Trinity Dental Arts is the premier Implant and Cosmetic dental practice in Tampa Bay.
Dr. Xhoana Gjelaj, DMD, MAGD, DICOI, FAAID, DABOI/ ID is one of the top 1% of dentists in North America focusing on full mouth reconstruction using dental implants. Her award-winning dentistry focuses on patient-centered care using leading-edge dental technology for long-lasting results.
Restore your smile today with Trinity
Dental Arts
Cosmetic Dentistry
Emergency Dentistry
Implant Dentistry
General Dentistry
Free Consultation and 3D scan for full mouth dental implant treatment offer for new patients!
CALL US FOR A SMILE MAKEOVER
I recently had full mouth dental implant surgery through Trinity Dental Arts. I am one month in and process going very smoothly. I have suffered with dental issues for about 8 years after regularly going to the dentist, but after developing an autoimmune condition, my teeth deteriorated and dental work never seemed to last. I am thrilled with how my implants look and getting adjusted to the new “feel” in my mouth! Dr. Xhoana Gjelaj and her staff do amazing work and the pain after surgery was minimal. Thank you!
Awesome. The staff was so compassionate. The knowledge and wisdom of Dr G.was/is astounding. 10 years I’ve tried different facilities, everything was a failure, but DrG. Among 1%in the nation of dentistry was able to succeed. I truly believe in miracles ,you just have to listen with your heart and trust the Lord.
Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community.
Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
The Gentlemen’s Issue
This issue honors the gentlemen in our lives. Many of us are lucky to have a man in our lives that inspire us to be our best selves. For some of us, that may be a dad, step dad or other father figure. But there are so many ways we can find that encouragement. Personally, I find inspiration from my partner – who lifts me up and cherishes both me and my kids. He shows me daily the kind of person I aspire to be and I’m so thankful to have him in my life.
We can also find inspiration from those we find in our community. We have some marvelous stories to share with you this month. Business coach Joseph Zoccali shares how to improve and grow yourself. James Presta shows us how to live our most authentic life every day. Both men bring life and excitement to our community!
As we head into summer, we also have some important stories to share to keep your home and families safe. We had the great privilege of speaking with ABC Action News Chief Meteorologist Denis Phillips about how to keep your family safe during hurricane season. We’re also uncovering plumbing concerns you may not be aware of with master plumber Chad Hart.
Whatever your plans this summer, be sure to take time to honor the important men in your life. Let them know how much they mean to you every day. And if you are a dad, let us be the first to say - thank you. You are invaluable to the people who know and need you as well as the community around you.
Lux Content Co., Nadine B. Photography, X-Golf Tampa, Carly Mock, City of New Port Richey, Sunflower Socials, Mama Means Business Networking Group, Six Strings and Superheroes, Captured Moments Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
inside the issue
Take
Estate
Building
Expertise
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The City of New Port Richey’s fire fighters waving to the crowd at the parade. 2: Spending quality time during Latin Night at Havana Nights Cigar Lounge. 3: Locals catching beads at the Chasco parade as the float passes, celebrating under sunny skies. 4: The 12th Annual Florida Loquat Festival sponsored by the Rotary Club of New Port Richey. 5: The Mama Means Business Networking group at 30-Minute Hit Odessa. 6: Not Your Mama’s Jam serving the community at the Loquat festival. 7: The Hulk made an appearance at Six Strings and Superheroes in downtown New Port Richey.
MAMA MEANS BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP
CITY OF NEW PORT RICHEY
CITY OF NEW PORT RICHEY
CITY OF NEW PORT RICHEY
CITY OF NEW PORT RICHEY
GET UP TO $250 WHEN YOU OPEN A NEW CHECKING ACCOUNT1
HOW IT WORKS
1. Open a new checking account at Achieva Credit Union
2. Set up a qualifying direct deposit within 90 days
3. Receive your bonus up to $2501
Get started today Open an account in your local Achieva Credit Union branch, online at www.achievacu.com/checkingo er or call 800.593.2274
1 One bonus per primary member opening a new Achieva checking account with debit card before Dec. 31, 2025. $15 lifetime membership fee and $1 opening deposit required. As of May 1, 2025, the variable Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on the Achieva Checking Plus account is 1.00% APY up to $15,000, with 18 posted debit or credit card transactions per statement cycle required. O er also available for new Achieva Checking account holders, a non-interest bearing account. Bonus will be paid within ninety days of satisfying minimum direct deposit requirement. Restrictions apply. Visit www.achievacu.com/checkingo er for full details. Insured by NCUA.
IN DENIS WE TRUST
ARTICLE
JOANN
BY
CHANG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUX CONTENT CO.
DENIS PHILLIPS, CHIEF METEOROLOGIST FOR ABC ACTION NEWS, SHARES HOW TO BE WEATHER WISE AND CONFIDENT DURING HURRICANE SEASON. ABOVE ALL - DON’T FREAK OUT.
As Floridians, we’re no strangers to hurricanes and tropical weather. After weathering a few storm seasons, many residents are more interested in shopping for hurricane snacks than evacuation. But after the impacts of Helene and Milton last year, being prepared takes on new importance. Having a trusted source of information is a big part of that preparation. For decades, one of the most popular and trusted resources during hurricane season has been Denis Phillips, Chief Meteorologist with ABC Action News.
Denis developed an interest in TV meteorology at just 6 years old. “Back in the day, you couldn’t track Santa online. You would watch the weather on Christmas Eve. I thought, what a cool job. You can track Santa and get paid for it,” shared Phillips. His interest in weather continued, especially severe weather. “It turned from a passing fancy to more of an obsession back in 1974. We had the super tornado outbreak across the country. It was really horrible. It was one of those fear but passion kind of things with storms, and at that point, I was completely hooked,” he said.
After attending Penn State, Denis began his on-air weather career in Salisbury, Maryland. He then had his first taste of Florida working in the Gainesville market. After a brief stint in Providence, Rhode Island, he landed in Los Angeles. “I was there for three years. My boss in LA took a job in Tampa to start a new
Concept by Lux Content Co.
news operation. He asked if I wanted to come to Tampa. I was not a fan of LA weather because there’s no weather to talk about. It was really boring. So, getting an opportunity to come back to Florida was perfect,” explained Phillips. After over 30 years in the Tampa Bay area, Denis and his family have put down roots, making Tampa Bay their home. “We just fell in love with everything this area has to offer. It’s just a great place to live,” he added.
Over the years, Denis has determined that there is more to his job than just reporting the weather. “I realized with Irma that my job is way more. My job is getting them through a storm with the least amount of anxiety as humanly possible. Because there is so much hype and misinformation out there. Let’s be honest, you can get the forecast in a lot of places these days, but do you have somebody who you trust, who you’ve grown up with, who will walk you through it and say this might really be awful, but we’re going to get through it. Because it isn’t just about getting the weather right. It’s about getting people through the stressful situation,” shared Phillips.
Denis recognizes the trust that viewers put in him and doesn’t take it lightly. Above all, he seeks to dispel the rumors and hype and just give the facts needed to decide the best course of action for their family. “I’ve chosen not to tell people they have to evacuate. My nightmare scenario is I tell somebody you should evacuate, and they have a car wreck. I literally think about that all the time. But what I can say is you’re going to have seven feet of water in New Port Richey. You have to use that information and decide on your own,” said Phillips.
Being prepared for hurricane season is as simple as sourcing a solid hurricane supply list from a reputable source like the Red Cross or FEMA. If you follow these lists, you’ll have what you need to manage a storm when it hits. With that in place, Phillips recommends identifying a solid resource you trust for information, and sticking with it through the storm. “Scrolling through everything, trying to get as much information as you can, you’re going to hear a lot of conflicting stuff. Try to block out the other noise around you,” explained Phillips.
Those who follow Phillips are familiar with his hurricane rules and the much touted “Rule #7 – Don’t Freak Out”. What few know is that started out as simple guidance during panic over Hurricane Issac in 2012 and then took on a life of its own. Now it’s a hurricane season staple and a frequent reminder to stay focused, even when things get serious. “I realized there’s no way you’re going to make a decision to protect your family if you’re freaking out. So, it still remained relevant,” shared Phillips.
Hurricane season is a fact of life in Florida, but it doesn’t have to create anxiety. Being well prepared and having a solid resource for timely information can make all the difference in keeping you and your family safe, regardless of what comes our way.
“MY JOB IS GETTING THEM THROUGH A STORM WITH THE LEAST AMOUNT OF ANXIETY.”
SOCIALS
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUX CONTENT CO.
LEVELING Up
SHINING A LIGHT ON BUSINESS COACHING.
Success is often seen as a clear-cut idea, usually tied to making money or gaining recognition. However, it encompasses so much more—finding alignment, clarity, and sustainability in providing for our families. Many discover that reaching their next goal does not automatically bring happiness because it often leads to feelings of burnout. Pursuing big dreams can come with quiet costs—relationships that fray from too many late nights, a body running on empty, and a sense of self that starts to blur beyond the business card. It’s easy to lose sight of who you are when everything’s about what you do. What happens when the dream you chased no longer reflects the person you’ve become? That’s the crossroads many leaders quietly arrive at—and few talk about. Discovering a mismatch between our dream self and our current self requires deep introspection. At this point, business coaching becomes essential.
“Most successful people have a structured start to the day. They don’t wake up and react to the world—they own their time.”
Location: Studio NPR
Coach Joseph Zoccali of Focal Point Business Coaching provides essential lessons through his experiences. Under his guidance, business owners learn to maintain their foundation while developing purposefully and raising themselves and their teams while preserving critical values.
What simple habits do successful people integrate into their day that others may overlook?
“Discipline. They have discipline around their mornings. Most successful people have a structured start to the day. They don’t wake up and react to the world—they own their time. Journaling, working out, setting daily intentions—it’s not what they do, but how consistently they do it. That’s what builds momentum.”
What is the most significant mindset shift people need to make when working with you?
“They’re not alone—and they don’t have to have all the answers. Most of the people I work with are high performers. They’re used to being the smartest person in the room. The one with all the answers. The real power move? Realizing that asking for help or pulling in an outside perspective— it’s the upgrade button. That’s how you level up.”
How do you keep people accountable without overwhelming them?
“You don’t overwhelm them—you meet them where they are. Accountability isn’t about pressure; it’s about clarity. If someone knows what they’re working toward, why it matters, and what the next step is, then you just hold them to that. We’re not trying to do 100 things at once. We’re focused on doing the right thing next. That’s where momentum comes from.”
Who would benefit most from having a business coach and why?
“Entrepreneurs, business owners, and executives. Their circle is small, and not many people understand where their head is. Having a sounding board with real-world experience—someone who understands that drive and pressure—makes all the difference. A coach helps them level the noise, disassemble the issues, and see more clearly. Most people live in their bubble. A coach brings the outside perspective that can be hard to get when you’re too close to the situation.”
ALTER EGO
THE DOUBLE LIFE OF A LOCAL ROCKSTAR MECHANIC.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUX CONTENT CO./CAPTURED MOMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN
Business owner by day and drummer in a band by night—proof that life doesn’t have to be lived on repeat. While most people hang up their work boots or shut down their laptops when the clock strikes five, others are just starting their second act. In a world that often tells us to choose one path, one passion, or one version of ourselves—some people boldly select all of the above.
One of those people is the man behind the drum kit and under the hood: James Presta, owner of Presta Automotive Repair. Known locally for running an honest repair shop, James also fuels his lifelong love of music as the drummer for the high-energy cover band Alter Ego. “By day, I’m a mechanic. By night, I play drums in a band,” he says. “Everybody has an alter ego—we just gave ours a name.”
His passion for music started early. “The first band that got me into music was KISS,” he shares. “But honestly, it depends on the mood. Some days, it’s Kenny Rogers radio; other days, it’s Judas Priest or 80s hair metal.” His first live song? “Hard to Handle” by The Black Crowes with his first band, Four Past Midnight. “That one always stuck with me.”
CONTINUED >
James’ hands-on career began just as early. “The first car I worked on was my dad’s 1981 Ford Granada,” he recalls. “I’ve loved working on cars since I was a kid.” That passion became a business in 2007 when he partnered with his cousin to open a shop. “He had the money, I had the knowledge,” he explains. “By 2009, it became mine. I’ve been running it solo ever since.”
A typical Friday for James is anything but ordinary. “I get into work at 8, and Fridays are always chaotic,” he says. “If we’re playing that night, I leave early, shower, head to the venue, set up, play, and come home. By Saturday, I’m dead to the world.” Luckily, Presta Automotive is closed on weekends. “That helps. I need that time to recover.”
just say, ‘It’s my way or no way.’ You have to listen, reason, compromise.”
James’ customers are often surprised to learn about his alter ego—but they’re also supportive. “A lot of them come to shows. They think it’s awesome. It’s cool to see that side of someone they usually only see in a work uniform.”
“It’s not about living two separate lives. It’s about doing what you love— and not letting life get boring,”
Music and mechanics may not seem related, but they serve a common purpose for James. “If I’m having a bad, frustrating day at the shop, I go home and let it out on the drums. Within an hour, I feel so much better. It’s therapy.”
— James Presta
One of his biggest challenges is managing people—both in the garage and on stage. “You’ve got to be diplomatic,” he says. “Four other people are in the band, just like four mechanics in the shop. Everyone has their own opinions. You can’t
The band plays at well-loved venues across the region, including Bourbon on Main, Overtime on 52, Ukulele’s in Land O’ Lakes, and Pete’s Place in Tampa. “We’re all over. We have a great booking agent who believes in us.”
Giving back is also essential to James. He supports the Shriners organization, which helps children with disabilities. “Every year, I donate to their circus event. My donation helps send six to ten kids to the show. That’s something I’m proud to be part of.”
From fixing cars to firing up the crowd, James Presta shows us that passion doesn’t need to end when the workday does. “It’s not about living two separate lives. It’s about doing what you love—and not letting life get boring,” he emphasizes. For him, the rhythm of life is simple: work hard, play harder, and always make time for the music.
Want to catch a show? Find out where Alter Ego is playing next at alteregoband.live .
DAD TIME
Grub, Games, and Good Times: Father’s Day Done Right
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NADINE B PHOTOGRAPHY/X-GOLF TAMPA/CARLY MOCK
Why spend hours in the hot sun when you can golf in air-conditioned comfort? X-Golf is a fully immersive indoor golf simulator experience that lets you and Dad play courses without worrying about the Florida heat. Learn more and reserve a spot in advance by visiting www.playxgolf.com/locations/tampa
If Dad’s idea of a good time includes a little precision and a lot of adrenaline, All American Gunslingers is a great option to spark some friendly competition. This indoor shooting range blends top-tier safety with a thrill factor that’s hard to beat. Lock in your range time by booking on www.aagunslingers.com .
If you’re seeking a way to slow down and truly savor cherished moments with Dad, look no further. Time seems to stand still at Havana Nights Cigar Lounge, allowing time to kick back, light up and create lasting memories together—on your own terms, and in Dad’s signature style. Visit www.havananightscigar.com to learn more.
1. X-GOLF TAMPA
2. ALL AMERICAN GUNSLINGERS
3. HAVANA NIGHTS CIGAR LOUNGE
For dads who like to blow off steam Vikingstyle, Axe Hole is the ultimate axe-throwing destination. It’s equal parts stress relief and skill-building. There’s something deeply satisfying about sinking an axe into a wooden target while you cheer each other on. Check out www.axeholenpr.com and book your lane today.
Craft beer, cool vibes, and plenty of room to kick back? Say no more. Escape Brewing Collective has an always-rotating selection of small-batch beers brewed right on-site. Whether your dad’s a stout guy or into fruity IPAs, there’s something here to please his palate—and yours. Plan your next visit by visiting www.escapebrewingcompany.com
Sometimes, quality time with Dad looks like a clean shave and a sharp fade. Pristine Art Barbershop provides an atmosphere where you can unwind. With a modern edge, it’s the perfect place to sit back and walk out feeling fresh. Visit the Pristine Art Barbershop Facebook page to book your next appointment.
5. AXE HOLE NPR
6. PRISTINE ART BARBERSHOP
4. ESCAPE BREWING COLLECTIVE
under pressure
Summer Plumbing: What You Don’t See Can Hurt You.
Plumbing problems tend to show up at the worst possible time. From clogged drains to leaky pipes, the smallest plumbing problems will transform into large system crises if home owners fail to address them. Learning the warning signs and keeping up with routine maintenance can help keep your home’s plumbing system in tip top shape.
Regarding unexpected plumbing issues, Chad Hart, co-owner and master plumber of Continental Plumbing, has seen it all. “Most of the time, people will break off a hose bib while working outside in the heat during the summer. They may yank on a hose and don’t expect it to break off in the wall. One of two things happens when you do that. Water pouring in or outside of your house depends on how the house was plumbed,” he shared.
While many assume that Florida’s heavy rains or scorching heat affect residential water pressure, Hart says otherwise. “Rainy season and pressure in homes don’t correlate. It doesn’t rain and affect your plumbing system—that’s just not how it works,” he says. Still, Hart notes that pressure-related issues do exist, it just may not be what most would expect. “It’s mostly a pressure drop, not a rise,” he explains. “If you’re filling a pot at the sink and it starts strong, then
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUX CONTENT CO.
drops to a trickle, something’s likely obstructing the flow—usually a faulty water softener or filtration system.”
Although Florida’s heat and moisture don’t necessarily weaken pipes over time, Hart cautions against leaving exposed PVC, CPVC, or PEX piping in the elements. “The sun makes plastic brittle. If you look at it wrong, it might break,” he says.
Installing a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is one solution for regulating water pressure. “It lowers the PSI from the city to your home,” Hart explains. But that’s not a DIY job. “Hire a professional, licensed plumber,” he advises.
When it comes to plumbing materials, Hart stands by copper. “It’s tried and true for pressure,” he says. While many pipes claim to handle 150 PSI or more, he trusts copper based on decades of experience.
Homeowners can stay ahead of issues with a few routine checks. “Look under sinks for corrosion or discoloration,” Hart suggests. “Check the water heater for green or brown calcium buildup. Those are
early signs something’s going wrong.” And always know where your main shutoff valve is—it could save you thousands in damage during an emergency.
Hurricane season brings additional risks. Hart keeps his property storm-ready by removing hoses from outdoor spigots and trimming back trees and debris near plumbing fixtures. “If something breaks during a storm and you can’t get to it, you’re stuck without water,” he warns.
In a major storm or power outage, water pressure and drainage could be affected—especially if city pump
systems go down or a tree damages a main. “People plant trees right on top of water mains,” Hart says. “Storm comes through, roots shift, and boom—pipe’s broken.”
If you’re hearing gurgling or dealing with drainage issues, don’t wait. “Call a professional before a storm hits,” Hart advises. “Know where your cleanout is. If the city’s system backs up, you can relieve pressure and avoid a mess inside your home.”
Hart’s advice is simple: “Hire a professional before it gets over your head. Plumbing might look easy, but it’ll cost more when you have to fix your fix.”
If you need a licensed plumber or more information on proper preventative maintenance, you can learn more at www.continentalplumbing.net
JUNE 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 1ST
Dueling Pianos
The Social NPR | 4:00 PM
Don’t miss Dueling Pianos on the first Sunday of every month in downtown New Port Richey. The music kicks off at 4 PM! Eat, drink, and enjoy a high-energy show packed with fun and singalong. Visit www.facebook. com/TheSocialNPR for more details.
JUNE 5TH
A Writers Series
Richey Suncoast Theatre | 7:00 PM
Celebrate local talent at Richey Suncoast Theatre! Meet newly published authors, hear about their writing journeys, and enjoy book signings. This free event supports our new writer’s series— donations are welcome. Discover your next great read and support the arts! Visit www.richeysuncoasttheatre.com for more information.
JUNE 10TH
Happy Hour History
The Hacienda | 5:00 PM
Step into history at The Hacienda with all-access tours celebrating 98 years of charm! Enjoy guided walks through storied halls, hear tales of legendary guests, and peek inside a guest room. Hosted by hotel managers, with Q&A to follow—don’t miss this rare behind-the-scenes experience! Visit www.facebook.com/ TheHaciendaHotelNPR for ticket details and more information.
JUNE 14TH OneBlood Drive
2107 Gunn Hwy STE 101 Odessa, 33556 | 10:00 AM
Join 30-Minute Hit Odessa for a OneBlood Drive event! Stop by to donate events CONTINUED
