Wesley Chapel Magazine - April 2024

Pasco County Animal Services

Hosting ‘Shelter Slumber Pawty’

Sign up now to sleep in our shelter to help raise funds for our furry friends

If you’re an animal lover, we have quite the ‘pawty’ for you! For the first time, Pasco County Animal Services (PCAS) is hosting a ‘Shelter Slumber Pawty’ and we’d love for you to spend the night with our animals Saturday, April 6, 2024!

We’re the only shelter in Florida joining others across the country allowing community members to spend the night in our shelter – side-by-side with shelter pets – to raise donations for Friends of Animal Services.

This rare opportunity is open to the first 25 people who sign up and purchase tickets for the accommodation of their choice within the shelter. Those who wish to participate must be 18 years or older.

WHAT: ‘Shelter Slumber Pawty’

WHEN: April 6 & 7, 2024 | 4 p.m. – 9 a.m.

WHERE: 19640 Dogpatch Lane | Land O’ Lakes, FL

HOW: Sign up here today: mypas.co/49WsGBO

“The first ‘Shelter Slumber Pawty’ happened in 2017 in St. Louis, and we’re proud to join more than 160 shelters this year to offer this really unique experience,” said PCAS Director Mike Shumate. “The funds raised will help our animals, especially cats and dogs in our shelter.”

Cypress Creek High School Cheerleaders

Traditional Team: 1st Place - Game Day Team: 2nd Place

By Karina Natividad

This season has been a crazy ride. The 202324 Cypress Creek High School cheerleaders have risen to every challenge and goal set. They continually surpass expectations set by their coaches.

The team kicked off the competition season at the Cobra Classic where they took home 1st place.

Their next goal was to win the Best of Pasco, which was something Cypress Creek Cheer had never done. Practice the night before this competition did not go as expected and due to an injury the team had just 2 hours to completely rework the routine. But that didn’t stop this group. They dug deep and worked hard for those 2 hours., some having to learn an entirely new routine.

When they showed up for the “Best of Pasco” competition, they didn’t focus on everything that went wrong. They knew they had a job to do and they did it! They were focused and they performed their best and took home 1st place at the Best of Pasco All Girl Champions!!!

The team continued to compete at the FHSAA Regionals. The goal at regionals was to place in the top 2 to secure a spot at State Finals. They were able to place 2nd in the region and were now off to States.

States wasn't the performance they hoped for but they didn't let that knock them down.

They continued working hard to prepare for the Nationals competition in Orlando, Florida where teams from all over the US come to compete.

The America's Cheerleading Cup Championship in Orlando is held at Universal Studios. Although the team is allowed to enjoy the theme park (and they did) they have to stay focused and continue to practice.

Nationals Day 1 - They showed up and in the first round of the competition they had flawless performances with both routines.

Both “Game Day” and “Traditional” teams made it to the finals!

Nationals Day 2 - Finals - Cypress Creek came out to do their Game Day routine, again, they were on fire. Unfortunately, they were still in the middle of a cheer when their music started. The competition coordinator messed up and started their music early. The team didn’t fold or fall apart…they scrambled around, grabbed poms and caught up to the music and STILL MANAGED TO HIT EVERYTHING!

As parents, we couldn’t believe what we saw and we were livid that these girls just got deducted points by no fault of their own. They had worked soooooo hard for this.

They were told nothing by the judges nor staff. They didn’t get to redo the routine. They left the stage in tears of frustration like we never seen. They had about 5 min to wipe the tears

and change uniforms and get right back to work since they still had their Traditional routine to compete. Parents and coaches were all so worried these girls heads wouldn’t be in it to compete because of their previous experience. But again, they came out and did their Traditional routine… and again, flawless!

Kenzie, who is a senior and one of the captains, told the team “use that anger to go out there and show them who we really are!” These girls showed them who Cypress Creek cheerleaders are.

Many of these athletes competed 6 times over the course of 2 days. They fought hard and they showed what Cypress is capable of.

Game Day team placed 2nd in the Nation (the routine that got messed up).

Traditional team placed 1st and took home the National Grand Championship Title beating out the top scoring 20 teams from across the Nation.

They won gold medals and Super Bowl type Rings and not to mention The Americas Cup Trophy!

Words can hardly describe how proud everyone is of these resilient and incredible athletes. Their character and determination off the mat is just as impressive as their performance on it. They are amazing young women who are going to accomplish anything they set their minds to.

The

Art of the Party Mastering

As someone deeply entrenched in the world of visual marketing and event planning, I've learned a thing or two about creating memorable experiences. From corporate galas to intimate gatherings, the essence of successful event design boils down to a delicate balance of creativity, organization, and attention to detail. Here are some invaluable do's and don'ts to consider when orchestrating your next soirée:

Do: Define Your Vision

Every great event begins with a clear vision. Take the time to articulate your goals, theme, and desired atmosphere. Whether it's a sophisticated cocktail affair or a whimsical garden party, a defined vision will serve as your compass throughout the planning process and help ensure your guests depart with the message you wish to give.

Don't: Underestimate the Power of Timing

Timing is everything in the world of events, especially in Florida. Be mindful of key dates, holidays, and competing events that could impact attendance. The Florida party season from September to May is a small window of opportunity, so plan accordingly. Additionally, create a comprehensive timeline outlining tasks and deadlines to ensure a seamless execution on the day of the event.

Insights from Frank Clemente, Creative Director of FrankLynn Visual Marketing

Do: Set a Clear Budget

Setting a firm budget from the start allows you to maximize funds for all event elements. Detailing expenses ensures that you direct your funds towards the most important aspects of your party and are able to add your unique “stamp” or personality to everything from food to decor without overspending.

Don’t: Bring Gifts

More and more people are shifting away from traditional gifts towards philanthropic giving. Encourage attendees to contribute to a chosen non-profit organization or cause, communicated clearly in event invitations and promotional materials.

Do: Curate an Inviting Atmosphere

The ambiance of your event sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Pay attention to lighting, décor, and music to create a cohesive atmosphere that resonates with your guests. Thoughtful touches such as fresh flowers, ambient lighting, and curated playlists can elevate even the simplest of gatherings.

Don't: Neglect the Guest Experience

Ultimately, the success of your event hinges on the satisfaction of your guests. Anticipate their needs by providing ample

seating, signage, and amenities. Additionally, consider interactive elements such as photo booths or themed activities to keep guests engaged and entertained throughout the evening.

Do: Prioritize Quality Over Quantity

When it comes to guest lists and refreshments, quality always trumps quantity. Focus on inviting individuals who will contribute positively to the atmosphere and vibe of your event. Similarly, opt for high-quality food and beverages that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Don't: Forget to Plan for the Unexpected

No matter how meticulously you plan, unforeseen circumstances are bound to arise. Be prepared to adapt and problem-solve on the fly, whether it's unexpected weather changes or last-minute cancellations. A calm and composed demeanor will reassure guests and ensure a smooth transition.

In essence, successful party planning is a delicate dance of creativity, organization, and flexibility. By adhering to these do's and don'ts, you'll be well-equipped to orchestrate a truly unforgettable event that leaves a lasting impression on your guests. Cheers to the art of celebration! •

What About Microneedling

One of the most exciting and effective med spa treatments offered by our Wesley Chapel dentist of Sana Dental Studio and Med Spa is radio frequency (RF) microneedling. Starring the highly coveted Morpheus8 by InMode and EndyMed Pure 2.0®, this innovative procedure uses tiny needles that penetrate the skin, emitting radio waves that stimulate the natural healing process, produce collagen, and tighten the skin. If you're looking for a solution

to achieve smoother, firmer, and more radiantly beautiful skin, then this treatment is worth considering.

Improved Skin Texture

Radio frequency microneedling has been gaining traction due to its impressive ability to improve skin texture. Since this treatment stimulates collagen and elastin production, patients can expect firmer, tighter, and smoother skin. With little to

no downtime, it's no surprise that many patients are raving about the transformative effects of RF microneedling.

Tackles a Range of Skin Concerns

Not only does radio frequency microneedling leave skin looking rejuvenated and youthful, but it also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars. What makes RF microneedling stand out is its ability to stimulate

Wesley Chapel’s ONLY FAMILY DENTISTRY and MED-SPA

collagen production, a vital protein responsible for improving skin texture and elasticity. The microneedling process creates tiny punctures on the skin's surface, triggering the body's natural healing process in response to the injury. Then, the radiofrequency technology is that it delivers heat energy deep into the skin, further stimulating collagen production and leading to smoother, firmer, and younger-looking skin.

Minimal Discomfort

At Sana Dental Studio and Med Spa, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality treatments to our patients with minimal discomfort. Despite the use of needles and heat, RF microneedling causes minimal discomfort. The needles used are incredibly small, ensuring that most patients only feel a slight tingling sensation during the treatment. Additionally, the heat energy is carefully controlled, never reaching a level that would cause significant pain.

Dr. Sana Yusuf & the Sana Squad

Non-Invasive & Safe

When it comes to skincare treatments, many can be harsh, causing pain and even irreversible damage in some cases. However, RF microneedling is a gentle and practical option that is not only gentle on the skin but is also suitable for all skin types. The microneedles used in the procedure are incredibly fine and penetrate the skin at a precise depth, creating microchannels that allow the radiofrequency energy to penetrate deep into the skin. Best of all, radio frequency microneedling is a safe and gentle option that won't cause any discomfort or damage.

Our Wesley Chapel Dentist Offers Game-Changing RF Microneedling

As a Wesley Chapel dentist, Dr. Sana Yusuf strives to provide only the best services for our patients. Beauty comes from within, and RF microneedling is just one way to make yourself feel beautiful while keeping your skin safe and healthy. If you’re looking to give yourself a confidence boost or want to care for your smile, contact Dr. Yusuf by calling us today at (813) 945-4478 for med spa or dental care services. You deserve to take care of yourself; at Sana Dental Studio and Med Spa, our Wesley Chapel Dentist makes it possible

Where Wesley Chapel women, and their families get the treatment they’re looking for, and deserve!

FMoPA

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts was founded in 2001 by a group of visionary friends who understood the importance of exhibiting photographic art in a formal Museum setting. FMoPA emerged as a captivating sanctuary, preserving the artistry and chronicles of human existence through the lens in the Tampa Bay area. This immersive institution transcends mere exhibits, inviting patrons to embark on a mesmerizing journey through visual history.

In the spring of 2001, Cynthia L. Flowers (a business owner) put forward the idea of starting a photography museum in Tampa. Shortly thereafter, Charles J. Levin (an attorney), Vincent Sorrentino (an art dealer from New York) and Cynthia established the Tampa Gallery of Photographic Arts, a gallery dedicated exclusively to photography. Working in close cooperation with Madison Marquette, the owner of Hyde Park Village, exhibition space for the gallery was secured. “Masters of Black & White,” its’ first exhibition, consisted of 50 iconic black and white images borrowed from private collections. With many of the early shows curated by Vincent Sorrentino, critical acclaim followed.

In the fall of 2001, Cynthia began the Museum’s first children’s outreach program. This initiative involved educating under-served children on photography as a creative outlet at the USF/Patel Partnership Elementary School located at the University of South Florida in Tampa. Since this partnership, education and engagement have since remained at the core of FMoPA’s mission. Through its innovative programming, including workshops, lectures, and guided tours, the museum seeks to demystify the art of photography and make it accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. By offering opportunities for hands-on learning and creative expression, FMoPA empowers individuals to explore their own photographic talents and develop a deeper understanding of the medium.

Museum of Photographic Arts, or FMoPA, and relocated to downtown Tampa. After years of continued growth, it then moved to the Waterfront Arts District in Rivergate Plaza’s architecturally significant Cube Building. Most recently, FMoPA embarked on its latest relocation to the historic Kress Building in Ybor City. Situated next to other vibrant art communities, this move has placed FMoPA at the heart of this artistic hub, fostering collaborations with neighboring art communities, galleries, and cultural organizations.

In the summer of 2006, the Museum was renamed the Florida

FMoPA has hosted a multitude of significant exhibitions featuring renowned photographers whose works have left indelible marks on the art world. Iconic names such as Ansel Adams, Man Ray, Diane Arbus, Herb Snitzer, Berenice Abbott, Dorothea Lange, Clyde Butcher, and so many more. The Museum will soon exhibit works by influential artists Joel Meyerowitz and Gary Monroe, coming March 2024.

As FMoPA looks towards the future, its mission remains steadfast – to celebrate the art of photography and inspire creative expression in all its forms. Through its dynamic exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach efforts, the museum continues to serve as a beacon of artistic excellence and a catalyst for cultural dialogue.

From its humble beginnings to its current status as a cultural landmark in Tampa, FMoPA has played a vital role in preserving the rich history of photography while also pushing the boundaries of artistic innovation. As it embarks on its next chapter in Ybor City, the museum remains committed to its founding principles of artistic excellence, education, and community engagement, ensuring that the art of photography continues to thrive for generations to come. •

Helga Madajova, Slovakia, ConnectionLower

Limitations to Lazy Gardening

By Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly Landscaping TM agent, UF/IFAS

Arecent article covered how you can have a beautiful landscape while maintaining a lazy gardener lifestyle. This one explains the limitations to lazy gardening.

Mulch: It takes a little work to put it down, but it saves a lot of time and effort in the long run. Mulch regulates soil temperature, adds organic nutrients, inhibits weeds and retains soil moisture. Pine bark, pine straw/needles, Eucalyptus, Melaleuca and leaves are good options. Cypress is not because when cypress stands are cut down for use as mulch, the habitat of native birds and animals is destroyed.

Fertilizing: First and foremost, read the fertilizer ordinance for your county so you know when you can fertilize. Use slow-release fertilizer. To be really lazy, don’t fertilize until you are sure of light rain for activation. Water-based fertilizers leach through the soil after rain or irrigation.

Why Prune? Reasons to prune include training the plant to grow in a certain direction and improving health by removing diseased stems, creating better air circulation. Pruning increases flowering, allowing for bigger fruit on some types and more abundant foliage. It can restrict growth and keep the plant in the boundary of available space. And, you can remove dead flower heads from a plant to encourage further blooming.

War on Weeds: A weed is the wrong plant

Hillsborough County

in the right place, right plant/wrong place, or a plant with nine lives. Using mulch (depth 2-3 inches after it settles) helps. If you chose to fight the weed war, you can cover weeds with newspapers to smother them and/or point, aim, and squeeze with an environmentally-friendly weed killer spray.

Pests: Biting, Sucking and Chewing! We have aphids, caterpillars, slugs, snails, scale and spider mites. Less than one per cent of all bugs are bad bugs. “When we kill off the natural enemies of a pest, we inherit their work,” said entomologist Carl Huffaker. The first step, however, is to properly identify the insect to be sure it is a pest versus a beneficial insect. If you must, use a non-chemical and least toxic product. Spot treat plants as needed, not the entire landscape.

Lazy Pest Management (LPM) Alternatives: Use two pinching fingers to squish pests; hard-spray with water; and/ or prune off infested sections and place those sections in your household trash, not your yard waste which could be recycled elsewhere. For more info on non-chemical solutions, go to: ‘Ask IFAS’ Managing yard pests.

Inefficient Irrigation: If you have an in-ground irrigation system, do you have broken heads, plant or other materials blocking the spray pattern, and/or a rain shut-off device that does not work? Do

you have program A, B and C set to run subsequently? Are the times set for each irrigation zone appropriate? Is your water bill for more than 20,000 gallons of water per month? If yes and you are a Hillsborough County water customer, call Will Stone, 813-744-5519, ext.54133, to see how he may be able to help you decrease your water usage. We offer over-the-phone and on-site irrigation evaluations for Hillsborough County residents that are high water users.

Right Plant, Wrong Place: Site conditions are very important when making plant selections. Consideration should be given to light (sun/shade), soil pH and texture, water, wind and other conditions. An invasive plant is never the right plant in any place. Not sure if it’s invasive, go to ‘Ask IFAS’ Assessment of Non-Native Plants in Florida’s Natural Areas. You have the ‘opportunity’ to move the right plant to the right place in your landscape or you can take the time and expense of replacing it after it dies.

Rewards of laziness: Shopping for more plants or yard art with friends?? Reading, golfing, sleeping, cooking, crafting, visiting outstanding gardens with family and friends, more gardening, attending an Extension workshop…your choice!

Lynn Barber is the Florida-Friendly Landscaping TM agent for UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County. Contact her at labarber@ufl.edu.

Extension

Aluna's Zodiac

By Aluna Michaels

APRIL 2024

Aries (March 21 – April 19) — Happy birthday Aries! The Solar Eclipse in your sign provides deep healing for your sense of self-worth. Meditate on abundance, since you can remove old negative programs about financial lack. It’s your time to shine! You can have health breakthroughs, especially involving inflammation or auto-immune issues. Set new goals, and focus on taking small steps toward success. Resist thinking bigger moves get your there faster!

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) — Mercury retrograde this month is a great time for deep meditation. You can have important messages from your intuition during quiet reflection, and also from your dreams. Combined with the Solar Eclipse, you can make strides in healing negative self-talk. These “scripts” are subconscious, but deplete your physical and emotional well-being. You’ll be amazed how you’ll be able to notice, catch and redirect the toxic thoughts!

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) — The Solar Eclipse heals your sense of meaning in your life. You might get involved with community in a fulfilling way that is also fun! With Mercury retrograde this month, old friends can come back into your orbit. If anyone is on your mind, reach out and reconnect! If you’re struggling at work, breathe through your frustration. A promotion or job offer can come through that you’d nearly given up on!

Cancer (June 21 –July 22) —It’s an amazing career month! Embrace your success in all areas of your life. Meditate on healing “impostor syndrome” or any beliefs that you “don’t deserve good things”. Open your heart and mind to the abundance, praise and positivity around you. In terms of your spiritual life, cut yourself slack if

you don’t meditate “perfectly”. Be gentle and compassionate in your yoga practice. Enjoy your time of connecting with the Universe and with your soul!

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) — This month’s Solar Eclipse helps you break through old resentments. Meditate on deep disappointments you’ve had over the past two years. Ask yourself how these experiences have affected your belief system about the goodness of people and the Universe. You can have healthy boundaries and incorporate the wisdom gained from painful times while still keeping your heart open. Taking walks in nature will be especially healing.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) — Relationships can seemed blocked or at a stalemate, but deep healing is possible now. The Solar Eclipse helps you remember the original value in your partnership. You might be surprised how much closeness is restored when you tap back into the foundation of your connection. If single, your heart can re-open to new love. Also, financial blocks shift and you can be in the flow of abundance again!

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) — With the Solar Eclipse you can be falling in love with someone new, or if partnered, a renaissance of love can start between you! Even Mercury retrograde helps you remember the romance in a current partnerships or past ones. You’ll reconnect your heart with hope and joy. Meditate on any self-criticism you have for your body. Practice self-compassion for any “flaws”. Also be sure you have work/life balance. Don’t drive yourself too far with the stress of perfectionism.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) — This month’s Solar

Eclipse helps you loosen up the stress your body and mind have been under. Like Libra pals, you’ve got to be more aware of the lies perfectionism tells you! You’re driven and ambitious, but don’t let your physical and mental health suffer. Meditation reveals ways to create more balance. It’s so simple, but even taking a few deep breaths with full exhales every hour makes a world of difference. You’ll remain connected with your grounded center!

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

-- The Solar Eclipse wants you to explore your creativity! Even if you don’t see yourself as artsy, have fun playing games or sports. Enjoying time with children or pets will uplift your soul! Create more discipline in your home even if that means tidying up or working to declutter. You’ll find your mood is better. You’ll also feel less scattered and be more efficient, which leaves more time for play! If single you can even start a new romance!

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) — You may feel frustrated getting your ideas across with family members or colleagues, but the Solar Eclipse brings breakthroughs! If you have important conversations, write things out beforehand and reread it. You’ll make sure you’re covering all the topics you need to cover, and the best wording to use when you have the actual conversation. Work with positive affirmations since these struggles may have lowered your self-esteem and started internal criticism!

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) — If you’ve had financial stress, things will

get better quickly this month! The Solar Eclipse lifts your mood. You might even make new friends who improve your outlook on life. Also with this month’s Mercury retrograde, make time to connect with old friends. Even if schedules haven’t synced up lately, plans can fall into place quickly now. Take advantage of the synchronicity! Meditate on gratitude for even more emotional improvements.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) –Meditate on your body’s strength and power!Forgive your body for any perceived shortcomings or weaknesses. It’s a great time to start an exercise routine. You’ll be surprised how fast you tone up and feel stronger. Also, the Solar Eclipse brings financial abundance. Additionally, look at your budget and recognize unnecessary spending. Ironically, by cutting back you’ll create an inflow of more finances!

Aluna Michaels is a second-generation astrologer. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than three decades. Her book “Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs” is now on Amazon in Kindle version and as an E-book on her website. Aluna is available for appointments in her home, by phone or Zoom. Call (727) 239-7179 (landline, so no texting!) or call/text (248) 583-1663 or visit www. alunamichaels.com

Expert ER Care

When does the human spirit show up? When minutes matter? In moments of bravery? In an expert’s hands? Maybe there’s no way to measure the human spirit, but we see it every day in our AdventHealth Emergency Rooms. If you or your loved one are injured or experience chest pain, stroke symptoms or severe stomach pain, go to your closest ER in Pasco County. We’re here 24/7 to help you feel whole.

TheERExperts.com