Westchase - Vol. 1, Issue 10, December 2012 by Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles Magazine

WESTCHASE AREA

Vol. 1, Issue 10, December 2012

Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

The Business & Dining Magazine Directly Mailed To 16,000 Homes In Westchase & Surrounding Areas This Independent Community News, Business & Dining Guide Is Directly Mailed Once Each Month To: Arlington Park • Aston Villas • Bay Arbor • Berkeley Square • Calf Path Estates • Enclave At Citrus Park • Fawn Ridge Forest Lakes • Hampton Lakes • Highland Park • Lake Chase • Mandolin • The Eagles • Tree Tops • Twin Branch Acres Waterchase • West Hampton • Westchase • Westchester • Westwood Lakes • Windsor Place

Angela’s Pizza – Bringing a Taste of Little Italy to The Westchase Area! By Marcy Sanford Angela’s Pizza’s owner Josh Chabator knows what it takes to make a great pizza. “We make our dough and sauce fresh every day, use the finest ingredients – including local produce – top it off with gourmet Grande cheese and bake it in a brick oven to create a truly delicious and memorable pizza,” says Josh. “Once people try our pizzas, we become their favorite.” In addition to pizzas, strombolis and calzones, Angela’s Pizza serves appetizers, wings, salads, wraps, subs, hoagies, pastas, burgers and desserts to

tempt your taste buds. Josh grew up in the area and is enthusiastic about Angela’s Pizza becoming a resident favorite – “We are constantly talking to our customers about what they want and expanding our menu to meet their needs. This month we’ve added calamari, Alfredo pasta, a BBQ wrap and sliders to our menu. Last month we introduced Duomo Gelato, which is made right here in Tampa. Their maestro gelataios make the gelato fresh daily using all natural ingredients and the finest quality products imported from Italy. We serve chocolate, lemon, vanilla,

tiramisu and mixed berry flavors and they’ve been an instant hit with everyone.” The salads at Angela’s Pizza are also big hits. “Our Caesar and Antipasto salads are two of our most pop-

ular items,” states Josh. “We use local produce from Citrus Park Nursery. That means you are getting the freshest salad you can possibly find. The See “Angela’s Pizza” on page 22.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Awaken Your Senses, Invigorate Your Body & Renew Your Spirit

True Thankfulness.................3 Community Calendar/ News......4 The Slug Bar......................8-9 Bird’s Eye Spy................10-11

Acoma Roofing...............18-19

ECRWSS

See “Venus & Mars” on page 24.

S & W Kitchens..............14-15

Postal Customer

know about and something we love.” Mayerlen is a certified esthetician and a nail technician, acquiring her training in New York and New Jersey before moving to Florida. Venus & Mars, as the name suggests, is a full service spa for both men and women, and provides a genderneutral environment that every one can enjoy. “When naming our spa we

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

Get ready to be whisked away into a world of relaxation and rejuvenation as you leave behind the stresses and pressures of your busy life and enter Venus & Mars Day Spa in Westchase. The caring, professional staff will instantly welcome you into their cozy, intimate atmosphere and their divine spa services will give you the opportunity to renew your energy

and revive your spirit – leaving you ready to take on the world! Growing up in the spa industry, – working with their mother who has successfully run a spa in New Jersey since they were kids – owners and sisters Mayerlen Gomez and Liz Dominguez have always had a deeprooted passion for enhancing and enriching the lives of others. “This is something we are passionate about,” says Mayerlen. “It’s something we

Dated Material Please Rush!

By Alexis Selby

DECEMBER 2012

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Westchase Area Neighborhood News

A Story of Inspiration & True Thankfulness Submitted to WCNN I hope you had a terrific Thanksgiving filled with many happy memories! The holidays really do signify a time to reflect and give thanks and once again I would like to thank our wonderful advertisers who have been so loyal this past year and for this extraordinary community that has so warmly welcomed me into their hearts and their homes with open arms. We experienced such an overwhelming response in regards to our past editorial and at this time I would like to take the opportunity to share one of those responses with you – a very inspirational story from one of our remarkable, dedicated readers, Lori Ward – A "major" disaster such as the 9/11 attack, the earthquake in Haiti, the recent Hurricane Sandy tormenting the mid-Atlantic through northeastern states, and then the first Northeastern winter storm falling on the heels of Hurricane Sandy, quickly causes many of us to say how " thankful" we are, especially if we are not touched directly by the disaster. We recognize that life if precious, even fleeting – at least during that moment sitting around the Thanksgiving table

listing our obligatory "thanks". I, too, fall into that category of being thankful for my life. Indeed, I have been spared from foreign attacks, earthquakes, hurricanes, and blizzards. But as I share my thankfulness, it truly is for LIFE. My memories drift back eighteen years ago when, as a wife, a mother of 3 young children, and a fulltime college student, I heard the vague words "ovarian cancer – stage 3 and growing". For several days I lived in a fog, asking few questions, and wondering how life would go on for my family without me there. My family was told that even with the strongest chemotherapy available my chance of survival was minimal. Major surgery, 6 months of grueling chemotherapy, loss of hair, weight loss, total exhaustion, and perhaps the worst, not being able to feel my feet meaning no driving – but I SURVIVED!!!!!! Having been told that even with treatment I might not make it through the fall, I was indeed thankful for my life in 1994. But just as natural disasters will often hit one area multiple times, so did that evil "C" word – 10 years after being cleared of my original diagnosis. After testing, it was determined that I

Westchase Area Neighborhood News

once again had ovarian cancer, only in a different location. Knowing what was to follow (surgery, chemotherapy, hair loss, etc.) and ready to face this enemy full-force, I learned that my chance of survival was even less than before. My oldest daughter even asked my doctor if I was going to die, and he replied he would do all he could, but hanging his head, he said he wasn't sure. That was 8 years ago – and I SURVIVED!!!! Each year as my family sits at the Thanksgiving Day table, enlarged through marriages and grandchildren; my father begins the tradition of each person sharing where their thankfulness lies. He always tears up as he looks around the table, and says he is thankful for life, for marriages, for new children, for miracles. From there each person adds to the list of thanks. But when it comes to my time, I AM ALWAYS THANKFUL FOR LIFE, because I faced the alternative twice, I baffled the doctors and specialists twice, I broke survival records twice, and I'm still here, thankful that our Thanksgiving Day table continues to enlarge, and that I am alive to look around that table with Dad, and be truly THANKFUL FOR LIFE!!!!

Neighborhood News & Lifestyles Directly mailed once a month to 16,000 households in zip codes 33626 & 34677 220 Safford Ave. S. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 Phone: (813) 928-6124; Fax: (727) 942-2432 Advertising E-mail: info@neighborhoodnewsfl.com Editorial E-mail: editorialdept@neighborhoodnewsfl.com © 2012 Westchase Neighborhood News is published by ADS 2 Publications, Inc. Publisher Tim Selby General Manager Matt Selby Advertising Sales Hannah Dalegowski Jim O’Reilly Ken Burke Accounting Manager Doreen Selby Billing Assistant Tina O’Reilly Marketing & Development Ashley Knoblach

Editor Alexis Selby Correspondents Kim Thomas Julie Kanehl Katie Thomas Jeff Berlinicke

Marcy Sanford Lenay Ruhl Art Director Tony Sica Graphic Artists Dat X. Do Tony Sica

Nothing that appears in Westchase Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Westchase Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The management of Westchase Neighborhood News is always happy to accept outside editorial submissions to the paper. Please call for outside editorial submission and advertisement deadlines. Westchase Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Westchase Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Westchase Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. Westchase Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Westchase 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. Westchase Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is published by ADS 2 Publications, Inc.

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DECEMBER 2012

Community Calendar Westchase Artists Society Holiday Market Shop over 30 artists and vendors during this once a year event. Great art and gifts will be available at the Westchase Artists Society Holiday Market on Saturday, December 1 at the Westchase Golf Club, located at 11602 Westchase Golf Drive in Tampa, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. In addition to supporting local artists and businesses, a portion of the proceeds from the event will go to Autism Speaks. This event is a great way to support small businesses and buy handmade for Christmas 2012!

Westchase Artists Society The Westchase Artists Society was started in August 2006 by Leah Mondino and Vanessa Montenegro, two Westchase neighbors, who happened to be artists and saw a need to see the art community grow in the Upper Tampa Bay Area. The Westchase Artists Society is a group of artists interested in adding vibrancy and art to the already inter-

DECEMBER 2012

esting Westchase scene and Tampa Bay area. Their goal is to grow the art community in the Westchase area as well as the Tampa Bay area, by exhibiting art, educating artists, and bringing together visual artists from around the area. For more information please visit their website at www.WestchaseArtists.com or their Facebook page. To request more details about the event you can also email them at info@WestchaseArtists.com.

Westchase Charitable Foundation The WCF is a 501(c) 3 non profit public charity that relies on fund raising to support families who have either children or parents battling a serious illness or assisting people in the community and beyond who are faced with a family tragedy. The WCF has assisted several families within our communities by distributing over $110,000 in funds. They also are pleased to be active members of their community by ar-

Community News Briefs

2012 Westchase Santa Parade Join the Westchase Charitable Foundation (WCF) on Saturday, December 8th for their annual Santa’s “pre-flight” Parade, winding through the streets of Westchase. Santa will be kicking off the Christmas season by riding through a majority of the Westchase subdivision on a fire truck collecting toys and gifts for Tampa families prior to the lighting of the holiday tree in West Park Village. All toys and gifts collected will be donated to Tampa Bay families in need of help.

ranging family style events throughout the year There are thousands of families in Tampa Bay in need of our help. You will make a huge difference for families in need of roofs over their heads, food on the table and for those in hopeless situations. Remember, we are all just families helping other families. For more information on the Westchase Santa Parade or the Westchase Charitable Foundation please visit WCF’s website at www.WestchaseFoundation.org.

Celebrates Grand Opening On October 29th, Torchy’s Beer and Wine celebrated their official Grand Opening, teaming up with plaza neighbor, Angela's Pizza to help earn money for Breast Cancer Awareness. Both the bar and the restaurant donated 15% of all total earnings on that day to breast cancer research. Torchy’s is an upscale hangout

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and boasts beautiful décor, a spacious bar and plenty of tables to accommodate groups of all sizes. Featuring 75 different bottled beers, 12 beers on tap and a wide selection of wines to choose from, Torchy’s is sure to have the perfect libation to quench your thirst. They also have the NFL Sunday Ticket and numerous flat-screen TV’s, ideal for watching your favorite team on game day. Torchy’s Beer and Wine is located at 17777 Gunn Highway in Odessa. For more information please call (813) 920-5830.

Westchase Area Neighborhood News

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DECEMBER 2012

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DECEMBER 2012

Where You Always Want To Have “Just One More!”

By Lenay Ruhl Located on Race Track Road, just north of the Tampa Bay Downs, The Slug Wine and Spirits Bar has been proudly serving the Westchase Area since 2006 and has a deep-rooted history in the local community. Towards the back of the bar, is a picture of Barry Sheehan, one of the five original owners who passed away in 2009. The picture is framed with all the signatures of The Slug family, and this is what distinguishes The Slug from the other bars in Westchase – its history and strong sense of community. “Most of our staff has been here since we opened,” says General Manager Luke Good. Luke runs the bar along with the four remaining owners – Karrie Hooker, Chris Hooker, Steve Nesbitt and Tammy Sheehan. The

DECEMBER 2012

owners, who are all old friends and drinking buddies, had hung out in the Westchase bars together for many years and one day decided to open a bar of their own. “There were only three bars in Westchase when we started,” says Luke. “The community has grown a lot since then.” Their name, The Slug, was inspired by a popular bar in England called “The Slug and the Lettuce” that Barry loved when he lived there. When they opened, they based their bar off of that concept. They describe The Slug as an upscale sports bar. It attracts a high volume of locals and their prices are competitive for the Westchase clientele. In addition to liquor, beer and wine, they also have a small menu of finger foods such as pizza, jalapeño

poppers and pretzels. They also provide takeout menus for all of the restaurants in the complex, and patrons can order food into the bar. The newest restaurant nearby is Samurai Blue, a sushi and sake bar, which stays open until 1 a.m. on the weekends. Another great option is the Hungry Greek. Located right next door to The Slug, it is a favorite among regulars. As a sports bar, The Slug has 11 The Slug is conveniently located on Race Track Road, plasma TV’s and a just north of the Tampa Bay Downs. sports package with NFL, NHL and MLB. restaurants, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. As it is football season, Sundays are The Slug has specials for the rest their most bragged about at The Slug, of the week as well, with happy hour with $10 all you can drink Bud Light Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. drafts and a free buffet, featuring delito 7 p.m., where customers enjoy twocious food from many of the local

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Westchase Area Neighborhood News

beers. On Friday nights they have live bands and $5 Finlandia Vodka, as well as $5 bombs. Saturdays they have a DJ with $3 Jack Daniels and Stoli and Bacardi flavors. Luke is responsible for arranging the music and mostly finds bands through walk-ins and Facebook. The Slug has a full liquor bar and offers many great “There are about drink specials throughout the week. 20 different bands that rotate and play for-one drinks. On Mondays, happy all different types of music, from rock hour lasts all day and at night they also bands to reggae bands,” says Luke. host poker. Tuesdays are beer Some of the local bands that play are Olympics. It’s $10 to enter and that Stormbringer, Tantrum, Dosage, entitles you to all-you-can-drink beer, D42, Crossroads and ShadowChasers, plus the winner receives a $50 bar tab. just to name a few. For those nights, The Slug also offers “We have the best live entertainall Budweiser products for only $2. ment in town,” says Luke, and he beWednesday nights, they have karaoke lieves this is what really sets them apart from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. and another from other bars in the area. That, plus all-you-an-drink special – $20 for dothe sports package and “the whole enmestic drafts and $25 for imports. vironment while you’re here,” he says. From 12 a.m. until close they also The atmosphere is great and the have $4 you-call-its. Thursday is ladies bar is spacious, with high ceilings, a night at The Slug, with $1 wells and long bar, and plenty of tables and $2 calls, house wines and domestic games lining the brick walls. The Slug

Westchase Area Neighborhood News

is a nonsmoking bar, but they do have electronic cigarettes available for purchase for $10. They also have a patio out front, complete with tables for smokers or those wishing to enjoy the beautiful outdoor weather. Music plays from the jukebox, and they have speaker boxes available at the bar and on the tables for patrons who wish to listen to the football games. Their bathrooms, labeled “slugs” and “slugetts” are noticeably decorated with talented graffiti painted on the walls by some of the employees. They have 20 different wines, a full liquor bar and 17 beers on tap, which are seasonally rotated out. The bartenders at The Slug serve some specialty shots such as the “Fruity Pebble Shot” and the “WHOdey bomb” – orange crush in a pint glass with a shot of Harlem liquor dropped into it. They call it the “WHO-dey bomb” because it is the same color as the Bengals, and there are a lot of Cincinnati Bengal fans in this bar. They also support their local sports teams and showcase Buccaneers and Rays décor throughout the bar. The Slug is very involved in the community and likes to host benefits for locals. Last February they did a golf tournament for Matt Redwine, who was suffering from a rare disease.

It was hosted at Eagles Golf Course with an after party at The Slug, and they raised over $10,000. They stay festive by throwing themed parties four to five times a year. For Luke, these are the most memorable nights in the bar. A regular – especially to the Tuesday night beer Olympics – Brian Metzer, says, “The Slug is the most energetic and festive establishment in the area.” With the upcoming holidays, they plan to be open regular hours except for Christmas day where they will be open from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. On New Year’s Eve ShadowChasers will be playing, a hard rock cover band from Tampa, FL. The Slug also has gift cards available for purchase with no price minimum or limit. The Slug draws in all different types of clientele. “It’s a pretty diverse crowd, but everybody gets along,” says Luke. The Slug is located at 12950 Race Track Road, suite 111 in Westchase. Regular hours are 7 days a week from 3 p.m. – 3 a.m. During Football season the bar opens at 12 p.m. on Sat. and Sun. For more information please call (813) 9253200 or visit www.SlugWestchase.com.

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DECEMBER 2012

Meeting The Growing Need For Surveillance By Amy Paterson GPS tracking devices, digital-video recording devices, surveillance cameras and personal protection items are necessary for a multitude of reasons. Whether one is trying to catch a thief, protect their property and their loved ones, or even make sure the babysitter or caretaker is doing their job well, Birds Eye Spy shop on Old County Road 54 in New Port Richey has everything for your spying needs. Brothers Jimmy and Peter Bitzas are the owners of Birds Eye Spy. Jimmy first came up with the idea of a GPS tracking device in 2006 to keep track of his aunt who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. She kept getting away from

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home and couldn’t find her way back so Jimmy – with a background in electrical engineering – devised a tracking device as a way for the family to find her. With their aunt’s safety being monitored more closely, Jimmy and his family were finally able to have peace of mind. After seeing how successful the tracker was for them, Jimmy partnered up with his brother Peter to develop the software and hardware needed to start producing items for wholesale. In 2007, Birds Eye Spy was founded and has been growing globally ever since. There are 28 distributors nationwide that are selling Birds Eye Spy’s products today. And the spy company’s products are sold worldwide as well, reaching over 120 countries.

Over the years the business has expanded to offer all sorts of tracking devices, as well as recording devices, hidden cameras, and personal protection items. Most of the business generated by Birds Eye Spy is through wholesaling their prodJimmy and Tanya Bitzas welcome customers to come ucts; however, in and ask the experts how to best meet your personal products are also surveillance needs. available retail for personal use. The at www.BirdsEyeSpy.com. You can Bitzas decided to open their shop in visit their easy-to-navigate site and see New Port Richey to give customers the all of the merchandise, which is conveopportunity to be able to see the prodniently separated into categories to help ucts in person and receive firsthand infor- find exactly what you’re looking for demation from the technicians that work at pending on your individual needs. Birds Eye Spy. Jimmy and his crew are Tracking devices are useful for happy to help you find the right equipmany reasons. Perhaps you are a parment to assist your personal needs. ent, and you want to keep a close eye If you are interested in knowing on where your child is when they are more about the business end of things, away from you. Or maybe you want to get in touch with Jimmy; as he is always keep track of when and where your perlooking for new affiliates and distribusonal or fleet vehicles are traveling. tors for the business. Other reasons may be of a more A plethora of products are also personal interest, such as a spouse of available on their website’s online store questionable character; the popular re-

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Westchase Area Neighborhood News

computer surveillance, and SIM card readers. There is something for every need you may have in securing your home, assets, and personal needs at Birds Eye Spy. Hidden cameras come disguised as all sorts of everyday items. A popular hidden camera that you may have heard of is the “nanny cam.” Nanny cams are a secure way Tiny hidden cameras and GPS tracking systems to ensure the safety of your to full surveillance, Birds Eye Spy has it all! child whilst under the watch of babysitter. In most cases this is just a safety precaution, ality-television show Cheaters actually but there have been cases where a uses the same type of surveillance child’s life has been protected by the equipment to track and record the parents’ use of a nanny cam, which is cheaters with. Whatever your reason available at Birds Eye Spy disguised as a may be, there are many options availteddy bear. able at Birds Eye Spy that will suffiCameras can be hidden just about ciently track for you according to your anywhere, even right out in the open. specifications. Some popular hidden cameras are disTracking devices can be attached guised as smoke detectors, wristto any of your movable assets, so that you can rest easy knowing where every- watches, wall clocks, calculators, alarm clocks, a clothes hook camera and much thing is at all times. more. It really is mind-blowing how Birds Eye Spy offers a vast variety many different options are available. of surveillance equipment, so that you Along with tracking and surveilwill be sure to find exactly what you are looking for – from high-quality, profes- lance are many other useful items; for instance, a phone-conversation recorder sional-grade surveillance systems for that can record all conversations hapyour home and business, to a variety of pening on a designated line may be used hidden cameras, recording devices,

Westchase Area Neighborhood News

for quality assurance in businesses that do most of their transactions by phone. Birds Eye Spy shop even has spygear detecting devices, or “debugging” devices. These are programmed to detect any video and/or audio recording devices that are within a certain radius. There are also novelty items available for purchase at the spy shop, including a selection of kids’ spy gear. Novelty items include a variety of safes that are disguised as common household products. One that caught my eye in particular was a Dr. Pepper can, because I like Dr. Pepper. There was also one disguised as a can of Ajax household cleaner, and one that looks like a

Barbasol shave cream canister. There really is a lot to consider when looking to purchase any sort of surveillance and recording devices. If you are considering trying something like this in your home or business, it would be wise to consult with an expert, someone like Jimmy or one of the other trained professionals at Birds Eye Spy shop. Birds Eye Spy is located at 8046 Old C.R. 54 in New Port Richey; hours are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon. – Fri. For a full list of products and pricing, please visit online www.BirdsEyeSpy.com; for more information, call (727) 216-6725.

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DECEMBER 2012

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DECEMBER 2012

34 Years of Excellence in Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling By Kathryn Samaltanos S & W Kitchens is family owned and operated and has been serving Florida homeowners since 1977. They are state licensed building contractors who specialize in kitchen and bathroom remodels and their beautiful showroom in Palm Harbor is a stunning example of why their remodeling designs are award-winning. S & W Kitchens has three locations in Florida including the showroom closest to your neighborhood on Ridgemoor Blvd. in Palm Harbor. Today in our challenging econ-

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omy at a time when construction is down, S & W Kitchens continues to grow. Sales Manager Adam Vinson explains, “Our business is up 36 percent this year, many of our customers are choosing to stay put and are upgrading their homes instead of selling, but I attribute our success to our standard of excellence, our quality products and exceptional performance.”

Standard of Excellence From the time of its inception in 1977, S & W Kitchens has had a mission to offer master craftsmanship, personalized service and custom designs

S & W Kitchens can help you plan a perfect new kitchen or bath, and also specializes in other remodeling projects, as well, including living areas. to create beautiful and functional rooms for all tastes and budgets. Throughout the years this legacy has been carried forward, distinguishing S & W from other remodeling contractors and large corporate chains. Today, the company is a prominent and active member of a number of important industry associations including the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), the Bath and Kitchen Buying Group (BKBG) and the Home Builders Association of Central Florida. Additionally, to protect their customers, all of their employees (including sales people, designers and installers) are screened by Ask the Seal.

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Adam shares, “Before we hire anyone they must be approved by the Ask the Seal, a third party verification process. To ensure that the people working for us have no violent offenses, they must be licensed, bonded and insured and they even check their credit history.”

Quality Products S & W Kitchens is considered a “one-stop” shopping experience featuring all of the latest cabinetry, countertops and accessories available. They combine the highest quality professional design and construction services with top quality products. In 2009, S & W was recognized by the Orlando Business Journal as one of the Top 25

Westchase Area Neighborhood News

sues are resolved,” Glenn elaborates. Andrew and Gayle Johnston bear witness, “After being put through ‘the run-around’ BEFORE with Lowes AFTER and Home These before and after photos of one of S & W Kitchens’ remodeling projects show just how fabulous Depot, we decided to meet your kitchen can look with an updated design, new cabinetry and countertops. with Glenn Specialty Contractors in Central Exceptional Performance from S & W. He was such a pleasure to Florida. S & W Kitchens also was seFrom day one when you begin a work with and was willing to go out of lected to design and install an authenproject with one of the designers they his way to help our given situation. He tic restoration of the 210-square-foot also act as your project manager overopened our eyes to a whole new possikitchen and butler’s pantry at the hisseeing everything from start to finish. bility for our kitchen and came up with toric Casa Feliz in Winter Park. This “We begin with a complimentary visit a design that we couldn’t refuse. Dursuccessful project won the National to our client’s home,” explains Glenn. ing the process Glenn and his staff were Award by the NKBA at the 2010 Na“I will measure, look at the space, and easy to reach and always answered all of talk with my clients about their wants tional Kitchen and Bath Show in our questions no matter when we and needs.” During construction your Chicago. called. He made us feel comfortable project manager and design team will Designer Glenn Rumer, who has work to keep everything progressing in had his designs featured in House Trends magazine three times, explains, a timely manner, they will handle all de“We will not sacrifice quality to make a liveries, haul away debris and keep the worksite safe and clean for you and sale. From traditional to contempoyour family. rary, we will design and complete a “We do not leave our customers in room that is custom to your needs and a lurch; they are always able to reach us all of our cabinetry is made in the and we won’t stop until any and all isUnited States and is built to last.”

Westchase Area Neighborhood News

with the purchase and took care of us during the process. We LOVE our new kitchen now that it is complete and we are very happy that we took his design advice. His vision and design knowledge was exactly what we were looking for and we cannot thank him enough for all of his help. We highly recommend Glenn and S & W Kitchens to anyone.” To schedule an appointment with one of S & W Kitchens’ designers, call (727) 828-1179 or to see the possibilities for your kitchen or bathroom remodel, stop into their Palm Harbor Showroom located at 4952 Ridgemoor Blvd. in Palm Harbor, or visit www.SandWKitchens.com. Be sure to ask about their manufacturing specials and special financing programs. Hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon. – Fri.; and 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Sat. Before hours, after hours and Sundays are available by appointment.

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DECEMBER 2012

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Westchase Area Neighborhood News

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DECEMBER 2012

Your Roofing Professionals! By Alexis Selby When it comes to protecting your most valuable possessions, nothing is as important as a solid roof over your head, which is why it is imperative to find a reputable and reliable roofing company. Acoma Roofing in Oldsmar, in its sixth decade under the ownership of the Squitiro family, has an excellent reputation that is as sturdy and longlasting as the roofs they build. Acoma Roofing is a MasterElite Roofing Con-

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tractor – making them one of only two percent in the entire Nation to qualify for such an honorable title – assuring you that you are dealing with a qualified, reputable, and dependable professional contractor. When nothing less than perfect will do, Acoma Roofing is sure to deliver. “We offer quality roofing services and since establishing our business, we’ve never had a complaint filed with the Better Business Bureau or the licensing board,” explains Santis

Squitiro, who co-owns Acoma Roofing with his brother Steve. The business was established in New York in 1952 by their father, and in 1973 the Squitiro family moved themselves and their business to Dunedin and Oldsmar where they have been trusted and respected for quality work by both homeowners and contractors throughout the Tampa Bay area for the past 39 years! “We do about 300 jobs a year, so that is more than 10,000 jobs we’ve completed in this area over the years,” says Steve, who took over the company with Santis from their father in 1983. No complaints filed and more than 10,000 roofs installed? That is impressive, by even the strictest of standards. Steve says that what really sets Acoma Roofing apart is the workmanship that goes into every Acoma roof and roof repair. Acoma Roofing offers a variety of services, including concentrations in both residential and commercial work. They specialize in all types of new roofing, reroofing and roof repairs, including traditional shingles, wood shakes, flat, slate and metal roofing, concrete and clay tile roofing, and much more. The company also does roof maintenance, tile valley repair and skylight re-

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pairs, as well as soffit, fascia and sheathing work. They can also add a slope to your existing flat roof to get the water off! “The people who use us are looking for good work,” states Steve. “We pride ourselves on our workmanship and we pay our employees well and offer them 401k benefits that we match because we want them to do a good job and we want to keep good people.” Acoma Roofing and its employees believe in doing the job right the first time, and if you do have a problem, the company vows to quickly resolve the issue. Money spent on roofing is never something one looks forward to, but it can be a valuable investment. Quality roof shingles can instantly make your home look more prestigious and will raise the value of your property. Additionally, a quality roof system can lower your annual homeowners’ insurance by up to 45 percent! The staff over at Acoma Roofing can also show you how investing in a tile roof rather than a shingle roof translates into savings on your energy bill. Acoma Roofing may not be the cheapest roofing company in the area, but that is because the company uses the best products available and strives for perfect workmanship, guaranteeing your satisfaction and

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Santis and his beautiful wife. giving you a safe and secure shelter. Acoma Roofing uses tried and true methods of installation and backs that up with a ten year leak-free guarantee. Since 1973, Acoma has been a roofing contractor that local builders know they can depend on. Acoma understands the pressures of getting a job completed on time and it has the skilled work force to keep builders’ jobs on schedule. As mentioned earlier, Acoma Roofing is certified by GAF’s MasterElite Contractor Program and is recognized as a MasterElite Roofing Contractor; as designated by GAF Materials Corporation, which is the only certification program of its kind for residential roofing. As a MasterElite roofing contractor,

Acoma Roofing makes up the top two percent of roofing contractors in the U.S., achieving the skills and knowledge necessary to reach the MasterElite status. Because of this, Acoma Roofing is able to provide the Golden Pledge Warranty, the most powerful and substantial warranty in the entire roofing industry! With the Golden Pledge Warranty, which can only be offered by a Master Elite Contractor, Acoma Roofing is able to offer you a 50-year warranty that is not prorated. Acoma Roofing belongs to the Pinellas Executives’ Association (PEA), a prestigious network of the area’s top business leaders. Acoma Roofing has received this earned privilege due to their hard work and commitment to customer satisfaction, as only one contractor from each field is allowed into the PEA and is asked to join based on solid reputation and performance in the county. “Basically it’s a group of people who want to know without a doubt that if they recommend these businesses, the client is going to get a perfect job,” says Steve. Acoma Roofing is also a member of the Better Business Bureau, Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association, My Safe Florida Home Contractor, Pinellas County Contractors Association and Angie’s List, as well as the

Westchase Area Neighborhood News

Clearwater and Dunedin Chambers of Commerce. The company offers emergency response within 24 hours, free in-home estimates and hurricane inspections for a nominal fee and it’s always a good idea to get an inspection before the storms come. All of Acoma’s employees are covered by worker’s compensation, are fully trained, arrive on time and have excellent manners, leaving your home and yard immaculately clean. Happy customers Bob and Kim Hachberger write, “I want to thank you and your staff for taking extra spe-

cial care of us in this pre-hurricane season. Your on-the-job workers were fast, efficient, and knowledgeable and quickly got the job done. They came prepared and quickly did the job you estimated. As a neighbor in Boot Ranch I thank you. As a realtor, I will certainly recommend only you to my clients, friends and family. My thanks for a job well done!” Acoma Roofing, Inc. is located at 3780 Tampa Road, Suite 6, in Oldsmar. Please call (813) 818-9121 or (727) 733-5580 or visit AcomaRoofing.com for more information or to schedule an estimate.

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DECEMBER 2012

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Westchase Area Neighborhood News

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DECEMBER 2012

“Angela’s Pizza” Continued from page 1 creamy dressing on our Caesar salad is the perfect compliment to the fresh Romaine lettuce and homemade garlic croutons. It is so tasty that it is one of the most popular items on our menu.” Josh and manager Kenny Meadows make sure that they pay attention to every detail of a dish to ensure that they are serving the tastiest food possible – this is what keeps their customers constantly coming back for more. The Amaroso Bread used for the Philly Cheese Steaks is shipped in from Philadelphia and Kenny spends over six hours making their 5-layer homemade lasagna. The pizza served at Angela’s Pizza is beyond comparison. The crisp delicate crust is baked to perfection in the brick oven; there are ample toppings to choose from, and the gourmet Grande cheese is just the right mixture of whole and skim milk cheese, giving you the perfect piece of pizza every time. No matter which toppings you choose on your pizza, with seven meats and thirteen vegetables to choose from you are sure to be able to create your perfect pie. Or, if you prefer, you can choose to be delighted by one of their

DECEMBER 2012

specialty pizzas, such as their Florentine Chicken – topped with grilled chicken, sautéed spinach, Parmigiano cheese, and fresh garlic – or the White Pizza – a yummy blend of Ricotta, Mozzarella, Parmigiano and fresh garlic. Having grown up in the area, Josh truly wants to make Angela’s Pizza a local spot for all residents. He supports charities and schools in the area, such as local sports teams, Steinbrenner High School and Martinez Middle School. Every couple of weeks a local artist draws a cool new picture on the large chalkboard overhead and for the holiday season, he is planning a light display that is sure to wow. As more people become interested in supporting local businesses and eat-

dinner for a special event, they can help make your next gathering a success with their amazing homemade food. Angela’s Pizza offers daily lunch and dinner specials, like two slices of pizza and a drink at lunch or two large cheese pizzas Friday and Saturday nights (Left) Owner Josh (L) and manager Kenny (R). for special prices. For (Top) Angela’s Pizza features a spacious dining area. the latest news and information visit their ing locally grown food, Angela’s Pizza website www.AngelasPizzaShop.com stands out as a friendly, fun, local or text Angela to 72727 to join their restaurant that serves great food using text club and get a weekly text coupon. local produce, supports local causes Angela’s Pizza is located at and provides a local meeting place for 17773 Gunn Highway in Odessa at families and friends. the corner of Gunn Highway and While Angela’s Pizza does not Van Dyke Road. Angela’s Pizza is have a beer or liquor license, customers open for lunch and dinner Mon. – are welcome to bring their own, or Thurs. 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Fri. – Sat. now with the opening of Torchy’s Beer 11 a.m. – 12 a.m.; Sun. 12 p.m. – & Wine next door, they can enjoy their 10 p.m. They deliver within a 5 mile favorite cocktail there and Angela’s will radius. There is a $15 minimum bring the food to them. order for delivery. For more inforIf you are looking for a delicious mation or to place an order please way to cater your next event Angela’s call (813) 920-0007 or visit their Pizza can help! Their tasty food is the website at AngelasPizzaShop.com. perfect addition to any special event. For up-to-date specials you can also Whether it is lunch for a business meet- visit their Facebook page. ing, appetizers for a cocktail party or

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Westchase Area Neighborhood News

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DECEMBER 2012

“Venus & Mars”

great at what they do. I’ve been using their Hydropeptide skin care line for six months now and my face has never looked so good. Thanks Venus & Mars for making me beautiful. You guys are the best!”

Continued from page 1 were looking for a name that would appeal to both men and women,” says Liz. “We came up with the name Venus & Mars because we wanted guys to feel comfortable with what we do.” Maintaining superior standards and cleanliness is extremely important to Mayerlen and Liz and the rest of the staff at Venus & Mars and they go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction by providing a spa that is of the highest quality in every aspect. “I’ve been coming here for a little over two years,” says Sonie Pflum. “I love Venus & Mars because of the great job they do. I also want to mention how clean and sanitary they are, which is my number one thing. This is the spa to go to if you want cleanliness.” Each customer is treated uniquely at Venus & Mars and each treatment is customized to fit your individual needs. “We give you the best customized personal service,” says Mayerlen. The professional staff at Venus & Mars is committed to serving and supporting you on the journey to lasting wellness through their comprehensive range of body treatments, facial care, and rejuvenation services. “We go

DECEMBER 2012

Lavender Mint Salt Glow

The professional staff at Venus & Mars Day Spa. above and beyond for our clients,” says Liz. The spa offers a full range of services, such as complete skin care, including facials and body treatments, a cocoon capsule, nail care and all phases of waxing. They also offer peels, Lipocell Princess – to help reduce cellulite – aromatherapy, massages and much more. “Venus & Mars is my go to day spa,” says Veronica Krastev. “I’ve been coming here for over a year now and have never left unsatisfied. I’ve experienced a wide variety of services, including waxing, facials, massages and nails. I love everybody here. They are so

lights penetrated through my skin and the warm water gently massaged my body I felt the aches and pains of my day slowly slip away. As the cocoon performed its magic Mayerlen completed the treatment by gently exfoliating my skin and massaging it with a body cream that left it glowing and silky.

If you are looking to banish dry, rough skin I highly suggest you try the Lavender Mint Salt Glow. Immerse Hydropeptide Anti-wrinkle your body in their cocoon capsule and Facial let the steam and infrared lights do all Infusing the skin with a mega dose the detoxing as a blend of salts and esof powerful peptides, natural antioxisential oils are buffed over your entire dants, and wrinkle-lifting hyaluronic body and a soothing moisture rich acid, the Hydropeptide Anti-Wrinkle body cream leaves your skin silky Facial will help to visibly reduce fine smooth. On my previous visit I have the wonderful opportunity to experience a couple of the spa services first hand and the Lavender Mint Salt Glow was one of them; simply put – it was amazing! Stepping into the cocoon capsule I immediately felt a sense of calmness take over and as the aroma of fresh lavender soothed Sit back and relax at Venus & Mars Day Spa in my senses, the infrared Westchase.

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Westchase Area Neighborhood News

Owners and sisters Mayerlen (L) and Liz (R). lines and wrinkles and immediately reveal smoother, glowing skin. Although it is ideal for dehydrated/mature/hyper-pigmented skin this facial is appropriate for all skin types – even younger clients looking for smoother skin. The Hydropeptide Anti-wrinkle Facial is another service I had the privilege of trying at Venus & Mars and after just one facial I can honestly say I am hooked! Mayerlen performed my

facial and once again she did an exceptional job of creating a warm, calming atmosphere. During my facial as I was relaxing in the chair with a treatment on my face, I was pleasantly surprised when Mayerlen began to massage my hands and feet, as I have never had that done while getting a facial before. It was then that Mayerlen explained that she likes to go above and beyond for her clients and do all she can to ensure they have the best experience possible! It is remarkable that something as minor as this can make such a huge difference – but it really did – and with a gentle touch she rejuvenated my face, relaxed my limbs, and left my face smoother and fresher than I have seen in a long time. My entire visit – starting in the lobby, where I was warmly welcomed and immediately made to feel relaxed – was such a positive, memorable experience and Mayerlen was very personable and friendly. She is extremely talented at what she does and did a wonderful job making me feel comfortable the entire time. To show appreciation to their clients Venus & Mars also has a great rewards program, where you earn points for every visit and accumulated points can be redeemed for spa services. In addition, you also receive

Westchase Area Neighborhood News

20,000 points just for referring a new client and an additional 500 points for booking an appointment online on their website. Venus & Mars also encourages you to join them on Facebook, so you can keep up-to-date on all their latest specials and last minute deals. Every week Venus & Mars selects a new “Fan of The Week”, depending on their most active fan. This person receives 20% off of their next spa service. The more you interact with their postings and better chance you have of becoming their next “Fan of The Week”. Make Venus & Mars your next spa experience. Rejuvenate your appear-

ance and revitalize your soul! Once your visit is complete, you will emerge into the world fresh from your custom retreat and ready to take on the world! Venus & Mars Day Spa is located at 11614 Countryway Blvd. in Tampa. Hours are Mon. 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Tues. – Fri. 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Sat. 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. They are closed on Sun. For more information or to schedule an appointment for one of their exquisite spa services please call (813) 814-9104, email info@venusandmarsdayspa.com, visit www.VenusAndMarsDaySpa.com or find them on Facebook.

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DECEMBER 2012

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Westchase Area Neighborhood News

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DECEMBER 2012

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Westchase Area Neighborhood News