East Lake - Vol. 5, Issue 10, October 2012

east lake AREA

Vol. 5, Issue 10, October 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, Bay Arbor, Boot Ranch, Brookers Landing, Crescent Oaks, Cypress Cove, Cypress Lakes Estates, Cypress Run, Cypress Trails, Deer Hollow, Grey Oak, Eagle Cove, Eagle’s Cove at Lake Tarpon, Eagle Ridge, Eagle Trace, Eagle Watch, East Lake Oaks, East Lake Woodlands, Hunters Wood, Keystone Bluffs, Keystone Palms, Keystone Ranchettes, Lansbrook, Lansbrook Village, Meadow Ridge, Nature’s Watch, Oak Hill Acres, Pine Ridge, Regina Estates, Ridgemoor, Tarpon Woods, Wentworth, Whispering Lakes, Woodfield

Medical Center of Trinity’s Robotics Program is Surgery at its Best

See “Medical Center” on page 26.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Editorial................................3 News Briefs...........................4 Calendar................................6 Travel Leaders................10-11 General Window Cleaning...14-15 Clothes Mentor................18-19 Barkdoll Massage.............22-23 House of Hobbies...........30-31 Conforti Chiropractic........34-35 Positano’s Restaurant.....38-39 Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery..........42-43 Put on Your Pink Bra........46-47

ECRWSS

What is Robot-Assisted Surgery?

The most important thing to understand about the da Vinci® Surgical System is that it is not surgery by a robot! I had to smile when I told someone why I was visiting the hospital and she said, “Well, count me out.

What happens if that robot messes up?” This is a big misconception! It is not a robot that is in charge of the surgery; rather, the surgeons who utilize this type of surgery are highly trained and are simply using the da Vinci®

The Community Dining & Business Guide that your neighbors READ!

Postal Customer

Upon my arrival, Mary Sommise greeted me in the lobby and explained that everyone entering the hospital, from guests and visitors to vendors, must stop at the front desk to register and receive a pass. I handed over my driver’s license, which was scanned into the security system and then I was given a badge that stated my purpose in being there along with my photo for clear identification. This badging system ensures safety at Medical Center of Trinity and is just one of many ways that patients’ privacy and security is ensured.

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

Since opening in February 2012, Medical Center of Trinity continues to exceed its patients’ expectations with a level of care that rivals the very best hospitals in the nation. Located on SR 54 in Trinity, where it is perfectly situated to handle the growing healthcare needs of Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties, the 400,000-sq.-ft. hospital is masterfully planned to provide patients with the best medical care possible, including unprecedented comfort in private rooms that easily accommodate friends and family and the latest medical equipment and surgical techniques for the best possible medical treatment.

A well-cared-for hospital staff is

vitally important to the overall quality of patient care – something that Medical Center of Trinity’s CEO, Leigh Massengill knows first-hand from her years of experience as a registered nurse. Massengill’s experience shows in her dedication to the physicians at Medical Center of Trinity and to their patients. Physicians’ needs were anticipated in the planning of the hospital and the doctors and medical staff have everything they need to provide excellence in medical care.

With a commitment to providing the most advanced medicine and surgical techniques available, Medical Center of Trinity has recently purchased the very latest da Vinci® Surgical System, enabling qualified, trained physicians to offer patients robot-assisted surgery.

I had the privilege to meet with CEO Leigh Massengill, Marketing Director Mary Sommise, the robotic surgery team, three surgeons who use the da Vinci® Surgical System for robotassisted surgeries, as well as Victor Becklund, a representative of Intuitive Surgical which is the global leader in the rapidly emerging field of roboticassisted minimally invasive surgery. It was a very educational experience and everyone involved was excited to share this technology that is literally paving the way of the future of medicine.

Dated Material Please Rush!

By Kim Thomas

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OCTOBER 2012

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

From The Editor Kim Thomas

Tropical Cabana Bash for Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary Sat., Nov. 17, 6 PM––The Tropical Cabana Bash, hosted by Potion of the Tropics and Yianni’s Café and Grill (at 514 Dodecanese Blvd. at the Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs) promises to be exciting and fun event featuring delicious cuisine and the lively, uplifting music of Tim Dorsey and the Tropical Groove, a wellknown artist featuring the sounds of R&B, jazz and reggae. Tropical attire requested.

A donation of $35 entitles guests to delicious hors d’oeuvres and a beautiful buffet featuring Greek specialties including Saganaki (flaming cheese), dolmades, tuna carpoccico and much more. Sculptures of a mermaid and dolphin from fruit, cheeses and vegetables will be as beautiful as they are palatable. Guests will receive a shot glass as a keepsake filled with a shot of Pirate’s Rum. From the $35 donation, $15 will go directly to the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary to help in the rehabilitation of seabirds.

Local entrepreneur Colleen Kindinis, owner of Moondance Hair and

Healing Studio at 546 Hill Street at the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, created Potion of the Tropics, a unique, homeopathic blend of natural oils and butters from plants, fruits and trees. Potion of the Tropics has been used in healing in both pets and people, and is used by Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary to help heal injured birds.

Colleen has testimonial after testimonial from cancer patients who have used her product to help heal skin ravaged by radiation, and it worked miracles on a pediatric heart surgery patient’s scar. Colleen says her product is sold at Palm Harbor Plastic Surgery Center and it is also sold at her studio, Moondance Hair and Healing.

Potion of the Tropics will be available for purchase at the Tropical Cabana Bash with a portion of the proceeds donated to Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary. The product feels amazing, smells delicious and leaves your skin moist and supple without any stickiness. It is widely used by locals as a tanning aide, but most enjoy it for the way it leaves one’s skin looking radi-

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

East Lake Area Neighborhood News Directly mailed once a month to nearly 15,000 households in zip code 34685, 34688 & 34677 220 Safford Ave. S. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 Phone: (727) 943-2946; Fax: (727) 942-2432 Advertising E-mail: info@neighborhoodnewsfl.com Editorial E-mail: editorialdept@neighborhoodnewsfl.com © 2012 Eastlake Area Neighborhood News is published by Ads 2 Publications, Inc. Correspondents Publisher Tim Selby General Manager Jim O’Reilly Editor Kim Thomas

Art Director Dat X. Do

Advertising Sales Matt Selby Tim Selby Jim O’Reilly Ken Burke

ant. Potion of the Tropics is affordable – 4 oz. - $12; 8 oz. - $20, 16 oz. - $40 –– and luxurious.

For more information, please call Colleen Kindinis at (727) 9346789 or (727) 485-3532, email moondanceckc@yahoo.com. For additional information on the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, visit www.seabirdsanctuary.com.

Alexis Selby Julie Kanehl Katie Thomas Dara Tucker Amy Paterson

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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OCTOBER 2012

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Community News Briefs

Hearts of Gold Seeking Vendors The 5th Annual Hearts of Gold Holiday Fair, in support of Tampa Bay area families in need, will be hosted by Cypress Run Golf Club and the 4-Hearts, a local Tampa Bay non-profit. It will be held on Thursday, November 29, from 6:30 – 9 PM and will provide the perfect opportunity for vendors to sell their wares while giving back to the community and for community members to get in some holiday shopping.

4-Hearts stays true to its tagline, “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” and holds the yearly event to raise monies to provide holiday meals to those who would otherwise go without.

The 4-Hearts have supported Homeless Emergency Project, Eckerd Raising Hope, The Shepherd Center, Living in Faith, Temple Ahavat Shalom, local schools, families, children and the elderly. Over the last five years, The Hearts of Gold Holiday Fair has helped provide over a 1,000 holiday meals to families in our area.

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Guests will pay $10 (tax-deductible donation) at the door for unlimited possibilities to finish up your holiday shopping! Complimentary hors d’oeuvres, exciting raffle, silent auction, celebrity guests, free gift wrapping and more!

Vendor tables are $75 for a 6-ft. table or $100 for a 9-ft. table and are tax-deductible. Vendors are required to donate $50 retail value merchandise for the raffles. Electricity is available if needed; tables and linens are supplied by Cypress Run Golf Club.

For more information, please visit: www.4-Hearts.org or contacting Rose Chervitz at rose@4Hearts.org or (727) 421-6800.

Looking for a Hot Halloween Costume?

Intimate Desires, A Boutique for Romance, located at 33955 US 19 N, in the plaza behind Carrabbas Italian Grill, has hundreds of costumes available. Owner Penny has a great selection of sexy Halloween costumes for both women and men –

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women’s sizes include Juniors (3-5) and X-Small to 3X Plus sizes; men’s S-XL. Intimate Desires has all of the accessories you need to be the best dressed at the party.

Get fishnets, corsets, masks, and much more. Choose from hundreds of costumes many of which two-in-one costumes perfect for those who have more than one event to attend.

Men can choose to be a pirate, doctor, Dracula or many others and ladies choices are too numerous to mention them all.

There are light-up costumes, pin-up girls, and 2-in-1 costumes such as “Twice Bitten” vampires, “Dames at Sea” pirate and sailor girl, “Feline Beauty, Spider Cutie,” and “When the Cats Away” featuring a mouse and cat costume, or “A Tail of Two Seas” featuring a mermaid and sailor – and those are just a sampling!

Call (727) 329-6877 or visit intimatedesires4u.com for additional information about the store. Hours are Mon. – Sat., 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sun., 12 – 5 p.m.

OCTOBER 2012

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

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OCTOBER 2012

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Community Calendar

East Lake Silver Sound Classic Sat., Oct. 13, 3–10 PM––The East Lake Silver Sound Marching Band will be hosting it’s annual Classic Competition on Oct. 13. The cost is $15 per adult, $8 per child and children younger than 5 are free.

Mission Possible: Silent Auction to Help Mission Efforts Sat., Nov. 3––The people of East Lake United Methodist Church are working to support their local efforts, United Methodist Cooperative Ministries, Tampa and international ministries in Haiti and Cuba with a silent auction and barbeque to raise monies for these ministries.

Donations for auction items accepted until Oct. 15. For information, visit www.EastLakeUMC.org and double click on ‘Mission Possible.’ East Lake United Methodist Church is at 2801 East Lake Rd. in Palm Harbor.

Haunted Fire House Mixes Fun with an Important Reminder Fri. & Sat. evenings in Oct., 7-10 PM––East Lake Fire Rescue’s Haunted

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Fire House featuring the ‘Don’t Text and Drive’ theme promise a fantastic scare! “The response from the 3,400 visitors in 2011 was fantastic and this year’s 2012 Haunted Fire House promises to be even bigger and better,” said East Lake’s District Chief Bill Edling, the event’s chief architect.

East Lake Fire Rescue Station 57, is located at 3375 Tarpon Lake Blvd.

A donation of $5 is requested, benefiting the East Lake Firefighters’ Good and Welfare fund. Guests park at the nearby Lansbrook Golf Club on Village Center Dr. off of East Lake Rd. Shuttle service to the Haunted Fire House is complimentary.

The Haunted Fire House is a 4,000-sq.-ft., walk-through, dark attraction filled with terrifying live actors, creatures and amazing special effects.

The Haunted Fire House is a highly intensive scare. Actors are well trained in safety and make guests feel a part of the action. Not recommend for children ages 12 and under. For more information, visit www.fearthecaptain.com, or call Station 57, Monday – Friday at (727) 784-8668.

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Trinity Family Physicians Honor Patients being Treated for Breast Cancer In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month in October and to honor those currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer, Trinity Family Physicians will be offering beautiful head scarves to breast cancer patients. Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is proud to help notify residents of the generous giveaway that Dr. Amir Shirmohammad and Dr. Stephanie Eldridge have arranged that is meant to give something beautiful to women who are undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

“Trinity Family Physicians is committed to our patients and the greater good of our community,” says Dr. Shirmo, as he is affectionately called by his patients. “We hope that we can raise awareness during breast cancer awareness month and help those in treatment.”

Every Wednesday during October and November (*while supplies last), during the hours of 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. and 2 – 4 p.m., Trinity

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Family Physicians invites all women who are currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer to come to the office with a note from their physician to receive a free head scarf (one scarf per person).

Trinity Family Physicians is located at the corner of Duck Slough and Trinity Blvds., 1817 Cypress Brook Dr., Suite 101, in Trinity. For more information, call (727) 834–8377 or visit www.trinityfamilyphysicians.com.

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

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OCTOBER 2012

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Come and join the Angel Family!

See what some of our loyal customers have to say!

HERE WE GROW AGAIN! on 20 years in the business to Donna and her teams. Donna and C ongratulations The Cleaning Angels initially came to my home in 2010 to offer an evaluation of my cleaning needs. It took only one visit to recognize that their service was considerably different than my previous ones. Their reliability, honesty and dedication to excellent service has proven itself again and again.

-Michelle Marquis, Clearwater, Florida We have used The Cleaning Angel Cleaning Service for the past two and a half years. Every two weeks we are more than satisfied with the service especially with Ileah who has been the head of the cleaning team that services our home.

Their work is a very thorough professional cleaning. They are always prompt, courteous, trustworthy and willing to adapt to our schedule. Along with the regular cleaning each time, they include the baseboards, light fixtures and ceiling fans, blinds and much much more. Our home is always sparkling every time.

-Sue and John Kelly Wyntree, New Port Richey, FL I hired the Cleaning Angels over a year ago to help keep my house clean, so I would have time to pick up more shifts at work, to help make ends meet. On my initial interview with Donna Ferrante, she came to my home and we walked through the house together. She gave details of her business and work ethic and expectations for customer satisfaction. Donna and her staff are extremely personable and very professional. I feel like everyone cares if I am satisfied or not. The Cleaning Angels staff has gone above and beyond to work with my husband and my difficult work schedules. I highly recommend the Cleaning Angels to assist in housing maintenance. They do a great job, they are reasonably priced, and with the time I save from having to clean the house myself, I am able to pick up extra shifts at work and do other errands and chores. Love, Love, Love!!!!

-Jennifer Mugianis, Tarpon Springs, FL We have used The Cleaning Angel for just over a year and I wonder how we ever got by without them! Our first meeting was with the company's owner, Donna; she made us feel very confident and comfortable about the service her company would be providing. Donna assured us that what was promised would be delivered because it was her name on the line. As business owners ourselves the message was loud and clear and we decided to give them a try. The Cleaning Angel has provided the phenomenal service that Donna promised and more. Our regular team, Ivonne and Anna are dependable, honest, pleasant, hardworking and efficient. They come in and get the job done. Thank you "Cleaning Angels" for making the task of maintaining my home easier on me!

-Esther and Michael Halman, Crescent Oaks, Tarpon Springs, FL

We have been using The Cleaning Angels for over a year now and are very happy with their promptness, consistency of cleaning and assignment of regular team lead that we have come to know and appreciate very much. I have also been impressed with their attention to quality of service and willingness to stand behind their commitment to make things right, when necessary. We used various cleaners over the years prior to The Cleaning Angels and found that there was always something annoying about their process or commitment to detail. I would highly recommend using The Cleaning Angel Cleaning Service and have every intention of continuing use of their services moving forward.

Julie Ann Wessinger Cambridge Cove, Lutz

I have had the great pleasure of hiring and being in the company of the Cleaning Angels Cleaning Service. They are incredibly accommodating and have superior customer service. I have rarely come across a service organization that is so professional and extremely pleasant to work with. Every time "the Angels " come to my house, it gets better and better. Budget cuts have hit the majority of Americans, but I will give up other things before I would ever consider giving up "my Angels".

-Tina Redmond, Keystone Bluffs, Tarpon Springs, FL The Cleaning Angel has been a consistent and dependable cleaning service, working around our family, house guests and home construction. They have been responsive to our special requests and once they know what we like, they provide great value added customer service. I would recommend them to others.

-Susan Rolston, East Lake Woodlands, Oldsmar, FL As far as I am concerned there is only one cleaning service in the Tampa Bay area and that is the Cleaning Angels. They came into my home the first time and did a deep spring clean and was I ever blown away. I have never seen a cleaning service do the detail work these girls did. Donna sent four girls and they stayed for seven hours and my home is about 2700 sq. ft. They hand washed all my baseboards, did the blinds in a three step process, washed every door and door frame in the whole house, moved every little knick knack and got into every little corner possible. Two weeks before I used a different service that promised a spring clean. They sent two girls that stayed in my home for 2-½ hours. After throwing my money away I was referred to Donna by someone in Land o Lakes. I’ve told many people if you are looking for your home to be cleaned correctly, don’t waste your time on other maid services. Call the Cleaning Angels if you want it done right and you will never have to find anyone else. Congratulations on your 20 years and hope you have many, many more.

-Betty Bennett, Odessa, FL Donna and her team at Cleaning Angels have been cleaning our house for over 4 years now and have done a terrific job. They are dependable, friendly, thorough and trustworthy. Her teams are willing to go the extra mile to make sure our home is extremely clean.

Having the Cleaning Angel team clean our house has most importantly allowed us the valuable time that we typically would have spent cleaning, to be spent with our family.

Congratulations Donna on 20 years of exceptional work!

-Michele Friedman, Trinity Oaks, Trinity, FL

Before I started with the Cleaning Angels, I had tried numerous cleaning services. I was never happy with the results until I met Donna six years ago. She actually was still cleaning herself at that time. Congratulations for expanding your business and making it to 20 years. The service is always excellent - they are prompt, efficient, professional, and their appearance is always great. They always have the correct products and equipment and their attention to detail goes above and beyond. My current lead is Ileah and she has been cleaning my house for several years and I just love her. I am very active in the Trinity community and have recommended the Cleaning Angels to many people.

-Sandy Alekson, Champions Club, Trinity, FL I have been using the services of The Cleaning Angel for over seven years. When I first started, Donna herself was doing the cleaning and occasionally bringing another assistant. I am so proud of what she has accomplished since then and how she has grown. All her employees are very efficient, punctual, and extremely pleasant and have a tremendous eye for detail. Her professionalism is the best. I am very impressed with the way Donna runs the business. It is nice to see girls in clean uniform, non-slip shoes, no cell phones and top of the line equipment and chemicals. I also appreciate the customer service that comes from her office.

Claire Ellis East Lake

Let the Cleaning Angel Free Up Your Time So You Can Enjoy Your Fall!

$75 OFF Deep Cleaning Special!

We Now Also Offer Commercial Cleaning!

Voted #1 in Tampa Bay! 8

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OCTOBER 2012

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

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OCTOBER 2012

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The one-on-one attention that Travel Leaders provides to its customers is first class. Lisa and fellow travel agents Alexandra, Toni and Jean will customize your travel to fit your lifestyle, personality and budget, so your travel experience is exactly what you want. This is a company dedicated to helping clients travel in style and with affordability. Travel Leaders is able to provide better value, service and amenities at exclusive rates that are only available through the Travel Leaders Travel Network.

Many people believe that the internet is the best way to plan a vacation, but the reality is that many times you cannot be sure of what you are getting. Travel Leaders excels in making sure that its clients have the best vacation possible.

“We are here to save our clients time and money,” says Lisa.

Lisa and the agents at Travel Leaders encourage clients to preview travel op-

“Let Your Journey Begin With Us”

By Katie Thomas Travel Leaders is your friendly and professional full service travel agency.

They have years of personal experience, training and trusted relationships with travel suppliers that enable them to offer you exclusive savings that you wouldn’t find through other travel agents or online. Their experienced staff takes the time to get to know you, your travel preferences, your dreams and your travel budget, which ultimately can save you time and money when planning your trip. They will plan a getaway that exceeds your expectations and offers you the best value for your hard earned vacation time and dollars.

The staff at Travel Leaders will be there to help you throughout your trip, from packing tips before you

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leave and rebooking if unforeseen weather or circumstances occur, to dinner recommendations, travel cancellation insurance, booking excursions, all the way until you’re home – with beautiful memories of your journey.

Travel Leaders recently moved to the Fountains Plaza of Palm Harbor and will hold a Grand Opening celebrating the new location on October 12. The company was previously located in Gulf View Square Mall, where they had been for over 25 years. Travel Leaders owner Lisa Bernstein-Savvinidis is originally from New York and has been in the business for over 35 years has always had a passion for travel and providing expert travel planning for her clients. Lisa says, “We are here to build relationships with our clients and find exactly what it is they are looking for.”

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OCTOBER 2012

tions to get an idea of what they would like, and to visit their office for expert advice before making any decisions. They are there to make sure that you get the best possible value and that you are booking your trip with a reputable company.

The Travel Leaders team is constantly training and working to stay up to date with the latest destination information. “There is no pressure at our office and we are considered a boutique-style agency due to our personalized service and the ability to meet our clients expectations,” says Lisa.

Feeling excited, nervous and overwhelmed are all parts of planning a trip. Travel Leaders takes the stress out of the planning and leaves their cus-

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

Travel Leaders, located at the Fountains Plaza in Palm Harbor, has friendly and experienced travel agents ready to help you plan the perfect getaway! tomers feeling at ease, happy and comfortable in the choices made for their destination.

Jean Jester from Tarpon Springs used Travel Leaders and experienced an unforgettable journey. Jean says, “Lisa is a superb travel agent. She has a quality that all good personal service providers must possess. She listens to her clients and then figures out how to deliver exactly what they want or need, sometimes even before they know it

themselves. I have referred friends and relatives to her, some who were inexperienced travelers, and others who were widely traveled. In all cases, she managed to deliver the perfect travel plan for each of them. She is extremely detail oriented, and leaves nothing to chance. She organized a complex trip for my husband and me this summer that involved a visit to seven countries, and a cruise to St. Petersburg, Russia with such efficiency that all that was

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

left for me to do was pack. This kind of service takes much of the anxiety out of travel and makes it possible to really enjoy a trip without sweating the details.”

Lisa, Alexandra ,Toni, Jean are all dedicated working together as a team at Travel Leaders to bring you the journey that you have been in search of. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, a family reunion, destination wedding, honeymoon, cruises, escorted tours, corporate leisure or just a well-rounded, full of fun, easy vacation – Travel Leaders has you covered 100 percent.

There is no better gift than travel.

The memories made aren’t disposable; you and your loved ones will cherish the experiences shared and wonderful times spent together. With the holidays coming up quick, Travel Leaders suggests travel gift cards or a special

holiday trip for your family. Forget about unwrapping gifts – treat yourself to the joys of unwrapping the world through travel!

October 12th is Travel Leaders Grand Opening celebration and the Travel Leaders team invites all who wish to participate in the party to RSVP! Travel Leaders also will be a part of the Fountains Festival on November 11th to celebrate all the wonderful businesses located in the Palm Harbor Fountains Plaza. Come out and enjoy the fun!

Travel Leaders is located at 34896 U.S. Highway 19 in Palm Harbor. Visit Travel Leaders on Facebook for upcoming deals at www.facebook.com/travel-leadersof-palm-harbor and for more information call (727) 400-4800, visit www.TravelLeaders.com or email info@travelworksus.com.

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OCTOBER 2012

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

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OCTOBER 2012

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General Window Cleaning – A New Generation to Serve You

By Dara Tucker Our torrential summer rains and heat are becoming a memory and fall’s cooler days are approaching, allowing us to open our windows. But, what if your windows are covered with water marks from all of our rain? General Window Cleaning and Pressure Washing can help you enjoy clean windows this fall season, guaranteed to have no rundowns or streaks, They can also pressure wash your pool cage, deck, patio furniture, and front driveway before the holidays start, so they look almost new again.

Owners Tony and Tricia Oszaniec started their company in Florida with their son, Steven, six years ago. Before the couple moved here they owned a window cleaning business in Tennessee for 23 years. Tony explains, “We built the company up to be one of the largest window cleaning companies in Tennessee. We were the official window cleaners of the Tennessee Ti-

tans’ stadium and we held the contract with the Nashville Metropolitan Government, washing all of the government buildings. We also did the houses of many famous country stars such as Johnny Cash.”

Window cleaning is more than a job for the Oszaniec family; it’s a source of family pride. Three of Tony’s five brothers own their own window cleaning business, as well as his brother-in-law. Now that Steven has returned home from serving in the Marine Corps he is taking over the family business, officially becoming the next generation to own General Window Cleaning. Steven has learned from both his parents and from his service as a United States Marine that quality is not to be compromised when you’re working on a job. In addition to his work ethic, Steven brings to the business the knowledge he gained from his business degree from Coastal Carolina Community College in Jacksonville, North Carolina.

No window cleaning job is too large or too small for owner Steven Oszaniec and the General Window Cleaning team - Call today for a free estimate Steven says, “We have a family tradition of quality work. Like my parents, I believe in service with a smile. The experience and energy that I bring as I take over the company will help us continue our productivity.”

General Window Cleaning is li-

censed, bonded and insured, and they also are members of the International Window Cleaning Association (IWCA). Since they are a small company, they have a low overhead and are able to pass that savings onto their customers. An example is that many

companies charge extra to clean the tracts and screens to the windows, which Steven says is part of a standard cleaning.

After you set up an appointment with Tricia, who is still handling some of the office manager duties, Steven arrives with his truck fully equipped to clean windows or pressure wash.

Cleaning the tracts and screens is the first step to their process. Next they use a professional grade cleaning mixture that includes tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) and professional grade squeegees. One person cleans the in-

side of the window, while the other person cleans the outside. It takes them around two hours to make the average house’s windows clean and streak-free, while most customers say it takes them all day to clean the same house themselves.

Carol Hadden of New Port Richey asked for an estimate to clean her windows when they recently purchased their house. Carol explains, “I don’t think our windows had been cleaned in the seven years before we moved in. My husband thought we would do it ourselves, but he was

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

taken by surprise at how good it looked after having General Window Cleaning here. The windows look like they aren’t even there anymore. Even if I were to have any complaints though, you just call them up and they come right back to fix it with no extra charge, but they really just come out sparkling.”

Carol also had General Window Cleaning pressure wash for her after they noticed a corner area that dirt and mold built up on an exterior wall.

Carol says, “I wasn’t sure about having it done, but he said that he would just try to clean it, and he wouldn’t charge for it. We were so happy with how it turned out we paid to have them pressure wash our driveway and sidewalk. My daughter also had them pressure wash her pool deck and pool cage and wash her windows.”

A new service that General Window Cleaning is offering to customers is repainting old pool decks and resealing pavers. Steven explains, “When customers want to update their pool deck repainting the surface is a much less expensive and less time consuming option than putting in pavers. If you already have pavers we can renew them by resealing them.”

“Karen Frohlich of Tarpon Springs likes how General Window Cleaning goes above-and-beyond just cleaning their windows. Karen says, “In the two years we’ve been in our house we’ve had three different window cleaners. The first one I didn’t feel were as professional as I was comfortable with, and the second one didn’t have the manpower to finish the large amount of windows we have effectively. The morning of my daughter’s birthday party we had General Window Cleaning come out, and they were able to do all of our windows in the morning. When I noticed that they also did pressure washing I asked

if I could set up an appointment for them to pressure wash another time.

They said they could do it that same day. They went back to get their pressure washer and were able to pressure wash all of my pavers before the party.

Even when they were washing the windows, they noticed a wasp nest up on the second story, and asked me if it was okay if they removed it for us.”

Karen emphasized that General Window Cleaning’s owners are the sincerest, nicest people. She said that since she has found them, if there’s anything she needs done around the house, she calls General Window Cleaning first to see if it’s something they do.

As Steven says, “I’ve served Uncle Sam. Now I’m ready to serve you.”

General Window Cleaning is available for both residential and commercial window cleaning and pressure washing. They are currently offering a 25 percent discount to new customers who are military veterans, and a 20 percent discount to new customers who are seniors. Please call Tricia at 8313487 to set up a time for Steven to give you a free estimate.

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“Get More for Your Closet”

By Katie Thomas The seasons are changing and fall is right around the corner, which means it’s time to pull out the scarves, sweaters, boots and other fall fashion accessories! Clothes Mentor on U.S. 19 in the Fountains Plaza, is the perfect place to update your wardrobe inexpensively with the latest fashions or bring in your gently used clothing for cash! With 1000s of new items per week, you are bound to find something you love at Clothes Mentor.

Dick and Kathleen Murdock opened Clothes Mentor in 2011 as a new way to make a living and to facilitate an exchange between neighbors within the community. Dick and Kathleen are committed to fresh choices for customers and are extremely pleased with the high turnover rate at which clothes enter and leave the store. Dick explains, “Nearly half of everything I

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sale has been in the store for less than a month.”

The Clothes Mentor team is dedicated to offering the community the most sought after brand names that are in “like-new” condition for about 70 percent off of mall and other retail store prices. Clothes, shoes, purses and accessories are organized by size, color and style, which make it easy for you to find exactly what you’re looking for. Clothes Mentor offers a wide spectrum of brand name clothing in great condition from sizes 0- 26 and shoes from sizes 5-12!

“Many customers comment on our organization, size selection and cleanliness,” says Dick. “One customer recently told me that we have the largest selection in sizes that are fashionable and in style!”

On The Spot Cash Unlike a consignment shop,

Clothes Mentor pays you immediately for any items that are in acceptable quality for resale. The amount Clothes Mentor pays is based upon brand name, condition, style and current demand. Clothes Mentor strives to buy clothing that is young in age and will accept clothing that is 12 to 18 months in age. You never need an appointment at Clothes Mentor – you can sell your items to the store any time as long as it is one hour before

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closing time. Clothes Mentor suggests that the items you bring in be in good condition, freshly laundered and in current style in order to keep the store stocked with the best quality merchandise possible.

Cleaning out your closet can seem to be an overwhelming task, but Clothes Mentor has some tips that will help you out during the process of refreshing your wardrobe. Dick says, “Your closet tends to tell your present,

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

have tons of room for new items that will freshen up your wardrobe and style.

past and future. We tend to hold on to items that we think we will one day wear again or fit into after we get to the size we want to be. We suggest starting with one element at a time and going from there.”

A great way to find out what you do or do not wear is to apply the hanger trick in your closet – reverse your hangers at the beginning of the month, as you wear and put your clothes back away place the hanger the right facing way, after a month or two, check and see which items are still hanging on reverse hangers and from there you can decide whether or not to keep it or sale it to Clothes Mentor!

Once you have cleaned out your closet and drawers you will feel relieved and

Three Big WOW’s!

Dick says, “When you step into Clothes Mentor, you will experience three wows!” The first wow will occur over the ambiance of Clothes Mentor. It is a well-lighted, spacious and friendly atmosphere. The second wow happens once you start to shop around; the prices and choices will astonish you!

The third wow you will experience has to do with the wonderful shopping experience and fabulous customer service you receive at Clothes Mentor.

Clothes Mentor strives to build ongoing, long lasting relationships with each and every customer. Clothes Mentor has wonderful coaches on staff that help you create the style sense you are looking for. Friendly, fun and energetic coaches offer you boutique customer service that you won’t find at other second-hand stores. Alterations are available on-site, allowing you to

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

get the perfect fit.

Palm Harbor local Barbara says, “I found a great white linen jacket at Clothes Mentor. It was a steal and the perfect item to spice up my summer work wardrobe! The staff was friendly and I had no problem at all finding the item I went in search of.”

Clothes Mentor works hand-inhand with Community Pride, which a non-profit organization that passes on needed clothing to charities. A bin is filled every week with clothing for Community Pride and what isn’t donated is sold to a recycled rags com-

pany and the check is given to a local charity. Dick and Kathleen are all about helping the community where they can, because without the existing community’s support and business there would be no Clothes Mentor!

Clothes Mentor is located at 34888 U.S. Highway 19 N. in Palm Harbor. For more information visit www.ClothesMentor.com or check out their Facebook page.

Call (727) 216-6101 with any questions. Happy Shopping, Happy Selling!

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Barkdoll Massage Therapy, Where the Massage Comes to You

By Julie Kanehl Massage is a universal language that has been “spoken” for centuries in every region of the globe, and it has many benefits including the ability to reduce anxiety, relieve pain, reduce blood pressure, and aid in relaxation.

For many people, massage is a rare treat that they look forward to at the spa or as an experience during their vacation. Others use massage on a regular basis to help with chronic pain, reduce inflammation or to help heal after an injury. Whatever your reason for wanting a massage, Barkdoll Massage Therapy makes it easy, affordable and best of all, Barkdoll comes to you.

Barkdoll Massage Therapy, which is an entirely mobile-based massage business, is based in the Trinity area and is owned and operated by Licensed Professional, Karla Barkdoll, who has been in the massage industry since 2001. Serving Trinity and the surrounding communities, Barkdoll Massage Therapy is completely different in that it takes all of the stress out of your massage experience by bringing it straight to you. No traffic, no stress, just pure relaxation where you feel most comfortable!

Originally from a small town in central Pennsylvania, Karla moved to Baltimore where she trained at the Baltimore School of Massage. Licensed in Maryland, DC, Virginia and Florida, Karla is a member of the American Massage Therapy Association, and is Nationally Board Certified.

Karla’s massages can be done anywhere – at home, poolside, or at the office. Most of her clients choose the room in their house that offers the least distractions, and there she creates a wonderful environment for massage.

She also takes the time to really speak

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to her clients before their massage to learn more about them so that she can create the best personalized massage experience.

Lindsey from New Port Richey says, “If you are looking for the best massage, then look no further than Karla, she is a rare find. Once you have a massage from Karla, you will look no further, that I will guarantee!”

Massage Services that Improve Your Life “Your Health is your Wealth” is the philosophy at Barkdoll Massage Therapy, and that is why Karla takes the time to really find out what kind of massage you prefer, whether it’s a Swedish massage or a deep tissue treatment for chronic pain, Karla’s massage will make a difference in your life.

Karla offers a wide range of affordable massage therapy styles and packages. If you are looking for a traditional massage, Swedish massage treatments are designed to improve circulation, reduce stress and to relieve muscle tension. This massage is very popular all over the world because of its light, long, and slow strokes that relax your cares and worries away. If you are interested in trying something a little different, hot stone massages use something called warm stone therapy, which is the art of using heated stones in combination with a Swedish massage. According to Karla, the warm stones dissolve muscle tension and induce a deep relaxation.

Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic treatment designed to ease the pain and discomfort associated with chronic pain. Karla says, “During deep tissue massages I use trigger points to specifically find the places where the work needs to be done.” Deep tissue massages can help people who live with

painful conditions live a fuller life.

Another style of massage that Karla offers is sports massage and injury rehabilitation. This style of massage combines the benefits and style of a deep tissue massage with stretching, which can improve the range of motion in joints. Whether you are healing after a car accident or are suffering from chronic pain associated with a medical condition, this kind of massage can be extremely beneficial.

One of Karla’s clients from Trinity recently said, “I have had the pleasure of having Karla as a massage therapist for the past six years and it has always been an enriching and healing experience. She is knowledgeable, professional and a kind-hearted person and I have no hesitation in recommending her service. She has hands of gold!”

Prenatal massages are a fantastic way to pamper the mom-to-be while easing some of the side effects of pregnancy. Karla uses specially designed massage table pillows that create a comfortable position just for her during this time, so that pregnant moms can safely enjoy their massage.

Aromatherapy is proven to aid in relaxation, which is why Barkdoll Massage Therapy offers a variety of essential oils and scents that can be used in collaboration with any other style of massage. Most often used with a Swedish massage, aromatherapy oils are applied by Karla during your massage to enhance the massage experience.

One local couple recently wrote, “We all have very busy schedules and it saves us time and stress to have Karla come right to our home. My husband has chronic pain and her weekly massages help him tremendously.

Whether you just want a great stress reliever or you have a medical condi-

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Licensed Massage Therapist Karla Barkdoll tion I would highly recommend Karla!”

If you are looking for a fantastic way to improve morale at work, how about offering your employees a corporate seated massage? This is a fully clothed, seated massage that can be done right at the office. This style of massage focuses on the back, neck, shoulders, scalp, arms and hands.

What a great way to let your employees know how much you care about them!

My Massage with Karla I am a huge fan of massages. I go every chance I get, but to be honest, that isn’t very often. When I’m not busy with my family or writing for the Neighborhood News, I’m like most moms and am usually concerned with everyone else’s comfort over my own.

That’s why I was so excited to be given the chance to experience one of Karla’s massages by the staff at Neighborhood News. (Thanks Jim!)

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

Scheduling my massage turned out to be a breeze because Barkdoll Massage Therapy is one of the only places that offers evening massage appointments. It was all very easy for me since I wasn’t going to have to worry about driving anywhere or a babysitter for the kids! On the evening of my massage appointment, I simply picked out a quiet room in the house, sent the kids outside to play with my hubby, and got ready to enjoy my massage.

Karla arrived right on time and brought everything she needed with her. A true professional, Karla even wears a clinical massage uniform.

Within just a few minutes Karla had set up the massage table and was set up and ready to go. I was really impressed with how quickly the room I had picked had been transformed. Before we started she spoke to me about what kind of massage treatment I wanted, and she asked if I had any injuries that she needed to be aware of.

We decided on a combination Swedish and deep tissue massage. She also offered me many different aromatherapy options from rose oil to eucalyptus. I felt totally at ease, and while she stepped out of the room, I comfortably got onto the massage table and got settled.

When Karla came back in a moment later, she put on what I like to call “massage music,” and spoke to me about what she was going to do before she began. To my surprise, I was even more relaxed because I was at home. I enjoyed the entire hour instead of wondering how many minutes had passed, or wondering about the kids. I felt safe, pampered and well cared for.

After my massage, I felt like a softened stick of butter, and I was able to just put on my slippers instead of my shoes! This was an incredibly cool experience that made me feel more centered, and really changed my out-

look. I felt great for days and my entire family could see what a difference it made for me both physically and emotionally.

I can see that a massage with Karla would be a great gift, which is why I’m so happy that she offers gift certificates, but one of the best parts about Barkdoll Massage Therapy is how affordable it is. I might not have to wait for a special occasion because her pricing is competitive and affordable enough to fit into anyone’s budget on a regular basis. From now on, I’m going to take better care of myself, and that includes having massage treatments from Barkdoll Massage Therapy on a regular basis. See you in a few weeks Karla!

Barkdoll Massage Therapy is an entirely mobile massage therapy business that comes to you. Karla Barkdoll (License # MA47546) is available Mon., Tues. and Wed., from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., and on other days by appointment only. To schedule an appointment or request more information about massage packages, corporate events or gift certificates, call (727) 372-6389 or you may email Karla at barkdollmassagetherapy@yahoo.com.

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“Medical Center” Continued from page 1 Surgical System as a high-tech tool in providing the best possible outcome in surgery.

Robot-assisted surgeries are less invasive, safer and actually allow for greater precision than the human hand can generate, as well as visual clarity that simply isn’t possible with the naked eye. Patients may enjoy a shorter hospital stay, a much shorter recovery time, minimal scarring and in many cases, surgeons are able to preserve more tissue than they would be able to with traditional open surgeries. There may be less blood loss and much less pain with a da Vinci® robot-assisted surgery.

The idea of surgical robotics was little more than a curiosity until 1999, the year Intuitive Surgical introduced the da Vinci® Surgical System. Community Hospital, now named Medical Center of Trinity, first acquired a da Vinci® Surgical System in 2006. With the purchase of the very latest model, physicians have even more capabilities including Single-Site incision surgery for many conditions. The da Vinci® Surgical System provides advanced technology and procedural innovation across cardiac, thoracic, urology, gynecologic, colorectal, pediatric and general surgical disciplines.

There is extensive training involved in this technique which involves the entire robot-assisted surgery team.

Intuitive Surgical’s training program, named Genesis, helps to establish operational excellence. The seamless introduction of new technologies, such as the da Vinci® Surgical System, involves surgeons, operation room staff and hospital administrators, all of whom are trained with the common goal of providing an excellent quality of care through an ongoing focus on procedural proficiency, operations and training for a competitive advantage. “We

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are fortunate to have Intuitive Surgical’s Genesis program,” says CEO Massengill. “It is a safety and efficiency evaluation program that helps us to implement the best practices from other facilities.”

Local Medical Experts Explain Robotics in Relatable Terms Just trying to grasp the whole picture of how robotic-assisted surgery works could have been a very daunting task. Fortunately, I was able to speak with the nurses who make up the robotics team at Medical Center of Trinity and three of the local physicians who are experts in the field of roboticassisted surgery who helped put this high-tech tool in layman’s terms for me.

Lori Bruney, RN, CNOR (Certified Nurse Operating Room), is the robotics surgery coordinator at Medical Center of Trinity. She and her team are extremely dedicated to their patients and supporting the physicians to make the robotics program a complete success. Bruney says, “Robotic surgery offers so many more options to the physician and is a much less invasive procedure for the patient.” The rest of the robotics team includes: Celena Dilley, RN, Chris Poratta, CST (Certified Surgical Technologist), Laura Smith, RN, CNOR, MariGrace Brenner, CST, Becky Fisher, CST, Mary Lettie, RN, CNOR and Administrative Director Lisa Richardson, MHA, RN, CNOR, who shares, “The team component is crucial – you have to have the right people in place at the right time.”

At this time, the da Vinci® Surgical System is used for robot-assisted surgeries in the areas of gynecology, urology, general surgery, and thoracic surgery.

Local gynecologists who are trained to utilize the advanced da Vinci® technology at Medical Center of Trinity are: Arleigh Ancheta, DO, Renuka Ramappa, MD, Robert Smith, MD and Parveen Vahora, MD.

Urologists using the da Vinci® Surgical System are Yaser Bassel, MD and David DiPiazza, MD. Keith Chisholm, MD, uses the da Vinci® system for general surgery procedures and Thoracic specialist Louis Astra, MD is helping thoracic surgery patients with this amazing technology.

Dr. Keith Chisholm took a few minutes out of a busy day to speak with me. He is the first general Dr. Parveen Vahora (standing) shows Kim Thomas surgeon in the area to offer how surgeons use the da Vinci® Surgical System robotic-assisted surgery.

Parveen Vahora, MD, a wellThe older da Vinci® didn’t offer this known and respected gynecologist who capability, but now Dr. Chisholm is is personally invested in the local comable to perform robot-assisted general munity through various organizations surgery procedures for gallbladder disincluding the Seven Springs Rotary ease, hiatal hernia, colon cancer, diverClub, showed me first-hand how the da ticular disease, as well as conditions Vinci® robot makes surgery safer for affecting the stomach and esophagus patients and, under the skilled hands of with excellent results. “The robot is a trained physician, it actually provides unique in that it allows much greater degrees of movement than laparoscopic an easier approach to surgery.

“There is a tremendous amount of surgery,” explains Dr. Chisholm. training that is required of the surgeon The ‘wristed motion’ allows the robot ‘arm’ or ‘hand’ to rotate 360 de- and the surgical team. We are all comgrees – unlike the human hand – giving mitted to continual training and learning the new advances in technology to the surgeon ease of access to the surgibring the best care possible to the pacal site. Dr. Chisholm visited the USF tients at Medical Center of Trinity,” Health Center for Advanced Medical says Dr. Vahora. Some of the gynecolLearning and Simulation (CAMLS), a national leading center for surgical sim- ogical surgical the da Vinci® system is used for include hysterectomy, sacroulation, automation, and innovation colpopexy for vaginal prolapse, mythat is right here in our backyard, in Tampa. Dr. Chisholm says that exciting omectomies for removal of fibroids and new innovations are on the horizon; for endometriosis. “If you have to have any of these procedures, you want to have instance, elbow movement of instruit at this hospital because we are so ments, which will allow surgeons even dedicated and committed to providing greater dexterity. the best outcome possible,” says Dr. “Another exciting program is the Vahora. “This is the best hospital and Single-Site surgery capability of robotthe nursing staff treat patients like royassisted surgery,” says Dr. Chisholm.

“This will allow multiple instruments to alty. My patients rave about how well they are treated, they are happy and be inserted through the same site.” able to go home the next day.”

While this isn’t available yet at Medical “We have a dedicated team, from Center of Trinity, it is coming very surgical support to administration, and soon.

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East Lake Area Neighborhood News

Arleigh Ancheta, DO

Louis Astra, MD

they make it easy for me to do surgery safely and efficiently,” says Dr. Vahora.

“With laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon only has use of two hands with forceps-like motion, but the robot allows access to four hands.” Those four “hands” replace human hands and give 360-degree wristed motion rotation on three of the hands while the fourth is a 3-D high definition camera.

With the da Vinci® system, the physician is comfortably and ergonomically seated with a 3-D view of the surgical site, while the rest of the team is attending to the patient and monitoring everything that is happening. The team has large-screen views of the surgical site in 2-D, but still with high-definition. The surgeon is controlling the arms including the camera but the team is very much involved.

Dr. Vahora demonstrated how with the touch of a button the seat and

Yaser Bassel, MD

Keith Chisholm, MD

controls automatically adjust to pre-set setting that perfectly align the physician for optimal comfort and control. She demonstrated how clear the 3-D camera made everything by using one of the arms to pick up a penny from the training tool – you could clearly and easily see Abraham Lincoln sitting in the middle of the Lincoln Memorial on the back of the penny, which is nearly impossible with the naked eye.

Dr. Vahora and the robotic surgery team even let me try my hand at controlling the robot arms and I must say that I was floored by the ingenuity of this system. Using the thumbs and middle fingers of each hand and my feet, I was able to move the camera closer or farther away from the training tool, and learned to freeze the second arm in place while enabling the third arm. This is important because the surgeon can use a tool to gently grasp tis-

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David DiPiazza, MD

Robert Smith, MD

Renuka Ramappa, MD

sue, such as an artery or vein, and move it securely out the way, then freeze it there without any movement whatsoever, like a shaky hand, and then switch to another arm to continue working.

Also amazing was the 3-D aspect, which makes a huge difference in depth perception. With a 2-D view – the view a surgeon has with traditional laparoscopic surgery – I was instructed to get as close as possible to an object on the training tool. When I thought I was too close to go further, I was actually about one to two inches away; while with the 3-D view, I was able to get very close, go around and behind objects and get a realistic view of the actual depth I needed to go. This is a powerful tool in demonstrating the difference in degrees of depth perception and precision that are possible with the da Vinci® robot-assisted surgery as compared to laparoscopic surgery.

After a short break to absorb what I had learned, I was able to meet David DiPiazza, MD, of Urology Specialists of West Florida. Dr. DiPiazza routinely performs da Vinci® robotic surgeries including sacrocolpopexy (for vaginal prolapse), anterior exenteration (removal of bladder and pelvic organs in women with bladder cancer), cystoprostectomy (removal of bladder and prostate in men with cancer), pelvic lymphandectomy (removal of lymph nodes), prostatectomy (removal of prostate), partial and radical nephrectomy (removal of part or all of kidney due to cancer), adrenalectomy (removal of adrenal gland), and pyeloplasty (reconstruction of renal pelvis and ureter).

“I am able to get to the surgical site so much easier and quicker with the da Vinci® robot,” says Dr. DiPiazza. “Complex motions like sewing are much more difficult with laparoscopic surgery which is in 2-D compared to robotic surgery.” He continues to explain how additional training with other experienced surgeons using this advanced technology helps to fine-tune a surgeon’s technique. “It’s like one professional athlete closely watching another to learn his technique.” Dr. DiPiazza strives to constantly learn the fine aspects of robotic surgery from surgeons who have literally performed thousands of these

Parveen Vahora, MD

types of procedures.

Perhaps the best person to hear from though, is an actual patient. Dr. DiPiazza took me to meet Greg Crosswhite, an active grandfather from Niceville, Florida who decided to have surgery for kidney cancer at the stateof-the-art Medical Center of Trinity under the expert hands of Dr. DiPiazza who performed a partial nephrectomy via the da Vinci® Surgical System. The cancer was removed and the kidney was saved. Mr. Crosswhite had surgery the day before I met him and was already being released from the hospital. The first thing he said upon seeing Dr. DiPiazza was, “Can I shake your hand and thank you?” He told me that he first saw Dr. DiPiazza when he was in the area visiting his children and experienced pain from a kidney stone.

It was a minor inconvenience that ended up saving his life after tests revealed that he also had kidney cancer.

Mr. Crosswhite was eager to get home and was already able to walk. A surgery that ten years ago would have left him with a long scar along his flank and months of recovery is now minimally invasive and he is able to go home the very next day! “My pain level is low,” said Crosswhite. “I am absolutely glad that I chose this option!”

If you or a loved one is in need of a surgery that can be performed by a surgeon utilizing the da Vinci® Surgical System, you should most definitely consider the robotics program at Medical Center of Trinity. It offers surgery with minimal blood loss and scarring. It is much less invasive and doctors are able to save more tissue – as in Mr. Crosswhite’s case, where Dr. DiPiazza was able to entirely remove kidney cancer while saving the entire kidney. And, just ask a patient like Mr. Crosswhite, the best part is that your hospital stay will be much shorter and you will be back to your life much faster! “I can’t wait to bounce my grandkids on my knee again,” said Mr. Crosswhite.

The Medical Center of Trinity is located at 9330 SR 54 in Trinity, Florida. For additional information, visit MedicalCenterTrinity.com.

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House of Hobbies Celebrates 50 Years of Building Traditions

By Katie Thomas October 6, 2012 is a very special day at House of Hobbies in Palm Harbor. It marks the 50th Anniversary of this well-stocked hobby shop that has been serving the community with a way to satisfy their hobbyist needs since 1962! A hobby is a great way to pursue an interest and express creativity through a fun, relaxing activity. At House of Hobbies you can find all the components necessary to start a new hobby, finish a current project, learn something new and build relationships with like-minded people who have the answers to all of your hobby questions.

House of Hobbies owners Bob and Barbara Kotimaki have embraced the opportunity to help build family traditions and strengthen family ties through hobbies. Barbara says they have multiple generations of families as customers and she hears all the time, “I want my son’s first model to come from the same shop where I got my first model.” Even the littlest ones can enjoy building at House of Hobbies which has snap-together models that

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are easy for little hands to master. Bob and Barbara’s grandson Joshua built his very first model with his father by his side. “It was a special moment for both of them,” shares Barbara. “He is very protective of his model and keeps it on display in his room.”

As a hobby enthusiast, Bob wanted to offer a place where a person could walk in and find the hobby meant for their personal liking. Bob’s wife Barbara says, “There was not a hobby he was not interested in or involved in. He was determined to provide a hobby shop which provided all facets of model hobbies.”

Bob opened his first shop in Clearwater and after ten years of business there, he gained the success and repertoire it took to open a second shop in New Port Richey. The Clearwater store was in operation on Ft. Harrison Avenue for 42 years and the New Port Richey store operated for 32 years! Eight years ago, Bob merged the two stores to one location in Palm Harbor; Barbara and Jen (their daughter) help Bob run the new store.

House of Hobbies is celebrating its

50th year of offering excellent customer service to every age of hobby lover in the area. Bob’s determination to own a wonderful hobby shop with something for everyone has truly paid off – his store offers an enormous selection of all sorts of diverse and unique hobbies to choose from.

Prepare yourself before walking into House of Hobbies; you will be blown away by the gigantic assortment of fun to choose from. “Our products consist of all types,” says Barbara. “We have wood and plastic models, R/C products, rockets, trains, planes, pine cars, educational products and figurines of all types. From dollhouses to die cast cars! We also have a large variety of all the tools and supplies for your hobby.”

While visiting House of Hobbies, I enjoyed perusing over all the different assets people can buy to make their model plane, ship, boat, car or train set as realistic as possible. The selection was incredible! Not only does House of Hobbies have everything a hobby enthusiast could possibly need, they have the knowledge to help you with

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House of Hobbies has everything a hobbyist desires! any questions. Bob, Barbara and Jen have the know-how it takes to help you get started and complete a project. Customers rave over the wide selection available and the kindness each employee shows to customers.

“I have been shopping at the House of Hobbies since around

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

especially rewarding to have the many followers from multiple generations visit our shop. The smile on a father or grandfather’s face bringing in a child, indicating that they received their first hobby from our shop is what keeps us still enjoying our business.”

The tradition that can be built through the love of a hobby is something to share with someone you love. Sharing Joshua is very proud of his first model car your hobby is all part of the fun, especially when you can spark 1988,” says loyal and longtime custhe imagination within a young child! tomer, Steve. “The owners are very House of Hobbies is a place to enjoy knowledgeable and helpful. I am into your personal hobby and find exactly scale RC boats. I live on the east coast, what you need. over two hours away. When I was tryWhether you’re looking for a being to find a kit that was out of proginner’s project, expert advice or duction for about 15 years, I knew parts/paint to complete your hobby, who to call. Yeah, they had it – brand House of Hobbies is the place to go! new in the box! This store is one of And, with the holidays fast approachthe last great ones. I visit every chance ing, it’s the perfect time to stop in for I get over to the west coast. Don’t some great gift ideas and an early start pass up the chance to see this place or on this year’s shopping. meet its owners. You will not be disapHouse of Hobbies is located at pointed.”

37700 US Hwy. 19 in Palm HarBob and Barbara agree that the bor. Hours are Mon. – Sat., 10:30 best part of running House of Hoba.m. – 5:30 p.m. For additional inbies is being able to satisfy their cusformation, please call (727) 943tomer’s needs. Barbara says, “It is 5800.

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Promoting Health and Well-Being

By Katie Thomas Conforti Chiropractic and Wellness Center has a goal to alleviate pain from the past and present, to align the future and to provide whole health family chiropractic care to all patients.

Since 1999, Dr. Carl Conforti has served the community with exceptional care, problem solving and life enhancing techniques that have changed the lives of many.

Through the years, Dr. Conforti’s practice has grown to include five Conforti Chiropractic and Wellness Centers throughout the Tampa Bay area, and just this year he added the Lasting Impressions Weight Loss Program to each location. Addressing the whole body, Conforti Chiropractic also offers a relaxing medi-spa in the Oldsmar location where clients can enjoy spa services that enhance their overall wellbeing.

Dr. Carl Conforti and his colleague Dr. Michael Turner treat patients in Oldsmar location on Tampa Road. His colleagues – Dr. Todd Bodanza of the Trinity location, Dr. Damien Rogers of the Tampa location, Dr. Bill Scheu of the Wesley Chapel location and Dr. Michael Gialousis of the St. Petersburg location

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– work continuously with Dr. Conforti to provide the best in spinal care, and overall health and wellness. Each location is staffed with caring, qualified professionals who understand the importance of whole body health.

Personal attentiveness is key in Conforti Chiropractic’s service to clients. By building solid, long-lasting relationships with patients, the professionals at Conforti Chiropractic are able to diagnose and treat problems, while improving life quality for each individual patient.

Along with his staff, Dr. Conforti focuses on promoting the health and wellbeing of patients through the combination of state-of-the-art physiotherapy procedures, hands-on techniques, nutrition, and counseling regarding the best natural dietary supplements on the market today.

Dr. Conforti helps clients reach their physical and mental health goals, while coaching them on maintaining an accelerated journey to good health.

Conforti Chiropractic offers treatment for auto accident injuries, balance problems, ear infections, fibromyalgia, frozen shoulder, headaches, lower back pain, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, pinched nerves, pregnancy, sciatic issues, scoliosis, shoulder pain, slipped disk, stress,

Dr. Carl Conforti (center), his colleagues and staff focus on the wellbeing of patients addressing the whole body and coaching them on a journey to good health tennis elbow, whiplash and neck pain.

The beauty of Conforti Chiropractic lies within Dr. Conforti’s approach to healing patients through alternative systems, focusing on the health of the neuromusculoskeletal system, which in turn revitalizes patients.

Spinal Decompression One of the very effective tools that Conforti Chiropractic implements is spinal decompression utilizing the state-of-the-art DRX 9000. Spinal decompression is used to relieve the stress bearing down on the discs inside of your spinal column, hence permitting the discs to rehydrate, regain their ideal volume, and even begin to heal.

The DRX 9000 monitors the level of muscle spasm, and reduces pressure periodically to ensure a better level of decompression than can be attained with basic traction. When stress is eliminated from the disc at this level, a negative pressure “vacuum effect” is created within the disc, permitting improved disc hydration and thickness.

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In the case of a herniated disc, the idea is that this negative pressure can actually pull herniated materials back inside and permit the disc to heal. By naturally pulling the herniated materials back again into the disc, pinching of the nerves is allayed and so is the pain.

It removes the genuine cause of your pain and symptoms rather than hiding it with drugs or taking the drastic approach of slicing the herniation out with surgery.

The process that the DRX 9000 system uses has been proven to relieve pain in individuals struggling with bulging discs, disc herniation, facet syndrome, and degenerative disc disease, which each generally lead to local pain and sciatica. Conforti Chiropractic is proud to offer the DRX 9000, which relieves discomfort quickly and naturally!

Alongside traditional chiropractic services, Conforti Chiropractic focuses on wellness, health and weight loss to improve the overall condition of patients’ lives.

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

weight off!

Dr. Conforti continuously updates his education and takes pride in learning new sciences that will help his patients change their lives permanently.

Health and wellness is at the top of Dr. Conforti’s demands and he strives to learn the best ways for clients to receive the results they want. While attending a seminar with his Dr. Conforti will keep you feeling your best team regarding the topic of ultimate healthy weight loss, he Lasting Impressions Weight Loss was able to receive the most insightful Dr. Conforti introduced Lasting knowledge regarding the human body Impressions Weight Loss in January and the science behind weight loss.

2012. Lasting Impressions Weight Dr. Conforti began applying this sciLoss is offered in all five Tampa Bay ence to his practice immediately and offices. Dr. Conforti introduced the after awe-inspiring results, Lasting Imweight loss program in order to help pressions Weight Loss was born. patients who had failed in reaching Lasting Impressions’ program fotheir weight loss goals with yo-yo diets cuses on how to naturally detox your and harmful shots and pills. Dr. Conbody, teaches clients the five deadly forti saw a need to help his patients foods that should never be eaten, offind a new, stable and safe way to acfers secret lifestyle changes that allow complish their health and weight loss the loss of up to three pounds a day, goals. helps clients avoid yo-yo dieting and Lasting Impressions Weight Loss offers advice on how to stay positive was designed to fit customized proand never become flustered with your grams to clients individual lifestyles in weight loss journey to a healthier order to help them feel better, look lifestyle. better and most importantly, keep the

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

Lasting Impressions guarantees 100 percent satisfaction for those dedicated to losing weight and keeping it off. Dr. Michael Gialousis, of the St. Petersburg office, fully supports Lasting Impressions Weight Loss program after his experience in becoming healthier, more energized and happier.

Dr. Gialousis says, “Throughout my life, my weight has been an issue I struggle with daily. I have tried countless diets and weight pills with no real results, just an empty stomach and usually a fast heart rate. It was for these reasons that I was extremely skeptical when Dr. Conforti came to me with a program that he was developing. His program was unlike any product on the market, assessing all aspects of human fat loss and capitalizing on the strengths of each. This whole system approach interested me, so I volunteered to be one of the initial candidates. The results were staggering. In roughly six weeks time I had lost just over fifty pounds of fat, not weight, and have managed to keep it off with little effort for the last four months.

“Never in my life have I had so much energy, yet the program employs no stimulant of any kind. All of the products utilized in this program

have side effects that actually benefit your body, which only compliment the fat loss. I truly am a healthier and much happier version of my former self, and have Dr. Conforti and his amazing program to thank for it. As a physician I would highly recommend this whole system approach to fat loss to any of my patients, or anyone for that matter, for their health and happiness.”

Conforti Chiropractic embodies the idea of holistic health, wellness, happiness and vitality. The systems utilized at Conforti Chiropractic offices are one of a kind and are proven to help you become the best you possible.

Conforti Chiropractic and Wellness Centers and Lasting Impressions Weight Loss locations are: 4040 Tampa Rd. in Oldsmar, (813) 818-7499; 1811 Health Care Dr. in Trinity, (727) 376- 9611; 1283 Bruce B Downs Blvd. in Wesley Chapel, (813) 994-6111; 10935 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Tampa, (813) 969-2225 and 2206 4th Street N. in St. Petersburg, (727) 822-6700.

For more information, visit LastingImpressionsWeightLoss.com and confortichiropractic.com.

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East Lake Area Neighborhood News

FOX HOLLOW

5/3/3 2484 htd sf Wow Formal living & dining room, kitchen overlooks the family room, full bath that services for the pool and guest bedroom/den or office on the first floor. 4 bedrooms upstairs plus walk up attic. fenced in yard w/pool and view of the pond to enjoy $284,900

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 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

2/2/21674htd sf This is an end unit w/lots of natural light. Tile flooring in foyer. Soaring ceilings in living & dining rooms. Kitchen w/white cabinets w/raised panel doors, solid surface counters, closet pantry & built in cabinet for your TV in the breakfast nook area. Master has two walk in closets, master bath w/dual sinks, linenm closet and walk in shower. great lanai w/outside patio and park like setting $169,900

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

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

2+/2/2 1881 htd sf This villas is model perfect w/wood cabinets w/pullout shelves, solid surface counters, closet pantry w/pull out shelves. Lviing and dining rooms wsoaring ceilings, double pocket door into the den or office. Screened lanai w/park like setting. $169,900

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. $309,000

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Positano’s Ristorante Italiano Combines Excellence & Ambiance

By Julie Kanehl Positano’s Ristorante Italiano is well known for its elegant dining experience and classy evening entertainment, and if you haven’t been in there yet, I have a few questions for you.

Are you interested in dining on fine cuisine in a quiet corner where the two of you can celebrate a special occasion?

Looking for a great place to have a few drinks or enjoy a bottle of wine while you listen to live music? Want a taste of the best wood-fired pizza this side of the Atlantic? How about a classy place to have a family gathering, holiday party or business event? Well, you can find all that and more right here in Palm Harbor at Positano’s.

Located at the corner of Tampa Road and Lake St. George in the Shoppes at Cloverplace plaza, Positano’s has gained local fame and acclaim for all of these things and more, and now Positano’s is open for lunch.

Customers who love their versatile dinner menu and come in for their favorite entrees will now be able to enjoy their new lunch menu, which

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has specialty items designed just for the lunch crowd and some smaller portions of their dinner favorites. Just to give you a taste, the lunch menu offers some colorful new salads, their famous paninis and an 8-inch version of their popular (read: amazing, delicious, can I order two?) authentic Neapolitan pizzas. Customers really enjoy the atmosphere, the fresh food and the entertainment at Positano’s.

The only other question I have is, what are you waiting for?

Fresh Ingredients, Fine Wine and Fantastic Service That’s what I call a recipe for success, and Positano’s serves it up in spades.

Owners Harry and Jiske Ong have turned their dream of owning their own restaurant into a palpable passion that we can all enjoy. The Ongs have designed Positano’s to serve their guests fine, authentic, and most importantly fresh Italian food in an atmosphere that is classy, relaxing and exquisite.

Harry says, “What we’ve really tried to do with Positano’s is create a

neighborhood place where you always feel welcome. One night you just want to drop in for a quick pizza in the bar, and another day a quiet business lunch, and then maybe on the weekend you come in with a group for a birthday celebration. We want every one of our guests to feel at home no matter what the occasion.”

The freshly prepared, homemade soups are in such demand at Positano’s that Jiske has had to prepare a “Call List.” She says, “When I know that we are going to have the mushroom soup I know I have to call at least three or four people to let them know when it will be made so that they can come in!” What makes Positano’s unique is that Jiske will actually call those customers to let them know that the soup is on. The personal touch, and the sincere gratitude of this couple has truly created a camaraderie among guests who enjoy returning to a restaurant where they can feel wel-

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OCTOBER 2012

come, eat casually or wine and dine.

The lunch menu at Positano’s includes some really tasty paninis, which are grilled sandwiches prepared with their freshly baked focaccia bread and served with their house-made potato chips. If you like a salad for lunch, you will love all of their unique salad offerings, including their wilted spinach salad and their scungilli salad. If you are a big fan of their Neapolitan pizza, like I am, then you will love the fact that they’ve introduced an 8-inch lunch portion on the menu.

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

Mozzarella Caprese and Shrimp Sophia are just two of the many tantalizing choices Their dinner menu includes many Italian staples such as their Filet Mignon, their Chicken Parmigiana and their Penne ala Vodka. Many customers come again and again to enjoy dishes such as their Chicken Positano, which is chicken dipped in egg batter and sautéed in white wine with prosciutto, tomatoes, spinach and fresh mozzarella cheese; their Shrimp Sophia, which is sautéed in garlic, white wine, black olives, sun-dried tomato and fresh basil and then topped with feta cheese; and their Veal Saltimbocca Alla Romano, which is tender veal sautéed in a marsala demi glaze sauce, layered with fresh baby leaf spinach, mozzarella cheese, and prosciutto di Parma. The homemade

lasagna is a popular choice at Positano’s, as well as the veal. They also have a limited children’s menu.

Dessert is an Italian way of life, so you can bet that the Ongs have put a lot of thought into the dessert menu.

Harry says, “We have several homemade dessert options, and people go crazy for our tiramisu! This fall we will be offering our Pumpkin Crème Brulee, which will be served with some cinnamon whipped cream.”

Jiske says, “We also have an Early Bird Menu that is offered all week long from 4-5:30 P.M., and it includes a majority of the menu.”

One customer recently rated the restaurant as five stars saying, “As always Positano’s is consistently deli-

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

cious. Had a party of six for lunch including a pizza and everyone really enjoyed everything. The veal picatta is without a doubt the best I’ve ever tasted. Desserts were fresh, had tiramisu and creme brulee, both wonderful. Good drinks and wine list.”

Experience The Ambiance of Positano’s Positano’s has become very popular for many regulars in and around Palm Harbor, and Harry suggests that you make reservations if you are planning on coming on Friday or Saturday night, but also adds that making a reservation sure beats waiting an hour for a table.

The main dining area is a perfect retreat for guests who are treated to a fine dining experience at affordable prices. Adjacent to the dining area upstairs, there’s a unique semi-private alcove that can seat up to 18, which can be reserved for small parties.

The wood-burning stove at the center of the restaurant welcomes guests with its warm glow, and the mouth watering aroma of pizza being baked to order envelops guests as they arrive. Harry can usually be found at the helm of the stove, baking his Neapolitan pizzas, and guests often come up to say hello. Harry has been specially trained by award winning Pizzaiolo, Tony Gemignani, who is considered one of the best pizza chefs in the country.

The bar area is punctuated with high-top round tables perfect for couples who want to enjoy a nice drink, and on Friday and Saturday nights from 7-10 p.m., people come in for great food, delicious drinks and live jazz music. Happy hour is from 4-7

p.m., seven days a week, and they have recently updated their wine list to include a broader selection of Italian wines.

If you are looking for a private venue for a holiday party, a family celebration or even a business luncheon, Positano’s also has a private dining area that seats more than 40 guests comfortably.

“We can completely customize a menu for you and your guests,” Harry says. “Our entire menu is available, but we can also add anything you like.”

Jiske adds, “Sometimes we will have parties who prefer to have cocktails and appetizers in one area, and then dine in the private dining area afterwards. We are very flexible and like to help people plan a successful event.”

In addition to elegant dining, authentic food with fresh ingredients, live entertainment and private dining, Positano’s also offers take out and catering!

My family often chooses to dine at Positano’s on special occasions. For my mom’s birthday this year we reserved one of the tables in the semiprivate dining area of the “alcove” and our entire family raved about the food and the atmosphere. From the kids to the grandparents, everyone had a hard time choosing from their mouthwatering menu. In the end we all had something we loved, and we have been back many times since then.

Positano’s Italian Ristorante is located at 3309 Tampa Rd., in Palm Harbor. It is open for lunch Mon.–Fri., 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. and open 7 days a week for dinner starting at 4 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation visit www.positanoPH.com, or call (727)-784-9100.

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TRINITY DENTAL CARE IES C N RGE ME! E M E ELCO W

(727) 372-2001 Toll Free: 1-888-tooth AK www.trinitydentalcare.com

We perform the following procedures: - Preventive Dentistry Dr. S. Shayes - Dr. A. Eskandari - Crowns, Bridges - Dentures, Partials, Repairs - Tooth Colored Fillings - Gum Treatment #DN15492 #DN15013

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- Root Canals - Teeth Whitening - Dentistry for Children and Adolescence - Invisalign (the clear braces) - etc.

1843 Health Care Drive, Building #1 Trinity, FL 34655 (at the corner of Mitchell Blv &Little Rd, behind Walgreens)

Complimentary Second Opinion (D9310) Exp. 11/15/2012. New patient only. Valid weekdays only.

Coupon needs to be presented at time of service.

• Nitrous Gas (Happy Gas) • Warm blankets, neck rolls and head phones in everyroom • 12 Month Interest Free Financing Available • Most Insurances Accepted • Evening & Sat. Appts. Available • Now Accepting Care Credit ®

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL Exam (D0140) and X-Ray (D0272 or D0220)

$39.99 EXP. 11/30/2012. WEEKDAYS ONLY. New patient only. Cannot be used with insurance.

Coupon needs to be presented at time of service.

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for another service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted or reduced fee, service, examination or treatment.

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East Lake Area Neighborhood News

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

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By Katie Thomas Advanced Dermatology is the largest dermatology practice in America and has built the thriving business on dedication to a “patient first” mentality. Advanced Dermatology recently opened a wonderful new office in New Port Richey off Seven Springs Boulevard, bringing top of the line dermatological care and cosmetic enhancement procedures to your area.

Dr. Matt L. Leavitt founded advanced Dermatology in 1990. After establishing three private dermatology practices in Orlando, Dr. Leavitt began expanding throughout Florida and now has over 50 practices offering dermatological procedures that are headed by top dermatology experts.

The Advanced Dermatology group allows patients the convenience of get-

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ting immediate advice and appointments with a qualified expert.

Advanced Dermatology is built on convenience. Clients can receive a full dermatology exam that includes treatment of rashes, acne, skin disorders, skin cancer prevention, skin cancer surgery and other epidermis care issues, as well as receiving the benefits of on-site cosmetic procedures.

Cosmetic procedures include, but are not limited to Botox, Juvederm, chemical peels and clinical facials.

Paired together, general dermatology and cosmetic enhancement procedures allow clients to look and feel their best in a safe and professional environment.

The staff at the new Advanced Dermatology office in New Port Richey is friendly, welcoming and professional. I had the chance to go in and meet the ladies at Advanced Dermatology who gave me an in-depth

(L-R) Gina Ayers, Holly Laufenberg, Bev Chawk, ARNP, Jennifer Goldammer & Marina Carroll explanation about their practice. Gina Ayers, Location Manager, explained the well-rounded services Advanced Dermatology offers. Along with general dermatology, Advanced Dermatology has top-of-the-line cosmetic products, skin care tips and a licensed medical aesthetician on staff to pamper you while caring for your facial needs.

Gina introduced me to Advanced

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Dermatology’s personal line of pharmaceutical skin care products, R Essentials; a product that will refresh, renew and replenish your skin. From anti-aging kits to acne corrective products and skin moisturizes, R Essentials was custom developed by Dr. Leavitt to fit the needs of all different skin types.

When you visit Advanced Derma-

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

can Academy of Nurse Practitioners, Dermatology Nurses Association (DNA) and is nationally certified through the DNA as a Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner with an emphasis on general/medical and cosmetic dermatology.

Bev’s experience in the nursing and dermatolR Essentials is an exclusive line custom developed ogy field have allowed her to apply her expertise with

by Dr. Leavitt to fit the needs of all skin types patients, giving them the tology, you will have a choice to meet best possible care and advice. Bev says, with Dr. Winitsky or Advanced Der“We want people to know that we are matology’s Nurse Practitioner, Bev here. Advanced Dermatology is a repChawk. I had the opportunity to meet utable foundation and our services are with Bev. Her professionalism and known as outstanding throughout the easy-going nature will set patients at state.” ease and allow them to relax knowing Bev and Dr. Winitsky offer basic they are in capable hands. Bev has dermatology services, perform skin been with Advanced Dermatology for cancer surgeries and are able to prothe past 14 years. She graduated vide cosmetic procedures with the aide Magna Cum Laude from St. Leo Coland expertise of aesthetician Marina lege with a B.A. in Psychology. She re- Carroll. ceived her Masters of Science Degree Marina received her M.B.A. in for Family Nurse Practitioners at the Russia and after college moved to University of South Florida. Bev is a Florida. Marina’s family has always member of Florida Nurses Association, been involved in cosmetics – she has American Nurses Association, Amerihad a passion for helping people feel

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

their most beautiful since she was a child. Marina says, “After I received my Masters in business I planned on helping my family with the business aspect of cosmetology. I soon realized that I was more attracted to the procedures of cosmetics than working with the business side.” Marina moved to Florida and received a license as an aesthetician in order to pursue a line of work that helps people feel more beautiful with healthy, radiant skin. Marina utilizes her skills as an Aesthetician in correspondence with Bev and Dr. Winitsky’s medical expertise to give patients the best possible treatments.

“It is always important to help our clients improve themselves,” says Marina. “My goal is to listen to what skin problems bother the patients and then I help them figure out how to best correct issues. Many times patients can’t determine the root of their skin care problems, that is why we are here, to get to the root of the problem source.”

Marina’s signature treatment is the Advanced Facial, which requires no down time and is perfect for the dry, winter months. The Advanced Facial consists of an intensive treatment that involves a mild peel, extractions,

masque and facial massage. The treatment rapidly and safely resurfaces the skin, reduces fine lines, smoothes and softens the skin while encouraging cellular renewal.

The Advanced Dermatology team in New Port Richey understands the importance of healthy vibrant skin.

Marina says, “It is worth your time to put great care into your skin because it will ultimately help you feel healthier, more beautiful and happier.

General dermatology and cosmetic care work hand in hand together to make you feel your best. At Advanced Dermatology you will receive the best of skin care, whether you are looking for a full body skin cancer check, acne treatments, cosmetic surgery, clinical facials, peels, microdermabrasion or anti-aging cosmetic treatments.

Feel and look your best with the help of Advanced Dermatology’s team of qualified professionals.

Advanced Dermatology is located at 2114 Seven Springs Blvd., Suite 250 in New Port Richey.

For more information, call (727) 835-0477 or visit online, www.advancedderm.com.

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East Lake Area Neighborhood News

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

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Make Strides Against Breast Cancer by Walking this October

By Julie Kanehl The American Cancer Society has an incredible nationwide program called Making Strides Against Breast Cancer that raises awareness and crucial funds for breast cancer research, and Pasco County is having their 2nd annual “Put On Your Pink Bra” Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk on October 20th, 2012 at The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. This free, noncompetitive, 5k event is a great way to show support and make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.

Breast cancer is a disease that is affecting more and more of us. It is affecting or mothers, our wives, our sisters, our aunts, our friends, and even our daughters. Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate, and women of all ages, races and creeds are being diagnosed every day. In fact, The American Cancer Society says that Florida ranks 2nd in the nation for (diagnosed) incidences of breast cancer, and is ranked 3rd in the nation in mortality. Just to be clear, that means that of the over

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15,000 women who are diagnosed with the disease ever year, nearly 3,000 actually die from it. Those are some shocking numbers, and that is why it is so important to be educated, to educate the ones you love, be committed to early detection, and to find a cure.

The American Cancer Society or ACS, is a trusted source for information on all kinds of cancer, and their dedication to fighting cancer is more than a marketing campaign. Their goal is to “find, prevent, treat and cure the disease.” The ACS is the largest nonprofit funder of cancer research next to the federal government, and has been involved in nearly every major breakthrough in the fight against this kind of cancer. For example, they funded research into breast-conserving surgery, which is using lumpectomy plus radiation treatments, and they helped to establish the mammogram as the best way (and now very accessible way) of detecting breast cancer early.

They also were involved in discovering lifesaving treatments such as hormone blockers like Herceptin and Tamoxifen, which can save lives. In addition

to these important findings, the ACS has been involved in the genetic research and the discovery of the cancer-causing oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes.

These are just a few ways that the ACS truly makes a difference in the fight against breast cancer. But all of the fancy terminology aside, The American Cancer Society is the one people turn to when they receive a cancer diagnosis; in fact one in two women diagnosed with breast cancer will turn to them for information and support.

The ACS offers all kinds of support for women (and their families) who are diagnosed with cancer. In addition to offering online information and support, they offer programs like

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OCTOBER 2012

Road to Recovery, which helps people get the transportation that they need to see their doctors. They also have an amazing program called Hope Lodge, which gives cancer patients a place to stay when they are out of town for treatment. Additionally, they help women who are undergoing breast cancer treatment with their TLC Magalog, which is a catalog and magazine that features helpful articles and offers affordable items such as breastforms and wigs. Treatment information, options and research are available 24

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

hours a day on their website, www.cancer.org, and they also provide programs at local hospitals where people can truly come together, know that they are not alone and receive care, support and even tips on how to feel better about themselves while going through treatment. These are just a few ways in which The ACS makes an impact on cancer.

Come Show Your Support by Wearing Your Pink Bra! Pasco County’s 2nd annual “Put On Your Pink Bra” Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk at The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel on October 20 is one of 26 walks that will be taking place in Florida this October. The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk is a lot of fun and is becoming famous for its pink bras!

While wearing a pink bra is completely voluntary, people really enjoy coming together ahead of time, decorating their bras, and wearing them at the walk. Last year’s walk was a sea of pink bras, pink boas, pink hats and smiling faces. People of all ages came out to show their support, walk, join and come together as a force against breast cancer.

Linda Taggart was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011 and she has shared her story of how quickly your life can be taken over by the diagnosis.

She says, “Time is everything when dealing with cancer. It was 36 days from diagnosis to double mastectomy to confirmed staging (Stage 3).” For Linda, her strength to fight breast cancer and the ability to raise awareness has increased her faith in God. She says, “He has held my hand during this journey and shown me that even something as frightening as cancer can result in good things; stronger bonds with family, new friendships and learning that life doesn’t end with a diagnosis.” She has been an inspiration to many women who know her and gain strength from her strength.

This year Linda and her team, Bosom Buddies, will be walking in the event, and she encourages everyone to come and participate. She says, “You can join a team like mine, or you can create your own team and walk – it’s easy, it’s free, and it does make a difference.”

There are three ways to make a real difference at the Making Strides for Breast Cancer walk this October.

You can walk (come on, it’s free!), you

East Lake Area Neighborhood News

or your company can help to sponsor the event, or you can join ACS CAN. Did you know that membership to the American Cancer Society is only $10 per year?

Get your friends together, decorate some (extra large) pink bras, wear them over your shirt and walk proudly.

Last year people of all ages participated in the event. Many men even donned bras to show support for the women they loved. The pink bra makes the walk a fun, entertaining, light-hearted way to band together in support.

More than that, Linda adds, “The pink bra is a symbol of femininity, and it’s important because many women don’t feel beautiful when they are going through breast cancer. Wearing your pink bra is empowering, and it makes you feel pretty again.”

For anyone who loves someone going through breast cancer, they know that there’s not a facet of life that is not touched by the diagnosis. It is life-altering, and instantaneously cancer becomes the uninvited guest around the table at dinner, then lingering in your room at night keeping you up, and then refuses to leave.

We don’t know what causes breast cancer, but we do know a few impor-

tant facts. There is no cure, only treatment. This is a genetic disease, but many people who are diagnosed do not know of anyone in their family who have had it, and most importantly that early detection is the key to surviving.

Linda says, “It would be nice to one day not have to put on a pink bra because we’ve found a cure for breast cancer.” But until then, she will keep walking. You can join Linda and the thousands of women like her in their fight against breast cancer. Whether you walk, sponsor or join ACS CAN, you can make a difference at this year’s “Put On Your Pink Bra” Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” event.

The 2nd annual “Put On Your Pink Bra” Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Pasco will be held at The Shops at Wiregrass at 28211 Paseo Drive in Wesley Chapel on Sat., Oct. 20. The event is freewith no registration fee. Registration is at 8 a.m.; walk at 9 a.m. To join a team, sponsor or donate, visit www.putonyourpinkbra.com/pasco or come on out the day of the event. For more information about joining a local team, call Jannah McDonald at (813) 949-0291.

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