Vol. 12, Issue 3, March 2021
®
Your community. Your magazine. ™
The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine Directly Mailed To 20,000 Homes In Odessa, Lutz & Land O’ Lakes Areas This Independent Community News, Business & Dining Guide Is Directly Mailed Once Each Month To:
Ashley Lakes, Ballantrae, Belle Meade, Calusa Trace, Canterbury, Cheval, Citrus Greens, Concord Station, Devonwood, Dolce Vita on Lake Keystone, Echo Lake, Farmington Village, Fern Glenn, Grey Hawk at Lake Polo, Heritage Harbor, Ivy Lake Estates, Keystone Groves, Keystone Manors, Keystone Reserve, Keystone Shores, Lake Charles, Lake Church, Lake Parker Estates, Lakeside Grove Estates, Northlake Village, Northbridge at Lake Pretty, Northton Groves, Oakstead, Orange Blossom Creek, Reflections, Steeple Chase, Starkey Ranch, Stillwater, Stonegate, Suncoast Crossings, Suncoast Meadows, Swan Cove, Van Dyke Estates, Van Dyke Farms, Villa Rosa, Wyndham Lakes
Trust the Experts at CMK Construction for All Your Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Needs By Tom Bostock When Manny and his wife Courtney started CMK Construction, it was with a commitment to quality products and outstanding customer service. Even though, according to their website, www.cmkconstruction.com, CMK Construction has been serving the Tampa area as the Kitchen and Bath Experts since 2004 and has over 17 years’ experience in kitchen and bath renovations, let’s find
out what some of their friends and neighbors, their former customers, think of their own individual experiences with them from their testimonials on the CMK website:
Master Bath Remodel Carol S. 3 months ago:
“Thank you, CMK, for the great teamwork from start to finish. Salesman Jordan explained what needed to be done, Natassa was great in See “CMK” on page 16
Osaka Express - Your Poke Bowl & Hibachi Destination
Local Surgeon and Author............4
By Carla M. Dubis Tedeschi That Poke bowl looks amazing! Where did you get it? I asked my good friend Austin H. last weekend. “Oh, at Osaka Express,” he said. “They have the best and freshest food ever. My go-to is their signature house classic bowl, with white rice, tuna, salmon, shrimp, cucumber, edamame, sweet corn, pineapple, crabmeat, seaweed salad, masala, house poke sauce and sesame seeds. It is amazing. They are my go-to UberEats option during this pandemic. I probably order from them once a week!”
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
From the Editor.............................5 SAT/ACT Improvement.................8 When to Call an Ambulance..12-13 Heart Health............................14-15 Tech Talk with Bob..................18-19
See “Osaka Express” on page 20
2 MARCH 2021
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
MARCH 2021 3
Well known local retired vascular surgeon, Dr. Venkit S. Iyer MD, promotes new book “Aging Well and Reaching Beyond” Dr. Venkit S. Iyer MD, FACS who is a long time resident of Palm Harbor, Florida, and a retired general and vascular surgeon has recently published a book with title as “Aging Well and Reaching Beyond”. This book is meant for general reading by all readers. It contains very useful information on preventive health care, wellness measures, elder care and end of life issues. It is written in easy reading language. Those who reviewed the book felt it was very well written and recommended it as “must read book” for all, especially senior citizens. It describes topics such as how to live well, how to age gracefully, how to maintain good health, how to prepare oneself for
4 MARCH 2021
Dr. Venkit S. Iyer MD the eventuality, and how to pass gracefully. All measures described are scientific methods, on how to undertake the journey of life well and end it nicely. Both birth and death are miracles and death is inevitable for all. All living beings want to live as long as possible and live well. Some of our life span is predetermined through the genetic code,
which is “Nature”. However some of our life span is decided by our behaviour, life style, habits, and conduct, which is “Nurture”. While we cannot change nature, we certainly can improve our wellbeing and longevity through our “nurture”. The book is available
through the web sites of Amazon as well as Barnes and Noble. Link to those sites are attached. It is inexpensive and Dr. Iyer has pledged all the book sale proceeds to go charity. Dr. Venkit Iyer was a member of the medical staff at Advent Hospital in Tarpon Springs and Morton Plant Mease hospitals in Countryside and Dunedin for over 30 years. His experience in medical profession spans over 50 years.He had published a previous book with title as “Decision Making in Clinical Surgery”, meant for medical students and junior surgeons. We recommend your support in promoting the new book.
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
Spring Kitten Season Has Arrived, and Shelters need Your Help! In some of my previous editorials, I’ve talked a little about how COVID19 had negatively impacted many of our local businesses, particularly in the entertainment and restaurant industries. I wanted to take this opportunity to bring to your attention an organization that is very close to my heart, and that is in desperate need of your help; St. Francis Society Animal Rescue. A little over a year ago, I fostered several adult cats and kittens through St. Francis, and it was one of the most beautiful and most meaningful experiences of my entire life. In the process, I not only learned a lot about myself, but I also fell in love with two amazing cats that are now part of my furever family of four, and I couldn’t imagine my life without them. I have officially accepted the title of “Crazy Cat Lady For Life,” and it’s not a bad one when you consider the incredible amount of kitty kisses, head bumps, and unconditional love you’ll get from them! And don’t worry about the shedding; cat hair is happy people’s glitter. Recently I received the following email from St. Francis Society Animal Rescue; “It happens each Spring. Thousands of homeless and abandoned kittens are born in the Tampa community. Helpless, hungry, and often sick, they depend upon strangers’ kindness to help take them in and save their lives. This year’s kitten season arrived just a few weeks ago and has already begun filling up St. Francis Society foster homes. Sadly, due to the struggling economy, this spring, we have also received many calls from owners facing eviction and are desperate for placement of their pets. We want to help them, but we can’t do it alone.
How YOU can Help Save A Life! SEND FOOD - Our cupboards are bare! Our last food drive was in October, and not surprisingly, it has all been used. We are desperate for kitten food, formula, and other supplies and would be so grateful if you could help send us some items from our Wish List on Amazon: https://smile.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ genericItemsPage/1TFI4A04OIAJ3 FOSTER AN ADULT CAT - Sadly, we currently have very few volunteers who can foster adult cats. If you have a spare bedroom or bathroom, please consider fostering an adult cat in need. As mentioned above, there are so many cats looking for homes due to evictions and economic hard times. For more information, please visit https://stfrancisrescue.org/#/rescue-ui/ volunteer.” As I sat there with my three adopted cats in my bed, I told myself I wanted to help spread their message. And what better way to do that than to dedicate my editorial to bringing awareness into their selfless, caring cause. You don’t have to leave your house to be a hero for an animal in need! P; please visit https://stfrancisrescue.org/ for more information. If you’re active on social media, please follow them on Facebook at: at https://www.facebook.com/ StFrancisSocietyAnimalRescue You can also email me directly if you’d want more information about my personal experience volunteering with adult cats and kittens! I’d be happy to answer any questions. If you are concerned about a loose animal, unleashed dog, abuse, or neglect of an animal, please contact the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center (813) 744-5660. Till next time,
Carla Dubis Tedeschi
6 MARCH 2021
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
MARCH 2021 7
SAT AND ACT IMPROVEMENT: BRIGHT FUTURES By Dr. Wayne Adams We are all most fortunate to be living in Florida with our great winter weather and our even greater Bright Futures program for college scholarships. There appear to be no changes to the current scholarship requirements for Bright Futures: 100% is SAT super-score of 1330 OR ACT composite of 29, 75% is SAT super-score of 1210 OR ACT composite of 25. With Covid 19 starting to phase down, it appears most colleges will end their “test optional” or “postponements” and return to their normal admissions process using these exams (except maybe Crazy California!). Bright Futures shows no sign of any change. The SAT has made some significant changes in their testing programs. Effective as of the end of this spring, the SAT will no longer offer the Essay or any Subject Tests. I am aware of no changes in future ACT Exams at this time, but the Essay may also be discontinued. I have talked with many parents who are increasing concerned about the effect of “totally on-line” or “hybrid” learning on their students’ educational progress. In my classes, my students continue to improve normally on these exams because my program is totally focused on the SAT or ACT and is one-on-one with
8 MARCH 2021
each student. In fact, it is not unusual for parents to say that the result of our study approaches and techniques help their students in their high school courses. And the section on Achieve and Maintain Your Peak Mental Performance Zone is proving quite helpful. The spring and summer test exam dates are as follows: SAT on May 8th, June 5th, and August 28th; ACT on April 17th, June 12th, and July 17th. My seniors are focusing in increasing their scores to qualify for higher Bright Futures’ scholarships. They all understand that this is like having a job that pays them $50 to $100 an hour (tax free) to study and perform. The last exams they can take to qualify are the SAT on June 5th, and the ACT on June 12th. My juniors are seeing if they can score at the level where they will not need to take time from their senior year to study for these exams. It is not unusual for them to want to take an exam in early June, or the ACT in mid-July. Studying over the summer is also attractive because they do not have the pressure of regular schoolwork and can focus more on getting their best exam scores. My sophomores are preparing early for these exams, plus getting ready for their PSAT next October which is the only qualifying exam for National Merit
Scholarships. To date, I have had three students qualify as National Merit Finalists. If You Would Like To Talk More About Your Student … Please contact me at 727-2530639 or send me an e mail at wwa0811@mykolab.com. Dr. Wayne Adams is one of the leading SAT and ACT tutors in the country. His students normally improve 200 – 350 points on the Writing, Reading, Writing and Essay, and Math, and 4 – 7 points on the ACT composite. They have been admitted to 8 of the top 10 universities in the country, 18 of the top 25, and many schools in Florida. These schools include Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Stanford, U Chicago, Duke, U Penn, Johns Hopkins, Cornell, Notre Dame, Emory, UC Berkley, UCLA, USC, UNC (Chapel Hill),
NYU, Northeastern (Boston), Boston College, Georgia Tech, Naval - Air Force - Merchant Marine Service Academies, Penn State, LSU, Auburn, UF, U Miami, FSU, USF, UCF, Florida Atlantic, Florida Gulf Coast, FIU, New College of Florida, Stetson, and Julliard – Manhattan - New England - and Berkley Conservatories of Music. Many have received academic, athletic, or music scholarships. This year, he also tutored three juniors who scored at the national merit finalist/semi-finalist levels on the most recent PSAT. He is a former Dean of a Graduate School of Business and Full Professor, and began college teaching at the University of Maryland in 1968. He has degrees and advanced studies at Harvard, Yale, Vanderbilt, Columbia International, and Luther Rice.
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
MARCH 2021 9
10 MARCH 2021
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
MARCH 2021 11
Chest Pain? Here’s When to Call an Ambulance Chest pain isn’t uncommon, and most everyone has experienced it at some point in their lives. Although conditions like heartburn don’t require immediate medical treatment, there are cases when it’s more serious and you need to call an ambulance and get help right away. Here are some tips from Dr. Cochran, our Heart Care Expert, that you can use to know what to look for and when to call for help. Signs to Watch For Unfortunately, people often put off calling an ambulance or heading to the emergency room when they experience chest pain because they believe it’s something
12 MARCH 2021
else, like indigestion or a pulled muscle. “If you’re having a cardiac event, every second counts in saving your heart. Once the damage is done, it’s impossible to repair. It is crucial to restore blood flow to the ischemic heart muscle as soon as possible to avoid a scar,” says Stephanie Cochran, DO, a practicing cardiologist. “It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain or if your symptoms feel like they could be a cardiac event. That is what we are here for, so please come in to be evaluated as soon as possible.” Here are the symptoms to look for.
Cardiac Event Symptoms It’s well known that chest pain is the most common symptom associated with a heart attack, but it’s not the only one. It can also present in different ways. It may not be localized in your chest and can sometimes feel like it’s coming from your back, left arm, left shoulder, neck, jaw or even a tooth. You may also only feel pain in those other areas without any chest or back pain, but it will likely feel like it’s radiating from your chest or back. Other symptoms to watch for: • Clamminess or sweating • Heart palpitations • Lightheadedness or fainting • Nausea
Stephanie Cochran, DO • Shortness of breath • Vomiting If any of these symptoms come on suddenly, they are a strong indicator that you’re experiencing a cardiac event and you should take them very
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
seriously. Trust your body – it will tell you when something is seriously wrong. Don’t take any unnecessary chances with your health. If one or more of these symptoms quickly develop, call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to drive yourself to the emergency department. By attempting to drive yourself to the hospital you’re not only putting yourself in additional danger but also those around you on the road. And the EMTs have life-saving skills that you may need on the way to the emergency department. Other Serious Conditions That Can Cause Chest Pain Many other non-lifethreatening conditions and diseases can present in similar ways to a heart attack, but
some are life-threatening and should also be treated as soon as possible by calling 911. • Angina presents almost identically to a heart attack and indicates an underlying issue with your heart, usually coronary heart disease (CHD). • Blood clots in your lung can also cause chest pain and should be checked out by a doctor to rule out any complications. • Dissecting aneurysm is another life-threatening condition that may be diagnosed instead of a heart attack. If you have a known issue seek immediate medical attention. For more information on conditions that may seem like a heart attack but are non-life-threatening, visit AHNorthPinellas.com. To schedule an appointment, call 727-787-4875.
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
MARCH 2021 13
Four Numbers to Know for Your Heart Health Your heart: It’s the engine that helps your body function and allows you to enjoy all life has to offer — from favorite activities to relationships with friends and family members. This February, celebrate this amazing organ during National Heart Month. Heart disease affects approximately 84 million Americans and is the number one cause of death for men and women every year. Take control of your heart health by learning about four key numbers — and what you can do to keep them where they need to be. 1. Blood Pressure High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart failure and stroke. Also called hypertension, high blood pressure
14 MARCH 2021
can cause blockages in the arteries, reducing the flow of oxygen to the heart and making it work harder. The American Heart Association released new guidelines for blood pressure and treatment. • Normal: Under 120/80 • Elevated: 120-129/80 • Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89 • Stage 2 Hypertension: Higher than 140/90 Your doctor will help you understand what these new targets mean for you and if any treatment is necessary. Treatment may include a hearthealthy diet, more physical activity or medication to help control your blood pressure. 2. Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a naturally occurring substance that is found in the body and produced in the liver and other cells. It can also come from eating foods that are high in fat. High levels of cholesterol can cause blockages of the arteries, potentially leading to a heart attack. A desirable total cholesterol level is less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/ dL). An annual blood test can monitor your levels and help your doctor make recommendations tailored to your health. 3. Blood Sugar High blood sugar levels may indicate that you have diabetes or pre-diabetes, two conditions that can greatly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. The American
Heart Association considers diabetes to be one of the major controllable risk factors for heart disease. A normal blood sugar level after fasting is 100 mg/dL. 4. Body Mass Index (BMI) Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor in many life-threatening diseases, including diabetes, cancer, high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, and heart disease. Your BMI is a calculation based on your height and weight and can indicate whether you are overweight or obese. People are considered overweight starting at a BMI of 25 and obese at 30 or higher. 15 Minutes Fifteen minutes is all it takes to save a life. That’s how
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
long it takes to get a simple health screening that gives you the information you need to live a heart healthy life. Talk to your primary care provider about what preventive measures or screenings are right for you.
Your doctor can also assess your heart health at your annual physical, an important part of managing your whole health. It’s just one of many reasons you should see a doctor in times of both health and wellness.
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
MARCH 2021 15
“CMK” - continued from page 1 helping with design. A special thank you to Eric and Jeff, who used their expertise and professional skills to create a beautiful Master Bath. They are the best of the best. The bathroom looks great and I couldn’t be happier.”
Kitchen remodel
John C. 2 months ago: “Folks, I’m not sure why you would call any other company in the Greater Tamps Bay area. CMK is the best. From Jessica, who came out and did the design. To working with Natassa in the showroom to pick out tile, grout etc.. Then Dylan working with us as the project manager. Man, I cannot say anymore about how they handled everything. Oh wait, how about Scott and Joe working on the project directly. You cannot and will not do any better. The professionalism, customer service, follow up as well as helpfulness on the entire process was awesome. If you choose a different team, I feel sorry for you... Ownership should be truly proud of these team members!!”
Galley Kitchen update Colleen M. 3 months ago:
“From beginning to completion of my galley kitchen, my experience with CMK has been phenomenal!!! Derrick the designer, Michael the project manager and Joe and Romy the contractors have conducted themselves in a courteous, professional manner and made me feel like my project was foremost. I couldn’t be happier with the personal attention I have received from Michael and Joe. I highly recommend CMK and will be using them on my future projects.”
Bathroom remodel
Bernardo C. 3 months ago: “Our experience was excellent. This was directly due to the Project Manager Dillon and the incredible crew of Scotty and Joe that did the work from demo to finish. Very meticulous workers and Dillon was very hands on in supporting his crew.” These are not only ringing
16 MARCH 2021
endorsements for the quality of work performed by CMK Construction, but proof of the professionalism of its in-house staff, from the sales agent to the designer of your project to the project manager and installation workers. Separating themselves from the competition, CMK maintains two accredited designer professionals whose services they provide without charge to their customers. It is just one more way, CMK goes the extra mile for you! With a 5 out 5 ratings based on 59 reviews, their customers have given CMK Construction their unqualified approval, which explains their BBB accredited business rating of A+, 2020 People’s Choice Best of the Best Bathroom and Kitchen (Tampa Bay Times) and 2019 Angie’s List 2019 Super Service Award. Additional awards and accreditations have come from Home Advisor and Thumbtack. Manny explained CMK is under consideration for additional awards this year. Known for their quality and committed to providing exceptional customer service, CMK offers you, their customers, a range of outstanding products for all your remodeling needs. They are especially proud of their Schluter certification. Schluter is a German company that has developed a waterproofing system that, when installed
as part of your bathroom remodel, carries a lifetime guarantee. CMK continuously trains all its installation employees yearly on Schluter’s latest techniques. Manufacturers like Elysium, Delta, and Moen provide state-of-the-art faucets and hardware while industry leaders like Brizo, MSI, Cambria, Radianz beautify their kitchen counters. Matched with beautiful cabinets from Fabuwood, Wellborn, and R. D. Henry, an ordinary kitchen becomes extraordinary, your dream one. As the CMK website notes, “CMK Construction also sets itself apart as a kitchen remodeling company with multiple certifications. As a statedcertified general contractor that is Lead Safe Certified with the EPA, you can trust that your project is in the hands of a highly knowledgeable group.” Offering a full range of quality products for all your remodeling needs including kitchen and bath fixtures, countertops and kitchen cabinets, backsplashes, flooring and even under and over counter accent lighting incorporated into your design, your choices are many. It is obvious from my interview with co-owner Manny that he came by his love of remodeling and working with his hands naturally. When his father came to this country from Greece, he began a
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
painting business. Manny said that for him remodeling was a three-step process: consult, design, and build, with each an integral part of the finished product. During the consultation phase, customers meet with the team’s designers to decide what elements should be part of their design. They can choose to work with their designer’s suggestions or provide their own blueprint designs. CMK is perfectly willing to work with either. During the preconstruction meeting, they complete all plans, order materials that may not be in stock, and schedule the remodel for construction when they receive the material. To aid in the open communications process between their client and CMK Construction, they go one step further and assign an experienced individual Project
Manager to each remodel. He is the contact person for each customer and is available to answer questions throughout the course of the project. This and a one-year workmanship warranty, besides individual manufacturer’s hardware ones, make up what Manny called CMK’s unique “peace of mind warranty.” The CMK Construction website explains why Tampa Bay consistently picks CMK Constructions for their remodeling needs: “That’s not the only reason that customers continue to hire our kitchen and bathroom remodeling company. We are a consistently top pick among Tampa homeowners because we offer a wide range of products and services. Whether you want a complete bathroom makeover or just a standalone service, you can expect beautiful and
long-lasting results. We have all the knowledge, skills, and resources that we need to complete any of your renovation goals.” With so many competitors out there, it is sometimes difficult to know who to choose. Anyone can place an ad saying they are a bath and kitchen remodeling contractor but ask yourself if they have 17 years of proven satisfied customer experience, at workforce of at least 70 skilled employees, have won multiple customer service awards, earned several certifications, and offer the Shluter’s lifetime leakproof guarantee, to name just a few of the many advantages of working with the CMK Construction professionals. If you can’t say yes to each of those questions, you need to call CMK Construction today, your state certified general contractor, and enjoy
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
your professionally installed remodel tomorrow. As Manny notes in the introduction to his website: “Your Tampa home is more than your refuge from the world-it is also one of your most important investments. That is why, when you are ready to invest in a bathroom remodel or a kitchen remodel, you need a remodeling contractor with a proven reputation for exceptional results.” Think CMK Construction. CMK Construction is moving to a new location at 13329 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, FL 33635 (813) 767 0646, but the showroom is still temporarily at 440 Roberts Rd, Ste #4, Oldsmar, FL 34677 (727) 513 3185. Call or visit today. Just a short drive from anywhere in the Tampa Bay area.
MARCH 2021 17
Tech Talk with Bob: A GIFT CARD SCAM My friend Bea had an experience that really rattled her nerves. She received an email from “Amazon” telling her that her account was charged $3,000.00 for a television. After confirming with Tony, her husband, that he didn’t buy it, they concluded it must be a mistake. Tony immediately called the customer service phone number that was included in the email. Once he finally got through to “customer service” he received yet more discouraging news. Bea and Tony’s Amazon account had been hacked according to the “representative.” Needless to say, they were both astounded. Fortu-
18 MARCH 2021
nately the “representative” was able to offer them a quick solution. For $500.00 the “rep” could repair the “hacked account” and expunge the charges for the $3,000.00 television. Tony wasn’t thrilled with the solution but reluctantly agreed to the “rep’s” terms. Tony reached for his American Express card to pay. As Tony read off his Amex number the “rep” immediately stopped the transaction and told Tony that their credit card processing system had just gone down, again. The “rep” explained to Tony that they were having problems with the system all day. Tony asked if the “rep” would call him
when the system came back up. The “rep” agreed but warned that if Tony delayed, that $3,000.00 TV might ship before the order could be cancelled; and then Tony would also have to pay the shipping to return the TV. In order to expedite the cancellation the “rep” suggested Tony pay with a $500.00 gift card. The “rep” explained that they process gift cards on a different system than credit cards, so that even though their credit card system was currently down, they could still process the payment by having Tony read off the numbers on a gift card. Tony sent Bea out to pick up a $500.00 gift card.
While waiting for Bea to return, Tony asked the “rep” how something like this could happen and why he had to pay so much? The “rep” explained that it was not Amazon who was hacked, but it was Tony’s IP address that had been hacked which led to Tony’s Amazon account being hacked. Therefore the financial responsibility fell on Tony, according to the
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
“rep.” Tony was determined to get to the bottom of this nightmarish mess. Finally, Tony called me and filled me in on what was going on. I cringed as he revealed the events that transpired. I immediately explained to Tony that he was in the process of being scammed. Tony and Bea came within inches of giving away a sizeable pile of money to cyber criminals. Fortunately, they did not give the gift card code to the scammers. Can you tell me what Tony should have done differently? He assumed that the Amazon customer service phone number that was listed in the email was legit. The cyber criminals were so good that Tony believed he was actually speaking with
Amazon when he called. But he wasn’t. What Tony needed to do was look up Amazon’s phone number instead of relying on the contents of this bogus email. Had he actually called Amazon Tony would have found out that Amazon had nothing to do with this and that Tony, Bea and Amazon were all unsuspecting players in this deception. I cannot tell you how happy I am that Tony contacted me before he and Bea handed over the 500 bucks to these criminals. There are a lot of scams like this circulating. If you ever receive a suspicious email like this, call the company directly. Be sure to look up the phone number on your own and not rely on any phone numbers given in
the email. Companies like Amazon want to know about these scams. So report any emails claiming you owe money. By the way, Bea and Tony were just one of many folks caught up in a cyber scam claiming to be Amazon. If you get any emails from Amazon and want to verify them, Amazon’s “real” customer service number is 1-888-280-4331. Please stay on guard, and stay safe. We have the ability to provide support without needing to send an IT Specialist out to your home or office. We can safely remote access your computer to perform most repairs. We can also remotely perform complete scans for viruses and other malware issues. So if you think you have malware, we can scan
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
for it remotely from our location to yours. So, during this pandemic, we can still provide technical support to you over your phone and internet connection. Cyber criminals will exploit the easy victims and unprotected systems. Protecting yourself online is your responsibility, but you do not have to do it all yourself. We’re here to help. If you are not sure your system is safe, please have it looked over by a Professionally Certified IT Specialist. Call us now at 727-5344000. We’ve been helping folks restore their peace of mind, and sanity, with their technology for decades. We Keep You Safer In Your Digital World!
MARCH 2021 19
“Osaka Express” story continued from page 1 Whether you choose to dine-in, pick-up, or get it delivered to the comfort of your home, Osaka Express is your Poke Bowl and Hibachi destination! Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, and conveniently located at The Shoppes at Sunlake Centre in Lutz, Osaka Express offers a wide variety of authentic and incredibly fresh Poke Bowls and Hibachi dishes. This fast-casual dining spot opened its doors in September 2018, and it is the perfect place for a quick and affordable lunch with coworkers, a casual meal with your family, or a healthier take-out and delivery option. “My son and I love this place. The service is fast and very friendly, and the food is amazing and fresh and much healthier than many other take out options. Today we brought some home for other family members who haven’t been able to come with us and they raved, so I think we found our new family favorite take out place,” said 5-star google reviewer, Michele G. Owner Xin Lin and the attentive and caring Osaka Express staff will gladly help you with food suggestions and recommendations. The place is impeccably clean, as you’d expect from a top quality
20 MARCH 2021
restaurant. The staff is following COVID-19 sanitation guidelines, and they are constantly making sure to disinfect everything after every guest. Xin has over 22 years of experience in the restaurant business. You may have heard of him before, as he is also the proud owner of Osaka Sushi and Grill in Carrollwood, which is a more sushi, steak and seafood oriented restaurant with a more formal atmosphere. Both restaurants are worth the visit and will turn you into a regular, like they did with me
and my friends! When asked about the location of Osaka Express, Xin says, “I chose this location because I live here. This is home to me. And this community is all about family, and I love that.” Fast, Delicious & Healthy Food — It doesn’t Get Better Than That! While the occasional trip to your favorite fast food joint won’t hurt, a habit of eating fast, greasy food could be doing a number on your health and weight.
Recent customer Jeremy S. says, “Osaka offers tasty, affordable and healthy poke bowls and hibachi options with a friendly and helpful staff. There’s a great selection of ingredients and one hundred ways to customize your own poke bowl. Staff always helps me with the sauce suggestions, which turn out to be amazing every time. We will be going back.” “We’re very quick to serve you, but very healthy as well. Poke Bowls and Hibachi are fast yet wholesome food options
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
(opposite page) Tuna-Salmon Poke Bowl. (top) Chicken and steak hibachi. for you,” says Xin. “Our meals include lots of fresh protein, rice, and veggies, which are never processed or full of added sugar.” And if you’re worried about overspending, don’t. Traditional Hibachi places will charge anywhere from $15-$23 for a meal that you can get for way less at Osaka express. Many of their signature Poke Bowls are under $13, and several of the Hibachi options are $10 or less! While Poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish, it has taken a long time for the seafood staple to reach the mainland U.S., never mind go global. Thanks to local tastes for healthy and convenient fast food options, a “Poke Craze” seems to have taken over America, and “healthy foodies” like myself couldn’t be happier. Poke takes the things people already love about sushi and offers it at a more affordable price. The traditional poke dish combines chunks of raw tuna with salt, candlenuts, and fresh seaweed. This option is still available today, however part of the Poke’s appeal is the way it can be customized
to different tastes. At Osaka Express, you can pick and choose your own Poke Bowl ingredients, or go with one of their specialty bowls. They also offer Poke Salads and Poke Burritos. The literal meaning of hibachi is “fire bowl,” so you can imagine the amount of heat used to cook this delicious food. Hibachi is the cooking of meat, veggies, and seafood dishes on a high-heat, metal cooking plate. With Osaka Express, Xin was able to bring to life a “hot and cold fusion dining experience” that aims to satisfy your entire family. They truly have something for everyone, especially for us seafood lovers who enjoy customizing our dishes, and even for those picky eaters who’d never try raw fish. “A lot of Poke Bowl places don’t offer hot food options like we do, just raw seafood. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but let’s be honest, not everyone likes raw fish, especially young kids,” says Xin. “At Osaka Express, everyone can enjoy a fresh and healthy meal. Hot or Cold, raw or
cooked, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.” Local Food Guide Madi D. says, “Our food at Osaka is always amazing! The poke bowls are flawless every time, and the hibachi is perfect. I choose my own ingredients most days because I like customizing my own bowls and like having the option to do so.” There’s a large number of Osaka Express regulars. Some of which were coming in during my visit, asking for their “favorite bowl” or their “usual Hibachi meal.” After I got to try a wakame salad, a poke bowl full of fresh tuna and salmon, steak and chicken hibachi, and the Krab Rangoon appetizer, I’ll be a regular too! Everything was truly delicious. Even my mother, who happened to be with me during my first ever visit to Osaka, and who is a very picky eater, said that was some of the best food she’s ever had and is
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
looking forward to returning. Osaka Express also features a wide variety of hot and cold beverages, including a large variety of soft drinks, teas, and exotic canned juices. I was fortunate to try a very soothing hot Jasmine Green tea that helped my sore throat, and a cold canned Guava juice, which brought me back to Venezuela with each sip. I grew up drinking guava juice regularly, but it is not a typical drink in the U.S. If you’re the adventurous type and love trying new things, trust me, get your meal with the Guava juice, you’ll enjoy it. Osaka Express is located at the Shoppes at Sunlake Centre, at 18855 FL-54, Lutz, FL 33558. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Visit http://osakaexpressfl. com/ to order online for a quick pick up or call ((813) 388-5091.
MARCH 2021 21
22 MARCH 2021
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
MARCH 2021 23
