Your Home Tampa Bay .com - Home & Community 2018 - Issue 43

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Home & Community Issue 2018

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Home & Community Issue 2018

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DEBBIE DAWSON #1 Realtor Choice in Trinity & Tampa Bay RE/MAX ADVANTAGE REALTY Debbie@YourHomeTampaBay.com | www.YourHomeTampaBay.com 727-709-9541 | 10710 State Road 54, Ste. C101 (behind Bonefish), Trinity, FL 34655 ©2018 RE/MAX, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Pub 5/18 Each RE/MAX® office is independently owned and operated. 18_266971

ADVANTAGE REALTY

Table OF CONTENTS

11

ON THE COVER

20 Years Re/Max Advantage Call to check availability and reserve an upcoming cover of Your Home Tampa Bay for maximum visibility and exposure of your business.

Hometown Hero | Stephanie Pontilitz A True Community Leader

YOUR Family 22 | 38 |

CONTENTS 9

Sophisticated but Not Stuffy A Living Room Your Family Can Live In Dear Yappy Can Chocolate Be Dangerous to My Dog

YOUR Life

15 | Dana and James Spears “This is Who We Are”

Cornerstone Pros - Giving Back to the Community They Love

20 |

Critical Questions

25 |

Steps to Making an Insurance Claim

Tips for Hiring the Perfect Moving Company Know What to Do, If it Happens to You

YOUR Community 21 | 31 | 39 |

YOUR Home

Your Home Hometown Realtor |

17 |

Debbie Dawson Celebrates 20 years

It’s Your Downtown | New Port Richey

Something to do for Everyone

Paws in the Park Sun

Everyone Loves Alvin Kirk!

A Huge Heart & A Whole Lotta Swag

Pasco County Dog Friendly Parks

36 |

Rescue, Rehab & Release

Fostering Orphaned Squirrels

Be One with Nature

Plan a Romantic Outdoor Adventure

FIND US

BACK COVER

Online: www.ItsYourHomeMagazine.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ItsYourHomeMagazines Twitter: twitter.com/yourhometrinity Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/itsyourhomemag

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6 Home & Community Issue 2018

Seven Spring Golf & Country Club Are You a Member of the Players Club?

For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

Health & BEAUTY

J

oanna and Larry DeLuca, the owners of DeLuca’s Fine Jewelry, are located in the downtown section of Longleaf Town Center, near Starkey Boulevard in Trinity. Joanna has been in the beauty industry for over 35 years and also owns Style Makers Salon, conveniently located right next to the jewelry store. Larry, who had always owned his own businesses, appreciated Joanna’s sense of flair and style.

The two got together, and the salon/jewelry store combo was born! The two shops complement each other really well. The DeLucas believe that when people look good, they feel good. “What a happy job I have!” Joanna boasts. “Our store is unique. We believe jewelry is like art. Whether it be the color or style that speaks to you, it makes you feel good when you look at it or wear it. Is your taste classic and traditional or fun and funky? We’ve probably got it and in all budgets. Sometimes our taste and our wallets don’t agree, but we’ll work with you to find a solution. We’re here to help you.” The two-shops-in-one will dazzle you with their style!

In addition to the wide assortment of fine jewelry they also have less expensive alternatives in stock, such as silver and stainless steel, to satisfy all tastes and budgets.

Gold, diamonds, gemstones, etc., are timeless and usually heirlooms, they have so many gorgeous varieties to choose from. Does your jewelry need a little makeover? The DeLucas love turning your treasured pieces into updated and unique pieces, a reflection of you!

Joanna and Larry DeLuca invite you to stop by and say “hello.” They want you to look around and see what they showcase. They know you will like what you see. You will feel right at home as soon as you walk through the door, and they will help you find exactly what you are looking for. If they don’t have it in stock, they will order it or make a custom piece just for you. Your hometown jeweler, DeLuca’s Fine Jewelry!

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Directory of HOMETOWN PROFESSIONALS Shop Local. Buy Local. Eat Local.

ACCOUNTING SERVICES Unbehagen Advisors…................…….27 ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Anything Offi ce.....................................27 ADVERTISING & MARKETING Head of Lettuce.....................................24 IT’S YOUR HOME Magazine.................24 AIR CONDITIONING CONTRACTORS A-Plus A/C & Heating...........................24 Best Services A/C & Heating...............19 Cornerstone A/C, Plumbing & Elec....15 ATTORNEYS Charles S. Phillips, PLLC....................25 Law Offi ces of Debora A. Diaz…....24,28

EVENT & WEDDING VENUES Seven Springs Golf & CC.............40 Verizon Event Center....................30 FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT Congo River Golf..........................36 Island Paradise Charters..............32 GOLF COURSES Seven Springs Golf & CC.............40 HAIR SALON & NAILS Aquaterra Salon & Spa.................10 Cabelo Salon.................................13 Style Makers Salon.......................10 HARDSCAPE & MASONRY Trinity Brick Company…......…….17 HEALTH INSURANCE Trinity Insurance Consultants…..28

BUSINESS GROUPS & ORGANIZATIONS CasMob……..……………….........……..23 HEALTH FOOD STORE Keep It Local……………………..……...24 The Health Hut..............................23 Pasco County Tourism........................36 Trinity Positive Business Network.....23 HEARING AIDS West Pasco Chamber of Commerce..28 Hear Again..................................…16 CARPET CLEANING Complete Care Systems.................19,24 COMPUTERS A-M-S Computers.................................27 Cudixs...................................................23 COOKWARE & COOKING CLASSES BergHOFF International, Inc................19 CLEANING SERVICES Donna’s Cleaning Angels...............18,29 DENTISTRY Trinity Dental Arts................................14

JEWELER DeLuca’s Fine Jewelry....................7 MASSAGE THERAPY Aquaterra Salon & Spa.................10 Cabelo Salon.................................13 Massage Therapy Center.............13 MOVING SERVICES Two Men and A Truck....................20

| 2018

PET SERVICES Joyce Moore Dog Training........38 Paw Wash Plus...........................37 Stay at Home Pet Sitters......24,38 Photography Studio The Big Flash Inc………...……..12 PHYSICIANS – PODIATRY Foot & Leg Specialty Center.....13 REAL ESTATE AGENTS Debbie Dawson, RE/MAX Champions.........1,4,5,21 Jackie Borree, RE/MAX Advantage...................................24 RESTAURANTS The Brass Tap............................34 Central Park Family Restaurant..................................32 Seven Springs Golf & Country Club.............................................34 Zen Forrest.................................33 ROOF & EXTERIOR CLEANING Hammerhead Soft Wash...........2,3 UPHOLSTERER Sunshine Upholstery.................18 VETERINARIANS Animal Care Center of Pasco...39 Best Care Animal Hospital........39 Country Oaks Animal Hospital.......................................39

NAIL SALON Amber Nails...................................10

Visit It’s Your Home Magazine online to find even more of your local businesses ItsYourHomeMagazine.com

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YourHomeTampaBay

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Health & BEAUTY

by Debra Taylor Tee preferred. When fast songs came on, Alvin would wait until the music returned to something slower.

When the evening came to a close, he offered to escort Nadine home. He used all the money he had, except one quarter, to pay a cabbie for a ride to her home. Since he had used almost all his money to escort Nadine home, he walked back to town to catch the “cattle wagon” back to the naval base. It cost exactly one quarter.

Nadine didn’t think Alvin would be able to find his way back to her house, but he was not about to forget her address! After only three dates, Alvin asked Nadine to be his wife, and on their fourth date, June 8, 1946, they eloped to Hernando, MS. That began a great love affair spanning more than 62 years! Nadine was born on Valentine’s Day, 1925. She passed away April 22, 2008.

During their marriage, the couple had four children: three boys and one girl. Denise Kirk O’Brien of Holladay Insurance was the youngest and only daughter of Alvin and Nadine, and she is steadfast and determined to keep her Dad active in community events, which he thoroughly enjoys.

Since she and her Mom were breast cancer survivors, Denise and Alvin pictured Nadine in heaven giggling as Alvin donned a blinged-out, pink bra as a participant in a Breast Cancer Awareness walk in Tampa five years ago.

He also encouraged others to “stuff his pink bra” with donations in a more recent American Cancer Association “Making Strides for Breast Cancer Walk” and led their team in fundraising!

T

his is a story about a long, wonderful life filled with love: love of family, love of country, and love of community.

The love story begins in the 1940’s in Memphis, TN, when Alvin, a young man in the United States Navy was out on the town with his buddies. Alvin was unable to travel overseas to serve in the military at that time, because both of his older brothers and his step-father were already deployed.

Rules dictated he stay state-side, since the other males in the family were serving out of the country.

While out with his friends, he saw a voluptuous, red-haired beauty with a “wiggle in her walk,” and he set out to meet her. She was with two girlfriends at the time, and they were about to board a bus. Alvin sped his gait to catch-up to her, but sadly, he tripped on the curb and missed the bus.

He and his buddies continued with their evening until low and behold, he saw her again! This time, she and her friends were in a club called “Dreamland,” and he was not going to miss his opportunity to meet that girl! Alvin was enamored by the red-haired girl’s beauty, so he sat down at the table she and her girlfriends shared. They all agreed to let him stay, and when the music slowed, he and Nadine, would slow dance…the only kind of dancing Alvin

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At age 90, he intends to vie for the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Group, Sleek and Sexy event, “Sexiest Swagger” award, for the sixth year in a row. Known as “Lady Killah” by Jim Murdock and the Rooters Networking Group, Alvin is loved by everyone he meets. He is also entertaining the notion of participating in the Community Services Council, “Bachelor, Baskets and Services Auction” again, where he has brought good money to the organization each time he’s participated!

Alvin and Denise are quick to support any event where people, especially children, need support for medical treatment, or anything that benefits Veterans.

Denise chuckled, “Dad does have quite the following! Whenever I show up at an event without him, people ask ‘where’s Alvin?’ before even saying hello to me! I love my Dad!” Our beloved local star, Alvin Kirk, a five-time winner of “Sexiest Swagger” and one of the most eligible bachelors in West Pasco County, is truly loved by everyone in our community, and it is obvious from his participation, the feeling is mutual!

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Health & BEAUTY TRINITY’S #1 LOCAL RESOURCE FOR COMMUNITY INFORMATION Online & Socially Interactive!

ISSUE 2018 / VOLUME 43 PUBLISHER / EDITOR Debbie Dawson PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Doreen Damm EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Debra Taylor Tee

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MONEY MATTERS Todd Unbehagen TAYLOR MADE TO A TEE Debra Taylor Tee YOUR REALTOR Debbie Dawson LIVING THE WILD LIFE Doreen Damm YOUR FRIENDS AT Pasco County Tourism WEST PASCO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Paul Friedlander DEAR YAPPY Joyce Moore MORTGAGE NEWS Mike Chissell DISHING OUT HEALTH Jamie Vespa FISHING REPORT Bob Hubbard IT’S YOUR DOWNTOWN K.C. Quaretti PHOTOGRAPHERS DSDamm Photography J. David Wright INTERNS Matthew Dawson

ADVERTISING To request a Media Kit Call (727)709-9541 or Email: Advertising@ItsYourHomeMagazine.com SUBMIT CONTEST ENTRIES TO Contests@ItsYourHomeMagazine.com SUBMIT STORIES, PRESS RELEASES OR EVENTS Editor@ItsYourHomeMagazine.com Visit our Digital Online Version www.ItsYourHomeMagazine.com Phone (727) 709-9541

Published by TOPAZ DIGITAL INK, LLC. 3805 RIVER OAKS CT. TRINITY, FL 34655 IT’S YOUR HOME Magazine is published digitally with news and advertising designed exclusively for the residents of our community. No reproduction or transmission of ads, editorials, pictorials, digital or print advertising and/or design content in any form of this publication are allowed without publisher consent. All rights reserved © 2016.

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Hometown HERO

by Debra Taylor Tee

O

n a train headed to Washington DC to watch one of our nation’s most time-honored ceremonies, the Presidential Inauguration, Stefanie Pontlitz took some time during the seventeen-hour journey to share a bit of her story with us.

A lifelong resident of New Port Richey, Stefanie attended school here and was quick to offer “shouts-out” to her alma maters: Cypress and Deer Park Elementary Schools, and River Ridge Middle and High Schools. The teachers at these schools have a great deal about which to be proud of their former student, too.

Stefanie excelled as a student at Florida State University, earning degrees in Communications, Business and Finance. She has successfully navigated jobs in finance and banking, and has continued following her professional passion as a member, or an executive, of various non-profit organizations here in Pasco County.

Sefanie was promoted in November, from Vice President of Resource Development for United Way of Pasco County, to Chief Operating Officer. She serves as President of Leadership Pasco; she is on the Board of Directors of SPCA Suncoast; she is Trinity Rotarian; and she belongs to a small fundraising group known as the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Stefanie lives by the Rotarian motto: “Service Above Self, is the basis of my daily life and to be surrounded by people who believe in giving back, as well as having fun, there’s nothing better.”

She continued, “I’ve lived and grown in Pasco County the majority of my life, and I plan to spend the rest of it here too. It’s important to me that the people I know and love, my neighbors, my family, my classmates, and my friends, are provided with the best quality of life, and that resources are available should any of them need it.

I’m proud to be part of the Pasco community and there is no better way to create an impact than through United Way.”

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Stefanie’s primary goal as COO at United Way is to expand their mission to support more programs and ultimately help more residents in Pasco. Stefanie’s vision is to expand the traditional campaign to include more local businesses, and grow their new Small Business Partnership initiative. This initiative is new to United Way, but it allows small businesses a focused, affordable way to maximize their charitable giving. Since January 1st, United Way has already added five small businesses to their support base.

Stefanie also wants to expand the Stuff the Bus event to serve more teachers year-round with the vital school supplies they so desperately need.

In 2005, Stefanie returned to Pasco County to work as a financial advisor. During that time, she started networking and joined the West Pasco Young Professionals Group. It was at a YPG meeting that she met two young professionals that would change her life forever. They introduced Stefanie to their best friend, Derek, who would eventually become her husband.

Derek is a financial advisor with his own firm, Pontlitz Asset Advisors, located on Main Street in New Port Richey. Stefanie and Derek were married in Sorrento, Italy in 2011 and have been together almost nine years. They are parents to two rescued dogs, a German shepherd, Magnum, and a lab mix, Kimber.

Stefanie confessed, “My husband and I both work very hard at our jobs, long hours and weekends occasionally. On top of that we both sit on various boards and volunteer, so our family life often crosses over to our careers. I’m lucky to have found someone who believes in giving back to our county as much as I do.”

Both she and Derek are Florida State Seminoles fans, so they often take time in the fall to attend football games. They both love to travel, too, but they don’t always get to do much of that with their commitment to their families, jobs, and community.

Many thanks, Stefanie for all of your hard work for our residents through United Way of Pasco County, as well as your many noble endeavors!

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Publisher’s NOTE

CHANGE IS GOOD February 2018 marks an epic landmark for me. I have been representing Buyers and Sellers in Tampa Bay for 20 years. How media and technology have changed since the day I received my real estate license. The internet was just a dream. We had to flip through black and white print books each week to see what homes were listed for sale through our Multiple Listing Service.

The internet finally came along so we could check listings online. Our office had a computer we could share if you waited in line, my word processor didn’t have internet, neither did my electric typewriter. I remember thinking how great that would be if I could somehow see the listing information from my car while I was driving around, never thinking that Wi-Fi was just around the corner. I now get all the information I need right off my phone. Guess it’s time to get the Wi-Fi next, now that’s progress!

LOCAL & GLOBAL REACH Speaking of progress, It’s Your Home Magazine has changed too. From a print magazine into an integrated marketing tool that blends print and internet with digital and social media interaction. Local businesses and community news have a presence locally & globally whether you use a desktop, laptop, tablet or phone, we are there for you 24/7. You can always read our Hometown stories about people in our community on the “It’s Your Home Magazine” website at www.ItsYourHomeMagazine. com expanding our readership and presence. Make it your favorite too!

EVENTS “We love our community! There are so many wonderful people that make Pasco County a great place to live, work & play we what to make you a part of it!”. With all the exciting things to do in Pasco County, it is hard to put them all in one place. Here at It’s Your Home Magazine, we collect all the happenings around town and put them on our Facebook Event Page so you can find all the local events all the time. We encourage you to visit us to find out what’s happening about town and the share your events with us and our followers. If you have an event to share, Email all the details to Events@ItsYourHomeMagazine. com.

12 Home & Community Issue 2018

So, don’t miss another networking opportunity or fun outing with family and friends, follow us on Facebook and get all the community happenings on our event page at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/ItsYourHomeMagazines/ events/ REAL ESTATE & HOME SEARCH As “Your Local Realtor”, it would be my honor to help guide you with the purchase or sale of your home. I am truly committed to providing you with the highest quality service possible. It is my pleasure to furnish you with the latest market information, including a complimentary market analysis. Homes in our community are selling quickly, the market is HOT! (pg 2). Great advice on why you should hire a Realtor® when purchasing a new construction home. Click on www.YourHomeTampaBay. com to start your new home search now or call 727-709-9541.

Thank you for shopping at the many local businesses found within these pages. These local businesses are committed to offering great products and services at competitive prices, and they are always grateful for your loyalty and patronage.

IT’s YOUR HOME Magazine continues to connect our readers to our local businesses in an effort to promote a thriving, economically-viable and close-knit community.

Your Family. Your Community.

Your Life… IT’s YOUR HOME!

Debbie Dawson Publisher, Realtor® Debbie@YourHomeTampaBay.com | 727-709-9541 For a Current List of New Homes for Sale, call 727-709-9541 or click here www.YourHomeTampaBay.com For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

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Health & BEAUTY

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Dono & Jomes Spears, "This is Who We Are"

by Debro Taylor Tee

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,ffi.1netc,r1,n STORY

Cornerstone Pros was originally established as an air conditioning company, because Dana & James wanted to start a local business, and air conditioning seemed the perfect choice for this couple born and raised on the West Coast of Florida.

"We felt there was a demand for an honest, reliable, customer service-oriented air conditioning business in the Tampa Bay area," Dana admitted.

. . . .

However, as the years went by, they raised a family, their small I 'Honesty is the Cornerstone Pros, Atr C?ndtttom�g, business grew, their employee pool expanded, and everyone's Plumbing & Electrical of all success, without which skill sets evolved beyond the scope of air conditioning. Today, confidence and ability to perform shall cease to the company handles residential air conditioning, heating, , ·;_·· exist." - Mary Kay Ash plumbing, electrical, and, most recently, contracting jobs, as well. =, Honesty, integrity, skill and exemplary customer -Pl: G • HEATING• ONIN DITI CON AIR service are an accurate description of the family . •.::},.

James was born and raised in Tampa, and Dana that is Cornerstone Pros Air Conditioning, and her three daughters are natives of Land O' Heating & Plumbing, and they have been since Lakes. Dana and daughters are proud graduates James and Dana Spears started the Land O' of Land O' Lakes High School. T he eldest son is a Lakes-based business with six employees in senior, and the youngest starts kindergarten in the 2006. fall!

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Now, more than ten years later and the gradual addition of 50+ employees, this family-owned and operated company is thriving, thanks to their dedication to customers, ethics and values as a family.

Dana explained, "We've been successful because we've built our business on reputation and trust. We are hands-on business owners, and we stand behind the work of our employees, several of whom are our family. Our motto is to go above and beyond customer expectations, and each employee strives to make that happen every day!"

Dana, James and the Cornerstone Pros "family," are annual sponsors of LOL football games, and contribute uniforms to the wrestling program. They support the American Cancer Society; Operation Stand Down, benefiting homeless Veterans; Tighten the Drag Foundation, which benefits spinal cord research, and specifically, Xavier Johnson, a former Sunlake High School football player who suffered a spinal cord injury; and finally, they are annual banquet sponsors of Oasis Pregnancy Centers of LOL and Wesley Chapel.

Dana humbly added, "We want to give back to the community, which has done so much to support our business over the years.

This is who we are."

Air Conditioning •Electrical• Plumbing Service the Way it Oughta Be!

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Health & BEAUTY

16 Home & Community Issue 2018

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Home LIVING

Living the Wild Life

Rescue, Rehab & Release

Fostering Orphaned Squirrels As we are enjoying the spring like weather, the urge to spruce up our freeze burnt landscape is strong. Just as strong is the urge for wildlife to reproduce.

Many of our native animals are starting to raise their young.

A common call to Owl's Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife starts with the caller saying they were trimming their trees and it started raining baby squirrels. As the calls start coming in, volunteers trained in raising baby squirrels prepare for the duties of being foster parents.

Baby squirrels start out on puppy formula and nurse from a nipple on a syringe just like they would from their momma. Needing frequent feedings and regulated warmth, the babies like to stay close together and sleep in little balls that resemble a game of Twister. As they grow, they play, groom and sleep together.

There are five basic stages that mark milestones for the foster squirrels in my care: • Pinkies – tiny little precious lives with no fur and eyes still closed, fully dependent on foster care.

• Bad Hair Days – less frequent formula feedings and starting on soft solid foods. Fur growing in, time to explore.

• Conditioning – moved to an outdoor porch cage to get acclimated with their environment. Practice climbing, balance and introduced to a wider variety of fruits, veggies and nuts.

• Pre-Release – time to be a squirrel, much larger cage. Prove agility, nut burying & nest building skills. Exposure to the elements and other wildlife.

• Release Day – Opting for soft releases, a hatch in the cage is left open allowing them to come and go as they please.

It usually takes a day or two for them to fully embrace their freedom. The satisfaction of knowing you helped little lives grow to be beautiful, free, independent squirrels is so rewarding. As they wonder out into new territories to continue their lives the focus returns to the next brood of orphan squirrels.

Owl’s Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife is a solely volunteer run non-profit organization that is state and federally permitted to rescue, rehabilitate and release sick, injured, and orphaned native wildlife. Please support this local endeavor to save our native wildlife right here in our backyard with a donation of cash, supplies or sponsorship.

For more information on Owl's Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife visit : https://owlsnestsanctuaryforwildlife.com/ Find them on Facebook and Follow them on Twitter, Instagram and U-Tube

Know what’s

below.

Call 811

Landscaping, mailboxes and fences are often near buried utility lines. Digging can damage them and leave you without lights, internet or cable service.

Always notify Sunshine 811 BEFORE you dig to have utility lines marked.

This is a free service.

before you dig.

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17

Home LIVING

I may have shared this before, but it bears repeating. I have a love/ hate relationship with technology and social media. Sometimes, they are the best things ever! Other times, I wish I could do away with it all. I choose not to air my dirty laundry on Facebook, and I never Tweet antagonizing messages, no matter how I feel about a subject. Unfortunately, others make them platforms for bullying, picking meaningless fights, and debating political topics.

Speaking of dirty laundry, I have more feelings of disdain when it comes to politics. I am not a political person, even though I did take a political science class in college. I also studied journalism, and as a journalist, the writer must remain objective no matter what the subject. I try to maintain the same journalistic objectivity and integrity when it comes to politics. I can usually discern the good and the bad on both sides of the aisle.

The one thing about which my stance never waivers are love and hate. I am not a “hater.” There are too many people in the world who are. This is evident in the increased violence across our country and the world.

Instead, I choose love, and I try to spread optimism, joy, and love whenever and wherever I can. I’m a “glass half-full” kind of girl! It’s not always easy, but it’s not difficult either. Simply focus on what love really is, and you can practice it in your everyday life. You will be amazed at how good you will feel about yourself and others.

These verses from 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8a, were read at my wedding, and they are words Mike and I live by. If only so many others would do the same, our world would be a much happier more peaceful place!

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

Love does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails.

A little love goes a long way! #ChooseLove

Debra Taylor Tee Editorial Director Columnist, Writer

Life is short. Live, Laugh & Love... A Lot!

18 Home & Community Issue 2018

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Home LIVING • • • • •

S

electing a moving company is an important decision. Make sure you fully understand the services the mover is offering, and the rate at which those services will be provided.

It is also wise to check with your state’s moving and storage association to learn the regulations that apply to companies in your area because there are state and local regulations.

To help you fairly compare the services and benefits of the moving companies you are considering, we have prepared a list of questions to ask.

• • • • • •

• • •

Do you use full-time employees or temps and day labor? (Be cautious of moving companies who use temps or day labor.)

Do you carry Worker’s Compensation for your employees?

What kind of training have your movers and drivers completed?

What kind of cancellation policy do you offer? (You should always be able to cancel or postpone until a few days before your move.)

Are items insured during the move? Even if a mover is bonded and insured, it does not always mean items are covered during the move. (Some states require that a company put a valuation of 60 cents per pound coverage.)

Do you offer free estimates? (Try to get an on-site estimate done. Be thorough in identifying all the items you need moved.)

Do you offer suggestions on how to make the move easier?

(A mover who cares about customer service and making your move a positive experience will do all they can to help you.)

Is there a contact number for the day of the move in case there are any unexpected challenges?

Are you a licensed moving company?

Do you charge by the piece or by the hour?

Do you have a minimum charge? How do you charge after that minimum is met? In 15 minute increments or every half hour?

Do you have any extra charges for larger items such as widescreen televisions, fireproof cabinets, extra flights of stairs or weekends and evening moves? (This is not unusual) Do you charge for the travel time from your office to my new location? (Again, this is not uncommon.)

What form of payment options do you accept? Many companies require a deposit.

20 Home & Community Issue 2018

For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

Your Hometown REALTOR

Debbie Dawson, Re/Max Advantage Here Is What 20 Years of Experience & a Comprehensive Marketing Plan Will Get You! Average Days Homes Go from List to Sold. * Trinity Average: 79 days Debbie Dawson: 49 days That’s a month sooner. See what experience gets you!!

Average Sales Price Per SF. * Trinity Average: $126.20 per SF Debbie Dawson: $135.06 per SF That’s $8.53 higher per SF & 7% higher!

Yes, she sells homes quicker and for more!

Average Home Sale was 2,346 SF which means Debbie gets an average of $20,011 more when listing with her.

Y

ou have probably seen her at many of the community networking meetings, mixers and fundraisers around town.

Perhaps, you have been lucky enough to work with her in a real estate capacity, where she expertly listed your home to sell, or showed you the home of your dreams.

For the last two decades, she has balanced her real estate career, marketing expertise and love of community while raising four beautiful children. She now enjoys her five darling grandchildren as well. Over the years, the real estate industry has brought her great satisfaction and professional success.

Debbie admits, “Being a realtor, I love connecting our residents, new and old, to our local businesses. This is my home too, I love to help others find their new home or sell their old home. I specialize on what’s happening in the area and what a great place it is to live.

I also love watching our small business owners thrive. There are so many wonderful people that make our community a great place to live, work & play.”

Debbie is proud to be a RE/MAX Realtor®. She has the power and support of a popular, successful real estate brand, strategically marketing your home locally and globally on 70 internet sites reaching over 100 countries to help you effectively buy or sell your home quickly. Furthermore, Debbie works tirelessly through the process so you have an exceptional experience, no matter which side of the closing table you sit!

“I love being a realtor with RE/MAX Advantage. My buyers and sellers always receive outstanding professional service that is unsurpassed in the world of real estate! The old adage, you only get one chance to make a first impression, remains true. The best first impression you can make on potential buyers is the prestigious RE/MAX Realty sign in their yard,” she said.

Here we grow again! This is a real estate mantra in the TrinityOdessa market, as the areas continue to see abundant business and residential development. Condos and family homes are available in newly-constructed neighborhoods, as well as in gorgeous, established communities.

www.ItsYourHomeMagazine.com

Average Trinity Sale Price: $300,497. * Debbie Dawson averages $335,000 That’s $34,503 more & 11% higher!

Debbie Dawson Sells Homes Quicker & For More in Trinity!

• Multi-Million Dollar Producer Creative Marketing Strategist • • Short-Sale Certified Specialist • Member W. Pasco Board of Realtors • Member National Assoc. of Realtors • Board Member West Pasco Chamber Founder Cash Mob West Pasco • • Founder It’s Your Home Magazine • Leadership Pasco 2014 • 20 Years Experience *Information provided by West Pasco Board of Realtors 2016

Homes sell quickly when competitively priced, too, and Debbie loves-loves-loves selling homes at amazing prices! Her proven effective marketing strategies will ensure that you get the highest possible price to maximize your investment.

If you are looking to purchase your first home, your dream home, or an investment property, Debbie is committed to providing you with the highest quality buyer service available. Debbie takes great pleasure in providing her clients the latest market information, which always includes a complimentary market analysis.

Place your trust in Debbie Dawson. She has 20 years of knowledge and experience representing happy buyers and sellers in Pasco, Pinellas, Hernando, Hillsborough Counties and throughout the state of Florida.

Check out her website and start your home search now at www.YourHomeTampaBay.com or call 727-709-9541.

Debbie Dawson is your Hometown Realtor!

21

Home LIVING

By Becky Harris A designer creates a living room that welcomes toddlers to jump off chairs and dogs to cuddle up on the sofa

Surrounded by windows on three sides, the original room had great bones but was in need of cosmetic changes. For example, the existing fireplace surround was composed of dark brown and beige tile. “We needed to lighten and brighten it up in here,” the designer says. She replaced the surround with a sky-blue mini brick tile and the hearth with a coordinating tile in a larger scale.

She got the horse painting from a New England artist, then pulled hues like the pinks and tans out of it to add to the blue-and-white color palette.

On the opposite side of the coffee table is a navy-blue chair with white welting that reverses the white walls and navy trim combination. “We didn’t want to make things matchy-matchy,” Pincus says of not choosing two matching armchairs. “They aren’t next to each other, and everyone in the family wanted to have their own favorite spot. Dad’s is already this navy chair, and their daughter’s favorite is the patterned one — she loves to jump off it!” By the way, all the upholstery was treated to be stain-resistant and wipeable.

“T

his is the living room, but we never used the word ‘formal’ to describe it,” says interior designer Lindsay Pincus. Because the couple who live in this Silicon Valley home had a toddler and another child on the way during the design process, the goal was to make the whole house playful and family-friendly yet sophisticated. “This is really their everything room, and they use it as a family room,” the designer says. She kept things comfortable and inviting, blending the East Coast coastal style the couple love with a cool and casual California spirit.

What happens here: A young family of four enjoys piano playing, reading, TV watching, playing with toys, cuddling up together on the sofa and petting their two basset hounds.

One challenge was fitting in the homeowners’ piano. Pincus used substantial pieces of furniture so that the large scale of the piano would not look out of place. Dark accents like the spool base of the coffee table and the trim tie the piano into the palette.

22 Home & Community Issue 2018

Because of the little ones and the dogs, Pincus chose a flat-weave cotton rug. “You can vacuum it up very easily, and it hides dirt,” she says. To make it feel cushy to toddlers playing on the floor, she added a thick rug pad beneath it.

The X stools beneath the blue textured console add a healthy dose of pattern. “These stools were a perfect opportunity to bring in the punch of a bold print,” Pincus says. “When you use it on smaller items like these, it’s less of a commitment.” If you look closely at the pattern, you can see that it’s more geometric than spotted.

Over the table is a piece that was the homeowner’s idea — it’s an Hermès scarf that Pincus had framed. “I love this kind of collaboration — my clients were really engaged in the process and gave great ideas,” she says. “We were able to pull other colors into the room through the scarf, and it’s fitting to frame it as these scarves really are works of art.”

“Definitely play with different scales when choosing throw pillows, and don’t be afraid to mix different patterns and shapes,” Pincus says. “Tie them together by using a coordinating color or two.”

Pincus designed this built-in to hold media, game consoles, games, toys and photo albums as well as to display the homeowners’ favorite knickknacks and family photos. She also left them room around the TV to upgrade down the line. “He dreams of a big TV, but I had to tell my client that we were stopping him at 70 inches,” she says of the TV box’s dimensions.

Read the whole article at: http://www.houzz.com/ ideabooks/74189455/list/room-of-the-day-sophisticated-but-notstuffy

For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

Business & FINANCE Cash Mob is Sponsored by IT’S YOUR HOME - “Your Local Community Magazine” and local Realtors Debbie Dawson & Valerie Wilson, who have a passion for helping the small businesses in our community. A cash mob brings community members together much like a flash mob; however, instead of the normal flash-mob activities, the cash mob storms the doors of a pre-selected Mom-andPop business that is often a cornerstone of a community and its history.

The business to be “HIT” will be announced at 10am each month in a parking lot located in West Pasco. Within minutes, dozens of friends and neighbors crashes the local Mom-and-Pop business where everyone shops!

This amazing group has increased sales from $450 to over $2,000 in 30 minutes. Business owners are shocked as the Cash Mob of West Pasco enters their store each armed with a $10 bill. The “MOB” then retreats to a nearby restaurant to enjoy networking and a tasty lunch providing yet another revenue boost for a local business. Votes are taken for the next Mom-and-Pop business to be “HIT” the next month in the West Pasco Community.

So come armed with a $10 bill and support a small local business, have fun, network, make new friends and enjoy lunch at a Local restaurant. You’ll be hooked, we all have a great time. Please share this with friends and co-workers.

We would love to make this the largest “MOB” to date to support our local businesses.

If you know of a business that needs a little boost or you would like us to introduce them to the neighborhood, come on out, join us and cast your vote! Find out where the next cash mob will meet on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/groups/ CashMobofWestPasco

Hello and welcome The Health Hut is not just another health food store. We truly care about each person who walks through our door. At The Health Hut we understand there isn’t one clear fix that works for everyone.

We aim to meet your specific needs, whether you’re looking for vitamins, minerals, probiotics, digestive help, homeopathic, essential oils, protein powders, flower remedies or just have a few food questions.

Your health is your wealth. At The Health Hut, we aim to meet your specific needs.

www.ItsYourHomeMagazine.com

23

Business & FINANCE

24 Home & Community Issue 2018

For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

Business & FINANCE

2# Compile Information If authorities are called, get a copy of their report. Otherwise, collect as much information as you can on your own. Take pictures of the damage, write down important details while theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fresh in your mind and save your towing and repair receipts related to the incident.

3# Contact Your Insurance Agent

M

any of us will never need to know how to place a claim after an accident, fire or theft has happened. Here are the basic steps to keep in mind if it happens to you.

Your insurance company will assign a representative to handle your claim. They will guide you through your coverage and collect details about the incident. They will examine the evidence, evaluate and resolve the case and manage payments were applicable.

1# Alert Proper Authorities

4# Secure the Property

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the victim of a fire or a criminal act like theft, your insurance policy may require you to call police or the fire department. Their investigations can assist the insurance company in determining who is at fault and settling the claim.

While the claim is being processed, you should take every measure to protect your property from further damage. For example, seal openings to protect form rain or replace door locks to secure your home.

www.ItsYourHomeMagazine.com

25

Business & FINANCE

By Mike Chissell Innovative Mortagage Services NMLS#327290

K

nowing your credit scores is a good idea for many reasons.

Everything from qualifying for a credit card or an auto loan to getting utility services or renting an apartment can ride on how good your credit scores are. Buying a house is no different, and knowing the credit scores you need to do so is an important first step in your home search.

That’s because your credit scores help determine the rate and conditions you receive on a mortgage loan. If your credit scores are high, meaning that your credit history indicates you’ve paid your credit card bills on time, haven’t “maxed out” your credit cards, etc., then lenders believe it’s a fairly good bet you won’t have difficulty paying off your loan. They will see you as a low-risk investment and offer you a low rate on your loan with good conditions.

If your scores are lower, lenders are more likely to think you’re a riskier investment, and charge you (by loaning you money at a higher interest rate to take on the perceived risk.

What Is a Credit Score?

Your credit score is a number that represents where your credit profile stands based on five determining financial factors. Imagine that a friend asks to borrow money from you. Assuming you had the money to loan, you might then ask yourself, “Did he pay me back the last time he borrowed money? Did he pay me back the full amount? On time?” When you approach banks and lenders for a loan, they go through a similar analysis, but because they don’t know you personally, they use your credit history to determine whether you will be a responsible borrower. Lenders learn about your credit history by looking at your credit report.

Credit reports are developed by three separate credit agencies.

These agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion gather information about your credit history and use a formula to assign you a credit score. You will end up with three slightly different credit scores from each of these bureaus, as they don’t all show the same information.

What Credit Score Do I Need to Buy a House?

Most lenders have a baseline credit score by which they largely make their decision to approve or deny mortgage applicants. On most scoring scales, the maximum credit score is 850, though a score of a perfect 850 is rare. Any score in the 700s or above is typically considered excellent and will most likely get you a loan with the lowest interest rate. When your score drops into the 600s, it starts getting dicey. A score of 680, for example, is still considered good, but when you get below 660, some lenders start saying no.

For others, 640 or 620 is the line at which you won’t be considered for their better programs. It all just depends on that particular lender.

Can I Buy a House With ‘Bad’ Credit?

Once your credit score drops into the 500s, you are a candidate for a bad credit home loan or what the industry calls subprime loans.

These loans have interest rates that are a couple of percentage points higher than those offered to prime borrowers. Subprime loans also often come with additional fees.

So, if you’ve ever missed a credit card payment deadline, for example, you might’ve thought it was no big deal. You pay the late fee and move on. But if you do this on a regular basis, it can damage your score and cost you many, many times that amount when you want to buy or refinance a home. That’s the bad news.

The good news: Your credit scores aren’t fixed in stone. If you have bad credit scores, there are ways to improve your credit health.

Take a look at your financial habits and see where you can improve — can you be better about paying on time or limiting the number of inquiries you’re making against your credit? Perhaps you could pay down some of your other debts or review your credit reports for any errors (and dispute them if there are).

From a financial standpoint, it is almost always better to take the time to improve your credit health, and make yourself eligible for a better interest rate, than it is to apply for a loan with a credit score that will only make you eligible for a subprime loan.

Debbie Dawson, RE/MAX Advantage

727-709-9541

YourHomeTampaBay.com

26 Home & Community Issue 2018

For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

Money Matters

Business & FINANCE

B

eing self-employed has many advantages — the opportunity to be your own boss and come and go as you please. However, it also comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to how to handle taxes. Whether you’re running your own business or thinking about starting one, you’ll want to be aware of the specific tax rules and opportunities that apply to you.

Understand the self-employment tax When you worked for an employer, payroll taxes to fund Social Security and Medicare were split between you and your employer. Now you must pay a self-employment tax equal to the combined amount that an employee and employer would pay if you open a business as a soleproprietor. You must pay this tax if you had net earnings of $400 or more from self-employment IN ADDITION TO the income tax.

The self-employment tax rate on net earnings (up to $127,200 in 2017) is 15.3%, with 12.4% going toward Social Security and 2.9% allotted to Medicare. Any amount over the earnings threshold is generally subject only to the Medicare payroll tax. However, self-employment and wage income above $200,000 is generally subject to a 0.9% additional Medicare tax. (For married individuals filing jointly, the 0.9% additional tax applies to combined self-employment and wage income over $250,000. For married individuals filing separately, the threshold is $125,000.)

If you file Form 1040, Schedule C, as a sole proprietor, independent contractor, or statutory employee, the net income listed on your Schedule C (or Schedule C-EZ) is self-employment income and must be included on Schedule SE, which is filed with your Form 1040.

Schedule SE is used both to calculate self-employment tax and to report the amount of tax owed. You can deduct one-half of the selfemployment tax paid (but not any portion of the Medicare surtax) when you compute the self-employment tax on Schedule SE. Forming other entities (other than a sole proprietor) that are taxed as an S-Corporation may limit, and reduce, this self-employment tax on the profit in your business. However, you will still have to pay some amount of tax to Social Security by taking a ‘reasonable compensation’ to yourself as an officer (wage). Many factors must be considered specific to each business. You should consult with our team at Unbehagen Advisors to review the different entity options (Sole Proprietor, LLC, C-Corporation, S-Corporation) and how your business will benefit by choosing the right one that fits your specific needs.

By Todd Unbehagen, MAFM, EA, ATA, ATP President, CEO of Unbehagen Advisorsnn

Call and put our team to work for you!

727.934.7759

unbehagenadvisors.com www.ItsYourHomeMagazine.com

27

Business & FINANCE

3-Ways Technology Can Put $ in your Wallet Today’s technology affords us the ability to make life easier so we can enjoy what matters. Here are a few ways tech advances can have a bonus effect on your wallet. #1. Turn your home into a Smart Home. Switch to a smart thermostat which can turn on and off when you need to. Upgrade to Compact fluorescent lights (CLFs) that use less energy, and last about 10 times longer. You could save you up to $50 in energy expenses per bulb. #2. Ditch the cable. The average cable bill is around $99 per month, and most people watch the same channels every day. A one-time purchase of a media streaming device can save around $1,000 a year and you only subscribe to your favorites. #3. Cash for tech. Have unused phones and tablets lying around?

They could be worth big bucks. Many internet trade-in sites and retail stores will offer gift cards for your old tech.

Want to know an easy, affordable way to grow your business? I will share this secret with you: Join your local chamber of commerce. Indeed, chambers of commerce can be one of the best friends your small business can have.

Think about it: The whole purpose behind a Chamber of Commerce is to help small businesses succeed. Indeed, over 85% of U.S. Chamber members are small business owners. And what kind of business are you involved in? Right, a small business. So, your local Chamber is a place committed to your success.

At your local Chamber, will find a host of programs and resources intended to make your life easier and your business more profitable. And considering that most small businesses are out there all alone, having a network of likeminded entrepreneurs on your side can really be nice.

Let’s consider the various ways a Chamber of Commerce can help a small business: 1. Programming: Most of the programming done by Chambers is intended to help our members grow their businesses. We provide speakers, educational seminars, informational newsletters, spotlight successful members, facilitate supply demographic materials, sponsor business expos, and a variety of other programs.

2. Networking: One issue many small business owners have is that they are out there on their own. Joining the Chamber will change this in two significant ways.

First, you will be mixing with a host of small business owners who, like you, are juggling payroll, taxes, the economy and home life. These will be people to share ideas with that can be applied to your business.

Second, the regular mixers offer you a chance to meet and do business with your fellow Chamber members.

3. Lobbying: Per the United States Chamber of Commerce, “We’re the loud voice you need to be heard in the political arena, to represent the important issues that affect small businesses. With your input, we can make a difference and provide tangible results.”

4. Discounts: Chambers offer their members discounts and deals on everything from health insurance to computers to education, and on.

So yes, joining a chamber of commerce is usually a very good idea.

Paul Friedlander

Membership Director West Pasco Chamber of Commerce www.westpasco.com The raod to success is paved with failure.

Do not be afraid to fail.

“Try, Fail, Adjust!”

28 Home & Community Issue 2018

For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

Business & FINANCE

www.ItsYourHomeMagazine.com

29

Community EVENTS

Your Local Guide to Community Events

We are your #1 resource for all things happening in Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties

“W

FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ItsYourHomeMagazines/events

e love our community! There are so many wonderful people that make Pasco County a great place to live, work & play we what to make you a part of it!”.

With all the exciting things to do in Pasco County, it is hard to put them all in one place. Here at Your Home Tampa bay, we collect all the happenings around town and put them on our Facebook Event Page so you can find all the local events all the time.

And read our Hometown stories about people in our community on the “ Your Home Tampa Bay” website.

We encourage you to visit us to find out what’s happening about town and the share your events with us and our followers. If you have an event to share, Email all the details to Events@ItsYourHomeMagazine.com .

So, don’t miss another networking opportunity or fun outing with family and friends, follow us on Facebook and get all the community happenings on our event page at: www.facebook.com/pg/ItsYourHomeMagazines/events

30 Home & Community Issue 2018

For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

Dining & ENTERTAINMENT

By K.C. Quaretti, Director, New Port Richey Main Street, Inc.

F

ebruary is the month of love and New Port Richey has a LOT to love and something for everyone!

Family Movie Night is New Port Richey’s version of the old fashioned drive in theater but it’s even better because it’s free! Just bring your chairs and blanket to Sims Park on February 4th; movie starts when the sun goes down! February 5th at Rose’s Bistro you can experience a Murder Mystery Dinner or if that’s not your cup of tea, how about a set date to enjoy the Sounds of Broadway at Rose’s in early March?

Not to be missed; & Lounge is hosting the 11th Annual YPG Sleek & Sexy Night on February 1st. Then the Gulf Harbors Civic Association is opening their doors for the Junior Service League’s Bags for Babes on March 3rd.

The New Port Richey Library is not only an award winning library open to anyone with a Pasco County Library Card, it hosts the weekly Tasty Tuesdays open market and you can even brush up on your conversational Richey Suncoast Theatre is the place to celebrate French.

your love of the Big Band Era or revel in the sounds of Doo Wop. If it’s Country you love then don’t miss If you would like more information on any of these events A Little Bit Country, a Little Bit Rock-n- Roll. Keep up call the New Port Richey Main Street office at 727-842-8066 or visit our web site at with the lastest performances and don't miss a beat. www.nprmainstreet.com

The White Heron Tea and Gifts just happens to be the most sought after venue for authentic tea in the greater Tampa Bay area! Don’t forget to check out their gift shop connected to the tea room where you’ll find not only an amazing selection of loose teas but an array of gifts that will delight your special valentine.

Looking for that extra special something to surprise your sweetheart?

Stop in to Vintage Chickabee’s, you’ll be amazed at the variety of treasures for all ages packed into their beautiful shop on Grand Boulevard.

www.ItsYourHomeMagazine.com

31

{jjf;nillff & ENTERTAINMENT Capt. Bob's We._st Central Florida'

Birthday Parties Corporate Events Anclote River Cruise Cotee River Cruise Memorial Services Bachelor Parties Island Cookouts Island Weddings 727-807-6955 Fundraisers 5015 US 19 N, New Port Richey Island Parties islandparadisecharters.com

F

ebruary typically is a tricky month for fish. Florida fish like the cold fronts much like we do, not so much. But when it warms up after the front passes they come out hungry and hunting for food.

Fishing the warm water outflow at the Duke Energy power plant is at a premium through March. This is located at the south end of Key Vista Park off Bailies Bluff rd. There is a nice fishing pier that jets out onto the flats that is quite accommodating for many anglers.

You can also find a comfortable spot along the bank for a picnic with the family as well. You will want to bring lots of tackle because of all the rocks on the bottom that seem to reach out and eat your gear. Your best bet is a large free lined live shrimp on a #4 circle hook. I don't like to use wire leaders since it can discourage the fish sometimes, but some of these predators have teeth and that can be discouraging to the angler. Use your own discretion. White buck tail jigs have produced fish as well if you like casting and covering a larger area. Gold spoons have also produced Redfish in the outflow just remember the rocks at the bottom so reel as soon has it hits the water. Expect to hook up to Snook, Redfish, Trout, Jacks, Sheepshead and Flounder. You can soak a bait on the bottom and have great production but use at least a 4 ounce weight 3 feet from your bait. When the tide runs out at the outflow it screams.

Some deeper pockets in the rivers and under bridges are worth a try on warmer days. Large Snook will hunker down until it starts to warm up then crash bait to satisfy their hunger. Large live shrimp work well in the rivers also. 3 feet of 20 lb. fluorocarbon leader is highly recommended Offshore species are very active in winter. Unfortunately Grouper is closed till June 1st. Amberjack are hungry and anxiously waiting your live bait as soon as you present it. There are Kingfish running offshore right now and some are large vicious smokers. Live pinfish, grunts, pilchards and perch are the ticket to some exciting rod bending action. A wire stinger rig with 60 lb. fluorocarbon leader and 60 lb. main should hold up as long as you have a stout spinning outfit with heavy drag. Please pay close attention to the weather before venturing far offshore.

Capt. Bob Hubbard

www.centralparkfamilyrestaurant.com 7657 State Road 54, New Port Richey, FL 34653 Just 7/4 mile East of Seven Springs Blvd. on the left side past Dunkin Donuts

32

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Home & Community Issue 2018

Adrenaline Charters Island Paradise Charters

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For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

{jjjni1lff & ENTERTAINMENT l'

I

f you are a dinner party host or hostess extraordinaire, I expect you to find this idea book to be absurd. For

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Let's get warmed up to the idea of repurposing the dining room by removing the table setting and all but one chair. Now you have the home office you've been wanting. Use a couple of drawers in the adjacent buffet for file storage. Return chairs to table when company arrives. Easy. Done.

For an instant playroom, bring in a couple of storage units for organization. Choose a table that isn't too delicate and looks better after a few beatings. Remember the worn look is on-trend these days. When company comes for dinner, cover table with a pretty tablecloth and scrub crayon markings

4.

from the wall. Last, add ambiance. Everything looks better in candlelight.

Cherished heirlooms such as your grandmother's piano, deserve to be on display, not in a storage facility. Besides, having it in your home gives it a cultured look and assumes you have an appreciation of real music. Impress your friends by learning a few songs.

For a bookworm, turning the dining room into a library may prove to be a useful solution. And if you also have family members who treat your house like a hotel, install a murphy bed within your built-ins. This also helps to alleviate the problem of finding somewhere to stuff that pesky air mattress each morning.

Read the whole story at :http://www.houzz.com/ ideabooks/451565/list/8-ways-to-rethink-the-dining-room

Now Available On UberEATS!

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UBER EATS

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Looking for excellent Chinese food in the New Port Richey area? Zen Forrest restaurant, featuring critically acclaimed Chef Victor Wang, brings this variety to you for walk-in dining, or convenient carry-out.

Every weekend Chef Specials

Private room available for business meetings, dinners, lunches or networking call us for more details.

Lunch Served Monday - Saturday from 11 :30 to 3PM, Dinner Served Monday- Saturday till 10PM Zen also has a full time Baker on staff: Cakes by Cathy are an excellent addition to your table. Cupcakes, pies, bunt cakes, or even parfait's.

Cathy can create anything for your families pleasure.

www.ZenForrest.com • 4148 Rowan Rd, New Port Richey• 727--372--9545 www.ItsYourHomeMagazine.com

33

Llinin_y & ENTERTAINMENT � GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

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SUNDAY BREAKFAST BUFFET 9:00 AM · 1 :OO PM

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"MADE TO ORDER" OMELET STATION FRESH FRUIT & BAGELS WAFFLE STATION WITH ALL THE CONDIMENTS HAM,BACON, SAUSAGE & MUCH MORE! COFFEE INCLUDED

GLAZED SALMON

1 COMPLIMENTARY MIMOSA OR GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE

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Beautiful baked salmon filets with a zesty orange maple glaze and crushed pecans. T his nutritious salmon is incredibly simple, naturally gluten free and comes together in only 15 minutes. Healthy weeknight dinners never tasted SO good.

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Seven Springs Golf and Country Club can provide you with every aspect needed for a flawless event. Our catering director and chef work with clients to create personalized menus, creative event themes and decorating ideas.

Prep time: 5 mins Cook time: 1O mins Total time: 15 mins Serves: 3 servings

Weddings · Bar/Bat Mitzvahs · Birthdays · Anniversaries Business Meetings· Holidays Parties and So Much More ...

Ingredients

http://www.ssgcc.com/dining-special-events/

1 lb wild salmon, sliced into 2-3 fillets ½ tsp garlic powder ¾ tsp smoked paprika ¼ tsp sea salt Pinch black pepper 1 tbsp pure maple syrup Juice of½ orange (~2 tbsp) + zest for topping 3 tbsp crushed pecans

OVER 150 CRAFT BEERS I FINE WINE I FULL LIQUOR GREAT FOOD MENU I LIVE MUSIC PREMIUM CIGARS I DAILY SPECIALS 17 TVS WITH NFL SUNDAY TICKET FOR ALL THE BIG GAMES !��4---11!!· ';':'! ,

Instructions

1.

2.

3.

4.

Serving full liquor and craft cocktails

5.

6.

Place oven on broil Prepare dry rub by mixing garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper.

Pat salmon dry with a paper towel and rub dry mix evenly over each fillet Place salmon on a foil-lined baking sheet (skin down) and broil for 5 minutes.

Combine maple syrup and orange juice in a small bowl. After salmon broils for 5 minutes, brush maple orange juice over each fillet and top with crushed pecans. Return to oven for another 3 minutes.

Top with fresh orange zest and serve!

Jamie Vespa MS,RD, LD/N Owners Andrea & Donnie Wolfe I 0700 State Road 54 • Trinity, Florida 34655 brasstapbeerbar.com I 727-376-2467 34

Home & Community Issue 2018

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.f For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

Dining & ENTERTAINMENT

Robert K. Rees Memorial Park 4835 Green Key Rd, New Port Richey Also known as Green Key Beach, this community park consisting of 45 acres located right on the Gulf of Mexico. There is a 650’ boardwalk that takes you through the mangroves and wetland property to the north side of the park and has a small two-deck observation tower where you can spot dolphins, sea cranes and other birds migrating around the area and is very peaceful and calming.

Key Vista Nature Park 2700 Baillies Bluff Rd, Holiday This beautiful Nature Resource Park offers a pleasant and peaceful surrounding. You can hear the wildlife moving around your feet. There are birds, squirrels, peacocks and even slithering snakes. There is 101 acres of land here for you to capture all its beauty. Take a stroll on the boardwalk, which connects to the Anclote Gulf Park, or take a hike on the quartermile nature trail.

Crews Lake Park 16739 Crews Lake Drive, Spring Hill This wilderness park consists of 113 acres and there is so much to enjoy at this beautiful park. There is an observation tower, bird houses, a paved bike path, athletic fields, you can hike through the nature trails, stroll through the botanical garden and watch the birds and butterflies surround you. There is an outdoor amphitheater and primitive camping for families or group events. Home of the 7 ¹⁄₂ in gauge Central Pasco & Gulf Railroad.

Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park 10500 Wilderness Park Blvd, New Port Richey This regional park covers over 8,300 acres of land and is a cooperative venture between the Southwest Florida Water Management District and Pasco County Parks

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and Recreation. The park consists of a kiosk, open space, camping area, horse corral and equestrian trail, nature and multi-purpose trails, day use area, shelters and pavilions, playgrounds, horseshoe and volleyball courts. The birding trail was designated by the Audubon Society and 177 species of birds have been viewed.

Withlacoochee River Park 12449 Withlacoochee Blvd, Dade City This wilderness park consists of 406 acres; however, the Withlacoochee River is located on 610 acres of natural wilderness land with an abundance of wildlife to see such as Bald Eagles, Swallow Tail Hawk, Red Tail, Red Shoulder Hawk, Turkey, Great Blue Heron, Red and Gray Fox, Florida Panther, Bob Cat, Alligators, Gopher Tortoise, Black Bear, River Otter, Snakes, Owls, Raccoons and Wild Hogs. Climb to the top of the observation tower to get a bird’s eye view of the park. There is an 1840’s replica of Church, Trading Post and a Pioneer Cabin as well as a Primitive Log Cabin. The Church can be reserved for small weddings and then you can have your reception at one of the shelters and make it a memorable day. You can also rent the two cabins for a weekend stay or longer.

James E. Grey Preserve Plathe Rd, New Port Richey A hidden treasure on the outskirts of New Port Richey, a quiet rural breather along the Pithlachascotee River. It’s in a most unexpected place: surrounded by modern-day subdivisions, a tiny patch of rural Florida exists along with a handful of residences deep in the woods along the riverfront.

An extensive boardwalk follows the sinuous path of the Pithlachascotee River, creating the well-shaded Palmetto Loop, which has beautiful overlooks along the river and a large cove on the opposite side. A secondary loop provides a walk through an upland scrub habitat, where roserush and tarflower bloom in abundance. It is an 80 acre wildlife preserve that is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, and is home to 140 different kinds of birds. It also offers spectacular viewing opportunities for deer, wild boar, turtles, and manatees. A canoe launch, picnic tables and a small playground round out this parks offerings.

For more information about local Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources visit http://www.pascocountyfl.net or www. visitpasco.net.

35

Dining & ENTERTAINMENT PASCO TOURISM

Family Fun in the Sun Here are a couple places to go in Pasco County for outdoor fun this year. Take a friend, pack the family into the SUV or plan a group adventure. Everyone will enjoy these day trips.

Tree Hoppers Aerial Adventure Park 27839 Saint Joe Road, Dade City With the largest zip line in Central Florida, you’ll enjoy the excitement of being in the trees and the thrill of the climb. An adventure like no other! http://www.treehoppers.com/ SunWest Park 17362 Old Dixie Hwy, Hudson A recreational waterfront that has a beach atmosphere on a 70-acre spring-fed lake and sandy white beaches. With a variety of amenities, you can go kayaking, paddle boarding or challenge yourself on the inflatable obstacle course on the water. http://sunwestpark.com/ NPR Recreation & Aquatic Center 6630 Van Buren St, NPR This $14 million state-of-the-art facility offers outdoor activities including a plunge pool with giant 2- story water slides, Kiddie pool with slide and spray fountains, dive pool and heated lap pool. Tennis courts, basketball courts and a Skate Park. Indoor has wood floored dance studio and full court gymnasiums for basketball, volleyball and pickleball. Game room with free Wi-Fi hotspot. Fitness center with cardio and strength-training equipment. Membership or daily use for a small fee.http://cityofnewportrichey.org/index.aspx?NID=146

36 Home & Community Issue 2018

T

his year make plans to ditch the typical Valentine’s Day routine. You know what we’re talking about…dinner in a crowded restaurant, followed by shuffling through the movie theatre lobby and then cramming into the packed theater.

Instead, plan a romantic outdoor adventure for you and your loved one. It gives you a chance to show off your romantic and thoughtful side and you both get to enjoy beautiful scenery and relax. Explore Pasco County’s natural beauty on the water. Paddle through 4,000 acres of salt springs or endless miles of rivers and estuaries. Take your time as you navigate the waterways and trails and observe wildlife.

Then, kick it up a notch by surprising your significant other with a relaxing picnic under a moss-draped oak along the riverbank. Nothing says, “I love you” quite like a surprise picnic and some chocolate covered strawberries.

www.pascocountyfl.net Our distinctive blend of open spaces, in close proximity to the modern conveniences of our many vibrant communities is a quality that helps us standout from the other destinations in the Tampa Bay area. Our diversity offers a unique array of things to do and places to go in both rural and urban settings, where people can visit and play.

For Ad Info Call 727-709-9541

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37

Pet

CORNER

The Cat Ball & Cat Canoe -For sleep or play

I have a question, I have heard that it can be dangerous if my dog eats chocolate. Is this true? ~ Darlene C.

A pod style hexagonal that provides kitty with lots of fun and acts as a private sleeping cave. High quality, machine washable fabrics that will look great in your home! https://www.thecatball.com/

Pretty Litter - Its cleaner and safer

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine. With large amounts, theobromine can produce muscle tremors, seizures, an irregular heartbeat, internal bleeding or a heart attack.

Theobromine poisoning is usually marked by severe hyperactivity.

A small amount of chocolate will probably only give your dog an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea.

Clumping litter uses a chemical agent clump. When your cat licks their paws the chemical expands within your cat’s digestive tract. Pretty Litter is non-clumping, highly absorbent crystals made from natural minerals that are pet safe and delivered right to your door.

Absorbs moisture, traps odor, and eliminates the urine. You only scoop the poop! It also indicates potential illness by changing color. https://prettylittercats.com/

Not all chocolates have the same level of toxicity to dogs. The important questions are: What type of chocolate did he eat? And how much?

The Merck Veterinary Manual shows the approximate levels of theobromine in different types of chocolate, as follows:

The Catnip Mat – Drive your kitty wild

Colorfully designed padded mats have jingle bells securely sewn in one corner and crinkle in another. Separate compartment for the catnip making them easy to fill and wash. http://www.formew.com/

Chocolate Type Dry cocoa powder Unsweetened (Baker’s) chocolate Cocoa bean mulch Semisweet / sweet dark chocolate Milk chocolate White chocolate

Theobromine Level 800 mg/oz.

450 mg/oz.

255 mg/oz.

150-160 mg/oz.

44-64 mg/oz. insignificant amount

The following table shows you the type and the quantity of chocolate a dog has to eat in order to cause signs of toxicity, in accordance with the size of the dog.

Chocolate Type White Chocolate Milk Chocolate Semi-sweet Chocolate Sweet Cocoa Baker’s Chocolate

Toxicity/per lb.

200 oz.

1 oz.

1 oz.

0.3 oz.

0.1 oz.

10 lb. Dog 125 lbs.

8 oz.

(2-3 chocolate bars)

8 oz.

1/6 lb.

1 oz.

20 lb. Dog 250 lbs.

1 lb.

(5-6 chocolate bars)

1 lb.

1/3 lb.

2 oz.

Signs of chocolate poisoning: • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Bloating Dogs with more advanced chocolate poisoning show signs such as: • Increased restlessness • Hyper-excitability • Frequent urination • Rapid breathing • Weakness • Seizures • Coma Death, which is rare, is caused by cardiac arrest.

38 Home & Community Issue 2018

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Pet Pasco County allows dogs in some of its major parks, and offers a couple of “dog parks” specifically dedicated to our canine community’s enjoyment.

Here are a few popular locations for you and your four-legged friend to explore this year.

Meadows Dog Park – Off Leash Larch Ln. & Meadowbrook Ln, New Port Richey A great dog park with separate fenced small and large dog areas. It that also includes a basketball court, playground and picnic tables. Fun for all members of the family!

Anclote Gulf Park – Off Leash 2305 Baillies Bluff Rd, Holiday A fenced in facility where the dogs can run free and play with others but there is a partition to separate the smaller and larger dogs. There are fire hydrants, tunnels to run through and a few covered benches for their owners to watch them play.

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CORNER

Orange Lake & Sims Park – On Leash Grand Blvd & Bank St, New Port Richey Located along the banks of the Pithlachascotee River, with boat docks and kayak launches. The riverfront park has an amphitheater and five pavilions with two grills.

A children’s playground and adult exercise stations overlooking a beautifully landscape walk around Orange Lake. Also, the home of The West Pasco Historical Society Museum and Library.

Cotee River Park – On Leash Grand Blvd, New Port Richey This park has a lovely walking / running path along the seawall with plenty of shade provided by numerous trees and covered picnic areas. It’s not uncommon to see dolphins and manatees swimming by, and a wide variety of native birds and other Florida wildlife along the banks.

39

GOLF • WEDDINGS

8c SPECIAL EVENTS • DINING

Looking for the ideal location for your special day?

Seven Springs Golf & Country Club offers you and your guests elegance, prestige and exceptional service.

We will make your vision of the perfect wedding day a realty.

Contact our Special Events Coordinator at 727.376.0039 ext. 231 or banquet@ssgcc.com

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SEVEN SPRINGS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 3535 TROPHY BOULEVARD• NEW PORT RICHEY, FL 34655

• 727-376-0039

Actual Seven Springs Bride. Photography by Acotto Images