Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, Volume 24, Issue 14, July 1, 2016

Volume 24 Issue 14

Inside: Art+Fun+Wine=A Great Night At Pinot’s Palette!

July 1, 2016

See Neighborhood Magazine!

Named The 2014 ‘Small Business Of The Year’ By The Wesley Chapel Chamber Of Commerce!

The Direct-Mail News Magazines Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Since 1993!

For the complete list of neighborhoods that receive this publication by direct mail in Wesley Chapel (zip codes 33543, 33544 & 33545), see page 42!

More Than 100 Preview WCNT-tv During Our VIP Premiere Party!

Check out the Premiere Episode of WCNT-tv Now at WCNeighborhoodNews.com!

By Gary Nager; photos by John C. Cotey If you somehow haven’t already seen the first-ever episode of WCNT-tv, I suggest visiting our website — WCNeighborhoodNews.com — right now, even before you read this article. The photos on this page and on page 3 are from the incredible Premiere Party we hosted at our Neighborhood News offices on S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel on June 23 for the first-ever webcast dedicated to the residents and businesses in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area and there’s no doubt the premiere episode of our bi-weekly webcast has already captured the attention — and the imagination — of a pretty impressive list of major business owners and representatives who were on hand at the Premiere Party.

Among the people already talking about WCNT-tv — which has its own Youtube channel, but also can be accessed from the front page of our website (above), our Facebook page and/or by clicking on the “WCNT-tv” tab on the front page of WesleyChapelChamber.com, the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC)’s website — included our See “WCNT-tv” on page 3!

Also Inside This Issue:

News, Business & Sports Updates

New Stuff Coming To Shops At Wiregrass, 54/56 Taskforce Ok’d For Next Phase, Fire Damages Saddlebrook, WC Rotary Recap, TBX Passes Vote, Lacrosse Tourney Staying Put & Lots Of Local Business Features!

Pages 3-30

Neighborhood Magazine Pinot’s Palette A Perfect Mix Of Fun & Art, Café Olé Still The Favorite In New Tampa, No Freedom Fest But New Flagpole For The Shops At Wiregrass & More Neighborhood Nibbles & Biz Bytes!

Pages 31-44

(Clockwise from left): FHWC’s Tracy Clouser, Susanna Martinez, Gary Nager, Vicki Hutto (VIP Pest Control), Craig Miller & Dirson & Ana De Mesquita of OTB Café; Susanna looked great on the big screen provided by Acme On The Go Movies; WCCC CEO Hope Allen & Tampa Premium Outlets GM Stacey Nance; thanks for the post-premiere applause & for The Polar Pod keeping everyone cool.

Where To Find Fireworks In Our Area For Independence Day!

Greg Lenners, the general manager at the Shops at Wiregrass mall, says pulling out of the Wesley Chapel Rotary Club’s fifth annual Freedom Fest was one of the toughest decisions he’s had to make. But, because of safety concerns – namely young kids darting across S.R. 56 and Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. at 10 p.m. as cars whizzed by – he says it was the most prudent choice.

“We outgrew Freedom Fest faster than we expected,’’ Lenners said.

So where do locals turn now for their Fourth of July fireworks fix?

We have a few suggestions: If you’re looking for something relatively close, Dade City is just a short trip and their Sparklebration gets good reviews. There will be eating contests, skydivers, bounce houses, pony rides and, of course, a fireworks display to cap it all off. The festivities kick off on Monday, July 4, 4 p.m., with the pyrotechnics starting at 9:15 p.m.

Temple Terrace is another short drive from Wesley Chapel, and the Greater Temple Terrace Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 42st annual Temple Terrace Independence Day Parade on Monday, July 4, 10 a.m.

The parade will begin on the corner of Whiteway Dr. and Gillette Ave., and head south on Gillette, west on Druid Hills and then south on Ridgedale. The evening festivities begin at 6 p.m. on the first fairway of the Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club and fireworks are at 9:15 p.m. Pro tip: find a nice parking spot on N. 56th street, and avoid the traffic on the way home.

Brandon also is hosting a 4th of July parade, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Monday. They bill it as the largest parade in Florida, and it begins at 101 E. Lumsden Rd. If a longer drive doesn’t worry you, check out Cotanchobee Park across from Amalie Arena in the Channelside area on Saturday, where a host of activities are scheduled

like an igloo drag race competition, DIY canvas painting and live jazz, all from 5-10 p.m. and culminating with fireworks at 9.

And, check out the “Land O’Liberty Salute,” sponsored by the WC Noon Rotary Club’s Land O’Lakes (LOL) satellite club, which is painting LOL Red, White & Blue.

For more info, call 817-3011. — JCC

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL - Not all real estate agents are the same. If you decide to seek the help of an agent when selling or buying your home, you need some good information before you make any moves.

Choosing a real estate agent is one

of those critical issues that can cost or save you thousands of dollars. In this FREE special report, we give you the specific questions you should be asking to ensure that you get the best representation for your needs. Before you hire any real estate agent, call and get a copy of a FREE Report entitled “10 questions to Ask Before You Hire an Agent”.

To hear a brief recorded message

about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-800-441-1783 and enter 3006. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Get your free special report NOW to

important investment, reduce stress, be in control of

find out the questions the others would prefer

well be your largest asset, selling it is probably one

your situation and make the best profit possible.

you never ask!

of the most important decisions you will make in

your life. And once you have made that decision,

financial disappointment or worse, a financial disas-

you’ll want to sell your home for the highest price

ter when selling your home. Using a common-sense

These reports are courtesy of Bruce Wilde, RE/MAX Premier Group. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract.

in the shortest time possible without compromising

approach, you will get the straight facts about what

your sanity. Before you place your home on the

can make or break the sale of your home.

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL - Because your home may

market, here’s a way to help you to be as prepared

In this report you’ll discover how to avoid

You owe it to yourself to learn how these important tips will give you the competitive edge to

as possible.

To assist homesellers, a new industry report has just been released called “27 Valuable Tips That You Should Know to Get Your Home Sold Fast and

get your home sold fast and for the most amount of money.

Order your free report today. To hear a brief

for Top Dollar.” It tackles the important issues you

recorded message about how to order your FREE

need to know to make your home competitive in

copy of this report call toll-free 1-800-441-1783 and

today’s tough, aggressive marketplace.

enter 3023. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7

days a week. Get your free special report NOW.

Through these 27 tips you will

discover how to protect and capitalize on your most

Check Out WCNT-tv’s Premiere Episode & Party!

Premiere Party attendees Gordie Zimmerman of ZMitch, LLC, the developers of Florida Hospital Center Ice, our first video news feature; Tampa Premium Outlets GM Stacey Nance; marketing director Tracy Clouser of Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (see ads on pgs. 9, 33, 37 & 43), which is the studio sponsor of WCNT-tv’s news segment; WCCC CEO Hope Allen and membership coordinator Jennifer Reightler; Pasco County commissioner Mike Moore; New Tampa’s State Rep. Shawn Harrison; Peter Gambacorta of the Private Chef of Tampa, which provided some of the food for the event (as did Little’s Italy’s Family Restaurant, see ad on pg. 34); and Troy Stevenson of Wesley Chapel Nissan and his Acme On the Go Movies (which provided the amazing 17’x9’ screen) technician Harry Wilkins, as well as many WCCC business owners & New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Rotary Club members.

Special thanks also goes out to John Fisher of The Polar Pod (see story on pg.

14), which provided 50º comfort on a hot and humid night for all of our attendees, to my WCNT-tv co-anchor Susanna Martinez; Mike McDonald (photo, right), who provided the entertainment; WCCC Featured Business host Jill Reilly (who also is my Neighborhood News billing manager), my WCNT-tv sales & production assistant Lauren McDonald, as well as asst. editor John Cotey (who took these great pictures at the event) and my entire staff at Neighborhood News, which have allowed me the freedom to pursue a dream; cameraman Brad Hall and especially, my partner and WCNT-tv executive producer Craig Miller of Full Throttle Intermedia. Look for new episodes of WCNT-tv every two weeks and more to come!

(continued from page 1)!

Polar Pod, everyone? With temperatures still looming around 90ºF and the humidity at more than 90%, WCNT-tv Premiere Party attendees were happy to hang in 50º comfort.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News Address: 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Publisher & Editor Gary Nager Advertising Sales & Office Manager Mary Dorey Billing Manager Jillian Reilly Assistant Editor / Photographer John C. Cotey Staff Writer Celeste McLaughlin Correspondents Anu Varma Panchal • Andy Warrener WCNT-tv Sales & Production Assistant Lauren McDonald Graphic Designers Blake Beatty • Georgia Carmichael Nothing that appears in Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission.

Opinions expressed by Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion.

The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 24, Issue 16, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, June 20, 2016.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, nor for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers.

© 2016 JM2 Communications, Inc. Neighborhood News

Table of Contents

Local News Updates....................3-17

Lenners Gives Shops At Wiregrass Thumbs Up........4 54/56 Taskforce Approved For Phase II............6 3 Alarm Fire Damages Saddlebrook Resort...............8 Wesley Chapel Rotary Caps Successful Period......10 Wesley Chapel News Briefs........................12 TBX Passes Despite Passionate Objections...........13 New Tampa Engineer Freezes Summer Heat..........14 Wesley Chapel Community Calendar........................18

Local Business Updates.............22-28

Raquel.Does.Hair And Does It Well...............22 SPOTLIGHT ON: Florida Orthopaedic...........23 New Tampa Plastic Keeps You Looking Fresh.......24 New Tampa Foot & Ankle Can Treat Your Feet!......26 SPOTLIGHT ON: Terrace Smiles!.......27

Local

Sports

Updates.............28

Over-50 Walking Soccer League Ready To Begin.....28 DICK’s Lacross Tourney Staying Put........28

Neighborhood

Magazine

Pinot’s Palette Delivers Art, Wine and Fun.......31 Café Olé Deliver Delicious Spanish Cuisine..........36 ‘Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes’.........38 WESLEY CHAPEL CLASSIFIEDS................40 New Flagpole Adorns Shops At Wiregrass..............42 @NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

3

Chamber Gets Wiregrass Mall Update As the Wesley Chapel area grows, the Shops at Wiregrass mall, which opened in 2008, continues to face competition.

But the mall’s unique towncenter feel and commitment to community events, says general manager Greg Lenners, has helped it not only survive in the face of increased choices for area shoppers, but thrive.

“As a matter of fact, with the buildings that are going up in the front, and we are continuing to sign leases, business itself has been great,’’ said Lenners, who spoke at the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC)’s monthly economic development briefing on June 23. “We took a little hit in the beginning with the outlets opening, but we’ve rebounded. We are actually exceeding our expectations right now.”

Lenners pointed to community events like the Fresh Market, charitable events with the American Cancer Society and March of Dimes, and new stores continuing to cycle in that have kept the Shops growing.

Lenners said Menchies Frozen Yogurt is coming to the mall, in the same area as Irish 31, and also teased about a possible “fast food Greek concept” restaurant in the same area.

He added that Avalon Spa, which will be located in between La Macaron and Dillard’s, will open by the fall, as will VisionWorks and Vitamin Shoppe, which share a building near JCPenney. Blingin’ Buddha, an eclectic giftshop, opened on June 1.

Lennars also heralded the June 24 opening of Vom Fass, a German-based store that sells exotic oils, vinegars and spices, as well as wines and gourmet foods.

4

The mall’s 30-acre Wiregrass expansion site, which could be open by the spring of 2018, is close to securing its environmental permits. When that happens, Lenners said, “We have earth movers ready to go.”

He said the plan is to build a connection to the existing mall with its own identity, but to make sure it flows properly from the mall.

As previously reported by the Neighborhood News, the mall expansion will have 200 high-end apartments, and be anchored by a movie theater, which Lenners said he has a letter of interest for and will be “dinner-type theater,” as well as a specialty grocery store.

“We’ve done a lot in seven and a half years,’’ Lenners said. “More than what your typical mall might do in 20 years.”

One restaurant that won’t be coming soon? The oft-rumored, Wesley Chapel Community Facebook forum favorite Cheesecake Factory, which Lenners says has been talked about for years.

“Will we eventually get a Cheesecake (Factory) or PF Chang’s? Nothing in the near future,’’ Lenners said. “I’ll be candid on that as far as those kind of guys.”

But as more businesses – Raymond James, anyone? – move to the area, creating great lunchtime crowds, and more homes are built in the Wiregrass area, the closer the mall gets to adding eateries like those.—JCC

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

Phase II Of Taskforce Gets Green Light Despite Toll Questions

By John C. Cotey Pasco transportation engineer Ali Atefi has said almost from the beginning of the “Vision 54/56” Taskforce that he didn’t want the focus during Phase I to be on how any recommendations would be paid for.

That would come later, Atefi said. He simply wanted the best choices forwarded to the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), which would then send the Taskforce to Phase II. But, it didn’t take long for the concern of how to pay for the top choice — which, along with a handful of other choices studied by the Taskforce, has a toll road – came up at the Taskforce’s presentation to the MPO. The work of the 54/56 Taskforce will go on, however, as Phase II was approved by the MPO, but not before a few eyebrows were raised by Pasco’s Board of County Commissioners (BOCC).

“I think, as a whole, we have to do something,’’ said District 2 commissioner and vice chairman Mike Moore. “Something has to be figured out, and it was great to see so many people involved in the process. I appreciate that. But, everyone wasn’t in total agreement (about) the options.”

Atefi said he was pleased the 54/56 Taskforce will remain together, but said District 5 commissioner Jack Mariano expressed concerns over any potential toll roads and District 1 commissioner Ted Schrader questioned whether or not the recommendation was from the Taskforce, and not the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

Mariano also has voiced his opposition

6

This was the top Phase I recommendation of the Vision 54/56 Taskforce, but the potential for toll roads in some of the other options is a concern to some Pasco County commissioners. Regardless, the Taskforce will begin its Phase II closer look at the various options for 54/56 in two months. to the Tampa Bay Express (TBX) project that Force – which looked at S.R.s 54 and 56 would add an express toll lane to much of from U.S. 41 to Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Tampa Bay’s interstate system (see story on Blvd. — concluded its survey results. It listed Alternative H — which calls for maintaining page 13).

“Commissioner Mariano thinks that six general purpose lanes and an “At Grade” this is the path that we are going (down), (ground level) exclusive lane for bus rapid but at this time, I personally don’t even want transit or rail transportation — as its top recto talk about how to fund this,’’ Atefi said. ommendation.

But, other alternatives studied and sug“First, we need to figure out what improvements are needed and how we want S.R. 54 gested contained potential for toll roads to to look. Then, we can worry about how to fund the building.

While choice No. 2 (Alternative J) called fund it. It’s too premature to talk about tolling. That’s why I didn’t want to get into the primarily for maintaining the current state road and enhancing the bus routes, choice discussion.”

At its March 31 meeting, the East Task No. 3 (Alternative F) would feature six east-

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

west lanes, but be subject to either a toll lane or an express lane with high-occupancy rules.

Another alternative did not score in the top 3, but might be the most ambitious of the alternatives, with six existing lanes and one additional express lane, which buses also could utilize.

“These are only recommendations to be discussed further,’’ Atefi said.

But, the word “toll” is not one to toss around the commission chambers lightly.

In 2014, a proposed elevated highway stretching from the west side of Pasco County all the way to the east — 33 miles along the 54/56 corridor from U.S. 19 to U.S. 301 — stirred a lot of dissent, which eventually helped scuttle the project.

Opponents said the elevated toll road would devastate small businesses along S.R. 54 and put a significant dent in property values.

Spanish firm OHL had presented the original $2-billion private project, which didn’t initially involve any public funds to build but later admitted it couldn’t be financed without a public investment.

“I think that left a bad taste in a lot of people’s mouths,’’ said Moore.

“But, that’s not the case with what we are doing,’’ Atefi said.

Moore said despite any reservations, the public participation in the current debate about what to do with the 54/56 corridor bodes well for the future success of the Taskforce, which will reconvene in two months and begin Phase II, which will incorporate a broader range of public input.

For more information, please visit Vision54-56.com.

@NTWCNews

Three-Alarm Fire Damages Student Housing at Saddlebrook Resort 28 students were able to escape unharmed, as well as 12 others that were in the buildThanks to an alert student and some ing. smart thinking, the only casualty of a fire According to Saddlebrook general at Saddlebrook Resort & Spa off S.R. 54 manager Pat Ciaccio, a student smelled on June 9 was the building where the blaze smoke in his dorm room around 2:30 a.m. started. and called security before going outside The fire, which never got out of the of his room to pull the fire alarm. He and control of local firefighters that morning, another student then went room to room to caused excessive damage to one of the build- alert the other students. ings used to house Saddlebrook Preparatory “Each month, we do a fire drill in Academy golfers and tennis players, but all school, and it went just as they practiced it,’’ said Ciaccio.

“Security was there within seconds. The fire department was there within minutes. It went about as good as it can go. I hope we never have to deal with one again.”

The fire is believed to have started due to a short circuit in the second-floor bathroom ceiling, CiacThis fire displaced 28 students at Saddlebrook Prep on June 9, the day before the cio said.

Pasco school’s graduation. Saddlebrook GM Pat Ciaccio says that the amount of damage is still being evaluated and that rebuilding the housing unit will take nine months. County Fire Until then, students returning in September will be placed in a different dorm. Rescue’s

By John C. Cotey

8

Shawn Whited said it took 55 firefighters to control the blaze, until all of the hot spots were extinguished around 8 a.m.

The three-alarm fire required eight fire engines and one ladder truck to extinguish, including an “aerial assault” on the fire.

The students were moved to another building. The following day was their graduation ceremony.

Saddlebrook Resort was developed in 1979 by current Chairman and CEO Tom Dempsey, and opened in 1981. Highly regarded for its posh accommodations, golf course and professional tennis players who have trained there, the resort started Saddlebrook Prep in 1992. A boarding school for budding golf and tennis professionals within

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

the resort, Saddlebrook Prep has almost 100 students hailing from 26 different countries.

All have returned home for the summer, Ciaccio said, and those who were in the firedamaged building will be assigned different housing in September when they return.

Ciaccio says he does not yet have a dollar amount for the damage to the two-story building -- which had 16 suites with two rooms in each suite -- and won’t know the cost of damages until restoration finishes the clean up and the insurance companies finish their work.

“There is going to be a pretty extensive rebuild,’’ he said, estimating that it will be at least nine months before the building can be used again.

@NTWCNews

Recapping Another Great (Fiscal) Year For The Rotary Club Of Wesley Chapel!

Story by Gary Nager; Photos by OurTownFla.com & J. David Wright

As a member of the Rotary Club of New Tampa (Noon), which meets Wednesdays at noon at Quail Hollow Country Club off Old Pasco Rd., I am proud to be able to provide more photos of this nearly-100-member Rotary Club, which capped off its Rotary fiscal year of 2015-16 with a bang — as in by giving and receiving plenty of awards.

The club’s outgoing president Erin Meyer handed out a number of awards at the club’s June 7 annual banquet (held at Pebble Creek Golf Club in New Tampa), which featured a 1970s theme (think lots of disco music and costumes), bestowing the club’s Rotarian of the Year honors to John Jay (the DJ) Anglada, who not only co-chaired the club’s successful first-ever Duck Derby (as we reported last issue), but also volunteered his DJ services at numerous other club events and also handled all of the audio and visual needs at virtually every meeting of the club.

Meyer also recognized Rebecca Smith — the WC club’s lone representative at the Rotary International conference in Seoul, South Korea — where more than 50,000 Rotarians were on hand — as well as for being the hard-working Rotary Foundation chair and one of the three hosts for Alice Vetturi, the club’s Rotary Youth Exchange student from Italy, with an Avenues of Service Citation.

Before turning the Noon Rotary club’s gavel over to 2016-17 president Dr. Pablo Rivera, Meyer also gave her Rookie of the Year award to Jodie Sullivan for her efforts with the Duck Derby (as well as her enthusiasm and sense of humor, I’m guessing) and “Service Above Self” awards to club members Ron Oldano, David West, Patrick Murtha, Carla Armstrong, Terri Williamson and Terri Dusek (who is with the WC Rotary’s Land O’Lakes Satellite Club).

Johnson Named The District 6950 Rotarian Of The Year

A little more than a week after the clubs awards gala, at least a dozen members of the WC Rotary also attended the Rotary District 6950 awards banquet, where outgoing District Governor Will Miller named Eric Johnson, a former president of the Wesley Chapel club, as the District’s Rotarian of the Year.

Johnson, who also got a Governor’s Recognition Award as the Dist. 6950 membership chair, is perhaps best known for his efforts with the WC club’s annual humanitarian

10

(Above) New WC Rotary president Dr. Pablo Rivera and his Board for the 2016-17 Rotary fiscal year were sworn in at the club’s 1970s-themed annual banquet on June 7 at Pebble Creek Golf Club in New Tampa. (Below, left) Outgoing Rotary District 6950 Governor Will Miller (right) named former Wesley Chapel Rotary president Eric Johnson as the Rotarian of the Year for all of District 6950 at the District Awards Banquet on June 16, where a large contingent of WC Rotary members was on-hand (below, right). (Bottom left) Rotary Youth Exchange student Alice Vetturi says goodbye to Dineen Wasylik (left) and Rebecca Smith (right), two of her hosts during her one-year stay in our area, before getting on a plane back to her native Italy. (Bottom right) John Jay the DJ was named the WC Rotary’s Rotarian of the Year by outgoing president Erin Meyer.

trip to Troyes, Honduras, where club members have installed much-needed water filters and latrines the last five years.

Miller, who also gave awards to WC Rotary member Robyn Liska and former club president (and Asst. District Governor) Kelly Mothershead, then turned his District 6950 gavel over to the 2016-17 District Gov. Mike Chapman.

All in all, another great year for one of the most exciting Rotary Clubs you’ll find anywhere! For more info, visit WCRotary.org.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

Wesley Chapel Wesley Chapel Named Florida’s Top Job Market

Wesley Chapel has been ranked fourth among Florida cities for being the best place to find a job. While not officially a “city,” our Census Designated Place (CDP) also ranked first for having the best job market, according to a list compiled and recently published on the consumer website WalletHub, which offers financial tools and products.

“We considered factors ranging from the number of job openings and the average starting salary to the percentage of employers providing benefits and the length of the average work day,” according to WalletHub. The survey looked at 130 Florida cities and CDPs and compared 16 different factors to assess the employment environment in each. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Center for Neighborhood Technology, and other sources, Wesley Chapel has one of the lowest unemployment rates for high school graduates (third lowest in the state), as well as the second most affordable housing in the state.

“It’s exciting,” says Hope Allen, president and CEO of the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC).

She explains that new jobs are continually being added in Wesley Chapel, and says

12

News Briefs the recognition is in line with what she’s seeing in our community. “For example, CareSync (located on Cypress Ridge Blvd.) has added 200 jobs in Wesley Chapel in the last eight months.”

To learn more about the study, visit WalletHub.com/edu/best-cities-inflorida-for-jobs/21610/.

Pioneers Honored By County

On June 7, the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) recognized Bill Smith and his sister, Ruth Smith Adams, two members of a Wesley Chapel pioneer family, for their contribution in preserving the area’s history, at the historic Dade City Courthouse.

Pasco clerk and comptroller Dr. Paula O’Neil read the extensive resolution presented by District 2 county commissioner Mike Moore. The resolution spoke of the contributions of the Smith family to east Pasco with the settlement of Wesley Chapel by their great-grandfather, William R. Smith, in 1867.

Bill and Ruth were instrumental in preserving the history of Wesley Chapel.

Their family donated the 1894 cracker home of Daniel Smith to the hands-on Cracker Country museum at the Florida State Fairgrounds in 1979. Bill and Ruth’s father was instrumental in the delivery of electricity to Wesley Chapel from the Rural Electric Administration.

The Smiths had been previously

Bill Smith and his sister, Ruth Smith Adams (second and third from the left) were honored for their contribution to Pasco County’s history on June 7, at the Dade City Courthouse. honored in 1998 in a re-dedication of the historic Pasco County Courthouse as one of the “Pioneer Founding Families of Pasco County.”

The Smiths, along with many others, played important roles in helping local author Madonna Wise put together her book, Images of America: Wesley Chapel. Wise has spoken glowingly of Bill and Ruth’s contributions to Wesley Chapel’s history at the Pasco-Hernando State College History Fair and at other book signings. The Smiths also lent a number of photos to Wise that appeared in her book.

LEGO Thief Busted

Shannon Kirkley, a New Jersey fugitive, was arrested after he was caught stealing thousands of dollars worth of “Star Wars” LEGO items from the Toys ‘R’

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

Us store located in The Grove at Wesley Chapel on June 16.

According to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), Kirkley put up a fight before being taken into custody. He was charged with the theft, as well as with resisting arrest and possession of cocaine and paraphernalia.

The Grove apparently wasn’t Kirkley’s first stop, says PCSO. He also is Shannon Kirkley suspected of stealing Star Wars LEGO items across the country.

The Force was not strong with this one. — JCC & CM

@NTWCNews

Wesley Chapel Chamber CEO Attends Hillsborough’s TBX Meeting

By John C. Cotey

Despite eight hours of mostly negative public comments that dragged on until past 2 a.m. the next morning, the Hillsborough Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) voted on June 23 to keep the controversial Tampa Bay Express (TBX) project moving forward.

After listening to dozens of people both for and against the project at the Hillsborough County Center building in downtown Tampa, the MPO voted 12-4 in favor of keeping the $6 billion TBX plan in its Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP).

The TBX plan entails widening I-275, I-75 and I-4 with 91 miles of express (or toll) lanes, as well as potentially creating a rapid bus lane in the center median of those roadways and laying the groundwork for future rail projects. The road improvements, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and supporters said, would better connect the Tampa Bay area and help ease traffic congestion.

Opponents cited the high cost of the toll lanes, which will have variable costs, meaning the more traffic, the greater the cost of traveling in the express lanes. Some estimates say a rush hour trip from the Pinellas County side of the Howard Frankland Bridge to downtown Tampa could cost as much as $30. As a result, opponents have dubbed them “Lexus Lanes.”

But, most of the passion against the TBX plan came from residents of the his-

Neighborhood News

The crowd of local residents and business owners who attended the TBX hearing on June 22 spilled out into the hallways of the Hillsborough County Center until early the next morning.

toric Tampa neighborhoods of Seminole Heights, Tampa Heights and Ybor City, who say they will be displaced by the project. The plan affects mostly poor minority neighborhoods, as well as up to 100 local businesses that opponents believe will be destroyed by FDOT construction.

Lisa Montelione, the outgoing Dist. 7 Tampa City Council member whose area of representation includes New Tampa and USF, voted against TBX. MPO chairman Les Miller, Tampa City Councilman Guido Maniscalco and Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner were the others who also voted against the project.

@NTWCNews

After the vote, Montelione addressed those remaining in the crowd, which once numbered more than 500 people, telling them to not be discouraged and applauding their efforts.

Opponents, many of whom voiced their distrust of FDOT and expressed concern over parts of the plan that had been kept secret, did get some measure of satisfaction, as the MPO unanimously passed amendments requiring more oversight and requesting reports of the human impact of the project.

A Wesley Chapel Perspective

Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) CEO Hope Allen was pleased to see the TBX plan survive.

She watched with hundreds of others in the lobby of the downtown Tampa City Center, and noted the intensity of the night.

Twice, Allen — who wore a sticker proclaiming her support of TBX — was badgered by anti-TBX folks, forcing her to change seats. “You must be one of those people from the suburbs,’’ one said to her.

Another woman walked by, pursed her lips and shook her head at Allen in disappointment.

“It’s tough in here,’’ Allen sighed.

The WCCC, along with the Pasco County Economic Development Council and the Pasco Board of County Commis-

sioners (BCC), all have supported TBX, although the roads currently being discussed only go as far north as Bearss Ave., just south of New Tampa.

Construction could begin next year in Pinellas County, and could be completed by 2026. “We believe in connectivity with the communities around us,’’ Allen said. “Plus, these roads will have a direct impact on our residents because so many of them head that way into work. They will use (the highways), and the less time they spend in traffic, the more time they can spend at home.”

Pasco’s District 2 commissioner Mike Moore, who represents Wesley Chapel on the BCC, said his support of TBX was a quality of life issue for him.

“There’s no denying we have well over 50 percent of our residents traveling those roads to go work in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties,’’ Moore said. “If this will cut off two hours a day on the road in traffic, that’s more time with family and friends, and that’s important. And remember, people do come from other areas to Pasco County to work as well.”

Part of the TBX plan includes express bus lines, and Moore said Wesley Chapel would eventually be home to a station.

The TBX plan was supported by most of the area’s business leaders, as well as by Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn. Had the plan not passed on this vote, the county would have had to return the $6 billion in funding to the state.

Most local commuters into Tampa and St. Petersburg often complain about the long, congested rides into work, which can take hours.

“My wife and I moved out to New Tampa several years ago, because that’s where her job was,’’ Joe Farrell told the MPO. “She doesn’t work there anymore, but we stayed because that’s where the affordable housing was.”

Now that he works in Clearwater and has an 18-month-old son, Farrell said it is hard to find time for his family.

“My son wakes up at 7 a.m. and goes to bed at 7 p.m.,” Farrell said, “and most days I have to leave the house at 6:30 a.m. and I am driving like hell through I-275 to get home by 6:30 p.m., so I can spend some time with him. It’s frustrating.”

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

13

New Tampa Engineer Putting The Freeze On Florida’s Heat With Polar Pods!

By John C. Cotey Tampa Palms resident John Fisher wasn’t working on anything in particular when a good friend from St. Augustine called him for help.

Steve Parry, a lifeguard, had developed a concept borne from personal experience, after spending a night partying and then figuring out the next day at work that he had overdone it.

He started suffering from heat exhaustion, and as the day dragged on, he felt worse and worse. So, he wandered into a nearby restaurant, asked to sit in the cooler, and after a few minutes of being camped out on a pickle bucket, started to feel better.

“My head came out of my hands, and I was like ‘My God, what just happened, man?,’’’ Parry told Fisher.

What had happened was that Parry’s body core temperature had been rapidly brought down, and the life had returned to his body.

“I’d pay money for this,’’ Parry thought to himself.

That sparked an idea to create essentially a mobile cooler to help people suffering from heat exhaustion.

But, Parry couldn’t do it alone. Enter Fisher, who earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Central Florida in Orlando in 1982, and Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE) degree from the University of South Florida in 1987, and a little free time on his hands.

“I thought it sounded like a great idea,

14

Tampa Palms resident John Fisher (left) brings his 50º Polar Pods trailers to outdoor events to help bring anyone’s core body temperature down fast. and I liked the challenge of it,’’ said Fisher. $20 worth of diesel fuel per day to keep the partment hasn’t officially rolled it out yet.

Fisher has now helped create three Po- temperature optimal.

The fire department will use the Polar Pod lar Pod mobile cooling/heat illness-preven“This whole thing is engineered to do as a fire rehabilitation vehicle. tion stations, with more on the horizon. one thing – bring the body’s core tempera“It was a lot of trial and error,’’ says ture down as quickly as possible,’’ Fisher says. Perfect For Outdoor Events Fisher. “The technical part of building this Heat exhaustion occurs after you have Fisher also extolls the Polar Pod’s efis not easy. It’s a tricky little recipe.” been exposed to high temperatures, often fectiveness at festivals and concerts. While The Polar Pod is a 20-foot-long by enhanced by dehydration. It can lead to diz- showing off the pod at its storage unit on 8-foot-wide ice cube on wheels. Patrons ziness, headaches, vomiting and fainting.

Nebraska Ave., he stops and runs to his pickenter through thermally insulated and temThe best treatment is drinking fluids up truck to grab a copy of a newspaper. pered glass doors, with seating on padded and cooling down, and it only takes a few In it, he has circled an article about benches for up to 18. The inside tempera- minutes in the Polar Pod to get your body two deaths and almost 60 hospitalizations ture is 50 degrees, and for those cooling temperature back into a safe range. at the recent Sunset Music Festival held at down, there is a 5-gallon water jug and a Of the three Polar Pods already built, Raymond James Stadium, where roughly 46-inch HDTV to watch. one already has been sold to a fire depart- 30,000 music fans were crammed together Each Polar Pod runs on a ment. Fisher can’t say which one, except on a scalding hot May day.

208VAC/10kW generator, and costs about that it’s in a major city, because the fire deWhile Fisher — who has tried to get

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

his Polar Pods into the event for two years — notes that the deaths could be the result of drug use, he says festivals where large crowds gather in Florida’s stifling climate often lead to heat exhaustion and tents and misting fans alone lose their effectiveness.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if that was part of the reason,’’ he says.

Some promoters have rented the Polar Pod for their events, paying $650-$750 for a full day. Fisher said he has set up Polar Pods at events like the Big Guava Music Festival at the Florida State Fairgrounds last year, as well as at the 97X (WSUN-FM) Backyard BBQ at Vinoy Park last month.

Fisher says the Polar Pod can also can be a lot of fun. He encourages revelers, most of whom are just trying to catch a little cold air, to keep the party going once they enter. “We’ll even put some Jimmy Buffet on the TV,’’ Fisher chuckles.

Most recently, the Polar Pods were used at the Country 500 Music Fest in Daytona Beach, where promoters charged $10 for a wristband for unlimited use of the Polar Pod. Fisher says the lines stayed long all day.

“That was a huuuuge event,’’ Fisher said. “We had both of the Polar Pods there and the lines were nonstop.”

Fisher, who has taught electrical engineering classes at USF, says he has met with the USF College of Public Health and the USF College of Medicine for advice on how to effectively treat heat exhaustion through quickly lowering the core body temperature.

He also set up a pod at USF football practices last spring, squeezing the team’s entire offen-

Neighborhood News

sive line inside to test its effectiveness.

“Generally, on really hot days, people are grateful that we are there,’’ Fisher says.

Fisher, who also earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from USF in 2000, adds that he and Parry are still developing a business plan for their Polar Pods. They would like to see more fire departments get interested, and they continue to see a market for events like marathons, triathlons, festivals and concerts.

“We see people dragging when they walk inside, and just come alive in the Polar Pod,’’ Fisher says. “You just don’t get it until you step inside. And, when people do, they’ll tell us, ‘Oh my God, you guys are geniuses.’”

For more information about Polar Pods, visit ThePolarPod.com, or call 995-1350 or (904) 962-1793. Or, email info@thepolarpod.com.

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

15

Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel Picks Up Two Important Designations

By Celeste McLaughlin

Living in Wesley Chapel, we can consider ourselves fortunate to have Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) close by for our medical needs.

The 200,000-sq. ft., 83-bed facility, which is currently being expanded, continues to be recognized for being outstanding in various ways.

The hospital recently was named the country’s first Center of Excellence for its Hip & Knee Replacement Center.

This designation was awarded by DNV GL Healthcare USA, an international health care accreditation organization.

“This comprehensive, independent evaluation is recognition of the high-quality orthopaedic care provided by our physicians and staff and dedication to the best outcomes for our patients,” says Dr. Stephen Raterman, orthopaedic surgeon and medical director of FHWC’s Hip & Knee Replacement Center.

In addition, FHWC also has received the 2016 Women’s Choice Award as one of America’s best hospitals for obstetrics.

The Women’s Choice Award is an organization that seeks to give women a collective voice to choose brands, products and services with confidence, knowing that other women have tried and would highly recommend them.

The designation is based on a variety of criteria that consider patient satisfaction, patient recommendation rating, and what women say they want from a hospital.

16

The staff of the Baby Place at Florida Hospital is proud to have won a 2016 Women’s Choice Award as one of the top obstetrics hospitals in the U.S.

FHWC’s Baby Place opened in 2012 with 11 private rooms for labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum care.

Each room features overnight space for family, spa-like amenities, such as Jacuzzi tub or walk-in shower, and 42” TV. Wireless fetal monitoring and a stateof-the-art infant security system are other highlights of The Baby Place.

“Women choosing us as the hospital to welcome their babies into the world is the highest honor we can receive,” says Denyse Bales-Chubb, CEO and president of FHWC. “This award is another reflection of that honor, and we pledge to keep earning it every day.”

For more information about FHWC, visit FHWesleyChapel.org. And, don’t forget, FHWC also is the Studio Sponsor for WCNT-tv (see page 1).

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

JULY 2016

Saturday - July 2 - 7:30 AM

Sunrise meets Fridays at 7:15 a.m. at Quail Hollow Country Club (6225 Old Pasco Rd.). For info, call Lynne Morgan at 695-6466.

Friday - July 8 - 2 PM

Mental Health Support Group - NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) of New Tampa Tri Club - The New Tampa Tri Club is open to runners, swimmers, Pasco is a support group for adults in Pasco County living with mental illness or in cyclists & triathletes across the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. The club hosts recovery. The group meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month, 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. group bike rides/runs leaving from Flatwoods Wilderness Park (13330 Morris at Atonement Lutheran Church (29617 S.R. 54). For info, visit NAMIPasco.com.

Bridge Rd.; not from the BBD entrance) every Tues., Thur. & Sat., 7:30 a.m. For more info, join the Facebook group or e-mail NewTampaTriClub@gmail.com. Monday - July 11 - 7:45 AM Professional Business Connections (PBC) - PBC meets Mondays at 7:45 Tuesday - July 5 - 7 PM a.m. at The Happy Hangar Cafe (at Tampa North Aero Park, 4241 Birdsong NAMI Friends and Family: Mental Health Support Group - NAMI (National Blvd., off S.R. 54, Lutz). For more info, call Chris Thurow at 546-6860.

Alliance on Mental Illness) of Pasco support group for friends and family of those Monday - July 11 - 8 AM with mental illness. The group meets the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month from 7-8:30 p.m. at Atonement Lutheran Church (29617 S.R. 54). Visit NAMIPasco.com. Experienced Networking Professionals (ENP) - ENP meets Monday mornings at 8 a.m. for breakfast and networking at Quail Hollow Country Club (6225 Old Wednesday - July 6 - 7:30 AM Pasco Rd.). For information, call Brad Benson at 973-1814.

Wesley Chapel Breakfast Club - The WC Breakfast Club brings business people Tuesday - July 19 - 6 PM together to network and present their business to the group. The club meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7:30 a.m. at Quail Hollow Country Club RGA Network Business Networking Happy Hour - RGA Networking Group holds networking Happy Hours the third Tues. of every month at Pinchers Crab (6225 Old Pasco Rd.). For more info, call Bill at 992-3370.

Shack at the Shops at Wiregrass mall. Bring a friend, a door prize & plenty of Wednesday - July 6 - Noon business cards. $5 admission includes appetizers. There also are drink specials Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel - The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel (Noon) offered. For more info, visit RGANetwork.net. meets Wednesdays at noon at Quail Hollow Country Club (6225 Old Pasco Rd.).

Tuesday - July 26 - 6 PM For more information, call 862-8989 or 391-3895.

Wesley Chapel Lions Club - The Wesley Chapel Lions Club meets every 4th Thursday - July 7 - 8 AM Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Hyundai of Wesley Chapel. For more information about Networking For Your Success - The Networking For Your Success group meets volunteering, community efforts, meetings, helping the vision impaired and more, Thursdays, 8 a.m., at the Lexington Oaks Golf Club clubhouse (26133 Lexington visit the club on Facebook or at WesleyChapelLionsClub.com.

Oaks Blvd.). All are welcome. For info, call 994-9944.

Thursday - July 7 - 11:30 AM

RGA Network Weekly Meeting - The RGA Networking Group meets weekly for networking at GrillSmith at the Shops at Wiregrass mall, allowing business owners to meet and get to know each other. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; lunch is from noon-1 p.m. For more info, visit RGANetwork.net.

Thursday - July 7 - 6:30 PM

Wesley Chapel Republican Club - The Wesley Chapel Republican Club meets the second Thur. of each month at 6:30 pm. at Hyundai of Wesley Chapel, 27000 Wesley Chapel Blvd. New members & guests are welcome to join the program and enjoy networking, coffee, and dessert. Call Peter Cracchiolo at 360-9813.

Thursday - July 7 - 7:00 PM

Celebrate Recovery - Meeting Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Bridgeway Church (30660 Wells Rd.), the purpose of Celebrate Recovery is to bring freedom from dysfunctional, compulsive & addictive behaviors through biblically-based principles. Dinner & free childcare available. For more info, call 907-1313.

Friday - July 8 - 7:15 AM

Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Sunrise - The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel

18

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

19

20

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

I PASSION T T EXCE LLENCE A G M R W I O T R Y K

Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel The Shoppes of New Tampa, 1830 Bruce B. Downs, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 www.bhhsfloridaproperties.com (813) 907-8200

SHOW CASE PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

EASTON PARK NEIGHBORHOOD

NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE OAK

Spacious New Tampa Home, 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 3,419 sf, large cul-de-sac lot, family room adjacent to kitchen, kitchen with granite counters, stainless steel appliances, oversized island & breakfast area, office & an in-law suite on the first floor, community pool. Priced $329,900

John Morel 813-712-0260

jmorel@BHHSFloridaProperties.com jmorel.bhhsfloridaproperties.com

NEIGHBORHOOD JUST SOLD! LIVE OAK PRESERVE

Angela Mora Hablo español también!

813-482-1452

AMora@BHHSFloridaProperties.com AngelaMoraRealEstate.com

nmiller@BHHSFloridaProperties.com www.nmiller.BHHSFloridaProperties.com

PRICE REDUCED

Well maintained 4/2/2 home with spacious formal living/ dining, nice floor plan with kitchen open to great room.

Updated cherry wood laminate flooring, vaulted ceilings, solar skylights, built in desk within office and more. Enjoy the state of the art amenities Seven Oaks has to offer!

Asking price: $245,000.Call Natalie for additional details: 813-758-8020 or nmiller@bhhsfloridaproperties.com

Natalie Miller 813-758-8020

nmiller@BHHSFloridaProperties.com www.nmiller.BHHSFloridaProperties.com

Your Full Real Estate Solution Providers

Residential - Commercial - Property Management Title Morgage Insurance - Home Warranty Auction

Jennifer Kibiger Private and Peaceful!! Pie shaped homesite with 813-469-1481 beautiful conservation views! 3 bd/2bth open kitchen to family rm layout with separate area for dining and den/ living rm. Functional Kitchen Island and Desk. Freshly Painted, Brand New Stainless Steel appliances, Huge Covered/Screened patio. Ready-to-Move-In! 1952 sq ft. jkibiger@BHHSFloridaProperties.com jkibiger.BHHSFloridaProperties.com

LAND O’ LAKES

SEVEN OAKS

LIVE OAK PRESERVE

Bill Radebaugh Office: 813-712-8461 Cell: 813-455-1560

Nice 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom villa with an office right off the entry foyer. Formal dining room with wood floors. Two car garage. Gated community in Seven Oaks. 1673 Sq.Ft. $239,900

Terry Hill Terence M Hill PA (813) 956-2383

thill@bhhsfloridaproperties.com Chairman’s Circle Gold for the past 5 years

WEST MEADOWS

SEVEN OAKS NEIGHBORHOOD

Cynthia Filippi 813-784-1634

CFilippi@BHHSFloridaProperties.com CynthiaSellsTampaHomes.com

4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Den, Custom Home on Ronnie Preusch 4.55 acres, gated & fenced. Main House has 3845 813-361-9595 sqft, 4Bd, 3.1B, 3+ CG, Office, Pool/Spa,/ Loaded RPM/Real Pro with Upgrades. Septerate In-Law Suite/office 1000 Move Team sgft 1Bd, 1B, Carport. Great property for Horses or even other outbuildings. Offered at: $845,000 rpreusch@BBHSFloridaProperties.com

www.BRadebaugh.FloridaProperties.com

An EXQUISITE Pool/Spa Home on Conservation Lot in Gated “Pinecrest” COMPLETE Chef Inspired KITCHEN REMODEL IN 2013 BRAND NEW MASTER BATH IN 2016 with Quartz Counters 3593 SF 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths, Bonus Room & 3 Car Garage. Wood Floors, Soaring Ceilings, Tiled Fireplace, 2 Story Balcony Staircase Ideal Location Offered at $499,000

ACCEPTING BACKUP OFFERS!

MEADOW POINTE

Beautifully upgraded home with hardwood flooring, Natalie Miller master custom closet,fully updated kitchen and 813-758-8020 baths, private pool, fenced yard and serene pond view!Call Natalie to receive a free market analysis on your home today.Natalie: 813-758-8020 or nmiller@bhhsfloridaproperties.com

Absolutely stunning “Rosewood Grande” 3 Bedroom 2 Bath home with $25,000 of amazing upgrades. Located in beautiful Tampa Bay Golf and Country Club, a 55+ gated community with outstanding amenities. 29406 Blackwolf Run Loop San Antonio, FL 33576 Check out this property on my website: BillsTampaBayHomes.com Offered at $264,900

Located on a Conservation/Pond Lot in Live Oak Preserve, this Beautiful Home Boasts 2,459 SF, 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths and 2 Car Garage. Pond view. Great Amenities including a Pool, Fitness Center, Basketball/Tennis Courts and Walking Trails.

Close to Major Highways, Shopping and Restaurants, this could be Your New Home! Call for a private viewing today.

UNDER CONTRACT, NEIGHBORHOOD

1830 Bruce B Downs Blvd.

Wesley Chapel, FL 33544

Sabrina Simpson Title Manager 813-712-8435

ssimpson@capstonetitlellc.com

SOLD! We just SOLD another villa to make it 43 SOLD in Wesley Chapel. If you are thinking about selling your home call your neighborhood real estate professional.

Robert Marvin & Debbie Marvin 813-892-3917 RPM/Real Pro Move Team

DMarvin@BHHSFloridaProperties.com DebbieSellsTampa.com

Need A New Look For The Summer? Try Raquel.Does.Hair!

By Celeste McLaughlin

Raquel Torres of Raquel.Does.Hair is an independent veteran hairstylist who gives her clients an exclusive salon suite experience in her own private room located in the Visionary Hair Company salon in the Cypress Glen Professional Park off of S.R. 56 (just east of I-75).

“You pay for my full attention,” says Raquel. She says she never doublebooks, so she won’t be attending to someone else’s haircut while you’re sitting under a dryer. “I control my own schedule, which is nice because I can set the appropriate appointment length to give each client the best experience possible.”

Raquel became licensed as a cosmetologist in Florida in 2003. She was dual enrolled in high school, where she thought cosmetology school would help her gain independence and an option for Raquel Torres of Raquel.Does.Hair has a private room inside the Visionary Hair Company salon in the Cypress Glen Professional Park off S.R. 56 supporting herself while she attended in the color and cut family.” She says college. Instead, she “fell in love and lines,” Raquel says, “so people can carry that includes hair cuts, razor cuts (which their natural color much longer without found I had a knack for hair.” she says offer more texture versus a She did go on to receive her Asneeding any kind of touch-ups.” sociate of Arts (A.A.) degree from Pasco blunt cut using scissors), pixie cuts and Especially now that Raquel has her short hair cuts for women, among other barber’s license, she says she offers men Hernando Community (now State) styles. She does color and highlights, College in Brooksville in 2005. In addimuch more of an experience than any and especially loves a technique she uses of those “quick places” men often go to tion to her cosmetology schooling and general education, she also recently went with many of her clients called “balayage for their haircuts. Her high-quality cuts highlighting,” where she hand-paints to barber school and became licensed as include shampoo and a scalp massage, your highlights instead of using foils. a barber last July. which she says men really enjoy.

“It makes it so the outgrowth is Raquel says men, women and “When a man comes to me for the more natural with no heavy horizontal children come to her for, “everything first time, they often tell me no one had

22

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

ever given them a scalp-massage before,” she says. “Now, they won’t let me skip it. They enjoy the relaxation of the experience.”

Raquel worked in salons in Brooksville, Gainesville, and Wesley Chapel for many years before she says she “took a leap of faith” and began working independently in 2012. She found the room for rent at Visionary Hair Company and felt that striking out on her own at that time in that location was meant to be. “My faith played a huge part in this,” Raquel says. “I really wanted this decision to come when I was sure it was what I was supposed to do.”

Raquel says that, to date, her business has grown primarily from word of mouth and referrals. She encourages clients to refer their friends to her when they’re looking for something new.

“Every client you refer to me means $10 off your next service, and your friend gets $10 off, too.” says Raquel.

“I hear from people all the time that it’s harder to find a new hairstylist than to find a new doctor,” she adds, “especially because, when you try someone new, you have to walk around ‘wearing’ that until your next experiment.”

So, Raquel wants to make the experience of giving her a try easy and pressure-free. She says she talks with each client for 5-10 minutes before she ever takes out her cutting tools. Because her room is private, she can close the

@NTWCNews

door, so there’s no one else watching.

She says she prides herself on being able to communicate with her clients.

“Anyone can say they are a hair stylist, but I really work to understand how my clients see themselves so that we can agree on a vision for their look,” says Raquel. “I take as much time as needed to be sure we find a style that complements them and their lifestyle.”

She also says the private room allows each client to have the experience that really fits their needs at that time. “A lot of moms come in and just want peace and quiet while they drink their coffee,” she says. Then she laughs, “Others want to talk, and I tell them they can talk as much as they want as long as they hold their head still.”

She says she also has clients who want to come in and have a good time, so she’ll put on some good music and maybe even sing and dance while she works. “If you’re looking for entertainment, I can do that, too,” she laughs.

Client Allen Williams says that Raquel’s warm, bubbly personality, and excellent work has kept him coming back to Raquel since the day he went to a salon and the person he wanted to see wasn’t there, so he ended up with her.

Allen says she cut his hair and his response was, “Wow! I like this.” Allen’s been going to her ever since, following her to her new location.

Allen’s wife Julie started going to Raquel a little over a year ago. “She’s always in a happy mood, and I feel super

Neighborhood News

comfortable with her,” Julie says. “She really seems to know what’s going to look good on me.” Julie adds that she wanted to “go blonde” for the summer, but Raquel talked her out of it.

“She’ll do what you want,” Julie says, “but the times I’ve gone against her advice, I’ve regretted it.” Julie says Raquel suggested she tone the blonde way down so it goes with her complexion, and she loves the end result.

Allen and Julie’s son, who is a high school student, began getting his hair cut by Raquel, too. Raquel describes his style as “hipster chic” and says he’s “very particular” about his hair. His parents say people often ask him who cuts his hair, so they refer them to Raquel.

“I love her,” says Julie, “and everyone I’ve recommended her to loves her, too.” Allen concurs, “I refer everybody to her, because you can pretty much guarantee they’re going to be happy.”

That’s Raquel’s goal. “I don’t care how you looked when you came in,” she says, “I’m responsible for how you look and feel when you leave.”

Raquel.Does.Hair is located at 2405 Creel Ln., Suite. 101, inside the Visionary Hair Company salon.

Raquel is available by appointment Tuesdays-Saturdays beginning at 10 a.m. To make an appointment, call Raquel at (352) 442-1082. You can see before and after photos of her work, check her prices, and read client testimonials at StyleSeat.com/ raqueldoeshair.

@NTWCNews

SPOTLIGHT ON...Florida Orthopaedic Institue!

With 25 years of experience treating patients throughout the Tampa Bay area, the doctors and staff at Florida Orthopaedic Institute are excited about their newest office, located in the Shoppes of Wesley Chapel on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., directly across from Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC).

The Board-certified doctors and surgeons at Florida Orthopaedic Institute have been recognized globally for their expertise. Headquartered in North Tampa, there are nine other locations for patients who live in or near Bloomingdale, Brandon, Citrus Park, Northdale, Oak Hill/Brooksville, Palm Harbor, South Tampa, Sun City Center and Temple Terrace.

Wesley Chapel is the 10th Florida Orthopaedic Institute office, and is offering physician services, physical therapy and X-rays. Additionally, three Board-certified physicians staff the new office: Christopher Baker, M.D., a fellowship trained specialist in sports medicine and shoulder reconstruction; Brian Palumbo, M.D., who specializes in hip and knee replacement surgery, with a focus on diagnosing and treating hip and knee arthritis; and Timothy Epting, D.O., who focuses on injuries and disorders of the foot and ankle, as well as general orthopaedic conditions.

In order to maintain the highest level of orthopaedic skill, Florida Orthopaedic Institute only employs doctors who have

had fellowship training.

“This additional training is just part of what sets us apart,” says Dr. Baker, “especially when the sophisticated work of joints is involved. In order to keep our patients active, the precision of the treatment is paramount to success.”

The doctors’ experience spans a number of different specialties, ranging from shoulders to hips to knees and all the way down to your ankles and feet. Their goal is simple -- to help fix what ails you.

“There are a lot of options other than surgery, like physical therapy or cortisone injections,’’ he says. “Our mission is to do what is best for the individual patient.”

You can visit Florida Orthopaedic Institute’s new Wesley Chapel office at 2653 BBD, or visit FloridaOrtho.com for more information. Florida Orthopaedic Institute is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Call (800) FL-ORTHO to make an appointment or to talk to a staff member. — Submitted to & edited by Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

23

New Tampa Plastic Surgery – Expertise & Artistry To Help You Look Your Best

New Tampa Plastic Surgery, a premier cosmetic surgery “boutique,” has been helping New Tampa and Wesley Chapel residents look and feel their best since 2011.

Specializing in the aesthetic plastic surgery of the face, breasts and body, Boardcertified plastic surgeon Peter Fakhre, M.D., rejuvenates and enhances the natural beauty of his patients with the latest cutting-edge surgical and non-surgical procedures.

Dr. Fakhre also has been named one of the top doctors in the country by Vitals. com (a medical review forum for consumers). According to the website, Dr. Fakhre was named a “Vitals Top 10 Doctor.” Of more than 870,000 doctors nationwide, Dr. Fakhre has been recognized as being in the top one percent, of all physicians, as determined by patient ratings.

Located in the Windfair Professional Park off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., across from Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC), New Tampa Plastic Surgery sees patients from all across Pasco and Hillsborough counties. Dr. Fakhre and his staff help everyone who walks through their doors feel welcome; their primary goal being to make the patient feel comfortable while exploring his or her best options for plastic or reconstructive surgery (as well as non-surgical alternatives, in some cases) in a highly professional and confidential environment.

You can see the results of Dr. Fakhre’s work when you visit NewTampaPlasticSurgery.com. Although his work definitely speaks for itself, he also is highly recommended by his patients. In a physician review on Vitals.com, Dr. Fakhre’s patient Jane Gibbons said, “Plastic surgery? More accurately — Surgical Artistry! Dr. Fakhre is a master of his craft. He not only is an accomplished surgeon, (he also) is a man of integrity who listens, counsels and guides his patients toward the goals they are seeking. (He) then satisfies those goals with skill and precision!”

She continues, “Dr. Fakhre works with his patients to determine the best surgical and non-surgical options that will achieve the desired outcome. As a bonus, his office staff is compassionate, efficient and shares his philosophy that everyone deserves to look their best. Unquestionably, Dr. Fakhre is the best that Tampa Bay has to offer!”

Dr. Fakhre, who is one of the few plastic surgeons in the Tampa Bay area to be double-Board-certified by both the

24

American Board of Plastic Surgery and by the American Board of Surgery, explains, “There are many things that are important in achieving successful outcomes in plastic surgery: an understanding of the patient’s desires, their physical examination, realistic goals, sound surgical technique, attention to detail and outstanding postoperative care, all of which contribute to success in cosmetic plastic surgery.”

He earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology from the University of South Florida in Tampa, graduating summa cum laude. He then elected to attend the University of Florida College of Medicine. It was while he was at UF that Dr. Fakhre’s surgical talent, aesthetic eye and love for plastic surgery were realized.

Dr. Fakhre then completed a general surgery residency at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, where he scored in the 98th percentile in the American Board of Surgery in Training Exam, the highest among all of the residents in his program. He was involved with numerous publications and research projects, which have been presented at numerous scientific meetings, including the distinguished American Society of Plastic Surgeons. During his surgical training, Dr. Fakhre was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award by the Mayo Clinic Medical School and served as Chief Resident in Surgery in his final year of surgical training.

Dr. Fakhre was then privileged to match at his first choice of Plastic Surgery fellowship programs at the prestigious Methodist Hospital where he again excelled, scoring the highest in-service exam score among all plastic surgery residents in his program and serving as Chief Resident during his final year of plastic surgery training.

“I had the wonderful opportunity to train with members of the original group of plastic surgeons that invented the breast implant, as well as facial and body plastic surgeons whose surgeries have been featured on The Discovery Channel,” Dr. Fakhre says. “Working in such an environment provided great exposure to a large volume of primary as well as revisionary cosmetic surgery cases. This experience was priceless and I’m happy to bring this type of training to the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area.”

This training and his own expertise helped Dr. Fakhre earn the highest score

Dr. Peter Fakhre & his professional staff invite you to visit New Tampa Plastic Surgery off BBD.

possible, in the 99th percentile among Plastic Surgeons, in plastic surgery of the breast, on the American Board of Plastic Surgery written examination.

In addition to refining his surgical skill and technique during his plastic surgery training, Dr. Fakhre also volunteered his time with Operation San José and traveled to Guatemala on a cleft lip and palate surgical mission. There, he helped deliver surgical care to many cleft lip and palate patients who may have otherwise never received the treatment they needed.

Dr. Fakhre says that he was happy to return to the Tampa Bay area after his training and currently lives in Seven Oaks with his wife of 13 years and two children, who keep them busy and entertained.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

So Many Surgical Options

So many of us have things we would like to change about our bodies. Time, age and weight changes all take a toll on the body and these factors can affect your appearance and self-image. Dr. Fakhre says that cosmetic plastic surgery is a way to help you look and feel better. “When we are happy with our appearance, we feel more confident,” he says.

New Tampa Plastic Surgery offers a plethora of cosmetic surgery procedures for women and men, including breast enhancement (augmentations, lifts and reductions), tummy tucks, face and neck lifts, eyelid surgery, liposuction and more. Known for his technical skill, eye for beauty and superior aesthetic practice, Dr. Fakhre will work with

@NTWCNews

patients are first educated about implant size and types so they can make informed decisions about which would best satisfy their personal goals. He says that the two main implant types available are still silicone and saline and that the implant selected depends upon a variety of factors.

Currently, the most common implants that Dr. Whether you end up needing liposuction or a tummy tuck, let Fakhre uses are siliNew Tampa Plastic Surgery transform your body, too. cone implants, which he says look and feel you to develop a personalized treatment more natural than plan to achieve your desired outcome and their saline counterparts. to make the “new you” a reality.

Breast lift surgery removes excess tissue “Cosmetic plastic surgery allows the and repositions the breast and/or nipple surgeon to combine artistry with sound to a more youthful position. This procesurgical techniques to produce superior dure is often chosen by women desiring to results,” says Dr. Fakhre. restore form to their breasts or reclaim their Breasts, for instance, are often at the “before-baby” appearance. And, although core of a woman’s femininity and selfbreasts are intertwined with the feminine confidence. Dr. Fakhre explains that breast profile, women are not the only ones who surgery is one of the most personal decihave breast surgery. In fact, Dr. Fakhre says sions a woman can make. that he has helped many men feel bet“Breast augmentation surgery can ter about their appearance with reduction increase your self-confidence and satisfacsurgery for men with female-looking breasts tion with your body,” says Dr. Fakhre. “By (also known as Gynecomastia). increasing or restoring breast volume, we Liposuction, ‘Mommy can help our patients achieve a better-proportioned body.”

Makeovers’ & More Dr. Fakhre’s breast augmentation Another popular cosmetic surgical

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

procedure at New Tampa Plastic Surgery is liposuction, which can improve the body’s contour by removing fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction restores proportionality and minimizes problem areas. Dr. Fakhre says that if you find yourself shopping for clothes to hold your tummy in or help slim your thighs, liposuction may be your answer. He adds that liposuction offers significant results with minimal downtime.

“In fact, many (liposuction) patients recover over a weekend and return to work on Monday,” he says.

A full “Mommy Makeover” also is a popular procedure sought by women who want to get back to the body they had before they had children. Dr. Fakhre says that the most common “Mommy Makeover” combines a breast lift (with or without breast augmentation for reshaping), a tummy tuck to tighten the midsection that was stretched during pregnancy and liposuction to remove unwanted fat deposits.

Dr. Fakhre, who has surgical privileges at Florida Hospital Tampa and Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, says that he performs most of his surgeries at the New Tampa Surgery Center, located nearby (off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel), although he adds that he does perform minor procedures in his office as well. Wherever he performs his artistry, however, his satisfied patients are a testament to his experience and training.

“From the moment I walked through the door in his office I was always greeted by first-name basis, which made me feel like I wasn’t just another patient to get in and out,” Christina Vargas wrote in her patient testimonial about her experience with New

Tampa Plastic Surgery. “The whole process — from scheduling my appointments to the day of the procedure, even my recovery — went so smoothly. I highly recommend Dr. Fakhre. I give him 10 stars!”

Non-Surgical Options, Too

But, the office also is a true cosmetic boutique, offering skin and other nonsurgical cosmetic procedures, in addition to plastic surgery. Many of these non-surgical procedures — such as Botox and dermal fillers, Latisse eyelash lengthening and thickening, fat injections, chemical peels that rejuvenate and energize the skin to beautify your natural state and more — often provide the results a patient is looking for, and are less “invasive” than surgical options.

Board-certified nurse practitioner Christina Ahrens has nine years of experience in dermatology and plastic surgery and performs all of the non-surgical procedures at New Tampa Plastic Surgery.

“We are fortunate to have Christina as part of our team,” says Dr. Fakhre. “she does an outstanding job in the treatment of our patients.”

For your free cosmetic surgery consultation, call to make an appointment with Dr. Peter Fakhre at New Tampa Plastic Surgery at (813) PLA-STIC (752-7842). The office is located at 2541 Windguard Cir. For a full menu of services, visit NewTampaPlasticSurgery.com. And, be sure to check out the ad on page 11 of this issue and ‘Like’ New Tampa Plastic Surgery’s Facebook.com page so that you can be notified of the office’s monthly promotions on various services.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

25

New Tampa Foot & Ankle — The Specialist For Your Feet!

By Anu Varma Panchal

Often overlooked, usually mistreated and rarely pampered, your feet are the unsung workhorses of your body.

But, undetected problems with your feet can often lead to larger problems that can affect your back, your gait, your lifestyle, and your general health. In the offices of New Tampa Foot & Ankle off S.R. 56, longtime New Tampa resident Stephen Levin, D.P.M., helps anyone from age 0 to 100 fix those issues before they get out of control. And, with the latest in laser technology and a new shock wave therapy (see below), he is able to treat some of the most common and painful conditions with noninvasive, highly effective in-office methods.

A native of Baltimore, MD, Dr. Levin got his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Urban Studies from the University of Maryland in College Park in 1992.

He then obtained his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) degree from the Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia in 1996. He completed a two-year medical and surgical residency at Montgomery Hospital Medical Center in Norristown, PA, in 1998, and then moved to Tampa, working in private practice until he opened New Tampa Foot & Ankle in 2002.

Dr. Levin moved his New Tampa location to its current location off of S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel in 2007, then opened a South Tampa location in 2012.

26

Dr. Stephen Levin, D.P.M., can help alleviate many common foot problems at New Tampa Foot & Ankle, located off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel. the Young Practitioner of the Year by the Dr. Levin is Board-certified in Florida Podiatric Medical Association. foot surgery by the American Board of At his Wesley Chapel office, Dr. Podiatric Surgery and also is on staff at both Florida Hospital Tampa and Wesley Levin uses state-of-the-art technology to fix some of the most common foot Chapel, St. Joseph’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s North, Tampa General Hospital, problems, including heel pain and fungal infections. the New Tampa Surgery Center and the Ambulatory Surgery Center on E. Fletcher Ave. He has operating room privileges A Wide Variety Of Services Among the many services offered at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, St. at New Tampa Foot & Ankle is ExtraJoseph’s North and the New Tampa corporeal Pulse Activation Technology Surgery Center.

(EPAT), the method by which Dr. Levin Dr. Levin is the immediate past treats heel pain. Developed in Europe president of was the president of the and FDA-approved in the U.S., the techHillsborough County Podiatric Medical Association, and in 2005, was selected as nology consists of a console and a wand-

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

like attachment that emits shockwaves on the area of pain.

Heel pain (such as plantar fasciitis) can be caused when certain ligaments are irritated, causing thickening, swelling and subsequently, pain. Traditional treatments have called for anti-inflammatory injections or home therapy, such as physical therapy, ice and wearing orthotic inserts.

EPAT uses acoustic shock waves to stimulate or signal the body to increase circulation, says Dr. Levin, allowing the area to heal itself more quickly and effectively. While he says some patients feel sensitivity after their initial treatments, they usually acclimate to the feeling (which he describes as a rapid pulsing) as the treatments continue, generally weekly for three to five weeks, though it could require more.

“The technology has been around for one or two decades, but it has become more amenable to an office setting,” says Dr. Levin. “There’s no downtime, no medications and no infections.”

In addition to heel pain, toenail fungus is a major concern of Dr. Levin’s patients. “It’s unsightly; it’s embarrassing,” he says, adding that the fungus can be caused by trauma and even by pedicures in unsanitary conditions.

To treat toenail fungus without oral medications or topical creams, Dr. Levin uses a treatment called NovoNail, a laser that works painlessly by running over the infected nail. This creates enough heat to

@NTWCNews

kill the fungus that causes the infection.

Dr. Levin says three or four 20-minute treatments over the course of a year is enough to cure most cases.

The nail restoration process for severe nails involves removing the nail.

Then the laser is used to resurface the skin of the nail bed. In addition, a small incision is made at the tip of the toe whereby a small instrument is used to file down bone spurs. This aids in flattening the nail bed, preparing it to receive a new nail on flat surface.

Heel pain and fungal infections affect a large number of patients. However, Dr. Levin handles many other issues affecting your feet and ankles, such as Achilles tendon problems, ankle instability, flat feet, arthritic foot and ankle care, bunions and corns, geriatric foot care, and warts. He also treats feet when crushed by injury and the feet of diabetics, who have poor circulation and nerve damage so they cannot feel blisters or sores and need special shoes with more room and protection. He also treats children for problems such as Severs Disease, a growth pain-related irritation of the heel, as well as ingrown toenails, warts and flat feet.

Some problems can be solved by wearing the right kind of shoes and to this end, Dr. Levin carries a plethora of foot-related products for patients to buy at reasonable prices. You can be sure they work well, because Dr. Levin says that either he, a staff member or a member of their families have tested or tried them out, such as Vionic flip-flops (Dr. Levin says those flat flip-flops Floridians tend

Neighborhood News

to wear everywhere don’t do our feet any favors) and custom and semi-custom orthotic shoe inserts. Also available is a line of hypoallergenic creams and lotions, as well as tools such as pumice stones, plus compression hose and shoes for diabetic patients.

The office accepts many forms of insurance and also offers in-house financing options.

Clearly, Dr. Levin’s services are in high demand. Since he started his own practice, it has grown to include a staff of seven, and he says he will add a new doctor at the end of this summer. He also says he currently sees an average of 150200 patients a week in his Wesley Chapel office, while his colleague, Dr. Martin Port, sees patients in the South Tampa location at 3704 Euclid Ave. Dr. Levin knew that Wesley Chapel would be the ideal place for his practice, as he had been keeping an eye on the projected growth of this area since moving to Florida 18 years ago. He met his wife, Diane Pellegrino Levin, when he was at the (then) University Community Hospital (now Florida Hospital Tampa) and she was an Emergency Room nurse there. The couple and their three children, David, 18; Sam, 11; and Sarah, 9, are active in the community, gymnastics and soccer.

New Tampa Foot & Ankle is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and is located at 26827 Foggy Creek Rd., Suite 104, off S.R. 56. For more information, call 973-3535 or visit NewTampaFootandAnkle.com.

@NTWCNews

SPOTLIGHT ON......Terrace Smiles!

Just as some people consider the eyes to be windows to the soul, Dr. Brian Witt, D.M.D. (Doctor of Medical Dentistry), views the mouth as a portal to the body, with a direct influence on your overall health.

It’s a perspective that guides how dentistry is practiced at Terrace Smiles, located minutes from most of Wesley Chapel off E. Fletcher Ave., a couple of miles west of I-75.

“We help people feel better as well as look better. That’s why I do what I do,” says Dr. Witt. “Dentistry has been linked to the health of our bodies.

Everything is connected. The studies are very clear today that heart attacks, strokes, heart disease and diabetes are often all related to infections in your mouth. So, making sure that your mouth is completely healthy with no gum infection and no tooth infection protects your heart and your blood vessels from stroke and heart attack.”

According to Dr. Witt, ensuring optimal oral health adds up to a very important outcome. “What we do here is we help save lives,’’ he says. “By keeping people’s mouths healthy without disease, we keep their bodies healthier and we help save their lives.”

Terrace Smiles also offers an array of cosmetic dental services.

“We’re a full-service dental office,” says Dr. Witt. “I’m fully trained in all

aspects of general dentistry. We also offer several advanced dental care procedures here, including laser gum surgery, tooth implants, implant dentures, full mouth reconstruction, smile makeovers and even orthodontics.”

Think Wesley Chapel is too far from the office? Terrace Smiles’ office manager, Shirley DeSouza, says the practice takes care of people who come from far beyond the Tampa Bay area.

“We have patients who travel from Canada to see Dr. Witt. We have a patient from New Jersey now, who came down just to see us.”

You can learn more about all of the dental services available at Terrace Smiles (located at 13214 Telecom Dr., Tampa) by calling 977-7000. Or, see the ad on page 8, visit TerraceSmiles. com or the Terrace Smiles Facebook page, where you also can view testimonial videos of patients.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

27

Wesley Chapel

By John C. Cotey

New Walking Soccer League Seeking Adult Players

Wesley Chapel resident Colin Eke grew up playing soccer. He says that in Ipswich, England, where he was born and raised, “football” was more than a game, it was a passion.

The older Eke got, however, the harder the game got. Factor in injuries to his hips, knees and Achilles tendon, and Eke turned to refereeing games. But now, he’s turning to a whole new game — “walking football,” or as it’s called here, soccer. He jokes that this way, “You can play soccer on Sunday afternoon, and when you go to work on Monday, you’re not on crutches.’’

Eke, who is 60, is trying to start what he believes will be Florida’s first-ever over50 Walking Football League right here in Wesley Chapel and New Tampa. He held a clinic last week at the Benito Middle School soccer fields on Cross Creek Blvd. in New Tampa, and is hoping to attract enough players for a 4-team league.

Eke says the concept is no joke – walking football is one of the fastest growing sports in England. He says that everyone should check out YouTube to see how the sport is played. “It’s quicker than you think,” he says.

There is an official organization in England that holds regional and national tournaments – Walking Football United – and the United States Adult Soccer Association will include the game in its Adult

Colin Eke (center) gives out “golden boots” to the MVPs from two of his adult soccer leagues in our area. Eke is now starting a “walking football” league in our area.

28

Sports Briefs

Soccer Fest in Denver, CO, July 13-17.

“A good friend in England told me about it,’’ he said. “Most people over the age of 50 can’t run anymore, they’ve chosen to hang their boots up or not play anymore, whether it’s weight, injuries or they’re not fit enough. This game just involves a new mindset.”

Eke is trying to persuade people to that new mindset, hoping to have enough teams for his planned league by sometime later this month — after the COPA America tournament has ended and the Euro Cup is nearing its finale.

“I’ve had some people say ,‘You must be kidding,’’ Eke says. “I just tell them, after five minutes in (of regular soccer), if you’re over 50, you’re either walking anyway, laying on the ground exhausted or wanting to come off for water.”

In walking football, as you might imagine, no running is allowed. You can power walk, but are not permitted to jog, lest you end up being sentenced to two minutes in the “sin bin,” equivalent to hockey’s penalty box.

The game is still quicker than you might imagine (again, check out the YouTube videos if you don’t believe it) and the players need to possess good footwork and solid ball striking skills. Instead of 11-on11, walking football features 6-on-6 play.

The game is open to men and women. The goals and field are smaller, no one is allowed in the penalty area in front of the net, and there is no offsides, no slide tackling and no over-the-head throw-ins.

“The goal is to let people who love the game to keep playing,’’ Eke says. “It’s still great physical fitness, it’s a great social game and there’s (much less) chance of injury.’’

Eke has run the New Adult Premier Soccer League (APSL) along with partner Miguel Herrera since 2012. Roughly 200 players from the Wesley Chapel, New Tampa and Dade City areas have competed at places like Benito Middle School on Cross Creek Blvd. in New Tampa, the Wesley Chapel District Park on Boyette Rd., and the New Tampa Community Park in Tampa Palms during men’s and co-ed leagues on Wednesday and Friday nights and Sunday afternoons.

Eke hopes the addition of walking football is as successful as the rest of his

leagues have been. “The whole point is to get players who are older to be healthy and active,’’ he says. “It’s like a stroll on a Sunday afternoon, so why not kick a ball at the same time?”

For more information about Eke’s walking soccer league and how to sign up, check out NewAPSL.com or email him at Colin@NewAPSL.com or Miguel@NewAPSL.com.

For additional information about the sport of walking soccer, check out WalkingFootballUnited.co.uk.

DICK’s Lacrosse Tourney To Stay In Wesley Chapel

Good news for the new hotels and businesses sprouting up now in Wesley Chapel — DICK’S Sporting Goods is returning as the title sponsor for the 2016 and 2017 DICK’s Tournament of Champions (photo from the December 2015 tourney above). The National Development Lacrosse Program (NDP) announced on June 1 that the pre-collegiate club lacrosse national championship will return to its long-time home of Pasco County’s Wesley Chapel District Park and Wesley Chapel High for the 9th and 10th straight years.

“Pasco County’s Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), its Tourist Development Council and the Wesley Chapel Athletic Association have provided tremendous support to the event for nearly a decade,” said NDP VP of business operations Josh Gross in a press release. “I’m excited that the event will return to Pasco County.”

The DICK’s Lacrosse tournament, which started in 2006, has been held in

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

Wesley Chapel since 2008. Last year’s event featured 73 teams from 16 different states.

Teams earn bids at regional qualifying tournaments to compete for the DICK’s national championship across five divisions.

One of those qualifiers — the Derek Pieper Memorial Cup — is held in Wesley Chapel and the new deal keeps that qualifying tournament viable.

The DICK’S Sporting Goods Tournament of Champions is held every December 29-31, with an estimated annual economic impact of about $3 million to Pasco County.

“This has been our anchor sporting event for many years,” said Pasco BOCC chair Kathryn Starkey, who also chairs Pasco’s Tourist Development Council. “We are glad to have them back again for the next two years.”

@NTWCNews

IT’S OUR BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR

BIG SAVINGS ON THE STYLES YOU’LL LOVE.

Custom Hardwood Shutters

INCREDIBLE SAVINGS, PROMOTIONS,AND UPGRADES ON

SHUTTERS, SHADES, DRAPES & MORE!*

CALL FOR YOUR FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION TODAY! 813-968-5050 // BudgetBlinds.com 1208 W. Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL 33612 Monday - Friday 10:00 - 5:00 Saturday 10:00 - 3:00

*Applies to selected window treatments and Norman and PureVu® shutters sold through Budget Blinds®. Ask for details. Not valid with any other offers, discounts, or coupons. Offer Expires 8/28/16.

Offer good at initial time of estimate only. At participating franchises only. ©2016 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.

30

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

Wine, Paint, Fun & Friendship Flow At Pinot’s Palette!

By Brad Stager As a sip-and-paint studio where people gather to create personal artistic masterpieces, the preferred pairings for a cabernet sauvignon at Pinot’s Palette in The Shoppes at New Tampa are art, family and friends, instead of a chargrilled steak or butterflied leg of lamb.

According to James Serrano, who coowns the franchise with his wife Carol, the success of a day’s work at Pinot’s Palette is measured in the pleasure and satisfaction delivered to guests who come in for some creative recreation, as much as the revenue generated from seating fees and beverage sales. He sums it up in one word: “Service,” he says. “I have a servant’s heart and we have great artists (working here) who have a passion for this.”

It’s an approach that has made Jennifer Rakita of Seven Oaks a repeat customer.

She says she often visits Pinot’s Palette with some of her gym friends for a more “aesthetic” workout. “James always takes very good care of us and makes sure we have a good time,” Rakita says, adding that the paintings she’s created at Pinot’s Palette have helped decorate her home. “I always leave with a nice piece of art and display them.”

Live Oak resident Michelle Rizzuto says the instructors who guide patrons during the painting sessions at Pinot’s Palette ensure your artistic success.

“I’m not an artist, but I can follow the instructions and the paintings turn out fine,” Rizzuto says.

Eight of Serrano’s nine employees are high-energy artists who lead guests step-bystep towards completion of that day’s art.

“I love the fact that we’re creating jobs for artists,” says Serrano, who notes that many of them are art students or recent graduates from the University of South

Neighborhood News

Florida. For example, Ari Pascal received her Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree from USF in December and is glad to have a chance to apply her skills.

“It’s a really unique job,” Pascal says.

“I feel like I’m a teacher but it’s not a normal class because people come to unwind and enjoy themselves.”

As an example, Pascal enthusiastically began a recent two-hour Friday night paint party by asking attendees, “Are you guys ready to have some fun?”

The project for the session was a beachscape and by the time Pascal illustrated the techniques to add details like a starfish and footprints (photo, right), the painters were filled with feelings of accomplishment.

“I’d never done any painting before,” admitted Wesley Chapel resident Dinah Danao. “But, this (painting) is something I can keep.”

Danao had brought visiting family members from New Jersey with her to Pinot’s Palette and was glad she did. “We loved it,” she said. “They want to come back, we had so much fun.”

Serrano says his place also appeals to people who are involved professionally in the creative industries. For example, Darci D’Onofrio and Melissa Van Schaik operate the performing arts venue Dreamhouse Theatre in Lutz. For the two Wesley Chapel residents, an evening creating guided artwork was more than a paint-by-numbers session.

“This is our girls night out,” said D’Onofrio. “It’s a great way to support the arts and we’re definitely coming back.”

“I thought it was fantastic,” added Van Schaik. “It was so relaxing and fun.”

As Diane Stickney, a staff artist at Pinot’s Palette expresses it, “This is fun art, not fine art.”

@NTWCNews

A Variety of Options

There are several ways to enjoy Pinot’s Palette’s offerings. Classes led by an art instructor are scheduled, with subjects selected from a catalog of more than 2,000 paintings. Twohour painting sessions cost $35 per person and three-hour sessions are $45 per person.

There also are open studio sessions, where painters choose from a limited selection of paintings to recreate from written instructions without the aid of an artist that cost just $15 per person. The Pinot Perks rewards program offers special benefits to frequent painters.

Themed events add variety to the Pinot’s Palette calendar. “Date Night” sessions allow a couple to create a combined work of art from two canvases. Similarly, “Family Day” and “Mommy and Me” classes create a family-bonding event as well as a unique piece of art. According to Serrano, his black light painting sessions are especially popular and frequently sell out.

“We provide neon paint and black lights are everywhere,” he says. “The kids and adults all love it.”

Beer, wine and soft drinks are sold separately, but Serrano says his prices are very fair. He has 15 beers and 15 wines to choose from. Moscato wines such as Beringer pink, Villa Pozzi and Cupcake D’Asti are popular, with the Cupcake entry being the best-seller, according to Serrano, who enjoys the bold

flavors associated with Gnarly Head malbec.

Other wines, such as Beringer pinot noir and white zinfandel, Cupcake sauvignon blanc and shiraz, BV Coastal Estates Cabernet Sauvignon and more are on the shelf to satisfy grape-loving palates.

Available beers range from Bud Lite to Sea Dog Wild Blueberry, with Stella Artois, Angry Orchard and Blue Moon the favorites, according to Serrano. Food is not served, but guests are allowed to bring their own.

And, people looking for a place to celebrate special occasions, such as bachelorette, holiday, kids and corporate parties, can even book Pinot’s Palette for their private use. Team-building events can be arranged with members combining their canvasses into a single creation as a reminder that they accomplished something together.

Serrano says custom paintings can even be See “Pinot” on page 36.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

31

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

33

Café Olé On CC Blvd. Is Still My Favorite Restaurant In New Tampa

Pan-seared Chilean sea bass

Grilled lamb chops in red wine reduction

THERE IS

By Gary Nager

absolutely no doubt in my mind that Café Olé, the continental and authentic Spanish restaurant located in the Cross Creek Center plaza on Cross Creek Blvd. (at Kinnan St.; behind the Shell gas station) is still the best restaurant in New Tampa, hands down.

I know, some of you still haven’t tried it because you think it’s too pricy or because you think you don’t like “Latin” food.

At owner Frank Aliaga’s Café Olé, however, you can get so much more than just delicious authentic Spanish dishes — like real seafood paella, seafood colossal or shrimp in garlic sauce tapas — none of which I can eat because of my shellfish allergy.

In fact, even though I can’t enjoy those three dishes (all of which are pictured on these pages), everything I can safely enjoy at Café Olé is much better than anything you can get anywhere else in New Tampa.

Such As, For Starters?...

Although most of my favorite tapas

34

dishes at Café Olé are usually included on the daily tapas specials list created by the restaurant’s “Sauce Man” Chef Wilson, I love the chicken raviolis on the next page (Café Olé sometimes offers lobster and even veal raviolis, too) in a creamy tomato sauce that is a perfect dipping complement to the amazingly crispy Italian-style bread served upon request with your meal (which already is served with pre-softened butte, which is so much better than any dipping oil, in one man’s opinion).

I’m also partial to Café Olé’s Little Neck clams tapas in garlic, white wine and onions and Galician-style grilled octopus (pulpo a la Gallega), both of which are still among the non-fish seafood I can safely eat). If you’re craving lobster, shrimp, mussels and scallops, There’s even unique bruschetta, fried calamari and traditional Spanish chorizo sausage Salteado (in herbs and a light red wine sauce) on the tapas menu.

But, there’s little doubt in my mind that Café Olé’s incredible fresh fish, steak and lamb and veal entrées are what keep me coming back for more. Whether you dine in or take out for lunch or dinner — and the

only-slightly-smaller lunch portions are priced so well, it’s a perfect way to try Café Olé without breaking the bank. The lunch specials usually come with the classic Salade Olé, which comes with the best balsamic house dressing in town. The full-sized salad is more than worth splitting for dinner, too.

Whether you prefer the Chilean sea bass shown on this page without the shrimp and creamy white wine and lemon sauce, grouper, mahi, snapper, salmon or corvina, you really can’t go wrong with Café Olé’s fresh fish, which is always served with a starch (usually potatoes or rice) and sautéed, fresh julienned veggies. As for the fish on the actual menu, the pescado de la casa (fresh flounder sautéed with onions, garlic, olives, capers and finished in a fresh tomato sauce) also is outstanding.

I’ve also never had a sub-par steak, lamb or veal shank or lamb chops and although the prices aren’t cheap, neither is the quality of the food. Although I’ve had very good lamb chops at other local restaurants, the grilled lamb chops (in some sort of red wine reduction sauce) were the best I’ve had in New Tampa this year. And, I’ve had everything

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

Bone-in cowboy ribeye w/shrimp

from New York strip to filet mignon to bonein cowboy ribeyes from the specials list and all were tender and tasty, with sauce or without.

Aliaga and his top-notch staff have worked hard to keep up the quality at Café Olé, even though the place has gone through so many additions and changes the last couple of years. When Aliaga opened the restaurant six years ago, it was only about 30 seats and 1,500 square feet. Today, after annexing two other adjacent spaces in the plaza, it is more than 4,500 sq. ft., with seating for nearly 200 people (book a party there and I know the food will be a major hit), with a kitchen that is at least three times the size of the original.

Café Olé also hosts the New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meetings every Wed. at noon. Attend one time as a guest and you’ll love the food so much you’ll probably join.

The recently revamped bar areas is now much more spacious, and still features premium liquors, Spanish and other imported, micro-brewed and domestic beers and the best wine list in New Tampa. I recommend any of the Spanish reds (ribero del duero, tempranillo, rioja, etc.) or other equally up-

@NTWCNews

Seafood paella

Chicken ravioli tapas

Seafood colossal

Mozzarella strawberry bruschetta

scale (but not overpriced) red or white wines.

And, Speaking Of Specials...

Aliaga & Co. are making it less expensive for you to enjoy your favorite beverages Mon.-Thur. And, you can even enjoy $3 Estrella or Mahou draft or bottled beers during any of the COPA America and Euro Cup

Neighborhood News

soccer games. You just have to root for Spain at the Euro.

And, coming soon is DJ entertainment on Fri. & Sat. nights and weekend brunch!

For reservations (not required, but suggested on weekends) & more info about Café Olé (10020 Cross Creek Blvd.), call 907-5242, or visit CafeOleRestaurant.com.

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

35

‘Pinot’s Palette’

Continued from page 31 produced from photographs, such as a Project Pet creation.

Kids birthday party packages start at $300 for 12 painters and the appeal to young artists is also evident in the popularity of Pinot’s Palette’s Little Brushes Kids Camp. Shelley Semczuk of New Tampa says the half-day painting sessions helped her grandson Justyn discover a new interest in art. “He never thought he could paint and now he finds that he can. It’s been a very positive experience.”

Pinot’s Palette has been open in Wesley Chapel for about eight months. Serrano became a franchisee of the Texas-based company after a career in the financial services industry. One of the reasons he says he chose Pinot’s Palette as a business is the company’s philanthropic “Painting it Forward” program, which donates a portion of a painting event’s proceeds to charity. “It’s an opportunity for me to give back to the community,” Serrano says.

As an example of that commitment to doing good things, Pinot’s Palette will hold a fundraising event from on Friday, July 1, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m., to benefit victims of the June 12 mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando. It will be a black light event featuring a specially-designed painting.

Serrano says 20 percent of the seating fees will be donated. At our press time, Serrano said he was evaluating which charities are appropriate and worthy of financial support.

“There are so many organizations out there that are trying to help,” says Serrano.

For more info about the fund raiser or to

36

Create your own masterpiece at Pinot’s Palette!

sign up for it, visit PinotsPalette.com/WesleyChapel/event/105788.

Other Painting it Forward fundraising events at Pinot’s Palette have benefitted Animalluvr’s Dream Rescue, which rescues critically sick or injured dogs and cats, and Frankie’s Friends, an organization providing financial aid to help people pay for a pet’s major medical expenses.

As a member of the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce, Serrano is an avid networker and advocate for local small businesses. “I attend a lot of ribbon cuttings to support the businesses,” he says.

Like any new business owners, James and Carol find themselves putting in a lot of hours to establish themselves in the Wesley Chapel community and James says it’s starting to pay off. “The word is getting out and people are talking about us,” he says.

“Wesley Chapel is growing and it’s perfect for a place like this.”

Pinot’s Palette (see the ad on pg.

16) is located at 1718 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. You can check out upcoming events, make reservations and ask questions online at PinotsPalette.com/ WesleyChapel or by calling 428-6590.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

37

The Latest & Greatest News About Dining, Shopping, Retail & More In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel!

Cheddar’s & Chick-fil-A Now Open & A Ford’s Garage Update

Ford’s Garage, which mixes the vibe of “old school” service stations with burgers and craft beers, is one step closer to becoming one of Wesley Chapel’s new neighborhood hot spots.

Eric J. Hendra of Hendra & Associates, a consulting engineering and surveying firm in Tampa, officially submitted a preliminary site plan application for Ford’s Garage of Wesley Chapel in March to Donna Huber, Pasco County’s senior development review technician.

The restaurant will be located adjacent to the planned Pollo Tropical on the northeast corner of S.R. 56 and Grand Cypress Dr., directly across from TPO. It will be owner Marc Brown’s fifth Ford’s Garage location. Brown, of South Tampa, started the chain in Fort Myers in 2012 and recently opened a location in Brandon. Brown and his ownership group have a licensing deal with Ford Motor Co., so car enthusiasts will enjoy the décor, if previous locations are any indication.

Ford’s Garage will have 7,211-sq.ft. of indoor seating, and a 1,192-sq.ft. patio area, according to the proposed site plan.

The restaurant will include 92 parking spots

38

June 27, with the actual Grand Opening (and WCCC Ribbon Cutting) scheduled for June 30, the day before this issue arrived in your mailbox.

The 4,800-sq.-ft. Chick-filA, located at 2391 Sun Vista Dr., off S.R. 56) will, of course, specialize in chicken sandwiches, and is certainly another welcome addition to the corridor. For more info, visit Chick-fil-a.com.

and “static mounted Ford vehicles and an antique non-working fuel dispenser.”

Meanwhile, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, the growing, Texas-based chain with 100 company-owned restaurants and 65 franchises (including Brandon and Pinellas Park), opened in front of TPO (at 2391 Sun Vista Dr., off S.R. 56) on June 6.

We were on hand for the Wesley Chapel location’s “family & friends” pre-opening event, which also included a Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) ribbon cutting and hundreds of guests. For more info, visit Cheddars.com.

Meanwhile, adjacent to Cheddar’s is the new Chick-fil-A, which held a preopening we were planning to attend on

Celebrating 20 Years With Fit 4 Life!

It’s hard for me to believe that I’ve now known — and been working out with — Fit 4 Life co-owner Travis Monday for 15 years, but it’s true.

Also true is the fact that Monday recently celebrated 20 years of Fit 4 Life — which he started in Wisconsin in 1996 before moving to his first Tampa Palms location in June 2001.

Travis and his wife and co-owner Fiona have been

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 •Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

in their current location for almost a decade and the 3,000-sq.-ft. fitness and physical therapy studio, where you always work oneon-one with a certified instructor or licensed physical therapist, held a fun 20th anniversary celebration (photo below) on June 22, catered by the nearby Stonewood Grill & Tavern and featuring free martinis, wine and tours of the facility for first-time visitors.

“We’ve had the party for several years now,” Travis says. “But, this year was special because it was for my 20 years in business.”

For more info about Fit 4 Life Personal Training & Physical Therapy (17419 Bridge Hill Ct. in Tampa Palms, zip code 33647), call 907-7879 or visit Fit4LifeTampa.com. — GN

@NTWCNews

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

39

New Tampa & Wesley Chapel HELP WANTED NOW HIRING SERVERS. Call 813-907-1688 for more information. Or apply in person at Ginza Endless Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar, 6417 E. County Line Rd. #104.

AWARD WINNING REAL ESTATE TEAM with an overflow of serious prospects. Seeking professional full-time real estate agents who want to expand their horizons, make more money and have a fulfilling life.

Great training available. Keller Williams Tampa Properties. Contact Annette Bohannon - 813-431-2840.

TERMITE TECHNICIAN NEEDED Must have at least one year of experience, a clean driving record, no criminal record and be able to lift 50lbs. Call VIP Pest Control at 813-234-8888 for details.

SPANISH-SPEAKING MEDICAL BILLER wanted for New Tampa med. equip. company. Gathers billing info; checks if complete. Bills insurance carriers. Resolves disputed claims, discrepancies. Data entry skills, Microsoft Office proficiency, time mgmt, organization, professionalism, cust. svc & attn. to detail. Send resume: Richard.Jones@solarusmedical.com.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST (PT) An established New Tampa outpatient clinic is hiring a part-time PT to provide custom, one-on-one care. Fax resume to (813) 994-3080.

ROUTE SALES, MEDICAL Fills customer orders by driving to customer accounts within FL; unloading & shelving product, inventory verification. Increase sales volume by providing cust. service and suggestive selling techniques. Overnight travel 2 nights/month. Send resume to: richard.jones@solarusmedical.com.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST with computer experience in intergy (greenway) practice management system.

Knowledge of insurances. Busy phones. M-F 9-6, 35 hours. Also, L.P.N. or M.A. for allergist office. Please fax resume to 813-558-9421 HIRING PERSONAL TRAINER Private Women’s Studio with Boot Camp & Personal Training in Wesley Chapel & Land O’ Lakes owned by Samantha Taylor.

Please no phone calls or walk ins.To apply part time: www.lolfitbodybootcamp.com/hire-pt PIZZAMAKERS & LINE/PREP COOKS WANTED (exp’d. preferred) at New Tampa’s favorite authentic Chicago-style pizza place. Bring Resume during business hours to Full Circle Chicago Pizza at 19651 BBD Blvd. (in the Pebble Creek Collection).

ERRANDS & PERSONAL SERVICES GET A RIDE Don’t Have a Ride? Don’t Want to Leave Your Car? Shouldn’t Drive? We Drive You & Your Car Home! Night Clubs, Corporate Events, Sporting Events, Concerts, Appointments, Airport or stranded. Call Jay at (813) 966-1530.

40

Classifieds

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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. Call 813-215-1177.

GREG’S PAPERHANGING For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed and insured, clean, quick and reasonable. Call 973-2767 for a free estimate.

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 avail. Free estimates.

Your Neighborhood Arbor Greene Resident! We work 7 days. Call 994-5124.

WEST COAST FLOORING, INC. Carpet and Laminate Flooring. Quality repairs on all floors. Commercial Flooring Install. Licensed and Insured. Free Estimate, Call (813) 215-4817.

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.

MILLENNIUM HOME REPAIR.Professional Handyman Service. Services include: Cabinet Installation, Dry wall repair, Tile installation and 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 installed, Re-sealing baths and showers, TV mounting, and more. Call 813-400-1408 or email TYCOONUNION@YAHOO.COM.

POOL SERVICES TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing with outstanding customer service! LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED. See why we are New Tampa and Wesley Chapel’s #1 Choice!!

Call Chris today @ (813) 857-5400 or visit TranquilityPoolService.com. New customers get ONE MONTH FREE! ALL-STAR POOL SERVICE & REPAIR Expert repairs and installations of pumps, motors, filters, timers, salt and ozone generators. Marcite for $2,400. Tile repair and acid washes, paver and river rock sealing, pressure washing and deck repair, paver and eurocote decks. Mention this ad and receive 1 FREE MONTH Pool Service. Call or text 813-244-7077. See our display ad. www.allstarpoolsoftampabay.com

CLEANING SERVICES POWER HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES Residential cleaning weekly, bi-weekly, monthly & occasional. One time, deep cleaning, move in/move outs, real estate, holiday and events. Owner operator with personal care! Licensed and Insured. For free in-home estimate, call 813-356-8287 or e-mail powerclean16@gmail. com. You will be powerfully pleased!

B CLEANING SERVICES: Over 14 years experience!

Commercial & residential; Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly; New house & 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 300 clients in New Tampa! For more info, Call 758-9710.

SQUEAKY CLEAN HOME SERVICES Residential cleaning company offering weekly, bi-weekly, & monthly services and move-in/move-out cleanup. All supplies and equipment provided. We are an Owner Operator company with over 20 years experience. “If it Needs to be Clean, We’re your Team!” Call us for your free in home estimate today! 813-625-6045.

MISCELLANEOUS SEWING MACHINE REPAIR Expert sewing machine repair and parts. 25+years experience. In home/business service or we have a weekly pickup at Quilters Quarters in Zephyrhills and Quilts on Plum Lane in Dade City. We service all makes and models including electronic,embroidery and sergers. FREE ESTIMATES Southern Sewing Center (813) 994-4300.

TURN YOUR CLUTTER INTO CASH! Estate sales, inventory liquidations, and appraisal services. We evaluate & appraise your treasures, then get you top dollar! We’ll sell your stuff onsite or online. We do the work & you get the cash. Contact us today @ 813428-5793 to find out how!

PET SERVICES CAT SITTING Tampa Cat Lady Professional CatSitting 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. You can call 813-994-9449 or submit a service inquiry at TampaCatLady.com.

SPACE AVAILABLE Serenity Salon & Spa Suites Wesley Chapel. 1 suite available for rent. Call for details: 813-3125247 or 813-997-6302. Great location!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 •Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

COMPUTER/BUSINESS SERVICES PROFESSIONAL TECH SUPPORT in your home or small business. A+, Certified computer tech with 20 years exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades & tutoring. More affordable than large chains! Friendly, personalized svc. 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 exp. Contact Jeffrey Blank at (813) 973-4507, visit WSICA.COM or email Wsica@wsica.com

LAWN & LANDSCAPING

_

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

AMERICAN PRIDE LAWN CARE SERVICE, LLC Our services include weekly lawn maintenance with mulching decks on all mowers, precision edging, string trimming, hedge, shrub, palm, and tree trimming. We also offer landscaping, pruning, and sod replacement. Free estimates. Licensed and Insured. We are an Owner/ Operator Company built on service and trust. References available. For more info, call (813) 458-4778.

HOMETEAM LAWNCARE LLC High-Quality Professional Services: Weekly or Bi-Weekly Year-Round FullSvc LawnCare starting at $75/month: mow, edge, trim, blow, mulch-bed maintenance, hedge and low-tree trim. Additional Services: Sod, Mulch, & Rock Placement; Hedge Trimming, & Tree Trimming; Landscape Installation; Fall/Spring Clean-Up. Family Owned & Operated, Licensed & Insured, Background Checked, Call or Text (813) 817-9554.

Not getting the calls you know your business deserves?

Our Classified Ads are the ones your neighbors actually READ!

Call 910-2575 to order your Classified or Display Ad today!

@NTWCNews

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

41

Flag Day Celebration At Shops At Wiregrass Now A New Tradition Most Americans know that our nation’s Independence Day will again be celebrated on Monday, July 4. The bet here is that far fewer people in our area —and throughout the nation — know that Flag Day is celebrated on June 14.

Well, Shops at Wiregrass mall GM Greg Lenners is hoping that he has started a new tradition by unveiling a new, 80-foottall flagpole (and 8’ x 12’ American flag) on Piazza Ave. in the center of the Shops.

Although the event didn’t have great public attendance (only about 50-60 total attendees), several local political dignitaries were on hand for the celebration and raising of the flag — to only half-staff, in honor and memory of the 49 people who were murdered in Orlando just two days before (on June 12). Lenners opened the event with several moments of silence for those who fell and prayers for the survivors and all of the families affected.

Lenners, who pulled the plug on the Wesley Chapel Rotary Club’s fifth annual Freedom Festival (see stories on pages 1 and 4) at the Shops due to safety concerns, said, “We had to kill Freedom Fest, but to show our patriotic support, we finally installed the flag right there at the valet circle. And, it only took 7-1/2 years to find the perfect spot for the flagpole.”

Among the dignitaries in attendance were Pasco County commissioners Mike Moore and Ted Schrader, State Reps. Danny Burgess and Shawn Harrison and Rotary District 6950 Rotarian of the Year (see page 10) Eric Johnson of the Williams Auto Group and the Wesley Chapel Noon Rotary Club, who sang the national anthem.

Also part of the event were local

42

law enforcement officials on horseback, a beautiful color guard flag-raising ceremony and several active and retired U.S. military veterans.

“The Flag Day event isn’t a replacement for the Freedom Festival,” Lenners said. “But it is a nice little memorial and a patriotic nod and we hope it will become a popular annual event here.” — GN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 •Volume 24, Issue 14 • July 1, 2016 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews