East Lake - Vol. 7, Issue 11, November 2014 by Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles Magazine

Vol. 7, Issue 11, November 2014

Your neighborhood. Your magazine. The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine 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

“Big Enough to Serve, Small Enough to Care!”

If you have a kitchen, then BergHOFF has something you need and a lot of things you will want! BergHOFF in Odessa is a must-stop this holiday season. For one thing, it is convenient to drive to – from East Lake, you can take East Lake Road to Trinity Boulevard up to State Road 54, where you will turn left, and look for the big BergHOFF building on the right with plenty of parking. It is brilliantly laid out and a wonderland of kitchen products, so it is fun! BergHOFF truly is for everyone, from the chef, to the newlywed couple just setting up their kitchen, to those who want to update and upgrade their cookware.

The industrial-sized showroom is a chef’s dream, but everyday cooks fall in love with the store too. BergHOFF offers a complete spectrum of products in cookware, cutlery, flatware, dinnerware and cook’s tools with more than 3,000 products available. With BergHOFF in the area we have a unique shopping opportunity! Founded in 1964, BergHOFF operates in 65 countries, has its own inhouse designers, and is known worldwide for its award-winning European designed cookware. The only BergHOFF location in North America – and it’s open to the public – is in Odessa and people travel from all over Florida and from throughout the United States just to visit this store. See “BergHOFF” on page 42

Eagle Gala Fundraiser..............3 Community Calendar..........4-5 Theta Electric........................8 Anthony’s Italian............10-11 Jensen Jewelers...................14-15 Dogism...............................18-19 Universal Fine Wine and Spirits........................20 Trinity Dental Care..........22-23 Zen Forrest....................26-27 Snyder Custom Baths.....30-31 Zoho Stone....................34-35 Area Rugs Direct.................36 RMCBP’s General Medical Education Program.....46-47 Brain Balance.......................48

ECRWSS

By Kim Thomas

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Postal Customer

BergHOFF is for the Chef, the Novice & the Family Cook!

See “LOKEY” on page 38

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

Lokey Motor Company in Clearwater is a family owned and operated Mercedes-Benz dealer that has been serving the Tampa Bay community with quality vehicles and impeccable customer service since 1952. Founded by the late Earle Lokey, Lokey Motor Company has stayed true to its mission to serve the local area with outstanding customer service and the original old-fashioned values that Earle Lokey put into place himself more than sixty years ago! The company mission statement that Earle Lokey fostered way back

then still stands today: “To provide the Tampa Bay community with the highest quality in automotive sales, service and financing. Ensuring long term profitability through customer satisfaction and customer satisfaction through employee satisfaction.” Lokey’s mission to provide the best in customer care has been exceeded time and time again throughout the years. Most recently, Lokey Motor Company was awarded the 2013 Mercedes-Benz “Best of The Best” Dealer Recognition Award, which is only presented to top performing Mercedes-Benz dealers in the nation

Dated Material Please Rush!

By Katie Thomas

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East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

From The Editor Kim Thomas Eagle Gala Fundraiser to Benefit Cypress Woods Elementary School SPONSORS NEEDED! Jan. 24, 7 PM––Cypress Woods Elementary School’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA) invites you to save the date for its Annual Eagle Gala “Be Center Stage” school fundraiser event to be held at 7 p.m. on Jan. 24, 2015 at Cypress Run Country Club in Tarpon Springs. Parents, businesses, teachers, friends and neighbors of the school are invited to attend and/or contribute. Proceeds help bridge gaps in the funding of educational and enrichment programs, reading recovery programs, teacher partnerships and materials/equipment for students at Cypress Woods Elementary (CWE). Designed as an upscale evening of entertainment for a great cause, the Eagle Gala “Be Center Stage” event will include gourmet-style food, bar service, a live band, dancing, silent auctions, talent show/karaoke, photography and more. For tickets, sponsorship and donation information, visit www.eaglegala.com or contact the PTA

at info@eaglegala.com. “Donations and sponsorships are critical in meeting the Eagle Gala’s fundraising goals for Cypress Woods,” explains Leona Wells, CWE PTA vice president. “There are many ways for our neighbors and businesses to get involved. They can email us at info@egalegala.com to purchase tickets or become a Named Sponsor, gift items for the auction or contribute a tax-deductible donation,” she continues. Tax-deductible sponsorship packages include: Bronze ($200), Gold ($500) and Platinum ($800) and provide name/brand recognition in multiple formats, including print and digital exposure throughout the community this school year. “Supporting the Eagle Gala through sponsorship allows our business partners an opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of students while fostering goodwill and expanding marketing reach in the community,”

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

adds Wells. “We appreciate the ongoing generosity of our sponsors. They help make great things possible for the kids … and that’s what it’s all about!” Located off of East Lake Road in Palm Harbor, Cypress Woods Elementary is an A-rated school that provides a first-rate education to a diverse population of more than 800 students. PTA is the largest volunteer-based child advocacy group in America with a mission to be a powerful voice for all children. Collectively, it has worked for more than 100 years toward bettering the lives of every child in the areas of education, health and safety. For more about Cypress Woods Elementary PTA and other upcoming events, visit www.cypresswoodspta.com.

Correction: In the October issue, we neglected to capitalize the “C” in SunCoast Collision Center’s name in their article. Find information about them at SunCoastCollisionCenter.com.

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles 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@nnlflorida.com Editorial E-mail: editorial@nnlflorida.com © 2014 Eastlake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is published by Ads 2 Publications, Inc. Publisher Correspondents Tim Selby Alexis Selby General Manager Julie Kanehl Katie Thomas Jim O’Reilly Dara Tucker Editor Art Director Kim Thomas Dat X. Do Advertising Sales Graphic Artists Matt Selby Dat X. Do Tim Selby Tony Sica Jim O’Reilly Accounting Manager Jared Nager Doreen Selby Linda Veiga Nothing that appears in the East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The management of East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles 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 & Lifestyles will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles will not return unsolicited editorial materials. East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. East LakeArea Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, not for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is published by Ads 2 Publications, Inc.

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Brain Cancer has raised over $250,000 in support of brain cancer research and treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center, The Morton Plant Mease Foundation, and the Pediatric Cancer Center of Florida, as well as individual patients who need assistance. This year, we are very pleased to add All Children’s Hospital to our growing list of recipients. Six-year old Lilly Rajala, our ambassador AND a brain cancer survivor, continues her treatment All Children’s.

E AST L AKE A REA

Community Calendar

Play in the 6th Annual Golfers Vs. Brain Cancer Tournament Our Story, Our Inspiration, Our Honorary Chairlady Have you ever thought about what the words “a grassroots organization” really mean? Golfers vs. Brain Cancer is the epitome of that expression. Melissa Pittman wasn’t even thinking about cancer in 2008 when, at age 40, she was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Originally she was given just three years to live. To her, that was not an option. Chemo and radiation kept her tumor from growing. Recently though, her tumor has shown signs of growth and she is in treatment again. Melissa’s spirit and determination have been an inspiration to her family, friends and golfers throughout the North Pinellas community. When asked how we could help, Melissa said, “Find a cure.” Many have rallied to help Melissa and so many others with brain cancer

through Golfers vs. Brain Cancer. For Melissa, “each day is a present – that is why it’s called the present; yesterday is the past and tomorrow is unknown…but today is my present!” According to national statistics, 23,380 men, women and children will be diagnosed with brain cancer in 2014 and sadly, 14,320 will die. Our Charity Partners Now in its 6th year, Golfers vs.

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Our Grassroots Organization Golfers vs. Brain Cancer is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation which is made up entirely of volunteers. No one draws a salary. We will continue to support research initiatives and other avenues to fight this disease. Over 90% of the funds raised through Golfers vs. Brain Cancer is

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donated to our causes. Our Event Fri., Nov. 21––The 6th annual Golfers vs. Brain Cancer tournament will be held at the East Lake Woodlands Country Club on Friday, November 21. Registration for those who have not pre-registered will open at 10:30 AM. Opening ceremonies will begin at 12:30 PM, with a shotgun start at 1 PM. Dinner, silent and live auctions immediately following the tournament. Entry fee, including dinner, is $125. Please consider a sponsor-level donation, a contribution to our silent and/or live auctions, and plan to bring a foursome to enjoy a great day of golf for a great cause. For more detailed information, visit www.GolfersvsBrainCancer.com online. Donations may be made through the website or by calling 727/441-6442 or by checks made payable to Golfers vs. Brain Cancer Foundation and mailed to 334 East Lake Road, #309, Palm Harbor, FL 34685-2427. NO DONATION IS TOO SMALL.

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

Local Allstate Insurance Agency, Korkis Insurance Services Gives to ELHS’s Athletic Department Local Allstate agent Baskal Korkis and his team of insurance advisors will be attending the East Lake High School (ELHS) Homecoming football game on Fri., Nov. 7, and will present a check to the Athletic Department of ELHS in the amount of $3,800. Korkis, a former Eagles student athlete, hopes to improve the athletic program for student athletes, coaches, and fans. He says, “As a long term Pinellas resident, my goal is to offer my fellow residents financial and insurance advice as their trusted advisor; to add value to the financial stability and strength of our community.” The agency is a consistent supporter of the community and has also donated to ELHS PTA, ELHS Senior Class, Brooker Creek Elementary, St. Athanasius Syriac Orthodox Church, East Lake Community Library, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Korkis and his team will be handing out Allstate Korkis Insurance Services promotional items at the Homecoming game and cheering on their Eagles varsity football team. Find more info at: www.facebook.com/korkisallstate

MUSIC FOR MUTTS Nov. 30, 2–10 PM––Music For Mutts is concert to benefit Canine Estates that will be held at Jannus Live, 200 1st Ave. N in St. Petersburg. In addition to live music, there will be festivities, games and a 50/50 drawing. The bands start at 5:30. This fun evening will feature three amazing bands: The Black Honkeys, Stormbringer and Pat Dalton Gang. Be a Sponsor: $500 sponsorship includes: • Company Banner at Event • Company Logo on all Advertising Materials • 10 Event Tickets • Access to VIP Suite For more information on sponsorship, please call 727-412-0558 or 239-8511468, or email: director@canineestates.com Join the Fun: Advance tickets are $10 for general admission (www.ticketfly.com). General admission tickets at the door are $15. VIP Suites are $200 and can be reserved by emailing: Director@CanineEstates.com. Proceeds benefit Canine Estates, Inc., a tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)(3) adoption and sanctuary facility for small dogs. See ad on page 50!

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

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East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

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Theta Electric is the Company to Call for Everything Electrical! By Kim Thomas Theta Electric, owned by East Lake Woodlands residents Sean and Jill Wise, has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and Angie’s List. Family owned and operated, Theta Electric is the company to turn to for all of your home’s electrical needs. Theta Electric’s expert electricians are dedicated to providing the best electrical service in the Tampa Bay Area. Whether your job is large or small, Theta Electric’s trusted electricians provide on-time and same-day service and all of the company’s work is warrantied. The company offers 24/7 emergency service so when a problem strikes, you can count on Theta to be there in your darkest hour to help turn on the lights! Theta Electric operates with the old-fashioned value of treating their customers the way they would want to be treated. Their employees are professional and friendly, and all of our electricians have passed a national criminal background check.

New Installations, Repairs & Upgrades Theta Electric handles jobs large and small for both homeowners and businesses. From the homeowner with a “this old house” project that needs upgraded wiring to meet current codes, to the person who wants LED lighting throughout their home or office. This company handles all types of electrical troubleshooting and can help you keep your expensive electronics safe from Florida’s storms with full-house

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surge protection. Want new accent lighting? Theta Electric can update your home’s landscaping with lighting and interior accent lighting can immediately update your home’s décor. Want to light up your life? Turn to Theta Electric for it all – from the exterior lights, to the pool lights, to all of your indoor lighting. Why worry with trying to replace your own ceiling fan? If you don’t know what you’re doing, it can be very dangerous. Theta Elec-

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tric can handle the job with ease and affordability. If you are looking for a trustworthy company to handle your electrical needs, Theta Electric can handle all of your electrical work right the first time with staff skilled in all electrical services and repairs. When it comes to literally any type of electrical job, Theta Electric will get it done and it will be done right. As an Angie’s List A rated service company, Theta Electric has many great reviews from Angie’s List members. One member who had electrical repairs done by Theta Electric writes, “He did an excellent job. I was very pleased with it. He showed up on time, right on the clock and he went right to work and was in and out probably within 45 minutes.” If you are looking for outstanding service from a local, trusted company, call Theta Electric. Theta Electric services the entire Tampa Bay Area and offers 24/7 Emergency Service. Additional information can be found online at www.ThetaElectric.com. Contact Theta Electric at (727) 474-0378.

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

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Anthony’s Italian Restaurant The Taste of Brooklyn in Trinity By Dara Tucker In the Mitchell Crossing shopping center on the corner of Mitchell Boulevard and Little Road, you can find Brooklyn-style pizza and a variety of Italian meals, served with local hospitality. Karla Barkdoll has owned and operated the Trinity based restaurant since January 2007. Karla worked in the food service industry in various positions for years before she moved to the corporate world. Anthony’s allows her to combine her work experiences, creating a customer focused and family friendly restaurant that is a staple Italian restaurant in our community. Anthony’s menu includes traditional Italian appetizers such as crispy fried calamari, mussels drenched in marinara, and fresh bruschetta. Flat bread with feta, spinach and pine nuts or chicken wings that can come dripping with honey sauce, barbeque sauce or wing sauce, are an option when you’re in the mood for a more American fare. Sandwich options are great for lunch, but are also satisfying enough for dinner. Sandwiches such as shrimp parmigiana and the Italian combo come with chips or you can add fries and coleslaw for an additional $1.25. Dinners are served with soup or salad and your choice of linguini, spaghetti or penne. Anthony’s has three different red sauces for customers to choose from for their meals, truly satisfying their customers tastes! Karla says, “I’ve always focused on our patrons. I feel it’s important to listen to their suggestions, so when

a regular customer suggested we have a sauce that isn’t as sweet of an option we worked on creating a sauce that had more fresh garlic and white wine in it. The customer sampled three different red sauces that our chef Frank created for a tasting. As a result you can now order or traditional marinara, Corleone sauce, or Larry’s marinara, which isn’t as sweet. I’m sure it will be a big hit with other customers, too.” N.Y. Style Pizza Since Anthony’s first opened in 2001 the restaurant’s pizza chef has been Ernie, a Brooklyn born pizza connoisseur. Whether you prefer thin crust, stuffed pizza, white pizza, Sicilian, or even brick oven pizza, Anthony’s can make it for you. Their extra large is 16 inches wide, but they also have a 24-inch pizza, and a 30inch pizza, which is too large for a takeout box so it can only be ordered as dine-in! Toppings range from typical pepperoni to more exotic combinations like artichoke hearts and sundried tomatoes. If you are looking to order several pizzas at once, Anthony’s ovens can accommodate it – they can cook 24 pies every eight minutes! Mitchell High School varsity basketball coach Jared St. Charles uses Anthony’s pizza for concessions at their games because they can handle the quantity of pizzas the high school needs. Daily Specials Anthony’s daily specials make it easy to try different items from their menu every night of the week. All

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specials, with the exception of Monday, are dine-in only, and don’t require a coupon. Monday––A 16” cheese pizza is only $8.75. Tuesday––Get two dinners for the price of one (pasta, eggplant or chicken dinners). Wednesday––Enjoy 2 free glasses of wine or beer with the purchase of 2 dinner entrees. Thursday––Kids eat free and “Tony the Balloon Guy” makes unique hats for the kids (one free kids meal with the purchase of one dinner entrée). Friday, Saturday and Sunday–– Dinner for two – pick two different items for $19.45 lasagna, manicotti, stuffed shells, veal, eggplant, chicken parm (choice of pasta) and comes with

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a choice of dessert. I highly recommend their tiramisu! Karla also wants to thank her regulars with a customer loyalty program for lunch and pizzas. With a loyalty card, when you buy five lunches you get the sixth for free, and when you buy ten pizzas you get your eleventh cheese pizza for free. Catering Made Easy Anthony’s caters full trays (feeds 18-20 people) and half tray (feeds 810) of many of their menu items. Karla has put together a catering menu which makes it very easy to insure that the foods you choose will travel well and still be warm when they’re presented to your guests. Catering with Anthony’s is an excellent option during the holidays for

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

both parties and family get-togethers. When you don’t have to worry about the quality of the food you serve your guests it makes your get together even more enjoyable for you – and delicious for your guests! Full meals of lasagna, veal piccata, sides of sausage and peppers or broccoli with garlic and oil are just some of the options off the catering menu. Or, if you’re looking for more finger foods you can choose catering items such as vegetable platters, cheese platters, and cold cut platters. Kim Thomas turned to Anthony’s for catering when she and her husband

hosted an engagement party for their son. She says, “I knew exactly where to go to build a satisfying and delicious menu for a hungry, young crowd. The sausage and peppers were a huge hit! One of our bride-to-be’s guests was a chef and when he found out the food was from Anthony’s Italian Restaurant in Trinity, he said, ‘Now I know why everything tastes amazing – Anthony’s is the real deal!’ Plus the serving sizes are plentiful! I didn’t have to worry about running out of food.” Loyal patron Harris Taylor has been eating at Anthony’s twice a week

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

for eight years, and he says that he passes several other Italian restaurants to get to Anthony’s. Harris says, “They have a top notch chef here, and I can always get something different such as spinach lasagna or grandma’s lasagna. I suggested to Karla that I thought she could make a great white spinach pizza like I use to get in New York, and she made it, and even better than I had in New York! It’s a great family friendly atmosphere in here, and they have a terrific hard working owner who listens to their customers. They concentrate to be the best at what they do.”

It’s easy to get Anthony’s right to your door with their widespread delivery area. Anthony’s will deliver from Ridgemoor Boulevard in East Lake, north to Ridge Road in New Port Richey, and as far east as just past the Suncoast Parkway. Anthony’s Italian Restaurant is located at 8809 Mitchell Blvd. at the Mitchells Crossing plaza in Trinity. They are open Mon. – Fri., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. and on Sat. & Sun. from noon–10 p.m. For more information, visit www.anthonysoftrinity.com or call (727) 3721663.

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East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

3/2/2 1890 htd sq ft. This home is located in Cross Creek of Eastlake Woodlands. Just freshly painted, carpet, 18" tile flooring. Formal lv and dining rooms, kitchen overlooks family room w/wood burning fireplace. Master bedroom w/master bath w/dual sinks, garden tub, walk in shower. Extended lanai w/view of the fountain & pond. $340,000.

3/3/3 plus office or den - 2515 htd sq ft Formal living & dining rooms w/wood floors, Kitchen w/granite counters & backsplash, wood cabinets overlooks family room w/tile flooring. Oversized screened lanai w/5 ceilings fans w/a spectacular view of the golf course plus an outside patio to enjoy the sun! Too many extras to list. Its a must see for $374,000.

4 Bedrooms · 4 Baths · Den · Great Room · Recess Ceilings · Unique Bonus Room Design · 3,905 Square feet · 3 Car Garage

3 Bedrooms · 3 Baths · Den · Great Room · Recess Ceilings · Bonus Room ·3,199 Square feet · 3 Car garage 1710 htd sq ft - This townhome shows like a model! from the quaint courtyard to the superb view of the pond & Golf course you won't be disappointed. Foyer w/crown molding & tile flooring which flows into the dining room & the kitchen which has white cabinets w/raised panel doors & glass doors to display your pieces, pullout shelves, corian counters w/breakfast bar. Living room w/crown molding, gas fireplace w/wood mantle & designer style laminate flooring. The master is on the first floor w/custom valances & a pocket door leads you to the master bath w/dual sinks w/corian counters & white vanity & new walk in shower w/frameless shower door, linen closet & walk in closet. 1/2 bath is just off the foyer for your guests. Upstairs there are two generous sized bedrooms w/guest bath w/shower & tub. This home has many new features including new roof w/solar fan, designer lighting & fans plus much more! $234,900

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

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This Year Surprise Them with Something Unique from Jensen Jewelers By Julie Kanehl Have you noticed that everything is starting to look the same? Every store in the mall sells the same sweaters, the same shoes, and the same jewelry. Since the beginning of time, jewelry has been used to symbolically represent status, wealth, and most of all, love and commitment. Is your love like anyone else’s? Of course not, so why would you buy the love of your life the commercially created ring that’s on display in every jewelry store at the mall? Instead, come to Jensen Jewelers where you can find, buy or even create something as special as the love you share. Jensen Jewelers is a small, family owned and operated jewelry store that prides itself on being the anti-corporate chain store. Personal attention, a fine selection of unique pieces and a lifetime of experience set Jensen Jewelers miles apart, and it’s what has kept them in business for so long. Plus, Jensen Jewelers is conveniently located

Sonny Mai at 756 East Lake Road in Palm Harbor in the Boot Ranch Plaza between Publix and Target. Owner Sonny Mai has worked at Jensen Jewelers since 1991 when he became an apprentice under the previous owner. More than twenty years later, Jensen Jewelers is the family business that he and his lovely wife Anh always dreamt of running together.

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Sonny says, “Many chain stores like the ones you find in the mall are all owned by the same jewelry manufacturers, so they all end up carrying the same jewelry with only slight variations. I have the ability to choose everything that comes into the store here.” Jensen Jewelers has an impressive selection and it’s enjoyable to see in

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person the myriad of sparkling jewels and the quality of their pieces. Jensen Jewelers has exclusive items you won’t find at the mall. Sonny says, “We’ve been in business here for 23 years, and we don’t do a lot of fancy sales. Those are just companies raising prices and lowering them again as marketing. Instead, we keep it local, we keep it personal

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

and we even negotiate a good price. That’s it.” That’s it! It’s totally straightforward, personal and refreshing. Sonny and Anh are knowledgeable about fine jewelry, the latest trends, and are extremely helpful to customers who want to choose exactly the right piece for the right occasion. And with the holidays at our door, there’s no better time than the present to come in to Jensen Jewelers and find that special something for that special someone in your life.

Are You Ready to Pop the Question? Surveys say that at least 1 in 4 men will propose during the holiday season, somewhere between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day! That’s right, ladies, that special question may just be just around the corner! So fellas, what are you waiting for? Get over to Jensen Jewelers and talk to Sonny and Anh! They have a beautiful selection of diamond engagement and wedding bands to choose from, in every style and in every budget. From the latest trends to one-of-a-kind designs, Jensen Jewelers can even help you create the right ring for your true love. Many couples come to Jensen Jewelers later on in their marriages to upgrade their diamonds or to reset their original stones into a new setting. This has become increasingly popular over the years, and is a great way to celebrate a special anniversary. Diamonds don’t lose their value, so when

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

the time is right Jensen Jewelers is there to guide you through the many setting options. Sonny says, “We make our customers feel comfortable from the moment they walk in the door, and I am the one that works with them. I like working with people instead of just sitting at my jewelry bench. I like to do both.” He adds, “I can better help my customers because I’m the jeweler with the experience.” Jewelry and Watches are Great Gifts! Jensen Jewelers is the perfect destination for holiday shopping. If you want that take-your-breath-away moment when she opens your gift, there’s no better way to get it than with a beautiful piece of jewelry. From rings and bracelets to earrings and necklaces, Jensen Jewelers has a selection of beautifully crafted jewelry that will put the sparkle in any girl’s eye. Sonny and Anh personally choose each item in their store, which gives them the flexibility to offer everything from the latest jewelry trends in diamonds, sapphires and rubies, to more specialized gemstones like jade, turquoise and more. If you’re looking to wow your loved one

this year, Jensen Jewelers has one-of-akind pieces in every budget. Another specialty for Jensen Jewelers is affordable watches. If you’re looking to thank someone for being there for you time and time again, why not buy him or her a watch this year? Jensen Jewelers offers a dazzling selection of brand name watches including Seiko and Pulsar, which are brands that are definitely known for their longevity and dependability! They also carry watch batteries at an excellent price and other watch accessories. Sometimes it’s not a new piece of jewelry that would mean the most, but perhaps having a beloved piece of jewelry repaired that would mean the most to someone. Sonny excels at jewelry repair after more than 20 years in the business. In fact, he has a knack for making each piece truly shine. Jensen Jewelers is located at 756 East Lake Rd. in Palm Harbor in the Boot Ranch Plaza between Publix and Target. Visit Jensen Jewelers on Mon. – Fri., from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. on Sat; closed on Sunday. For more information, please call 7875512.

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East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

“Knowledge, experience and services to fit your dog, your style, your Dogism!” By Katie Thomas You are unique, your dog is unique and your relationship with your dog is one-of-a-kind. There is a place in Oldsmar where your unique relationship with your dog is celebrated. Dogism is a training facility that offers classes including agility training, as well as offering doggy daycare and self-bathing stations. Plus, the retail store is dog-gone stylish with fun finds for your pup and the essentials that he or she needs. Dogism supports your individual philosophy on what your dog means to you and is different in that the trainers try to communicate and understand the animals on both sides of the leash. How do you want your rela-

tionship with your dog to be? The team at Dogism can help you maintain your individual style in dog ownership in a fun atmosphere that is filled with dog-friendly fun, learning and games! Dogism owners Renee and Jason Russell, who are owned and inspired by their two beautiful Vizslas, Luey and Bailey, began working and training in the world of competitive dog sports with their first Vizsla. Renee says, “We loved the obedience and agility in competitions, it was a ton of fun, but very time consuming. Our idea for Dogism stemmed from our love of training without the strict time consuming schedule of competition. We knew we wanted a place that would offer all the fun with training that everyone could enjoy

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Dogism owners Jason and Renee Russell, with Luey and Bailey with their dogs!” Renee is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and an AKC Evaluator, while Jason is a Psych graduate. Both Jason and Renee practice positive reinforcement training, which is largely based upon the renowned work of psychologists Ivan Pavlov and B.F. Skinner. The couple has been competing for more than six years and their Vizslas have earned multiple AKC titles in Agility, Obedience and Field Work. Luey is even a certified therapy

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dog! Jason and Renee share the mission to provide fun and easy dog time at Dogism. They have built Dogism to be a multi-service facility where you can achieve balance and simplicity and enjoy life with your dog. Tail Wagging Training Dogism offers training in obedience for puppies and adult dogs. And, they will even help train you to become a better dog owner! With a flexible schedule that includes evening and

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weekend classes, the Dogism team makes it easy to work on doggie behavioral issues, even for those with the busiest schedules. “We understand that life is busy and complicated enough,” says Renee. “Our mission here is to provide flexible courses that cater to you and your pups needs.” Training classes at Dogism are kept small in size, so you can work on the individual needs of your dog. Your trainer will find out what behaviors you need to work on with your dog and will address your individual concerns and specifications. The Dogism training philosophy is to create a learning environment that caters to how you want to train your dog. Everyone has diverse ideas on the relationship they want with their pet and the Dogism trainers are here to help you hone in on the best ways to help you accomplish the goals you have for your best friend! Advanced registration is available for all training classes and you will need to provide your dogs shot records. Bring a five or six foot leash to class, your dogs favorite treats and a fun attitude with a willingness to learn with your dog by your side and you will be prepped and ready for the best training classes around!

Agility Training Agility courses are a great way to have fun with your dog, implement training and is a healthy release for your pup’s excess energy – plus it’s a great workout for you too! Dogism’s classes include Introduction to Equipment, Beginner Agility and Fungility courses that will help you build your own self-confidence as well as your dogs! Introduction to Equipment introduces the agility equipment to you and your dog, while going over basic safety rules. You will learn proper execution for each piece of agility training equipment as a handler and your dog will learn to use each piece with practice, practice, practice! These classes are offered on Thursdays and Saturdays as continuous classes, which means you can start at any time! The Beginner Agility program is designed for you as a handler. Your dog can feel your confidence and comfort with agility equipment and training will go much smoother when you are fully confident and versed in

the workings of agility handling. You will learn to guide your dog around the course with crosses, signing and signals that are all based on body language. Your dog and you will be learning a language that will create a bond of trust and understanding during this course! Classes are offered on Fridays and Saturdays, as session classes, and your dog must be at least one year old to join. Fungility classes at Dogism are for all levels and are suggested “for the dog and handler who feel confident in their abilities.” Different courses are set up every week, from basic to advanced, offering a continuous challenge and learning experience for you and your dog! The Fungility course is open every Thursday and Saturday. Doggie Day Care Many dog owners will agree that a tired dog is a good dog. Dogism offers a different kind of daycare that is scheduled and well planned, so your dog gets structure, fun and training while you are away for the day. Each daycare class has a limit for the number of dogs allowed in to ensure that each dog is receiving a lot of attention. Trained staff will supervise your dog at all times and will learn his or her preferences, whether it is a favorite place to be scratched or a certain eating time to eat. Basic training methods are used and there is a scheduled rest time, as well as treat time, outside time and play area time. Small and big dogs have completely separate areas for safety and all dogs are required to undergo a behavioral evaluation before entering daycare classes to ensure that everyone can get along in the pack!

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

DIY Doggie Bathing & Tail Waggin’ Retail! Bathing at Dogism is the best! Bring in your dirty dog, use Dogism’s premium supplies, save yourself some back pain, make a mess and leave with a fresh-smelling, clean pup! Dogism offers large, raised grooming tubs, complete with ramps for large dogs and sitting shelves for small dogs. Supplies include specialty shampoos that will nourish your dog’s coat and skin, plus brushes, towels, ear wipes and nail clippers are on-hand, as well as your pick of bandannas or bows to show off your dogs fresh new look! Dogism’s retail store stocks collars, leashes, food, treats, toys and more. You will find training tools, ecofriendly toys, safe treats and dog-approved merchandise. If you want something special, Dogism will try to find it and order it in. All of the items in Dogism’s retail store are products that they would use on their own dogs – the best of the best! The Dogism retail store is open 10 a.m. –9 p.m. on Mon. – Thurs., and 10 a.m.–8 p.m. on Fri. and Sat.; and noon–5 p.m. on Sun. DIY Dog Bathing is open during retail hours. Dogism Daycare hours are 7 a.m.–7 p.m. on Mon. – Fri. Evaluations are held by appointment only on Monday and Wednesday at 8 a.m. or 9 a.m. All dogs over 6 months must be spayed or neutered. Dogism is located at 110 Pine Avenue South in Oldsmar. For a complete calendar of events, training classes, or more information, please visit www.dogism.com or call (813) 854-3647 (DOGS).

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Universal Fine Wine & Spirits Has Your Holiday Libations By Katie Thomas The holidays are here and there is no better place to stock up on favorite spirits for your family and friends than Universal Fine Wine and Spirits on U.S. Highway 19 in Holiday. Family owned and operated, Universal Fine Wine and Spirits has been providing the Tampa Bay Area with excellent customer service, great values and a wonderful selection of the finest beverages since 2003. With a specialty in fine wines, craft beers and rare liquors, Universal is the place to get ready for all your upcoming holiday parties. Need a great gift that will impress and won’t break your bank? Choose from the massive selection of handcrafted beers or a Bloody Mary kit. Universal Fine Wine and Spirits is out of this world when it comes to prices, selection and customer service! Open 365 days a year, Universal Fine Wine and Spirits offers flat rate shipping, so if you don’t have time to make it down to the store, you can order online! They ship nationwide or locally.

Craft Beer, Hand Selected Fine Wines & Unique Spirits Universal offers more than 500 different and flavorful beers for your choosing. From local seasonal brews to great American classics and unique craft beers, Universal Fine Wine and Spirits has one of the largest brew selections around. “We have a lot of Cigar City craft beer, as well as a lot of other out-of-state, small brewery beers here,” owner Rob Janevski says. “People find out we carry their hometown beer and we get a lot of customers that way. They always say, ‘I can’t believe you carry this!’ ” When it comes to wine, Universal has an extensive and impressive selection. From every corner of the globe, Universal has the finest selection of sparkling, vintage, red, white and rose wines. With hundreds of wines stocked on the shelves, it is easy to choose a great wine for an upcoming dinner party or a hostess gift. If you aren’t a wine expert, the skilled staff is knowledgeable in taste, body, flavor and can even help you pair your bottle to what you will be having for dinner! Universal’s wine sales have taken

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off, especially since they offer customers great services that include shipping and special orders. Rob says, “If a customer wants something, we will make it happen. We will order it in for them and put it on the shelf. I think this is one of the reasons our customers come back time and time again - they know we are working to cater to them.” Universal is not your average package store. They not only carry your favorite brands and types of liquor, they also have a huge variety of flavors, mixers, cocktail garnishes and more! One of my favorite things to offer as a gift is an awesome mixed drink kit or DIY Bloody Mary package. Universal has everything you need to build fun liquor packages for holiday gift giving that are sure to lift the spirits of anyone this holiday season! If you are looking for a fun night out, check out Orbit 19 Lounge adjacent to Universal Fine Wine and Spirits. Every year Orbit throws a Thanksgiving party, a Christmas party

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and a New Year’s Eve party, which are always well decorated, fun and full of phenomenally crafted drinks! Check out Universal Fine Wine and Spirits’ full selection of beverages in store or online at www.universalfws.com. Universal Fine Wine & Spirits is located at 1542 US Hwy 19 N. in Holiday and is open 365 days a year on Mon. – Sat., 8 a.m. – 2 a.m. and from 11 a.m. – 2 a.m. on Sun. For more information, contact the store at (727) 937-8330.

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

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Trinity Dental Care A Decade of Dental Care at its Family-Friendly Finest! By Katie Thomas Husband and wife dentists Azita Eskandari, DDS and Saied Shayes, DMD recently celebrated the ten-year anniversary of the opening of their family-friendly dental practice, Trinity Dental Care. With a location that is convenient to every neighborhood in Trinity––at 1843 Healthcare Drive, just behind the Walgreen’s at the intersection of Little Road and Mitchell Boulevard––the couple’s office is not only home to the two dentists, but is home to a great staff whom always have patients’ best interests in mind. Trinity Dental Care is a bright and friendly office that never overbooks patients, so you can be in, out, and on with your day as quickly as possible. Dr. Eskandari says, “One of our main goals here is to help people receive the care they need as efficiently as possible. We don’t have a big office because we don’t want people sitting out in the waiting room for hours waiting on their dental care. We keep it small because we keep the wait time small. You will usually be seen within

five minutes of your appointment time. We do this because it helps us give the best care possible to each individual patient, while helping them with them save time.” Dr. Shayes and Dr. Eskandari started out with a small office on Hillsborough Avenue before moving to Trinity. “At the time we saw growth happening here in the community. We were nervous at first because there were more cows than people! But the area has been great to us and we absolutely love our clientele,” says Dr. Eskandari. “When we started here, we had recently gotten married and I was pregnant with our first child. Patients we’ve known since then have become a part of our family and have watched our kids grow, as well as helped our business grow. We are very thankful.” Dr. Shayes and Dr. Eskandari are local residents who live only a few minutes away from the office, which allows them to serve patients during evening and weekend hours. If you have an emergency dental situation, Trinity Dental Care is always available to help! Dr. Eskandari says, “We are

here for the long haul. Our kids love their school, we love our neighborhood and our patients couldn’t be any better.” The couple met at a dental conference in 2000 and immediately knew they were right for each other. Four years later they took on the journey of building a business and a family. Since both kids are still young, Dr. Shayes is the primary dentist at Saied Shayes, DMD & Azita Eskandari, DDS Trinity Health Care and Dr. Eskandari is parttime. She splits her time vide our patents with the best in denbetween work and being an on-toptistry. My husband wants the latest of-it mom for her kids. and best because whatever is new “We strive to stay on top of the helps us provide better quality denlatest innovations within dentistry,” tistry to our patients.” says Dr Eskandari. “The materials for oral care are always changing to make General Dentistry with a Focus on procedures easier for the patient. We Preventive Care attend conferences and continue our From age six and up, Trinity education because it allows us to proDental Care is able to take care of the

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Shayes. “We alway check each individual patient even if they are just having a cleaning, just to make sure everything is okay.” Trinity Dental Care has a large referral base in case you need a specialist and is located in a plaza with some of the best professionals in the Trinity area, so you won’t have to make a hike to take care of your needs! Dr. Eskandari says, “If I need to send anyone anyYou are in good hands with Dr. Shayes and Dr. Eskandari at Trinity Dental Care where, we have a great group of professionals right entire family and treats patients with fect on your entire body, which is why here in our plaza.” all general dentistry services, including we are really big on preventative dennon-surgical gum treatments, root tistry. If we can educate our patients Saturday Hours Are a Plus! canals, fillings, crowns, dentures, paron proper gum and tooth care, it can Trinity Dental Care offers Saturtial dentures, repairs, implant restorahelp so much in the difference of their day hours, which is great for patients tions and cleanings. oral and overall health.” who work Monday through Friday, “We can take care of everything Dr. Shayes suggests visiting every and especially for patients who need a for you here and we work with your six months to have an oral check-up lot of work done. They also offer schedule, so if you need to have every- and teeth cleaning for preventive care, evening appointments for extended thing done in one day, we do our best along with getting x-rays once a year. treatments. Dr. Eskandari says, “We to get it done for you,” says Dr. EsThis way if something in your oral are flexible to work with people’s kandari. “The only time we refer out is health changes, the dentists will be schedules. I’ve heard from so many if a difficult case arises and a specialist able to see, document and help you people that they appreciate this about is needed for the patient’s safety.” before it gets really bad! No one likes us. We know how busy life can get Oral health is extremely impora toothache! and understand that it isn’t easy to tant to overall health. Dr. Eskandari Even if you are just in for a set of take time off from work, which is why explains, “It’s all connected. The x-rays or your scheduled cleaning, you we try to accommodate our patients health of your mouth can have an efwill always see Dr. Eskandari or Dr.

on weekend and evenings.” Recently in 2012, Dr. Shayes and Dr. Eskandari opened a second office in Tampa, right off Bruce B. Downs called A Briter Smile Dental Care. Only twenty minutes from Trinity, this location allows for the couple to be available at either location for dental care. This helps save you time because you can choose either location depending on your centralized area. One of the best things about Trinity Dental Care (besides the friendly and knowledgeable team) is the fact that they make an effort to get all your work done on the same day, even if you are a new patient. “When we book a new patient we book enough time to allow for x-rays, gum check, cleaning, and more so you don’t have to come back. You can get everything taken care of that day if you want because we make sure to block of plenty of time to spend with you as an individual!” Trinity Dental Care always keeps the patients’ best interests in mind and does their best to find discounts where they are available for services. They accept all insurance providers with PPO dental plans, participate with care credit a finance company, offer discounts to patients without insurance and offer senior citizen discounts. Dr. Eskandari says, “Depending on service and work, we try to help you as much as we can with discounts. Care credit is a great way to pay off a little at a time, which takes the stress out of your dentist visit.” Visit Trinity Dental Care’s website, trinitydentalcare.com, to watch a video about the team, read the dentists’ bios and to see a full list of services. You can also find a questions and answers page that may help you out. Trinity Dental Care is located at 1843 Health Care Drive in New Port Richey. Call (727) 372 -2001 for appointments.

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Zen Forrest is Where The Best of East Meets West By Katie Thomas Twelve years ago, Zen Forrest opened in New Port Richey on Rowan Road to serve the local community with fresh Pan-Asian cuisine that boasts traditional eastern faire with western influences. Critically acclaimed Chef Victor Wang and Zen Forrest owner, Chiara Covelli, work side-by-side with their professional staff to enrich the taste buds of our community with the freshest ingredients available. From farm fresh, handpicked vegetables to the locally caught seafood – the composition of every menu item at Zen Forrest is made with your dining experience and overall health in mind. Whether you choose to dine-in or carryout, prepare yourself for a wonderful, healthy meal that has been created fresh for your overall pleasure – taste, smell, body, mind and soul. Zen Forrest takes pride in only using the freshest ingredients for their menu items. Everything is made inhouse daily and you will never see a big box store truck dropping off delivery items of pre-packaged frozen items. Owner Chiara Covelli says, “We believe in using the freshest materials in Zen Forrest. We use as much local and organic produce as we can because we believe that food is medicine. From free-range chicken to right off the farm micro-greens, our quality ingredients make a big difference in the taste of our food.” Chiara and Chef Victor work with local farms to get the freshest ingredients possible for customers. Chiara says, “We are building relationships with local growers and have gained so much insight from working one-on-one with local farmers. Many

of our ingredients literally come straight from an organic grower to our kitchen to your plate. We are learning how our food is grown and putting in a great deal of time in understanding the benefits of using fresh, seasonally grown food because we truly believe that what you’re putting into your body is imperative to good health and sound mind.” From fresh-picked cabbage that is pickled in-house for a delicious, spicy Kimchi to winter squash and tomatoes that are still warm from the sun, each ingredient chosen fosters inspiration in the kitchen and will inspire your palate. “Most of our dishes are ‘ingredient driven,’ which means that I choose our specials based on a gorgeous selection of organic eggplants or a beautiful filet of fresh locally caught fish,” says Chef Victor. “When I plan our menu, I take the time to consider what is fresh, local, nutritious and full of flavor. My cooking here is based on food as a type of balance. From presentation and taste to the freshness of our ingredients – our food is medicine for the soul and the body.” You can go as far as saying that the preparation of food at Zen Forrest is a mix of science and art, with food that addresses health, taste and presentation. From the colors and textures to the nutritional value of the ingredients – everything at Zen Forrest is served as a well-balanced meal that makes you feel good. Your dining experience at Zen Forrest will leave you believing in the power of food for health and wellness, while satisfying your cravings for traditional eastern food with western influences. Zen Forrest is the best Asian Fusion style restaurant in the Tampa Bay area! Chef Victor has been cooking for

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almost thirty years. His mother and father ran restaurants while he was growing up in New York and as a younger man in New York City, Chef Victor found himself exposed to a melting pot of different cooking styles. His passion was found early and he dove right into the culinary world with an intensity and drive that comes from an innate love of feeding people and concocting masterpieces that take hours to prepare but only minutes to devour. His skills in the kitchen are a true craft and the presentation in which he serves your food is truly culinary art. He has spent over twenty years traveling and researching the perfect blend of Asian and American cuisine to perfect his culinary creations. To miss out on a meal prepared by the hands of Chef Victor is to miss out on a once in a lifetime experience of sensual awakening through deliciously prepared food. In addition to serving fresh, flavorful and healthy food, Zen Forrest has a wonderful selection of craft beers, sake and fine wines that are affordably priced. Zen Forrest supports local breweries and offers delicious craft made drafts on tap for your pleasure. Try a cold sake made by some of the best sake masters in Japan or indulge in a bottle of wine from Zen Forrest’s wine cellar that your server will help you pair with your entrée. Zen Forrest has over seventy-five wines to choose from in their cellar that are all handpicked from small wineries, so you can try something new that pairs well with your food. All of Zen Forrest’s servers have gone through wine training so they can help you make an informed decision on what will match your dinner best.

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Chef Victor Wang From appetizers to soups and entrees, the delicious Zen Forrest menu cannot be beat. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available and as well as fresh baked and made in-house desserts! You get the whole spread at Zen Forrest! Zen Forrest takes pride in their menu, from the simplest dish to the most extravagant. Chiara and Chef Victor host monthly and seasonal events to invite patrons in for different and exciting experiences. Chef Victor prepares a traditional Peking Duck dinner very year in November that he claims is a favorite event with frequent diners. Some guests even make reservations a year in advance to experience the Peking Duck. Other events include Sake Tastings, Wine and Beer Pairings, and even classes on how to

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

prepare whole fish, traditional dim sum brunch and more. You really get a bit of everything from Zen Forrest – from good food that rewards your mind, body and soul to great company, this place is the Crème de la Crème of affordable, healthy, and delicious Asian Fusion dining. Zen Forrest is located at 4148 Rowan Road in New Port Richey. Hours are: Mon., 4:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.; 11:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. on Tues. – Thurs.; 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. on Fri. & Sat. Call (727) 372-9545 for more information or visit online at zenforrest.com for a full list of events and to check out the menu. Reservations are encouraged for dinner.

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Snyder Custom Bathrooms and More Builds to Please! By Katie Thomas Your home is your safe haven, and within your home, you have your special spaces where you can close the door and just let the rest of the world slip away. There is no better place than a beautiful master bath suite where you can recharge yourself. So shouldn’t your bathroom reflect your individuality? If you are considering updating your bathroom, you’ll want an experienced, licensed contractor who is reliable and affordable, and one who will turn your vision into your dream-come-true. You want someone like Chris Snyder, owner of Snyder Custom Bathrooms and More, who specializes in remodeling and renovation projects for your home and guarantees that you will receive quality, honest work from start to finish. Located out of Pasco County, Snyder Custom Bathrooms and More specializes in custom bathrooms, cabinet installations, fixture solutions and more. With a lifetime of experience in the construction business, Chris Snyder works side-by-side with his wife Faylee to bring you quality work at fair pricing that you can trust will last. Chris says, “When it comes to hiring a contractor for a home remodel or renovation, you want to make sure you are choosing someone that will walk you through every step of the process, keep you involved in the project and perform quality work that is long-lasting. Faylee and I work together on each individual project to ensure that our clients get exactly what they want by a team they can trust. We don’t subcontract and we always visit our jobsites together.” As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to make certain that a contractor is licensed and insured; always ask about licensing and check their credentials, because a faulty job could

end up costing you valuable time and money. Contractor Chris Snyder is both licensed and insured to perform contracting work in the State of Florida. Chris built his first house with his dad when he was eight years old and has been in the building business ever since, and has had his contractor’s license since 2004. It truly is his passion to provide beautiful custom designs for his clients that are not only aesthetically pleasing but durable and functional as well. Faylee, a native Floridian, says, “We work together as a team because we just love being together and completing a project makes us both feel accomplished. What better life is there than to work with your soul mate every day and be happy dong it?” Chris adds, “We love the Tampa Bay Area and are here to stay. Our customers never have to worry about us not being there for them if something goes awry. We make it our mission to provide the best finished project the first time around, but if anything isn’t up to standards, we get back to the project right away and find a solution, free of travel fees.” In addition to a one-year warranty on labor for any work performed, you will always receive honest work from Faylee and Chris. “Our name is our reputation and we only want the best to be said about our work,” says Chris. “Many of our clients appreciate that we work as a husband and wife team…many times we even become friends with our clients because we strive to build relationships with each person whose home we enter.” Chris specializes in custom bathrooms, but can do just about any kind of contracting work. Snyder Custom Bathrooms and More has a long list of references and works with you to find discounts through material vendors

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that can be passed on to customers. Chris says, “I can get great discounts with the companies I use. We can usually find what the customer wants at a better price than they would get if they were doing the shopping on their own. If you order something that needs to be picked up, we even will get the material to your home for installation. We cover all the bases, from start to finish.” The Snyder Difference: In addition to honest, quality work from a licensed and insured construction expert, you receive a lesson in home upkeep and renovation projects when working with Snyder Custom Bathrooms and More. “We walk our clients through the process of what we will be doing to their house,” says Faylee. “During our initial consultation, we sit down with you and find out exactly what you are looking for. From there, we are able to tell you if your project is feasible or not. If a contractor is not willing to sit down with you and have a conversation with you about your style, design preferences and budget, then you should not use them! Many contractors will just

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throw around numbers with you, you’ll agree on a bid and then start the work. We make a huge effort to educate our customers about their project from start to finish and we are flexible to meet their scheduling needs.” Tampa Attorney Paul Prezepis only uses Snyder Custom Bathrooms and More for house renovation and construction needs because he only wants the best for his home and family. Paul says, “The first time I ever used Chris Snyder for a significant project was actually at my parents’ house. They had a sunroom with a leak and I checked into a few different contractors’ estimates. I chose Chris because I could just tell he was the type of contractor that was truly honest. From my experience with contractors I have seen that most don’t take the time to walk you through the process. From the minute Chris walks in the door you get an overall sense of trust with the guy. He knew what the exact problem was, why it leaked and showed me the project plans. This was before I really knew Chris well, but I just knew he was the right guy for the job. Every guy that came over before Chris visited was your typical

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

Before

After

contractor… not exactly sure what they’re going to do and with no set plan. What sold me on Chris’s work was that he explained his entire plan in detail. He went and above-and-beyond just patching the leak. He took off the entire strip of shingles down to bare wood for a true fix. Told us the right way it should be done and followed through. It has been a couple of years and the roof has not leaked

since. Now, I use Chris for any job I need done around the house. He’s a great contractor and now a great friend of mine.” More recently, Paul had Chris remodel his bathroom. “I was home the day he performed the work on the master bathroom of my home, so I watched him work. The guy just knows what he’s doing,” says Paul. “The bathroom looks fabulous now.

East Lake Area Neighborhood News & Lifestyles

Chris is efficient with time and his clients’ money. He bids fairly and he’s honest - what more could you want from a contractor? He’s the whole package and his work is impeccable, which is the icing on the cake. All the intangible things that we don’t generally see in the industry, he sees it.” Customers Vicky and Ron say, “We had some grout issues with the tiles in both of our bathrooms. We found Snyder Custom Bathrooms and More in Neighborhood News & Lifestyles, so we contacted Chris and Fay. Chris and Fay are fair, prompt, honest, conscientious, very neat and also have no hidden costs from the first quoted contract price. They explained the process from beginning to end. The result, by far, exceeded our expectations and our bathrooms now

After

look new again!” Snyder Custom Bathrooms and More has everything you need in a contracting company. No hidden fees, no sub-contracted work, quality and honesty. If you are in need of a bathroom remodel, cabinet installation or a project estimate - Chris and Faylee go above-and-beyond to exceed your expectations – a true power team! Contact Chris and Faylee at Snyder Custom Bathrooms and More [license number CBC1252642] at (727) 869– 1043. Estimates are free and clients always get a step-by-step outline of the project, with completion dates, prices and honest answers every time.

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Transform Your Mantel, Transform Your Home at Zoho Stone Architectural Products By Julie Kanehl They say that the home’s fireplace is a natural focal point, gathering place and a symbol of peace, warmth and tranquility for your family. Builders know this, and even in Florida, fireplaces are one of the most requested items on a homebuyer’s checklist. Not because they need the warmth, but because of how important and historic gathering around the fireplace actually is! In Florida, where we don’t often need the fireplace for heat, it’s the mantel however that steals the show! So what does your fireplace mantel say about your home? Is it majestic? Is it the perfect place to gather around, take milestone photos in front of and decorate each season? It’s more likely that your fireplace mantel dates your home. The mantels at Zoho Stone Architectural Products are a style unto themselves! Imagine a fireplace that is worthy of its reputation, one that would represent your personal style, update your home’s aesthetics and even raise its

value! When you transform your mantel, you transform your home. Zoho Stone Architectural Products can do that and more using state-of-the-art lightweight, precast fireplace mantels. These incredible, made-toorder and long lasting fireplace mantels are made of gypsum cement, with the addition high-tech composites, glass fiber reinforcement and crushed natural stones, but look like they are meticulously carved stone. The Zoho Stone Architectural Products showroom, located 34318 US Highway 19 North in Palm Harbor, is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a unique and impressive way to update your home’s hearth. There is an impressive selection of Zoho Stone’s fireplace mantels on display, and the staff can personally help you navigate the many choices offered.

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Zoho Stone Architectural Products (or Zoho Stone for short) is known as a premier precast architectural elements supplier and has been hailed for their dedication to researching, testing and basically producing a product that is completely unique. In fact, you could say that their approach has revolutionized the industry in weight, cost and artistry. Zoho Stone’s factory in California has been creating everything from fireplace mantels to architectural panels for buildings,

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schools and hospitals since the 1980s, and they ship their products all over the country, and of course, the Tampa Bay Area. President of Zoho Stone, Michel Zohouri, says, “Our fireplace mantel collection is perfect for the homeowner who wants to remodel or upgrade the look of their old mantel or fireplace. Our mantels create a memorable centerpiece in the home, and the

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value that it adds to the house is phenomenal.” He adds, “Studies have shown that homes with a nice fireplace mantel not only sell faster, but one can recoup up to double the amount that he or she has spent on the addition of a beautiful fireplace by the increase in the added value of their home.” Customers from all over the Tampa Bay Area have come to Zoho Stone for fireplace mantels. Zoho Stone has one of the largest selections of precast fireplace mantels in the country, and each of their mantels is

created using a handcrafted mold and perfect for indoor or outdoor use. (An outdoor fireplace by the pool is a remarkable idea!) Brooke said, “I received my mantel that was custom made for me and it is perfect! The detail work and craftsmanship is amazing. Even the installer said it was one of the best quality mantels he had ever seen.” Let Zoho Stone Create Your Dream Fireplace Mantel When you visit Zoho Stone, you’ll

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be welcomed by a professional staff, all of whom are eager to help you find your dream mantel, which will work perfectly for your home. With so many design styles, colors and textures to choose from, the hardest part is figuring out which mantel to choose! Michel says, “Our mantels are very detailed, fabricated by hand and most are made to order. We have over 50 designs to choose from and 10 of them are adjustable.” The first step is to determine the size of your firebox, or your actual fireplace insert. That dictates what options you have for design. Between classical, contemporary and modern styles, there are options that are designed to fit your exact taste and fireplace surround. Michel adds, “We have a foolproof measurement system for determining the size of your mantel.” Next, you can customize your mantel by choosing a color and a texture that best fits your home. Textures include Smooth, Travertine, Sandstone, Aged Stone, and now you can even choose to have a Venetian plaster marbleized design. Whether you prefer something with smooth, contemporary lines, or you love the scrolls and flourishes of

their classical collection, there’s a mantel that will speak to you. Some have artistically carved shells, while some feature a fleur-de-lis, yet others have columns and a Mediterranean feel. The options seem truly endless. The Zoho Stone website also is a great place to start, since it offers you a chance to view their entire mantel catalog. Of course, nothing is better than visiting the showroom and seeing some of them in person. Their mantels are truly remarkable and would make an incredible addition to any home. The best part is that you can have your completely custom-made mantel delivered in an average of four to six weeks! That means that you can completely transform your living room just in time for the New Year! So, what are you waiting for? Visit Zoho Stone to choose the new mantel that fits your home and your style, because when you transform your mantel, you transform your home. Zoho Stone Architectural Products, LLC, located at 34318 US Hwy 19 N in Palm Harbor, is open Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m.–6 p.m. and by appointment on Sat. For more information, call 727-2306956 or visit www.ZohoStone.com for more details.

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Call Area Rugs Direct & Give Yourself the Gift of a Finished Home! By Katie Thomas Area Rugs Direct takes the hassle out of buying area rugs. No more worrying whether the rug will match! No more wrestling a large rug into your car, if it is even possible. Area Rugs Direct brings the selection to you! Area Rugs Direct services the entire Tampa Bay Area, Sarasota, Orlando and the surrounding areas with the best area rug inventory and delivery services for home or office. Founded in 2005, owner Tony Mogavero’s shop-fromhome service is unique and sets Area Rugs Direct apart from other companies. “Our personalized, shop-at-home service makes us unique,” says Tony. Area Rugs Direct is one-of-a-kind, offering the best personalized shopping service that comes right to your door, helps you make an informed decision, then delivers and installs your new rug! Plus, customers love Tony! He has impeccable taste and loves helping his customers find the rugs that will complement the existing décor rather than competing with it. And if you call

right now, you can have new area rugs ready to be the foundation of your holiday décor. With Area Rugs Direct, you get to skip the hassle of searching online for something you aren’t sure about, skip cramming the rug into your sedan, bypass shipping fees and see exactly what you are getting with the help of Area Rugs Direct. Area Rugs Direct assists you in selection, layout, installation and design techniques. Angie’s List Reviews As a member of Angie’s List, Area Rugs Direct has great customer reviews and has been awarded the Super Service Award many times. One Angie’s List review says, “I don’t know if I can say enough about Tony Mogavero. I love this man! He has the ability to walk into a room and completely envision and transform it right before your eyes (even rearranges your existing furniture), and on your budget. He is everything and much more than what we were expecting for the price we paid for his services. He is a genius in his line of work. Do yourself

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a favor and take advantage of Area Rugs offer on Angie’s List. You’ll be glad and thankful you did!” Another Angie’s list member, Jason, says, “Tony listened to what we were looking for and brought several area rugs into our home and laid them on the floor to see how it would look with our furniture, walls, flooring, etc. Although we did not buy an area rug from him at the time, we would certainly do business with him again. He has a great decorating eye and is just a really, really nice person to work with. It was an enjoyable experience and I

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would recommend him to anyone.” Area Rugs Direct is A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau and an A rated Super Service Award Provider on Angie’s List . Call Area Rugs Direct at (813) 505-3174 or (727) 210-0900 for a FREE in-home consultation. Find more information, testimonials and photos at www.arugdirect.com. Area Rugs Direct, LLC is appointmentbased and is available 7 days a week for customer convenience. “Like”Area Rugs Direct - Shop at Home on facebook.com.

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“LOKEY” Continued from page 1 based on customer satisfaction, new vehicle sales, certified pre-owned sales, leadership/management skills and service and parts operation. This award and others throughout the decades confirm that Lokey Motor Company excels in all categories, with values that are built around the goal to satisfy customers in all aspects. Philip Lokey, Earle’s son, is the President of Lokey Motor Company today. He began managing the dealership in 1986, before his father passed away. With a company and a name to be proud of, Philip Lokey will continue to honor his father and the Lokey Motor Company by providing the community with premier new and pre-owned vehicles that are marketed at reasonable prices, and by treating Lokey’s customers with service that guarantees customer satisfaction. Lokey Motor Company is home to over 130 employees that are dedicated to their work and the MercedesBenz brand! Lokey Motor Company truly is a family company and the long-standing employees will tell you that this is a dealership where every-

one, from the customers to the staff, is treated with respect––just as Earle Lokey meant it to be, “Ensuring…customer satisfaction through employee satisfaction.” In addition to meeting their goals for superior customer service, the Lokey Motor Company team has a dedication to community that they strive to meet through joining up with local charities and by hosting benefits throughout the year. Lokey Motor Company is a proud sponsor of the Golfer’s vs. Brain Cancer (see event information on pg 4), and often hosts events for the Tampa Bay Business Journal, the Clearwater Jazz Fest Association and other groups. Luxury and Performance Await You at Autohaus Lokey Motor Company’s current location in Clearwater is home to handsomely designed state-of-the-art showroom, known as Autohaus. Guests are welcome to stop by the elegant and spacious Autohaus at Lokey Motor Company to experience the newest Mercedes-Benz models, including the C-Class, E-Class, GLClass, GLA-Class, GLK-Class, M-Class, S-Class, SL-Class and CLSClass. Whether you dream of the

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sleekness of a high-performance, luxury coupe or roadster, the versatility of a family-friendly SUV or pet-friendly hatchback, or the comfort of a spacious sedan, you’ll find a model that fits your lifestyle. Choose the luxury and performance of Mercedes-Benz for yourself and your family and let the world know that you value your driving experience! Lokey Motor Company’s commitment to its guests extends into their sales room, showcase floor and service area where guests are treated to amenities that only a company with solid hospitality values could offer.

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From free Wifi to guests having a full view of the service being performed on their vehicle on big screen televisions, Lokey Motor Company will treat you like royalty whether you are looking to buy a new Mercedes-Benz, a certified pre-owned vehicle, or getting your car serviced. Lokey Motor Company offers financing for new and used cars, comprehensive service and parts management, leasing, educational resources, member benefits and world-class customer service. It just doesn’t get better than Lokey Motor Company!

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dream car is to stop by the Autohaus at Lokey Motor Company and put your hands on the steering wheel of your favorite Mercedes-Benz model and schedule a test drive!

For more information on Lokey Motor Company, visit www.lokeymotorco.com where you can chat live with a knowledgeable service agent or build your next vehicle purchase on a virtual digital display. Of course, the best way to find your

Lokey Motor Company, located at 19820 US Highway 19 N in Clearwater, is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. and from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday. For Sales, call (888) 992–2898. For Service, call (888) 472–1267. For Parts, call (727) 530–1661. Visit lokeymotorco.com online for more information.

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“BergHOFF” Continued from page 1 BergHOFF ships everywhere in the United States, but for those of us who live nearby, visiting the showroom is the best way to experience the form and function of BergHOFF’s superior products. Your cookware and utensils are your tools in the kitchen and the best way to try out a tool is to pick it up and hold it in your hand. When you visit the BergHOFF showroom, you can pick up a pan and feel its heft and test how the handle feels in your hand. “Cutlery is all about how it feels in your hand,” explains Candace, one of BergHOFF’s friendly employees. “It’s an individual choice and we have over 25 blocks to choose from.” Forged, balanced, good quality steel improves performance; plus, the store offers complimentary sharpening on all BergHOFF knives. Customers sincerely appreciate the friendly, helpful service at BergHOFF. Employees Candace, Terry and Sylke aren’t just nice; they really know the BergHOFF products and will help you find the most versatile and useful products for your personal cooking style

and you won’t have to worry that you’ve purchased something you won’t use or need. They will ask you about what type of stove you have and what types of foods you like to cook so that they can help you streamline your kitchen and stick to your budget. You update your appliances, you update your furniture, you update your vehicle – why not update you cookware? BergHOFF offers cookware that actually helps you prepare more nourishing meals for your family. Candace explains how your cookware can make a difference. “We offer waterless cookware sets to cook your meat and vegetables with no fat or oil.

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You have better color, better flavor, and the vitamins are left in your food.” She adds, “Pressure cookers allow you to create a healthy meal, plus saving you time and energy in the kitchen. You can cook ribs that fall off the bone in 20 minutes!” BergHOFF’s Eclipse Pressure Cooker has a re-engineered lid for easy closing. Like all BergHOFF products, the design is stylish and functional. Many people are updating their kitchens and putting in new induction stoves, which require induction ready pots. All of the cookware at BergHOFF is induction ready – all of it, from the ceramic non-stick to the

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stainless steel. BergHOFF also sells portable, single induction stovetops, which are great for boats, RVs or cooking out on the lanai. The portable induction units also are perfect for college students. Come to Cooking Class! This community-friendly store offers cooking classes that are fun, yet serious! You can sign up for a cooking class and expect to really learn something. The hands-on cooking classes last two hours and are led by Chef Toni Haynes or Chef Cathleen Ryan. You can join a class (find a list of classes at icookALOT.com), or Private

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classes are offered for showers, company meetings and outings, team building, Christmas get-togethers and more. Customers love the cooking classes! Allan Grimm wrote to BergHOFF, “My husband and I just completed our fourth cooking class at your location, and just as with our previous experiences, we thoroughly enjoyed our latest one. We have also purchased numerous items of cookware and an induction cook top within the last year. We have been very satisfied with all of the items we have purchased, and we use our induction cook top nearly every day, which we much prefer over our conventional electric cook surface. The staff at your store is always friendly and helpful.” Bob Ross, a BergHOFF customer since 2008, was introduced to the store via a Saturday cooking class and has been regularly taking classes with Chef Toni Haynes since she started six years ago. Bob says, “A cooking class at the store is not only a learning experience, but a fun time and a social event. I sort of look at it as the place where “everyone knows your name.” Chef Toni Haynes says, “I have been fortunate to work with BergHOFF teaching their cooking

BergHOFF’s Chef-instructed Cooking Classes, held on most Saturdays, are fun and informative. classes for six years. Their products are exceptional – very high-end cookware, knives, tableware, and serving pieces. The knives are perfectly balanced and come with a lifetime offer of re-sharpening, should that be necessary. The cookware is meticulously fashioned and finished – heavy and ready for a lifetime of use. The flatware and serving pieces are elegant and make your table setting beautiful. I own many, many of their goods, and each time I think I have bought everything I can want, BergHOFF comes out with something new!” If you love to cook, or want to do

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something special for the cook in your life, BergHOFF is the place to shop. Looking for a wedding, shower or housewarming gift? BergHOFF’s selection is fantastic! The store has a nice selection of BBQ sets and bar sets, which are kept replenished because Realtors love these as gifts for clients. And if you aren’t certain what to choose, give a gift card. I recently gave a gift card from BergHOFF as a wedding gift because I know the bride is going to want to browse the amazing selection and choose for herself. With BergHOFF in the neighborhood, shopping is easy!

BergHOFF is located at 11063 State Road 54 in Odessa (between Little Rd. and Gunn Hwy.). Visit online at icookALOT.com for more information about BergHOFF products and cooking classes. The showroom is open on Mon.–Fri. from 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m., and from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. on Sat. (Holiday Hours: Christmas Eve from 10 a.m.–1 p.m.; closed Christmas Day; New Year’s Eve, 10 a.m –1 p.m.; closed New Year’s Day). Call BergHOFF at (727) 853-3373.

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Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s New Graduate Medical Education Center is Where Residents Learn to Practice Medicine from the Heart By Kim Thomas It is fitting that Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point hospital’s logo incorporates the symbol of a heart. For one, RMCBP is well known by physicians throughout Florida and beyond for its stellar programs, including the nationally acclaimed Heart Institute and the Arrhythmia Center of Florida. In fact, RMCBP was recognized in US News and World Report as one of the “Top 50 Hospitals in the Nation” for heart and heart surgery. A recent visit to RMCBP’s new Graduate Medical Education Center to learn more about the hospital’s new Osteopathic Internal Medicine Residency Program made me think of another reason the simply sketched heart, familiar to us since childhood, fits – it symbolizes love. When you put your heart into something, your motivation is love, and the doctors who are working alongside the first round of residents in RMCBP’s Osteopathic Internal Medicine Residency Program are not only teaching the residents the technical aspects of medicine, but they also are mentoring these young doctors to really care for their patients and to provide medical care from the heart. Dr. Michael Strobbe, Program Director, is very excited about the Graduate Medical Education Program, which is the first of its kind in Pasco County. He and his colleagues worked for a year preparing for the Graduate Medical Education program at RMCBP.

Dr. Strobbe, says, “It is really nice to give back and it just feels great to know that we get to help train these doctors, and many will stay in the community. Sixty-seven percent of residents stay within 100 miles of their graduating program.” He adds, “We have a fantastic group of residents. They get along well with each other, the staff and the ancillary staff. I feel blessed to be program director.” In addition to Program Director Michael Strobbe, DO the Osteopathic

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Internal Medicine Residency Program includes Director of Osteopathic Medical Education Steve Strobbe, DO and Chief Medical Officer Joseph Pino, MD, MBA, as well as Administrative Director Mindy Trawle. The inaugural class of resident physicians includes second year resident Katie Groff, DO, from Lake Erie College of Medicine. First year residents are: Camille Alfonso, DO, Lake Erie College of Medicine; Jonathan Lind, DO, Rocky Vista University

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College of Medicine; David Otis, DO, Western University College of Medicine; Giles Roberts, DO, Edward Via VA College of Medicine; James Shepard, DO, Philadelphia College of Medicine; Woody Taves, DO, Lake Erie College of Medicine. The program accepts six new residents each year, with a maximum capacity of eighteen residents, which will be achieved by year three of the program. The internal medicine residency program was approved by the AOA in

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Left: Dr. Taves and Dr. Strobbe at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s Medical Education Center Right: Residents from Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s Osteopathic Internal Medicine Residency Program August 2013. This is the hospital’s first step in developing graduate medical education residency programs in a logical progression as Bayonet Point continues to expand its tertiary and specialty programs. The residents will benefit from learning at a Level II Trauma Center, where they will experience hands-on learning. Residents will also see patients at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Port Richey, which has been a trusted place for families seeking quality medical care for more than 32 years. Interestingly, Dr. Michael Strobbe, his wife Dr. Amy Strobbe, and Dr. Nick

Strobbe are providers at the Gulf Coast Medical Center, which was founded by their father, Steven Strobbe, DO. Learning that Dr. Strobbe is from a family of physicians who have been long-time providers in the area explains why he is so passionate about this new program, stating, “It is an honor to be moving forward and training the next generation of healthcare providers.” Mindy Trawles explains the benefits of the residents to having the broad range of experience that the Graduate Medical Education Program provides. She says, “The purpose of the continu-

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ity of care that the residents get to experience at Gulf Coast Medical Clinic is that it lets them develop relationships with their own panel of patients. So they not only learn in acute hospital setting, but also in the outpatient setting.” Dr. Strobbe adds, “One of the most satisfying things is to care for an entire family’s medical needs. It’s very rewarding.” First-year resident Woody Taves, DO, is finding the program rewarding, and though residents must put in a superhero’s quota of hours – up to 80 a week – they are provided with what they need to be successful. Dr.

Taves says, “Everyone takes very good care of us here and we have great exposure. Florida really is a melting pot and we have a very diverse patient population. I’ve seen patients from their teens into their nineties.” Dr. Taves is a native Floridian who grew up in nearby Lakeland, so having this program at RMCBP means he can stay here in Florida. He plans on practicing “mother medicine,” his term for good, old-fashioned medical care based on internal medicine. Satisfying my curiosity about the term, Dr. Taves explains that while serving in the United States Air Force, he was stationed at a Navy base in San Diego where one of the doctors teaching told them, “Everything comes back to ‘mother medicine.’” Dr. Taves has a four-year commitment to the Air Force following his residency and then he plans to return to Florida to practice. His term “mother medicine” seems like a good way to describe medical care that is provided from the heart. Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point is located at 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson. For additional information on Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point visit www.rmchealth.com.

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Brain Balance of Oldsmar May Have the Answers to Help Your Child Reach New Milestones of Success When you child is labeled with ADD or ADHD, it is beyond frustrating! Brain Balance Center of Tampa in Oldsmar wants parents to know that there is hope. ADHD is one of the most common childhood disorders and is characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior, and the symptoms can make it very difficult for a child to succeed in school. Many parents are finding success with the programs at Brain Balance Achievement Centers for ADHD and much more. Brain Balance use proven strategies to help children exercise their brains. Brain Balance helps children who have ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, Tourette’s, Asperger’s Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities or Processing Disorders, to work beyond those challenges and become more successful socially, developmentally and cognitively. Brain Balance Achievement Cen-

ter of Tampa, located in Oldsmar, takes a whole-child approach that is personalized and focused on finding causes, rather than masking symptoms. There are more than 50 Brain Balance Achievement Centers in the nation, where children are given an individualized program that includes nutrition, sensory motor coaching and academic skill improvement. Employing Florida Certified Teachers who have impressive resumes in the fields of Behavioral Sciences and Exceptional Education, Brain Balance takes a “brain-based, not drug-based” approach. Brain Balance is an education facility, not a medical facility, and they make it a lot of fun for kids to come, play, grow and change! Brain Balance Program for ADHD The Brain Balance Program® is the most comprehensive approach to overcoming the symptoms of childhood learning and developmental issues like ADHD. It offers a

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cutting-edge, integrated approach that combines three core modalities into one program, integrating physical, sensory motor, and cognitive exercises with nutritional guidance to effectively address the root cause of these issues. Brain Balance’s unique, whole-child approach has helped thousands of kids reach their physical, social/behavioral, and academic potential. The Brain Balance program comes directly from Dr. Robert J. Melillo’s research on neurobehavioral disorders. Dr. Melillo, a worldrenowned neurologist, professor and author, strongly believes that conditions such as ADD, ADHD, Tourette’s, Autism spectrum disorders and processing disorders, which were previously thought to be unrelated, are in fact related, and can be grouped into what is called “Functional Disconnection Syndrome.” In his book, “Disconnected Kids,” Dr. Melillo explains that if you were to take a child with any of these condi-

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tions and give them an MRI scan, or any other number of medical tests, there would be nothing to find. Their brain is not damaged. These issues are all connection issues, and research has proven that the left hemisphere of the brain and the right hemisphere of the brain have distinct responsibilities, abilities and functions. Research has found that when one-half of the brain has a deficiency, it leads to these connectivity issues, which can result in a “disconnect” between a child and their ability to learn, communicate and succeed. The goal is to challenge the hemisphere of the brain that is showing a deficiency, and to stimulate it so that it will learn to function. The Brain Balance Achievement Center of Tampa is located at 4022 Tampa Rd., Suite 6. For information or to schedule a tour, please call 813-475-6977. Email oldsmar@brainbalancecenters. com, or you visit online at www.brainbalancecenters.com.

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