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.
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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.
Celebrating Our Unique and Individual Style
I hope this letter finds you inspired and ready to embrace the beauty of self-expression!
Style is such an extraordinary part of life— it’s far more than the clothes we wear or the accessories we choose. Style is woven into every detail of our existence, from the way we decorate our homes to the art and music we enjoy, the books we read, and even how we interact with the world around us. It’s the unique thread that creates the tapestry of who we are.
What makes style so captivating is its deeply personal nature. It evolves alongside us as we explore new interests, embrace our quirks, and express what we value most. It’s a language without words, a powerful tool for connection that can bridge differences and spark shared understanding.
Speaking of style, this month we’re introducing Michelle Northrup, also known as “The SaucyQueen”. Her personal style is infectious, spreading her energy and love through our cities while recognizing some of the great restaurants in the area and how you can make some of their inspired dishes at home.
This month, I encourage you to think of style as an authentic expression of yourself. The most beautiful style is one that reflects who you truly are—your passions, your story, your individuality. And the incredible thing is that no one else in the world can replicate that.
So, go ahead and celebrate your unique style. Whether you’re exploring new trends, blending classic elements, or creating something entirely original, let this issue inspire you to embrace the power of self-expression.
Cheers to being unapologetically and uniquely you!
JoAnn Chang, Amy Walters, Michelle Numann, Michele Northrup, Jason Barsanti
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Magical Memories Photography, Nadine B. Photography, Lux Content Co., Michele Northrup; David Gieger; Jessica Lazaris, Heather Higgins
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
Julie
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city scene
1 – 2: The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce Glow Gala Installation Banquet honored many deserving local businesses. 3 – 5: Attendees dressed to impress at the Silver Screen Soiree presented by Richey Suncoast Theater at The Hacienda 6 – 7: P.S. You’re Invited - Event Planning & Decorating celebrated their grand opening with a recent ribbon cutting.
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Sterile isn’t Style. Bring Personality Back into Your Home.
The all-white home design has long been a staple of timeless. But today’s trends are shifting toward a warmer, more expressive aesthetic. Bold colors assert themselves in backsplashes, islands, and cabinets, creating statements that feel vibrant, layered, and personal. Homeowner’s personalities can emerge through unique color palettes, like in the signature brushstrokes of a self-portrait. G2 Home Services believes your home should reflect you, not the sterile trends of the past. Start Your Remodel Today.
Learn English at your own pace with a passionate, certified ESL teacher who brings decades of teaching experience and real-world expertise. From working
Photography by Jason Barsanti
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Get Fired up!
The 25th Annual I Like It HOT! Festival in Largo sizzles into the Largo Event Center September 13-14, celebrating spicy lovers with free admission and parking. Enjoy 80+ vendors serving sauces, salsas, rubs, food trucks, and kitchen gadgets. Cheer on contestants in pepper eating contests, Extreme Lolli LickA-Thon, BBQ, hot sauce, salsa, and vendor competitions. With live bands, fun family and pet-friendly vibes, and thousands of heat seekers joining the fiery two-day fiesta! Visit facebook.com/ILikeItHotFestival
Photography by Michelle Northrup
THE GOLD STANDARD
Julie Johnson Weintraub finds purpose in impacting her community.
ARTICLE BY JOANN CHANG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAGICAL MEMORIES/HANDS ACROSS THE BAY
Life is full for Julie Johnson Weintraub. As president and chief operations officer of Gold & Diamond Source, Julie spends her days running the family jewelry empire. With the joy of her family working by her side, this would be enough for most. But Julie felt the call to do more. To serve her community
“I don’t want women to merely live at the mercy of the men around them.”
in ways she felt were missing. Over the years, she’s established herself as more than just a community philanthropist. She reflects the gold standard of what it means to give back to the community.
Hands Across the Bay was founded in 2010. She was always looking for ways to give back, but as her success grew, she wanted to do more. “I’ve been through times where we had money and didn’t have money. So, I know what it’s like,” shared Weintraub. “I lost my home to bankruptcy when I was a kid, and it was not fun leaving that house. My mom would never think about reaching out to charity. But a little bit of help would have helped us a lot.”
Helping those impacted through no fault of their own quickly became a focus for her charity. “I started looking into why there wasn’t help for a
hard-working family that was in crisis,” explained Weintraub. She called the big-name charities often cited as resources for families in need to find most funds ran out early each month. Hands Across the Bay partnered with law enforcement to provide a rapid response to families in crisis.
For Julie, it’s important to dig deeper to find a solution. “One time, a family called. They needed an electric bill paid. Instead of just paying, we evaluated what’s going on. Turned out the father worked in construction, but they were struggling financially. His boots were worn out, and he didn’t have tools. I bought him a really nice pair of boots. I got him a tool belt with all the tools in it, and he never had to ask us for help again. In fact, he volunteered and did handy work for our charity,” shared Weintraub.
Hands Across the Bay also allowed Julie to empower small grass-roots organizations, offering seed money to non-profits like The Kind Mouse, Wheelchairs for Kids and Honor Flight West Central Florida. She felt these smaller organizations needed more of a voice in the community to help their fundraising efforts.
“The people in our community are always giving to big charities. Nobody’s giving money to these people because they don’t have big, fancy events. There’s not enough exposure. I’m just a business owner doing commercials, but people have made it this celebrity thing. If you’re going to give me that attention, I’ll use that to advocate for others,” said Weintraub. That’s when her Dancing with the Stars event began. “I literally had to borrow money from the organizations. I said, ‘If you give me $7,000, I’ll bring you back double’,” Julie gave them each $30,000 that first year.
Advocating for women affected by domestic violence has also become a passion project for Julie. The stories she shares of women she’s helped are heartbreaking. “I’m so frustrated by the injustice. The epidemic of violence against women in our country is insane. I make sure I advocate for those women,” shared Weintraub. “I don’t want women to merely live at the mercy of the men around them. So, I’m fighting for justice and to put people who care about women’s rights in places they need to be.”
Hands Across the Bay has worked towards bringing more awareness and prevention to the domestic violence epidemic, printing over 90,000 copies of a newspaper for schools that talks about healthy
“People would be so happy. They’d be hugging us and crying and thankful. You can usually tell someone needs a little bit of extra help. The resilience of the human spirit inspires me.”
relationship skills. They also send speakers to schools when asked to talk about prevention awareness. She’s also shifting where to focus education. “I think I was going about it wrong. I’m not talking to women anymore. I’m talking to men. I’m talking to people who don’t raise their kids,” shared Weintraub.
Julie’s team also focuses on bringing random acts of kindness to the community. It’s provided a way for families helped by Hands Across the Bay give back themselves. “People would be so happy. They’d be hugging us and crying
and thankful. You can usually tell someone needs a little bit of extra help. The resilience of the human spirit inspires me,” said Weintraub.
Julie and Hands Across the Bay have given more than $4.3 million dollars to the community since they began, but their work isn’t done. You can help their mission to offer a helping hand for a better tomorrow by making a donation of funds or items or supporting one of their events each year. You can learn more about Hands Across the Bay and how you can help by visiting handsacrossthebay.org
Building
Expertise
THE ULTIMATE CLOSET
YOUR FASHION FAVORITES DESERVE THE PERFECT HOME!
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN
There’s a quiet joy in stepping into a space designed just for you, where everything has its place, and your favorite fashion pieces are thoughtfully displayed, not stuffed into the corners of a cluttered room. For many, that space is the closet. And when it’s done right, a closet isn’t just a storage solution—it’s a personal retreat, a morning motivator, and a reflection of your style.
Achieving that perfect balance of function and beauty doesn’t happen accidentally. According to Larry Sgammato, owner of Coastal Closet & Garage Systems, the difference between a frustrating space and a flawless one comes down to understanding what people truly need. “Once I sit down with them and find out what they have, I look at the existing closet—how many shoes, what kind of hanging clothes, whether they need drawers or shelves—and then I design around that,” he explained. “The most important part is to utilize every square inch.” This tailored approach sets a custom closet apart from the standard builder-grade variety. Beyond aesthetics, Larry emphasizes how a thoughtful layout improves everyday life. “People want to know where everything is. They want it to be put away and hidden from view,” he said. For that reason, drawers are becoming one of the most requested features—and in many cases, they’re replacing bulky bedroom dressers entirely.
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Small design choices can make a big difference, too. Pull-out garment rods, built-in tie and belt racks, or drop-in jewelry trays offer intuitive access to accessories that often get lost or tangled in traditional setups. “Adding an island in the middle of a walk-in closet not only gives you a countertop to fold or place things—it also gives you drawers, hidden storage, and the kind of organization that makes dressers obsolete,” added Sgammato.
While tech integrations in closets are still uncommon, style enhancements are on the rise. Many homeowners are opting for features like lighting upgrades, crown molding, custom backings, and even glass doors to give their closets a more polished, highend feel. “Lighting comes into play when the closet’s chopped up or if it’s more of a showcase closet— otherwise, most people just want a system that works and makes life easier,” advised Larry.
requires. This not only maximizes functionality but also helps maintain a sense of organization and harmony in a shared space.
So what’s trending now? Surprisingly, simplicity. Instead of chasing trends, most clients want a space that works. “People want to maximize what they have. That’s the trend—making it efficient and giving up furniture in the bedroom to gain function in the closet.”
“People want to know where everything is. They want it to be put away and hidden from view.”
— Larry Sgammato
Closets shared by couples often require thoughtful planning to ensure both people’s needs are met. Balancing space for different wardrobes, accessories, and storage preferences means each layout must be tailored with care. One of the most effective approaches is to divide the closet based on individual inventory—assessing how much hanging space, shelving, or drawer storage each person
For homeowners looking to boost their property value, that practicality pays off. “When someone sees a home with an upgraded closet, it shows that the owners cared about their space and invested in their lifestyle,” said Sgammato. “It’s one less project for the new buyer—and that goes a long way.”
However, the best sign of a well-done job is what happens after the project is finished. “Our business grows through referrals,” Larry shared. “That comes from excellent care and prompt service. If there’s ever an issue, we’re there to fix it.”
Because in the end, a well-designed closet isn’t about flash—it’s about function, flow, and honoring the things you love. Your favorite fashion pieces deserve more than a hanger and a hope. They deserve a home built around your life. If you’re looking to upgrade your closet, visit coastalcustomclosetsfl. com for more information.
Fresh Flavors: Farm to Taco
Farm to Taco is just what I’m taco-ing about!
It takes just a glance at this Fresh Mex based restaurant’s menu to see this taco experience will be like nothing you’ve had before. With fresh ingredients, creative combinations and fun names, this spot is a must try!
First, you pick from a variety of chef driven flavors, then choose if you want it as a taco, burrito, nachos or a bowl. The Drunken Clucker is packed with flavor, featuring seared adobo chicken, fried yucca hash topped with bourbon bacon jam, fresh jalapeño and avocado crema. The Cowabunga is surf and turf on a taco, offering seared Baja shrimp and marinated sirloin steak topped with roasted salsa, smash sauce, fresh tomato and cilantro. The Bah-me-o-mi puts a fresh twist on a taco with hoisin glazed pork topped with house-pickled veggies, sliced fresh jalapeño, and fresh cilantro.
ARTICLE BY
And guess what? They fry their tortilla chips in house daily in…BEEF TALLOW! Yes, beef tallow chips served with each item alongside their epic fire roasted poblano and garlic blessed salsa.
With over two decades in the culinary world, the chef behind Farm to Taco, Christine Robinson, brings more than just impressive credentials — she brings soul. She is a classically trained chef from Le Cordon Bleu, served as executive chef at The Williamsburg Winery, led Marriott kitchens, created menus at private clubs, and cooked for celebrities.
After years of pouring her talent into cooking for others, she felt a deeper calling — to build something of her own. That dream took shape as Farm to Taco, born from resilience and rebuilt with love after losing everything to the hurricanes of 2024.
This isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a comeback story, a second chance, and a celebration of flavor, community, and heart. Every taco tells a story. Every bite reminds you that when food is made with love, it just hits different. Come hungry. Leave inspired.
Farm to Tacos
Beef Barbacoa
RICH. BOLD. TENDER. THE ULTIMATE PROTEIN FOR TACOS, NACHOS AND MORE. PACKED WITH DEEP FLAVOR AND PERFECT FOR FEEDING A CROWD.
INGREDIENTS
• 2–3 lbs brisket, cleaned & cut into chunks
• 2 onions, chunked
• ½ cup whole garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons cumin
• ½ cup chili powder
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 3 bay leaves
• ¼ can chipotle in adobo
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 cup Roma or canned plum tomatoes, roughly chopped
• Beef stock, enough to cover
DIRECTIONS
1. In the pot, sauté onions, garlic, tomatoes, juice, chipotle and all dry spices until softened and aromatic (about 8–10 minutes).
2. Remove bay leaves. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches with a food processor.
3. Return the sauce to the pot. Add brisket and pour in beef stock until the meat is completely covered.
4. Bring to a light boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Cover loosely and cook for 3–5 hours until the meat is fork-tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Remove brisket, shred with two forks, and return to the rich sauce. Mix well to coat evenly.
Chef Christine’s Pro Tip: don’t trim all the fat — it adds serious flavor! Use a large, heavy-bottomed pot that holds everything comfortably and allows even cooking on the stovetop. Serve with tacos, nachos, rice bowls, burritos, or sliders. Also great as a protein-packed meal prep option. This dish freezes beautifully, and the flavor gets even better the next day!
Be sure to explore Farm to Tacos specials, like BOGO tacos on Tuesday nights or their date night taco flight on Fridays. Stop in at 10700 SR-54 Suite D or visit online at farmtotacotrinity.com to learn more.
ARTICLE BY AMY WALTERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NADINE B. PHOTOGRAPHY
“My art was something I could always turn to when life got crazy. Art was my escape from reality.”
True Colors
Damien Stuck expresses his personal style through his intriguing and vibrant art.
Personal style is a powerful, intimate expression, emerging from the core of our character, reflecting our values, experiences, and individuality.
Style is reflective in the clothes we wear, the way we decorate our homes, down to the type of car we drive. Style is also expressed in the way we work. For artist Damien Stuck, his style is directly connected to his childhood, trauma, overcoming obstacles and full circle achievement for both himself personally and as an artist. “My art was something I could always turn to when life got crazy. Art was my escape from reality,” shared Stuck.
Fast forward, art is a major part of the core of his life. After moving to Florida at 18, Damien started his journey by selling his work for a few hundred dollars each at local markets and events. This year, he achieved one of his personal career goals, having his work on display in the White House.
Damien’s style is not “Paint on Demand”. His art comes from an idea, freehand sketched onto canvas, and comes to life from the beauty of primarily oils. Oil paintings are more complicated.
“Some of my paintings can take up to one year to dry,” stated Stuck. Damiens number one priority is to be true to his audience with his style of work, and be the best father and husband to his wife Brittany and their two kids.
Damien balances his work and family while still continuing to work toward the goals he aspires to achieve — land a guest spot on the Joe Rogan podcast and have his art on Mars. His motto, “My next one is my best one,” reflects the passion he has to produce an amazing, impactful piece for his audience. Damien Stuck aspires to help emerging artists by setting an example of being the best person and artist he can be, authentic style.
SKIN IN THE GAME
Your skin speaks first, before the outfit, makeup, and even hairstyle. It’s the canvas every look is built on, and its clarity and health often dictate how we feel stepping out the door. There’s no denying it: great skin is always in style.
Dr. Megan Glaser, owner of Luxebody Wellness, acupuncture physician and licensed esthetician, understands the deep connection between outer beauty and inner health. “Your skin is the first thing people notice, whether you’re in a professional or social setting. It’s not just about your face but your whole body. Skin is the largest organ, reflecting what’s happening inside,” she shared. That philosophy is central to Dr. Glaser’s practice, where skincare isn’t about trends but balance. Many people, she explains, make the mistake of doing too much or nothing at all. “Either they’re not doing anything, they’re using the wrong products, or they’re overdoing it,” she said. “People will layer on product after product because they saw it online, but if it’s not right for your skin, you could be doing more harm than good.”
So, what does a balanced routine look like? For those just starting their skin journey, keep it simple. Start with a cleanser tailored to your skin type. Next, a hydrating serum like hyaluronic acid, and end with a moisturizer. From there, you can build based on age, skin concerns, and goals. “Once you’ve got those basics down and are consistent twice a day, then you can think about adding things like vitamin C serums or eye creams,” Glaser explained. Beyond the products, diet, hydration, and even mental health play a role in skin health. “What’s happening on your skin is often a mirror of what’s happening inside,” she said. “If you see acne or rashes, I look at the gut. If you’re dry and flaky, maybe you’re dehydrated. Sometimes people are shocked when their lines and wrinkles improve just by drinking more water.”
Rather than treating skin concerns in isolation, it’s important to consider how internal health, stress levels, and lifestyle choices may be contributing factors. This can shape the way each treatment is tailored, focusing not just on outward appearance but also on supporting long-term skin health from within.
Some techniques combine traditional facial practices with noninvasive methods that stimulate the body’s natural functions. Treatments may incorporate tools like radio frequency to promote firmness or collagen-based serums to encourage cellular renewal, which is a less aggressive approach in the cosmetic industry. The goal should always be the same: supporting the skin’s ability to restore balance and radiance over time.
With skincare trends constantly cycling on social media, it’s essential to research
“YOUR SKIN IS THE FIRST THING PEOPLE NOTICE, WHETHER YOU’RE IN A PROFESSIONAL OR SOCIAL SETTING. IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT YOUR FACE BUT YOUR WHOLE BODY. SKIN IS THE LARGEST ORGAN, REFLECTING WHAT’S HAPPENING INSIDE”
and resist the temptation to DIY. “There are so many people buying dermaplaning tools online or trying peels at home. It’s risky,” she warns. “If you don’t know what you’re doing, you can cause damage, especially with strong acids or chemical peels.”
Think of skincare as an extension of wellness. “True beauty starts from within,” Glaser said. “That includes what you eat, how you care for your body, and even your mental health. When those things are in balance, your skin will reflect that.”
In a world saturated with quick fixes and filters, there’s a growing shift toward prioritizing long-term skin health over instant results. It’s a reminder that true style isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about how you carry yourself. Nothing elevates confidence quite like skin that feels balanced and healthy.
LUXEBODY WELLNESS
At Luxebody Wellness, Dr. Megan Glaser offers skincare that goes beyond the surface. By combining holistic medicine, acupuncture, and non-toxic rejuvenation techniques—including No-Tox Botox injections and radiofrequency—treatments that are designed to smooth lines and support skin health naturally, from the inside out. Learn more at www.luxebodyhealth.com .
