Westchase - Vol. 3, Issue 4, April 2014

The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine Directly Mailed To 16,000 Homes In Westchase & Surrounding Areas

This Independent Community News, Business & Dining Guide Is Directly Mailed Once Each Month To:Arlington Park • Aston Villas • Bay Arbor • Berkeley Square • Calf Path Estates • Enclave At Citrus Park • Fawn Ridge

Fawn Lake • Forest Lakes • Hampton Lakes • Highland Park • Lake Chase • Mandolin • The Eagles • Tree TopsTwin Branch Acres • Waterchase • West Hampton • Westchase • Westchester • Westwood Lakes • Windsor Place

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

ECRWSSPostal Customer

Dated MaterialPlease Rush!

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDTAMPA FL

PERMIT 1185

43rd Annual Rose Show........3

Community Calendar.........4-5

Tampa Rejuvenation.............8-9

John Prevatt Karate..........10-11

Tampa Resident Publishes HisFirst Novel..........................14

Brass Tap Grand Opening...16

Life Amplified................22-23

Vol. 3, Issue 4, April 2014

Neighborhood NewsNeighborhood News®

W E S T C H A S E A R E A

& LifestylesYour neighborhood. Your magazine.

By Marcy Sanford

Several years ago Renee andJason Russell started Dogism, a won-derful business offering effective, per-sonalized dog training to help peopleand their pets, as well as a unique on-line retail website that sold high-quality items for people and theirdogs. This month they are takingDogism to the next level, with awonderful 9,000 square foot facilitythat will have retail, training, agility,daycare, DIY bathing, and more. Lo-

cated at 110 Pine Ave, South, inOldsmar, Dogism is a great place fordog owners and their beloved pets.

“We are going to have uniqueinteractive toys and accessories fordogs,” says Renee. “We’ll also havepremium dog foods and treats andcan always special order food fordogs with allergies or special diet re-strictions. We’re going to have manydifferent training classes for all differ-ent levels. I’m able to tailor our train-ing to meet your dog’s needs. Wewant to be open to the needs of the

community and are open to sugges-tions or requests.”

DaycareIf you’re at work or out of the

house all day and need a place foryou dog to get exercise and blow off

See “Priel Salon” on page 20.

See “Dogism” on page 18.

By Alexis Selby

Sit back, relax and give your hairthe ultimate pampering experience atPriel Salon, an upscale hair studiospecializing in lavish hair treatmentsand top of the line services. As an ex-clusive Kerastase salon and hair spa,Priel is one of the only salons inTampa to be honored with such adistinction, and as such are able tooffer L’Oreal’s top-rated product,which boasts of the most advancedand newest technology available intoday’s market. In addition, each ofthe professionally trained stylistshave extensive knowledge is all facetsof hair care, so, as a customer ofPriel Salon, you are privy to the verybest products by specially trainedprofessionals who really know hair.

Beautifully designing their up-scale salon, owners Cynthia and ErikAbrahamsen took inspirations frombig city salons around the world,from Tokyo to New York to Califor-nia, to bring the area a truly uniquehigh-end salon experience that iscomparable to what one might findin any major fashion capital world-wide. Walking through their doors,you are instantly drawn in by their el-egant, sleek décor. “We try to makeit comfortable for everyone,” saysCynthia. “We have candles going anda very nice waiting lounge when youwalk in.”

Cynthia’s passion for hair is thedriving force behind the salon andtogether she and Erik, and theirwonderful staff of professionals,

2 APRIL 2014 Westchase Area Neighborhood NewsFor Ad Info Call (813) 928-6124 or Visit NeighborhoodNewsFL.com

APRIL 2014 3Westchase Area Neighborhood News For Ad Info Call (813) 928-6124 or Visit NeighborhoodNewsFL.com

Neighborhood News& Lifestyles

Directly mailed once a month to 16,000households in zip codes 33626 & 34677

220 Safford Ave. S. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

Phone: (813) 928-6124; Fax: (727) 942-2432Advertising E-mail:

[email protected] E-mail:

[email protected]© 2014 Westchase Neighborhood News is published by ADS 2 Publications, Inc.

Nothing that appears in Westchase NeighborhoodNews may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, with-out permission. Opinions expressed by Westchase Neighbor-hood News writers are their own and do not reflect thepublisher’s opinion.

The management of Westchase Neighborhood Newsis always happy to accept outside editorial submissionsto the paper. Please call for outside editorial submissionand advertisement deadlines.

Westchase Neighborhood News will consider previ-ously non-published outside editorial submissions if theyare double spaced, typed and less than 500 words.Westchase Neighborhood News reserves the right to editand/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makesno guarantees regarding publication dates. Westchase Neigh-borhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials.

Westchase Neighborhood News reserves the right toedit and/or reject any advertising. Westchase NeighborhoodNews is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond theactual cost of the advertising space itself, not for the validityof any claims made by its advertisers.

Westchase Neighborhood News & Lifestyles is pub-lished by ADS 2 Publications, Inc.

PublisherTim SelbyGeneral ManagerMatt Selby Advertising SalesJim O’ReillyLinda ViegaMike BirdAccounting ManagerDoreen SelbyBilling AssistantTina O’ReillyMarketing & DevelopmentAshley Knoblach

EditorAlexis SelbyCorrespondentsKim ThomasJulie KanehlKatie ThomasMarcy SanfordLenay RuhlDara TuckerErin AldrichArt DirectorTony SicaGraphic ArtistDat X. Do

The Tampa Rose Society willpresent its 43rd Annual Rose Showto be held Saturday, May 10, 2014at the Westfield Citrus Park Mall, lo-cated at 8021 Citrus Park TownCenter, just off the Veteran’s Ex-pressway in northwest Tampa. Ad-mission is free and will be open tothe public from 1 p.m.- 9 p.m.

Exhibitors from across Floridawill bring hundreds of blooms tothe show, competing for trophiesand awards in more than 50 classesof home-grown roses, includinghybrid teas, climbers, miniaturesand Old Garden varieties. All en-tries will be judged by AmericanRose Society Judges.

Come purchase your Mother’sDay roses from the Tampa RoseShow. Locally grown by TampaRose Society member’s gardens,fresh cut roses and arrangements willbe available to the public for a smalldonation to the Tampa Rose Society.A Rose Education and Information

Display will be staffedby Consulting Rosarianscertified by the Ameri-can Rose Society. Theseexpert local gardeners,all members of theTampa Rose Society, willprovide advice abouthow to grow roses suc-cessfully in the bay area.

About The TampaRose Society

The Tampa RoseSociety is a not-for-profit organization, oneof over 350 clubs affiliated with theAmerican Rose Society – theworld’s largest organization de-voted to America’s NationalFlower. The Tampa Rose Societyprovides information relating tothe cultivation and exhibition ofthe rose, creation of floral arrange-ments featuring the rose and to dis-seminate information about events

and activities of interest to Rosari-ans in the Tampa Bay Area. Formore information about the RoseShow contact Peggy Sherman,(813) 933-6166, [email protected]. For information aboutMembership in the Tampa RoseSociety, call Ed Easom, (813)949-3931, or [email protected].

Tampa Rose Society Presents“America’s Flower…The ROSE”


Community Calendar

Record Store Day AtSound Exchange

Saturday, April 19, 2014 - Allthree Tampa Bay area Sound Ex-change stores will be participating inRecord Store Day. Doors open at10am. There will be new releases,special offers and promotions all day.For more information visitwww.soundexchangetampabay.com

Tampa, call (813) 978-9316 orvisit 14246 N Nebraska Ave,Tampa, FL 33613

Brandon, call (813) 651-9316or visit 805 W Bloomingdale Ave,Brandon, FL 33511

Pinellas, call (727) 545-0042or visit 7688 49th St N, PinellasPark, FL 33781

9th Annual Fiesta By TheBay for Autism

Join CARD- USF, along withtheir Honorary Chair, co-anchorNews Channel 8 Today’s, Gayle Gu-yardo, for great company, cool music

and delicious food, at the Ybor CityMuseum Garden, featuring the in-cluded taco bar and music and danc-ing with their fabulous DJ. This year’ssilent auction promises to be the bestever, so make plans now to join themfor the family friendly 9th Annual Fi-esta by the Bay fundraiser benefitingthe Center for Autism and RelatedDisabilities at USF. Like them ontheir Fiesta by the Bay Facebook pageto get the Salsa Scoop on Fiesta Fri-days, silent auction items, specialguests and activities for the kids.

Date: Friday, April 25, 2014Time: 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.Where: Ybor Museum Garden;

1818 E. 9th Avenue, Tampa, FL33605

Cost: Advance Tickets can bepurchased online for $10 for stu-

dents and $20 for adults atwww.usf.edu/ua/RSVP/CARD.Tickets can also be purchased atthe door for $25; Sponsorshipsavailable.

Contact: Christine Rover 813-974-9264 or [email protected]

The Center for Autism and Re-lated Disabilities at USF (CARD-USF) is supported through the USFFoundation's Autism Services Fund, a501[c] [3] tax-exempt charity organi-zation. CARD-USF, located withinthe College of Behavioral and Com-munity Sciences at the University ofSouth Florida, serves over 6,500 fami-lies and professionals across 14 coun-ties in southwest Florida. It is one of7 statewide CARD sites offering serv-ices and trainings at no charge. Addi-tional support from the community


allows CARD to expand projects andprovide special events to families andprofessionals right here in Tampa Bay.

CARD-USF provides commu-nities, organizations, businesses andfamilies with the knowledge andskills to support children and adultswith autism and related disabilities.They also work with early interven-tion, schools, employers, businessesand universities. For more infor-mation on autism, as well as, theirCenter, please visit card-usf.fmhi.usf.edu/ or contact Chris-tine Rover at (813) 974-9264 or byemail at [email protected] .

National Multiple SclerosisSociety Presents the MS Walkat Lowry Park Zoo

On April 26th at 6:30 pm. Thou-sands of people will join together tohelp find a cure for Multiple Sclerosisat the Lowry Park Zoo. “The eventdraws approximately 1,500-2,000 in-dividuals who participate and walk ei-ther the one mile or the two milecourse through Lowry Park Zoo,”says Rita Schallenberger, facilitator forthe Hillsborough County MultipleSclerosis (MS) Support Group. “It’s alot of fun with planned activities forthe whole family. Several teams and

individual walkers enjoy an evening atthe zoo walking for a very worthwhilecause. The money goes to research -seeking a cure for MS as well as pro-grams to educate and assist individualswith this chronic disease.”

Location: Tampa's Lowry ParkZoo, 1101 W Sligh Ave., Tampa, FL

Site Opens: 5:00 p.m.Opening Ceremony: 6:00 p.m.Route Length: Short Route: 1

mile, Long Route: 2 miles Event Contact Email: flcwalk-

[email protected] Event Contact Phone: 407-

478-8882

Did you know that in the shorttime such as a week, approximately200 people will have been diagnosedwith MS? MS attacks the central nerv-ous system - that is the brain and thespinal cord; or more simply, the coreof all body functions. MS is chronicand is a progressive disease. It is a dis-ease that affects all members in a fam-ily because of the spillover effect.

There are disease-modifying treat-ments available, but there is no cure.However there are more promisingtherapies in development right nowthan at any other time in history.

Tremendous progress is beingmade and the ultimate goal is to findtreatments that not only modify thedisease, but also helps stop it in itstracks.

The Walk MS fundraising sup-ports research that will result in thenext generation of treatments. In2012 alone, the National Society in-vested $43 million to support 350 re-search projects around the world,while providing programs and servicesthat assist more than 1 million people.Members in our area obtain supportand services through the Mid FloridaMS Chapter located in Tampa andMaitland, FL.

We are asking you to supportthe efforts of the Society and theMS Walk, April 26th at the LowryPark Zoo.

The second fundraiser is also inApril - April 12 and 13. This is BikeMS: The Citrus Tour. It is a 150 milecycling, two-day event. The eventstarts at Bok Towers (Lake Wales) andthe participants cycle to Orlando. Thenext day they cycle back to Bok Tow-ers. It is a fun event with dinner forthe cyclists and two days of cycling.This event is also very large and usu-ally draws 900+ riders. The moneythat the National MS Society raisesalso goes to the double-prongedgoals, research to find a cure for MS aswell as programs to educate and assistindividuals with this chronic disease.

The NMSS has one of the lowestadministrative cost programs in thecountry - millions of dollars go to re-search into this disease as well as sup-port too individual needs. Themid-Florida Chapter of the NMSS en-compasses Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinel-las, plus 20 more counties.

For more information pleasecontact Rita Schallenberger at(813) 961-5510 or [email protected].


By Alexis Selby

A necessity to our body, hormonesplay a vital role in regulating oureveryday lives and functions, fromour mood to our appetite to our en-ergy. As a result, when a hormonalimbalance occurs, it can have drasticnegative effects.

Many people over the age of 35start to experience symptoms relatedto hormonal deficiency such as, fa-tigue, weight gain, decreased sexdrive, anxiety, difficulty sleeping andirritability. Often, these symptomsare overlooked and contribute toaging. Many seek treatment withtheir Primary Care Providers and aregiven prescriptions for the symptomsthey are experiencing such as anti-anxiety medications, sleeping pills,

anti-depressants or even Viagra. Most often, when hormone im-

balances are addressed, these symp-toms can be alleviated without theuse of synthetic prescription medica-tions. It is important to note, thatthese same medications that are sooften prescribed, actually down regu-late our hormone production makingus even more deficient in the veryhormones our bodies need. Everyorgan in the body has a hormone re-ceptor – the brain, bone, muscle,heart, so we should no longer justutilize hormone therapy formenopause, but rather anyone afterthe age of 30-35 to restore normalfunction of the body. “After the ageof 40, we are no longer relying onthe reproductive organs to producehormones, but rather the adrenal

glands,” says Nurse Practitioner GinaPastore. “This gives us even morereason to decrease stress levels, ob-tain proper nutrition, and engage in aregular exercise regimen.”

Specializing in Bio-identicalHormone Therapy, Testosterone Re-placement Therapy and MedicalWeight Loss, at Tampa Rejuvenation,their experienced team of profession-als help people of all ages to regulatetheir hormones and get back on trackto a healthy lifestyle.

Gina says, “In regards to weightloss, there can be several factors im-

peding one's success. Not only dolifestyle factors play a key role inweight gain, so does hereditary pre-disposition. The incidence of thyroiddisease not only increases with age, itis more prevalent in women than menand it can run in families. Too often,patients are not tested for thyroid ab-normalities like they should be. Theyare given a basic TSH test and if it'sin the "normal range", they are toldthey are "fine" and to "eat less andexercise more". The thyroid is a veryimportant hormone impacting ourweight, our adrenal function and the

Feel Better. Look Better. Live Better.


production of our sex hormones. Soit is very important to get a thoroughevaluation of the thyroid when en-gaging in any weight loss program tobe successful.”

“I have played sports my wholelife,” says patient Steve. “In my mid-thirties I began noticing a decrease inmy performance at work and in recre-ational sports. My libido drastically re-duced and I started gaining weight.One of my colleagues referred me toTampa Rejuvenation, and I owe himmy life. I have lost 15 lbs since onTestosterone Therapy and my in-creased libido has saved my marriage.”

Gina Pastore, ARNP-C, MSN,ABAAHP, Diplomat of the AmericanAcademy of Anti-Aging Medicine,heads the Westchase location, andwith over 22 years of experience andnumerous certifications in all aspectsof medicine, brings a unique perspec-tive to the Tampa Rejuvenationteam. Dedicating her practice tohelping others achieve hormone im-balance and weight loss through herown struggles with thyroid issues and

weight gain, Gina has extensiveknowledge in bioidentical hormonereplacement therapy for both menand women. She has a plethora ofknowledge in pharmaceutical gradesupplements, detox, and skincare.

Her beliefs and philosophy onachieving health and wellness incorpo-rate balancing hormone levels, inte-grating proper nutrition and dailyexercise. When helping clients withweight and hormonal issues, she andher staff go beyond the superficialcharacteristics of their symptoms andlook at the underlying causes, gettingan in-depth understanding of what isgoing on internally. Gina says, “I lookback at when I first started practicingand saw what menopausal womenwere going through. I became moresympathetic.” Gina made it her mis-sion to help these women and otherindividuals suffering from hormonalimbalances by addressing the root ofthe problem, and using her expertisein the field is able to truly help her pa-tients from the inside out.

“The most satisfying part about

what I do is seeing the patient fromthe time they first come to the officeand how they feel to how they feelonce their program has begun totake effect,” adds Gina. “We don’tlose hormones overnight, so we can’treplace them overnight. The bodymust slowly adapt. But the best partis seeing the patient transition overtime. We are helping people improvetheir lives!”

Looking at the endocrine systemas a whole and taking into account thebigger picture, Gina, she was able torelate weight loss to hormones, offer-ing her patients an unprecedented, in-depth knowledge as to how hormonesaffect your weight. “One of the thingsI like most about the hormone ther-apy is that it can be quite complicated;I enjoy the challenge,” adds Gina.

After initial assessment, review ofthe medical history, physical examand review of lab work, each patientis treated on an individualized basis;they receive a customized treatmentplan to treat the hormonal imbalancethey are experiencing, as not everypatient experiences the same symp-toms with hormonal declines, andtheir prescriptions are customizedbased on their needs and com-pounded by a specialty pharmacy.

Gina says, “At Tampa Rejuvena-tion, our programs are individualizedand tailored to the patients needs andgoals. We do not offer a "one size fitsall" hormone therapy program. Everypatient has different needs and differ-ent symptoms they experience relatedto hormonal declines as they age.”

Hormone Pellet TherapyUnique to this location,

Westchase Area Tampa Rejuvenation,is a primary provider of HormonePellet Therapy, a new cutting edge ap-

proach that delivers a steady release ofbioidentical hormones through themeans of a pellet the size of a grain ofrice that is surgically implanted under-neath the skin. Highly regarded as themost effective deliverance of hormonereplacement, Hormone Pellet Ther-apy gives patients the best, steadystate for the longest period of time,with the pellets often lasting an aver-age of 4-5 months.

Don’t let hormonal imbalancehold you back from living life to thefullest! Visit Tampa Rejuvenationtoday and rejuvenate your body,mind and soul!

Specialty Programs offeredat Tampa Rejuvenation:• Bio-identical Hormone Therapy• Testosterone Replacement Therapy• Bio-identical Hormone Pellet

Therapy• Bio-identical Thyroid Treatment• Medical Weight Loss Programs• HCG Programs• Detoxification and Cleanse

Programs• Pharmaceutical Grade

Supplementation

Westchase Area Tampa Rejuve-nation is located at 13648 WestHillsborough Ave. in Tampa andcan be reached at (813) 749-7550.Hours for this location are Mon. 9a.m. – 7 p.m. and Wed. 8:30 a.m. –4 p.m. Their other locations offervarying days and hours. For moreinformation and other locationsplease call (888) 865-8370, visittheir website at www.TampaRejuve-nation.com or their Facebook page.

Mike demonstrates just what 5 pounds of fat looks like! WOW!(Clockwise from L) Anna Stokes, Mike McKavanagh, Brittany Gomez andGina Pastore specialize in Bio-identical Hormone Therapy, Testosterone

Replacement Therapy and Medical Weight Loss.


By Marcy Sanford

Recently opened in theWestchase Town Center, John Pre-vatt Karate offers an exciting newafter school program, daily karateclasses for the whole family taught byHall of Fame instructors, and a greatoption for a fun summer camp.

A 9th degree black belt who hasbeen studying and practicing karatesince 1966, Grand Master John Pre-vatt, owner and founder of John Pre-vatt Karate, has had a very successfulcareer, carrying many titles andteaching many students the knowl-edge he has attained over the years.A lifelong Floridian and Shires resi-dent, Grandmaster Prevatt settled inTampa in 1980 and has been a resi-dent of Westchase since 2003.

Daily Karate ClassesIf you are interested in karate

classes for yourself or your child,John Prevatt Karate offers them daily,Monday through Saturday. Karate isgreat not just for children but foradults as well. You’ll improve yourreflexes and coordination as well asincrease your strength, stamina, andflexibility. In addition, karate helps togreatly improve your balance andcardiovascular health and will teachyou ways to successfully defend your-self if you are ever caught in a badsituation. Not many workout classescan offer all those benefits.

Grand Master Prevatt’s staff ishighly trained, enthusiastic and car-ing and they do an exceptional job ofproviding a safe and well-disciplinedenvironment for you and your chil-dren to grow, learn and developphysical, mental and disciplinaryskills. “They are absolutely the best

facility and staff for your children,”says student Raymond.

An active member of theWestchase community, John Prevattis very involved with and supportiveof Westchase, Mary Bryant, and DeerPark Elementary Schools.“Westchase is an outstanding com-munity to live in,” says John. “I amexcited that we have been able to ex-pand our after school program to thearea and that we are open in theWestchase Town Center.”

After School ProgramGrand Master Prevatt opened his

first after school karate program in2001 and since than, it has becomeone of the most successful afterschool programs in the Tampa Bayarea. After such success from his firstkarate program, John decided tobranch out and has successfully ex-panded into Pasco County and now

luckily for us, Westchase. John Prevatt Karate’s impressive

after school program is designed tohelp your child learn self-discipline,respect for others, self-defense, self-esteem, and a “Yes, I can!” attitude.And, the best part is, they have buses

that pick children up fromWestchase, Deer Park, and MaryBryant Elementary Schools immedi-ately after dismissal so you don’t haveto worry about how your child willget from school to the program.

After students arrive at the stu-

John Prevatt Karate

Offering both physical and mental benefits, karate is great for people of allages. It helps to instill a sense of discipline, respect and manners as well asprovide great exercise, and teaching of the importance of teamwork and

useful conflict resolution skills.

Owner John Prevatt is a 9th degreeblack belt who has been practicing

karate since 1966.

APRIL 2014 11For Ad Info Call (813) 928-6124 or Visit NeighborhoodNewsFL.comWestchase Area Neighborhood News

dedicated to field trips, like going tothe movies, bowling, or swimming.Just like their after school programs,the summer camps at John PrevattKarate will instill a sense of discipline,respect, and manners in your child.Plus, your child will be getting greatexercise, learning the importance ofteamwork and useful conflict resolu-tion skills. They’ll also be learningabout self-defense, anger manage-ment, good sportsmanship, and thepositive value of courtesy.

Offering both physical and men-tal benefits, Karate is not only greatexercise for the whole family, but

helps students to develop importantlifelong values and instills a sense ofconfidence and camaraderie. So stopby John Prevatt Karate today and en-roll in one of their classes to learn adiscipline that will benefit you for therest of your life!

John Prevatt Karate is locatedat 9568 W. Linebaugh Avenue inthe Westchase Town Center (onthe 2nd floor near My Gym). Formore information about their afterschool program, individual karateclasses, or summer camps, call(813) 926-4004 or visitwww.JohnPrevattKarate.com.dio, they have time for a snack and to

do homework. Then, after changinginto their uniforms in the privatechanging room, they have an hour-long karate class taught personally byGrandmaster Prevatt. Following theclass, students have free time wherethey can play with their friends, relax,or complete their homework.

The John Prevatt Karate afterschool program is really beneficial tochildren in so many ways and helpsthem to release their energy in a pos-itive way. The program is designedfor children grades kindergartenthrough 8th grade. It’s a wonderfulalternative program that is specificallydesigned for parents who need a safe

and fun place for their children to goafter school.

“Most of our students have nothad lessons when they first start com-ing here,” says Grandmaster Prevatt.“It is wonderful to see the self-confi-dence that they develop when theyare in our after school program.”

Summer CampsRegistration is going on now for

summer camps at John PrevattKarate. The camps will be openMonday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to6 p.m. Students will have two karateclasses a day plus fun activities andgames designed just for themthroughout the day. Fridays will be


Longtime Tampa Resident Publishes His First Novel Michael Shahnasarian, Ph.D., a

longtime business owner and residentof Tampa, has recently released hisfirst novel, Justice Indicted. Aftercompleting a doctorate in counselingpsychology at Florida State University,Dr. Shahnasarian founded CareerConsultants of America, Inc. (CCA) inCarrollwood. CCA has specialized incareer development, human resourcesconsultation, life care planning, andvocational rehabilitation since its in-ception in 1986. From his researchand vast experiences over the years, hehas authored eleven nonfiction books,and seventy articles, book chapters,and monographs. Dr. Shahnasarianhas also developed a standardized testused by vocational experts worldwideto facilitate evaluation of a person’searning capacity through systematicanalysis and appraisal.

Justice Indicted, Dr. Shahnasar-ian’s first work of fiction, is a thriller inwhich he uses his knowledge and legalsystem experience to create a storythat is at once educational and quiteentertaining. Over the past 30 years,he has committed a considerable por-tion of his practice to work as a foren-sic expert witness on vocational and

life-care-plan issues for both the prose-cution and defense. Dr. Shahnasarianhas performed expert witness work lo-cally, statewide, nationally and interna-tionally. He is well known in the legalcommunity here in Tampa andthroughout Florida, and he has testi-fied in countless trials over the years.He derived his inside knowledge towrite Justice Indicted from his morethan two-and-a-half decades of experi-ence as a forensic witness.

Justice Indicted is a fictional takeon civil litigation in the Florida. It de-picts a war hero, who, soon after hisdischarge from MacDill Air ForceBase, is in a vehicular accident thatclaims the life of his wife and leaveshim severely injured and a single par-ent of a 4-year-old girl. While he aims

to be fairly compensated for his lossesand to move-on with his life, greedybusiness executives and self-servinglawyers have a different agenda, andpursuing litigation is the war hero’sonly recourse. The story takes placeprimarily in Carrollwood and SouthTampa, in addition to other familiarareas throughout the Tampa Bay area.As the story develops, readers are ex-

posed to behind-the-scenes events thatare common to the litigation process,but not generally known to the public.

When asked his purpose in writ-ing Justice Indicted, Dr. Shahnasariansays his objective was to provide anentertaining story through which hecould educate the public on common-place happenings that occur during lit-igation, many of which appear to bethe opposite of promoting justice.Having performed an average of be-tween 100 and 150 expert evaluationsannually, provided approximately 50depositions per year, and testified inup to 20 trials each year, Dr. Shah-nasarian has gained an appreciationand understanding of the inner work-ings of the Florida justice system, giv-ing him a unique perspective into itsprocesses and shortcomings.

Dr. Shahnasarian lives in Carroll-wood with his wife Jean and theirthree West Highland terriers, and theyhave three adult children. Justice In-dicted can be purchased atAmazon.com, Barnes and Noble, andOvermountain Press, the book’s pub-lisher. Many of his nonfiction bookscan be purchased at Amazon.com andBarnes & Noble.


Brass Tap Grand Opening!By Matt Selby

We finally have our very ownBrass Tap here in the Westchase area!Come visit their brand new locationat 4011 Tampa Road and receive aFREE DRAFT BEER just by pre-senting the coupon in their ad onpage 3! This Brass Tap is the secondin the area (the first being Carroll-wood) to offer Food along with theirgreat craft beer selection. The addi-tion of a food menu is really excitingbecause if you're like me, you can'tspend a considerable amount of timein one establishment if they don'tserve some sort of food. The greatthing about this Brass Tap is this isn'tjust "some sort" of food. The foodthey serve is fantastic! With over 60craft beers on tap, over 250 bottledbeers, exceptional wine, great foodand live music, The Brass Tap is sureto became an instant local favorite!The new Brass Tap is located at4011 Tampa Road, Oldsmar, FL34677. For more information, call(813) 749-7555 or visit their web-site at www.TheBrassTap.com.


some energy, Dogism is the place foryour pup. With a special fenced offarea for big dogs and a different areafor little dogs, there will be plenty ofspace to romp and play and dogs willreceive basic obedience training whilethey are there.

Training & AgilityDogism has classes for dogs of

all ages – from puppies learning therules of potty and crate training toadult dogs that want to learn somenew tricks.

Renee realizes that each dog has

its own individual personality andwhat works for one dog may notwork with another. Because of thisshe specifically tailors her trainingand works with you individually forthe specific issues your dog mayhave. Renee says, “Each new sessionbrings in new dogs and people, usu-ally very different from the sessionbefore. It is always a challenge toadapt material to meet the needs ofthese dog and their owners both at agroup and personalized level. I lovemeeting new breeds and learningthe backgrounds of the many res-cued pets. Each gives me an oppor-tunity to do my own homework ona specific breed’s needs or how tohandle an issue a particular dog maybe having. There is very little black

and white in dogtraining. I have tobe ready to handlewhatever shade ofgrey walks throughthe door.”

If you’re look-ing for a fun way tobond with your dog,consider one of Do-gism’s agility classes.“Our agility coursewill change eachweek so that it will

always be a fun new challenge for thedogs,” says Renee. “You can bringyour dog every week, or you cancome once a month; whatever worksbest for you.”

Agility courses are great exercisefor your dog and running through acourse that involves passing over andthrough a variety of obstacles chal-lenges your dog’s mind and body. Itwill also strengthen your dog’s mus-cles, improve coordination and in-crease endurance.

DIY BathingBring your dirty dog to Dogism,

use their supplies, make a mess, andwalk out the door with a clean,happy pup and no need to clean any-thing at your place.

Dogism has two large tubs withmoveable showerheads for do-it-your-self dog bathing. They provide thewater, shampoo, towels, dryers, nailclippers and even aprons so you don’tget your clothes wet. All you provideis the dog and the elbow grease. They

“Dogism”Continued from page 1

This collar and leash is made from recycled plasticbottles but it looks and feels like any nylon collar.

Wash your dirty dog in Dogism’s DIY bath tub


also have ramps so bigger dogs canwalk up into the tubs and shelves forsmaller dogs to stand on while theyare getting squeaky clean.

Unique Retail“If something is in our store, we

want to make sure there is a reasonfor it,” says Renee. “The toys wecarry are not everyday toys, they areinteractive toys that will stimulateyour dog mentally. We make sureeverything is the best quality andthat it will last.”

All dogs, regardless of age orbreed, need mental stimulation andoutlets for their energy throughoutthe day. At Dogism they have dogtoys for just that. Quality and satis-faction is always guaranteed, asRenee hand picks all of the itemsyou’ll find at Dogism and can helpyou find accessories and productsthat are specific to your dog, its per-sonality, and its needs.

In addition to toys, Dogism willalso carry durable, fashionableleashes, collars and other accessories

as well as high quality treats, specialtydog foods and eco friendly products.

“We want to be here for peopleand their pets,” says Renee. “We arelooking forward to being a vibrantpart of the community and gettinginvolved. We are hoping to holdseminars and special classes based onwhat people are interested in. We areopen to suggestions from the dogloving community.”

Renee and Jason own and are in-spired by their two Vizslas, Luey andBailey, and a Moluccan Cockatoo,Nara. Renee is a Certified Profes-sional Dog Trainer (CPDT – KA)and an AKC evaluator and Jason hasa degree in Psychology. Both havebeen training for over 6 years. Be-tween them, their Vizslas haveearned multiple AKC titles in Obedi-ence, Agility, and Field Work and arealso accomplished trick dogs. Luey’sproudest achievement is being a cer-tified therapy dog.

Renee and Jason have attendedmultiple seminars by experts in theindustry and are constantly workingon increasing their knowledge ofeverything related to the dog-humanrelationship.

At Dogism, they want to sup-port you and your dog. Whetheryou want a couch companion or anactive buddy, they have the knowl-edge, the experience, the productsand the services to help you andyour best friend live life the way youwant to.

Dogism is located at 110 PineAvenue South in Oldsmar. Theyare open Mon. – Sat. 10:00 a.m.to 9:00 p.m. and Sun. 12 p.m. to5:00 p.m. Doggie Daycare hoursare 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mon –Fri. For more information abouttraining classes or Dogism, visittheir website www.Dogism.com orcall (813) 854-3647

These “Fluff & Tuff” plush toys are for the toughest chewers. They have beenthoroughly tested and found to last longer than any other plush toys that the

testers have ever tried.


less hours out in the hot Florida sunmy hair has definitely taken a beat-ing. Lately I had been experiencingdry ends, and due to my long hair,greasy roots – Cynthia explained thatit is a common complaint in peoplewith long hair and this happens dueto the fact that grease gets trapped atthe root and cannot make it to theends; she assured me she had an easyfix. Recommending I try their Fusio-Dose treatment, she explained how itwould help balance out my hair andrestore it to its natural healthy shine.

My treatment started in theirglass enclosed treatment room, aquiet oasis located in the back of thesalon. “What really separates oursalon is our treatment room. Wefocus heavily on deep conditioninghair treatments – that is somethingwe are very well known for in thearea. We are the only salon on thisside of Kennedy that has Kerastase; itis a very exclusive brand. We alsohave a huge array of shampoos forevery single hair type.”

With its spa like atmosphere, thetreatment room allowed me to relaxin total comfort, without distrac-tions, as I received my shampoo andconditioning in perfect tranquility.During the treatment, Cynthia per-formed an unbelievably amazinghead and scalp massage and as thetreatment was setting, she gentlymassaged my hands and arms, allow-ing me to sink into further relaxationbefore the final rinse. It was a trulyrevitalizing experience, and it is re-markable how something as simple asgetting a hair treatment can com-pletely transform your mood andbring utter peace and serenity toyour day.

Following the shampoo, Cynthiablow-dried and styled my hair, and

bring a whole new style and flair toTampa Bay. “We opened the salon ayear and a half ago because wewanted to bring something differentto this area,” says Cynthia. “Wewanted to bring Tampa a high-endsalon to show people that there is aplace they can go to get beautifulhair, without having to travel so far.Hair is my passion. I love to teachand just make people happy; it’s sucha joy. When someone really loves hisor her hair you just feel so goodabout it. What I love most aboutwhat I do is being around people. Ilove people and I love my staff.Every single one of them has differ-ent qualities and each has somethingthat I can learn from. Every day inthe salon is different, and every daythere is a new challenge to conquerand I love challenges.”

In addition to being an exclusiveKerastase salon, Priel is also a L’OrealProfessional salon, and offers ammo-nia-free color, deep conditioning andrevitalizing hair treatments, humanhair extensions, color correction,ombre color techniques, Biolage hair

care, and more! Cynthia says, “Ourammonia-free color system uses anoil developmental system that is veryrich and hydrating for your hair. It isvery safe for pregnant women andthe oil-based system has a lot of ben-efits.” And the best part is it has nosmell, so people who are bothered bythe strong smell of other hair dyes,need not worry at Priel Salon!

On my previous visit Cynthiarecommended I try one of their fab-ulous hair treatments. As a result ofdying my hair and spending count-

“Priel Salon”Continued from page 1


the finished result was nothing shortof amazing! I was thrilled with mynew, shiny, healthy hair and couldn’twait to go show it off to my friends!Cynthia also recommended somefabulous products to help me upkeepmy hair in between treatments andthus far I have been really happy withthe results!

“What I love most about this

area is the different people that Ihave met,” says Cynthia. “We are re-ally proud of what we have achievedand for the opportunity to provideour customers with the services theyare looking for. Every single personthat walks in our doors matters to usand our mission is to provide thebest quality service possible!”

In the past year and a half that

Priel has been open the staff has ex-perienced such a positive responsefrom the community. This is greatlydue to their dedication to qualitycustomer service and the high levelof expertise of each of their stylists.She adds, “Our staff is hand picked;we are very meticulous with who wehire. Everybody works well togetheras a team and we always encourageour clients to visit any of our styliststo find the best match. Our goal is to

keep our clients happy!” Priel Salon is located at 6116

Gunn Hwy. in Tampa. Salonhours are Tues. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.;Wed., Thurs., and Fri. 10 a.m. –6:30 p.m.; and Sat. 9 a.m. – 5p.m. They are closed Sun. andMon. Fore more information or toschedule an appointment pleasecall (813) 969-6917, visitwww.PrielSalon.com, orwww.Facebook.com/PrielSalon.

Inspired by big city salons around the world, Priel Salon’s beautiful upscale design is comparable to what you would find in any major

fashion capital worldwide.


Life Amplified – Making a Difference in The Tampa CommunityBy Deborah Bostock-Kelley

Somewhere between my final in-terview question as a freelance re-porter for Patch and exiting theindependent movie theatre on NorthDale Mabry Highway in October2012, a movement was born. Only Ididn’t know it at the time. I had sim-ply asked why Tampa Pitcher Showdidn’t present spoken word poetryand then eagerly volunteered to host apoetry showcase three months later.

I probably should have realizedthat despite Tampa Pitcher Show do-nating the use of their venue, no expe-rience combined with a zero budgetfor advertising for an all-volunteerevent would be a painfully slow regis-tration process. I probably shouldhave given up.

I choose the name Life Amplifiedbecause spoken words poets amplifytelling a story, whatever topic theymight present. I created a logo and awebsite filled with information and aregistration page.

I decided to donate my portionof the ticket sales directly to a smalllocal Tampa Bay nonprofit and be avoice for their platform.

The charity I selected was Re-defining Refuge fighting againsthuman trafficking. Natasha Nasci-mento was in the process of opening ahome for rescued trafficked womenand children and was the perfect recip-ient for the show’s proceeds.

In early December, through theuse of the website, Facebook, other so-cial media and free press release sites,the event began to build momentumand other performers -not just spokenword poets- asked to perform.

The inaugural show opened onJanuary 19, 2013 with 2 singers, 9poets, a comedian/impressionistEddie Webber and a mind-readerJustin Myer.

At the end of show, I was askedby an audience member, “so when’sthe next one?”

I hadn’t even considered thepossibility.

I’ve since opened the showcase toall variety acts and I no longer have towait months for performers. The nextshow filled in days and my last twoshows filled in hours.

I think what amazed me mostthrough this journey was how eagerpeople in my community were to help

me help the selected local charity.Though the ages and experience levelsof the talent range from beginner toprofessional, the performers all cometogether for the same reason – to edu-cate about an important platform andto help a worthwhile cause.

Over the past year, three photog-raphers Mick McNabb, Kyle Mouldand James Geiger volunteered to cap-ture the event. BridesnBlooms becameour official florist to create beautiful

arrangements for each showcase. Digi-tal Printing Solutions, CarrollwoodCopy Center, MinuteMan Press andBay City Signs and Printing did nothesitate to print the program.

And for partners for our silent raf-fle for K9’s for Veterans in September,all I had to do was reach out into thecommunity and ask for a donation. Iwas never told no.

My upcoming showcase Life Am-plified KIDZHELPINGKIDZ on


May 3, 2014 is unique that it will fea-ture only children - a child emcee andperformers, 6 to 17 years old.

Life Amplified KIDZHELP-INGKIDZ will benefit the Tampachapter of Bricks for the Brave (for-merly Legos for Leukemia) foundedtwo years ago by (then 9 year) LoganAgnew to honor his friends fightingchildhood cancer. Agnew collects giftcards for purchasing Legos as well asnew boxes of Legos throughout theyear for distribution to St. Joseph’sChildren’s Hospital during the holidays.

The charity event also has a newvenue. I was invited to host Life Ampli-fied KIDZHELPINGKIDZ at theaward-winning Carrollwood PlayersTheatre, 4333 Gunn Highway, whichwill be a Lego-collection site throughMay 3. Next door, the comic bookshop Heroes Haven will collect newboxes of Legos on May 3, during theirannual “Comic Book Day” celebrationat the plaza. The coffee shop CoolMo’s Coffee donated $100 and willalso be a collection site through May 3.

Life Amplified KIDZHELP-INGKIDZ will be hosted by Logan,and 8 and a half year old comedianNicole Lauren will headline. Nicolehas been doing comedy in Florida andNew York for over 3 years.

During this family-friendly show-

case, 13 year old Elizabeth Covais, amotivational speaker at local and na-tional cancer organizations, will shareher unique perspective on being theolder sibling of a Leukemia survivor.

Registration has just opened forthis children’s variety showcase andtalent will be accepted through April14 (or when the lineup fills, whichevercomes first). No experience is re-quired, just the willingness to volun-teer and have fun for a great cause.

Tickets are wallet-friendly at $8advance online and $10 at the door;however, a donation of new Legos willget the guest in at the discounted on-line price. All proceeds received fromticket sales and a raffle will benefitBricks for the Brave.

I am completely humbled by theamount of people who really care andwant to be involved in these specialevents. I hate when I hear someonemaking the excuse, but I’m just oneperson, what can I do.

It only takes one person to makea difference and make an impact. I’vediscovered during this process, in thetime it takes to make an excuse, youcould be starting a movement.

For more information of topurchase tickets please visitwww.LifeAmplifiedShowcase.comor call (813) 416-2068.

Westchase - Vol. 3, Issue 4, April 2014

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Transcript of Westchase - Vol. 3, Issue 4, April 2014