Closer Look

Hobby farmers and suburbanites can count on Wilson’s Tractor

May 15, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

In the 21 years that Bruce Wilson has owned his Dade City business, Wilson’s Tractor and Supply Co. has gone through several economic ups and downs.

Today Bruce is glad to report that his business is once again on the upswing with a steady demand for service and new sales of farm and lawn maintenance equipment.

Wilson’s Tractor and Supply sells top-name commercial and residential tractors and lawn equipment, including well-regarded brands such as Snapper, Snapper Pro, RedMax, Exmark, Ferris and TYM Tractors. Equipment ranges from enclosed, air-conditioned tractors to heavy-duty front loaders to commercial-grade chain saws, mowers, trimmers, edgers and leaf blowers.

“Our primary customer is the hobby farmer with 5 to 10 acres,” said Bruce. “We sell everything they need to take care of their horses and livestock and to grow and harvest hay, blueberries, peaches and other crops.”

Wilson Tractor also serves suburban homeowners with large lots. Bruce notes that his store is the closest location of quality, commercial-grade lawn equipment for residents in Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills and Dade City.

“We are the closest store for people in east Pasco wanting durable, commercial- grade equipment that they can depend on and not worry about replacing every few years,” said Bruce.

Just as important as new sales is his service department. Bruce estimates that half of his volume comes from the shop’s service and warranty work.

“Unlike most equipment dealers, we will service any brand, not just those that we sell,” said Bruce. “We try to take care of our customers no matter who the manufacturer of their equipment.”

Bruce’s vow to take care of customers, no matter what the problem, is why 80 percent of his customers are repeat business.

An example of his superb customer service is Bruce’s insistence that every mower he sells is personally delivered to the customer, who is given detailed instructions on how to operate his new mower properly and safely.

You find this type of personal service in everything that’s done at Wilson Tractor and Supply. If Bruce isn’t in the store taking care of customers, then his son Junior is.

Bruce is obviously proud of his 18-year- old son, Bruce Jr., who graduates in May from Pasco High, the same Dade City high school both his parents graduated from in the 1980s.

“My son can fix anything,” Bruce said. “He’s studied welding at school, and his hands are calloused from working on stuff all day long.”

Also involved in the family business are Bruce’s wife and Junior’s mom, Jennifer, who teaches health occupation at Pasco High. The family’s younger son Aaron is a sixth-grader at Centennial Middle School. Jennifer helps with bookkeeping after school and weekends, and both sons work alongside their dad.

Before founding Wilson Tractor and Supply in 1992, Bruce worked for Managed Logistics Systems. After a corporate move to Albany, Georgia, Bruce and Jennifer decided to open their own business in their hometown of Dade City so they could raise their children close to family.

When Bruce first opened from his original location on the US 301 bypass, he worked on automotives, big trucks and farm equipment. In 2000, he moved his operation to his current store because it was more visible and easier for customers to get to.

As his business grew, Bruce began to focus more on farm and garden equipment and stopped servicing automotives and trucks. It was a natural evolution to add new equipment sales. Helping Bruce sell farm equipment is Fred Roenicke, an industry icon known fondly as Fred The Tractor Man.

“Fred has 45 years of experience and loves selling tractors. He’s 75 years old and is an expert on helping people determine what they need for their farm,” said Bruce.

“We invite folks to stop by and meet Fred, check out our equipment and learn how we can help them with new equipment and service their old.”

Visit Wilson’s Tractor & Supply Co., a 12410 U.S. 301, Dade City. Call them at (352) 567-5002.

This story was written by the advertising department.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with great Mexican Food at Elsa’s

May 1, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Folks looking for Tex-Mex cuisine can get their fix of hot peppers and tantalizing south-of-the-border spices at Elsa’s 41 Tex-Mex Sports Grill.

Elsa’s owner Bill Hemmert, left, and his son Justin, general manager of the Lutz restaurant.

This upscale, yet affordable neighborhood restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Lutz at US 41 and Sunset Boulevard.

Tucked into a retail center behind McDonald’s, Elsa’s caters to business people for lunch, families for dinners and fun-seeking adults socializing with neighbors in the evening.

Elsa’s is owned and operated by the Hemmert family, a multigenerational restaurant family that has owned restaurants in Ohio for more than 30 years. Its Lutz store is the family’s only Florida location and is managed by Justin Hemmert, son of company founder Bill Hemmert.

Justin took over as general manager of Elsa’s in Lutz last summer. He grew up in the family business and worked in the kitchen through high school and college. After graduating, he spent 10 years working as a CPA, with five of those years for a company located in Clearwater. Justin returned to the family business in 2009.

“Justin’s financial expertise and understanding of business operations has been invaluable in his management of our Lutz store,” said Bill Hemmert.

“We want local residents to know that Elsa’s has a very strong capital base,” he continued. “We can weather the normal up-and-downs of the restaurant business, and now with Justin’s financial background, our Lutz store is stronger than ever.”

“We’re here to stay,” Justin adds.

One of the first changes Justin made after coming to Lutz was to add daily specials to its menu.

“We added specials because everyone loves value,” said Justin. “We’re delighted to offer customers even more value with our discounted pricing, on top of our large portions and made-from-scratch foods.”

Elsa’s most popular special is called “2 for $20,” which includes an appetizer, two entrées and a dessert every day of the week, all day long.

“The chains — in particular Chili’s and Applebee’s — do not include a dessert in their 2 for $20-type offerings,” said Justin. “We believe dessert is half the fun when going out to eat, and we’re proud that our special comes with dessert at no additional charge!”

Other food specials introduced in the past six months are 50-cent wings on

Sundays, $1 tacos on Mondays and Kids Eat Free on Tuesdays.

Drink specials include two for one well drinks and $1.75 pint domestic drafts, all day every day. Elsa’s also offers $5 margar- itas on Mondays, half-price bottled Mexican beer on Tuesdays, and great Sangrias, from recipes that originated from clubs and restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip.

Elsa’s bar is best known for its trademark Bad Juan margarita, by far its most popular mixed drink.

“In 1979, we spent three years perfecting the Bad Juan recipe,” said Bill Hemmert, who describes it as a clear, lime-based drink made from tequila, lime juice and triple sec. Complementing the Bad Juan is the Bad Juanita, a strawberry margarita popular with the ladies and young adults. Beware, the strawberry has the same alcohol content as the original.

“Our Bad Juans are very smooth for a margarita,” said Bill. “People like them because they are delicious and also for their strong alcohol content, which is double the amount of liquor found in a bottle of wine.”

Customer demand is to the point that the Bad Juan is now available in liter bot- tles at package liquor stores. Locally, Bad Juan liters can be bought at Liquors 41 (US 41 and Sunset Avenue, next to Ace Hardware), Jan’s Wine & Boos (Dale Mabry Highway and W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, next to Publix) and Murphy’s Liquor Store (SR 54 in the Village Lakes Shopping Center, next to Ross).

In addition to package stores, you can find Bad Juan margaritas at Tampa Bay Lightning games and other events at the Tampa Bay Times Forum, where the Hemmert family has an exclusive contract for its famous brand.

There’s no doubt that plenty of Bad Juans and Bad Juanitas will be sold this weekend when Elsa’s celebrates Cinco de Mayo, May 3, 4 and 5.

Elsa’s menu has something for every- one. In addition to its many Tex Mex dishes, Elsa’s also offers typical American fare such as burgers, pizza and wings. “The wings are second to none, and they are the biggest and best wings you can buy,” said Bill Hemmert. Its most popular menu item is the mini Super Burrito. The Super Burrito is too large for most people, a 10-inch flour tortilla filled with refried beans and choice of ground beef, shredded beef, chicken, chorizo or pork carnitas topped with a mild sauce, lettuce, pico de gallo and aged cheddar cheese.

This story was written by the advertising department.

New Owner of Jan’s Wine & Boos II brings together great wines and neighbors

April 24, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

After 35 years as a general manager of golf courses and country clubs, most recently at Innisbrook in Palm Harbor and the Belleview Biltmore in Belleair, Lutz resident Chuck Eade was looking for a change of pace.

Chuck Eade, new owner of Jan’s Wine & Boos at W. Lutz Lake Fern Road.

When he learned that his favorite wine bar and package store in Lutz was for sale, he jumped at the opportunity to work close to home at something he loved — enjoying good wines and talking to friends and neighbors.

This past November, Chuck and Anita became owner of Jan’s Wine and Boos II, located in a retail center at Dale Mabry Highway and W. Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz. Previous owners, Dwayne and Jan Ingram, had opened the store next to Publix in 2000 and were selling to retire.

“My wife and I had been coming here for years and always enjoyed the atmos- phere and neighborhood camaraderie,” said Chuck. “Jan and Dwayne had built up a nice clientele of professional people who enjoy a good glass of wine, good company and good conversations. We’ve simply taken it from there.”

Since becoming owner, Chuck has opened up the front area of the store to make it brighter and less cluttered and has added more high-top seating next to the bar.

The new tables, along with a unique, custom-made bar, comfortably sit 35 to 40 people. The establishment’s most popular gathering is a weekly wine and cheese tasting every Friday evening beginning at 6:30 p.m.

“It’s a great value, and we have a lot of fun,” said Chuck. “For just $10 per person, you get a sampling of four to six wines and a generous plate of cheese, crackers and fruit. It’s an inexpensive way to sample the premier wines we stock from smaller vineyards in California, Spain and Italy.”

Jan’s Wine and Boos II has an extensive collection of wines, said Chuck, who has been a wine enthusiast for 20 years. “We stock wines here that you do not find at grocery stores and Walmart,” he said.

Most of the wine Chuck sells is in the $10 to $20 range, although he does stock exclusive wines for special occasions that sell for more than $50.

“Anybody can buy a good bottle of wine if they want to spend $50,” said Chuck. “We specialize at helping people find a great bottle of wine for just $10 or $20.”

In addition to wine, the store has a full-service package store with beer, liquor and cordials. The store is popular with folks who shop at the Publix next door and want to pick up a good bottle of wine for dinner or to replenish their liquor cabinet.

Currently, Jan’s Wine & Boos II is fea- turing 10 percent off all wine. “Our prices are already competitive, but we’re offering another 10 percent off to encourage people to stop buy and see our selection and give us a try,” said Chuck.

Most of Chuck’s customers are professionals, 35 years and older, who live in the surrounding neighborhoods of Cheval, Villa Rosa, Heritage Harbor and The Lakes of Wellington, which is where Chuck and his wife Anita live with their 20-year-old daughter Keeton and 13-year- old son Logan.

Keeton, a 2010 graduate of Steinbrenner High and a college student, works alongside her dad at the store. Logan is a budding baseball player in Lutz Little League and at Reggie Williams’ Dawg Pound travel team. Anita, assistant director at a Lutz area preschool, also helps at the family business.

After six months of owning his business, what does Chuck think of running his own show?

“It’s certainly a more relaxing pace,” said Chuck. “I’m pleased that the business is steadily growing, and we’ve been able to add new events and expand our inventory of wines.”

The key to his success, Chuck says, is treating everyone who walks in the door as if they are his best customers. “It’s all about customer service,” said Chuck.

Jan’s Wine & Boos II is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday to 10 p.m.

This story is a feature of the advertising department.

Pet Point Animal Hospital: Where pet love and human compassion meet

April 17, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pet Point Animal Hospital is the newest veterinarian clinic in central Pasco, opening its doors in late March in a retail center at SR 54 and Oak Grove Boulevard, directly across from Ferman Auto.

Pet Point’s staff: Receptionist Mary Straub, veterinarian/owner Dr. Moses Kawalya and vet tech Jennifer Leali.

The hospital’s staff is experienced and compassionate, so much that it has adopted as its slogan, “Where pet love and human compassion meet.”

“We are very focused on providing top quality pet care and strive to become partners in the lifelong care of family pets,” said Dr. Moses Kawalya, the veterinarian owner of Pet Point.

In addition to providing care at his new clinic, Dr. Kawalya also makes house calls — a service rarely offered by vets who specialize in small animals like cats and dogs.

“Many older people do not have the means or the transportation to get their pet to the vet,” said Dr. Kawalya. “We will pick up and drop off pets, and if necessary, will go to the pet’s home to provide medical care.”

Dr. Kawalya has been a small animal veterinarian for over 10 years. He spent eight years at Banfield Pet Hospital, the veterinarian clinic inside Pet Smart retail stores, most recently at the Citrus Park Banfield.

Working alongside Dr. Kawalya at his new clinic are Jenifer Leali a veterinarian technician with 13 years experience, and Mary Straub, the receptionist with 20 years experience.

Along with its experienced medical team, Pet Point offers all-new, high-tech medical equipment, including a digital X-ray machine that allows instant image visualization, is less stressful for pets as it reduces the need for retakes, and makes it possible to transmit the images electronically to a radiologist if needed.

The clinic also has an in-house laboratory for quick test results and a state- of-the-art dental cleaning machine.

“I’ve always wanted to own my own practice — this is my dream come true,” said Dr. Kawalya. “The clinic is a big venture for me, but it’s worth the investment because I want the latitude to practice veterinary medicine with the interest of my patients as a priority.”

Preventative care is the most important aspect of Dr. Kawalya’s practice. To this end Dr. Kawalya stresses regular exams, individualized vaccine schedules, parasite control and preventive lab testing as needed. Affordable wellness plans are offered to clients to ease the financial burden of providing care to their beloved pets.

“I want to diagnose and treat diseases early before they develop into something more serious,” he said.

Dr. Kawalya is from Uganda, where he completed his veterinarian education in 1993.

He moved to Ohio to join his sister in 1995 and to pursue his veterinarian license in the U.S. Soon after arriving, he met his future wife, Mary, and the couple moved to Michigan so that Dr. Kawalya could gain experience working in a practice with family pets. (In Uganda, veterinarians are trained to primarily care for livestock.)

While in Michigan, Dr. Kawalya worked as a research assistant at Michigan State University and then University of Michigan working with lab animals. During this period he sat and passed the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE). He then went on to complete an internship at Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine in Alabama.

In 2004, Dr. Kawalya moved to Wesley Chapel with his wife, three children and two dogs. He is currently working on board certification with the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners.

Pet Point Animal Hospital is located at 24416 State Road 54, Lutz. They can be reached at (813) 428-6994, or by email at . Visit them on the Web at www.PetPointAnimalHospital.com.

This story is a feature of the advertising department.

NAIL V.I.P. opens in Lutz with top-quality service at discounted prices

April 10, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

As a single mother with a young son, Cindy Nguyen worked diligently for many years as a nail tech to build her client base and save money so she could open her own nail salon.

She opened her first location in Temple Terrace six years ago and this past February opened a second store in Lutz on Florida Avenue, a quarter mile north of Bearss Avenue in the same shopping center as The Gathering Place restaurant.

“Owning my own store allows me to work my schedule around my boy and his activities, said Cindy of her 12-year-old son, Bryan Truong.

Cindy’s dedication to her son, a sixth grader at Williams Middle Magnet School, is the same dedication she showers on her clients. Her shop, Nail V.I.P. Professional Care, is appropriately named because she considers every customer a very important person.

Cindy arrived in Florida 25 years ago as a refugee from Vietnam. She was sponsored by an organization in Tampa and has lived here ever since.

“I love it here — Tampa has been very good to me,” said Cindy. “People were very welcoming and the weather is much like Vietnam’s.”

Cindy is very proud of her new Lutz store and its sparkling tile floors, warm green and yellow walls and brightly lit atmosphere. There are eight pedicure chairs and nail stations and the latest equipment used to hygienically and professionally provide manicures and pedicures to women of all ages.

Working alongside Cindy are five licensed nail techs.

“I asked my most experienced technicians from my Temple Terrace store to join me at the new Lutz location,” said Cindy. “Everyone here has been doing nails for over five years and all are fully licensed.”

All of Nail V.I.P.’s techs are Vietnamese, and for a good reason, said Cindy. “In our culture back in Vietnam, women do a lot of hand- work, which taught us great attention to detail and makes us skilled at working at things close up, like nails,” said Cindy.

Located close to Avila and other upscale communities, Nail V.I.P. has gotten off to a fast start since it opened. In addition, many cus- tomers from Lutz/Land O’ Lakes work downtown and stop by on their way to and from work because the store is just minutes from the Bearss and Interstate 275 interchange.

“This location is very convenient for customers, plus we’re open seven days a week,” said Cindy. Store hours are Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

To celebrate the store’s grand opening, Nail V.I.P. is offering 15 percent off every service. This makes Nail V.I.P.’s most popular service, a deluxe pedicure, just $22, which includes a mud menthol foot mask, sea salt soak and eucalyptus moisturizer. After this skin care treatment, old toenail color is removed and customers choose from over 75 colors for their new polish.

Gel nails are also very popular and are the number one choice for manicures. Most clients return every two weeks to keep their nails in tip-top shape. Light pinks and blues are trendy spring colors that many women are choosing.

“We love our customers and welcome walk-ins,” said Cindy. “Many woman don’t have time to make appointments. We can almost always accommodate someone who stops by.”

The shop is located at 16305 N. Florida Ave., Lutz. They can be reached at (813) 304-2648, or at www.FloridaNailVIP.com.

This story is a feature of the advertising department.

Scotch Institute in Wesley Chapel offers expertise in ENT, hearing and sleep medicine

February 20, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

In an era when many physicians are joining large multi-specialty groups, Dr. Brett Scotch remains independent as the solo physician of Scotch Institute of Ear Nose & Throat in Wesley Chapel.

Brett M. Scotch, DO, FAOCO Board Certified Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery — Brett M. Scotch, DO, FAOCO
Board Certified Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery

A board certified physician in Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Scotch values the independence that comes with operating his own practice.

“I can provide the highest level of quality care for every aspect of my practice,” said Dr. Scotch. “I offer continuity of care because patients always see me, never an assistant. This allows us to treat every patient as if they are a member of our family and many become lifelong patients.”

Dr. Scotch practices from a modern facility in Wesley Chapel in the Summergate Professional Center, located off SR 56 behind Sam’s Club. The convenient location just minutes from I-75 and the new Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel attracts patients from throughout Pasco and northern Hillsborough counties.

Dr. Scotch came to Tampa in 2005 while serving as a Major in the US Air Force Medical Corps at MacDill Air Force Base. When his service was completed in 2008, he stayed and founded his own practice.

Since then, Dr. Scotch has expanded his practice from traditional ENT services to providing extensive expertise in allergy treatments and sleep medicine. He was one of the first doctors in the area to perform balloon sinuplasty to replace traditional sinus surgeries and is the medical director of several diagnostic sleep labs.

Dr. Scotch left his native Massachusetts to attend the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he received his undergraduate degree and met his future wife, Jodi. He went on to medical school at Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Lauderdale and then went on to complete a five-year residency in ENT and facial plastic surgery at Michigan State University affiliated hospitals.

What influenced Dr. Scotch to become a specialist in ENT medicine?

“It’s a wonderful mix of various populations – kids to seniors. My oldest patient is 100 and the youngest are infants,” said Dr. Scotch. “It’s a nice balance of surgery and office-based procedures, all which makes for a very interesting practice.”

Dr. Scotch sees patients in four core areas: sinus & allergy, ear nose & throat, hearing, and sleep. If hospitalization is required, Dr. Scotch has privileges at, Florida Hospital Zephyrhills and Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, which has a state-of-the-art sinus surgical suite where he performs sinus surgery if needed.

“Being in Florida, we see a lot of sinus and allergy problems,” said Dr. Scotch. “We try to get away from allergy shots and mostly use under-the-tongue allergy drops.” They are less invasive and usually a better tolerated treatment than traditional shots.

Daily allergy drops are conveniently used at home, typically give faster results and are very safe. They are especially great for kids – we have children treated as young as 4 years old.”

Another area where Dr. Scotch is a leading physician is in sleep medicine.

“Sleep is very important,” said Dr. Scotch. “Without enough sleep, it affects one’s energy level, general medical condition and overall health. It even affects weight loss and metabolism. If a sleep problem remains untreated, it can lead to early heart and blood pressure problems.”

Because sleep is medically necessary, most insurance companies cover treatment for sleep disorders, including insomnia, snoring, sleep apnea and sleep behavioral disorders.

“Often times a patient does not recognize the severity of the problem, but their bed partner does,” said Dr. Scotch. “Some studies estimate that at least 30 percent of adults and possibly as many as 50 percent of the population in some demographics snore. Multiple studies reveal a significant correlation between loud snoring and risk of heart attack and stroke.”

Dr. Scotch, who is certified in Sleep Medicine, has unique expertise in that he can treat all aspects of a patients’ sleep disorder, from non-invasive medical therapy to minimally invasive surgical techniques to treat snoring and sleep apnea.

Another area of expertise at the Scotch Institute is the identification and treat- ment of hearing loss. Working alongside Dr. Scotch is clinical audiologist Barbara Drobes, MS, CCC-A who has more than16 years experience working with pediatric and adult patients.

Hearing loss is a leading disability — 10 percent of Americans report that hearing loss affects their ability to understand normal speech.

“We help people suffering from hearing loss with multiple modalities – everything from counseling to natural remedies to hearing aids to surgery,” said Dr. Scotch.

In addition to his medical qualifications, Dr. Scotch is known for his warm, caring, and professional demeanor. He was awarded the 2011 Physician of the Year by the statewide Florida Osteopathic Medical Association for his devotion as a leader, educator, and role model, and more recently the 2012 Community Physician Award by Florida Hospital Zephyrhills.

His office is located at the Seven Oaks Summergate Professional Center, 27406 Cashford Circle, Wesley Chapel. He can be reached at (813) 994-8900, or at www.ScotchENT.com.

This story is a feature of the advertising department.

Husband and Wife Team Board Certified in Plastic Surgery and Dermatology Open Clinic in Wesley Chapel

February 13, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Women have many choices when it comes to cosmetic surgery and skin care. Board-certified plastic surgeons and board-certified dermatologists are uniquely trained to provide these services. Together, Drs. Raj and Aparna Ambay provide Tampa’s first center for coordinated care.

Raj S. Ambay, M.D. and Aparna Ambay, M.D., FAAD

“Quality and safety should always be a priority,” Dr. Raj Ambay, a board-certified plastic surgeon, recommends patients look past marketing hype by checking the board certification of their doctors with the Florida Dept. of Health and the American Board of Medical Specialties. “Your health and safety is too important to accept a compromise,” he said.

Dr. Ambay completed his general surgical residency at the prestigious Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Following his residency, he completed a plastic surgery residency at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a cancer fellowship with the National Institutes of Health, and a second sub-specialty fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, where he specialized in microsurgery and tissue transplantation.

“Microsurgery and tissue transplanta- tion allow me to perform the most advanced forms of breast cancer reconstruction,” said Dr. Ambay. “Knowing how to reconstruct a breast requires an artistic eye and comprehensive under- standing of anatomy. That knowledge is the foundation for delivering superior results in cosmetic surgery.”

Dr. Ambay brought his medical expertise to the Tampa area in 2010 when he relocated here with his wife, Dr. Aparna Ambay, a board certified dermatologist, and their daughter Amani.

Dr. Ambay is also a reservist, Lieutenant Colonel and an Army veteran. He was deployed to Iraq in 2011 and spent four months stationed in a combat hospital supporting a Special Forces unit.

When Dr. Ambay entered the combat zone, he recalled his commander saying, “the force behind you is far greater than the challenges ahead of you.”

“When I returned from Iraq, I felt like that was the same reason to open a medical center,” said Dr. Ambay. In early 2012, Tampa Institute of Plastic Surgery and 360 Dermatology opened together in a Seven Oaks office complex in Wesley Chapel behind Sam’s Club.

In addition to the convenience of the two disciplines working together, patients appreciate the practices’ state-of-the-art technology. Every suite has high-tech features such as iPads mirrored on large LCD screens to enhance patient education.

On Feb 5, ABC Action news featured Dr. Raj Ambay as the first practice in Florida to use HIPPA-compliant email and texting technology. This technology provides updates to anxious family members on the status of their loved ones while in surgery, at the same time, and anywhere in the world.

Another first by the Ambays’ is their use of video technology to host consultations and after-surgery check-ups. “Our patients like the option of meeting with us through their computer or smart phone because they don’t have to put their life on hold to visit the doctor” said Dr. Aparna Ambay. The facility is a spacious 4,000 square feet decorated in inviting, warm colors that make patients feel at home and at ease.

The Ambays chose Wesley Chapel for their practice because of its family friendly environment, convenience to I-75 and rapid growth. “Plus, we live close by and so we are a part of the community which we also serve.”

At 360 Dermatology, Dr. Aparna Ambay not only performs non-invasive cosmetic procedures but also specializes in Mohs surgery, a precise tissue preserving surgical technique used to treat skin cancer. It is the only on-site, state certified Mohs facility in Wesley Chapel.

“The goal is to remove all of the skin cancer while preserving surrounding healthy tissue,” said Dr. Ambay, who also said that a substantial portion of her patients choose to have their skin cancer defect reconstructed by Dr. Ambay, the plastic surgeon, rather than waiting weeks with an open wound.

Why does a woman consider plastic surgery or cosmetic dermatology?

“Our patients are intelligent women who frequently say that they have spent their lives taking care of everyone else but themselves. Now it’s their turn to do something for themselves,” said Dr. Ambay. “If cosmetic surgery and beautiful skin improves a woman’s self esteem and overall well being, then why not?”

The Tampa Institute of Plastic Surgery is located at 27716 Cashford Circle, Wesley Chapel. They can be reached at (813) 406-4835, or visit them online at www.ambayplasticsurgery.com, or at www.360DermatologyTampa.com.

This story is a feature of the advertising department.

Lutz physician offers seniors quality healthcare and genuine compassion

January 30, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Dr. K. Venkataram, known by his patients simply as Dr. Ram, is accepting new patients at his downtown Lutz location in Sunset Point off US 41 and Crystal Grove Boulevard. New patients are seen within two weeks and same-day urgent care appointments are available.

Board certified in internal medicine with prestigious residencies at Georgetown and John Hopkins affiliated hospitals, Dr. Ram offers 30 years of medical experience and perhaps more importantly, a genuine compassion and commitment to helping patients live life to the fullest by treating the whole person, not just their medical conditions.

“There are usually other issues that need to be taken care of besides whatever is ailing a patient physically that particular day,” said Dr. Ram. “We take the time to look at all of a patient’s needs because they are usually inter-related.”

Most of Dr. Ram’s patients are over 65 and many live a long way from their immediate family. Because family members are often unable to accompany patients to their doctor appointments, or to provide help at home, patients turn to Dr. Ram and his staff to find social services and other assistance they need.

“This really is a relationship,” said Dr. Ram. “Patients won’t tell you what’s wrong, not just medically but also in other areas of their lives, unless you spend time with them. We go a little bit deeper and take the time to do a thorough job.”

Dr. Ram typically sees just 12 to 15 patients a day, while many physicians see over 30. By spending more time with his patients, Dr. Ram says he gets to know his patients personally as well as medically.

“I am able to give every patient a thorough examination and then spend time talking and listening to them,” said Dr. Ram.

Patients rave about Dr. Ram’s thoroughness and bedside manner:

“Dr. Ram is a modern doctor with old-time ethics. You never wait long in the waiting room and he listens with undivided attention.” Al Walker

“It’s wonderful to actually be treated with compassion and respect. You never feel like just another number.” Randy Baldwin

“Dr. Ram is very knowledgeable and always thorough. You never feel that he is rushing to finish his consultation. He is a very com- passionate man who truly cares about his patients. Plus his staff is friendly, efficient and helpful.” Kenneth and Doris Cook

Working alongside Dr. Ram is nurse practitioner Kristine Bamford, who joined the practice a year ago after graduating from USF.

“Dr. Ram is very personable and knowledgeable and has the uncanny ability to remember everything about every patient,” said Kristine.

Also working with Dr. Ram is LPN Shirley Berry, a Land O’ Lakes resident. “This is a very family-oriented practice with entire families coming here,” said Shirley. “Our staff is very personable and warm and we treat patients like family.”

Dr. Ram has been affiliated with JSA Medical Group since 1998 and has managed the company’s Lutz office since 2004. JSA accepts most insurance, including Humana, Blue Cross and Medicare.

Dr. Ram lives in Odessa with his wife, Jaya, a Montessori teacher and his office manager, and their 12 year-old daughter, Saritha, a seventh grader at Berkeley Prep. Their son, Sunil, earned a MBA and works for Deloitte & Touche. When not practicing medicine, Dr. Ram enjoys amateur photography and traveling with his family.

JSA Medical Group is located at 208 Crystal Grove Blvd., Lutz. They can be reached at (813) 949-4991, or at www.SunsetPointMedicalCenter.com.

This story is a feature of the advertising department.

Dr. Todd Britten joins North Tampa Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

January 2, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Dr. Patrick Johnson, a well-regarded periodontist who has practiced in north Tampa for 15 years, recently introduced Dr. Todd Britten as his new associate at North Tampa Periodontics and Implant Dentistry.

“I wanted to bring on a partner whose philosophy meshed with mine — someone with the same values,” said Dr. Johnson. “It’s hard to teach ethics and Todd was someone I could trust.”

Dr. Johnson embraces a philosophy of caring, compassionate patient care combined with quality, comprehensive dental services specializing in periodontal care, implants and oral plastic surgery.

Dr. Britten was born and raised in the north Tampa community of Lutz. He graduated from Jesuit High School and later the University of Florida. “I am a Lutz Chief first, then a Tiger and a Gator through and through,” said Dr. Britten.

After Todd received his doctorate, he stayed in Gainesville another three years to complete his post-graduate residency in periodontics. There he served as Chief Resident and trained in the latest techniques in periodontics and implant dentistry. When he graduated in 2012, Dr. Johnson invited Todd to join his practice.

Many of Dr. Johnson’s patients are referrals from Todd’s father, Dr. Leonard Britten, who has served the Lutz and Land O’Lakes communities for more than 25 years with his general dentistry practice in downtown Lutz. Todd’s identical twin brother, Nick, joined his father in family practice in 2009 after graduating from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. “People often get us confused,” said Todd. “I may run into someone in public that says “Hey Dr. Nick!” and I just have to laugh and to explain to them the situation.”

“I knew Leonard was an exceptional dentist and taught his sons the core values of compassionate patient care,” said Dr. Johnson. Dr. Johnson and Dr. Leonard Britten have both served for years on the executive board of the Hillsborough County Dental Association, where Dr. Johnson is currently president-elect of the 300-member professional group.

“Todd is a great fit for my office because of his excellent educational

foundation in the latest techniques and procedures,” said Dr. Johnson. “Equally important are his ethics and his commitment. I want to give my patients the continuity of care they deserve and want patients to decide to come here not because we have the latest gadgets, but because we offer outstanding, compassionate dental care with doctors they know will be here when they return.”

About a third of the practice’s work is treating and managing periodontal disease. Another third is oral plastic surgery and the final third includes treatment involving dental implants.

“Dental implants are the fastest growing area of our practice,” said Dr. Johnson. “They can replace single or multiple missing teeth or in fact add stability to a loose denture, which many people aren’t aware of.” Implants have become more mainstream and more affordable in the past 10 years and are a good solution for people who don’t want traditional dentures.

Why did Dr. Britten decide to pursue his advanced degree in periodontics?

“I had observed several periodontists before dental school and always found it fascinating and still do,” said Dr. Britten. “I like the variety of work and the critical thinking it requires to help each patient achieve a healthy mouth.”

According to Dr. Johnson, research shows that quality of life is closely tied to good dental health. “Periodontal disease can take years off your life if it goes untreated,” said Dr. Johnson. “We’re here to help the general dentist achieve comprehensive oral health for his patients by preventative care that allows patients to keep their teeth or replace them as needed.”

Dr. Britten adds, “When you do get to the age of retirement, you want to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, especially eating. Dentures are a good replacement for no teeth, but are never a good replacement for your own teeth. That is our goal — to help people keep their teeth with good, preventative periodontal care so they can enjoy their life to the fullest.”

Drs. Johnson and Britten are currently accepting new patients, and while a referral from a general dentist is common, it is not required. They welcome self-referrals or referrals from other patients. Please call the office to set a time convenient for you.

The office is located at 5111 Ehrlick Road, Suite 150, in Tampa. The phone number is (813) 264-1258, or you can email them at . Visit them online at www.SmileFramers.com.

This story is a feature of the advertising department.