The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Closer Look

Wesley Chapel welcomes local art galleria

By

Donna Bruno, owner of Set apART Galleria, Gifts & Gathering, started working with polymer clay only two short years ago. Her hands were filled with pain and almost useless, when she gave it the first try. To do something that caused more pain made little sense at the time. Not relying on her own understanding, she started down a path that would eventually lead to her hands becoming fully healed and so much more.

Donna Bruno (r), owner of Set apART Galleria, Gifts & Gathering, poses with her son, Levi.
Donna Bruno (r), owner of Set apART Galleria, Gifts & Gathering, poses with her son, Levi.

Donna started out making jewelry, selling the pieces at local bazaars and fairs. She enjoyed speaking to others about her experiences working with clay and sharing the story of her healing. “I wasn’t sure where all of this was leading me until God showed me a vision of what was to come,” says Donna. “I see now that the vision is my inspiration; my calling is clear.”

The official grand opening of Set apART Galleria, Gifts and Gathering came to fruition on Sept.14. The name of the store describes the three-fold mission.

Through the “Galleria,” local artists, musicians and authors have an avenue to show and sell their consigned works of art. “The set-up is uniquely different, a cross between an art gallery and a bou- tique,” says Donna. “We’re currently displaying art, music and books created by a number of very talented local artists.” Numerous mediums, styles and vibrant colors grace the walls, shelves and even ceiling of this 1500sf space.

The concept of “Gifts” goes well beyond a place to shop. “We are all uniquely and wonderfully made; our uniqueness is our gift. Artists feel the need to share their gift and the stories that go with it to the world,” says Donna.”

“Gathering” expresses a focus on community by providing a place where people can come together to share, learn and enjoy the company of others. Donna says, “The vision is to bring people together in their uniqueness, not to divide due to difference.” The rear of the shop is a cozy place for this growing group of artists to offer a number of events, classes and an opportunity for fellowship.

Polymer clay classes are available for children and adults at $10 per person. A beading group teaches classes to create unique jewelry using tiny glass beads. You can find the latest classes, events and information by calling the shop at (813) 501-4994 or visiting the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ SetApARTGalleriaGiftsGatheringLLC.

“Everyone has a unique, creative talent,” says Donna. “My goal is to help people to find and express their creative talents with passion.”

“I’ve always loved working with my hands, making something out of nothing,” says Donna. “I’ve put all my heart, soul and finances into this adventure. I’m looking forward to seeing the impact.”

Further down the line, Donna aspires to start a halfway house for women try- ing to get back on their feet. “I desire to teach them how to work with their hands, finding who they were created to be,” Donna says. The Galleria is only the beginning.

Set apART Galleria, Gifts & Gathering is located at 30056 State Road 54, in Freedom Plaza in Wesley Chapel. The beautiful works of art being created by some of your artistic neighbors offer a unique shopping experience. Stop in for a real treat.

– Mike Matthew

This story is a feature of the advertising department.

Improving student confidence and ability one child at a time

By

Alicia Lafarga didn’t start out as a teacher, but after retiring from her desk job, she knew that was the only thing she wanted to do. She moved from Miami to Tampa two years ago to be near her daughter and began looking for an opportunity that would enable her to have the greatest impact teaching children. She found that with Tutor Doctor franchise one year ago. “It’s a wonderful experience after sitting behind a desk for 40 years,” says Alicia. Over the course of her career she worked with school boards and the county in Miami. These experiences strengthened her desire to do something with children after she retired.

Alicia Lafarga
Alicia Lafarga

Tutor Doctor provides in-home tutor- ing for students of all ages, from kinder- garten to senior citizens. “It’s a great company to work with,” says Alicia. “They provide a lot of support to both owners and tutors which really helps us to provide the very best tutoring experience to our clients.”

Alicia provides a free consultation to anyone interested in tutoring. The purpose of the consultation is two-fold. First, she talks with the parents to fully understand their concerns and expectations. The majority of her time is spent talking with the student. This information will help her to find the best tutor for the child.

“We want to match the student with the right tutor,” she explains. “The tutor must have the necessary subject-matter skills. We also try to take into account any special interests or abilities the student has, such as a love of sports, and try to find a tutor with similar interests and abilities.” Every tutoring lesson plan is customized around the students school curriculum. Parents are kept up-to-date regarding their child’s progress with followup notes and assessments after every tutoring session.

“We have to be able to make a difference for every student,” says Alicia. Tutoring helps students improve their grades and test-taking abilities, but the greatest reward is in the noticeable improvement in the child’s self-confidence. “It is the student’s rise in confidence that makes a big difference and leads to benefits in other areas of their life,” says Alicia. “Tutoring works.”

Alicia currently has 50 tutors working with her. All of her tutors are certified teachers or graduate school students with teaching experience. She is always looking for new tutors with experience and a pas- sion to support students and their community.

“Tutoring is all about integrity,” says Alicia. “We never lie to the client or try to sell them on the tutoring process. We also resolve any personality issues between the student and tutor immediately. This is a relationship-based experience, and we want everyone to be happy with the tutoring process.”

To sum up the Tutor Doctor difference in one sentence Alicia says, “We provide one-on-one individualized instruction on all subjects in their own home and at their convenience.”

Learning doesn’t have to be a struggle. Call Alicia for a free consultation. Mention this article and you’ll also receive two hours of free tutoring.

Contact Alicia at (813) 506-0438, or at . Visit www.loveyourtutor.com.

– Mike Matthew

This story is written by the advertising department.

Dr. Jay Nelson Treats Sleep Apnea with Nonintrusive Dental Retainer

By

Jay A. Nelson, DMD, has been helping patients in the area solve their dental problems for 25 years and saw the need to add dental sleep medicine to his list of services. He has years of successful experience working in collaboration with medical doctors to provide patients with an alternative to the obtrusive Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy.

DentistryPicDr. Nelson has fitted more than a hundred patients suffering from sleep apnea with a dental appliance that fits over the teeth much like a retainer. The appliance moves the jaw forward and opens the airway during sleep.

The result is an immediate and dramatic reduction in snoring (in many cases, snoring stops completely) — which is often a relief to the patient’s bed partner who complains that their sleep too is interrupted by their partner’s snoring.

But more importantly, the open airway created by the dental appliance allows the patient to sleep through the night and awaken fully rested.

“There is nothing more important to maintaining good health and an energetic, productive day than a restful night’s sleep,” said Dr. Nelson from his office on S.R. 54 in Lutz.

“Our body needs a continuous flow of oxygen to sleep restfully,” he continues. “It is essential that our brain and body reboot every night by getting enough sleep. If we don’t reboot, lack of sleep impacts every aspect of our health, including weight gain, high blood pressure, memory loss and mental health.”

Dr. Nelson is one of the area’s few dentists to be certified in treating sleep breathing disorders in collaboration with your physician. His office recently received a three-year accreditation from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, which required his practice to meet or exceed all standards for professional patient care, including continuing education for his staff and meeting standards for safety, customer service and patient follow-up.

Scientific studies have determined that dental sleep therapy is an effective alternative to CPAP therapy — which uses a bedside machine that pumps air into a patient’s nose and mouth throughout the night.

“Many people stop using their CPAP machine because they find its mask uncomfortable and the machine itself loud and disruptive to their bed partner,” said Dr. Nelson. “Those people are desperate to find an alternative that they can tolerate to help them sleep through the night and to stop snoring.”

Dr. Nelson fits his patients with mouthguard-like retainers worn only during sleep. These retainers easily and painlessly snap over a patient’s top and bottom teeth.

With the retainers in place, they prevent the air- way from collapsing by holding the tongue in place and moving the jaw forward. It typically takes a month for the retainers to be adjusted to a patient’s mouth. After the desired effect is reached, the patient does nothing more than pop the appliance in at night and rinse it off and store it away in the morning in a small carrying case.

Diane is a local businesswoman in her 50s who was fitted with an oral appliance by Dr. Nelson six months ago.

“I no longer snore and sleep better than I have in years,” said Diane. “I never realized what a huge difference a good night sleep would have on how I felt. My energy level is the best it’s been in years, and I wake up feeling refreshed and ready for a new day.”

The National Sleep Foundation reports that more than 40 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders today, and projects that number will more than double in 30 years as our population continues to age.

While these numbers are astounding, more astonishing is the number of people who are either unaware that they have a sleep disorder, or believe there is nothing they can do to treat it if they cannot tolerate CPAP treatment.

“It’s important that folks know there is an alternative to CPAP that is effective and affordable,” said Dr. Nelson. “We have helped so many people who find our oral appliances comfortable, easy to take in and out and convenient for travel.

“Our goal is to help people live longer by improving the quality of their sleep. Nothing is more important than sleep for good physical and mental health, and there’s no reason that anyone needs to suffer from snoring and sleep disorders”.

For more information on NelsonDentistry and Dental Sleep Medicine, visit www.SleepBetterFlorida.com or www.NelsonDentistry.com.

This story was written by the advertising department.

Natural Setting Conducive To Patient Care At New Psychiatric Hospital in Wesley Chapel

By

BehavioralHealth

Often people are surprised to learn that over a lifetime, close to 50 percent of Americans face a mental health issue that would benefit from professional treatment. Unfortunately, for different reasons, many do not seek or receive the help they need.

That statistic from the Center for Disease Control is cited by Jim Harris, chief executive officer of North Tampa Behavioral Health, a new psychiatric hospital opening this week in Wesley Chapel.

Harris has worked in the mental health care field for 20 years, first as a clinical social worker and then in hospital management. He has been in Wesley Chapel since June making sure all details are in place to welcome patients and family to a nurturing, warm environment that he and his staff are committed to establishing at their new hospital.

“We really have a rare opportunity to build a hospital from the ground up,” said Harris. “We’re creating an open, welcoming, noninstitutional environment that will help counter the stigma that often keeps people from seeking or following through with their treatment.”

North Tampa Behavioral Health is located just east of The Shops of Wiregrass on State Road 56 on 16 acres of wetlands and forest with beautiful views and abundant wildlife and birds.

“This setting is conducive to treatment and helping patients get better,” said Harris. “There is a lot of peace and quiet with no urban distractions.”

The hospital’s foremost philosophy is to treat patients and their families with dignity and respect. “We consider each patient’s unique individual needs during their time with us,” said Harris.

The hospital is opening with a staff of 70 that will grow to as many as 200 or more as it treats more patients in its 75-bed facility. It employs a variety of positions required to run a hospital, including doctors, nurses, case managers, techs, cooks, housekeepers and maintenance workers.

North Tampa Behavioral Health will open one unit at a time as its census grows, offering treatment for adults and seniors with mental health and substance abuse concerns. Harris said he expects many patients to have a dual diagnosis. Often times psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, post-traumatic stress or psychosis can be co-occurring with a sub- stance abuse problem.

The hospital also offers a unique half-day, partial-hospitalization program that provides more intense services than traditional outpatient services. Other levels of care include an intensive outpatient program and a mobile assessment team.

Eventually, law enforcement and mental health professionals will be able to place people needing emergency psychiatric care under the Baker and Marchman legislation to prevent someone from hurting themselves or others.

Supporting its evidence-based treatment programs, North Tampa Behavioral Health offers many physical activities for its patients with amenities including a full gym, outdoor basketball court, walking path, spacious community rooms, café and quiet rooms.

“Our goal is to bring together mental and physical health approaches to psychiatric therapies founded on the most current princi- ples of patient safety,” said Harris.

North Tampa Behavioral Health can be reached at (813) 333-0000, or at www.NorthTampaBehavioralHealth.com. It is located at 29910 State Road 56, Wesley Chapel.

This story was written by the advertising department.

New Town, New Homes, New Life

By

If you’ve been driving by Connerton recently, Central Pasco’s “New Town,” and you were wondering what sounds you were hearing, it’s not just the honking of the sandhill cranes – you will hear hammers pounding, saws buzzing, powertools whirring and contractor
trucks driving in and out, as the New Town awakens to a fresh economy. Connerton’s developer, Hayman Woods, a Dallas-based development company, promised to bring this community back to life after the housing bust, and they are keeping their promise.

connerton10152013Since their grand reopening in May of this year, almost 40 homes are under contract with four outstanding builders, Taylor Morrison, Ryland, M/I Homes and Homes by WestBay. These builders offer innovative floor plans from 1,481 to over 6,300 sq. ft. with prices from the low $100s to over $700,000.

The residents are excited to see all of the activity. Connerton was given the New Town designation by the State of Florida and Pasco County. To be designated as a “New Town,” a community must include certain uses. In addition to residential home building, a New Town offers education, recreation, retail and commercial development.

When they say, “timing is everything,” the phrase certainly applied to the opening of Connerton during the real estate boom, and the slowdown during the bust. However, Connerton is now well-positioned for the economic recovery because its amenities, parks, trails and an $8 million dollar clubhouse are already in place.

The 10,000 sq. ft. clubhouse offers a state-of-the-art fitness center, super pool with a unique aquatic playground and children’s wading pool. A café, meeting rooms for resident and community use, plus tennis and basketball courts are all available as part of the Connerton lifestyle.

The annual Labor Day ice cream social was recently coordinated by Amy Gallogly, the onsite activities director, and her staff. She keeps residents busy with holiday parties, nature walks, scavenger hunts, wine tasting events, and is always willing to listen to other suggestions. In addition to the clubhouse, an extensive trail and boardwalk system runs throughout the community, and will eventually connect all of the villages. These trails and walkways help to promote a more sociable, pedestrian culture.

Connerton Elementary School opened in 2010, providing students with updated technology, such as rolling laptops filled with new MacBooks and interactivè whiteboards for classroom use. Connerton Elementary is an “A” rated school, along with Pineview Middle and Land O’ Lakes High School, which Connerton residents attend.

The staff leadership is provided by Principal Aimee Boltze and Assistant Principal Claudia Steinacker. Together they uphold the school’s mission to provide a nurturing environment for both students and teachers. The school also provides learning opportunities for 55 intellectually disabled students in five self-contained classrooms.

These students are also integrated into the traditional classroom environment, helping to provide disability awareness for all grade levels. If you have an opportunity to visit the school, you will be welcomed by a friendly staff who will be happy to provide you with a tour of this state-of the-art education center.

The “New Town” of Connerton is back on its feet with a wonderful lifestyle to offer its residents. So, if you haven’t been there lately, stop by, visit the clubhouse, walk the trails, and be sure to visit the new models. It could be your new home!

Connerton is located in Land O’Lakes, approximately 7 miles north of the intersection of SR 54 & US 41.

For more information, call (813) 996-5800, or visit www.Connerton.com.

This story was written by the advertising department.

These pediatricians provide personalized care

By

When your child is sick, you don’t want to wade through automated prompts, voice mail menus or negotiate with an answering service. You want a live person to help answer your concerns and a physician’s office, who knows you by name, not medical record number.

Dr. Yanina Abaunza-Fiallos, left and Dr. Luisa Gomez McElroy are board certified pediatricians practicing at Dr. Nina's Pediatrics in Lutz.
Dr. Yanina Abaunza-Fiallos, left and Dr. Luisa Gomez McElroy are board certified pediatricians practicing at Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics in Lutz.

Being mothers themselves, the staff at Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics places great emphasis on answering family concerns. These physicians founded their practice around the premise of patient-centered care and accessibility. Patients are always able to reach the staff quickly and easily during office hours and they strive to personally answer phone calls after hours.

Dr. Yanina Abaunza-Fiallos has been practicing in the Tampa area for 17 years, and opened her own practice in Lutz in November 2003. Dr. Luisa Gomez McElroy has been practicing in the Tampa area for 15 years, joining Dr. Nina in May 2012. Both doctors are board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics.

“We’re a small practice,” says Dr. Nina. “There are only two doctors. This allows us to get to know our patients well.”

“We love our patients and their families,” says Dr. Luisa. “We don’t just provide a diagnosis and move on. Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa always take the time to answer questions and educate their patients and their parents.

Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa pay close attention to each child’s development and provide parents with tools to recognize development issues early on. Topics such as nutrition and growth are discussed during wellness visits to identify any issues or concerns before they become a problem. They give parents ample opportunity to ask questions to optimize the child’s path to wellness.

“We follow recommended check-up schedules and place a strong emphasis on prevention and vaccinations, says Dr. Luisa.” We firmly believe vaccinations are a part of keeping our children healthy. Our recommendations are based on the American Academy of Pediatric guidelines.

Both doctors have many patients in their practice that they cared for from the day they were born, with many continuing to see them into their 20s. As their former patients become parents themselves, they are returning to bring their own children. Doctors and nurses also trust their children’s care to Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa which is very heartwarming for them and their staff.

“We’re not just for babies,” says Dr. Nina. “We also provide vaccinations for college, and perform high school and college physical examinations. We deliver 24-hour emergency service and can normally accommodate same-day appointments.”

Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa are affiliated with three area hospitals: Florida Hospital Tampa, St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital North, where they are available to provide newborn care. Free prenatal consultations are also offered so that parents can get to know their baby’s doctor prior to delivery.

As a student, Dr. Nina was initially interested in teaching children with special needs. Because of this early exposure to children with medical disabilities, she changed career paths to medicine in order to further impact their outcome. Pediatrics was definitely the right path for Dr. Nina and it is a passion that is ignited every time she comes to work.

Dr. Luisa decided on a career in pediatrics during medical school. She developed a passion for caring for children. She feels pediatrics has one of the greatest impacts on patients’ lives, as she can educate and teach prevention starting in early life.

Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa are currently accepting new patients at Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics, and welcome the opportunity to be a part of your child’s life. Accessibility, quality and personalized care are just a few of the core values of Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics.

Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics is located at 18572 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz. They can be reached at (813) 964-1800, or online at www.DoctorNina.com.

– Mike Matthew

This story was written by the advertising department.

Shihan Stephen Del Castillo Empowers Kids With Martial Arts

By

Shihan Stephen J. Del Castillo opened his first martial arts academy in Wesley Chapel in October 2000. It was a small place, but one with big dreams.

kravmaga10152013
Shihan Stephen J. Del Castillo with his student Melissa.

He dreamed of creating a place that would touch lives one blackbelt at a time and improve people, families and society. Thirteen years and hundreds of students later, Shihan Steve is achieving these goals.

Shihan Steve (Shihan title denotes the status of Master Instructor) has more than 30 years of martial arts experience. He also has a master’s degree, many awards and accolades from his military, civic service and martial arts career. Plus, the August 2013 issue of Success Magazine published a story about Shihan Steve and his school.

But these impressive credentials and personal accomplishments are not what makes Shihan Steve the most proud. Rather, it is the quality of blackbelts his school is producing and the contributions those students make to the community.

“Most of my blackbelts are ‘A’ students,” Shihan Steve says. “But many of them didn’t start that way.”

Shihan Steve asserts that the focus, discipline, courtesy and respect instilled through his program results in students performing far better in school.

“It all starts with development of one’s self-esteem,” he says. “We develop champions from the inside out.”

Shihan Steve has empowered hundreds of kids through his program that uses a system of positive reinforcement and gentle correction.

Especially at the beginning of a student’s training, Shihan Steve says the most important step is to develop a student’s confidence and trust in him or herself and the instructor.

Shihan Steve calls this program Krav Maga Martial Arts. It is one of the most practical self-protection systems available and can be used by people of any age to teach martial arts and improve a student’s spirit and character.

In addition to making sure that every student in every class has fun, Shihan Steve sees that students get a great workout and learn something new. His program and its process results in students growing from wherever they are to where they want to be.

There have been many changes in the 13 years since Shihan Steve opened his first academy. Many martial arts schools have come and gone. Things at his school have changed too — including the school’s name, its colors, logos, uniforms and staff.

“My curriculum also has evolved, ” Shihan Steve says. “But I am very proud that the one thing that has never changed is my vision and mission.

“Thomas Jefferson said, ‘In matters of style, swim with the current but in matters of principle, stand like a rock.’ Our martial arts school, or “dojo” as we call it, has honored this rule. I wrote a vision and mission statement 13 years ago that is still the bedrock of what we do today. Our name has evolved, and our style has been enhanced with the integration of other styles, but our mission and our principles remain the same.”

Shihan Steve is offering free seminars all throughout this back-to-school season, including his Back to School Success seminar and Bully Proof workshops. He also offers free two-week trial memberships to all community youth, as well as teens and adults.

To learn more about Shihan Steve’s school, mission, seminars and programs, please visit www.tampakravmaga.com.

This story was written by the advertising department.

Quality Dental Care is a Family Affair

By

If you’re looking for a dentist who can handle all of your family’s dental needs, then look no further than Hawley Dental Associates of Land O’ Lakes. The husband and wife team of Robin and Debbie Hawley has been providing quality family care to central Pasco residents for more than 25 years.

Robin and Debbie Hawley, a husband and wife dental team, have practiced dentistry in Lutz/Land O’Lakes for more than 25 years.
Robin and Debbie Hawley, a husband and wife dental team, have practiced dentistry in Lutz/Land O’Lakes for more than 25 years.

Robin and Debbie met while teaching at a children’s residential summer camp on Catalina Island, Calif. They fell in love and started dental school together two weeks after they were married. They graduated in 1987 at the top of their class from one of the best dental schools in the country, the University of Southern California School of Dentistry.

After graduating, the couple did a one-year internship at the Hillsborough County Dental Research Clinic. Their love of water sports and the abundant lakes and waterways of Florida made it an easy decision for them to settle down and raise a family here in Florida.

Robin and Debbie opened their practice in Land O’Lakes in 1991 as Hawley Dental and are currently accepting new patients. “We are prepared to handle all of your family’s dental needs, regardless of age,” says Debbie.

Hawley Dental’s technologically advanced office uses digital x-rays to limit patients’ exposure to x-rays and to better communicate with patients and their insurance companies. The practice also uses painless lasers for cavity detection and an intra-oral video camera allows clients to see exactly what is going on in their mouth.

“This is so much better than trying to show a patient something inside of their mouth with a mirror,” says Debbie.

Robin and Debbie stay up-to-date on all of the latest dental techniques, equipment and methods. They are a preferred provider for Invisalign, a modern alternative to metal braces for adults and teens. “We were certified for Invisalign back in 2004,” said Robin. “Being a preferred provider is a mark of distinction.”

Hawley Dental concentrates on personalized care and its staff strives to get to know patients as people. “Because of our personal treatment, there are many families who have been coming to see us for their dental care for over 20 years from all over the state of Florida,” said Debbie.

Robin and Debbie have two daughters, ages 17 and 19. The family spends many weekends water skiing and participating in other sports. The Hawleys are actively involved in the community helping local sports teams and sponsoring events with the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce. Debbie served a term as the honorary mayor of Land O’Lakes through the chamber.

Hawley Dental Associates provides all types of dentistry and are prepared to handle any dental treatment or emergency quickly and as comfortably as possible.

Robin and Debbie Hawley, a husband and wife dental team, have practiced dentistry in Lutz/Land O’Lakes for more than 25 years.

Visit Hawley Dental Associates at 21752 State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes/Lutz. Call (813) 948-BITE (2483), or visit www.HawleyDental.com.

– Mike Matthew

This story was written by the advertising department.

Their hearts beat to the sound of the drum

By

David Robinson, owner of All Pro Percussion, has been playing drums since he was 12. He played in middle school, high school, marching bands and garage bands all the way through college. Then he got married, got a job and settled into a more ordinary life.

Bill Mink, left, manager of All Pro Percussion, and David Robinson, owner, each have more than 25 years experience playing drums and selling percussion instruments.
Bill Mink, left, manager of All Pro Percussion, and David Robinson, owner, each have more than 25 years experience playing drums and selling percussion instruments.

The call of the drum inspired David 10 years later to open All Pro Percussion in 2007 to follow his passion for playing, teaching and selling quality percussion instruments.

David recently moved All Pro Percussion, which sells only quality percussion instruments, to Lutz on State Road 54 in the Canoe Commons Shopping Center.

“These are drums that will last a lifetime,” said David. “Many of our manufacturers are family owned and managed American companies. Two of our manufacturers have been making drums for over 100 years and one of our cymbal manufacturers has been in business more than 300 years!”

All Pro Percussion sells acoustic drum sets, snare drums, hand drums, African djembe drums, Congo drums, cajon drums and electronic drums. Hand drums have become especially popular in recent years.

“Electronic drums are a great choice for apartments or when you want to play late at night without disturbing the family or the neighbors,” said David. “Attach a set of headphones and you’re the only one who’ll hear the music.”

One can also attach an iPod to play along with your favorite recordings. “Electronic drums can be programmed to give you the specific acoustic sound you’re looking for,” said David.

Private lessons are conducted using side-by-side electronic drum sets. Instructor Kevin Dennis teaches by example, playing the lesson on one set of drums while the student plays on the other. He emphasizes the importance of learning the fundamentals and reading music.

“We’ve found this to be an excellent way to teach because we control the volume,” said David. “We can give the student instructions while they’re playing. They wouldn’t be able to hear the teacher if they were playing on acoustic drums.”

Children have the dexterity to play drums by the age of 8. A number of students are active in middle school and high school bands and want some extra help. The staff at All Pro Percussion takes great pride in teaching their students to play their best.

“We have students who are in their 50s and 60s, both men and women,” says David. “Some always wanted to play drums but never did, and now find they have the time. For others, it’s a hobby and some of our students have even gone on to become professional drummers.”

Playing drums does not require a large investment to get started.

“All you need is a set of sticks and a practice pad. It begins with learning hand techniques. With practice, a student can be playing rhythms in about a month,” explains David.

He prefers to wait until a student is sure drums is something they enjoy and want to pursue before making the investment in a drum set. When students are ready to purchase their own drums, David wants them to have the right equipment.

“We know our equipment and take pride in knowing our customers, too,” said David. “We also have excellent relationships with our manufacturers, which allows us to get new products sooner and stay on top of special orders.”

Customers do business directly with David or Bill Mink. Bill is the manager at All Pro Percussion and has 25 years of experience selling and servicing a wide variety of percussion drum instruments.

All Pro Percussion also offers drum clinics, master classes, and workshops with well-known professional drummers. These classes are well-attended and are open to the public.

All Pro Percussion is located at 23908 State Road 54, Suite 102, in Lutz. They can be reached at (813) 388-2970, or visit them online at www.AllProPercussion.com.

– Mike Matthew

This story was written by the advertising department.

The Cameo Story: Over-The-Top Salon Services and Superb Customer Care

By

In the seven years that Olav and Lori Malm have owned Cameo Salon and Spa, it has become one of the most personable and best- known hair salons in central Pasco and north Hillsborough counties.

Olav and Lori Malm, owners of Cameo Salon & Spa.
Olav and Lori Malm, owners of Cameo Salon & Spa.

Cameo attracts hundreds of new clients every month to its full-service salon located in the heart of Lutz, Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel. Women and men of all ages come for its trendy as well as traditional hairstyles, stunning colors and highlights, head-to-toe spa services and genuine customer service.

“I love my customers and treat every one of them like family,” said Olav. “There is nothing more important to Lori and me than our clients’ complete satisfaction. We want every guest leaving feeling pampered and more beautiful than when they walked in the door.”

Cameo Salon and Spa opened under different ownership in 1999, and Lori joined the salon two years later. When the owners decided to sell in 2006, it was a natural progression for Lori, who had been doing hair in Lutz since 1984, to buy the business.

Joining Lori was her husband, Olav, who left the medical field to become the salon’s business manager. Together the couple has developed a talented and dedicated team of hair and spa specialists who are just as committed as the Malms to customer service and staying on top of the latest in hair fashion, color treatments and spa services.

Olav greets customers with his trademark cheek-to-cheek kisses. An outgoing man who combines a unique teddy-bear style with European suave, Olav’s large stature and smooth bald head is hard to miss in a salon full of customers from teens to seniors.

“Olav knows how to make every woman feel welcome and beautiful,” said Diane, a local business owner and long-time client and friend of Olav. “His staff is always prepared, creative and respectful of my time.”

Most of Cameo’s employees have worked at the salon for several years because they value its customer appreciation, relaxing atmosphere and commitment to learning the latest trends.

“It feels like family here — we’re very personable,” said Mike Gold, a stylist at Cameo for the last seven years. “In addition to our great atmosphere, we’re an Elite Redken Salon, which means we use and sell the best haircare products available in the industry.”

Working alongside Mike is Ashlee Baker, a stylist at Cameo for more than five years.

“I love our atmosphere — people feel at home here,” Ashlee said. “Plus we have a lot of continuing education and are always going to hair shows to keep us at the top of our game.”

Lori personally trained Mike and Ashlee and most of the other stylists at Cameo, whom she holds to the highest professional standards.

“We put a tremendous amount of time into training, both here at the salon and at industry trade shows and schools. We’ve been to shows in Orlando, Miami, New York, Chicago, and Las Vegas to give our stylists the best training possible,” said Lori.

Before making their first cut, Cameo stylists spend time talking with their guest about his or her desires, expectations and lifestyle.

“It’s all about the consultation,” said Lori. “Spending 15 minutes up-front with a guest makes all the difference in the world to achieve the style and look a client is looking for that also fits with how they live their life, including time restraints and job restrictions.”

Located on Collier Parkway, two blocks south of State Road 54, Cameo Salon & Spa is convenient to women and men living and working in Lutz, Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel and New Tampa.

“Some people think we only cater to affluent customers, and that can’t be farther from the truth,” said Olav. “We have stylists at all levels of experience and our prices are very competitive.”

For example, Cameo is currently offering a color and cut special for just $65 — less than what many of the national chains charge that employ stylists with little experience or training.

In addition to hair, Cameo offers manicures, acrylic gel nails and pedicures by its highly trained technicians. Certified massage therapists offer a full array of massages in luxurious rooms. And licensed, medical aestheticians skin care consultants offer waxing, facials and microdermabrasion.

Completing its full line of services is Jane Iredale makeup, a professional line used by movie stars and recommended by plastic surgeons and dermatologists. The salon also sells Redken, Pureology and other professional hair care products.

“Cameo is a salon that belongs to our guests,” said Olav. “Their health, beauty and comfort are our only concerns. Please give us a call or stop by for an experience you will find nowhere else.”

Visit Cameo Salon and Spa at 1817 Collier Parkway in Lutz, or by calling (813) 948-7411.

This story was written by the advertising department.