New Tampa Neighborhood News June 22 Edition by Neighborhood News

Volume 21 Issue 13

Inside: Wharton & Freedom’s Class Of 2013 Graduates!

June 22, 2013

See Neighborhood Magazine!

The Direct-Mail News Magazines Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Since 1993! THIS INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWS MAGAZINE IS DIRECTLY MAILED TO: NEW TAMPA: Arbor Greene • Cory Lake Isles • Cross Creek • Easton Park • Grand Hampton • Heritage Isles • Hunter’s Green • Hunter’s Key • K-Bar Ranch • Lake Forest • Live Oak Preserve • Pebble Creek • Richmond Place • Tampa Palms • The Hammocks • West Meadows WESLEY CHAPEL: Aberdeen • Belle Chase • Bridgewater • Brookside • Chapel Pines • Country Walk • Lexington Oaks • Meadow Pointe • New River • Northwood • Pinewalk • Pine Ridge Saddlebrook • Saddleridge Estates • Saddlewood • Seven Oaks • The Lakes at Northwood • The Villages of Wesley Chapel • Watergrass • Wesley Pointe • Westbrook Estates • Williamsburg

Wharton Principal Silences Salutatorian’s Mic During Graduation Speech By Matt Wiley Graduation ceremonies can be pretty similar to one another. The principal gives a welcome address, followed by either the salutatorian and valedictorian or vice-versa, before the graduating students cross the stage to collect their diplomas. However, on June 3, during the graduation ceremony for New Tampa’s Paul R. Wharton High, something peculiar happened: the salutatorian’s microphone was turned off before the honoree had finished delivering his speech, and the reasons for doing so are still not completely clear. Harold Shaw, Jr., a 17-year-old prospective University of Florida (UF) film student, approached the podium as Wharton’s salutatorian with a 7.31 GPA and began his speech. Before beginning, he removed his cap. The version of the speech that Shaw began to deliver to the crowd of classmates and their families inside the expo center at the Florida State Fairgrounds was the third draft he had been instructed to write and submit to the school for approval. “Today begins a journey of self exploration and endless opportunities,” Shaw

After walking said in his speech. “Do the stage, Shaw’s not forget the power of attorney Tom Parcreativity.” nell, Esq., of Gibbs However, a few & Parnell, explains minutes into the speech, that no diploma Woods stood up and was waiting for made a gesture to turn off Shaw in the room Shaw’s microphone, where students which then went silent. were instructed to Woods then approached pick them up. Shaw a second podium, says that he was inthanked Harold, told the structed to talk to crowd that Wharton Woods, but while High respects individuals’ trying to do so, he freedom of speech, but that there is a time and Harold Shaw delivering his salutatorian was instead esplace for everything and speech before his mic was shut off during corted out of the Wharton High’s graduation on June 3. building by Hillsinvited valedictorian borough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Allyson Bell to the podium to deliver her deputies and had to pick up his diploma at speech. the school two days later. “I got about two and a half pages into “(Woods) said into a walkie-talkie that my speech and then I stumbled,” explains I was harassing him,” Shaw says. Shaw. “I said, ‘just do what it takes,’ and But, this was not the first confrontathat was enough for (Woods) to cut me off. tion between the two. I thought it was a technical difficulty or Prior to graduation, Shaw had posted something that had happened. It seems a video on Youtube.com that he had made, ridiculous because I was going by the apentitled “Welcome To Wharton High proved speech the whole time.”

School,” which drew attention to the school’s restroom conditions, even giving the email addresses for Woods and Hillsborough County School District (HCSD) superintendent MaryEllen Elia at the end, urging viewers to voice their concerns to the officials. Shaw says he was called down to the principal’s office the Friday before graduation. “(Woods) basically implied that I had to take (the video) down in order to make my speech,” Shaw says. The video has since been re-uploaded to Youtube. Parnell explains that the first two drafts of Shaw’s speech included references to the sanitation video, but that the third version was approved by Woods and the School Board and his script was waiting for him on the podium. “The School Board (first) told me that (the speech being cut short) was due to time constraints, but that doesn’t make sense because the speech was approved (at its full length),” Shaw says. “Instead of what could have been one of the best days of his young life, he goes See “Salutatorian” on page 38.

City Could Annex More New Tampa Land For New Development

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE

Improvements Coming To Morris Bridge Congratulations To New Tampa’s Class Of 2013, Pumping Station, Our 2013 Hurricane Guide, New Tampa Missionaries Visit Nicaragua, New Tampa Schools Score Well On FCAT, Peabody’s Adds New Lunch Selections & More Lots Of Local Business Features & More! Neighborhood Nibbles & Biz Bytes!

Pages 1-40

Pages 41-56

ECRWSS

NEWS, BUSINESS, SPORTS & EDUCATION UPDATES

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 2801

Also Inside This Issue!

is already located within the City’s jurisdictional limits, and the Property is surrounded by other property already located within the City’s jurisdictional limits,” Taylor Morrison states in its petition for voluntary annexation to the City. “Additionally, the Property is located within the City’s water and sewer service areas, and the Home builder/developer Taylor Morrison is proposing the main access/entrance to annexation into the city of Tampa of this Z-shaped piece of property behind Paul R. Wharton High. the Property is from existing City right-of-way.” Taylor Morrison also informed the City that it will utilize 20 acres of adjacent BJE land already inside the city limits for See “Annexation” on page 38.

Postal Customer

The City of Tampa could once again be growing in the New Tampa area, as a housing group has applied to develop an unincorporated parcel of land behind Paul R. Wharton High. Through a contract with landowner Busch Junction Enterprises (BJE), Scottsdale, AZ-based homebuilder/developer Taylor Morrison approached the City of

Tampa in May about voluntarily having its 148-acre parcel of land annexed into the city limits. The Z-shaped piece of land that could be annexed, if approved by the Tampa City Council, lies between West Meadows and Grand Hampton, stretching from south of Royal Hampton Blvd. east to Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., north of Wharton High. “This annexation is proposed because a portion of the Taylor Morrison Property

Dated Material Please Rush!

By Matt Wiley

Editorial - If Anyone Tells You That Advertising With Us Doesn’t Work... An editorial by Gary Nager One of the things I hear all too often these days — especially from people who have never advertised in the New Tampa or Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News — is that advertising in local print media “just doesn’t work anymore because of the internet.” To all of those folks, all I can say is, “Yeah, right.” First of all, I’m not naive. I know that more of our advertisers get far greater results from having business feature articles written about their businesses than they do from any ad in any print or online medium. Sadly, because of the number of advertisers we have (150-200 in every issue) and with a space limit of only four or five business profiles that can run in any issue, those features can only run in the print version of this publication once a year — although those article and issue archives also are always available at NTNeighborhoodNews.com. The point is that between our two publications each month, we only run about 100 business profiles in print per year, which still doesn’t cover the total number of advertisers we have, so that space is very precious to us. We hear all the time — from so many of the businesses that have had features written — just how much business those stories can and do generate. Here’s an incredible case in point. Last year, we wrote an article about American Wood Flooring (AWF) in the SuperTarget-anchored Northwood Shopping Plaza located just north of County Line Rd. on Bruce B. Downs (BBD)

New Tampa Neighborhood News

15345 Amberly Dr., Tampa, FL 33647 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Fax: 910-2483 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Publisher & Editor Gary Nager General Manager Nikki Bennett Assistant Editor / Photographer Matt Wiley Correspondents Camille Gillies • Bonnie Mason • Kathleen Schiop Senior Graphic Designer Porsha Lemos Advertising Sales Rep Taylor Gardner Nothing that appears in New Tampa Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by New Tampa Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 21, Issue 15, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, July 8, 2013. New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. New Tampa Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. New Tampa 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. © 2013 JM2 Communications, Inc.

Blvd., and AWF owner Andy Dunning said that he not only got a tremendous response and plenty of orders, he also sold his largest-ever single-customer job of more than $30,000 in flooring thanks solely to that article. In other words, Andy was thrilled with the results and made sure he continued to advertise all year long in either our New Tampa or Wesley Chapel editions each month (and in both issues each month several times), because he wanted to make sure that he kept his business in line for another feature this year. Well, that article ran for the first time this year in our New Tampa issue and, even though AWF is located in Wesley Chape — and despite the fact that the issue hit its 24,000+ mailboxes in zip code 33647 the Friday and Saturday of Memorial Day weekend — Andy said the phone started ringing Friday afternoon, rang all weekend long and less than a week after the story came out, he already had set his one-week record for his store of more than $40,000 in orders! “And the phone calls are still coming and people are still stopping in to see what we have. All thanks entirely to the story in the New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News!” Andy also says that even though just his ad running in either publication alone doesn’t generate the same type of response as the stories, “It’s so worth it to advertise all year long because it keeps you in line to get the story each year as soon as possible. And, we do sell jobs just based on the ad alone, too. There’s really been nothing else like it for this store. If you can only afford to advertise in one local publication and you’re in or trying to sell to New Tampa or Wesley Chapel, this is the place to spend your money.”

And of course, we have helped many other local businesses the last 20 years and the restaurants who advertise with us regularly and therefore have received full-length dining reviews from us, tell us that there is no doubt that more people in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel read the New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News — and respond to those reviews by visiting the eateries — than any other print, broadcast or online medium. For more information about advertising in the New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, call GM Nikki Bennett at 910-2575. For American Wood Flooring (1285 BBD Blvd.), call 991-7999.

Can You Say ‘Ouch?’ There is simply no excuse for me making this type of mistake. In our last issue, I said that the co-chairs of the New Tampa Relay for Life held at Freedom High in Tampa Palms were my friends Tom Gruber and “Leslie Britt.” Not even close. I’ve known Lesley Zajac for at least 15 years, but somehow got both her first and last name wrong in the story! Lesley, who does have that authentic “Brit” accent, is the Director of Research Administration at the Jaeb Center for Health Research in Tampa Palms. Sorry, Lesley. You deserved better!

Table of Contents

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SPORTS UPDATES..............................Pages 1-40

Improvements Coming To Morris Bridge Pumping Station...............4 Hole Opens Off BBD, South Of New Tampa.....................................4 Get Prepared! Our 2013 Hurricane Guide...........................................6 . . . . New Tampa News Briefs......................................................................8 Cooking Accident Causes Heritage Pines Blaze TPD/PCSO Seeks Public’s Help Locating ‘Person Of Interest’ Yield To Pedestrians...Or Else? Weightman PTSA Treasurer Arrested For Embezzlement Cory Lake Isles Opens Newly Renovated Beach Club...................10 New Tampa Community Calendar................................12

Local Business Updates.................................14-31

New Tampa Chamber Of Commerce Newsletter..............14 Miriam Innocenti, LCSW: A Counselor Who Cares................18 Ifasi Financial Can Help You Retire In Style.............................20 Sunset Funeral Home & Memory Gardens............................22 Dr. Duga, Dr. Feeney & Associates Keep Kids Smiling............26 Cypress Point Community Church: Hip, Fun Worship...........28 FHWC Opens New Concussion Treatment Center.................30

Local Education Updates...............................34-35

New Tampa Schools Score Well On FCAT..............................34 Students Speak Up At Rotary Speech Contest.........................35

Neighborhood Magazine

Congrats To Freedom & Wharton High’s Class Of 2013.......41 CityLife Church Sends NT Missionaries To Nicaragua............42 Stacie Lenners Is Leukemia Society’s ‘Woman Of The Year’....43 Peabody’s Adds Great New Lunch Selections..........................46 More Of Our Editor’s ‘Out Of Area’ Restaurant Picks............48 ‘Neighborhood Nibbles & Biz Bytes’...............................50

NEW TAMPA COLOR CLASSIFIEDS....................52 More Wharton & Freedom Graduation Pics!..........................54

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Improvements Coming To Morris Bridge Water Pumping Station By Matt Wiley Water pressure could improve in the New Tampa area several months from now, as improvements are being planned for the North Tampa Potable Water System at the Morris Bridge Pumping Station (MBPS) off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. and Doña Michelle Dr, near I-75. Also located next to the New Tampa Nature Park, MBPS may soon be getting some improvements, keeping water pressure steady in the area as the population grows, since two resolutions were passed at the June 6 Tampa City Council meeting, approving the design and construction of one project and the design and permitting phases of a second project. Tampa Water Department director Brad Baird, P.E., says that the first project will replace five Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), or water pump motor drives at the MBPS. Baird adds that the project also will upgrade the station’s piping and meter controls and is expected to cost $4.8 million, which will come from a capital improvement fund, paid for by Tampa Water customers’ bills. “The system has to keep running throughout construction,” Baird says. “That’s what makes the project so expensive. People turn on the faucet and expect water to come out.”

The second project, Baird explains, aims to keep water flowing at a steady pace as New Tampa continues to grow. “We are still in the planning stages of this project,” he says. “We are gathering data to model five alternatives, so that we can pick the best, most cost-effective alternative to keep up with growth in the area, whether it’s more tanks, more pumps or a combination thereof. From an engineering standpoint, it’s an intensive and complex problem to solve.” According to documents submitted to the City Council, the current phase of improvements is estimated to cost $130,810, which is available in the City’s Water Operation Fund. Engineering firm Wharton-Smith, Inc., was awarded the contract for the project, which is expected to take 139 days to complete. The improvements could be sited anywhere in the city, including at MBPS or a combination of locations. Baird says that once the best option is decided, a design contract will be negotiated and a maximum price set, which he expects will cost several million dollars. Upon completion, the improvements to the facility will keep water pressure at a minimum of 55 PSI (pounds per square inch) in the New Tampa area (the same pressure it is right now) in anticipation of

a growing population Hole Opens Off BBD, South Of New Tampa in the area over the Sinkholes have next 20 years. TWD been in the news documents indicate that Reiss Engineering more and more in recent weeks, and, conducted a study (a master plan transmis- at first, it looked as if sion/distribution hy- one might have opened off Bruce B. draulic capacity (BBD) A hole that at first resembled a sinkhole opened analysis) in 2009, rec- Downs Blvd., just south of up on 138th Ave. The cause has since been deommending creating a termined to be a ruptured sewer pipe. New Tampa. higher-pressure zone According to determined that the opening for the North Tampa the Hillsborough County in the road was not a sinkarea. Reiss will be Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), hole, but the result of a corworking with Whararound 5:30 p.m. on June roded sewer pipe that had ton-Smith, Inc., Baird 12, a hole opened up on opened up, allowing for says. westbound 138 Ave., just bewater and soil to be sucked Usually, Tampa fore Bruce B. Downs (BBD) inside of it. Over time, a void Water customers reBlvd. A Nissan Versa was developed under 138 Ave. ceive their water from stopped over the area that Crews will replace the the David L. Tippin opened up, which has been pipe, but the roadway will Water Treatment Fameasured to be six feet across not be reopened until at least cility, located on N. 30 and about 30 feet deep! June 24. No additional inforSt. However, whenCity of Tampa Wastemation was available at our ever water supplies bewater crews investigated and press time. — MW come low, the MBPS requirements, determining which systems becomes the primary water source for in the facility can be demolished and recustomers across the region. moved and perform a hydraulic surge Wharton-Smith, Inc. is tasked with evaluation. The results of all of these studidentifying multiple options to improve ies will then be summed up in a memo the valves and pumps within the facility, and submitted to the City. evaluating the necessary storage volume

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Get Prepared, Stay Ahead Of The Storm With Our 2013 Hurricane Guide By Matt Wiley With the recent weather disaster in Oklahoma and Tropical Storm Andrea having already kicked off the season — on the day it opened (June 1), — the time to be prepared for the annual weather threat to our area, hurricane season, is now! Following the 2012 season of 19 named storms, including Superstorm Sandy — one of the most bizarre and destructive Atlantic basin storms since Katrina in 2004 — NOAA (the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration) predicts a 70-percent chance of 13-20 named storms during the 2013 season (which ends Nov. 30), with 7-11 potentially becoming hurricanes, of which 3-6 could be major storms of Category 3 (winds more than 111 mph) or greater. “That’s a lot of activity,” says Dr. Gerry Bell, NOAA’s lead hurricane season forecaster. “The Atlantic is much warmer than average and we are in a climate pattern that has been increasingly producing more activity each season since 1995.” The New Tampa & Wesley Chapel areas remained relatively unscathed last hurricane season, although the area did receive a substantial amount of rain from Tropical Storm Debby (more than 10 inches between June 23-27) as well as a few small tornadoes. However, it only takes one storm to have a devastating effect on an area, and the first step to weathering the storm is preparation. Knowing whether or not your home lies in a known flood plain or is subject to severe wind is a must. “People who have prepared fare so much better than those who have not,” Bell explains. “It’s easy to get ready now, which isn’t the case later when the stores are packed.”

Gimme’ Shelter, New Tampa!

According to Hillsborough County Emergency Management (HCEM), this season, there will be six hurricane shelters in the New Tampa area, and it is important to know which one is closest to your community, especially if your

home is not equipped with hurricane shutters and there isn’t enough time to board up windows when a storm kicks up quickly — which does happen fairly often. Hillsborough County shelters are separated into two categories: lower intensity storm shelters and higher intensity storm shelters. In the event of a lower intensity storm, Bartels Middle School (9020 Imperial Oak Blvd., in front of the Live Oak community off Bruce B. Downs {BBD} Blvd.) will be the only shelter open in the New Tampa area. However, in the event of a higher intensity storm, shelter can be sought at Lawton Chiles (16541 W. Tampa Palms Blvd.), Hilda T. Turner (9190 Imperial Oak Blvd., next to Bartels) and Pride (10310 Lion’s Den Dr.) elementary Hurricane Sandy spared Florida last season, but the superstorm wreaked havoc on the Northschools, as well as at Benito Middle eastearn U.S. Experts are expecting 3-6 major storms this hurricane season. Photo: NOAA School (10101 Cross Creek Blvd.) and Wharton High (20150 BBD). Always Other recommended items include at which is perfect for stockpiling ice (at least be sure to check to see if a shelter is least a two-week supply of prescription for a little while) during a storm. If you open before going there. medicines and glasses, pet supplies (if nec- have the means, a generator with a few essary), family documents (proof of insurgallons of gas, which also can come in Stock Up Early ance, IDs, passports, bank records), cash, handy for your vehicle, can power basic The Federal Emergency Managesleeping bags or blankets for each person electronics if the power remains out for an ment Agency (FEMA) recommends putand board games to keep kids busy. Reextended period of time. ting together a basic emergency supply member, if the power goes out, it’s back For more information about the kit. Most everything for the kit can be to the Stone Age when the batteries for 2013 hurricane season and preparafound at local grocery and home improve- those high-tech electronics run out. tions, please visit NHC.NOAA.Gov ment stores, such as the three local Publix And, don’t forget a large cooler, and FEMA’s Ready.Gov. Supermarkets (City Plaza at Tampa Palms on Tampa Palms Blvd., Cross Creek Blvd. at Morris Bridge Rd. and in the New Tampa Center shopping center on BBD at Cross Creek Blvd.) or the Home Depot and Lowe’s BBD locations north and south of I-75, respectively. FEMA recommends that the kit should include (but doesn’t have to be limited to) one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, a three-day supply of non-perishable food with a can opener, a battery-powered weather radio, flashlights with extra batteries, a First-Aid kit, dust masks, an emergency whistle, as well as moist towelettes, large and small garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation and basic personal hygiene supplies.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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N EW T AMPA Cooking Accident Causes Heritage Pines Blaze

Keeping combustibles too close to the cooking surface really can cause fires, as one New Tampa man has learned. According to a report from Tampa Fire Rescue (TFR), at about 1 a.m. on June 5, TFR units responded to a single apartment fire at 10703 Great Falls Ln. inside the Heritage Pines Apartments complex on Cross Creek Blvd. Upon the emergency units’ arrival, the entire building already was being evacuated. The alarm had sounded and fire sprinklers deployed, helping the 12 TFR units and 29 firefighters contain and control the fire within eight minutes, the report states. The victim, a 45-year-old man whose name has not yet been released, sustained a burn to his hand and smoke inhalation. The report states that the victim was transported to Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC), but no other injuries were reported. Following an investigation, the fire was deemed an accident, caused by combustibles being placed too close to heated cooking utensils. TFR reports that the damage is estimated at about $30,000. The TFR report also states that two other adult residents of the apartment complex have been displaced by the fire and that the Red Cross is assisting them with temporary housing. No other information was available at our press time.

TPD/PCSO Seek ‘Person Of Interest’ In Murder Case

The Tampa Police Department (TPD) and Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) are seeking the public’s help in identifying and locating a man believed to have information about a recent homicide in the New Tampa area. According to a news release from TPD, around 3:30 on May 31, following an altercation in the parking lot of the McDonald’s in the New Tampa Center shopping plaza, the victim, 20-year-old Reggie Reshawn Adams, was chased by the suspect or suspects about 2.5 miles south

News Briefs along Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., where he was shot in his black Dodge Magnum near I-75. Adams’ friends drove him to Pasco Regional Hospital in Dade City and dropped him off at 5:11 p.m., where he died a short time later, the release states. Adams, a Texas resident, was in town visiting family. McDonald’s surveillance cameras caught video of a man waiting in line, who authorities have deemed a “person of interest.” Authorities believe that the man caught on video inside the McDonald’s has information about the case. Anyone with any information about the case, especially the man in the photo’s identity or whereabouts, is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 873-TIPS. You also can text a tip to CSTB at 274637. Tips can produce up to a $1,000 reward if they prove to be useful.

Yield To Pedestrians...Or Else? Large parking lots are tricky places to drive, especially near grocery stores, where pedestrians constantly are crossing in front of vehicles. One Wesley Chapel pedestrian, unhappy that a car did not yield to her, has been arrested after taking matters into her own hands. According to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), 23-year-old Natasha Myers, of Wesley Chapel, was arrested on May 21, after “keying” a vehicle on April 17, in the Publix parking lot, located in the Shoppes at New Tampa shopping plaza on BBD. The report says Myers even left a note. The PCSO report says that Debra Streets, 63, returned to her car in Natasha Myers

the parking lot after shopping at Publix on April 17. When she was pulling out of her parking space, she noticed a yellow note on her windshield. Streets exited the vehicle and read the note. “Hey, I keyed your car,” the note said, according to the report. “You didn’t yield to pedestrians as is law. Since no cop to enforce a ticket, this should cover the cost of your fine. Have a nice day. P.S. Don’t be a d—k next time.” The report says that Streets’ car was scratched down to the metal along the passenger side of the vehicle, with scratches in the shape of a penis on the hood. In an interview, Streets told PCSO deputies that she did not recall having any altercations with anyone in the parking lot before entering the Publix. A deputy obtained video surveillance from a Publix customer service staff member, who also recalled a customer asking for a piece of paper to write a note at the time of the incident, the report says. PCSO was able to identify the suspect using the video. Streets was instructed to call the deputy after getting a quote on how much repairs to her vehicle would cost, which surpassed $1,000. PCSO then arrested Myers, who has been charged with one count of criminal mischief and was being held at our press time at the Land O’ Lakes jail on a $5,000 bond.

Weightman PTSA Treasurer Arrested For Embezzlement

A Wesley Chapel woman, who also is the treasurer of the Thomas E. Weightman Middle School PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association), has been arrested on charges of embezzlement. According to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), Jocelyn Ann Severson was arrested on May 21 at her home on McKendree Rd. in Wesley Chapel for embezzling nearly $5,200 from the school’s PTSA fund between September of 2011 and February of this year. By changing the mailing address for the group’s bank account, Severson was able to have the PTSA bank statements sent directly to her home, where she allegedly deleted evidence of her transactions and changed the balances accordingly, the report says. The report also states that when asked

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

for the bank statements for an annual audit by the PTSA president in January, Severson turned in all but three statements, but couldn’t come up with the missing statements on multiple occasions that followed, spanning the next several weeks into March. The PTSA president became suspicious and decided to go to the bank and retrieve the statements on her own. While at the bank, she discovered thousands of dollars less in the group’s account than what Severson had reported. Working with the Jocelyn Ann bank, it was discovered Severson that the statements provided to the PTSA had been altered and that the organization’s mailing address had been changed to Severson’s home address. Following interviews with PTSA and Weightman Middle School officials, it was determined that Severson had been using the group’s funds to pay her phone, cable and car insurance bills. Severson was contacted by a PCSO deputy and admitted over the phone that she stole the money and would turn herself in when she returned to Wesley Chapel on May 20, which, the report says, she did not do. The deputy saw her car and arrested her at her home. She said in an interview that she was using the funds due to “financial hardship.” Severson was charged with scheming to defraud and was released on a $5,000 bond. — Matt Wiley

Cory Lake Isles Opens Newly Renovated Beach Club To Residents By Matt Wiley Cory Lake Isles just got a whole lot “beachier” since renovations have been completed at the community’s central Beach Club. The interior of the community gathering spot had retained the same interior since its initial construction back in the 1980s, something that the Cory Lake Isles Community Development District (CDD) decided to change when it accepted a bid six months ago from Blue Waters Décor, an interior decorating company owned by Mylitta Butler. With eight weeks and a $90,000 budget, Butler, a Cory Lake Isles resident, was able to redesign the interior of the clubhouse from its dated look into a brightly painted, lavish meeting place with what she describes as a “Bahamas feel.” Butler explains that the nearly 4,000sq.-ft. facility was in disarray when she took on the project, with wallpaper peeling off in many areas. “I felt very invested in the project,” she explains. “My company was lucky enough to receive the contract. I wanted to design a place that not only the community, but also my family and friends could come to and enjoy.” To do so, with the help of subcontractor Tom’s Installation & Repair, Butler decision called for the gutting of the Beach Club’s two restrooms and kitchen, replacing the tile and mirrors in the restrooms with updated décor and installing porcelain tile flooring, granite countertops and wood cabinets in the kitchen. The kitchen bar has been adorned with bamboo, to continue the tropical theme. The aging carpet on the floor of the rest of the Beach Club was replaced with professional laminate wood flooring. The wallpaper was replaced and overhead beams were painted to look like dark wood, instead of the white that covered them for so many years. The large window that looks out over the community’s 165-acre lake has been covered with a 3M film to help provide

(Clockwise from above left): The newly renovated Cory Lake Isles Beach Club clubhouse now features twelve different seating areas and a “Bahamas feel.” The Beach Club celebrated its Grand Opening on June 1 and had an official ribbon cutting ceremony with District 7 Tampa City Council member Lisa Montelione (holding scissors) and the club’s designer Mylitta Butler (with ribbon). shade and cut back on energy bills. Butler says that she was told that meetings were previously difficult to hold at the Beach Club because of the amount of sunshine that would pour through the window during sunset and blind attendees. In addition, the previously open room now has 12 different seating areas and even a spot for kids to play. “We wanted to design a place that would be an ‘extension of home,’” Butler says. “Kids need to feel like they have their own space.” The kids corner is equipped with two “train tables,” as well as other toys and a TV with a DVD player. “(The Beach Club) is fabulous,” says Cory Lake CDD chairwoman and local Realtor for Florida Executive Realty Judi Beck. “It’s over the top. There’s absolutely no comparison (to what was here before).” Beck explains that the CDD had come up with a concept, but unanimously agreed to let Butler take charge of the project. “She transformed it into a won-

derful space for the community,” Beck says. “It’s very functional for gatherings and special events.” From a real estate point of view, Beck says, the Beach Club will have a positive impact on the community and home values, as many appraisers compare amenities at other communites to the revampedCory Lake Isles Beach House. “I’ve invited other real estate agents and appraisers back to see the new Beach Club,” she explains. “There’s always a jaw-dropping, ‘wow.’” The community received its first offi-

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

cial look inside during the Beach Club’s Grand Opening on June 1, during which Beck says more than 200 residents attended, followed by a ribbon-cutting on June 5 that District 7 City of Tampa Councilwoman Lisa Montelione attended. “When the idea was first proposed, there were several members of the community with questions,” Beck says. “Since it opened, I haven’t received one negative comment.” The Cory Lake Isles Beach Club is located at 10441 Cory Lake Dr.

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June 2013

MOMS Club Of New Tampa - The MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club of New Tampa is currently open to new members in the New Tampa area. The MOMS Club offers a variety of daytime activities for mothers and their children, opportunities for Moms’ Nights Out and many more benefits. For more information, or to join the club, email MOMsClubNewTampa _ southeast@yahoo.com.

Sunday, June 23

Zen Meditation Group - Enjoy meditation? Looking for a new way to relax? Check out the FREE Zen Meditation Group that meets Sundays at 10 a.m. in the Arbor Greene Community Center (18000 Arbor Greene Dr., off Cross Creek Blvd.) Aerobics Room. All faiths are welcome. You only need an interest in meditation and a more peaceful and relaxed mind and life. For more info, call Jeremy at 528-6285.

Monday, June 24

Free Math Tutoring - To give back to the community, RoccoTutors.com is offering FREE math tutoring sessions at the New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.) June 24-26, July 9-11 and 14-16 from 12:30-3:30 p.m. for elementary, middle and high school students. For more information, visit RoccoTutors.com.

Community Acupuncture - A Monday night community acupuncture and discussion group is forming at Ion Medi-Spa (8903 Regents Park Dr., Suite 130), 6:30 p.m. Topics include needle-free acupuncture, facial rejuvenation, stop smoking and customized weight-loss programs. For more info, call 960-8833 or visit IonMediSpa.com. ‘WeWork’ At LifePoint - “WeWork,” meets Mondays evenings at 7 p.m. at LifePoint Church (8702 Hunter’s Lake Dr., off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. {BBD}, in front of Hunter’s Green). The group is designed to help you search for jobs, improve interview skills, write a resume, negotiate a job offer, improve your attitude, develop networking skills or discover your gifts. For more info, call 907-9818, or visit LifePoint.tv/WeWork.

Tuesday, June 25

New Tampa Tri Club - A new local club, formed for the fitness-minded. Membership in the New Tampa Tri Club is open to runners, swimmers, cyclists and triathletes across the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. All members receive club benefits, including a training schedule, group support, seminars and socials. The club hosts group bike rides/runs at the 13330 Morris Bridge Rd. entrance to Flatwoods Wilderness Park every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 7:30 a.m., and a group run from Kona Multisport (previously, the “Ironman Store,” in the same plaza as Sweetbay & LA Fitness at BBD/County Line Rd.), at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays. For additional information, join the Facebook group or e-mail NewTampaTriClub@gmail.com.

Wednesday, June 26

BNI Millionaire Makers - The BNI Millionaire Makers chapter meets every Wednesday at Pebble Creek Golf Club at 7:15 a.m. (10550 Regents Park Dr., off BBD Blvd.). The $13 meeting fee includes a hot breakfast. Contact Lisa Jordan at 621-6015 for more details. Business Networking International (BNI) - BNI, a group of business professionals dedicated to helping their respective businesses grow through qualified referrals, meets every Wednesday morning at 7:30 a.m. at the Cory Lake Isles Beach Club clubhouse (18630 Plantation Bay Dr., off Morris Bridge Rd.; see story on page 10 for more info about the new clubhouse). For more information, call Ed Gleason at 299-4475. New Tampa Noon Rotary - The New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meets every Wednesday for lunch at noon at Hunter’s Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run Dr.). Guests are always welcome.

New Tampa Evening Rotary Club - The New Tampa Evening Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at 6:15 p.m. at Hunter’s Green Country Club. New members are always welcome. For info, call Liz DeAmbrose at 956-6487 or email homenet@gte.net. Tampa Toastmasters - Great speeches & great topics. Come hone your public speaking skills. Tampa Toastmasters meets every Wednesday 7 p.m. at Pebble Creek Golf Club (10550 Regents Park Dr.) New guests are always welcome. For more information, call 428-6356.

Thursday, June 27

Free Real Estate Webinars - Local real estate broker associate Lance Mohr will be hosting FREE 30-40 minute real estate webinars on Thursdays and Saturdays, at 7 p.m., covering topics such as home pricing, conditioning, marketing and understanding real estate stats. To register and tune in to the webinars, please visit TBSellerWebinar.com or call Lance at 317-4009. Food Addicts In Recovery - Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) is a support group without any dues, fees or weigh-ins and is based on the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. FA meets at Florida Hospital Tampa at (on BBD) in the Camelot A room at 7 p.m. For more info, visit FoodAddicts. org or call Roz at 355-4197. CBC Networking - Come together with like-minded professionals at the Christian Business Connections (CBC) Networking group, which meets every Thursday at 7:45 p.m. at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church (located at 5338 Primrose Lake Cir., near the New Tampa Community Park in Tampa Palms). Call Annete Faurote at 407-9225 for more information.

Friday, June 28

New Tampa Rotary Club - The New Tampa Rotary club meets for breakfast at 7 a.m. at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.). For more information, call Eric Longphee at 202-1105.

Saturday, June 29

New Tampa Dog Pack - Have a dog? Enjoy scenic nature walks? Join the New Tampa Dog Pack on Saturday mornings at 8:30 a.m at Flatwoods Wilderness Park (at the 18205 BBD entrance) and on Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. at Compton Park (16101 Compton Dr., Tampa Palms). For more info, please visit MeetUp.com/New-Tampa-Dog-Pack.

July 2013

Thursday, July 11

Northeast Tampa Women In Business Meeting - The Northeast Tampa Women in Business group meets the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Hunter’s Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run Dr.). For more information, visit NETWIB.org or call 843-2354.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

New Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

2012-13 Board of Directors President-Regina Ramalheira

Board Members:

15310 Amberly Dr., Suite 250 Tampa, FL 33647 Information: (813) 293-2464 Fax: (813) 388-4408

Website: NewTampaChamber.Org

VP-Neil Heird Treas-Karen Hilton Secy-John Lore

ʻ‘W orking To Im prove The Q uality O fLife In N ew Tam pa!ʼ’

Non-Officers: Dr. Rachel Haviland Mark Lange Dr. Earl Meyer

Executive Assistant: Jayne Baker

Building Up To Our 2nd Signature Event - Our Annual Business Expo! The Board of Directors of the New Tampa Chamber of Commerce would like to take this time to really thank Hunter’s Green Country Club (HGCC, 18101 Longwater Run Dr.) for hosting our monthly Chamber luncheons (for more info about our next luncheon, see below). The food is always yummy and the service is excellent! Our next Chamber Networking event will be at Stonewood Grill & Tavern (17050 Palm Pointe Dr., Tampa Palms) on Thursday, June 27, 6:30 p.m.8:30 p.m.. Stonewood always provides some excellent appetizers. So, bring lots of business cards and sincerely get to know some friendly New Tampa Chamber members. The networking event is an excellent, free social function to get to know your fellow members. Our networking social will rotate every other month between Stonewood and Toast Wine & Café (14921 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in the Oak Ramble Plaza; see photos on this page from our May networking social at Toast). In other words, we’ll see you at Stonewood the last Thursday in June, August, October and December (for our “Season’s Greeting Night”). The networking events at Toast will be held in July and November (we will not have a networking event in September; see below for more info about our upcoming Business Expo). These events are always the last Thursday of each month, so remember to mark your calendars today! In July, Toast will feature drink & appetizers specials and will offer a 10-percent discount an all retail sales and donate 10 percent of each check to our Chamber. Our monthly lunches are held the second Tuesday of each month at Hunter’s Green Country Club. At our luncheon on Tuesday, July 9, 11:30 a.m. (lunch served at noon, at HGCC, the guest speaker will be William Muhammad of “Legal Shield,” who is a current member of our Chamber. William will

offer amazing information about how to protect yourself and your loved ones against “Identity Theft.” On Tuesday, August 13, also at HGCC, our guest speaker will be attorney David Lanigan, who also is a current member of our Chamber. David will be speaking to us about “Small BusinessLaws & Proposed Changes” Our speaker on Tuesday, September 10, will be former Tampa Bay Lightning star Brian Bradley who is now a motivational team speaker. October we are going to visit Florida Hospital for lunch and hospital tour. Great stuff for all of our members.

Recapping Our Networking Mixer At Toast Fine Wine & Café On May 30! At the first-ever New Tampa Chamber networking mixer held at Toast Fine Wine & Café in the Oak Ramble Plaza on BBD, more than two dozen Chamber members enjoyed great deals on outstanding wines & appetizers provided by Toast co-owner and wine expert Hector Gonzalez on May 30. Barbara Schlappig of Salon Athena North in the same plaza, won the evening’s raffle prize of an awesome (L. to r.) Earl Meyer, Connie Bladon, Lesley gift basket. Toast will host another Chamber mixer on Thursday, July 25! Zajac & Regina Ramalheira

Annual Business Expo & New Board Member Installation!

This Year we are back to the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites on Galbraith Rd. (near Muvico) for a night of great fun. Our annual Business Expo & Installation of New Board members is scheduled for Thursday, September 26, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. This is a great opportunity to sell merchandise, offer discounts to other members (as well as to the public) and pass out marketing materials to promote your business. Restaurants are welcome to participate, too. A business booth at the Expo costs just $50 for members and we can accommodate only 75 total booths, so please book your table early! Because space is so limited, non-New Tampa Chamber members must pay $125 for a new Chamber membership, plus the $50 booth fee to secure their spaces at this popular event. As always the New Tampa Chamber of Commerce appreciates your support, and wants to support you with new business ribbon cuttings and sponsored events. Just call us to schedule. Lastly, we want to encourage you to provide a drawing for all events as it gives you talk time at the event and follow-up of opportunities after the collection of business cards.

(Above) Board member John Lore & executive assistant Jayne Baker get ready to award the gift basket to Barbara Schlappig (right).

Congratulations To Our Newest Members!

The Chamber is proud to welcome its newest members: • The Continental Group, Anand Shah (Platinum member)

A nice crowd of Chamber members and guests enjoyed delicious food and wine at the networking event at Toast.

Ads appearing on the New Tampa Chamber of Commerce page in New Tampa Neighborhood News are available to Chamber member businesses only. Call 293-2464 to get yours!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Miriam Innocenti Is Here To Help! By Bonnie Mason Life is full of difficult transitions, many of which can be too difficult for many of us to deal with alone. Sometimes, you just need someone to talk to about things to ease the stress. Luckily, there are people like Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Miriam Innocenti, MSW (Master of Social Work), who can help New Tampa residents manage the stresses of life’s trials, tribulations and transitions. Innocenti offers counseling for adults, older adults and caregivers in her private practice located in the New Tampa Professional Park in the Pebble Creek area of New Tampa, off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. (behind Pilot Bank). Innocenti says she teaches her clients coping skills for the various transitions that often come with adulthood. Whether you’re living with a chronic illness, struggling with a divorce, trying to juggle a new career and family, experiencing a cancer diagnosis and treatment, grieving the loss of a loved one or facing the challenges of being a caregiver for a loved one who is ill, she says it’s important to learn how to manage these stresses to move forward in your life. Even new “empty nesters” can find comfort in Innocenti's compassion and experience as a therapist. “When I was in school pursuing my

B.A. degree in psychology (from Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, NY), I knew then that I wanted to enter a helping profession,” says Innocenti, who believes it is her life and work experience, plus solid educational credentials (she earned her MSW degree in 1996 from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond) that make her an effective counselor. After several years of working in a nursing home and assisted living facility, Innocenti and her family moved to Tampa, where she now lives with her husband. She also has two adult sons and a grandchild. Prior to opening her private therapy practice in January on Regents Park Dr., Innocenti worked in a variety of capacities at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa as a Clinical Social Worker in Moffitt’s Senior Adult Clinic for nearly a decade before her retirement in 2012. Her role of field instructor at Moffitt also gave her the opportunity to provide clinical instruction and education. Innocenti also managed the Annual Caregiver conferences hosted by Moffitt (2005-11). “The annual event was an opportunity to recognize and support the individuals who care for patients who have cancer,” she explains. “Cancer changes your life and the lives of family and friends.” Innocenti also managed numerous

cancer support programs for patients and families. She also has been a speaker at several annual conferences for the Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW) and to general audiences on the topics of depression, anxiety, family issues, caregiving and aging also are in her repertoire. She says her approach to therapy is highly personalized and tailored to each of her client’s individual needs. She describes her style as an individual and therapist who has compassion and good listening skills. She takes pride in the fact that her clients can feel safe in her Pebble Creek office setting. “They can be secure in knowing that they will not be judged or criticized during counseling sessions in which they reveal their innermost, personal feelings,” Innocenti says. Her mission is to provide an atmosphere that allows clients to be themselves, speak freely and be comfortable. “You have to have skill to be a good therapist,” Innocenti explains. “Often, when people are asked why therapy works for them, a common answer is that they like their therapist and they have a good relationship with that therapist. Trust and confidence in the client/ therapist relationship is one of the most important factors to achieving success in reaching your therapy goals.”

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Miriam Innocenti can help you learn how to better manager the challenges in your life.

End-Of-Life Counseling

Prior to her tenure at Moffit, Innocenti also gained experience in the area of helping older adults deal with illnesses and impending death while working as a LCSW for two years at Lifepath Hospice. She says this work has provided her with a foundation of clinical skill and experience in working with adults who are at the end-of-life stage and with the families of hospice patients who are facing the myriad of emotions and challenges that come with the potential loss of a loved one. Innocenti says she believes that therapists can and do provide fresh perspectives

on difficult problems and point their clients in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend upon how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. In addition to clients learning how to better understand themselves and their own behaviors, plus learning new ways to communicate, Innocenti says that, although it may be a cliché, laughter is still one of the best medicines. And, laughter also may be part of your sessions with Innocenti who appreciates appropriate humor at appropriate times in the therapist/client relationship. Innocenti tells her potential and current patients, “While we can’t change dif-

ficult situations of the past or the present, we can work together to better understand and deal with problems for a well balanced future. This is the only life you have, so now is the time to get the support you need. Don’t wait.” To get the help you need to better cope with the daily and major challenges in your life, call to schedule your appointment at 494-8643 or schedule online at NewTampaTherapy.com. Flexible scheduling is available. Miriam Innocenti, LCSW — Counseling for Adults, Older Adults & Caregivers — is located at 8905 Regents Park Dr., Suite 230, in the New Tampa Professional Park.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Ifasi Financial Owner Asks, ‘Who Says There Are No Guarantees In Life?’ By Gary Nager I’ll admit it. Even though I worked as a research editor for a major Wall Street investment firm 30 years ago, I still know precious little about investments. And, even though I’m a whole lot closer to retirement age than Derek Ifasi of Ifasi Financial Group (an independent financial firm located in the Tampa Palms Professional Center off Commerce Park Blvd., just south of the Bruce B. Downs Blvd. exit of I-75), the difference between what Derek knows about how to successfully plan for retirement and what I know on the same subject is like the difference between night and day. Although he looks even a little younger than his 27 years (“I know I have a baby face,” he admits), I promise that if you spend even five minutes with this very personable and obviously very knowledgeable Certified Long Term Care (CLTC) specialist, you’ll end up at least wanting to know more about everything from the many different types of annuities you can set up to Social Security benefits, IRAs, Roth IRAs, life insurance and so much more. But, I’m telling you, if you do end up meeting Derek, you’ll probably end up wanting to hire him to handle your retirement planning.

“Our goal is to provide individuals with the knowledge and understanding about how to protect their current and future retirement income. We have the skills and experience required to help meet our clients’ established goals. Our company goal is to become a resource for each and every client. We abide by a strict code of ethics to ensure our social responsibility. We believe that every financial product is equivalent to an individual tool in a tool belt.” Ifasi Financial Group specializes in deferred compensation planning and retirement income planning. “We understand that each client’s interests and needs vary, and offer products to help them maximize their goals,” Derek says. Ifasi uses a variety of phone, face-to-face and internet-based tools to ensure that each client is comfortable speaking with a representative. “Being a younger man in this business hasn’t really been a problem for me,” Derek says. “I’ve been involved with financial planning for seven years and all of my professional training has been in this business. In this profession, some people who have worked in other businesses first decide to get into retirement planning in their 40s or 50s, as they near retirement age themselves.” Ifasi is a native of Bethpage, Long Is-

land, NY, who graduated from USF with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. He started his career at age 20, when he worked with his brother Anthony and the financial advisors at an Allstate Insurance office in Brandon while still in school. Then, after he graduated from USF, he worked with Northwestern Mutual and then MetLife for a couple of years. “But, I saw I could offer more value as an independent than I could working for someone else,” he says. “I specialize in all types of retirement income planning. Most of clients start looking into retirement options about 10-15 years before they retire.” Derek adds that his average client is about age 55, “although my oldest is 98 and my youngest is in his mid 20s.” Among the products and services Derek handles/offers are different forms of life insurance, investing rollovers of existing IRAs (individual retirement accounts), Roth IRAs, Keogh plans and annuities (investment plans which offer fixed sums of money paid to someone each year, typically for the rest of their lives) and many more. “In other words, I can help you create your own pension plan, even if you never had one at work, or I can rollover your existing pension or retirement plan

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Derek Ifasi of Ifasi Financial Group in Tampa Palms into an annuity that will guarantee you a fixed income for the rest of your life that you literally can not outlive.”

Different Types Of Annuities

Most people know how life insurance and even IRAs work, but there are several basic types of annuities you (and I) may not fully understand, only one of which Derek says he and his staff of retirement planning pros do not recommend for their clients. Deferred - An annuity which begins with an accumulation or savings phase, but enters the income phase on its annuity starting date, when it is converted into a stream of income for the beneficiary.

Immediate - An annuity with only an income phase, which generally starts with a single premium that is converted immediately or shortly after it is purchased into an income stream for the beneficiary. Fixed Interest - A fixed interest annuity pays a fixed rate of interest on the premiums invested in the annuity contract. Variable - During the accumulation phase of variable annuities — which are the only types of annuities that Ifasi says he does not offer to his clients — the premiums paid on the contract, less any applicable charges, are placed in a separate account of the insurance company, where the annuity owner can invest them in one or more stock and bond “subaccounts. During the income phase, the amount of each income payment may be fixed and “guaranteed” (all guarantees referred to in this article are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company) or variable, changing with the value of the investments in the separate account. “I tell my clients that most people planning for retirement don’t want that much risk associated with their annuities,” Derek says. Indexed - Indexed annuities combine characteristics of both fixed interest and variable annuities. Like a variable annuity, the insurance company pays a rate of return based on a stock market index (such as the Standard & Poors 500), but only

the interest earned on the annuity is based on the fluctuations of the market, not your principle. “Hybrid” annuities - “Hybrid” annuities are the same as indexed annuities, but with an income rider, also offering the benefit of no risk to the principle. “Hybrid annuities go up when the market goes up, and flatline if the market goes down. In other words, a hybrid annuity has a floor, but no ceiling.” Derek adds that when the market is solid, a hybrid annuity can earn 20 percent or more a year, and that he gets business referred to him by other retirement providers because, “I have access to the highest income riders in the business for hybrid annuities, with a guaranteed floor of 7-8 percent per year.” He adds that you can even have an annuity as your IRA or roll over your existing IRA into an annuity with a guaranteed income rider. “I can find you the best way to roll over your IRA, no matter what type of IRA it is now.”

lando. The show airs Tuesdays, 7 p.m.-8 p.m., & Sundays, 7 a.m.-7:30 a.m. His website (RetireSharp.com) is divided into four sections — one that focuses strictly on annuities, one for those who are at retirement age or already retired, one for those who are pre-retirees and one for those who have changed jobs. “I’m open to hosting seminars for a company or even an entire family looking for different retirement investment plans,” he says. “The most important products we offer are myself and my staff.” Ifasi Financial, which is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and the National Ethics Assn., can and does sell education funding plans and life insurance

plans from different companies, too. “We have access to many great life insurance companies and can get the best policies to suit your needs,” he says. In addition to being a CLTC, Derek has his Series 6 and Series 63 licenses and also is certified to sell life and health insurance and annuities. He and his fiancée, Jenna, a teacher with Hillsborough County Public Schools, live in Tampa Palms. Ifasi Financial Group is located at 17427 Bridge Hill Ct., Suite J, in the Tampa Palms Professional Center. For info, including your free initial consultation, call 600-5285 or visit RetireSharp. com and tell Derek we sent you.

Education Is The Key

If all of this sounds as confusing to you as it is to me, don’t sweat it. Derek’s website has more than 70 free, educational videos on a variety of retirement subjects that walk you through the complex world of IRA rollovers, annuities and more, as well as a radio show on NewsRadio WFLA-AM (540) & FM (104.5) Or-

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Sunset Funeral Home & Memory Gardens — A Peaceful Place To Be Laid To Rest By Matt Wiley Planning for life after death can be an emotionally overwhelming task, especially without proper planning. However, whether planning ahead for yourself in order to spare loved ones the trouble, or if a loved one has suddenly passed, the friendly and comforting staff at Sunset Funeral Home & Memory Gardens is here to help. Located just a few miles southeast of New Tampa, in nearby Thonotosassa, Sunset Funeral Home & Memory Gardens has everything you and your family need to plan for a proper funeral ceremony, burial or cremation, as well as a staff of 20 with the guidance and expertise to help send your loved ones off with a celebration of their lives, rather than a somber service. Part of the Dignity Memorial national network of funeral, cremation and cemetery providers, Sunset is a full-service funeral home and burial site, located on 60 acres off of U.S. 301. The lobby, painted a brightly lit aqua blue, feels a lot less like a funeral home and much more like a hotel. The funeral service space looks, and feels, like a comfortable social gathering space, where meals would be served, rather than a place where funerals are held.

“The main thing is, when someone passes away, the family members have so many emotions,” says Sunset funeral home supervisor Sandra Ramirez O’Connor. “The most important thing is to choose a funeral home or cremation center, finalize the death certificate information and all of the details. Many times, families are in shock and don’t know what to do.” O’Connor explains that it is never too early to begin funeral pre-planning. In fact, she says, the younger, the better.

Never Too Early To Plan

“Some people say that they have a life insurance policy,” O’Connor explains. “But, that doesn’t really mean anything for funeral planning. It just means that you have some money set aside. What about the details? All of the details that you don’t take care of, your loved ones will have to deal with. Sometimes they don’t know what you would want, and they feel bad.” To help with the funeral and burial process, Sunset offers funeral preplanning, or prearranging services, which allow you and your family to make the decisions about how you want your funeral, burial or cremation to be performed, together. The little details such as what casket, urn or flowers you would

(L. to r.) Sunset Funeral Home & Memorial Garden’s friendly office staff members Sandra R. O’Connor, Brian Zipter, April Stone, Giovanno Caballero and Luis Romero. want present at the service are covered sary expenses and making important deextensively with the funeral director at a cisions for you, without the pressure of time when it certainly is easier to concen- illness or circumstance.” trate. The difficult decisions are eased Sunset also provides “pre-need life with planning ahead. insurance,” or an insurance policy that “One of the biggest misconceptions covers the cost of the predetermined exis that preplanning is only for the eldpenses of a funeral, cremation or burial, erly,” says Sunset sales manager Giovanni which can include standard funeral home Caballero, a Cross Creek resident. “Fuservices, funeral merchandise and church neral preplanning or prearranging is for services. The idea is to set aside funds for anyone that is interested in sharing their your funeral before the need arises, assurdesires, relieving their family of having to ing that you and your family will pay curmake difficult choices and bear unnecesrent costs.

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Dr. Neeraja Jasthi, DMD

Sunset Funeral Home & Memory Gardens is located on 60 acres off U.S. Hwy. 301 in Thonotosassa, only 20-30 minutes from most of New Tampa. like,” explains Caballero. “Or, you can Many funeral homes offer “final expense” insurance policies, but these poli- choose a plan that provides insurance cies set aside money for the future use of coverage, while you make payments over paying for a funeral at the time of a loved several years. You can even have payments taken from your bank account auone’s death, without actually purchasing anything. With these policies, there is no tomatically.” Payments and policies are not the guarantee that the policy will cover all of only way that Sunset offers superior custhe expenses that arise when the funeral tomer service to you and your family. As is needed. part of the Dignity family, Sunset also is Prepayment Programs able to offer numerous other services to With preplanning, Sunset even ofhelp ease extra stress during a time of fers numerous payment options. great loss. Dignity and Sunset also offer “You can make a single premium a “Family Protection Plan,” which forpayment and owe nothing, if you’d gives any balance if you should pass be-

“Compassion Helpline,” which offers counseling over the phone; an “Aftercare Planner,” a comprehensive estate management guide; access to legal servFunerals at Sunset Funeral Home & Memory Gardens are held in ices and the child and a room that looks like it could be in an elegant restaurant. grandchild fore your plan is paid off. protection plan. Dignity and Sunset also offer a child Regardless of what type of service a and grandchild protection plan. If someloved one wants, Sunset is there to help. thing were to happen to a client’s child “No one person is alike, so no servor grandchild, at no cost to the client, ice should be alike,” says O’Connor. Sunset will cover the cost of the funeral “We only have one shot to do this servup to the amount of the service that the ice, so we tell the family, ‘let’s put our client had already purchased. Sunset also thinking caps on. We are going to take offers a transportation and relocation our time with the family or friends and service to help bring the late loved one come up with a plan to properly celehome with a single phone call. Also, any brate the loved one’s life. The end result planning done at Sunset, or any other is truly a celebration.” Dignity location is completely transferFor more information about Sunable and will be honored at any of the set Funeral Home & Memory Gar1,800 Dignity locations across the U.S. dens, please visit Sunset-FH.com or Whether a cremation or traditional call 986-2402. Sunset is located at burial is preferred, Sunset offers four 11005 N. U.S. Hwy. 301, in nearby plans for each, which also include a Thonotosassa.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Dr. Duga, Dr. Feeney & Associates Keep Kids Smiling Through The College Years By Bonnie Mason Nowadays, many children in the New Tampa area actually look forward to going to the dentist — something most of their parents can hardly imagine. From the underwater treasure décor in the reception area and the video game stations located in the waiting room to the flat-screen televisions above playing favorite shows as patients lay in the dental chair, Paul Duga, DDS, (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and Shawna Adams-Feeney, DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine), of Dr. Duga, Dr. Feeney & Associates Pediatric Dentistry in Tampa Palms are helping children adopt healthy dental habits, while having fun in a kid-friendly environment. Dr. Duga explains that the entire office’s mission is to provide a good experience at a young age so that children feel comfortable and identify a trip to the dentist’s office as one of excitement and fun — not fear or dread. Dr. Duga always has had an affinity for kids, even though he first practiced adult dentistry before he found his calling in early orthodontia and pediatric dentistry. “I found my passion,” Dr. Duga explains. “I enjoy going to work where there is fun and silliness; where you can be relaxed. When I came here from Louisiana, I saw a real need for children’s dental care.” Conveniently located in Tampa Palms in the Somerset Professional Park on the corner of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. and Amberly Dr. (only 10-15 minutes south of the Pasco County line), Dr. Duga, , who earned his un-

dergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin at Madison and his DDS degree from the Marquette University School of Dentistry in Milwaukee, WI, opened his practice at the Amberly Dr. location in 2003 and Dr. Feeney joined the practice as a full partner in 2005. “We work so well together,” says Dr. Duga, who earned his Pediatric Dentistry Specialty Certificate from Louisiana State University School of Dentistry/Children's Hospital of New Orleans and was a faculty member at the LSU School of Dentistry and is president of the Tampa Bay Pediatric Dental Association. Dr. Feeney earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, Gainesville, and her DMD degree from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, MA. Her general practice residency was at Long Island Jewish Medical Center in Long Island, NY, and her Pediatric Dentistry Specialty Certificate from the University of Connecticut in Farmington.

A Shared Mission

Both dentists wholeheartedly believe in the mission of their pediatric dental practice, which is to provide a special environment for infants, children, teens and even children with special needs to assure they receive the highest standard of care. Pediatric dentistry services available include routine cleanings, sealant protection, extractions, teeth whitening/bleaching and fillings, all while using the latest dental equipment for all ages from infants to college-age young adults. Drs.

Duga and Feeney also assess a young patient’s need for braces and may perform orthodontic work at the office, or for specialty cases, refer patients to a local orthodontic dental specialist. The patients and their families have the opportunity to actively participate in acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to practice effective dental care, resulting in lifelong dental health. “I always loved to go the dentist growing up,” says Dr. Feeney. “And I love having the chance to work with kids before Dr. Paul Duga of Dr. Duga, Dr. Feeney & Associates Pediatrc they have any preconceived ideas Dentistry in Tampa Palms works closely with Meadow Pointe about visiting the dentist. We resident Leslie Mellin, explaining to her what is happening have the opportunity here to prowith her son Benjamin’s teeth as he grows. vide positive experiences that will create a foundation children can build on for given for home care and correct use of tooththe rest of their lives. We recommend that brushes and fluoride toothpaste. Dr. Feeney your child see a pediatric dentist by 12-18 says that parents who help their children folmonths of age. According to the American low this routine can detect and take care of Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, we should problems before they lead to serious and start cleaning a baby's mouth even before the costly types of treatment. Parents are a valued partner in the care teeth start coming in.” Also, Dr. Feeney advises to start early of the patients at Dr. Duga, Dr. Feeney & Asand be consistent. “Young children really sociates. Traditionally, dental offices don’t need parental assistance with caring for their allow the parents of patients beyond the pateeth,” Dr. Feeny explains. “They do not have tient room door. However, Dr. Duga and Dr. the manual dexterity to do an appropriate job Feeney encourage parental involvement, even while the child is in the chair. In other words, on their own.” The child’s first appointment is for eval- the office has an “open patient door” policy. The staff takes the time to explain each uation and education. At this visit, a complete exam is performed and recommendations are diagnosis and treatment option and always

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works at the pace of each child — and his or her parents. Dr. Duga explains that he and his staff present available treatment options to the patient and parent so they can make an educated decision on the care of their child. “I think parents help so much when they are involved and in the patient room,” he says. “It helps to instill confidence in the kids; it’s a real benefit to our patients.” “(Dr. Duga) is wonderful,” says Leslie Mellin, a Meadow Pointe resident who has been bringing her two sons, Josh, 12, and Benjamin, 9, to Dr. Duga for more than 10 years. “I recommend him to everybody.” Pediatric dentistry does not stop with young children. Dentistry for teens is a part of the advanced education pediatric dentists receive. Drs. Duga and Feeney are trained to deal with adolescent behavior, to restore and guide teeth, and teach preventive dental health care with your teen in mind. When they follow your child from early youth into the teen years, Dr. Duga and Dr. Feeney also change the approach to your child’s own special needs in a sensitive, caring and professional manner. The office environment is even designed with teens in mind. Younger patients enjoy the larger-than-life décor, while the older kids like the popular video games, and the opportunity to choose age-appropriate movies, listen to music with headphones or sit and read in a quiet, comfortable area. The idea behind routine visits in a comfortable environment is to increase the chance that the patients will continue their dental care as adults. “They won't be afraid of the dentist the

way many adults are now due to unpleasant experiences in their past," Dr. Duga says. Dr. Duga is no stranger to teenagers. He and his wife Sue live in Tampa Palms and have three teenagers, two sons, 17 and 12, respectively, and a 16-year-old daughter. Dr. Feeney and her husband Jack live in South Tampa and have two young children, a boy and a girl. “Most pediatric dentists cut their patient population after the patients graduate from high school,” Dr. Duga says. “We see Dr. Shawna Adamsmany of our kids Feeney, DMD through their college years. Often, college kids don't take the time to get their teeth cleaned, especially if they are away at school.” The staff reminds their college student patients to schedule appointments when they plan their visits home from school. Not having to change dentists is one less concern for college kids and their parents during what is often a stressful time. This helps foster a lifelong healthy attitude toward dental health. Emergency dental care is another way that Dr. Duga and Dr. Feeney carry on their mission of providing their patients with a lifetime of beautiful smiles. “We’re always available for our patients,” says Dr. Duga, who recently was called to the emergency room by a young male patient who fell and injured his mouth and teeth. The boy was happy to see the

friendly face of his dentist and happy to go to Dr. Duga’s office after he was discharged from the hospital's emergency room. Not many children can brag to their friends that they had a dentist appointment at midnight! Dr. Duga and Dr. Feeney share emergency calls outside of regular office hours. Dr. Duga, Dr. Feeney & Associates Pediatric Dentistry is located at 15293 Amberly Dr., three miles south of the BBD exit off I-75. The office is open Monday-Wednesday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., 8 a.m. -5 p.m. on Thursdays, and 8 a.m.-3 p.m. on Fridays, but vary depending upon school holiday schedules. For appointments and more information, visit PediatricDentistTampa.com or call 631-1100.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Cypress Point Communty Church Builds A Following On Morris Bridge Rd. By Camille Gillies Cypress Point Church focuses on faith, family and community As the area north of Tampa continues to expand, so do our houses of worship. Churches here have blossomed over the years and a prime example is Cypress Point Community Church in New Tampa. Situated on 30 verdant acres just north of the corner of Cross Creek Blvd. on Morris Bridge Rd., this now-thriving nondenominational house of Christian worship started in 1998 with a handful of individuals who gathered for Bible study in the former Hunter’s Green Model & Visitor Center. Anxious to move from that choppy office space, which once served as the Hunter’s Green community’s new home sales hub, the group had a novel idea for a more practical meeting place: the Muvico Starlight 20 movie theater on nearby Highwoods Preserve Pkwy. “When we called (Muvico) to ask if we could rent space from them on Sunday mornings, they thought we were joking,” recalls Dean Reule, founder and lead pastor of the church. But, after some persuasive calls to the megaplex’s corporate office, the group began meeting at the movie complex just off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. “I think there were 11 people at our first service, and that included us and our

kids,” Dean says, laughing, glancing at his wife and fellow pastor, Hettie, who smiles in agreement. Those humble beginnings have today grown into a 750-member congregation that now assembles in an impressive auditorium located on tree-shaded land where cattle once grazed. “We bought this property in 2004, and after spending a couple of years in the rezoning process and another in site development, we finally opened our doors in October of 2007,” Dean remembers. “It took a while because we bought during the real estate boom.” Dean says the church purchased the former cattle ranch with future expansion in mind, stating, “Many churches tend to outgrow their space and we didn’t want to make that mistake.” The church currently features a 30,000-sq.-ft. auditorium/multipurpose building, a former house now used for church offices and administration, a playground, and acres of land for recreation and future building projects, which include a building dedicated to youth activities and another to house a growing food assistance center. “We started our food assistance program in 2008 and every month we provide two weeks’ worth of food to 48 families in New Tampa, Wesley Chapel and Zephyrhills,” Dean explains, adding

that he envisions expanding the program to include counseling and other services, such as haircuts. Additional church programs include Celebrate Recovery, which helps anyone in need overcome a broad spectrum of problems ranging from addiction to loss, and Military Support Ministry, which provides events, support and encouragement to the husbands and wives of our Military, as well as care packages, prayer and support The Reule family (l. to r., Annegrace, Mary, to our deployed men and women. Emmy and pastors Hettie and Dean) invites your We provide assistance from finanfamily to join the fun and worship at Cypress cial support, to help around the Point Community Church on Morris Bridge Rd., home, to baby supplies, to childjust north of Cross Creek Blvd. care to counseling services. structured: infant through 4th grade; 5th A Focus On Youth and 6th grades; and 7th grade through Considering the church’s lengthy list high school. From stimulating classrooms of children’s programs, it’s not surprising for the little ones to a comfortable gatherthat the co-pastors’ wish list includes a ing place for the preteens to a high-tech youth building. Hettie, who also serves as band and activity room for the older kids, Cypress Point’s children’s pastor, runs the each age group has its own space that’s multidimensional youth program. With a designed specifically to suit their interests. Bachelor’s degree in Christian Educa“Our children’s ministry is age and tional Ministries from Taylor University in stage appropriate,” Hettie says. “And all Upland, IN, and a Master’s degree in Edof our volunteers are trained and backucation from the University of North Car- ground-checked.” olina in Chapel Hill, Hettie has created a An assortment of faith-based kids’ program that appeals to every age group, clubs is available, ranging from Awana (a which is precisely how the program is kids’ Bible club) to Performing Arts

all about instilling biblical principles of living a Godly life. Kids and adults see the kicks and strikes, but also benefit from the high level of discipline. Cypress Point University (CPU) offers short-term (nonaccredited) classes and seminars. The goal of CPU is to provide classes that positively affect your daily life and walk with God. Counselors and campers alike love the Bible-based Classes on basic theology, biblifun and fraternity of a CPCC Camp Adventure. cal content and Christian life Club for Kids (PACK), a summer proskills are held each summer. gram created by public school teachers Not yet a CPCC member but interwho attend the church. PACK encourages ested in meeting the people and seeing the kids to explore their God-given talents church? Join CPCC for its annual Comthrough acting, voice, dance, movement, munity Art Show — Gallery Event on staging and costuming, which culminates Saturday, June 22, 6 p.m.-8p.m., & in a stage production. Exhibitions beginning at 9 & 10:45 Cypress Point Church also offers a.m., and at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, summer camps, and it’s not too late to June 23 & 30. sign up for July’s Camp Adventure for The CPCC family is proud to honor ages 6-12, which will be held the week of the artist within all of us. The purpose of July 15-19, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. each the art show is to appreciate artists and day, and features competitive games, wor- nourish, inspire and touch the spirit of our ship time, Bible lessons, archery, crafts and community. even a “mud pit day.” The cost is $145 per child for church members and $165 Church Services for nonmembers. Before- and after-camp For Sunday services, held weekly at care is available for an additional charge. 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., kids may be checked in securely to the children’s servActivities For Everyone, Too ice or attend the adult service with their One program at CPCC that isn’t just parents. Children’s services feature Bible for kids is the Cypress Point Community stories, worship songs, crafts and interacChurch Martial Arts Ministry, which is tive games. Cypress Point’s youth services

include a youth-led worship band, Biblical teaching and dramas that appeal to a younger crowd. Adult services include worship and music, followed by adult Bible study. “Our worship arts pastor Jill Barber puts together a diverse, creative musical program,” Dean says, adding that a Sunday service may feature gospel, pop and country songs. “Our church tends to attract artistic people. We like to feature those talents with activities like art shows and gallery nights where the art ties in with a Christ-centered theme.” Pastor Dean says the church reflects a snapshot of the community, diverse in its makeup. He believes people are drawn to its authenticity and warmth, a view shared by longtime church member Chip Elmblad. Chip and his wife Kathy are Meadow Pointe residents who have attended Cypress Point since 1999 and initially were drawn to the church because it felt “real, warm and contemporary,” Chip says. “We were looking for a place with personality and spirit – a place (we could) grow with. We liked Dean and Hettie’s vision of spiritual formation and their focus on families.” Today, Chip serves on the “eldership team” – part of the church’s senior leadership team – and also is involved with the middle and high school youth band. In fact, he gives free guitar lessons to the kids. Kathy also works with the congregation’s youth and leads Bible study groups.

Chip attributes the church’s success to God, the faithfulness of the staff, a contemporary orientation and core teachings that adhere to a traditional creed.

About Pastor Dean

Pastor Dean Reule received an undergraduate degree in religious studies from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, TX, a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, NJ, and a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Religious Studies from Florida State University in Tallahassee. He says he became a Christian at age 19 and followed a spiritual path because he felt, “a mystical sense of divine vocation.” He met Hettie at a church in Charlotte, NC. Together, they moved to Tampa in 1997, initially residing in Meadow Pointe before moving to Cross Creek 10 years ago. They have three daughters, ages 20, 17 and 12. The Reules say they enjoy life in the suburbs and watching the area evolve. “When you’re people-focused, you welcome growth,” Dean says. There’s no disputing the progress of Cypress Point Community Church, which has come a long way from its days of a few people convening in real estate sales centers and movie theaters. For more information about Cypress Point Community Church, visit CPCCOnline.org; call 986-9100; or stop by the church at 15820 Morris Bridge Rd.

Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel Opens New Concussion Treatment Center By Matt Wiley With the passing of every NFL football season, it seems that concussions continue to make even more headlines. Luckily for local athletes, no matter the sport, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) is now a certified concussion treatment center, the only one of its kind in Pasco County. The concussion center is part of the hospital’s new Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than 1.7 million traumatic brain injuries occur each year, 75 percent of which are concussions. Whether it’s from sports, a car accident or a fall, identifying concussions can be difficult, as the symptoms of some concussions can be milder than others, even though the condition still exists. Enter Dr. Jonathon Phillips, MD, CAQSM (Certificate of Added Qualification in Sports Medicine), and founder of the FHWC Concussion Center, which is located on the first floor of the recently opened FHWC Wellness Center. Dr. Phillips is educating parents and athletes, alike, on the dangers and proper treatment of concussions. “It’s very important for parents and kids to get educated about concussions because they don’t always consider (every minor brain injury to be) a concussion,”

Dr. Phillips explains. “It’s not always the concussion that knocks someone out that is the bad one. There are a lot of little things that can happen. A player may come to a coach or parent with a headache or an inability to concentrate, but there wasn’t a major incident on the field. Those are the kinds of concussions that can last one to two months instead of 5-7 days.” Dr. Phillips explains that knowing where to go to get treatment for a concussion also is important. “There isn’t really a wide range of physicians you can see to get the appropriate concussion management,” he says. “Most folks aren’t educated about which providers to visit. You have to go to a place that is known to manage the condition. Imaging capabilities are not always necessary, just the proper training. Usually, the doctors with the proper training are primary care physicians who also specialize in sports medicine, or neurologists, pediatricians and physiatrists (physical rehabilitation physicians). However, not every one of those types of physicians is always trained, which is why it’s good to go a certified concussion center, like we have here.”

A Full Gamut Of Tests

As Dr. Phillips explains, there are a multitude of tests that you have to do to

come up with the clinical concussion diagnosis, One of the most simply administered, but actually most complex, tests — called an ImPACT evaluation — is actually done completely on the internet. “It’s a very visual, spatial test that challenges memory, reaction time and a couple of other parameters done completely on a computer,” Dr. Phillips explains. “It takes about 25 minutes to do.” I actually took the test to get a better idea of what Dr. Jonathon Phillips works with a patient at FHWC’s new Dr. Phillips meant. It’s a Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute. Photo: FHWC good thing it wasn’t for a athlete does end up suffering from a head grade because it turned out to be much injury on the field and takes the test more complex than I expected, which is again. By comparing the numbers, the the point. doctors at the FHWC concussion center The tests vary from remembering a series of numbers, shapes or words to de- can determine how severe a concussion an athlete has suffered and take the nectermine if the color spelled out inside a essary steps to treat the condition. shape matches the color of the letters. “This whole idea of prevention, diHowever, for the best results, athletes are agnosis and treatment of concussions is encouraged to take the test before ever so critically important,” says Tracy stepping onto the field Clouser, director of marketing for By taking the test before a concusFHWC. “We know that the schools and sion can occur, doctors, such as Dr. athletic associations and youth leagues Phillips, can establish a baseline with are strapped for resources, so if we can which to compare the test results if the provide some of those resources through

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education and training, we’re really excited about that.” In addition to being the official orthopedic and sports medicine and outpatient rehabilitation provider of the Tampa Bay Storm Arena Football League team, FHWC also is the lead sponsor of this summer’s Josh Freeman Football Camp, which is being held June 19-20 at Wesley Chapel High on Wells Rd. During the camp, hosted by the Tampa Bay Bucs’ starting QB, on Thursday, June 20, Dr. Phillips will be giving a lecture for parents about concussions, including how to identify signs and symptoms, the next steps to take for treatment and the importance of ImPACT evaluations. FHWC’s Dr. Christopher Baker, MD, an orthopedic surgeon, also will be on hand to speak with parents about sports injuries. The concussion center is just one part of FHWC’s new Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute, which also offers other orthopedic services and specializes in treating injuries to the musculoskeletal system sustained from playing sports. Due to its location on FHWC’s campus, the Institute is able to provide diagnostic digital imaging using the hospital’s state-of-the-art imaging technology, such as its 128-slice CT scanner, to determine treatment options. Depending upon the severity of an injury, the Institute also can offer surgical intervention, as well as extensive therapy

and in-patient or out-patient rehabilitation, in the FHWC Wellness Center’s new rehab center to help athletes get back in the game faster. The rehab center even features an “Alter-G” (or anti-gravity) treadmill, which can support up to 80 percent of a patient’s body weight, allowing patients to walk on lower-body injuries much sooner than normal. From personal experience, I can say, “it’s almost like running on the moon.” For more information about the FHWC Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute, please visit FHWesleyChapel.org. For info about the Josh Freeman Football Camp visit ProCamps.com/JoshFreeman.

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New Tampa Schools’ FCAT Scores Exceed State & District Averages

By Matt Wiley This year’s Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) scores are in, and New Tampa’s schools clearly have been working hard. According to the FCAT 2.0 test score reports released by the Florida Department of Education (DOE), the Hillsborough County School District (HCSD) performed well on the tests given in reading (grades 3-10), math (grades 3-8), science (grades 5 & 8) and writing (grades 4, 8 & 10). The FCAT 2.0 test was put into practice in 2011 and measures student achievement according to “Next Generation Sunshine State Standards,” which are more rigorous than those tested on the original FCAT test. FCAT scores will later be factored into school assessments, which the DOE reports as school letter grades each year. New Tampa students, for the most part, tested higher than the state averages in most of the testing. In math, reading and science, scores are measured on a 0.0-5.0 grade scale, with Level 3 demonstrating proficiency. For a comparison between each individual school and the State and District averages, please consult the charts included on this page.

A Brief Overview Of FCAT Reading, Math & Science

In FCAT Reading, Tampa Palms Elementary’s third graders, Chiles Elementary’s fourth graders and Pride Elementary’s fifth graders exceeded both the State and District averages by more than 20 percentage points. Liberty and Benito Middle School’s students beat the State and District averages in all grades, while Freedom and Wharton High each met the averages, or fell just short. In FCAT Math, Chiles and Tampa Palms Elementaries both exceeded State and District averages in all grades, while Bartels, Benito and Liberty middle schools also each met or surpassed the averages set by the State and District. For the second year in a row, the FCAT Science test was taken for scores that count, but the students at New Tampa’s schools exceeded both the State and District averages. Bartels only missed making the State average by one point (at 46-percent proficiency), but still exceeded the District average of 45 percent. Pride Elementary’s fifth graders exceeded both the State and District averages by more than 30 percentage points.

FCAT Writing

The FCAT Writing test is a little different than the multiple choice FCAT

Math, Reading and Science tests. Instead, it provides students with either a narrative, persuasive or expository writing prompt. To the best of their abilities, fourth, eighth and tenth grade students compose a well-thought-out and wellcommunicated written response to the prompt, which is evaluated on a 1.0-6.0 scale. The State of Florida defines proficiency as scoring a 3.5 or higher on the FCAT Writing exam. Although the State of Florida mean (average) score was a 3.4, or just below “proficiency,” the mean score for the students of New Tampa’s 12 schools was a 3.5. And, many of New Tampa’s schools had more than 50 percent of students scoring a 4.0 or higher (see chart). According to a HCSD release, the District’s fourth grade mean score was a 3.6, up from last year’s score and 0.2 points above the state average of 3.4. The District’s eighth graders raised their mean score from a 3.5 to a 3.6, well above the state average of 3.3. Finally, the District’s tenth graders also averaged a 3.6, up from last year’s 3.5, which also was the state average this year. In New Tampa, the mean fourth grade score was a 3.3, eighth graders averaged a 3.87 and tenth graders averaged a 3.55. However, when examining these numbers, it is important to consider the

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percentage of students in each category. For example, Chiles Elementary had 99 percent of its fourth graders score a 3.0 or higher, 77 percent score a 3.5 or higher and 53 percent score a 4.0 or higher. “We’re very proud of our students,” says Chiles assistant principal Mary Booth. “It comes down to students and teachers working hard and putting learning first. Our writing success goes back to lots of writing in the classroom.” Clark and Pride Elementaries also had impressive FCAT Writing percentages. At Clark, with a mean score of 4.2, 89 percent of the students scored a 3.5 or above. Pride wasn’t far behind, also averaging a 4.2, with 86 percent scoring at least a 3.5 or above. Among eighth graders, Benito Middle students averaged a 3.9, with 89 percent scoring a 3.0 or better, 79 percent scoring a 3.5 or higher and 64 percent scoring at least a 4.0. Freedom High’s tenth graders averaged a 3.6 with 91 percent scoring at least a 3.0, 66 percent scoring a 3.5 or greater and 44 percent scoring a 4.0 or above. For full FCAT score results from Hillsborough County and the rest of the State of Florida, please visit FCAT.FLDOE.org.

Wharton Students Place At Rotary Speech Contest & Announcing PigFest 9! By Gary Nager Although none of the competitors sponsored by New Tampa’s three Rotary Clubs (see below) advanced to the 2013 District Finals of the Rotary District 6890 Speech Contest, New Tampa’s Paul R. Wharton High was well-represented at the second round (aka the “Group level”) of the contest, which was held a little more than a month ago at the Sheraton East Hotel & Conference Center on Princess Palm Ave. near Brandon. The three Wharton students, each sponsored by one of the three New Tampa-based Rotary Clubs, did, however, still have a nice showing at the Group level event. Wharton’s Judelande Jeune, who was sponsored by the original New Tampa Rotary Club (which meets Friday mornings at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club), took home a $150 cash prize by finishing second at the Group level. Fellow Wharton senior (both recently graduated, see pages 1 and 41) Adriana Rosado, sponsored by the New Tampa Evening Rotary (which meets Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m. at Hunter’s Green Country Club, or HGCC), finished third at the Group level, to take home a $75 cash prize. Wharton sophomore Kennedy McCann, who was so impressive in winning the New Tampa Noon Rotary’s

last month at Rotary’s Camp Florida in Brandon.

Morning Rotary Club Installs New Officers

Speaking of the original New Tampa Rotary Club, which was the largest club (67 members, I believe) ever chartered in the Southeastern U.S. Rotary region and which still has about 60 members today, is proud to announce that it has installed its new officers and directors for 2013-14. CongratulaThe competitors at the second round (Group level) of the tions to new club President Peter Rotary District 6890 Speech Contest included winner Gambacorta, President-Elect Frank Brian Do of Strawberry Crest High, Wharton High’s Moore, Immediate Past President Kennedy McCann, Judelande Jeune (2nd place) & Dennis Loomis, Vice-President Adriana Rosado (3rd place) and King High’s Jackie Matthew Palmer, Secretary Brice Yang and Enoch Kuo. Wolford, Treasurer Matt Urbanovsky & Sargeant-at-Arms Bob Club-level contest, did not finish in the Thompson. top three, but still has plenty of time to We also congratulate the club’s new improve her performance for next year’s directors: Tom Gruber, service projects; Speech Contest. Paul Suppicich, fund raising; Eric LongThe winner at the Group level was phee, membership; Lesley Zajac (see page junior Brian Do of Strawberry Crest High 3), club administration; Connie Bladon, in Dover, who was sponsored by the public relations; Judy Silvasi-Patchin, Tampa East Rotary Club. Because no foundations; and senior director Gary New Tampa kids advanced (only the first Gunter. place winners at the Group level move on The original New Tampa Rotary, aka to the Finals), we did not know the results (at least to me), “The Breakfast Club,” from the District 6890 Finals, which were has always been a welcoming group of held during the District 6890 Conference outstanding local business leaders and residents and with the new group in place, you surely can expect even more great things over the coming year.

Rotary Pig Fest 9 Feb. 22!

And, while we’re on the subject of “great things,” the Rotary Clubs of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel are proud to announce (and we are so proud to sponsor!) that the 9th annual Rotary PigFest will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2014, at a site to be announced. Gambacorta, who is the President/CEO of Access Health Consultants LLC and Executive Chef at Private Chef of Tampa, says that he is in discussions with the Primrose School of Tampa Palms, where the 2013 Taste of

Tucker Neuhaus Signs With MLB Brewers!

Although I didn’t yet have all the details at our press time, I was told that 17-yearold 2013 Wharton High grad Tucker “Tuck” Neuhaus had signed an offer with Major League Tucker Neuhaus Baseball’s MilwauPhoto: PerfectGame.org kee Brewers. Neuhaus is the son of former Freedom High baseball coach Ken Neuhaus and the younger brother of Tyler (another outstanding baseball player who tragically died in a single-car accident last November). Tucker was the Brewers’ “Competitive Balance Lottery Round B” selection (the 72nd overall pick of the 2013 amateur draft) and reportedly signed a $771,000 offer sheet. If Neuhaus has signed, he won’t be playing college ball for the University of Louisville Cardinals, who made it to the eight-team College World Series in Omaha, NE, this year. Neuhaus, a 6’-3”, 190-lb. middle infielder, played in only 11 of Wharton’s 27 games this year, batting just .222 in 27 atbats (according to MaxPreps.com). — GN

New Tampa was held, to host Rotary PigFest 9, in Primrose Park. Gambacorta, who also was one of the judges at this year’s Taste because of his culinary expertise, says he also plans to host a Wild Game dinner, at a price to be determined, on Friday, February 21, the night before the PigFest. “We’re also organizing a Turkey Trot 5K run, which will be held Thanksgiving morning (Thursday, November 28, 2013) on an enclosed course joining Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel to the Shops at Wiregrass mall,” he says. For additional information, visit NewTampaRotary.org, RotaryPigFest. com or check out a New Tampa Rotary Club meeting at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.) any Friday at 7 a.m.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

“Annexation”

Continued from page 1 its proposed 370 single-family home development. It will feature homes ranging between $225,000-$320,000, targeted toward households whose kids have grown and have moved out, or “empty nesters.” The development, touted as the first of its kind in New Tampa, also will include a large recreational facility, although details were not given about what amenities the facility might include. Over time, Taylor Morrison estimates that the community will add up to $110 million per year to the City’s tax base, although the timeframe for development is still not clear. In addition, while the property is adjacent to BBD, the residents there will not be able to access the proposed development from the New Tampa area’s main roadway. Instead, access to the development will be only from County Line Rd. “If you look at a map of this piece (of land), it would strike you as odd that this was not included in the original annexation,” says District 7 Tampa City Councilwoman Lisa Montelione. “I can’t imagine why this wasn’t included years ago.” The annexation petition describes a community with 1.75-2.0 units per acre, modeled after Taylor Morrison’s Esplanade Golf & Country Club in Lakewood Ranch, an “active lifestyle village.” Montelione says that she thinks that

the development is a market that hasn’t been tapped in the New Tampa area. “A lot of people want to downsize from the big house they had when their children were home,” she explains. “This will offer that kind of living. This will give our residents another housing choice.” Calls to Taylor Morrison had not been returned at our press time.

Arbor Woods

Located on the south side of S.R. 56 at Arrowgrass Dr., between BBD and I75, Taylor Morrison also is in the process of developing Arbor Woods, a 222 single-family home community in the already-developed Northwood Master Planned Unit Development (MPUD). The national home builder has developed communities in five states and is no stranger to the area, having already developed Tuscany at Tampa Palms, as well as several other communities in nearby Lutz and Land O’Lakes. Arbor Woods, which has not yet begun home sales, or released any home sizes or floor plans on its website, will be a gated community on 423 acres of land south of S.R. 56, 338 acres of which will be conservation land that will include parks and walking trails for future residents to enjoy. For more information, please visit TaylorMorrison.com and search “Arbor Woods.”

“Salutatorian”

Continued from page 1 through that humiliation,” Parnell says. “He didn’t even get to take pictures with his friends. We haven’t made a final decision, but I think there is a case here.” Parnell says that the three requirements that must be proven in a free speech case include a speech that poses a threat of disruption, that the speech is offensive to community standards or that the speech is contrary to the mission of the school. “But here, none of those (conditions) were met,” Parnell says. Parnell says that the reasons that HCSD has given for the incident have changed more than once since the graduation ceremony. Shaw originally was told that he was cut off due to time constraints, was changed into him going off topic and changed again to being because the salutatorian removed his graduation cap before beginning his speech. HCSD spokesman Stephen Hegarty says that students are discouraged from removing their graduation caps during the ceremonies, even at the end of them. During the June 11 HCSD School Board meeting, in her closing comments, Superintendent Elia expressed her thoughts on the situation. “When a student decides to break the

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rules, or challenge the rules, and is surprised by the consequences, I’m surprised,” Elia said. “Mr. Woods had a very good reason to be wary of the salutatorian’s speech. He had gone to great lengths to make sure that the student and his mother understood the expectations at graduation.” Elia said that the last thing that Woods said to Shaw at the graduation ceremony was to give him a call so that they could talk about what happened when Shaw came in to pick up his diploma. Elia said that Shaw did not attempt to speak with Woods when he went to pick up his diploma, even though Woods was present. Hegarty says that Shaw still has not reached out to Woods. “Our expectations of teachers and principals are high,” Elia explained. “They’re held accountable every day. I certainly intend to support them, as I intend to support students. But, when students do something that they have been warned not to do, and they do it anyway, they have to be held accountable. I think that was the appropriate thing that was done.” Calls to principal Woods for comment were not returned. What is your opinion on this issue? Check out the script of Shaw’s approved speech and the Youtube.com video and let us know what you think at NTNeighborhoodNews.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Congrats To The 1,000+ Graduates Of Freedom & Wharton High’s Class Of 2013! By Matt Wiley Congratulations to the Class of 2013 from Freedom and Paul R. Wharton High Schools, as you shift your tassles and move into the world after high school. During graduation ceremonies on June 3 and 4 inside the Expo Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds (located off U.S. Hwy. 301), more than 1,000 New Tampa-area seniors crossed the stage to collect their respective diplomas. On June 3, during a 1 p.m. ceremony, 578 Wharton High seniors filled the crowded auditorium dressed in the school’s dark, navy blue. Principal Bradley Woods addressed the crowd, commending the 2013 class for their more than $6.5 million in scholarships to schools including Harvard, Auburn University, New York University and many more. Collectively, Wharton’s 2013 class compiled more than 3,000 community service hours and took more than 1,100 Advanced Placement (AP) tests. “Four years ago, I had the pleasure of welcoming this class as ninth graders,” Woods said. “Today, they leave as one, as graduates.” Salutatorian Harold Shaw, Jr. followed Woods’ address. For more about Shaw’s speech, please see page 1. “Always wear clean underwear,” announced Wharton Valedictorian Allyson Bell, who graduated with a 7.39 GPA and will be attending the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania in the fall, before listing off dozens of other lines of advice, including, “Always take advice with a

grain of salt, but trust me about the underwear. We are so much more alive than we realize. We went through this journey together.”

Seto Sisters Take Top Honors At Freedom

The following day, during a 4:30 p.m. ceremony inside the same auditorium, Freedom High’s Class of 2013 marched in and took their seats, adorned in blue and white caps and gowns, the white worn by honor graduates with a GPA of 4.0 or higher. “My years at Freedom have been challenging,” said Salutatorian Samantha Seto, who graduated with a 6.74 GPA and will be attending Wake Forest University in North Carolina in the fall. “But, at the same time, rewarding. Life is about overcoming obstacles.” Following her speech, her sister, Class of 2013 Valedictorian Sarah Seto approached the podium. Touting a 6.91 GPA, she will be attending Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. “My high school years have been the most exciting of my life,” said Sarah. “Many of us have questions and concerns about the future, but that’s all natural. Ask, what kind of positive difference can I make in the lives of others?” Freedom principal David Sheppard closed out the speeches. “Graduation is one of the most significant experiences in our lives,” he said. “This year, our (447) seniors have been awarded more than $6 million in scholarships to schools including Wake Forest University, Johns Hopkins and UCLA.”

(Above) Freedom High’s June 4 graduation ceremony filled the Expo Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds. (Below left) Wharton principal Bradley Woods, with the school’s valedictorian Allyson Bell. (Below right) Freedom High 2013 valedictorian Sarah Seto.

For more Freedom & Wharton graduation pics, see page 54!

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CityLife Church Brings Medical & Dental Help To Nicaragua By Matt Wiley It’s easy to take going to the dentist for granted here in the US. However, in many other parts of the world, dental care is either extremely rare or, in many cases, nonexistent. The people of these countries must rely on missionary work to receive the care that they need. For this reason, a group of 27 missionaries from CityLife Church in nearby Carrollwood recently traveled to Esteli, Nicaragua, for one week, from April 29May 6, to bring medical supplies, medical and dental care, as well as construction supplies and a construction team to help with projects in the impoverished area. “This trip was something unique,” says Transito Leiva, owner of Leiva’s Jewelry, located in the New Tampa Center shopping plaza. “(The dentists) have probably never worked so hard in their lives.” Leiva, 64, who is originally from Nicaragua, has done four mission trips to his native country with CityLife. However, this trip was the first one that featured a dental team. Dr. Rodney Holcombe, DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery), of Advanced Dental Associates in Tampa Palms, was one of two dentists who made the trip.

“Imagine operating in the middle of a church with open windows, limited electricity, no water and farm animals wandering outside,” Dr. Holcombe says. “We treated hundreds of patients with serious dental cavities and infections. We dealt mostly with extractions. Many of (the patients) walked for hours and waited in line for our team to arrive.” He adds that many of their patients were local farmers who make about $6 per week, “Access to medical care, and especially dental care, is extremely limited.” Along with Dr. Holcombe and Dr. Timothy Muscaro, DDS, of Muscaro & Martini Dentistry in South Tampa, five registered nurses, one physician and one physician’s assistant were sent to the small town in northern Nicaragua. Together, the group helped more than 600 Esteli locals with various medical issues. CityLife has been sending groups on missionary trips for nearly twenty years, says the church’s missions pastor Molly Cox. So far, groups have been sent to 18 countries, including the Philippines and Colombia. “Our goal in the missions department is to send a team out once per year to help with medical, construction and teaching needs in less fortunate countries,” Cox explains. Church members

who decide to take part in the trip must pay for their own transportation and take part in six weeks of training to prepare for traveling to impoverished countries. But, CityLife also sends teams to areas in the U.S. that need assistance. Following the devastat(Above) Dr. Rodney Holcombe and Dr. Timothy Muscaro helping ing tornado in patients in Esteli, Nicaragua. (Below left) Patients walked many Moore, OK, CityLife hours and waited in line for their chance to see the dentists. (Below has been preparing to right) The CityLife Church team that visited Nicaragua. send a team to the area the team plans to visit and help. devastated town to help with cleanup and Rodriguez says that the biggest rerebuilding efforts. quest for this trip was for a dentist. So To discover which countries would dentists were sent. benefit from a team of missionaries, “It was a life-changing experience,” CityLife sends individuals to assess the Dr. Holcombe admits. “We were very needs there, such as Gerson Rodriguez of limited in what we could do, but it was a Meadow Pointe. great opportunity to give back to those “I was invited on a trip to Honduras less fortunate.” about 19 years ago, and I’ve been going For more information about every year ever since,” Rodriguez says. “I go ahead of the group and meet with mis- CityLife Church (8411 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.) and its mission trips, please visit sionaries already in the countries to disCityLifeChurch.CC. cover what the biggest needs are” in the

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Stacie Lenners Is Named LLS’s 2013 ‘Woman Of The Year!’ Lenners explains that she Congratulations to Stacie Lenners, got involved the Suncoast Chapter of the Leukemia & with LLS with Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) 2013 Greg about “Woman of the Year!” three years ago. Each year, to help raise funds for re“My search, the many chapters of the LLS mother, Marilyn, across the U.S. and Canada hold a 10is in remission week contest to see who can raise the from lymphoma, most money, crowning the victors during so it’s personal a ritzy grand finale. to me.” On May 18, during the contest’s To help grand finale at the downtown Tampa raise funds, Hilton, in front of a crowd of 600 people, Lenners hosted Lenners was crowned “Woman of the several events inYear,” after raising nearly $38,000 for Stacie Lenners: The 2013 cluding several LLS. Suncoast chapter of LLS “Movies on the “I was shocked,” Lenners says. “Up ‘Woman of the Year!” Lawn,” “Conuntil the announcement, it was anyone’s certs on the Circle” and a car show at the game. Fund-raising is still going on at the Shops at Wiregrass mall, as well as a golf gala.” tournament. Lenners says that some of her Lenners, a residential mortgage loan processor at NorthStar Bank, located in the friends even made teams and raised funds for her; the team that raised the most was Sykes building in downtown Tampa, was given a mall gift card. one of eight women and three men who During the grand finale gala, compatogether raised more than $253,000 durnies also donated gift packages for auction. ing the contest, which began on March 7. Whichever attendee won each item could Lenners husband Greg, the general mandecide to which candidate to donate the ager of the Shops at Wiregrass mall, was funds. Some of the items included in the crowned LLS “Man of the Year” in 2011. live and silent auctions included a stay at At the May 22 Wesley Chapel Rotary Wesley Chapel’s Saddlebrook Resort & meeting, Greg, who also is the Rotary Spa, Busch Gardens tickets, a $500 Shops Club’s president, joked, “Yes, Stacie and I at Wiregrass gift card and a New York Yanhave been told we’re now LLS Royalty.”

By Matt Wiley

kees prize package (including tickets to a game) valued at $5,000. “This was a great experience,” Lenners reflects. “Anyone looking for a charity to help, LLS is a great one. You meet great people and it’s very rewarding. The money raised stays local, as well.” With more than 750,000 people affected by the two blood-borne cancers annually, funding for research to find a cure for the many types of blood cancer is extremely important. For more information about the Suncoast chapter of Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, please visit LLS.org and search “Suncoast Chapter.”

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Peabody’s New Lunch Menu Has Plenty Of Great New Options! By Gary Nager It’s been about a year since we told you about the new menu and equally new smokeless environment at Peabody’s Billiards & Games in the Shoppes at Amberly plaza in Tampa Palms. The new menu, the still-decreasing number of other sitdown dining options in the area, the opportunity to enjoy smoke-free billiards and other games and of course, all of the eye candy servers and bartenders have helped bring new crowds of adult New Tampa residents to join all those USF students at the new Peabody’s. But, not just resting on their successful transition to a smokeless restaurant, Peabody’s continues to upgrade its menu, recently adding 27 new starters, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and even a new chimichanga to its already-renowned wings, New York-style pizzas, and a signa-

Peabody’s has added an excellent French onion soup to its selection of starters.

ture New York strip steak that a certain newspaper editor really enjoys.

Let’s Get It Started

Yes, Peabody’s still has its famous wings, available with 15 premier sauces, from nuclear to honey garlic, but also has so many other great ways to start a great meal. The menu is so new I haven’t yet sampled too many of these, but I can vouch for the bistro onion soup (loaded with vidalia onions, French bread and tasty provolone, rather than traditional gruyere cheese) filling spinach artichoke dip, the homemade mozzarella sticks with zesty marinara and the house-cut fries tossed in Kosher salt and parmesan cheese (although I still order them extra crispy and without parmesan). Other starters at Peabody’s I plan to sample soon are the loaded potato skins, the garlic knots, and even the Spanish nachos, which tops fresh tostada chips with Peabody’s homemade chili (the chili also is available as a starter alone), sweet corn, queso cheese sauce, jalapenos, tomatoes, onions and a lime sour cream. The nachos

We call the new salads at Peabody’s in Tampa Palms “shareable,” because both the Greek (left) & Cobb salads are perfect for at least two (or more) people to share. Photos by Matt Wiley

cost $9.39 (add $3 to add grilled chicken), but the plate is so huge, it could easily serve 3-4 adults. Peabody’s also is the place to enjoy huge, “shareable salads.” In addition to standard house, Caesar and blackened chicken salads, Peabody’s now offers a great Greek salad served with a properly tangy Greek dressing that I also enjoyed on the massive new Cobb salad. This bad boy features rows of crispy diced chicken, crisp real bacon bits, black olives, bleu cheese, sweet corn, diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese, avocado and egg atop fresh greens. The crisp diced chicken really rocks, but if you can eat the whole salad by yourself, you’re a better man than me.

Wrap It Up!

Peabody’s continues to expand its sandwich offerings, too. In addition to some of

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the sandwiches we already enjoyed — from the roast beef panini, New Tampa Cuban (Black Forest ham, Cuban-style pulled pork, Boar’s Head® Genoa salami, dill pickles, Swiss cheese, mustard and mayo), an Italian sub and “heart-healthy” chicken Caesar wrap, Peabody’s now also offers a healthy (if you replace the fries it comes with, anyway) West Coast turkey wrap (with Boar’s Head® oven-roasted turkey, fresh avocado, red onions, crisp Romaine lettuce, applewood-smoked bacon, sharp cheddar and mayo in a spinach wrap), a veggie spinach wrap, assistant editor Matt Wiley’s favorite Buffalo chicken wrap and a totally tasty new Peabody’s club. I really enjoyed the combination of Boar’s Head® Black Forest ham and oven-roasted turkey, applewood bacon, avocado, tomato and lettuce, I just

(L. to r.) Some of the huge, new overstuffed sandwiches at Peabody’s include the new Peabody’s club and Buffalo chicken wrap sandwiches. If you have a really big appetite at lunch or dinner, you might want to check out Peabody’s new chimichangas, available with your choice of steak (pictured) or chicken. Photos by Matt Wiley (Lower right) The Peabody’s signature grilled NY Strip steak, sreved with yummy grilled corn, awesome fries and caramelized onions is a big hit with our editor. I’m stoked to try — the traditional think I would order it on a pressed panini onions, peppers and chicken (or substitute foosball, elecMargherita (with olive oil, fresh garlic, fresh steak for $1 more). Garnished with cheese, instead of the thick toasted ciabatta roll. tronic bowling, tomato and basil, but no sauce) — and a Peabody’s also has some new burgtomatoes, black olives, corn, red onion, golf and basers, of which the most interesting to me is TexMex option (with Bullseye® BBQ scallions and sour cream, as well as sides of ketball games, sauce, red onion and diced chicken breast) the “breakfast burger,” which features the sour cream and homemade salsa, the chimi tabletop comI’m not as excited about, even though you is a meal for at least two people. puter games, a same 1/2-pound Peabody’s burger may be. These specialty pizzas are not availThe menu also tells you which items variety of entopped with applewood bacon, cheddar able by the slice, however. are available for late-night dining. Be sure tertainment cheese and a perfect over-easy fried egg. Peabody’s also has an excellent”signato check out the coupon in the ad. specials (everyThere also are heart-healthy veggie burgture” NY strip, a thick, 10-oz. house-cut Desserts include a huge, decadent thing from live ers, less-heart-healthy Bulls (topped with steak grilled to perfection and served with brownie a la mode, homemade zeppole music, beer pong and foosball tournaments Peabody’s homemade chili and cheddar (Italian-style donuts) and a creamy cheeseto food and drink specials and more. cheese) and Cowboy (topped with bacon, char-grilled local corn on the cob, homemade fries, caramelized onions and served cake with strawberry sauce. For more info about Peabody’s onion rings and BBQ sauce) burgers. with a roasted garlic aioli. Although you can’t smoke inside any(15333 Amberly Dr.), which is open New Tampa Neighborhood News genPizza, Steak & Chimis? more and no one under 21 is allowed in until 3 a.m. every night, call 972-1725, eral manager (and former Peabody’s barI’ve always been a fan of Peabody’s after 9 p.m., Peabody’s is a 15,000-sq.-ft. visit PeabodysBilliards.com or see the ad tender) Nikki Bennett and senior graphic true NY-style pizzas, whether cheese, pepentertainment complex with lots of outon page 51 for your choice of a great artist Porsha Lemos both raved about the peroni or meat lover’s, but now the restaudoor seating areas for smokers and fun Buy One, Get One Free menu item speHUGE new chimichanga, a made-for-sharrant/bar located next to the New Tampa games inside, including lots of beautiful cial or buy an entrée and get a free order ing monster stuffed with melted cheese, Neighborhood News office has one option pool tables and electronic dart boards to of garlic knots.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

More ‘Outside Of New Tampa & Wesley Chapel’ Restaurant Choices By Gary Nager So, the good news is that we’re getting a couple of new Mexican places in Tampa Palms and the perhaps even better news is that Ciccio’s is coming back to the area (see page 50), but the fact is that if you’re the type who, like me, prefers unique mom-and-pop restaurants, you have to take a drive to try places outside of our distribution areas. Where in Tampa can you get real So, here’s our newest quartet of chateaubriand, with starters & sides included? restaurants located outside of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel for your consideration, Only at Bern’s Steak House on S. Howard Ave. one the most famous landmark restaurant the steak at Bern’s as much as some other in Tampa, one the first-ever Florida link in upper-level steakhouses, such as Charley’s, a small west coast-based chain and two to- Dempsey’s, Ocean Prime, Capital Grille, tally different types of Latin restaurants. The Palm, Ruth’s Chris or Fleming’s, but while I probably love Charley’s best of Bern’s Steak House (1208 S. those other steak places, only Bern’s serves Howard Ave., Tampa; 251-2421) — a true chateaubriand-style steak for multiMost residents of and visitors to the ple diners at the same table the way many Tampa Bay area have at least heard of of the New York City steakhouses I grew Bern’s, which became the most famous up on did. So, I will continue to find my landmark restaurant in Tampa not long way back to Bern’s for a steak that always after Bern & Gert Laxer bought a much is served at the perfect temperature inside smaller building than what you see now while maintaining a well-spiced crispness on S. Howard Ave about 60 years ago. on the outside. Yum. Gert retired after Bern passed away in And, unlike most of those other 2002, but their son David has continued places, Bern’s includes delicious starters the delicious tradition started by his hardand side dishes with your meal, including working parents. an authentic French onion soup, Bern’s I’ve had people tell me they don’t like steak house salad, a nice baked potato,

crisp onion rings and even a vegetable of the day from Bern’s private garden. In addition to its reputation as one of Tampa’s best restaurants, Bern’s also is famous for having one of the largest — and most fairly priced — wine lists in the world and for its Harry Waugh Dessert Room, where your party can enjoy outrageous desserts, plus the greatest selection of after-dinner cordials, sherries, brandies The two-handed steak burrito at Monserrate on W. and more. Hillsborough Ave. is a huge, delicious bargain. Bern’s is still “da bomb.” I hope you’ll tell them we sent you when you to Mexican favorites like sizzling fajitas, make your reservation. For more info, quesadillas and the awesome “twovisit BernsSteakhouse.com. handed” burrito pictured here, which is uniquely, deliciously spiced and so big one Monserrate (2311 W. Hillsborperson can’t (or at least shouldn’t) finish ough Ave, Tampa; 878-2466) — Way at it. There’s even a popular (especially with the other much more casual, but still delime) Brazilian churrasco steak dish, excelcious, end of the restaurant spectrum in lent pollo asado (chicken) with a zesty garTampa and named for a majestic mounlic sauce and pork chops (chuletas). But, tain near Bogota, Colombia, Monserrate the whole red snapper is one of the most is an adorably funky-looking little freepopular items among the regulars. standing building in front of what used to Another big hit among the locals is be the local SweetBay Supermarket, just Monserrate’s mofongo, a Puerto Rican east of the corner of Hillsborough and Ar- specialty, which combines mashed planmenia Aves. tains, garlic, olive oil and pork or bacon, Monserrate features a mix of Latin filled with everything from octopus, American cuisines, from traditional shrimp or crab, pork, chicken, beef or a Colombian “bandejas paisa” or country combination platters (with everything from steak, Monserrate is casual, fun and friendly. homemade sausages and crispy pork skin, The waitresses are all gorgeous, sweet

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Latinas from different backgrounds, there’s always a soccer game playing on the flat-screen TVs and the selection of Latin American cervezas helps add to the authentic ambiance. For more info, visit MonserrateTampa.com.

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood

(4400 W. Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa; 8777290) — Although Eddie V’s is a small chain of (currently) nine restaurants, all eight of the mini-chain’s other locations are either in Texas, Arizona or California. So, for those of us who live in Tampa and have never been exposed to this very upscale, pricey, delicious new prime steakhouse and fresh seafood restaurant, it’s another opportunity to compare it with some of our area’s finest eateries — especially on the same street that also includes entrances to the International Plaza, two Brazilian chrysalidian steak houses as well as the array of upper-level Outback concepts, including Fleming’s and Roy’s. Eddie V’s, which features a piano bar called the V Lounge, with live jazz and an ultra-premium bar, as well as a huge wine list, has an incredible selection of unique, fresh fish appetizers and entrées, premium hand-cut steaks and prices to match. I’ve only been able to visit once so far for dinner, but I really enjoyed Eddie V’s unique take on yellowtail sashimi (photo), which is seasoned with cilantro and red pepper in a deliciously different ponzu sauce. Other seafood “raw bar” items in-

The yellowtail sashimi at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood on Boy Scout Blvd. clude market oysters, jumbo shrimp cocktail with “atomic” horseradish and spicy mustard, a jumbo lump crabmeat cocktail and even a “shellfish tower” with a Maine lobster, shrimp, oysters and jumbo lump crab. Hot starters include “kung pao style” calamari, shrimp and pork pot sticker dumplings, jumbo lump crab cake, a truffled steak tartare and Maine lobster tacos. There’s also Maine lobster and shrimp bisque, wild mushroom and Fuji apple salads, crab and corn chowder and an heirloom tomato salad. If you’re a fresh fish lover like me, it’ll be tough to not try at least one of Eddie V’s amazing-sounding fish entrées, from Louisiana redfish sautéed with fresh lump crab, meuniere style, north Atlantic lemon sole parmesan-crusted with a tomato and herb salad in lemon garlic butter and Florida grouper sautéed crisp with lemon, garlic and scallions or the Brown Butter, to jumbo gulf shrimp grilled “oreganata

style” with fresh Jonah crab and two cold water lobster 8-oz. tails, broiled or steamed with drawn butter. The premium steaks include two sizes of filet mignon, a bone-in ribeye and a 16-oz. New York strip grilled or au poivre. And, while the sides are extra, I also have to recommend Eddie V’s broccolini sauteed with lemon and fresh garlic and the twice-baked potato with bacon and chives. Reservations are definitely required for Eddie V’s, although not for the V Lounge, which does serve the full menu. For easy online reservations and more info, visit EddieV.com.

Terra Sur Café (5358 W. Village Dr., Carrollwood; 269-2694) — The owners themselves call Terra Sur a “best-kept secret” that has been in the same location since it opened in an unassuming strip center in Carrollwood (off Ehrlich Rd.) in 2005. Many of my Latin friends have told me that Peruvian cuisine is among the best and most celebrated in the world and after just two visits to Terra Sur Café, I can’t disagree with them. First of all, you HAVE to start your meal with the best red snapper ceviche (ceviche de pescado) I have ever tasted. Although shrimp, octopus and squid ceviche appetizers also are available, try the pescado, which is fresh cuts of raw fish marinated in lime juice, spices, Aji Limo,

and cilantro and topped with julienne red onions, garnished with Peruvian soft corn, toasted corn and sweet potatoes. The lemony dipping sauce is so delicious, I could drink it by itself. The main courses I’ve sampled so far include a fresh red snapper filet topped with a tomato sauce, onions, tomatoes garlic and spices; the bistec a la Chorrillana, a grilled ribeye steak topped with a tomato sauce, onions and garlic; and my favorite to date, a melt-in-your-mouth tender lamb shank in a zesty red wine reduction (photo). I am definitely going to try Terra Sur’s unique pasta dishes and I also can vouch for the incredibly light and refreshing mango cheesecake and the restaurant’s amazing wine (which includes several Argentinian Malbecs and Chilean Carmeñeres) and Latin cerveza lists. Terra Sur Café is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. For reservations and more information, visit TerraSurCafé.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

The Latest & Greatest News About Dining, Shopping, Retail & More In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel! Ciccio’s Confirms Its Move To World Of Beer Location

It took a while, but former Ciccio’s Lodge managing partner Robert Garofano has confirmed that Ciccio’s Restaurant Group, the parent company of Ciccio’s and South Tampa favorites Daily Eats, Water Sushi and The Lodge, has signed a lease to take over the space vacated by World of Beer in The Shoppes at the Pointe plaza in Tampa Palms. Garofano says the new Ciccio’s will be modeled after the company’s St. Petersburg store and will be called Ciccio’s California. He said the renovation of and move into the former World of Beer space will likely take until October.

Paddle & Pole Will Take You On The River!

“Come explore the beautiful Hillsborough River with us” is the “battle cry” of the new Paddle & Pole canoe, kayak, and fishing gear rental company located

on Morris Bridge Rd., just one mile south of Cross Creek Blvd. and just north of the entrance to Cory Lake Isles. Paddle & Pole held its Grand Opening on June 15 but is still celebrating that opening with a great special offer (see below for more info). Paddle & Pole provides kayak, canoe and fishing gear rentals, along with guided and self-guided trips, including all shuttles. The company also provides kayaking, canoeing and fishing lessons and is ready to cater to a multitude of events, such as: birthday parties, church groups (perfect for youth groups) and office outings, Boy Scout retreats, team building events (try our kayaking obstacle course) and riverside BBQs, all tailored to your specific needs! Paddle & Pole also offers shuttles to those who own their own boats. “We have everything you need, all you have to do is show up and we will handle the rest.” The Hillsborough River is loaded with sights to see and fish to catch, so whether you are just looking to have a good time out on the water with your family or head out with the guys on a mission to catch that prize bass, the beautiful Hillsborough River (photo left) is the place to be. And, if you come out anytime between now and Sunday, June 30, to not only enjoy the river but to take advantage of Paddle & Pole’s amazing Grand Opening prices, you’ll pay just $20 dollars per boat per trip of up to four hours!

The ‘world-famous WingHouse girls’ were ready to serve a huge crowd of attendees as the doors to the Ker’s WingHouse in Wesley Chapel opened on June 6. Please join Paddle & Pole for some SW Café on S.R. 54 (at 5510 Post Oak fun in the sun and explore all that the Blvd.), Wesley Chapel’s Ker’s WingHillsborough River has to offer. Arrive House opened on June 6 to an estimated anytime between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. for a crowd of between 500-1,000 people, inboat or call to reserve yours today! cluding two dozen Greater Wesley Chapel Paddle & Pole is owned and operated Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) memby a veteran, so all U.S. Military veterans bers who cut a ribbon with Wesley Chapel will receive special rates! general manager Eric Ratcliff of the new For more information, call 263Ker's Wing House and his staff of gor0610, see the ad below left, visit Padgeous servers. dle & Pole’s Facebook.com page or The opening day crowd filled up the stop in at 15310 Morris Bridge Rd. "first 100 on line" by 8:40 a.m., with the first three arriving at 6 p.m. the day before. Each of the first 100 received not WingHouse Opens On S.R. only an official WingHouse T-shirt, but 54 With A Big Crowd Although its original scheduled open- also one free lunch per month for a year. The throngs waited in the pouring ing was delayed by a week or so during rain of Tropical Storm Andrea and Ratcliff the remodeling of the former Buffalo’s

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Team Bohannon & New Tampa Chiro Both Move

says that while the number of people was not unexpected, it was still overwhelming. For more info, call 428-7157.

Hibachi Japanese Express To Open In Village Market

Meanwhile, in the same building as the China Wok restaurant in the Wesley Chapel Village Market at S.R. 54 and Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., just east of I-75, Hibachi Japanese Express restaurant is getting ready to open at least by shortly after you receive this issue. A spokesperson for the company says the sitdown restaurant will feature hibachi/teppanyaki tables, fresh sushi and Japanese and other Asian fare in a comfortable dine-in location.

Best NY Pizza Now Open

We know, we know. Wesley Chapel is suddenly being overrun by true New York-style pizza places, but the new Best New York (NY) Pizza, which just opened at 27429 S.R. 54 about a month ago in the former Drake’s Place spot in the Pinebrook at the Grove shopping center (on S.R. 54 between I-75 and Old Pasco Rd.), is worth checking out. With delicious, true NY-style pizza made famous at a Carrollwood location on N. Dale Mabry Hwy. and two adjoining dining room concepts (one with counter service and the other with a little more formal-looking dine-in area), Best NY Pizza also has some of the best meatball parmigiana heros and chicken parmi-

giana dinners (served with salad, pasta and garlic knots; photo) I’ve had in our area. Please call 994-2200 or stop by and tell Greg, the owner, and his staff that we sent you.

Buddy’s Hot Dogs Opens Next To Baja Fresh

A little south of S.R. 54, at 2653 BBD, Buddy’s Hot Dogs (600-3138) has opened between the Baja Fresh and the also new Brewhouse Café (all owned by the same people), which opened in the former iCream location but has actually since closed its doors. The good news, for Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel staffers (the hospital is across BBD from this plaza) and local business folks looking for different ideas for lunch, is that this plaza also already is home to the very popular Dickey’s BBQ, Hungry Greek and Latin Twist Café restaurants. The even better news is that Buddy’s offers crispy hand-cut fries and tasty Chicago-style Kosher hot dogs.

Two of our very popular advertisers have been on the move, as Team Bohannon (long-time local Realtors Annette and Doug and their son Dale) and the New Tampa Chiropractic & Injury Center office of Dr. William Scheu, D.C., have both recently moved to new locations. Team Bohannon (979-4963), which had been affiliated with the Coldwell Banker office in the New Tampa Center shopping plaza, has moved a mile to the north to join forces with Keller Williams’ New Tampa office on BBD in the Central Bank building in the Live Oak Preserve area south of County Line Rd. Dr. Scheu says he outgrew his space in the SuperTarget-anchored Northwood Plaza on BBD, just north of County Line Rd., and moved on June 3 into his new office in the Cypress Ridge Professional Park, located off S.R. 56 and Cypress Ridge Blvd., at 2312 Crestover Ln. For appointments and more information, call 994-6111.

Starbucks Stores Go Completely Smokeless

The seemingly age-old combination of stimulants, coffee and cigarettes has parted ways at Starbucks Coffee Co. stores nationwide, as the coffee chain moves toward making its locations completely smoke-free, inside & out. As of June 1, smoking is no longer

permitted outside of the 7,000 companyowned Starbucks locations nationwide, including the two stores in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area: at Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. and Highwoods Preserve Pkwy. and in front of the Shoppes at New Tampa shopping plaza, located at BBD and S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel. “Starbucks takes pride in providing a comfortable environment at our stores where customers and members of the community gather,” Starbucks Coffee Co. spokeswoman Jamie Riley. “Effective June 1, Starbucks’ existing no-smoking policy was expanded to include outdoor seating areas of company-owned stores in the U.S. and Canada.” Company-owned stores are considered stand-alone locations or stores that are located in shopping plazas, Riley says. Stores that are located inside larger stores, such as the Target location on BBD at County Line Rd. or inside the Barnes & Noble at the Shops at Wiregrass mall, will not carry the same policy. If the shopping plaza permits it, customers can still smoke outside of that larger store. “We always value our customers feedback, and we take seriously our responsibility to provide all customers a safe, healthy environment that is consistent across our company-owned stores,” Riley says. “We sincerely thank all customers for their support and cooperation.” Starbucks has more than 400 company-owned stores in Florida alone. - MW

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL H E L P

W A N T E D H O M E

PHYSICAL THERAPIST – An established New Tampa outpatient clinic is hiring a part-time PT to provide customized, one-on-one care. Fax resume to (813) 994-3080 HELP WANTED - Looking for licensed hairstylists. full time or part time looking for the right person to work in a fun, family atmosphere. If interested call (813) 973-1514 and ask for Bonnie. HELP WANTED - Medical Billing Personnel, part-time, flexible hours, Local PT Clinic. Fax resume to (813) 994-3080. HELP WANTED - Hiring housekeeper, with car and valid driver’s license. Spanish a plus. Call: 813.758.9710 or 813.758.9745 NOW INTERVIEWING - Experienced Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner & Medical Assistant position. F/T or P/T. To inquire please email resume to bobbie@fwctampa.net or call (813-994-0611 opt.1) and ask for Bobbie. HELP WANTED - Direct sales fashion jewelry company now hiring! Full time or part time. Bilingual a plus. No experience required. Will train. Commission paid weekly. Earn free jewelry and free trips. Reward for qualified referrals. Get paid to help women accessorize one on one or with a girls night out. Call 813.504.5788. HELP WANTED : LPN - part time/weekdays (2 to 3). 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Allergy/asthma experience a plus. Call (813) 971-9743, extension 108. HELP WANTED - Transaction Manager for Top Producing Real Estate Team. Must Have: At least 1 yr Real Estate experience and working knowledge of listing file from pre-listing to closing. Excellent organizational skills, time management skills & work ethic. Dedication to exceptional customer service. Perform & multi-task well in a fast paced environment. Attention to detail, Outlook, Word, Excel, Top Producer, ResNet and MLS skills. A "Yes, I can do it" attitude, confidence & maturity, Email resume with salary history.

C A R

S E R V I C E S

CAR SERVICES – Don’t Have a Ride? Don’t Want to Leave Your Car? Shouldn’t Drive? We Drive You and Your Car Home! Night Clubs, Corporate Events, Sporting Events, Concerts, Appointments, Airport or Stranded... Call Jay at (813) 966-1530.

Classifıeds I M P R O V E M E N T

DRY WALL SPECIALIST - Not a handyman. Affordable Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings and walls, retexturing, popcorn removal, room additions, cracks, holes, plaster and stucco repair. 26 Years Experience. Wesley Chapel resident. State Certified. Call Ron for free estimate (813) 784-5999 NEED HOME MAINTENANCE – Almost any job, large or small, ext/int, fencing , screening, sm. concrete, sprinklers, painting, repairs, int. doors, locks, sheet rock, windows, paint, caulk, grout, trim, shelving, garages organized. Installations, removals, pressure washing, wood restoration & more. Call Dale’s Home Maintenance @ 973-0194 or 727-2582. GREG’S PAPERHANGING – For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed & insured, clean, quick & reasonable. Call 973-2767 for free estimate. RAYMOND PAINTING – Interior & Exterior pressure washing, paper hanging, plaster, stucco, tiles, clean & seal pavers, roofing leaks, etc. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free Estimates. Your Neighborhoond Arbor Greene Resident. We work 7 days. Call 994-5124. DAVID BRIDGES PRESSURE CLEANING Complete exterior cleaning of your home or business with a professional and personal touch. - Pool decks and screen enclosures - All fencing/ driveways and walkways/roofs - Gutter and downspouts. Find your happiness in a fresh, bright clean home. Your neighbors will love you for it! All work guaranteed. Licensed and insured. (813) 215-1177 WEST COAST FLOORING INC - Hardwood, Laminate, and Carpet; Over 25 years experience in sales and installations; Repairs: Large and small jobs; We even do exterior pavers; Free estimates - Call Doug at (813) 215-4817 HANDYMAN SERVICES - Handyman Services, Disposal and fan installations. Painting, dry wall repair, calking, tile and wooden floor installations, gutter cleaning, and much more. Great prices! Call 813.907.6994. D & D PRESSURE WASHING - licensed and insured. We clean driveways, sidewalks, homes, pool decks, screen enclosures, fences and other items. Free estimates. Call Dina or Doug 813-949-5131

R E A L

E S T A T E

RENTAL - Short-term rental in prestigious golf community. Fully furnished. July/August. Wesley Chapel. 3 br/2bath/2 car garage. Call Sharon at 813.967.5677

E FITNESS & WELLBEING

FIND YOUR DREAM HOME FROM YOUR CELL PHONE! - Wish you could see home details while you are driving around looking at homes? NOW YOU CAN! With Team Bohannon's Mobile MLS Search application, you can search for any home in the area on your cell phone. Check out price, beds/baths, details, maps, even photos – all from the convenience of your cell phone. SEARCH PROPERTIES WHENEVER AND WHEREVER YOU WANT! GET IT NOW - Text: MLS4YOU to: 87778 Compliments of Doug, Annette and Dale Bohannon Coldwell Banker (813) 979-4963 EXECUTIVE OFFICES - from $375-$525/mo. New Tampa Professional Park located in Pebble Creek Behind Chase Bank off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. and Regents Park Drive. Call Gail Lynch today at 813973-4155 WAREHOUSE/OFFICE COMBO - 920 S.F. of A/C space - $1150.00/mo. Plus electric, no CAMS. Great for Shipping/Receiving/Storage or just need a large open area with attached office and overhead garage door. Located in Pebble Creek off Bruce B Downs Blvd. and Regents park Drive. Call Gail Lynch today at 813-973-4155

COMPUTER SERVICES PROFESSIONAL TECH SUPPORT – in your home or small business. A+ certified computer tech with 20 years of exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades & tutoring. More affordable than the large chains! Friendly, personalized svc. Technical jargon explained in plain English. Remote assistance available. References available upon request. Call 957-8342 for free estimate. DO YOU HATE YOUR COMPUTER?!? - WE CAN HELP YOU! Troubleshooting, installation, networking & virus removal. WE COME TO YOU! Servicing residential & businesses, w/ over 25 years experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank (813) 973-4507 today! www.WSICA.COM; Wsica@wsica.com

P O O L

S E R V I C E S

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!! New customer’s ONE MONTH FREE! Call Chris Today @ (813) 857-5400 or visit www.TranquilityPoolService.com AQUATEC POOL SERVICE - keeping pools clear & swim safe since 1994. WE DO POOLS RIGHT! Commercial & Residential. CPO #33-303052 Licensed & Insured. Service guarantee. Call (813) 312-5694 TODAY and get 1 MONTH OF QUALITY SERVICE FOR FREE. www.aquatecpool.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

TAI CHI CLASSES - open to the public at the Club Tampa Palms. Benefits: Strength, Flexibility, Balance, Focus and reduced stress. New Beginner 6 week courses starting every few months. Adults Course: Thursday evening’s 7-8 pm. Seniors Course: Tuesday afternoons 12-1 pm. Space is limited! Also personal instruction in Tai Chi, Kempo Karate, Boot Camp Fitness training and more. With more than 30 years of training and teaching experience. Please contact me for more details or go to: chuan-fa.org. Peter #787-7560 or E-mail peter@chuan-fa.org LICENSED MOBILE MASSAGE THERAPIST Available seven days a week, 9am -9pm. $55 for 1 hour! Types of massage available: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Aroma Therapy, Hot Stone, Corporate Seated, Pregnancy, Sports & Injury Rehab. References available. www.barkdollmassagetherapy.com CALL (727) 372-6389 Lic #MA47546. GROUP THERAPY CLASSES – 4 groups starting: 1) Adult Stress Management, 2) Children’s Social Skills, 3) Parenting Skills, and 4) Mind-Body Wellbeing. Cost: $20-$30 per week. Conducted by licensed therapists with over 10 years of experience. Limited Space, Call Today. We also provide individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. Call Dr. Brad Palermo, Licensed Psychologist – (813)-666-5885 www.Tampa-Therapy.com SENIOR CARE HELP - Homemaker, Companion, and Personal Care Services. Light Housekeeping, Transportation, Wellness Checks Meal Preparation, Respite Care. Alzheimer's Care, Licensed Bonded and Insured Acti-Kare Responsive In-Home Care. 813-319-9143

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! (813) 420-4465

TAMPA CAT LADY- Professional Cat-Sitting Service. Cats are happiest in their own home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, & smells. When you are away, we feed, cuddle, & play with your kitties & clean & dispose of litter. Insured, bonded, & Red-Cross certified in pet first aid/CPR. Call 994-9449 or visit www.TampaCatLady.com. NEW TAMPA PET SITTING SERVICES Under New Ownership! Please call Larisa at (813) 5463887. Thank-you for your business over ALL these years! Please call Marina at (813) 416-5301 for references!

CLEANING

S E R V I C E S EDUCATION

D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE - We have our own supplies & more than 300 clients in New Tampa! For more information, Call 758-9710. M.Y. CLEANING SERVICE - Offering Residential cleaning. We offer complete bath & kitchen cleaning, as well as dusting and polishing furniture. We provide our own supplies. Free estimates! Your satisfaction is our priority! With 5 years of experience, we guarantee meticulous cleaning! Call Mila: (813) 516-3554. DISCOUNT JUNK REMOVAL!!! - No job to big or to small! Same day service. Senior discount. Servicing the New Tampa & Wesley Chapel, as well as surrounding areas for over 11 years. Furniture, yard debris, garage clean out, and any other items. Call Lamar Today – 813.285.4674. V&J CLEANING SERVICES, LLC. Residential-Commercial cleaning. Quality service. Affordable rates. Reliable, flexible scheduling. Supplies & equipment provided. Call Elizabeth for free estimates - 813.454.3082. CLEAN FIRST TIME - Let Clean First Time of Hillsborough serve you! We offer office cleaning, new home/renovation construction cleaning, Community Center cleaning, window cleaning and more, at times and intervals to suit you! We are fully insured and can provide current references. If a good work ethic and attention to detail are important to you, give us a call! 813.313.8468 BELLA’S CLEANING SERVICES - Reliable, affordable, professional, detail oriented. I have references. Free estimates. I have many satisfied customers in New Tampa, with five years experience. Call: 941-5447451.

BABYSITTING

PROFESSIONAL TENNIS LESSONS - Recently relocated USPTA/PTR teaching professional available for private/group/team tennis lessons. Former Head Tennis Professional at the #2 and #3 Tennis Resorts in the U.S. Past coach of former #1 singles player at the University of Florida. Call Steve Brady at (843) 422-3993 or email sbrady@hargray.com AFTER SCHOOL CARE - Drop off/pick up, Help with Homework, Transportation to after school activities. Age appropriate recreational activities. Snack/ Meal Preparation. Licensed, Bonded and Insured Acti- Kare Responsive In-Home Care 813-319-9143

F U N

G A M E S

BRIDGE PLAYERS WANTED - Daytime. Weekdays. Once, twice, or more per month for three hour sessions in selected homes of members in New Tampa or Wesley Chapel. Actual schedule depends on availability of players. One-two tables maximum. Party bridge, not Duplicate. Intermediate level. Enjoyable, warm, casual people. Free. No frills. For details call Harry at 813-907-2541 or Jane at 813-355-3665.

Call The Neighborhood News

813-910-2575 To Place Your Listing Today

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

More Pics From Freedom & Wharton High’s Graduation (from pg. 41)

We congratulate the Class of 2013 from New Tampa’s two high schools, but also know that many local residents attend private and other out-ofarea high schools (including the King High International Baccalaureate program), so please send pics and information about your graduate(s) to our website, NTNeighborhoodNews.com. And, to all of this year’s graduates, good luck in whatever you do from the New Tampa Neighborhood News!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 13 • June 22, 2013 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

PORTFOLIO POR TFOLIO OF FINE HOMES Mayfair

Live Oak

Lancaster

4 Bed + Bonus | 3 Bath | 2 Car Garage 3,028 SF | Built 2006 | Cul-De-Sac Offered Offered for $274,900

Stonington

West W est Meadows

Hunters Gr Green een

4 Bed + Den + Loft | 6.5 Bath 3 Car Garage | 4,915 SF | Built 1988 Private Lot | Of Offered ffer f ed for $799,000

4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Car Garage 1,789 SF | Built 1997 | Conservation Offered Of ffer f ed for $205,000

Lancaster

Stonelake Ranch

4 Bed + Den + Bonus | 3 Bath 3 Car Garage | 3,727 SF | Built 2003 Pool | Of Offered Offer fered for $679,900

6 Bed + Office/Den Office/Den + Theater/Game Room 4.5 Bath | 4 Car Garage | 6,566 SF | Built 2012 1.5 Acr Acre e Lake Estate | Of Offered fered for $1,695,000

4 Bed + Den | 3 Bath | 2 Car Garage 2,585 SF | Built 1991 | Pool/Spa Offered Of ffer f ed for $300,000

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