New Tampa Neighborhood News, Volume 28. Issue 13, June 23, 2020 by Neighborhood News

Volume 28 Issue 13 June 23, 2020

Inside: Check Out The New Lima!

See pages 32-33!

Protests Hit Close To Home For Some Local leaders find themselves hopeful for change as marches, protests and urban unrest facilitate a debate.

By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com State Representative Fentrice Driskell says she has lived with racism her entire life, but not nearly as long as her parents Joel and Terry did While there weren’t any protests in New Tampa, just a few miles up Bruce B. Downs Blvd. growing up the segregated south. in Wesley Chapel, a hundred or so people gathered to make their voices heard. However, as the country begins (Photo courtesy of Susan Boyle) to recover from the rage and retribusee the realization of the dream that about race in America. tion of weeks of protests and marches Martin Luther King was fighting for.” “This has gotten everyone’s atfollowing the death of George Floyd While none of the local protests tention,” Driskell says. “I think this while in police custody on May 25, and marches took place in New Tam- is the greatest chance that we’ve had it is her parents’ optimism that fills pa, there was one a few miles north since the Civil Rights movement (of Driskell, the State Rep. for District outside of the Shops at Wiregrass, as the 1960s) to make some positive 63, which includes New Tampa, with well as a few miles to the south, in the changes.” high expectations for the future. University of South Florida area along This time, she says, it feels differ*** ent. It feels lasting. It feels productive. E. Fowler Ave. What started as a visceral reacThe rain poured down on Susan “The hope and optimism they tion to the death of Floyd beneath the Boyle and her daughter Emma on feel is wonderful,” Rep. Driskell says knee of a Minneapolis police officer June 6, but it did not deter them of her parents. “They are so excited as they stood at the intersection of that in their lifetime, they may actually has grown into a larger conversation

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S.R. 56 and Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in Wesley Chapel, taking part in their first-ever protest together on June 6. Like many in this country, Susan, a Meadow Pointe resident, was moved by the images on television — the death of Floyd, the massive crowds that protested his death — and felt like she wanted to do something. “It was heartbreaking seeing Mr. Floyd killed on TV while I watched,” Susan said. “I wanted to be part of the group saying ‘Enough is enough.’” So, she and Emma, a junior at Wiregrass Ranch High, stood in the rain. They sang songs of protest. They moved from corner to corner at the intersection, along with 100 or so others, many waving homemade signs, others just waving their hands, and with everyone chanting various songs and slogans. She said the experience was overwhelmingly positive from passersby. One driver, stopped at a red light, even reached out to hand her an umbrella before speeding off. The unpleasant weather did little to dampen their enthusiasm. Susan is like many people in this See “Protests” on page 4.

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What, If Anything, Can We Do About Systemic Racism?

An editorial by Gary Nager Floyd’s death after those first few nights have been peaceful. Considering that the shooting of I would be lying if I Brooks took place only a couple of days before said I understood how people this issue went to press and the Wendy’s where of color in this country feel he was killed was looted and then burnt to the every day about being black or ground the following night, it remains to be seen brown in America. if violent protests will continue to be an issue. So while, like most white I have been encouraged, however, by local Americans, I personally don’t elected officials like Tampa Mayor Jane Castor care what color the people were (in blue in photo) and New Tampa’s City Counwho died recently at the hands cil member Luis Viera who have been getting (and knees) of law enforcement officers were out in the community with the protesters, trying black, brown, green or any color, religion or to make a difference. orientation, I completely understand the outrage being felt again by so many of us who witnessed Taking Action what amounted to the recent public executions Before the Rayshard Brooks situation, I of George Floyd and Rayshard Brooks. wrote about the aftermath of the Floyd killing in As everyone surely knows by now, Floyd our June 9 Wesley Chapel issue and I was very — who was killed about four weeks ago by former Minneapolis Police Office Derek Chauvin as three other now-former officers watched — was being arrested (but not resisting arrest) for passing a counterfeit $20 bill at a store. Three weeks later, Brooks was shot dead by now-former Atlanta Police Officer Garrett Rolfe after trying to run away from being arrested at a Wendy’s. Although Brooks certainly did resist arrest and tried to run away from the scene, the fact he stole the Taser from one of the officers and fired it at them from a distance makes his situation different from Floyd’s, but still begs the same nagging question: If either of these men were white, would they still be alive today? Yes, I believe all four cops (the others let him be killed) shown in a video thankfully released the day after Floyd was killed should go to jail for murder. And no, I don’t understand why Floyd was targeted by these cops to receive this particular abuse of their power, especially in light of something that happened to Jannah and me only a year ago. When we got married in March of 2019, some of our attendees gave us gifts of cash, including a few people who each gave us a $100 bill as a gift. However, when we tried to pay a tab at a local bar with one of those $100 bills, we were informed that the bill was counterfeit. But, rather than have us arrested — at least in part because the bar owner knew us from previous visits and said it was obvious we didn’t know the bill was no good — all he did was ask us to use an alternate method of payment. I then took the bill to my bank, which told me that all they could do was take the bill out of circulation, which meant that we lost that $100 gift. Oh well. One thing neither of us lost, however, was our life. No one handcuffed us or held us down to our pleas of “I can’t breathe.” Today, it’s hard not to imagine that same situation ending with either of us dead after being suffocated for 8 minutes and 46 seconds. Likewise, if a white man in Atlanta perhaps had too much to drink and fell asleep in a fastfood drive-through lane, would the white police officers trying to arrest that white man have used deadly force to stop him? It’s horrifying to me that black, brown, Asian and LGBTQ people are targeted for this type of behavior so often in this country. Something has to change. And yes, I understand why peaceful protests can and should be part of that solution. Unfortunately, looting and setting fire to stores owned by people who literally had nothing to do with those situations should never be the target of those protests. But, they unfortunately too often are — as seen around the country once again in the aftermath of Floyd’s murder, although, thankfully, most of the protests of Neighborhood News

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pleased at three emails/ letters I received since then from black readers who appreciated my take on the current situation and offered words of advice and encouragement and something much more valuable to me than just the kind words: Two of the readers even offered to help start and/ or get involved with a local grassroots movement that might help stem the tide of systemic racism and build better communication here. I therefore am looking for people in New Tampa who also want to help. What can we do? I really don’t know. I just know I want to try. Black, white or otherwise, email me at ads@ ntneighborhoodnews.com if you do, too.

INSIDE:

Adjustments made as summer camps open around New Tampa.

Page 8

Gentle Hands Ob/Gyn adds a second doctor to serve you better.

Pages 16-17

Lima brings the delicious cuisine of Peru to New Tampa!

Pages 32-33

New Tampa Neighborhood News Address: 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Publisher & Editor /Ad Sales Gary Nager Managing Editor / Photographer John C. Cotey Correspondents Celeste McLaughlin • Eric Vician Lead Video Producer/Multimedia Specialist Charmaine George Photography & Videography Richard Nasrallah • Benjamin Hobe • Amy Stewart Graphic Designers Georgia Carmichael • Valerie Wegener Billing Assistant Jannah Nager

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 advertisement reservations for Volume 28, Issue 15, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, July 6, 2020. New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously nonpublished 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.

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Protests: Anger over George Floyd’s death sparks a movement that may be transformational. Continued from page 1

country — aware there was a problem, but unsure of what, if anything, she could do about it. But, said she would go to another march if one was held nearby, and will get more involved. While she has seen her fair share of arguments over the merits of going to a protest, especially during a pandemic, on social media, she said there is something almost spiritual about being amongst people of all different colors and ages fighting for the same thing — and for the right thing. She can’t help but feel she is watching what she thinks might be a transformational moment in our nation’s history. “There is a tipping point when you see that people are starting to get behind an actual movement, instead of just a few days of lip service and then on to the next disaster,” she says. “When it started gaining traction, it was heartening to me, but I’m also prepared to be devastated if nothing changes. If nothing changes, then this country can’t change.” *** Dean Reule, the pastor at Cypress Point Church on Morris Bridge Rd.,

says the murder of Floyd “both breaks and awakens our souls.” In a written statement, he urges people, particularly those who are white, to be humble, not defensive, and to be informed. “Please do not look away,” he writes. “Don’t minimize racial stereotyping, racial bias and justice issues. Research and study and pray with an open mind and heart. (l.-r.) Richmond Place resident and CEO of the University Area Genuinely seek to learn, CDC Susan Combs, Tampa City Council member Luis Viera and opening yourself to bet- State Rep. Fentrice Driskell participated in a prayer walk organized ter understand the expeby the Crossover Church on Fowler Ave. riences of those different testers and looters who hurt many of than you.” the local businesses along E. Fowler That is something Tampa City Ave. and Busch Blvd. — both areas in Council member Luis Viera, whose his district — on May 30, but praised District 7 includes New Tampa, has the efforts the following day, when preached long before protests, march- those who actually live in the commues and (unfortunately) riots took over nity gathered together to begin cleanlarge swaths of the country. ing up. Viera was joined by Tampa While the protests over Floyd’s Mayor Jane Castor in meeting with death weren’t as acute in Tampa as residents to listen to their concerns. they were in other bigger cities, Viera “I’d say this issue is a challenge to says it still opened many wounds. us all,” Viera says. “No matter where Viera was critical of violent prowe live, we all have a duty to act.

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We need to build bridges and make historical wrongs right. I think you can feel a sense of urgency on the part of people.” Viera and Rep. Driskell marched together with congregants of Crossover Church on Fowler Ave. and community members to the site of some of the burned buildings to pray for racial justice and peace on June 6, as well as deliver gift baskets to the business owners hurt by the looting. The two elected officials also are working together on efforts to build a memorial for victims of lynching in Hillsborough County. To find racial harmony, Rep. Driskell says it will require “uncomfortable conversations.” And, for the first time in her lifetime, she feels both sides are ready to finally have them. “I hope that everyone would know and feel and believe that they have something to add to the conversation,” Driskell says. “It really is going to take everybody in the community to come to the table and have those tough conversations. But, I am absolutely optimistic it can be done, and I feel activated and energized and proud that so many people are ready for it.”

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Wharton Sends Off Its Class Of 2020 In Style!

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Although Covid-19 cases have been surging of late, principals county-wide are hoping that modified graduation events with social distancing can still be held. (Photo courtesy of Wharton High Yearbook staff)

Graduates Holding Out Hope For Ceremony At Fairgrounds By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN High schools across the country have had to get creative with how to recognize graduates in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, including fun celebrations such as the car parade New Tampa’s Wharton High held on May 26 on the school’s campus (see photos on next page). At Wharton, Freedom High in Tampa Palms and at schools across Hillsborough County, students and parents are still holding out hope they will get to participate in an in-person graduation ceremony, just (hopefully only) a couple of months later than originally planned. The Hillsborough County School District had previously announced graduations would be held between July 13 and 22 at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall off U.S. 301 in Tampa. As local and state regulations become less restrictive, plans are moving forward to make these ceremonies happen: • Wharton’s graduation is scheduled for Friday, July 17, at 12:30 p.m. Freedom’s graduation is scheduled for Saturday, July 18, at 9 a.m.

“The plans for graduation are tentative, pending whatever the guidelines are at that point,” says Wharton principal Mike Rowan. “We’re working with the fairgrounds and there’s a plan to have everyone social distanced, including both the graduates and their families in the stands.” There will likely be a limit on the number of guests each graduate can bring, and those who attend can expect to be ushered out quickly, so that the space can be cleaned for the next group of graduates coming in. Despite the unusual circumstances, and the fact that the delayed date may interfere with vacations and college visits for many students, Rowan expects most of Wharton’s Class of 2020 will still end up being there. “I think right now the feedback has been that most of our students will attend,” he says. “We realize some may not be able to, but a lot of the colleges and universities are doing stuff online so we’re not losing them to going off to summer classes. We will miss some students, but not like a normal year.”

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Public & Private Summer Camp Programs Start Slowly By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Summer camps at the New Tampa Recreation Center (NTRC) have finally begun this week for eager — and maybe, a little stir crazy — kids and parents, as the city expands some of its preliminary offerings. Seven different City of Tampa sites with gymnasiums hosted Summer Kickoff Camps through June 19, which took a cautious approach, with limited numbers. On June 22, the Rec Summer Camps kicked off on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Summer Kickoff Camps had limited groups and served almost as a test run, as the city tries to figure out the best practices for new, more stringent protocols for social distancing and cleanliness. “We’d like to be going full-bore right now, but that wasn’t feasible,” says Heather Erickson, the City of Tampa’s manager of aquatics, athletics and special facilities. “We have been very conservative.” The NTRC did not host kickoff camps. It had been closed since March due to the Covid-19 pandemic, although construction on the center’s expansion, which will be completed later this summer, has continued throughout. The city also was able to make a number of improvements all of its facilities. “The silver lining is that we’ve been able to replace all of our lights in our gyms, and the place is cleaner than it’s ever been,” Erikson says. The NTRC eased back into things by allowing its softball teams to begin practicing and opening the first week in June for some of its competitive and more advanced dance teams. The tumbling mats are mopped between each group, coaches are wearing masks and hospital-grade organic antibacterial fogger is used every 28 days to keep the air as germ-free as possible. “We have some pretty crazy safety protocols in place,” Erickson says,

Nyree Bland, it meant she could finally breathe again. “I am grateful to be opened again. It’s good to be back,” says Bland who, along with her husband (and former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver) Tony, has been running PROtential sports camps locally for 17 years. Meanwhile, Bland says PROtential’s camps usually have 100plus participants at each location, but will be limited to 25 percent of their usual capacity in the early going this summer. She has canceled the field trips that are usually a part of the PROtential Sports summer camp The New Tampa Recreation Center began hosting summer camps this week after easing back into experience. things a few weeks earlier with its dance programs. (Photo: Tampa Parks). Counselors will be taking the “but this is the new normal.” All Summer Camps Get The temperatures of each camper daily. By starting with the older, more The groups will be kept smaller than Green Light experienced kids, who are all part of usual, since some of the activities are held On June 1, roughly 20 kids showed the year-round programs offered at the indoors. up at the first PROtential Sports camp of NTRC, the facility was able to get a feel “The parents we have talked to that the summer at Heritage Isles. for the new standards. are coming are super excited,” Bland says. Two weeks later, a similarly-sized “The hardest thing is not letting “Some aren’t ready. I think it is about 50group began camp at the Seven Oaks them hug the coaches,” Erickson says. 50. So, we’ll be a lot smaller. But, it’s the Community Club in Wesley Chapel. “They all really missed each other.” new normal, and I’m embracing it.” For PROtential Sports co-owner Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ended all restrictions on youth activities for the state on May 22, but other than directing people to the CDC guidelines, offered little direction. Erickson says the NTRC is offering four different summer camps, and typically they host 175 or so kids. She said the summer numbers will be a moving target this year, and could contract or expand depending upon how the camps unfold. As anyone who has ever coached a large group of 9-year-olds can attest, enforcing group social distancing is simple only in theory. “I sure wish we had a manual for this,” says Erickson. “We’re really writing it as we go.”

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New Date Set For WC Aldi’s Opening!

Here at the Neighborhood News, we get an inordinate number of phone calls asking “Is this Aldi?” and “Are you open yet?” We’re not sure why, other than Google must be taking many a curious reader to our website, where at least a handful of stories about the Germanybased discount-grocer reside. Finally, however, we can give the next caller an answer. Aldi, located at 2215 Sun Vista Dr. (on the southeast corner of S.R. 56 and Wesley Chapel Blvd.), is now expected to open on Wednesday, July 1 — But after they’re previouslykeenly announcing work in retirement. June 17 as the opening date, which ach year. Learn what’s involved we put in a short articleinincreating the June 9 Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News. But, with all of the Covid-19 crament. But they’re ziness keenly postponing everything, we still ars what’s involved in creating don’t have details about the plans for t the Grand Opening, but they should ant be available soon at Neighborhoody. NewsOnline.net.

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Exit Closed at I-75/56

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has closed the right turn exit off southbound I-75 onto westbound The long-awaited Aldi store on S.R. 56 is S.R. 56 as construction now expected to open on July 1. of the much-anticipated diverging diamond ALDI has nearly 2,000 stores interchange (DDI) across 36 states, and is on track to become the third-largest U.S. grocery continues apace. Exit 275 of I-75 retailer by store count by the end of “will remain closed 2022. It carries mostly lesser known until approximately Aubrands, and many products can be gust 2020 or longer,” had at deep discounts compared with according to FDOT. other stores. The access to The Aldi store has been a long eastbound S.R. 56 time coming for the Wesley Chapel from northbound I-75 area. The company first approached remains open. Pasco County planners about a site FDOT is asking near The Grove on S.R. 54 back in that I-75 southbound 2015. Those plans were scrapped for a drivers use Exit 279 at S.R. 54, where different location on the north side of they can take C.R. 54/Wesley Chapel S.R. 56, before being altered again for Blvd. to S.R. 56. its current location on the south side The DDI construction has been of 56, in front of Costco. ongoing during the Covid-19 crisis, New Tampa’s recently announced as crews works towards finalizing the project by late 2021 or early 2022. Aldi store on Bruce B. Downs Blvd., The $33-million DDI is expected in the former location of Ruby Tuesto ease congestion from C.R. 54 on day, is still in the planning stages and the west side of I-75 to Cypress Ridge has not begun building. — JCC

Blvd. on the east side of the interstate. The new interchange will create more continuous green time through the failed intersection for traffic. The project also includes a pedestrian bridge that will cross over the interchange, and the long back-up in peak evening hours off northbound I-75 — which currently can stretch for two miles — will be reduced to less than 500 feet, thanks to an additional lane. — JCC

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Getting Lost In Flatwoods Not As Crazy As It Sounds! By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) rescued two hikers from New Tampa’s Flatwoods Wilderness Park on June 4, a fact that could make those who regularly use the popular 7-mile biking loop wonder: How did that happen? Social media teased the hikers, who were not identified, although some also sympathized with them. But hikers, particularly inexperienced ones, getting lost in Flatwoods Park -which has entrances on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. and Morris Bridge Rd. -- or even one of the area’s hidden gems, the New Tampa Nature Park (which can be entered off Dona Michele Dr.), isn’t really as crazy as it sounds. This past December, an avid hiker made the news when she got lost for two hours in Flatwoods, and had to call the HCSO, which sent in a helicopter to help with the search. “It happens now and again,” says Jan Kirwan, the City of Tampa’s conservation parks coordinator. Combined, the two parks, which are connected, have more than 31 miles of wilderness hiking trails. While most of the

The most recent hikers lost in Flatwoods Park were found by HCSO’s Aviation Unit (top left) with help from the light from their cell phones. While some hikers may lose their way, biking (top right) is the more popular, and less confusing way, to get around the 5,400-acre wilderness park.

trails are marked, Kirwan says that some are more primitive than others. HCSO’s Aviation Unit, which is used to assist in rescues and arrests, was able to locate the most recent hikers to get turned around at Flatwoods thanks to their cell phone lights. The aviation unit then directed park rangers to their location. According to the 9-1-1 call, a man and his friend were on the popular Panther Path, one of the park’s off-road trails, but ended up near a swampy area on the west side of the park towards I-75. While Kirwan says people can get lost, “If you are familiar with following a trail then you shouldn’t have any problem.” Sometimes, hikers will inadvertently follow an animal trail that bisects the regular trails.

But, if you venture off the beaten path, be prepared. Kirwan says cell phone service is not always available in the park, and if you are relying on maps on your phone, you could find yourself without any directions. It’s always smart, she says, to have a compass on hand. Mostly, however, inexperienced hikers sometimes find themselves misdirected when they try to stretch their trip out. “People don’t realize how dark it can get,” Kirwan says. “It’s not like there are lights out there, and under the trees there’s not much moonlight that gets through. It looks very, very different in the dark.” That’s why the hours of the park are generally dawn to dusk. The recent hiker

rescue began with a 9-1-1 call at 9:24 p.m., after the park had closed. While neither Flatwoods or the New Tampa Nature Park are advanced hiking areas, they are a step up from, say, Lettuce Lake Park off Fletcher Ave., which is only 240 acres. Lettuce Lake, Kirwan says, is more of a gateway park into the wilderness parks in New Tampa, which offer a plethora of trails and wildlife. “You see a lot of bird (watchers) in the morning, and there’s plenty of other animals like deer, turkeys, hares and wild hogs,” Kirwan says. “It should be a fun little hike. Just remember, it’s always good to let someone know where you’re going. Then, if you don’t get back, they know where you were.”

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Business Notes: Former Ray Opens F45 In Highwoods, Coding For Kids & The Taaza Mart! By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneightborhoodnews.com Matt Joyce (photo) has played 12 seasons in the major leagues, signing most recently to play this year for the Miami Marlins, but he knows he can’t play baseball forever. A big part of his transition into expanding his post-baseball portfolio kicked off June 13, with the Grand Opening of F45 Training off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in The Walk at Highwoods Preserve, next to some new restaurants (see page 34). Joyce, an opening day starter in the outfield for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2009 and a Rays All-Star representative in 2011, his wife Brittany and business partner Blair Johnson have bought into the F45 Training franchise, and the New Tampa location is the first of theirs to open. Another location at Sparkman Wharf in downtown Tampa is just beginning construction, and Joyce expects to open another three by the summer of 2021. Although the New Tampa F45 Fitness has been open since May 23, with attendance limited by Covid-19 restrictions, the Grand Opening capped the first week at full throttle for the fitness center, which stresses Functional 45-minute workouts; hence, F45. The music was booming, instructions were barked out and dozens of fitness-minded folks went through high intensity workouts throughout the day, as Joyce expressed delight at the turnout.

Photo by John C. Cotey

“Getting it open is really the silver lining in all of this,” said Joyce, who has been a constant presence at the center since Major League Baseball postponed spring training Mar. 12. “It’s been a whirlwind offseason.” During spring training with the Marlins, Johnson was making sure the build-out at F45 was going smoothly as Joyce handled the administrative duties. But, with no baseball, Joyce became a fixture at the New Tampa location and currently works out alongside members. Joyce and Johnson met by chance at Armature Works (north of downtown), where they ended up having a discussion about fitness. Johnson asked Joyce if he had ever heard of F45, which piqued his interest. After a few workouts at the Land

O’Lakes location, the former Ray was hooked. The idea of owning a franchise (or a few) was appealing, and the New Tampa location was an 18-month project. “I’m wired more for stuff like business, real estate and finance,” Joyce says. “I enjoy that side of things. So, it was a perfect combination.” Founded in Australia in 2011, F45 is high-intensity, low impact training and, according to its website, is the fastest-growing fitness franchise in the world. The smaller, more specialized instructor-led group workouts are similar to what competitors like Orangetheory and Row House do, but with what Joyce says is a greater variety of exercises, as F45 boasts more than 35 programs consisting of more than 1,300 different exercises. Joyce says the new location is continuing to grow an already solid membership base, and many of the classes, even the 5 and 6 a.m. classes, have had great turnouts. “We’ve crushed it,” Joyce says. “We really believe in it, people are enjoying it and we are getting fantastic reviews. I think a lot of people are going to like it.” Tell Joyce, Johnson and the staff at F45 (18035 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy.) that you read about them in Neighborhood News. For more info, call (813) 5604047. There also is a separate new F45 Training located at 10701 Cross Creek Blvd. For info, call (813) 522-5332.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 13 • June 23, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

CRACKING THE CODE: While Grain & Berry (see page 34) has the distinction of being the first business to open in the new Villages at Hunter’s Lake plaza, TheCoderSchool New Tampa (8632 Hunter’s Village Rd.) wasn’t far behind. Although TheCoderSchool didn’t begin its summer camps until June 22, the learning center held its sneak preview event on June 13, the same day Grain & Berry opened. Owned by Mike and Lesly Ramirez Olavarria, TheCoderSchool is a franchise focused on teaching kids to do computer coding year-round. Founded in 2014 with its headquarters in Silicon Valley, CA, the school offers after-school classes and summer camps for those interested in learning computer languages like Scratch, Python and Java. At the New Tampa location, there are classes for kids ages 7-18, who will learn to code and do things like build apps and present their projects at a Coder Fair. The teachers are professional coders, professionals who teach coding and computer science students at the University of South Florida, depending upon the level of class in which the student enrolls. Many of the classes have a 2-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio, to enhance learning. “We’re both in the IT field,” says Lesly (far right in photo on next page), “and coding has helped in our careers. We want to pass that on….it’s another tool for your tool belt.”

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Photo by Charmaine George

While the summer classes are in person, Lesly says the fall classes will depend upon what happens with the Covid-19 situation. The school has been able to hold online coding classes, and may continue to do so if the pandemic causes another disruption during the 2020-21 school year. That hasn’t stopped people from calling to sign up, however. “The phone has been ringing off the hook since we scheduled the Grand Opening,” Lesly says. Those who do call can get 25-percentoff their first month of classes, and a discount is available for summer camps as well. Lesly says she understands many have been affected by Covid-19, but she will try to work with anyone who is interested in classes. For more info, call TheCoderSchool New Tampa at (813) 422-5566. TAAZA INDIAN MART OPENS: Taaza Mart is now open in the Market Square at Tampa Palms plaza, occupying the former Staples location.

The first thing you notice when you walk in? It’s spacious, and feels much larger than its 16,500 square feet. The all-Indian grocery will be a welcome addition for New Tampa’s large Indian population, with its wide selection of fresh produce like Indian eggplant, dosakai, dudhi and others. It also offers Halal meats and there is an ample supply of various spices, as well as the largest selection of multiple varieties of basmati, sona masoori and ponni rice around. In the back of the store, a small café serves hot food from a South Indian menu that includes a dozen different types of dosa and an Indo-Chinese menu with various chicken and chili dishes, as well as curry fried rice and curry noodles. There also is a bakery. Taaza Mart (6260 Commerce Palms Dr.) has been open for just over a month, and is open Mon.-Thur., 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Fri.Sun. For more information, call (813) 564-8100 or visit taazamartfl.com.

Photo by John C. Cotey

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Gentle Hands Ob/Gyn: Care For Women, By Women you know and that your staff knows.” Dr. Ashby says there was a lot of thought put into the name of her practice. “‘Gentle Hands’ conjures up everything I want the practice to be,” she says. “Hands are holding and caring, gentle and inviting. We put the hands in our logo to personify that, and added the flower to represent us as women. There was a lot of thought behind it.”

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN As the second anniversary of her office’s grand opening approaches, Gentle Hands Ob/Gyn owner and obstetrician Gem Ashby, M.D., is happy to be watching her practice grow. “We see pregnant patients and nonpregnant patients,” Dr. Ashby says. “We love our jobs very much.” Gentle Hands is located about a mile east of I-75, just north of the intersection of S.R. 56 and Cypress Ridge Blvd. in Wesley Chapel. Gentle Hands offers “the full gamut” of obstetrics and gynecological care, including caring for patients with both lowrisk and high-risk pregnancies, plus issues such as contraception, abnormal bleeding, management of abnormal pap smears, pelvic pain, painful intercourse, bladder pain and menopausal symptoms. In addition, the physicians of Gentle Hands Ob/Gyn perform surgeries, including in-office procedures, plus robotic and laparoscopic surgeries, which are minimally invasive and allow women to have hysterectomies with shorter recovery times. They are affiliated with and deliver babies at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel.

Covid Crisis Safety

Dr. Gem Ashby (far left) and Dr. Kristen Witkowski (far right) and the all-female staff at Gentle Hands Ob/Gyn in Wesley Chapel provide quality, compassionate care for women of all ages. (Photos: Charmaine George) From 2009-17, Dr. Ashby spent eight more time (with our patients) if we need more time.” years with a corporate practice in Wesley She says her biggest complaint about Chapel. While she loved her work, she the corporate environment was being found herself frustrated with the restriccompelled to see a certain number of pations of the corporate environment and tients each day. She is happy to share that decided to start her own practice. Gentle Hands Ob/Gyn takes a different, “I think the biggest difference at Gentle Hands is that, as physicians, we get more patient-centered, approach. “You get to know the patients to practice medicine how we feel is appropriate without a corporation breathing better, because the patient is not just a number,” she says, “but a person that down our necks,” she says. “We can take

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Dr. Ashby and her staff also have employed a gentle touch when it comes to the Covid-19 crisis, implementing a number of safety measures for her patients and employees. “During the height of the crisis, we limited patients in the office to emergency patients and obstetrical patients,” Dr. Ashby says. “Now that the state has lifted the ban, we are slowly seeing patients again, and keeping social distance. The patients wear masks in the office, and everyone in the office wears masks all the time.” Dr. Ashby was born and raised in Barbados and moved to the U.S. when she was 19. She completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at Bloomfield College in Bloomfield, NJ. She then earned her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from

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the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark. She completed her residency training at the Florida State University program in Pensacola from 2005-09. She is Boardcertified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

New Doctor, More Care

Gentle Hands Ob/Gyn expanded last August when Kristen Witkowski, M.D., joined the practice. Dr. Witkowski also is Board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. She graduated from Loyola University of Chicago with a B.S. degree in Biology, then earned her M.D. degree at the University of Illinois at Chicago before completing her residency at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, also in Chicago. Dr. Ashby says she was pleased to welcome Dr. Witkowski to the office, allowing the two physicians to care for pregnant patients, which was almost impossible when Dr. Ashby was the sole practitioner. “You hardly ever find solo Ob/ Gyn practices anymore, because it leaves you very fatigued,” explains Dr. Ashby. “There’s always a possibility that you will have someone in labor.” While all Ob/Gyn practices are for

Dr. Witkowski administers an ultrasound to a Gentle Hands Ob/Gyn patient. women, Dr. Ashby says Gentle Hands is set apart because it is both owned by a woman and run by women. And, all nine staff members are women. “We have every type of woman on our staff,” Dr. Ashby explains. “They are diverse age-wise — both older and younger — and of almost every ethnicity. It helps us to remember what each type of woman wants, so it makes us better and caring. For example, if someone is older, she might not want to use a cell phone, whereas a younger woman might not want to fill out pages and pages of paperwork.”

Dr. Ashby says that the Gentle Hands office is modern — allowing women to use technology to sign in on their cell phones, check their labs online and other practices that make the office convenient. But, she says she draws the line at allowing technology to interfere with her relationship with the patients. She says she and Dr. Witkowski, along with their staff, won’t be using computers or a tablet or phone when they’re in the examination room with you. “I find doctors are on two extremes,” says Dr. Ashby. “They’re either so old

fashioned that everything is on paper, or so ‘teched out’ that the patient feels like no one’s paying attention to them. I feel that we have just the right balance.” Judy Ravenna says she has been a patient of Dr. Ashby’s for about 10 years, following the doctor to her new practice when she opened it in 2018. “She is the epitome of a really caring, knowledgeable physician,” says Judy. “She makes sure you feel comfortable and takes time to answer all your questions before she leaves the room.” Judy says she has referred many friends and neighbors to Dr. Ashby, and they have all had the same wonderful experience. “In today’s world, it seems like no one has time for you,” Judy says, “but she takes the time.” In addition to caring for the women of Wesley Chapel and New Tampa, Dr. Ashby does volunteer work at the JudeoChristian Clinic on N. MacDill Ave. in Tampa, a faith-based clinic for medically needy patients. She also speaks to community groups and at churches and high schools on women’s health topics. Gentle Hands Ob/Gyn is located at 2391 Old Myrtle Ln. in Wesley Chapel. To make an appointment, call (813) 803-2219. For more information, visit GentleHandsObGyn.com or see the ad on page 19.

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Let Clean-it Keep Your Home Or Office ‘Covid-Clean!’ By GARY NAGER

Is your home or office in need of a major cleaning? If you’ve been concerned about bringing someone into your home to clean during the Covid-19 pandemic, with Florida now in Phase 2 reopening under Gov. Ron Desantis’ plan, and the steps our friend Celly De Freitas of Clean-it and her crew take to make sure your home is left “Covid-clean,” I couldn’t recommend anyplace else to start looking for that help. Celly came to mine and Jannah’s medium-sized, two-bedroom apartment to find out what we expect to be cleaned every time she and/or members of her team arrive, how often we want them to clean and what things are either optional or don’t have to be cleaned on every visit. She walked through our pre-cleaned (does anyone not do that?) apartment with us to discuss, in some detail, what we want done in the bathroom, kitchen, each bedroom and the living room. Did we need her to clean our small terrace (nope), do dishes, start laundry or take out the garbage (we have valet trash, but she’ll tie it up and run it down to the dumpster if we need her to), or wipe down our baseboards? They even do windows if/when you need them to, etc.

Let’s Get Into It!

For that first cleaning, Celly cleaned our place herself, with one assistant, so that she could show that member of her team what her (and our) expectations are for each item on that checklist. She also will prep any other member of her crew who ends up cleaning a client’s home or office in the future about what they need to do to properly clean it, so there is never a drop-off in the quality of the cleaning when Celly doesn’t do the job herself, an issue we’ve had with other services. And, after that walk-through, the price Celly will quote you will often be lower than what you might expect (or perhaps, what you’ve paid before) for such high-quality cleaning. She always tries to have the same people cleaning our apartment whenever possible, but things can happen and she

Clean-it owner Celly De Freitas (left) posed without a mask for this picture, but all Clean-it staffers have been wearing masks and gloves to clean our editor’s apartment, even before the Covid-19 pandemic. Clean-it is accepting new clients now, so let them make your home or office sparkle, too!

will do everything she can to make sure she never misses a cleaning appointment, even if she has to be at our place on a different day than usual, and it genuinely matters to her that every client is just as happy with Clean-it as we have been. That quality control is probably more important to Celly than it has been to anyone else who has ever provided home or office cleaning services for me. It’s just the way she’s wired, the way she approached cleaning when she worked for someone else after she and her husband Roger and their two (then-)young sons, Henrique and Patrick, moved from their native Brazil 23 years ago and she worked in Tampa for another cleaning service. It’s the same way Celly has run Clean-it since she branched out on her own in 2013, and it shows. Although she does so with a beautiful accent, Celly speaks and understands English perfectly. Although some of her staff of eight speak only/mainly Portugese, Spanish or both, she will always respond to calls or texts of concern from her clients and will

make sure to fix anything they’re not happy with — if not right away, then definitely before the next time she sends anyone from her team to your place. “It’s always nice when people say nice things about us, tip the girls or especially, when they recommend us to someone else,” she says. “I like to keep all of my clients happy.”

Covid-Careful, Too!

Jannah and I were definitely concerned about bringing someone into our home to clean during the Covid-19 crisis, but here’s what we knew from the moment Clean-it started cleaning our place several months before the pandemic hit: She and her girls already wore masks and gloves, they always used their own environmentally-safe cleaning supplies and vacuum cleaner, our kitchen and bath surfaces had never been disinfected better nor had our place ever smelled better than it did after they were done. And, even though we usually leave the house while they’re cleaning, we’re always appreciative of the

quality of the job each time we return. Plus, she says that unlike many cleaning services, she didn’t furlough her employees and did everything she could to retain as many of her clients as possible when everyone was self-isolating. “Business has picked back up,” Celly says, “but it hasn’t been an easy time..for anyone.” Also, if you have kids and pets, she says, “We know they sometimes come into contact with cleaning products, whether from licking or just having their hands on the floor. So, we use products that won’t be harmful to their health.” Even so, she adds that Clean-it also is happy to use the cleaning products you use in your home if that’s what you prefer. To schedule a no-obligation consultation with Celly De Freitas of Clean-it, call (813) 505-0431 or email cleanitmc@gmail.com. For more information, see the ad on pg. 37 of this issue or search “Clean-it” on Facebook. Neighborhood News readers receive 10% off their first cleaning by mentioning this article.

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Cruz Motorsports Fixes Just About Any Vehicle Make & Model! By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Finding an auto mechanic you can trust is no easy job, which is why, typically, the first people you will ask for suggestions are your family members, friends and neighbors. If word of mouth is a good way to find the perfect mechanic — knowledgeable, accommodating, trustworthy, affordable and earnest — it is also invaluable to a repair shop when it comes to building a large client base. That explains why Wesley Chapel resident Christopher Cruz outgrew his mother’s garage and now runs Cruz Motorsports on N. Nebraska Ave., between Fletcher and Bearss Aves. in Tampa, only a few minutes south and west of New Tampa. “People trust me,” Cruz says. “I think Wesley Chapel resident Chris Cruz of Cruz Motorsports already was a popular mechanic in our area before moving his repair shop to N. Nebraska Ave. in Tampa. (Photos: Charmaine George) that’s one of the most important things to building a business. I’m honest.” in and fix it up and repaint it, and (the Cruz Motorsports can fix virtually After building a solid reputation in landlord) would waive my rent for the first anything — from remote control cars Wesley Chapel for his mobile services and month or two,” Cruz says. Since then, Cruz (some that Cruz says he has modified to honest repairs, Cruz opened his current has rented the adjoining units, knocked go 140 miles per hour) to jet skis and from location in 2016. down some walls, and now has four bays boats to motorcycles, and all makes of cars. With only $1,600 to his name, he equipped with lifts for cars, and a lobby. The shop offers all basic auto repairs moved into a reclamation project — a for“I had to piece it together,” Cruz on both foreign and domestic makes and mer stereo and audio shop in a shopping says. “It was a lot of work.” models, and Cruz Motorsports is one plaza that doesn’t look like your typical It was, however, worth it, as Cruz of the few local shops that will work on auto repair shop. has been able to expand his clientele belowrider cars — “Many people won’t even “The deal was that I would move yond New Tampa and Wesley Chapel. touch the alignments on them,” he says.

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Neighborhood News

Cruz Motorsports also does paint and body work, which many repair shops also won’t do. Cruz says he and his staff of two, including his former supervisor from his first job, try to stay in touch with their customers, including sending out reminders about oil changes to some of the younger customers so they can avoid blowing their engines. They also take pictures of what they are fixing to provide to car owners. Cruz says he has been repairing cars and motorcycles for seven years, since an accident gave him a firsthand look at how some mechanics take shortcuts. After wrecking his 2007 Suzuki GSXR motorcycle and getting it repaired, Cruz had to deal with a litany of problems with the bike. When he took it to a different mechanic, they discovered that it had been repaired with used parts, even though he was charged new part prices. He says he decided to learn how to do his own repairs by taking courses at the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, and soon started fixing bikes for his friends. That led Cruz to learn how to repair cars, landing jobs at a couple of shops, and picking up as much knowledge as he could. He wasn’t pleased with the busi-

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Redlin says that when the engine and temperature gauge blew on her Ford Flex, Cruz replaced the engine for $6,000 and worked with her on paying it off. “He has been my mechanic for five years,” Redlin says. “He’s always really straight with me and he doesn’t try to upsell me. You can’t find a nicer guy.” Cruz, who lives in Seven Oaks, has done other repairs on Redlin’s car, and also has worked on her husband’s and daughter’s vehicles. In fact, when Redlin was looking to buy a used car for her daughter, she drove one possibility to Cruz for an inspection. When she pulled in with the prospective car, Cruz shook his head no before she had even stopped the car, because he had seen it before. J.R. (left) and Marck work on a customer’s CV axle, How loyal is Redlin? one of the many auto repairs available at Cruz Motorsports. “If me and my husband split up,” she ness practices, however, at some of the his customers are from Wesley Chapel and says, “I get the mechanic.” places he worked, so he began running his New Tampa, due to his years working in While he has the benefit of garage own auto repair business out of his moth- the area. Not only did he work out of a space and lifts that can handle up to garage, but he did a large amount of his er Ana Daniels’ garage in Wesley Chapel. 12,000 pounds, Cruz says his popular jobs in people’s own driveways as part of “When I started doing my own mobile service continues to be a big part thing I started getting neighbors coming his mobile repair service. of his current business. New Tampa’s Heather Redlin says to me and got real busy,” Cruz says. “I He does much of his local Wesley started renting out another space because she doesn’t let anyone else touch her Chapel/New Tampa business — alternaI needed more room. It was simple — I family’s cars. tors, starters, oil changes, other less-messy Redlin discovered Cruz on the Wes- repairs — using his mobile trailer, which started taking care of people and being honest and business just started booming ley Chapel Community Facebook page, is powered by solar panels, which charge where he is a popular answer to questions two large 200-watt, 30-amp batteries the from there.” Even though Cruz moved his shop from posters who are seeking car or mosize of doors. torcycle repairs. to North Tampa, he says the majority of For larger jobs, cars are towed or

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driven to Cruz’s Nebraska Ave. shop. Cruz says he hears many complaints from new customers about past work by other auto mechanics. His goal is to be the last stop for those customers. “Everything we do, I try to keep it straightforward and honest,” Cruz says. “We’ll find the best prices on parts, we fix our mistakes, and we work with everyone.” Cruz Motorsports is located 13787 N. Nebraska Ave. It is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, search “Cruz Motorsports” on Facebook or see the ad on page 35 of this issue.

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School Notes: New Tampa’s Rowan Excels At King By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN As Pebble Creek resident Adam Rowan graduates from the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at King High on N. 56th St. in Tampa, he has a long list of accolades. National Merit Scholarship Finalist. National Hispanic Scholar. Captain of the King soccer team. Co-captain of the school’s tennis team. Perfect score (36 out of 36) on the ACT. Even with all of these accomplishments, the thing Rowan he says he’s most proud of is his role as the event lead for his school’s 2019 Relay For Life, benefiting the American Cancer Society, which he says, “raised just shy of $70,000 and had 500 students participating.” Back when Rowan chose to go to the IB program at King, his dad, Mike Rowan, was the principal there. “Him being there was a reason for me not to go there,” says Adam, “rather than a reason to go.” Just about the time Rowan got used to seeing his dad walking the halls of his high school, his father became the principal at New Tampa’s Wharton High, just a quick ride from their Pebble Creek home. Adam says it was an adjustment having his dad at a different school, but that he never reconsidered his decision to attend the King IB program. “At that point, I was committed to the IB pro-

gram and had done too much work to drop out,” he says. However, Adam concedes he got the short end of the stick on commute times. “I was leaving before him to drive to school, but he had to be at school before me,” he says. “I felt like I was getting no sleep compared to him.” The lack of sleep and dedication to academics, sports and community service paid off when Rowan was accepted to prestigious Columbia University in New York City. He says he toured the campus twice prior to applying and loved the feeling of it, the fact that it’s located in New York City, and that its Ivy League status means the curriculum will be rigorous. “I liked being there,” he says. “I got a good vibe.” That good vibe was so strong that he applied for early admission at Columbia. When he was accepted last fall, his decision to attend was binding and he had to decline his acceptance to University of South Florida and rescind the application he had submitted to the University of Florida. He knew he didn’t want to go anywhere else. Now, Rowan hopes he’ll be able to be on campus at Columbia in the fall. He thinks he’ll study political science, but also says he might change his mind before he’s required to declare a major his sophomore year. While he won’t be playing any NCAA sports, Rowan says he can’t imagine life without soccer — he is a defender/midfielder and last year helped King to a 13-6-5 record in Class 5A — and is hop-

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ing to play on an intramural team at Columbia. That, of course, is contingent on intramural sports being offered, and the Columbia campus being reopened for in-person classes. “I don’t know if I’ll be able to go yet,” Rowan says. He is currently awaiting the official plan for reopening the campus, which is expected to be released on July 1. As he makes plans to attend college in the heart of a city that has been so harshly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, Rowan says he’s not too worried. “I’m a little nervous, but I feel like going to college up there, or even if I went to college here in Florida, it’s still a risk,” he says. “I won’t let it stop me.”

Clark Gets New Principal Delilah Rabeiro was named the new principal at Clark Elementary in West Meadows, replacing Paulette English, who moved to Pride Elementary in K-Bar Ranch earlier this school year. Rabeiro’s appointment was approved at the

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Hillsborough County School Board meeting on June 9 and becomes effective on July 1. She was one of 34 principals given new assignments by new Hillsborough Superintendant of Schools Addison Davis. Rabeiro was most recently the principal at Robles Elementary on E. Sligh Ave. in N. Tampa.

Cotey Repeats As Champ!

Jonathon Cotey, who attends Middleton High but lives in New Tampa, recently won the first-ever ESports District Championship hosted by Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS). The 16-player Super Smash Bros. tournament, completed online due to Covid-19, was the culmination of a year-long season in which players from nearly 20 high schools competed against each other at neutral sites. Cotey, who plays under the gaming tag BionicLettuce and was seeded No. 2, defeated top-seeded Nicholas Eisman (Nerva) of Plant High 3-2 in the best of five series, despite dropping the first two games. “This has been a work in progress for five years,” said Robert Dodson, ESports Club Sponsor at Middleton High. “If it was this popular during quarantine, I can’t wait to see how big this can become in the future.”

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Williams Ready For Latest Football Challenge By ERIC VICIAN Mike Williams didn’t leave a job coaching football at Van Nuys High School in California just to win a few games in Tampa, his hometown. He left to make a difference. This fall, he will try to do so at New Tampa’s Wharton High. A former All-American wide receiver at the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles, and first-round NFL draft pick, Williams is Wharton’s choice to replace longtime head coach David Mitchell, who resigned after 15 seasons last fall but remains the school’s head wrestling coach and assistant track & field coach. Williams, who is building a home close to the Wharton campus, said he wanted to be a Wildcat because of the challenge of coaching in the state’s highest classification, 8A, and because he wants to be able to mentor and mold his players to become disciplined, model young men. Moved by the death last summer of Middleton High freshman Hezekiah Walters, who collapsed during summer workouts, Williams returned from Los Angeles to Tampa to train local youth players. He applied at Middleton, and was quickly tabbed to replace the former Tigers head coach, Fred Reid, who was reassigned. He was hired at Middleton at the end of July 2019, just a few weeks before the start of the season. He didn’t rush his mourning players to the field, instead taking his time to help repair the pro-

gram’s damaged collective psyche. Williams’ wife, Giavonna, had passed away in her sleep two years prior, so the new coach understood all too well the pain of losing someone close to you. The Tigers didn’t hold their first practice until July 23 and two weeks later, they opened their season with a 12-7 win over Alonso. The team finished with a 5-5 record and went from a team involved in a well-publicized bench clearing brawl in 2017 to being the least penalized team in the county in 2019.

Rewarding Job

The job he did at Middelton under trying circumstances, both on and off the field, made him an attractive candidate when Wharton went looking for a new coach. “He was by far our best choice,” said Wharton athletic director Eddie Henderson, who convened a committee that included principal Michael Rowan, along with student and parent representatives, to find Mitchell’s replacement. “We liked the fact that he took Middleton and turned them around in two weeks. That’s what we were very impressed about — the relationship he had with those kids.” Williams was able to meet his new team briefly for some workouts in the weight room shortly before Covid-19 closed down schools in March. Workouts were finally okayed for June 15, which is when Williams would get to work trying to rebuild the Wildcats program into the district

New Wharton High head football coach Mike Williams (back) met with some of the Wildcats before Covid-19 forced the cancellation of his first spring practices with his new team.

and state power it has been in years past. When Williams and the Wildcats finally convened for workouts, they did so under new train-

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Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus OF Pasco County ing and safety protocols named after Walters: the Hezekiah Walters Sports Medicine Educational Plan on Hydration and Heat Illness. As a coach and mentor, Williams will have an office on campus but will not have to teach any classes at Wharton, so he can focus on imparting his can-do attitude into his players.

From The NFL To New Tampa

Tampa Bay-area football fans might recall the path that Williams took from Plant High standout to All-American wide receiver at USC and ultimately to the NFL, when the Detroit Lions made him the 10th overall pick in the 2005 draft. His journey to being named head football coach at Wharton this past January, however, is likely a road that is a lot less known. Williams actually first began his coaching career way back in 2004, because the bigger story that year was that he declared himself eligible for the NFL draft – after amassing 2,579 receiving yards and 30 touchdowns in just two collegiate seasons — following the case of former Ohio State University running back Maurice Clarett that opened the door for underclassmen to leave school early to start their NFL careers. When that door abruptly shut,

and the NCAA didn’t restore Williams’ collegiate eligibility, he instead returned to his South Tampa roots while he waited for the NFL Draft. “Coach” Williams helped the Interbay YMCA, where he spent countless hours as a youth, launch an 8-man tackle football team. That year, the Hammerheads went 7-0 and many of his youth players surrounded him at his 2005 draft party, appearing on ESPN when Detroit selected him. Williams went on to play five NFL seasons with four different teams over a seven-year period. “Going to the pros was extra,” says Williams, the second youngest of seven siblings, including a sister he lost a couple years ago. “I always, always wanted to be a coach. Everybody wants to make it to the pros. I’ve really been living my dream the last eight years coaching.” Williams said he is ready for his latest challenges, including preparing for tough Class 8A competition without being able to gather his team on the field or in the weight room due to Covid-19. Under the new guidelines, he can hold practices with a limit of 20 players, and while Wharton has a 2020 schedule — it hosts a preseason game against Blake High on August 14 — the season itself still remains up in the air.

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Neighborhood News ‘Car Karaoke’ Rocks Bubba’s 33! For those of you who missed it, the first-ever Neighborhood News “Car Karaoke” event at Bubba’s 33 (26340 Silver Maple Pkwy.; 813.522.5090) on May 21 was a tremendous success for everyone involved. My goal was to be able to have some fun outside while wearing masks (although we didn’t “require” everyone who attended to wear one) and maintaining social distancing while getting to sing/enjoy some great music. Mission accomplished. Although we probably started a little earlier (6 p.m.) than most karaoke veterans are used to, “Drive-In Karaoke” may become a regular feature at Bubba’s 33, as owner Jeff Dean was thrilled with the number of people who hung around for most of the three hours (between 50-60 total) and the number of singers (more than 20), as well as with the number of people who also enjoyed food and drinks, either at their cars or at tables set up in the parking lot, as well as those who ate inside but hung around for the music outside. Many of those who sang said they couldn’t get over how great it was to have the words to their song show up on the video truck from Acme on the Go (813.727.4111), rather than a tiny TV screen, as well as with the selection of karaoke songs provided by Jack Berry or Karaoke in Concert (Facebook/Karaoke in Concert) and of course, the delicious Bubba’s 33 food. Details of our next event will be in these pages, or search “Neighborhood News” on Facebook! — GN

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Lima Brings The ‘World’s Best Cuisine’ To New Tampa! By Gary Nager

photos by Charmaine George & Gary Nager

Even though I lived or worked in New York City — where you can get pretty much any type of food you like at almost any hour of the day or night — for more than a decade, I had never been told that of all the different types of Latin and South American cuisines out there, Peruvian food was among the best in the world — and actually was named #1 by Bloomberg.com in 2017. It wasn’t until long after I first moved to Florida and met (and had dinner with) people from Peru or tried a Peruvian restaurant that I started to get the message. And, once I did sample the uniquely delicious cuisine of the Land of the Incas at an excellent Peruvian place in the Carrollwood area a few years ago, however, I realized that I had been missing out on something delicious all these years. What I didn’t know, however, was that New Tampa would soon have its own Peruvian restaurant — named Lima, for the capital of the seventh most populous metropolitan area in the Americas. Lima Rotisserie Chicken & Peruvian Cuisine owner Oscar Escudero and his family have brought a truly unique gem to the Publix-anchored New Tampa center plaza on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., in the location previously occupied by El Pescador Mexican Seafood, although they, of course, finally got the place open just a couple of weeks before Covid-19 shut down the local economy in March.

Start With The Chicken?

Even so, Oscar and his family and staff have been able to recently reopen Lima with a loyal following of customers who can’t get enough of Lima’s signature dishes like the Peruvian rotisserie chicken (right), which can’t be compared with anything you’ll find at Publix or Costco for tenderness, taste or the crispy, amazing skin. Jannah and I had to avoid the skin one time during the pandemic because we were still in the weight-loss phase of our diet — and honestly, we regretted it. It’s a must-try and it definitely is at its crispy,

lip-smacking best when you dine-in. Speaking of that, the inside of Lima is small, casual and appealing, and there are some other dishes that just can’t be as good for takeout or delivery (which are available; see below and the ad on pg. 35) as they are when you eat at the restaurant. The one that springs instantly to mind are the uniquely beautiful and savory Conchitas Parmesana, or baked scallops on the half shell, as shown in the picture bottom left. It’s an order of four large sea scallops in butter, lemon juice and a thick topping of parmesan cheese. I told Oscar that the only thing missing from this dish is a great, crispy bread or toast points because there’s enough cheese and butter left over after eating each scallop to make another whole appetizer. Another dish that traditionally is served as a starter (in Lima’s case, it’s a large, shareable dish) that I already can’t live without is the Ceviche de Pescado, or diced fresh fish of the day ceviche (snapper in the top photo on the next page), which is raw chunks of fish in a traditional marinade of seasoned lime, aji rocoto peppers, julienne red onions and lots of cilantro. It’s served with a side of traditional Incan corn (with those large, thick kernels that soak up the sauce and taste so yummy) and a couple of slices of sweet potatoes. The fish ceviche also is available as a trio, with the same amount of marinated fish divided into three smaller portions, each with its own delicious sauce — one with an aji Amarillo (pepper) cream, one with a rocoto cream and one with cilantro cream — all different and each so good in its own way. For those of you who don’t share my

shellfish allergy, the ceviche also is available “de Mariscos,” or with mixed seafood (fish, shrimp, mussels and calamari). Another favorite is the Lomo Saltado Lima (above), which is a hearty dish of beef tenderloin tips wok-sautéed with spices, sliced onions, fresh tomato wedges, cilantro and a touch of soy sauce and vinegar served over a bed of crispy French fries and with a side of white rice.

Peruvian Chinese?

What do the Peruvians know about wok-searing? Apparently, a lot! Peru is as far west as you can go in South America, so according to Oscar, when the country built its railroad to go from the desert coast of Lima on the Pacific Ocean to and through the Andes mountains that divide the north from the south of the country, many Chinese engineers and builders came across the Pacific and settled in Peru. They brought wok-fired cooking with them and Lima (the city) became a hotspot for dishes that look and taste a lot like your favorite Chinese lo mein and fried rice (far left and middle on next page). The lo mein is called Tallarin Saltado de pollo (although you can have it with steak or seafood) and features pulled “a la brasa” (rotisserie) chicken, with sliced onions,

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tomatoes and cilantro blended with delicious lo mein noodles, soy sauce and vinegar. The Arroz Chaufa (fried rice) has scallions, egg and a distinctively nutty taste and is topped with crispy noodles. Speaking of side dishes, the black beans and rice, salad and fried yuca all get high marks, especially the unique (there’s that word again) spicing of the black beans. And, while the rotisserie chicken (available in 1/4-, 1/2- and whole chicken portions, each with sides) is probably still the biggest draw at Lima, there also are other delicious starters, sandwiches and two kids platters for only $7 each. When you dine in, you also owe it to yourself to try the ice cold Cusqueña golden lager beer of Peru and/or the Inca Cola, even though Coca-Cola came in and bought out the original Peruvian company. I also can’t even tell you how good the Alfajores shown below the beverages on the next page are, but they’re cookie sandwiches topped with chocolate and powdered sugar and filled with dulce de leche creme. Decadent. Lima (19062 BBD) is offering 15% off any take-out or dine-in order with the coupon on page 35 & offers delivery through Grubhub, UberEats & Doordash. For info, call (813) 304-0205.

@NTWCNews

(Clockwise from top left): Our editor recommends the Lomo Saltado Lima (tenderloin tips; top of previous page), Ceviche de Pescado, Cusqueña Beer, Inca Kola, Alfajores dessert, Arroz Chaufa (Peruvian fried rice) and the Tallarin Saltado de Pollo (Peruvian lo mein) at Lima!

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 13 • June 23, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Nibbles & Business The Latest & Not-So-Great News In Dining, Shopping & Business In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel! Oronzo & Grain & Berry Both Open To Rave Reviews!

There hadn’t been very many new businesses opening in either of our distribution areas until the last couple of weeks of May, when Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis gave the OK for the state to move into Phase 2 of his reopening plan. Since then, New Tampa has seen a nice little flurry of activity, with the Taaza Indian Mart, F45 Training at Highwoods Preserve and other finally getting to open their doors (as we reported on pages 14-15 of this issue). We also told you about Michi Ramen opening next to F45 in Highwoods last issue, and now, we’re also thrilled to announce that the fast-casual concept known as Oronzo

Honest Italian (photos below) has opened next to Michi Ramen in the former Men’s Wearhouse location facing Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., at 18027 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy. Oronzo is almost like a Chipotle or poké-bowl-style setup, but instead offers truly delicious, affordable Italian food, including some beautiful Neapolitan-style “piatto” pizzas, piadina bread sandwiches and even a delicious tomato basil soup. But, the thing that has me

sold from Day One on Oronzo is the freshlymade pasta, which is served in dishes like the spaghetti with pesto and lots of grilled chicken shown far left. Owners Dan Bavaro (in photo) of Bavaro’s Pizza & Pastaria in South Tampa and his partner Bob Johnston of Front Burner Brands (which owns The Melting Pot) also serve some delicious sausage and meatballs (managing editor John Cotey calls them “Amazeballs”) and a variety of sauces for the fresh pasta, as well as a signature orange juice drink. There’s even gluten-free, zucchini noodle and vegan options. For more information, call (813) 4054008 or visit Oronzo.com. Meanwhile, perhaps the most anticipated variety of new eateries is coming to The Village

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 13 • June 23, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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at Hunter’s Lake plaza anchored by the new Sprouts Farmers Market. But, even though Sprouts won’t open until August, Grain & Berry has opened the tenth location of a growing Tampa Bay areabased chain in the same plaza. If you love açai, spirulina or pitaya bowls served with incredibly fresh fruit and other toppings, Grain & Berry (8638 Hunters Village Dr.) is the place for you. I’ve only had a chance, so far, to sample the “Relax, Eat, Repeat” açai bowl with fresh bananas, strawberries, crunchy organic granola, peanut butter, Nutella, honey and crushed nuts, but it was so delicious and even though a little pricy ($10), it’s big enough for more like four servings. For more info, call (813) 210-7569 or visit GrainandBerry.com. — GN

@NTWCNews

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 13 • June 23, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

New Tampa & wesley Chapel HOME IMPROVEMENT

WESLEYCHAPELPRESSUREWASHING.COM Soft pressure exterior house cleaning, screen enclosures, pool decks, driveways, sidewalks, fences, roofs, paver sealing and deck staining. We clean everything. No job too big or small. Experience the difference when you hire a pressure cleaning professional. Licensed and insured. Owner operated. Call for a free estimate or visit our website. 813-433-6015. DAVID BRIDGES PRESSURE CLEANING Complete exterior cleaning of your home or business with a professional & 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. Call 813-215-1177. 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. Tjs PRESSURE WASHING LLC. Driveways, Houses, Fences, Lanais and Screened Enclosures. Most residential 2 car driveways or vinyl fences starting at $75. House washing prices start at $150 for a 1 story home and $199 for a 2 story home. Looking for an instant quote? Just text me a picture of the job you need done. Call Tj at 727-808-7775. AMBLER ENTERPRISES Home Improvement. Call James at 813-385-6402. 30 Years Experience. Specialist in Kitchens & Bathrooms. Referrals upon request. All interior work: Drywall, Texture Paining, Doors, etc. Use us once & you won’t need to look elsewhere. Please Google us if you would like to see pictures: Wesley Chapel Ambler Enterprises. Also, see our display ad on this page! RAYMOND PAINTING. Exterior & Interior Services. Exterior: Painting, pressure washing, clean & seal pavers, stucco, roofing, leaks & wood rot repair. Interior: Painting, plastering, ceiling & wall repairs & tiles. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free estimates. Your Neighborhood Arbor Greene Resident! We work 7 days. Call 813-994-5124. CHARLES POPPE ELECTRIC. Electric of all kinds pools, spas, service changes, new circuts, low voltage, repairs, upgrades, changes to existing, trouble shooting, GFCI performance testing, generators. Expert in the field - over 40 years experience. Discount 50% off labor for senior citizens! Licensed and Insured Master Electrician EC 13002399 - free phone estimates. Call 813-477-9068. DALE’S HOME MAINTENANCE Pressure washing, screen repairs, garage cleaning & organizing, shelving, re-grout tile and caulking, and more. Call: 813-727-2582.

Classifieds

HOME IMPROVEMENT

MILLENNIUM HOME REPAIR.Professional Handyman. Cabinet Installation, dry wall repair, tile installation & repair, some plumbing, laminate flooring, light fixtures, interior painting, appliance installation, pressure washing, paneling, window repair, awning installation, carpentry, garbage disposal, fence repair, crown molding, window blinds, seal baths & showers, TV mounting & more. Call 813-400-1408 or email

MISCELLANEOUS

CARING HEART, LLC. Private duty nursing care. Personal caregiver, personal assistant, post hospital/rehab care, helping hand; medical appointments, shopping, light cooking/cleaning, moving assistance packing/unpacking/ organizing, pet care. For info, call or text 813-361-6439. ELITE RIDES. Private Rides in a 2020 Tesla! Plus, Concierge Services. Airport, School, Medical Appointments, Shopping. Courteous, Reliable, Professional. New Tampa to Tampa Airport: $35.00 One-Way. 24/7. Call/Text: 813765-2037. Cory Lake Isles Resident. GET $500 TOWARDS CLOSING COSTS... when you buy a NEW CONSTRUCTION HOME with Florida Homes with Geri at Epperson OR Mirada. Schedule a PRIVATE TOUR of both Communities by a Resident Realtor. Join @LifeAtTheLagoon with @RealtorGeri Call/Text 813-609-0966. Connect with me on Instagram & Facebook.

TREE SERVICE

FITZPATRICK’s TREE SERVICE. 25-years of Professional Service. Licensed & Insured. Free Estimates. Tree Trimming & Tree Removal. Stump Grinding. Dead-Wood Removal. Affordable Rates. 24-Hour Emergency Storm Service. Free Mulch. Call 813-495-9541 or 813-788-TREE.

CLEANING SERVICES

A-to-Z CLEANING & ORGANIZING. House & Ofc Cleaning & Organizing Svcs! We use our own supplies. Affordable & Reliable. Family-Owned & Operated. Wesley Chapel Resident. Weekly / Bi-Weekly / Deep Cleaning/ Move-In / Move-Out. Serving Wesley Chapel & New Tampa. Call today for a FREE No-Obligation Quote: 813-462-1270. Local references supplied upon request. CLEAN-IT RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING: Following all CDC Guidelines, 18 years cleaning in New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Licensed & Insured. Call 813.505.0431 or email cleanitmc@gmail.com. B CLEANING SERVICES: Over 18 years experience! Commercial and Residential; Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly; New house and post-construction clean-up; Window cleaning; Move-in or move-out cleanings; Pressure washing; FREE estimates; References available. Call today: 813-531-0154 or e-mail: bcleanings@hotmail.com D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE We have our own supplies and more than 400 clients in New Tampa! For more info, Call 813-758-9710.

CLEANING SERVICES

LAWN & LANDSCAPING

NTLC Property Maintenance. Residential & Commerical lawn maintenance for New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Sprinkler repairs, tree trimming, mulching, landscaping & clean-ups also available. Licensed & Insured. CALLBILL @ (813) 973-3825. A.T.B. Landscaping & Lawn Service. Licensed and insured serving the Tampa Bay area over 20 years. Family owned and operated. Quality work at affordable prices. We provide services in gutter clean-out, screen repair, pressure washing and sprinkler repair. Landscaping and property maintenance including: sodding, trimming trees and hedges, and clean ups. Other services are available. CALL 813-907-LAWN (5296). Jasmine Landscaping, Inc. Complete lawn maintenance: Tree, palm & hedge trimming, planting, mulching, stones, sod replacement. Gutter cleaning, leaf removal & more. Cited by your HOA? Ask about our HOA Compliance Special, our Fall/Spring Special & FREE ESTIMATE! Licensed & insured. Accepting new residential & commercial accounts. We accept Visa, MC, PayPal, Zelle, AmExp. Call or text 813-420-4465. Now hiring full-time workers. HEAVY HITTER LAWN CARE: Veteran owned and operated lawn care maintenance service, focused on lawn mowing, trimming, edging and blowing (flexible with extra services). Well maintained and professional laborer ensuring customer satisfaction and on-time cuts. Rain or shine, the quality and schedule will be kept. Licensed and Insured. Call or text 678-673-7856 for your FREE ESTIMATE.

COMPUTER/BUSINESS SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL TECH SUPPORT in your home or small business. A+, Certified computer tech with 20 years exp. Maintenance and Repairs, Upgrades and Tutoring. More affordable than large chains! Friendly, personalized service. Technical jargon explained. Remote assistance available. References available. Call (813) 957-8342 for a free estimate.

DO YOU HATE YOUR COMPUTER?!? WE CAN HELP YOU! Troubleshooting, Installation, Networking & Virus Removal. WE COME TO YOU! Residences & Businesses, more than 25-Years Experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank at 813-973-4507, visit WSICA.COM or email Wsica@wsica.com.

POOL SERVICES

ALLSTARPOOLSOFTAMPABAY.COM. Pool cleanups, & acid washing of old pool finishes. Marcite, quartz & pebble finishes from $3K. We offer cool decking, Eurocrete & paver decking options. Paver, river rock sealing, leak detection & in-ground vinyl liner replacements avail. We sell quality salt & ozone generators, pumps, motors & filters. Mention this ad for a $79 pool service (restrctions apply). Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel since 1990. Call or text 813-244-7077 or visit AllStarPoolsofTampaBay. com. Also, see our display ad below for more info. TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE. New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing with outstanding customer service! LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED. See why we are New Tampa and Wesley Chapel’s #1 Choice!! Call or Text Chris today @ 813-8575400 or visit TranquilityPoolService.com. New customers get ONE MONTH FREE!

AQUATEC POOL SERVICE has been 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 ONE MONTH OF QUALITY SERVICE FREE. www.aquatecpool.com. NEIGHBORHOOD POOLS Wesley Chapel owned & operated since 1999. Weekly service. No long term contracts. Mention this AD for one-month Free service. Call 813-907-7322 for details or text Joe at 813-758-7608.

PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHER AVAILABLE Retired Professional Photographer (45+ years experience) in the Tampa Bay area. Corporate Events, Personal Occasions, Portraiture, Pets, Commercial Photography & Real Estate. Reasonable rates. Ask me about “Front Porch Portraits,” taken from the safety of your front porch, FREE OF CHARGE! Great for Families, Children, Pets & more! Call or Text (813) 748-3901 or Visit: russellleprephotography.com.

FITNESS & WELL BEING

Break It Down Productions. Customized Private Yoga Sessions w/Susanna Jones. Develop strength & flexibility, while learning how to breathe & relax. I specialize in working with beginners and those requiring a more gentle approach than most group Yoga classes. I explain everything, and provide variations so that you actually feel good in the stretch instead of strained. Gift certificates available. www. breakitdownproductions.com or Call (813) 802-8393.

COMMERCIAL SPACE AVAILABLE

1,850 sq.ft. Commercial/Medical Space Available to Lease. Address: 24420 SR 54, Lutz (in the MediWeightloss Building). For more info, call 813-293-4377 or email: gwillett@mediweightlossclinics.com.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 13 • June 23, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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Protect your children and pets with Tampa Bay’s only organic monthly fertilization and pest control • Courteous, friendly customer service • Monthly service from $40 per month • State licensed spray technicians • Organic/natural fertilizers • On-time service • Amazing results • No contracts • Special discounts on irrigation repairs and inspections

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 13 • June 23, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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