New Tampa Issue 17-11 by Neighborhood News

Volume 19 Issue 17

Inside: New Tampa Enjoys A ‘Night Out’!

August 13, 2011

See page 45!

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

New Tampa Little League Major All Stars Win State Title! NTLL Stars Can Win Program’s First-Ever Trip To Little League World Series In Williamsport, PA, With Win At Regional! By Sean Bowes New Tampa Little League’s Major All Stars, a group of boys ages 11 and 12, are continuing their hot streak through baseball tournaments, and they're now traveling to the Southeast Regional Tournament in Warner Robins, GA, with hopes of winning big, and perhaps advancing an NTLL squad to the Little League World Series for the first time ever later this summer. The All Stars began their post-season tournaments by sweeping all four of their District 25 games. They then continued the streak by winning all three games in Section 4 in Dade City and Haines City. Battling through a tough tournament at the State Championship in Coral Springs, the NTLL All Stars beat Palma Ceia 10-4 on July 29, lost to Kendall (Miami) 11-1 on July 30, and beat Maitland 6-5 later that afternoon.

The New Tampa team went on to play Kendall again, the only team they had lost to in the tournament, and won the game by an impressive 6-1 score on August 1. The All Stars’ coach, Ed Thinger, says that one of the reasons his team has been so successful is because of how well all of the players get along with each other. “This is a complete team with a group of boys who get along really well and enjoy playing baseball as much as hanging out at the hotels with each other,” Thinger says, adding that great pitching and hitting have been major contributors to their wins. “Conor Grady was amazing on the mound, pitching all 6 innings and striking out 11, while giving up only two hits to a team that had hit 14 home runs and thad scored 53 runs in the tournament prior to his outing,” See “All Stars” on page 43.

The New Tampa Little League Major (ages 11-12) All Stars, the first-ever team from NTLL to win a Florida Little League State title, include (not in order): Khalil Almutasim, Jonathan Baughman, Clayton Coringrato, Conor Grady, Aaron Guiang, Jeffre Guttentag, Henry Havre, Colin Hayes, Bryce Martin, Spencer McCabe, Eddie Thinger, David Trujeque, Ethan Thomas, Manager Andy Trujeque and Coaches: Ed Thinger and Charlie Havre.

Tampa Police Department Offers Year-Round Vacation Peace Of Mind

Man Robs Two Banks In 90 Minutes, Personal Trainer’s Sexual Charges Pile On, Doctors, Realtors, Spas & Much More!

See pages 3-45!

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE! Lowry Park Zoo Gets A Baby Rhino, Working Up A Sweat At Orangetheory Fitness, Another Nice ‘Night Out’ In New Tampa & More!

See pages 45-53!

See “Vacation” on page 7.

TPD Ofc. Ali Fitzpatrick can help keep your home safe when you go on vacation, even in a gated community.

ECRWSS

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS, SPORTS & EDUCATION

Postal Customer

Also Inside This Issue!

on your home, sometimes up to three times a day, to make sure your belongings are safe, and that no one has burglarized or vandalized your house or apartment while you've been out of town. For TPD, the program is a part of a “proactive patrol” that the department has been embracing. “It takes a lot less energy for us to come and check up on somebody's house while we’re out on patrol than if they have come back from a week-long vacation to find that their house has been broken into,” TPD Officer Ali Fitzpatrick says. “And, if there has been a burglary, we have a much better chance of catching the person because we would have a time frame of when the crime occurred.” After a string of recent thefts in the

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 2801

It becomes kind of like a scene from the movie “Home Alone.” You're sitting on an airplane trying to relax for a much-needed vacation, and then the fear sets in. Did you pack your cell phone charger? Did you cancel the newspaper deliveries? Did you tell the neighbors to keep an eye on your

house? Was the backdoor left open? Your vacation just became stressful, and you’re not even off the ground yet. The Tampa Police Department (TPD) is trying to ease the worries of travelers by providing a “Vacation Watch” program to local residents. While TPD will not be able to help if you forget your cell phone charger on the nightstand, TPD officers will check

Dated Material Please Rush!

By Sean Bowes

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LD SO

ING ND E P

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Weatherford On New Tampa, Wesley Chapel & Redistricting cha•ris•ma (n.) : a personal magic of leadership arousing special popular loyalty or enthusiasm for a public figure (such as a political leader).

If you’ve ever spent more than five minutes with State House District 61 Representative Will Weatherford (RWesley Chapel), you probably already like him, regardless of your political views or leanings. The fact is that Rep. Weatherford, 31, will soon be the youngest Speaker of the House this great state has ever had. Will also will be the first Speaker from Pasco County in the last 100 or so years. In other words, the oldest of nine children raised in Land O’Lakes, all of whom played competitive sports at the highest collegiate level, is (to use a sports cliché that just happens to ring true) a game-changer. He’s the type of fiscally conservative Republican and entrenched, genuine family man that even Democrats can at least embrace personally. And, Will is smart enough and sure enough of himself to be able to engage in lively debates with people who disagree with his politics without either side losing his or her temper. So, when this coalition-building, rising young state legislator was the guest speaker on August 2 at the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC)’s monthly business breakfast at a packed Saddlebrook Resort ballroom, there seemed to be a

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Publisher & Editor Gary Nager Senior News Reporter Sean Bowes Correspondents Camille Gillies • Alicia Pack • Sheryl Young

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Advertising Account Executives Jared Nager • David Zacharia

Office & Distribution Assistant Porsha Lemos Nothing that appears in New Tampa Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by New Tampa Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 19, Issue 19, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, August 29, 2011. New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. New Tampa Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. New Tampa Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, not for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. © 2011 JM2 Communications, Inc.

An editorial by Gary Nager little bit of magic in the air. Will talked about taxes and jobs and pensions, about Florida’s future and our country’s future. My favorite line of Will’s at the event was about the U.S. Legislature’s last-minute agreement to raise the nation’s debt ceiling: “If we had defaulted...and the government stopped working...how could you tell the difference?,” he quipped. But, Will also is the chairman of Florida’s House Redistricting Committee and the fact is that his district is one that could undergo some changes — although Will didn’t let on at the Chamber meeting if he already knew what those changes might be. He said his committee is still conducting public meetings (like the one held on July 26 at Wiregrass Ranch High, which I was unable to attend) to get as much public input as possible on all of Florida’s legislative districts before beginning the process of trying to implement any boundary changes. District 61 is an intereseting case, because most of Weatherford’s constituents live in Pasco County, although all of “northeastern” New Tampa (including City of Tampa residents in Hunter’s Green, Heritage Isles, Cory Lake Isles and Easton Park/K-Bar Ranch, and unincorporated Hillsborough County residents in Cross Creek, but not Pebble Creek, which currently is in District 60) are also in his District. The bottom line he mentioned during the Chamber meeting was that

at the meeting held at Wiregrass Ranch the previous week, there was some call from the speakers at the meeting, which received enthusiastic response from many in the audience, for Pasco to have at least one legislative district of its own. If so, District 61 would be a more logical choice to be “all Pasco” than District 44 (which is primarily a Hernando Copunty district that includes some of northern Pasco), or District 45 (mainly Pinellas, but with some of western Pasco). But, with the State House’s Republican majority and the committee’s charismatic Republican leader

(Weatherford), the redistricting decisions are likely to be made to best optimize Republican chances in races that will be contested at the same time as the 2012 presidential District 61 State election. That is in no way a jab at Will, Rep. Will it’s a fact of partisan Weatherford politics in this great country of ours. The party in charge basically gets to re-draw those lines. We will just have to wait the process out.

Table of Contents

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SPORTS UPDATES....................Pages 1-44 Smash & Grab & Bank Robberies In Our Area..........6 TPD’s Vacation Watch (cont. from page 1) ...............7 Local Personal Trainer’s Charges Increase..........................8 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel News Briefs..............10-11 New Tampa Toddler Drowns Restaurant Owner Dies From Beating Injuries Minivan Full Of Children Hit By Semi Cross Creek Blvd. Construction Snarls Traffic Wesley Chapel Boy Has BB In His Brain New Tampa Community Calendar..................12-13

Local Business Updates............................16-34 New Tampa Chamber Newsletter..................16-17 Prudential Tropical Realty........................................18 Seven Oaks Pet Hosptial.........................................20 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Business Briefs..24-25 Starlight Medical Group.......................................26 Temple Terrace Family Physicians...........................30 Little Feet................................................................34

Local Education & Sports Updates..........36-43 Independent Day School..........................................36 Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran School....................40 New Tampa School Grades Released.................................42 Freedom High Marching Band Announcements.............42 New Tampa Resident Named All-American Baseball Player

Neighborhood Magazine

Local Neighborhoods Participate In ‘National Night Out’ Neighborhood Watch Events...........................45 Honorary Mayor Of Wesley Chapel Race Is On!......46 New Tampa Players Present ‘Annie’........................47 Orangetheory Fitness.............................................49 Lowry Park Zoo Has A New Baby Rhino.................50 North Pole Ices........................................................52

NEW TAMPA COLOR CLASSIFIEDS..............54

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Rash Of Smash & Grabs & Bank Robberies Strike New Tampa Area Anyone with information about the suspects or crimes is asked to call TPD at 931-6500 or PCSO at (727) 844-7711.

By Sean Bowes Suspects are still on the loose for a recent rash of crimes in our area that only can be described as “smash and grab” burglaries. The break-ins left at least 12 businesses in New Tampa and the Wesley Chapel area with broken front doors and damaged interiors. According to the Tampa Police Department (TPD), the suspect(s) first struck in the wee hours of the morning, smashing the glass front doors of businesses at 17500 Preserve Walk Ln. in Highwoods Preserve, adjacent to Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., east of I-75, on August 4. The suspects then walked into the restaurant, coffee shop or hair salon, sometimes taking the cash registers, sometimes not. Cold Stone Creamery, Starbucks, Jimmy Johns, and Salon at the Walk were just some of the business targeted by the vandal(s) on August 4. That same night, six businesses in the shopping plaza at 6431 County Line Rd, less than five miles north of Preserve Walk Ln., were robbed and/or vandalized. Hungry Howie’s, Grandeur Salon, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, Frogury Frozen Yogurt, Cina Wok and Hudson Cleaners, were all victimized.

Bank Robber Strikes Two Tampa Banks In 2 Hour

This video still image is grainy, but TPD detectives say the man in the pic is responsible for a rash of recent smash-and-grab burglaries. The suspects escaped with an estimated $800 in cash total, TPD reports say. “They broke through my front window, and stole a computer,” said Arno Schlappig, owner of Salon at the Walk. “They didn't take any money. We don’t keep much in the cash register.” Police are looking for a male suspect, 18-24 years old, 5-foot-8 with a medium build. TPD detectives are working together with the Pasco County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) to find the perpetrators, as the New Tampa crimes are very similar to the break-ins at three businesses located near the intersection of S.R. 56 and BBD.

After a hectic 90 minutes on August 1, Hillsborough County Sherriff's Office (HCSO) deputies were, at our press time, continuing their search for a man whom, they say, robbed the Regions Bank branch in North Tampa, and then traveled to Hyde Park to rob a Bank of America branch an hour and a half later. A man police described as a thin, black male in his mid-30s, standing 6foot tall and wearing white Capri pants with draw strings at the bottom and a white “Gilligan” hat, handed a teller a demand note at the Regions Bank located at 11806 BBD Blvd., across the street from an entrance to the University of South Florida (USF). The man fled on foot from both banks and escaped with an undisclosed amount of cash, said HCSO. Anyone with any information about the suspect is asked to call Det. James Perrone at the HCSO District 2 office at 247-8555.

Police are still looking for this man who, they say, robbed a bank on BBD and another in South Tampa.

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“Vacation” Continued from page 1 Cambridge II community in Tampa Palms, Lourdis Lozada, a homeowner in Cambridge II, began using the program, and says she feels more comfortable with the increased presence of patrol cars in the area. Lozada also organizes the community's Neighborhood Watch program. According to Ofc.Fitzpatrick, TPD officers will check the exterior of every resident’s home who signed up for the Vacation Watch program to see if any vandalism has occurred. Officers look through windows and inspect door locks and screen doors for any signs of forced entry. Extended as “peace of mind” for Tampa residents, the officers let their presence be known by arriving in police cruisers and in uniform to inspect the home before returning to their patrol routes. Barbara Adams, a resident of Heritage Isles, has been using the program since 2005, and says she will continue to use it each time she goes out of town. “I just feel a bit more comfortable knowing that they actually come out to the house,” says Adams. Many of the homes in the New Tampa area are located within gated communities, which have security cam-

TPD Ofc. Michael Noyes will check to make sure your doors are locked and for signs of forced entry. eras at the entrances, and if a home invasion takes place, TPD detectives can use the officers’ patrol time and surveillance video of vehicles coming into the community to help their investigation. “It gives you a better chance of catching someone in the event that someone does break in,” TPD Officer Michael Noyes says. The Vacation Watch program is free for anyone who lives in Tampa. To sign up for an officer to check on your home while you’re out of town, simply download the Vacation Watch from TampaGov.net and fax it to 931-6576, or Email the information to Lisa.Timmer@Tampagov.net.

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Sexual Battery Charges Aplenty For Local Personal Trainer By Sean Bowes James Elbert Williams, a 39-year old New Tampa-based personal trainer, is back in Tampa’s Falkenburg Rd. Jail, facing multiple charges of battery and sexual battery. Williams has been arrested for the third time in a month, most recently in Arkansas, for sexual assault on a fifth victim, Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) officials say. Williams was first arrested on July 1, at his home in the upscale Cory Lake Isles subdivision, for sexually assaulting a woman by reaching behind her while she was lifting weights, and assaulting her through her workout pants. Since then, however, about 30 more women have come forward with similar stories. Initially, Williams had posted his $50,500 bail at the Orient Road Jail and left town, closing the doors of his fitness business, Club Tone on Linebaugh Ave. After his release, he headed north and west to Arkansas, where he booked a room at the Peabody Hotel, a fourstar hotel in downtown Little Rock. Meanwhile, back in Tampa, another woman came to HCSO with claims that Williams had battered her, as well,

resulting in another charge. After the second victim came forward, a warrant for Williams' arrest was issued by HCSO detectives, which led to his arrest by U.S. Marshalls at James E. the Peabody Hotel on Williams July 13. However, according to HCSO spokesperson Debbie Carter, Williams’ attorney requested a bond hearing; and, on July 14, he was granted a $25,000 bond in Hillsborough County Court. He posted bond the next day and was released from Pulaski County Jail in Little Rock. Since the Little Rock arrest, Williams has been charged with another count of sexual battery, tallying his charges up to one count of battery and four counts of sexual battery, for these four victims, Carter says. “So far, around 30 women have called in with similar stories as to what he is being charged with,” said HCSO spokesperson Melissa Kincheloe. “They're all women who were clients (at Club Tone) who complained about

his conduct.” At this time, 18 women have been interviewed about their experiences with Williams. According to Carter, the other potential victims’ reports could lead to still more charges against Williams. After the latest charges came to light, U.S. Marshalls searched for Williams, who was captured for a second time in Little Rock on July 22, with the use of police canines and helicopters. Hillsborough County Judge Chet Tharpe then denied granting Williams bond. “He is a serious flight risk,” Tharpe said during a recent courtroom hearing. In an attempt to lure in more clients and victims, Williams would use online-dating sites like Match.com to solicit women. Carter said that Williams

posed as a white male and told different women about a personal trainer who had worked with his sister, and that she had phenomenal results. He would then recommend the women to Club Tone and become their personal trainer. The women's ages range from their 20s to their mid-50s, said Carter. According to public records, Williams previously has been arrested for sexual battery in 2005, domestic violence in 2006, prowling in 2010, as well as numerous traffic violations. Additionally, complaints about his business tactics have been featured on watchdog websites like RipOffReport.com. HCSO is asking anyone who has had contact with Williams and believe they could be the victim of a crime to call 247-8200.

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N EW T AMPA By Sean Bowes

New Tampa Toddler Drowns In Family's Garage Parents in New Tampa now know how quickly tragedy can strike — sometimes it literally takes less than ten minutes. That is how long parents Moncef and Najet Bouaziz say they took their eyes off one of their seven children, Mujeeb, their one-year-old son, who drowned after tipping into a five-gallon bucket that was left in the garage. The bucket held less than 5 inches of water and cleaning solutions, and was accidentally left in the garage without a lid. According to reports, Mujeeb was found August 1, upside down in the bucket, around 12:45 p.m. After Moncef and Najet found the toddler in the garage, they called 9-1-1, and Tampa Police Department (TPD) officers hurried to their home on a cul-de-sac in Cambridge II, located just a few dozen yards from Tampa Palms Elementary. Sadly it was too late, as the toddler already had died. Neighbors who knew the Bouaziz

News Briefs family said they were attentive and caring parents to all of their children. In addition to his parents, Mujeeb is survived by his five brothers and one sister, who was his twin.

Restaurant Owner Dies Of Injuries From Beating The charges of attempted murder and child abuse are likely to change for Chunping Lin, the man who, according to Hillsborough County Sherrif's Office (HCSO), beat his wife so severely that she eventually died of her injuries on July 15 from the attack that took place on May 20. Readers who have been following the story in the New Tampa Neighborhood News may remember from our previous reports that Lisa Tian, the wife of Lin and owner of the Joy of Tokyo restaurant, was seriously injured when her husband beat her to the point of sustaining major injuries to her brain and wrist. According to published reports, a search warrant early on in the case stated that Tian had, “multiple skull fractures (and) was suffering from

brain swelling and a broken arm.” A report from HCSO showed that Lin’s child abuse charge stemmed from Tian’s 10-year-old son trying to protect her, but was attacked by Lin as well, and suffered a laceration on one of his fingers. Tian was transferred from St. Joseph's Hospital, where she remained in critical and serious condition since the beating, to Melach Hospice House at 11125 North 52nd St. She passed away three days later. A friend of Tian’s, Sara Johnson, spoke out on a Tampa-based blog about Tian’s marriage with Lin. “She has suffered from her husband’s abuse since I have known her,” Johnson blogged. “And she never left him because she loved him, and he didn’t speak good English and she didn't know how he would make it on his own.”

Minivan Full Of Local Children Hit By Semi A 16-year-old Wesley Chapel girl and five of her passengers are alive after the new driver drove her Dodge minivan in front of the path of a semi truck on S.R. 54 and Curley Rd., a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) report states. Jasmine Dixon was driving the

2005 van with four children, ages 5-12, who are all Tampa and Wesley Chapel residents. Jamira Dixon, 31, sat in the front passenger seat as Jasmine tried to make a left turn onto Curley Rd. from S.R. 54 on July 26, and was struck by a semi truck traveling westbound. According to the FHP report, the semi truck did not have enough time to stop before colliding with the minivan. All of the passengers in the minivan were treated at St. Joseph’s Hospital with injuries ranging from minor to serious. The children ages 5 & 12 sustained the most serious injuries and were airlifted to the hospital. All of the passengers were wearing their seatbelts.

Cross Creek Blvd. Lane Closures Slow Traffic Local drivers can breathe a bit easier, as their commute on Cross Creek Blvd. is about to become a much smoother ride. For quite some time, there has been an unpleasant section of Cross Creek Blvd. within a quarter-mile of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., which recently had become so bad that the Hillsborough County Public Works Department stepped in to get the road resurfaced immediately. Rainstorms, steady traffic and

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heavy equipment have worn down the current surface of the road that provides access to the Hunter's Green, Cross Creek, Arbor Greene, Heritage Isles and Cory Lake Isles communities and to Morris Bridge Rd. According to Steve Valdez of the county’s Public Works Department, the reconstruction of the road started on July 10, and, weather permitting, the normal flow of traffic will resume on all four lanes before the start of school on Wednesday, August 24. The 700-ft. damaged section of Cross Creek Blvd. had been reduced to two lanes, one in each direction, and will soon have only two lanes again until the construction is completed. “We’re ahead of schedule on this project,” Valdez says. “Hopefully, Mother Nature doesn’t push us back.” As expected, the $1-million project has resulted in consistently worse traffic for travelers driving east and west on Cross Creek Blvd. near BBD. To ease the congestion, two Florida State Troopers had been dispatched to control the flow of cars during rush hours, and also to make sure residents of the Cross Creek community are able to get onto and off of the road safely. Ajax Paving is the construction company resurfacing the road.

Wesley Chapel Boy Survives BB Buried Into Brain An accidental shooting has left a young Wesley Chapel boy with a BB in his brain that will never be removed. Jamey and Tommy Gallagher, ages 9 and 12, were playing in upstairs in their Wesley Chapel home when it happened. Jamey fired a BB gun, one that the family believed to be unloaded and broken, reports say, and hit Tommy with a BB. The small pellet traveled under his left eye, through his sinuses and into his brain. Initially, Tommy and his parents did not know that the BB had done any damaged besides a small bit of blood and what looked to be a small dent near his eye, but Tommy then experienced some trouble moving his limbs on his left side. Doctors at Tampa General Hospital have treated Tommy, but according to an article by The St. Petersburg Times, he will have to live with the BB in his brain, which will eventually form a membrane around the pellet. Reports say Tommy may miss the beginning of his 7th grade school year at Dr. John Long Middle School, but he is looking forward to a great and speedy recovery.

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N EW T AMPA

Community Calendar

Ladies ‘Foodie’ Club Of New Tampa/Wesley Chapel

A new club for women in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel areas who enjoy socializing, trying out new restaurants and cooking ideas, sharing recipes and other food-related activities is now forming. For more information, send an email to Eileen.jones@yahoo.com.

MOMS Club Of New Tampa The MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) club of New Tampa, which offers a variety of activities for stay-at-home mothers, is looking for new members. The club boundaries include all of the New Tampa area, except for Tampa Palms, Grand Hampton and Live Oak. For info, call 991-0406 or visit MomsClubNewTampa.webs.com.

Bath & Body Works Launch Par ty At Wiregrass Mall

Saturday August 13, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. - Celebrating the latest addition to the Signature Collection, attendees will vote on new scents and find how they’re made at the launch of the new Bath & Bodyworks store in the Shops at Wiregrass mall.. Guests also will have the chance to enter to win a romantic

Paris getaway for two people at Bath & Body works (28250 Paseo Dr.). For more info, call 907-8464.

Business Networking Int'l Wednesday, August 17, 7:30 a.m.- (BNI), a group of business professionals dedicated to helping their respective businesses grow through qualified referrals, meets every Wednesday morning at the Heritage Isles Country Club clubhouse (18630 Plantation Bay Dr.). For more information, call Jal Irani at 451-8229.

New Tampa Noon Rotar y

Wednesday, August 17, noon The New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meets every Wednesday for lunch at Hunter's Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run Dr., inside the Hunter’s Green subdivision).

Tampa Toastmasters

Wednesday, August 17, 7 p.m. Great speeches & great topics. Come and hone your public speaking skills. Tampa Toastmasters meets every Wednesday evening at Pebble Creek Golf Club, located at 10550 Regents Park Dr., off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. New guests are always welcome. For more info, call 428-6356.

Christian Business Connections Networking

Thursday, August 18, 8 p.m. Come together with like-minded professionals at the Christian Business Connections (CBC) Networking group. The CBC Networking group meets every Thursday at Heritage Church at 1854 Oak Grove Blvd., off S.R. 54 in Lutz, behind Organic Life Coffeehouse & Bakery. Call 300-7511 for more info.

Sustainable Gardening Course

Thursday, August 18, 6:30 p.m.9:30 p.m.- Join Permaculturist Robert Segundo for a three-hour, in-depth Permaculture course at the L.I.FE. Wellness Center at Pasco Veterinary Medical Clinic (4575 Pet Lane in Lutz). This course will enlighten attendees on sustainable gardening practices and their implementation in the Florida Landscape, with a focus on Florida micro-climates and the challenges of becoming truly sustainable. The cost to attend is $45. For more info, call 973-2929.

Family Matinee Movies

Friday August 19, 2 p.m. - The New Tampa Regional Library (NTRL) is continuing its family movie showings. Families are invited to share in free family fun, as this event is sponsored by the

Friends of the Library. The movie starts at 2 p.m. in Room 5 at NTRL (10001 Cross Creek Blvd. For more info, call 273-3652.

Live Music At Organic Life Cof fehouse & Baker y

Friday and Saturday, August 19 & 20 - Sit back and enjoy the Christian and family-friendly live music while indulging on some tasty salads, wraps and sandwiches at this recently renamed coffee shop in Lutz, located at 1900 Oak Grove Blvd. (off S.R. 54), in the Eagle Plaza. For more info, call 527-6911.

Tony Hawk At SPoT

Sunday, August 21 - If catching some air is your passion, or even if you just enjoy watching skateboarders perform mind-boggling maneuvers, make sure to mark your calendar for the Birdhouse Skateboard Tour. Skateboarding legend Tony Hawk and the Birdhouse team will be at the Skate Park of Tampa (4215 Columbus Dr., near Exit 2, or 40th St., off I-4). Call the skate shop for details and dorections at 621-6793.

AARP Safe Driving Course Monday-Tuesday, August 22-23, 1 p.m.-4 p.m. both days - The AARP Safe Driving Course will be presented at the Wesley Chapel Toyota dealership

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(5300 Eagleston Blvd., off S.R. 54 & BBD, east of I-75). The cost to attend is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Advance registration is required. To register, call instructor Lloyd Shaw at 395-8376.

Nor th East Tampa Women In Business Thursday, September 8, 6 p.m.8:30 p.m. — Susan Layden of Susan's Organizing Solutions will speak to the networking group’s Monthly Dinner Meeting The group meets the second Thursday of every month at Hunter's Green Country Clu (18101 Longwater Dr., inside the gated community). For more info, call 843-2354.

Friday-Sunday, September 9-11 — Thousands of new and seasoned boaters are expected to visit the 46th annual Tampa Boat Show. Expect to see cast members from the TV show “Deadliest Catch,” participate in onthe-water educational courses, listen to live music and more, at the Tampa Convention Center (333 Franklin Street in downtown Tampa). The cost to attend is $10 for adults, and free for kids under 15. All military personnel, EMTs, Fire Fighters and Police get in FREE on Sunday, September 11 with valid ID. For more information, call (954) 441-3227.

Griefshare Recover y Suppor t Group Tuesday September 9, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. This group meets every Tuesday for those grieving the death of someone close. Meet others who understand the pain of loss. The program is conducted at Lake Magdalene United Methodist Church, 2902 W. Fletcher Ave., Room 307. For more info, call 963-1254, or Email A.King4104@verizon.net.

Tampa Bay Boat Show

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

New Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

2010-11 NTCC Board of Directors President-Rachel Haviland

Board Members:

15310 Amberly Dr., Suite 250 Tampa, FL 33647 Information: (813) 293-2464 Fax: (813) 388-4408

Officers: VP-Said Iravani Treasurer-Lesley Zajac

Non-Officers: Regina Ramalheira Craig Miller Secretary-Connie Bladon Earl Meyer Lee Hoffman Executive Director: Karen Frashier

Website: NewTampaChamber.Org

The New Tampa Chamber Wants To Know What You Think! The New Tampa Chamber of Commerce focuses on helping our member businesses thrive, giving residents a voice and pushing New Tampa in a clear direction for the future. Our success depends upon input from our members and from our community. The Chamber is planning to hold a series of “Open Discussion” meetings in October 2011 to receive your constructive input and to help us understand your needs and priorities. Business members, area residents and anyone interested in joining the Chamber are welcome to attend to voice their concerns about business, commerce and life in the New Tampa area. Stay tuned for more information on dates and locations of these public meetings! Updates will be posted on our website events page at NewTampaChamber.org.

Save The Date For The New Tampa Business Forum!

The first annual New Tampa Business Forum is quickly approaching and will be held on September 29, 3 p.m.-8 p.m. As the largest local networking event, the forum will feature John Harding, regional CEO of Florida Hospital, who will give the keynote address on the state of health care in our burgeoning part of Hillsborough and Pasco counties. The forum also will host a “Personal Brand in Businessland 2.0” workshop presented by Bernie Borges (CEO of Find and Convert and author of “Marketing 2.0”). A Chamber member business expo and networking event with cocktails will follow the keynote. Seating is limited and vendor booths are limited and for Chamber members only. Presenting sponsor opportunities also are available. RSVP now to reserve your seat

at the Expo by registering online at NewTampaChamber.org. Please also contact the chamber for more information about the Expo and to reserve your booth or become a sponsor by calling 293-2464, or by emailing the Chamber’s executive director Karen Frashier at kfrashier @NewTampaChamber.org.

Chamber Welcomes New & Renewing Members The New Tampa Chamber has seen an influx of new members this past month! Florida Mobile Fusion has joined us as a Gold Member, providing you with mobile, text message and local marketing services to promote your business. Chuck will be holding a free 45-minute seminar about the importance of mobile marketing in September. To find out more about how they can help you at FloridaMobile

Chamber President Rachel Haviland donates the old Chamber laptop for a good cause at CPR-Cell Phone Repair’s Grand Opening in July.

Fusion.com. Or, to register for the free workshop, contact Chuck Ward at 388-9181. Sunset Memory Gardens (SunsetMemory.com) and The St. Petersburg Times (TampaBay.com) have renewed as Silver members. The Chamber would also like to welcome the following new Basic members: Oakley’s Grille, Starlight Medical Group, Our Town, SunTrust Banks Inc. and MindSpark Consulting. We also thank our renewing members for their continued support: Continued on next page.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Advocate Marketing PR, Dug Feeney & Associates, Lesley Zajac, Matt Palmer and Justine & William Muhammad, Pre-Paid Legal, Bob the Painter, Dr. Jeffrey T. Farrell, New Tampa Pet Resort, New Tampa Urgent Care, New North Transportation Alliance, University Area CDC, The Reproductive Medicine Group, Meyer Team Business Coaching, Office Dynamics, The Bank of Tampa, Drs. Lockey, Fox, Ledford & Glaum, Casa Fina Realty-Gosselin, Hunter's Green Community Assoc., St. Andrew Presbyterian Church and Marimark Mortgage. All of our members are listed in the brand new membership database on our website at NewTampaChamber.org. Please stop by our web site to see the Who’s Who of local area businesses. Remember to support them when you need products or services. For more information about how to join the New Tampa Chamber, please visit our web site at NewTampaChamber.org or call 293-2464. New and renewing members are invited to the chamber luncheon on September 12 to receive their chamber plaque.

Grand Openings & Ribbon Cuttings

Family owned Oakley's Grille,

CPR also has a drop-off box for old cell phones and electrical equipment, such as laptops. The items are refurbished and donations support the Shriners Children's Hospital. Join our Facebook page to receive regular updates on Chamber news. Simply visit Facebook.com/ NewTampaChamber and click on the “Like” button to join us!

Monthly Chamber Events:

The New Tampa Chamber of Commerce was proud to be on hand to help cut the ribbon at the new Oakley’s Grille on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in the North Palms Village area (next to Dairy Queen) on August 4. which replaced Quizno’s next to Dairy you dropped your cell phone and Queen on Bruce B. Downs Blvd., predamaged it? No need to buy a new pared a delicious buffet for Chamber phone, take it to CPR-Cell Phone members and guests at their Ribbon Repair! The store also sells used Cutting on August 4. phones and can repair many water From gourmet burgers to hot damaged phones, as well as X-boxes, pressed sandwiches and freshly made PlayStations and Wiis. The New salads, Oakley’s is the perfect place to Tampa Chamber of Commerce welstop for lunch or dinner. Oakley’s comed CPR-Cell Phone Repair to already is a popular place with the 17501 Preserve Walk Lane, Suite 104, locals, so be sure to stop by and say we next to the soon-to-open location of sent you! Tijuana Flats, where they hosted their Ever wondered what to do when grand opening on July 9.

• Chamber Luncheon: Held the second Monday of each month, noon, at Pebble Creek Golf Club (10550 Regents Park Dr., across BBD from the New Tampa Super Walmart. The cost to attend is $15 for members/$20 for non-members. The next Chamber lunch will be held on Tuesday, Spetember 12. • Networking on the 9s: Held the fourth Wednesday of each month, 3 p.m., at Pebble Creek Golf Club. The cost to play is a $15 greens fee. The next Networking on the 9s will be held Wednesday, August 24. • Chamber Connections Networking: Held the last Thursday of each month, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m., at Stonewood Grill & Tavern (17050 Palm Point Dr., off BBD, just south of I-75. Connections events are free for members and prospective members and includes free hors d’oeuvres and one free drink per attendee.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Prudential Tropical Realty Serves Buyers & Sellers Around The Clock! By Sheryl Young Are people still having the good fortune of selling and buying houses? Yes, especially when they have a company like Prudential Tropical Realty on their side. And, within Prudential Tropical's 19 locations, including one right here in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area, there’s a great full-service real estate solutions provider located right here to serve local residents. The vivacious team at the local location in the Publix-anchored Shoppes of New Tampa plaza on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (BBD), just south of S.R. 56, is eager to share their knowledge, expertise and love of homes with hopeful home seekers as well as home sellers. We spoke with vice president of sales and marketing Rob Hilliker and several of his more than 50 real estate agents from this office -- Ronnie Preusch, Debbie Marvin, Beverly Carollo and Christina Barone — are proud to be a part of the Prudential Tropical team. “With the right strategies, this may be both a seller’s and buyer’s market,” Hilliker says. “Things are

looking up. And, we are here to provide the full array of services that surround the major decision of buying or selling a home.” Ronnie adds that whether it’s a better market for buyers or sellers may depend on the location, not today’s economy. “High-end homes still represent a buyer's market,” she explains, while Debbie says that a seller may still find it more necessary to adapt their price to the market at the lower end. “I’ve worked for other Realtors, but whatever the case, Prudential Tropical offers more marketing tools and resources to get things done right,” Debbie states. Beverly agrees. “Prudential offers more services to sellers, buyers and corporations that are looking for relocation living space for their employees. Plus, we have mortgage services, rental properties…we have access to showcase everything.” They all agreed that there are several things that set Prudential Tropical apart from other real estate offices. For one thing, a special perk for both agents and customers at Prudential Tropical is that each agent is given his

or her own website. This way, customers can find out more about who they're working with, and have easy access to individual contact information. “We also live, work and breathe the real estate business,” Ronnie says with enthusiasm. “We go above and beyond. We'll help buyers or Among the more than 50 agents at Prudential Tropical sellers with picking Realty’s New Tampa office are (l. to r., back) Christina out paint and décor, Barone, Beverly Carollo, VP of sales & marketing Rob Hilhome emergencies liker and (front) Debbie Marvin and Ronnie Preusch. like busted pipes, picking people up tive buyer passes a house and likes from airports to see houses when they what they see, they call a certain numhave limited time, making beds before ber, get a prompt to enter the home’s showings, you name it. We consider address and hear a recording of the our jobs to be 24/7.” home’s features. There’s even an

Prudential Tropical Takes “24/7” Literally Speaking of around-the-clock service, Prudential Tropical has a program called CITY 24/7. If a prospec-

option that allows you to be connected directly to the agent. Going around the table, we found that some of these Realtors® actually work from 6 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. to take care of their clients. And,

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

some make it a family affair. Debbie and Christina’s husbands also both work in the business, and they consider themselves “Team Marvin” and “Team Barone,” respectively. Christina is pleased at how quickly help comes to them as agents, so they can in turn help their customers in a timely and efficient manner. “Our Managing Broker, Dennis Derbes, is always there for us,” Christina says. “There’s no way anyone can do this job part time,” Beverly adds. Our heads must always be in the game. We need to know every legal aspect of contracts and updates on the houses. We have to love what we do, and we have to love working with each other to get all the pieces together.” The agents pointed out that they also take time to meet the property appraisers. Sometimes an appraiser isn’t familiar with an area, and won't do the house justice with the appraisal because they go off averages on paper. Prudential Tropical agents know their neighborhoods, and can point things out which might be important to the proper appraisal of a home. Between just these agents, they have about 60 years of experience. Hilliker defines their office as the “Nordstrom’s of Real Estate,” and the

group estimates that 95 percent of their business comes from referrals through previous customers. So, their service has to be outstanding. For newer agents, Prudential Tropical has something they call Rock University, which they were able to independently develop because these 19 offices are a privately owned franchise. “The newly hired agents are not just thrown on the floor,” Hilliker explains. “We have a training program even after they pass the state test.”

Repeat Customer Affirms Excellent Service

Realtors, doing all the paperwork. “They’ve done an excellent job of marketing and selling the houses we’ve renovated,” he says. “Through their efforts and guidance on pricing, it all has worked out so well. They even help me decide where to use stainless appliances and with other design aspects. Compared to other agents I’ve used, their follow-through is outstanding.” In conclusion, Hilliker says, “It's a great time once again to buy and sell homes. It's wonderful to hear the noise of construction in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel areas again,

but our office really hasn’t had a hard time.” Maybe it’s all that training, dedication and 24/7 service that keeps these Prudential Tropical Realty agents at the top of their game. Expectant buyers and sellers can visit this Prudential Tropical Realty office at 1830 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (just south of S.R. 56 and less than a mile north of the Pasco County line) in the Shoppes at New Tampa of Wesley Chapel Plaza., or call 907-8200. You also may visit NewTampa.PrudentialTropical.com.

Repeat customer Bob Abajian confirms that Prudential Tropical’s service is top-notch. He and his wife Deborah have done business with the office several times, specifically with Debbie Marvin and her husband, who also just happens to be named Robert! “We met Bob & Debbie [Marvin] while selling a house in 2001,” says Abajian. “We hit it off and ended up also buying through them. Then, I got into the business of fixing up houses and re-selling them and continued to work with the Marvins.” Abajian adds that the Marvins really saw everything through with showings, handling various other

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Mazzy Gives ‘Two Paws Up’ To Seven Oaks Pet Hospital! By Gary Nager If you have a dog or cat (and what family doesn’t?) and you’re not taking your furry best friend to see my friends at Seven Oaks Pet Hospital on S.R. 56 (next to Boardwalk Frozen Custard), I think you should consider visiting this extremely popular veterinary office. But, don’t just take my word for it. Listen to Mazzy, the new dog in not only my life, but in the lives of everyone in our office. It was only a couple of issues ago when I lost Goldie, my beloved golden retriever, and I had no intentions of getting another one — at least not anytime soon. But, after meeting Mazzy’s brother Louie and being told that if someone in our office didn’t take his identical twin, one of these adorable “Schnorkies” (we believe they’re part schnauzer and part Yorkshire terrier) was headed to an animal shelter. I couldn’t let that happen, especially when Mazzy just happens to be the best-trained, most affectionate, most obedient five-month-old pup I’ve ever met. So, where did I decide to take Mazzy for his veterinary care? To the same wonderful place that helped get me through Goldie’s cancer and her having to be put down when she began suffering. I can honestly say that I have

never met a more caring, outstanding doctor and staff than Sree Reddy, D.V.M., and his amazing crew at Seven Oaks Pet Hospital. Not only do these folks ALL love animals, Dr. Reddy has done everything he can to keep his prices for outstanding pet care among the lowest in the area and you’re never waiting much more than five minutes from the time you walk in until the time you see the doctor. “I don’t appreciate being made to wait very long when I go to a doctor’s office,” says Dr. Reddy, who graduated from College of Vet Medicine in India in 1997. He then completed his training at the Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine in Tuskegee, AL, in 2000 and moved to Florida in July 2004. “I know people want to get in here, get the proper care for their pet, proper feedback and instructions from me and my staff and get back home and not have to spend so much money. I have not raised my prices since I opened here four years ago.” The immaculate facility offers extremely affordable wellness packages, where all of your office visits for the year are included in the price. Seven Oaks Pet Hospital also offers the latest technology with laparoscopic spays and anesthesia-free dental cleanings. Also available are emergency care and even house calls, traditional spays and neu-

tering, on-site x-rays, vaccines (including the canine influenza vaccine), scalpel-less radiowave surgery, microchipping and nutritional counseling. There’s even holistic veterinary care, which is an approach to the prevention and treatMazzy gives ‘two ment of disease paws up’ for the care where the whole of your pet and his/her he’s getting at Seven Oaks Pet Hospital physical and social environment is taken on S.R. 56 in Wesley into account. Chapel and from For instance, if Dr. Sree Reddy. your pet is afflicted by Irritated Bowel Syndrome and Allergic Dermatitis, the Holistic Veterinarian considers that these two diseases are part of a single complex and he designs treatments to address them as a whole. As treatment, your pet may receive homeopathy, acupuncture and other natural medicines. It may also require adjustments of the pet’s diet using foods that promote the function of failing organs. Your pet may also require conventional medications. “Holistic medicine for pets really

does work,” says Dr. Reddy. “We have many success stories about how even just a dietary change has made a big difference.” Seven Oaks Pet Hospital also is a paperless practice and is not a “corporate” animal hospital. It truly is your neighborhood vet office and Mazzy gives it two very enthusiastic paws up! Seven Oaks Pet Hospital (27227 S.R. 56) is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday. For more info, call 9294100 or visit SevenOaksPet.com. Check out the ad on page 51 to find out how new patients can get 50percent-off their first visit.

Laparoscopic spays (left), available at Seven Oaks Pet Hospital, are performed with much smaller incisions, with much less loss of blood and significantly less recovery time than traditional spay surgeries.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

N EW TAMPA & W ESLEY C HAPEL

Business Briefs

By Gary Nager Three different spas, all located about a mile from the northern end of New Tampa, and a revamped coffee shop are in this issue’s Biz Briefs.

Bella MedSpa Cuts The Ribbon At New Location

Congratulations to Dr. Yvette Suarez, M.D., and her husband David, on the Grand Opening and July 21 Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting at the new location of Bella MedSpa on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in Wesley Chapel. Although Bella MedSpa has been open for several years in a professional park behind Sam’s Club, the owners are rightfully proud of their new, state-ofthe-art location at 1821 BBD, just south of S.R. 56, in the same plaza as Nutrition S’Mart.The ribbon cutting featured champagne, delicious cupcakes and tours of the spectacular facility, which offers everything from Botox and dermal filler injections to laser hair, sunspot and spider vein removal, medical weight loss, hormone replacement therapy, skin care and facials, teeth whitening and even in-office liposculpting procedures.

Essentials Massage & Facials of New Tampa owners Forrest & Tania Gorman (2nd & third from left) cut the ribbon at their new spa, located in the Seven Oaks Professional Plaza off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel. Dr. Yvette Suarez and her husband David celebrate the July 21 Grand Opening & ribbon cutting at their new Bella MedSpa on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. For additional information about Bella MedSpa, call 929-1500 or visit Bella Tampa.com, and please tell David, Yvette and their staff that the Neighborhood News sent you!

Essentials Massage & Facials Opens In Seven Oaks Congratulations also go out to local owners Forrest & Tania Gorman of Essentials Massage & Facials, a new chain of low-cost massage, facial, manicure and pedicure centers that puts the emphasis on luxuriously affordable services. The New Tampa location is in the

Seven Oaks Professional Park oat 2230 Ashley Oaks Cir., just off S.R. 56, in Seven Oaks. Essentials is the brainchild of Jerry Cugno, the former CEO of Premier Mortgage Funding, who set out to prove that you can charge just $25 for a one-hour massage or facial and still offer an elegant location and top-quality services at the lowest rates in the biz. For more info about Essentials Massage & Facials of New Tampa, call 527-6979 or visit Massageand FacialEssentials.com and please tell Tania and Forrest you read about them in the Neighborhood News.

Organic Life Coffeehouse Opens On S.R. 54

Organic Life Coffeehouse & Bak-

ery (OLC) is excited to announce its opening at 1900 Oak Grove Blvd, off S.R. 54 in Lutz. Owners Peter Davidson, John Lane and Glenn Deller, three of the original five founders of A Cup of Organic Coffee Shops, decided in April to disband and close A Cup of Organic Coffee Shop and open Organic Life, with a focus on providing the community with the highest quality coffees, teas and smoothies. OLC provides many organic and natural products, including certified organic, fair trade, shade-grown coffees from around the world, roasted in small batches and always provided fresh. They also serve delicious salads, wraps and sandwiches, featuring all natural Boars Head meats, homemade hummus and fresh veggies. Christian and

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

family-friendly live music is offered Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights. Visit OLC on Facebook/Organic Life Coffee. or call 527-6911.

Star’s Organic Spa’s Bday!

Star’s Organic Spa Group and A Focus on Fitness (2136 Ashley Oaks Cir., in Seven Oaks Prof. Park) celebrated their first anniversary with a Customer Appreciation Party on July 29. Attendees were treated to fantastic music by Kool Kat DJ, delicious food by Personal Chef of Tampa Bay Tatiana Martinez, wine and fun. Giveaways included free jewelry, Zumba and Yoga classes, haircuts, facials, nails, make-up, massages and discounts galore.

Jessica from All Brides*2*Be was on hand to show attendees the beautiful gowns and formalwear she has at the spa. Lisandra and Tobias of Joint Connections were available for massages and body therapy sessions. Kelly, Sue and Steve from A Focus on Fitness provided nutritional guidance and training info. Star, Donna and Judy from Star’s Organic Spa made many of the guests look and feel beautiful. Janis finished them off with Jewelry by Beadangled. It was a fabulous celebration of a great first year in business! These ladies really know how to throw a party! For more information, call 9738787 or visit StarsOrganicSpa.com and tell them we sent you!!!

New Apartment Complex Set To Open In October Future New Tampa residents are already signing leases at the Colonial Grand at Hampton Preserve apartment complex, where construction is chugging along right on schedule. The high end, townhouse-style apartments located off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. and Trout Creek Dr., near the new Sweetbay supermarket, is set to open in the fall. The complex will fill 67 acres of previously undeveloped land just south of County Line Rd. Colonial Grand’s regional VP Diane Gilmore says that families and individuals already are coming onboard to live in the brand new community, which will feature the comforts of luxury living, while enjoying a “Go Green” lifestyle. Residents will begin moving into the complex on Monday, October 17, where they are welcome to use the oversized workout facility, poolside cabanas with WiFi, as well as participate in the community events that Hampton Preserve plans on hosting every week. “We are really trying to get the community members involved with each other, networking with their neighbors while having that neighborhood, family feel,” says Gilmore. Colonial Grand has invested $53.8 million into the New Tampa area, and will open with opportune timing, as Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, located a couple of miles north on BBD, nears its unveiling in 2012. “There are no other apartment complexes being built in the (New Tampa) area right now,” says Gilmore. The 486 lease-only apartments at Hampton Preserve will be available in 1, 2 or 3 bedroom units. Garages will be available for many of the 2- and 3bedroom units, and special “Gourmet Units” are available to guests who enjoy the lavishness of wine racks and chillers to accompany their gourmetinspired kitchens, ten-percent of the

apartments will feature those and other luxuries, management said. All of the 31 buildings and 17 floor plans at Hampton Preserve have been certified by the National Home Builders Association (NHBA) with a Green Building Standard certification. Gilmore says that the complex is going to encourage many aspects of “Going Green,” including giving its residents the option of living in a smoke-free building, an option that its sister community, Colonial Grand at Seven Oaks, and most other apartment complexes do not have. “Energy-saving appliances, lowwatt light bulbs, paperless bills, and the choice of signing an ‘E-Lease’ are all a part of our efforts to ‘go green,’” Gilmore says. Colonial Grand at Hampton Preserve is aiming to become an integral part of New Tampa, providing employees of certain institutions, like the University of South Florida (USF), USAA Insurance and Florida Hospital, incentives of living in the community for less. Additionally, members of the new complex will be eligible to become members of the company’s rewardscard club, which will allow residents to receive perks like “free popcorn at the movie theatre,” says Gilmore. According to management, rents fluctuates with the size and features of the apartments. The units range from 682 to 1,468 sq. feet, and Gilmore says they are reasonably priced for the value residents receive when you take into account rooms that have views of the backwoods wildlife, the resort-style pool or wild flower garden, which was designed to keep the stomachs of the local deer population happy while looking pleasant to residents. For more information about Colonial Grand at Hampton Preserve, call (866) 522-5998 or visit CGHamptonPreserve.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Starlight Medical Group Diagnoses & Treats Sleep Disorders By Camille Gillies If you are plagued by poor sleep habits or quality, you’re not alone. According to John Evans, the principal owner of the recently opened Wesley Chapel and Lutz offices of Starlight Medical Group, 5 percent-8 percent of the U.S. population has some sort of sleep disorder. That is why Evans has teamed up with sleep specialists Richard S. Powell, M.D., and Robin J. Trupp, Ph.D., ARNP-BC, to bring these medical services to sleep-seeking residents of Wesley Chapel and New Tampa. The group has begun seeing patients at its new Wesley Chapel medical office and overnight sleep lab located off of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., across from the site of the under-construction Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, as well as at the Lutz location off of S.R. 54. “Sleep disorders really affect your quality of life,” says Evans, who oversees business operations for the centers. “They can cause hypertension, headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, loss of concentration, less energy, difficulty with weight loss, depression and irritability.” Sleep deprivation has also been linked to automobile accidents, stroke, diabetes and mortality. Considering that millions of Amer-

icans have sleep disorders, many people are waking up feeling tired. In fact, Evans says that one in 15 Americans has sleep apnea, a disorder characterized by abnormal pauses in breathing, due to the inability to get air into the lungs while asleep. If the sound of your snoring rattles the windows in the next room or drives your partner to sleep in another end of the house, you may have sleep apnea. Many people don’t even know they have it, and if left untreated, it can be life threatening. Evans says that Starlight Medical Group diagnoses and treats many sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, as well as the following sleep problems: Chronic insomnia — the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep. A red flag is when sleeplessness persists three nights a week for a month or more. Restless legs syndrome (RLS) — which affects 12 million Americans. Symptoms are often a creepy-crawly sensation in the extremities, primarily the legs. An irresistible urge to move the legs to stop the unpleasant sensation can cause difficulty in falling and staying asleep. Narcolepsy — a disorder in the brain that constantly interrupts both sleep and awake cycles, preventing you from staying awake. It can be triggered by a variety of factors, including strong emotions of joy or sadness and loud noises.

Nope, it’s not a hotel room. It’s one of the bedrooms in the sleep study “labs” at Starlight Medical Group’s locations in Wesley Chapel and Lutz. If you visit Starlight’s website the right direction, it will also save you (StarLightMedicalGroup.com), you’ll the time and money involved in a needfind that it offers additional information less visit. about all of these conditions, including interesting video clips of basketball star Shaquille O’Neal dealing with sleep apnea and an LPGA golfer with narcolepsy.

If you suspect you have any type of sleep disorder, Starlight Medical Group offers free telephone consultations. On the hotline, one of the medical experts will help determine if you have a problem that warrants a visit to the center. You may even find out that you are concerned unnecessarily, and the phone consultation will not only guide you in

A Top-Notch Team

Starlight’s Board-certified team of professionals is well-versed in the field. “Dr. Powell has more than 30 years of experience in the Tampa Bay area, including a longstanding reputation in Brandon,” says Evans, “He is Board-certified in sleep medicine, pulmonary disease, critical care and internal medicine.” A graduate of the University of Vermont College of Medicine in

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

dark place. He also stresses that you “can’t make up sleep on the weekends” and notes that problems also can arise from too much sleep. If the medical professionals feel you need the center’s help, they may schedule a diagnostic sleep study, in which a sleep technician monitors your sleep throughout the night. This study takes place in a comfortable bedroom located within the sleep lab. The patient is hooked up to numerous electrodes that enable the technician to view and analyze the patient from a remote location in the office. Additional types of sleep studies are available, depending upon the problem, but all take place in the comfortable bedrooms that Starlight has created to mimic the way you would sleep in your own home. “We’re trying to make it as comfortable for the patients as possible,” says office coordinator Christy McCluskey. At our press time, she had just finished putting up curtains and pictures in the brand-new Wesley Chapel facility. The freshly painted rooms, with their fluffy beds and comforters, look more like hotel rooms than places where medical studies are conducted. Evans emphasizes that Starlight provides a strong support group, especially for sleep apnea patients who must adjust to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) breathing apparatus.

Burlington, Dr. Powell completed his post-doctorate fellowship training at the University of South Florida’s (USF) College of Medicine. Robin Trupp received her Ph.D. from Ohio State University, in Columbus, where she researched obstructive sleep apnea in patients with cardiovascular disease. She also is a Board-certified advanced practice Registered Nurse. If your conversation with one of these two specialists indicates the need for an office visit, the first thing you will do is complete a 14-page questionnaire to determine the sleep “hygiene” factors that could be contributing to your problem. “We don’t mean hygiene in the cleanliness sense,” explains Evans. “We try to determine the contributing factors (to your problem). For example, it could be your bedroom environment. Many people don’t realize that some pets are nocturnal and having them in the same bed with you or in the same room may interrupt your sleep cycles. Or, you could be drinking caffeine or exercising too late in the day. We also ask about family history and medications you may be taking. A wide spectrum of issues needs to be addressed to determine your individual problem. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.” A few things Evans recommends to improve sleep quality are having a regular bedtime, and sleeping in a cool,

“We offer follow-up support to patients for a year after their diagnosis, so they have relatively high levels of compliance,” he says, adding that the success rate for sleep apnea patients is 75 percent-85 percent. “Some patients swear by their CPAP machines and travel with them,” Evans adds. “They find that using it really enhances the quality of their day.” This is only the beginning of Evans’ business aspirations for Starlight Medical Group. He says sleep medicine is a growing field, and he plans to open more of these sleep centers in communities of 35,000-50,000 people. “It’s a physician-driven practice that also has a sleep lab right on site. It is so convenient for patients.” There is no doubt Starlight Medical Group will provide welcome relief to scores of people who are simply trying to get a good night’s sleep. This is what Evans says you should do if you think you have a sleep disorder: First, visit StarLightMedical Group.com, take advantage of

Signs Of Sleep Disorders: • Excessive daytime sleepiness • Very loud snoring, abnormal breathing or gasping • Morning headaches • Excessive sweating • Falling asleep during the day, at church, in your car, etc. • Irritability • Sexual dysfunction • Uncontrolled blood pressure issues • Insomnia Starlight’s free phone consultation and then, go see them if you have to! Starlight accepts most major medical insurance plans, and Evans says the sleep evaluation and studies are covered by most insurance plans. The Wesley Chapel location of Starlight Medical Group is at 2621 Windguard Cir., in the Windfair Professional Center, located directly behind Dickey’s BBQ on BBD Blvd. For more info, call 994-2729 or visit StarLightMedicalGroup.com.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Temple Terrace Family Physicians—Convenience & Compassionate Care By Camille Gillies Who says the days of doctors getting to know their patients are a thing of the past? Ailis Merroro, M.D., of Temple Terrace Family Physicians on N. 56th St., says that focusing on the whole person is a primary goal of her practice. “So much of medicine today is geared toward acute issues only,” Dr. Merroro explains. “Patients come in and want only to get a prescription, but I want to know the root cause of their complaint. Sometimes the answer to their problem entails giving them more education rather than just a prescription. I like to focus on each aspect of a person in addition to diagnosing and treating disease.” Dr. Merroro, a Board-certified family physician who joined Temple Terrace Family Physicians in November, fits right in with the philosophy of George Davis, D.O., who opened the office in 2004. Dr. Davis, a family practitioner, also believes in taking a more comprehensive approach, a style his patients seem to appreciate because his office, in a survey by The Tampa Tribune, has earned the title “Best Family Practice

in Northeast Tampa” every year since 2007. He maintains that communication is key, which is one of the reasons he is so enthused about having Dr. Merroro join the practice. A graduate of the Ponce School of Medicine in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Dr. Merroro speaks fluent Spanish. Dr. Davis feels Dr. Merroro is a great addition to the office and is already being embraced by the office’s patients who feel more at ease discussing their health issues in their native language. After receiving his medical degree from the College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery in Des Moines, IA, completing his residency at the Flint Osteopathic Hospital in Flint, Mich., and serving in the U.S. Navy, Dr. Davis moved to Tampa in 1989. Upon graduating from medical school, both Drs. Davis and Merroro worked to repay their medical school scholarships. Dr. Davis served for four years as a Medical Officer in the U.S. Navy. He was stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA.; Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan; and at the U.S. military base in Mount Fuji, Japan. In 1991, he served in Operation Desert Storm and was stationed in Bahrain,

where he helped construct a 500bed fleet hospital to treat wounded and ill soldiers. “In medical school, I did an elective rotation at the University of South Florida and I liked it here,” says Dr. Davis who has now been practicing in Tampa for 22 years and lives in Tampa Palms with The medical staff at Temple Terrace Family Physicians on N. 56th St. includes (l. to r.) Dr. Ailis Merroro, Nurse his wife and son. Practitioner Camille Caldwell & Dr. George Davis. Dr. Merroro discovered Tampa accredited registered nurse practitionas a result of the National Health er for 18 years, having earned her Service Corps, which paid for her Master’s degree in nursing from USF. medical school education. She chose She says she thrives on the family Tampa as the location to fulfill her practice environment and treats everyscholarship’s two-year service obligathing from acute to chronic problems. tion, and liked the city so much that “I especially enjoy women’s she decided to stay. She recently marhealth,” she mentions, adding that ried and lives in West Tampa. many of her patients are the result of Nurse Practitioner Camille Caldreferrals from other patients. She has well, ARNP, completes the team of been with the practice for 6 years and providers at Temple Terrace Family has worked in the Intensive Care Unit Physicians. Caldwell has been an

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and Emergency Room at Tampa General Hospital on Davis Islands.

Technology Enhances Service Temple Terrace Family Physicians professes to be a compassionate practice, yet it also is technologically savvy. Unlike many medical offices that still have paper files lining their walls, this practice has employed an electronic medical records system for more than seven years. Hate filling out forms in the waiting room? New patients can download forms on their computers, complete them when they wish and take them to their appointments, which they also can make online. In addition, the office utilizes e-prescribing, which Dr. Davis says is an efficient and accurate method of communicating with the patient’s pharmacy. Via computer, the doctor sends prescriptions directly to the patient’s preferred pharmacy, where medications are then filled and ready when the patient arrives to pick them up. The office also boasts an internetbased patient portal, a system that allows patients access to their personal medical files and keeps them up to date with lab results, ranging from blood work to pap smears. Access is available simply by logging onto the portal with

a secure password. In the near future, Dr. Davis says, the portal will offer email capability and will be another means of communication between providers and patients. Additional features of the practice include performing minor surgical procedures, which some family practices do not do in their offices, sending patients elsewhere for things like stitching a cut. Here, sutures, biopsies and the removal of moles and lesions can all be performed in the office. Although X-rays are not available on site, lab work is, which eliminates the need to go to another center for your blood work. A member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians, Dr. Davis also treats patients for weight problems. He says that he uses an individualized approach, completing necessary health histories, exams and lab work. He then prescribes medication as appropriate and offers exercise and nutritional counseling. The office also is equipped with a scale made specifically to measure body mass composition. For more information about Temple Terrace Family Physicians, call 899-2015 or visit TTFP.net. The practice is located at 13311 N. 56 St., in the University Grove Office Park on the east side of N. 56th St., just south of Fletcher Ave.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Little Feet Can Have A Big Impact On Your Back-To-School Shopping sizes Wide and X-Wide. But, soccer isn’t the only sport Little Feet caters to. The specialty shoe store also carries balIt’s almost time to go back to let and tap shoes, as well as leotards, school, so don’t forget the tiny toes! Little Feet, located on S.R 56, is all tights and dance bags. Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Little Feet also about children’s shoes and accessories. can special-order many items. The store offers an assortment of top For everyday shoes, Little Feet carbrand name shoes and more for chilries brands such as Stride Rite, Saucony, dren from infants and toddlers up to Sanuks and See Kai Run. When boys and girls size 6, and in medium machine washing your children’s shoes (regular), wide and X-wide widths. is a necessity, try Tsukihoshi brand kid’s Diana Ciccarelli took over the business four years ago. Previously, Cic- shoes, which are safe to wash in your washing machine. Little Feet also sugcarelli worked with handicapped chilgests Sun San Sandals for that day at dren in New York, where she learned the beach, since these sandals can hanthe importance of correct shoe sizing dle getting wet, and Lelli Kellys, which for young kids. Ciccarelli can’t stress are great for the little girl who wants to enough the importance of sizing your get a little dressed up with her shoes. children often. “If your child takes off Little Feet also carries Crocs, one his or her shoes a lot, it could mean that his or her shoes are too small,” she of the most popular choices for kids. says. “In order to get your child’s prop- Children can even decorate their own er size, it is important that both feet are Crocs with a variety of accessories. The store also features many great measured, since a majority of the popugift ideas for baby showers. Ciccarelli lation has one foot that is larger than suggests Pedi Peds, which are very softthe other. The child also should be soled shoes for infants, and Trumpette standing, with his or her weight on the socks which are “just so cute.” foot being measured, in order for the Little Feet definitely focuses on measurement to be accurate.” She adds that she and her staff will children, so shoes aren’t the only items in the store. If you’re tired of swim usually put the child in a size one-half diapers, Ciccarelli says to try iPlay size larger to allow for movement and bathing suits. The suits have built-in growth. Ciccarelli and her staff are diapers and are reusable, which elimiexperts in fitting hard-to-fit kids. Ciccarelli says that one of the most nates the need to buy swim diapers. The store’s selection of hair bows recent and exciting additions are the and hair bands also is hard to beat. The Willits soccer cleats, which come in newest additions are Mickey and Minnie Mouse-shaped bows. Little Feet has an assortment of seamless socks, as well as Pedi Peds tights. As the cooler fall and winter weather approaches, Ciccarelli says the store will carry a larger selection of tights, as well as pretty crocheted hats. At Little Feet, kids come first. Children are allowed to roam around the store and the staff will accommodate every child and will Parents love Tsukihoshi brand shoes at Lit- do all they can to limit stress on tle Feet because they’re machine-washable! children and their parents. By Alicia Pack

“We appreciate the support from our customers,” Ciccarelli says. “Without them, we could not have built the great relationships we have with so many of you and I want to say thank you. We love the kids and always want them to have fun in the store.” Little Feet doesn’t just help the children in the store, Ciccarelli and her staff play a part in helping the community as well. The staff puts together items up for bid at the St. Anthony’s Catholic School (in Dade City) and Hunter’s Green Elementary (and other) yearly fund-raising events. The colorful and popular Crocs slip-on After Halloween, Little Feet colshoes are among the many brands for kids lects candy and then donates the treats available at Little Feet on S.R. 56. to troops in Afghanistan. Last year, the idea was last minute, but the store’s There also are two other ways to save: customers still brought in more than • Little Feet always features a 50500 lbs. of candy. Ciccarelli said that percent-off wall, where all of the items last year, a few sweet children even on display are half off their original brought in their own Halloween candy prices, which is great for the child who to donate to the troops. As an incenneeds an extra pair of shoes. tive, Ciccarelli gives a 10-percent-off • Little Feet also offers a great coupon to the store for anyone who program for frequent buyers: When brings in candy. customers buy eight pairs of shoes, the This year for back-to-school, Little ninth pair is 50-percent off. Feet is having a big “BOGO” sale, Little Feet is located at 27607 where all Stride Rite shoes are buy one, S.R. 56 (next to Wolf’s Den and in get the second pair (of equal or lesser front of Sam’s Club). For additional value) for 50-percent off! The sale runs information, call 991-1785 or visit now through Tuesday, September 6. LittleFeetShoesOnline.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Independent Day School-Corbett Campus Fosters A Love Of Learning By Alicia Pack A private school with a public purpose where students’ gifts are recognized and given the opportunity to soar — these are the themes that are experienced by students at the Independent Day School-Corbett Campus (IDS-CC) in Tampa every day in class. The Independent Day School was started in 1968 by two women, Marilyn Gatlin and Betty Anderson. The pair wanted to create a school where every child’s gifts and talents could be identified and encouraged. Both women studied at the University of South Florida (USF) in the first Gifted Education Master’s Degree Program, which helped foster the dream of creating a school centered on appreciating all children’s gifts. The number of students tripled in the school’s first two years and IDS moved to its current location on Lake Lipsey, less than a mile south of Fletcher Ave. on Orange Grove Dr. Today, the school has 63 faculty members and 510 students, with a large percentage of those students from the New Tampa area. The school is fully accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools, the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools and

the Florida Kindergarten Council. Gatlin and Anderson wanted a school that focused on children’s talents and today the teachers at IDS-CC incorporate a variety of teaching strategies to help every student succeed. “We have multiple options for reaching students and bringing out their gifts,” Dr. Joyce Swarzman, Headmaster at IDS-CC said, “One of the greatest points of pride is that we lift the ceiling so students can soar.” One of the multiple teaching strategies that IDS-CC uses is its own “M.O.R.E. (Multiple Options for Results in Education) Approach.” The M.O.R.E. Approach centers on programs that affect all learners in every grade level and in each subject area. M.O.R.E sets out to reach the uniqueness of each and every student. IDS-CC is an authorized International Baccalaureate School for sixth, seventh and eighth graders participating in the Middle Years Program, which focuses on three main concepts — holistic learning, intercultural awareness and communication. All students in the International Baccalaureate program strive to be inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, open-minded, caring, principled, reflective, balanced

and risk-takers. PreK3 (3-year-olds)-fifth graders take part in the Primary Years Program. General classes that all grade levels learn include music, dance, art, drama, Spanish, technology, physical education, library time, a hands-on science program, as well as core studies. Middle school students have a wider variety of electives fro, Learning can be captivating for students at the which to choose, includIndependent Day School-Corbett Campus on ing broadcasting, ManOrange Grove Dr. in North Tampa. darin Chinese, French, Italian, musical theatre, band and much live and study. Striving to teach students that live in a global world, teachmore. As students with new interests arrive, the school works to develop new ers have integrated Skype into their curriculum, which allows IDS-CC students programs fitting those interests. Some to speak with children from other classes are even taught near the lake in countries including China, Spain and an outdoor classroom while others include walking to Lake Lipsey to mon- Sweden via video chat. itor its water levels. Sometimes the learning takes the Well-Rounded Learning children away to other countries. SeverThe arts are another big point of al children studying Spanish opened pride for the school. Whether it is PreK their homes to students from Madrid, students learning to paint like Spain. Then, during spring break, some Michelangelo or Monet, or kindergartIDS-CC students traveled to Madrid to ners bringing Pilgrims and the

Scenic Lake Lipsey in North Tampa is an idyllic setting for the Independent Day School-Corbett Campus and its 510 students.

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Mayflower to life, all ages are encouraged to express themselves through different art forms. In 2011, the entire 28-member Thespian team qualified for, and competed at a state competition. IDS Community School of the Arts is an after-school program open to the public that includes classes in music, theatre, visual arts and dance. Sports play a big part in many children’s lives and 85 percent of middle school children at IDS-CC play at least one sport. The school participates in the Florida West Coast League and has 26 teams in 11 different sports. In 2010, the soccer team won the Florida West Coast League Championship. Also in 2010, the school opened the Marvin Harvey Basketball School of Excellence. The program combines basketball aptitude with knowledge, research and proven methods. The hoops classes are for elementary and middle school boys and girls and are available to all Bay-area students. Not all learning at the school takes place in the classroom or on the court. Students find out the importance of having a positive impact on their community, as well as showing appreciation to everyone they meet. The teachers strive to help students become enthusiastic about obtaining new knowledge and believe that a happy child is more

open to learning. “We highly engage into a love of learning and to utilize best practices in education and brain-based information to give our teachers the ability to accomplish great goals for students,” Dr. Swarzman said. One way that students become more open to knowledge is to see that their teachers never stop learning. Teachers at IDS recently completed a gifted education endorsement from the USF’s College of Education Gifted Program. These Master level classes focused on the many ways students can be gifted, creativity, and problem-solving, to name a few points. Teachers are highly trained and the idea that every child deserves a teacher of the year is very important. “Teachers come here to learn how to be better teachers,” director of admissions Dr. Jennifer Morrow says. “That says a lot.” Both the school and the students have received great honors. IDS-CC is a National Blue Ribbon School and a gifted education endorsed school. In 2011, an impressive 75 percent of the seventh grade class qualified for national Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) for academically talented students and IDS alumni often go on to become the valedictorians and salutatorians at

Participating in shows like “The Aristocats” and other arts opportunities help keep students well-rounded at IDS-CC. their respective high schools. ing class time so that parents can view The first day back for IDS students the learning as it happens and feel the is Wednesday August 24, and the positive energy flowing throughout teachers are gearing up to astound the the campus. students. Dr. Swarzman says the first “The energy here is so positive day is a time to launch students into a and creative, there is collaboration and successful year by engaging them from joy. Parents say that kids and teachers the beginning. Every class has a theme are so happy,” Dr. Morrow said about and the students can take part in hands- her favorite parts of working at Indeon events. The first day helps to nurpendent Day School-Corbett Campus, ture a love of learning from the start. “We want to be here.” Admissions for IDS are ongoing Independent Day School-Corbased on each class’ size and parents bett Campus is located at 12015 interested in the school are encourOrange Grove Dr., between W. aged to come and see the campus for Busch Blvd. & W. Fletcher Ave. themselves. Open houses are held For more info, visit throughout the year and are held durIDSYes.com or call 961-3087.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

It’s All About The Kids At Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran School By Sheryl Young It’s enrollment time at Christ Our Redeemer (COR) Lutheran School in nearby Temple Terrace. With the new fall semester starting on Wednesday, August 17, parents in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area who are looking for a good private school still have time to enroll their children. COR, which has classes from preschool-3 through the eighth grade, is part of Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. The school is located off Whiteway Dr., south of Fowler Ave. “We’re delighted to give tours to families anytime,” says Vickie Sufka, the parish administrator and a member of the church for more than 20 years. “Just call for an appointment and we’ll show you around.” Although school was out for the summer when we visited, little Bailey was delighted to be there. Bailey is Vickie’s pooch and the school’s mascot. She’s always a source of entertainment for the students, but also is trained in how to handle students who might be afraid of dogs. Speaking of training, COR is a fully accredited preschool/elementary educational facility. The accreditation comes from the Florida-Georgia Dis-

trict of the Lutheran Church, which is recognized by the State of Florida. “We pride ourselves on the small class size, where children can get the attention they deserve,” Vickie explains. “Our maximum class size runs from only 16-24 students at various grade levels (a maximum of 16 per class in Pre-3, up to 24 per class in 1st8th grade).” “My children all attend the school,” adds Brenda Lamlein, the school’s administrative assistant. “The oldest has been here for seven years. I came to work here just over a year ago, but I had already realized that the school is a huge reason why my kids are thriving and succeeding.” While challenging the students academically in the traditional courses they would get at public school, COR also is dedicated to providing a quality Christian education. Among its listed goals and objectives, the school staff recognizes that every child is special in the eyes of God with regard to their talents and abilities, and hopes that the children will in turn realize that their talents and abilities are gifts from God to be used for service in His kingdom. “Pastor Wally Meyer teaches one hour-long religion class two days per

Beth Gray (left), the Head of School at Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran School in Temple Terrace, with three of the school’s 2010-11 graduates. week and there is a chapel service on Wednesdays,” Vickie says. “The children also will sing, do skits and get acknowledged for accomplishments. The parents are invited, too.”

COR Excels In Academics & Extra-Curricular Activities

COR provides 5th-8th grade honors and advanced classes in math and language arts. At the eighth grade level, there also is an honors class in Physical Science. The students consistently rank high nationally in Stanford Achievement Test (SAT) results. In 2010, the school averaged in the 84th percentile in Math, 85th in Science, and 78th in Reading.

“Our extra-curricular activities still include things that may have fallen to budget cuts in public school – like art, computer classes, music and physical education,” says Brenda. Kids won’t be lacking in sports activities either, as there is flag football, basketball, volleyball, soccer and cheerleading. At the middle school level come more even more added attractions. Electives include culinary arts, yearbook, Being Green 101, tennis, fitness classes and more. “Our teachers range from those who are new to those with twenty-six years of experience,” Lamlein adds. “It’s a good mix, with everyone sharing their knowledge.”

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

What About Tuition?

In these tough economic times, people may not have a lot of money, but may still want to invest in their children’s education. COR acknowledges this by making grants and scholarships available to families who demonstrate a need for assistance. There’s also the option of paying the tuition in monthly installments, rather than all at once up front.

A Satisfied Blended Family

Bill Garabrandt and Jennifer Moriarty are parents of four COR students, as Jennifer has three and Bill has one. When Bill met Jennifer, her children were already attending COR. Jennifer had told him how her kids — Caitlin, Shannon and John — were thriving at the school, but Bill and his son Skyler lived in Seminole at the time. When they finally moved closer, he immediately enrolled Skyler. Everyone is thrilled with the results. Moriarty had searched her New Tampa area for a well-rounded education in both faith and academics for her children. “From the moment you step on campus at Christ Our Redeemer, you know you’re in the right place,” she says. “We were welcomed like family. The teachers and staff provide a loving, nurturing environment where students feel safe to explore and learn. Morals are taught along with academ-

ics. The teachers encourage children to do and be their best.” Caitlin Moriarty, now 15, attended the school from fourth through eighth grade. She now attends Tampa Catholic High, were she scored 24 out of 25 points on the school’s entrance exam to earn a first year scholarship. “The teachers are good and it’s a nice atmosphere,” she says. Her sister Shannon, 13, is president of COR’s National Junior Honor Society. “The teachers are special because they incorporate current events with study topics. They push us toward awesomeness!” John, their sixth grade brother, also enjoys school there. “It’s a great school; learning is fun. Art and science are my favorite classes.” Garabrandt adds, “In one year, Skyler has become self-confident and a

(L. to r.) Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran School parish administrator Vickie Sufka, Bailey & admin. asst. Brenda Lamlein.

better person. He’s grown in ethics and morals that he wouldn’t get in 1 public school. The school gives love, support, understanding and patience. I know that he’s safe here and will never be in a ‘bad’ situation. I’ve never met a student or parent at COR that I didn’t like. With public school, I was never comfortable and always worried.” Skyler, now entering seventh grade, says, “My favorite thing is the staff. They are willing to help me with any problems I have.”

About The Church

The ability to offer grants-in-aid and scholarships partially comes from the church’s fun, church-wide events that are open to the public. “Don’t forget about us if you’re looking for a good church, or one that offers lots of neighborhood activities,” says Vickie. “We do Oktoberfest every year, and it’s already well-known in the area. This year it will be October 29, noon to 5 p.m.” Pastor Meyer (who was on vacation at the time of this interview) speaks German fluently, teaches German songs and has been conducting a German language workshop at the church since 2001. The workshop currently is held on the second Sunday of every month at 3 p.m., and averages about 25 people. But, the pastor also plays the

banjo and is fond of bluegrass music. This could be the reason why bluegrass concerts also take place once a month at the church from October through spring, with bluegrass bands coming from all around the country. Add to these a Christmas Festival and a Golf Tournament every year. Some of these events are free; others carry a reasonable admission charge. Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran Church started in 1984 when Our Redeemer Lutheran Church merged with Christ the King. After selling one property, the two became the current church. COR (the school) had opened at the Lutheran church in 1978, so it has been a rock in the neighborhood for more than 30 years. Brenda adds, “We’ve even had some former students come back to visit their teachers, and enroll their kids in the school.” The church currently has about 450 members and a good range of age groups, according to Vickie. There is Children’s Church from pre3 to third grade during the 10:30 a.m. church service (there also is an early worship service at 8 a.m., with Sunday School between the two services at 9:15 a.m.). For more information, visit CORLutheran.org or the school and church at 304 Druid Hills Rd., Temple Terrace. Or, call 988-4025.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

New Tampa’s Schools Again Make The Grade(s) In 2010, every public elementary and middle school in the New Tampa area earned an “A” grade from the Florida Department of Education (FDOE). Now, the 2011 School Accountability Reports show that our schools can continue to hold their heads high. New Tampa’s seven public elementary schools all earned an “A” for the second year in a row, except for Heritage Elementary, which narrowly dropped to a “B,” as Heritage came within just five points of an “A,” scoring a 520 out of 800 on the grade scale. To be an “A” school, a score of 525 or greater must be earned. “Heritage Elementary has been an A school for the last 5 years,” said the school’s principal, MaryJo Stover. “I was a little disappointed at first knowing we had missed an “A” by only a few points.” Stover says Heritage will be seeing some big changes for the upcoming school year, and she is currently working on new strategies, like giving teachers more planning time to focus on students’ weaknesses.

New Tampa Schools & Their FDOE Grades Lawton Chiles Elementary - A Harold H. Clark Elementary - B Hunter’s Green Elementary - A Dr. Richard F. Pride Elementary - A Tampa Palms Elementary - A Hilda T. Turner Elementary - A Nancy Bartels Middle School - A Louis Benito Middle School - A Liberty Middle School - A Note- The grades for Hillsborough County’s high schools have not yet been released. The FDOE is still tallying graduation rates, which have an effect on a high school’s grade.

Benito, Liberty and Bartels middle schools also all achieved “A” grades from FDOE, which uses scores from the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) and End-ofCourse Assessments to calculate what grade each school receives. New Tampa’s middle schools are among 21 in Hillsborough County to achieve an “A,” while the 20 other middle schools in the District scored a “B” grade or lower. High school grades will be released later. — SB

Freedom Announces Band Members The Freedom High Marching Patriots are pleased to announce their new band officer roster for the 2011-12 school year. Congratulations to the following students: Band Captain: Tyler Alvarez (Sr.) Drum Majors: Lauren Gandy (Sr.) & Lizy Barnes (Jr.) Drum Capt.: Panos Valavanis (Sr.) Guard Capts. Kristi Ilieva (Sr.), Sydney Olinger (Jr.) & Natalie Robinson (Jr.) Band Lieut.: Michael Simon (Jr.) Secretary: Kent Schaller (Soph.) Librarians: Brandi Prater (Sr.) & Aaron Asch (Sr.) Uniform Mgrs.: Bita Gorgzadeh (Sr.) & Reed Passmore (Soph.) Equipment Mgrs.: Daniel Barnes (Sr.) & Corbin Ryan (Jr.)

The Freedom High program has more than doubled in size since the school's opening in 2002. The program consists of the Marching Patriots, Concert Band, Advanced Woodwinds, Orchestra, Jazz Band, Drum Line and the Color and Winter Guard. The Freedom High Marching Patriots, under under the teaching of director of bands Michael Barrineau, have earned the top rating of Superior for their annual halftime shows beginning in 2003 and most recently for “Espionage” (2010). Superiors also have been earned by the Advanced Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band at the District and State level.

Band members consistently make AllCounty and/or All-State Bands and also participate in District and State level Florida Band Masters Solo and Ensemble. In 2010, Freedom High sent a school-record 33 students to the District level competition, with more than half going on to the State competition. This past year, the newly added Winter Guard took 5th place overall in their division and the Color Guard received the top rating of Superior at both the Music Performance Assessments and Chamberlain Invitational. In addition to their performances on the field and in the concert hall, the band program also is active in the community. This year will be the fourth of Freedom’s “Poinsettias for Patriots” program to benefit the James A. Haley Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. The Patriot Drum Line has become an integral part of the annual Veterans Day Parade, also held at the Haley VA Hospital. The Jazz Band has performed at the “Welcome Home America's Heroes” reception at the USF Sun Dome, the New Tampa Rotary PigFest, and the annual Hunter's Green Community Bowl Game. For more info about the Freedom High music program, visit FHSband.com.—Submitted to NTNN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

“All Stars” Continued from page 1 said Thinger, “And, Aaron Guiang was no doubt our offensive MVP, batting .412 and hitting 4 home runs in the State Tournament.” If the team wins in Georgia, where games were being played Aug. 5 - 12, the New Tampa team will go on to play in the 65th annual Little League World Series in Williamsport,

PA, where it will be televised live on ESPN August 18-August 28 from Howard J. Lamade Stadium. NTLL’s registration for the fall 2011 season is now open. Registration fees increase after Wednesday, August 17, and after Monday, August 22, there will be an additional late charge. For more information, call 994-0074, visit NewTampaLittleLeague.com or email info@newtampalittleleague.com.

New Tampa All Star Aaron Guiang, hits one of his 4 homeruns during Florida’s Little League State Tournament in Coral Springs

Bacon Named Baseball All-American Alex Bacon, a New Tampa resident, graduate of Tampa Jesuit High and former player for baseball teams in the New Tampa Little League, is now swinging with the big dogs as a star player for the University of North Florida (UNF) in Jacksonville. Bacon recently was honored with the following honors following the 2011 baseball season: Second Team Freshman All-American, Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American and he also was a unanimous selection to the Atlantic Sun Conference (A-Sun) All-Freshman team. Bacon also was the first UNF player to earn A-Sun Freshman of the Year award. At Jesuit, he was named UnderArmour All-American in 2009-10, and helped the Tigers win a Regional high school championship. This is in addition to helping Jesuit earn a No. 1 ranking in the Nation in 2009. Now, Bacon is cooking up the college circuit, where he batted .352 on the season, going 70-for-199 with 46 runs scored, 18 doubles, one triple, 9 home runs and 42 RBIs. He led the team in runs scored, doubles, being hit by pitch, sacrifice flies, games played and outfield assists. Just as

New Tampa’s Alex Bacon impressive, he was second on the team in batting average, slugging percentage, on base percentage, hits, runs batted in, home runs, total bases and games started. UNF’s stat records show that the 5-foot-8, 165-lb. Bacon also recorded the team’s second longest hitting streak of the year at 11 games. Bacon, who is studying engineering, comes from a baseball family. His father, Kevin, was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals and his grandfather, Don Bacon, played AAA baseball in the Chicago White Sox organization. His family has lived in New Tampa for more than 15 years. — SB

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

New Tampa Still Participating In ‘National Night Out’ Events By Sean Bowes It is a great thing to see neighborhoods unite with each other for a good cause, and few communities pull together with as much class, and even flash, as those in the New Tampa area. On August 3, at least three local communities participated in the 28th annual “National Night Out Against Crime” event to strengthen neighborhood spirit, and take a stand against criminal activity in our area. Hunter's Green, Ashmont in Tampa Palms and Grand Hampton were among the communities to have their own unique “Night Out” events. Each of the separate “Nights” wel-

comed local law enforcement officers and firefighters who joined in on the festivities. Ashmont, the smallest community in Tampa Palms with only 26 homes, enjoyed a small gathering of neighbors to enjoy food and drinks outside one of the resident’s homes. The neighbors were joined by officers from the Tampa Police Department (TPD), who stressed the importance of the community’s involvement for reducing crimes in the area. “Many of the crimes that take place in Tampa are solved by neighbors pointing us in the right direction,” said TPD Officer Al Burgos. “We are here to build a good relation-

At Hunter’s Green’s Community-Wide “National Night Out” event, everything from mounted police officers to bomb squad robots were on display.

Tampa Police Officers got acquainted with residents in the Ashmont at Tampa Palms community while enjoying tasty sandwiches and lemonade. ship with everyone here.” Karen Marker, the organizer for Ashmont’s Neighborhood Watch program said their community became more involved after burglars vandalized one of her neighbor’s homes. Now, she says, the neighborhood is much more tight-knit. “We really watch out for each other, and see who is coming into and leaving the neighborhood,” said Marker. At Hunter’s Green, the festivities, as always, looked more like a fair or a carnival than a Neighborhood Watch event. The community of 1,550 households is well-known for annually having one of the largest “Night Out” events in the Tampa Bay area. James

Lombardi, organizer for Hunter's Green’s Community-Wide Neighborhood Watch program, was happy with the turnout of around 500 residents. Joining the residents in Hunter’s Green were representatives from TPD, the Tampa Fire Rescue Department (TFR), and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, which brought fire trucks, police motorcycles and even a bomb squad robot. Hunter’s Green resident Scott Decker, the owner of Marco’s Pizza on Bruce B. Downs Blvd., gave away close to 800 slices. “It's just great to get the community out to an event like this and meet with the local fire fighters and police officers,” said Lombardi, “And, it's an awesome event for the kids.”

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Three Candidates Vie For Honorary Mayor Of Wesley Chapel One of the ways that the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) continues to build interest in the nearby community of Wesley Chapel is through its many meetings, events and ribbon cuttings. The last several years, the Chamber has been proud to name a member of the local business community as “Honorary Mayor of Wesley Chapel,” a ceremonial position awarded to the candidate who raises the most money to benefit the Chamber, as well as his or her selected charity. Current Honorary Mayor Debbie Yeorg of The Trump Network was on hand, of course, when the three candidates for this year’s Honorary Mayor position were announced at a Chamber mixer at the Hampton Inn & Suites Hotel located off S.R. 56 on July 21. This year’s three candidates are John Negley of the Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel Foundation, Mitze Richeson of Cypress Creek Chiropractic and Jan Roberts of Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. Negley, looking very mayoral in his top hat and tails (although some on hand at the event said all he needed was a monocle to look like Mr. Monopoly), is raising money for the Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel Foundation. The theme

of Negley’s campaign is “Puttin’ On the Ritz.” Richeson, the wife of Dr. Micah Richeson, D.C., is raising money for Oasis, A Pregnancy Care Center. The theme of her campaign is “Growth 2012: Gaining This year’s candidates for Honorary Mayor of Wesley Chapel are (l. to r.) John Negley of the Recognition of Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel Foundation, Mitze Richeson of Cypress Creek Chiropractic and Wesley Chapel “Little Jan” Roberts of Big Brothers & Big Sisters Of Tampa Bay (2nd from left in yellow shirts). Through the Heart.” And last, but not least, the theme of the diminutive Roberts’ campaign is “Little Jan for Big Mayor.” She is raising money for her employer, Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. The event, which featured delicious food by the Texas Roadhouse restaurant on S.R. 56, amazing cakes by Betty Cakes of Dade City (which is opening a location in the Shops at Wiregrass mall) and drinks sponsored by Toyota & Honda of Wesley Chapel, was attended by more than 100 Chamber members. For more info, call the Chamber at 994-8534 or visit the new office at 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., #105, or WesleyChapelChamber.com. — GN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

New Tampa Players Act Out ‘Annie’ The Tampa Bay area may be getting a lot of thunderstorms in the upcoming weeks, but Broadway fans can rest easy, because the New Tampa Players will make sure that, “The sun will come out tomorrow” as they take to the stage with the musical production “Annie.” This production of “Annie” should not be missed, as it will feature a cast of 47 members, not including a 10-piece orchestra of local volunteers and professional musicians who practice Annie (Miranda Wolf) and Daddy Warbucks with the show’s music director, Frank Meeking. Fans can (Tom Bronson) will light up the stage at the Univrsity Area Community Complex catch the play at the University Area Community songs, although he promises that there Devolpment Complex at 14013 North will be some uniqueness and flair to the 22nd St., just east of Bruce B. Downs play's dance scenes. Blvd. and south of E. Bearss Ave. Show times for “Annie” are: Fri“Many of the cast members are day-Sunday, August 12-14 and multi-generational actors,” says Doug August 19-21, 8 p.m., with an addiWall, director and president of the New tional matinee on Saturdays at 2 p.m. Tampa Players, “We have some actors Tickets are $14 general admission, $12 playing alongside their parents and for students and seniors, and $10 for grandparents.” parties of more than 10. According to Wall, this two-week Tickets and additional informaonly production of “Annie” will tion about the show can be found at embrace the traditional story line and NewTampaPlayers.org. — SB

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Taking The Orangetheory Fitness Challenge Is...Challenging! By Gary Nager I can’t yet guarantee you that the 60-minute group personal training workouts at Orangetheory Fitness (located off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in Highwoods Preserve, next to Cold Stone Creamery and Starbucks) will deliver the best possible results of any gym or personal training studio. What I can tell you is that the workouts are definitely intense, unique and even fun. Although I have been working out consistently the last four+ years and have kept off most of the nearly 50 lbs. I lost, I have to admit that I hadn’t been as motivated the last few months to really give my all in my workouts. To that end, I signed up for Orangetheory’s six-week Ultimate Fitness Challenge — not so much to try to win the $2,500 top prize — but to see if I liked the facility, the workout, the trainers and yes, to get back my motivation to lose back the last 15-20 lbs. Motivation, energy and heart rate are the big buzz words at Orangetheory. Each of the no more than 12 people in each class is given a personal heart rate monitor and the workout nearly always begins with 26 minutes on the treadmill, although there is both a stationary bike and a unique elliptical

machine called a “strider” for those who can’t do a hard 26 minutes (walking or running) on the treadmill. During that 26 minutes, the trainers have you establish a “base” pace that should get your heart up to the “green” zone (as shown on big-screen TVs), or between 75-85 percent of your maximum heart rate (based on your age). They then include one- or two-minute intervals of “pushing” and “all out” paces designed to get your heart rate up to and to stay in the “orange” zone (85-95 percent of your maximum) and, eventually, into the At Orangetheory Fitness on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (near Cold Stone Creamery & Star“red” zone (95 percent and above of bucks), the intense small group workouts usually begin with 26 minutes on the treadmill your maximum heart rate). (left) but also include rowing machines and (right) some unique strength-training exercises. The trainers will tell you that your good job of explaining each exercise, to the New Tampa area. heart rate should stay in the “orange” but it is really important to pay atten“The choice to open in New zone (thus, the “orange theory”) at tion as each is explained, because the Tampa was an easy one, and we are least 12-20 minutes of each hour worktrainers have twelve people they have to looking forward to becoming a staple out to achieve maximum weight loss keep on task, the music is loud and pul- in this tight-knit community.” and fitness results. sating and the exercises themselves are I’ve only been at the Challenge In addition to the treadmills, designed to bring your muscles to full two weeks (I’ve done seven sessions in Orangetheory workouts include interfatigue, while keeping your energy level 14 days), but I am already increasing vals on an ergonomic rowing machine high, so you definitely want to do them my time in the orange and red zones and the “weight room” includes reps with virtually each workout and I do all correctly. The trainers will also take using a variety of dumbbell free the time to show you lower- or nonfeel great so far. To be continued. weights, medicine balls, step benches, To get star ted, call 774-3488, impact alternative versions you can do and enough sets of rings suspended visit Orangetheor yFitness.com or instead of the higher-impact exercises. from the back wall for each person in stop by the studio at 17515 PreOrangetheory co-founder and class to have a set. ser ve Walk Lane. There are 55 Tampa native Terry Blachek says he is The instructors generally do a very classes each week, including Sunday. happy to bring Orangetheory Fitness

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Second Endangered Rhinoceros Thriving At Lowry Park Zoo By Sean Bowes For the second time in two years, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is home to a new baby Indian rhinoceros. The endangered Indian rhinoceros (also known as the greater one-horned rhinoceros) was born July 13 at Lowry Park Zoo’s “Rhino Barn” within the zoo’s Asian Gardens exhibit. According to Lowry Park Zoo spokesperson Rachel Nelson, there are a total of just 54 Indian rhinos captive in zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). There are only about 2,600 Indian rhinos left in the wild, according to the Rhino Resource Center. The birth of the new male calf is a significant conservation milestone for the endangered species, says Nelson. “We are fortunate to have an animal care team with the expertise to provide for individual animals and to join global efforts to conserve animal species who are at risk of extinction,” adds Craig Pugh, executive director and CEO of Lowry Park Zoo. The zoo is home to a breeding pair of Indian rhinos known as Arjun, a male, and Jamie, a female. The pair’s first offspring, a female named Jaya, is now two years old and recently was relocated to Tanganyika Wildlife Park in Wichita, KS. The newest member of the Rhino Barn had yet to be named at our press time, but the zoo launched a naming contest on its Facebook page which asks the online community to participate. Selections of Hindi names — starting with the letter “J” in honor of the calf’s mother, Jamie — are among the possible choices. Those names include: Jahi (JA-hi) which means “dignified,” Jamil (JA-mil) which means “handsome,” and Janmesh (JAN-mish) which means “king.” Zoo

officials have promised that the name of the calf will be announced “soon.” Nelson says that the gestation period for Indian rhino pregnancies is approximately 16 months. When born, calves normally weigh in the range of 75-100 pounds and will nurse throughout their first two years. They are normally able to stand within just hours of being born. To ensure a stress-free introduction to the zoo, the mother rhino and calf spent time together off the exhibit for the newborn’s safety and privacy in bonding. Also, the father, Arjun, will be separated from the calf for the time being. According to Nelson, the calf will slowly start to be introduced into the rhino exhibit. The Indian rhinoceros is one of five species of rhinos worldwide and one of three species found in Asia. It is native to the remote, swampy grasslands of India, Assam and Nepal. Fully grown, the species can weigh up to 6,000 lbs, roughly the weight of a 2011 Cadillac Deville with four adults and a full tank of gas with groceries in the trunk. The Indian rhino’s most distinct feature is a single horn on the end of its muzzle (three rhino species have two horns), which is actually composed of keratin — the same protein that forms human fingernails and hair. The species has a unique upper lip, known as a prehensile lip, which acts as a hook to grasp onto plants and food in its herbivorous (grass, twigs, bamboo shoots, water hyacinths and various produce) diet. Indian rhinos have been described as having “armorlike skin” due to the presence of skin folds; however their skin is actually pretty supple, due to frequent wallowing in water and mud. Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo is operated by the Lowry Park Zoo-

The baby Indian rhinoceros, which has not yet been named, is spending time out of the exhibit for the first few weeks of his life. logical Society and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The zoo is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. in North Tampa and is open 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Daytime admission

prices are: $23.95 for adults, $21.95 for seniors (60+), and $18.95 for children ages 3-11. Admission is free for children 2 and under and parking also is free. For info, visit LowryParkZoo.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

North Pole Ices Is Your Neighborhood Ice Cream Shop! If your family enjoys a delicious dessert after school, after a great meal or after anything, really, you should check out North Pole Ices in the Cross Creek Center plaza at the corner of Kinnan St. and Cross Creek Blvd. The Lanigans — Kelly, Mike and their children Brittany, Anthony and baby Chloe — are (like yours truly) transplanted New Yawkas who have lived in New Tampa the last ten years. Mike, who has built homes in Cory Lake Isles and other local communities, decided it was time to try doing something different and several months ago, North Pole Ices was born. “We wanted to serve real New York Italian Ices and homemade ice cream,” Kelly says. “And, we’ve been told we have delicious ice cream and ices and very reasonable prices.” I would have to agree. Located across the street from Benito Middle School, Hunter’s Green Elementary and the New Tampa Regional Library, and basically adjacent to the New Tampa Little League field complex, parents and kids in our community haven’t had any trouble finding North Pole Ices since it opened and I have to say that the ice cream is delicious. My favorite ice cream flavors to date (sprinkles are always free!) are the Bearfoot

Brownie and Chocolate Moose Tracks and one of the best deals in town are the large (for $3) and small ($2.50) chocolate chip cookie sandwiches. I can even get my favorite traditional NY-style black & white real milkshakes st North Pole Ices. My son Jake raves about the rainbow Italian ices and fresh fruit smoothies and you also can order hand-packed takeout pints and quarts. The only thing missing are the hot fudge sundaes and banana splits, but Kelly says they should be arriving soon, as are Nathan’s hot dogs, churros, pretzels and hot and frozen coffee drinks. And, with the coupon on page 48 of this issue, buy any item up to $4 and get one item of equal or lesser value FREE! For more info including hours, call North Pole Ices (10008 Cross Creek Blvd.) at 428-6998. — GN

(Clockwise from top left): Shannon loves the real New York Italian Ices at North Pole Ices on Cross Creek Blvd. The handmade chocolate chip cookie sandwiches at North Pole Ices are a decadent bargain. The Lanigan family, (l. to r.) Spider-Man/Anthony, Chloe, Kelly, Mike & Brittany, invite your family to join them for some sweet times!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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Join OrthoTechnology’s Winning Team! Ortho Technology, a worldwide distributor of orthodontic products located in New Tampa, is seeking talented energetic candidates for the following part-time positions: Admin Asst - Human Resources (9am2pm): Advanced Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access), 2-3 years’ administrative experience in the HR field, and the ability to manage and protect sensitive and confidential information required. Experience with ADP Workforce Now Module(s) a plus. Visit our website at www.orthotechnology.com for additional information and other job opportunities. We provide a great work environment and growth potential. Qualified candidates should submit resumes to careers@orthotechnology.com. NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS. St. James 16202 Bruce B. Downs, Tampa, Fl 33647

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Seeking Full-time Physical Therapist for Tampa Palms Outpatient Facility. Please send resume to (813) 994-3080. Part time Medical Assistant. Must have lab/blood draw experience. Wesley Chapel office, family medicine. evening and Saturday hours. Fax resume to 813-994-0085. New Financial Advisors office in Wesley Chapel located in Live Oak is looking for a FT Administrative Assistant. Flexible schedule. Pay range $10-15 per hour. Must have working knowledge of Word and Excel. Must also be able to type 50 wpm. No Smokers. Please e-mail your resume, photo, and contact information to: yourjobposting@yahoo.com. HAIR STYLIST: Are you ready to stop paying a commission to your employer and make 60% more income? If so, rent a room in a beautiful salon in New Tampa and be your own boss. Call 813-435-0408 for all the great details of having your own business. No contract required.

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T A I C H I L E S S O N S

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

Tai Chi Classes open to the public at the Club Tampa Palms. Benefits: Strength, Flexibility, Balance, Focus and reduced stress. New Beginner 6 week courses starting every few months Thursday evening’s 7-8 pm. space is limited. Also personal instruction in Tai Chi, Kempo Karate, Boot Camp Fitness training and more. With more than 31 years of training and teaching experience. Please contact me for more details. Peter today #787-7560 or E-mail chuan-fa@tampabay.rr.com

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S E R V I C E S

ENJOY YOUR POOL, WHILE WE MAINTAIN IT. KJ POOL SERVICE. Servicing pools for over 6 years. FIRST MONTH FREE, PLUS FREE EVALUATION & QUOTE Owner & Operator. LICENSE, BONDED & INSURED. Office: 813.909.9466 Cell: 813.748.9817. kjpoolservice@yahoo.com. Visit our website @ kjpoolonline.com TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE - New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing with outstanding customer service! Licensed, Bonded & Insured. CALL CHRIS TODAY @ 813857-5400 or visit WWW.TRANQUILITYPOOLSERVICE.COM to see why we are NEW TAMPA’S # 1 CHOICE! New customer’s 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 813-780-8616 TODAY and get 1 MONTH OF QUALITY SERVICE FREE. www.aquatecpool.com

TRINITY CHURCH of Wesley Chapel, an Independent Mission Church, David Huff Senior Pastor, invites you to Sunday Services at 8:15am, 10:45am & Sunday School at 9:30am; State Road – 54; NEW PRAISE SERVICE every Sunday at 12:34 pm; music by Barney Barnard & Christian Rock Band. Your attendance is requested. QUESTIONS? Phone 813-788-2898;813-312-1971.

Busy Bees Tutoring - Elementary Reading and Math; ESOL Certified; For rates and info call (813) 907-8993 or e-mail at Duffy47@verizon.net

A U T O S

F O R

S A L E

2006 Acura Integra - This Acura has everything that you need on it already it has a six speed manual transmission, leather seats, a full Pioneer Navigation system with bluetooth and a Ipod slot that you can control all of the songs through the car as well as lowering and handling springs, Weapon R headers, a Megan Exhaust, and a AEM cold air intake, as well as a Hondata chip, short shifter, as well as shifter bushings, carbon fiber shift knob, and HID's. This car has over 245 horsepower. It also has Kazera rims, blacked out lights, sun/moon roof and is in great shape. It has below 58,000 miles on it and has never been in a crash! Please call me at 813-731-9088 for more details. ALSO I HAVE ALL STOCK PARTS!!!! All this for only $15,800.

CLASSIFIED RATES 1 issue...........................$35 2 issues..........................$50 6 issues........................$120 26 issues......................$300 Call Dave @ 910-2575 to order your classified ad today!

D R I V I N G S E RV I C E Don’t Have a Ride? Don’t Want to Leave Your Car? Shouldn’t Drive? We Drive You and Your Car Home! Night Clubs, Corporate Events, Sporting Events, Concerts, Appointments, Airport or Stranded... Call Jay at 813-966-1530.

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Foreclosure Homes & Bank REO listings by email at www.TampaForeclosuresToday.com. Team Bohannon, Coldwell Banker 813-982-7512 DIVORCE – Free Report reveals what you need to know about what happens to your matrimonial home before, during, and after a divorce. Free recorded message 800-575-2180 ext 4002 - Tampa Suncoast Realty

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

2006 Audi A4

$14,995

Stock #10X05193A

2010 Ford Ford Fusion

Stock #P2922

$19,995

Stock #P2931

2009 Ford Ford F-150

2010 Ford Ford Escape

$21,395

2010 Ford Ford Focus Focus

$20,788 $20,7888

$14,995 $14,9995

2007 Ford Ford Expedition

$16,4955

2011 Ford Ford Mustang GT $30,995 $30,9995

Stock #P2930

Stock #11T89327A

2008 Ford Ford Mustang GT $25,9955

22008 008 M Mercury ercury G Gr.r. M Marquis arquis $15,995 $15,995

Stock #12M27699A

Stock #11C64986A

2011 Ford Ford Focus Focus

$24,595 $24,,595

$18,925 $18,9925

Stock #11U27611A

2008 Ford Ford Expedition $24,595 $244,595

2008 Ford Ford Fusion

$24,995 $24,9995

2008 Ford Ford Taurus Taurus a

2007 Ford Ford Expedition

Stock #P2928

$19,995 $

2010 Ford Ford F-150

$33,576 $33,576

Stock #11T56671A

$16,395 $166,395

2007 Ford Ford Fusion

$$10,595

Stock #11M51257A

$7 $7,995 7,995

Stock #P2918

$16,356 $16,356

2007 Ford Ford Edge

Stock #11E95619A

Stock #P2920

Stock #P2929

2008 Mercury Mercury Milan

$24 $24,388 4,388

Stock #P2906

Stock #11C64987B

2010 Ford Ford Mustang

2010 Ford Ford Edge

Stock #11K29321A

Stock #11F46077A

Stock #P2933

$19,995

2007 Ford Ford F-150

Stock #11S32310A

Stock #11B04375A

Stock #12F18013A

2010 Ford Ford Fusion

2007 Chevy TrailBlazer TrailBlazer $16,695 $16,6995

2007 Honda Fit Fit

$13,995 $113,995

Stock #12F51310A

$2 $22,995 2,995

2010 Ford Ford Focus Focus

$17,995 $117,995

Stock #P2932

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 17 • August 13, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com