Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, Volume 28. Issue 16, August 4, 2020 by Neighborhood News

WESLEY CHAPEL

Inside:

Ya Gotta Love Five Guys Burgers & Fries! See pages 28-29!

NEWS

Volume 28 Issue 16 August 4, 2020

BACK TO SCHOOL, COVID-STYLE Her son had such a wonderful experience with his teachers in Pasco County that Danielle Biggs went back to school in her 20s to become one of them. Today, she’s afraid that decision could kill her. Like many teachers not just across the county but across the nation, Biggs, a mother of three, is preparing to get back into a Veterans Elementary classroom on August 24, when Pasco’s schools are scheduled to reopen. She is filled with trepidation, however, because she says the growing spread of Covid-19 poses a serious threat to her and her teachers and students. “I don’t want my children to grow up without a mom because I chose to be an educator,” she says. That is not hyperbole, she adds. While the numbers suggest that children catch the virus and are less affected by Covid-19 than adults, the fear of them spreading it to teachers (and students with underlying health conditions), and as a result the community, is frightening for Biggs.

See “Back To School” on page 4.

Danielle Biggs of Veterans Elementary was among many local teachers who protested having to return to brick-and-mortar schools later this month outside the July 21 Pasco School Board meeting. (Photo by Octavio Jones)

New Look, Much More Activity Movies, Bistro & Entertainment!

Krate Container Park Construction Ongoing!

For Leasing Information, call Keren at (407) 636-1266 or email keren@mgoldgroup.com Mini Golf coming; construction starting soon

Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County Open House: Saturday, August 15, 9 a.m.-noon! For more details, see pages 3 & 5!

Upcoming Events At The Grove:

Country Music Festival! Saturday-Sunday August 22-23! Look for more details in next month’s ad! ..................................................................

TLC Community Markets (Reopening Sept. 5!) To apply to be an entertainer, or for more event information, contact Matheus Gold Office: (813) 406-5819 Cell: (407) 534-0810 Email: matheus@mgoldgroup.com

From preschool through kindergarten, we make early education and daycare joyful, engaging and fun so children are happy to learn, play and grow!

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* Health and safety standards may vary by location depending on state and local government mandates. Always consult with your local TLE center for the speciﬁc list of health requirements in your area.

Zoom Meeting On Racism; Plus, A Sports Campus Open House! An editorial by Gary Nager If an open dialogue has to have participants who see things only as black and white, or as red and blue even more often these days, is it really an open dialogue? My hope is to finally start an open dialogue about something that’s become much more near and dear to my heart in recent weeks — and no, it’s not about Covid-19 or face masks. For the last couple of issues, I’ve been writing in this space about how I’ve personally felt about the state of race relations in this country. In the immediate aftermath of the George Floyd murder at the hands of law enforcement, I at first felt powerless. But now, I feel like I at least have found a way to at least do something about it — and several dozen of my readers in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel have agreed to see if we can at least do something together. And that makes me feel a whole lot stronger, even though I still have no idea what I hope this group can accomplish or how we can get there. All I know is that the readers who have responded that they’re interested are all of different races — black, white, yellow and brown — and (I’m guessing) different faiths and include doctors, lawyers, teachers, scientists, stay-at-home moms and (guessing here again) different socioeconomic statuses. It’s the kind of group I hope to someday have a chance to meet with to have a beverage and/or a meal, or even a large-scale gathering in an open auditorium. But for now, it appears as though whatever this is will have to start with a currently (as of July 24) unscheduled Zoom meeting. That meeting will likely be scheduled for one evening between August 10-13 and will be open to anyone who genuinely wants to be part of something that I hope will be helpful in some way. Because it will be a Zoom meeting, I plan to moderate the discussion that evening and I have asked someone I have a huge amount of respect for to co-moderate it with me — District 63 State Representative Fentrice Driskell — who has already re-won reelection to her seat because of having no opponent. Rep. Driskell just happens to be an AfricanAmerican woman, a Tampa attorney with the firm of Carlton Fields and a trusted community leader. She is a product of Florida’s public schools who went on to attend Harvard University, where she graduated with honors and was the first African-American female student to serve as president of the Undergraduate Council (student government). Rep. Driskell also is a graduate of Georgetown Law School who volunteers with organizations that aid students, families and veterans and recently was named the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s 2018 Woman of Promise for her community support. As the moderator of the Zoom meeting, one thing I won’t be interested in discussing is the defunding of law enforcement, which has become a popular rallying cry in the wake of Floyd’s death. I also will do everything I can to not allow fingerpointing or for the meeting to become about Red vs. Blue. As someone who grew up in New York and saw police officers running towards people who had just been shot as I tried to go in the opposite direction — away from the danger — no one can convince me that 1) most cops aren’t good public servants & 2) to improve law enforcement’s protection of us will mean additional training that will cost more money, not less. Please email me at ads@ntneighborhoodnews.com to join this open dialogue with this diverse group and when the Zoom meeting date and time are set, I will email everyone who signed up with a link to the meeting. Neighborhood News

Sports Campus Open House!

The wait is over! For everyone who has been excited about the long-awaited opening of the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County (3021 Sports Coast Way, less than a mile north of S.R. 56 at Lajuana Blvd.), our friends at RADDSports (which is managing the campus and its programs) are holding their first Open House inside the nearly-completed, 98,000-sq.-ft. facility on Saturday, August 15, 9 a.m.-noon! The Open House will be an opportunity to check out all of the sports and educational programs the sports campus has to offer and meet the incredible directors who will be overseeing those programs. And, since masks and social distancing will be required, the Open House will be a great way to introduce you and your kids to all of the programs available for locals — and to feel safe! For more info about the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County, see the ad on page 5, visit Wiregrass-Sports. com, call 813-TEAMRADD or email Nicole@

INSIDE:

RADDSports.com for programs or Jannah@ RADDSports.com for sponsorship info.

CineBistro is no more, but something better is coming soon to The Grove.

Page 10

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Five Guys Burgers & Fries moves in near our editor. Diet in jeopardy?

Pages 28-29

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

Nothing that appears in 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 advertisement reservations for Volume 28, Issue 18, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, August 17, 2020. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will consider previously nonpublished outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, nor for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers.

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Back To School: Teachers fear the worst as the state mandates that schools reopen. Continued from page 1.

There are countless layers and questions when it comes to reopening schools, as Florida continues to struggle with containing the virus, which is infecting more than 10,000 people a day in the Sunshine State and the death count continues to grow. But namely, consider this: What happens if a teacher contracts the virus? What happens if a student passes it around? And, what happens when/if someone — even one teacher or child — dies? “It’s unsafe for us to open right now,” Biggs says. “This has me pretty emotional. The decision our governor is making is ultimately going to cost the lives of educators, and the lives of family members and students. And to me that is just unacceptable.” Biggs’ fears are shared by other teachers. But, they have few choices. U.S. Pres. Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis have pressed for schools to open, even threatening to withhold much-needed funds if they don’t, and Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran issued a July 6 order (now being challenged in court) that a five-day-aweek traditional school option should available to all parents. “I teach kids every day about science and repeated trials and tracking data, and what it really means to look at facts,” Biggs says. “But,what we’re getting is a lot of opinion. When the Governor says I believe that we need to do this, and it is not sup-

ported by data…and that’s not okay.” Most teachers, citing concerns about children spreading the virus, overcrowded classrooms and keeping their students from simple things like sharing pencils or a hug, would rather see the first semester — at least until infection rate numbers decrease significantly — be online only. They have staged protests across the state, and Biggs was one of dozens of Pasco teachers who protested outside the July 21 School Board meeting. At that meeting, Browning told those listening that Pasco County had no choice but to follow Corcoran’s order, even though school districts in Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and Broward counties are opening with distance learning. “They’re still in Phase 1, they have the latitude,” Browning said. “We are not given that latitude. We’re in Phase 2 of the Governor’s (reopening) order. In fact, the (Corcoran)’s emergency order specifically states that upon reopening in August, districts must open brick and mortar at least 5 days a week for all students. The order does not give districts any wiggle room to not open our schools. I don’t necessarily agree with the order, but it is an immaterial point.” Teachers like Katy Powers and her husband Robert Mueller, fifth grade teachers at Denham Oaks and Sand Pine elementary schools, respectively, don’t find any solace in the Phase 2 argument, however.

“We closed schools when we had 300 cases in the entire state,” Katy says. “We’re now here in July, and statewide we have 436,000 cases. And, that’s with kids being at home. It makes no sense to go back now.” Powers and Mueller are so concerned about the dangers of returning to school — Katy has a blood pressure issue from a pregnancy three years ago that puts her at risk — they decided to put together their wills. The United School Employees of Pasco (USEP) conducted a survey recently of its teachers and school-related personnel (SRP), and 75 percent of the 3,800 respondents felt the only way to safely begin school was through distance learning. In a formal resolution on July 24, the USEP wrote, “In order to promote health and safety for students and staff, USEP will strongly advocate for the District to conduct schools in a Distance Learning only format until there is a 14-Day downward trend in positive COVID-19 cases.” USEP was expected to begin pressing the District on this issue. But, Colleen Beaudoin, the Pasco School Board chair, says the school year will not start online. “A lot of people are saying they want to start “On time and online,” Beaudoin says, referring to a campaign touted by teachers as the best way forward. “That is currently not an option. One thing that is crystal clear is that we must follow the statute to receive funding, or nobody gets paid.”

Beaudoin says she has received emails from teachers who are fearful of returning to their classrooms before Covid-19 is under control, and “I’ve also heard from some (SRP) and teachers who have advocated for going back on time, (that they’re) worried about how to make ends meet.” Biggs says of all the teachers she knows, maybe five percent have no issues about returning to school, while another five percent are looking into taking a leave of absence. The remaining 90 percent “are absolutely terrified and looking to find other opportunities.” Many are trying to get one of the District’s online teaching positions. But, Browning says that about 65 percent of parents who made their declarations by Aug 1 wanted their kids to go back to brick-andmortar classrooms, so there won’t be too many online jobs available. Katy Powers will teach online, as well as in a pod at Denham Oaks. Robert applied for an online teaching position but didn’t get it, and will return to his classroom at Sand Pine. Katy has resigned herself to the fact that schools will reopen Aug. 24, but she still hopes that Browning and the Board will look at the Covid-19 infection rates and fight harder for the safety of teachers and students. “I’m just afraid it’ll come too late, after schools are opened, after someone passes away,” she says. “After it’s too late.”

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Browning Reelection Bid Highlights Primary Elections By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Election season officially kicks off in Pasco County with the primary election on Tuesday, August 18, with a few key races, including the one involving Pasco County Superintendent of Schools Kurt Browning and a replacement for District 4 County Commissioner Mike Wells, Jr. Also on the ballot but running unopposed in the primary election are Republicans Mike Fasano (Tax Collector), Brian Corley (Supervisor of Elections), Chris Nocco (Sheriff), Ron Oakley (District 1 County Commissioner), Kathryn Starkey (District 3 County Commissioner) and Jack Mariano (District 5 County Commissioner). The most interesting race may be between Browning and challenger Dave LaRoche, a race that became personal in June when Browning demoted and transferred his opponent. Browning told the Tampa Bay Times that he replaced LaRoche, who has been the principal at Hudson High for 12 years, because he wanted someone in that position who shared his long-range plans for the county. The School Board backed Browning’s decision to send LaRoche to an assistant principal position at Mitchell High in New Port Richey. LaRoche, who graduated from Hudson

term as Superintendent of Schools. He filed to run again in December of 2019. He oversaw a series of contentious re-drawing of school districts over the past few years, including one in the Wesley Chapel area, but has generally received favorable marks. The District’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic has been largely applauded. How the district handles the upcoming school reopening could play a significant role in the election. The winner in the primary Pasco County’s Superintendent of Schools Kurt Browning (left) will face Bayonet Point middle is seeking his third term against challenger Dave LaRoche, a school teacher and Land O’Lakes principal at Hudson High for 12 years before being demoted by High graduate Cynthia ThompBrowning in June in a move LaRoche calls “suspect.” son in the general election on Nov. 3. Pasco County is the largHigh, as did his three younger brothers, est of the state’s 41 districts that elect their wrote on his website that Browning’s decisuperintendents of schools. sion was “suspect” and that, “I am conIn the race to replace Wells, who is runcerned that the school that I have spent the ning unopposed for the property appraiser last 16 years as an administrator (in Pasco schools) building, cultivating, and leading is position his father Mike Sr. once held for 20 being ripped apart for political aspirations.” years, candidate Gary Bradford has garnered much of the support of the county’s RepubLaRoche has been involved in public lican leadership. education for more than 30 years. He has received endorsements from Browning is a former Supervisor of District 2 Commissioner Mike Moore and Elections for Pasco County, as well as the Sheriff Nocco, among others. former Florida Secretary of State under A retired law enforcement officer and then-Governor Charlie Crist. current Tallahassee lobbyist for the Florida Browning is running for his third

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Police Benevolent Association, Bradford has raised $104,873, which is roughly $70,000 more than the other three Republicans running against him .— Christina Fitzpatrick, Russell “Jeff” Miller and Gabe Papadopoulos — have raised combined. In School Board races, District 4 incumbent Alison Crumbley faces off against Joshua Stringfellow, who has 10 years of professional experience in finance and accounting, including with Pasco County Schools from 2014-19. Crumbley is seeking her third term, after winning her seat unopposed her past two races.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 16 •August 4, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

Here’s a sneak peek inside the former Cobb 16 Movie Theater in The Grove at Wesley Chapel, which is being renovated & reimagined by developer Mark Gold (not pictured) into a more complete family entertainment destination, with a true Dave & Buster’s-style video arcade, restaurants, mini golf, kids-only theaters & more. (Photos by John C. Cotey)

The Grove Theater Getting A Major Makeover By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com When CMX, the parent company of Cobb Theatres and CineBistro, filed for bankruptcy in April, citing the damage done by the coronavirus, it officially brought to an end Wesley Chapel’s popular movie theater in The Grove. It also, however, has ushered in a new opportunity. The outside of The Grove Theater will sport a fresher, more modern look (right). The new paint job Developer Mark Gold, whose should be finished by the time you’re reading this. Mishorim Gold Properties owns The Grove, is remaking the popular ever, with his plans to ensure safety. In The Grove Theater (working title). 85,000-sq.-ft. movie theater into somean era where the Covid-19 pandemic has The large arcade area — which, in thing that he says will be bigger and better. most theaters, is just a small room set off to changed everything about the way the “I am bringing something for the the side with a dozen or so games set up — world does business, Gold promises that whole family,” he says. And, don’t worry, will replace the current lobby, with games with each movie ticket, gaming pass and he adds, the new project will still be a meal purchased, customers also will receive designed for teens and adults in one area, movie theater, it’ll just be, “unlike any the one thing that will best allow them to and games for younger players in another. you have seen before.” enjoy the experience — peace of mind. At least one or two of the movie To name a few of the major changes: theaters will be modified to serve as a State-of-the-art cleaning equipment Instead of 16 movie screens (and roughly “kids zone,” with things like bean bag will be employed to keep the theater 3,000 seats), there will be 12 screens, virus-free. There will be hospital-grade chairs and sofas for those watching the with at least one or two dedicated to fog machines and ultraviolet lights to movie and a play area for those who’d children. The additional space freed up disinfect walls, floors, handles, seats rather climb through tubes and tunnels. by consolidating the screens will be used and the air in between each movie, and The kids theater will be ideal, Gold says, to create a video game area that Gold temperature monitors at the front door for parents looking to watch a movie or says will resemble the popular arcade and that will keep those showing coronavirus enjoy dinner while their children watch restaurant/bar Dave & Buster’s. There symptoms from entering. something more suitable for their age. will be a sushi restaurant upstairs and one Social distancing will be implementGold says he also is considering with more traditional American/theater ed, as will face masks, depending on the converting one theater into a ninja-style food options below. state of the virus when the theater opens. obstacle course for younger kids. Outside, new landscaping and a “Our theater will be extremely safe,” The other movie theaters will carry mini-golf course will create an area for the latest Hollywood releases and will be Peck says. “It will have things in there no people to gather and make a night of it. fitted with newer, and more comfortable, other company has ever been able to do Gold says the entire facility will be leather reclining chairs. There will be VIP because of the (costs associated with the) redesigned, reimagined and most imporlarge number of theaters they control.” theaters, will full-fledged dining options tant, rejuvenated, and that there already are like the old CineBistro model. “The And, if you wonder what happens plans for an adjoining housing development name won’t be there,” Peck says, “but when (or if) Covid-19 finally passes, featuring 540 townhomes and apartments. Gold says he is still playing the long the same concept will continue.” “This is going to be an entertaingame with his safety measures, because ment complex like no other,” says Tom You Still Have To Feel Safe there will still be plenty of other germs Peck, the director of operations for Gold says he is most pleased, howout there and families will be looking 10

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to stay safer than ever in the future. “Everyone is going to want to feel safer, more secure,” Gold says. “Even 2-4 years down the road. The idea is we will be much safer than your grocery store. This place will be 3,4, 5-times safer because we are taking all these steps.” Only with these safety measures, Gold says, can he see his vision fulfilled, where families come out to play a round of miniature golf, enjoy a dinner together, see a movie and play some games afterwards. Instead of two hours in a theater, families can spend 4-5 hours enjoying a night of entertainment. “It will have everything in one complex,” Gold says. “At a normal movie theater, maybe you go eat before you come, then see the movie and go somewhere else after. But, this will have everything. It’s going to be a real destination spot.” The theater renovations, which Peck says could be completed sometime in September, are another part of a massive project at The Grove, which Gold purchased last September for $62.7 million. By the end of the year, The Grove is expected to have more than 60 converted and redesigned shipping containers open at the trendy KRATE by Gold Box container park, which is being built on nearly 7 acres of land just west of I-75 and east of The Grove’s big box retail stores like Best Buy and Dick’s Sporting Goods. A host of other restaurants, bars and businesses are opening now (see next pg.; have you tried Double Branch or F45 yet?), or are expected to open soon in “The Village” portion of the 200-acre complex. For leasing & other info, search “Grove At Wesley Chapel” on Facebook, call (407) 636-1266 or see the ad on pg. 1 of every issue of New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News! @NTWCNews

The Grove Is Getting Back Into The Groove! By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com A mini golf course, being built by Ryan Mortti (who also happens to own the new Mahana Fresh restaurant in New Tampa), is currently in the design phase in The Grove at Wesley Chapel and could break ground by early September. The course will be in front of The Grove theater (see separate story on previous page) and will be visible from I-75. According to Mortti, the course will feature a Hawaiian theme, with tiki huts and other tropical and water features. By day, the course will keep golfers shielded from the sun with overhead sail shades and, at night, the holes will be illuminated with neon lights and glow-inthe-dark flags and balls. “We’re looking to make it as comfortable as possible,” says Mortti. “We’d like to see at least 70 percent of it or so covered for shade.” JUST DON’T AXE ME WHEN: The Kilted Axe, plagued by permitting issues and a few aborted grand openings due to issues related to Covid-19, now has new owners. Former minority partners in the Kilted Axe Brian and Rebecca DeCook

Neighborhood News

have purchased the axe-throwing venue from previous primary owners Michael and Alicia Esenwein and hope to have it open sometime this month, with leagues beginning in mid-September. The Kilted Axe, originally cast as a hip beerAn 18-hole miniature golf course will add to The Grove’s family-centric plans. and-wine bar and hangout for axescrapped due to Covid-19 concerns. throwing enthusiasts, as well as a venue The new owners say they plan to for corporate events and leagues, was the carry out the original plans. Rebecca first project to break ground within The says the most noticeable changes will be Grove since the 200-acre retail developinside, where the facility’s original rustic ment was purchased by developer Mark look is getting a makeover into someGold, and it appeared ready to open on thing more upscale and “more Armature time back in January, when its original Works-style, something that fits into the opening was scheduled. More than 3,700 aesthetics here (at the Grove).” people replied on Facebook that they were Otherwise, the original vibe is exinterested in attending that opening. pected to be the same. Permitting issues caused a delay in “We plan on making the Kilted those plans, and a smaller, soft opening Axe something fun and something the was held in February. An official ribbon community will get behind,” Brian says. cutting, later scheduled for March 7 “It’s going to be safe, healthy and fun. and then moved to March 28, was then We think it’s a great business idea and

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that it’s going to be very successful.”

FEEL THE POWER: Power Martial Arts is the latest business to open in The Grove. Owned by martial arts master instructors Matt Brown and his wife Lori, who have been teaching at Avalon Park and other locations in and around Wesley Chapel the past five years, Power Martial Arts began holding classes on July 20. Matt, a 6th degree black belt (Lori is a 7th degree black belt), said he has been eyeing The Grove location for years, but due to inaction in the development, held off while teaching in Lake Bernadette in Zephyrhills and Avalon Park. “We think now that Mark bought the Grove, this is a really good location,” he says. The Browns started Power Martial Arts in 2006 in Billings, MT, before moving to Florida. They teach five different martial arts styles, from Jiu-Jitsu to Tang Soo Do, or Korean Karate. They offer classes for children, teens and adults, as well as family classes. Classes in other selfdefense methods and anti-bullying safety also are available. Power Martial Arts is located at 6027 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 201. For additional information, visit PowerMartialArts.com.

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Organic Safe Lawns Keeps Your Lawn Both Green AND Healthy! By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

Nick Pipitone has used other lawn service companies, and even tried to keep his yard green and healthy himself, but he says he was looking for a safer, more environmentally sound option to keep his lawn, as well as his beloved English bulldog, chemical-free. That’s why, about five years ago, Pipitone decided to hire Jim Schanstra and his Organic Safe Lawns to take care of his lawn. “I gotta tell you, there is stuff out there, the stuff they (Organic Safe Lawns) uses, that greens up the grass real good,” says Pipitone, a Wesley Chapel resident. “You don’t need all the chemicals. That’s what I was looking for...and they have done a great job.” Keeping lawns green, free of pests and healthy is Organic Safe Lawns’ specialty. Whether it’s because your kids play in the grass or your pets like to run around in the yard, making sure they stay danger-free is a big deal for Schanstra. In fact, he says it’s why he started his business in the first place. Schanstra exposure to axes work in retirement. Butsuspects they’re that keenly DDTwhat’s (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) as ll each year. Learn involved in creating a youngster had something to do with his wife Julie developing non-Hodgkin’s large irement. But they’re keenly cancer. DDT was used in cell lymphoma e years arn what’s involved in creating fferent

Jim Schanstra says his Organic Safe Lawns technicians go beyond just fertilizing grass — they will check your plants for health and your irrigation system to make sure it’s properly functioning. the U.S. in agriculture as a pesticide and as ning bolt,” Schanstra says. “It was in that moment that I decided to do something a household insecticide in the 1940s and about it. That was the conception of Or1950s, only to be banned in 1973. ganic Safe Lawns.” Julie won her fight with cancer, with In January of 2010, Organic Safe help from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Lawns, Inc., became a Florida corporation. MN, but it was a constant reminder to “When I started out, that was my big, Schanstra of the potential effects of chemihard sell: how do I tell people we can recals used in the environment. In 2006, just before a scheduled sales ally do it?,” he says. “If we can grow fruits and vegetables organically, why can’t we meeting with an organic fertilizer mangrow grass that way? That was the concept ufacturer, Schanstra says that one of the associates said that he’d read a recent news in my mind.” Schanstra works closely with one of article that claimed Florida was using more chemical-based fertilizers and pesticides on the top organic fertilizer manufacturers and pioneers of the industry. The products residential properties than the rest of the — fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides — United States combined. used by Schanstra and Organic Safe Lawns “This statement hit me like a light-

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are certified by the Organic Materials Review Institute or OMRI, an independent testing company that certifies organic products. He says the products use a proven technology that was originally designed for fruits and vegetables, although Organic Safe Lawns deals strictly with lawns and ornamental plants. Organic Safe Lawns, Inc., has now designed and manufactured more than 30 different organic fertilizer products that are owned and trademarked by Schanstra’s corporation. While most typical fertilizers are made up of synthesized chemicals, Schanstra says the products he uses are mostly mined from the shale level of the earth, where healthier and more acidic soil exists. There are richer supplies of micronutrients, enzymes and bacterias found in this soil. “There’s no downside with our fertilizers,” Schanstra says. Other lawn companies also use mined products, but they are converted into a granular form — those little balls you see in your grass after the lawn company has stopped by — by incorporating binders and fillers to keep their shape. That’s where Schanstra says carcinogens are often entered into the mixture. “Once those little balls dissolve, those chemicals end up running off into our aquifers, which are sometimes only a foot

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or two deep below, and can get into our water, streams and ponds and cause algae blooms,” Schanstra says. Typical fertilizers come in two types of encapsulation. The first is water-based, meaning the fertilizer is released by coming into contact with water. The second is a polymer, or plastic encapsulation. Its releasing agent is heat. Schanstra says those forms of release may be fine for more moderate northern climates. However, Florida’s famously erratic weather — sometimes too much rain and often too much heat — can sometimes cause the release of a month’s worth of fertilizer in a week or even a day. Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides may lead to greener lawns — due to their higher concentrations of nitrogen — but it also can lead to the same typical lawn problems so common here in Florida. Lawn problems like fungus and disease, chinch bugs, webworms and mole crickets are often found in high-nitrogen soils. “We found that by reducing the nitrogen level (in the products Organic Safe Lawns uses), we almost eliminate fungus and pests,” Schanstra says. “The cheapest way to get green grass is with high-nitrogen fertilizer.” Schanstra also says that high-nitrogen fertilizers push top growth and weaken root structure. Over time, the lawn’s root system can’t sustain the foliage. “A weakened root structure is like candy to bugs,” Schanstra says. “After

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Organic Safe Lawns will keep your grass and plants looking green and healthy using only safe products.

using our treatment, you’ll see the bugs moving over into the neighbor’s yard.” Chemical-based fertilizers are designed to be absorbed through the leaf (called foliar absorption). All of the organic fertilizers that Schanstra uses are absorbed through the roots. And, he adds, they are all water-soluble liquids that are safe for pets, wildlife and humans. “When we apply organic fertilizers, I’m spraying that into the soil,” he says. “The only way the plant absorbs it is into the root system. My grass will grow a little bit slower, but my roots will be stronger.” Top-coated lawns treated with synthetic pesticides and herbicides puts people and pets in danger. Why do you think people applying pesticides wear rubber boots?

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Because, Schanstra says, they don’t want to get any of the application on them. In that case, he adds, why would you want you or your pet to track that into your house? “The dog goes over into the neighbor’s yard to pee, and they’re chewing on their paws when they get back,” Schanstra says. “Kids crawl around and play on the grass and absorb it when they walk in it.” The chemical herbicide Atrazine is still used widely across the U.S. and Florida to prevent pre- and post-emergence of broadleaf weeds, especially during the summer. It was found by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases (ATSDR) to have adverse effects on the endocrine systems of mammals and that it likely also

contribute to some birth defects. “A lot of lawn companies will blanket your yard with Atrazine,” Schanstra says. “It costs five dollars for a 600-gallon mix. They use it because it’s cheap.”’ But, Organic Safe Lawns’ technicians offer a safe chemical solution for weed control, which is spot-treated throughout the year. It isn’t as cheap as Atrazine, he says, but generally, the stronger root system his lawns have developed lead to fewer weeds anyway. “We are about the process and the materials,” Schanstra says, “as opposed to using harmful chemicals with regard to weed control.” Schanstra says he recommends treatment every 30 days, and that it isn’t any more expensive than hiring the lawn care chains. He said he also works with his customers to ensure they are watering and mowing their lawns correctly — two extremely important ways to keep your lawn in tip-top shape that are often overlooked and under-appreciated. Organic Safe Lawns services Tampa, New Tampa, Wesley Chapel and Land O’ Lakes. For more info, call (813) 393-9665, email organicsafelawns@verizon.net, visit OrganicSafeLawns.com or see the ad on page 33. Existing customers can pay their invoices on the website, too! Prospective customers can fill out a contact form on the site to get a free estimate and $10 off their first treatment.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 16 •August 4, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 16 •August 4, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Uptown Cheapskate Can Turn Your Unwanted Clothes Into Cash! By ERIC VICIAN We bet you didn’t realize that there’s money hiding in your closets. It’s sitting there right now. And no, we’re not talking about that $20 bill you found in your jacket pocket, so continue reading if you need a little Covid-19 cash boost. You really can find some convertible cash on your hangers, in your drawers and sitting on your shoe racks. Thanks to Uptown Cheapskate — a chain of fashion retail stores that are similar to a thrift store but with more upscale, designer-label items — the clothes, shoes and accessories that you no longer want, may be of resale value to you. The 4,800 sq.-ft. store that opened in the Publix-anchored City Plaza at Tampa Palms shopping center a few miles south of County Line Rd. back in November of 2018 has re-emerged from a temporary Covid-19 closure in need of more trendy clothing and accessory items that you may have outgrown or stopped wearing or using for whatever reason. Every day, the local Uptown Cheapskate buys your items from the time they open up until an hour before closing. There’s no appointment necessary, but the staff does prefer that your former fashions arrive in hampers or bins. You can shop while one of Uptown’s 12 employees sorts through to find inventory they need. From there, your “upcycled” clothes go through an appraisal system that generates two offers. You can choose cash or store credit — the latter yields an extra 25-percent value for your items. So, what should you be looking for the next time you clean out your closets? Uptown Cheapskate Tampa

You might just have a little extra cash hanging around in your closet, says Uptown Cheapskate at Tampa Palms owner Amber Watt. (Photos: Charmaine George)

Palms owner Amber Watt says the store accepts a plethora of name brands, and fashions in sizes ranging from XS-XXL. The store is particularly in need of high-waisted “mom” shorts and jeans, crop tops, tank tops, shirts and trendy, summery pieces from brands like Zara and H&M. “We cater to a very wide range of people and that’s what makes us so successful,” says Watt, who adds that she regularly shopped at Goodwill as a youngster before attending West Virginia University in Morgantown on a full academic scholarship and studying engineering. Watt’s store is one of three in Florida from this national franchise that includes more than 80 locations in two dozen states. It launched in Utah more than a decade ago., and the Tampa Palms store is the only one in the Tampa Bay area. Watt says her store was doing very well until the novel coronavirus forced a temporary shutdown in March. “It hit us pretty hard,” says Watt, who was very happy that Publix, the landlord for the plaza, issued her a rent abatement for two months. “We were having a pretty strong Saturday in the middle of March and by the next Saturday, we were completely shut down. We did start an online store over the break (Uptown-Cheapskate-Tampa-Palms.myshopify.com) and were able to keep some of the staff on. It helped, but it wasn’t what we needed.” Uptown Cheapskate reopened at 25-percent capacity during the first week of May and went to 50 percent by the end of that month. It returned to full capacity by June, along with some new changes. Sneeze guards have been installed on all of the counters

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Safety is on full display at Uptown Cheapskate in Tampa Palms, and so are hundreds of different items for budget-conscious shoppers looking for trendy items.

and stickers are now on the floor depicting the 6-feet social distancing space. All employees must wear face masks and customers are required to as well. The store provides free disposable face masks for customers and also sells double-layer cloth masks. All six dressing rooms are sanitized and locked each time a customer uses one, and hand sanitizer is available at all stations.

We Want Your Clothes!

“It was surprising,” Watt says. “We expected a lot of pent-up demand to sell us clothes when we reopened, but it was really the opposite. We had a lot of customers shopping for clothes, but not selling us (their) clothes. We were unprepared for that, so we’ve depleted our inventory quite badly and really need spring and summer clothes now. We hope everyone will clean out their closets and bring their clothes to us. ” Whether you’re shopping or selling, Watt prides herself on keeping a clean, organized store where customer service is paramount. Clothes are organized by size, then subcategorized by short/long and further by color groupings. The experience was something that Ashlee Fredrickson felt compelled to share on Facebook after recently making the drive from Brandon to shop there.

“Clean store,” she said. “Plenty of safety measures in place with recent Covid-19 issues. Great selection and great prices.” Any time you visit, shoppers should look for stickers. Depending upon the color, there’s various discounts available — as much as 70-percent off retail. And, Uptown Cheapskate puts new items out within 30 minutes of bringing them in and many are gone within a week. For other items that literally hang around longer, the local store offers a semi-annual sale to push through old inventory and make room for the new styles that come in every day. Other deals to look out for include Dollar Days — where clearance items go for as low as a $1 — and the tax-free weekend August 7-9, where you save the 8.5% (Hillsborough County) sales tax. Watt says that plus sizes are hard to keep in stock and the handbag rack also is a popular display. The store also always needs shoes, especially men’s athletic footwear, and offers a wide range of bralets, complete outfits, swimwear and new and used jewelry. The casual clothing store caters to everyday wear fashions – primarily for the age 18-55 crowd. Customer favorites include brands such as lululemon and Gymshark ath-

letic wear, Kate Spade and Michael Kors handbags and American Eagle jeans. You will find everything from Target brands up to Gucci and Louis Vuitton. On a recent visit, we found a Coach purse for $22.99, Victoria’s Secret leggings for $13.99, Adidas shoes for $27.99 and an almost-new men’s Ralph Lauren Polo shirt for $13.99. Anything that the store doesn’t purchase from you can easily be donated to the Salvation Army, which picks up donations from Uptown 2-3 times a week. You can leave them behind and you’ll receive a tax receipt. It’s better than having your unwanted

□�

clothes end up in a landfill, Watt says. “Resale is on the rise,” she says. “It’s the future — for environmental reasons. Clothing in a landfill lasts up to 200 years. But, your trash might just be somebody else’s treasure.” Whether or not you think you have a few dollars hanging in your closet, head over to Uptown Cheapskate at 16031 Tampa Palms Blvd. W. Store hours are Monday–Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and noon-6 p.m. on Sunday. For more info, call (813) 2878696, visit UptownCheapskate.com, or see the ad on pg. 25 of this issue.

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Radiance Orthodontics Wants To Put A Smile On Your Face, Too! By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN Tampa Palms resident Kellie Lightbourne says she’s a very particular person, especially when it comes to her family and their teeth. You’d expect that from a former Mrs. USA and veteran television personality. So, when it was time for Kellie to choose an orthodontist for her 12-yearold twins, she went to several offices for consultations. She says it was when she met Sam Jureyda, D.M.D. (Doctor of Medical Dentistry), of Radiance Orthodontics, located in the Tampa Palms Professional Center, that she knew she had found exactly what she was seeking for her family. “Dr. J is amazing,” she says. “He sat with my kids, talked with them, interacted with them and made them feel welcome.” That’s a big deal for Kellie’s son, Niko, who has special needs. Kellie feared he wouldn’t cooperate with an orthodontist working inside his mouth. “Once Niko decides he’s not doing something, there’s no way he’s going to do it,” Kellie says. “I thought orthodontic treatment would be a nightmare, but now he’ll do it for Dr. J because he likes him so much. Now, I have no fear.” Niko’s twin sister, Landyn, immediately liked him, too. “Dr. J was so different

Dr. Sam Jureyda and Radiance Orthodontics in Tampa Palms have more than 100 reviews on Google, and all of them are 5 stars. The staff invites you to Google “Radiance Orthodontics” to see what patients have to say about the practice. (Photo courtesy of Eric Bunch)

than all the other orthodontists because he actually talked to us,” Kellie says. “It wasn’t boring. He actually made it sort of fun and interactive. He made us feel very comfortable and he’s very funny.” Dr. Jureyda has spent more than 25 years practicing orthodontics. Before moving into private practice in 2006 — and subsequently opening Radiance Orthodon-

tics in 2016 — he taught graduate-level students at the University of Buffalo, NY. As a former educator, he believes his own practice is improved by education, as he strives to give his patients access to modern options that lead to the best possible outcomes. He knows each patient has a unique set of needs and is sure to treat each individual with a personalized and

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completely customized treatment plan. His goal is not just to treat the patient, but also to involve the patient in the process — even the youngest among them — so they are invested in their care and have a positive experience at Radiance Orthodontics. “We believe in building a relationship with each patient,” Dr. Jureyda explains, “educating, supporting and encouraging them. We look forward to your visits as time spent with a friend, and we genuinely hope you will feel the same.” Radiance Orthodontics offers traditional metal braces, along with clear braces, and also offers treatment with InvisalignTM, which uses invisible, removable, comfortable aligners to straighten teeth. The method is constantly improving and is now so effective, it often works more quickly than traditional braces.

Adapting To Keep You Safe

Like all orthodontic practices, Radiance Orthodontics was required to shut down for several weeks during the Covid-19 pandemic. During that time, Dr. Jureyda and his staff continued to answer phone calls, text messages and emails to help their patients. When the office reopened, the same stringent cleaning protocols that have always been practiced were followed, and

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enhanced procedures have been added, such as temperature checks and health screening questions. “We have temporarily closed our waiting room and now ask our patients to wait in their cars,” says Dr. Jureyda. “Simply call or text us when you arrive, and we’ll let you know to come in as soon as your room is ready. We’re being extremely cautious at this time, to protect all of our patients and staff.”

‘Consultations Are Free?’

Justine (who asked that we only use her first name) is a University of South Florida medical student who recently began treatment at Radiance Orthodontics. In January of 2019, Justine signed up with a company that promised to close a gap between her front teeth by sending her aligners in the mail. While her first choice would have been to go to an orthodontist in person, she didn’t think she could afford it. “I don’t have dental insurance and I thought braces would cost $6,000 to $8,000,” she said. “I didn’t even know consultations are free.” Justine says the next 12 months with the mail-order company couldn’t have been further from her expectations. The aligners did not move her teeth, which caused them to not fit properly as she tried to continue her treatment. When she had questions — such as if the painful sores she was developing were normal — she had no medical professional to ask. She says the

Neighborhood News

company’s customer service department replied in form letters that were sometimes not even relevant to her question. When the aligners didn’t fit anymore, the company offered to send her modified aligners. She did her own impressions at home, and sent them in. She didn’t receive the new aligners for eight weeks. At that time, they no longer fit her teeth and she had to start over. After the third modification, with still no progress happening to fix the gap between her front teeth, she gave up. She decided she needed to see an orthodontist in person, and scheduled an appointment with Radiance Orthodontics. She says she wishes she would have done it much sooner. As she discovered, consultations at Radiance Orthodontics are completely free and are always no-obligation. “The cost is much less than I thought it would be,” Justine says. “And it’s worth it. I’m a young adult without a lot of experience. I didn’t know there were discounts for paying in full, or that the pricing would be built around monthly payments and a payment plan.” She says the experience is already vastly different than with the “do-it-yourself” aligners, including attachments being placed on her teeth to hold the InvisalignTM aligners in place. “Dr. J was listening,” Justine says. “It was such a stark difference than when I had no one to turn to.”

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Serving The Community, Too!

One hallmark of Radiance Orthodontics is that Dr. Jureyda remains committed to being a partner at almost all of New Tampa’s public schools. As a business partner at Wharton and Freedom High Schools, three middle schools, and seven elementary schools, Dr. Jureyda actively supports the “Dr. J” provides quality orthodontic care and your health and safety PTAs and students in are his top priorities. Photo provided by Radiance Orthodontics. his community. Jureyda. “I take that very seriously.” “We truly miss To read reviews about the practice, being able to be out in the community and Google “Radiance Orthodontics,” where attending events at our local schools,” he you’ll see that every review is a five-star says. “We consider it a privilege to support rating. In addition to more than 100 ratour local students and educators.” To ensure that Radiance Orthodontics ings on Google, the reviews for Radiance Orthodontics on Facebook, Yelp! and is accessible to everyone, especially during Healthgrades also are exclusively five stars. these uncertain times, Dr. Jureyda makes Radiance Orthodontics is located accommodations in both scheduling and payment plans. Some evening and Saturday at 17427 Bridge Hill Ct., Suite A, in the Tampa Palms Professional Center. appointments are available, and Radiance For more information, please visit MyOrthodontics also works with patients to RadianceBraces.com, search “Radiance determine orthodontic benefits through Orthodontics” on Facebook, or see dental insurance and provide affordable the ad on page 29. To schedule your payment options. free consultation, call or text Radiance “My reputation relies solely on how Orthodontics at (813) 972-1100. I treat each and every patient,” says Dr.

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Nancy & Sydney InQuickER Patients

“InQuickER was a savior that day.” When Sydney came home from school, she wasn’t feeling well. She had a high fever and it wasn’t going away. So, her mom found AdventHealth’s online scheduling tool, InQuicker, and reserved an ER treatment time, making Sydney’s visit fast and easy. Get in quicker and get out faster at an AdventHealth ER near you. GetInQuickER.com In case of a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

WCH & CCH Grads Finally Have Their Graduations! By MIKE CAMUNAS

It could be seen as a case of better late than never. Or bittersweet. But, on July 17, The Class of 2020 at Wesley Chapel High (WCH) finally got its graduation ceremony — nearly two months after it was originally scheduled — after the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on the age-old tradition of walking the stage for diplomas across the country — including Pasco County. Cypress Creek High graduates received their diplomas on July 24, while Wiregrass Ranch High held its ceremony July 31 (or after we went to press with this issue). Each ceremony was held in the respective school’s football stadiums. Spread out six or more feet apart on the field at the Wildcats’ football stadium, there were “pods” of three chairs: one for the graduate and two more for each student’s allotted family members or friends. Graduates then proceeded, also six feet apart, during “Pomp & Circumstance” to be seated, not alphabetically, to attend a crowdless ceremony during a muggy and misty evening. “Everyone seems excited or happy to be here, so we’re glad we could finally

(L.-r.) Pedro, Dayna and Adrian Fonseca look on during Wesley Chapel High’s rainy graduation ceremony on July 17. (Photo by Mike Camunas) give this to these kids,” second-year WCH principal Matt McDermott said. “I wish we could have unlimited seating, as if we were at the Yuengling Center, but it is what it is, and I’m glad they get to celebrate with their families.” Most students, parents, teachers and attendees donned masks. The male

graduates wore dark blue gowns, while the females wore light, or “Carolina blue” gowns. Several graduates decorated their mortarboards — a fun tradition, in the past — with such sayings as “Quarantine Grad” or “Class of COVID.” Others stuck to just their names or

colleges they were attending in the fall. Perhaps the most fitting phrase of all adorned a number of the graduates’ mortarboards: “Better Late Than Never.” “Stranger Than Ever” might have worked, too. The graduates didn’t quite know what to make of the ceremony, which did not allow any of their friends — either younger than them or those who previously graduated — to be in attendance. Only two family members per graduate were allowed to attend. It created a subdued and surreal night. In the end, the Class of 2020’s graduation was never going to be the way they had imagined when starting high school four years ago. “It kind of doesn’t really feel like a real graduation,” WCH graduate Kayla Smallwood said. “It’s weird that no one else is here, but it’s nice to have it. I have to get my diploma.” “Tonight has been fine and it’s nice to have a ceremony finally,” fellow graduate Fiorella Chiriboga added, “It would have been nice to have friends here like other graduations before us were able to do, but there’s not much you can do.” Other graduates expressed their See “Finally!” on pg. 26.

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‘Finally!’

Continued from page 25

gratitude, despite the circumstances. “It feels good,” WCH grad Shyam Patel said. “I’m glad they did it for us and I’m glad I was finally able to come back for my diploma. It was a good thing to do.” Parents, as well, were grateful that WCH and the Pasco County School District made the effort to give them the opportunity to see their children don a cap and gown on stage, if not for anything other than the photo opportunity. “It’s a good experience,” said Pat Williams, the father of Armani Williams, a WCH graduate headed to nearby Saint Leo University. “It’s something that comes with going to high school and the kids should be able to enjoy that, even if it’s different than the class before them. We’ve all been waiting a long time to get here, and even though we had to wait just a little longer, everyone got to see (the ceremony) after all.” Adversity was definitely a major theme at the WCH ceremony. Class president Abigail Wylie touched on Class of 2020’s unusual final semester several times in her address to

Wesley Chapel High’s graduation ceremony focused on social distancing, keeping graduates (and only two guests per graduate) a safe distance from their classmates.

her fellow graduates, adding that it was unfortunate that it would define them merely as “the group that graduated during the pandemic.” Meanwhile, Principal McDermott spoke of adversity frequently in his address to the WCH graduates and their guests. Not only was this class born during or in the shadows of 9/11, but now, it was coming of age during a second historically significant period.

“They definitely deserve this (ceremony),” McDermott said. “They’ve been through a lot and have earned this, in my opinion — not just because of their 13 years of hard work, but having to finish out their senior year, I’m sure, not the way anyone would have wanted to finish it.” Look for our coverage of Wiregrass Ranch High’s graduation & the start of the 2020-21 school year in our next issue of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News!

Wesley Chapel High Class of 2020 Class President Abigail Wylie. (WCH photos by Mike Camunas)

Cypress Creek High Class Of 2020 Graduation Cypress Creek High’s graduation was held July 24, the day we went to press with this issue, so we don’t have a story to go with this photo gallery, but we congratulate the entire CCH Coyotes’ Class of 2020!

Wesley Chapel High graduate Jordan Austin.

(Above left) CCH Valedictorian Marco Svolinsky and his parents Felipe and Klara Lopra. (Right, l.-r.) Judy, Greg & CCH 2020 grad Meredith Jones. (Below left) CCH principal Carin Hetzler-Nettles & CCH grad Raquel Gerina. (Below right) CCH’s socially-distanced graduation. CCH photos: Charmaine George

Second-year Wesley Chapel High principal Matt McDermott addresses the class of 2020 grads in the rain during the Wildcats’ July 17 graduation ceremony. 26

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Five Guys — For Great Burgers, Fries, Shakes & Hot Dogs! By Gary Nager

photos by Charmaine George

I don’t eat, or do a lot of write-ups, about so-called “fast food” places, but it’s kind of a misnomer calling Five Guys Burgers & Fries (which has a Wesley Chapel-area location in the same outparcel building as Raining Berries north of S.R. 56) “fast food.” Yes, it’s fast. Even though everything is made to order, with masks and social distancing inside the eatery now being required (and with the restaurant having to do away with their famed open boxes of peanuts-whileyou-wait and bags of Idaho potatoes usually kept within view, also because of Covid-19), Five Guys is still very quick indeed and wins awards in virtually every market in the U.S. But, it’s the quality of the food that makes it hard to confuse Five Guys, which has 1,500+ locations in 16 countries, with any other fast food burger joint. Franchise owner Scott Strahm actually opened his Five Guys location in early March, shortly before the pandemic hit, and is happy

to be part of this community and to offer quality food, served quickly, at very fair prices.

Start With The Burgers?

Some people, like our photographer and video producer Charmaine George, don’t even know that Five Guys has more than just great burgers. For many fans of the chain, Five Guys’ delicious, skin-on fries, which aren’t crunchy-crisp but are still super-flavorful and crisp enough, are just as important. The fries, which can be ordered “Five Guys Style (I call them “regular”) or “Cajun Style,” may not be on your diet, but they’re well worth the cheat. You also may not know that Five Guys has really good, Hebrew National Kosher-style hot dogs (left) that are split in half and grilled on the flat top, al-

though you’ll have to bring your own brown mustard and sauerkraut (the only way I eat a hot dog), because they are not among the 15 available toppings — which does include addons like grilled onions and mushrooms and jalapeño and green peppers) and you can order your dog plain, or with cheese and/or bacon. There’s also a veggie sandwich (not a veggie or “Impossible” burger) made with grilled onions, mushrooms, green peppers, lettuce and tomatoes (right photo on next page). Jannah and I can split what Five Guys calls its “Little” bacon cheeseburger, which features crisp applewood-smoked bacon and Kraft American cheese. There’s also large-size burgers with or without bacon and cheese. The burgers are always served piping hot, fresh off the flattop, and are 100% fresh (not frozen) beef, with no fillers or preservatives — and it shows! Other sandwiches include grilled cheese and BLTs (bacon, lettuce & tomato, of

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course), and all of the sandwiches are served on Five Guys’ signature soft buns — and can all also be ordered “bunless,” which will save you 240 calories per bun.

Shake It Up, Baby!

Five Guys’ made-to-order, hand-spun milk shakes are truly decadent and offer a variety of “mix-ins” at no extra charge, including bacon (seriously), salted caramel, banana, peanut butter (a must-try for me), coffee and even Oreo cookie pieces — all at no extra charge! No, they’re not on my diet, so I had to live vicariously though Charmaine, who ordered a strawberry shake with whipped cream when she shot these pics and said it was, “Seriously, one of the best shakes I’ve had. There’s real chunks of strawberries in there and it’s so delicious! I love it when you can actually taste the pieces of strawberry.” Five Guys even features those amazing “Coca-Cola Freestyle” soda machines with

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seemingly every type of beverage available that you can combine. Jannah and I choose the sparkling lemon-lime Dasani, but you don’t have to! Five Guys Burgers & Fries (25599 Sierra Center Blvd., Lutz) is open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. every day, For more info, call (813) 949-8088, visit FiveGuys.com or see the ad on pg. 30.

Only at the Lutz location. Cannot be combined with any other coupons or offers.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 16 • August 4, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Nibbles & Business The Latest & Not-So-Great News In Dining, Shopping & Business In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel! Aldi? Finally? Really???

Yes, Wesley Chapel’s Aldi supermarket finally opened (photo, right) on July 9 on S.R. 56 (in front of Costco), and although the store definitely has a few issues to work out — like no disinfecting wipes for sale, a small-ish beer and wine selection, not enough cashiers open to handle the number of shoppers and only salmon available in its fresh seafood “department” during its first couple of weeks — considering that Jannah and I literally live across the street from it, we’re excited to have a new place to shop for groceries so nearby, especially with Aldi’s (mostly) great prices. Meanwhile, New Tampa’s planned Aldi store, in the former Ruby Tuesday location on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., is still months away from even beginning to build, so our New Tampa Aldi fans have to choose between the locations on E. Fletcher Ave. and S.R. 56 for quite a while to come.

NewTampaNoonRotaryClub. eventbrite.com.

Coming To The Grove!

Check Out Via Italia!

Congratulations to owners Roberto and Daniela of Via Italia Woodfired Pizza & Bar, which opened last month in New Tampa’s Sprouts Farmers Market-anchored Village at Hunter’s Lake plaza, off BBD at 8644 Hunters Village Rd. Via Italia features truly delicious (and unique) woodfired Roman-style pizza al Taglio (huge square slices), which they actually cut with pizza scissors, instead of the usual round pizza cutters — and outstanding Italian specialties like the tagliatelle pasta bolognese pictured far right, perfect bruschetta (with house-baked crispy toast points) and a gorgeous, full-service bar area (photo on next page). For more info about Via Italia, call (813) 340-1530 or visit EatViaItalia.com — and please mention that I sent you!

Here are some other new eateries and businesses that are opening soon or under construction now in The Grove at Wesley Chapel (see ad on pg. 1 & stories on pgs. 10-11): • F45 Training (open, see pg. 15) • Jillian Joseph Photography • Roman Group Realty • Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar • Lagoon Realty • The Dessert Box • Brooklyn Bagel Co. • King of the Coop • Falabella Family Bistro • The Kilted Axe • Pizza Worx NY pizza • Pasco EDC • Japanese Restaurant (replaces Casa Cubana, which will open a different eatery in the Krate container park at The Grove) All of the businesses named above are either in permitting, under construction or ready to/already open. Even so, owner/developer Mark Gold of Mishorim Gold Properties says he apologizes for the

Covid-related delays in getting many of these businesses open, but he thanks the Pasco building code & fire departments for their help in getting them permitted and inspected under most difficult circumstances! — GN

New Tampa BrewFest Moved Back To November!!

Main Event Opens Big!

It appears that the residents of Wesley Chapel and the surrounding areas are excited about the July 17 Grand Opening and NTBC ribbon-cutting of the new Main Event entertainment center. The combination bowling lanes/kid&-adult play place & restaurant/bar has had crowds waiting (because of social distancing rules) outside almost every night to check out the newly opened center, which made a $2,500 donation to the Pasco Education Foundation (photo) on opening day. For more information about Main Event (2839 Creek Grass Way), call (813) 909-2695 or visit MainEvent.com.

With the world having gone completely crazy over Covid-19, the Rotary Club of New Tampa Noon has decided to postpone this year’s New Tampa BrewFest (which was seriously packed last year; photo far right, bottom). (Rightfully) thinking that the original August date was too soon to host even a socially-distanced event, BrewFest chair Jeff Ulbrich said the club decided to postpone the 2020 BrewFest until Saturday, November 7, beginning at 6 p.m., again at the Venetian Events Center on Cross Creek Blvd. Attendees can again expect a huge variety of craft, micro and other brews, plus top-notch wines and deliciously “legit” food trucks. Look for additional updates in these pages and pre-buy your tickets now at

Wesley Chapel/Lutz is NOW OPEN 25599 Sierra Center Blvd., Lutz, FL 33559 (813) 949-8088 | Order Online at FiveGuys.com

Takeout & Curbside Pickup Available Delivery through UberEats & DoorDash 30

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Coming Soon to Wesley Chapel!

WESLEY CHAPEL’S AUTHENTIC ITALIAN MARKET, FEATURING: • Deli • Pizza • Fresh Pastas • Cheeses • Salads • Sandwiches • Butcher Shop • Hot, Prepared Foods! • Imported Italian Specialties -

Olive Oil, Vinegar, Tomatoes & Wines

• Breads & Desserts made on-premises! Moschella’s Italian Eatery & Market 5648 Post Oak Blvd. (at Old Pasco Rd.) Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 For more information, call 813.973.7500 • www.Moschellas.com

, l h o w m u z 'all y

craft brews, top-notch wines & legit food TRUCKS -2019 Brew Fest photo by Auxcord Story

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New Tampa & wesley Chapel Classifieds HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME HEALTH CARE

WESLEYCHAPELPRESSUREWASHING.COM Soft pressure exterior house cleaning, screen enclosures, pool decks, driveways, sidewalks, fences, roofs, paver sealing and deck staining. We clean everything. No job too big or small. Experience the difference when you hire a pressure cleaning professional. Licensed and insured. Owner operated. Call for a free estimate or visit our website. 813-433-6015.

SENIOR OVERNIGHT COMPANION SITTERS Two kind senior sisters seeking work safeguarding your loved one during the overnight hours. We’ve been working w/the senior population for 10 years & have seen a need for local, English-speaking, background-checked, Covid-tested, dependable companions w/their own transportation. Very reasonable rates. Call Diane or Elisa at 813-938-8614.

DRY WALL SPECIALIST. Not a handyman. Affordable Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings and walls, retexturing, popcorn removal, room additions, cracks, holes, plaster and stucco repair. 26 Years Experience. Wesley Chapel resident. State Certified. Call Ron for free estimate: 813-784-5999.

CARING HEART, LLC. Private duty nursing care. Personal caregiver, personal assistant, post hospital/rehab care, helping hand; medical appointments, shopping, light cooking/cleaning, moving assistance packing/unpacking/ organizing, pet care. For info, call or text 813-361-6439.

TJ’s PRESSURE WASHING LLC. Driveways, Houses, Fences, Lanais and Screened Enclosures. Most residential 2 car driveways or vinyl fences starting at $75. House washing prices start at $150 for a 1 story home and $199 for a 2 story home. Looking for an instant quote? Just text me a picture of the job you need done. Call Tj at 727-808-7775. AMBLER ENTERPRISES Home Improvement. Call James at 813-385-6402. 30 Years Experience. Specialist in Kitchens & Bathrooms. Referrals upon request. All interior work: Drywall, Texture Paining, Doors, etc. Use us once & you won’t need to look elsewhere. Please Google us if you would like to see pictures: Wesley Chapel Ambler Enterprises. Also, see our display ad on this page! RAYMOND PAINTING. Exterior & Interior Services. Exterior: Painting, pressure washing, clean & seal pavers, stucco, roofing, leaks & wood rot repair. Interior: Painting, plastering, ceiling & wall repairs & tiles. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free estimates. Your Neighborhood Arbor Greene Resident! We work 7 days. Call 813-994-5124. CHARLES POPPE ELECTRIC. Electric of all kinds pools, spas, service changes, new circuts, low voltage, repairs, upgrades, changes to existing, trouble shooting, GFCI performance testing, generators. Expert in the field - over 40 years experience. Discount 50% off labor for senior citizens! Licensed and Insured Master Electrician EC 13002399 - free phone estimates. Call 813-477-9068. MILLENNIUM HOME REPAIR.Professional Handyman. Cabinet Installation, dry wall repair, tile installation & repair, some plumbing, laminate flooring, light fixtures, interior painting, appliance installation, pressure washing, paneling, window repair, awning installation, carpentry, garbage disposal, fence repair, crown molding, window blinds, seal baths & showers, TV mounting & more. Call 813-400-1408 or email TycoonUnion@yahoo.com.

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CLEANING SERVICES

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

COMMERCIAL SPACE AVAILABLE

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

LAWN & LANDSCAPING

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

COMPUTER/BUSINESS SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL TECH SUPPORT in your home or small business. A+, Certified computer tech with 20 years exp. Maintenance and Repairs, Upgrades and Tutoring. More affordable than large chains! Friendly, personalized service. Technical jargon explained. Remote assistance available. References available. Call (813) 957-8342 for a free estimate. DO YOU HATE YOUR COMPUTER?!? WE CAN HELP YOU! Troubleshooting, Installation, Networking & Virus Removal. WE COME TO YOU! Residences & Businesses, more than 25-Years Experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank at 813-973-4507, visit WSICA.COM or email Wsica@wsica.com.

TREE SERVICE

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

POOL SERVICES

ALLSTARPOOLSOFTAMPABAY.COM. Pool cleanups, & acid washing of old pool finishes. Marcite, quartz & pebble finishes from $3K. We offer cool decking, Eurocrete & paver decking options. Paver, river rock sealing, leak detection & in-ground vinyl liner replacements avail. We sell quality salt & ozone generators, pumps, motors & filters. Mention this ad for a $79 pool service (restrctions apply). Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel since 1990. Call/text 813244-7077 or visit AllStarPoolsofTampaBay.com. Also, see our display ad at the bottom of this page. TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE. New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing with outstanding customer service! LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED. See why we are New Tampa and Wesley Chapel’s #1 Choice!! Call or Text Chris today @ 813-8575400 or visit TranquilityPoolService.com. New customers get ONE MONTH FREE!

AQUATEC POOL SERVICE has been keeping pools clear & swim-safe since 1994. WE DO POOLS RIGHT! Commercial & Residential. CPO #33-303052 Licensed & Insured. Service guarantee. Call 813-312-5694 TODAY and get ONE MONTH OF QUALITY SERVICE FREE. www.aquatecpool.com. NEIGHBORHOOD POOLS Wesley Chapel owned & operated since 1999. Weekly service. No long term contracts. Mention this AD for one-month Free service. Call 813-907-7322 for details or text Joe at 813-758-7608.

PHOTOGRAPHY

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

FITNESS & WELL BEING

YOGA, PERSONAL TRAINING, NUTRITION & PHYSICAL THERAPY w/DR. LAUREN LEIVA, DPT! Phys Ed for everyone, including all children, w/a certified personal trainer who also is a degreed Dr. of Physical Therapy. Ask Dr. Leiva about her PE4ME sliding scale pay program! For more info, visit TheExerscienceCenter.com, call 813.464.0313 or see the ad on pg. 12 of this issue.

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

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 16 • August 4, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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Phone, video or office visits. With us, it’s your call. Your health is too important to put on hold. That’s why AdventHealth Medical Group offers three simple and safe ways to connect with your primary care provider. If you’d like to visit in person, we have taken appropriate steps to provide a safe environment with contactless registration and check-in. If you prefer a video or phone visit, you can schedule one online and see the same doctor you would at the office. So don’t wait to get the care you need, because we’ve made connecting with your doctor easy and convenient. Schedule your appointment today at AHMGTampaBay.com or call 844-DOC-2DAY.

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5/28/20 1:44 PM

Home Sales in Wesley Chapel JUNE Number of Homes Sold

JUNE

218

Median Sale Price

2020 217

$265,000 2.6% $272,000

# Days Until Contract Avg. 30 Year Mortgage

2019

37 3.8%

35%

20% 3.03%

Why Wait?

Contact me today for a no obligation consultation

www.ChrisHenryRealty.com

Making Every Moment Count (813) 917-1523 / Chris@ChrisHenryRealty.com

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