Stitching Together A Unique Legacy — Meet Kathy Gillespie Of ‘Stitch Happens’ 

(Above) Kathy Gillespie of Stitch Happens can help you create unique Christmas stockings for your pets (right) and so much more. 
(All photos provided by Kathy Gillespie) 

Kathy Gillespie never imagined her life would take such a creative turn. She began her journey as a skilled seamstress, crafting parachutes with precision and care. Kathy explained that alongside her late husband, Rob Jones, she “co-owned Morpheus Technologies, a business that combined our passion for skydiving with the art of making parachutes.” Together, they built a life filled with adventure and hard work. “But, when Rob passed away,” Kathy says, “I found myself at a crossroads, uncertain about the future of the business.” 

As time went on, she began to feel the weight of her loss and the reality of aging. “I wasn’t sure,” she explains, “if I wanted to continue running Morpheus Technologies full time, especially since I knew I wouldn’t be jumping out of planes as often as before.” Little did she know that a new passion was just around the corner, waiting for her to take a different kind of leap. 

In 2011, the couple who owned the business that embroidered their parachutes had mentioned that they were thinking about retiring. The couple asked Kathy if she would be interested in purchasing the business. “This sparked many thoughts” Kathy says. “What if I took over the business and ventured into the world of embroidery?” It was a big decision, and it took her a year to think it through. But, in 2012, she decided to take the plunge and purchase the business. 

Kathy was now the proud owner of both Morpheus Technologies and a new company. 

“I wanted to give this new company a name that people would remember and smile,” she says. “I thought about it for a while and finally came up with the perfect name: ‘Stitch Happens.’” It is playful, catchy and a little bit cheeky, a perfect reflection of Kathy’s personality. 

Although Kathy still makes parachutes, Stitch Happens quickly became her focus. 

“The business offers more than just embroidery,” Kathy explains. “We also provide silk screening and a variety of other services.” She can make just about anything you can think of — shirts, hats, scrubs, personalized backpacks, pens, team uniforms, magnets, stickers and even dog collars. “If you can dream it, I can stitch it.” she says. 

Business Branding, Too 

One of Kathy’s favorite things about her work is helping companies promote their brands. “I especially enjoy working with the medical industry, creating custom scrubs for healthcare professionals,” she says. “Two of my clients are AdventHealth and Florida Medical Clinic.” 

When you see Kathy’s Jeep, you know some cool promotional items are being delivered. 

But, what really sets Stitch Happens apart from other companies is Kathy’s commitment to building personal relationships with customers. 

“I don’t just take orders,” Kathy says, “I collaborate with my clients, and help them refine their ideas and create the perfect design. My customers know they can count on me to be creative and add that special touch that makes their products stand out.” 

She recently created promotional items for Black Sheep Restaurant in Lutz, including shirts for the restaurant’s anniversary celebration. 

“Helping people grow their businesses through branding is something I find deeply rewarding,” she says “I love hearing back from them and knowing I was a part of their success story.” 

Building relationships with her customers is at the heart of Kathy’s business philosophy. She knows that even a small job can lead to bigger opportunities down the road. For example, she might start by creating a personalized item for a newborn baby and as the child grows, she continues to provide items like embroidered backpacks and school uniforms. 

“Over time, these small connections grow into lasting partnerships that I cherish,” she says. 

And, Kathy’s customers rave about her services, too, giving her a 4.8-out-of-5-star overall rating on Google. Here is just one of those raves: 

“We at Crown Insurance Group have been working with Kathy and Stitch Happens for over 5 years and she has yet to disappoint. The quality of her work and her attention to detail are second to none, but more importantly, Kathy brings a passion to her work and goes out of her way to ensure customer satisfaction. Stitch Happens has made polo shirts for the entire Crown Insurance Group team, dress shirts and ‘swag,’ including cups, koozies, magnets and table runners, just to name a few. Even when we have given her short timelines to work with, she delivers every time. We regularly receive compliments on everything that Stitch Happens has done for us. So much so, that we refer Stitch Happens constantly and everyone raves about Kathy and Stitch Happens. Thank you!” — Manuel Saldana, agency principal, Crown Insurance Group, Inc. 

Pet Products & More 

Pets are a big part of many people’s lives and Kathy knows just how to make them look special, too. “I offer custom embroidery for dog collars,” she says, “and I create unique designs that pet owners love.” Some collars have playful sayings like, “If you find me, call my Mom,” complete with a phone number, while others simply display the pet’s name.” Kathy enjoys helping her customers come up with just the right words to make their pet’s collars one-of-a-kind. 

While Stitch Happens does have a website — StitchHappensPromo.com — Kathy says it’s more for inspiration than for shopping. Her site doesn’t have a shopping cart because she prefers to work directly with her customers. The website is a place where people can browse for ideas and once they know what they want, they can reach out to her. 

Kathy & Stitch Happens can turn simple items like book bags & backpacks into personalized keepsakes. 

“I take pride in finding the best prices for my customers.” she says, adding that she often searches for local businesses to source products, avoiding extra shipping costs whenever possible. 

The holiday season is a busy time for Kathy, especially when it comes to Christmas stockings. 

“These personalized items are always in high demand,” she says. “I enjoy creating festive designs that bring joy to my customers.” She’s also worked on more sentimental projects, like embroidering messages on quilts for military families. “These quilts often feature squares with special memories or messages,” explains Kathy, “creating a beautiful and lasting tribute to loved ones.” 

Weddings are another occasion where Kathy’s talents shine — from embroidered bathrobes for the wedding party to personalized ties with messages for the groom — Kathy helps couples add a personal touch to their big day. She can even stitch wedding dates and names inside bridal dresses, creating a hidden keepsake that brides can cherish forever. And, the possibilities don’t stop there, as Kathy’s embroidery has graced everything from menus to initials on glassware, making each wedding truly unique. 

In addition to her work with Stitch Happens, Kathy also is an active member of the Main Street Zephyrhills group which organizes events and fund raisers. She has created logos for the group and enjoys giving back to her community. Kathy also has embroidered golf towels and created logos for golf tournaments that support underprivileged children. 

Kathy’s motto is “Making Stitch Happen Since 2012.” This sums up her journey perfectly, as she took a leap of faith by leaving behind the parachutes she once made to create something for an entirely new adventure. Kathy Gillespie has built a business that’s more than just a place to get something stitched. It’s a business where relationships are woven together one stitch at a time. 

For more information, call Kathy Gillespie of Stitch Happens at (813) 679-9355 or email her at StitchHappensKat@gmail.com. 

Dr. Nicole Mitchell-Toth Of Blue Water Dental Wants To Be Your Family’s Dentist! 

Dr. Nicole Mitchell-Toth of Blue Water Dental in the Pebble Creek Collection is an experienced family, implant and cosmetic dentist who has been practicing in New Tampa for 18 years. (Photos by Charmaine George) 

Dr. Nicole Mitchell-Toth, a highly skilled, caring and dedicated dentist, has been practicing in the New Tampa area since 2006. She offers family, implant and cosmetic dentistry, with an extensive array of dental services — and has the experience and background to match. 

Dr. Mitchell (which is what she says her staff and patients call her, despite her recent married name) graduated from the University of South Florida in Tampa, where she received her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Chemistry. She earned her Doctor of Medical Dentistry (D.M.D.) degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in Gainesville. 

After graduation, Dr. Mitchell served in the United States Army, where she was stationed at Ft. Benning, GA, and completed her residency in AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentistry), as well as the “Spear Curriculum” in advanced comprehensive dentistry. She earned the rank of Major before leaving the Army. 

Dr. Mitchell has received implant training from implant educators and has averaged about 100 hours of continuing education per year for the last 20 years. She also completed the Executive Practice Management Curriculum through the University of Florida. 

She opened her first private practice office 18 years ago in The Walk at Highwoods Preserve plaza before moving to her current location in the Pebble Creek Collection in New Tampa in 2020. 

Having moved just before the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Dr. Mitchell calls the move, “perfect timing. We were able to complete everything before building materials became scarce,” she says. “I was very fortunate to be a dentist in Florida, since the relatively lenient restrictions here allowed us to resume seeing patients after only six weeks,” which was a small amount of time compared to the six months some states shut down their dental offices. 

Using AI Technology 

During the pandemic, Dr. Mitchell says she was introduced to new technologies that continue to benefit her patients, including both hardware and software that utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI). For example, she has a device that attaches to a smartphone camera, enabling patients to take and then transmit pictures of their teeth to the office for evaluation, eliminating the need for some (but not all) in-person visits. 

“It’s not just what we see but also what the AI technology analyzes.” Dr. Mitchell explains. 

In the office, she adds, AI technology enhances dental care by identifying problem areas in photos and X-rays. “The AI can detect early signs of cavities, allowing me to prescribe medication before they become serious,” she says. This tech also allows her to create 3D models of a patient’s teeth, which can reveal changes over time, such as gum recession or wear and tear. 

Dr. Mitchell uses AI technology to show patients where they have problems with their teeth. 

“We can use these images overlaid to show the patient how and why things have changed and what they can do to improve.” 

For more than a year, Dr. Mitchell also has been using AI software to analyze X-rays. 

“The software highlights problem areas in different colors (see photo left), making it easier to explain to patients what they need,” she says. “This visual aid helps patients understand their dental health and the necessary treatments.” 

Dr. Mitchell’s approach to dentistry is grounded in honesty and openness. She ensures that each patient is fully informed about treatment options and costs, empowering them to make the best decisions for their dental health. 

She also emphasizes the importance of education in maintaining oral health. New patients fill out detailed questionnaires about diet and lifestyle to identify potential causes of dental issues. 

“You may not realize it, but what you eat or drink can affect your teeth,” she says. 

The Blue Water Dental team includes three dental hygienists, four dental assistants, three administrative staff members and therapy dogs Max and Mandi. 

“In January of 2016,” says Dr. Mitchell, “we welcomed to the office these two nine-week-old Maltese-Shih Tzu mix pups, who we named after the Maxillary and Mandibular jaws. These therapy dogs were trained for the purpose of providing comfort and kindness to our patients.” 

The hypoallergenic pups enjoy roaming the office, “but mostly they enjoy sitting on the laps of patients and getting a good belly rub” says Dr. Mitchell, who adds that most patients find Max and Mandy to be very calming and comforting. 

Implant & Cosmetic Services 

In addition to general/family dentistry, Dr. Mitchell specializes in cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. 

“Creating new smiles is a favorite part of my job,” she says. Her practice offers a number of cosmetic procedures, including veneers, crowns and teeth whitening. She provides comprehensive assessments and multiple treatment options, ensuring that patients can choose the best solutions for their individual needs. 

When it comes to implants, Dr. Mitchell handles everything from individual teeth to complete replacements. 

“Replacing teeth can significantly improve a person’s appearance and confidence,” she says. “Depending upon what the patient wants or needs, the implant process can take from four months to a year.” 

Mandi is one of two hypoallergenic therapy dogs in Dr. Mitchell’s office. 

Cosmetic services include single-visit permanent crowns, customized cosmetic veneers, specialty orthodontic care with virtual checkups, dental implants and same-day emergency appointments. 

Giving back to the community also is important to Dr. Mitchell. She volunteers with Missions Smiles, a program of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Mission Tampa that provides dental care via a mobile unit to underserved areas. 

“We offer care once or twice a month, and sometimes we see patients in the office as well,” she says. “This program also assists survivors of human trafficking.” 

Another volunteer effort is with “Operation Stand Down,” presented by the Chapters Health Valor Program of HPH Hospice in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. This annual event provides comprehensive services to veterans, “many of whom are homeless and haven’t had dental care in years,” Dr. Mitchell explains. The event offers a range of services and accommodations, creating a supportive environment for these veterans in need. 

Dr. Mitchell has built long-term relationships with her patients, some of whom she has cared for since they were school aged and are now married with children. She takes pride in building these relationships and doing her absolute best to cater to every patient’s needs 

For more info about Blue Water Dental, the Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry office of Dr. Nicole Mitchell-Toth (19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Suite A-1), call (813) 957-5887 or visit NicoleMitchellDMD.com to request an appointment. The office is open Mon.- Thur., 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Fri. 

Budget Blinds — The Company That Brings A Full Design Showroom To Your Home! 

If you’ve been thinking about enhancing the beauty of your home, call Budget Blinds of North Tampa & Land O’Lakes for an in-home design consultation. (All photos provided by Adriane Wonderlin) 

As Florida summers seem to get hotter (and start sooner) every year, keeping cool inside becomes a growing priority for local homeowners. You can crank up the air conditioning, but what you may not realize is that a more efficient and stylish solution to the heat is getting new window treatments. These not only help regulate temperature but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, both inside and out. 

Mike & Adriane Wonderlin are the owners of Budget Blinds of North Tampa & Land O’Lakes. 

When it comes to finding a company that meets all of your window treatment needs, Budget Blinds of North Tampa & Land O’Lakes stands out. Owned by Wesley Chapel residents Adriane and Mike Wonderlin, the local franchise on W. Fletcher Ave. (near I-275) in Tampa offers personalized consultation services. Whether you visit their showroom or invite a Budget Blinds consultant into your home, you can choose from the company’s huge variety to find the perfect window treatments that align with your budget and style preferences. 

Adriane says, “Many people think blinds are expensive, but we offer a wide selection that can fit any budget.” Mike, with more than 30 years of experience in the business, and Adriane have expanded their service area from San Antonio to Palmetto and now Lakeland. Their showroom is a hub for exploring various styles, although in-home consultations remain a key part of Budget Blinds’ services. 

“Our consultant will come to your home and help you pick out just the right style and material,” says Adriane. 

Employing a team of about 40 people, the Wonderlins are looking to expand further by hiring additional administrative staff and installers in Tampa. Adriane encourages anyone reading this story to contact her (see contact information at the end of the story) if interested or looking for more information. 

Budget Blinds can show you how easy and affordable it is to add hybrid pleated shades with drapes to your home. 

The Wonderlins just came back from the Budget Blinds Expo called “Shaping Our Future Together” in Grapevine, TX, and shared that the most recent trends in the industry have not changed. 

“Motorization is still one of the most popular features with customers,” Adriane says. “One older trend that is making a comeback, are draperies. In the ‘80s and ‘90s, the trend was draperies, but for many years since then, it’s been blinds or shades. However, over the last couple of years, draperies have made a comeback. The difference is that now, shades and blinds are accompanied by draperies — all of which are motorized.” 

The landscape of the window treatment industry has seen some notable changes, especially with the rising popularity of motorized blinds. For example, “In Canada,” Adriane notes, “a law mandates motorized blinds for safety, prohibiting the sale of homes with corded blinds.” While the U.S. has not adopted this regulation, Budget Blinds educates customers on the benefits of motorized blinds, anticipating potential future legislation. For those who don’t want the expense of motorized blinds, but are still concerned about safety, Budget Blinds does also offer a variety of manual pull-down cordless blinds. 

Adriane and her outstanding sales team are always happy to run down the variety of blinds available, including vinyl, wood, fabric, faux wood and aluminum. Adding draperies for accent can enhance the look with a pop of color. Budget Blinds’ drapery specialist Cheryl Visalli, who has a degree in interior design, assists customers in choosing the perfect drapes to complement their blinds or shades. 

Budget Blinds of North Tampa & Land O’Lakes offers every major trend in the window treatment industry, from (above) hybrid pleated shades with drapes to (below) motorized shades and so many more. 

Among those who appreciate not only Budget Blinds’ selection, but the service she has received, is customer Tina Marie, who says in one of the hundreds of 5-Star Google reviews the franchise has received, “We had our beautiful blinds installed today after about 6 weeks of initial contact with this company. We could not have been more happy! Luis was our installer and made it extremely easy from beginning to end! He was very professional, (we were) impressed with how quiet he was with the installation of all rooms and cleaned up like he wasn’t even here. Also very quick on installing the entire house, our home having 13 windows. I’m very impressed and excited and I will definitely recommend this company as they are the BEST!” 

The Wonderlins actively market their services through advertisements (including in the Neighborhood News), highlighting the benefits of upgrading from builder-grade window treatments. The company offers a buy-one-get-half-off-deal, appealing to those looking to enhance efficiency and aesthetics, as well as 12-month interest-free financing. 

For those who prefer shades, the many options include roller, pleated, Roman, woven wood, bamboo, sheer, solar, or graphic varieties, along with an assortment of panels, valances and drapes. 

Also available are shutters, made from wood or composite materials, which remain a popular choice in Florida due to their durability and innovative designs like the invisible tilt feature, which offers an unobstructed view. 

Even the motorization trend has new advancements that make these systems more affordable and quieter. “Smart Homes,” says Adriane, “benefit greatly from improved motorization features.” This technology is particularly useful for Florida homes with large or high windows, allowing homeowners to easily manage light and heat. 

Businesses also benefit from motorized window treatments, which can be set on timers or controlled via smartphone, remote, wall switch, or voice command. About 70 percent of Budget Blinds’ orders now feature motorized options. 

Budget Blinds, founded in 1992 in Orange County, CA, has grown to more than 1,000 franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The Wonderlins’ North Tampa franchise, purchased in 2018, earned Budget Blinds’ national Franchise of the Year award in 2020, marking the location’s third such honor since 2016. 

Beyond business, Adriane and Mike are committed to community involvement. They partner with Homes for Our Troops, providing window treatments for homes built for permanently disabled military personnel. 

To schedule a complimentary in-home Budget Blinds consultation, call (813) 968-5050. For more information, follow “BudgetBlindsofGreaterTampa” on Facebook and Instagram or visit BudgetBlinds.com/NorthTampa.

How Do Florida’s New Homeowners & Condo Association Laws Affect You? 

Although parts of the new laws may end up being challenged in the courts, many portions of them went into effect on July 1 

By Iris Vitelli, Neighborhood News Correspondent & Gary Nager 

Among the many bills Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law in May was Florida House Bill (HB) 1203, which is now changing the way many homeowners associations do business. (Photo is from FLVoiceNews.com)

A number of the bills Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law on May 31 of this year will have far-reaching effects on homeowners (HOAs) and condominium associations, licensed community association managers (LCAMs) and home and condo owners themselves. 

According to PearlAntonacci.com (the website of the Pearl Antonacci Group of Compass Real Estate, based in Boca Raton), the 2024 HOA (Florida House Bill 1203) and condo (HB 1021) laws introduce stringent requirements for structural safety, financial transparency, and board governance: 

“Key highlights include: 

‱ Reserve Studies & Funding: Condo associations are now required to conduct comprehensive reserve studies periodically. This ensures that sufficient funds are available for major repairs and replacements, providing a clear financial roadmap for future needs. 

‱ Increased Transparency: Associations must provide detailed financial reports to all members annually, ensuring that every dollar spent is accounted for, fostering trust and clarity within the community. 

‱ Structural Integrity Inspections: In light of past incidents, there is a heightened focus on the physical health of buildings. Regular, mandatory inspections are to be carried out to guarantee the safety and durability of the structures. 

‱ Insurance Adjustments: The laws mandate that condo associations maintain robust insurance policies covering a wide range of potential damages, which might lead to increased premiums but significantly better protection against unforeseen events. 

‱ Enhanced Board Requirements: Board members are subject to stricter eligibility criteria and training requirements, aiming to professionalize HOA management and enhance decision-making processes. 

For homeowners, these changes mean more rights and protections from potentially overreaching HOA boards. It’s important for homeowners to be proactive, by attending HOA meetings and staying informed about their rights under the new laws.” 

But, while not all of Florida House Bill (HB) 1203 is yet in effect, many of these changes did take effect on July 1. The new law requires homeowners associations, certain community association managers and community association management firms “to post certain documents on their websites or make available such documents through an application by a date certain.” The law also provides that an association or its agent is required to apply and enforce certain standards regarding architectural or construction improvements “reasonably and equitably.” 

Key Changes & Requirements 

Several new laws address property management companies. While some HOAs and property management companies have adhered to these now-required practices for years, others were rushing to comply by July 1, when most of the requirements kick in. However, the website requirement is extended to January 1, 2025. The law states that HOA documents must be accessible via a website or mobile app, with a password-protected portal for homeowners. Required documents include: 

‱ Declaration of Covenants & Amendments 

‱ Articles of Incorporation & Amendments 

‱ Bylaws & Amendments 

‱ Current Rules 

‱ Contracts & Bids 

‱ Annual Budget 

‱ Financial Reports 

‱ Insurance Policies 

‱ Director Certifications 

‱ Agendas & Minutes 

‱ All Contracts, Notices & Documents related to Conflicts of Interest 

‱ Member Meeting Notices & Agendas 

‱ Board Meeting Notices & Enclosures 

Although many documents will be available on the HOA’s website, homeowners can still request to view documents kept by the property management company. Requests must be made by certified mail, and appointments will be arranged. Homeowners may take pictures or request and pay for copies of the records. 

Penalties & Compliance 

The law now explicitly states that directors or property managers who knowingly solicit, offer, or accept kickbacks are guilty of a third-degree felony. 

If a director is removed, the Board must fill the position immediately. When entering into a contract with an HOA, the contract must have a conflict of interest section. The property management company may recommend a vendor they have a stake in but must now disclose that information in the contract. 

Fining Committees & Procedures 

Not all HOAs already have a fining committee but under the new law, all HOAs are now required to establish such a committee. This committee will be made up of homeowner peers, and can not include any Board members or HOA employees. The committee will hear the homeowner’s explanation for not addressing the violation or contacting the property manager to make arrangements. After hearing the homeowner’s side, the committee will decide whether or not to impose the fine. The only authority the fining committee has is to approve or reject the fine; they cannot make alternate arrangements with the homeowner. 

Previously, the fining committee met at a location; the new law states that a homeowner can attend these meetings via phone or other electronic means. This law also prohibits a fine or suspension from being imposed if the violation is cured before the hearing has been held. 

The law also prevents associations from levying fines and suspensions for leaving garbage at the curb 24 hours before or after collection time or for leaving holiday decorations or lights on longer than allowed by governing documents, unless they are left for more than a week after the HOA gives written notice of the violation. 

Expert Opinions 

Attorney Jonathan Ellis, who is Board-certified in condominium and planned development law and a Partner and Community Associations Business Sector Chair at the Tampa office of Shumaker, Loop, and Kendrick, and an expert in HOA law, says, “Unfortunately, year after year, more amendments complicate HOA operations. Associations will need to consult counsel more often.” He adds that, “many changes are beneficial but will require HOAs to spend money to accommodate them.” 

For example, he says, “One change that could end up in front of a judge is the new law about commercial vehicles. Homeowners can now park in their driveways. The new law lacks a clear definition of what is considered a commercial vehicle. Is it the definition of the Dept. of Motor Vehicles or the minivan that has a ladder on the top? If someone challenges it, a judge will get involved.” 

Ellis also says that the cost to create, update and maintain an HOA website and for HOA directors to complete certification classes will likely be passed on to the homeowners. Previously, property managers would have new Board members sign a form stating they had read the documents and encouraged them to do so. The new law now requires that all new Board members take the Certification Course and mandates 4 additional hours of education each year for properties with 2,500 or fewer units, or 8 hours per year for larger properties. 

“Although some changes may be open to interpretation and might end up in court, one thing is clear: Mandating directors to take the certification class and additional education is a positive development,” Ellis says. 

He adds, “The new law says HOAs may no longer prevent a homeowner from protecting their home against hurricanes. This may mean changes to the architecture of the property.” He advises HOAs to consult an architect to understand what this means for the HOA’s Architectural Review Committee. 

To read the complete bill, you can visit flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2024/1203. 

Freelance writer Iris Vitelli is the president of the Pebble Creek Homeowners Association of Hillsborough County, Inc., in New Tampa. 

Farina Orthodontic Specialists Combines The Latest Technology With Top Patient Care 

The friendly professional staff at Farina Orthodontic Specialists is led by orthodontists (front row, l.-r.) Pedro Franco, D.M.D., Undine Davis, D.M.D. & Mark Farina, D.M.D. (Photos provided by Farina Orthodontic Specialists) 

Dr. Mark Farina, D.M.D (Doctor of Dental Medicine), of Farina Orthodontic Specialists is something of an institution in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel areas. 

Dr. Farina has been creating beautiful smiles in our communities for nearly 30 years and continues to be at the forefront of both the latest technology and the highest possible level of patient care. 

After opening his first office on N. Habana Ave. in West Tampa in 1995, Dr. Farina opened his Tampa Palms office in the professional center next to what is now called the Shops at Amberly in 2000. 

Since then, he estimates that he has worked on more than 25,000 smiles for children and a growing number of adults. 

“They start as little people, and I see them grow up,” Dr. Farina says. “I have been invited to attend graduations, weddings and other functions. It’s great to see what a difference a great smile makes.” 

Today, Farina Orthodontic Specialists has three offices — one in South Tampa, one in Tampa Palms and the newest location in the building dubbed “The Cube” on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in Wesley Chapel (between AdventHealth Wesley Chapel and the Shops at Wiregrass mall). And, two additional orthodontists who share Dr. Farina’s passion for creating beautiful smiles have joined him to serve even more patients — Undine Davis, D.M.D., and Pedro Franco, D.M.D. 

The first floor of the three-story cube is now the headquarters of Farina Orthodontic Specialists and also is home to a number of other related dental and medical specialists, including dental services such as root canals (endodontics) and maxillofacial surgery (to correct issues with teeth, gums and even jaws), as well as the office’s high-tech call center, digital lab and corporate office — all on the second floor of the building. The third floor is home to Kids SPOT, which provides pediatric therapy services, including speech, physical, occupational and applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapies for children from birth to age 21 at every stage of development. 


Among the many technological advancements you’ll find at Farina Orthodontic Specialists are low-dose digital X-rays (above) and the 3D impressionless scanner (right).

“When we were starting to build the new office, my son Stefano was 18 and became part of the process,” Dr. Farina says. “I think that may have encouraged him to get involved in building projects, which he is still doing today. He looked at the cube and said, ‘Dad, it is missing a clock. People always remember a building with a clock on it!’ That’s how the (traditional round) clock became part of the building.” 

All three offices are busy places, with any number of happy patients visiting every day. 

“In fact, one of Stefano’s close friends also was a patient,” Dr. Farina says. “My wife (Lissette) and I overheard this friend tell my son, ‘I have to thank your dad. I was like a three when I first went to him. But, I got my smile fixed and now I’m like an eight, so I am going to ask (girls name) to the prom.’ These are the types of things that make me smile. I don’t ever feel like I’m working. I love what I do and take pride in the happiness and confidence we bring to so many.” 

Embracing Change 

Although some patients still either opt to (or have to) choose traditional metal braces, Dr. Farina says the motto at the office is “Embrace Change.” He and his team are always looking for innovative ways to grow and one way to accomplish this goal is with new technologies, which means more than just embracing Invisalign¼ clear aligners — although Dr. Farina says he is the top Invisalign¼ provider in the area, and one of just a few orthodontists nationwide who have reached Elite Status with Invisalign¼. In fact, he says, 60-70% of the practice’s current patients are using Invisalign¼. 

Dr. Franco works on a patient.

One such advancement in the orothodontic industry is the Dental Monitoring ScanBox Pro. This is a device and process that allows patients to take digital scans of their teeth (and entire mouths) every week with their phones. The images are sent to the office so the doctors can monitor the progress of these patients between scheduled appointments, especially if anything appears to not be progressing properly. At that point, they can be brought into the office as quickly as possible to correct any issues. 

“Our office was the first in the country to have this technology and we have been using it for more than four years now with great success.” 

Other technological advances include a 3D impressionless scanner that can create a digital 3D model of your teeth in minutes. An i-CAT 3D Machine takes a 3D image of not just the patient’s teeth, but also of the bones and airways in his or her head. Best of all, the process takes all of five seconds. 

An iTero 3D impressionless scanner can create a digital 3D model of your teeth in three minutes — without the need for that traditional, dreaded goop. The 3-D printers can even produce tooth aligners and retainers on site. 

Not Just For Kids Anymore 

Another trend in the orthodontic industry, according to Dr. Farina, is that 40% of the orthodontic practice’s patients are now adults, including a growing number of adult men. Some, but not all, of these adult patients are the parents of younger patients who see how effective orthodontics can be. 

Dr. Farina shows a patient their X-rays.

“Many of the adults do go with InvisalignÂź (clear aligners),” Dr. Farina says. 

Dr. Farina says that while Farina Orthodontic Specialists may not be the least expensive option for patients, “We’re not the most expensive orthodontists, either.” He adds that the practice’s prices are competitive, and it accepts all types of insurance plans. He will also work with patients who may need a payment plan, which he says can cost as little as $149/month. 

“Your smile is for a lifetime,” Dr. Farina says. “It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. When you smile, you have the power to change the energy around you, as well as how you feel and how people around you feel.” 

When Dr. Farina was young, he had a bad experience with a dentist and was determined to make his office and everything about the experience friendly and inviting. That’s why his offices don’t look or feel like a dentist’s office. 

He also says that he is very proud of his staff. Every week, he and his team have “WOW Wednesday,” where the employees nominate one of their own to be the “Wower” of the week. 

Meet The Team 
Dr. Farina poses with his three “Top Dentist” awards from Tampa Magazine. 

Dr. Farina earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology from Boston College in Boston, MA. He earned his D.M.D. degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia and did his post-graduate orthodontic training at New York University (NYU) in New York City, NY. 

He also has received advanced training in the integrated diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, and has served on research teams at both NYU and Penn to help find new and better ways to solve orthodontic problems. Dr. Farina attends more than 80 hours of professional seminars each year and participates in giving seminars and webinars across the country. 

Dr. Pedro Franco was born in Cleveland, OH, but grew up in the Dominican Republic. He graduated from the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City, Mexico, and earned his D.M.D. degree (Summa Cum Laude) from the University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine in San Juan. His Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics is from the Georgia School of Orthodontics, where he received the Doctor Nathaniel Glover Leadership & Professionalism Scholarship. 

Dr. Davis works on a patient.

Dr. Undine Davis graduated from Stanford University in Stanford, CA, where she was an outstanding hurdler on the school’s track team. She earned her D.M.D. degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry. She also earned a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Dental Sciences and a Specialty Certification in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in Gainesville. 

All three doctors in the practice are Board-certified and Dr. Farina says that only about 25% of all dentists are Board-certified, so he is very proud of this accomplishment. He and his team also have been voted one of the Top Dentists in Tampa the last three years by Tampa Magazine. The entire practice is very active in the community and has provided mouth guards for local sports teams and sponsored numerous causes that support education, encourage leadership and save lives. 

To schedule a free virtual consultation, with Farina Orthodontic Specialists, visit FarinaSmiles.com, where you also can find additional information about the practice. New patients can call (813) 652-0074 for more information. The Tampa Palms office is located at 15303 Amberly Dr., Suite E, and the Wesley Chapel office is located at 2370 Bruce B. Downs, Suite 100.Â