Vol. 4, Issue 12, December 2016
Your community. Your magazine.™ The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine Directly Mailed To 15,000 Homes In Carrollwood, Lake Magdalene & Avila
Carrollwood Country Club A Staple in the Community Since 1972 By Mike Bird Carrollwood Country Club located at 13903 Clubhouse Drive was established in 1972 and has been a staple in the Carrollwood community ever since. CCC is a very relaxed, family oriented and extremely
well maintained private golf club that has something to offer everyone! The Club features a 27-hole golf course designed by world-renowned golf course architect Dan Maples, offering 3 fun, yet challenging and unique 9’s to choose from. A day on this course can consist of playing a relaxing 9
holes, a traditional 18 hole game, or if you’re feeling adventurous, and don’t mind the almost guaranteed back pain the next day, play all 27! (It’s worth it) This beautiful country club also features an extremely interactive tennis membership boasting eight beautifully surfaced Hydro tennis
courts accented with brilliant lighting for nighttime play. Leagues, clinics, lessons, singles, doubles, camps, tournaments, plus an on-going schedule of social opportunities with fellow tennis players are all a part of the tennis experience at Carrollwood See “CCC” on page 24.
K Nails is A Landmark in Carrollwood By Deborah Bostock-Kelley For 17 years Susan Nguyen, has watched the evolution of K Nails Salon at 14604 N. Dale Mabry Highway. Through multiple owners with fresh, new approaches and business plans, one thing has remained constant in the upscale salon – Susan. At one point, in the early years, she purchased the business herself, sold it after a few years, and still stayed on to work with the new owners. Four
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 1185
Electrical Fire Safety Tips for the Holidays...........3 Community Calendar & News Briefs.................8-9 Broken Yolk Cafe..........................................12-13 SAT & ACT Improvement.................................14 Local Student to Compete in World Tap Championships............................................18 Build a toy with Santa at MOSI.........................20 Save Time and Money with Grout Tech.........22-23 Oakdale Christmas Light Display..................28-29
years ago, she had the opportunity to buy the business again with her sister Ninh and has been busy adding the special touches that make K Nails a refuge for both women and men – like offering a complimentary soda, water or glass of wine. “Lynn and Michael (previous owners) gave me a chance,” said Susan. “They’re like family – like a brother and a sister.” And being like family is what See “K Nails” on page 26.
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Electrical Fire Safety Tips for the Holidays!
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lead to fire or electric shock. • Use light bulbs with the correct wattage.
Directly mailed once a month to 15,000 households in zip codes 33618, 33624 & 33613
Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles would like to wish you a happy and safe holiday season! We are sharing these safety tips from a local Fire Rescue department. Reduce Electrical Fire Risk: Look around for electrical hazards in your home and correct them. Here are some common hazards: • Electrical cords under rugs, in walking pathways, or pinched behind furniture • Overloaded outlets • Laptops and phones charging on beds or sofas Basic Tips to Protect Your Family: • Unplug items from overloaded outlets: Fires often start when too many items are plugged into a single outlet or circuit overloading them. • Use extension cords properly: Especially with appliances that generate heat such as space heaters, irons, and toasters. Extension cords are designed for temporary use; not permanent. • Unplug appliances by grasping the plug: Damage to the cord can
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Evaluate Electrical Systems Every 10 Years: East Lake Fire District recommends having a licensed electrician review your home every 10 years. Electricians can: • Ensure circuit breakers are working properly • Place ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets near sinks, bathrooms, and outdoors to prevent electrocution • Install tamper-resistant receptacles that prevent young children from accessing outlets • Evaluate your entire electrical system to ensure it is safe and meets electrical code. Some residential structures have older electrical wiring system using aluminum alloy and early wiring methods. Licensed electricians can evaluate these systems and recommend safety upgrades to reduce electrical fire risk. Know the Warning Signs:
Call 911 immediately if you notice warning signs such as: • Arcs, sparks or short circuits • Sizzling or buzzing sounds • Vague burning odor Immediate attention to these signs can save lives and prevent an electrical fire. Call a licensed professional electrician if you have electrical concerns including: • Frequently blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers • Dim or flickering lights • Bulbs that wear out too fast • Overheated plugs, cords, or switches • Shock or mild static electricity when touching a switch or outlet • Loose outlets or unusually warm or faulty outlets or switches Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years! Look for the date of manufacture to determine the age of your home’s detectors. Hard-wired and interconnected smoke alarms should be replaced by a licensed electrician. More info at www.elfr.org.
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220 S. Safford Ave. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 Phone: (813) 928-6124; Fax: (727) 942-2432 Advertising E-mail: info@nnlflorida.com Editorial E-mail: editorial@nnlflorida.com © 2016 Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles Publisher Matt Selby
Art Director Tony Sica
Advertising Sales Jared Nager (Manager) Jim O’Reilly Mike Bird
Correspondents Julie Kanehl Marcy Sanford Katie Thomas Kim Thomas Dara Tucker Deborah Bostock-Kelley
Nothing that appears in Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The management of Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles is always happy to accept outside editorial submissions to the paper. Please call for outside editorial submission and advertisement deadlines. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles will not return unsolicited editorial materials. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Carrollwood Tampa Bay 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.
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Community Calendar & News Briefs December Activitiy Schedule for Grace Lutheran Church Grace Lutheran Church at Carrollwood, located at 3714 West Linebaugh Avenue has many activities free and open for the public to enjoy in the month of December. Saturday, December 3 from 5:00 -8:00 p.m. guests can see what it might have been like in Bethlehem on the night when Jesus was born. Exhibits include a Bakery, Marketplace, Scribe and more. Those attending can talk with villagers and Roman guards and participate in a retelling of the Nativity story. Sunday, December 11 at 4:30 p.m. there will be a concert of Lessons and Carols presented by the Grace Lutheran Chancel Choir with orchestra. The concert includes anthems and carols arranged by British composer John Rutter. A reception will follow the concert in the Connections Gathering Center. The concert is free but a free will offering will be received for the Homeless Vets of Tampa. Happy Birthday Jesus will be on Sunday, December 18 at 9:45 a.m. to celebrate Jesus birth. Children will be treated to a birthday party with cake, punch, stories, crafts and games. Adults may enjoy coffee, cake and fellowship. Christmas Eve Services will be on Saturday, December 24. There will be a Family Service at 5:00 p.m in the main Sanctuary and a Quiet Christmas Service at 6:30 p.m. in Grace Memorial Chapel with communion. Carols & Candlelight Services are at 8:00 & 10:30 p.m. with communion in the main Sanctuary. All are welcome to celebrate Christmas Eve at Grace. On Sunday, December 25 at 10: a.m. there will be a celebration of Jesus birth with Christmas carols and hymns sung with communion. If you have any questions or need further information please contact the church office at 813961-8747 or visit our website at www.gracetampa.org
IT’S FREE AND OPEN TO EVERYONE. When: Every Monday Hours: 6:00pm - 12:00AM
A Retelling of a Christmas Carol Where: Carrollwood Players Theatre What: An adaptation of the story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from an embittered, ungenerous creature into a giving, caring human being at the hands of three spirits, who, one Christmas Eve, show him what life means. Join us for a magical retelling of the timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge. When: December 2, 2016 December 18, 2016. Fridays and Saturdays - 8pm and Sundays 3pm\Tickets $23, $20 seniors, students, and military More info visit: https://carrollwood-playerstheatre.ticketleap.com/a-christmas-car ol-holiday/dates
Christmas Town Returns to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Where: Busch Gardens 0 19165 McKinley Dr. Tampa, FL 33612 What: Christmas Town, returns to Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay with two million twinkling lights, festive treats, holiday entertainment and unique attractions, including the allnew addition of the beloved Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Meet Santa, watch Yuletide shows and enjoy thrill rides in the dark, beginning Nov. 25 through Dec. 31. Christmas Town is included with any annual pass, Fun Card or day admission and is open from 10:00am until 10 p.m. on select dates. Visit ChristmasTown.com for more info.
Oxford Exchange Holiday Gift Bazaar Description In 2013 we organized the first OE Holiday Gift Bazaar to promote interest in local vendors, artisans and craftsmen. Inspired by eclectic and bustling European marketplaces, our second floor meeting and events space is transformed for one weekend out of the year into a diverse shopping venue, just in time for the holidays. Our hope is to showcase the unique stories and creations of local talent with their own community and to continue doing so year after year.\More Information Date(s): December 10, 2016 December 11, 2016 Hours: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Location: 420 W Kennedy Blvd Tampa, FL 33606 More info visit: http://oxfordexchange.com/pages/h oliday-gift-bazaar
Paint Your Pet to Benefit Humane Society of Tampa Bay Description We are excited to be partnering
Children's Art Spot at the Tampa Museum of Art
Where: The Bricks Ybor, 1327 E. 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 What: Drinks, great conversation, meeting new friends. Film Bar Mondays is where the local South Tampa community comes to connect, relax and welcome new folks to the Florida Film scene.
Description A free drop-in art program. Let your children explore their creativity by creating an art project. No registration required. Projects will vary week to week to tie into the exhibition on view at the museum. More Information Date(s): August 13, 2016 December 31, 2016 Hours: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Location: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza Tampa, FL 33602 www.tampamuseum.org
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with Humane Society of Tampa Bay for this Paint Your Pet event! A portion of the proceeds will benefit this organization. Make sure to bring a picture of your pet!! We suggest choosing a photo that is a head and shoulders image of you looking eye-level (not down at) with your pet. It's also easiest if it's printed on a normal 8 1/2 X 11 piece of paper (so you can fold it). Yep, you'll be sketching and painting your original pet masterpiece. Painting 2:00 – 2:30 PM - Relax, uncork & mingle with your friends & guests 2:30 - 5:00 PM - Our professional artists and artist assistants will assist you. Ticket price includes all materials, instruction, use of aprons and a 16x20 take-home canvas! Alcohol: Because alcohol is present during our events, we prefer attendance of adults 18 and over. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Alcohol consumption is permitted only for adults 21 and over. BYOB licensing allows for beer, wine and champagne only. Sorry no hard liquor or mixed drinks ie; margaritas, sangria or designer coolers.
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We appreciate your compliance! We have wine glasses, wine openers, plastic ware, paper plates, napkins and ice here for you. You’re welcome to bring any food items; please note table space is limited. More Information Date(s): December 10, 2016 Hours: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Admission: $40.00 Per Person Location: 3687 Tampa Rd Ste 205 Oldsmar, FL 34677 (813) 5270697 http://bit.ly/PYP1210
Here Comes the Funny Description Netflix presents the Here Comes the Funny Tour featuring live performances by comic geniuses Adam Sandler, Rob Schneider, David Spade and Nick Swardson along with an appearance by a surprise special guest. More Information Date(s): December 11, 2016 Hours: 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Admission: $95 - $250 Location: 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place Carol Morsani Hall Tampa, FL 33602 More info visit: http://www.strazcenter.org/Eve nts/Straz/Shows/1617_Comedy/Ad am-Sandler
Santa’s Flight Academy at International Plaza Description Santa’s Flight Academy will be available exclusively at International Plaza from Friday, Nov. 11 through Saturday, Dec. 24. "Santa’s Flight Academy" is a one-of-a-kind, immersive holiday experience that combines a giant reimagination of the North Pole with state-of-the-art technology to enable children to become a member of Santa’s flight crew. Partnering with an elf – either Sleigh Mechanic George, Flight Director Sparkle or Reindeer
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Caretaker Flash – each child will help ready Santa’s sleigh so he can deliver presents to children around the world. For more information, visit: http://shopinternationalplaza.com/santa Other special Santa events include: Pet Photos: Nov 13 & 20, 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Signing Santa Say: Nov 20, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Due to the unprecedented nature of the experience and anticipated high demand, visitors are encouraged to pre-register children for a Santa’s Flight Academy entrance badge online via each shopping center’s website, or through the mobile app available for both Android and iPhone platforms. Registration will also be available onsite at Santa’s Flight Academy kiosks located in each shopping center.) Visit: http://shopinternationalplaza.com/santa More Information Date(s): November 15, 2016 December 14, 2016 Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Location: 2223 N Westshore Blvd Tampa, FL 33607 http://shopinternationalplaza.co m/santa
Trans-Siberian Orchestra Description When Paul O'Neill first conceived Trans-Siberian Orchestra, his goal was as straightforward as it was incredibly ambitious. "The whole idea," he explains, "was to create a progressive rock band that would push the boundaries (of the genre) further than any group before... Way, way further." With more than 10 million albums sold, TSO has inspired generations of fans to rediscover the multi-dimensional art form of the rock opera. Meanwhile, on the road, they have become one of the world's top
acts, with Billboard magazine naming TSO as one of the top touring artists of the past decade -- a $20 millionplus production that has played to over 100 million people in 80+ cities, selling more than $280 million worth of tickets and presenting $11 million to charity. More Information Date(s): December 18, 2016 Hours: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM Admission: $32 - $71.25 Location: 401 Channelside Dr Tampa, FL 33602 http://www.amaliearena.com
The D-10 Society's Celebration of NYE: An Evening of Opulence in 1960s Havana Description The D-10 Society would like to cordially invite you and your guest(s) to join us for its NYE celebration: An Evening of Opulence in 1960s Havana. Although it is "Havana," dress to impress! This themed-event will benefit Kids First, a nonprofit organization. 100% of net proceeds will be donated. Come join our intimate setting with 350 exclusive guests. Dance the night away to a variety of great tunes (including tunes that fit the theme, tunes requested by guests, and some of the best current music). After all of that dancing has you thirsty, head over to the open bar and quench your thirst with a variety of tasty beverages. The event includes a 4 hour open bar, along with the option of purchasing drinks for an hour before and after, should you choose to begin the evening early and party all night long. The location is the beautiful Vault building in downtown Tampa http://www.thevaulttampa.com/ located at 611 N. Franklin Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Tickets may be purchased at www.thed10society.shindigg.com Admission Price: $150-$250 per
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person* Highlights of the evening include: -An Open Bar from 8:30 pm 12:30 am (including premium liquors, domestic & import beer, mid-range wine) - Cash bar from 7:30 - 8:30 & 12:30 - 1:30 -Hand-passed hors d'oeuvres, carving stations, and a dessert station -A midnight champagne toast -Non-cash casino-style gaming -Live band, DJ Music, dancing, and entertainment VIP Section Reservation (a separate ticket/admission purchase is required) - 4 sections with space for 6 - 10 available at $732 (includes 22% gratuity). Up to $500 is tax deductible - 1 large upstairs room with space for 20 - 25 available for $1830 (includes 22% gratuity). Space has private glass with view of main party area downstairs. Up to $1500 is tax deductible -Reservation includes table-side bottle service from 8:30 - 12:30 -Optional bottles may be purchased from 7:30 - 8:30 & 12:30 1:30 *Purchase early to secure the lowest price. Space is limited and will sell out in advance. This is a cocktail formal/black tie optional event. The 21 and over age limit will be strictly enforced. A 60s Havana theme dress is suggested but not required. Guests are encouraged to use Lyft, Uber, a Taxi, or secure a designated driver. For additional information, please call 731-468-6310 or email d10tampabay@gmail.com More Information Date(s): December 31, 2016 Hours: 7:30 PM - 1:30 AM Location: 611 N. Franklin Street Tampa, FL 33602 http://www.d10society.org
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By Mike Bird A famous, award winning chain of breakfast and lunch eateries has made its way to our Carrollwood Community. The 242-seat Broken Yolk Cafe - boasting a huge selection of breakfast and lunch items, opened its doors on April, 2016. Known for its generous portions and upbeat casual environment, Broken Yolk has never been more popular than it is today. As its fan base has grown well outside of its original San Diego home, into the heart of our neighborhood. “Finally, a good Breakfast In Carrollwood” says Katie from Tampa Bay, about her recent visit to the Broken Yolk. “The place is absolutely amazing; it offers a unique menu that is not massed produced like other breakfast restaurants. Offering a traditional breakfast fare, many dishes with a Mexican twist, as well as lunch options… My only complaint is that they close at 3:00pm!” Katie adds. And Katie’s feelings are shared amongst many! The Broken Yolk Cafe has hundreds of great reviews from satisfied customers, who have already visited this new neighborhood gem. Offering traditional breakfast and lunch staples, as well as one-of-a-kind signature dishes, Broken Yolk has been a San Diego County native’s favorite
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place for over three decades. Founder John Gelastopoulos, a Greece native, arrived to this country with only $20 in his pocket, making his success story, the true definition of the American Dream. John made his way to San Diego, where after a lot of hard work, he managed to purchase the Broken Yolk back in 1979. Since that time, the cafe has expanded to 17 franchises throughout the United States. Twenty-three additional locations are in development. Currently, 16 of these stores are in California. There is only one store in Florida, and lucky for us, it happens to be right at the Carrollwood Shopping center, located at 10442 Dale Mabry Highway, because, per a company spokesperson, people polled in the area enjoy hearty breakfast options. I happen to agree! “We are known for large, shareable portions of food that are cooked from scratch,” said Valerie McCartney, vice president, franchise sales and development. “We use real eggs, not liquefied egg product and real potatoes, not dehydrated potatoes. We bake all our muffins and biscuits. We make all our sauces and gravies from scratch. We are really known for scratch cooking and a broad menu that combines standard breakfast favorites with a lot of signature items — unique items that
you don’t find on every other menu.” Managing partner, Ray Pontinen, told me that he and his partners have the rights to build 13 more locations, here on the West Coast of Florida! They are looking forward to growing and expanding, and to become part of the South Tampa, Brandon and St. Pete community. Ray and his partners selected Tampa Bay because of the incredible growth opportunities and of course, the warm weather. So what sets the Broken Yolk apart from the competition? Where to start!? Their extensive menu offers over 90 items! Including delicious lunch options. The cafe can also accommodate guests’ gluten-free meal restrictions. What makes the menu truly unique and special is the South of the border section, which is unmatched here in Tampa Bay. It features classic Mexican options and Southwestern favorites, which can be really hard to find in the area. For example, they serve traditional “Huevos Rancheros”, “Machaca” and “Chilaquiles”, to name a few. Traditional Machaca is marinated beef or pork that is rubbed with spices, pounded, dried, and shredded similar to beef jerky. Machaca is commonly used in the popular local cuisine of Northern Mexico and Southwestern United States. Chilaquiles are also a traditional Mexican dish, consisting of fried corn tortilla strips, typically topped with a spicy tomato sauce and lots of cheese.
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No… these are nothing like Nachos! You have to come try them and see, and TASTE for yourself! The Broken Yolk features 13 types of omelets, 6 types of eggs Benedict, fluffy waffles, sweet potato pancakes, crepes, wraps, specialty hamburgers and several salad options. They also offer health conscious items like the “Wellness Wrap” which is made with a spinach tortilla filled with egg whites, fresh spinach, roasted bell peppers and feta cheese served with a side of fresh fruit. At the Broken Yolk there are plenty of scrumptious options to choose from, and with these many wonderful choices, you’re going to
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want to visit every chance you get to try them all! I know I will, I have already visited a few times! “We are known for a broad menu and have folks visit our restaurants three and four times a week,” said Valerie McCartney. “Our extensive menu helps eliminate menu burnout or menu boredom” she added. A community favorite, and a typical Californian dish at the Broken Yolk, is the “Tiki Toast.” Which consists of two extra thick slices of sweet Hawaiian bread, dipped in egg
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batter, then griddled to a golden brown and topped with strawberries, blueberries, caramel drizzle and shredded coconut. YUM! Other California favorites include the “Southwestern Wrap”, the “Chipotle Chicken Sandwich” and the “California Chicken Club Sandwich”, all prepared with a west coast flair. Everything is made fresh daily, and most items are completely made from scratch, and you can definitely taste the difference after each bite. Another popular item is the
“Fiesta Burrito”, which consists of scrambled eggs with diced onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, seasoned shredded beef and cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla and smothered in their homemade salsa verde, topped with sour cream, sliced avocado and fresh salsa. I had the chance to try this dish while visiting the Broken Yolk, and wow…it was delicious! Talk about a party in your mouth! Lots of different spices and flavors combined into a gigantic breakfast burrito. This magnificent fiesta does not require an RSVP, just a big appetite! “ On another occasion (I told you I was coming back for more!) I ordered the “Border Benedict”, a wonderful spin on the classic Eggs Benedict. In this case, going “South of the Border” means two poached eggs and seasoned carne asada, atop two sweet corn cakes, smothered in their homemade poblano sauce. I got a side of home fries with mine, but you can also choose hash browns, mexican rice, refried beans or fresh fruit. The first thing I noticed was how outstanding the poblano sauce was. The carne asada was delicious, perfectly seasoned and not fatty or greasy. The combination of sweet corn cakes and
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hot peppers placed on top gave this dish a whole new dimension of flavor. Each bite was spicy, sweet and very savory. This is a must try for Benedict lovers, who like their eggs with a kick! And if all of that wasn’t enough, the drink list at the Broken Yolk is also unbelievable! Any Mimosa fans out there? They offer not just the traditional mimosa, made with orange juice and champagne, but some of their specialty drinks include the “Hibiscus Mimosa” and “Pomegranate Mimosa”! How about smoothie fans? Then I suggest you try their strawberry and banana smoothie or the blueberry smoothie. The back of the restaurant is available for private meetings upon request. They are open 7am to 3pm 365 days a year and is located at 10442 N Dale Mabry just north of Linebaugh on the west side of the street. They can be reached at (813) 769-9358. Visit the Broken Yolk today for a delicious breakfast or lunch you won’t soon forget!
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SAT AND ACT IMPROVEMENT: EXAM COMPARISONS By Dr. Wayne Adams NEXT EXAM DATES...SAT: Dec 3rd and Jan 21st, ACT: Dec 10th and Feb 11th Wondering if the SAT or the ACT is the better exam to take? Here’s a brief comparison by test section. SAT (Writing and Language) vs ACT (English). These test sections are about the same because “grammar is grammar” and the logical sequencing of sentences, words, and phrases functions on a standard set of analytical rules. SAT (Essay) vs ACT (Essay). These essays are very different, with the SAT being more difficult. The SAT is a combination of an AP Language and Composition Rhetorical and Analytical essay requiring 55 minutes. To score well, a student needs to know and to use key elements such as theme, thesis, syntax, diction, tone, mood, similie, metaphor, alliteration, and persuasive elements. I have had excellent results using a comprehensive critical thinking, analysis, chronological writing pattern, and writing template using question sequences to help my students organize and then express their thoughts well. The ACT is a “compare and contrast”
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essay requiring 35 minutes with a brief statement of a situation, three differning perspectives, and more stylized response. I have had great success with a “fill in the blank” approach using a standard structure and supporting quotations. SAT (Reading) and ACT (Reading). These sections are very different, with the SAT being more difficult. The SAT has different types of reading passages with 9 – 11 questions per passage. Half of the questions are either “terrible two’s” with an answer and then separate selection of the best support for that first answer, and “vocabulary in context”. The remaining questions involve different types of analysis, critical thinking, and often making inferences by “reading between the lines”. The ACT has four sub-sections that require “speed reading the passage first” and then answering a wide range of questions. On the ACT, the answers are there and the key is to find them. SAT (Math) and ACT (Math). Both exams test arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. The major difference is that the average length of an SAT question is 6 – 7 lines with some questions over 15 lines, while the
average length of an ACT question is 3 lines. So the SAT takes additional skills in reading, sorting out the important facts, translating into mathematical problem, and solving … which takes more time. My students tell me the ACT Math is definitely easier. ACT (Science Reasoning). Only on the ACT exam, this section has nothing to do with knowing Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or other sciences. It is essentially another Reading section where the student finds answers from charts and graphs, experiments, and differing opinions of scientists about a topic. Speed reading does not help much, as it does in the Reading section, but “bottom up” reading for key concepts and ideas is essential. Net Result: The Shift to ACT Continues. The two key reasons continue to be that the ACT Exam has changed little (except for the essay), is totally acceptable as a standardized exam for college admissions officers, and if a student takes the ACT then that student does not have to take any SAT Subject Tests (as most top colleges require for full consideration). And More Students are taking my combination ACT and SAT Prep Class
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that saves 15 class hours from preparing separately for each exam. If you would like to talk with my further about your student and my classes, please contact me at 727-2530639 or at wwa0811@mykolab.com. Dr. Wayne Adams is one of the top SAT and ACT Tutors in the country and a former Dean of a Graduate School of Business and Full Professor. His students have been admitted to Harvard, Yale, Columbia, Stanford, Princeton, Cornell, Duke, U Chicago, U Penn, Johns Hopkins, Georgia Tech, UCLA, USC, Boston College, Northeastern, UF, FSU, USF, UCF, Florida Gulf Coast, St. Leo’s, New College of Florida, U Miami, FIU, and many other colleges and universities; often with academic, athletic, or music scholarships. Normally, student scores increase 200 to 350 points on the SAT (Writing, Reading, Math, and Essay), and 4 – 8 points on the ACT. He has degrees and advanced studies from Harvard, Yale, Vanderbilt, Columbia International, and Luther Rice. He is at wwa0811@mykolab.com or at 727253-0639.
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Local Student Emma Returns to Germany to Compete in World Tap Championships! A local Florida girl, Emma Meyers, returns to Germany this December to represent the USA in what is considered to be the “Olympics of Tap Dance,” the World Tap Championships, being held in Riesa, Germany. After returning from Germany last December with two 6th place awards in hand, Emma Meyers was very proud of that accomplishment! Just making it into the finals is very challenging in a sea of 1,700 of the best tap dancers
from more than 30 countries around the world! But Emma knew she must audition again and go for the gold one more time! Sixteen-year-old Emma did just that and was selected once again to be a part of the United States Tap Dance Team! The team boasts dancers from 17 states and Emma is the only tap dancer to represent Florida on the 2016 USA Team. Emma is an 11th grader attending Mitchell High School in Trinity as a part-time student and completing the rest of her classes online as a Florida Virtual student. She has studied all genres of dance since the age of three, but is very passionate about tap dancing, and is proud to be a 4th generation tap dancer. Locally, she trains with United States Tap Dance Team
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her beloved tap dance teacher, Cathy Scavelli, at Dance Extreme Academy in Trinity. In preparation for the World Tap Championships, Emma and the other dancers on the USA Tap Dance Team travel to Boston every other weekend to rehearse. The team tap dances a vigorous 15 hours each weekend before returning to their home states. The team will be competing with 26 different routines within three separate age categories. They will be performing solos, duos, trios, small groups and formations all choreographed by Nancy Chippendale and her daughters, Karen, Kelli and Kristina Carberry. This great experience comes from endless hours of hard work, but there will be time for fun. Upon arriving in Germany, the dancers and their families will have two days to sightsee before the competition begins. Tours have already been set up for groups to visit Dresden, Leipzig, Meissen, Berlin and Prague. Cheer on Emma Meyers and the
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Emma Meyers United States Tap Dance Team by tuning in to the event via LIVE STREAM (www.ido-dance.com). The World Tap Championships, sponsored by the International Dance Organization (IDO), begins on Tuesday, November 29th and runs through Saturday, December 3rd, 2016. Emma is so excited to be a part of this amazing experience once again and this time hopes to bring home the gold! Go USA!
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Build a toy with Santa at MOSI It looks like too many boys and girls have been good this year, because Santa is running out of room at the North Pole and he’s adding an extra Santa’s Workshop at the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) in Tampa. He needs your help to make sure his elves can make all of the toys they’ll need for this holiday season. Included with MOSI admission, kids can come to the Idea Zone® creativity lab and make real toys to take home and give to family and friends. Santa’s Workshop at MOSI starts on “Black Friday,” November 25, 2016 and continues through January 3, 2017. Santa himself will visit the workshop during the first three weekends in December (see below for details). Idea Zone® at MOSI will become a Minecraft-inspired winter wonderland, complete with a cubic Christmas tree and Minecraft model train. With help from MOSI’s elftrained staff, guests can get hands-on with:
Santa Claus is opening Santa’s Workshop inside MOSI! Come create a real toy to take home and give as a gift.
• Cardboard creatures – Transform ordinary boxes into real moving machines and make anything from a flapping bird to a dancing elephant. • Retro toy-building classes Spark your imagination and learn woodworking skills as you saw, sand, and hammer toy trains, cars, and other playful inventions. • Santa Sleuths - MOSI’s Elf on a Shelf has raided MOSI’s secret stocking full of 3D-printed toys. We’re looking for a few good Santa Sleuths to join in our reindeer game and help find the lost toys hidden around MOSI.
• Live science shows - MOSI’s STEAMpunks science educators have a toy-box full of science demonstrations to go along with the holiday. Santa Claus will be dropping by his workshop to share pointers and holiday cheer with his toy-making helpers. Come take a photo with Santa Claus at MOSI from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 3rd. Santa will be back at MOSI for brief 90-minute visits on Dec. 4, 10, 11, 17, and 18. “To me, the best kind of gift is a gift you make yourself – especially if
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you’re a kid. Santa’s Workshop at MOSI gives kids the chance to show their creative sides and make something memorable and unique for a friend or family member, instead of only choosing a gift off a shelf,” said Molly Demeulenaere, MOSI President & CEO. No reservations are necessary and hands-on Santa’s Workshop activities are included with MOSI general admission. MOSI is open every Tuesday through Sunday and is closed seasonally on some Mondays; visit mosi.org for daily hours.
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Save Time and Money with Grout Tech By Kim Thomas Before you spend thousands of dollars remodeling and re-tiling your bathroom or kitchen be sure to call Grout Tech for a FREE estimate on cleaning or repairing old dingy tile and grout. Grout Tech can breathe new life into your existing tile work, making everything shine like new at a fraction of the cost. Grout Tech is a family owned business serving Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco Counties. With over ten years of experience in the industry, Grout Tech specializes in cleaning and sealing tile and grout, re-coloring grout, re-caulking showers and tubs, and repairing grout and broken tiles. Grout Tech will renew existing grout and tile to its original beauty by cleaning and maintaining the tile and grout lines. John Cole and his wife were ready to re-tile their entire bathroom before calling BJ at Grout Tech. “Our bathroom tile was over 40 years old it was looking grungy and very dull. We called Grout Tech and we are extremely pleased with
our results! We saved so much money by having the grout in our shower resurfaced and the tile cleaned and it looks brand new,” John shares. BJ is happy to set your appointment, come out and give you a free estimate. She stresses, “It is important for me to be respectful of our customers’ time so I will always arrive at the time we set.” In addition
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After
Before
With the help of Grout Tech, even the dirtiest and oldest of floors can be restored and renewed to their original beauty and splendor. to always arriving in a timely manner, BJ says that they can keep their prices low because they are a family owned business and not a franchise. She explains, “What many people don’t understand is that franchises are often forced to charge more for their services because they have to maintain their franchise fees, but not with Grout Tech.” Not only does Grout Tech keep its rates
competitive, but the company will also honor any other quote as long as it is in writing. Because grout is a porous material, trying to remove stains is seemingly impossible. BJ explains, “Color sealing grout lines is one of the many services we offer and it is definitely the most effective way to create a perfect, new look.” Using a step-by-step process, Grout Tech
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After
Before begins by using a cleansing product to remove all bacteria and surface dirt with special machinery. They will then apply a color seal (of your choice). Once the sealer is applied the grout lines will be permanently protected from any stains. The color seal also guarantees against cracking, chipping and peeling. Additionally, they will also
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cosmetically fix or replace chipped or cracked tiles, making your bathroom or kitchen tile like new again. Carla Bartow, a satisfied customer, shares her experience, “When BJ came out to give us a quote, she looked at the job and I could tell immediately that she knew what she was talking about. We had our family room, kitchen and dining room re-grouted. They also re-
grouted the tub, shower and base of our toilet in our bathroom. They were fantastic! Not only were they professional and reliable but they also completed the job much faster than we had anticipated.”
Excellent Service Leads to Referrals Throughout the years, Grout Tech has grown through its many referrals from happy customers. People really appreciate that Grout Tech saves them time and money, but it is the excellent service provided that has really helped this business grow. Doris Strathearn, another Grout Tech success story, said that before calling Grout Tech her bathroom and guest bathroom shower and floor grout had deteriorated over time and the tiles were dull and stained. “The tile was in good condition but it was stained so we had Grout Tech come out and clean them and they turned out very well.” They were so pleased that they have
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already referred Grout Tech to neighbors in their community. Grout Tech can also remove and re-caulk around sinks, baseboards, tubs and showers serving to clean up old moldy areas and keep your dry wall free from water damage. From old to new in just one day! To find out more about Grout Tech’s services or for a free estimate call BJ at 727-768-6828.
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“CCC” Continued from page 1 Country Club. The club’s fitness center features Life Fitness equipment, cardio equipment and weights. CCC’s fitness center offers a wide range of fitness courses including; Abs/Butt Workout. Balance, Core, & More, Ballroom Dancing, Body Toning, Cardio Kickboxing, Stretch Yoga, Water Aerobics and Yoga. The sparkling Junior-Olympic swimming pool is the centerpiece of the Tennis & Aquatic Center. The pool is surrounded by a magnificent deck of pavers, palm trees, cabanas, lounge chairs and a large grass activity area. They even have a special area for the kids with a splash pad featuring a mushroom cap waterfall, tea cup and more! Directly beside the Splash Pad, is a fenced playground for the younger members and guests. The poolside area also features The Oasis Poolside Café. The Café is the perfect place for a snack and refreshing beverage while relaxing in the sun or shade. The Oasis serves everything from ice cream and fresh fruit smoothies to light meals, cold beer, wine and refreshing cocktails.
There are four types of memberships, each geared to meet your specific needs including a golf membership, tennis membership, social members and corporate memberships. Carrollwood country club is exclusive so only members and invited guests may utilize the club’s numerous facilities and amenities. CCC is however open to the public for special events including; weddings, Bar mitzvah and Bat mitzvahs, business meetings, golf outings, quinceañeras, pool parties and more.
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The club also has summer camps for kids for golf, tennis and swim. The main Clubhouse features The Grand Ballroom, which has over 5,000 square feet of fine decor appointed with beautiful chandeliers. They offer four distinctive banquet rooms & a spacious terrace overlooking the pristine golf course. The Club amenities feature a spacious outdoor terrace overlooking the Golf Course, gourmet cuisine & experienced catering staff, onsite event coordinator to oversee every detail, complete
audiovisual services & complimentary wifi and Luxury Condo Hotel Accommodations- (Two Bedroom/Two Bathroom Suites). CCC also hosts events for local business organizations like CABA (Carrollwood Area Business Organization), the Rotary Club and The Carrollwood Ladies Association.
More on the Course Carrollwood County Club is an
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Affiliated Club of Concert Golf Partners who acquired the club in 2012. This affiliation gives Carrollwood members full access to more than 12 other golf and country clubs around the country including; McGregor Downs County Club in Cary, North Carolina, Country Club at Woodmore in Washington D.C. and West Lake County Club in Augusta Georgia plus many more affiliate Clubs. Peter Nanula,
Chairman of Concert Golf Partners is originally from Tampa where he graduated from Jesuit High School and then moved on to Harvard. He went on to purchase Arnold Palmer Golf Management in 1993 and served as CEO through 2000, during which time he built the company into a leading owner-operator of golf courses nationwide with 30 golf courses and 2,000 employees. Carrollwood Country Club was acquired in 2012 and received special attention when the 27 hole course was
renovated. All 27 holes were redesigned by Dan Maples as mentioned earlier in this article. Mr. Maples earned his degree in Landscape Architecture in 1972, he would go on to join his father’s firm in 1974 and helped to design 17 courses with his father. In 1984, he went on to form his own company called Dan Maples Design Inc. and has since become incredibly successful designing some of the best golf courses in the entire country. Maples has always had the philosophy of ‘From the beginning, one of our goals has been to build courses that players would remember.’ This is true because when you play a Maples-designed course, you are playing a course you will never forget. In 2012 & 2013 CCC completed numerous capital improvements projects highlighted by the re-grassing of all 27 holes with Champion Ultra-Dwarf Bermuda grass. Champion Turf is widely becoming the putting surface grass of choice in the southeast. In addition to the putting green resurfacing, other capital improvement projects included; resurfacing of the tennis courts, construction of a tennis pavilion, pool landscaping, new pool furniture and Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles
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the addition of two bocce ball courts and seating area. Members and guests and patrons of CCC are so fortunate to have such a wonderful club designed, managed and maintained by world-class leaders in their field. “We have a great golf course; its not too difficult, it’s just difficult enough. The course is always in great shape and meticulously maintained,” says Renee Constantine, Director of Membership Sales. Outside golf events are hosted at the club including multiple US Open and Florida State Golf Association tournaments and special military tournaments so you know the course is special! Carrollwood Country Club truly is something special and I invite you to explore a membership into this community’s absolute gem for Families! Fun, excitement and memories to be cherished for a lifetime are just one call away! Call Renee today at 813-9611381 for more information! Carrollwood Country Club is located at 13903 Clubhouse Dr, Tampa, FL 33618. www.carrollwoodcc.com DECEMBER 2016
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“K Nails” Continued from page 1 Susan prides herself on – whether it is her long-term employees or her many long-time returning clients who often “only stop coming because they’ve passed.” Susan dabbed her eyes with a tissue at the memory. She has watched middle-schoolers who came for their first manicure mature into high school students with mani/pedis for prom to newlyweds, proud parents and grandparents. Much like the 80s TV show Cheers, K Nails is that friendly place where everybody knows your name. Bound by the highest commitment to safety and hygiene, Susan uses safe sterilization techniques and “one time use” tub liners for pedicures. Each client gets his or her own set of nail products. Each personal nail kit is retrieved for each salon visit. K Nails’ business motto is all about doing the best job possible and being a friendly, welcoming salon. “We are careful, clean and sanitary,” she said. Whether you need nail trimming, color, custom design, or the newest
innovation in nail service SNS dipping powders for nails, mirror nails, or even nails in ombre shades to match the latest trending rainbow hair colors, Susan and her loyal, experienced team of seven - Kenny Thai, Trina Nguyen, Tina Nguyen, Cindy Nguyen, Michelle Nguyen, Hiep Pate, and Kim Thai - have you covered. Specialists in manicures and pedicures, Susan said, “We take time to do and give a very good massage. We help our clients relax.” For clients seeking the popular
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pink and white acrylic nails, Susan uses only the best products – CND powder and liquid – that is beautiful, naturallylooking, long-lasting and never turns a yellow color, like lesser products. Cally Catania, a client that has been part of Susan’s salon family since its inception said, “I have been getting my nails done at K Nails for 17 years. Susan and her staff do beautiful work. People always compliment me on my pink and white nails. It’s a very relaxing salon and treat me like family. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.”
Another longtime customer Melissa Ransdell explained what keeps her coming back: “I’ve been coming for probably 10-15 years. I just love the facility. They’re all very friendly and I always get great service here.” Susan explained that she and staff stay up to date on training for all the latest techniques. Oftentimes, clients will call in with idea inquiries or bring in fun concepts found on the Internet
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that the staff then gets the opportunity to bring to life on the clients’ fingernails and toe nails. Susan said that those types of creative challenges are fun to try to replicate. “It’s usually just two fingernails or toenails (that have a special design),” she explained. “We just painted a turkey for Thanksgiving.” In addition to manicure and pedicures, K Nails also offers eyelash extensions and provides waxing services. For those into pampering, K Nails
provides relaxing facials in 30 minute and 60 minute increments. “We clean the skin, use a steam machine, remove blackheads, apply a facial mask, and provide a facial massage,” she said. On a weekly basis, Susan picks a new “color of the week” for her clients to try. Hundreds of additional color choices and brands like shellac of OPI, CND, Perfect Match, Gelish, and Cuccio colors line the walls of the salon. “They have excellent service here
and the ladies are all very good,” said customer of over 5 years, Kay Jones. From consistent 5-star Google reviews raving about the excellent prices, professionalism, and the staff being “as sweet as pie” to word-ofmouth referrals from loyal clients, Susan is proud of the reputation she has built in a very populated industry. “We have a lot of loyal customers. They’ve known my children since my son was one year old and now my son is a freshman in college and I have a daughter in high school. This is what I love about my shop – everyone here – we are family,” she said. “I thank all our dear clients and lovely nail tech staff, especially Lynn and Michael for giving me a chance. We have become what we are today because their Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles
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support. We love all of you.” K Nails Salon is open Monday through Friday 9am to 7pm, Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sunday 11am to 4:30pm. For more information, call 813-264-9363. DECEMBER 2016
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Oakdale Christmas Light Display Over 500,000 Lights of Joy! By Katie Thomas Starting the night after Thanksgiving, November 25th and lasting until January 3rd from 6 to 10 p.m., the Oakdale Christmas Light Display will be open nightly. Located in beautiful St. Petersburg, the Christmas Light House (as locals know it) will be celebrating its 40th year with a half million lights twinkling in the night. Voted as one of the top three light displays in the country, the Oakdale Christmas Light Display is the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit and celebrate the season with family and friends! The Oakdale Light Display is one of the largest and oldest running house displays in the nation. It has become a tradition for many people in the Tampa area to visit this festive home during the holiday seasons. People come from across the country and even from other countries to see
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the spectacular Oakdale Light Display. It was ranked in the top three light displays by NBC’s Today Show, was presented first in HGTV’s All Out Christmas Special, and has been featured in People Magazine. Started by a St. Petersburg family in 1977, the Oakdale Light Display began as a modest light display, but quickly grew to one of the largest in the area. By 1989, the display grew from 6,200 lights to 60,000 lights! Today, the display features over a half million lights (including fiber optics) and countless holiday-themed decorations. It takes approximately three months to install the display and requires about 12 truckloads to bring in the items from storage. Original owner Ted Kresge is now 76 years old and still sets up the display himself, along with family and a small crew of 8 to 15 people. The display is about a half-acre in size and features a 70-foot lit Christmas tree. The roof of the home features four giant Christmas trees made entirely of lights. There are over 700 animated objects, including dolls, bears, many Santas and toys! Many of the lights are digitally
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connected to play along with music, so you’ll get quite the show during your visit! The manger scene has over 150 pieces to browse over. Kids and adults alike love to play with the double-bubble machines that send out huge bubbles all evening long. From walkways lined with fun toys, to water features, and a huge collection of animated dolls, this place is all about the holiday spirit! There is a snowman that reaches three stories high and a large HOscale model railroad that runs 18 trains at one time! The layout includes city and country scenes with an airport, flying planes and a working carnival. Teresa Smith says, “A Christmas tradition for locals. My kids, 7 and 8, really enjoyed the light display. A perfect way to spend our Wednesday night as we gear up for Christmas.” Another visitor says, “Amazing! A must see for the family. Thank you for putting on such an awesome display!” I lived in the St. Pete area for six years and there was never a holiday season that I didn’t visit the famous Oakdale Light Display. Each year there was something new and
exciting to look forward to. I loved grabbing a hot cocoa and walking to the light display with visiting family and friends to check out all the fun animated scenes. Get in the holiday spirit, visit with Santa, and enjoy the twinkling lights as you walk through the gorgeous Oakdale Light Display. The atmosphere is celebratory and festive and there is endless fun to discover. If you have family in town to entertain, or just are looking for a festive, holiday activity to entertain the kids, the Oakdale Light Display is
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the perfect place to visit! Located at 2719 Oakdale Street South, St. Petersburg, FL the Light Display is easy to find: Take I-275. Exit on #22 (I-175) going E to 4th Street South. Turn right on 4th Street S, and go approximately 1 mile, crossing 22nd Ave South. Take the next left, which is Oakdale. Go two blocks, park and begin your tour. The tour is completely free and it’s fun for the entire family! Log on to www.christmasdisplay.org for more information.
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