New Tampa Neighborhood News, Issue 15, July 19, 2014 by Neighborhood News

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

County Approves Request For Proposals For Land Opposite Hunter’s Green water fountains and plenty of shade trees. The RFP states that the county is open to proposals that include leasing, purchasing or joint-use of the land in a private-public partnership (P3). Regardless of what is developed, the commercial development must follow the same design format/architectural style as the entrance to Hunter’s Green. Although owned by the county, the land is within the Tampa city limits, so it also will be subject to the city’s zoning requirements. “We’re still very far from the finish line,” says Dist. 2 Comm. Victor Crist. “We’re asking for proposals for anything within the stated parameters. We want to make sure that the community as a whole is happy.” Crist says that, even though proposals are being sought now, the process still will be a long one, adding that it takes months to receive and go through proposals. In addition, depending upon what is submitted by contractors, more public hearings will have to be held to keep the public informed. “It’s not going to be a closed-door process,” Crist says. According to county documents, the schedule for developing the land has the RFP opening date set for mid-August, with another public meeting tentatively scheduled for the end of that month to present proposals to the community. The proposals then will be evaluated and ranked by county officials (based upon developer qualifications, the proposal itself and the proposal’s financial

New value to the county) in Tam September, with appa B lvd. Cros proval set for mid-Ocs Cr eek tober. Zoning, design Blvd . and permitting is estimated to take several more months and construction on whatever project is approved for the site isn’t estimated to begin until at least October 2015. As far as the commercial development along BBD is conHunterʼs Green cerned, Crist hopes to attract businesses that currently are not in the area, most notably, The area outlined in green is the county-owned 81 acres across Bruce a specialty food store, B. Downs Blvd. from the entrance to Hunter’s Green that could be desuch as Trader Joe’s or veloped with a community center/theater, dog park and passive park. Whole Foods. Right now, New Tampa residents have to travel all cal about a private-public partnership. “Overall, it appears that the citizens the way to N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Carrollwould support commercial use (depending wood to shop at either store. “We want to attract businesses that are upon type) so long as it provides the funding to build-out a public park or community/ highly specialized,” Crist says. At the May 5 public meeting at the New cultural center,” the county’s report from Tampa Regional Library (located on Cross the meeting reads in the RFP. “Citizens also Creek Blvd.) about developing the land, Crist expressed a desire for the process to be transand other county officials took questions and parent and to have an opportunity to review noted concerns from attendees, who were the plans as they are developed.” Stay tuned for updates as we continue to mostly in favor of a community center and park. However, several attendees were skepti- follow this story.

Wesley Chapel has lost one of its original residents and a key player in the development of the booming area, as Wiregrass Ranch Development of Regional Impact (DRI) developer Don Porter has passed away at age 73. The family name is prominent around town, most recently unveiled on the sign for the new Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) Porter Campus on Mansfield Blvd., but it’s probable that the college might not even be standing in its current location in the

Wiregrass Ranch DRI had it not been for the generosity of Porter and his family, who donated the 65 acres for PHSC’s fifth campus. Wiregrass Ranch also will be home to a proposed youth baseball facility (Don was an outstanding baseball player at the University of Mississippi in Oxford and even played in the minor league system of the old Houston Colt .45s Major League team), also to be built in the next few years on donated land. The Porter family’s loss has not been

Local News, Business & Education Updates

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lost on the local community, especially two institutions that make up much of the heart and soul of the growing Wesley Chapel area: Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) and the Shops at Wiregrass mall, both of which sit on the Porter family’s 5,100-acre property. “Don Porter’s vision was to transform (Wiregrass Ranch) into a community centered around family, a community with quality health care, education and recreation services for its residents,” says FHWC spokesperson Tracy Clouser. “It was wonderful to work with Don and his family to bring that vision to life. We are truly saddened at his passing, but are inspired by his legacy, which lives on now and still will, in the future.” Shops at Wiregrass general manager Greg Lenners had similar kind words to share in memory of Porter. “Wesley Chapel and Pasco County have lost a very important visionary and patriarch of our community,” Lenners says. “During just the short time that I knew Mr. Porter,

Bl v

By Matt Wiley Just more than a month since a meeting was held to gather public comments about what to do with the land across Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. from Hunter’s Green in New Tampa, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has approved a Request For Proposals (RFP) for a private-public partnership to develop the property. During the June 18 BOCC meeting, commissioners unanimously (by a 5-0 vote) approved the RFP that will be open to developers in August. Situated across from the entrance to Hunter’s Green, the county owns an 81-acre parcel of land, made up mostly of conservation areas and a large retention pond used for the BBD widening project. Included on the property is 13.4 acres of developable land, as well as 3-4 additional acres for commercial development along BBD itself. The RFP asks developers to submit options for the 13.4acre parcel, but all must include a two-story, 30,000-sq.-ft. civic building (community center/theater) for county use, a 250-space parking lot and a three-acre dog park. The dog park, the second for the area (the New Tampa Rotary club is in the process of raising funds to develop another at the New Tampa Rec Center on Commerce Park Blvd. in Tampa Palms), will include separate fenced areas and separate fitness and agility stations for large and small dogs, as well as

Wiregrass Ranch Developer Don Porter Passes Away At Age 73

Also Inside This Issue!

New Tampa Residents Sound Off At HART Public Hearing, County Could Take Over Pebble Creek Utilities, Plus Lots Of Local Business Features & More!

University-Area Kids Learn To Swim At New Tampa YMCA, Café Don José’s Menu Goes Back To Its Spanish Roots; Plus More Neighborhood Nibbles & Biz Bytes!

Pages 1-46

Pages 47-60

it was easy to see that he was a very approachable individual and that he was well respected by his peers, as well as others that knew him. His vision for the development of Wiregrass, his significant contributions to our community and future growth of Wesley Chapel is an important legacy that Don Porter will live on for years to come. Mr. Porter will be missed!” A memorial service was held for Porter on July 12 at the PHSC Porter Campus (for a recap, turn to page 3 of this issue). Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Porter family. — Matt Wiley

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Remembering Don Porter — Wesley Chapel’s Renaissance Cowboy An editorial by Gary Nager As most people who ever met him can probably agree, you never forget the first time you meet Don Porter, who passed away on July 1 at the too-young age of 73. The man whose family would end up developing the 5,000-acre Wiregrass Ranch and I had spoken on the phone several times after I purchased the Neighborhood News in 1994, but it wasn’t until the late 1990s that I first stepped foot into the only (at the time) vertical structure, residential or commercial, on the undeveloped portion of what is today the Wiregrass Ranch Development of Regional Impact. Don and his wife Lajuana greeted me at the door and told me how much they enjoyed reading this publication, especially my editorials. “I really like it when you’re wrong, young man,” he told me with a smile in his drawling baritone. “I’ve had a good laugh at your expense a few times.” The things that most impressed me about Don at that first meeting were his obvious love and respect for his wife (who passed away in 2008) and his family, his intelligence, his impressive book collection and his lack of desire to see anything developed on the (at that time) still-undeveloped portion of his family’s ranch, which had encompassed about 14,000 acres be-

New Tampa Neighborhood News Please note our new address: 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Fax: (813) 423-6533 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Publisher & Editor Gary Nager General Manager Nikki Bennett Assistant Editor / Photographer Matt Wiley Correspondents Amy Gutierrez • Celeste McLaughlin Kelly Miller • Lauren Saslow Advertising Sales Representative Mary Dorey Graphic Design Georgia Carmichael • Erica Everett Chelsie Rosatone

Sales & Marketing Assistant Antwon Gildon Nothing that appears in New Tampa 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 22, Issue 17, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, August 4, 2014. New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. New Tampa Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. New Tampa Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, nor for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers.

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fore pieces of it became the Saddlebrook Resort and surrounding community, Williamsburg and later, the two original sections of Meadow Pointe. His father, James “Wiregrass” Porter, had purchased the land stretching from S.R. 54 down to what today is County Line Rd. for $2 per acre in 1946, but even so, Don and his brothers never really thought about the prime real estate as an investment. “I am not a developer,” Don told me. “My job is to be a good steward of this land, so I don’t think you’ll see anything else developed on this ranch, at least not in my lifetime. Maybe in my children’s lifetimes, but not in mine.” But, when the local real estate market boomed in the early 2000s and big residential and commercial developers came knocking with offers of tens of thousands of dollars per acre, Don and his son JD did finally agree to allow the family’s remaining property to be developed, as long as they were able to control what could and couldn’t be built on the site. Don and I spoke for more than an hour that day, over a good glass of single malt Scotch (although he scoffed at my request for ice cubes). One of my favorite stories was him telling me about the first time he ever took down a deer. “My brothers and I rode on horseback all the way down to what is now Tampa Palms,” he said. “Everything between here and there was ranch land and orange groves at that time, with several ranching families all allowing their herds to mingle, in case the government ever came in to count how many head of cattle we each had. The only way we could tell whose cattle were whose was by the brands on them.” With memories of him like that, it was hard for me to hear that Don had passed away so young and seemingly so suddenly, as he appeared to be in tremendous spirits at the dedication of Pasco Hernando State College’s Porter Campus (which was built on land donated by the Porters) earlier this year. He may not have wanted to develop the family’s property, but he was obviously proud to have his family’s name be at-

tached to an institution of higher learning. So, yes, I was one of at least 300 people who attended the memorial service in Don’s honor on July 12, in the packed PHSC Porter Campus conference room. JD, his sister Quinn, Don’s cousin Tom and four of Don’s closest friends (including Florida House Speaker Will Weatherford) spoke with love and humor about Don and his collections of sweaters and leather pants, James (who was 86 when he passed away in 2003) and his “Olympic champion cussing,” Lajuana and what it was like to know all of them. JD noted that although Don was proud to have his family’s name associated with the college, Florida Hospital Wesley

Chapel and the Wiregrass Mall, “the thing that mattered most to him was our family and our legacy. He didn’t think of himself as a pioneer or a visionary. The life lessons he taught us are what he would want to be remembered for.” Quinn also mentioned that her sweet father, “believed in determination, seeing it through, and that no amount of fear, anxiety or difficulty should keep you from accomplishing your goals.” And, Rep. Weatherford said that although he had met a lot of land owners during his time in the State Legislature, he had never met one, “as keenly focused on the future of his community as Don Porter.” Rest in Peace, Don.

Table of Contents

Local News Updates....................................4-17

Locals Voice Opinions About HART Route Change At Public Hearing....4 Hillsborough County Could Take Over Pebble Creek Utilities.......6 New Tampa News Briefs.......................................................10 Wrong-Way Drunk Driver Arrested On I-275 Missing Canoeists Rescued Near New Tampa Boyfriend Stabbed To Death Near New Tampa Rep. Weatherford Named FL Chamber’s ‘Legislator Of The Year’

New Tampa Community Calendar....................................14

Local Business Updates......................18-39

New Tampa Foot & Ankle Can Fix Your Feet...............................18 Eye Care Professionals Of Tampa Bay Adds Second Optometrist...20 Clean-It Can Make Your Home Shine From The Inside..............24 Central Pasco Weight Loss Center Helps You Shed Those Pounds...28 USF Federal Credit Union: An Alternative To Big Banks...............30 You’re In Good Hands With Gunter & Gunter Insurance!....................34 Local Decorating Den Franchisee Celebrates 25 Years!......................38

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Local Education Updates.........................43 Turner-Bartels K-8 Center Makes Major Decisions

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University Area Kids Learn To Swim At New Tampa YMCA.........47 Café Don José Adds To Classic Spanish Menu.............................50 More Of Gary’s Out-Of-Area Dining Favorites...........................52 ‘Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes’..........................54

NEW TAMPA COLOR CLASSIFIEDS.......................56 WC Rotary’s Freedom Fest Again Lights Up Wiregrass Mall......58

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HART Hearing Draws Crowd, Public Comments About Route 51X Change By Matt Wiley

Opinions now officially are on the record, as New Tampa and Wesley Chapel riders of the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) Route 51X had a chance to sound off about proposed changes to the area’s only bus route during a public hearing at the New Tampa Regional Library on July 8. The hearing, which was attended by about 40 people from both the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel areas, was the third and most-attended meeting about the plans to change the express bus route that takes local riders to and from downtown Tampa in the mornings and evenings. Among the three options proposed, Option 1 keeps the current express service to and from downtown, but adds daily local service along Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in between those trips, while Options 2 and 3 eliminate the downtown service but add two different local service options along BBD, including service to the University of South Florida. “Overall, the hearing went well,” says HART spokesperson Sandra Morrison. “Many residents came out to voice their opinions, which is something we were looking for. Most people that have commented to date prefer to keep the popular and needed express service, in addition to adding more service during the day. That’s why Option 1 has been the most popular.”

Ruthie Reyes Burckard, interim chief operating officer (COO) for HART, sat in on the hearing. “It’s important as an agency that we consider the needs of our current riders,” Reyes said, adding that HART also has to look at future customers in the area who currently are not being served by the transit agency. “It’s been a long time that we’ve been looking at this area and part of our transportation development plan is to get service into this area. Right now, we’re looking at what we can do with what we’ve got.” HART service planning manager Steve Feigenbaum told attendees at the hearing that the route change would be decided by the transit provider’s Board of Directors in September, and that changes could go into effect as soon as November, but likely wouldn’t happen until March of next year, due to budgeting. Opinions varied during the meeting, although most of the attendees did favor Option 1. “(51X) ridership is a consistent group,” said New Tampa resident Jill Sox at the meeting. “If you decide on Options 2 or 3, you’ll lose that group. You’re trying to serve two different ridership groups (by adding local service). I think you need to be more creative.” Several attendees wanted to know why the route needed to change at all. “Why is ‘no change’ not an op-

(Seated at table, left to right) HART’s interim chief operating officer Ruthie Reyes Burckard, community relations specialist Carla Williams and service planning manager Steve Feigenbaum listen to public comments about proposed changes to New Tampa’s Route 51X express bus service during a public hearing at the New Tampa Regional Library on July 8.

tion?,” asked Tampa Palms resident Mike Colitz. Feigenbaum responded, saying that technically, no change is one possible option but, ultimately, that decision is up to the Board. Florida Dist. 63 Rep. Mark Danish also attended the meeting to hear from his constituents who use the bus route. “It sounds like we’re going backwards (with the changing of the route),” Rep. Danish said. “If we kill the express route, we’ll lose the current riders and kill the bus route and it’ll end up being taken away.” For more information about the HART Route 51X, please visit GoHart.org.

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Pebble Creek Residents Could Become County Utilities Customers

By Matt Wiley After their existing provider proposed serious rate hikes to customers in Pebble Creek last year, Hillsborough County is making moves to take over water utility services in New Tampa’s oldest community. During the June 18 Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting, the commissioners voted to approve a county-determined, more acceptable service rate increase from the Pluris Pebble Creek Water and Wastewater System and to immediately enter into “good-faith” negotiations to acquire the Dallasbased, private utility service. “The decision was made for the county to move forward with acquiring the utility service in Pebble Creek,” says Dist. 2 Commissioner Victor Crist. “(Pluris) has to agree to sell, so we have to negotiate a value (for the sale). If (Pluris) doesn’t want to sell, it’s a lengthy legal process to take over the service.” Crist says that, thus far, Pluris hasn’t indicated whether or not the utility company would sell. Pluris’ proposed hike would have raised the base charge per household for water per month from $16.54 to $19.80 and the cost per 1,000 gallons from $2.55 to $5.16 (up to the first 9,000 gallons, with an additional

charge for every additional 1,000 gallons). The base charge for wastewater also would have been raised from $27.55 to $37.10 per residence. However, that substantial hike had to first be approved by the county, which it was not. But, since residents were first alerted of the hike, Pluris has been charging an “interim rate” for water and wastewater service, which still raised the base charge per household per month to $18.98 and the cost per 1,000 gallons to $4.51. Wastewater was raised to $34.71. Before the county would approve such a substantial hike, Pluris had to prove that it was justified and county staff had to have a chance to “crunch the numbers.” Not surprisingly, the proposed hike was found to be unjustified and the county countered with recommended rates of its own, which are about the same, if not only a slight increase from the interim rates. Pebble Creek Homeowner’s Association (HOA) president Dan Logan says that the decision caught him — and the more than 50 residents who made the bus trip to the county courthouse in downtown Tampa for the public hearing — by surprise. “We had the opportunity to have our voices heard about why the Pluris rate hike was unjustified,” Logan says. “This is big news for Pebble Creek.”

The rate-increase drama began back in January 2013, when the residents of Pebble Creek’s more than 1,500 homes were notified that they would be experiencing a significant water rate increase, the first of its kind since Pluris bought out Pebble Creek Utilities in 2009, Logan explains. Logan adds that residents had issues not only with the rates, but also with Pluris’ quality of water, the company’s billing service and the utility’s overall customer service. “It’s about more than just the cost,” Logan explains. “But, I think this (decision) should solve most of

our problems. Some of the rates are more, and some (of the rates) are less. Basically, we’re paying about the same. The real relief will come when we become Hillsborough County utility customers.” Meanwhile, Commissioner Crist says that negotiations between the county and Pluris were to begin immediately, but that he had no additional information available about those discussions as we went to press with this issue. For more information about Pluris’ Pebble Creek service, please visit PlurisCompanies.com.

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New Tampa Bond Granted To Accused Grove 16 Shooter

The Second District Court of Appeals has decided in favor of allowing Grove 16 theater shooting suspect and retired Tampa cop Curtis Reeves, Jr., to be released on bond. “The Court now sets bond at the amount previously announced and in the manner previously set out at $150,000, with a condition that the Defendant remain at his residence with the exception of attending religious services, for medical treatment and to go to the grocery store,” judges wrote in a July 11 opinion. The opinion also states that Reeves is to surrender all of his personal firearms to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) or his lawyer and must wear an ankle monitor until his trial. Another condition forbids him from having any contact with Nicole Oulsen, the widow of Chad Oulsen, who Reeves is charged with shooting to death for texting on January 13 during an afternoon showing of “Lone Survivor” at the Cobb Theatres Grove 16 movie theater in The Grove shopping plaza in Wesley Chapel. Nicole was struck in the hand by the bullet that killed her husband. Reeves reportedly asked Oulsen several times to stop texting during the previews and even complained to theater management. Oulsen said he was texting his young daughter’s babysitter before he was shot. At a pretrial hearing on July 9, Pasco Circuit Judge Pat Siracusa, who originally denied bail to Reeves in February, set a pretrial hearing for September 10 to decide on a trial date, which likely won’t be until sometime in 2015. Reeves attorneys argue that he fired the shot at Oulsen because he feared he was going to be beaten up and because Oulsen had just thrown something at his face, which turned out to be popcorn. His attorneys also argued that Oulsen threw his cell

News Briefs phone at Reeves and that it can be seen in dark surveillance video from inside the theater at the time of the incident. No additional info was available at our press time.

Another Drunk Wrong Way Driver Arrested On I-275

Drunkenly driving the wrong direction on a major interstate highway in Tampa sure seems to be trending lately, as yet another man has been arrested for the dangerous driving behavior. According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), Carlyle Seymour Clarke, 65, of Tampa, was arrested just after 3 a.m. on July 9 after being stopped traveling northbound Carlyle Clark on I-275 in the southbound lanes near the apex with I-75. HCSO reports that a call came in just after 2 a.m. of a vehicle traveling the wrong way on I-275. Deputy Kevin Rettew was able to respond, locate and stop Clarke before he caused a serious accident. The HCSO report says that Clarke had a heavy scent of alcohol on his breath, bloodshot and watery eyes and slurred speech. Despite all the signs of impairment, Clarke submitted to a field sobriety test, which Dep. Rettew said he failed. Clarke was arrested and taken to the Hillsborough County Jail, where his two breathalyzer samples found him to have a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .268 and .252, both more than three times the legal limit of 0.08 percent. He has since been released on a $1,000 bond on charges of DUI 2nd conviction and driving under the influence with a BAC above 0.15.

New Tampa Man Among Three Rescued Canoeists

A Hunter’s Green man and two

others are OK after getting lost during a canoe trip near New Tampa and braving a night in a pitch black swamp. According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), the agency received a call around 8 p.m. on June 23 from a man who said he and his friend were lost in their canoe along the Hillsborough River, between John B. Sargeant Park and Hillsborough River State Park. HCSO reports that, with the help of aviation units, deputies were able to find the two men (along with a juvenile) just after 7 a.m. on June 24. The three of them had left their canoes and were found walking through an area of swamp and dense woods. They were identified as Roberto Romero, 36, of Riverview, Mike Silhol, 22, of Hunter’s Green, and Andrew Sadberry, 16, of Tampa. The group got lost on a section of the Hillsborough River Paddling Trail called Seventeen Runs, which the Florida Department of Environmental Protection classifies as an expert level stretch of water that is extremely difficult to navigate due to low branches, narrow and shallow sections, strong currents and, of course, alligators, snakes and spiders. HCSO was able to verbally communicate with the group throughout the night, but could not physically locate them until morning. The men were found in good health and helped back to the canoe launch area.

bathroom from apparent self-inflicted stab wounds and has been identified as Erick Von Reinhart. 42, of Tampa. PCSO says that Von Reinhart left his apartment in Hillsborough Erick Von County with a large knife Reinhart and traveled to his ex-wife Amy’s house on Oakhaven Dr. The couple had divorced in early June, after which Erick moved to his apartment from the house that they had shared. Deputies say that there were no signs of forced entry into the home. However, PSCO says that, once inside, Erick stabbed his ex-wife’s boyfriend to death, before stabbing himself in the neck and abdomen. While the attack occurred, Amy’s sister (whose name was not released) called 9-1-1 from another room. Erick was flown to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa by helicopter to be treated for his wounds. It later was discovered that Erick had left he and Amy’s 5- and 6-year-old children at his apartment. Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) deputies served a warrant for murder on June 20, while Von Reinhart was recovering from his injuries. He remains in the hospital, but is charged with second degree murder and held on a $1-million bond. Neither Amy, her sister, nor the children were injured. No further details were available at our press time. — MW

Boyfriend Murdered Near New Tampa

A man is dead and another is injured, following a late-night stabbing attack on June 19 near Wesley Chapel that stemmed from a confrontation between an ex-husband and his ex-wife’s boyfriend. The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) reports that the agency received a 9-1-1 call just before midnight on June 19 about a domestic dispute at a home off Oakhaven Dr., near Cypress Creek Rd. When deputies arrived, they found the body of Alex Iliff, 33, who had died from apparent stab wounds. A second adult male was found bleeding in a

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

July 2014

Sunday, July 20

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

Monday, July 21

Community Acupuncture - A Monday night community acupuncture and discussion group is meeting at Ion Medi-Spa (8903 Regents Park Dr., Suite 130), 6:30 p.m. Topics include needle-free acupuncture, facial rejuvenation and stop smoking and customized weight-loss programs. For more info, call 960-8833 or visit IonMediSpa.com.

Tuesday, July 22

New Tampa Tri Club - The New Tampa Tri Club is open to runners, swimmers, cyclists and triathletes across the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. The club hosts group bike rides/runs at Flatwoods Wilderness Park (13330 Morris Bridge Rd.) every Tues., Thur. and Sat. at 7:30 a.m. For more info, join the Facebook group or e-mail NewTampaTriClub@gmail.com. GriefShare - This video-seminar-support group is for anyone who is grieving the death of a loved one. The cost is $20 for a workbook and 13 sessions, begin any week to find healing and hope. The group meets Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Lake Magdalene Methodist Church (2902 W. Fletcher Ave., Rm. 310). For info, call 963-1555.

Wednesday, July 23

August 2014 Friday, August 1

Women-N-Charge - Join the vibrant ladies of Women-n-Charge from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Pebble Creek Country Club (10550 Regents Park Dr.). Each meeting includes lunch, a featured speaker, and time to network. The cost is $15 for members (RSVP Tuesday before the meeting) and $18 for all guests (and members Wednesday and after). This meeting features guest speaker Kellye Dash, owner of The Busy Buddy, speaking about “Digital Clutter: Tips to Manage Your Email.” Please register at Women-N-Charge.com. For more information, please contact Judy at 600-9848 or Admin@Women-N-Charge.com. New Tampa Players Present ‘Seussical’— “Seussical” is fun for the entire family! Your favorite Dr. Seuss characters come to life in this fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza at 8 p.m. at CrossPointe Church of the Nazarene (919 Debuel Rd. in Lutz). Tickets cost $15 for adults and $14 for seniors/students. Tickets are available at the door and on-line at ETicketLive.com. For more info & showtimes, visit NewTampaPlayers.org.

Tuesday, August 5

NAMI Support Group Meetings - The Pasco County Chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers a support group for friends & family of those with mental illness the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at North Tampa Behavioral Health (29910 S.R. 56). For more info, call (727) 992-9653.

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Thursday, July 24

CBC Networking - Come together with like-minded professionals at the Christian Business Connections (CBC) Networking group, which meets every Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church (located at 5338 Primrose Lake Cir., off Commerce Park Blvd. in Tampa Palms) for a “meet & greet,” followed by a meeting of the group. For more information, please send an email to Shawn@TPACorp.com. English As A Second Language (ESL)- This group meets Thursdays at Tampa Bay Presbyterian Church (19911 BBD Blvd.), 9 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Classes are taught by a native English speaker using several ESL and Bible study resources. The cost is $20 each quarter, for the workbook & class materials. For info, call Heather at 753-8567.

Friday, July 25

New Tampa Rotary Club - The original New Tampa Rotary Club meets for breakfast at 7 a.m. at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (TPGCC, 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.). For more info, call Eric Longphee at 202-1105 or visit NewTampaRotary.org.

Saturday, July 26

New Tampa Dog Pack - Do you have a dog? Enjoy scenic nature walks? Join the New Tampa Dog Pack on Saturday mornings at 9 a.m at Flatwoods Wilderness Park (at the 18205 BBD entrance) and on Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. at Compton Park (16101 Compton Dr., Tampa Palms). For info, visit MeetUp.com/New-Tampa-Dog-Pack. For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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BNI Millionaire Makers - The BNI Millionaire Makers chapter meets every Wednesday at Pebble Creek Golf Club at 7:15 a.m. (10550 Regents Park Dr., off BBD Blvd.). The $13 meeting fee includes a hot breakfast. Call Lisa Jordan (621-6015) for info. Business Networking International (BNI) - BNI, a group of business professionals dedicated to helping their respective businesses grow through qualified referrals, meets every Wed. morning at 7:30 a.m. at the Cory Lake Isles Beach Club clubhouse (18630 Plantation Bay Dr., off Morris Bridge Rd.). Call Steve Hopper at 918-8609. New Tampa Noon Rotary Club- The New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meets every Wednesday for lunch at noon at Café Olé (10020 Cross Creek Blvd., in the Cross Creek Center plaza (behind the Shell gas station). Guests are always welcome. New Tampa Evening Rotary Club - The New Tampa Evening Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at 6:15 p.m. at Hunter’s Green Country Club (10101 Longwater Run Dr. inside the Hunter’s Green entrance gate). New members are always welcome. For more info, call Liz DeAmbrose at 956-6487 or email homenet@gte.net. 9-12 Toastmasters - Great speeches & great topics. Come hone your public speaking skills. Tampa Toastmasters meets Wednesday, 7 p.m., at the New Tampa Family YMCA (16221 Compton Dr., Tampa Palms). Guests are always welcome. Call 428-6356.

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Get Your Feet To New Tampa Foot & Ankle’s Dr. Stephen Levin! By Kelly Miller

Why suffer with chronic pain due to foot and ankle problems when a visit to Stephen F. Levin, DPM (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine), can bring the relief you desire? Dr. Levin’s New Tampa Foot & Ankle practice is located off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel, in the Cypress Ridge Professional Center, behind the Gate gas station. Dr. Levin’s 16 years of experience ensures that he can help alleviate all of your foot and ankle problems, including heel spurs, ingrown toenails, bunions, warts, diabetic feet, hammer toes, gout and flat feet. He also can treat injuries due to falls at home or work, from car accidents and even those suffered while participating in physically demanding sports. From pediatrics through geriatrics, Dr. Levin sees patients of all ages. Dr. Levin earned his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Urban Studies from the University of Maryland in College Park. He earned his DPM degree from the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. He then completed a two-year medical and surgical residency at Montgomery Hospital Medical Center in Norristown, PA, and in 1998, he moved to Tampa. Dr. Levin worked in Pinellas County until 2002, when he decided to open New Tampa Foot & Ankle, subletting space from the former New Tampa Urgent Care location on Highwoods Preserve Pkwy. in New Tampa. In 2007, Dr. Levin moved New Tampa Foot & Ankle to its current location

off S.R. 56. In 2012, he opened a second office in South Tampa. Dr. Levin has operating room privileges at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, St. Joseph’s Hospital North on Van Dyke Rd. in Lutz, and at the New Tampa Surgery Center located just across Cypress Ridge Blvd. from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Dr. Levin is Board-certified in Foot Surgery by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, and he’s currently the First Vice President of the Florida Podiatric Medical Association (FPMA). Next year, Dr. Levin will become the 75th President of the FPMA. Two years ago, Dr. Levin brought Dr. Martin Port, DPM, into his practice. Dr. Port assists in the Wesley Chapel office one half-day and in the South Tampa office three half-days each week. Dr. Port earned his Bachelor of Science(B.S.) degree in Pre-Med and Master of Science (M.S.) in Physiology from Hahnemann Medical College & Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. He earned his DPM degree from the prestigious New York College of Podiatric Medicine (it is affiliated with Columbia University) in New York City, NY. A patient of Dr. Levin’s, Land O’Lakes resident Darrin Horne, says that his arches fell when he was in his twenties. He was initially misdiagnosed by an orthopedist, who told him back surgery would cure the pain and numbness in his feet. Two years later, the problem persisted, so when a friend told him about New Tampa Foot & Ankle, he made an appointment. “When I came to see Dr. Levin,

he was incredible,” Darrin said. “He listened to my entire history, and after a thorough workup, diagnosed me with Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.” (Note-This disorder is caused by the entrapment of the tibial nerve, which follows a curving route down the back of the leg to the ankle, where it turns and curls below the inside of the ankle. Compression on this nerve causes pain, a burning sensation, and tingling on the soles of the feet.) Dr. Levin operated on Darrin’s left The professional staff at New Tampa Foot & foot and although Darrin was warned Ankle includes (back, l.-r.): Michelle Vanderthat he still may not regain complete hagen, Melissa Elwin, Elizabeth Ingenito & Dr. Stephen Levin;(front, l.-r.): Ronni Palmer & feeling in the foot, he says he noticed Robin Kaufman. Not pictured: Dr. Martin Port. a remarkable difference. Darrin was so shoes. Orthotic sandals also can be custompleased with the results of the surgery ized for the patient’s feet. that he recently scheduled the procedure To assess a patient’s problem, Dr. for his right foot. Levin uses the latest in advanced equip“Many patients with foot pain also ment like his diagnostic ultrasound or his complain of back, neck and even headache digital X-ray machine which provides high pain,” Dr. Levin explains, adding that quality imaging of problem areas. Dr. Levin healthy feet promote overall orthopedic was also one of the first providers in Florida health. “The feet are the foundation that supports our entire body weight. Poor foot to offer laser treatment for fungal toenails. His Cutera 1064 Yag laser not only treats posture can impede your daily activities.” the toenails but also superficial veins, warts, various problematic skin conditions, and Easing The Pain Of Flat Feet provides hair removal on the leg area (more Speaking of poor foot posture, flat on other cosmetic services available at New feet are a problem Dr. Levin says he sees in Tampa Foot & Ankle below). patients of every age. Depending upon the Because we live in Florida, wearing severity, he can provide orthotic inserts for open-toed shoes and sandals is the norm shoes or perform surgery. With orthotics for most of the year. If you have any yellow, (also used by many distance runners and discolored, or thick nails, you may have triathletes, even if their feet aren’t flat), a a foot fungus. Dr. Levin will get those mold of the foot is created and an orthotic toenails looking healthy again, thanks to a insert can be made to fit in many types of

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new NovoNail treatment. This advanced restoration program, created by Christopher Stewart, DPM (who also earned his DPM degree from the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine; he has a podiatry practice in Charlottesville, VA) includes a state-of-the-art, laser-based treatment that goes deep beneath the surface of the nail, attacking the fungus where it lives and breeds. Land O’Lakes resident Jeanie Batto, a Registered Nurse with 20 years of experience, says she suffered with pain in her feet for almost five years before she sought help. Though now a school nurse at Wesley Chapel High, she previously worked as a surgical technician assisting podiatric surgeons and knew the importance of finding a qualified doctor. During her intensive search, she found Dr. Levin and says she was impressed with his credentials and medical affiliations. “The first thing I noticed was how personable yet professional his staff was,” Jeanie says, adding that she felt relieved when she met Dr. Levin. “I liked his easygoing bedside manner, and I didn’t feel rushed when we discussed my condition.” Oftentimes, when a patient calls New Tampa Foot & Ankle, Dr. Levin says they’ve been experiencing long-term pain, so the last thing they need is to wait a month to see a doctor. “I don’t like to make patients wait,” he says, adding that shorter wait times help patients differentiate between his practice and larger ones in the area. “I will always fit someone in for an appointment. In most cases, a patient can be seen in a day or two...and for emer-

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gencies, it can be even sooner.”

Other Services Available, Too!

Patients who want to continue pampering their new beautiful nails can visit Alerissa (Alerissa.com), an exclusive boutique spa run by licensed cosmetologist and nail tech Annette Cosme inside New Tampa Foot & Ankle. (For an appointment with Annette, call 610-5258.) Katie’s Wellness Retreat (KatiesWellnessRetreat.com) also has a treatment room inside the practice. Katie Capets is a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) and Medical Aesthetician who offers facials, massages, and waxing. (For appointments with Katie, call 406-0185.) Dr. Levin and his wife, Diane, live in New Tampa. They have three children: David (16), Sam (9), and Sarah (7). Sam and Sarah are in competitive gymnastics at Angel’s Gymnastics in Lutz and Sam is active in Cub Scouts Pack 280. Dr. Levin says he is proud that he’s served his community for more than a dozen years, and his practice is very active in the area. He’s a member of the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel Chambers of Commerce and gives back to his community by supporting local schools like Turner/Bartels K-8 School and the Music Boosters at Paul R. Wharton High. For more info about New Tampa Foot & Ankle (26827 Foggy Creek Rd., Suite 104, Bldg. 6), call the office at 973-3535. The hours are Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. The South Tampa location is at 3704 Euclid Ave. in Tampa. For more info, visit NewTampaFootand Ankle.com.

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The Eyes Have It At The Eye Care Professionals Of Tampa Bay!

By Celeste McLaughlin The Eye Care Professionals of Tampa Bay, LLC, located on S.R. 54 about a mile west of where it meets S.R. 56 (at Oak Grove Blvd. in Lutz), is growing to better serve patients not only in its local area, but in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel as well. Beginning July 21, the office will be open an extra day each week and an additional optometric physician will be seeing the patients that day. Rick Robinson, O.D., received his Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale in 1999. He will begin seeing patients on Mondays, when the office previously had been closed. Dr. Robinson joins David Scamard, O.D., at the practice. Dr. Scamard also received his O.D. degree from Nova Southeastern in 1999. Upon graduation, he returned to Tampa, where he was not only born and raised, but also where he has been in practice the last 15 years. Eye Care Professionals of Tampa Bay has been in its current location since April of 2013. Previous to that, Dr. Scamard owned a practice just a couple of blocks away, although he no longer has any affiliation with the practice that currently is in that location. Patients who want to see Dr. Scamard should be sure to call Eye Care Professionals of Tampa Bay and visit the new location in the Eagle Plaza at the intersection of S. R. 54 and Oak Grove Blvd. Dr. Scamard says he is pleased to welcome Dr. Robinson to the practice. “Dr. Robinson is a great doctor, a great person, and is also a Major in the U.S. Air Force Reserve,” he says, adding that, with

the new doctor and added convenience of being open an extra day, the Eye Care Professionals staff also is expanding. An optician to help people select and fit glasses and an additional administrative staff person are being added to the team, which already includes (photo on next page) receptionist Sonya Brogdon, eyeglasses sales representative Kay Edwards and insurance specialist (and Dr. Scamard’s sister) Kelly Scamard. Kelly, who has been part of the office staff since Dr. Scamard opened his first practice on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in New Tampa in 2002, has an insurance background and a dozen years of experience working with her brother. She is well versed in working with both vision and medical insurance companies to help patients with claims and understanding their coverage. “We’ve found that many patients don’t realize they have a vision benefit to their medical insurance,” says Dr. Scamard. “Kelly is happy to help patients find out what their coverage is if they call our office.” Lorraine and Bob Koryus are long-time patients of Dr. Scamard’s who have lived in Meadow Pointe since 2005 and have been seeing him all 12 years he has been in practice here. They have followed him from his original office, to his second, and now to his current location. “We would follow him anywhere,” Lorraine says. “It’s nice that his office is convenient to us, but it’s not a factor in whether or not we see him. He is such a wonderful, compassionate, excellent doctor, that we would go wherever he is.” She adds, “Dr. Dave, as we call him, is

so friendly and caring that we felt comfortable with him from the first time we saw him. His office has always been immaculate and fitted with state-ofthe-art equipment and his staff is wonderful. Most important, he saved my husband’s vision. When we went in for an annual exam, Dr. Dave performed an eye exam before dilating his pupils. He found a problem that could have caused Bob to lose his eyesight if he had put the eye drops in. He immediately referred us to a surgeon and the problem was corrected with Dr. Rick Robinson (left) and Dr. David Scamard of the Eye Care Professionals of Tampa Bay, LLC, in Lutz, are surgery the next day.” ready to help you see your world more clearly. Lorraine says she and her office will catch any problems. “A screening husband always get annual eye exams and can’t take the place of a comprehensive eye stresses that eye health is extremely imporexam,” he says, noting that while a screentant. Dr. Scamard and Dr. Robinson agree, ing can detect the most blatant issues, many especially during this time before school eye problems are more subtle, so your vision starts in late August, as many kids (and adults) come to see them at this time of year, exams should be conducted by an eye care professional. The only way to really check as summer vacations wind down and people the health of the eye is with a comprehensive get ready for fall. exam in which the eye is dilated. “We see kids from ages six months Patients visiting the Eye Care Proall the way up to senior adults,” says Dr. fessionals of Tampa Bay will experience Scamard, adding that his practice is a charter a comfortable waiting room, a “dilation member of the InfantSEE® program, which offers free eye exams to babies ages 6 months lounge” that is more dimly lit for when eyes are dilated and need softer light, and a large to one year (the age recommended by the showroom featuring an ever-growing variety American Optometric Association for kids to of designer eyewear for prescription gasses have their first eye exam). and sunglasses, such as Coach, Ray-Ban, Dr. Scamard says that many parents Prada, Versace, Armani, Gucci, Tiffany and mistakenly believe the vision screenings Bvlgari (the latest addition). “But, if you offered at school or at the pediatrician’s

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He adds that one condition the Eye Care Professionals commonly treat in adults is presbyopia, where the ability to focus becomes weaker with age, and now even that condition can be corrected with new multifocal lenses. But, whatever your vision problems or needs, Dr. Dave says communicating with the patients is always the practice’s primary focus (pun intended). “We really listen to our patients and take care of their needs,” says Dr. Scamard. “We strive to offer high-quality service and a The friendly staff at the Eye Care Professionals includes friendly, comfortable atmosphere, (l.-r.) insurance specialist Kelly Scamard, receptionist and our patients often tell us that’s Sonya Brogdon and eyeglasses sales rep Kay Edwards. what they experience when they visit us.” need less expensive options, don’t let the The Eye Care Professionals of Tampa designer names scare you,” says Kay. “We Bay has also recently welcomed the patients have frames for every budget.” of Dr. Paul Glass, O.D., an independent Dr. Scamard also specializes in fitting optometrist formerly located at the Sam’s contact lenses, including hard-to-fit contacts Club Optical on S.R. 56 in Seven Oaks. “Dr. and helping patients who have given up on Glass worked very hard to develop his praccontacts or who have been told they weren’t tice over many years and wanted his patients a good fit for contacts. He also fits patients to see an optometrist where they would be who need rigid gas permeable contacts. At comfortable,” says Dr. Dave, adding that he the Eye Care Professionals of Tampa Bay, has a good working rapport with Dr. Glass, patients have access to the latest technology, who recently accepted a job with a specialthe doctors’ skills and the time and care they ized ophthalmology group and chose Dr. are willing to spend with each patient, to ensure the best possible fit and continuing Scamard to care for his former patients. health of the eyes. Eye Care Professionals of Tampa Bay “There are a lot of advances in technolis located at 24412 S.R. 54 in Lutz. For ogy now, and newer contact lenses are much appointments or more info, call 949more comfortable than they used to be,” 7274 or visit TampaBayEyeCarePros. explains Dr. Scamard. “New designs allow com. The office is open Monday-Friday, patients to see better and some even offer 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on high-definition optics that can eliminate Saturday. Mention this story for a great glare, especially at night.” Back-to-School special offer.

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Clean-It Provides Consistent Cleaning Expertise & Services For Homes & Businesses By Amy Gutierrez

If you’ve ever had your home cleaned by a professional cleaning service, it’s very easy to see what separates Clean-It—a Wesley Chapel familyowned-and-operated cleaning service— from others in our area. Primarily, that difference is the individualized care your home or business receives because of direct owner involvement. Celly de Freitas, owner and operator of Clean-It, meets with her clients to get specific instructions and room-by-room requests and then returns, in person, to do the job herself. Every time. Celly says that the other cleaning services have a tendency to send a different crew to your home week after week, which not only leaves a gap for miscommunication, but also slows the cleaning process down considerably. Homeowners can rest easy with Clean-It because they know Celly and her family not only do an amazing job of cleaning for a fair price, but that someone they really know has the key to their home; not a new employee every week. She says the only fill-in crew are her various family members who, from time to time, pitch in to help. “Who better than family to meet the expectations of the owner?,” Celly asks. In addition to that, one-on-one service that clients highly value, the quality of

the work and level of commitment makes Clean-It “your #1 cleaning service.” Celly opened Clean-it last year, after 17 years of working for other people in the cleaning service industry. During those many years, she discovered great business practices and other “less than desirable” practices that she knew were not necessarily beneficial to clients. Gathering all of her experience, expanding on positive business and cleaning methods and eliminating those poor methods that she had witnessed, Celly decided it was time to license and launch her own company. Clean-It provides general dusting and cleaning, wiping down and disinfecting window ledges, baseboards, interior glass doors, countertops, the facings of all appliances, sinks, faucets, exterior cabinets, as well as floor vacuuming and mopping. If you don’t see what you need on that list, Celly invites you to just ask! She says that her main focus is to provide excellent, personalized cleaning services, while also establishing a rapport with her clients. “I want my clients to know they can trust me to do an outstanding job,” says Celly. “My business has grown through word-of-mouth referrals due to the trust I have established, and that’s very rewarding. My goal is always to provide superior consistency.”

She moved to Florida 18 years ago from Brazil and her family settled in Seven Oaks in Wesley Chapel just over 11 years ago. Celly and her husband were drawn to the community and to the local schools for her children. Although both of her children are now in college, Seven Oaks remains their permanent home. With the additional time that an empty nester can sometimes have, Celly is able to devote all of her attention to her business. And, while she says that growing the business Celly de Freitas of Clean-It can get your home shining in no time, every time. Schedule your cleaning today! is important, she is quick to remind that she will always that is second to none and that their remain relationship based. home or business, along with valuable “I’ve been asked to house sit and contents, will be taken care of. even pet sit for my clients,” Celly says In addition to the consistency and with a big smile. “I love animals and quality of her work, Celly also takes often clean while they follow me around pride in using effective, environmentally from room to room. Of course, I’m alfriendly “green” products. Cleaning ways happy to help my clients with extra products are necessary for maintaining requests when I can.” attractive and healthy conditions in the Trust is a key factor when a homehome and workplace. In addition to the owner or business owner is providing a obvious aesthetic benefits of cleaning, the key to their hired cleaning service. This removal of dust, allergens, and infectious isn’t something that Celly takes lightly. agents is crucial to maintaining a healthy She works hard to earn and keep the indoor environment. But, cleaning trust of her clients; trust that she will be products can present several health and on time, provide a great level of service environmental concerns. They may con-

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tain chemicals associated with eye, skin, or respiratory irritation, or other human health issues. For this reason, Celly and her team only choose less hazardous products that have positive environmental attributes so that families and pets are never exposed to harsh chemicals. On occasion, a client will desire that their own, personal products be used for cleaning and Celly always is happy to oblige. “I really love making a difference and seeing my clients happy and making their home an enjoyable place to live,” Celly explains. “I always aim for my clients to love coming home.” And, they clearly do! Linda, a resident of The Reserve in Tampa Palms, is a highly satisfied Clean-It customer.

“Celly has provided my family with 10 years of honest, dependable, conscientious cleaning,” says Linda. “She has experience cleaning quality homes throughout the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area. Looking for cleaning help? You should definitely consider Celly.” For your free estimate, contact Celly today at 505-0431 or visit Facebook.com/CleanIt.Services. Appointments are available Mon.-Fri., with special request appointments available on Sat. Clean-It is accepting new clients for regular weekly, bi-weekly and monthly cleanings as well as one-time move-in/move-out needs. Clean-It provides cleaning services to both residential and business customers.

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Central Pasco Weight Loss Center Can Help You Shed Unwanted Pounds By Matt Wiley Even if you forgot about your New Year’s resolution months ago, there’s never a bad time to try to get your body to a healthier weight. And, the Central Pasco Weight Loss Center, located minutes from New Tampa on S.R. 54 in Lutz, can help you do just that whenever you finally decide to make that positive change in your life Conveniently located on S.R. 54 in the Cypress Creek Professional Park in Lutz, just west of Wesley Chapel Blvd., the Central Pasco Weight Loss Center is home to the practice of long-time Tampa Palms resident Dr. Barbara Pacholec. Dr. Pacholec earned her B.S. degree in Chemistry & Nutrition from the Douglass College of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ, and her M.D. degree from what was formerly known as the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey in Piscataway (but is today known as the Rutgers School of Biomedical & Health Sciences). Dr. Pacholec also completed a three-year residency in Internal Medicine at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, NJ. She also is a Diplomate and Board-certified by the American Board of Bariatric Medicine and Fellow Boardcertified by the American Academy of AntiAging Regenerative Medicine. “The Central Pasco Weight Loss Center is a comprehensive weight loss center where we treat patients for obesity, but I try to tie in any (medical) issue a patient may have,” says Dr. Pacholec. “We’re trying to find out why our patients have their weight problem, not just say, ‘Eat this, exercise and

you’ll be cured.’ We’re trying to figure out how to help them keep the weight off for the rest of their lives.” Dr. Pacholec first opened her practice in 1999 in a nearby location that she shared with a local dermatologist, but moved to her current location in 2003, after her practice outgrew its initial space. She says that she chose to set up shop in Lutz because a few colleagues of hers said that someone that specializes in obesity and bariatric medicine was needed in the area. Dr. Pacholec says that most of the patients that come into her practice have tried traditional diet and exercise extensively, usually with little or no permanent success. Although some patients honestly tell her that they have terrible eating habits and need help monitoring their diet, others come in with healthy eating habits and a regular gym regimen, but just can’t lose the weight. “My job — and I love the challenge — is to try to help them figure out what’s going on with their bodies,” Dr. Pacholec explains. “Every decade of our lives, our bodies change, so different-aged patients often have different issues going on.”

Replacing What You Lose As You Age

In many cases, Dr. Pacholec says, age can play a major factor in weight issues. “A lot of women, as they hit menopause, start losing some of their hormones and their bodies begin to store fat like crazy,” she explains. “Using bio-identical natural hormone replacement therapy, we

can actually help balance their system so that they can lose weight much more effectively. It may sound corny, but we try to help those patients reach ‘hormonal symphony,’ so that all of their hormones are balanced.” She adds that she also offers hormone replacement therapy for men, who also can gain weight as they age — due (for many) to the loss of testosterone. Because of her Board certification in anti-aging Having trouble shedding some unwanted pounds? Come see Dr. medicine, Dr. Pacholec says Barbara Pacholec at the Central Pasco Weight Loss Center, lothat she takes a little more holistic approach to under- cated on S.R. 54 in Lutz, in the Cypress Creek Professional Park. standing the human body weight-loss diet that can help curb hunger, and how everything connects, adding that or even prescription injections that are it’s not just about seeing a problem and pre- available at her office, including lipotropics scribing a pharmaceutical drug to correct it. (which help break down fat during metabo“We really try to find out what the lism), vitamin B12 and others that help curb cause of each issue is,” Dr. Pacholec exhunger and supplement the body so it can plains. To do so, when a patient first visits resist its own cravings for unwanted calories. Central Pasco Weight Loss, she conducts a The most common ailment that Dr. thorough history and physical exam, includPacholec says that she sees are imbalances ing bloodwork and an electrocardiogram within the “metabolic syndrome,” a group (EKG) to get a sense of what conditions are of risk factors that often occur together and like inside a patient’s system. Once she has can increase the risk for coronary artery a chance to study each patient’s bloodwork disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes). These and situation (pre-existing health conditions, factors include weight, blood sugar imballifestyle, family history, etc.), Dr. Pacholec ance and cholesterol. She explains that these can start to fine tune a plan that is unique imbalances can often be treated with a lower and specialized for each individual patient. carb diet combined with eating healthier fats In many cases, she may prescribe a that help the patient feel more full sooner medically supervised, prescription rapid Dr. Pacholec says that she takes pride in

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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her work and even sees it as a source of fun, watching her patients improve their health â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and their self-image. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You can get people on these natural therapies so that they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to go on so many drugs when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re 50 years old,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Pacholec explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some people think that anti-aging medicine is just getting Botox injections. I like to treat my patients from the inside out, improve their quality of life, their well-being and their energy levels.â&#x20AC;? Dr. Pacholec says that the idea to open a weight-loss practice first came to her while she was doing her Internal Medicine residency in New Jersey. Patients at the hospital she was working at found out that she had a degree in nutrition and would ask for help with their weight. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I took a chance and decided to call my practice a weight-loss center when I moved down here,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Pacholec explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Patients come in for that, but then I let them know about any other issues they might be having. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worked out well so far.â&#x20AC;? Having a small practice, Dr. Pacholec says that she has the ability to see each patient during each visit and go over all of their blood work with them and help them every step of the way as they lose weight and add lean muscle mass. She says that many patients of her patients also have primary care doctors who really are trying to help them, but just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have as much time each visit to explain all of the little details that she is able to explain during a visit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to gain weight,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Pacholec explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of the time, there are a lot of internal forces driving their bodies to gain weight and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not entirely their fault. My patients really

appreciate that I understand that.â&#x20AC;? Dr. Pacholec says that most of her patients find her through word-of mouth and that she has many from as far away as Orlando, Lakeland and even Ft. Myers. The reason? She really can help. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In January 2011, I began seeing Dr. Pacholec,â&#x20AC;? says Central Pasco Weight Loss patient Dyrenda. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had tried other programs over the years and none were as successful as this program. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve since shrunk from a size 26 to a size 12 and am still shrinking. I am no longer on blood pressure medicine, I have energy and I now run up the steps I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even walk up before. I feel younger and people tell me I look great! I would recommend Central Pasco Weight Loss Center to anyone who wants to lose weight. Dr. Pacholec and her staff are wonderful and very supportive. I thank Dr. Pacholec and her staff for making it all possible. They have saved my life.â&#x20AC;? Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the key to weight loss? Just ask Dr. Pacholec. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That is the million dollar question,â&#x20AC;? she jokes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The key is not expecting instantaneous results and trying to be consistent with the lifestyle changes that you make. Even if you only lose three or four pounds a month, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get discouraged. Some lose weight faster than others. But, if you can be consistent with those changes and make it fit in with your lifestyle, you can be the most successful person who lost their weight, versus someone who did a fast-and-furious diet but went right back to their old habits.â&#x20AC;? For more information about the Central Pasco Weight Loss Center (24622 S.R. 54 in Lutz), please call 9094430 or visit DrPacholec.com.

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USF Federal Credit Union Offers An Alternative To Big Banks By Lauren Saslow Photos by Frank Edmondson

When opening a new checking or savings account, how do you decide which bank to choose? Many individuals gravitate towards the large, corporate banks with their high-profile advertising, special offers or simply their family or spouse’s choice of bank. For many individuals, however, a nonprofit credit union — such as the University of South Florida Federal Credit Union (USF FCU) with a branch in New Tampa, serving the needs of USF students, employees and others (see below) — may offer a better option for the whole family rather than the for-profit banks. Just ask Deborah I. Clark, VicePresident of Marketing and Business Development/Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for USF FCU. Clark explains that, “When a member enters a bank, they usually have to walk up to a teller counter or sign-in and wait until an employee is available to meet with them. In our lobby, we have teller pods with Member Service Representatives (MSRs) who are cross-trained to assist members [or potential members] with handling transactions, applying for loans or even assisting them on the touchscreen kiosk.” She adds that the kiosks can be used as an educational tool to learn to

use mobile check deposit services or online bill pay, among other services. Clark — who earned a B.S. in Business Management degree from Gardner Webb University in Boiling Springs, NC, and an M.S. in Administration degree from Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant — explains how members benefit from credit unions. “The profits from the credit union go back to members in the form of low to no fees, higher yields on savings and certificates and low interest rates on consumer loans, mortgage rates and credit cards,” says Clark. “We also give back to the USF and Tampa community, including the 2014 Cruise for Kids benefiting local children’s charities.”

Birth Of The Credit Union

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)’s website explains that the Federal Credit Union Act (FCUA) of 1934 (with the most recent revision occurring in April 2013) defines the American credit union movement as, “A cooperative effort to serve the productive and provident credit needs of individuals of modest means.” Furthermore, credit unions are, “member-owned, democratically operated, not-for-profit organizations generally managed by volunteer boards of directors and…have the specified mission of meeting the credit and savings needs of consumers, especially persons of modest means.”

If you attend, graduated from or work at the University of South Florida, USF Federal Credit Union New Tampa branch manager Karen Kiple invites you to open an account today! The USF FCU was chartered in 1959 to serve the financial needs of the staff and faculty at USF and became an FCU that was fully regulated and insured by the NCUA in 1985. Now, all USF students on any USF Campus; employees of organizations housed on a USF Campus (including Moffitt Cancer Center, Shriner’s Hospital for Children, the Sun Dome, Embassy Suites hotel and more!), current members of the USF Alumni Association, immediate family members or members of the same household, retired persons receiving a pension or annuity from USF and surviving spouses of USF faculty or staff

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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are all eligible to open an account. The general public, however, is not eligible to join. The USF FCU now maintains more than 36,000 members with assets of more than $430 million. Joining is easy, too, at one of the credit union’s five branches (two on the USF Tampa Campus, one inside the Marshall Student Center and one in a free-standing building on Palm Dr.; one on the USF St. Petersburg campus; one on Oakfield Dr. in Brandon; and the New Tampa branch, located on the southwest corner of County Line Rd. and Bruce B. Downs {BBD} Blvd., next to Winn-Dixie).

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opment strategist Chris Fredricks, elaborates on other ways in which the credit union is better equipped to assist the USF population over other banks or credit unions. “We know our members best,” Fredricks explains. “We handle the needs of USF students and faculty and determine what will be the best way to support them.” Fredricks, who earned his B.A. degree in Communications/ Journalism degree and his B.A. in Economics degree from Saint John Fisher College in Rochester, NY, is responsible for going out into the community and growing memberUSF Federal Credit Union branch manager Karen ship by educating individuals on Kiple works with a Member Service Representative at the benefits and services of USF the credit union’s New Tampa branch, located next to FCU, as well as working as a data Winn-Dixie on County Line Rd. analyst. One of the friendly MSRs will make opening an account an easy and pleasServices For The Whole Family ant experience. You will need to bring The USF FCU offers a wide variety proof of a permanent address and proof of services beyond simple checking and of school or local address if applicable, savings accounts. From credit cards and cash or check for at least $5 to open student loans to mortgages and financial the required share savings account, planning, the optional financial services and an additional $25 to serve as an available will appeal to each member of initial deposit if you also want to open the family — even the kids! a checking account. You also can join The credit union’s Youth Aconline at USFFCU.org. And, once counts, aimed at teaching children you are a member of the credit union, about responsible savings habits, include you’re a member for life, no strings ata “Kid’s Club” (for children up to age tached. Even if you graduate from USF 12) and the “Good ¢ents Club” (for or leave a job at Moffitt, you retain your teens, ages 13-17) who have immediate family members already in good standmembership in the USF FCU. ing with the credit union. Other conUSF marketing & business devel-

veniences include: access to a network of nationwide Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), coin counters in branch lobbies, direct deposit options, Internet account and bill pay access, a VISA debit card and business solutions. For individuals who have reduced income during the summer months (such as teachers, professors and students), there is a Summer Savings Program designed to help them budget their expenses for the whole calendar year. New Tampa branch manager Karen Kiple leads a team of three MSRs and an auto advisor representative, Rick Bolen, who assists members in finding a car as well as on-the-spot financing for those vehicles. Pebble Creek resident Dan Van Hoose says that the credit union has helped him with car loans, home loans and savings programs. “The staff is always very helpful,” he says. “They have a positive attitude when helping members accomplish their financial goals. While I was employed at USF, I used the Marshall Center branch (on campus) frequently and the staff there was outstanding, too. They have been especially helpful to me in organizing my financial retirement goals.” He adds that he recently started using the New Tampa branch for routine transactions, because it is more conveniently located near his home. He adds, “Over the years, I have really appreciated that the USF FCU has kept their fees low for their members while providing high-quality service.”

New Branch Building Coming Soon!

USF FCU president and chief executive officer (CEO) Richard Skaggs had a vision to expand the credit union into the New Tampa area. He saw the demand and sought to serve those members who already lived further north of the USF campus. While the New Tampa branch originally opened up in a shared space with what is now the MidFlorida Credit Union on BBD, and is currently in a larger (yet temporary) leased space, the USF FCU has big plans to expand in the same shopping plaza on the land the credit union purchased this year to the north of the Burger King on BBD. The timeline to break ground was not definitively set at the time this article went to press, but according to Clark, will likely begin within the next 18 months. The one- or two-story, free-standing building will have drive-through banking services and increased space, plus more MSRs to better serve its members. The University of South Florida Federal Credit Union (USF FCU)’s New Tampa branch is located at 6417 County Line Rd., Suite 100. For additional information, call 569-2000 or visit their user-friendly website at USFFCU.org. The branch is open Monday and Friday 9 a.m.6 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m. on Wednesday; and 9 a.m.–1 p.m. on Saturday.

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Gunter & Gunter Insurance — You’re In Good Hands With These Neighbors! By Amy Gutierrez

Wouldn’t it be great to have all of your insurance needs handled at one local office, by an experienced and friendly staff, who truly take the time to get to know you? You can! The friendly staff at Gunter & Gunter Insurance, located near I-75 and SR 54 in the Westbrook Professional Park (across from Saddlebrook Resort) in Wesley Chapel, take pride in offering superior customer service and are able to assist you by streamlining your policies and saving you time. And, with their affiliation with Allstate Insurance Company, their clients know they are in “Good Hands.” The husband-and-wife team of Gary and Joyce Gunter, long-time New Tampa residents, are proud to serve the needs of New Tampa, Wesley Chapel and surrounding areas. “New Tampa and Wesley Chapel are tremendous areas, full of families and incredible growth opportunities,” Gary says. “I was an Army brat but I graduated from high school here in Tampa, so it’s great to see the wonderful expansion of prosperity in this area.” Following high school, Gary earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida in Gainesville, followed by a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Florida State University in Tallahassee. After college, Gary worked in Tal-

lahassee for the State of Florida Insurance Commissioner & Treasurer from 1978-85. During his tenure, he served in various regulatory capacities throughout the department, gaining a broad knowledge of all ICI (Income Continuation Insurance) lines of insurance. In 1986, Gary went into private consulting in heath care and insurance, becoming president of the Florida Association of HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations). Since that time, he has continued entrepreneurial pursuits, starting and building several companies. Joyce spent her career in banking, working up the corporate ladder from teller to Regional VP after attending the Lakeland College of Business. Gunter & Gunter Insurance specializes in providing complete insurance protection for all your needs — home, auto, business and life — and the office is licensed to sell throughout the state of Florida. The Gunters’ team of specialists has more than 80 years of combined insurance experience, so instead of just providing coverage quotes, they listen carefully to each customer’s needs and take the time to make sure that things are done right. In addition to having expertise in automobile and homeowners policies, the staff also is well-versed about motorcycle, boat and business insurance as well. Gary and Joyce also hold “2-20” insurance licenses, that allow them to

sell all lines of Property & Casualty insurance. They also have “2-15” insurance licenses that allow them to sell life and health insurance. In addition, they also have their Series 6 Securities licensure, which allows them to sell annuities, variable life insurance and mutual funds. A Series 6 license requires an extensive course of learning and a thorough background check, as well as full disclosure of all financial dealings in order to protect the public. Gary and Joyce work diligently to provide something extraordinary at their agency. “We’re committed to helping you protect not only what you Joyce and Gary Gunter of Gunter & Gunter have today,” he says, “but to also Insurance, located on S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel. prepare for tomorrow by making response and counseling that their cussure you have adequate insurance tomers know and appreciate. for the unexpected.” “We initially switched to Gunter & Gunter & Gunter clients become committed and loyal customers as much Gunter Insurance, as Joyce & Gary are great friends and fellow Rotarians,” says because of the relationships Gary, Joyce Craig, a resident of Lake Forest. “As we and their staff build with their customcompared the terms of the policies, we ers as it is because of the top-quality insurance and services they provide. The found that we were able to save a lot of money over State Farm, which we had caring staff — which includes Heather been with for over 20 years. Gunter & Nunley-Delgado, Kristen Poland, CaeGunter now covers our cars, motorcysar Navarro, Ashley Hines and Madalyn cle, home and business. They’re great Kissel — encourages customers to call people to know and do business with.” the office whenever a claim is necessary, Joyce says, “We understand how even prior to dialing the 1-800 number insurance is a part of your safety net and for claims. It’s this type of immediate

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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a cornerstone of your financial security. Together, we’ll work to evaluate your coverage and select flexible payment options that work for you. You can get a rough ballpark insurance quote from many companies online, but talking with an actual agent allows you to ask questions and get a quote for the coverage that matters most to you.”

A Community Commitment

Giving back to the local community also is important to Gary and Joyce. They are committed to helping their friends and neighbors through the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel Chambers of Commerce and the New Tampa Rotary Club, which meets Friday mornings for breakfast at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club. The Rotary Club of New Tampa Foundation, Inc., supports 34 local area charities and five international projects. In fact, it was at a Rotary humanitarian project fair (international service) in Costa Rica where Gary and Joyce met! The Gunters continue to be active members of the Rotary Club of New Tampa. Gary has held the positions of Treasurer, Club Administrator and Club President. He also has served New Tampa’s Rotary District 6890 (the Wesley Chapel Rotary Clubs are part of District 6950) as Membership Chair, Conference Chair, Secretary and Assistant Governor and he is about to assume the role of District Governor for Hillsborough, Polk, Highlands and Hardy counties, which will place him in charge of 45 clubs.

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Joyce’s involvement in Rotary began in 2005 in Haines City and continued in New Tampa beginning in 2009. She has held the positions of Club Treasurer, Club President, District Secretary and is currently the District 6890 Governor nominee. The Gunters also previously have been Board members and Gunter & Gunter Insurance is a current member of the New Tampa Chamber of Commerce. “Rotary International is very important to me,” says Joyce. “Rotarians all over the world do so many good things, including promoting world peace, education, literacy, clean water and sanitation and the eradication of polio worldwide.” That’s what we call a win/win situation for everyone!” The “Good Hands” staff at Gunter & Gunter Insurance is ready to assist you with your insurance needs. Just for requesting a free quote, the Gunters will happily donate cash to one of the five charities they generously support — Florida Hospital of Wesley Chapel, Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, Rotary International, the Grace Point Foundation and the American Cancer Society. Call 994-3900 or stop by Gunter & Gunter Insurance at 28955 S.R. 54, to discuss all of your insurance needs! The office is open Mon.-Thur., 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Fri. Sat. appointments are available upon request. Visit Gunter andGunterInsurance.com or Facebook.com/GunterandGunter Insurance.AllstateAgency.

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SPOTLIGHT ON...Exclusive Clientele Salon!

It’s only been a few months since we first told you about our friends at Exclusive Clientele Salon, located in the Cross Creek Center plaza on Cross Creek Blvd. at Kinnan St., but there’s so much new stuff happening at owner Christy Johnson’s stylish, friendly salon — which caters to all hair types and textures — that we decided to provide you with an update. “Our goal is to make every client feel comfortable and relaxed,” Christy says, noting that Exclusive Clientele even offers to create your new look in a private, closed-door room (perfect for those getting weaves, extensions, etc.). “We promote healthy hair and stay current on all styles and trends for all types and lengths of hair,” she says. “We’re a full-service salon featuring expert colorists & precision cuts.” We’ve already told you about two of the other stylists at Exclusive Clientele — Tiffany Ivy and Sally Lingg. Together, the trio has almost 80 years of combined experience, as Christy has 30, Tiffany has 24 and Sally has 25 years of experience in the cosmetology field. Although neither Tiffany nor Sally are related to Christy, they both say they appreciate her “we are family attitude” and hope to help Exclusive Clientele become your favorite neighborhood salon. The newest member of the team is Christy’s daughter Ariel Glover, who recently enrolled in the outstanding Paul Mitchell beauty school in Tampa. She has been around the hair business and helped

her mom at salons since she was eight years old. Christy says Ariel, “truly has a gift with hair and will take Exclusive Clientele Salon to the next level in terms of innovative new techniques and modernizing the salon.” Ariel spent the last four years in college studying business and marketing. And, Exclusive Clientele Salon already has many satisfied clients. “As a working professional, I know that the greatest compliment to a business owner is referring more business, and that’s why I’ve continuously referred Exclusive Clientele to all of my friends and family,” says happy client Dawn M. “With Christy and her crew, you will not be disappointed!” Exclusive Clientele Salon (10026 Cross Creek Blvd.) is seeking more stylists. Call 994-2393 or visit ExclusiveClienteleSalon.com or Facebook.com/ ExclusiveClienteleSalon for more info.

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Homes within WaterGrass are constructed and sold by builders not affiliated with Crown Community Development. Future development of WaterGrass may or may not occur as shown on illustrations, depictions or maps. Arthur Rutenberg Homes CGC 1509234, Bakerfield Luxury Homes #CGC 1520881, Homes by WestBay CRC 057247, Ryland Homes CBC055321, Standard Pacific Homes CRC 056997 Neighborhood News @NTWCNews For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Debbie Demboski Of Decorating Den Celebrates 25 Years In Business! By Celeste McLaughlin

After 25 years, Debbie Demboski’s Decorating Den Interiors in Wesley Chapel is still bringing style and beauty to the residents of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel. Celebrating her 25th anniversary as a decorator and franchise owner with Decorating Den Interiors, Debbie helps people in our distribution areas (and beyond) create beautiful spaces in which to live and work. So, for anyone thinking about redecorating their home, or a smaller project — anything from purchasing new window treatments or wall coverings to furniture and floors — Debbie comes to you in her van full of samples, catalogs, and other tools of the trade to provide a free consultation in the space you actually want to decorate. “So many people have a vision and get excited, purchase something and bring it home, before realizing that it just doesn’t work,” says Debbie. “Having a professional opinion can actually save you time and money. I will come to you and assist you in picking out something that not only fits your style and budget, but also works perfectly in your space.” Debbie adds that her initial consultation is absolutely free, and there are never any hourly fees for her time. “The real benefit of working with Decorating Den Interiors,” says Debbie, “is that my studio is parked in your driveway.” In addition, she says her costs are comparable to other retailers, thanks to the buying power of Decorating Den Interiors

as North America’s largest interior design and home furnishings franchise company, with franchises across the U.S. and Canada. “It’s a 45-year-old company that is still growing,” she says, “with three franchises recently awarded in the Central Florida Region in just the past year alone.” And, Debbie is not only a franchise owner and decorator, but also serves as a regional director, providing leadership and training to twelve franchise owners across central Florida. Two years ago, she was named Regional Director of the Year at Decorating Den’s company-wide international annual conference (photo). Debbie’s professional team includes her mom, Phyllis Wilcher, who works as her regional secretary and has been part of the team since Debbie moved her franchise to Florida from the Atlanta area, to be closer to her family, about 20 years ago. “My mom is such an important part of my team,” Debbie admits. “She does everything from placing orders and handling marketing tasks to following up on projects and providing lunches for our monthly Regional meetings. She is well known for her hospitality, both in my business and in the New Tampa community, too.” Debbie has a degree in design and business from West Virginia University in Morgantown. Prior to beginning her decorating career, she worked at a number of different retail positions. She got into the interior decorating business when she was living and working in Atlanta and a friend, Terri Erwin, became a Decorating

Den franchise owner. Debbie went to work as a decorator for Terri’s business and, soon after, started her own franchise. Debbie says the reasons her clients love working with Decorating Den are outlined in these “NIFTY” benefits: • N-National umbrella: Decorating Den has the buying power of a national company. •I-In-home decorating: Design decisions are made in At the Decorating Den Interiors national conference in your home, in your existing April, Debbie Demboski (3rd from left) was recognized for lighting, working with what her 25 years as a franchise owner & decorator & for reaching you already own. $5 million in sales during her career. This photo also shows (l.•F-Free consultation: r.) James S. Bugg, Jr., president & CEO of Decorating Den Not only does Debbie come to you, there is no cost for the Interiors, Terri Erwin (Debbie’s friend & fellow franchisee) & James S. Bugg, Sr., chair of Decorating Den Interiors. consultation nor will you pay hourly fees for her time. “Politics is my hobby,” she explains. •T-Training: “This is a very fashion“I knew I wanted to entertain and host forward, trendy business,” Debbie says, “so fund raisers, and I wanted my home we attend conferences, have private showspruced up.” room tours, and decorators from all the Marcia’s experience with interior regional franchises work with each other to decorators at previous homes made her share ideas and collaborate.” somewhat leery about hiring someone •Y-Your lifestyle: Debbie makes your again. She says she had worked with delikes, dislikes and budget her highest priorsigners who made her feel like her budget ity, to be sure that your home reflects your wasn’t big enough and what they wanted personal taste, not hers. for her home was more important than One client who has recently taken what she wanted. advantage of these benefits is Marcia Mann, “Because Decorating Den comes a Tampa Palms resident who has lived in to the house and gives free estimates, I her home since 2001. She’s the former sec- thought I might feel more comfortable retary of the Florida Lottery and recently with them,” says Marcia. “And, I can’t say retired as a USF professor. enough wonderful things about Debbie.

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She is down to earth, not at all pushy, makes me feel comfortable, works within my budget and has all kinds of great ideas.” Marcia says she then hired Debbie to decorate her living and dining room. “I didn’t like that my dining room was raised off the floor so you had to step up to it,” Marcia explains. “The estimate to remove the Debbie Demboski and Decorating Den can help make your concrete and make it level home look its best, too — and stay within your budget! was $40,000, so we had to come up with another soluadd to the budget throughout the project. tion. Debbie’s idea was to swap my living Debbie says she enjoys working with room and my dining room. Now my grand Marcia, too, and explains that the variety of piano is raised up in the living room, and clients she works with is one of the things my big dining table and gorgeous chandeshe enjoys about her job. “Every day is diflier are right at the entry of my home. It ferent, every client is different, and that’s turned out absolutely beautiful.” what I love about it.” Marcia was so happy with her experience that she asked Debbie to also decorate Christmas In July? her master bedroom and that also expand“Every year, I offer my ‘Christmas in ed to include the other three bedrooms in July’ free fabric sale,” says Debbie (see ad her home. She says she is looking forward on page 18). “I obtain lots of fabrics from to continuing to work with Debbie as she vendors and contractors that are leftovers plans to improve her kitchen and pool area or discontinued lines, and provide those in the future. fabrics absolutely free to my clients.” “Debbie has lots of experience, and The client then pays only for the labor her ideas never stop,” says Marcia. “She to turn that fabric into the window coverworks with what you already have in your ings, pillow covers, upholstery, or whatever home, and can take anything and make it else they need. look good. Another thing I love is that she Decorating Den comes to you at doesn’t nickel and dime you.” She says she your home or office in Wesley Chapel or and Debbie agree on a budget for a proNew Tampa. For more info, call Debbie ject, and then Debbie includes accessories at 817-2264 or visit DecDens.com/ and accents and doesn’t constantly ask to DebbieD.

SPOTLIGHT ON...Sea Of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

Sea of Smiles, the pediatric dental office of Dr. Lisa LaPrestsi, DMD (located at 3737 Maryweather Lane, off Bruce B. Downs Blvd.) is proud to be serving the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. Dr. LaPrestsi held a Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) ribbon cutting ceremony on June 3 to welcome the local community to this outstanding new dental office. Sea of Smiles provides specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a “child-friendly” environment. As a pediatric dentist, Dr. LaPresti focuses on preventive care to help each child have a healthy smile to last a lifetime. Dr. LaPresti was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. She graduated in 1998 from West Virginia University in Morgantown, with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. She received her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree

from the University of Pittsburgh in 2003 and pursued her pediatric dental residency training in Cleveland, OH. She spent two years training at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital, which is affiliated with Case Western Reserve University (also in Cleveland). Dr. LaPresti says she is a diehard Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins fan! During her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two young children. Dr. LaPrestsi also has another office which serves infants, children and teens in the Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch/Sarasota area. For more info, or to make an appointment at the Wesley Chapel Sea of Smiles office, call 528-8717 or visit SeaofSmilesChildrensDentist.com.

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Decisions, Progress Made At Turner/Bartels K-8 As School Year Nears By Kelly Miller

When school resumes in Hillsborough County on August 19, there will be a new, non-magnet K-8 School in New Tampa — the Turner/Bartels K-8 School — and some big announcements for the new school have been made in recent weeks. It takes a considerable amount of work to combine two campuses (Hilda T. Turner Elementary and Nancy Bartels Middle School, both located on Imperial Oak Blvd. in the Live Oak Preserve community off Bruce B. Downs [BBD] Blvd.) into one entity. To make that happen, Principal Jonathan Grantham Ed.D., his entire staff, and parents have been working together diligently to ensure that there will be a smooth transition in the fall. Since taking over in June, Dr. Grantham — who earned his Bachelor’s, Master’s and Ed.D. degrees from Florida State University in Tallahassee and specializes in personnel, finance, curriculum and instruction within the K-12 environment — says he has worked hard to keep an open line of communication with parents. Most recently, Grantham held an informational meeting on June 16 to announce many of the K-8 school’s filled staff positions. Laura Wilton will be the new assistant principal for administration. Wilton has worked in the Hillsborough County School District (HCSD) for 22 years and has been an assistant principal for the past eight at Adams Middle School in North Tampa. Wilton earned her B.S. degree in Elementary Education and her M.A. degree in Linguistics from the University of South Florida here in Tampa. Dr. Grantham also announced that Nicole Tuminella and Christine Angel Danger have filled the two STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) coordinator positions. Tuminella had been a Mentor Evaluator at Bartels since 2011 and Danger was a resource teacher in the STEM program at Turner since 2013. Since Turner/Bartels K-8 School is a STEM School, the curriculum will use math skills and apply science concepts to solve real-life engineering problems. The program focuses on teaching children how to think critically, solve complex problems and drive advancements in science and technology. Inside the classroom, STEM learning will incorporate LEGO® Mindstorms® robotics (kits containing software and hard-

ware that kids use to create customizable, programmable robots), the LEGO® Build to Express program (in which program students are challenged with a topic, then work to build a model and share their results) and Pasco SPARK probeware (an electronic device that enables students to conduct scientific experiments in or out of the classroom). These innovative learning tools will inspire Turner-Bartels students to think like engineers and provide fundamental STEM knowledge that will springboard students along a STEM pathway into high school and beyond. Outside the classroom, STEM learning includes STEM Goes to Work and Saturdays with STEM. In addition, Lourdes Gonzalez was hired as the new school social worker, a position she previously had held at H.B. Plant High (located in South Tampa) since 2012. Amy Addison will be one of the four new guidance counselors. Addison previously was a guidance counselor at Thonotosassa Elementary since 2005. The other three will be announced at a later date. Seven new teachers also have also been hired, while several others have transferred to other schools. “The number of students in middle school (Bartels) decreased, as did the amount of teachers needed,” Dr. Grantham explains. Other important decisions announced for Turner/Bartels include: • The school mascot will be a Bengal Tiger (a combination of both schools’ previous mascots of the Turner Tigers and Bartels Bengals). • An 8 x 10–foot digital marquee will be erected. • A covered walkway will be constructed between the two campuses that should be completed by August 13. • The exterior of both buildings will be painted to match each other, using neutral colors. • A new dismissal process will be created, using four entry and four exit points. After Dr. Grantham spoke at the June meeting, parents and teachers broke into two groups to form a Classroom/Building Assignments committee and a Marketing committee, an initiative created by Dr. Grantham so that parents and teachers

can be more involved in the choices implemented at the new school. The Classroom committee visited every room on both campuses to decide where each grade should be housed for the 2014-15 school year. After the committee made their recommendations to Dr. Grantham, he decided that the lower campus (formerly Turner Elementary) will house Pre-K, kindergarten, first grade, second grade and five classes of third grade. The upper campus (formerly Bartels Middle School) will house six classes of third grade as well as the entire fourtheighth grades. “Each grade level of the upper campus will be isolated and will operate in silos of each other,” Dr. Grantham explained. “The intermingling of multiple grade levels of students will not be compromised and each grade level has been strategically placed to ensure there will be a safe and orderly learning environment.” He adds that parents of upcoming third graders who would like their children considered for the lower campus should call him at 907-6801. “As a father of an incoming third grader, my son will be on the upper campus and will have no issues,” Dr. Grantham says. The Marketing committee members discussed their choices for school motto, logo, and uniform. Dr. Grantham wanted the decision made as soon as possible so parents would have plenty of time for back-to-

school shopping. A survey was then posted on the Turner/Bartels K-8 School website (TurnerBartels.mysdhc.org) for parents to vote on their favorite choices. After the results were tabulated, it was decided that: • The uniform colors for the polo shirts will be navy blue and maroon. (The only two exceptions are “spirit shirts,” which may be worn on Fridays, and white collared blouses or polo-style shirts may be worn under girls’ navy, maroon, or solid tancolored khaki uniform jumpers.) • Uniform colors for pants, shorts, skorts and skirts will be solid navy blue, black, tan-colored khaki, and unadorned denim. (It is recommended that denim should only be worn on Fridays.) • The school logo is a shield with the font similar to the Tampa Bay Rays (photo). • The school motto will be “Learn, Excel and Create at Turner/Bartels K-8.” “The community has been great,” Dr. Grantham explained. “We’ve made many tough decisions together and the process has produced some outstanding conversation and results.” The hours for Turner/Bartels K-8 School will be 8:45 a.m.–3:35 p.m. Parents have expressed some concern because of the extra 35 minutes tacked on to the elementary-aged children’s day. “We are trying to incorporate more time for electives, such as art, music and physical education,” Dr. Grantham says. If you need to set up an appointment to meet or speak with Dr. Grantham, please contact his secretary, Michelle Cranford, at 907-6801.

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Univ. Area Kids Learn To Swim At The New Tampa Family YMCA By Matt Wiley

Living in Florida, one of the most important skills your child needs to have is the ability to swim. For many in our area, home soften come with pools, so the skills can even be taught right at home. But, for some families, access to a pool is a luxury not available in the budget. For that reason, the New Tampa Family YMCA (located off Compton Dr. in Tampa Palms) has teamed up with the University Area Community Development Corporation, Inc. (UACDC), to help spread drowning awareness and teach kids to swim this summer. Located less than a mile from the University of South Florida’s Tampa campus and minutes south and west of New Tampa on N. 22nd St., the UACDC Community Center is surrounded by some of the most blighted areas in the city and, to many kids in the nearby neighborhoods, the thought of swimming in a pool is just a dream. However, as part of the UACDC’s “DreamCatcher” summer camp program, which runs through mid-August, the dream of learning to swim and safely playing in a pool is coming true for about 50 kids, ages 5-12. Twice per week (on Mondays and Wednesdays), a bus brings the campers from the Community Center to the New Tampa YMCA to use the facility’s recently renovated, Olympic-sized (50-meter) pool. “(UACDC has) been trying to make partnerships that give the campers a lot of different experiences,” says UACDC executive director Dan Jurman. “We have normal ‘camp stuff’ for the kids, too, like arts and crafts, but (learning to swim at the Y) is really special.” Jurman says that there are lots of re-

tention ponds in the neighborhoods around the Community Center and the four-foot fences around these ponds likely won’t keep curious kids out. “If we can teach these kids to swim and make sure they know how to stay safe around water, that’s amazing,” Jurman explains. The first lesson was held on June 18, under a hot New Tampa summer sun, making the New Tampa Y’s pool the place to be. Spirits were high as campers worked with YMCA swimming instructors, learning the proper techniques for floating, kicking and the arm strokes for the common, freestyle technique of swimming. Campers also —with assistance — got to use kickboards and dive for plastic, sinking rings. The lesson culminated with a climactic leap into the pool for each camper. “I’m so excited for my daughter Genesis,” said Maria Miranda, who watched with joy as her daughter splashed with instructors and fellow campers in the pool. “She didn’t know how to swim and always has been afraid of (going in) the water at friends’ pools or at the beach, but now look at her. She’s going to be wanting to go to the beach all the time to practice.” New Tampa Y executive director Monica Mirza says that the organization is excited to partner with UACDC. “We reached out to (UACDC) to figure out how we could partner up,” Mirza explains. “The one thing that they don’t have at the Community Center is a pool. Most of these kids don’t have any access to a pool or swimming lessons and that’s something that every kid should have access to. It means a lot to us to be able to provide that to them.” The campers themselves had few complaints. Genesis, 6, said that she had fun

New Tampa YMCA instructors show campers from the University area the proper way to float on their backs during their first swimming lesson of the summer on June 18.

during the lesson and is looking forward to coming all summer. “The water was a little cold,” said an eight-year-old camper named Jonathan. “I really liked the jumping part,” said Isaac, 8. “It was very cool learning how to kick, too.” Jurman says that he’s excited to able to offer the lessons to the young campers. “The Community Center is only about five miles away,” Jurman explains. “But, for some, that’s far enough to not get here. We’re trying to eliminate that barrier.” For more information about the New Tampa Family YMCA, please visit TampaYMCA.org. For info about the UACDC, check out UACDC.org.

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Café Don José — Authentic Spanish Cuisine, Minutes From New Tampa! experienced staff (including Chef David, who was trained by Anselmo more than 20 years ago) to returning this still-respected eatery to its former glory and beyond. And, all I can say is, “So far, so awesome.” The biggest change at the new Café Don José is its expanded tapas menu. Assistant editor Matt Wiley and I got to sample four of the new tapas items on our most recent visit and we Among our editor’s favorite dishes at Café Don José on N. 56th St. in Temple Terrace (south of Fletcher both came away impressed and Ave.) are the ceviche sampler (left) and the José Trout Rusa. very full. Of the new tapas offermango and cilantro as much as I do, the plantains on top add a uniquely soft ings, Matt and I started with the you’re sure to love all three (if you’re not revamped calamares, which now features texture and sweetness. allergic to the shrimp, as I am), but the Also new (and scrumptious) is the hand-floured and hand-cut calamare stuffed piquillo pepper appetizer. Piquillo pescado (fish) is my favorite. (squid), flash-fried to crisp, yet tender And, all of these new tapas items, perfection and served with a slightly spicy peppers — which Chris says are grown only in Spain — are so mild & sweet they plus more than ten others, from Café tomato piquant dipping sauce. Don’s albondigas (meatballs), empanadas have a taste and texture closer to ravioli We also loved the new tostones con & Don Quixote puffs to steamed mussels pasta than your average pepper, and ropa vieja tapas, which consists of three or clams, also are available for just $5 they’re filled with Serrano ham, chorizo large tostones (thick-sliced, deep-fried, each all day every “Tapas Tuesday.” The sausage, mushrooms and cheese and are green or unripe restaurant’s famous homemade sangria plantains) topped topped with a piquillo aioli and Manalso is available for just $5 per glass all chego cheese. Too good. with ropa vieja day Tuesday. You can’t beat it! But, my favorite new appetizer — (shredded flank although I could only try two-thirds of steak) and fried Affordable Lunch, Too? it — was the ceviche sampler. Café Don sweet plantains. Chris says that lunch also is a whole The unripe plan- José’s signature ceviche is available in new experience at Café Don José these three varieties — fish (corvina), calamare tains fry up into days. Yes, you can still have lunch-sized and shrimp — and a small cup of each thick, but extra portions of many of your Café Don comes with the sampler. You also can get crispy slabs, the dinner favorites (like my new favorite the ceviche mixto, which combines all ropa vieja (aka Café Don José has several new tapas selections, including the tostones con “old clothes”) is José Trout Rusa; more on that below), three in one cup. If you love the unique ropa vieja (left) and the stuffed piquillo peppers. but if you want something delicious and fork tender and combination of garlic, red onion, lime,

By Gary Nager I can honestly say that I have been a customer/fan of Café Don José, now located on N. 56th St. (between Fowler and Fletcher Aves.) in Temple Terrace, since before I purchased the Neighborhood News in 1994. In fact, I well remember meeting the restaurant’s original owners — Carol and Anselmo Torrens — and enjoying their outstanding, authentic Spanish cuisine for the first time when I was negotiating to buy this publication. Café Don José was then located in the Sherwood Forest plaza south of Fowler, but moved into its larger location north of Fowler Ave. after Carol and Anselmo sold the restaurant. Now, as we announced in a “Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes” item last issue, Café Don José is on just its third set of owners in more than 25 years and general manager Chris Causey says he and owners Mehdi Belhassan and his brother Karim Benmansour have rededicated the restaurant’s highly

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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Looking for a fast, delicious lunch? Try the new Caracas Bowl (left) or the new cheeseburger. quick, go for any of the three new “Latin Bowls” for lunch. Matt and I both raved about the Caracas Bowl, which combines your choice of yellow or white rice, spicy chopped chicken, black beans, shredded cheddar & jack cheese, sour cream, crushed tostones and crisp lettuce, drizzled with a green chimichurri sauce. Chris says the Skinny Bowl (your choice of quinoa or farro, shrimp or chicken, plus sundried tomatoes, steamed broccoli, fresh feta cheese, crisp lettuce then drizzled with a light cilantro-lime aioli) also is popular. We also loved the restaurant’s unique cheeseburger, with your choice of cheese (we picked provolone) and crisp, truffle oil-infused fries, the newest sandwich on the Don’s lunch menu. As for dinner, as a certified fresh fish lover, my favorite entrées at Café Don José have always been the pan-fried black grouper and the prepared (de-boned) tableside Dover sole. Well, now I have to add a third, as the José Trout Rusa has won my heart. This 7-9-oz. flaky fillet of Caribbean Sea trout is sautéed in butter sauce and

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topped with chopped hard boiled eggs, Spanish pimento and parsley and literally melts in your mouth. Of course, Café Don José also has great steaks, paella, roast duckling, rack of lamb, chicken and rice Valencia and even ostrich medallions (and so much more), plus soups, salads and more. The wine list is very reasonable (there are two wonderful Spanish tempranillos on it) and the impressive Happy Hour Happy (5 p.m.- 7 p.m. every day except Sunday) in the revamped Tapas Bar features $3 domestic bottles & drafts, $3.50 import bottles & drafts, $3.50 well drinks $3.50 house wines and a $5 Tapas menu! There’s even private banquet rooms available for parties for 15-80 people and live music Thur.-Sat. Chris says the reaction from customers to the new ownership/menu changes have been very well received. I agree. For reservations (not required) and more information, call Café Don José (12350 N. 56th St.) at 985-2392 or visit CafeDonJoseTampa.com. It is open weekdays for lunch and every night except Sunday for dinner.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Some More Dining Options Outside Of New Tampa & Wesley Chapel By Gary Nager

Although my primary focus in these dining pages will always be on restaurants located in and around New Tampa and Wesley Chapel, whenever I have the room, I do enjoy telling you about some of my other favorite restaurants located outside of our primary distribution areas. I’ve been spending a lot of time on and around the beaches in Pinellas County and Sarasota this spring and summer, so I’ve decided to focus on those areas for this issue’s “out-of-area” dining feature...with one exception.

Tsunami Sushi Restaurant

100 Central Ave., Sarasota 34236 (941) 366-1033

My mom actually lives in the same building that houses Tsunami, so I’ve already had a couple of occasions to dine there since new owner Samuel Ray took over about a year ago.

Although the restaurant shares its name (and logo) with the Tsunami locations in Brandon and one that closed on Collier Pkwy. at S.R. 54 in Land O’Lakes, Sam has done an outstanding job of upgrading the menu with not only unique sushi rolls (photo, left) but also Japanese-inspired tapas and small plates like his awesome “lava rocks” (sliced filet mignon sashimi with a spicy kimchi sauce cooked on hot lava rocks. Sam says the mission of Tsunami is simple: serve the freshest sushi and unique hibachi dishes (like Korean bulgogi beef, twin lobsters and a 22-oz. Tsunami ribeye) with a touch of Sarasota style. And, based on the dinner crowds both times I’ve eaten there, the concept is working. So, when you visit, please tell Sam that Marilyn’s son finally gave him the write-up he promised. Please note that although Tsunami serves a great hibachi steak, it is not a dinnerand-a-show teppanyaki table restaurant. For more info, visit Tsunami-Sarasota.com or Facebook.com/pages/ Tsunami-Sushi.

Middle Grounds Grill 10925 Gulf Blvd. Treasure Island 33706 (727) 360-4253

If you’ve spent any time on the beaches between St. Pete and Clearwater, you may have at least seen or heard

(727) 733-2151

about Middle Grounds Grill, which bills itself as “the best steaks and seafood on the Gulf beaches,” and although there are a lot of great steak and seafood places along Gulf Blvd. (including another on these pages below), it’s hard to argue with Middle Grounds’ still-swimming fresh Gulf fish or thick, tender “wet-aged,” certified Angus steaks. My favorite dishes at Middle Grounds to date are the fresh grilled, blackened or sautéed Gulf grouper, the sesame-crusted, seared yellowfin tuna sashimi (don’t be shocked) and the espresso-rubbed New Zealand rack of lamb, served with oven-roasted fresh veggies and garlic mashed potatoes, as well as the thick, 12-oz. New York strip. You can add a 6-oz. lobster tail to that, as shown in the picture above. For more info, visit MiddleGroundsGrill.com or Facebook.com/ MiddleGroundsGrill.

Although Dunedin isn’t among the top beach communities in Pinellas County, its Main St. area is home to one of the most unique walking villages for dining and entertainment in our area. Well, Bon Appetit is a short walk or ride from that downtown area and it is an excellent waterfront dining and drinking spot. The crowd may skew a little older, especially inside the place, but its outside “In the Loop” bar attracts a somewhat younger crowd and there’s no doubt that this attractive eatery has some very good food at surprisingly affordable prices. Yes, of course, I had to sample the ahi tuna appetizer pictured below, especially because it was served with pink grapefruit sections, basil oil and wasabi cream. And no, I wasn’t disappointed. Also delicious was the sautéed Dover sole, one of my all-time favorite dishes, which is boned (as it’s supposed to be) at your tableside. On my next “big night out,” I want to try the “Chef’s Waterside Table” fixed-price meal. Start with a

Bon Appetit

148 Marina Plaza, Dunedin 34698

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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split of Moet Imperial champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries, followed by your choice of a jumbo lump crabmeat cocktail, the ahi tuna I described earlier or a classic steak tartare, your choice of two salads, plus your choice of the aforementioned Dover sole, a surf & turf (8-oz. filet mignon and 8-oz. lobster tail) or a grilled, 14-oz., bone-in Veal Oscar, plus your choice of two desserts, all for a very fair $95.95 per person. Then, you can walk and/or dance it all off on Main St. For more information, visit Bon AppetitRestaurant.com or Facebook. com/BonAppetitRestaurant.

1200º Chophouse 5007 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach 33706 (727) 367-1300

Located almost directly across the street from the Tradewinds Resort and about a mile from the Don CeSar, the 1200º Chophouse is one of those great little finds you’ll come back to again and again. I know I have visited at least five or six times since first finding it last summer and I will keep going back. According to the restaurant’s website (address below), “At the intersection of Chicago Chophouse, authentic Florida and culinary passion you will find Dan Casey’s latest restaurant achievement. Steaks are seared, sealing in succulent flavor, at 1200°. Experience world class hospitality… fresh and flavorful awaits!” And, with the favorites I already have at 1200º Chophouse, I

Indian Rocks Beach 33785 (727) 596-5633

Indian Rocks Beach isn’t as popular, crowded or crazy as St. Pete Beach, but one of the long-time popular night spots on Indian Rocks has been vastly upgraded by owners Doug and Patrick, both of whom previously worked for Shells Seafood Restaurant. During their employment at Shells, they were continuously two of the most successful general managers, but when Shells closed all of its locations in 2008, they started talking about going into business together and the result is the delicious, new 18 on the Rocks, which still offers live entertainment and much better food than the former Cuso’s Beach Club in the same location, directly across Gulf Blvd. from one of my favorite public beaches in Pinellas County. I loved my blackened grouper sandwich (photo below), as well as the freshly smoked fish spread (they use whatever is available that day; the day I tried it, it was made from smoked amberjack) at 18 on the Rocks and I hear people eating at the beautifully covered outdoor bar/seating area raving about the burgers, the New England clam chowder and the baby lobster pasta.

don’t disagree with a word of it. My favorite entrée to date isn’t actually on the Chophouse’s menu, because I guess the Fred Flintstone-sized bone on the bone-in cowboy ribeye isn’t always available. Anytime they have this monster (the one I had was about 32 ozs.) available, I suggest sharing one with someone you love — you’ll probably still have some to take home. I’m also certain that the lobster beurre blanc sauce (with arugula, balsamic and fresh tomatoes) on the panseared sea bass pictured above will rock your world as it did mine, too. For more info, visit 1200Chophouse.com or Facebook.com/ pages/1200-Chophouse.

18 On The Rocks Beach Bar & Grille 2405 Gulf Blvd.

For more information, visit 18ontheRocks.com or Facebook. com/18 on the Rocks.

Villagio Cinemas Lounge & Bistro

11778 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. Carrollwood 33618 (813) 498-2800

If you’re like me, you probably would love to enjoy an actual meal and an adult beverage or two while watching a movie on the big screen, even though you may fear, based on experience at other places, that the cost is prohibitive. Well, at Villagio Cinemas in Carrollwood, proprietor Russell Bain invites you to try some tasty fare with an Italian twist that won’t break your piggy bank. I’ve only visited Villagio once, but I was impressed with the tender and tasty chicken parmigiana dinner pictured above, as well as the nice Montepulciano d’Abruzzo red I washed it down with, without having to take out a second mortgage. So, check it out if you want to see “Tammy” or “Transformers” and enjoy some tasty food and drink. For more information, visit VillagioCinemas.com or Facebook.com/ VillagioCinemas — and please tell all of these eateries that I sent you!

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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

Dr. Reddy To Open New Plaza & Pet Hospital

After years of housing his Seven Oaks Pet Hospital veterinary practice in the Cypress View Square Shopping Plaza on S.R. 56 (the same plaza as Goin’ Postal), Dr. Sree Reddy, DVM, is looking to open a new retail plaza less than half a mile to the west on S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel by the end of this year. Tentatively named the Dr. Reddy Commerce Center, plans have been submitted to and approved by Pasco County to construct two retail buildings between Cypress Ridge Blvd. and Arrowgrass Dr. off S.R. 56, and Dr. Reddy says the groundbreaking could happen as you’re reading this issue. The new plaza will consist of about 23,000 sq. ft. of retail space. The first building, which will contain a little more than 10,000 sq. ft. of retail space, will be occupied by Dr. Reddy’s new 5,000-sq.ft. pet hospital (to be called “Dr. Reddy’s Trauma Center”), as well as a 3,000-sq.-ft. pet store, also owned by Dr. Reddy and operated by his staff. The remaining space will be taken up by a tenant whom, Dr. Reddy says, he is not yet ready to announce. “Our (veterinary practice) has been steadily expanding,” he explains. “We need more space after seven years in our current 2,100-sq.-ft. location.” Building and moving into a new complex also will allow Dr. Reddy to expand the services he can offer his clients and patients, including boarding and grooming, two things he has been wanting to add for years, but didn’t due to the lack of space. “Right now, there isn’t a pet store in the Seven Oaks area,” Dr. Reddy explains. “The closest pet supply store, a Petco, is nearly three miles away on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. “The new shop will help those clients fulfill their pet needs. (This new plaza) will have a big economic impact on the area.”

In choosing the location, Dr. Reddy says that he wanted to have room to expand, but didn’t want to do so far from his current location. “This piece of land was for sale, so I moved on it,” Reddy explains. “Moving too far away from my main client base would be a poor business decision.” He adds that the second building in the complex will be a 12,500-sq.ft. CrossFit gym. Stay tuned to this publication and NTNeighborhoodNews.com for more information about this plaza as it becomes available. — MW

Wesley Chapel PreOwned Center Breaks Ground

(WCCC) mixer in the past 30-45 days include Southern Crafted Homes at Quail Woods (June 6); RP&G PrintIn our next issue, we’ll update you ing and AFLAC (June 12); the Danny on the Williams Automotive Group’s Burgess Campaign Office (for District groundbreaking event (photo) at the 38, June 18), the new model home site of the company’s July 1 Wesley at Estancia at Wiregrass (June 21), Chapel Pre Owned Center, which is which is the first home of potentially going up at the corner of SR 54 and thousands of residences in the Wiregrass Old Pasco Rd. Ranch Development of Regional Impact Because of the growth that both (DRI); and an Open House at A Dash Wesley Chapel Toyota and Wesley Chapel Honda have experienced in the of Salt & Pepper (10353 Cross Creek Wesley Chapel community, the group is Blvd., Suites G&H, July 11). Upcoming vents include the folexpanding to bring the first exclusively lowing three WCCC ribbon-cutting cerused car buying center to the area. It emonies: Wednesday, July 23, 4 p.m.will provide a first-class buying experiat Washington Woods Accounting & ence and a tremendous amount of qualTax (24638 SR 54, Lutz); Thursday, ity pre owned inventory to choose from. July 24, 4 p.m., at Stewart Title Williams Automotive Group just (19651 BBD, Suite C-1, in the Pebble recently expanded when they purchased Creek Collection); and Wednesday, Tampa Honda on N. Florida Ave. in August 13, at the new Walmart Store March of this year. #3418 (28500 S.R. 54, Wesley Chapel), although the time of that event had not Ribbon Cutting Season Still been announced at our press time. Strong In Wesley Chapel And, speaking of announcements, Among the other local businesses look for a major one by the WCCC that have cut ribbons or had a Greater at NTNeighborhoodNews.com after Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce this issue reaches your mailbox and a

full update in our next issue.

Pincher’s Opens & Other Local Dining News

On July 3, just in time for the Wesley Chapel Rotary Club’s annual “Freedom Festival” at the Shops at Wiregrass mall (see page 58 of this issue), the new Pinchers Crab Shack opened its doors in the mall (at 28330 Paseo Dr., in the space previously occupied by the Aja Wiregrass night club & restaurant). Pinchers has been packed since then, with its tasty, fresh seafood (I really enjoyed my blackened grouper dinner on opening day) and fun, casual atmosphere. We plan to have a full-length review of Pinchers for you in a future issue. For more info, visit PinchersCrabShack. com or call 528-8715. We had quite a few people buzzing on our website with our photo and post of a sign put up on S.R. 56 that Buffalo Wild Wings is planning to open in Wesley Chapel. The sign (photo on next page) is located just east of the Cypress Ridge Blvd. intersection by Haskel Realty

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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Group, which also is seeking additional tenants to join Buffalo Wild Wings in a new shopping plaza in the Cy-

press Creek (not Cypress Creek Town Center) Development of Regional Impact (DRI). The sign says that spaces up to 3,800 sq. ft. are available. For more info, call Haskel Realty Group at (727) 851-9545. And finally, a published report on TampaBay.com the day we went to press with this issue confirms an announcement we made a couple of months ago, that Chuck E. Cheese’s will open a 14,260-sq.-ft. restaurant and arcade on an outparcel of The Grove shopping center off Oakley Blvd. and S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel. With nearly 600 stores, including one in virtually every state in the U.S. and about 30 in Florida, Chuck

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E. Cheese’s is one of the best-known, most-popular arcade restaurant concepts, especially for young families. For more information, visit ChuckECheese.com.

Check Out Sprinkles Ice Cream Next To Target

If you and your family like delicious ice cream floats to cool you off during the dog days of summer (and who doesn’t?), you’re in luck, as Sprinkles Ice Cream Parlor — which has been open for several months at 1219 BBD, in the Northwood Plaza next to the SuperTarget (at the intersection of BBD and County Line Rd.) in Wesley Chapel — has a delicious BOGO (Buy One, Get One Half-Off) offer your taste

Aut

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buds simply should not resist. Just bring in the ad at the bottom of page 54 (below, left) by Friday, August 15, and you’ll get one decadent ice cream float for half price with the purchase of one at the regular price. Although I had never sampled Hershey’s brand ice cream (which has only been available since 1894!) until I sampled it at Sprinkles, I have now enjoyed at least five different Hershey’s flavors (of at least 36 usually on hand at Sprinkles) at this attractive, kid-friendly ice cream parlor, especially the chocolate peanut butter flavor. Yum! For more info, call 406-4870, visit SprinklesIceCreamParlor.com and look for a full review of Sprinkles in an upcoming issue. — GN & MW

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New Tampa & Wesley Chapel HELP WANTED Award-winning Real Estate team with an overflow of serious buyer leads is seeking to hire talented experienced and motivated full time real estate agents. Who desire is to earn more money, expand their horizons and have a fulfilling life. Great training available. Keller Williams Tampa Properties. Contact Annette with Team Bohannon 813-431-2840. ROUTE SALES, MEDICAL Fills customer orders by driving to customer accounts within Florida; unloading and shelving product, inventory verification, order retrieval. Increase sales volume by providing customer service and suggestive selling techniques. Fills order by verifying inventory; loading vehicle. Monthly overnight travel requirement 2 nights a month. Retrieves damaged/ defective products from customer locations; keeps vehicle operating by following operating instructions; troubleshooting breakdowns; scheduling maintenance and repairs.Richard.jones@solarusmedical.com. WANTED: F/T or P/T. Experienced tailors/seamstresses for busy Alterations/Tailoring Studio on BBD in Wesley Chapel. Great work environment & lots of happy customers. Help us keep it that way as our business continues to grow. Appy in person at 3823 Turman Loop, WC 33543, or call 907-5999. HAIRSTYLIST. Looking for hairstylists with established clientele! - Relaxing contemporary environment in busy New Tampa shopping center. Booth rental available, $175/week. Newly furnished private suite with shampoo bowl for $225/week - First week free! Contact Ms. Johnson at (813) 994-2393 or email johnson.christy08@yahoo.com. Weekend Pool Supervisor Wanted at New Tampa Community Pool. Saturday and Sundays 12 to 6PM. $10 - $12 per hour, must have CPR. Send resume to Chet.benson@verizon.net or call 813-977-1160

Spanish-speaking Medical Biller wanted for New Tampa Medical Equipment Company Duties: Gathers billing information by reviewing patient records; checking for completeness. Bills insurance carrier by inputting billing info to database; initiating electronic transmissions. Resolves disputed claims by gathering, verifying & providing additional information; following up on claims. Resolves discrepancies by examining and evaluating data; selecting corrective steps. Skills/Qualifications: Data Entry Skills, Microsoft Office Proficiency, Time Management, Organization, Professionalism, Customer service and Attention to Detail. Please forward your resume to: Richard.jones@solarusmedical.com. BAKER(S) WANTED - Stonemill Artisan Bakery is looking for early morning bakers with expertise in the position. We are starting our wholesale operations soon and need someone to join our growing team. Duties include breads, pastries and baked donuts, among others. FT position with some weekend shifts. Food handler safety certification a plus. Please email contact@stonemillartisan.com with the words “Baker Position” in the subject line and we will email you an application form. Stonemill Artisan is an equal opportunity employer.

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In addition to our proven successful Matchmaking and Coaching, we now offer Online Dating assistance! Tampa Bay’s ONLY Certified Matchmaking and Coaching services www.TampaBayMatchMakers.com or (813) 907-0410. Also, NOW HIRING Part-time Customer Service and Marketing professionals.

EDUCATION / BABYSITTING Infinite edge is located in Tampa Palms and offering all subjects tutoring in Math and English and, SAT, ACT, FCAT from first grade to 12 grade.We also offer AP classes and our students got last year 5 on any subject that they got help. Please call 813-971-6500 Private Music Lessons- State, National and International Award winning studio. Piano, Voice, Cello, Violin, Viola, Guitar, Percussion. All concert-trained, experienced musicians.Structured curriculum. Royal Conservatory of Music Affiliate. Summer Sampler lessons available- an 8 lesson camp, tailored just for you. Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced Students. 5- Adult. Fun atmosphere, professional results. Our students stand out from crowd! For more information, check out our website at wendelkenpianostudio.com or call for an interview (813) 978-1771 Lead Montessori Teachers (Wesley Chapel, Tampa) - Join a winning team! Seeking Lead Montessori Teachers (AMS/AMI certification) to staff a brand new Montessori School in Wesley Chapel, FL. Competitive Salaries; Flexible Schedules; Professional Working Environment. Enthusiastic, nurturing candidates who have a passion for teaching should apply by calling (813) 737-7517 or by sending your resume to info@wcmontessori.com.

CLEANING SERVICES ANNA’S HOUSEKEEPING, A BBB-Accredited Business Servicing Florida since 1991. Cleaning, Laundry, You Name It! $74 introductory special, Mon-Wed. Make your list, put us to work! We have private housekeeper rates with agency backup coverage! Licensed and all housekeepers are background checked. Call 813.985.1150. WHITE TOUCH CLEANING SERVICES a professional, reliable, and affordable company. We have been in business for more than 11 years.With over 80 satisfied clients throughout Tampa. Customers are our first priority. References are provided. Please contact Cristina or Francisco at (813) 325-6917. TAMPA CLEAN MAID SERVICE - a residential cleaning service with a flexible scheduling, offering basic and custom cleaning weekly,by-weekly and monthly service. For more information, Call 813 502 9452. V & J Cleaning Services LLC. Residential-commercial cleaning. Quality Service, Affordable Rates, Reliable, Flexible Scheduling, Supplies & Equipment Provided. Specialize Move In/Out, Great References, Satisfaction Guaranteed, Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly, One Time. Call or Text Elizabeth for Free Quote: 813-454-3082

Attention 6-12th graders and college students! Very cool, very experienced, and educated (Master’s Degree in English Ed.) Language Arts Teacher located in New Tampa can help you with all of your Writing needs. Whether facing that Research Paper, the FCAT, the SAT, or the ACT, I can help. Reasonable Rates/One on One or Small Group Instruction available. Please call 813-480-3273 for more details.

SQUEAKY CLEAN HOME SERVICES is a residential cleaning company offering weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly services. We also specialize in move-in/move-out cleanup. All supplies and equipment provided. We are an Owner Operator company with over 20 years of experience. “If it needs to be clean, we’re your team!” Call 813-625-6045 for a free in-home estimate today!

Passionately Curious, Perfectly Asynchronous Kid? Exceptionally or Profoundly Gifted? Live in Pasco or Hillsborough County? Awesome new Sunrise Learning Lab™ Program for Gifted Students ages 9-13! Located in Wesley Chapel. Accepting students for Fall 2014. Foreign Languages, S.T.E.M. / S.T.E.A.M., Global Learning, Fine Arts, English Language Arts, Flexible & individualized! Colleen Murray Bowers, Director. 540-219-3627, cmbmomof2@yahoo.com http://sunriselearninglab.blogspot.com

D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE — We have our own supplies amd more than 300 clients in New Tampa! For more info, Call 758-9710.

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

ERRAND & PERSONAL SERVICE

CALL: SMILES CONCIERGE @ 813-263-4244 for: Errands- Airport Rides/Car Transportation Services- Doctor Appointments- Grocery Shopping Assistance- House Sitting- Girl Friday/Office Support and Personal Concierge Services- Event Planning. Hourly, Daily & Long Term Rates: Tampa Palms/New Tampa Area. Friendly, Trustworthy, Responsive, Reliable. www.smilesconcierge.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

Give yourself the Ultimate Cleaning that you deserve. Responsible, Reliable, and Honest with references. Call 727-6457779 for FREE estimates. Ask for Ybonne. Squeaky Clean Home Services - is a residential cleaning company offering weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly services. We also specialize in 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! 813625-6045

Our team offers house and office cleaning services on a weekly or monthly basis. We also offer move-in/move-out cleanup. Reliable team and flexible schedule. Free estimate and all supplies provided! Be our guest! For more informations call or text: 813-760-0531.

@NTWCNews

HOME IMPROVEMENT DRY WALL SPECIALIST. Not just a ‘handyman.’ Affordable Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings and walls, retexturing, popcorn removal, room additions, cracks, holes, plaster and stucco repair. 26 years of experience Wesley Chapel resident. State-Certified. Call Ron for a free estimate at 784-5999. NEED HOME MAINTENANCE? Almost any job, large or small, exterior or interior, fencing, screening, small concrete, sprinklers, painting, repairs, interior doors, locks, sheet rock, windows, paint, caulk, grout, trim, shelving, garages organized. Installations, removals, pressure washing, wood restoration and more. Call Dale’s Home Maintenance at 973-0194 or 727-2582. 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, walkways, roofs, gutters and downspouts. Find your happiness in a fresh, bright clean home. Your neighbors will love you for it! All work guaranteed. Licensed & 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 and wood rot repair. Interior: Painting, plastering, ceiling & wall repairs, & tiles. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free estimates. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ARBOR GREENE RESIDENT. We work 7 days. Call (813) 994-5124.

HOME RENOVATIONS & PAINTING Firm Realistic Budget Remodeling; Installations: Backsplash, Cabinets, Closets, Countertops, Drywall & Windows. Flooring Installation:Ceramic,Po rcelain,Granite,Marble,Travertine,Stone,Sl ate,Laminate Flooring, Engineered & Solid Hardwood. Interior & Exterior Painting: Pressure Washing, Repair small cracks & holes. Roofing : Complete Installation and Removal of any Asphalt Shingles. Wesley Chapel Licensed & Insured Company. ALICOR HOME RENOVATIONS INC; Call Michael at 813-758-0245 or at alicorhomerenovationsinc@outlook.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY Private suite in busy upscale Salon / SPA available for Hairstylist / Esthetician / Massage Therapist / Tatoo Artist or Makeup Artist Located Behind Sam’s club on SR 56 / Bruce B. Downs, near Wiregrass Mall. Equipped with wireless internet, wash/dryer, wheelchair access washroom, reception area. 24 x 7 accesses to your suite. Few equipment provided Utility, maintenance included in rent. Lowest rent in the Area. If you have established cliental, opportunity to work on commission basis as well. Call at 813-997-3414 for more information

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! 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 trimmimg. We also offer landscaping, pruning, sod replacement, and pressure washing. 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. TAMPA LAWN SALON, INC. has been providing New Tampa & Wesley Chapel residents service for over 10 years! We not only provide weekly landscape maintenance but are also licensed in pest control. Our services include: Lawn and Ornamental Fertilization, Pest Control, Landscape Design, Landscape and Sod Installation, Lawn and Landscape Maintenance, Landscape Lighting, Irrigation, Pressure Washing. Please call us for an estimate at 813.417.7301 & ask us about our FREE irrigation inspection!

COMPUTER / BUSINESS SERVICES PROFESSIONAL TECH SUPPORT — in your home or small business. A+, Certified computer tech with 20 years of exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades & tutoring. More affordable than the large chains! Friendly, personalized svc. Technical jargon explained in plain English. Remote assistance available. References available upon request. Call (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! Servicing residential & businesses, w/ more than 25 years of experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank at (813) 9734507, visit WSICA.COM or email Wsica@wsica. com today!

GLOW WHEELS 150

AUTO DETAILING

We Come To You!

Gal. Water Tank

New Look. Same Company. Serving the New Tampa & Wesley Chapel area for 9+ years

HAND WASH

HAND DRY

Call Jay For Estimate

HAND WAX

966-1530

BASIC QUICKBOOKS TRAINING Washington Woods Accounting & Tax Services, LLC www.kawwtaxes.com For $75.00 Learn About: -Setting Up A Company -Creating Invoices -Receiving Payments -Creating Bills From Vendors -Paying Bills -Understanding Your Financial Statements -Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, Statement of Cash Flows Add Ons-$50 each -Payroll Setup and Processing -Making Journal Entries and More. Call for an appointment today! 813-482-2123

CASH NOW

Turn your clutter into cash!" Garage and estate sales, inventory liquidation,& appraisal services. We'll sell it for you online! We evaluate and appraise your products then get you top dollar. We do the work you get the cash. Ask me how, contact Mary at 813-428-5793

PET SERVICES Tampa Cat Lady Professional Cat-Sitting Service. Cats are happiest in their own home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, & smells. When you are away, we feed, cuddle, & play with your kitties & clean & dispose of litter. Insured, bonded, & RedCross certified in pet first aid/CPR. Submit a service inquiry at www.TampaCatLady.com or call 994-9449

STYLIST BOOTH SPACE AVAILABLE If you’re a local, experiences stykist (wiht already-established local following or ready to build one) looking for outstanding booth rental rates in a elegant salon with top-notch amenities, located in the heart of New Tampa (minutes from Wesley Chapel), please stop in to see Jacpuie at Urban Renewal Hair (19651 BBD Blvd., Suite C-4) or call 978-9292. Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Thousands Attend Wesley Chapel Rotary’s Freedom Fest At Wiregrass! If you weren’t one of the thousands of people on hand when the Rotary Cub of Wesley Chapel (noon, which meets Wednesdays for lunch at Ciao! Italian Bistro in the Shops at Wiregrass mall) hosted its third annual Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) Freedom Festival on July 3 at the mall, you missed perhaps the single largest single-day event in the history of not only the Wiregrass mall, but perhaps also in the history of the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel areas. Although this reporter estimated that anywhere from 5,000-10,000 people attended the festival this year, event chair Jeanine McLeod says that the mall itself estimated there were nearly 30,000 cars in its various parking lots on a stifling hot evening that also included about 15 minutes of heavy rains an hour or so prior to the evening’s outstanding fireworks display. Although final totals were still being tabulated, McLeod told her fellow Rotarians the Wednesday after the event that almost $30,000 was raised during this year’s Freedom Fest, which eclipsed last year’s record total. The net proceeds will be donated to the various charities the club supports. Congrats to McLeod, Little Miss & Mr. Firecracker Contest (see winners below) chairs Jennifer Cofini and Robyn Liska, Bike Decorating Contest chair Pablo Rivera, DC, Watermelon Eating Contest chair Vicki Hamilton and all of the event’s sponsors and participants. Among the major sponsors for this year’s festival (in addition to FHWC) included McIlwain Dentistry, Saint Leo University, Paradise Palms, Pasco Hernando State College, Impact Fitness, Brightstar Chiropractic, Rasmussen College, The Tutoring Center, Habitat for Humanity of East & Central Pasco, Barbizon Modeling & Acting Centers, Parks Ford & Parks Fiat of Wesley Chapel, Cash 4 Gold Wesley Chapel, Mike Moore for County Commissioner, Danny Burgess for State Representative, SmartHealth Inc., Ken Chase of Home Buyers Marketing II! I apologize in advance to anyone I missed.

Congratulations also go out to this year’s Little Miss & Mr. Firecracker Winners:

Some of the photos on this page are courtesy of Tony Masella, OurTownFla.com.

Little Miss Firecracker 2014 Madison Bahs! Little Mr. Firecracker 2014 Brayden Weis! Ages 3 months-24 months winners - Bryse Leonard & Holly Mueller Ages 2-4 winners - Jacob Gordon & Avery Alberger Ages 5-8 winners - Zachariah Cullens & Ziya Boyd Again, congrats to everyone associated with the 2014 Freedom Festival. I’m sure we can expect an even bigger and better event next year!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 22, Issue 15 • July 19, 2014 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

mobley HOMES

For more information please contact: Renee Riordan - 813.629.3367 Neisha Roberts - 813.629.2921 Maureen - 813.293.1533 contact@mobleyhousing.com