Wesley Chapel Issue 16-09 by Neighborhood News

Volume 17 Issue 16

WESLEY CHAPEL Inside:

Back To School, Wesley Chapel!

August 7, 2009

NEWS

See pages 14-15!

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S.R. 56 Extension Project Set To Open By End Of August!

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE!

Swine Flu Cases In Wesley Chapel, Student A Way To Get Fit For Life, Our August Entertainment Calendar, Neighborhood Injured In Bus Accident Awarded $1.6 Nibbles, A Life Left (Largely) Unchanged Million, A Wesley Chapel Chamber Of & Much More! Commerce Update & Back-To-School!

See pages 3-18!

See pages 19-32!

S.R. 54 Tie-In

The plans for S.R. 56 also ties in with the county’s plan for widening S.R. 54 between I-75 and Curley Rd. Over the summer, the county has been negotiating with property owners along

ECRWSS

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS & EDUCATION UPDATES

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Also Inside This Issue!

the roadway with skid-resistant asphalt, add striping and signage, and it’s ready to be opened to traffic, Widman says. “Our game plan is to get all this done before school starts, so you might see them out there working at night,” he says. “But, everything is finally coming together, and the name of the game is to hurry up and get it open.” When it first opens, there won’t be a traffic signal at the The long-awaited eastward extension of S.R. 56 (in blue), should open to Mansfield Blvd. by the S.R. 56/Mansfield Blvd. end of this month. intersection, Widman says, because, until the extension is S.R. 54 to acquire the right-of-way opened further eastward, drivers will needed for that project, which will see only be able to turn left onto Mansfield the perpetually congested thoroughfare from S.R. 56 or right onto S.R. 56 widened from two lanes to six. Widman from Mansfield. The design does call says that the county has spent more for a signal at the intersection, but Wid- than $50 million for more than 100 man says the county will conduct traffic parcels of land along the roadway, and counts once the roadway is opened to that there is just one more piece left to determine when a signal is necessary. acquire before the county can move The same goes for a planned signal forward with the project. Pasco officials at the main entrance to the Shops at are working to come to an agreement Wiregrass, which also is included in the with that landowner, and if a settlement overall design but has not yet been can’t be reached, then the county will built because the volume of traffic have to resort to legal measures to going into and coming out of the mall acquire the property, which would has not warranted it yet. result in a months-long delay for breakThe overall road plan for the area ing ground on the S.R. 54 widening. calls for S.R. 56 to eventually be “We’re trying desperately to work extended all the way to U.S. Hwy. 301 it out,” Widman says, “and once we get south of Zephyrhills. That won’t hapthat settled, we’ll be ready to compen any time soon, but workers are mence with the bidding phase.” already paving the stretch of the roadOnce the county does let the projway between Mansfield Blvd. and ect out for bid, Widman says Pasco will Meadow Pointe Blvd., and Widman take a new approach by asking for difsays that part of the project should be ferent bids that include different schedfinished by December, or possibly even ules for completion of the project. sometime sooner. “That will allow the (Pasco) Board See “S.R. 56” on page 5. PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 2801

According to one Pasco County official, the issues that have been holding up the opening of S.R. 56 between Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (BBD, aka C.R. 581) and Mansfield Blvd. in the Meadow Pointe subdivision have been resolved, and the county’s “game plan” is to have that part of the extension open by the start of the new school year, which begins in Pasco County on Monday, August 24. In addition, the second phase of the extension project, between Mansfield Blvd. and Meadow Pointe Blvd., could be open as early as December. Last week, we talked at length to Pasco County’s Engineering Services director Jim Widman, who told us that the project is once again “moving along very, very well,” after being delayed while officials from the county and the Tampa Electric Co. (TECO) worked to resolve the issue of who should pay for the relocation of the utility poles at the BBD/S.R. 56 intersection. Widman said the power company finally agreed to move the poles, and now that that has been completed, there are just a few more finishing touches that need to be done before the roadway can be opened up to traffic between BBD and Mansfield Blvd. “The road is essentially connected,” Widman said. However, Widman adds that workers still have to add two eastbound lanes to S.R. 56 on the western side of the

intersection, which, when it is completed, will have a total of three left-turn lanes (turning onto northbound BBD), three through lanes (continuing east on S.R. 56) and two right-turn lanes (heading south on BBD). Currently, there are only two left-turn lanes, two through lanes and two right-turn lanes, so Widman says that one lane will be added to the inside of the roadway and the other on the outside. That work is now under way. There also will be another eastbound lane added to S.R. 56 on the east side of the intersection. That lane will be built along the southernmost edge of the roadway, and will include a pair of curb cuts to allow access to the Publix-anchored Shoppes of New Tampa at Wesley Chapel shopping plaza. The plan has always been to make S.R. 56 six lanes wide where it passes by that plaza and the Shops at Wiregrass mall, before tapering down to four lanes east of Mansfield Blvd. There currently are only five lanes on that side of the intersection, however, because the owners of the plaza objected to the original plan, which included only one entrance from S.R. 56 into their plaza. Now, they have agreed to build the lane themselves, Widman says, and will not only build two entrances from the eastbound lanes, but also a left-turn lane from westbound S.R. 56 into the plaza. “That will allow us to add the third through lane on that side,” Widman says. Then, all that’s left is to re-surface

Dated Material Please Rush!

By Michael Smith

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Honorary Mayor Event Just Part Of Chamber’s Appeal These Days An editorial by It’s not as though I’d never been to a Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) event before, but this one was different for me. Would I call it a revelation or epiphany (although certainly not a religious one)? Well, if the shoe fits... When the Wesley Chapel Hyundai and Mazda dealerships co-hosted the 2009 Honorary Mayor (& Deputy Mayor) induction ceremonies during the WCCC mixer on July 16, I realized as I looked upon a virtual sea of about 200 faces of mostly Wesley Chapelbased and other area business men and women, that in economic times like these, how much EVERY community needs a strong, thriving, energized Chamber of Commerce more than ever. I therefore congratulate not only 2009 Honorary Mayor winner Theresa Jacobs of Keller Williams Realty (in New Tampa), and the other three candidates (‘09 Deputy Mayor and fundraising runner-up Darlene Reed of Bay Insurors, Joanne DeLessio of Ideal Health and Carol Goebel of Trail Wind Travel), who together raised $6,800 to support the Chamber’s efforts, but all of the other folks who attended and belong to the WCCC. ALL of you help make Wesley Chapel a better place to live, work and share a community spirit. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News 15345 Amberly Dr., Tampa, FL 33647 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Fax: 910-2483 Advertising E-mail: NewTampaNN@aol.com Editorial E-mail: NTNNEdit@yahoo.com

Publisher & Editor Gary Nager Managing Editor Michael Smith Correspondents

Kate Kramer • Melissa O’Brien • Matt Rubin

Advertising Sales & Billing Manager Julie Rinaldi Advertising Account Executives Lisa Ross • Sandra Nelson Art Director Tony Sica Graphic Designer Sandra Nelson Office & Marketing Assistants Jacob Glenn • Karen Glenn

Nothing that appears in Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 17, Issue 16, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, July 20, 2009. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, not for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. © 2009 JM2 Communications, Inc.

Gary Nager Perhaps even more important than the fact that Jacobs gets to donate $682 to KW Cares (the charity of her choice) because she raised the most money of the candidates, is the simple fact that the group of people who filled the Wesley Chapel Hyundai showroom were there to support each other. For example, I applaud that Wesley Chapel Mazda, the co-host of the event, donated one of its vehicles to the Lexington Oaks Neighborhood Watch program. (Lex Oaks is located basically across S.R. 54 from the two dealerships.) I also give kudos to the nearby Winners Grill for the outstanding food (I made three trips to the prime rib carving station) at the mixer. When you consider the economy, it’s amazing that all of the auto dealerships located in Wesley Chapel are even still in business, much less donating vehicles to any cause — no matter how worthy that cause may be. It’s also amazing that the same community is home to one of the most successful new malls in the state of Florida in the Shops at Wiregrass, and that even though housing prices have taken a major hit in zip codes 33543, 33544 and 33545 (as they have across the U.S.), we still see new commercial buildings opening (and slowly filling) all over Wesley Chapel. It wasn’t until after seeing the number of people — including Chamber executive director Sheri Goldberg and future stand-up comic (and 2008 Honorary Mayor) Elayne Bassinger — who could still smile and enjoy themselves and each other, despite the fact that times are tough, that I realized just how important the WCCC has been to

the current success of Wesley Chapel as a community. The WCCC is strong today because people not only join it, but also get involved in the ribbon cuttings and networking and fund-raising events like these. Do yourself a favor and get involved. To join the WCCC, call 994-8534, stop by the office at 29142 Chapel Park Dr. (in the Brookside (L. to r.) Wesley Chapel’s 2008 Honorary Mayor Elayne Professional Plaza) or visit Bassinger joined ‘09 winner Theresa Jacobs (with sash) WesleyChapelChamber.org. and this year’s runner-up Darlene Reed on the podium.

Table of Contents NEWS UPDATES.....................................Pages 1-5 News Briefs........................................................................5 Swine Flu Appears In Our Area; Family Awarded $1.6 M In School Bus Crash Case S.R. 56 (Cont. from page 1)..............................................5 Wesley Chapel Community Calendar...........................9

BUSINESS UPDATES...................................10-13 Get Your Back-To-School Shoes At Little Feet................10 Vet Cares For Pets As If They Were His Own............12-13 EDUCATION NEWS.....................................14-15 First Day Of School Is Monday, August 24.....................14 Public Schools In Our Area.............................................15 Goddard School Focuses On The Whole Child..............16

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE Get Fit For Life At Fit 4 Life...................................19, 26 Avocado Offers Great Latin Food & Low Prices.........20 Neighborhood Nibbles..............................................22 August Brings A Variety Of Great Music.........................25 A Life Largely Unchanged by Ashley Darby..................29

WESLEY CHAPEL COLOR CLASSIFIEDS...30

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

W ESLEY C HAPEL Confirmed Swine Flu Cases Appear In Our Area

Health officials around the country are still preparing for what they say could be a major re-emergence of the H1N1 virus, aka swine flu, during this year’s flu season, and a few cases have already appeared in Wesley Chapel. Two weeks ago, we received word from officials with the Wesley Chapel Athletic Association that one of the players in the Cowboys football program had been diagnosed with H1N1, and league officials were asking that any other players or cheerleaders who were exhibiting flu-like symptoms should not return to practice until they had been cleared by their physicians. Meanwhile, Dr. Mitch Forman of New Tampa Urgent Care told us that he had documented two cases of swine flu at his location in the Shoppes of New Tampa at Wesley Chapel. Dr. Forman says that the symptoms of H1N1 mirror those of the ordinary flu, and include high fever, coughs, sore throat, body aches and fatigue, and it is spread in the same way, too, mainly through the coughs and sneezes of those who are sick with the virus. Dr. Forman adds that although there have been a few deaths that have been attributed to swine flu, most patients who have been infected have recovered without any long-term effects. It can be treated with common antibiotics, but most effectively when administered within the first two days of the appearance of the symptoms. Otherwise, Dr. Forman says, the symptoms typically subside within 710 days. He adds, however, that the problem is that health officials are worried that the swine flu virus, which has shown the ability to quickly change its genetic makeup, will develop the ability to mutate even more quickly once it becomes more widespread during the upcoming flu season. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s website, world health officials are closely monitoring the flu virus’ behavior in the southern hemisphere, which recently entered its regular flu season. As of July 30, there had been a total of 5,514 confirmed cases of H1N1 in the U.S. and its territories, along with a total of 353 deaths. For more information and regular updates, visit cdc.gov.h1n1.

News Briefs Family Receives $1.6 Million For Bus Accident

On July 27, the family of a former Wesley Chapel High student was awarded $1.6 million for injuries that the teenager received in a 2006 accident with a Pasco County school bus. According to published reports, the five-man, one-woman jury in the civil trial deliberated for about three hours before deciding that the Pasco County School District was mostly responsible for the injuries that Marcus Button, who is now 19, received in the accident, which took place on S.R. 54 on Sept. 22, 2006. At the time of the accident, Button was on the way to school from his home in Zephyrhills, riding in a car driven by fellow student Jessica Juettner, 16. Juettner testified during the trial that Button had forgotten his wallet at home, so she turned around to go back and get it, and they were eastbound on S.R. 54 when bus driver John Kinne pulled out in front of her from Meadow Pointe Blvd. She was unable to avoid hitting the bus, and her car, a 2005 Dodge Neon, slid partially under the rear of the vehicle. Juettner was not seriously injured, but Button had to be airlifted from the scene of the crash after suffering severe skull and facial fractures that resulted in brain damage and partial loss of vision. He underwent extensive rehabilitation, but still has a variety of physical and emotional issues that his attorneys said are a result of the accident, and they also said that he will most likely require medical care for the rest of his life. Kinne and an assistant were the only occupants of the bus, and they were not injured, but Kinne was cited for failure to yield the right of way. Attorneys for the School District argued, however, that Button’s injuries were caused at least in part by his failure to wear a seat belt, and also that Button had exhibited some behavioral and psychological issues before the crash. Juettner told jurors that she asked Button to wear a seatbelt when he got into the car, but could not recall if he had put it on. Paramedics who responded to the accident testified that they did not see one on him. In the end, the jury members decided that the School District was 65 percent responsible for the crash, Juettner was 20 percent responsible, and Button was 15 percent responsible, which lessened their overall award to the family from the original award of $2.1 million. — MS

“S.R. 56”

Continued from page 1 of County Commissioners decide how much they’re willing to pay to get the project done and how long it will take,” Widman says. Meanwhile, the county already has begun the work of relocating the utilities along that stretch of S.R. 54. Widman says Pasco also plans to lengthen the turn lane from westbound S.R. 54 to southbound Meadow Pointe Blvd., because that is going to be the way for local drivers to get around the S.R. 54 widening work. “We anticipate that it’s going to get a lot of use,” Widman says. For that reason, the county also is planning to build up the pavement at the north end of Meadow Pointe Blvd., because the two-lane road was not designed to handle the amount of traffic that the county is projecting it will receive once the S.R. 54 widening project begins. Widman says that project is ready to go, but Pasco is waiting to see if it will receive up to $1 million in stimulus funds from the federal government to help pay for the widening. He says the county expects to hear if it will receive that money within the next two or three weeks. Once that is determined, Widman says that county officials are looking at doing the work during the school system’s Christmas break in December, for two reasons. One, that will allow enough time for workers who use

Meadow Pointe Blvd. to bring in fill dirt for the S.R. 56 project to get that finished before work on Meadow Pointe Blvd. gets under way. In addition, that timetable also so it won’t cause too much of a disruption to school buses. In other road news, the widening of BBD between S.R. 54 and County Line Rd. is well under way, as is the project to replace the bridges over S.R. 54 at I-75, which will allow 54 to be widened underneath the interstate. And finally, Widman also says that the county is close to completing the installation of a new traffic signal on BBD at the entrance to the Williamsburg community, just south of S.R. 56. He says that the concrete piers are now in place, so all that’s left is to move the existing power poles and install the new mast poles that will hold the signal.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

W ESLEY C HAPEL

Community Calendar

Miss New Tampa Pageant

Applications are now being accepted for the Second Annual Miss New Tampa Pageant, which will be held at the Pebble Creek Community Center (18715 Bent Tree Lane) on Sunday, September 27. Contestants must be between the ages of 4-19 and live in either Hillsborough, Pasco or surrounding counties. No pageant experience is necessary. All entrants will receive an official Miss New Tampa T-shirt. For more information, call Vicky McShane at 714-6513 or visit www.missnewtampapageant.com

Wesley Chapel Rotary Club

Wednesday, August 12 – The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel meets every Wednesday at 12:15 p.m. at Los Vallartas Mexican Restaurant (in the Village Market shopping center at S.R. 54 & Bruce B. Downs Blvd.). For more information, call 2637188 or 383-6683.

PACA

Thursday, August 13 – The Pasco Alliance of Community Associations (PACA) will meet at 7 p.m. at the Land O’Lakes Community Center (5401 Land O’Lakes Blvd./U.S. 41). The guest speaker will be District 12 Florida Sen. Victor Crist, who will talk about a variety of topics related to the state budget and new legislative issues related to community development districts, and homeowners and condo owners associations. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.myPACA.org, or call president Bill Parsons at 991-6003.

Wesley Chapel Wind Ensemble

Thursday, August 13 – The Wesley Chapel Wind Ensemble, a community group of brass and woodwind players, meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at

Hyundai of Wesley Chapel (27000 Wesley Chapel Blvd./S.R. 54). New members are always encouraged to join the ensemble. For more information, contact Glenn at 746-4821 or by e-mail at trombonegww@juno.com.

Sunrise Rotary

Friday, August 14 – The Wesley Chapel Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Friday at 7:15 a.m. at the Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26140 Lexington Oaks Blvd.). For more information, call Lynne Wilson at 695-6466.

WOW Business For Women

Friday, August 14 – WOW, a business group for women, meets every other Friday (the second and fourth of each month) at 7:30 a.m. at First Watch in The Shoppes of New Tampa at Wesley Chapel on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. All area businesswomen are invited to attend for networking and socializing. In addition, the group now also holds lunch meetings on the first and third Friday of each month at Los Vallartas Mexican Restaurant beginning at noon. There is a $10 charge for lunch and the meeting. Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP. To make a reservation for the lunch meetings, call Darlene Reed at 263-4598.

Multi-Family Rummage Sale

Saturday, August 15 – The Wharton High School Band will host a multi-family rummage sale, 7 a.m.noon, in the school parking lot (20150 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.). Items for sale will include household items, furniture, toys, clothing and more. Proceeds will benefit the band.

MOMS Club NE

Monday, August 17 – The Mothers Offering Mothers Support (MOMS) Club NE will hold its regular monthly meeting at 10 a.m. at the Lexington Oaks clubhouse. All current and prospective members are invited to attend. Membership in the club is open to stay-at-home moms who live in the 33544 and 33545 zip codes. For more information about the club and other upcoming events, contact Krista at 929-6886 or by email at wcmoms@yahoo.com.

Single Men's Life Group

Wednesday, August 19 – All area single men are invited to the first meeting of a new single men’s life group, facilitated by a professional life coach, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m., at the Meadow Pointe IV Community Center (3902 Meadow Pointe Blvd.). For additional information, call 388-5551.

WC Mothers & More

Thursday, August 20 - The Wesley Chapel Chapter of Mothers & More will hold its monthly meeting, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., at the Seven Oaks Clubhouse. The meeting will include a presentation about the Ugandan outreach project, Bead for Life. In addition to its monthly meetings, Mothers & More also offers activities such as field trips, playgroups, couples outings and moms’ nights out. For more information, contact Erin Leschak at 245-4836 or by email at eleschak@msn.com.

Ozzie Canseco Baseball Camp

Although he didn’t have nearly as long a Major League Baseball career as his identical twin borther José, former MLB and Japanese Major Baseball player Ozzie Canseco is offering a one week baseball camp for kids ages 7-15 at the New Tampa Little League’s Live Oak Park, MondayFriday, August 10-14. The cost of the camp, which will be held 8 a.m.-1 p.m., is $140. Unlike other MLB players who “run” camps, Ozzie himself will be the on-site head coach and trainer for his camp, and will gladly sign autographs and take pictures with the campers. For more information about the camp, call 600-8542.

Orchid Workshops

Saturday, August 15 & 29 – Cindy Gandalfi of G Gardens & Things (3836 Flatiron Loop in Wesley Chapel) will host a pair of free workshops in August for those who are interested in learning all about orchids, starting at 4 p.m. each day. Topics will include how to buy, grow and care for orchids and more. Class sizes are limited, so advance registration is suggested. For more information or to register, call 994-2120.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

For Quality Back-To-School Shoes, Step Into Little Feet By Michael Smith Well, the new school year is just around the corner, and with it comes a long list of things that parents have to buy or pay for in order to get their kids ready for the first day of classes. For example, at one elementary school in our area, the supply list for kindergarten and first-grade students calls for: a backpack, two packages of pencils, two boxes of crayons, one box of markers, one pair of scissors, eight glue sticks, two bottles of glue, two composition books, three spiral notebooks, two boxes of tissues, two packages of baby wipes and a bottle of hand sanitizer. The expenses could really add up, especially for those parents who have more than one child, and that list doesn’t even include things like physical exams, immunizations, activity fees, and of course, new clothing and, of course (at least for most kids), new shoes. Fortunately, Little Feet Shoes, in the Seven Oaks Plaza in front of Sam’s Club) is offering parents an opportunity to get some great deals on high-quality and fashionable shoes for girls and boys. The business was formerly known as Big Feet, Little Feet when it was locat-

ed in the Shoppes of New Tampa at Wesley Chapel plaza at S.R. 56 and Bruce B. Downs Blvd., but owner Diana Ciccarelli says she decided to narrow her focus to kids’ shoes only when she moved to her new location last month, and now carries nothing larger than a size 6 (boys and girls sizes). But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of different styles and brands to choose from. While Little Feet is an independent Stride Rite retailer, the store also carries many of the other topselling brands, too, such as Kid Express, Crocs, Robeez, pediped, the very popular girls’ line Lelli Kelly, and more. With more than 4,000 pairs of shoes in stock at any given time, “you certainly won’t come in and not find something you like,” Cicarelli says. Of course, she also adds that there’s much more to buying shoes for your children than simply looking for the latest styles and brands. “In young children, the biggest thing is fit,” she says. “Between the ages of zero and four, children outgrow their shoes about every three months, on average, so they need to have a good pair of shoes. It’s all about proper development.”

Ciccarelli says the most common problem she sees is children who come in with shoes that are too small, which can cramp the child’s feet, inhibit proper growth and even result in leg and back issues down the road. Some parents go the other way by The popular pediped line is just one of the brands buying shoes that are offered at Little Feet Shoes in Wesley Chapel. too large, so they can last a little longer, but Cicarelli says that need,” Ciccarelli says. In addition to shoes, Little Feet can be dangerous for young children, also carries a wide selection of dance too, because it could cause them to trip and ballet shoes, leotards and other and fall. The best way to avoid these accessories, custom hair bows, iPlay problems, she says, is to have your swim suits, socks, belts, children’s sunchild’s feet accurately measured and then select shoes that fit them properly. glasses and more. The store is open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and It also helps to have a knowledgenoon-5 p.m. on Sundays. And, through able salesperson who can recommend Sunday, August 30, the store is offerthe right shoe in special cases, such as ing a special buy-one-get-one-at-halfthe line of shoes from Tsukihoshi. price special on all Stride Rite brand They’re not only machine-washable, shoes (second pair of equal or lesser but also come in wide and extra-wide sizes and include a special cup built into value only). For more information, drop by the heel to help stabilize both the foot and the shoe. the store (27607 S.R. 56), call 991“All of my staff members have 1785 or e-mail buylittlefeetshoes@ kids, so they know what kids want and yahoo.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Seven Oaks Veterinarian Cares For Pets ‘As If They Were His Own’ By Kate Kramer Last month, veterinarian Sree Reddy, D.V.M., of the Seven Oaks Pet Hospital in the Cypress View Square Plaza on S.R. 56, met Gidget, a sixmonth-old puppy found on the side of S.R. 54 in Zephyrhills near Bealls. Gidget was not only abandoned, but severely injured — completely lacerated and bleeding from the neck to the abdomen with bite holes all over her body and one ear partially torn off. But, Dr. Reddy, didn’t give up. “I saw this dog, and I couldn’t believe it,” he says. “She was in real pain, but in her eyes she looked like she wanted to live, so we continued treating her.” Dr. Reddy already has performed three surgeries on Gidget and says she likely needs three more before returning to normal. He presumes the wounds were the result of Gidget being used as bait in a dog fight. Originally, Dr. Reddy thought Gidget also needed a skin graft, but her skin has healed so well that she may only need some additional stitches. For now, Wesley Chapel resident Cindy McCraine (who found Gidget) says the puppy is recovering well and is very happy — especially when playing fetch.

“Dr. Reddy was the only person willing to help us with Gidget’s injuries,” she says. “He cares about the pets as if they were his own.” Dr. Reddy grew up on a farm in India caring for sheep, goats, cows, dogs, cats and chickens. “I love pets and any large domestic animals,” he says. “I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.” In 1998, Dr. Reddy graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine–Hyderabad in India and came to the U.S. for his residency internship. He started practicing veterinary medicine in Alabama in 2000 and then in Iowa. In 2004, he moved to a Clearwater practice until 2007, when he opened Seven Oaks Pet Hospital. Dr. Reddy owns two cats named Romeo and Hermine. Along with emergency and critical care, Dr. Reddy also can perform radiowave surgery which, unlike traditional scalpel surgery, seals nerve endings and closes off blood vessels while cutting. He says this process decreases postoperative pain and swelling, resulting in faster healing time. Dr. Reddy also uses laparoscopic spaying and will offer laser laparoscopy starting this month. Unlike normal spaying, which requires a 3-5-cm inci-

sion and about two weeks to heal, he says laparoscopic spays require about an 8-cm incision, but take only about two days to heal. Reddy says laparoscopy also can be used for liver or kidney biopsies, where he can look in the abdomen and take a small piece of tissue without complications.

A Holistic Approach

Along with traditional Veterinarian Dr. Sree Reddy of Seven Oaks Pet “Western” veterinarian servicHospital has a “hands-on” approach to care. es, Seven Oaks Pet Hospital also integrates Eastern medical practices editor/owner Gary Nager, who brings his golden retriever Goldie to Seven siuch as acupuncture, herbal and diet Oaks, says the wellness plan saves him therapy and traditional Chinese veterihundreds of dollars a year. “And everynary medicine for pets. one who works there really seems to And, because animals cannot tell love animals,” Gary says. “That’s really the doctors exactly what is bothering them, Dr. Reddy says yearly exams with important to me.” Additionally, Reddy is on call 24 blood work are very important. “Such hours a day, seven days a week, to hanexams help doctors understand an animal and prevent major problems before dle any pet emergencies. More Success Stories they start,” he says. Along with treating your pets’ To that end, Seven Oaks Pet Hospital offers wellness plans which, for just medical needs, Seven Oaks Pet Hospital $270, includes unlimited physical exams also works with several organizations to rescue stray animals, including Big for one year, plus up to two vaccinaHeart Rescue, Florida Lab Rescue and tions (blood and lab work are extra), Greyhound Rescue & Adoptions of but Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Tampa Bay. Microchipping also is available to help owners safely recover a lost or even stolen pet. Missy Medveczky, the owner of Big Heart Professional Pet Sitting Inc., says she recommends Dr. Reddy to many of her clients. As a vet technician herself, Medveczky (who lives in Dade City) has worked for eight years with various veterinarians and says she sees something different in Dr. Reddy. “It’s rare to have someone with such complete passionate as Dr. Reddy,” she says. “He’s constantly researching and finding different treatments. He’s great and honest.” Along with her pet sitting business, Medveczky helps animals with her nonprofit animal rescue group, Big Heart Rescue and Rehabilitation Inc. and takes any rescued dogs and cats needing medical attention to Reddy. Many times, according to Medveczky, holistic medical treatment offered at most vet offices is not enough and those pet owners have to go to a specialist for a truly holistic approach. Medveczky says she likes how Reddy integrates both holistic and conventional methods. “He’ll look at each animal individually and give individualized care,” she says. “He knows which treatments are best for each animal. He truly cares about these animals and is one of the

most compassionate veterinarians I have ever met.” She adds that Dr. Reddy gives each animal a thorough examination before determining treatment. “You’re not going in for a tenminute exam — you get your money’s worth,” says Medveczky. “He talks to you for quite a bit and wants to find what’s best for your pet.” Medveczky also uses Reddy for all of her own pets — two American pitbull terriers, a bull mastiff, a rottweiler, a hound dog and two cats. One of Medveczky’s rescues, Clover, a three-month old cat, suffered nerve damage when she was dropped in midair by an osprey. Reddy treated the kitten with acupuncture and electrosimulation and was able to get Clover walking again. Now, Medveczky says Clover can run faster than some of her other cats. Medveczky also appreciates that Dr. Reddy isn’t afraid to refer cases to specialists or other veterinarians in order to provide the best possible care. “If he doesn’t feel that he is th best person to handle a particular situation with an animal, he’ll refer you to someone who is,” she says. “He always wants to be 100-percent sure about what he’s doing [in any situation]. He truly always has each animal’s best interest at heart.”

In 2007, Lynette Malinchak of New Tampa turned to Dr. Reddy out of frustration when her 12-year-old golden retriever, Sampson, had a recurring urinary tract infection. At previous vets, Sampson underwent many cycles of antibiotics, but still had the problem. Rather than just treating Sampson’s symptoms, Reddy sent bacteria the dog’s urine to a lab to determine exactly what type of bacteria it was. “We had been dealing with this for three or four months, but Dr. Reddy took care of the problem,” she says. “After 10 days on the new antibiotic, it was gone.” Dr. Reddy also helped Malinchak’s 3-year-old golden retriever named Bella, who suffered from skin infections and dandruff. Before treating Bella, Dr. Reddy took pictures of her skin to a dermatologist. He then explained all of the treatment options to Malinchak and together, they decided that the right shampoo and diet would be a less invasive treatment for Bella.

“He doesn’t just automatically prescribe something,” she says. “He takes an all-around approach and understands how important our pets are to us. Plus, he’s always available. A lot of vets are hard to talk to, but he finds the time. If you need to talk to him directly, it’s never a problem.” Malinchak says she also appreciates that everyone who works at Seven Oaks Pet Hospital, in addition to Dr. Reddy, really seem to care for her dogs. “You never feel rushed there. He always takes time to explain everything and is very informative and friendly,” she says. “Plus, Bella actually pulls me into the office and has a big smile on her face when she goes there. That’s definitely a good sign — they must be doing something right.” For more information about Seven Oaks Pet Hospital (located at 27227 S.R. 56), call 929-4100 or visit sevenoakspet.vetsuite.com. It is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Get Ready To Go Back To School On Monday, August 24 By Michael Smith In just a little more than two weeks, more than 66,000 students from around the county are expected to head back to school, when the Pasco County School District begins the 2009-10 school year on Monday, August 24. According Chris Williams, director of planning for the District, the projected overall enrollment for the District has increased by only about 300 students. Just a few years ago, during the height of the residential building boom, schools across the District, and especially in the Wesley Chapel area, were experiencing record-high enrollments. “But, that’s a good thing, because it’s given us some time to catch up on building new schools,” Williams says. AOne of the newest schools in the District is Watergrass Elementary, which is located in the Watergrass development on Curley Rd. The school will open on time with between 500-525 students, many of whom were taken from Wesley Chapel Elementary (WCE), which will allow that school to open under capacity for the first time in several years. Last year, WCE had more than 1,000 students, nearly double its designed capacity of 618, but will open this year with a little more than 500.

“We tried to split them evenly, and in a way that Watergrass will take the bulk of future growth,” Williams says. That future growth will come not only from the Watergrass development itself, which is scheduled for 2,000 homes, but also from other planned developments, such as Epperson Ranch (also off Curley Rd.), which was approved by Pasco officials this summer. Williams says that there are no other new schools planned for the Wesley Chapel area for the foreseeable future, thanks to budget restrictions, but the District is in the process of finalizing a contract for a site for a middle school within the Meadow Pointe subdivision. That school would provide relief for Dr. John Long Middle School, located just north of Meadow Pointe, which is expected to be overcrowded by around 400 students when the new school year begins. Williams says the contract should be finalized by October, but the flat growth rate gives the District some time before it has to move forward with building the new school. “Rather than having two middle schools that are only half full, we’ll wait and monitor growth before pulling the trigger on the new school,” he says. Williams also says that Sand Pine Elementary and Seven Oaks Elementary

schools are both slightly overcrowded, so the District is looking at ways to relieve those schools in the future. He notes that the District has been promised an elementary school site within the Northwood development, which would provide relief for Seven Oaks, and also has another site near the Long/Wiregrass Ranch High (WRH) campuses in Wiregrass Ranch, which could be used to provide relief for Sand Pine, when the budget allows.

New Principal At WCH

In other news, Wesley Chapel High (WCH) will have a new principal, as Andy Frelick, who was at the school since it opened in 1999, was transferred to Ridgewood High in New Port Richey last month. Frelick was at the center of a controversy that erupted last month. Former WCH football standout Kamran Joyer was supposed to play at the University of South Florida, but USF officials noted there were several grades changes on his official transcript. District officials said Joyer (who will now attend Louisville) had not received preferential treatment, as the changes were made according to District policy, and that Frelick’s transfer was not related to it. The new principal had not been named at our press time.

New Programs Implemented

Also, beginning this year, the Pasco School District is beginning two new programs, the Pasco Virtual Instruction Program (PVIP, or eSchool), which offers part- and full-time online instructional opportunities for students in grades K-12, and the Career Academy Program, which offers specialized vocational training for high school students. The District will hold a Parent Information Night for the eSchool Program at WRH on Thursday, August 13, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., and info is available at pasco.k12.fl.us/pvip. In the Career Academy program, high school students can choose from a variety of fields, such as automotive technology, at WCH, or information technology, which will be offered at WRH. According to the District’s director of Community, Career and Technical Education Rob Aguis, the program is similar to the choice program, in that students can apply to attend the program that suits them best, and the programs will go either toward professional certification or college credit. Interested students should apply as soon as possible, because the programs are expected to fill quickly. For more info, visit the District website (above) or call 794-2204.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Wesley Chapel Goes Back To School — Pasco County Public Schools In Our Area!

Double Branch Elementary Principal: Margaret Lewis 31500 Chancey Rd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 346-0400 Fax: (813) 346-0491

New River Elementary Principal: Sara Pabst 4710 River Glen Blvd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 Phone: (813) 346-0500 Fax: (813) 346-0951

Quail Hollow Elementary Principal: Michelle Berger 7050 Quail Hollow Blvd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 Phone: (813) 794-1100 Fax: (813) 794-1191

Sand Pine Elementary Principal: Ginny Yanson 29040 County Line Rd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 794-1900 Fax: (813) 794-1991

Seven Oaks Elementary Principal: BJ Smith 27633 Mystic Oak Blvd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 794-0700 Fax: (813) 794-0791

Veterans Elementary Principal: Donna Busby 26940 Progress Pkwy. Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 Phone: (813) 346-1400 Fax: (813) 346-1491

Watergrass Elementary Principal: Scott Mitchell 32750 Overpass Rd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 Phone: (813) 346-0600 Fax: (813) 346-0691

Wesley Chapel Elementary Principal: Edward Abernathy 30243 Wells Rd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 Phone: (813) 794-0100 Fax: (813) 794-0191

Dr. John Long Middle School Principal: Elizabeth Brown 2025 Mansfield Blvd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 346-6200 Fax: (813) 346-6291

Thomas E. Weightman Middle School

Wesley Chapel High Principal: Open (at our press time) 30651 Wells Rd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 Phone: (813) 794-8700 Fax: (813) 794-8791

Wiregrass Ranch High Principal: Raymond Bonti 2909 Mansfield Blvd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 346-6000 Fax: (813) 346-6091

Principal: Shae Davis 30649 Wells Rd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 Phone: (813) 794-0200 Fax: (813) 794-0291

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

The Goddard School’s Curriculum Focuses On The ‘Whole Child’ By Michael Smith Parents who are looking for a preschool program that goes beyond reading, writing and arithmetic may want to consider The Goddard School, which is now accepting student applications for the 2009-10 school year. According to owner Brad Toston, The Goddard School, which is part of a franchise headquartered in the Philadelphia area, has a curriculum that focuses on “the whole child,” and includes such areas as music appreciation, art history, nutrition and even manners, in addition to traditional pre-school subjects like reading readiness, math and science. “We give them all the tools so they are very well prepared for a lifetime of learning,” Toston says, adding that play is an important part of The Goddard School’s curriculum, which is known as the Flex Learning Program. “Play removes stress from the environment, which allows children to learn easier and faster,” he says. That’s why, in addition to having teacher-directed activities during their classes, students at The Goddard School also have periods of free time throughout the day, during which they can explore the “interest centers” that are a part of each classroom and focus on different areas they are interested in, such

as science or computer technology. In addition, although the school is licensed for 154 children, Toston says that enrollment is kept at around 130 students, to ensure a lower pupil-toteacher ratio in the classrooms. “That gives each child more individual attention,” he says. Toston also says that teachers at The Goddard School are “generally better qualified” than those at other programs. All of the lead teachers have at least earned their Bachelor’s degrees, he says, and all teachers are required to go through both state-required yearly training and advanced training through the “Goddard University.” The Goddard School program is open to children from 6 weeks of age through pre-school, and is adding a voluntary pre-kindergarten program for children who will be at least 4 years old by September 1. (After-school care for children up to 10 years of age also is offered, and a private kindergarten program is planned to be added for the 2010-11 school year). Right now, the school also is in the midst of its summer program, which runs through August 21. Toston says the theme of the program is “Hurray for the USA,” and focuses on a different state each week. Students can join the summer program on a week-to-

The Goddard School, located in the Tampa Oaks professional office park near Fletcher Ave. & I-75, is part of a national franchise with more than 320 locations around the country. week basis, but enrollment during the school year is month-to-month, as long as there is room available. Toston says there still is some space available for the 2009-10 school year, but it is filling up quickly. Right now, the school is offering 50-percent off the first month’s tuition to all new students. Parents are welcome to come and tour the school, which is located at 13401 Tampa Oaks Blvd. (in the Tampa Oaks office park near I-75 and Fletcher Ave.), but they are asked to make an appointment first. To make an appointment, call 978-8100. For other information, visit www.goddardschool.com.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

State-Of-The-Art Technology + Personalized Attention = Fit 4 Life By Michael Smith Let’s face it, unless you already happen to be a world-class athlete or a supermodel (and if you are, please accept my heartfelt congratulations), then chances are that you would like to get in better shape -- whether that means shedding a few pounds, having the stamina to play a few sets of tennis without having a paramedic crew on stand-by, or simply being able to keep up with your children on an afternoon in the park. Most people who try to get into better shape usually take one of two paths: they either purchase a membership at their local fitness club (and usually only go once or twice before quitting), or they buy a piece of home fitness equipment (which they use once or twice and then abandon). The problem is, getting in shape is hard work, and it takes a lot of determination and dedication to succeed. However, if you’re looking for a way to train smarter, not harder, and achieve some pretty impressive results along the way, then you will want to check out the programs available at Fit4Life in Tampa Palms. Forget what you think you know about health clubs, because Fit4Life is far different from the typical gym. Yes, the 3,000-sq.-ft. facility does have a lot of different exercise machines with all kinds of weights, levers and pulleys, but, rather than leaving you on your own to try and figure out how to use

them properly, each workout session at Fit4Life is personally supervised and custom designed to meet the individual client’s personal fitness goals. “Everything here is one-to-one,” says Fit4Life owner and president Travis Monday, who adds that there are never more than five people trainMen and women alike get great results at Fit4Life, whether ing at any given time at the facility, “because they’re seeking fitness, spine strengthening or injury rehab. we want to keep it as dard” of workout equipment, because private and non-distracting as possible.” its design creates less friction and uses The machines used by the trainers smaller weight increments than other at Fit4Life are not just your old run-ofkinds of machines, which makes it easier the-mill workout machines, either. The to customize for each individual. It also facility exclusively utilizes the MedX line utilizes movements that complement of equipment, which was invented by the body’s natural mechanics. For that Arthur Jones, who also invented the reason, clients at Fit4Life can achieve groundbreaking Nautilus technology better results in less time than those that is now standard in practically every who use other types of machines. gym in the country. As its name “In your typical hour-long workimplies, the MedX technology was iniout, there is only about eight minutes tially designed for medical applications, of actual work,” he says. “But, with our to help test and strengthen the muscles program, you get three times as much of the lower back by specifically targetwork in half the time.” ing that area. From there, the technoloJanette Pearce, a retired registered gy expanded to include other machines nurse who has trained at Fit4Life for that target other areas of the body for about a year and a half, says that she use in treatment and rehabilitation, and was very happy with the results she then to include machines specifically for received. exercise and strength training. “I had a significant drop in my Now, Monday says, the MedX line body mass index (BMI), and lost inches is considered to be the “Gold Stanall over,” says Pearce, who adds that the

Fit4Life training concept, with fewer repetitions of each exercise and close, personalized attention, was “terrific.” “The entire staff was very professional, but also very personable and friendly, too,” she says.

Spine Strengthening & More

There are those people, however, who can’t work out because they suffer from back pain or other health issues, and for them, Fit4Life also offers a complete program of physical therapy, again, using the MedX machines, along with a variety of other cutting-edge therapies, such as ultrasound, electro therapeutic point stimulation (ETPS, which is basically an electronic form of acupuncture) and H-wave therapy, which uses very low-frequency electric stimulation to relieve pain and treat injured muscles. See “Fit4Life” on page 26.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Avocado Cafe & Bakery — For Great Latin Food & Prices!

Avocado Café & Bakery in the Oak Ramble Plaza on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. (south of Tampa Palms) is one of those great little places you always hope to find. It’s small, casual, clean and has great food at even better prices, served by happy, friendly people. Owner Kathiana Figueroa is from Venezuela and her menu does offer some specialties from her country. But Kathiana, who first moved to Florida seven years ago to earn her Master’s degree from Florida Metropolitan University, says she came back to Tampa a couple of years ago because she loved the people, the climate and the food. Kathiana and her family believe they serve the best pressed Cuban sandwich in town, but making a claim like that is a little tough in a town like Tampa, where there are so many “authentic” Cuban sandwich shops. Thankfully, I’m not that big on Cuban sandwiches (so I don’t think my opinion matters much in this case), although I will say Avocado’s is yummy. On the other hand, my favorite dishes so far at Avocado are the hot lunch specials, including the shredded roast pork, the slightly tangy, unbreaded palomilla steak and the ropa vieja (which literally means “old clothes” in Spanish, but is actually shredded flank steak in a zesty red sauce), all served

with what might be my favorite black beans and rice in the area. I am also partial, however, to the plantains and the white corn arepas (think thicker white taco shells), which you can get topped with those incredible black beans, shredded beef, chicken or pork and cheese. I’ve yet to try the “Reina Pepaida” arepas, which is a seasonal specialty featuring shredded chicken with mayonnaise and avocado. I also have yet to sample the deep fried empanadas with shredded beef, picadillo (ground beef), chicken, potato and cheese, or the other “Venezuelan delights” (e.g., tequenos, mandocas and patacon), but I’ve heard rave reviews. For breakfast, you can’t beat Avocado’s bacon, egg and cheese sandwich on pressed Cuban bread and I also love the home-baked chocolate chip cookies, guava (and other fruit) pastries, cakes and other tasty baked goods —especially with a perfect café con leché. In other words, Avocado really is one of those great little finds — and Kathiana even teaches zumba classes in our area. Ask her where and when and please tell her we sent you! Avocado Café & Bakery is located at 14941 BBD Blvd. (near Acropolis) and is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday. Call 631-9703. — GN

For delicious (clockwise from bottom left): palomilla steak, pressed Cuban sandwiches, shredded roast pork and decadent desserts, visit our friend Kathiana Figueroa at Avocado Café & Bakery in the Oak Ramble Plaza.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood Nibbles: Wiregrass To Add Steakhouse, Night Club & Yogurt For our latest Wesley Chapel dining “Nibbles,” we have the newest planned openings at the Shops at Wiregrass, plus the opening of a new bagel shop on S.R. 54 and the re-opening of a local favorite sushi bar.

Prime Bar, Aja & Yogur t At Shops At Wiregrass The way new places keep opening at The Shops at Wiregrass, you might not think the economy was in such bad shape. In addition to the mall’s existing upscale eateries like Cantina Laredo, GrillSmith and Yamato Japanese Steak & Sushi, the mall’s main office has confirmed signs around the Shops that the Prime Bar Steakhouse and Aja Night Club will open before the end of 2009. Aja, which has a hot local sister club already open in Channelside, will be an equally upscale dance club. The Channelside location is around 12,000 sq. ft., but Wiregrass officials didn’t say

Signs proclaim that the second Tampaarea location of Aja Night Club is coming to The Shops at Wiregrass.

whether the new Aja will be that big, or exactly when it would open, other than to say it should be “sometime this fall.” Even less information was currently available about Prime Bar, but the mall spokesperson we spoke to said that it is expected to be a “prime steakhouse” which should be open by the end of the year. Opening by around the time you read this, between Cantina Laredo and The Brass Tap in the Shops, is You Say When Yogurt Shoppe, a new frozen yogurt chain with an existing location in the Brandon Town Center and new stores opening in Sarasota, Miami, Jacksonville and near USF, as well as at Wiregrass. I’ve yet to sample it in Brandon, but it definitely looks delicious — and on my diet!

Yes, Bageliciouc has great bagels with a huge variety of cream cheeses and even real Nova Scotia salmon (photo), but there are also yummy bagel breakfast and lunch sandwiches, fluffy omelets and other egg dishes, wrap sandwiches, grilled hamburgers, soups, salads and even great pastries, cookies and coffees. The place is definitely a keeper, so please remember to tell Linda & Co. we sent you! Bagelicious & More is located at

30032 S.R. 54 E., next to Beer Runners. Call 406-4403.

Sushi Ko’s New Location

Sushi Ko, formerly located behind the Boston Market in Highwoods Preserve, has re-opened in its new location, in the Publix-anchored New Tampa Center, in the space previously occupied by Kado Japanese Steakhouse (but without the hibachi tables). Sushi Ko brings Grand Opening specials and the same great sushi, Japanese and even Chinese cuisine to its new, larger space, at 19050 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. Call 978-8586. — GN

Bagelicious & More Opens

I have already eaten a couple of times at the yummy new Bagelicious & More, located in the Freedom II Plaza on S.R. 54 east of Saddlebrook Resort, and I have to say it’s a delicious addition to the area for everything from early morning breakfast to late lunch Monday-Sunday, 6 a.m.-3 p.m. Owner Linda Carr and her friendly crew feature house-baked fresh New York-style bagels in virtually every variety, but Bagelicious is so much more than just a bagel place.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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August Brings Great Musical Entertainment To The Bay Area

Saturday, August 8— Tennessee native Kenny Chesney grew up in the same hometown as Nashville legend Chet Atkins, but didn’t show much interest in music himself until college, when he received a guitar as a Christmas present and joined a local bluegrass band. He released his debut album, “My Wildest Dreams,” in 1993. Chesney then landed a deal with RCA Records, and that led to 1995’s “All I Need To Know,” which scored two Top 10 hits. His most recent album, “Lucky OId Sun,” reached No. 1 on the Billboard magazine on Nov. 1. Kenny Chesney, along with Miranda Lambert and Lady Antebellum, will perform at 7:30 p.m., at the Ford Amphitheatre (4802 U.S. Hwy. 301, at the Florida State Fairgrounds). Tickets cost $30.50 and $71 and are available at the Amphitheatre ticket office or online at livenation.com. Call 740-2446.

August 11 - Pay one price and see a lot of good bands at each of these two diametrically opposed music festivals. First, flash back to the ‘60s with the second annual “Hippiefest,” a concert for love and peace in the tradition of Woodstock, when it comes to Clearwater’s Ruth Eckerd Hall (1111 N. McMullen-Booth Rd.) on August 8, 7 p.m. The lineup includes The Turtles, Mountain, Felix Cavaliere of The Rascals, BadFinger and Chuck Negron (formerly of Three Dog Night). Tickets cost $51.50-$88 and are available at the Ruth Eckerd ticket office or online at rutheckerdhall.com. For information, call (727) 7917400 or visit hippiefest.net. Harder rockers should check out the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival, which begins at 12:15 p.m. at the Ford Amphitheatre. This year’s coheadliners are Marilyn Manson and Slayer, with supporting acts Bullet for My Valentine, All That Remains and Killswitch Engage. Ticket prices range from $19.75 to $62.05, which includes a copy of Manson’s new album, “High End Of Low.” For info, call 740-2446 or visit livenation.com.

Hippiefest & Rockstar Mayhem

The Jonas Brothers

Summer is almost over, but there are still plenty of great concerts and other events coming over the next month to help you keep the fun going. Here are a few of the highlights:

Kenny Chesney

Saturday, August 8 & Tuesday,

Tuesday, August 18 — As if see-

ing them everywhere from the 2009 Kids’ Choice Awards to “Saturday Night Live” wasn’t enough, the Jonas Brothers (“S.O.S.,” “Burnin’ Up”) bring their 2009 World Tour, which also features “American Idol” winner Jordin Sparks and up-andcoming band Honor Society, to the St. Pete Times Forum (401 Channelside Dr.), beginAmerican Idol winner Taylor Hicks joins the ning at 7 p.m. The tour feacast of “Grease.” tures a 140-foot-wide stage, a one-of-a-kind circular water Sunday, August 16. “Mamma Mia” screen, multi-color laser effects, motion features the music of the ‘70s Swedish automated video screens, a giant crane supergroup ABBA and was recently levitating over the audience, and more. remade as a Hollywood movie starring Tickets for the Jonas Brothers Meryl Streep. World Tour were still available at our For complete ticket info and press time. Prices range from $26.75showtimes, call (727) 791-7400 or $86.75 and can be purchased at the visit rutheckerdhall.com. Forum ticket office or through TicketMeanwhile, “Grease,” the timeless master (287-8844, ticketmaster.com. story of summer love in the 1950s, For information, call 301-2500. brings its national touring show, featuring “American Idol” Season 5 winner ‘Mamma Mia’ & ‘Grease’ Taylor Hicks, to the Tampa Bay PerIf musical theatre is your thing, forming Arts Center (1010 N. August brings two of Broadway’s most MacInnes Pl., in downtown Tampa) popular musicals to town, starting with Tuesday-Sunday, August 18-23. “Mamma Mia,” which will be presentCall 229-7827 or visit tbpac.org ed in a limited engagement at Ruth for ticket prices, showtimes and Eckerd Hall, Tuesday, August 11information.—Andrew Stein & MS

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

“Fit4Life”

Continued from page 19 “We can’t put people in the gym until we relieve them of their pain,” says Lisa Michelangelo, MPT, clinical director of the Fit4Life physical therapy program. “But, we have one of the most progressive programs out there.” In addition to treating adults, Fit4Life also offers a pediatric physical therapy program to treat everything from torticollis, which is a muscular condition found in infants, where the neck is twisted because of problems at birth, to sports-related injuries and other issues in older children. Michelangelo also says that under Florida law, patients can be treated by a physical therapist for up to 21 days without a prescription, and all of the therapies used at Fit4Life are approved under most insurance plans. Tampa Palms resident James Macchiarola says that the therapists at Fit4Life were able to identify and treat his back problems when other doctors and specialists could not. Macchiarola, who is 40, says that he went to Fit4Life for treatment of a shoulder injury that he got when he was playing baseball a few years ago, but didn’t think of them when he began suffering severe pain in his lower back last summer. Instead, he says he went to his primary care physician, who then referred him to an

orthopaedic specialist, who treated him with steroid injections that he says only dulled the pain for a couple of days after each shot. So, he then tried other treatments, including visiting a chiropractor and even an acupuncturist, who he says made the problem even worse. He was at the point where he was considering surgery, he says, and then, earlier this year, he happened to run into Michelangelo, who also happens to be his neighbor, at a local function, and when she saw him limping around in pain she told him to come by Fit4Life. After his first evaluation, Macchiarola says that Michelangelo and her staff were not only able to correctly identify his ailment, which turned out to be what is called piriformis syndrome (caused when the sciatic nerve is compressed by the piriformis muscle in the lower back) and successfully treat it within just a few weeks. “It was just unbelievable,” he says, adding that he is now pain free, and is even able to play golf two to three times a week, which would have been impossible before. “I know it sounds hokey, but they really have given me my life back.” Monday says that such results are actually fairly common. Studies conducted by MedX and the University of Florida in 1986 showed a success rate of greater than 90 percent in patients

tion, age, and other factors). For more information, or to schedule a personal evaluation, call 907-7879, log on to www.myf4l. com or visit Fit4Life, which is located at 17419 Bridge Hill Ct., in the Tampa Palms Professional Center (off Commerce Park Dr., near the New Tampa Community Park).

If you want six-pack abs you can’t go wrong at Fit4Life! Photo by Thompson Studios 994-2000.

who were treated with the MedX technology, and a more recent survey of 190 of Monday’s own patients/clients showed that 95 percent of them reported that they were in good to excellent condition a year or more after their treatments ended. Another 89 percent who came to Fit4Life as a “last resort” before undergoing surgery were able to forgo having the surgery, he adds. (Of course, individual results will vary, depending upon the patient’s condi-

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

A Life Left Largely (& Surprisingly) Unchanged By Ashley Darby Nobody believed me, but I couldn’t blame them: I’ve always been quite the hypochondriac. But this was different, this didn’t go away. It just hurt, everything hurt, and I thankfully believed myself. I checked myself into the ER three nights in a row before they gave me attention past a few pain shots and pills, and I finally received an MRI. A few hours later, the doctor came in to suggest that I wait for an ambulance that would transfer me to another hospital where I would soon be receiving emergency surgery. It had been discovered I had a “mass” on my lower spine, a mass that entangled all of the nerves connecting to a handful of necessities below my belly button: all of the nerves that threatened to snap at any moment and cause me to lose use of whichever part of me to which the nerves were attached. I wasn’t surprised, but my parents were — and so was my boyfriend. Now, they all believed me. My stay began with an extreme surgery and a purposely broken back, followed by days of lying on my stomach, incapable of movement. I soon progressed to lying flat on my back, and was eventually granted the luxury

of lifting my head. Slowly I learned to stand, began to take my first steps, and noticed my one inch growth from a surgically improved posture. A morphine drip followed by weeks of night sweats, a horrendous case of bed-head, and days of physical therapy later and the worst had past. It was only a few weeks before I was back in my parents’ house, learning to walk long distances again and beginning to relive my normal life. Not long after and I was back in Orlando, 20 pounds lighter and sporting a seven inch scar down my spine (photo, right). So I continued on as I had before. I went to bed at night and woke up in the mornings. I pet my dog. I ate lunch and dinner. I kissed my boyfriend. I watched reality television. I went to class. I even drank beer. Then a call came from my dad. He said he was sorry, but it wasn’t over. The doctors had sent the “mass” off for testing, just precautionary testing, because it was presumably nothing to be worried about. But, it was. The tumor came back identified as an

eppendymoma, a very rare brain cancer that only occasionally appeared on the spine, and was grade 2 cancer. People ask me: what did I do? Well, I called my boyfriend and requested he come home from school. I spent about fifteen minutes crying about it and feeling sorry for myself. But, that phase soon passed and I realized that I still went to bed at night and woke up in the mornings. I still pet my dog. I ate lunches and dinners. I kissed my boyfriend. I watched reality television. I went to class, and I drank beer. I even continued to be a hypochondriac. What else could I do? I get a variety of reactions from others regarding my “situation.” The older women and men that fill the waiting rooms at Moffitt look at me like I am extremely out of place, until finally building the nerve to ask why I, being so young and looking so healthy, would be sitting in the same seats as the much more obviously sick people. One of my boyfriend’s friends continuously called me “cancer girl” during a game of pool until I politely advised him to “shove it.” One med school student, after requesting the story behind my scar, replied with an enthusiastic “Cool!” before regressing, explaining that eppendymomas were something he had studied but thought he would never encounter. All of these responses have been taken as lightly as possible, as has much of my journey. The doctors continue to tell me that I do not take my situation seriously enough, but I disagree. As I asked before, what else can I do? I have undoubtedly been one of the lucky ones thus far; only losing my ability to participate in anything physical or lift anything over twenty five pounds. So, my athletic days are done and I will forever live without the thrill of another roller coaster or jet ski ride, but are either of those really that much of a loss? These are, of course, just a few of the many possible repercussions

there are with any illness, which includes extensive doctor visits, treatments, unimaginable medical bills, and the neverending anxiety that something is still wrong — even though I believe I am prepared to handle these issues. The worst part is the still-unanswered questions, particularly in a case as rare as mine and at the young age of only 20. Nobody can tell me how I got this cancer, where it came from, or why it happened to me when there have only been 25 reported cases of this type of cancer and perhaps only six — EVER — that have appeared on a person’s spine. When I ask the doctors if it will come back, the answer is that, yes, it is more than likely. But, nobody knows for sure. So now, I wait to find out if my little unwelcome growth will ever return, and if so, when? How old will I be? Will it grow on my spine or in my brain? I just have to wait to find out. So, what do I do while I wait? Whatever I can: I go to bed at night and wake up in the mornings. I pet my dog. I eat lunch and dinner. I kiss my boyfriend. I watch reality television. I go to class, and dang it, even though I’m not quite 21 years old, I do drink the occasional beer. What else can I do? Ashley Darby is a New Tampa resident and a published author. Her first novel, entitled Paper Wristbands, is available at BarnesandNoble.com, Amazon.com and other websites that sell books.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL W

COMPUTER SERVICES

Bridge players wanted for occasional smallgroup party Bridge, weekday, day-time, New Tampa. Intermediate or advanced beginners only. Fun; not ferocious. Free. Call 907-2541.

Professional Tech Support in your home or small business. A+ certified computer tech with 15 years of exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades & tutoring. More affordable than the large chains! Friendly, personalized svc. Technical jargon explained in plain English. References available upon request. Call 957-8342 for free estimate.

H E L P

Classifıeds

W A N T E D

Join OrthoTechnology’s Winning Team! Ortho Technology, an international orthodontic supply distributor located in New Tampa, is seeking talented energetic candidates for the following full-time positions: Inside Sales: Skilled salespeople for established territories! Proven track record of success in B2B phone sales, exc. communication & computer skills req’d QC Inspector: Entry level position responsible for accuracy of outgoing orders. 1-2 yrs exp w/QC responsibilities. Ability to stand/walk for entire shift, close vision, basic color differentiation and basic math req’d. Small parts/med device experience a plus. We provide a great work environment, excellent benefits package and growth potential. Submit resumes to careers@orthotechnology.com.

HOME

IMPROVEMENT

Need home maintenance? Almost any job, large or small, ext/int, fencing, screening, sm. concrete, sprinklers, painting, repairs, int. doors, locks, sheet rock, windows, paint, caulk, grout, trim, shelving, garages organized. Installations, removals, pressure washing, wood restoration & more. Call Dale’s Home Maintenance @ 9730194 or 727-2582. Quality Handyman, specializing in Home Improvements, repairs & installations of all types from A to Z, including telephone & computer cabling. 18 years of exp. No job too small. E-mail eddieperdomo@yahoo.com or call 451-6541 for questions or Free Estimates. Greg’s Paperhanging. For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed & insured, clean, quick & reasonable. Call 973-2767 for free estimate. RAYMOND PAINTING. Interior & exterior, pressure washing, paper hanging, plaster, stucco, tiles, concrete, clean & seal pavers. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free estimates. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ARBOR GREENE RESIDENT. We Work 7 Days. Call 994-5124. Dan Turner Decorating Wallcovering Installation. The most important thing about the wallcovering you select is...the installer. Don’t sacrifice the beauty of wallcovering, turn to the experts. Call today for a free consultation. Licensed & insured. Call 928-2160

CLEANING SERVICES HERE I COME! I specialize in all types of cleaning: houses, apartments, townhouses, garages, etc. Best prices in the Bay area. References available. Call for a free estimate. Call 735-7979. Bright Cleaning of Tampa. Residential & Commercial. Move-in & move-outs. Good references & good prices. Free estimates. Call Edna & Francisco at 562-6772. D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE. We have our own supplies & more than 200 clients in New Tampa! For more information, call 758-9710. Isn’t life busy enough? Save time. We can help. Your satisfaction is our first priority. Guaranteed, affordable, reliable, quality domestic svcs. Free estimate: Chelsea Maid Company @ 994-6662. LEBOM Cleaning service. Are you tired of cleaning? Call us & let us do the dirty job for you. Residential & Commercial. Move in/Move out. 6 years working for the best. Good references. Great prices. Licensed! Call325-7904 now for a free estimate.

L A N D S C A P I N G

P/T Massage therapist. Please send résumé to PO Box 47254 Tampa, FL 33647 or fax to 994-3080. P/T Medical Asst. for doctor’s office in New Tampa. With experience. Good salary & benefits. Fax resume to 632-7114 or call 632-7111.

Everyday Gardener’s Club. Full-service property maintenance available for residential & commercial. One-stop shopping with licensed, insured professionals. Specializing in landscape design with conceptional drawings & renderings available. Let your imagination & our professionals come together to create dreams that will last a lifetime. Visit www.everydaydesigns.net. Call 933-1120 or 303-4368.

LAWN MAINTENANCE

These are the Color Classifieds Your Neighbors R E A D! Call Julie Rinaldi @ 910-2575 to order your ad today! NTLC Property Maintenance. Residential & Commercial lawn maintenance for New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Sprinkler repair, tree trimming, mulching, landscaping & clean-ups also available. Licensed & Insured. Call Bill @ 973-3825. Enjoy your time & let A.T.B. Landscaping & Lawn Service do the work for you. We provide landscaping, lawn maintenance, clean-ups, tree & hedge trimming, sodding, sprinkler repair & fertilization. Other services also available. 907-LAWN Lawn maintenance * commercial & residential * rentals * HOA clean ups * investment properties * complete lawn care at prices you can afford! Service that you can depend on. Call Ken 334-3460.

P O O L

S E R V I C E S

Tranquility Pool Service. New Tampa Owned & Operated! Great pricing w/outstanding customer service. Relax & enjoy while we keep your pool in pristine swimming condition! Licensed, Bonded & Insured. Call Chris today for a free quote @ 857-5400 or visit us at www.tranquilitypoolservice.com to see why we are New Tampa’s #1 choice!

P E T

S I T T I N G

moving, packing & storage. Pressure washing, painting inside & out. Professional service at bargain prices! Call Dennis 601-4560. Clean-outs—abandoned homes, garage cleaning. Pressure washing; odd jobs—painting, tile work, etc. Contact Sure Window Cleaning 926-9943. Graphic Electric, Inc. Electrical contractor available. Service upgrades, room additions, remodels, pool equipment, ceiling fans, low voltage lighting, etc. Any electrical worked needed. Licensed insured & bonded. Call 532-9160. All major credit cards accepted. Trash removal. Trash clean-up, garage cleanouts. Will haul furniture, appliances, yard debris, lowest rates guaranteed; starting at $40. Call 285-4674.

R E A L

E S T A T E

ATTENTION ALL REALTORS! The Real Estate "POWER TEAM" has moved to RemaxFirst in Real Estate. Now hiring new team members. Please call Regina Ramalheira at 813245-8893. New Office/ great Bruce B Downs location in front of Live Oak.

Animals’ Best Friend says, “Pets Deserve Good Love & Care, Even Times When You’re Not There!” In-your-home pet-sitting svcs, including dog walks, multiple & overnight visits, administering meds, plus love & attention. Licensed, bonded & insured. Call 765-5515 for a free consultation. Or, visit www.animalsbestfriend.net.

GE Side by Side Stainless steel refrigerator for sale, only $450! 25 cu feet, ice & water dispenser on the door. Great condition, call 2948311.

Professional Pet Care Exp’d. pet sitters. We walk, play, feed & administer medicine, all in the comfort of your pet’s home. We also bring in mail, water plants & help maintain home security while you’re away. Bonded, insured & trained in Pet First-Aid & CPR. Call For The Love Of Pets at 545-8406 or 416-3126. Or visit www.ForTheLoveOfPetsOnLine.com.

Town Home for rent in Meadow Pointe, gated 1 car garage, 3br, 2& ? bath, loft—Maint. Free. $1250/mo. Please call 541-3158.

Tampa Cat Lady Professional Cat-Sitting Service. You say goodbye - we say hello. Cats are happiest when in their own home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds & smells. When you are away, we feed, cuddle & play with your kitties & clean & dispose of litter. We help deter crime by bringing newspaper/mail & rotating lights/blinds, giving your home that lived-in look. Licensed, bonded & Red-Cross certified in pet first aid/CPR. Call 994-9449 or visit www.TampaCatLady.com.

Shared Office Space Available Want to start a new business with small overhead costs or just need space for special events? Several rooms (large & small) available during the week or evenings. Please call Jean Tripp at 802-9298.

S E N I O R

C A R E

Don’t want to leave your loved ones home alone? For excellent senior care call 451-1265.

New Tampa Pet Sitting Service. Lots of love & care for your pets. Great experience & references. Recommended by Angie’s List. Licensed, Insured & Red Cross Certified. Call Marina @ 416-5301.

S E R V I C E S AVA I L A B L E THE GAS DOCTOR. 24-HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE. Residential * Commercial * Industrial. * New Construction & Remodels * Natural & LP Gas Piping Systems. Gas Appliance Installation, Service & Repair. Providing connections for: Gas Lights, Ranges, Dryers, Fireplaces, Furnaces, Generators, Grills, Space Heaters, Water Heaters, Pool Heaters, Firepits & Tankless Water Heaters. TECO Rebates on Natural Gas Appliances. 5162927 or thegasdoctor.com. License # MG 24668 Beautiful outdoors! Construction superintendent at your service! Landscape design, clean-up & mulching, repairs for roofs, screening, sprinklers, drywall & shelving. Garage clean out, help with

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 16 • August 7, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com