Registration is already under way for many of the area park Summer Camps. It will continue until available space is filled. Many of the programs need teen volunteers to assist the camp counselors. Details are available on the individual city websites.

Both Safety Harbor and Oldsmar have been named as “Playful Cities USA” by “KaBOOM” magazine, but all of our area’s cities offer great programs for youngsters to be able to enjoy their summers to the fullest. Virtually all of the cities in the area have programs designed to make summers fun for their younger residents.

‘Let’s Play!’ Is Largo’s Theme

This year’s theme in the Largo Parks is “Let’s Play!” Their program includes over 60 full and half-day summer camps for preschool, elementary, middle school and teenage youngsters. Choose from a variety of full day camps, sport camps, specialty camps, theater and dance camps as well as pre-camp days.

Early registration took place in March at the Highland Recreation Complex and the Southwest Recreation Complex, but additional registrations continues throughout the summer for special interest and half-day camps. It’s possible to mix and match summer camps and locations to plan a fun and exciting summer. Camp information can be found in the Play Magazine that is available at all Largo recreation facilities, Largo City Hall or Largo Public Library.

For more information, including available camp scholarships, visit www.LargoCamps.com, or call Highland at 727-518-3016 or Southwest at 727-518-3125.

Safety Harbor Summer Camp Is REAL Fun!

Safety Harbor will have both part day and full day camps for children ages 4 to 18 this summer. Full day camps will run from Monday, June10, through Friday, August 16. PlayCamp is for children entering 1-4 grades, Camp 56 for those entering 5-6 grades, and teen Camp for those entering 7-8 grades. The Day Camp rate is $100 per week. Residents must purchase a non-resident seasonal card for $40 per child.

Safety Harbor Part Day Camps feature a seemingly endless variety of activities as kids can spend their vacations learning to cook, kayak, paint, play a variety of sports and more. Camps range from Wee Camps for children ages 4-6 to Teen Adventure Camp and everything in between. Costs vary for these camps. Although registration began in mid-March, new registrations will continue to be accepted on a space-available basis.

To find your recipe for REAL Fun, visit SafetyHarborCamps.com or call the Community Center at 727-724-1530.

Oldsmar Registration Begins in April

Most of the Summer Camp program in the City of Oldsmar involves full-day camps. Registration for residents begins April 15, while Non-Residents may register beginning April 29. The Summer Camp Program is for youngsters from 5-12 years of age and will take place at the Cypress Forest Recreation Center. Registration is closed after June 3.

Sessions will run from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at a cost to those with rec cards of $700 per child for the full 10 weeks and $375 per child for five weeks. An additional registration fee of $25 per child and proof of residence, Non-residents may purchase a six-month non-resident rec card for $69.55 to be eligible to pay resident camp fees. Without this card, non-residents pay $1050 per child for 10 weeks and $562.50 for 5 weeks.

Kids will participate in active games, arts and crafts, sports, field trips, city excursions and more, with each week having a different theme. Campers will attend “Nature Kyle’s” educational presentations each week. Kyle Riefler will also have a summer Fishing Camp at Bicentennial Park this year that will cover all aspects of fishing for youngsters from 8 to 12 years of age and an Outdoor Camp at Mobbly Bayou Park. Dates have not yet been announced. For more details on all the Oldsmar Summer Camp Programs contact Cypress Forest Rec Center or visit www.myoldsmar.com.

Clearwater Camps Build Character

Clearwater residents entering grades 1-8 are eligible to participate in the Summer Camp 2012 program in Clearwater. Ten weekly sessions are planned to run from June 10 through August 16. Cost per session is $75 Play Pass/$100 Recreation Card/ $125 no card. Registration began in March and will continue during normal center hours until camps are full.

Camp locations are Countryside Recreation Center, Long Center, Moccasin Lake Science and Nature Camp (Grades 1-6) and Ross Norton Recreation and Aquatic Complex. Additional details can be found at the various camp locations or on the City of Clearwater website. Residents must present two proofs of residency. Camp services are also available for non-residents at an increased cost.

St. Petersburg Offers Summer Camps

With the theme “Creative, Memorable and Affordable Fun,” St. Petersburg’s Leisure Services Department is offering Summer Camps at all of the city’s parks that offer after-school programs and/or school holiday programs for youngsters. Participants must have an ADVANTAGE membership card to be eligible to participate.

The ten-week summer program begins June 10 and runs until August 16 at a cost of $650 for the entire camp period. Playcamp is planned for kids in grades 1-6, and Teen Camp is available for kids in grades 6-8. The Early Learning Coalition offers fee assistance for St. Petersburg residents.

Tarpon Springs Summer Camps Sell Out Quickly

Tarpon Springs is offering an eight-week summer camp from June 10 to August 2, from 7:30 a.m.to 5:30 p.m. for only $400. There are two camps available. One is known as the “Shooters” for kids from grades 1-5. The second is called the “Sharks” for kids from grades 6-8. Many field trips are planned during the eight week program, some free and others with a small fee.

Some of the trips are Air Heads, a scavenger hunt with lunch at the Sponge Docks; Buccaneer Bay, beach days and much-much more. Camps are held in an air-conditioned gym and other rooms at the Community Center.

“We sold out last year, so sign up early if you want a spot for your child,” recommends Daniela Smyth, Camp Director. You can call 727-942-5628, ext. 5, for more information.

Dunedin Summer Camps Include Varied Programs

Dunedin’s Park and Recreation Department will offer a number of full-time and part-time camps this summer. “Quest for Adventure” Registration opens April 4 and continues until the camps are full, according to Terry Trudell, Parks and Recreation Superintendent.

Weekly full-day camps will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Supervision is available before and after camp hours for an additional charge. Camps range from a pre-kindergarten Learn and Play Camp to the iPlay Camp for Fun for 5 to 11-year-olds and Teen Camp for those from 11 to 14 years of age. Also offered will be Hammock Day Camp (available in three separate two-week sessions) and Nature Center in Hammock Park with nine different theme weeks.

Several special camps will be available, including Bagpipe, Baseball, Sailing, Golf, Skating, Tennis, Theater and Chef John’s 15^th Annual Summer Camp in the Kitchen. Fees for these camps vary, with those having Recreation ID cards given a reduced rate. Some scholarships are available to assist with camp expenses for those who need them.

Registrations are being accepted at the Dunedin Community Center on Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday registrations will be accepted from 8 a.m. to noon. Online Registration is available at www.DunedinGov.com for youngsters with a Recreation Card and Emergency/Identification form on file. Information is available by calling 727-812-4530.

In honor of the park’s Golden Anniversary, the Friends of Fort De Soto Park recreated the original park dedication photo (left) that starred 1963 Miss Florida, Gloria Brady. The updated version below features 2012 Miss Florida Laura McKeeman and a bit more color.

Visit St. Pete/Clearwater produced a video highlighting Fort De Soto Park’s conquistador history, many amenities and growing Hollywood allure of the 1,100-acre park that attracts more than 2.7 million visitors a year.

A virtual celebration is taking place online with a Facebook album, Pinterest board and Instagram/Twitter photos. Fans can share their sights from around the legendary park by using the hashtag #50Views.

A celebration at Fort De Soto took place on Saturday, May 10, with sea oat planting followed by a re-dedication ceremony, water ski show and an appearance from McKeeman. The Friends of Fort De Soto Park sponsored a community cookout, giveaways throughout the day and live music.

Download Fort De Soto HD B-Roll

Download Fort De Soto High-Res Images

View Fort De Soto 50th Celebration Video

For more information, visit www.VisitStPeteClearwater.com.

For more information or questions please contact, Linda Kay O’Reilly, vice president of development at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, at 727-441-1790 x256 or at loreilly@cmaquarium.org.

Please note: The sequel to the movie is not a guarantee yet.

Click here to view the letter to Gov. Rick Scott

When June rolls around in Palm Harbor, an appropriate question to pose would be “What would Jimmy Buffett do?” The answer of course would be, have a tropical themed street festival that pays tribute to Jimmy Buffett, because it’s 5 o’clock somewhere.  On Saturday, June 1, relax with tourists and locals alike at the 12th Annual Palm Harbor Parrot Head Party in the Downtown Historic District of Palm Harbor from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m. hosted by Old Palm Harbor Main Street, or OPHMS.

After twelve years, the street festival that takes place along Georgia Avenue draws over 20,000 visitors from all over the country.  With the variety of island style activities, there will be fun for everyone in the community.  Such activities include live entertainment, dancing and contests in honor of Jimmy Buffett.  While enjoying the food court or browsing the unique vendors, guests will sway to the island sounds of The Caribbean Chillers, the premier Jimmy Buffett tribute band, and the Trop Rock Junkies.

If parents need to sit back and relax for a bit, there is a children’s play area provided. Along with the playground, there will be tons of games, rock climbing, bounce houses and craft time for the little ones. Toward the end of the event, winners will be announced for three contests: Best Jimmy Buffett look-alike, Best Island Dress, and Best Looking Parrot Head.  Prizes will be awarded to the winners.

Sponsorships, exhibit tables, and business/food/craft vendor tables are available.  The variety of vendors add to the sense of the Palm Harbor community.  For more information about the event, check out their website at http://ophmainst.com/events/.

As mentioned before, the fundraising event is hosted by OPHMS.  The organization’s “mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of life and business in Palm Harbor”. The funds raised will assist in  maintaining the Historic Rheba Sutton White Chapel, Harbor Hall and the Historic District in Palm Harbor.

(By Arielle Giordano)

Sandpearl Resort has offered to provide five military service members and their families a complimentary four-night vacation starting this Memorial Day. The service members were deployed during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.  In addition to the vacation at the luxurious beachfront resort, the Sandpearl will offer a “VIP tour of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and a sunset cruise aboard the Kai Lani.”

“We feel this quality time with their families is something that they will always cherish, and we want them to know how much their service is appreciated when they come back home,” said Eric Waltz, Sandpearl Resort’s General Manager.

Troop Rewards is a non-profit organization based out of Tampa that provides recovery vacations for returning U.S. troops and their families.  Specifically, Troop Rewards focuses on helping members that served for the Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.  Their goal is to assist the troops’ transition back into civilian life with relaxing vacations, aided recovery, and other rewards. If you have any questions or a desire to help give back to our troops, visit www.TroopRewards.org.

Tom Burkett, Troop Reward’s Executive Director, says, “This is such a great way to honor, remember and reward the servicemen and women who have served and defended our freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan over the last ten years. Also, to be able to team up with such a beautiful and inspiring resort is the icing on the cake.”

Nestled along a large expanse of Gulf Coast beach, Sandpearl Resort recognizes the importance of the environment by utilizing eco-conscious practices in their resort.  As a result, they are the first Silver LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, certified resort in Florida.

“LEED is an internationally recognized green building program,” Waltz says. “It provides building owners and operators with a framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable green building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions.”  Visit http://www.sandpearl.com/ to learn more about what the Sandpearl Resort has to offer, and also check out http://www.usgbc.org/leed to learn more about LEED certification.

(By Arielle Giordano)

“West Side Story” will wow and inspire audiences in the Tampa Bay area. Photo courtesy of RuthEckerdHall.com.

Do you know what original American Broadway production was inspired by William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet? West Side Story has a dark theme, but a compelling love story.  Clearwater welcomes a rendition of this musical production that outlines the rivalries between two teenage street gangs in the mid-1950s located in the Upper West Side of New York City.  This timely yet powerful musical will be presented at Ruth Eckerd Hall from Friday, June 21 until Sunday, June 23 at 8:00 p.m.

As a Tony Award-winning Best Musical, Florida is in for a real treat. The West Side Story portrays one of the most memorable love stories of all times in a two to three hour time span.  Admission ranges between $50 and $70, with group discounts available at http://www.rutheckerdhall.com/events/broadway-and-theater/?d=2013-06-21,2013-06-23.

Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim have been credited for the some of the most popular songs such as “I Feel Pretty,” “Tonight,” and “Something’s Coming” in the production. West Side Story’s music is only half the beauty of the play; it also accompanies lively choreography.   Associated Press praises the production’s choreography, “West Side Story remains Broadway’s best dance-driven musical. Five decades have not dimmed the extraordinary choreography or the score that pulsates throughout.”

Enjoy a spectacular evening in support of ALPHA House. Get on board the StarLite Sapphire Dining Yacht for an intimate dinner cruise, featuring gorgeous panoramic views of the Boca Ciega Bay.

•    Proceeds benefit the women and babies of ALPHA HOUSE of Pinellas County
•    Enjoy Cocktails & Butler-Passed Hors d’oeuvres on the upper deck indoor-outdoor Club Lounge followed downstairs by an elegant Four-Course dinner service with a choice of 10 tantalizing dinner entrees
•    Full Complimentary Open Bar and Featured Wines with Dinner Service
•    Silent Auction & Door Prizes
•    Cruise from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
•    Musical Entertainment

Find out more at www.destinationtampabay.com

Tickets are limited, so reserve yours NOW! Just $125 per person to help a great cause!
Reserve your seat on Destination Tampa Bay’s StarLite Sapphire ALPHA HOUSE Benefit Dinner Cruise online at www.StarLiteDiningCruises.com/alphahouse.htm

Mary Ann’s parents, Marilyn and Roy, found local churches willing to assist the woman, but the Deebs realized there were many more who needed help. Roy Deeb became passionate about a solution and, after much work to find the necessary funding, ALPHA House of Pinellas County became a reality.

Now, 34 years later, ALPHA House provides safe, transitional crisis housing for girls and women aged 14 to 41. Since it began, it has been temporary home to more than 3,000 women, teens and babies.

Executive Director Jennifer Stracick walks down narrow hallways, opening doors, describing the program, and turning off an occasional light. “These girls have no families. They don’t have the love and support they need. When there’s a boy showing them attention, they feel loved. They’re not getting the kind of attention from where they should―like from a mom or a dad, and they end up not being educated on the birds and the bees,” she says.

There are two separate areas for transitional residents: 16 beds for adults and 8 for minors. Each area has two shared bathrooms and laundry areas.

“People always want to buy baby clothes,” she says, but Costco donates all that. She pauses when asked what the center really needs. “We’re in jeopardy of losing some of our funding, so we’re scrambling to find more money.”

ALPHA House isn’t just a place for mothers to stay before and after their babies are born. Residents are taught positive parenting, and they’re given skills to live healthy, productive lives. They attend school, GED programs, or are placed in internships or jobs. The goal is to help each mother to become self-sufficient.

Cesiley’s Story
“I got pregnant in my senior year of high school,” Cesiley says. “I was seventeen, and I didn’t know what I was going to do.”

Even though her situation at home wasn’t always easy, Cesiley had been working toward a better future. She held a part time job, made good grades and planned to go to college.

At almost five months along, Cesiley’s pregnancy started to show. Her step-dad and his girlfriend finally confronted her. Within a month, her stepfather decided to relinquish his parental rights. “He told me I had to leave. A caseworker tried to take me away, but I refused.” The next day, she was removed from school and arrested for being a runaway. “I was six-and-a-half months pregnant.”

Cesiley was taken to ALPHA House and given a small room containing a twin bed, a dresser and a crib. “At first I was terrified,” she says. “The girls seemed so different from me.”

After Cesiley started interacting with the other girls, she attended counseling, met with her case manager and, like the other girls, she attended life skills education.

“My counselor, Miss Julie, was wonderful,” Cesiley says. “She is so understanding.” Her baby boy, Jayden, was born in August 2009, one day after Cesiley turned 18. “I decided to stay at ALPHA House a little longer,” she says. “I knew it was the best thing for us.”

But then tragedy struck. In November, at only three months old, Jayden passed away.
Cesiley could barely function. “I couldn’t pay for a headstone,” she says. “My family and friends wouldn’t have helped either. Miss Jennifer did a fundraiser. Then she helped me pick out a headstone, and bought it. It was $900.”

Now, at 21, Cesiley loves being mom to her second son, who is nine months old. She enjoys her job as an assistant manager in a retail store and still dreams of obtaining a college degree. About a year ago, she started talking to her step-dad again.

“He’s still with his girlfriend. I know they wanted me to be a welfare recipient, but I have a job. I pay my own bills. I have a car. Everything I own is in my name. I don’t need my stepdad’s help. I just need him to be there for my son. Now he is. He loves my son.”

As Cesiley’s baby cries in the background, she takes a moment to attend to his needs. “I don’t want people to feel bad for me,” she says. “I just want them to know my story.”

ALPHA House, located at 701 5th Ave. North in St. Petersburg. For more information, visit ALPHA House online at www.alphahousepinellas.org or call 727-822-8190

Mayda Carrillo, RN, D.O.M., N.D. Pain Specialist, Cosmetic Acupuncture, Anti-Stress Consultant

Mei Zen means ”Beautiful Person” in Chinese. At Alternative Health Therapies in Clearwater, Dr. Mayda Carrillo uses this unique form of acupuncture to help her clients become beautiful “from the inside out.”

Dr. Carrillo became interested in Chinese acupuncture after 15 years of working as a Registered Nurse, with experience in surgical, open heart surgery and psychiatric nursing as well as serving as assistant director of nurses at a Chicago Veterans Hospital. She has both Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Nursing and still has an active nursing license in Florida.

She began five years of university studies at the Traditional Institute of Chinese Medicine in Miami and took a challenging two-day examination in California to become recognized as a Diplomate in Oriental Medicine. To learn Mei Zen, she attended seminars with Dr. Martha Lucas, a Colorado resident with a national reputation for her knowledge of the technique.

Clients who come to see Dr. Carrillo for this distinctive cosmetic acupuncture procedure, discover very quickly that this Asian acupuncture process addresses the whole body, not just the face.

“Mei Zen promotes blood and lymph circulation, rehydrates the skin’s external layer and increases nutrition to the skin by allowing breathing of the skin,” she says. “The treatments stimulate elastin and collagen protein and reduce and relax tension in the nervous system. The result is more beautiful skin and a healthier body.”

It all begins with an initial consultation, at which time Dr. Carrillo does diagnostics to see deep layers of the skin and examines the 18 pulses in the tongue to assess the conditions of the various organs in the body. The facial analysis reveals those organ areas that are under the most stress and which are most deficient.

“It’s not just about the face,” she says. An additional side effect of the Mei Zen technique is that her clients lose weight. Their health and energy improves as it helps “turn back the clock” in their overall appearance. Dr. Carrillo points out that Mei Zen brings excellent results when people are involved in their own health.

“We raise their awareness so they can’t help but know,” she says. “They will be able to think better and to feel better. Mei Zen improves their life,” she says. “When you clear the inside, the outside clears as well.”

Alternative Health Therapies, Inc. is licensed by the Florida Board of Health and provides a variety of other health therapies. The facility is located at 1201 Sheridan Road in Clearwater, one block north of Sunset Point at the corner of Douglas and Sheridan. For more information, call 727-449-9090 or visit their website at www.acupunctureclearwaterflorida.com/acupuncture.

The IRS has recently doubled its efforts to prevent this type of fraud and address victim concerns, but you should also take some steps to protect yourself. Your best defense is to prevent your personal financial information from falling into the wrong hands. Here are some guidelines for protecting yourself from tax refund fraud.

Protect your Social Security number. Your government-issued identification is prized information to thieves intent on opening fake accounts and claiming refunds that don’t belong to them. Keep your card in a safe place in your home rather than in your wallet and don’t provide your number unless absolutely necessary.

Monitor your financial accounts. Check your account balances and transactions regularly to spot unauthorized activity.

Check your credit reports. You are entitled to a free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus: Experian®, Transunion® and Equifax®.  If you notice adverse credit actions or accounts that you did not open yourself, take action.

Keep financial documents secure. Keep hard copies of your returns under lock and key, and shred statements you no longer need. Criminals have been known to go through personal trash in pursuit of financial records.

Take extra care online. Maintain a firewall on your personal computer and avoid accessing your financial information on open networks. Clear your browser history and “cookies” (the little files that remember passwords or previous visits to websites) before and after e-filing your taxes or visiting financial sites that contain your private information.

Beware phishing schemes. “Phishing” is a method of falsely soliciting information with criminal intent. Identity thieves have become more sophisticated, using design programs to replicate logos and create emails and even websites that look legitimate, but are not. If you receive an email that appears to be from the IRS—or any institution, for that matter—that contains a request for your social security number or financial accounts, it is probably a phishing scam that should be forwarded to the agency it is attempting to represent.

Contact the proper authorities if you suspect you’ve been a victim of identity theft. If your tax refund is involved, notify the IRS by completing IRS Identity Theft Affidavit (form 14039), which can be found at irs.gov. Also contact your bank, credit card companies and the local police. Talk to your financial advisor for additional help establishing safeguards for your financial information.

Anne C. Peterson, CFP® Financial Planner

Meet Anne C. Peterson, CFP® Financial Planner
With 14 years of experience as a Financial Advisor, Anne C. Peterson brings a wealth of experience to her work as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professional. Her office with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Is located at 1410 Lake Tarpon Avenue, Suite D, in Tarpon Springs, where she works with individual clients by creating one-to-one relationships that provide tailored financial solutions specific to each client’s needs; whether they’re looking for investment strategies, retirement income, long-term care planning, estate or tax planning strategies.

She offers a broad range of financial products and services including mutual funds and certificates, as well as brokerage services and financial planning. She also offers flexibility in the way you work with her: online, in person, or both.

To help Destination Tampa Bay readers reach their financial goals, Anne encourages them to call her to arrange for a no-obligation, free consultation to discuss their individual situations. While she specializes in helping women, she has experience in helping the entire family, whether your goal is your retirement, tax planning strategies or your or your parents’ long-term care needs. She also is experienced in helping you develop approaches for talking with your parents about their future health care and estate planning needs.

Call her at 727-361-0440 or contact her online at anne.c.peterson@ampf.com for a complimentary consultation.

BJ’s hosts Beer Dinners and pairings every quarter, generally five courses paired with up to eight special brews and featuring the first ever BJ’s Brewmaster’s Reserve series, seasonal craft beers made with premium ingredients and bolder taste profiles.  The next one is in May.

Enjoy a beer and a bite and watch your favorite team on one of the flatscreen TVs. BJ’s  has a fantastic lunch menu, offering BJ’s brews for only $3.50 per pint (Monday – Friday,  11am-3pm) as well as pizzas, salads, burgers and sandwiches. Dinner items range from steaks and pasta to ribs and seafood, and there’s even a special kids menu.
3800 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park • (727) 525-4640
Westfield Mall, 27001 US Highway 19 N, Clearwater • (727) 726-8855
8002 Citrus Park Town Center, Citrus Park • (813) 852-1910
Hours vary • www.bjsrestaurants.com

Cricketers
Enjoy the atmosphere of a lively British pub at Cricketers, where over 50 domestic and imported crafts and microbrews are available. With two dozen beers on tap, tip a 20-ounce pint from across the pond such as Bass, Boddington’s, Old Speckled Hen, Fuller’s ESB, Strongbow Cider and Guinness. A full liquor bar and wine are also available. Happy hour is from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week with nightly drink specials on wells, domestic pints and wines. Craft, import and microbrew specials are Thursday through Saturday; Hospitality Night with $6 domestic pitchers is Sunday through Wednesday from 9 p.m. to close.

Sports fans love Cricketers where NHL, NFL, MLB and British football (soccer) games can be seen on over 32 TVs. Don’t miss the pitcher and bucket specials during Tampa Bay Lightning, Tampa Bay Rays and NFL games. Hungry? There’s something for everyone on Cricketers diverse menu of British and American favorites from Shepherd’s Pie and Cornish Pasty to burgers, steak and shrimp. Cricketers famous fish and chips are the best in town! Kick back with live music on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights for the dinner hours and live bands on the weekends. It’s always a jolly good time at Cricketers!
2634 Bayshore Blvd., Dunedin • (727) 736-1322
Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. daily • www.cricketerspub.com

Barfly
For a fun, laid back bar with an intimate Key West style atmosphere, look no further than Bar Fly on downtown Safety Harbor’s Main Street. Got a fish story? Come and share it at Bar Fly. Owners Jeff and Celeste Harrell welcome both visitors and locals into this colorful fishing-theme pub — you can even purchase fish art by Harrell and other local artists. Enjoy a wide variety of craft and domestic beer in bottles and on tap. Specialties include Florida Brews from Florida Beer Company, Cigar City Brewing and Florida Avenue, among others, that change regularly. Of course, Red Stripe is always on hand for a taste of the islands!

Bar Fly also offers a fine selection of wine and delicious signature island white sangria. Be sure to try the fresh locally-made smoked fish spread with crackers and hot sauce – a house favorite – or to satisfy an appetite step into the Saltwater Grill where you can order off a menu of Gulf-style seafood, including peel-and-eat shrimp, fish tacos, raw oysters and grouper sandwiches.

At Bar Fly, you’ll find a friendly wait staff, a sidewalk patio, and live easy-listening music on weekends.
100 Main St., Safety Harbor • (727) 400-4790
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 4-11 p.m. • Friday – Saturday noon –midnight
 Sunday noon -10 p.m., closed Mondays

Capitol Beer House
In the heart of downtown Clearwater, things are looking up on Cleveland Street since the opening last fall of Capitol Beer House. Less than a block from the Capitol Theatre, Capitol Beer House offers 32 craft and specialty beers from around the world on tap and more in bottles. Favorites include locally made brews from Cigar City and Dunedin Brewery, and there’s a good selection of wine. Just looking for a place to hang out? Play pool or darts or watch your favorite sporting events on the big screen.

Fridays are always lively at Capitol Beer House, especially the last Friday of each month when Blast Fridays take over Cleveland Street. Stop by for live music and a friendly crowd every Friday, and check out the new Live Jazz Series from 8 p.m. to midnight on the third Monday of each month.

In need of a nosh? Step next door to Tony’s Pizzeria & Ristorante for a delicious Italian dinner or pizza sold by the pie or slice. Capitol Beer House owner Tony Starova runs the popular restaurant which is a locals favorite!
422 Cleveland St., Clearwater • 727-449-1900
Mon. – Thurs. 2 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Fri. – Sat. 2 p.m. – 2 a.m. • Sun. 2 p.m. – 12 a.m.

Enjoy modern studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units with waterfront or garden view balconies. Relax poolside to soak up the sun, bicycle on the Pinellas Trail, kayak to beautiful Caladesi Island or hop aboard the Jolley Trolley to explore the area from Clearwater Beach to Tarpon Springs.

“Our repeat clientele from the Orlando-Tampa area continues to grow,” says resort co-owner Dave Dawson. “One of the advantages of staying at Beso Del Sol is that you can park your car and forget about it. You can walk, ride a bike or take the Jolley Trolley everywhere. We have a brand new fleet of beach cruiser bikes and we’re the only resort directly on the trolley route.”

Overnight guests with boats under 30 feet can take advantage of a complimentary slip at the 40-slip dock, he adds.

Kick back with a refreshing drink at the Marker 8 Tiki Bar, where live music fills the air on weekends. Don’t miss the complimentary “Sunset Shot” that salutes the setting of El Sol every day! The resort welcomes new chefs John Lewis and Debbie McGiffin, formerly of La Maison Gourmet. Breakfast and lunch are served daily, including Sunday Brunch with a spectacular view of the water.

Look for Gulf Coast specialties such as Crab Cakes Oscar, Shrimp and Grits and Chicken and Waffles. Casual pub fare is served daily at the Tiki Bar, weather permitting, with fresh grouper sandwiches a hands-down favorite.

For a limited time, take advantage of a “Weekend Staycation Special;” call (727) 734-8851 or go to www.besodelsolresort.com for more information.

800-331-2548 and 727-734-8851 • www.besodelsolresort.com
Beso Del Sol Resort • 1414 Bayshore Blvd. in Dunedin, FL

Chi Chi’s Art Par Tee will take place on Sunday, June 2, from 5 to 8 p.m. Tom and Mary James are inviting interested Chi Chi’s supporters to tour the multi-million-dollar Tom and Mary James/Raymond James Financial Art Collection at the Raymond James Feather Sound campus and to enjoy a performance by the Royal Theater Art Academy of the Boys and Girls Club. Dress for the event is resort casual—no tie.

Participants will also have an opportunity to enjoy the delicious cuisine of the Baystar Restaurant Group, accompanied by world class wines from Premier Beverage. They may also participate in a silent auction, featuring a select group of artists and their original art work as well as a live auction offering trips and sports packages. All proceeds from the event will support the various activities of the Chi Chi Rodriguez Academy.

Tom James, Frank Chivas Head Chi Chi’s Board
Tom James not only is the Chairman of the Board of Raymond James Financial, but he also serves as Chairman of the Chi Chi Academy Board of Directors. Frank Chivas, who founded the prestigious event with Blake Casper, serves as Vice-Chairman of the Chi Chi Academy Board. Co-chairs of this year’s Art ParTee are Phil Powell, Tom Harrington and David Rood.

Frank Chivas owns the Bay Star Restaurant Group, which includes Island Way Grill in Clearwater, Salt Rock Grill in Indian Shores, Marlin-Darlin Key West Grill in Belleair Bluffs and Rumba Island Bar and Grill in Clearwater and Oldsmar.

The annual event is one of the major fundraisers for Chi Chi’s Academy and helps support the Chi Chi Academy Public School, serving struggling students in grades 4-8 and helps them overcome adversity in a unique way: through the game of golf. The Chi Chi Golf Course in Clearwater is the only such facility in the world where proceeds are used to benefit children’s programs.

The Foundation also supports The First Tee of Clearwater, which prepares over 800 children for the game of life annually, offering summer and weekend programs to teach life skills and core values through the game of golf.

Another aspect of Chi Chi Foundation programs is the Boys and Girls Clubs at Chi Chi’s. This after-school program helps support formal learning by offering homework assistance. It also utilizes The First Tea teaching components in self-management, personal development and academic achievement. This Boys and Girls Club after school program is able to provide one-on-one mentors through Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Pinellas.

World-Renowned Artists in Collection
The Tom and Mary James Art Collection is truly extraordinary. Outside, installed throughout the lawns, gardens and parking lots of the Raymond James Campus, bronze cowboys and Indian warriors welcome visitors and present a hint of the fact that more than half of the collection is Western and Southwestern art. The total collection of some 2,400 pieces is one of the largest private art collections in Florida.

The Collection consists of paintings, bronze sculptures, graphics, mixed media, photographs, pottery, glass and prints by such world renowned artists as Alexander Colder, Salvador Dali, Roy Lichtenstein, Joan Miro, Robert Rauschenberg, James Rosenquist, Peter Max and Andy Warhol. Many Florida artists are also represented, including 30 pieces by St. Petersburg glass artist Duncan McClellan. Emily Shrider serves as full-time curator, overseeing the collection.

Silent Auction Features Select Artists
Included in the silent auction for pieces of art displayed by a limited number of select artists will be the works of husband-and-wife potters Barbara and Joel Ott. Barbara Ott became enamored with clay through an introductory class at the Dunedin Fine Art Center in 1996. With a background in the “black and white” world of accounting, Barbara found that clay offered her a myriad of possibilities and challenges and a way to find herself through the creative process. Expressing her spirit has become an integral part of the work she creates.

Joel Ott took three pottery lessons and “was hooked.” Throwing pots on the wheel offered Joel a way to express his creativity and find his balance after stressful workdays. Centering clay on the wheel and forming the graceful lines of a pot is a meditative process that allows Joel’s artistic expression to flourish.

Sponsorship Opportunities are available for Chi Chi’s Art Par Tee, and individual tickets are available for $100 each. For more information contact Nancy Agnew on line at nancy@chichi.org or call 727-726-8829, ext. 209, or visit the Chi Chi website at www.chichi.org

Restaurants range from casual beachside cafes to fine seafood and steak houses, all offering up to 35 percent less than what you would normally pay for a three-course dinner. Some of Clearwater Beach’s finest eateries are participating including the Sandpearl’s Caretta on the Gulf, Rusty’s Bistro at the Sheraton Sand Key, Island Way Grill, and SHOR American Seafood Grille at the Hyatt Clearwater Beach. But you’ll also find casual favorites like Clear Sky Beachside Café, Lobster Pot Bistro, Hooters, and all four Frenchy’s cafes.
The week of culinary adventure, organized by the Clearwater Beach Chamber of Commerce, begins with a Kickoff Party from 5 to 8 pm on Friday, May 10, along the white sandy beach and emerald-blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Gulfview Boulevard along Beach Walk will be closed to traffic in front of the Hyatt Clearwater Beach where attendees will be able to sample foods from participating restaurants, enjoy live music, arts and crafts, and sip a variety of beer and wine at the Wine Tasting. They can also enter a raffle featuring prizes and certificates to restaurants, attractions and hotels. Featured entertainer this year will be internationally acclaimed jazz and R&B artist Nick Colionne on the Brighthouse Networks stage. From jazz to R&B to blues to rock, Colionne takes the guitar to unexpected places every time he performs. A spectacular fireworks display over the Gulf will close the evening. Admission is $20, with wine tasting additional.

“We’re excited to have Southern Wine & Spirits joining us this year in the Wine Village,” said event founder and chair Fran Bartlett. “They’ll be bringing in some vintners from the wineries who will be pouring and meeting the public. With the food, the wine, the music and the art, it should really be a fun evening.”

Diners who get a Passport stamped at each restaurant they visit can vote for their favorite food and chef. Once they collect four different restaurant stamps they can enter for a chance to win a number of great prizes with the Grand Prize a weekend stay in a two-bedroom Gulf-front suites at the Hyatt Regency Aqualea Resort on Clearwater Beach! Event proceeds go to the Clearwater Beach Chamber with a portion donated to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

“Many of the restaurants will be featuring special events during the week, too, such as wine tastings and celebrity chefs,” added Fran Bartlett, event founder and chair. “The prix fixe dinners are really an amazing deal – you get a three-course meal for nearly the price of an entrée alone. This is a great opportunity to discover new beach area restaurants as well as support the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.”

Tickets to the Kickoff Party and Passports can be picked up at any participating restaurant during Restaurant Week or at the Clearwater Beach Chamber at 333 C S. Gulfview Blvd. (www.beachchamber.com)

Visit www.ClearwaterBeachRestaurantWeek.com for more information and an updated listing of all participating restaurants.

By Marcia Biggs

Suzan Decker Ross and her staff at Decker Ross Interiors say it absolutely is. They’ve done a number of projects that prove it.

“When we designed the model at the Sandpearl  Residences on Clearwater Beach, we wanted to show that you can have a stunning look and design while still respecting the environment,’’ says Suzan. “Knowing that the Sandpearl Resort takes pride in its Silver LEED hotel certification, we felt that it was very important to keep our design as “green” as possible.

“There are ways to be environmentally friendly in your home or office without a lot of extra effort or money and still have a designer look. I try to do as much as I can to be “green’’ – recycling and re-purposing is a way of life with me.’’

At Clearwater’s Sandpearl, the designer used materials ranging from eco-tile to low VOC paint, which reduces the release of toxic fumes and harmful gases. Even the wallpaper was produced from renewable forests, using water-based inks free of heavy metals and solvents.

Suzan also used wood furniture that was obtained from reputable, sustainable suppliers in the United States. The master bedroom draperies are made of 100 percent recycled polyester and aluminum.

“Our intent was to create a striking design while keeping  the environmental impact  in mind,’’ she says, adding that the recessed ceiling and kitchen backsplash in the model feature rapidly renewing capiz shells that were farm raised. The mills used to produce the tiles adhere to strict environmental standards and fair labor practices as well.

With April being the month that focuses on “Going Green,’’ Suzan has a variety of ideas for homeowners who want to be as friendly to the environment as possible, while still creating a spectacular design for their homes.

“Choose natural materials, such as bamboo or wood, that are renewable, and which come from suppliers that are not clear-cutting forests,’’ says the designer, who has over 20 years of business experience behind her.

“Natural materials that come from  renewable resources such as cotton – or again bamboo – are great for upholstery or draperies,’’ Suzan says. “We’re noticing that more companies are coming out with fabrics containing recycled, post-consumer materials as well, which makes our jobs much easier – with more designer options.”

The designer shows her commitment to the environment in her own showroom and office, by implementing a variety of eco-friendly practices.

“We recycle as much as we can – cardboard, paper, newspapers, aluminum cans,’’ Suzan says. “Rather than drinking from paper or Styrofoam cups, we have our own mugs and glasses.”

The designer notes that she and her staff are careful about turning off lights whenever rooms are empty and that nothing is ever wasted.

“We’ve moved away from incandescent light bulbs throughout the building, and we purchase copy paper made of recycled materials.

“Other environmental initiatives we have taken on include donating gently used items to local charities and working with local artists to pick up outdated fabric and wallpaper books to use in their creations,’’ Suzan says.

“One artist created an adorable, functional patchwork messenger bag made from our fabric samples, and an art teacher from a local school showed us a handmade book she taught her students to make from our discarded samples. It was beautiful.

“I don’t want to just talk the talk,’’ Suzan  says. “I think it’s best to be an example. There’s always something more that you can do, but you need to do something.

“Start small,” she suggests to clients. “Focus on using environmentally friendly fabrics, low VOC paint or ‘green’ flooring. Check your lighting. Use CFL or LED bulbs rather than incandescent ones.

“Once you start, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to continue. Not only will you have a great-looking home, you’ll also have an environmentally friendly one that is healthier for your family and the planet.’’

Rob Harris Productions

Is it difficult to design with the environment in mind?
Ask the PROs

It may seem intimidating to make changes to your home or office using “green” principles, but there are simple steps you can take.

One of the easiest is to switch to low VOC paint for your next painting project. Why release toxic fumes and harmful gases into your interior environment if you have an easy, cost-effective alternative?

If you choose wallpaper, make sure your selections were produced from renewable forests, using water-based inks, which are free of heavy metals and solvents.

More companies are also offering fabrics containing post-consumer, recycled materials. They are wonderful options for window treatments or upholstery. The quality and “feel” are very nice, and you will not have to sacrifice the “designer look” you are trying to achieve.

If you are having difficulty locating these types of products, or need additional eco-friendly design ideas, our designers would be happy to assist you.

These days pets are considered to be members of the family.  We spoil them with birthday parties, presents, and all manner of toys and treats to keep them happy.  But, when money is tight, people look to cut costs wherever they can, and costs of medical care for pets is not immune.  So frequently clients ask me about if they can save money by getting generic drugs or filling prescriptions online.

Drugs that contain the same active ingredient as a brand name medication are known as generics. These products become available after a pharmaceutical company loses their patent protection on the specific drug molecule. Since the necessary clinical testing that is so important for new drugs does not need to be repeated for generics, these medications are sold at a much lower cost.

Generic medications must contain the same active ingredients; have the same route of administration, same dosage or strength and the same conditions of use as brand name drugs.  You would think this would mean generic drugs would be exactly the same as name brand drugs.  But, while this is often the case, it isn’t always true.  Inert ingredients used in the manufacturing of the generic product sometimes differ from the brand name.

This can lead to abnormal or adverse reactions to the medication or can alter the medications absorption rate. The FDA requires generic drugs to achieve blood levels within 20% of a name brand, but this means that generics may achieve drug levels anywhere from 80-120% of a name brand drug.

So while many generics will be just as safe and effective as name brand drugs, not all of them are—not in every situation. Certain generics are known to have a higher rate of problems, among others anti-seizure drugs and anti-depressants.  In veterinary medicine, Atopica is used to treat allergic skin disease. It is effective, but expensive. So using a generic would be very appealing.  Unfortunately the generic of this drug doesn’t seem to be absorbed by dogs as well as the name brand.  Another drug where the brand used seems to matter is thyroid supplement for dogs. For some dogs the generic equivalents just don’t seem to work as well. Recently veterinarians have seen pharmacies switch brands of insulin without mentioning this to owners.  But cats and dogs are much more sensitive to differences between brands of insulin than humans are, and this has led to serious problems in a few diabetic pets.

Some Generics Have Problems
The question of generic medications has been highlighted recently by an influx of generic flea medicines to the market.  For almost two decades, safe, effective flea medications from the vet have helped pet owners battle these blood-sucking parasites. Now, several “generic” flea medications are flooding the market, showing up in big box stores and grocery stores across the country. Will these cheaper medications help more pets or do they have the potential for failure?

Recently, the compound, fipronil became available for generic use. The original patent holder, Merial, produces a flea product (Frontline®) that was one of the main choices of veterinarians for many years. Now, no less than 15 “generic” fipronil flea products will be offered in the OTC markets. So, if the product is essentially the same and at a lower cost, is it ok to buy these over the counter flea preventives?

Unfortunately for the consumer the advent of these generic fipronil products comes just as many veterinarians are beginning to see fipronil fail to kill fleas in the way that it used to.  There is much debate about whether this signals that fleas have become resistant or not. Fleas, as well as other parasites, can cause a host of medical problems that go beyond simple itching. Serious diseases can worsen if the issues are not handled properly. In a general merchandise store, you will not find anyone with the expertise or training you’ll find at your veterinarian’s office. Not to mention someone to call should your pet have an adverse reaction to any topical treatment.

Veterinarians Can Save You Money
Believe it or not, it might be more economical and more convenient to purchase the preventives through your veterinarian. Not only can you get all the products (flea preventive, heartworm preventive, etc) at one location, but the vet usually offers some single prescription-only products that can actually help with the whole range of parasite problems at the same time. So, that might enable you to substitute a single product for several others that end up costing more.  To know whether you can safely do that, you really need to tap the experience and training of your vet.  But, remember, in order for a vet to write a prescription, he or she must have examined the pet and have a relationship with the client and the pet. Don’t expect to get a prescription if your pet hasn’t seen its doctor in more than a year.

Also, lab tests are often needed to keep your veterinarian up-to-date on your pet’s health status and to monitor the effects of any disease. For medications like heartworm preventives, it is vital that your dog have a negative heartworm test before continuing the medicine

Be wary of online websites that promise absurdly low prices on pet medications. If it sounds too good to be true usually it is.

Many veterinarians keep a well-stocked pharmacy right in their hospital or allow their clients to order drugs online. Therefore, getting the medications directly from your veterinarian could save you time and hassle. Your veterinarian and his or her team can help you find the one that matches the medical needs of your pet as well as one that is safe and effective.

Have a question about how to care for your pet?
Ask the PROs
Submit it to “Ask the PROs” on
the new www.destinationtampabay.com website. Dr. Woodman will provide answers to a few lucky readers. Everyone who submits a question will be eligible to win a valuable prize.

Dr. Don Woodman
Animal Hospital of Northwood
Telephone 727-725-1691
FULL-SERVICE ANIMAL HOSPITAL
BOARDING

“They’re knowledgeable about a lot of areas relevant to health, fitness and personal training,’’ says Mike. “They’ve been educated in a variety of subjects, including anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, so they know about body mechanics, the awareness of a body in space. When you’re doing physical activities, those are extremely important areas of expertise.’’

The 20 fitness professionals who work with clients at Elite Body include experts in Pilates, yoga, bootcamp training and kickboxing. All have experience in aerobics and weight training and can help each and every client achieve his or her fitness goals.

 So how does someone choose the right fitness trainer?
“I always tell people to shop their trainers,” Mike says. “They need to mesh–make sure that personalities click. If you’re the type of person who does best with quiet encouragement, you don’t want a fitness pro who calls attention to himself and their client during a workout.”

A good fitness professional also should be aware of the latest trends and information that is relevant to his field, says Mike.

“The fitness trainers here are nationally certified, and they have to do continuing education credits each year to stay certified. To get those credits they have to be knowledgeable about the latest information and techniques.”

Combining that education with interaction with each other and guidance from Mike helps the fitness pros keep their clients safe and healthy as they work toward the clients’ fitness goals.

“You wouldn’t ask a client who has osteoporosis to do squats,’’ Mike explains. “Squats are great exercises, but not for someone with bone issues. Training and experience keeps my team aware of the health issues that clients might have, and assists them in finding alternatives to workouts that can hurt them.’’

Since Mike personally interviews each pro before hiring, he’s well aware of their education, experience, areas of expertise and training style. And he also instructs them on his expectations.

“They are professionals, so they need to look and act professional. They need to come in ahead of time, know their clients’ needs and expectations before each session. They need to be good.

“They customize workouts to the clients’ needs. They assess their clients before the first workout and they continue to assess them. You wouldn’t train a golfer the same way you’d train a high school football player. They both might use weight training, but it’d be a different workout.

“We also make sure that clients use the correct form to avoid stress or joint injuries. A good fitness pro pays attention to the details; he or she isn’t just counting reps to get a client through the workout.”

Along with education and experience, Mike says, a good fitness professional also exhibits a willingness to learn from others and to expand his or her wealth of knowledge.

“You want a well-rounded instructor. Once you know the basics, then you can specialize,’’ he explains. “But you need to be aware of body mechanics, anatomy, nutrition, people’s limitations. And you have to have one thing that you can’t really learn – the ability to relate to people. You need to like people, and to want to help them.

“My trainers fit all my requirements. They help to make Elite Body a place where people come because they want to. They help to make this facility one that stands out from the rest.’’

You’ve said to “Forget the Scale.’’ Why?
Ask the PROS

“The numbers are just that – numbers. They don’t mean anything. Step on the scale one morning and the numbers can read “180.’’ But what does that really mean?
Does it tell the relationship between lean muscle and body fat? You can have a person who weighs 140 and is all muscle and another who is 140 and has no muscle at all. They’re just numbers that mean nothing.

When you come into Elite Body, we’ll put you on the scale so we can use your weight to calculate the amount of fat and muscle you have. We’re not looking to find out how much you weigh. And we won’t put you back on the scale for a while, until we want to check your muscle to fat ratio again.

We’ll also make sure that you take off your shoes, because shoes vary in weight, and you might come in one day wearing one type of shoe and the next time you’re weighed you can be wearing a different type. Those measurements won’t be accurate.
The same thing goes for weighing at the same time each day. Your weight first thing in the morning will be different than your weight that night. And seeing those numbers change can get some people crazy. Water retention can also affect that number.

 “Forget the scale.”
“Look at yourself in the mirror. See how your clothes fit. You’ll be much happier.”
- Mike LaBua

Ask Mike LaBua a question by visiting ASK THE PROS at www.destinationtampabay.com

Mike LaBua, owner
34310 US Highway 19 North,
Palm Harbor FL 34684
Tel: (727) 785-4655
http://www.elitebodypersonaltraining.com/
“Individualized attention to achieve your goals’’

“Tampa Bay home sales were up 18 percent over January, 2012, according to recent Multiple Listing information,’’ says Realtor Karen Nasello of Re/Max Metro, based in Treasure Island, downtown St. Petersburg and Tierra Verde.

“That’s great news. And it points out the importance of selling your home with a Realtor. Hiring a Realtor gives you many advantages that are crucial in today’s market,” Karen says. “With contacts, experience and exposure, a Realtor can help a homeowner get the most money for a house, help to sell it quickly and make a daunting process seem much easier.’’

Many people don’t realize the amount of work that goes into selling a house, Karen explains. “I have a four-page handout that I share with clients that outlines the approximate 200 tasks involved in a real estate transaction that a Realtor either does or oversees during one transaction.”
Realtors, who are licensed professionals and members of the National Association of Realtors, which marks its 100th anniversary this year, have to participate in continuing education and adhere to the national association’s code of ethics. As members of NAR, Realtors must also take courses that focus on the code of ethics at least once every four years to maintain their membership in NAR and their status as a Realtor.

“The code is extremely important,’’ says Karen, who has been a residential Realtor for 12 years. “It spells out what we – as Realtors – must do. It outlines our responsibilities to our clients, other Realtors and the general public. It speaks to honesty, responsibility and integrity.“

Urged by a Realtor friend to enter the profession back in Illinois more than a decade ago, Karen found that her real reward in selling a home came from the pleasure she got in helping people realize their dreams.

“I get tremendous satisfaction in providing a valuable service that helps people,’’ she says. “Knowing that they appreciate my work is the frosting on the cake. When I hear from a client about how much he or she values my work, that’s a reward beyond any financial success.’’

Karen’s commitment to her profession and its responsibilities is evident in the accolades she’s received from her clients. One client, Dick Biseli, who relied on Karen’s talents, experience and contacts to sell his Treasure Island waterfront home last year, expressed his satisfaction with the process.

“When we decided to list our home with you, we had expectations that you without a doubt exceeded,” Biseli said. “I have a background of over 25 years in both residential and commercial real estate, and I must say that I was impressed with your professionalism, work ethic and common sense approach in ‘getting to the finish line.’”

Karen says that a mentor in a previous real estate company stressed two things that she always keeps in the forefront of her mind.

“She had two critical rules for Realtors to live by—‘Never forget who you work for – the client!’– and ‘Disclose, disclose, disclose.’ That advice has helped me many times over the years during a complicated and stressful transaction.’’

“When you choose a Realtor, your personalities need to mesh; you need to feel comfortable with your Realtor. Choosing a Realtor who is ethical and working on your behalf is critical, along with competency and market knowledge. Add trustworthiness and strong negotiating skills and you almost can’t go wrong.

“In the end, real estate is about people and relationships. Our business is built on referrals, so it is imperative to give my very best to every client to become their Realtor for life and to receive their future referrals.’’

Karen M. Nasello, Realtor • (727) 421-0308
RE/MAX Metro  153 107th Ave., Treasure Island
www.knasello.REMAXagent.com
Serving Pinellas Co. from 3 offices: Treasure Island, Tierra Verde, St Petersburg

Do you have a Real Estate question?
Ask the PROs
Submit it to “Ask the PROs” on the new www.destinationtampabay.com website. Everyone who submits a question will be eligible to win a valuable prize.

“When I do presentations, I always point out that nobody wakes up one Sunday morning and says ‘Let’s go look at retirement communities today.’ Nobody wants to think about it,” says Luanne Reese Moore, Vice President of Marketing and Planning for Mease Manor Retirement Community.

“But this is a generation that has two great fears: To become a burden on their children and to lose control of their own lives. The time to alleviate those fears is now, when they have the control to make the decision and not at some future time when their children are making that decision for them due to a change in status or hospitalization.”

Gather Your Information for Best Results
Making such an important lifestyle decision requires solid preparation. This means before even picking up the phone to begin shopping for a retirement community, you must first gather your own information.

When individuals or families first contact Mease Manor, Dunedin’s premier retirement community, Mease Manor team members interview prospective residents by phone about their background and current living arrangement. This brings the staff an accurate picture of the individual’s basic lifestyle needs, daily challenges, if any, and budgetary factors.

Seniors should have basic knowledge about their own financial and legal affairs and medical condition, including prescription medications, physical limitations, and any recent health changes. Communication is key.

“We need to have a total understanding of who that person is and their limitations,” says Sue Whitman, a sales and marketing consultant at Mease Manor. “In order to move forward, we need to help them understand who we are so that we can be the best choice or resource available to them.”

Whitman is available to answer specific questions online in the “Ask the PROS” section of our website at www.destinationtampabay.com/AskthePros.

Visit the Community To See for Yourself
When the groundwork is laid, a tour is scheduled to introduce the individual to the residents, staff and accommodation choices at Mease Manor. Often, much of that visit is spent dispelling the misconceptions about retirement living, Reese Moore says.

“Retirement living is not really understood,” she says. “People either don’t know what independent living looks like or they have a misconception and confuse it with assisted living or a nursing home. Once they get onsite and meet residents that are truly loving their life here, things usually begin to click quickly.”

If both the community and the individual determine that the Mease Manor lifestyle would be a good fit, the moving process can take place in as little as a few weeks, typically 30 to 60 days. For individuals needing to sell their home, resources are also available to help take the stress out of that process.

“Usually, we hear ‘I have too much stuff’ or ‘I can’t think about this for a couple of years because I’ve accumulated too many things.’ We have every resource that they need, a broad selection of trusted, certified vendors, not only to sell their home but to downsize, liquidate, or plan an estate sale,” Whitman says. “Moving doesn’t have to be a chaotic mess.”

Get Help with Selling Your Home
The community has a home sale program in place where qualified real estate agents and professionals help current and prospective residents prepare their house for sale and will stay in communication with the family throughout the entire process.

“We become almost a one-stop shop for them to be able to move from their house to the next lifestyle that they want,“ Reese Moore says.

Whitman says it is critical for seniors to look into options now while the decision is completely within their control.

“This is a decision about them. So they need to make it about themselves and be comfortable disclosing things that will help them reach their goal. We will listen to what they need to tell us or prompt them to tell us more so we can help them,” says Whitman. “You’re actually gaining independence by making decisions when you’re well and healthy and can communicate your exact wishes.”

To learn more about Mease Manor Retirement Community, call 727-738-3204 to schedule a tour or visit www.measemanor.com.

Come see for yourself…
Mease Manor Retirement Community invites you to attend “FACTS: What you need to know” Friday, April 29th, 2013 at 10 a.m.

Mease Manor Retirement Community
Auditorium 700 Mease Plaza, Dunedin

Take the reins of your retirement by talking to the pros now and get answers to relevant questions – financial, legal, social and medical
Experience Independent Living…firsthand at Mease Manor Please RSVP by April 22nd: 727-738-3204
Contact us to schedule a personal tour
www.measemanor.com