Vol. 17, Issue 2, February 2021
®
Your community. Your magazine. ™
The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine Directly Mailed To 18,000 Homes In Trinity & Surrounding Areas This Independent Community News, Business & Dining Guide Is Directly Mailed Once Each Month To: Aristida, Champion’s Club, Chelsea Place, Country Place, Ellington Estates North, Ellington Place, Fairway Springs, Fox Hollow, Foxwood, Greenbrook Estates, Heritage Lake, Heritage Springs, Hills Of San José, Hunter’s Ridge, Hunting Creek, Longleaf, Magnolia Estates, Nature’s Hideaway, Oak Ridge, Riverbend, Riverchase, River Crossing, River Oaks, Riverside Estates, Riverside Village, Riverside Villas, Seven Springs Golf & Country Club, Southern Oaks, Spring Lake, The Sabals, Thousand Oaks, Timber Greens, Trinity, Trinity East, Trinity Oaks, Trinity West, Veterans Village, Woodbend, Woodgate, Wyndgate & Wyndtree
Rizzotto Wealth Management As the 2020 tax return
deadline approaches, it is a
included if applicable) to
perfect time for those ages 60
Active & Retired Military, First
a $99 fee to have their income
Employees and Educators of
that is trusted for going the
prepared by one of the firm’s
or older to take advantage of
Responders, Government
taxes prepared with a company
any age. All tax returns are
extra mile for its clients.
Senior Tax Preparers or IRS
Rizzotto Wealth
Management extends their
$99 flat-rate fee for federal
Bringing Upper Cervical Specific Chiropractic to Trinity – Dr. Dustin Dingus. By Tom Bostock When Thomas Edison, in 1903, wrote, “The doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest the patient in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease,” he might very well have had Dr. Dustin Dingus in mind. He was a patient at the age of nine with a 38-degree curvature of the spine. His future mentor, Dr. Julie Mayer Hunt, corrected the problem in only six weeks, reducing the curvature to 1 degree, thus
returns (state returns are
Enrolled Agents. If you don’t fit into one of the mentioned
See “Rizzotto Tax” on page 18
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: From the Editor.............................5 Local Surgeon/Author....................8 AdventHealth North Pinellas....12-13 Tech Talk With Bob.....................16 Student Athlete of the Month...20-21 SAT/ACT Improvement.............26-27 Classifieds........................................30
See “West Pasco Chiro” on page 24
2 FEBRUARY 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
FEBRUARY 2021 3
4 FEBRUARY 2021
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
February is Full of History! I want to start by saying Congratulations to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on their incredible and historic 2021 NFC Championship win. Since Tom Brady signed with the Bucs this offseason, not one but three professional Tampa Bay teams have made it to their respective championship matchups. My beloved Tampa Bay bolts ended the 2020 season as the Stanley Cup champions after beating the Dallas Stars. The Tampa Bay Rays made it to the World Series in October but fell to the L. A Dodgers, and now, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have a chance to win the Super Bowl this February. Go Bucs! Besides football, February is full of romance and food. Many of the days celebrated in national monthly events during February are food-oriented; I see you “Valentine’s Day” and “Chocolate Lover’s Month.” If you’ve read any of my previous articles and editorials, you know how big of a foodie I am, but this is not my focus. February also happens to host “American Heart Month” and “Black history month,” a couple of important causes that I wanted to bring awareness into. Focusing on your heart health has never been more important. Heart disease is the No.1 killer of Americans. People with poor cardiovascular health are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. The good news is that heart disease is preventable in most cases with healthy choices, which include: • Not smoking. • Maintaining a healthy weight. • Controlling blood sugar and cholesterol. • Treating high blood pressure. • Getting at least 150 minutes of moderateintensity physical activity a week. • Getting regular checkups. Research shows that we’re more successful at meeting personal health goals when we make them “public,” which gives us a sense of accountability. So if you’re
on social media, that means sharing your personal goals on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other social platforms. Share your health goals with your relatives, friends, and acquaintances using hashtag #AmericanHeartMonth and #OurHearts, and see what others all over the country are doing to reach their goals. Bring awareness to the importance of having a self-care routine and inspire yourself and others to have a healthy heart! Since 1976, every American President has designated February as Black History Month and endorsed a specific theme. The Black History Month 2021 theme, “Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity,” explores the dispersion and diversity of Black families across the United States. February is an opportunity to honor Black Americans’ too-often neglected accomplishments in every area of endeavor throughout history. Some ways to celebrate Black History Month include but are not limited to; Supporting an African American business. Visiting a Black History or Civil Rights Museum in your local area. Donating to a Black charity or non-profit organization. Signing up to mentor an African American child in your community. Calling out racism and prejudice in your community. Reading books and articles on Black leaders, authors, and other historical figures, amongst others. I hope you’re all still finding ways to stay positive, strong, and healthy throughout these unprecedented pandemic times. I know we were all hoping and expecting COVID19 to stay in 2020 and be over by now, but it’s still in full force. Please continue to do your part, and continue to make smart and healthy choices for yourself and your loved ones. Until next time,
Carla M. Dubis Tedeschi
6 FEBRUARY 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
FEBRUARY 2021 7
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
8 FEBRUARY 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
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
FEBRUARY 2021 9
10 FEBRUARY 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
FEBRUARY 2021 11
AdventHealth North Pinellas is Now Offering Highly Advanced Robotic-Arm Technology for Hip and Knee Joint Replacements AdventHealth North Pinellas is now offering the innovative Mako™ Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery. This advancement in joint replacement surgery transforms the way total knee, partial knee and total hip replacements are performed, by giving surgeons the ability to plan your procedure ahead of time through a specific 3D model of your hip or knee. Clinical studies have shown patients who had a partial knee replacement with Mako™ experienced less pain in the days and weeks following surgery than with a conventional knee replacement.
12 FEBRUARY 2021
Mako™ Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery
“We are excited to bring this highly
advanced technology to our community,” said Dr. Michael Longley, Chief Medical Officer of AdventHealth North Pinellas. “We are committed to elevating health care in our community. Adding the Mako™ platform to our expert orthopedic service line is another example of our ability to provide exceptional, high-quality care to those who need us most.” The Mako™ total hip and total knee procedures are minimally invasive and designed to relieve pain caused by joint degeneration due to osteoarthritis, the most
common form of arthritis. In the U.S., total knee replacements are expected to increase 189% by 2030, yet studies have shown that approximately 20% of patients are dissatisfied after conventional surgery. Patients who had a total hip replacement with Mako™ were able to preserve more bone than those who had a conventional hip replacement. About AdventHealth North Pinellas AdventHealth North Pinellas, located in Tarpon Springs, is a 168-bed, fullservice hospital specializing
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
in cardiovascular medicine, emergency medicine, orthopedics and spine care, wound healing, sleep medicine, women’s care, and general surgery including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures. AdventHealth North Pinellas has been nationally recognized by the American Heart Association, the American Stroke Association, The Joint Commission, and The Leapfrog Group, for excellence in providing quality patient care. AdventHealth North Pinellas serves both the Pinellas and Pasco communities of West Central Florida. For more information, visit www. AdventHealthNorthPinellas. com.
About AdventHealth West Florida Division The West Florida Division of AdventHealth has some of the nation’s brightest medical minds making lifesaving breakthroughs with surgical pioneers, scientists and researchers using leading edge technology and innovation to deliver our brand of whole-person care. Our network of care includes AdventHealth Carrollwood, AdventHealth Connerton, AdventHealth Dade City, AdventHealth Lake Placid, AdventHealth North Pinellas, AdventHealth Ocala, AdventHealth Sebring, AdventHealth Tampa, AdventHealth Wauchula, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel and AdventHealth Zephyrhills, as well as five freestanding offsite
Emergency Rooms including AdventHealth Brandon ER, AdventHealth Central Pasco ER, AdventHealth Palm Harbor ER, AdventHealth TimberRidge ER, and AdventHealth Westchase ER. We are more than hospitals, as we have a robust system of care including specialty acute care, over 200 primary care and specialty employed physicians, Express Care at Walgreens clinics, urgent care centers, wound care, physical therapy, home care, mobile mammography and more. AdventHealth is a faith-based not-for-profit health care system with a mission of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ. AdventHealth has hundreds of care sites and nearly 50 hospitals across the United States. For more information
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
about AdventHealth, visit AdventHealth. com, or Facebook.com/ AdventHealth, and for West Florida Division, click here. About Mako™ SmartRobotics™ Founded in 1941 by Dr. Homer Stryker, orthopedic surgeon from Kalamazoo, Michigan. The Stryker company is one of the world’s leading medical technology companies. Their growth is based on a diverse array of innovative products and services in orthopedics, medical and surgical, and neurotechnology and spine that help improve patient and hospital outcomes – which have been achieved through the dedication of our more than 33,000 employees globally.
FEBRUARY 2021 13
14 FEBRUARY 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
FEBRUARY 2021 15
By Bob Dalles
Tech Talk with Bob: Upgrade Safely
If you just got a new computer or are thinking about upgrading to a new system, you might just have a need for my team. Clients have found peace of mind with these two services we offer businesses and individuals. Data Transfers: If you are upgrading from an older computer to a newer one, you probably want to have all of your personal data transferred from your old computer to your new computer too. A lot of folks ask me if we can move their existing data (music, pictures, documents, videos, etc.) from their old computer to their new computer. We do this routinely. Clients tell me countless stories of data losses from attempting to transfer their files without using the proper techniques. We will safely and securely move your data quickly and painlessly. If the reason you are getting a new computer is because your old computer will not boot up, I usually can still recover your data off of your old dead system. Once you have upgraded to your new computer and have successfully transferred all of your pictures, documents, and other personal files over to it, what do you do with your old computer? First, never throw your old computer into the trash. It needs to be disposed of properly and responsibly because it contains elements that are not safe for our environment. In addition, most municipalities have laws
16 FEBRUARY 2021
and impose fines in regard to the proper/improper disposal of these items. Second, your discarded computer has a disk drive in it (hard disk drive/solid state drive) that stores your information, including your personal data. Even if you delete your personal files, there are still methods cyber criminals can use to extract data that you thought was permanently erased. Therefore your data on your old computer sitting by the curb or in a dumpster can be intercepted by anyone willing to rummage through your trash from the time you throw it out to the time it gets to the landfill. That is why I also offer my clients… Safe and Secure System Disposals: Let me explain the process. First, we remove the disk drive mounted inside your computer that actually stores all of your personal data and private information. It is usually in the form of a hard disk drive or solid-state drive. Second, we disassemble and dispose of the remaining components through proper industry channels we have in place. At this point all that is left is your old disk drive. Finally, we place that drive into an industrial shredder that converts the drive into a pile of rubble. There is no way any data will get into the hands of anyone, let alone cyber criminals, through an old computer we discarded. We can provide you with this quick and easy way to dispose of your old environmentally toxic computer. Plus, you also
have peace of mind knowing that the data that was on your old computer is safe and inaccessible because your computer has been dismantled and its disk drive is no longer in one piece. Cyber criminals will exploit the easy, unprotected systems. Protecting your data is your responsibility, but you don’t have to do it all by yourself. My staff and I are here to help you navigate through these cumbersome
and often confusing tasks. If you are not sure your system is safe, please have it looked over by a Professionally Certified Computer Technician. If you need a certified professional, call us now at 727-534-4000. 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!
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
FEBRUARY 2021 17
“Rizzotto Tax” story continued from page 1
categories, give them a call to inquire about their special pricing. Through changing tax environments, it is crucial to work with a firm that is up to date on policy and can help you navigate through the stressful tax season ahead. At Rizzotto Wealth Management you will find a team of Investment, Insurance, Tax & Legal Experts. They have recently opened their doors in a more spacious and upgraded office and are ready to serve all of your financial needs at their new location. They specialize in educating their clients
18 FEBRUARY 2021
on subjects such as: how to preserve your assets, how to diversify your portfolio for growth and safety, and how to create more income for retirement while reducing your taxes. Rizzotto Wealth Management is committed to assisting their clients every step of the way when it comes to Investing, Retirement, Income Planning, and Taxes. The firm is dedicated to providing exemplary service while displaying the highest standards of ethics and professional knowledge. They are approved members of the National Ethics Association and the National Association of Tax Professionals.
Rizzotto Wealth Management’s main objectives are to help you Plan, Invest, and Protect. They work with clients to develop an overall plan that encompasses your entire financial picture, taking the time to establish a deep understanding of your financial needs in order to find the best investment strategy for you. Amidst the vast sea of negatives, they want to make sure you are properly positioned for the significant opportunities ahead. Meet the Rizzotto Team Ed Rizzotto, Founder and Managing Partner, moved to Florida 48 years ago from New York
and has been a Trinity resident since 2000. A graduate of Clearwater Central Catholic High School, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Management from National-Louis University in Evanston, IL. Ed also served both active and reserve duty for 13 years in the U.S. Coast Guard. He started his Insurance and Financial career over 20 years ago. In 1999, he joined a local retirement planning firm, where he helped hundreds of people with tax and retirement planning for over six years. Ed Rizzotto enjoyed the opportunity to benefit the community, and was determined to create a complete
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
local business where he could help clients (both pre-retirees and current retirees) save money on their taxes, better manage their portfolios, plan for the future and focus more on enjoying their retirement years – and The Rizzotto Tax Advisory Group was established in 2006. In 2019 Rizzotto Tax Advisory Group officially rebranded as Rizzotto Wealth Management to reflect the services they’ve always been passionate about, investments and retirement planning. Ed holds a state-regulated Life & Health license and specializes in finding the appropriate insurance vehicles for clients as well as retirement planning and tax reduction strategies.
Nic Ranocchia, Managing Partner, is a graduate of the University of South Florida, with a bachelor’s degree in Finance. Nic is a financial advisor who takes pride in digging into clients’ portfolios and making suggestions that make sense based on data and trends. He also brings a modern approach to the table using the latest technologies available to ensure all information is considered before a decision is made. With these techniques, Nic has been able to help many clients reach their financial goals. Together, Ed and Nic work efficiently as a team to serve their client’s financial needs as a whole. He is securities licensed
and registered with FINRA as an Investment Advisory Representative and specializes in managed brokerage accounts. Lorrie Rizzotto, Director of Operations, joined the firm in 2009. Before joining Ed in running their family business, Lorrie specialized in corporate incentive and meeting planning. Married for 30 years, Lorrie and Ed have two children. Jennifer Alt, Administrative Assistant, gives everyone a warm reception and oversees the day to day office operations. Jennifer brings over 20 years of human resources and customer service experience to her role as Administrative Assistant and is a graduate of Florida State University. Lauren Schafer, Marketing Coordinator, oversees their marketing functions. She is a graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in Marketing and a minor in Entrepreneurship and has been with the team for over 2 years. Their team of IRS enrolled agents and senior tax preparers have an average of over 20 years of experience in tax preparation and tax law and are ready to assist you with all of your tax preparation needs. They also have a long-standing relationship with a trusted elder law attorney who
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
specializes in wills, trusts and estate planning. They go beyond just taxes Many members of the community have grown to know and trust the firm as a tax service, but their services stretch far beyond just taxes. They handle investments, insurance, brokerage accounts, portfolio management, retirement income planning and more. Rizzotto Wealth Management is guided by your goals and objectives and is not obligated to any single product or company. They look at your complete financial picture to serve as the single source for all of your financial needs. Through all phases of life, the Rizzotto Wealth Management team can help you establish the appropriate portfolio to help you pursue your financial goals. Rizzotto Wealth Management is committed to assisting their clients every step of the way, whether you’re looking for something with higher growth potential or safety they’ve got you covered! To schedule a tax consult or complimentary financial review, please call 727.683.9119. Fee-based financial planning and investment advisory services are offered through Truvestments Capital, LLC an SEC Registered Investment Advisor.
FEBRUARY 2021 19
The Gregg Schindler Female Student Athlete of the Month: In the Lead! By Ashley Hoskins Starting basketball at eight-years-old, Julia Rueda (‘23) strives for excellence as a sophomore point guard on the varsity girls’ basketball team at J.W. Mitchell High School. Rueda leads her team to victory by scoring numerous points during games, with guidance from her coach, Mr. James Devins (FAC). Through previous friendships with her fellow teammates, she learns what it takes to become a leader and encourage others on and off the court. “During the season, I try winning one game at a time. Lifting up my teammates during games is very important, especially if we’re down by a few points. I tell them to shake it off and get the ball back on the next play in order to keep them focused on the next possession. We’re hoping to make it to districts, then states and further towards the end of the season,” Rueda said.
20 FEBRUARY 2021
Making varsity two years in a row comes with joy but also hardships needed to work through. Rueda received a mild injury during the fifth game of the season, which meant taking time away from the sport she loved most. “I thought getting up early and spending long hours of practice was going to be the hard part of this journey. I had gotten a concussion around the middle of December and was out for about a month. Since it wasn’t too major, I knew I would come back at some point. Being patient was the difficult part,” Rueda said. With endless conditioning and long practices, Rueda plans on considering basketball as a college path once she graduates high school in 2023. “Since basketball has always been my number one sport, It would be nice to play in college. I would definitely look into options, such as Division one schools
As she dribbles down the court, Julia Rueda looks to pass the ball to a teammate in the Jan. 22 against East Lake High School. Photo by Olivia Hunt like the University of South Florida or the University of Central Florida in the future,” Rueda said. Rueda continues to succeed as she leads her team by 17.4 points and 6.6 rebounds per game,
and 4.6 steals per game. During their six-game winning streak, she had led the way, which included critical victories over Fivay High School, Nature Coast High School, and Calvary Christian High School.
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
The Gregg Schindler Male Student Athlete of the Month: Winning on the mat! By Jelayna Vasquez Although the Mitchell wrestling team has not placed first in any tournament in the last six years, that could be changing thanks to the efforts of Logan O’Leary, a junior at J.W. Mitchell High School. O’Leary has been wrestling for three years and has become an important member of the team according to his coach, Michael Loguidice. “He is undefeated this year with a record of 8 wins and no losses. Logan is one of my two team captains and always goes above expectations. His leadership got us to get first place at the Gulf Christmas Duals,” Loguidice said. The wrestling matches are divided by weight class. Starting with the lightest weight class of no more than 106 lbs., and each team or school sends the teammates that fit in that weight class until they reach up to the heavyweight class. “To prepare for matches, the team jogs, stretches out, then we go through our moves and wrestle with our team to get warm. The team is like a family, we are all really close and we do the best to push each other to be better,” O’Leary said. O’Leary decided to join
In Feb. 2020, Logan O’Leary takes down his Wesley Chapel opponent. Photo by Gigante Productions the team his freshman year after his father had the idea for him to try it. He was interested in wrestling and realized he liked it after trying it out, so he continued to keep up with it. By junior year he earned a leadership role on the team. “As co-captain, it’s my job to make sure everyone is working their hardest in practice, in their matches, and that the team stays motivated. David [ the other co-captain] and myself work really well together. We both started wrestling at the same time and we’ve gotten really close. We both do our best to keep everyone in the right headspace,” O’Leary said.
So far this season, the team has a record of 12 wins and 25 losses. One of O’Leary’s most recent wins came from the meet on Jan. 19 at the Anclote Quads, bringing his new record to 20 wins and 6 losses, with just one more team tournament left this weekend. As a part of the COVID-19 protocols in public schools,
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
O’Leary was quarantined from Jan. 22 to Feb. 2, which stopped him from competing at matches during that time period, including the Mustang Duals on Jan. 26. He will return to the gymnasium on Feb. 5 and 6 at Hudson High School for the Hudson Duals.
FEBRUARY 2021 21
22 FEBRUARY 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
FEBRUARY 2021 23
“West Pasco Chiro” - continued from page 1
avoiding a previously scheduled invasive Harrington rod surgery. The gentle science driven Orthospinology procedures she used, coupled with the research performed on those procedures, form the basis for his cuttingedge chiropractic practice today. A Stetson University graduate, Dr. Dingus earned his chiropractic doctorate degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange, FL. Let his own words on his online website, westpascochiro.com., tell you how a classmate’s mother’s referral to his mentor changed his life forever: “This was a major influence in my life and allowed
24 FEBRUARY 2021
me to pursue an athletic career, as I love my sports! I was able to play high school golf and basketball before receiving a scholarship to play golf at Stetson University. When I graduated from Stetson, it was abundantly
clear the path God had laid out for me.” “I graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in September of 2018 and was an associate doctor at Dr. Julie Hunt’s practice. My life had really come full circle!
I am very passionate about bringing upper cervical specific care to Pasco County and helping everyone maintain health through a balanced nervous system.” As Dr. Dingus noted in our interview, he, like his
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
mentor, is a specialized type of chiropractor. “I focus on the upper cervical spine. My adjustments are the highest quality range you can get. They are very specific.” My wife and I always associated chiropractors with cracking bones and pain afterwards. We did not know why he referred to the adjustment as “specific.” I learned that his “specific” applied to what he told me were the Atlas and Axis (C1-C2), two unique vertebrae that, unlike any other, ligament and muscle hold in place, instead of bone. Although this allows for greater mobility, it also makes them more susceptible to misalignment that can produce irritation to the brain stem and nervous system. That is what helps account for many sports injuries and fall-related ones today. It was equally surprising to learn he treats as, he said, everything from “the actual range of conditions related to Chiari malforma-
tion (brain tissue extending into the spinal canal, present at birth when part of the skull is abnormally small or misshapen), multiple sclerosis, neurodegenerative diseases affecting brain health, and typical neck pain, midback pain, low-back and sciatic nerve pain, etc.” Dr. Dingus noted he doesn’t use “any pharmaceutical intervention.” He doesn’t write any drug prescriptions for pain. Instead, the adjustments he performs, do not confuse them with the manual manipulation of the lower back or neck, are very precise and allow improved range of motion. Unlike traditional methods, Dr. Dingus uses a device that achieves a more detailed level of adjustment, applying less than two pounds of pressure to the affected area to achieve the desired results. He has found this lighter touch to be more desirable for his patients. Dr. Dingus is commit-
ted to your spinal health. Aligning your spine is not a hit-or-miss proposition. It is an exacting scientific process. Taking multiple x-rays is an important part of your diagnosis for him. He takes them before your first correction to determine the precise vector he will need to restore your spine to its proper alignment. Ask yourself the important questions the West Pasco Chiropractic Clinic is asking you. “Are you suffering? Is your body telling you that something is wrong and isn’t working properly? Explore a unique approach to maintaining health.” While you are there, don’t worry about accidental exposure to the COVID-19 virus. The office follows all recommended safety precautions including social distancing, the required use of masks and sanitizing spaces before and after each patient. For your convenience, you can call the office when you arrive and go directly to an examination room,
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
bypassing the waiting room entirely if you choose. Passionate about helping everyone maintain health through a balanced nervous system, with Dr. Dingus, you have nothing to lose except your pain! Call today for a healthier tomorrow. 727 514 8532. Schedule your no charge consultation today! West Pasco Chiropractic Clinic, 1928 Duck Slough Blvd, Trinity, FL 34655. Just a short drive from anywhere in Pasco County. Visit their website for more information: westpascochiro.com or follow them on: Facebook: facebook.com/ westpascochiro
Instagram: instagram.com/ westpascochiro sites Office hours are: Mon, Wed, Thurs: 8AM12PM,1:30 – 6PM. Tues: 8AM - 12PM (afternoons by appointment only) Fri: 7:30 – 11:30AM Wed: 8AM-12PM, 1:30PM-6PM FEBRUARY 2021 25
SAT AND ACT IMPROVEMENT: THE MENTAL SIDE By Dr. Wayne Adams When I started helping students learn and achieve optimum performance at the college and grad school level many years ago, I was committed to the idea that half of optimum performance was mental. This has proven correct! All of my students today know that I firmly believe HALF OF THEIR ACHIEVING THEIR BEST SCORES on the SAT or ACT is MENTAL … and HALF is academic foundation, test “smarts”, strategies, specific knowledge, and techniques. In our classes, we incorporate many ways to Achieve and Maintain Your Peak Mental Performance Zone which has proven extremely helpful for my students. These principles and practices are incorporated into all areas of our classes, and I now have written an 18 page Guide which every student receives as part of the class. Not long ago, I asked one of my top-scoring students (SAT 1540) if he had test anxiety. On the surface, he was very calm and focused, so I would never have guessed his answer. “That is my biggest problem on these
26 FEBRUARY 2021
exams.” At the other end of the spectrum, another student had been going through a very difficult time outside of our classes and it spilled over into his taking a baseline exam. About halfway through, he totally broke down, started crying, and kept repeating “I can’t do this. I can’t do this.” Of course, we stopped and talked about what was happening in his “real life”, he calmed down, reestablished his zone, and moved ahead. In the middle was a young lady, very calm on the surface with a quick mind that thought on multiple tracks at the same time. During the first part of our first class, a “get to know you and hear the philosophies underlying the class” for my students and their parents, I asked if she ever had test anxiety. It was like she had been struck by lightning. She nodded vigorously while her mom spoke at the same time saying, “She gets so nervous the night before an exam that she can hardly talk or think, and has a very hard time going to sleep.” We all have some test anxiety before a big exam, we are all human. But how we manage this and turn it into peak mental performance
throughout the test is very important. Very few of my students ever say they never get nervous, sometimes lose focus, go down “rabbit trails” in their thinking, and other symptoms of losing their peak mental performance zone. The differentiating factor is how much this disrupts their ability score at their best, and how they can handle it when it happens. FULL ANXIETY RANGE CHART: We begin by understanding what can
happen just before and during the exam by reviewing my Full Anxiety Range Chart. This can range from the right balance of calm and a little anxiety in or peak performance zone, through multiple attacks by what we call “Gremlins” that can take some students “down the rabbit hole” mentally, emotionally, and even physically. The key is understanding these are all attacks aimed at the Will, and then how to stop them in their tracks.
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
YOUR TEST TAKING PERSONALITY: Part of our thinking is guided by each student determining their “Test Taking Personality”. While there are many personality evaluations and classifications, none I have found focus specifically on test anxiety and peak mental performance zones. So I created four major types: Oh Wells, Intuitives, Logicals, and Perfectionists. Each has specific strengths and weaknesses related to scoring on exams, and many students have traits from several types. These four types span all test taking and learning levels ranging of my students from IBs, Cambridges, APs, AVIDs, general student population, public high schools, private high schools … to those qualifying for additional time on the exams (Section 504 students) including those with
ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Asperger’s. FOURTEEN THINGS YOU CAN DO: Once understanding what can happen and test taking personalities, our next step is how to use the 14 Things You Can Do During The Exam In Your Seat to stay in your peak mental performance zone and, if needed, quickly reestablish it. We also practice these during our baseline exams and Dress Rehearsal Exam. One of the things I really like about the mental preparation part of our classes is that what my students learn can help them the rest of their lives: high school, college, graduate school, and especially “life situation” exams which we all face from time to time. As all of my students and their parents know, my ultimate goal is for each
student and family to have their best possible futures, including doing their best on the SAT and/or ACT Exams. 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,
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
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.
FEBRUARY 2021 27
28 FEBRUARY 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
FEBRUARY 2021 29
TRINITY AREA CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE Land & Location! Beautifully maintained 5 acre estate that includes a 5 bedroom 5.5 bathroom home, private pool, 3 stall barn, and multiple garages. Collector? I have the perfect 5000 sq ft garage for you. 2835 Meadowood Dr. NPR $899k Listed by SunCoast Group Realtors, LLC Ask for Theresa Rodden 727-5149590 INSURANCE MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT Prescription Drug Medicare Supplement Medicare Advantage ALL Medicare Plans available. We complete detailed assessments ensuring you have the plan that fits your needs & your budget! Electronic/Virtual meetings available. The Benefit Solution Center of New Port Richey, FL Christa Brendel 1-800-511-7888 TheBenefitSolutionCenter. com
30 FEBRUARY 2021
SERVICES AVAILABLE Mary’s Spotless Touch Cleaning Service, Inc.Licensed, Insured and Bonded for your piece of mind. We offer both residential and commercial cleaning and have been cleaning in the area for 15 years. No home/office too large or small. We are extremely pet friendly, pay attention to detail that is often overlooked and supply all the necessary cleaning products to efficiently clean your home/office and leave it smelling and looking wonderful!!We also offer other cleaning services such as carpet cleaning, deep cleaning, windows, etc. Weekly, biweekly and monthly rates available. Now also accepting Visa, MC, American Express, and Discover for your convenience. Call for a free estimate today with a dependable and trustworthy company!! Call Mary (727) 389-0347.
as changing smoke alarm batteries, light bulbs or A/C filters? Need a shelf or picture hung? Need minor electrical or plumbing repair? Windows or mirrors cleaned? Painting? Anything! Just ask! We are here to help. Please call Chris with your “honey-do” list @ 727-687-9892 SIT & STAY PET BOARDING HOTEL or AFFORDABLE PET SITTER for IN-HOME VISITS Boarding 10 Acres of safe fun. We will treat your pet like family. Over 10 years experience. Angie’s List Service Award Winner. 1st night Free for New Customers TEXT or call (727)423-4997 Kristin
LOW COST PRESSURE CLEANING. HOUSES • POOL CAGES • DRIVEWAYS AND SIDEWALKS • POOL DECKS • PVC FENCES • HELPING HAND CLEAN OUT GUTTERS HOUSEHOLD • CALL DARIN. www. MAINTENANCE SERVICES lowcostpressurecleaning. Need a HELPING HAND com. 20+ years experience. around the house? Someone Licensed and insured. (727) who will do ladder work such 207-9176
A NEW LOOK Pressure Washing. 2 car driveway $65 (includes all front sidewalks). 3 car driveway $85 (call for long driveways). Most pool decks & cages $125. I also gently clean home exteriors, gutters, fascia, soffits & fences - Free estimates. Landscape cleanup and odd jobs too. Heritage Springs, Trinity & more! Resident of 34655. www.anewlookpw.com Call Randy 727-271-2920 ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR FAMILY OWNED AND OWNER OPERATED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR. Owner performs all jobs. We offer many services, from switch replacements to ceiling fan installations and more. Reasonable rates. Keep this ad on your refrigerator, we do troubleshooting as well! Licensed, EC13005494, and insured. Call CHARGER ELECTRICAL SERVICES @ 727-937-5999.
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
FEBRUARY 2021 31
