Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, Volume 26, Issue 10, May 4, 2018 by Neighborhood News

Volume 26

WESLEY CHAPEL

Inside:

NEWS

Chuy’s Tex-Mex Opens On S.R. 56! In Neighborhood Magazine!

Issue 10 May 4, 2018

Please View, Like & Share Every Episode Of WCNT-tv On YouTube & Facebook! The Direct-Mail News Magazines Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Since 1993! For the complete list of neighborhoods that receive this publication by direct mail in Wesley Chapel (zip codes 33543, 33544 & 33545), see page 50!

JD Porter

Wesley Chapel’s Favorite Developer Captivates Another Huge Crowd At The April 26 North Tampa Bay Chamber Economic Development Briefing

By JOHN C. COTEY

CONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

briefings, which are hosted by the North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC) monthly and designed to introduce local business leaders to incoming developers, new business owners or regional leaders, range from being buzzworthy affairs to merely informational. Unless JD Porter is speaking. Then, the Chamber briefings become more like a local version of an Apple Event where, in this case, a standing room-only crowd at Hunter’s Green Country Club gathered to hear what great coming attraction — New (Above, l.-r.) JD Porter and his sister Quinn, NTBC restaurant? New corporation? New housing development? — the Wiregrass Ranch developer would be announcing. CEO Hope Allen & Locust Branch LLC chief Porter didn’t deliver anything major, however, like operating officer Scott Sheridan, who is helping the an Apple “one last thing” flourish. Porters develop Wiregrass Ranch. There was, however, notable news he shared on (Below) More than 100 people packed the room at April 26 about the coming developments in the 5,100Hunter’s Green Country Club to hear Porter’s latest acre Wiregrass Ranch Development of Regional Impact update about the continuing development of his fam(DRI), which is being developed by the Porter family’s Locust Branch, LLC, and extends from S.R. 56 north to S.R. 54, and west to east from Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. to Meadow Pointe Blvd. The best news — things are good in Wiregrass Ranch. Really good. According to Porter, developers are lined up trying to get in, and home prices are rising. The average sales price of a home located in the Wiregrass Ranch DRI is a staggering $485,000, which he says is 2.3 times the average home price in Pasco County. According to Metrostudy, which specializes in housing and construction data, Wiregrass Ranch is the No. 1 community in the Tampa Bay area for home closings in the first quarter of 2018, and is No. 3 for starts. And much more is on the way...

See “JD Porter” on pg. 4

News: Business: News: Sports: News,Former Business & INSIDE Green Grocers All The(BBD) Rage, Pelican Water Solutions Might Have Surprise! BruceAre B. Downs Wharton High Football Also Inside INSIDE And Headed To Wesley Chapel The Answer To Your Blvd. Is Our Area’s Worst Road Players Declare forH20 NFLProblem. DraftEducation Updates Pages3-17 6-9 This Issue:Pages

Pages 24-25 34-37 Pages 3-32

Neighborhood Magazine: Neighborhood Magazine:

Local Chefs Have Cook Up A Tasty TheKid Readers Spoken! DishHere For AAre ‘Gridiron’ Competition! Their Favorites!

39-52 Pages 39, 50

The Continuing Saga Of Our Own Wild Bill; Plus, A Kayaking Editor Update An editorial by Gary Nager

A little more than three months ago, in our January 12 issue, I told you a little bit about the story of my friend, local karaoke legend Wild Bill Peterseim. The article gave a lot of information about a 70-something man who not only does a pretty good Elvis impersonation while doing pushups during the musical interludes of his (and other people’s) karaoke songs at O’Brien’s Irish Pub in the Wesley Chapel Village Market, but also of his long business career and of him saving a man’s life at the Lexington Oaks clubhouse pool. Lexington Oaks is the community where Bill lived with Linda, his beloved wife of 46 years, who passed away last year from an extremely rare form of melanoma and where the couple lived in the aftermath of Bill falling victim to a trusted business associate’s Ponzi scheme. Believe me, the above is the Reader’s Digest version of the story. Since then, Bill has had the home in Lexington Oaks taken away from him by the bank in the aftermath of the Ponzi scheme (another really long, hard-to-explain story) and it was possible he would have to move to Winter Haven to live with one of his two daughters and her family. Shortly after my article came out, Derrell Newell, another O’Brien’s karaoke regular who actually is a professional Elvis impersonator, informed Wild Bill that he was planning to perform a benefit concert at O’Brien’s to (at the time) try to keep Bill in his home. That benefit was held in February and, more than 60 songs later — including about a dozen duets by Bill and Derrell — a total of

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News Address: 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Publisher & Editor Gary Nager Advertising/Marketing Rep Tom Damico Advertising Sales & Office Assistant Jannah McDonald Assistant Editor / Photographer John C. Cotey Staff Writer Celeste McLaughlin Correspondents Brad Stager • Andy Warrener WCNT-tv Video Production Gavin Olsen • Giuliano Ferrara Graphic Designers Georgia Carmichael • Stephanie Vokes Flischel Nothing that appears in Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 26, Issue 12, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, May 21, 2018. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, nor for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers.

This Guy...Is Still Kayaking?

Wild Bill Peterseim & Derrell Newell $700 was raised, all of which was donated to help Wild Bill pay some bills. About $160 of that total came from Bill’s new friend, local photographer and DJ Chuck Amstone, who read about the benefit in the Neighborhood News and contacted me to get involved in the fund raiser, even though he had only met Wild Bill once or twice before (Bill does have that effect on people). Chuck brought his photo booth to the benefit and raised his money by asking people for donations for Bill when they took pictures in the booth during the show. I give major props to both the charismatic Costco employee who prefers to be called “Elvis D” and to Chuck for stepping up big time for a friend. Around the same time, Wild Bill’s financial picture became a little bit brighter when yours truly hired him as an office assistant. Even though I knew that Bill was overqualified for the job I hired him to do — organize my shambles of an office and the storage area next to our conference room — I also knew that this vibrant guy who is back to doing pushups on stage after a little bit of a health scare of his own would sink his teeth into it and do a spectacular job. And, he has exceeded my expectations. My only regret is not taking before-andafter pictures because no one who has spent any time at our “palatial” office would believe how organized the place is now. So, the saga of Wild Bill continues. Come meet Bill, Derrell my fiancé Jannah and all of the other karaoke regulars at O’Brien’s on almost any Wednesday night. Gary Carmichael of Heart & Soul Karaoke is back and he has the greatest song list in creation, so whether you end up singing or not, I know you’ll feel like another member of our karaoke family. If you’re looking to hire a Vegas-quality Elvis impersonator for your next event, Wild Bill and I both urge you to contact Derrell at (617) 909-0168. And, for all of your DJ/photography needs, call or text Chuck at (727) 215-4487.

Table of Contents

Local News Updates.....................3-15

Green Grocers All The Rage In The Chap.........6, 8-9 Dueling Petitions Fueling Connection Debate.......10 TBR2020 Enlists Chamber To Keep Rays Around...12 Who Needs A Hospital To Have A Baby?..............14 Wesley Chapel Community Calendar.........................18

Local Business Updates..............22-31

Pelican Uses Mobility To Keep Your Water Clean..22 Market Technologies Wants To Hire You!..............24 Farina Orthodontics Expands To The Cube!.........26 The Name Better Realty Services Says It All............28 Sylvan Learning Center Of Wesley Chapel.............30

Local School & Sports Updates..34-37 Wesley Chapel Elementary Defending OM Title......34 Wiregrass Ranch Tennis Streak Remains Alive.....36 Ian Flores Is A Soccer Player Of Many Skills..........37

Neighborhood Magazine

Quail Hollow Kids Cook For The NFL...........39, 50 Chuy’s Opens To Crowds Of Adoring Fans...........42 Minerva Can Satisfy Your Adventurous Tastes........44 ‘Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes’.........46 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Classifieds..........48 @NTWCNews

have my own 18-footlong surfski single kayak (I call it the “Neighborhood News/WCNT-tv Banana Boat”), the winds were whipping up to about 25 knots and I just couldn’t stay in the boat. Oh...and I recorded it all on a GoPro-style camera and showed a smidgen of it during the WCNT video. Pretty funny stuff. Undaunted, I still returned to Honeymoon on the 14th and, with only 10-15 mph winds and much calmer seas, I finished the 3.5mile (they did shorten the course because of the wind) Open Division race 61st of 92 finishers, in 58:14. It may not be the feel-good story of the year, but it did make me feel pretty good about myself, despite the fact that others in my age group beat me by more than 20 minutes.

So, if you haven’t watched the recent episode of WCNT-tv, where Susanna Martinez and I tell you how I did in the Sharkbite Challenge & Paddlefest off Honeymoon Island on April 14, I hope you’ll access our Neighborhood News Facebook page and watch it. Here’s why: Two years ago, when I first entered this four-mile (more on that below) race, I did so in a kayak I borrowed from a friend and it just so happened that the Gulf of Mexico was extremely angry following a big storm that day. It was so bad that the organizers rescheduled the Saturday races for Sunday, where the winds were still 25-30 knots and the seas were 3-5 feet. I ended up flipping the kayak and swimming it to shore. This time around, I went to check out Honeymoon Island a few days before the Challenge, and it was like deja vu. Even though I now

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‘JD Porter’

Continued from Page 1 *JOBS: Porter was proud to proclaim that Wiregrass Ranch has created 2,500 new jobs over the last two years. “We have created more jobs than homes,” Porter said. “I know there’s not another community in Pasco, and you would be hard pressed to find one in Hillsborough, that can say that.” And, he added, those job numbers don’t even include the 5,000 or so that Raymond James Financial is said to be bringing to the area when it finally opens, or current construction jobs. Porter’s job news earned him the loudest ovation of his presentation. *RAYMOND JAMES: Speaking of Raymond James, which was announced in 2011 and has become a long, painstaking effort for Porter, ground will be broken sometime this year. Porter couldn’t say exactly when dirt will begin moving on the 65-acre property at S.R. 56 and Mansfield Blvd., but the huge Raymond James campus is finally close to taking off. That area east of the Shops at Wiregrass also already includes the new Altis at Wiregrass Ranch apartments, which are already leasing and will be built out by the end of the year, a Morningstar Storage facility (finishing this fall) and a Fairfield Inn hotel, set to open later this summer. A daycare center is currently in permitting. Also coming and already under contract is a major new restaurant, which Porter did not name, although he did admit that it was likely a major chain that he said would be breaking ground this summer. “We’re expecting to close here real quick,’’ he said. Also in the Wiregrass Ranch DRI and expected to finally break ground this summer is the long-awaited indoor sports facility and park, and a Marriott hotel on the same property, which was donated by the Porter family. The project is a public-private partnership venture between developers and the county, which Porter says Pasco County will see more of down the road “because they work.” BIGGER THAN RAY-JAY?: If you think Raymond James is big, Porter says Wiregrass Ranch is “in the running” for something even bigger. Declining to name names, Porter said Wiregrass Ranch is on the shortlist of places two Fortune 200 companies are considering as a new location. One would occupy a 600,000-sq.ft. space; the other would take more than 1.2-million sq. ft. of space. Both businesses, he added, are higher on the Fortune 500 list than Raymond James. Porter says he is hopeful. “It would be nice to have another big one like that,’’ he says, adding that he also is hoping find the right balance between big and small, and is encouraging smaller, localized businesses to make their homes in Wiregrass Ranch. While grabbing some of the bigger corporations to put on large campuses, he also plans to build office space vertically, in buildings 4-7 stories high, in the hopes of creating Pasco County’s only skyline. Porter said Class A office space — which generally is located in good and easy-to-access buildings that are professionally managed with high-end tenants — is in the works, as well as a 150,000-sq.-ft. medical office, which would be three times the size of the Farina Ortho4

dontic Specialists “cube” building on BBD in Wiregrass, just south of FHWC. *TOWN CENTER?: One of the most exciting subjects discussed by Porter was the potential for a town center area in Wiregrass Ranch, which he foresees as being something of Wesley Chapel’s downtown and muchneeded in the area. It will be located on Meadow Pointe Blvd. — which is being expanded all the way to S.R. 54 ahead of schedule — and about a 10-minute walk from the Shops at Wiregrass, which is the primary gathering place in Wesley Chapel right now. “I think the town center will become that place,” he says. He foresees a lot more retail in the area, as well as homes and apartments. However, in order for local businesses to succeed, he said that there must be people in the area, and that the plan the past two years with all the home development has been to build that density. *MORE MULTI-FAMILY: Porter also said that he has 18-20 letters of intent sitting on his desk from multi-family developers who want to come in and build Class A apartments or condominiums/townhomes, but he is proceeding slowly and cautiously. with them. “We are definitely in the right area at the right time,” Porter said. “I want to make sure that the businesses that are here will stay here and live here, when they see what (the potential downtown area) is all about.” When Porter was asked by local Realtor (and NTBC Board member) Karen TillmanGosselin (who introduced Porter on behalf of the Chamber at the event) about creating a town center like the one in the Westchase area, which is responsible for nearby homes getting multiple contract offers on them, Porter pointed out that Westchase’s town center is on only about 16 acres of land. The Wiregrass Ranch town center is envisioned to be built on 120 acres. “I think we’ll start seeing come growth, some development, in the next 24 months,” Porter said. “If we get some ground broken and land a couple of users, it will accelerate that quickly and things will happen real fast.” *IT’S ALL ABOUT CONNECTIVITY: Porter said that unlike the surrounding areas, Wiregrass Ranch will have the kind of transportation network of which residents can be proud. S.R. 56 west of Bruce B. Downs Blvd. is already four lanes in each direction, and the expansion east to U.S. Hwy. 301 in Zephyrhills will be a game-changer, Porter said, making the area even more attractive to home builders and businesses. He noted that the development of Wiregrass Ranch has always carefully considered the roads, and built them for the future, not the present. “If you don’t,” he says, “you’ll never catch up.” Porter also said that there are 3-4 miles of rapid bus transit or light rail planned in Wiregrass, although he thinks rapid bus transit will happen first and that light rail “may never happen here.” And, because a new Park & Ride bus station near Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel has been successful since opening, the potential is there to build a vertical parking garage to accommodate more bus riders. “We are definitely setting things up the right way from the start,” he said. “What we’re doing right now is how everybody should have been doing it.” During his question & answer session following his briefing, Porter said that he is not

in favor of the BBD bypass, which would connect BBD to Meadow Pointe Blvd. a half-mile or more south of where businesses like Sun Trust Bank and Sonny’s BBQ are located, because it will hurt those existing businesses on BBD located north of the bypass. He called it a “waste of money” and “one of the dumbest ideas” he has heard. He did not weigh in on the much-discussed Kinnan-Mansfield connection in Meadow Pointe (see story on page 10), but said he was in favor of connectivity in general. “I think the more connected we are, the better for everyone.” *SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE?: Porter also said a 55-plus adult community planned near Estancia will have 850-900 units, as Wiregrass Ranch becomes a player in the quickly growing adult community market. “We have a younger demographic, people making more money and they want their parents to be close by,” Porter said. “So, we’re going to fill that gap, we’re going to knock it out of the park. I think its going to benefit everybody.” Although people get the most excited about big box stores and brand name chain restaurants, Porter said he hopes Wiregrass Ranch finds a balance with local businesses and mom-and-pop restaurants. When it comes to more and better schools, Porter seemed to throw up his hands at the way Pasco County has gone about fund-

ing new school construction. “I think you’ll see a lot more charter schools, I think you will see good charter schools,” Porter says. “You’ll see some private schools opening up, too.” Two charter schools are scheduled to open in Wesley Chapel over the next two years, including Union Park Charter Academy in August. And, at the end of the day, Porter hopes Wiregrass Ranch becomes the model for future developers. From making sure the roads were in place to handle future traffic, to bringing in big and communitybased businesses first such as the Shops at Wiregrass and Florida Hospital, as well as Pasco-Hernando State College, to carefully easing into the housing developments, he thinks Wiregrass Ranch has been done right. Judging by the response of his latest presentation in front of local business leaders, many agree.

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GOING GREEN Green Grocers Are All The Rage & Just One In Wesley Chapel May Not Be Enough.

BY JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

(Above) A customer checks out the produce at the Trader Joe’s in South Tampa.

North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce (NTBC) CEO Hope Allen gets asked about a lot of things about our area. People want to know what is being built and where, what new businesses are coming and what roads are getting fixed. But, the question she gets asked the most? When is Whole Foods or Trader Joes or Sprouts coming? “Every day,” she says, laughing. “Every. Single. Day.” It started the first day she took over at the NTBC (formerly the Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce), and the questions about Wesley Chapel landing a green, or specialty, grocer continues to come, even more frequently than before. “It is the No. 1 question,” Allen says. The answer, for the time being, is Earth Fare, one of the newer entries into the local green scene. The 24,000-sq.-ft. green grocery store recently broke ground at the corner of Wesley Chapel Blvd. and S.R. 56, across the street from Tampa Premium Outlets. Earth Fare may not have the name recognition of a Whole Foods, but it has the kind of green credentials that people seem to be craving more and more these days. It was founded in 1975 in Asheville, NC, and now has 46 locations in 10 mostly southeastern states. The Wesley Chapel location will be the third in the Tampa Bay area, joining stores in Seminole and Oldsmar. Earth Fare sells mostly natural and organic foods, and the store says it does not carry any items that contain high fructose corn syrup or any artificial fats, colors, preservatives or sweeteners. See “Going Green” on pg. 8

The “Buying in Bulk” section at Whole Foods on N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Carrollwood.

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‘Going Green’

Continued from Page 6 Nutrition Smart, located on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. (across from the Shoppes at New Tampa plaza, just south of S.R. 56) can lay claim to being the first green grocer in Wesley Chapel, but it is a much smaller location without the variety of groceries and prepared foods offered by the more popular chains, like Whole Foods, Sprouts and Trader Joe’s. But, Whole Foods, Sprouts and Fresh Market are located in Carrollwood, while the closest Trader Joe’s and Greenwise — Publix’s own spinoff green grocery store — are in South Tampa. “I think the green grocers are a big deal to Wesley Chapel because of our age,” Allen says. “The general age of a Wesley Chapel resident is 37.5, with children and an above-average income. Those demographics tend to find the healthy lifestyle and more healthy eating options appealing.” While Earth Fare will be the first major green entry into the Wesley Chapel market, it won’t be the last. Another specialty grocer remains in the plans as an anchor store for the Shops at Wiregrass mall expansion, or connector site, which will include a movie theater as well. “There is a certainly an interest in a Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s or Fresh Market in our area,’’ says Greg Lenners, the general manager of the Shops at Wiregrass. “It’s a topic that does come up quite a bit, and you can see the interest just by looking at social media.” Lenners is likely referring to the Wesley Chapel Community and Wesley Chapel Network Facebook pages, where posts asking what new business local residents would like to see are often their most popular. Those posts are dominated by locals asking for a green grocer. “Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s are the ones people most ask for,” Allen says, “but Sprouts and Earth Fare are new concepts that folks aren’t as familiar with, but they should be. I think those will be the first ones to get here.” A Sprouts, in fact, was announced last week for the Trinity area of Pasco County. As Wesley Chapel’s population continues to grow, the area is likely to become more attractive to specialty grocers, who are a choosy lot. “The reason they are not here already is they are very selective,” Lenners says. “They look at the density of the demographic. We’re not there yet to meet their criteria, but we are getting there.” Lenners has no doubt the area can support multiple green grocers. He points to the success of the Shops at Wiregrass’ twice-monthly, outdoor Fresh Market, which features local artisans, organic produce and plenty of specialty items.

Earth Fare, which just broke ground on S.R. 56, will bring an outstanding seafood selection (above), as well as the ability to purchase apple cider vinegar in bulk (right) when it becomes Wesley Chapel’s first green grocer.

Fresh Markets are held on the first and third Saturday of every month on Paseo Dr., the main street running down the center of the Shops at Wiregrass. Lenners says it is second, only to the mall’s popular Symphony of Lights show every winter, as the most popular attraction at the Shops. “The success of Fresh Market is what really sparked the interest in putting a green grocer in the connector site,” Lenners says. It is likely, however, that the next green grocer in our area after Earth Fare will be a few miles south on BBD, in New Tampa. Plans for The Village at Hunter’s Lake project, to be located across BBD from the Hunter’s Green community (less than two miles south of the Pasco County line), include plans for New Tampa’s first green grocer. While neither the Wiregrass connector nor the Village at Hunter’s Lake have broken ground, the New Tampa project is further ahead. According to Mike Kinsella, the senior vice president and senior market officer for Regency Centers, won’t say whether or not he has already signed a contract with a green grocer, but he says one is definitely coming. “Obviously, there is a big need in the community,” says Kinsella. The Villages at Hunter’s Lake will include a 30,000-sq.ft. New Tampa Cultural Center, a 214-unit multi-family project called The Haven at Hunter’s Lake and a community park with a dog park and a retail strip center, in addition to the green grocer. When Hillsborough County approved the $2.02-million sale of the 17.6 acres of land for

the Hunter’s Lake project in 2014, it was done with an eye towards finally building a cultural center for the area. But, Hillsborough County District 2 Commissioner Victor Crist says he also envisioned the kind of boutique shops that would make the area stand out from others, including a unique grocery store in an area dominated by multiple Publix supermarkets. “It’s something we’ve been working on for five years and it’s great to see it coming to fruition,” Crist says. “We want to fill it with unique and specialty beauty, health and entertainment venues that are different from the usual that you find everywhere else.” That store in Wesley Chapel will help scratch an itch residents there have had for years, and the Hunter’s Lake store may do the same for New Tampa residents. According to the Organic Trade Association (OTA), organic sales topped $47 billion in sales in 2016, up $3.7 billion from the previous year. Organic food now accounts for 5.3 percent of total food sales in the U.S. “I think overall, I could speak for the State of Florida and say the competitive nature of the green grocer concept is more significant today than it has ever been,” Kinsella says. “There are a lot of candidates out there.” The reason is simple — people are more aware of their health than ever before, creating a more determined quest for better, cleaner, more natural foods. “I think people are trying to eat more healthy,” Kinsella says. “They are looking for something different.” Asked if he has a preference for which

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green grocer lands at Hunter’s Lake, Crist says “Any one of the big three would be fine.” Here’s a brief description of some of the potential options for future green grocers in Wesley Chapel and New Tampa. EARTH FARE (currently under construction on S.R. 56) — We checked out the Seminole location, and can conclude it will be a welcome addition to the Wesley Chapel area. Earth Fare has a small-town, country market feel, and a seating area to enjoy a great selection of hot foods with a sign that says “Have A Seat, Stay Awhile.” The store offers organic and non-organic produce, fresh seafood and meats, and you can make your own nut butters or fill up from their giant liquid canister offerings of Apple Cider Vinegar, Grade A Dark Color Maple Syrup and more as part of Earth Fare’s many bulk offerings. The store has an extensive Wellness & Beauty section, too, even self-serve scoop-your-own tubs of bath salts and body scrubs. There is a nice craft beer and wine section (you can even get organic wine in cans, if you’re into that), and a salad bar, juice bar, organic breads and fresh gluten-free pizza. We ended up with some chicken ginseng soup, Asian beef balls in a Thai chili sauce, and plenty of free samples while contemplating a return for $5 Sushi Wednesdays. WHOLE FOODS (closest current locations are at 3802 Northdale Blvd. and 1548 N. Florida Ave.) — Whole Foods might be the biggest name on the green grocer landscape, dubbing itself America’s Healthiest Grocery

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Dueling Petitions Getting More Residents Involved In Kinnan-Mansfield Debate By JOHN C. COTEY

He would rather

a connection made john@ntneighborhoodnews.com see three miles east of

Meadow Pointe II resident Chris Dillinger has been anxiously awaiting the results of a Wesley Chapel Roadway Connections study, which is expected to issue a recommendation for one (or more) of three connection points between Pasco and Hillsborough County on the county line separating them. The one connection Dillinger fears the most is the one everyone is talking about — Mansfield Blvd. in Meadow Pointe to Kinnan St. in New Tampa’s K-Bar Ranch Dillinger thinks he has a good basis for that fear, and he wants to know who else agrees with him. To that end, he has started an online petition at Change.org in an effort, however unscientific as online polls can be, to find out. “I really wanted to wait for the Roadways Connections study to come out, so I could include their data, but they say that’s not coming now until May,” he says. “Basically, we’re running out of time.” In the first three days of his petition, 361 people signed it, many sharing the same concerns that have been debated for the past few years — dangers of increased traffic in school zones, the frustration of more cars on already clogged Meadow Pointe roads and fears that Mansfield’s two lanes are just not equipped to handle more than it already does. For Dillinger, a 39-year-old high school counselor at Sunlake High in Land O’Lakes, it’s also a personal matter. He has two young children who spend their days on Mansfield Blvd. — one attends daycare, the other attends Wiregrass Elementary.

Mansfield at Meadow Pointe Dr., a road that doesn’t have any schools on it. Mansfield Blvd. runs by Dr. John Long Middle, Wiregrass Elementary and Wiregrass Ranch High. However, there is currently no road in K-Bar Ranch to even connect to Meadow Pointe Blvd. “I just want to raise awareness of this issue,” he says. On the other side of traffic barriers Meadow Pointe II resident Chris Dillinger is trying to rally support to stop a that stand between connection at Mansfield Blvd. in MP & Kinnan St. from being made. the connection is ancomic relief, there is actually a third online other Change.org petition, which is in favor petition concerning Kinnan-Mansfield, which of the connection. has 28 signatures of people who oppose those That petition, started by New Tampa who oppose the connection. “There is a realtor Gary Vermani two months ago, had 500 signatures after the first few days, and now group petitioning to stop the road from being completed between Kinnan and Mansfield,” is closing in on 700. the petition says. “They are stupid. Stupidity Like Dillinger, Vermani has his reasons should be stopped, not roads.”) for wanting the connection made — to create But, it’s no joke to Dillinger, who says another pathway for emergency service vehicles or in case of evacuations, to provide easier the proposed expansion of K-Bar Ranch, which sits right along the Pasco-Hillsborough access to local businesses and to help reduce border right off Kinnan St., should be enough commute times as well as traffic on Cross of a reason for Meadow Pointe residents to Creek Blvd. and Bruce B. Downs Blvd. oppose any connection. (Not to be outdone, and maybe for

On May 3, after this issue went to press, the Tampa City Council held a final reading on a proposal to build 700 more homes in K-Bar Ranch. Dillinger points out that Tampa’s District 2 councilman Luis Viera, who represents the New Tampa area as part of his district, was the lone vote against advancing the project on April 12. Viera has expressed concern that unless the connection is agreed to, the roads in the K-Bar Ranch area cannot handle the additional traffic without another transportation outlet. With a popular mall already on S.R. 56, and plans for things like the Raymond James Financial Complex, a movie theater, sports complex, green grocer (see pages 6-9) and other businesses and restaurants, Dillinger sees a connection as disastrous. “That’s a lot of cars driving through our neighborhood,” he says. “It has to stop.” While online petitions are unlikely to sway any politician’s opinions — they will likely rely more on public meetings and more official government-run surveys to gauge the public mood — Dillinger has had success with them in the past. Earlier this year, his online petition to stop the county from considering allowing a 7-Eleven to be built on Mansfield Blvd. and County Line Rd. — right in front of his son’s daycare — attracted more than 1,100 signatures. He also got the support of Pasco County District 2 Commissioner Mike Moore. The county’s Development Review Committee elected to postpone a decision until a later, and as yet, unscheduled date.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

North Tampa Bay Chamber First To Get Behind Effort To Keep Rays By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com For years, Major League Baseball (MLB)’s Tampa Bay Rays have drawn sparse crowds. Many in the Bay area have questioned the local support for the team and the Rays as an organization have apparently concluded that the team can not survive in its current St. Petersburg home at Tropicana Field. The non-profit group Tampa Bay Rays 2020 (TBR2020), however, is working quickly to show the Rays that things will be different if the team moves to Tampa, by organizing community and business support for the Rays’ possible future move to Ybor City. TBR2020 has enlisted the help of the North Tampa Bay (formerly Wesley Chapel) Chamber (NTBC), which was the first Chamber of Commerce to pledge its support. “It was very strategic on their part,” says NTBC CEO Hope Allen. “They sought us out, they came to us, they knew we were a vital key to the whole corridor. A chamber like ours that represents Pasco County can help them.” Having the NTBC sign on was just the beginning for TBR2020. “Just in the last couple of weeks here, we’ve had four chambers sign on formally to support this initiative,” said Mike Griffin, senior managing director at Savills Studley Occupier Services and the immediate past chair of the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “The exciting thing about that was the first one that got behind us was the North Tampa/Wesley Chapel group. The excitement we’re seeing outside of downtown and outside of the city is really, really important. It’s good getting folks that normally aren’t at the table for major regional issues.” Founded by Chuck Sykes, CEO of Sykes Enterprises, and Ron Christaldi, a partner at the law firm of Shumaker, Loop and Kendrick, the TBR2020 group held a standing room-only press conference last month at the Tampa Baseball Museum in historic Ybor City to announce its plans. Also last month, Jason Woody, the President/CEO of the Lions Eye Institute for Transplant & Research, Inc, and a member of the Advisory Board of Tampa Bay Rays 2020, was the featured speaker at the NTBC’s April 3 Business Breakfast. The goal of TBR2020 is to help keep the Rays in the Bay area, by raising awareness and rounding up local community and businesses willing to pledge their support to the team’s proposed move to Ybor City, where the selected

Former Rays manager Lou Piniella is on the Tampa Bay Rays 2020 team. 14-acre stadium site is expected to breathe new life into that area, as well as into what is becoming a lifeless baseball franchise. TBR2020 also announced the Rays 100, a select group of businesses and corporations willing to pledge financial support in the form of corporate boxes and sponsorships. “This has opened up a dialogue,” Griffin said. “The biggest questions we hear now are what’s next and how can we help. The ultimate goal is to have a very diverse and vast coalition of supporters that ultimately leads to a conversation about sponsorships and tickets. It’s tough to get there, though, if we don’t know and haven’t identified our supporters.” Rumors have swirled for years about the Rays possibly moving to a city that might offer more support. Allen is one of those who thinks that such a move would be devastating to the Tampa Bay area. “My opinion is we need to fight hard to keep them here in the region,” Allen said. “Major league sports franchises have a huge economic impact on a region. Very significant. You don’t want to lose that.” One issue that TBR2020 won’t be addressing, just yet anyway, is the thorniest – how to pay for a new stadium. The price of a new stadium could range anywhere from $600-800 million, though it is hard to zero in on a figure without a design. The Rays owners have pledged $150 million to the project. “Right now, we are all about building engagement, awareness and excitement,” Griffin said. “If we couldn’t fill the Rays 100, if we couldn’t get the local organizations to endorse, it would be a totally different conversation with the county and the team. The reality is, we’ve been able to demonstrate it is the complete opposite.” Those willing to participate can sign the online petition at TampaBayRays2020. com. Or, for more info, see the ad on pg. 36.

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Wesley Chapel Woman Gives Birth In Her Car...For The 2nd Time! By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

celeste@ntneighborhoodnews.com Michelle Knox seems to be able to take things in stride. When she woke up around 6 a.m. on Tuesday, April 17, it was one day before her due date with her fourth child, her first girl. She was feeling strong contractions that were only three minutes apart, but she didn’t panic. She just followed the plan. Nate, her husband, called the kids’ grandparents to take their three boys to school. As her contractions got stronger, she felt the urge to push. Nate told her to put on pants. In case she needed to deliver her baby in the car, the pants would help catch. Nate jumped in the front seat, Michelle got in the back. They headed to Florida Hospital Tampa near E. Fletcher Ave. on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. Michelle knew from experience that she didn’t want to be in the front seat while she delivered her baby. That’s where her last child was born. Yes, you read that correctly. This is Michelle’s second time delivering her own child in a car. This time, she was in the back seat when her water broke, near their home in Wesley Chapel. Michelle was still in the back seat when she knew it was time. She told her husband, “Next contraction, I’m pushing.” Michelle says they were on S.R. 54,

(Left to right) Micah, Mason and Maurice welcome baby sister Nylah Grace to the family. Mason and Nylah have something unusual in common — both were born in a car!

near Wal-Mart and the Nissan dealership, in crowded morning traffic, when their baby girl was born. “I couldn’t catch her,” Michelle says, so she kind of just fell into those useful pants. “She cried automatically,” says Michelle. “I just wanted to make sure she was okay. As soon as I heard her cry, I was good.” She pulled a blanket out of the bag she had packed for the hospital and swaddled her baby. “I wanted to feed her,” Michelle says, “but the umbilical cord was too short.”

When they arrived at Florida Hospital Tampa (FHT) — the hospital where her obstetrician has admitting privileges — the staff was ready for them. “We have an emergency alert called Code Noelle, which not all hospitals have,” explains Richelle Hoenes-Ahearn, FHT’s director of corporate communications. “It means there is an obstetrical emergency and part of the plan for response includes a medical cart that is fully supplied with everything needed to help a mom in labor and deliver a baby. When Michelle’s husband came in and we called

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

a Code Noelle, that cart was brought outside and had everything needed! It allows for complete care wherever the patient is, rather than waiting to bring Mom to a room.” Michelle says she was grateful there was a team waiting for her outside the hospital. They cut the umbilical cord right there in the car. “It was a relief knowing all he had to do was get me to the front door,” says Michelle. “They were prepared.” She was then admitted to the hospital, where the baby weighed in at six pounds, 15 ounces. The baby and her mom were found to be doing just fine. Maybe the harder task was agreeing on the name for their precious new baby. Michelle says Nate didn’t like any of the suggestions she offered — he was still pushing for the girl name they agreed on when they first started dating, which was in high school in Fort Walton Beach in the Florida panhandle. When hospital staff asked the baby’s name, Nate suggested Nylah Grace, and Michelle agreed. Nylah joins her brothers Maurice, 14, Micah, 11, and Mason, 5. If you’re worried about the state of the back seat of the family’s car after this experience, don’t be. It just so happens that Nate owns Everyday Car Wash, a mobile auto detailing business. “He couldn’t focus until the car was clean,” Michelle says. “Now it’s like new. He does a great job.”

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Curley Rd. Wreck Shuts Down S.R. 54 For Several Hours

Photos: Florida Highway Patrol Accidents on S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel snarl traffic like few others, and that was case on April 25 when a seven-car accident at Curley Rd. caused S.R. 54 to be closed for several hours. A motorist traveling eastbound suffered a medical emergency and lost control of their vehicle, which collided with a motorcycle and five other vehicles that were stopped at a red light at the Curley/54 intersection, according to Florida Highway Patrol sergeant Steve Gaskins. A Florida Highway Patrol Trooper sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa. The driver who suffered the medical emergency was taken to Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. The other drivers in the collision were treated at the scene and released.

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Atonement Lutheran Church (29617 S.R. 54). For more info, visit NAMIPasco.com.

Thursday, May 17

Monday, May 7

13-Year Anniversary Event for Bella Med Spa - Come celebrate from 4 p.m.-7 p.m., with food, event specials, raffles & special discounts on Bella Med Spa’s outstanding cosmetic services. For more info, visit BellaTampa.com, call (813) 929-1500 or see the ad on pg. 19. Wine & Redesign - Enjoy yourself & spend time with a Decorating Professional from InStyle Home Interiors. Bring a friend & a small inspiration piece to help visualize your home redesign. 5:30-8:30pm, Holiday Inn - Wesley Chapel (2775 Cypress Ridge Blvd.) $75 fee. For more info, call 813-778-2554 or register at InStyleHomeInteriors.com.

Tuesday, May 8

Free Nutrition Seminar with Samantha Taylor Fitness - Samantha will share tips to maximize your weight loss at the Land O’ Lakes Studio at 12:30pm (2206 Knight Road). Reserve your spot at: SamanthaTaylorSeminars.com, call (813) 377-3739 r see the ad on pg. 27.

Saturday, May 5

The Wesley Chapel Rotary Club Presents A “Hats & Horses Kentucky Derby Party” - See ad on next page. This event is fee/donation-based, but open to the public.

Professional Business Connections (PBC) - PBC meets Mondays at 7:45 a.m. at The Happy Hangar Cafe (at Tampa North Aero Park, 4241 Birdsong Blvd., off S.R. 54, Lutz). For info, call Matt Archbold at (813) 782-1777. Wesley Chapel Speaks - The Wesley Chapel Toastmasters meet every Monday at 6 p.m. for networking, 6:30 pm for public speaking, at Wesley Chapel Nissan (28519 State Rd 54). For more info, call Martin at (813) 693-0969. Open House & Q&A with Dr. Karina Parilo - Discover traditional, affordable concierge-style medicine and learn about Wesley Chapel’s first direct primary care practice, 5 p.m.-7 p.m. KAP Medical Group, 2615 Windguard Cir., Suite 101. For more info, call (813) 536-0050 or see the ad on pg. 51 of this issue. East Pasco Networking Group - Meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month at 7:30 a.m. at IHOP, 13100 US 301, Dade City. For info, contact Nils Lenz, 813782-9491 or nilslenz@gmail.com. We’ll Get You On The Move - Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel hosts a discussion to help those whose movements are limited due to non-operative orthopedic conditions. Held from noon-1 p.m. Free to attend. For registration & more info, visit FloridaHospital.com/wesley-chapel/events.

Saturday, May 19

Tuesday, May 22

Wesley Chapel Lions Club - The Wesley Chapel Lions meet every 4th Tues., 6:30 p.m., at the Lexington Oaks Community Center (26304 Lex. Oaks Blvd.). For info about volunteering, community efforts, meetings, helping the vision impaired & more, visit WesleyChapelLionsClub.com or the club’s page on Facebook.

Visit WCNeighborhoodNews.com to add your upcoming events that are open to the public to our online calendar. Once approved, they appear in the “Events” section on our home page & may also appear in our print editions.

Wednesday, May 9

Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel - The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel (Noon) meets Wednesdays at noon at Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26133 Lexington Oaks Blvd.). First-time guests attend free. For info, (813) 862-8989 or (813) 391-3895.

Thursday, May 10

BNI Networking Meeting - Business professionals are invited to attend this networking organization’s meetings on Thursdays, 7:30 a.m., at Savannah Church (3758 Maryweather Lane, off BBD Blvd., behind Dunkin’ Donuts). For more info, call Kyle Flischel at (813) 815-0250. RGA Network Weekly Meeting - The RGA Networking Group meets weekly for networking at GrillSmith at the Shops at Wiregrass mall. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; lunch is noon-1 p.m. For more info, visit RGANetwork.net. Celebrate Recovery - Meeting Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Bridgeway Church (30660 Wells Rd.), the purpose of Celebrate Recovery is to bring freedom from dysfunctional, compulsive & addictive behaviors through biblically-based principles. Dinner & free childcare available. Call (813) 907-1313.

Friday, May 11

Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Sunrise - The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Sunrise meets the 1st & 3rd Fridays of each month, 7:15 a.m., at Happy Hangar Cafe, 4241 Birdsong Blvd. For info, call Kathy Schenck at (813) 956-4436. Mental Health Support Group - NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) of Pasco is a support group for adults in Pasco County living with mental illness or in recovery. The group meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month, 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. at Atonement Lutheran Church (29617 S.R. 54). For info, visit NAMIPasco.org.

Sunday, May 13

Great Mother’s Day Race 5k - A 5k benefiting the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Tampa Bay taking place at Al Lopez Park, 4810 N. Himes Ave., Tampa 33614, from 8 a.m.-10 a.m.; Come walk or run and celebrate Mother’s Day with us! Cost to participate: $33 per person. For more info, visit GreatMothersDayRace.com.

Monday, May 14

East Pasco Democratic Club - Meets 3rd Monday of each month at Omari’s Grill, Scotland Yards Golf Club, 9424 U.S. 301, Dade City, from 6:30-8 p.m. For more info, visit www.eastpascodems.com.

Tuesday, May 15

NAMI Friends & Family: Mental Health Support Group - NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Pasco support group for friends & family of those with mental illness. The group meets the 1st & 3rd Tues. of each month, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m., at 18

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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WC Rotary To Host A Kentucky Derby Party! So, do you already have plans to watch the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 5 (aka Cinco de Mayo)? Whether you love horse racing or don’t know a thing about it but enjoy wearing a crazy hat and drinking a mint julep (or a Kentucky bourbon) or two, the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon, which meets Wednesdays at noon at Lexington Oaks Golf Club, is inviting the public to join our area’s largest Rotary Club at the “Hats & Horses, A Kentucky Derby Party,” 4 p.m.-9 p.m., at the Waller Ranch (17303 Powerline Rd., Dade City). You can expect an entire afternoon and evening of good ol’ fashioned Southern charm, with live music by the Shawn Brown band (who, we’re sure, will play “My Old Kentucky Home” at least once), casino games (for prizes), a ladies’ Fancy Hat contest, a Best-Dressed Gents contest, cigars, delicious party food and hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar, so grab your

 May 5, 2018  4:00-9:00 pm Wesley Chapel Rotary Club will host its 1st Annual

Hats & Horses

Kentucky Derby Party Waller Ranch  17307 Powerline Road, Dade City, FL 33523 fancy hats, sundresses and most dapper suits and join these fun-loving Rotarians as they raise money to benefit Habitat for Humanity of East & Central Pasco and the Wesley Chapel Rotary’s community programs. “This is the first time we’re trying this as a fund raiser,” says Wesley Chapel Rotary president Kent Ross, fresh off the club’s successful second “Duck Fest” event in March. “But, everyone in the club is excited about it and the pre-sales of the tickets have been going great.” The event is open to the public, but the suggested tax-deductible donation to attend the party is $75 per person, which includes the food, entertainment, gaming and cigars, but not adult beverages. To order your tickets, visit www. Eventbrite.com/e/hats-horses-kentuckyderby-party-tickets-43892365246 or visit WCRotary.com or see the ad, right. — GN

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Pelican Water Systems Brings Its Mobile Showroom To Your Front Door By ANDY WARRENER

Do you have an aging water filtration system in your home that isn’t quite cutting it anymore? Are you concerned about chlorinated water and contaminants that slip through your tap water’s purification process? Do you spend too much of your hard-earned money on bottled water? If you answered yes to these questions, Pelican Water Systems would like to come to your home to give you a free consultation and water test, and set you up with a no-waste, no-salt, customized water filtration system that will meet your family’s needs. “We want to educate people (about) what’s happening with their water,” Pelican Water Systems CEO Iain Whyte says. “Ours is a new way of approaching water treatment systems.” Typically, buying a water filtration system is a multi-step process. Businesses will have a storefront where their products are on display. They’ll come to your home and test your water and then you’ll visit their store, sift through available products and eventually get a quote. This is after they come back to your home and conduct an inspection. That process can be cumbersome, but Pelican Water Systems has a different approach. The company is designed to be a one-stop shop. “We keep our best-selling products in our vans,” Whyte says. “Two-thirds of the van is showroom, the other third is inventory. We also test for up to nine major contaminants on site.”

Pelican Water Systems technicians use mobile units like this one to bring the company’s water filtration products showroom right to your door. in Wesley Chapel.

Pelican Water Systems does not have a storefront, at least not in Tampa. The company’s Florida headquarters is located in Deland (northeast of Orlando). Instead, Pelican offers what Whyte calls Mobile Retail Centers. These $45,000 mobile showrooms provide everything a technician/salesman needs in order to take care of everything on the checklist, from the initial water test to scheduling the installation of the system. The company was formed in 2007 and broke into the Florida market in Ocala and Orlando in 2016, moved into Jacksonville and The Villages in 2017, and opened up in the Tampa Bay market a month or so ago. Whyte says that sales to customers in Tampa, despite not having a location here, served as a catalyst to entering the market.

“We’ve been selling products online to Tampa customers since 2007,” Whyte says. “Now, we want to promote in-home service in the area.” Whether you use well water or municipal water, Pelican Water Systems has a solution for you. The most common issues with well water are iron and sulphur. Iron leaves those rusty stains in your bathtub and sulphur is responsible for that unappetizing egg smell. If you have well water, it’s likely that you have a septic tank. Septic tanks can let harmful bacteria like E. Coli and fecal coliform into your well water. Pelican Water Systems can test for these bacteria in your well water, which is sent to its lab in Deland. Typically, the turnaround for results is 36 hours. Whyte recommends that

you install a UV (ultraviolet) system if bacteria is detected in your well water. The UV system typically kills 99.9% of all waterborne microorganisms. With municipal water, particularly with the City of Tampa, chloramines and/or chlorine are used to purify the water. While it’s theoretically safe to drink, most people dislike the chlorine smell and the way the chlorine dries your skin when bathing or showering. “I’ve had problems with my skin ever since I started living in my house, so I decided to try as much as possible to improve my skin,” says one of the company’s online reviews. “I then got a shower filter from Pelican, and I’ve had a nice experience with them. Now the water comes out nice and I’ve noticed that my skin is smoother.” If you’re on municipal water and sewer, you’re paying for the water you consume, as well as the water you dispose of. That’s another reason why Pelican Water Systems sells salt-free systems — homeowners don’t consume water through the filtration process. There are no discharges. The system doesn’t even need electricity. “You get good, quality water from every faucet in your home,” Whyte says. The headline product that Pelican Water Systems is promoting is the Smart Combo, a water softener and filter combination system. It combines a certified carbon filter with a certified salt-free softener. The carbon filter, which is tested and certified by the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), in accordance with National Standards Strategy (NSS) standards, reportedly reduces chlo-

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Water filtration systems like this one can make your water cleaner and easier on your skin.

rine levels by 96.7 percent. The salt-free water softener is certified by the German Technical & Scientific Association for Gas & Water. Pelican Water Systems uses the German standards because there currently are none in the U.S. for that type of technology. The salt-free softeners are reported to reduce scale that can clog pipes and appliances by 99.6 percent. If budget is an issue, Pelican Water Systems can even finance the system you choose. Based on credit score and the length of the loan, monthly payments can be as little as $60/month, and Pelican Water Systems does not hide these prices. The company is a fullservice retailer and the prices of all of their systems are available on the Pelican website. Installation costs can vary based on

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where a customer wants the system installed. If the system needs to be further away from the source, your installation can cost more than it might if the system is going in directly adjacent to the water source. It takes between 3-5 days from the time you order for a technician to come out and install your system. If you prefer the do-it-yourself route, Pelican offers a wealth of tools available for you to install the system yourself. There are even YouTube videos and tutorials that can be accessed through the website, and tech support is available through the Deland office six days a week (closed on Sunday), from 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Pelican Water Systems also prides itself on giving back to the community. The company has partnered with organizations like the American Cancer Society, Our Home Transitional, the International Bird Rescue and Operation First Response. Pelican also sponsors Sustainability Scholarships every year to students who are U.S. residents and are enrolled full-time in an accredited university. Students are asked to submit a 30-60 second video demonstrating how they conserve water and write a 250-word essay highlighting what water conservation means to them. There are two contests every year that award first, second and third-place scholarships. The next deadline to apply is October 15. Pelican Water Systems’ Mobile Retail Centers can be at your home for a free consultation within three days of making an appointment. Appointments are set Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and can even be made on Saturdays. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (8440 237-9949, visit PelicanWater. com or see the ad on page 29.

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SPOTLIGHT ON............Samantha Taylor Fitness! Women who are looking for a place to lose weight and gain lean muscle mass by changing their eating habits and working out for just 30 minutes a day, three days a week, should check out Samantha Taylor Fitness in Wesley Chapel. Currently located across Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. from Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) in the Shoppes of Wesley Chapel plaza above The Hungry Greek and OTB Café, Samantha’s Wesley Chapel studio will move to a new location — a 3,000 square foot space adjacent to Buffalo Wild Wings on S.R. 56, near I-75. “Our new facility will offer both personal training and Boot Camp in two separate rooms, with much more space for personal training clients than our current location,” Samantha says. Every day, Samantha (right in photo) is helping women like Sandi (left), who recently lost 58 pounds in just three months — a new record at Samantha Taylor Fitness. Sandi has now lost a total of 75 pounds and is still losing. “We’re saying that 65 is the new 40,” Samantha says. “We’re teaching women a way to eat that they love. It’s not a diet, not a pill, not shots; just understanding how to eat, how to work out their muscles for tone, and develop a healthy lifestyle they can keep for life.” Samantha is excited about a new home-delivery meal service she now offers in partnership with a local restaurant, offering high-quality meals featuring grass-fed beef, organic free-range chicken and wildcaught salmon. She says individual meals are just $10/ meal and are delivered to your home. The

minimum is just five orders and delivery is just $5, and all meals are approved by Samantha Taylor Fitness. “The biggest struggle in eating healthy is preparation,” Samantha says. “We wanted to help solve that problem for people who feel like they have no time for healthy food.” You don’t have to be a Samantha Taylor Fitness client to try the food delivery service. Go to SamanthaTaylorFitness.com/ meals for more information. The Wesley Chapel location is one of Samantha’s five fitness studios, including Land O’Lakes, Carrollwood, Westchase and Palm Harbor. As Samantha Taylor Fitness continues to grow – with a new location opening soon in Countryside – Samantha is hiring people with a passion for health and fitness in both administrative and training positions. If you’re interested, send your resume to resume@samanthataylorfitness.com. Until July 1, the Wesley Chapel Samantha Taylor Fitness studio will continue to be located at 2653 BBD Blvd., Suite 205 (second floor). For more information, visit SamanthaTaylorFitness.com, call (813) 377-3739 or see the ad on page 27.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Market Technologies Offers Investment Software & Career Opportunities By BRAD STAGER

Building wealth by investing in financial markets can bring the reward of a secure future but there can be plenty of uncertainty along the way to that goal. For almost 40 years, Wesley Chapel-based Market Technologies has provided investors with trading software they can use to navigate the ebb and flow of economic factors influencing the stock, commodity, and currency markets, as well as their own investment portfolios. According to Market Technology vice president Lane Mendelsohn, the company’s proprietary VantagePoint market forecasting software (see below) uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to track and analyze factors such as market reports, related market activity and government policies that can influence a particular stock or other trading investment, such as commodities like corn or copper. A report by the financial services consulting firm Aite Group (cited in the June 2, 2016 edition of Forbes magazine) indicated that there are 54 million individual, self-directed market traders in the U.S. alone, who can manage their investments just about any time, anywhere, from their smartphones. To get VantagePoint software into the devices of as many investors as possible, Market Technologies is now hiring inside sales professionals to assist people calling to about the software. Lane says software programs like VantagePoint analyze market information to give near-term trading forecasts. It’s an application of computer technology that has

Market Technology vice president Lane Mendelsohn (right) works with Jason on the VantagePoint market forecasting software.

spawned new competitors for VantagePoint, which can trace its pioneering digital roots to 1991, a time before widespread consumer use of the Internet. According to Market Technologies’ website, VantagePoint forecasts stocks, futures, Forex, and ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) with proven forecasting accuracy of up to 86 percent. Market Technologies was founded by Lane’s father, Louis Mendelsohn, who is still the company president. The company was the result of Louis’ quest for better returns on his own self-directed investments. “He starting developing software for his own purposes so he could be a more success-

ful, profitable trader and investor,” says Lane. As the senior Mendelsohn’s research gained notice through publications and television appearances, his personal project evolved into a company providing technical analysis trading software to individual investors. “It was something he personally had a need for and later realized other people had that same need,” Lane says. Louis Mendelsohn grew up in a Providence, RI, tenement building next to a freight rail line, and set his sights on moving away from that life of poverty. His first step was a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Administration & Management from Carne-

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Let’s face it, summer can “fly by” and “drag on” all at the same time. Children who remain unchallenged get bored easily and can even regress both mentally and physically during this long stretch of time. Without a plan, kids could end up spending hours upon hours of mindlessly watching videos and playing games. Instead of all that nonsense, why not let Impact Karate Center introduce them to the exciting world of Martial Arts? Over the course of the summer they will remain challenged and inspired with all the cool new skills they’ll be developing. Here’s what you can expect… A Big Boost in Confidence. When your child learns to master a new technique (through practice and patience) they begin to realize they can do anything they put their minds to. When they look back over the summer and see all they’ve

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more clearly. Your child will be: running, jumping, climbing and crawling their way to a more “functionally” fit life. Community and Friendship. A big part of Impact Karate is the community. They’ve created an environment that fosters friendship and support. Kids form bonds, make friends and help each other to learn and grow. And the instructors are top notch. They’re always there to help and always encouraging. And of course… FUN! All work and no play never served anyone! That’s why every class is injected with fun and excitement. They also have ice cream days, water balloon fights and board breaking classes… believe me, your child will be having a blast! If you’d like to get more information regarding Impact Karate Center’s summer pass you can call the school directly at (813)779-6199 or visit them online at ImpactKarateCenter.com. Enrollment is limited to 25 members. Call today to secure your spot!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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gie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA. Louis’ childhood background led him to study social work, and he received his Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He followed that up by earning his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Boston University in 1977 and moved to Tampa to work as a hospital administrator. While making investments for himself, he realized he needed better tools than the calculator and pencil technology that prevailed in the financial services industry at the time. Louis knew about computers and software, so he combined his interests in finance, investing and computers to develop predictive trading software that would compute market trading technical indicators — like moving averages that give investors clues as to how a stock or commodity may behave.

A Company Is Born

Wanting to share his knowledge and success from his work, Louis started Market Technologies in 1979 as a company and released his first trading software for personal computers in 1983. He has also written books on the subject, such as Trend Forecasting with Technical Analysis: Unleashing the Hidden Power of Intermarket Analysis to Beat the Market. Building on his early research, Louis began focusing on the relationships between individual stocks, currencies and commodities and the global factors affecting all of them. He developed proprietary mathematical processes to recognize trading patterns across different markets, leading to the development

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of today’s VantagePoint software. VantagePoint is advertised in trading industry magazines such as Traders, Stocks & Commodities and Your Trading Edge. The ads generate leads for the Market Technologies sales force working out of the company’s building just off Wesley Louis Mendelsohn Chapel Blvd., about 1.5 miles west of I-75 on Old Pasco Rd. VantagePoint user Eric Hall expressed his satisfaction by awarding a Five-Star Google Review, writing “This is an amazing group of people that provide cutting edge software products to traders across the globe. No other product even comes close to what they provide. If you’re looking for an edge in the markets they can provide it to you!”

Opportunity Is Knocking...

For people more interested in reaping financial and personal benefits from rewarding work, Market Technologies currently is hiring people for inside sales positions, responding to individual traders who express interest in the high-tech Vantage Point market forecasting software. According to Lane, applicants do not need financial industry experience but persistence, curiosity and a positive attitude are essential for success at Market Technologies. “We’ve had people who didn’t have sales experience but wanted to help people and learn new things,” he says, adding that as the market for self-directed investment products grows, so do the opportunities for those who make them available to individual traders. “There is no better time for someone to join our company and ride that wave of success.” As to how good a time it is to join the VantagePoint team, in addition to having a product that is of interest to a lot of people, Market Technologies was just named as a “2018 Top Workplace” by the Tampa Bay Times newspaper, a recognition based on anonymous surveys completed by employees collected by the research company Energage, LLC. According to a company news release, the survey placed “Market Technologies in the top 10 out of 50 companies with fewer than 150 employees.” That recognition comes as no surprise to Gilbert B., who has been a member of

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the Market Technologies sales team for nine years. Gilbert says he has found workplace satisfaction and financial security working atop the VantagePoint wavecrest. “There’s a great opportunity here but you have to work hard,” Gilbert says, adding, “The company cares about the employees.” Benefits include fully paid insurance for all employees, including health, dental, life and long-term disability. There is a full description of job openings and benefits available at the Market Technologies website (SellingIsFun.com). Market Technologies has a global reach, with customers in more than 120 countries, but its connection to the Tampa Bay area has been strong since its founding. In fact, part of the company’s philosophy is sharing its success with the local community. Market Technologies’ charitable efforts include supporting Metropolitan Ministries and the U.S. Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program, among others. In fact, earlier this month, for International Children’s Book Day (Apr. 2), the company collected and donated more than 100 books to Shriners Hospitals for Children Tampa. Market Technologies also has hosted events for children being treated at Shriners and has supported the hospital with financial donations. “We decided last year we wanted to make Shriners a really big focus of ours,” Lane says. He acknowledges that there are plenty of wealth-building products and programs in the marketplace for consumers to consider, but one way to distinguish among them is longevity. “That’s something that really differentiates our company from so many others in the industry, that next year will be our 40th anniversary year,” Lane says. “So, for 40 years, we’ve been developing technology for traders and investors to help them achieve their goals and really empower them to be able to be successful and provide for themselves and provide for their families.” Market Technologies is located at 5807 Old Pasco Rd. in Wesley Chapel. For more info, call (813) 973-0496 or check out the ad on page 16 of this issue. Neighborhood News readers interested in employment opportunities at Market Technologies can learn more by visiting SellingIsFun.com. To find out more about VantagePoint and get a free demonstration of the software, visit VantagePointSoftware.com, send an email to info@vantagepointoftware.com or call (800) 732-5407.

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SPOTLIGHT ON........la Pink Boutique! Local shoppers know that la Pink Boutique is a fun, charming place to shop for unique clothes and special, one-of-akind gifts, primarily for women. It’s been located at The Walk at Highwoods Preserve shopping center, off of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd, in New Tampa (in the outparcel next to Men’s Wearhouse) since it opened in 2006. Owner Amy Crumpton says that everything she carries in the store, “has to be different and special.” That’s because she’s well aware that in the nearly 12 years since la Pink opened, people are doing more and more shopping online. But, she says, online shopping is a poor substitute for stopping by a unique, local shop, where everything in the store has been hand selected, so you know whatever you choose will be a great find. “That’s why people shop here,” Amy says. “They know they’re going to find something unique that no one else will be wearing. When it’s gone from the store, it’s gone. I don’t reorder styles when they sell out.” Plus, she says, when you leave the store, you know you won’t have to worry about the hassle of sending something back or the disappointment of it not looking as great as you hoped it would. “I’m a hands-on person,” Amy says. “I want to feel and touch and know that what I buy works before I leave the store. Will it fit? Is it the color I think it will be?” Clothing lines at la Pink include KUT from the Kloth Denim, Escapada and Isle. Amy recently began offering Face-

plant Dreams Pajamas, a line of super-comfy pajamas and slippers based in Ybor City. Speaking of comfort, la Pink was the first boutique to feature Lutz designer Tees by Tina, a line of flattering t-shirts, leggings, camis and other casual fashions. “We try to look for stuff that’s made locally at a good price point and bring it into the store,” she says. While la Pink is primarily a clothing shop, Amy does also carry plenty of items that make great gifts, including Tea Forte, Moon & Lola jewelry, Tyler candles, Baudelaire Body Care and Bourbon & Boweties bracelets. For more information about la Pink Boutique (18035 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy., in the same plaza as Best Buy), call (813) 972-2862, “like” the “la Pink Boutique Tampa” page on Facebook or see the ad on pg. 14. The store is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday. It is closed on Sunday.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Farina Orthodontic Specialists Opens New Building & Office In Wesley Chapel! business in these pages when he and general dentist Dr. Rodney Holcombe built a new office in the professional plaza adjacent to what is now called the Shoppes of Amberly in Tampa Palms in 2000. He did eventually take something of a hiatus from advertising with me a few years after he had transformed Jared’s crossover canine teeth and Jake’s giant “Chicklets” into the gorgeous smiles both still have today. Why? Quite honestly, his Tampa Palms office was already so busy he really couldn’t handle more new patients.

By GARY NAGER

I try not to have to write too many of these business feature stories anymore because, after 24 years of owning and editing the Neighborhood News, I’ve written so many stories about (for the purpose of this story) doctors and dentists of all specialties that it’s hard for me (or anyone, really) to approach each story with a fresh perspective. So, why I am I so deliriously happy to write this story about Farina Orthodontic Specialists, which recently opened an amazing new office on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., just north of S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel? Because, quite honestly, I will always feel personally indebted to orthodontist Mark Farina, D.M.D. (Doctor of Dental Medicine) because not only did he truly transform the smiles of both of my sons, he showed my entire family his heart. He didn’t just ask the boys questions when they would visit during the years they wore braces, he genuinely cared about what they had to say and still can recite back information about both of them to me today, 15+ years later. First, a little background about Dr. Farina’s schooling and training. He 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 in New York City, NY. He also has received advanced training in the integrated diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular joint pain, or TMJ, and has served on research teams at both New York

Orthodontists Dr. Rudy Wagner (left) and Dr. Mark Farina will keep your kids smiling at their new Farina Orthodontic Specialists office on BBD Blvd. in Wesley Chapel, just north of S.R. 56. University and the University of Pennsylvania to help find new and better ways to solve orthodontic problems. Dr. Farina also participates in Continuing Education to stay up-to-date on the latest breakthroughs and most effective innovations in the industry and attends more than 80 hours of professional seminars per year so that he may bring the most advanced diagnosis, treatment and technology to my patients. Mark started advertising in my publications way back when he only had his original offices — on N. Habana Ave. in West Tampa and an office he shared in the Palm Lake at Tampa Palms office building with oral surgeon Dr. Ted Grellner. He continued to promote his

Enter: Dr. Rudy Wagner

When you talk to Mark about his wife, Lissette (who handles the marketing for his practice, which now has three offices) and their sons, Stefano and Sergio, you will believe he cares about you and your children the same way he cares about his own family. He doesn’t just appreciate your business. He feels it is his honor and privilege that you have entrusted something so precious to any parent as your child’s smile to him and he will always take the time to ensure they end up looking the way you expect when he finishes his work. So, even though neither of his sons took an interest in becoming an orthodontist, Mark’s nephew, Dr. Rudy Wagner, who was born in the U.S. but raised in Puerto Rico, did decide to become a dentist. The always-smiling

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Dr. Rudy joined Mark in 2015, after graduating with his D.M.D. degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine in San Juan, where he also earned both his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology and his Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Dental Sciences. Dr. Rudy (as Mark calls him) also did post-graduate work at Lehigh Valley Hospital, in Allentown, PA, where he had a general practice residency, and his post-graduate orthodontic training at the University of Puerto Rico.

The New Office

Due to the overcrowding at his New Tampa office — he says that he and Dr. Rudy have now helped improve 20,000 smiles the last 24 years — and wanting to expand into the booming Wesley Chapel market, Mark and Lissette purchased some property from the Porter family three years ago in the Wiregrass Ranch area, between Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) and the also-new Florida Medical Clinic building. And, a few weeks ago, the unique, cube-shaped building housing the new Wesley Chapel office of Farina Orthodontic Specialists opened on the 5,333-sq.-ft. first floor of the three-story, 16,000-sq.-ft. building. Mark says a periodontist and an endodontist are going to occupy the 2nd floor of the building, but he still has the 5,333-sq.-ft. third floor available. “It has amazing views and would be perfect for an injury rehab center or any professional use.” He adds, “It’s crazy, but we’re already seeing 20-30 patients a day at the new office,” Mark says. “Of course, this office is twice the size of the one in Tampa Palms.” New digs require new technology and

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In other words, if you want to transform your smile or your child’s, you should at least visit the new Farina Orthodontic Specialists office in Wesley Chapel. And, if you like the analog clock on the side of the new building, you can thank Stefano Farina. “People remember a building with a clock on it,” he told his dad. “It’ll set you apart.” Farina Orthodontic Specialists’ Wesley Chapel office is located at 2370 BBD Blvd., Ste. 100. For more information, call (813) 964-3081, visit FarinaSmiles.com or see the ad on pg. 32. For the Tampa Palms office (15303 Amberly Dr., Ste. E), call (813) 972-2929 and please say The new office has lots of great new technology, including a digital impressions machine that eliminates the need for goopy molds . The uniquely cube-shaped Farina Orthodontic Specialists office on BBD Blvd., just the Neighborhood News sent you!

south of Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, features a clock with hands facing BBD.

there’s no doubt that Mark’s new office has the most incredible technology I’ve seen at a dentist’s office to date — and I’ve seen a few. There is a digital X-ray machine that takes complete, 3D images of your mouth, jaw and all of your teeth in 4.8 seconds, with lower radiation than any traditional X-ray machine. But, the most amazing thing to me at the new office was the new digital machine (above far right) that can create custom-fitted molds of your mouth for braces or sleep apnea appliances without having to chomp down into trays covered with goop. I know I’ve choked on that goop before, so I wasn’t surprised when Mark told me that, “People throw up from the goop all the time. But, not only is the new machine easier for patients, the digitally-created molds we make are so much more precise than the goop. And, with our new machine, it only takes a few minutes.”

Think You’ll Save Money With ‘Smile Direct?’ Think Again!

Mark and Dr. Rudy agree that orthodontists across the country currently are dealing with the public perception that it’s worth the initial lower investment to get invisible aligners from on-line companies like Candid and Smile Direct Club. But, they say people who choose that route for themselves or their children don’t understand how much having an experienced orthodontist not only create your appliances, but make sure that everything is going according to plan by actually meeting with the patient every few weeks, is worth. “Mark and I literally spend one day per week working with patients who have had bad experiences with online aligners,” Dr. Rudy says. “Having to fix a problem is much harder and costs more than coming to us first.”

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Better Realty Services For Home Buyers, Sellers, Renters & Business Owners Mike is the Broker for the office. Because of their years of experience and commitment to hard work and the highest ethical standards, they say they can help any customer who may be interested in any of their varied services. “We’re a boutique company,” explains Kathy. “We customize our service so that it’s personal and works for every client.”

By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

The three co-owners of Better Realty Services say their name says it all: Their real estate firm will help you have a better experience in a wide range of services, whether you want to buy a home, sell a home, rent a home, manage an investment property, sell a business or buy a business. Although their company is only three years old, Monty Bryan, Mike Kane and Kathy Rieger bring decades of experience to Better Realty Services, located on Cypress Creek Blvd. in Wesley Chapel (off of S.R. 56, just east of I-75). They each have their own specific area of expertise. Monty has been a Realtor in the Tampa Bay area since 1982. He started his own real estate company in Tampa Palms in 1989, called Florida Properties Tampa, Inc. He sold that business to Coldwell Banker in 1999 and continued to work at the firm. He now handles the real estate sales and purchases for Better Realty Services. He met Kathy when she purchased her home — with Monty as her agent — in 1999. He says he recruited her to join him at Coldwell Banker, where she specialized in property management. Today, Kathy brings her property management expertise to Better Realty Services, where she manages investment properties on behalf of owners, making the process of finding tenants, collecting rent and maintaining the property much easier. Monty and Mike first connected while

Good Timing For A Move

(L.-r.) Mike Kane, Kathy Rieger & Monty Bryan have joined forces to open Better Realty Services , located off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel, to serve all of your real estate & business brokerage needs.

their children were in preschool together, and the kids later played recreational sports on the same team. Mike launched a business in New Tampa 10 years ago called First Choice Business Brokers, helping business owners who wanted to sell or people who wanted to buy a business. Mike’s role at Better Realty Services is to continue to help business owners as they plan an exit strategy from their respective businesses. Monty, Mike and Kathy teamed up

to launch Better Realty Services in 2015 and will celebrate three years in business together in May. “It’s synergistic,” explains Mike. “There are a lot of people who want to buy an investment property, and then, we offer professional management for that property. Or, we sometimes sell a business to an outof-state buyer, who then may be looking for a house to move into this area.” All three are licensed Realtors, and

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Monty says that now is the time of year that the residential real estate market is the busiest. “Most people want to move before the summer, so this is the busy season for both sales and rentals,” he says. “If you have considered putting your home on the market, this is the time of year when there is the most traffic, so my advice is to do it now.” Monty and his team can help you get your home ready to sell and price it correctly. “If your house is in good shape and priced well,” adds Kathy, “it will sell quickly.” Monty adds that the local real estate market has been busy for the past two or three years, after several slower years. “It took from about 2008 to about 2015 for all of the foreclosures to clear out of the market,” he explains. “Now, we’re in a season of steady growth and lower inventory.” While lower inventory may mean a higher price if you’re ready to sell, the team explains that it’s still a good time to buy, too. Interest rates are low, which is good for buyers, and builders are active again, offering many new home options

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in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel real estate markets.

Long-Term Relationships

Pauline Evans is a former New Tampa resident who now lives near the University of South Florida (USF) in a retirement home. She says she has been working with Monty and Kathy for 18 years, since Monty first helped her buy a home in Hunter’s Green in 2000. Since then, Pauline says that Monty has been her real estate agent for several more transactions, as she purchased two investment homes in Wesley Chapel. “My husband and I were managing our own properties, and Kathy and Monty were always there as advisers,” Pauline says. “They helped us to be entrepreneurs and manage our own properties.” Since her husband, who was retired from the U.S. Army, passed away about three years ago, Pauline has turned her rental properties over to Better Realty Services for Kathy to manage. She says she trusts Kathy to manage her properties as well as she and her husband did, when they used to send one of their sons over to mow the lawn or fix small problems at any of their investment homes. “Everything is in Kathy and Monty’s hands now,” she explains. “Now, they just send me a statement each month.” Pauline says it’s much easier on her, and that the friendship and advice she has received from Monty and Kathy over the years has led to her trusting them with her investments.

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“I am blessed to have these rental properties,” she explains, “which make it possible for me to live in this community, which is more expensive than living in a little house somewhere.” Monty, Karen and Mike hope to become that trusted source of expertise for anyone in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area who is considering buying or selling their home, or an investment property, or even their business.” Their years of experience have given them a perspective that is somewhat unique. When Monty opened the first real estate office in New Tampa in 1989, the only neighborhoods were Tampa Palms, Hunter’s Green, Pebble Creek and Williamsburg. “I knew this area was going to grow, because I could see this area of raw land on the map,” says Monty. “But, it’s kept growing and growing, and now moved into Wesley Chapel. That’s a lot of growth in 30 years.” Monty says with all that he’s seen over the last three decades, he still truly enjoys what he does. Mike concurs. “I think it says a lot that we’re all still in this business after all this time.” Better Realty Services is located at 2654 Cypress Ridge Blvd., #103. The office is open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and evenings and weekends by appointment. To reach Mike, Monty or Kathy, call (813) 793-4380. For more information, visit BetterRealtyServices. com or see the ad on page 25.

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SPOTLIGHT ON.......New Identities Hair Studios! A few months ago, we told you about the opening of the third New Identities Hair Studio owned by Marc and Kelly Rockquemore, in the space formerly occupied by Bella Mia Salon (and The Bostonian Salon before that) in the Publix-anchored New Tampa Center plaza on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Bvd., less than two miles south of the Pasco County line. At that time, I mentioned that one of New Identities’ New Tampa stylists, Tara, was doing an outstanding job of styling and coloring my fiancé Jannah’s hair and Tara has been so appreciative because she has gotten several new clients since that article came out in both our New Tampa and Wesley Chapel editions. I personally hadn’t had my hair cut at New Identities in a while and I wasn’t thrilled about the last haircut I got someplace else, so I made an appointment with Julia, who like Tara, is a relatively new “Level 1” stylist at the salon. Both of them also worked for a short time at New Identities’ Tampa Palms location, and yes, Julia did a great job on my hair. And, it just so happens that I snapped a couple of pics of Julia (left in photo) and Tara together at the Grand Opening of the New Tampa New Identities, which has eight stylists, four of whom came from the “overcrowded” Tampa Palms studio. At New Identities, stylists have to be properly trained, and clients pay different rates for the same services, based on the level of a stylist’s training. New Identities specializes in “anything to do with hair, including hair styling for men and women, coloring, perms, relaxers and even extensions. “We definitely are known for our color specialists,” Kelly says. The salon also specializes in playing a vital

role in the biggest day of a woman’s life. “Our Bridal Services primarily consist of hair design up-dos, shampoo & blow dries), as well as makeup application,” Kelly says. “Let us take care of your entire wedding party!”

Mothers Day Makeover Contest

Whether you’ve never had your hair done at New Identities or you’ve been going there for years, the Rockquemores are offering a “Mothers Day Makeover Contest,” where you can nominate your favorite mom to win a free consultation, shampoo, blow dry, haircut, single-process hair color (root touch up), plus an eyebrow wax, makeup lesson and application, plus a $25 voucher for Redken 5th Avenue or Pureology haircare products. “It’s a $200 value,” Marc says, “and we’re giving one makeover away at each of our three studios.” Entries are limited to one per person and the winners will be selected at random. For appointments at the New Tampa New Identities Hair Studio (19038 BBD Blvd.), call (813) 579-1575. For Tampa Palms (15307 Amberly Dr.), call (813) 979-0760. Or, visit NewIdentitiesSalon. com or see the ad on pg. 40. — GN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Sylvan Learning Center Brings Successful Approach To Wesley Chapel family. Lara Riordan is now the new director. Lara has been the director of the Temple Terrace center since 2005. She started with Sylvan as an instructor in New York in 2000.

By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

Dr. Judy Johnson brought Sylvan Learning to the Tampa Bay area more than three decades ago, when she opened her first Sylvan Learning Center in Carrollwood in 1985. Her students from 30 years ago now bring their children — or those who brought their kids now bring grandchildren — telling Dr. Johnson they remember how much it helped them, and how much they enjoyed their time at the center. Over the years, the success of the program has led to expansion locally, and Dr. Johnson opened her fifth Bay-area center this past October. The newest location is here in Wesley Chapel, in the Summergate Professional Center in Seven Oaks, off of S.R. 56, behind Sam’s Club. Her Bay-area locations, which also include Carrollwood, Westchase, Temple Terrace and Zephyrhills, are among the more than 750 Sylvan Learning Centers worldwide. Dr. Johnson is a lifelong educator who holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Special Education from the University of South Florida in Tampa, which she received in 1995. Previously, she completed a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Counseling from Ball State University in Muncie, IN, in 1977 and a Master of Education (M.E.) degree in Biology from the University of Arizona in Tucson in 1971. Since the Wesley Chapel center

A Proven Model

The Sylvan model means students have a maximum ratio of three students to one teacher, so they’re never in large groups where they can be overlooked. Students come to Sylvan to get ahead, for extra practice, for test preparation or whatever they need. “We’re not tutors At the Sylvan Learning Center in Wesley Chapel, (l.-r.) assistant difixing one skill for one rector Kristi Chatham, director Lara Riordan, director of education Caitlyn Hussey and owner Dr. Judy Johnson tailor lessons, taught by test,” explains Lara. We are a solution for all (of your certified teachers, to each student’s individual academic needs. child’s) academic needs.” opened last fall, Kristi Chatham has served “We’re not just for as its director. She has been with Sylvan remediation,” adds Dr. Johnson, “We work for three years, and previously was at the with accelerated kids – kids who want to go Zephyrhills location and prior to that, to Harvard.” worked as an instructor at a Sylvan LearnSylvan Learning Centers are staffed ing Center in Alabama. by certified teachers who receive additional “I like it because I know it works,” training in the Sylvan program. They then Kristi says. “I’ve seen it.” teach students lessons, which vary based on As of May 1, Kristi took a step back the child and are flexible for each individto be the assistant director of the center, ual student. The Wesley Chapel location allowing her to spend more time with her currently has about 10 teachers on staff,

including the director, assistant director and director of education Caitlyn Hussey. “I still teach,” Dr. Johnson says. “It’s a good way to see what’s going on and meet with families.” Sylvan’s program starts with a diagnostic assessment, then the teacher creates a “prescription” for the student, to ensure lessons are properly tailored to each individual’s needs. “All of us have a knowledge base,” explains Dr. Johnson. “When we go to school, we have to sit through things we already know.” Sylvan is different, she adds. “We find out what a child knows. We figure out where they’re strong and weak.” Then, she explains the child is taught “on the edges of where they need to be,” so the lesson is neither boring nor too hard. “The programs are as individualized as they need to be,” explains Caitlin. “My challenge is to ensure that each program is sufficiently challenging to meet each student’s needs.” As an endorsement of Sylvan Learning Center, Dr. Johnson shares that recently, an investor traveled from China to the U.S. to evaluate all of the different learning center companies, doing an extensive investigation before making his investment in education in China. The result of his research? “He bought 200 Sylvan Learning Center franchises,” Dr. Johnson says. Here in Wesley Chapel, Nicole Buzard has been bringing her son, Carter, to Sylvan twice a week for the last couple

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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of months and says, “It’s been all positives so far.” Carter is a gifted student who is at the top of his class, so Nicole says his teacher recommended advanced skills. “I tried working with him at home,” she says, “but I didn’t feel structured enough.” She says once Carter mastered one skill, she didn’t immediately know the next skill he should work on. “I was looking for enrichment and it led me to Sylvan,” says Nicole. “He enjoys the extra math work. He’s excited, and I never have to force it.” Nicole says her son’s enthusiasm for attending Sylvan is rubbing off on her 10-year-old daughter, Ava, too. “She’s not one who would want to do extra schoolwork, so I didn’t really explore it as an option for her,” Nicole explains. “But, she has seen how excited my son is, and now she wants to go.” Nicole says the office staff is easy to work with and flexible to meet her

Neighborhood News

needs and schedule. She says the Wesley Chapel Sylvan Learning Center is a quality program. “They know what they’re doing and — even with my son already being good at math –— I’ve seen improvements.” While many people believe these learning center programs are expensive, the Sylvan staff says they are happy to work with families to make it affordable. “We offer different programs at different price points, with budget-friendly programs,” explains Dr. Johnson “It’s a really good option for an extracurricular activity,” she adds. “Kids enjoy intellectual stimulation and learning things they don’t usually learn in a typical education setting.” Sylvan Learning Center will offer STEM camps this summer, including robotics, engineering, coding, LEGO, writing, MATH and ACT/SAT prep. Most camps run Monday through Thursday in the morning or afternoon. The Sylvan Learning Center at Seven Oaks is located at 27724 Cashford Cir., #102. Business hours for the center are Mon.–Thurs., 10 a.m.–6:30 p.m., Fri. by appointment only and Saturday, 9 a.m.–noon. Teaching hours vary based on the day and will be different in the summer. For details, call (800) EDU-CATE, visit Educate.com, or see the ad on page 36.

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Wesley Chapel Elementary Odyssey of The Mind Team To Defend Its World Title By BRAD STAGER

If you ask someone to name a world championship team from Wesley Chapel, the first thought might be the U.S. women’s national ice hockey team that trained at Florida Hospital Center Ice before winning the Gold medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea earlier this year. But, for those who follow competitive mind games, the Wesley Chapel Elementary Odyssey of the Mind (OM) team is famous for winning the 2017 World Champion elementary school team in the extracurricular academic activity that is a combination of technology and performance art. According to the OM website (OdysseyOfThemind.com), OM is the “largest creative problem-solving competition in the world!” Teams of students compete in grade-appropriate divisions to solve problems that require building and using a vehicle they can ride on while completing a triathlon of feats that display mechanical prowess and dexterity, such as jousting, curling and navigating a course in two directions. The students compete from prepared routines they create, corresponding to a rubrik of requirements, such as a multiplication problem or something more spontaneous — like being asked unexpectedly to answer a question like “name a tree.” It is a production that for the WCE team, known as “JJAMSSS” (the name is derived from the first initial of the name of each team member), combines a bit of pirate-speak and a boat that turns into a sea monster with a learning platform for science, technology, engineer-

Wesley Chapel Elementary’s Odyssey of the Mind (OM) team is known as the 2017 World Champion elementary school team in the extracurricular academic activity that is a combination of technology and performance art. The WCE team gets to defend its title at the end of the month. ing, arts and math (STEAM) knowledge. “The dynamic of this team is incredible,” says Joelisa Sherman, a parent serving as the team publicist. “They have truly learned the meaning of teamwork through perseverance, hard work, and a lot of creative thinking.” Of the seven team members, six are fifthgrade students and one is in the third grade. Three of them are returning veterans from the 2017 World Championship competition that took first place at the OM World Finals at Michigan State University in Lansing.

Among them is Sam Cappelluti, who says that while performing as the lead sea monster can be good preparation for a possible career in life science, he really enjoys the time with like-minded students. “I like thinking creatively and having fun with my friends,” Sam says. Also adding championship experience to this year’s team is fifth-grader Jason Sherman, who says the atmosphere at the Odyssey World competition is not too unlike other big events, whether in education or sports.

“You develop great relationships with friends and there’s a lot of things to do there,” Jason says. Mina Melaika is the third member of the team who competed for WCES last year, and she says it truly is an international event. “You go to a dorm and meet friends from Japan and trade pins and stuff.” Third-grader Jadyn Sherman, Jason’s sister, says she enjoys crafts and finds the OM competition a good fit for her artistic skills. “I saw the creativity in it and I like to

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Iowa State University in Ames, May 23-26. “I’m especially excited for the Worlds, to meet new people and brainstorm,” he says. Parents who are serving as coaches for the team are Jackie and Sergio Cappelluti, Sandy Gust and Elena Donahue. The WCES team earned the right to compete at the World Finals by placing first in the Gulf Coast Regional and Florida State-level competitions earlier this year. Actually getting the team members to the OM 2018 World Finals is not a sure thing, just yet. According to Jadyn and Jason’s mom Joelisa, the team needs $12,000 for nine people to travel to Ames and to transport their vehicle as freight. The team has a GoFundMe page (GoFundMe.com/jjamsss-odyssey-world-finals) to raise money and also is planning some fund-raising activities, such as a car wash.

make stuff,” Jadyn says, adding that participating in OM is “a really cool way to hang out with my brother (Jason).” Anna Gust is a fifth-grader who says she appreciates the close-knit nature of her team and that she wants to “learn more stuff about inventing because, when I grow up, I want to invent stuff.” The storytelling aspects of OM competition is of particular interest to fifth-grade student Samarth Muralidhara, who also says he’s finding an outlet for his curiosity about how things work. “I like to see people laugh at my jokes and I love to do the pirate voice,” he says. A new member of the team who brings about four years of experience is Sean Donahue, who has been participating in OM for four years. He has high expectations for the World Title defense, which will take place at

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Wiregrass Tennis Team’s Match Winning Streak Still Going Strong At 125! By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

When it comes to dynasties, the Wiregrass Ranch High (WRH) boys tennis team has all the characteristics. The Bulls rarely lose, collecting more than a dozen conference and district championships. They make it to the State championships on a regular basis, including winning State titles in 2014 and 2015 and a runner-up finish last year. The Bulls never rebuild; they simply seem to reload year after year. “We’ve had a good run,’’ says coach and school athletic director Dave Wilson. Good? Try great. On the way to another District title this season, and a pair of Regional playoff wins over Lakeland and Strawberry Crest, the Bulls again ended their season in Orlando at the Class 4A State championships. (Results were not available as of our press time, but check out WCNeighborhoodNews.com where this story will be updated with those results.) And The Streak remained alive. Since losing a match to Land O’Lakes in 2010, the Bulls have now run off 125 consecutive regular season wins. “It’s a good feeling, because you’re always playing for something,’’ says junior captain Destiny Okungbowa, who plays No. 1 and 2 singles for the Bulls. “But, the streak is always in the back of our

minds. It’s like a chip on our shoulder because everyone is gunning to be the team to end that streak. So, it kind of keeps you focused and locked in on the moment.” Wilson does not stress keeping the streak alive to his team, but he doesn’t have to. Three of his current players — Okungbowa, sophomore Kinishkh Destiny Okungbowa (above) and Kinishkh Ramesh (right) have alternated Ramesh and Josh playing Nos. 1 and 2 singles this year, combining for a 28-1 record. Abrams — all had fourth line was won by Abrams, who has brothers on the team who are more than willing to remind their never lost a high school singles match, with a 6-2, 6-3 win at No. 5. younger siblings of the legacy. Jesuit was missing its top player, or “I’m competitive with my brothers,” says Destiny, the younger sibling of Cour- The Streak might now be over. “I thought this year when we played age, who played for a State title in 2012, Jesuit, they probably would have beat us and Foresight, who was on the 2014 and if they brought everybody,” Wilson says. 2015 State champions and, Destiny says, “In some ways, it would be nice to be “is always bragging about it. So yeah, I done with it so we wouldn’t have to worry want to keep the streak.’’ about it.” In their season finale, the Bulls edged Because he has to worry about it, Tampa powerhouse Jesuit 4-3 (teams play five singles and two doubles lines in a match) though, Wilson must remember to bring at the Sports Club at Hunter’s Green Coun- enough of his better players to every match to ensure a win. Otherwise, he try Club. Ramesh and Okungbowa won at No. 1 and 2 singles, respectively, and teamed would be able to get additional playing up at No. 1 doubles for a 7-5, 6-3 win. The time for some of his reserves.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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“They all know we have the streak and they don’t want to be — and now, they are not going to be — the team that lost the streak,” Wilson says. “That’s why it’s a big deal to them, more than anything else.” There may be no end in sight, either. Ramesh, who was 14-0 in singles and 8-0 in doubles this year, and Okungbowa (14-1 and 11-0) are the two best players, and both return next season. Adam Mansour is a 6-foot-3 freshman who was 11-1 at line 3 singles, and is only getting better, and Abrams (16-0 at singles) is coming back as well. “Based on what is coming back,’ says Wilson, “I expect us to make another run (at a State championship) next year.”

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WRH’s Ian Flores — Elite Midfieler, Faithful Teammate, Savvy Webmaster? By ANDY WARRENER

Certainly it was Wiregrass Ranch High (WRH) senior Ian Flores’ prowess on the soccer pitch that made him such a highly sought-after recruit, but his character and knack for web design and self-promotion helped make him the most recruited soccer player to come out of the school…ever. “Ian is the most highly recruited soccer player that has ever played at Wiregrass Ranch,” athletic director and head boys soccer coach David Wilson says. “We have had 14 players accept offers from colleges in the past five years, and all of them combined had fewer offers than Ian.” In late March, he signed with Division III Oglethorpe University in Atlanta. Flores’ resume is impressive. He led the Bulls with 20 assists his senior year, which was second in all of Florida’s Class 5A. He was nominated to the All-State team both his junior and senior years, becoming the first Wiregrass athlete in 11 years to be nominated as a junior. He was nominated as an All-American four times, and for the first team All-Conference by the Florida Coaches Association twice. Flores was invited and tried out for the professional Major League Soccer club DC United, and also has participated in the U.S. Olympic Development Program

(ODP). He had 20 scholarship offers and has been in talks with 60 different colleges over the course of his high school career. Flores says he picked up some invaluable techniques working with DC United and the ODP. “The competition level there is way high,” Flores says. “You learn a lot of small details like not just making passes but where to make a pass, like passing to the correct foot so the other person can make a better touch.” Already drawing attention with his athletic exploits, Flores, after his sophomore year, took his recruiting endeavors to the world wide web. During the summer of 2016, he launched his recruiting website, IanFlores.com. He got some help putting it together from his proud father, Carlos, who owns and operates an online full-service creative agency called Milorian Studios, but Ian has since taken over control. “He (dad) still helps with issues like posting videos from different platforms,” Flores says. “But I do all of the editing, creating content and posting articles that come out.” The website is impressive. It has links to highlight videos he’s edited and stories written about him in different media outlets. He even publishes his own blog. “It’s a first-class website,” says Eric Sims, who has coached Flores on the club team he plays for, Tampa Bay United. “Ian also has first-class communication

with coaches. He does everything the right way and gives things all he’s got. It’s really opened doors for him.” To top it all off, Flores is a consummate team player. “You can play with teammates that are not necessarily your friends but when your teammates are your friends, there’s a big difference,” he says. Flores says that was mentality was a big factor in choosing Oglethorpe over schools like Rutgers and the New Jersey Institute of Technology Ian Flores led Wiregrass Ranch High with 20 assists last season. (NJIT). Flores felt largest metropolitan areas in the southwelcomed and accepted not just by the eastern U.S. coaching staff at Oglethorpe, but even He plans to major in business and more so by the players. Atlanta seemed like a great place to start. “I got a great vibe from the other “Ian is an outstanding human being players and from students at the school,” and a great kid,” Sims says. “He has set he says. “I felt like these people really himself up for success, regardless of what wanted me to excel in what I do.” he ends up choosing to do, because he’s Flores also picked Oglethorpe such a well-rounded individual.” because of its proximity to one of the

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T ues day ,May8t h

Quail Hollow Kid Cooks Ready To Take Their Talents To The ‘Gridiron Challenge’ “It will definitely be better than my first time,” Gracie says. “You will be able to rely on other people. It helps you relax more. You won’t be as nervous.”

By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

Quail Hollow Elementary (QHE) students Gracie Evans, Madison Gulley, Katelyn O’Neil and Lindsey Overland will be competing in a “Gridiron Challenge” on Saturday, May 19, at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ training facility at One Buc Place. But, don’t expect the 10- and 11-year-old fifth-graders to be knocking anyone down with ferocious hits. Instead, they will be trying to knock some people out with their Alfredo Smothered Roasted Red Pepper & Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Swirls. The Wesley Chapel girls will take part in a culinary competition against students from three other schools in the annual Gridiron Cooking Challenge, part of the “Fuel Up to Play 60” initiative, an in-school nutrition and physical activity program run by the National Dairy Council and the NFL. The event is free and open to the public to attend. And, while it’s still a few weeks away at our press time, the girls say they are already getting nervous. “I think about it a lot. I’m very excited,” Katelyn says, with her teammates nodding in agreement. At the competition, the Quail Hollow quartet will have an hour to prepare their signature dish for a panel of judges, including a Florida dairy farmer, the Bucs’ executive chef, a representative from Publix and teenage culinary whiz Zac Kara, a former MasterChef Junior competitor on FOX-TV. The QHE team has its own culinary whiz and former television com-

The Power Of Teamwork

(L.-r.) Lindsey Overland, Madison Gulley, Gracie Evans and Katelyn O’Neil show off their Alfredo Smothered Roasted Red Pepper & Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Swirls.

petitor in Gracie. In 2016, when she was just 9-years-old, she battled against nine other kid cooks from across the country on Food Network’s “Star Kids” cooking show. On that show, Gracie had to present a live audition to judges, prepare dishes on the fly and incorporate social media — such as a Snapchat cooking tip — into her cooking presentation. She still maintains a popular Instagram page, where she posts her most current dishes. It’s a skill set she picked up from her mother, Juliana, a well-known dessert maker who has appeared on NBC-TV’s “The Today Show,” as well as the Food Network and local TV. She

describes herself as a “freelance food stylist,” and her daughter is following in her footsteps. It was while both were giving demonstrations at the Southern Women’s Fair last October that Gracie was introduced to the Florida Dairy Council, which suggested she take part in the council’s upcoming competition. The idea of a team competition appealed to Gracie, as opposed to the kid-to-kid cooking combat she went through at Food Network. She decided to team up with Madison, Katelyn and Lindsey, with fifth-grade teacher Alysha Moscarelli and Juliana helping to guide the girls.

In fact, each girl has her own role to play on the team, forming a finelytuned unit. Gracie started brainstorming immediately after finding out about the competition. She pitched the Council with one of the recipes she served on the Food Network, modifying it by replacing the recipe’s marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce, as the competition calls for dairy-based recipes. “I changed it a little bit,” Gracie says. “It was really easy to make and it is an interesting dish because it has a lot of components that, all together, taste really good.” One of those components, which provides a secondary dash of dairy, could be called the “secret sauce” — yogurt. “It made it a little creamier, and yogurt has that tart kind of a bite,” Juliana says. “It plays very nicely.” Katelyn also helps with the Alfredo sauce. “We put a lot of work into it and practice and tasting, making sure it’s real smooth,’’ she says. “And, we have a lot of back-up plans, in case it’s not perfect.” Lindsey’s job is the lemon ricotta filling, which she says she makes with ricotta cheese (still more dairy), zested lemon, salt and black pepper. “We mix it all up and put it (on the noodles) and roll it all up,” she says. Madison is responsible for the See “Young Chefs” on pg. 50

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Chuy’s Tex-Mex Is The Latest Chain Restaurant To Open On S.R. 56 While I agree that Chuy’s Tex-Mex, which opened on April 24 on the north side of S.R. 56 (across from the Tampa Premium Outlets) is a cool-looking, fun place, following my first two visits to the Tex-Mex favorite of many of our readers (who previously had to go as far as Orlando to enjoy it), I’m still searching for my favorite dish at Chuy’s. The bar area is a little smallish, but bright and cheery and some of the space is taken up by a very cool-looking 1950s-era chips & salsa-loaded car that Elvis himself might have driven and, speaking of Elvis, he is big at Chuy’s, where his birthday in January is celebrated every year with an Elvis impersonator (see page 3 for the local impersonator who should probably get the gig at our Chuy’s location). Although I thought the loaded nachos and chicken flautas that came as part of the appetizer combo platter were excellent, I wasn’t thrilled with my chicken and steak combo fajitas (photo below left), as both were overcooked, although several people I spoke with after the VIP pre-opening event on April 23 said I should give the fajitas another try because theirs were excellent. And, Wesley Chapel’s newest Mexican place wants to be your place on Saturday, May 5, aka Cinco de Mayo, with drink specials all day, including savings on Chuy’s Famous Ritas, Hose Texas Tinis and domestic beers. You also will save $1 on Coronas all day and floaters for your adult beverages are just $1. Chuy’s Tex-Mex is located at 25750 Sierra Center Blvd. For more info, call (813) 948-2211 or visit Chuys.com. — GN

If you have a Wesley Chapel address . . .

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Minerva Indian Restaurant — Where Adventurous Taste Buds Are Rewarded! By GARY NAGER

VEN WHEN I lived in New York City, where some of the most renowned Indian cuisine outside of the sub-continent itself is served, I was never the biggest fan of curry, a primary (and spicy) ingredient in Indian food from all of the country’s many distinct regions, each of which has its own signature dishes. But, it’s been more than 35 years since I lived in the Big Apple and since then, either my taste buds have “grown up” or the twoyear-old Minerva Indian Restaurant in the New Tampa center plaza on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. has some of the most delicious Indian food I’ve ever tasted. Or, maybe a little bit of both. At any rate, when Minerva opened in 2016, I had freelance writer Brad Stager write the story about owner Venkat Reddy’s unassuming (from the outside) but elegant inside eatery because a) Brad told me he knows quite a bit about and loves Indian food and b) I was concerned about not being able to rave about a new advertiser. Well, you can call me an old dog learning some new tricks at Minerva, which actually shouldn’t surprise me too much because even when it first opened, I was definitely impressed not only with the restaurant’s huge selection of excellent Indian beers (at really low prices; see below for more info), but also with Minerva’s Indian-style Chinese chicken fried rice, which had a hint of curry, but nothing about the spices were overpowering and the portion was huge. Two years later, Venkat has an even more impressed new fan. Whether you enjoy Minerva’s tremendous lunch buffet, which offers different dishes every day, including North and South Indian and Indo Chinese options, which is a great way to sample more than two dozen options (including salads, vegetarian dishes and desserts, as well as many main and side dishes), or order off the huge and very fairly priced menu, you really can’t go wrong. Among the starters I’ve sampled, I really enjoyed the crispy vegetable spring rolls (served with mint and tamarind sauces on the side; I preferred the tamarind), the equally crisp and delicious garlic naan (similar to pita bread, but crispier and better tasting than any pita I’ve ever eaten) and the Minerva Special Soup, which is sort of a blend of traditional New York-style Chinese egg drop soup and my mom’s homemade chicken soup. In addition to a savory, but not spicy broth, the

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soup is loaded with white meat chicken and a variety of fresh veggies. In a word...awesome. And if you have never sampled any of the Indian beers, you owe it to yourself to include a Taj Majal, Kingfisher or the amazing Hunter strong premium beer, which does have a 6.5-percent alcohol content (thus, the “strong” label), but tastes to me like a crisp, refreshing lager or pilsner.

Enticing Entrées!

I usually steer clear of Indian buffets, because, too often, there are too many different kinds of curry in one place for me. I know most people who like Indian food go for the butter chicken, Masala or Tikka Masala dishes (all of which are Specialties of the House at Minerva), but when I ate Indian food in New York, I really only liked Tandoori clay oven dishes, and only at some places. And, while I do enjoy Minerva’s Tandoori chicken on the buffet, my favorite entrée at Minerva is the Tandoori lamb shish kabab, which is actually ground lamb served with a crispy edge outside and tender inside on a sizzling fajita-style dish, only with better onions and peppers than at any Mexican restaurant. And, best of all, none of the entrées I’ve mentioned costs more than $14.95. I also really enjoyed the Minerva Special Chicken, which serves equally delicious veggies with boneless chicken pieces in a sweet red curry sauce that has no bite at all. Another new favorite of mine is the goat curry, which is tender goat on the bone, again with a very light curry sauce that was excellent when paired with the vegetable biryani (basmati rice) from the buffet. And, speaking of the buffet, it’s truly a bargain at $9.95 MondayFriday (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) and although the buffet costs $12.95 on Saturday and Sunday, Venkat says that he adds some special items that make it well worth the extra cost. And yes, for you vegetarians out there, Minerva offers nearly two dozen veggie entrées, plus hand-made dosas (crepes), a South Indian favorite served with sambar, coconut and ginger chutney and a variety of veggiebased fillings. So, reward your adventurous taste buds and try Minerva Indian Restaurant. You’ll be glad you did. And, check out Minerva’s ad on pg. 43 of this issue for some awesome coupon specials, including $2 off a lunch buffet, $5 off orders over $30 and two different buy one, get one half off coupons. Minerva is located at 19050 BBD in New Tampa. For more info, call (813) 978-8586 or visit MinervaTampa.com.

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Nibbles & Business Bytes The Latest & Greatest News In Dining, Shopping & Business In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel! Congrats, Mate...I Mean Mike!

Ty & Hildi Visit TPO

If you were a fan of the old “Trading Spaces” home improvement TV show on TLC (formerly The Learning Channel), you probably already realize that the show has made a triumphant return, after a 10-year hiatus. On April 7, the day the new edition of the show debuted on TLC, “Trading Spaces” cohosts/designers Ty Pennington and Hildi Santo Tomas (photo, above) appeared for several hours at the Tampa Premium Outlets, to the delight of hundreds of fans who got to get “up close & personal” with Ty and Hildi. A great get for TPO, to be sure. For more information, search “Trading Spaces” on Facebook. — GN

Cost Plus World Market Is Open! Although most of the action in Wesley Chapel is centered around S.R. 56, I had no idea how much excitement there would be about the Grand Opening of Cost Plus World Market (5831 Wesley Grove Blvd.; photo above right) in

The Grove shopping center off S.R. 54. The store, which features furniture, décor and gift items, packaged/dry foods and wines, had already been open a few days when World Market hosted a North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on April 5, which was attended by hundreds of deal-seeking locals. I’ll admit that I went there with no intention to purchase anything but came home with a half-case of assorted wines, two types of coffee (the World Market Italian Roast? Amazing!), World Market’s own truly delicious vodka spaghetti sauce and assorted unique chocolates. I even ended up joining the store’s savings club. So much for not buying anything, right? For more info, visit WorldMarket.com or call the WC store at (813) 371-2433.

Jake’s Pizza Opens In MP

In case you haven’t been on County Line Rd. in Meadow Pointe recently, Jake’s

Pizza has opened in the end space in the plaza adjacent to the CVS Pharmacy. Two previous restaurants opened and closed in the space but Jake’s Pizza already seems to have something of a cult online following (maybe from its existing Palm Harbor location), as it serves St. Louis-style pizza. I had never heard of that before, but it appears to be similar to the thincrust (not the deep dish) Chicago-style pizza, especially in terms of its thick red sauce, but with an incredibly crispy thin crust that’s hard for even a New Yorker to resist. I haven’t yet sampled what Jake’s calls New York-style crust, but there also is a gluten-free option. Jake’s Pizza (30036 County Line Rd.) is open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. every weekday and until 11 p.m. on weekends. Jake’s serves a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, pastas, subs and desserts. For more information, call (813) 445-7070 or visit http://jakes.pizza.

Congratulations go out to my friends Mike and Sue Prenderville for the Grand Opening and two-Chamber ribbon cutting on Apr. 26 of the new location of Song Printing & Design, now located at 38514 5th Ave., in beautiful downtown Zephyrhills. Both the Greater Zephyrhills and North Tampa Bay Chambers of Commerce brought scissors to the ribbon cutting, which was attended by more than 100 people, many of whom (we hear) stayed after the event ended to try a Song Printing IPA draught beer at the Zephyrhills Brewing Co., the 2018 Taste of New Tampa 2nd Place Peoples Choice Beverage winner, which is located directly next door. How convenient for our British friends, who can’t resist a pint themselves (especially Mike). For more information, call (813) 7152212 or visit SongPrinting.com.

KAP Medical Group Celebrates Its Grand Opening

Congrats also go out to my friends Karina Azank Parilo, M.D., and her husband Dane Parilo, on the Apr. 25 Grand Opening of KAP Medical Group, located in the Windfair Professional Park behind the Shoppes of Wesley Chapel plaza, directly across Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. from Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. Karina and Dane are long-time members of the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel (see story

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on page 19 of this issue) and she promises to provide traditional, affordable, concierge-style primary care medicine at her new practice. In order to introduce her direct primary care practice (the first in our area) to the Wesley Chapel community, Dr. Azank Parilo is hosting a series of free Open House/Question & Answer events at the new office. The next one will be just a few days after you receive this issue in your mailbox — on Tuesday, May 8, 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — and it’s a great opportunity to meet Karina and her friendly staff and find out why direct primary care may be the right choice for you and your family in today’s crazy health insurance environment. For more information about the Open House events or how the practice works, stop in at the office at 2615 Windguard Cir., Suite 101, call (813) 536-0050, visit KAPMedicalGroup.com or see the ad on pg. 38.

And, One More Pat On The Back... Congratulations to my beautiful fiancé,

Neighborhood News

Jannah McDonald, the marketing and events coordinator for the Pasco Education Foundation (PEF) — the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports Pasco County’s public schools — for putting on an amazing annual gala (formerly called the “Cinderella Ball”) at the beautiful Heritage Springs Country Club in the Trinity area of New Port Richey on April 7. Although Jannah rightfully shares the credit with her boss, Stacey Capogrosso, and the rest of the PEF staff, this year’s gala surpassed last year’s fund-raising total by about $5,000 and Jannah secured WTVT-TV Fox 13 News anchors Linda Hurtado and Chris Cato to again emcee the event, as well as the Bus Stop Band (one of our favorites) to provide the evening’s etertainment. PEF gave away $200,000 in scholarships to graduating students from all 13 Pasco high schools at its annual Scholarship Awards Banquet in April and Jannah also finds the time (after work) to help me get our invoices sent out every two weeks. Thanks, babe! — GN

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TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE. New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing with outstanding customer service! LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED. See why we are New Tampa and Wesley Chapel’s #1 Choice!! Call Chris today @ (813) 8575400 or visit TranquilityPoolService.com. New customers get ONE MONTH FREE! AllStarPoolsofTampaBay.com Highest quality salt and ozone generators, pumps, motors, filters. Marcite, quartz and pebble finishes. Pool cleanups and acid washes, paver and river rock sealing. Paver decks and driveways. Mention this ad for $69 pool service. Call or text 813-244-7077. Visit AllStarPoolsofTampaBay.com NEIGHBORHOOD POOLS Wesley Chapel owned and operated since 1999. Weekly service. No long term contracts. Mention ad for one month free service. Call 813-907-7322 for details or text Joe at 813-758-7608.

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To order your classified or display ad in the Neighborhood News, call Tom Damico at (813) 910-2575!

JASMINE’S LANDSCAPING. Complete lawn maintenance, Tree, palm and hedge trimming, Planting, mulching, stones, Sod replacement, Pressure washing, Gutter cleaning and more. Cited by your HOA for violations? Need to comply for: Pressure washing, Trimming, Mulching, Sod replacement, Sprinkler repair or Mailbox repair or replacements? Ask about our HOA SPECIAL & FREE ESTIMATE! For more info, call (813) 420-4465.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

‘Young Chefs’

Continued from pg. 39 roasted pepper sun dried tomato, which is blended with pesto, baby spinach, parsley and olive oil before being incorporated into the lasagna noodles. “It’s very delicious,” says Madison, who is dubbed the “Pesto Queen” by her teacher. Lindsey and Madison both say that since joining the Gridiron Challenge team, they have taken a greater interest in cooking and now make more dishes around their homes. “I really enjoy doing the cooking,” Lindsey says. “But, I think it all started with this competition.” The team has been practicing for three

months now, sometimes at home, other times at school, where they push three desks together and set up their stations. Moscarelli, a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) teacher who has all four girls in two separate math and science classes at Quail Hollow, says she has enjoyed watching them work together in preparation for the upcoming competition, not to mention all the taste-testing she has been able to indulge in. “It’s nice to see them use their critical thinking skills, communication skills and teamwork in everyday life,” she says. “And, the recipe is delicious.” The girls are all friends, and have each brought their own special talents to the cooking table — with a mix of brain-

storming and experimentation. “They started to talk about it at lunch,” Moscarelli says, “and they would say, ‘Ooh, what if we added this to the recipe?,’ and then would go home and try different things and alter the ingredients. They all jumped right in.” The recipe is finalized, and the team is now working on the little things, like plating and timing. They will have to plate and present four dishes for the judges, and also are responsible for producing 50 samples for the audience. The girls are confident they will do well and deliver a hit at the Gridiron Challenge. The delicious kind. “We have been working hard,” Madison said. “It will be good.”

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Gracie Evans adapted a recipe she used from her appearance on Food Network Star Kids for her team’s “Gridiron Challenge” entry.

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( corner of Bruce B. Downs and County Line Rd. behind walgreens) The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for another service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted or reduced fee, service, examination or treatment.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Taking Orders & Reservations for Mother’s Day! Now Serving Beer, Wine and Grandma’s Homemade Sangria Call us to cater your special event! 24436 SR 54, Lutz | 813-909-2122 | littleitalyfamilyrestaurant.com

Open Tues./Wed. 4-8pm | Thurs./Fri. 4-10pm | Sat. Noon-10pm | Sun. Noon-8pm

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 10 • May 4, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com