New Tampa Neighborhood News, Volume 27. Issue 15, July 12, 2019 by Neighborhood News

Volume 27 Issue 15

Inside:

A Tasty Visit To The Al-Sham Palace!!

July 12, 2019

See pgs. 36-37!

Our New Website Is NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net For Videos & Local News Daily! The Direct-Mail News Magazines Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Since 1993! For the complete list of the neighborhoods that receive this publication by direct mail in New Tampa (zip code 33647), see page 42!

First Look Inside:

A Dead End.

END OF AN ERA

After years of bickering and debate, Kinnan St. & Mansfield Blvd. won’t be connected for local traffic.

Page 6

STORY & PHOTOS BY JOHN C. COTEY

It was his last mass, but it felt like his first one. The pews at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church were filled. Everyone was eager to hear what he was going to say. And, the nerves and emotions were almost overwhelming. “It was pulling me in all kinds of different directions,’’ Father David DeJulio said. After 16 years of leading St. Mark’s through massive growth and the construction of a new church, making hundreds of friends in the community and helping even more families, Fr. David said goodbye on June 30 to a congregation that has grown from 2,100 families when he came to the church to more than 3,800 as he departs. He was pleased with his homily, which challenged parishioners to hold steady as they follow Christ, despite the ever-growing plague of distractions. Towards the end of the eucharist prayer, as the end of his time at St. Mark’s drew nearer, he started fighting back those emotions. Tampa City Council member Luis Viera presented Fr. David with a city commendation, leading to a rousing 45-second standing ovation. When Fr. David tried to bring the mass to a close, his staff See “Goodbye” on page 6.

Jammin’!

Excel Music is still teaching kids and adults alike how to play music after 13 years in New Tampa.

Pages 18-19

Best in State.

Incoming Freedom High freshman Elaine Feaster ended her middle school days by picking up a pair of noteworthy awards.

Pages 33-34

NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net; A Meeting To Discuss Business In New Tampa & More An editorial by Gary Nager So, the hits just keep on coming for us, as we have now officially changed over our website to NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net. If you’ve already been visiting our website to keep up on all of the latest local news of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel, you can still find us at our old web address, but now, you will be redirected to our new site. If you’ve normally been accessing our website through our “Neighborhood News” Facebook page, the change to the new web address won’t affect you at all. Whether you’re trying to watch one of our ever-increasing stockpile of new videos or just want to read a story that may or may not have appeared in your print edition of the Neighborhood News, you can still click through to our new website from any of our Facebook posts. We’re not really sure how much longer it will take to change over our YouTube channel from the current WCNT-tv (Wesley Chapel & New Tampa Television) to Neighborhood News Online on YouTube, but we are working on resolving that, too. In the meantime, our videos continue to attract a lot of attention. Although the mostwatched video we’ve had since our last issue was the one featuring Creative Permanent Makeup by Pam Edmonson (with more than 7,000 views and hundreds of Likes, Shares & Comments; see ad on page 15 and the Spotlight story on pg. 25), our second-most watched video since June 7 was our feature about the youth football camp hosted by former Tampa Bay Bucs tight end (and current ESPN commentator) Anthony Becht (left photo on this page), which had garnered nearly 7,000 views, a Facebook reach of more than 11,000 people and dozens of Likes, Shares & Comments. I hope you, as readers and viewers, have been enjoying our videos and posts. Stay tuned for much, much more!

New Tampa Neighborhood News

Address: 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Publisher & Editor /Ad Sales Gary Nager Managing Editor / Photographer John C. Cotey Correspondents Libby Baldwin • Jarrett Guthrie • Celeste McLaughlin • Andy Warrener Lead Video Producer Charmaine George Photography, Videography & Video Editing Richard Nasrallah • Ricky Rodriguez • Matt Tsvetkov Graphic Designer Georgia Carmichael Advertising Sales & Billing Assistants Janet Levins • Jannah Nager Nothing that appears in New Tampa Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by New Tampa Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertising space reservations for Volume 27, Issue 17, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, July 29, 2019. New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously nonpublished outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. New Tampa Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. New Tampa Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, nor for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers.

For info about print advertising, our Video & Online Subscription program and more, please call (813) 910-2575!

Driskell & Viera To Co-Host New Tampa Business Summit July 16!

As we were going to press with this issue, I received a message from State House District 63 Rep. Fentrice Driskell about a meeting she will be co-hosting with Dist. 7 Tampa City Council member Luis Viera at Compton Park in Tampa Palms on Tuesday, July 16, at 6 p.m. Also on hand will be representatives from USF (as we reported last issue). The topic? The business climate in New Tampa, which has been a hot button issue among our readers for some time, in the wake of many business and (especially) restaurant closings over the last couple of years. The Neighborhood News will be on hand to cover that event for you, but if you have something you’d like to say, or you just want to hear the latest info available, you should probably plan to attend, too. Space is limited, so please RSVP to Brannon.jordanlazo@tampagov.net if you would like to attend.

Farewell, Not Goodbye!

I am sad to say that after about three years as a member of the Rotary Club of New Tampa Noon (which meets Wednesdays at noon at Bayscape Bistro in Heritage Isles), I have decided to return to the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel, where my wife Jannah has been a member for about eight years, and where I was a member for several years, too. My primary reason for leaving is a simple matter of geography. Both clubs meet on Wednesdays at noon, but it has been taking me an average of close to 30 minutes to get to Heritage Isles from our office on S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel, which is tough for me every week, especially on our deadline weeks. The Wesley Chapel club meets at Omari's Grill at Lexington Oaks Golf Club, which is only five minutes from my office. I wish new New Tampa Noon president Lisa Hickey (receiving the gavel from outgoing president Gary Lefebvre in right photo above) well and promise to always support the club’s events — especially the upcoming second annual New Tampa Brew Fest and the annual bike ride to benefit first responders and the U.S. military. I’ll miss my wonderful friends in the club, but I also plan to visit. For more info, visit “New Tampa Noon Rotary” on Facebook.

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Table of Contents

Local News Updates.....................3-13

Fresh Kitchen, More Coming To Hunter’s Lake..........4 More Father David DeJulio Coverage...............6-7 Sidewalks In Need Of Repair In Cross Creek............8 Pasco Blocks Kinnan-Mansfield Connection.............10 New Tampa Community Calendar...........................14

Local Business Updates..............18-26

Excel Music: Teaching Kids To Play For 13 Years.......18 Farina Orthodontic Specialists Will Make You Smile....20 Keep Germs, Grime At Bay With Scrub-A-Dub........22 USF Credit Union’s Busy New Tampa Branch............24 Spotlight On: Creative Permanent Makeup by Pam....25

Education & Sports News..........28-29 Wharton’s Wee Wildcats Daycare Program Is Unique

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Elaine Feaster— Middle School Student Of The Year!..33 Al-Sham Palace For Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine...36 Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes...........38 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Classifieds...........40 @NTWCNews

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Fresh Kitchen & Other Eateries Coming To Hunter’s Lake! By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

While it may be a lot to ask for the new Village at Hunter’s Lake project to single-handedly save the sleepy restaurant scene in New Tampa, it sure seems like the developers are trying. Fresh Kitchen, a south Tampa favorite with locations on S. Howard Ave. and W. Kennedy Blvd., is the latest restaurant to be announced as coming to the new development on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., right across New Tampa's main thoroughfare from the entrance to Hunter’s Green. Regency Centers senior leasing agent Marc Elias broke the news to a collection of local business leaders last month at the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce (NTBC)’s Economic Development Briefing at Hunter’s Green Country Club on June 20. Fresh Kitchen is owned by the Ciccio Restaurant Group, which also owns such notable restaurants as Taco Dirty, Green Lemon, betterBYRD and Ciccio Cali, which has a popular location in Tampa Palms. Like Ciccio Cali, Fresh Kitchen focuses on healthy bowls, where patrons choose their base, protein, vegetable and any extras. Elias’ announcement drew

a round of positive chatter during the NTBC briefing. Elias also said that Regency Centers has a BBQ concept coming, as well as a sub-and-wrap concept, although he didn't name those restaurants. Along with the previously announced Via Italia Wood Fired Pizza, Poke Island Plus and Grain & Berry, that would mean six new restaurants (plus Starbucks) could be open by April of 2020 in New Tampa. The Village at Hunter’s Lake also is likely to provide a boost to the social scene in New Tampa. “We certainly hope so,” said Elias. “We feel like we are responding to the needs of the area, which is really convenience. Hopefully, we’re able to attract the foot traffic over there, and they can hang out with their dogs at the dog parks, go to Starbucks, take a yoga class. That’s the goal, getting them to hang out at the center.” While Sprouts, the first green grocer to enter the New Tampa market, is the anchor of the retail strip, other occupants previously reported by the Neighborhood News are Banfield Pet Hospital, The Coder School, Hair Cuttery, Heartland Dental, Nationwide Vision Center, Pink & White Nails, Pure Beauty Salon and T-Mobile.

Marc Elias, the retail leasing agent for The Village at Hunter’s Lake project on Bruce B. Downs Blvd., says green grocer Sprouts and the other retailers will be free to move in by November and that most tenants will likely open sometime in April of 2020. (Photo: Stephen John Photography)

Elias added that a running store and a “yoga concept” also have signed leases. Elias says the shell buildings should be completed by November, barring a persistent rainy season. Tenants can open whenever they are ready, though Elias suspects that most will open sometime around April 2020, when Sprouts is expected to be completed.

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The Village at Hunter’s Lake will have a total of 71,397 sq. ft. of commercial space. The project also will include a 30,000-sq.-ft. New Tampa Cultural Center — which is expected to break ground next year and open sometime in 2021 — two dog parks and a four-story, 241-unit multi-family complex to be called The Haven at Hunter’s Lake.

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Goodbye: After 16 years at St. Mark’s, Father David says moving on isn’t easy. FROM PAGE 1 interrupted him and presented him with a plaque. “I lost it there at the end,” Fr. David confessed. After gathering himself, he followed a procession of altar boys and deacons and, for the last time as their priest, walked past rows of the adoring St. Mark congregants for the final time. ”I’m not really thrilled about leaving,” Fr. David said afterwards, “but when God tells you you gotta go, you gotta go.” He is headed north (but not too far) to St. Frances Xavier of Cabrini in Spring Hill, only 15 minutes from where his twin brother Frankie’s family lives. Fr. David will essentially trade parishes with Rev. Richard Jankowski, who has been at St. Frances of Cabrini for 13 years. It’s the next stop on Fr. David’s journey, which began at the age of 5, when he says he first knew the church is where he wanted to be. It wasn’t until he was 27, however, that he entered the seminary. He graduated with a finance degree from the University of South Florida, making the long drive to classes from his family’s home in Holiday, FL. He took a job at a bank in St. Petersburg, a job he said he truly enjoyed. But, that feeling he got in church as a kid never went away.

“It’s always going to be a special place in my heart, wherever I am,” says Fr. David DeJulio (center), who is moving on after 16 years at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church. dered what kind. In the end, it turned “It kept haunting me,” he says. out to be a determined, resilient and His first year in the seminary, unbending faith, the same kind of faith he wasn’t so sure he made the right he implores his parishioners to strive choice. He thought about quitting for every day. after one semester. He had been living It is Fr. David’s style, which is with his girlfriend in an apartment in St. Petersburg and was in control of his described as easy-going, funny but still somewhat stern, that made him a life. But, when he entered the semipopular fixture in New Tampa. nary, he wasn’t. Among the first families he met “My first year was tough,” he says. when he came to St. Mark’s were “I just really didn’t like it.” Richard and Nancy Larson. Nancy was He knew he had faith, but won-

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the liturgist at St. Mark’s, and Frankie contacted her about planning a party for the installation of his brother, the new priest. The party was held at Hunter’s Green Country Club, in the community where Fr. David has lived in a home the church uses as its rectory. Richard and Fr. David became instant friends, as did dozens of others from Hunter’s Green who joined Fr. David’s Bible study group that would meet weekly at his home. Fr. David would teach, and afterwards, there would be wine and food and cigars. “He built my faith and he made me a much stronger person,” Richard says. “He did that to our whole group.” Many, Richard says, weren’t even members at St. Mark’s, but Fr. David still brought them home, too. “He was so good at evangelizing and bringing people back to the church,” Richard says. “He was just a regular guy. I think that appealed to a lot of people.” Fr. David golfed with the group — he says his handicap is currently a 13 — and the more time he spent with those who had stopped going to church, the more those people started going again. When they found out Fr. David was leaving, the group pitched in and bought him a membership to Southern Hills Plantation in Brooksville, 10

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church, but Father David was given 16, so he could spend some time enjoying the church he helped to build. Fr. David was named pastor at St. Mark’s in 2003, preaching from the Family Life Center the church flock was quickly outgrowing. He envisioned a spiritual center for New Tampa, a place for families to come together in prayer. A fund-raising campaign was started, and the although the economic downturn in 2008 forced a delay, on June 6, 2015, the $10.1-million, 35,000-sq.-ft. sanctuary was dedicated. Today, the church is only $1.5 million from paying off a $5-million loan to finish it. “It’s kind of a slip of the tongue to say it’s “my place,” but I feel connected There were few available seats in the house when Fr. David delivered his final mass at here,” Fr. David says proudly. I spent St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church on June 30. half my priesthood here. It’s always going to have a special place in my heart, miles from his new church, so he could time her granddaughter Olivia saw Fr. wherever I am.” continue to spread God’s word to new David walking alone across the field Father David will always be refriends while working on that handicap. next to the church, and asked if that membered for his stewardship over the After Fr. David’s final mass Sunday, was Jesus. sanctuary project, which he credits as a he was greeted in the courtyard by “I will always remember that Noel and Nellie Negron, whose eyes story,” she said, smiling. “I love him. I testament to the “tremendous sacrifices on the part of parishioners.” welled with tears as they thanked their am going to miss him.” But, it’s just a small part of the longtime priest for bringing them back The Negrons have already been to legacy he hopes he leaves behind. into the church. his new church, and plan on stopping “Obviously buildings are imporNoel has been a member for 23 in for a mass here and there. tant, but what happened here is we years, but hasn’t always been a regular Richard says he will do the same, churchgoer. as, he suspects, many others who knew created a place with a story,” he says. He says he wants to be remem“I went when I felt like it,” he said. Fr. David also will do. He joked that bered not only for helping create a “When I met Fr. David, he brought he will definitely see Fr. David again, me back. (Now) there isn’t a Sunday I “because I made him promise he would beautiful structure to worship in, but also for what has happened inside it. miss. I love coming to church.” do my funeral.” Nellie recalled a story about the Priests usually serve 12 years at one He is proud that St. Mark has been

a place where families feel welcome, where you’re greeted by four or five people before you even got to your seat, where he challenged his parishioners’ faith and helped guide them through both happy and difficult times. He fostered a community that did many good things, a community that he helped connect to God through his teachings. At the end of the day, and 16 wonderful years, it was all that he could ask. “I started to think about him not being here, and it was a very emotional thing,” Noel said. “When you have someone you can turn to for some encouragement and leadership and someone to guide us...and now he won’t be here. He was a good shepherd for us.”

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Sidewalks Awaiting Repairs In Some New Tampa Neighborhoods By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

Dozens of orange safety cones and swatches of bright orange paint have been placed along sidewalks in at least two New Tampa neighborhoods, there as a warning — to watch your step. Due to uneven sidewalks caused primarily by the roots of large oak trees planted years ago between the sidewalk and the road, those out for a walk or bike ride in the Magnolia Trace and Pinehurst communities off Brookron Dr. in Cross Creek are being cautioned, due to concerns raised by the homeowner’s association’s insurance company during an inspection. How long will the orange cones adorn the neighborhood’s sidewalks? That’s anyone’s guess. Jo-Ann Pilawski of Pilawski Property Management, which manages the Cross Creek II Master Association, notified Hillsborough County’s Public Works department about the sidewalks, which indicated in an email that “a work request has been initiated and assigned to the West Service Unit for inspection, review, and response.” The email stated an inventory of potential repairs will be conducted within a month, and afterwards, the county will

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Some of the sidewalks in Magnolia Trace (above) and Pinehurst (top right) are in need of repair, but Hillsborough County has a long backlog for sidewalk repairs. (Photos: John C. Cotey)

“grind” all identified areas where the lift is less than two inches. The areas raised more than two inches — and there are quite a few in both neighborhoods — “will be flagged with reflective tape and added to the county’s current backlog of sidewalk replacement requests.” That backlog, according to Hannah Titrington, the program coordinator

of the customer resolution unit at the county, who wrote the email to Pilawski, is approximately 24-36 months. Prior to 2018, the county had minimal funding for sidewalk repairs, Titrington wrote, causing the backlog. But, in 2018, the Board of County Commissioners committed significantly more money to sidewalk repair after passing a 10-year, $800-million plan for

transportation improvements. “It’s a big county, so you can imagine how many sidewalks there are that need repairs,” Pilawski said. “Unfortunately, unless the association pays for repairs, we’re stuck. A few residents have called to complain, but as soon as I tell them it might make (their) fees go up, no one is interested anymore.” Pilawski also said that doing so would also set a bad precedent, considering that the sidewalks are supposed to be maintained by the county. Titrington did write that while the county is working on older requests first, repairs are grouped by proximity. So, an older request from a different area in New Tampa could expedite Pilawski’s request for repairs.

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Kinnan /Mansfield May Be Connected, But Only For Emergencies By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews. The decades-old debate over connecting Kinnan St. in New Tampa to Mansfield Blvd. in Wesley Chapel appears to have, pardon the pun, reached the end of the road. After years of meetings and studies and community activism, the Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) sided with the Meadow Pointe residents who claim that connecting the roads would put their children’s safety at risk. On June 11, the Pasco MPO voted unanimously to forward their recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners that Wesley Chapel be connected to New Tampa’s growing K-Bar Ranch community via two roads further to the east of Kinnan-Mansfield (neither has been completed) — Meadow Pointe Blvd. and Wyndfields Blvd., both of which would eventually connect to K-Bar Ranch Blvd. (at different locations). But, Mansfield Blvd. and Kinnan St. will not be connected for area commuters. “Everybody that came today spoke against opening up Kinnan and Mansfield,” said Pasco District 2 Commissioner Mike Moore, who represents the Meadow Pointe area, at the June 11 Pasco MPO meeting. “There was one person who was in favor of it, and he lives in New Tampa.”

This is the view from the end of Kinnan St., which runs north from Cross Creek Blvd. Mansfield Blvd. in Meadow Pointe is on the other side of the barrier, about 40 feet away. (Photo: John C. Cotey)

Hunter’s Green resident Dr. Jim Davison was the person who spoke in favor of connecting Kinnan-Mansfield. The final vote to settle the roadways question was expected to be held on July 9, in Dade City, after we went to press with this issue. Considering that all five members on the Pasco BOC also are on the MPO Board that voted unanimously in favor of making only two of the three connections that were considered, it is almost certain to pass. Hillsborough County District 2 com-

missioner Ken Hagan and District 7 Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera, both of whom have fought for the connection for years, expressed disappointment and frustration over the Pasco MPO’s decision. Hagan called it “extremely parochial and irrational.” However, both New Tampa representatives took some solace in the fact that the famed 40-foot patch of dirt, weeds and trees (and often, garbage and abandoned furniture) separating the roads may be paved over, connecting the roads for use

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by emergency service vehicles — with a mechanical traffic arm keeping local traffic out — as well as providing a path for bikers and pedestrians. Public safety was one of the primary reasons both Hagan and Viera had fought for the connection. “I’m pleased that Pasco County is finally recognizing the significant public safety concerns with Kinnan-Mansfield remaining closed,” Hagan said. “I think this is a necessary first step, and we will live to fight another day.” Davison was less pleased with the concession for emergency vehicle access. A longtime traffic activist and emergency room physician, Davison said that most people come to the hospital emergency room by private vehicle, not an ambulance, and those people will still face a longer trip to get care. “Connecting Kinnan and Mansfield is in the public good,” Dr. Davison said.

W w

The Decision

After years of political arguments and one costly study, Pasco’s MPO turned to its residents to help render a decision. The MPO was presented with the results from its recent online Pasco Resident Survey, which asked which of four options for connecting Meadow Pointe to New Tampa were preferred. Meghan McKinney of the consulting

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firm AECOM, which conducted the initial Wesley Chapel Roadway Connections study which produced the choices for the online survey, said the total number of eligible respondents was 1,180. The option most favored by those polled online was Option 2, which asked if respondents favored connecting only Meadow Pointe Blvd. to K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. Nearly 68 percent responded yes, with 32 percent saying no. The MPO, however, voted unanimously to forward the second-most popular option, Option 3 — connecting both the Meadow Pointe Blvd. Extension and Wyndfields Blvd. to K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. — which 66 percent favored. Connecting only Kinnan-Mansfield was never an option — nor was it an option that was studied in the year-long Roadways Connections Study commissioned by the county — but the controversial connection was included with the other roads in both Option 1 and Option 4. Option 1, which asked if residents would be in favor of connecting Kinnan to Mansfield as well as the Meadow Pointe Blvd. Extension to K-Bar Ranch Pkwy., received a “yes” vote by 54 percent of respondents. The least popular option from the survey results was No. 4, which would have connected Mansfield Blvd., the Meadow Pointe Blvd. Extension and Wyndfields Blvd. — in other words, all three potential connections to the New Tampa area. Even so,

a majority of those responding, 52 percent, still voted in favor of that option as well. Dr. Valerie Mainguy, a Meadow Pointe resident who works at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church on Cross Creek Blvd., suggested that those numbers were tainted. She told the board she was privy to a “huge initiative” by New Tampa residents to use Pasco addresses and names to skew the results to get Kinnan-Mansfield connected She said the “fraud” that happened is well known and public knowledge, although she offered no proof of it. A majority of those saying no to any connections involving Mansfield Blvd. came from those who live along the road. They were signified by red dots on a map showing where the respondents resided. “The ones that would utilize that connection don’t want that connection,” Moore said. Those who showed up to the MPO meeting spoke against adding any more traffic to Mansfield Blvd. “I’m a red dot because I’m the father of two boys that ride their bikes up and down (Mansfield) every day to go to school,” said Meadow Pointe II resident Brad Jorgensen. Like many of those opposed to connecting Kinnan St. to Mansfield Blvd., Jorgensen cited the safety of children in the neighborhoods along the road. “This is about not turning our neighborhood into alternate Bruce B. Downs,” Jorgensen said.

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JULY 2019

Saturday, July 13

Free Community Boot Camp - New Year, Same Hustle - Camp Gladiator is a fitness movement with dynamic, fun & challenging workouts - This is 60-minutes of amazing at your favorite place to shop. This Free event takes place every Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. at Tampa Premium Outlets (2300 Grand Cypress Dr, Lutz) - Participants should bring: exercise mat, 1-2 bottles of water, sweat towel, a smile & great attitude. For more Info, email Christine Iloni at christineiloni@campgladiator.com. Propagation by Stem Cuttings - The joy of taking a piece of your neighbor’s prized plant (with permission, of course) and growing your own is like no other. You, too, can be successful with some tried & true methods & tricks of the trade. This is a hands-on workshop. Come get your hands dirty at this FREE UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension seminar, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park (5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd, Land O’ Lakes). Bay Chapel Food Pantry - Free food to help needy families. The Bay Chapel Food Pantry is open every Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., behind Christian Brothers Automotive on BBD Blvd. in New Tampa (20300 Trout Creek Dr). For more info, call (813) 731-4040.

Monday, July 15

Yoga On The Lawn (The Shops at Wiregrass) - This Free event is held every Monday, 6:30 p.m.7:30 p.m. at Center Court (The Shops at Wiregrass) Weather Permitting. This is Relaxing Beginner to Intermediate Yoga, sponsored by Energia Wellness Studio - For more info call (813) 973-7300.

Tuesday, July 16

wedding professionals, noon-3 p.m. Fashion show at 1 p.m. will feature the latest wedding dress and tuxedo trends. at The Venetian Event Center (9724 Cross Creek Blvd, Tampa).

Monday, July 22

New Tampa Democratic Club - The Club meets on the 4th Monday of each month, 7 p.m.8:30 p.m. at Mulligan’s Pub (10550 Regents Park Dr, Pebble Creek Golf Club). Guest speakers are featured at every meeting. Come early, eat, mingle or come on time and eat during the meeting. For more info, email newtampademocraticclub@gmail.com.

Wednesday, July 24

North Tampa Arts League - The mission of the North Tampa Arts League is to develop, nurture, and support the arts and the artists of North Tampa by working in concert with community leaders to make North Tampa a vibrant art community. All are welcome! NTAL meets 7 p.m.-9 p.m. on the 4th Wednesday of the 1st and 3rd month each quarter (except as noted) at: Compton Park Community Center, Tampa Palms (16101 Compton Dr.). For more info, email NTALboard@gmail.com or visit website www.northtampa-arts.com.

Friday, July 26

North Tampa Bay Chamber: Final Friday Event - Held the last Friday of each month, Final Friday allows business professionals to meet in a ‘not-too-formal’ setting. This month’s event is hosted by Spring Hill Suites - Land O’ Lakes (16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes). 4 p.m.-6 p.m. There is no fee to attend this event. For more info, call the Chamber office at (813) 994-8534. HopeFest Wesley Chapel - New Life Covenant Wesley Chapel will be hosting its 4th annual community event, “HopeFest Wesley Chapel.” For more info, see the ad on page 15!

AUGUST 2019

Colorful Container Gardening - Learn the how-to’s of planting flowers, foliage & herbs in containers & watch them flourish. Does not include container vegetables. Come join us for this FREE US/ IFAS Pasco County Extension seminar., 2 p.m.-3 p.m, at New River Branch Library (34043 S.R. 54, Monday, August 5 Wesley Chapel). HOPE Services: How-to-Seminar for Persons with Disabilities & Supporting Families – Held on the First Monday of each month, 7 p.m.-9 p.m. at HOPE Services’ Wesley Chapel office (2406 Wednesday, July 17 Cypress Glen Drive, Suite 102). Our group seminars are led by our in-house counseling team, & BNI Business Leaders (New Tampa) - Our BNI Chapter is a dynamic, committed group of business many of our Job Coaching/Training team attend. The primary goal is to spread awareness of the people who know how to refer business to each other. Meets every Wednesday, 7:30 a.m., at Mullifree services available to families. We include a special topic each session, focusing on bringgans inside Pebble Creek Golf Club (10550 Regents Park Dr.). Call Lauren Hopper @ (727) 786-2427. ing clients & family members together in a supportive & educational forum. HOPE Services: We Rotary Club Of New Tampa Noon - The New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meets Wednesdays understand. We care. We help. We give HOPE. For more info. call (813) 907-1903. at Noon at Bayscape Bistro, inside Heritage Isles Country Club off Cross Creek Blvd. Guests Tuesday, August 6 are always welcome. For more info, search “New Tampa Noon Rotary” on Facebook. MGM Friends Business Connection - Leap into action Monthly with MGM (Meet & Greet Mixers) GFWC Woman’s Club of New Tampa - We promote and provide civic, educational and charitable Friends Business Connection held at USF (3802 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa). First Tuesday of the activities, and are dedicated to community improvement through volunteer service. We meet month, 9 a.m.-10:15 a.m. Build strong relationships with like-minded business professionals with monthly at New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd, New Tampa), 1 p.m.-2 p.m. no fees. Open to all businesses looking to make real connections. Hosted by Shelomo Solson with For more information, email womansclubnewtampa@gmail.com. Leapcaller. Facilitator: Georgianna Strickland with Bizzee Bee Marketing LLC. For more info. go to mgmfriends.com or call (813) 477-7306.

Thursday, July 18

North Tampa Veterans Association meeting - All armed forces veterans and associates are invited to a weekly lighthearted Dutch-treat breakfast meeting to get acquainted and tell your tales, new and old. Location: Steak ‘n Shake just off BBD Blvd. (17509 North Palms Village Pl) - every Thursday at 7:30 a.m. Bring your spouse and your brag sheet. RGA Network Weekly Meeting - The RGA Networking Group meets every Thursday for networking at GrillSmith at the Shops at Wiregrass Mall. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; Lunch is served noon-1 p.m. For more info, visit RGANetwork.net.

Visit NTNeighborhoodNews.com to add your upcoming events to our online calendar. With enough advanced notice, events that happen in our readership areas may also appear in print, as space allows.

Friday, July 19

Rotary Club of New Tampa - The Rotary Club of New Tampa meets every Friday for breakfast at 7 a.m. at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.). For more info, including the speaker schedule, contact David Lanigan at 813-760-6548 or dave@ davidlanigan.com or visit NewTampaRotary.org.

Saturday, July 20

Fresh Market at Wiregrass - the 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month, you can enjoy the Fresh Market at Wiregrass (28211 Paseo Dr.), 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Shop for fresh produce, hand-crafted goods, candles, sauces, fresh bread, and so much more. For more info, visit TampaBaymarkets.com. Family Fun Day - Hosted by Challenge Island & Teal Plank Workshop. Join us for affordable family bonding activities , noon-4 p.m., at Teal Plank Workshop (10353 Cross Creek Blvd., Bldg. 10, Suite D, Tampa). Fees are $40 for a family of 4. Join us for Family DIY, Home Decoration (each family will create a unique 10”x10” wooden decoration) & a STEM Family Challenge. Enjoy Music, Refreshments, Photo Station & each child will receive a Free educational toy. Buy tickets at eventbrite.com, search for “Half Day Family Activities in Tampa.” Tampa Wedding Expo at The Venetian Event Center - If you’re planning a wedding, the Tampa Wedding Network’s 2019 Expo is the perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon. This FREE event will give you the opportunity to gain inspiration, win amazing prizes, and meet & greet with the area’s best 14

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NTP Goes ‘Under The Sea’ For Next Show By JOHN C. COTEY NTP is bringing in a choreographer john@ntneightborhoodnews.com from the Shinobi School in Temple Terrance, which focuses on acrobatic perThe New Tampa Players (NTP), a formances relating to parkour (movelocal acting troupe, holds a handful of ments used in military obstacle course full-scale productions every year. Some training), ninja warriors and star mostly adults, other star the circus arts. just the kids, and others, like “It’s going to add a circus the Penguin Project, provide twist to Disney,” Paine says. opportunities for those with Long pieces of silk cloth special needs. will hang from above to This summer’s producprovide the illusion of being tion, however, is for everyone. underwater, with performers NTP is putting the final artfully working their way touches on a production of around the silky streams. Disney’s animated “The Little “This is new, as far as I Mermaid,” which will include Land O’Lakes’ Patty actors of all ages and run from Smithey will play Ariel in can tell, combining traditional Friday, July 26--Sunday, Au- “The Little Mermaid.” Broadway musical and circus arts done by a non-professional gust 4, at the University Area company,” Paine says. Community Development Center (CDC) This will be the first NTP production at 14013 N. 22nd St. in Tampa. since the group found out that its future “Usually, we do summer shows that home, the New Tampa Cultural Center, are family friendly,” says NTP president received its final piece ($3.5 million) of Nora Paine. “The cast is made up of adults $8.8-million worth of funding in May from and children. It’s rare for them to work the Hillsborough County Board of County together on a theater show.” Commissioners. The 20,000-sq.-ft. center A cast of 53 will make this one of is expected to break ground sometime next NTP’s biggest productions yet. year and open in 2021. “The Little Mermaid” tells the story “The Little Mermaid” opens of Ariel, a mermaid princess, who falls in love with Eric, a human prince, and dreams Friday, July 26 at 8 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit of being a human. She eventually gets her NewTampaPlayers.org. wish, but with consequences.

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Excel Music Helps Musicians Young & Old Hit All The Right Notes By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

Since 2006, Excel Music in the Cory Lake Isles Professional Center on Cross Creek Blvd. has been teaching students of all ages to sing and play a wide variety of instruments with some of the area’s top teachers. If you’re looking for something for the kids to do this summer, it may be the perfect time to bring them to Excel Music to try new musical endeavors. You may end up becoming a student yourself, too. John and Sheri Thrasher are the husband-and-wife team who own Excel Music. “We’ve helped thousands of students of all ages reach their musical goals while enjoying the journey,” says John. “We like to say Excel is both the place you start and the place you stay.” Excel Music has 20 teachers on staff and all are either university trained (many with Master of Music degrees) or they have at least 10 years of study and performing experience. The faculty teaches voice and nearly every traditional musical instrument, including piano, guitar, drums, violin and so many more. “There’s a lot of excellent science out there that shows the benefit of a broad education that includes arts and music,” John says, adding that Excel provides a variety of opportunities for people of all ages — not just kids — to experience and connect with music.

John and Sheri Thrasher have owned Excel Music in the Cory Lake Isles Professional Center since 2006, helping thousands of students hone their musical skills. (Photo: John C. Cotey)

Beyond Just Lessons

Excel Music offers the New Tampa Choir, a singing group for kids ages 7-12, and no experience is necessary to participate. It’s currently on hiatus for the summer, but will start back in September. “It’s a learning experience, and it’s fun,” John says. “We want to give students a venue to sing songs they know, and some they don’t. In addition to traditional choir music, we do Broadway songs, Disney songs and more. We are

always looking for more opportunities for this group to perform.” Excel’s choir is for everyone – whether or not they have any prior singing experience. It provides small group instruction and even the opportunity for students to have solo parts, if they choose. “This is not a huge choir where no one even knows each other’s name,” John says, adding that the choir will provide a way for New Tampa kids to meet new people and get involved in the music school.

The school also will start up its Excel Rock Band again this fall, but students can apply to participate at any time. “We’ve done a rock band a couple of times over the years, and its success depends upon the right mix of students,” John says. “We make sure to group students by age, skill level and instrumentation.” Excel Music offers a preschool music class for ages 18 months to four years, which is enjoyed by both kids and parents. The class lasts 45 minutes, once a week, for 10-12 weeks. The next semester will start in August. “It’s a great way to engage with both the parent and the child,” John explains. “The smiles on the faces of the parents are often as big as the ones on the faces of their children.” John adds that the classes help parents learn ways to engage musically with their preschoolers at home. “This is a participatory class in which we teach parents how to bring music into their kids’ lives,” he says, “especially if they’re not musicians.” The school’s students have the opportunity to take part in recitals twice a year, but John says these performances are always optional and low-pressure. “Recitals are part of what we do,” John says. “But, we aren’t a performance-driven studio.”

Adult Training, Too

While many of Excel Music’s students

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are kids, the opportunity growing up and moving on. “We’re to learn to sing or play an seeing many students who have instrument is certainly not come through our school go on to limited by your age. college, and some are majoring in “A lot of adults come music,” John says. “This dream we in for lessons, too,” says had is starting to come true.” John. “We get retired John explains, however, that people who say they’ve he and Sheri recognize that the vast wanted to play their whole majority of their students will not lives, and now they’re go on to have professional music finally going to do it.” careers. “Our teachers are good He says one of his favorite enough for that type of student, but stories was about teaching most of our students will go on to an 86-year-old man how have another career such as a doctor (l.) Adam McEndree goes over the days guitar lesson with 13-year-old Ruchi Mandayan, while (top right) 7-year-old Chloe Raitt or lawyer or something else,” he to play the trumpet. bangs on the drums under the tutelage of Tucker Sody. (Photos: John C. Cotey) Pete Laches is quite says. “We hope that when they go a bit younger than that, to a concert or experience music, years, giving him the opportunity to perident, the location can’t be beat. It’s “right but he also is one of the school’s adult stu- around the corner” — a huge convenience they will appreciate it on a different level, form on TV, at the White House and for dents. Pete says he has been taking guitar because they truly understand the chalpeople all over the world. when his girls were taking lessons, and now lessons at Excel since his daughters were in for him. “I’m trapped in an office 40 hours a lenge of playing music, and the dedication In the 1990s, John and Sheri had middle school. One is now in college and and skill of the performers presenting the week, so playing guitar is an outlet for me,” success together with a band of their own in one just graduated from college. Japan called Tz, where he says they sold tens music to them.” Pete says. “It was a bucket list item and it’s “They started taking lessons right For the past five years, Excel Music a mental challenge, using a part of my brain of thousands of CDs. They also found themafter we moved here, so they were in third has been a business partner at Hunter’s selves immersed in a culture that revered that I usually don’t.” or fourth grade,” he explains. “Rachel Green, Clark and Pride elementary schools teachers, which led them to start thinking played the cello and piano, and Elizabeth — and recently added Liberty Middle about passing on the knowledge and experiAbout The Owners played viola and guitar.” ence they had gained to the next generation. School to its list of partners. Students who John explains that he and Sheri He says that while his daughters no attend those schools can enroll at Excel “We met tremendous people, saw originally opened Excel Music with the longer play their instruments, the investgreat places, and made a living,” John says. Music with no registration fee, which is a dream of providing the opportunity for ment he made in their lessons was well “We started thinking, ‘What if some of the value of up to $45. young people to be trained for the kinds worth it. Excel Music (10353 Cross Creek kids who come through our school can of careers and lives they once experienced “It’s a well-run place,” Pete says. “The themselves. Blvd., Suite I) is open Monday- Thursexperience what we’ve experienced?’” instructors are good, and it seems to be a day, 2 p.m.-9 p.m., 2 p.m.-7 p.m. on They landed in New Tampa, where “We both had long careers in music, pretty stable staff. I like that they can teach Friday, and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturand were professional musicians who were they had relatives, and have been buildevery instrument, so your kid never feels day. Visit ExcelMusic.org, call (813) ing their school ever since. With 13 years able to make a living performing,” John stuck if they try something and hate it.” 991-1177 for more info or to schedule now under their belts, some of John says, adding that he was the drummer for Pete adds that, as an Arbor Greene reslessons, or see the ad on page 29. and Sheri’s long-term students are now country singer Mickey Gilley for many

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Farina Orthodontic Specialists — Combining Technology & Caring Radical Transparency?

By ANDY WARRENER

If you were to wear a GoPro camera during your appointment at any of the three offices of Farina Orthodontic Specialists, take the footage home and show your friends and family, they might think you’d had an appointment years in the future. The whole experience at the newest office of Farina Orthodontic Specialists (on Bruce B. Downs {BBD} Blvd. in Wesley Chapel) begins from the time you pull into the parking lot of the new, modern cubeshaped building. As you walk into the atrium, through the waiting area, 3D imaging center, consultation rooms and treatment rooms, the entire building has the feel of a futuristic utopia. Popular music is triggered by the front door opening, scented air is pushed through the air-conditioning system and you’ll be greeted by what Mark Farina, D.M.D. (Doctor of Dental Medicine) calls his, “Directors of First Impressions” — his amazing staff. “It’s a fun, family atmosphere here,” Dr. Farina says. “We’ve got staff that’s been with us for 20 years. This is the place to come if you’re looking for a family-centric practice with state-of-the-art technology and award-winning results.” Dr. Farina earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology from Boston College in Boston, MA. He earned his D.M.D. degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia

The team at Farina Orthodontic Specialists invites you to check out the practice’s high-tech office and family-centric atmosphere on BBD Blvd. in Wesley Chapel. and did his post-graduate orthodontic and the shiny, new eye-catching facility in training at New York University in New York Wesley Chapel, between the Shops at WireCity, NY. grass and AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. He also has received advanced training Dr. Wagner, who was born in the U.S. in the integrated diagnosis and treatment of but raised in Puerto Rico, joined his uncle temporomandibular joint pain, or TMJ, and in 2015, after graduating with his D.M.D. has served on research teams at both New degree from the University of Puerto Rico York University and the University of Penn- School of Dental Medicine in San Juan, sylvania to help find new and better ways to where he also earned both his Bachelor of solve orthodontic problems. Science (B.S.) degree in Biology and his But, Farina Orthodontic Specialists Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Dental is indeed a family affair. Dr. Farina and his Sciences. nephew, Dr. Rudy Wagner, bring nearly a Dr. Rudy also did post-graduate work quarter-century of combined experience at Lehigh Valley Hospital, in Allentown, PA, to the practice, with three locations in the where he had a general practice residency, Tampa Bay area — one in South Tampa, one and his post-graduate orthodontic training in Tampa Palms (off Amberly Dr. and BBD) was at the University of Puerto Rico

The office in Wesley Chapel that Farina Orthodontic Specialists built and moved into in March of 2018 puts Dr. Farina’s mantra of “Radical Transparency” to the ultimate and literal test. Just about every door in the office is glass. Most treatment rooms aren’t even enclosed. Dr. Farina’s idea of transparency allows for an openness that applies to every aspect of the experience, even down to the fee schedules. “From treatments to fees to procedures, we are transparent in everything we do,” he says. The transparency overlaps with the theme of treating patients like family. “From the moment we entered the office, everyone was friendly and helpful,” writes parent Melissa C. on FarinaSmiles. com. “Each visit after, we have been greeted with warm smiling faces and our kids are excited to go to the lobby waiting area and dive into the fun things waiting for them.” Melissa’s daughter had her braces done at Farina Orthodontic Specialists and she has been able to be involved every step of the way. “As a parent, I am happy to have a seat near my daughter when her braces and teeth are worked on,” she wrote. “I can ask questions of the technician and orthodontist during the appointment.” If a patient or patient’s family member has to wait, they can use one of the four iPads available in the tech center. The lounge is

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iPads and a beverage bar are available in the lounge (left), and Drs. Farina and Wagner use 3D imaging for a more complete picture of your mouth. complete with a beverage bar, offering take and how much is it going to cost?” an assortment of drinks, both hot and cold. And, Coming Soon... Of course, parents who want to be right next Starting this fall, the Farina Orthodonto their child during a procedure can utilize tic Specialists website (FarinaSmiles.com) that option as well. It’s all part of that radical will offer a Virtual Smile option, where transparency. and it’s also why Farina Orthopatients will be able to upload a photo of dontic Specialists often treats families across themselves and get a virtual consultation two or even three generations. from the comfort of their own home. Dr. Wagner remembers shadowing Dr. To get a real feel for the new and inFarina in the summer of 2000 when he was novative treatment options, however, office fresh out of high school in Puerto Rico. visits are tough to beat. “I loved his ability to connect with “Parents probably remember the people,” Dr. Wagner says. “I enjoyed sitting, watching him talk with patients and develop- days when we used stainless steel in braces and everything hurt,” Dr. Wagner says. ing relationships. It gave me the confidence “The new wires are a nickel-titanium to pursue this field.” alloy, they’re more flexible, the brackets Dr. Wagner splits time between the three offices, while Dr. Farina is the mainstay are smaller now and the wires are more flexible and comfortable.” at the Wesley Chapel location. Farina Orthodontic Specialists uses the Invisalign® brand of clear aligners. Dr. Let’s Get Technical Farina calls Invisalign a “pioneer” in the The Farina Orthodontic Specialists technology and Invisalign has designated experience in Wesley Chapel is unique, as Farina Orthodontic Specialists a “Diamond it combines cutting-edge technology and Plus,” or in the top one percent of North advanced treatment options. American orthodontic practices with InOnce a new patient signs in (there visalign patients. are no papers to fill out — everything is Clear aligners can be 3D-printed right digital), the next stop is the 3D Imaging there in the office or can be sent off to Room, where an i-CAT 3D Machine takes Invisalign. Dr. Wagner says he remembers a three-dimensional image of not just the using Invisalign to correct a gap in his own patient’s teeth, but also their bones and front teeth while he was in college. airways. The process takes 4.8 seconds. “I was very self-conscious about it,” he There’s no probing, no prying, no says. “But, the experience turned out to be irritation. The 3D Imaging can help fine. It was easy, comfortable and I was still bring clarity to a number of problems. able to enjoy my life and lifestyle and not With orthodontics, it’s not always just have any issues.” teeth being out of alignment. The patient Utilizing another piece of cutcould have a temporomandibular disorder ting-edge technology, Farina Orthodontic (TMD), which is an irregularity with the Specialists uses an iTero Element that altemporomandibular joint, also known as lows a doctor or technician to visualize the TMJ. This can cause clicking, popping or treatment’s outcome. Adjustments can be just pain and discomfort in the jaw area. made on the touch screen and sent to the The 3D imaging helps the orthodontist 3D printing lab. From there, a model is diagnose the issue better than a traditional rendered, and not just for an aligner — it X-ray. The issue might not even be TMD; also can be used to make retainers, sports it could be the patient’s airway. mouth guards, breathing/sleep apnea Farina Orthodontic Specialists also appliances and TMJ appliances. Dr. Farina treats sleep apnea and snoring, both of call it his “in-house laboratory.” which can be the result of an obstructed Combining a fun atmosphere with airway. The imaging also can detect airway advanced technologies and treatment development problems in children. options is what Farina Orthodontics is all Sitting in the consultation room, a about and all three locations continue to patient can look over their three-dimensional reach new levels of both innovation and image of not just bone but of tissue. The transparency. process combines digital impressions created For appointments and more with the 3D imaging machine and intra- and information about the Wesley Chapel extra-oral photographs, offering a more office (2370 BBD Blvd., Suite A), or complete picture of the patient’s oral health. any of the three locations of Farina “Going over the results in our Orthodontic Specialists, call (813) casual conference rooms, three questions 972-2929, visit FarinaSmiles.com or emerge,” Dr. Farina says. “How do we see or see the ad on pg. 19. The office solve the problem, how long is it going to accepts most dental insurance plans. Neighborhood News

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Vanquish Summer Smells & Stickiness With Scrub-A-Dub Bin Cleaning big problem with bins that aren’t cleaned regularly,” Jennifer says.

By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

When dumping your garbage into your trash bin, are you one of those people who opens the lid quickly, flicks the bag of trash into the bin, and lets the lid slam shut as you turn away, hoping to avoid the waft of stink from years of trash bin neglect? If so, Wesley Chapel resident Jennifer Trudel can help you. A simple phone call can remove the stink — as well as bugs, dried liquids, sticky substances and other left-over trash residue — out of your bins. Scrub-A-Dub Bin Cleaning was started 18 months ago by Trudel, who will come to your home and have your bins looking and smelling brand new. While a fresh trash bin may seem like an oxymoron to some, it actually makes perfect sense, Trudel says. “With the summer and the heat and people having to keep their trash bins in their garage, bacteria love the warmth and they love moisture and that’s basically what you have in Florida,” she says. “The heat helps bacteria grow, and a lot of people will get maggots, viruses, mold and bacteria they can’t see even see.” That may be why business has been booming for Trudel. One day last week, she was trying to figure out how she was going to get to all 40 homes on her schedule taken care of in one day. She is considering buying a second truck. And, she says, advertising in the Neighborhood News also has helped keep her busy. “It’s been crazy,” she says.

How Does It Work?

Scrub-A-Dub Bin Cleaning comes to your home as often as you desire — from just four times per year to monthly — to make sure the trash and recycling bins you drag back into your garage are immaculately clean and fresh-smelling. One of Jennifer’s first customers was Joshua Green, who lives in Seven Oaks. “Our trash cans were always in the garage and smelling,” Green says. “It’s gross and no one wants to deal with it.”

Environmentally Friendly, Too!

Jennifer Trudel of Scrub-A-Dub Bin Cleaning says her unique service and fair prices are keeping her busy during the summer months, when your trash bins are at their stinkiest. (Photo: John C. Cotey)

He has been pleased with the results. “They’re nice and clean and look brand new,” says Green, who has been a customer ever since. Scrub-A-Dub customers leave their bins out on trash day, after the sanitation truck has picked up their trash and/or recycling. That’s when Jennifer comes by, opens the bin and uses a grabber to pull out any trash left behind, then loads the bins into her truck, and the “magic” begins. The bins are raised above the truck and centered around a head that spins and blasts 200-degree water. “Imagine a giant dishwasher for your bin,” she says. For an initial cleaning, Jennifer will scrub using a biodegradable degreaser to clean the inside of the bin — she says that sometimes she even has to climb inside the bin — and then runs it through the truck’s process again. She pressure-sprays the outside of the lid, wipes the handles and the inside and outside of the lid — anywhere your hands might touch. Then, she says the bin no longer has an odor, but she wants it to smell good, so she adds a deodorizer.

Then, she wipes out any excess water. “It’s overkill, but I do it because I’m a type-A person,” Jennifer laughs. “I want the bin to look beautiful, and every customer to be wowed.” Jennifer says that some people might say, “It’s a garbage can. It’s supposed to be dirty,” and she says she can understand that — even though she disagrees. “No one wants to deal with nasty garbage cans that smell, and maggots are a

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Jennifer says that all of the cleaning products she uses — including the degreaser, disinfectant and deodorizer — are biodegradable. “Let’s say you use vinegar; that doesn’t kill bacteria,” she explains. “Bleach kills bacteria but it’s super toxic and bad for the lakes and ponds.” With Scrub-A-Dub, all of the water for cleaning comes from a 525-gallon tank inside the truck, which is filled with fresh water. And, it’s heated to a temperature much higher than anything you would use to clean your home. She says the dirty water that is rinsed out of the inside of your bins goes into the truck and is disposed of according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.

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(for monthly cleanings). Center Ice three years ago. For two bins — don’t forget that As a pharmacist, she says she used recycling bin, which probably gets as to sit in a room all day and, at the end much stickiness if not more due to of the day, she would leave the same nearly-but-not-quite-finished cans and four walls and experience the shock of cartons of soda, juice and milk — the being outside for the first time each day. But now, she says she loves drivprices are $110 (for quarterly cleaning around Wesley Chapel and New ings), $135 (for bi-monthly cleanings) Tampa, meeting people at their homes, and $240 (for monthly cleanings). and she especially loves driving the And, you’re never locked into a truck. “It’s so fun!” she says. contract with Scrub-a-Dub — cancel at Jennifer’s husband Jeff now helps anytime and Jennifer will pro-rate your her with the business, while also workrefund. If you get a single cleaning for ing for a pharmaceutical company. $30 and decide to sign up for the year, Their grown children are now 27, 23, she will apply the $30 to whatever deal 20 and 19. you choose. Jennifer always sends a reminder She says her best customers are text the day before she visits, giving those who spread the word about her customers the opportunity to confirm service. That’s why she offers a free their appointment or to let her know cleaning for every referral. if they need to postpone their service She says it is a unique business, due to going out of town, or for any and often the reaction she gets is other reason. Before and after photos of a bin cleaned by Scrub-A-Dub Bin Cleaning. While keeping your garbage bins clean “Wow, I didn’t even know this existmay strike some people as odd, most communities require you to store your bin in your garage. Just saying. “People pay for all kind of ed.” Considering they can sign up and things, like mowing the grass or pay for one cleaning before deciding Jennifer proudly. “It’s my life.” previous job pushed her to consider early pulling weeds,” Green says. “It’s just to do more, she says her customers have She says that while she always loved retirement, she started researching what stuff we honestly don’t want to do, and nearly nothing to lose. serving her community as a pharmacist, she could do next. “It’s a personal service,” she says. I think it’s worth it.” being a business owner is different. An acquaintance in another part of “It’s not just some company that cleans “I moved to Cross Creek in 1996 Florida raved about Jennifer’s sparkling your bins; it’s Jennifer from Scrub-A-Dub!” Not Just A Job and then to Seven Oaks in 2003. I feel clean trash bins on social media, and To sign up for Scrub-A-Dub Bin Trudel has lived in the New Tampa/ connected to the area and I’ve seen it Jennifer recognized the opportunity to Cleaning or for more information, visit Wesley Chapel area since 1996. While explode. Now, I feel more a part of the create an innovative business that would ScrubADubBins.com. You can also call serving the community as a pharmacist in community.” Jennifer also has been a regbe totally new to the Wesley Chapel and Scrub-A-Dub at its toll-free number, Tampa, she dreamed of one day owning New Tampa areas — and the perfect fit for ular exhibitor at the annual Taste of New her own business. Tampa & Wesley Chapel since it moved to (844) 727-8229 (844-SCRUBBY) or her admitted neat-freak personality. see the ad on pg. 35 of this issue. When she says the stress of her AdventHealth (formerly Florida Hospital) “This is not just a job for me,” says

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 15 • July 12, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

The USF Federal Credit Union Celebrates 60 Years Of Helping! USF FCU, visit usffcu.com/eligibility.

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN

The year 2019 already has been a year of celebration for the USF Federal Credit Union (USF FCU). It’s the organization’s 60th anniversary, marking six decades since it was founded in 1959 and its continued growth and service to its members ever since. The credit union’s growth is evidenced by the brand-new branch that now serves New Tampa and Wesley Chapel, located at the northwest corner of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. and Imperial Oak Blvd., in the Trout Creek area in front of Winn-Dixie, just south of County Line Rd. The New Tampa branch opened last fall, celebrating its Grand Opening on November 15. When it opened, it was the USF FCU’s first standalone, off-campus branch. In the next 18 months or so, the credit union will open two more branches modeled after the one in New Tampa – one on E. Fletcher Ave. in Tampa and one in Sarasota. The credit union’s growth also is evidenced by its ever-expanding membership. When it was founded in 1959, the USF FCU started with 16 members — all of whom were members of the academic faculty or staff at the University of South Florida — and had total assets of $505. “Now, we have more than 60,000 members and $680 million in assets,” says Bill Steiger, brand and promotions manager for USF FCU. While USF FCU originally served only

Typical? Hardly!

The USF Federal Credit Union on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in New Tampa is state-of-the-art , with a personal touch that makes it popular with its customers. (Photo: John C. Cotey)

faculty and staff, current USF students and alumni are eligible to be members, along with employees of certain companies that have business partnerships with USF, such as Tampa General Hospital, Moffitt Cancer Center, and even Darden Restaurants, due to a merger with that company’s credit union back in 2015. A complete list of 42 affiliated

companies is available at usffcu.com/ eligibility#affiliates. “If you graduate from USF,” says Steiger, “you can bank with us your whole life.” Many people do. In fact, Steiger says that about 2,500 members live in and around New Tampa and Wesley Chapel. To find out if you’re eligible to bank at

The USF FCU offers typical personal banking services — from checking and savings accounts, to money market accounts and CDs (certificates of deposit), auto loans, home loans, personal loans and more. But, Steiger says, those services are not offered in a typical way. “We are member-focused,” he explains. “Our members are our number one priority, and providing service to them is job one.” Myresha Daniel is one of those members who says she appreciates the difference. Myresha says she opened her first account at USF FCU when she was a college student more than 20 years ago. She says she uses the credit union for all of her banking needs, including checking and savings accounts, CDs, a car loan, credit card, and previously had a personal loan that she paid off. “You hear about astronomical fees from the big banks,” she says, like her friends who have to keep a minimum balance of $500 and get charged a fee if they fall below that. “My account minimum is $5.” She says other perks include having a free consultation with a financial advisor who helped her better understand her 401(k), and a personalized car-buying program where she not only got the lowest rate out there, but also an assigned representative to meet her at the dealership and walk her through all the paperwork.

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Spotlight On: Eyebrows By Pam?

The freestanding New Tampa branch of the USF Federal Credit Union on BBD Blvd., just south of the Pasco County line, is a model for new branches being built in other areas. “They even send you a card on your began working at USF in 1970. birthday,” she says. “The representatives at the “Our experience over the years has been call center are great. I like the fact that they phenomenal,” she says. “I’ve never had loans know my nickname, they recognize my voice, anywhere else.” and we have built a relationship over time.” Although Julian has since passed away, he In addition to calling the credit union, was a founding member of the USF medical the USF FCU offers robust online and moschool and went on to become dean of admisbile banking services that allows its members sions for the school. to bank digitally from anywhere at any time. “When you’re a member, you’re a family Plus, anyone in New Tampa and Wesley member,” says Dwornik, explaining that she’s Chapel can easily access the local branch for never felt like she’s just a customer of a bank. face-to-face services. “You get personal treatment,” she says, “The branch in New Tampa is state“I’ve always been treated so well and anyone of-the-art,” says Steiger. “We offer all of our I’ve recommended to the credit union has services there. You can walk in and talk with thanked me over and over again.” someone about getting a mortgage or auto While USF FCU offers the latest in digloan, or anything else you need.” ital banking technology, that personal touch Steiger says the credit union provides means someone like her — who has no interest many auto loans for its members. Personal in online or mobile banking — can call and ask loans also are popular. for help with all of her banking needs. “When people want to consolidate their “At the end of the month,” Diane says, bills,” he says, “they come to us to get a low “I call them and they help me pay my mortrate and achieve some savings.” gage and other bills.” He says the rates for USF FCU loans “We’re all treated just like family,” she are extremely competitive, which lowers the adds. “That is so rare today.” amount of money members pay in the long The New Tampa branch of the USF run. “I would encourage any readers who want Federal Credit Union is located at 20610 to refinance or buy a new home, talk with us BBD Blvd. The lobby is open Monday, first,” he says. “We are currently offering great Tuesday & Thursday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., 10 rates and special programs, including some a.m.–5 p.m. on Wednesday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. loan programs that have no closing costs to on Friday and 9 a.m.–1 p.m on Saturday. close on the loan.” The drive-through opens at 8 a.m. weekDiane Dwornik is an Arbor Greene days. For additional information, visit resident who became a member of the USFFCU.org, call (813) 569-2000 or see credit union when her husband Julian the ad on page 31 of this issue.

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I’m going to admit something, as a man, that might shock some of the women in our audience: I have never really noticed a woman’s eyebrows unless they were somehow bizarre — like a unibrow, obviously painted on with a black magic marker, etc. However, I now have a few friends and advertisers who have made it their business to make sure that a woman’s eyebrows look beautiful, so I now have to agree with Pam Edmonson (far right in the photo above), the owner of Creative Permanent Makeup by Pam (see ad on pg. 15), who says, “Eyebrows are so important because they frame the entire face,” adding that even though she has the same state license as a tattoo artist, “Eyebrows truly are my passion and most women do notice when another woman has great eyebrows.” I’ll have to take her word for it, but Pam, who has had great success with her

print ads in the New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, became the second business to purchase a Video & Online Subscription from us after attending my “25 Years of Neighborhood News” celebration in April. I sat in on the shoot featuring Neighborhood News Online’s Mollyana Ward (left in photo; who also has great eyebrows, by the way) and Pam’s client Leah, and I have to say that while it may be hard for me to understand why anyone would choose to have eyebrows “tattooed” on them, Leah said she absolutely loved what Pam did for her. And, with more than 7,000 people already having viewed Pam’s video (search “Neighborhood News” on Facebook) and several new clients signed up, a lot of you are apparently interested in what Pam does, too. For a free consultation with Pam, call (813) 997-6302 or visit CreativePermanentMakeupbyPam.com. — GN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 15 • July 12, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 15 • July 12, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Wharton High’s ‘Wee Wildcats’ Program Benefits Pre- & High Schoolers By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN While the halls at Wharton High are mostly filled with teenagers, there’s a brightly colored preschool-sized playground adjacent to the front parking lot that may seem a bit out of place on a high school campus. It’s actually a symbol of a unique learning opportunity that benefits both high school and preschool students. A handful of preschoolers arrive on campus four mornings a week for a program called “Wee Wildcats,” named after Wharton’s mascot. The program has been a part of the school for two decades, bringing together high school students who want to learn about early childhood education with preschoolers whose parents appreciate the low cost of the program and the attention their children receive. “It’s been phenomenal,” says Marissa Harris, whose four-year-old son, Cohen, was in the program last year. This fall, Cohen will return to Wee Wildcats, and he’ll be joined by his younger sister, Charleigh, who is three. Wee Wildcats is offered Tuesday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m.-11:55 a.m., for children who turn three by September 1 of the year they enroll, until they go to kindergarten. Parents pay just $40 per month per child. Marissa says she was nervous at first to leave Cohen in the care of high school students, but she decided to give it a try because it’s so affordable. And, she says, Wee Wildcats quickly exceeded her expectations.

“Cohen is so comfortable and he’s learned so much,” she says, which is why she’s opting to bring him back for another year. In addition to his ABCs and 123s, Marissa says Cohen has learned how to spell his name and put letters together to form words in an environment he loves.

The Right Teacher

Wee Wildcats is led by Wharton’s early childhood education teacher, Erin Heilman, who doubles as the preschool director and has credentials to teach students in both age groups. The preschool only accepts 15 students at any one time to meet proper ratios for the one adult in the room — although they Recent Wharton graduate Rebecca Larose poses with preschool are considering hiring students Maryam and Cohen during Halloween festivities at a second adult to make Wharton’s Wee Wildcats program last fall. room for more students — but several high school there are no preschoolers in attendance. students are the ones who actually lead As they progress through their sophothe preschoolers through their day, which more, junior and senior years, they begin closely follows Florida’s VPK (voluntary to alternate bookwork with planning lespre-kindergarten) curriculum. sons and teaching the preschoolers in their Wharton students in the first year of care. The students design the lessons for the program, typically freshmen, do book- the preschoolers, then lead them throughwork in the classroom during times when out the day.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 15 • July 12, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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Meanwhile, the bookwork they complete prepares them to earn a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential from the State of Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) once they turn 18. Some students may immediately begin using this license to teach in a preschool. For others, it’s a stepping stone to future goals. Alexis Fernandez is a senior at Wharton who says she wants to teach elementary school after college. She is entering her fourth year of the Early Childhood Education program at Wharton. She says her freshman year, before she was allowed to work with the kids, was “amazing,” as she learned how to “deal with kids.” “It’s very difficult teaching small kids,” Alexis says. “They get distracted easily, and get upset a lot, too. I understand that, but without the program, I don’t think I could handle it. Really, it’s all about patience and learning how to be strict, but also calm and understanding.” Alexis says the kids prefer the arts & crafts and hands-on activities. Heilman says Alexis will continue to add science-based activities. For example, the preschoolers observed the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly last spring, and they will plant a garden this fall. Heilman has been leading the program less than a year. She took it over late last fall, while the program was undergoing a transition. She had been hired at Wharton as a technology teacher in the business department, thanks in part to the

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MBA (Master of Business Administration) degree that she holds from the University of Phoenix, Tampa campus. She had previously taught middle school history and then third grade at the Turner Bartels K-8 school and was excited to move to Wharton, where her son is a junior. One day, when a newly-hired teacher didn’t show up for work, administrators called on Heilman. “I didn’t even know we had a preschool at Wharton, but I was the only one on campus with an early childhood certification,” Erin explains. “So, I ran down there and greeted the parents.” She says several days later, she was offered the position. Heilman says it feels like her dream job, and brings together many of her skills and passions. She asks rhetorically, “How lucky am I that I get (to teach) these incredible high schools students, as well as preschool?” For example, Heilman’s business background helps her coach high school students who might want to open their own preschool one day. Not only do they need to know how to teach preschool-aged children, Heilman also can

help them create a business plan. She’s also elevating the program to be much more selective, where it was previously open to any interested student. For the 2019-20 school year, only 45 Wharton students were chosen for the program, out of 130 who applied. “I want only the best of the best working with these preschoolers,” Heilman says. “They have to be highly qualified with a high GPA, no tardies, no suspensions, and two teacher recommendations. Ultimately, I always think, ‘Would I, as a parent, leave my child with that student?’” For the students who were chosen to be in the program this upcoming year, the answer is a resounding “yes!” “I think it’s a great program for the community,” Heilman says. “I’m so proud of these high school kids. If I had known about Wee Wildcats when my son was that age, I would have put him in it.” For more information about the Wee Wildcats preschool program at Wharton High, visit http://wharton. mysdhc.org/Programs/Wee%20Wildcats/ or contact Erin Heilman at Erin. Heilman@sdhc.k12.fl.us.

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Book It! Elaine Feaster To Receive Student Of The Year Award By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN It started out as a little box, meant to hold 175 books, to be distributed to those who needed them In just two years, however, it has turned into something so much more. While initially launched as a relatively simple Girl Scout Silver Award project, incoming Freedom High freshman Elaine Feaster now has distributed more than 7,000 books to four elementary schools in Tampa, the Salvation Army, Metropolitan Ministries and the PCAT (Parents & Children Advance Together) family literacy program. Her impact led her to be recognized by the Hillsborough County Council Parent Teacher Association/Parent Teacher Student Association (PTA/PTSA) as their “Middle School Student of the Year.” And, the awards keep getting bigger. Just a few weeks before she is to begin high school, Elaine will be honored with a state-wide designation when she receives the Florida PTA Student Advocate Award, which is given to one middle school student in Florida who through his or her creativity, leadership and dedication, has positively affected policy or change in their school or community in a way that aligns with PTA’s mission and goals. Feaster will receive her award at the Florida PTA Award Celebration Luncheon on Saturday, July 20, in Edinburgh Hall at the Innisbrook Golf and Spa Resort in Tarpon Springs. “When I found out, I was just like, wow,” Elaine said. “I was surprised. But I am

Incoming Freedom High freshman Elaine Feaster has been named the winner of the Florida PTA Student Advocate award for her leadership, creativity & dedication after also winning Hillsborough County’s “Middle School Student of the Year.” honored. It makes me feel good that even though I never thought of getting awards for this — it’s not why I did it — it’s nice to be recognized. No matter how young you are, you can make an impact in your community.” Elaine just completed eighth grade at Liberty Middle School. As Liberty PTSA president Shari Burress explains, Elaine’s project was one of the main reasons why she was chosen for the award. “It just keeps blossoming and growing,

and she just keeps taking it on,” says Burress. “She doesn’t think twice, and she never complains about the work. She’s always looking for the next opportunity to help.” Ellen Lyons, the 2018-19 vice president of council operations for the Hillsborough County Council of PTAs/PTSAs, was responsible for overseeing the awards process. She says she didn’t personally judge the category that Elaine won, but she speaks on behalf of all of the judges who did review the

Middle School Student of the Year nominees. “There were many outstanding applications,” Ellen says. “It was an embarrassment of riches to see how many quality students there are doing great things in the schools.” She says Elaine’s project stood out because of her collection site at the New Tampa Family YMCA, which the judges thought was a smart strategy, and her strategy to get the books into the hands of students who need them the most. “It was well executed,” Ellen says. Elaine, a volleyball player for years at the YMCA, was volunteering as an assistant coach and set up a site for book donations, which she figured she could empty each week when she went there for games. She was stunned, though, that the large box was overflowing every time she showed up. “I would collect all the books (after each game) and put them in the car, and the next week, there’d be more books,” Elaine says. “It was an exciting feeling that the community was helping.” Elaine’s mom, Jane, says one reason Elaine was so passionate about her project is that she had a lot to overcome to be a successful student. “I’m very proud of Elaine and all that she has accomplished,” says Jane. “Back in elementary school, she was diagnosed with a reading disability. I was very concerned for her going into middle school being a number and another face in the crowd. I couldn’t be any happier with what the school and the administration and teachers and what they’ve done for her. She’s a different kid from when she See “Books” on page 34.

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Books: A small project has turned into

something much bigger for Elaine Feaster. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

entered to when she’s leaving. It’s remarkable.” Elaine has become well known for her project. In fact, even when the initial project was completed for her Girls Scout silver award (she is in Troop 1247), people kept asking if she was still accepting donations. “Our garage was filled with books,” says her mother Jane, laughing. “We still have probably 300 books in there right now.” No matter who asked, Elaine simply couldn’t say no. “Elaine has a really kind heart and is always thinking of others,” Burress says. “She’s very involved at the school and is one of those kids who other kids look up to, as far as what’s the right thing to do.” Liberty principal James Ammirati agrees. “Elaine’s a phenomenal student,” he says. “She’s respected on campus by her peers and by the faculty and staff. She has a heart for service, and that’s her passion.” He also describes Elaine as humble and says she doesn’t seek attention for the good things or works she does. In addition to winning Hillsborough’s Middle School Student of the Year Award, Elaine was recognized with a “Certificate of Excellence” from the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards because her volunteer activities were judged to be among the top 10 percent of all those considered in the State of Florida.

Also, based on the number of volunteer hours she performed, Elaine received the “Presidential Volunteer Service Award” and a letter from the White House. She says she’s simply trying her best each day to be a good student and a good friend to all those around her. Elaine isn’t done with her book project. She intends to continue in Girl Scout Troop 1247, which meets at St. James United Methodist Church on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in Tampa Palms. As a high school student, she can begin work on her Gold Award. Her summer project included creating a website — ScoutingForBooks.com — and she now puts a stamp on the inside of each cover that says “Read. Share. Repeat.” with the website’s URL. She wants her project to have a lasting impact, and hopes that those who read the books she has collected will notice the stamp and pass them on to others. Elaine is happy that her project touched so many lives, but she encourages those around her to realize they don’t need a big project to have a positive impact. “There are different ways that you can make a difference,” Elaine says. “It doesn’t matter how big or small, as long as you made an impact on one person’s life. For me it’s thousands of books I donated to children, but also the ways I’ve helped people at my school by being a good friend to everyone.”

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Try New Tampa’s Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine At Al-Sham Palace! By GARY NAGER

Although I always loved gyro sandwiches, which are known more as Greek food anyway, and the occasional falafel when I lived in New York, I never really sampled any authentic Lebanese, Syrian or Jordanian food until I lived in the Tampa Bay area. Here in New Tampa, a couple of Mediterranean options have hung around, while others have come and gone, but one that might just have some staying power is Al-Sham Palace, located in the Pebble Creek Collection on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. Samer Aljajeh, the owner-chef, and his general manager, Hadil Simreen (one of his wife’s friends), are both from Syria, but Hadil says that most Middle Eastern food is similar, because it all traces its roots to Turkey, which at one time occupied Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine. Wherever Al-Sham Palace’s culinary roots are from, I will tell you that I already have several favorite dishes. First of all, the falafel is green inside, which I’d never seen before, because chick peas aren’t generally green, but Hadil says the green is parsley. The falafels (bottom right photo on this page) are served with a savory tahini sauce made from crushed sesame seeds, garlic and lemon juice. Yum. “Almost everything we serve is made here,” Hadil says. “A lot of people follow the Mediterranean diet these days. We have everything you need for that diet here.” I also loved the shawarma chicken salad (top right photo on this page), especially with Samer’s lightly spiced vinaigrette dressing. As for entrées, my two favorites so far have been the lemon chicken (above; great French fries, by the way) and the mixed grill (top left photo on next page) of beef shish kababs, shish kefta (ground beef with onions and spices) and shish tawook (chicken). The hummus served on the side was slightly addictive and the veggies were nicely seasoned and the grilled onions served with the mixed grill are almost sweet. Al-Sham Palace has all of your other authentic Mediterranean favorites, including fried kebbie (lamb or beef with onions and spices), gyro sandwiches, grape leaves, mtable (eggplant with tahini sauce), baba ghanouj, tabouleh, fattoush salad, as well as onion rings, fried or grilled fish (tilapia), cheeseburgers, Philly steak or chicken sandwiches and more. There’s even Mediterranean breakfast items available, including Foul mudammas (fava beans, garlic, parsley, tomato, olive oil & spices) Qalaya (meat with tomato sauce) and Fateh (pureed chick peas, with pita, tahini sauce and lemon juice, as well as friend eggs and unique egg omelets with ground beef and spices. (Continued on the next page)

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Delectable Desserts, Too!

For those who love baklava, Al-Sham Palace’s is homemade and delicious, but my favorite dessert so far has been the warbaat with walnuts and milk cream — and I don’t really like walnuts. The milk cream is like halfway between liquid and cream cheese and the tri-

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angular pastry shell is crisp, flaky and delicious. It’s like the best cheese croissant in town. Top either of those desserts (or haraseh or kunafa) with a cup of super-dark Turkish coffee (they also have American coffee and tea) and you’ll understand why I so enjoy Al-Sham Palace, even though I’m not Middle Eastern.

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“About half of our customers are Americans,” Hadil says. “We are welcoming to everyone and hope everyone will come in and enjoy our authentic Mediterranean food.” Al-Sham Palace is located at 19651 BBD Blvd., and is open every day for lunch and dinner. For more information,

call (813) 907-8233, search for “Al-Sham Palace” on Facebook or see the ad on page 39 of this issue. The ad has a coupon for $5 off any purchase of $30 or more (limit one per table). Go and check out our area’s most authentic Mediterranean cuisine and please tell Hadil and Samer I sent you!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 15 • July 12, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Nibbles & Business The Latest & Greatest News In Dining, Shopping & Business In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel! Dosa Hut Coming To CC Blvd.

A Dosa Hut Indian Restaurant is planned for the former site of Hungry Howie’s Pizza (and Westshore Pizza before that) in the Cross Creek Commons Center anchored by Publix on Morris Bridge Rd. The 1,420-sq.-ft. space is being renovated and will offer limited seating with four tables and will likely serve primarily as a takeout restaurant. — JCC

Hundreds Attend Metro City Bank’s Grand Opening!

Two New Restaurants To Open In Former Men’s Wearhouse!

New Tampa’s loss when the Men’s Wearhouse off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. closed right around the time the chain’s new location opened in Wesley Chapel, could end up being, well, New Tampa’s gain. Paperwork has been filed with the City of Tampa to split the old Men’s Wearhouse location into space for two tenants, with both likely to be restaurants. One restaurant is already proceeding with plans to open at the location. And, although the name of the restaurant is unclear, what it will serve isn’t — ramen noodles. Love Ramen, LLC, has already applied for a temporary vinyl sign — “Coming Soon:

Japanese Ramen Noodles” — while the former 5,005-sq.-ft. Men’s Wearhouse location is split into two “vanilla” boxes. One location will be 3,120 sq. ft., while the other will be 1,885 sq. ft. Ramen restaurants have grown in popularity the past decade, mostly in metro areas. But fast-casual locations outside of your hip cities have surged as well, much like the poké bowl (New Tampa is getting one of those as well) craze. While ramen is mostly familiar to Americans as an inexpensive brick of noodles with a packet of seasoning mixed in hot water that fed us all during college, Japanese ramen served in restaurants can be meticulously prepared and served in tasty broths and topped with various meats and vegetables.

If you think it’s hard to get excited about a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a bank, think again. The Grand Opening celebration (photo) and North Tampa Bay Chamber ribbon cutting on June 27 for the monthsold Metro City Bank, located in the former Regions Bank building next to CVS Pharmacy at BBD and Commerce Palms Dr. in Tampa Palms was attended by literally hundreds of people, many of whom were of Chinese, Korean or Vietnamese descent, although there were plenty of Chamber members on hand for the festivities, too. The event featured a formal, whiteglove ceremony and amazing food provided by a Korean catering company. I got to sit down for a few minutes with Metro City Bank founder Nack Y. Paek, who

says Metro City Bank was founded in Atlanta with $15 million in assets and now has 19 branches in seven states, with assets of more than $1 billion. The Tampa Palms location is the first in Florida and features two tellers who speak Korean and two who speak Chinese, although all of the tellers and branch manager Yoon Kang speak English and the bank’s outstanding services are available to anyone. For more info, stop in at 6202 Commerce Palms Dr., call (813) 848-0153 or visit MetroCityBank.bank.

Rain & Shine Cleaning For Move-In Or Move-Out!

I’ve told you about Rain & Shine cleaning in this space before, but now that Jannah and I have moved out of our old apartment to the brand new Tapestry at Cypress Creek apartments, I just had to say again that whether you’re looking to have your home or business cleaned, or you need a move-in or move-out thorough clean, my friend Irene Joyner of Rain & Shine is the best in the business. Jannah and I didn’t realize how much dirt we accumulated in three+ years in the same location, but Irene got our old place so spotless that we were both speechless! Call Irene at (813) 451-3042, visit RainandShineClean.com or see the ad on pg. 42.— GN

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16076 Bella Woods Dr.

JUST LISTED

4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2,367 SF | 2 Car Garage | Maintenance Free in Grand Hampton | Engineered Wood Floors, Plantation Shutters, Newer A/C, Custom Built-Ins | Updated Kitchen w/Custom Cabinetry, Granite, Stainless Steel Appliances, Island Workstation, Extra Canister Lighting, Charming Window Seat | Pavered Screened Lanai + 2nd Pavered Patio Off Screened Porch, Conservation Views Offered for $319,000

5 Bed | 3 Bath | 3,336 SF | 3 Car Garage | Oversized Lakefront Home Site New Bamboo, New Interior & Exterior Paint, New Light Fixtures, New Ceiling Fans | Chef’s Kitchen w/Maple Cabinetry, Granite Counters, Designer Tumbled Stone Backsplash, New Stainless Steel Stove & Refrigerator | New Landscaping, Custom Pool & Spa, Deep Waterfront Views Offered for $529,000

3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,912 SF | 2 Car Garage | Maintenance Free Village | Open Floor Plan, Travertine Floors in Foyer | Hurricane/Security Film on Front Door & Rear Sliding Glass Doors, Heat Recovery Water Heater System Kitchen Features 42” Maple Cabinetry, Crown Molding, Granite Counters, Breakfast Bar & Eat-In Area, Stainless Steel Appliances | Pavered Driveway, Upgraded Landscaping, Conservation Views | Offered for $299,900

14316 Avon Farms Dr.

9210 Meadow Lane Ct.

7212 Hammet Rd.

JUST LISTED

5 Bed | 4 Bath | Office | Bonus Room | 4,520 SF | 3 Car Garage | Accent Wall of Stacked Stone, Coffered Ceilings, Plantation Shutters, Designer Wall Treatments, Granite in All Bathrooms, Whitewashed Plank Laminate Wood Floors, Column Accents | Kitchen Features Oversized Quartz Center Island, Espresso Cabinetry, Travertine Backsplash, Luxuriuos Butler’s Pantry, Stainless Steel Appliances | Expanded Covered Lanai, Outdoor Custom Full Kitchen | Offered for $639,000

5 Bed | 3 Bath | Office | 3,192 SF | 3 Car Garage | Two-Story Entry, Column Accents, Wall Molding, Marble Flooring in Formal Dining, Hardwood Flooring Throughout | Kitchen w/New Cabinetry, Built-In Microwave Shelf, Bosch Dishwasher, Built-In Wine Rack, Stainless Steel Appliances, Samsung 5-Burner Gas Range w/Cavaliere Range Hood, Granite Counters, Glass Tile Backsplash, Island Workstation | Pool & Spa | Offered for $399,000

4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,988 SF | 3 Car Garage | New Roof, New Porcelain Tile Floors, Resurfaced Pool, New Granite Counters in Kitchen & Bathrooms, New Interior & Exterior Paint | Master Retreat Features Large Office/Sitting Room w/French Doors to Balcony | Gourmet Kitchen w/42” Maple Cabinetry, New Stainless Steel Appliances, Designer Perfect Backsplash, Granite Counters | Large 2-Story Screened Lanai, Pavered Deck, Pool & Spa, Wood Conservation Area & Lake | Offered for $389,000

15334 Sherwood Forest Dr.

20103 Oak Alley Dr.

18105 Courtney Breeze Dr.

16366 Heathrow Dr.

9115 Canberley Dr.

17920 Arbor Greene Dr.

4 Bed | Den | Bonus Room | 3 Bath | 4,275 SF | 3 Car Side Load Garage High End Finishes Include Bass Hardwood Floors, Crown Molding, Plantation Shutters, Large Kitchen, Granite & SS Appliances, Walk-In Closets | Conservation, Quiet Cul-De-Sac with One of a Kind Butterfly Garden Offered for $675,00

10241 Garden Alcove Dr.

16002 Bethany Pl.

17211 Broadoak Dr.

JUST LISTED

SALE PENDING IN 4 DAYS

SALE PENDING IN 2 WEEKS 4 Bed | 3 Bath | Sun Room w/AC | 2,685 SF | Remodeled Throughout w/ Designer Finishes, Bamboo Floors, Wrought Iron Staircase, New Kitchen w/ Granite, SS Appliances, Espresso 42” Cabinetry | Cul-De-Sac, Conservation, Almost 1/2 Acre Botanical Paradise, Amazing Open Pool/Spa w/Rock Waterfall, Fenced Yard | Offered for $450,000

SALE PENDING 4 Bed +Office +2 Bonus Rms | 4 Bath | 4,685 SF | 3 Car Garage | Remodeled Kitchen and Baths, Quartz Counters, Glass Mosaic Tile Back Splash, Stainless Steel Appliances, Plantation Shutters, Hardwood Floors | Pavered Lanai, Heated Pool/Spa Package, Outdoor Kitchen | Conservation Views Offered for $730,000