.) Is and one word spelled four different he clumsy? (Yes.) Does he have sensiways. The information that was pretivity to noise? (Yes, sometimes he sented sounded interesting, but at this time there had been five different solu- holds his hands over his ears at school assembly and gets off the bus almost in tions in the form of diagnoses and therapy that had not produced any real tears because it is so loud.) Are multitasks hard for him? (Yes.)” He has my results. Worse – we spent a lot of attention. He is completely accurate money, time and effort for each. without ever meeting Zeke. Then he Worse still – Zeke has been aware and
said the statement that changed my mind completely – “I know what this is, and I can help him.” In six years not one person was willing to say this. I started to cry. I talked it over with my husband (who was in Afghanistan on assignment) and we decided – we are going to do the program; but this is THE LAST thing we are going to do before we stop trying to fix whatever this is and accept it for what it is. If this is a struggle our son will have for the rest of his life, our challenge as parents will be to help him find his way successfully.
The Staff at Brain Balance Zeke was exposed to four people, three times a week that were, and still are, intensely focused and passionate about Zeke’s success. A constant source of encouragement, the staff cares not just about Zeke, but about our other children and our family. The staff at Brain Balance counseled and encouraged me during times of frustration and fear. Every day we were there for the appointments, someone would come out to the waiting room and talk with our family. On more than one occasion, the director pulled me into the office to talk privately about my concerns. I appreciate the time, effort and caring everyone on staff at Brain Balance showed to our family. It is obvious this is an office wanting to help kids and their families succeed – in more ways than academically. They celebrated each success with us and encouraged and challenged Zeke.
Our Results Zeke is no longer on the ADHD scale. He no longer has letter reversals in his writing and no longer shows any evidence of Dyslexia. Zeke no longer shows any evidence of Audio Processing Disorder – I didn’t know
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
this was even a possible outcome. This program has changed Zeke’s life, the life of our family and the dynamic between Zeke and his brothers. I no longer worry or have anxiety over Zeke’s academic life. We started the program just before he started 3rd grade (again) in fall 2011. Zeke was a good reader, but preferred books lower than his level of reading – 2nd grade level books. He ended the year with a book report on his favorite book – an 8th grade level book. He started off the year really struggling with writing. His first writing earned a 1 from the school district writing assignment. One is considered first grade level. His final writing of the year was a 4 – fourth grade level. I talked with his teacher frequently to see how he was doing in the class socially and emotionally. What do other kids think of him? What does he think of himself? He is well liked in class and is considered one of the “smart kids.” He often finishes assignments first. His grades in math and science are consistently in the top of the class. His entire academic life and outlook have changed in one year. In the beginning of the year, Zeke was a scared, defeated boy; afraid he was stupid. I could see it even in his school pictures and how he related to other kids. Now, he is a happy, confident kid who loves school. He is so proud of his grades and the work he does. I love that he smiles all the time again. Brain Balance is located at 4022 Tampa Road, Suite 6 in Oldsmar. Hours are Mon., Wed. and Fri. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Tues. and Thurs. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. They are closed Sat. and Sun. Please call (813) 475-6977 or visit www.BrainBalanceTampa.com.
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East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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Dr. Carol Browne Welcomes New Patients at Florida Wellness & Rehab By Kim Thomas Florida Wellness & Rehab, located at 1820 Wellness Lane in Trinity, offers exceptional Chiropractic Medicine and Primary Care Medicine with a focus on evidence-based, wellness healthcare. Stephen Unger, D.C. and Brandon Delle Chiaie, D.C. welcome Carol Browne, D.O. to Florida Wellness & Rehab. Dr. Browne is a family practitioner who shares a common goal and philosophy with Dr. Unger and Dr. Delle Chiaie – these doctors are united in their dedication to helping you achieve your wellness objectives. Combining skill and expertise, the team at Florida Wellness & Rehab are committed to bringing you better health and a better way of life by teaching and practicing the true principles of wellness care. At Neighborhood News & Lifestyles, we’ve had the privilege of getting to know some of the area’s very best medical professionals. It is a true pleasure to see a doctor’s
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practice expand, knowing that it is due to meeting the needs of a growing, well-cared-for clientele that is coming through the doors because of excellent care. That is what has happened with Florida Wellness & Rehab in Trinity. In February 2012, Dr. Unger and Dr. Delle Chiaie moved to a new wellness center with more than 5,000-sq.-ft. where Florida Wellness & Rehab patients will enjoy access to even more services. Now, in addition to chiropractic care, physical therapy, acupuncture, therapeutic massage and non-surgical spinal decompression, patients can also turn to Dr. Browne, who brings with her 24 years of experience as a full service, family practice care provider. She is accepting new patients of all ages at Florida Wellness & Rehab and is available Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Meet Dr. Carol Browne “I am super excited to be here,” says Dr. Browne. “They told me,
‘You’re going to be part of the family and this is a long-term relationship. Throughout my entire career my philosophy has been to treat people how I want to be treated and how I want my family treated.” Dr. Browne says that it is wonderful to be working with like-minded colleagues. “A big reason that I came onboard is the BIG focus on wellness. I feel like I am getting back to the love of medicine – just focusing on the wellness of the patient.” Dr. Browne’s favorite quote is from Andrew Taylor Still, M.D., who is considered the founder of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Still’s wise adage, “Any doctor can find disease. It takes a physician to find health.” Dr. Browne received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree in 1986 at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Worth, Texas. She has extensive experience in teaching osteopathic manipulation to medical
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Carol Browne, D.O. students and residents, and has presented formal lectures. In addition to caring for patients of all ages with all types of medical needs in rural Missouri – August will mark her third year living in Florida – Dr. Browne has ex-
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
tensive training and experience in osteopathic manipulation, which couples nicely with chiropractic medicine. She is experienced in traditional family medicine and provides physicals, well-woman and well-man exams. Additionally, Dr. Browne is trained and experienced in trigger point injections, joint injections, bio-identical hormone replacement, Armour thyroid treatment and other modalities including cranial sacral therapy. When I met Dr. Browne and learned that she was experienced in cranial sacral therapy, I immediately made an appointment for my mother. She had experienced relief from severe headaches and an overall feeling of wellbeing with this type of therapy before, but the closest licensed massage therapist trained in this treatment was a far drive from our area. Dr. Browne was very thorough in her examination, and she has that special something that is very necessary to help someone with a treatment such as cranial sacral therapy – good hands. This type of therapy is focused on maximizing the flow of cerebral spinal fluid up
and down the spinal column and into the brain. After witnessing the benefits my mother has experienced, I have come to strongly believe in the benefits of cranial sacral therapy. Working with all ages of patients in Missouri gave Dr. Browne the opportunity to help with a variety of medical needs, from those of aging patients to the littlest newborns. The Missouri Department of Health referred several newborns who were unable to nurse to Dr. Browne for cranial sacral therapy; after working every so gently on the babies, she was successful in helping them to properly breastfeed. As an Osteopathic Physician, Dr. Browne has extra training in the musculoskeletal system and how it works. “My goal is to restore patients to normal function as much as possible,” shares Dr. Browne. “I strive to help the anatomy to be as normal as possible so the physiology is as functional as possible. We improve circulation and lymphatic flow, which helps the immune system work better. My job as a physician is to give each patient all of the tools they need to stay healthy and strong.”
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
Florida Wellness & Rehab is located at Trinity Professional Center, 1820 Wellness Lane in Trinity. Hours are Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Most insurances are accepted. Worker’s Comp and Auto Injury patients of all ages are accepted. To learn more about Florida Wellness & Rehab, visit www.FloridaWell.com or call (727) 264-8888 to schedule an appointment.
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East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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SAT AND ACT UPDATE
Tests That Can Determine Your Student’s Educational Future By Dr. Wayne Adams “Hi Sue. You look a little concerned,” said Linda. “What’s on your mind this morning?” Responding with a worried tone in her voice, Sue answered, “My son is a senior this year in high school and my daughter is a junior. Now I am hearing about SAT’s, ACT’s, and PSAT’s. What are these tests? Why are these tests important? What do they do? Can I help them get ready in some way? I need to find out. I am really confused!” Looking thoughtful for a minute, Linda added, “Now that you mention it, I have wondered the same thing about Mike and Susan. Mike will be a sophomore, and Susan a freshman, in high school. My worry is more about the FCAT. Just yesterday, I heard about a new ‘End of Course” exam for every high school course. If a student does not pass the EOC, no matter what a student’s grade in the course, that student fails and has to repeat the class. That’s a little scary. Have you heard anything about this?”
LET’S FIND SOME ANSWERS Every fall, conversations like this happen across the country as parents think about college admissions, scholarships, and helping their students do their best in high school. Let’s find some answers about the SAT, ACT, PSAT, FCAT, and EOC. Our conclusion will talk more about what you as a parent can do so your student can do their best on these examinations.
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THE SAT The SAT is a nationally standardized test given seven times a year by the College Board. Three tests are given in the fall, and four in the spring. The three major test sections are Writing, Critical Reading, and Mathematics. Within each section are three individual tests, and there is one unidentified experimental test, for a total of ten test sections requiring about four hours of testing time. Scores range between 200 and 800 for each section, with a maximum score for all three sections of 2400. These tests are only given at authorized testing centers such as designated high schools, require a reservation online at collegeboard. com, and require a normal fee of $50 to take the full test. Results are published in a password protected account on the internet, and are also mailed to the student, 3 - 4 weeks after the test. The stated purpose of the SAT is to assess a student’s ability to do succeed in college. In other words, it is a “predictive” test. The College Board says there is a definite correlation between scoring levels on the SAT and later academic success in college. Most colleges believe this statement, so they consider SAT scores seriously in determining whether to admit a student compared to other applications. Normally, the major factors in an admission decision are class standing, GPA, results on standardized test(s), quality of essay and writing skills, and distinctive community or other activities.
A student can take the SAT examination as many times as desired. One important feature is that a student can “pick and choose” the best score in each section, and later submit only these scores to colleges. The college will not know these scores came from different examinations. Also, there is no time limit currently on when scores can be counted – meaning a high score for a ninth grader can be used when that student is a senior. The next three SAT exams are scheduled for Oct. 6th, Nov. 3rd, and Dec. 1st. Mostcolleges require completed applications and receipt of all standardized tests by Jan. 1st, with the University of Florida normally requiring the full package a month earlier.
THE ACT The ACT is a nationally standardized test given six times a year by American College Testing. Three tests are given in the fall, and three in the spring. The next exams
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are on Sept. 8th, Oct. 27th, and Dec. 8th. The four required sections are English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. Essay is an optional fifth section, which all students should also take at the same time because, if a college requires it, the student must retake a whole examination to do so. Scores range between 1 - 36 for each section. The “composite” is the average score of the four required sections, and ranges from 1 – 36. These tests are only given at authorized testing centers such as designated high schools, require a reservation online at act.org, and require a normal fee of $48 to take the full test. Results are published in a password protected account on the internet, and are also mailed to the student, 3 - 4 weeks after the test. The stated purpose of the ACT is to assess a student’s current level of educational achievement and their ability to succeed in college.
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
SAT AND ACT ARE VERY DIFFERENT On the surface, it may seem that the SAT and ACT are very similar. In fact, they have major differences. For example: the SAT has different requirements for the essay; is more dependent on vocabulary; is not as dependent on reading passages and evaluations; and math is easier because many formulas are given to students at the beginning of the math sections, problems are not as advanced, trigonometry is not included, and it does not have testing in science. The ACT is the opposite. Students with stronger mathematical skills and logical thinking tend to do better on the ACT. Students with stronger verbal skills and intuitive thinking tend to do better on the SAT. THE PSAT The PSAT is far more than just
preparation for the SAT. It is the only national test used to determine if a student is to determine eligibility and qualification for the National Merit Scholarship Program that can include major National Merit Scholarships. Colleges give major additional scholarships to National Merit Scholars.
THE FCAT The Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test is given to all tenth graders in public high schools in the spring. If a high school student does not pass the FCAT or an acceptable substitute before the end of their senior year, that student will not graduate. Scoring an 18 on and the Reading or the Math sections of the ACT, or a 280 in Reading and a 370 in Math on the SAT, fulfill this requirement as well. The FCAT is being phased out by the EOC in Florida public high schools.
during one week at the completion of a full course. Students have all the time needed (normally 80 minutes or less) to complete the test in one sitting, everything is computerized, and the student must pass the test to receive credit for the course. EOC’s are not required for students with certifications for longer times on tests. To talk with Dr. Adams about your student doing their best on the SAT and ACT, contact him at (727) 253-0639 or email wwa0811@ gmail.com. He has degrees and advanced studies from Harvard, Yale, Vanderbilt, Columbia International and Luther Rice;
and is one of the top Tutors in Tampa Bay. His students have been admitted to many colleges and universities such as Harvard, Yale, Columbia, Cornell, NYU, U of Chicago, UCLA, USC, UF, FSU, USF, and UCF. Dr. Adams offers FREE, PREDICTIVE SAT AND ACT TESTS that can help you know where your student might score on a full examination. A few days after the test, you will receive an emailed report with individual and composite scores, scores in Vocabulary and Grammar. This timed test can be taken at home or at class.
THE EOC (End-of-Course Assessments) EOC testing has already started in public high schools in mathematics. Shortly, this testing will be required for reading, writing, science, and history. Examinations are taken
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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“Lucky Dill” Continued from page 1 and a feeling of excitement, that has not shown any signs of slowing down, when The Lucky Dill opened up again on U.S. 19 less than a year ago. Their new location is 2 1/2 times the size of their original restaurant, and serves 2,500 happy customers a day. The Lucky Dill is as busy a place as you would expect for a NYC restaurant; in fact, they have recently arranged for their employees to park on another lot, opening up 40 more parking spots to accommodate customers. Now people can easily access “The Dill” whether they are coming in to pick up a deli sandwich or baked goods from the mouth-watering Brooklyn Bakery, swinging in for lunch or dinner, or even dancing to live music at their popular Ladies Night (which is on Thursdays!). As a guest at The Lucky Dill, you will be seated in one of New York’s famous boroughs. Behind the busy Brooklyn Bakery is my family’s favorite, the Bronx, where it feels like you could be dining just a block from Yankee Stadium. The newest addition to the restaurant is the Tribeca
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Lounge, which like the borough it is named for, is both lively, classy and 100% New York. The Tribeca Lounge seats up to 60 people and can be rented out for private parties, business events, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties or even small weddings. Regardless of what part of town you are seated in, what makes a restaurant a true success is the food, and if you’re hungry, you will find something on the menu to please even the pickiest eater. Want breakfast all day? No problem. Feel like having a sandwich the size of a skyscraper? Ga’ Head. Need something to bring over to Ma’s? Order to go. Any chance of leaving hungry? Fuggetaboutit! Regular Lindsay Ramey says, “The Deli Luxe is my favorite sandwich and the West Side Story omelet is delish. The bakery is totally sinful, too.” How YOU Doin? The lucky Dill opens at 7 a.m. every morning, and while there is a Breakfast All Day section on their lunch and dinner menu, their fullfledged, real-deal breakfast menu is not to be missed. This properly themed breakfast menu has breakfast sandwiches, a dozen unique omelets,
The Tribeca Lounge seats up to 60 people and can be rented out as a perfect venue for your next business event or private party “Scrambles” and breakfast pizzas as well as many options from their “Bagel Noshery.” Many regulars come in just for the specially made, properly boiled, New York-style bagels. It’s the preparation that makes them so tasty, and at The Lucky Dill, you can get your bagel every way but Sunday. Even on Sundays. Actually on Sunday, they extend their breakfast menu until noon! If you love breakfast, you’ll love The Lucky Dill’s new “Follow the Pickle
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Breakfast Club,” because when you buy four breakfasts, you get one for free. Customer Pat Hazellief says, “Can’t beat their brisket and potato pancakes with applesauce and sour cream…Makes my mouth water just thinking about it.” The lunch and dinner menu takes a few more minutes to look through. With over 280 high quality, tasty items on the menu – it can be hard to
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
The Brooklyn Bakery has too much goodness to pass up! People love the New York-style bagels (boiled perfectly!) and breads & pastries baked fresh daily choose. To start, The Lucky Dill offers a variety of “Nibbles and Noshes” like the “Mean Streets Mozzarella Caprese” and the “Yankee Stadium Sliders.” Homemade soups are made every day, and the salad selection is impressive. Ask a regular what their favorite meal is, and chances are they will mention one of their famous sandwiches, narrowing it down to one favorite is the difficult part. To make it easy, they offer combos and daily specials, which are hugely popular. There are sides galore and buckets for their legendary fries, although I caution you that you may want to get more than one per table. The Lucky Dill is famous for their Reubens, their Hot Corned Beef sand-
wich and their Pastrami sandwiches (or there’s a few with both if you’d like). Sandwiches are piled high and served on a freshly baked bread of your choice, although Rye is a popular choice! If you’d like something smaller, there’s the Reubenettes, slider-style Reubens. Carrie Zengel says, “I Love Lucky Dill! Best burgers and cheesecake in town…And their pastrami sandwiches aren’t bad either,” she adds with a wink. More than just sandwiches, The Lucky Dill’s menu offers more food than a regular could try in a lifetime. One of their newest specials is called the Shrimp Fantastico, and is Shrimp served three different ways from 3-6 p.m. for only $10.99. On Wednesdays,
Something for Everyone, it includes everything from homemade soups and salads to a prime rib that would please the toughest NYC critic. Also, a real crowd pleaser – as long as you order a beverage of any kind, your meal comes with a piece of cheesecake or a slice of apple strudel. With their kid’s meal, children receive one black and white cookie. Trust me, you won’t leave hungry, not that it will stop you from hitting the Brooklyn Bakery for a box of goodies on the way out. The Brooklyn Bakery offers everything that you’d find in a NYC deli. From specialty soda pops and sinful cookies, delectable tarts and cakes, to the very best deli-meat in town. I know in my family, we take a box of goodies home to share with our friends and family. Drinks in the City Nightlife starts after 8 p.m., when the family restaurant’s famous
NYC Bar comes to life with an amazing late night menu, live entertainment 6 nights a week, and nightly drink specials that keep the tap flowing. The NYC Bar offers more than 50 beers, craft cocktails, and that “Sex in the City” atmosphere that has been absent from the area for so long. Every Tuesday is “Stellar TWOSDAY” where they offer $2 Stella Artois after 8 p.m. to go with their live music, and if you eat on the patio any day, you can get a Stella Artois and a burger for $8.99. Thursday is Ladies Night, and Vegas Night is Sundays. Honestly, there are too many specials to mention here, but long story short, it’s a whole lot of food for a really great price. If you really want to be in the know, become a friend on Facebook, and sign up to receive email blasts, coupons and updates. Local resident, Kym Snyder enthusiastically says about the NYC Bar, “[It’s the] Only place in town to get a Dark and Stormy!” The NYC Bar is great for date nights, going out with friends, or meeting new ones. The Lucky Dill brings the best of New York to Palm Harbor with the heart and soul of the restaurant being their delicious food. Bring your family in today, tomorrow and the next day. You’ll be a regular in no time. Located at 33180 US Hwy 19 N. in Palm Harbor, The Lucky Dill is open daily from 7 a.m.–10 p.m., and their NYC Bar is open 11 a.m.– Late. For more information or for information about catering or reserving The Tribeca Lounge, please call (727) 789-5574, visit www.LuckyDillDeli.com or visit them on Facebook.
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
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“Arry’s Roofing” Continued from page 1 to substantial re-roofing projects. Arry’s goal is to approach all of his projects – whether it is a repair, reroof, or a new roof – as if it were his own family’s roof. He has dedicated himself to improving the re-roofing industry in the Tampa Bay area through honesty, quality workmanship and outstanding customer service. “Arry’s Roofing exceeded my expectations,” writes Diane W. from Clearwater. “From my salesman, Chuck, through the design and installation teams, the quality of workmanship was excellent. Customer service is a priority and that shows in every level of the company. I highly recommend Arry’s as a professional roofing company.” Why Choose Arry’s Roofing? There are many key elements that separate Arry’s Roofing from other roofing companies. MasterElite Contractors As previously mentioned, Arry’s Roofing is certified by GAF’s MasterElite Contractor Program and has a
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solid reputation as a MasterElite Roofing Contractor; as designated by GAF Materials Corporation, which is the only certification program of its kind for residential roofing. Passing North America’s largest roofing manufacturer’s strict certification requirements with flying colors, Arry’s makes up the top two percent of roofing contractors in the U.S., achieving the skills and knowledge necessary to reach the MasterElite status. As a Master Elite contractor, Arry’s Roofing is able to provide the Golden Pledge Warranty, the most powerful and substantial warranty in the entire roofing industry! Every shingle roof installed by Arry’s comes with a 40-Point inspection by GAF to ensure the highest quality installation methods and products were used – which means no compromises for the Arry’s team! Plus, each component used in the system has earned the prestigious Good Housekeeping Seal! In addition, Arry’s Roofing has won multiple awards over the ensuing years in the categories of Consumer Protection Excellence, Installation Excellence and Training Excellence! Quality Customer Care The Housh family is completely dedicated to their customers and fully
believes in the importance of building and maintaining strong, longlasting relationships with all of their clients. “When we show up to a job, we don’t look at it as just another job, we look at it as a relationship,” states Matt. This dedication and superior commitment The Housh family is dedicated to providing exceptional to excellence has roofing services & friendly customer service to Arry’s clients enabled Arry’s refer someone to us with a potential Roofing to expand from a small, honneed, we compensate them with a gift orable and trustworthy family-run card and discount any work for the business into the well-known and potential customer.” Arry’s takes pride trusted roofing company it is today; in their way of doing business and the servicing residential, commercial and integrity, honesty, and hard-work that industrial projects with value and inthey put into every job has translated tegrity. into customer loyalty. “My goal in business is to promote quality in workmanship and relaExceptional Roofing Warranties tionships,” says Arry. “Once we Arry’s Roofing is an approved apperform work, we stay in touch with plicator of most major roofing manuour referral program. If our customers facturers’ products, and its employees
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East Lake Area Neighborhood News
are qualified to install the respective systems to achieve the maximum warranties offered. They are experts in architectural metal roofs, shingle, tile and low-slope/flat roofs, re-roofing, repairs and maintenance. Arry’s has metal roofing specialists and an inhouse, custom sheet metal shop. An array of roofing warranties are available for customers, including a 50year material defects and 25-year contractor’s workmanship Golden Pledge Limited Warranty, offered through GAF MasterElite Contractors. Additionally, Arry’s has a Workmanship Guarantee, separate from the manufacturer’s warranties, that covers any repairs due to faulty workmanship to the roof applied for up to 20 years for qualified systems. Arry’s Roofing has got you covered when it comes to any problems that could come up with your roof. The company is a fully insured, state-licensed roofing contractor; guaranteeing all work; the Housh family believes in the importance of this to protect their employees and themselves, as well as you and your home. Arry’s Roofing not only takes excellent care of its customers, but also cherishes and cares for its own.
Employees at Arry’s receive a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, a retirement plan, life insurance, paid holidays and vacations. Most of the supervisors have been with Arry’s for more than 15 years, which speaks volumes about the integrity of this roofing company, which staffs 65 career-orientated employees. Arry’s Roofing also institutes a bonus/reward program, encouraging and motivating even the younger guy pushing the broom on the crew to do quality work, ensuring quality on each job while providing morale. Each roofing job receives a full-time representative to speak to the customer whenever needed, paying personal attention to every detail in order to provide the absolute best service possible. Expert Workmanship Arry’s youngest son Matt, Vice President of Arry’s Roofing, discusses the importance of providing quality workmanship to each and every one of their customers. “We do a job professionally and with integrity, never compromising, protecting our reputation at all costs,” says Matt. “This allows us to work another day and
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
stay on top in the business. We do more than just sell the roof. We put a protective and aesthetically pleasing cover on the most valuable asset most of our customers have, and we give them peace of mind, bringing them cleaner, better, and safer products.” Continuing education is of utmost importance at Arry’s Roofing, which is why their entire company attends monthly training classes in order to keep up-to-date with the newest code techniques and products. This enables them to offer the most cutting-edge and innovative roofing techniques and designs available; so you can be certain that Arry’s employees are knowledgeable and well-trained in all aspects their work. Giving Back Arry’s Roofing believes in showing gratitude to the Tampa Bay Area by helping those less fortunate who are struggling through hard times. “Giving back to the community builds character and strength in our company and in our personal lives,” says Matt. The Housh family and Arry’s Roofing employees enjoy being able to share their skills to help
those in need. In addition to that, Arry is the president of the PCCA (Pinellas County Contractors Association) and sits on numerous construction and roofing-specific boards to make sure that the industry is always moving forward, getting better, and maintaining a customer-focused mindset! Arry’s Roofing is a proactive and innovative company that stays at the forefront of the industry through continued education and by using the very best products on the market. Displaying excellent service and skill, Arry’s Roofing is a company you can trust to do it right the first time. Dale S. from Dunedin writes, “I am very satisfied with the quality and workmanship of the installation. Arry’s crew performed above-andbeyond what was expected. I appreciate the all extra work that they did. Thanks Arry’s Roofing!” Arry’s Roofing Services, Inc. is located at 770 North Grosse Ave. in Tarpon Springs. For additional information or to schedule a consultation, call (727) 938-9565 or visit www.ArrysRoofing.com.
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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
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For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
AUGUST 2012
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
East Lake Area Neighborhood News
For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
AUGUST 2012
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For Ad Info 727-943-2946 • www.NeighborhoodNewsFL.com
AUGUST 2012
East Lake Area Neighborhood News