Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News August Edition

Volume 21 Issue 18

Inside: Enter Our 2013 Dining Survey & Contest!

August 31, 2013

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The Direct-Mail News Magazines Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Since 1993!

THIS INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWS MAGAZINE IS DIRECTLY MAILED TO: WESLEY CHAPEL: Aberdeen • Belle Chase • Bridgewater • Brookside • Chapel Pines • Country Walk • Lexington Oaks • Meadow Pointe • New River • Northwood • Pinewalk • Pine Ridge Saddlebrook • Saddleridge Estates • Saddlewood • Seven Oaks • The Lakes at Northwood • The Villages of Wesley Chapel • Watergrass • Wesley Pointe • Westbrook Estates • Williamsburg 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

Weatherford & Other Officials Endorse Mike Moore For Dist. 2 Commission Seat!

‘We need to be shaking hands with the CEOs & company reps & letting them know what Pasco has to offer, instead of waiting for them to come to us.’ - Mike Moore “We need to be shaking hands

By Matt Wiley Wesley Chapel), Pasco County sheriff Chris Nocco (R-Odessa) and Dist. 5 County with the CEOs and company repThe 2014 Pasco County local elec- Commissioner Jack Mariano (R-Hudson). resentatives and letting them know tions may still be just less than a year away, “My family and I, we live here, we what Pasco has to offer, instead of but the race for the Pasco County Com- work here and we run a business here,” says waiting for them to come to us,” mission District 2 seat (which includes all Moore. “We really care about this county Moore explains. “We need to be of Wesley Chapel) already is heating up, as and it’s where we’ve planted our roots. At able to offer the right incentives current Dist. 2 Comm. Pat Mulieri (R- the same time, I see a lot of changes and from the beginning.”

New Port Richey) will not be seeking re- improvements that need to be made in this The University of Central election. county.”

Florida (in Orlando) communicaSo far, two Republican candidates have Among those changes Moore says he tions graduate is the owner of VR filed with the Pasco County Supervisor of would like to make, if elected as a commisBusiness Sales And Mergers & AcElections office to be considered candidates sioner, is getting out and attracting compaquisitions, a Wesley Chapel-based for the seat — current Wesley Chapel Re- nies that will bring high-paying, secure jobs company specializing in buying and publican Club president Mike Moore and to not only Wesley Chapel, but also Pasco selling small businesses. VR is the Robert (Bob) Warren Robertson. If no County as a whole. second business Moore has started Dist. 2 Pasco County Commission hopeful Mike Moore candidates of any other political parties file from the ground up; he says that in (right) already has picked up endoresements from several between now and July 28 of next year, the ‘We Have A Lot To Offer’ 2004, he began Care First Home elected officials, inlcuding Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco (left).

“Sometimes those big companies have two will square off in an August 26 Primary Care, a company that provides inelection, and the winner will take the seat. come here, but we haven’t had a plan in home caregivers for the disabled and eld- involvement and leadership experience as However, if at least one candidate of an- place of why they should come here,” the president of the Wesley Chapel Repuberly, which he sold in 2011. other party (or with no party affiliation) Moore says. “We have to seek them out.”

It is his business experience that lican Club and to his participation in the Moore says that, if elected and the files, the winner of the primary will face off Moore says makes him an ideal candidate Wesley Chapel Rotary Club, which allow against that candidate (or those candidates) budget allows, he will be active in attending him to not only connect with potential for the District 2 Commission seat. major business and manufacturing conferin the November 4 General election “You need to run a county as a busi- businesses that may be interested in the Although it is still early, Moore already ences that often are attended by big-busicounty, but also as someone who can always ness,” Moore says. is gathering endorsements from both local ness CEOs, whom he would reach out to In addition to his business experience, be in touch with his constituents. and state elected officials, including Florida about opening branches or relocating to See “Mike Moore” on page 26.

Moore points to his extensive community Speaker of the House Will Weatherford (R- Pasco County.

Construction Underway On The Boyette Reclaimed Water Reservoir On Overpass Rd.

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE!

Pasco Water Restrictions Continue, Wesley Chapel Man Arrested After Hitting Young Bicyclist, The Rebirth Of The Pebble Creek Collection & Lots Of Business Features!

Best NY Pizza Brings A Taste Of The Big City To WC, Our 2013 Dining Survey & Contest, It’s Always Cinco De Mayo At Casa Ramos, Plus, Neighborhood Nibbles & Biz Bytes!

Pages 1-28

Pages 29-40

ECRWSS

NEWS, BUSINESS, SPORTS & EDUCATION UPDATES

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

Also Inside This Issue!

storage area for reclaimed water that will be about 12.5-feet deep.

The reservoir will be surrounded on all sides by a 15-foot-tall embankment built with about 500,000 cubic yards of material to protect the surrounding communities, as well as a security fence that will remain not only during, but also after, construction.

Thalle estimates that The Boyette Reclaimed Water Reservoir, which is exthe project will take about 575 pected to be completed by early 2015, will be an average construction days to complete. of 12.5-ft. deep and hold more than 500 million gallons of reclaimed water for the dry season.

Pasco County documents state that the project completion date will be sometime in February 2015 and that the addition of the reservoir is required by a Florida Department of Environmental Protection consent order.

Dated Material Please Rush!

Construction has begun on Pasco County’s newest water reservoir.

In July, ground officially was broken on the Boyette Reclaimed Water Reservoir (BRWR) project, located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Boyette Rd. and Overpass Rd. The 500-million-gallon storage area for reclaimed water is part of

the Pasco County Master Reuse System (PCMRS) and will store reclaimed water during the wet season to prepare for lower supplies during the dry season, as well as allow for more reclaimed water customers.

The $31.4-million project is being overseen by North Carolina-based Thalle Construction Company, which will convert approximately 80 acres of land adjacent to the Boyette Water Treatment Plant into a

Postal Customer

By Matt Wiley

Thanks, New Tampa & Wesley Chapel, For Our Best Summer Ever!

An editorial by Gary Nager VAlthough I still hear a lot of the businesses we do business with say that they don’t see the economy recovering — at least not at any pace that’s helping them — based on the number of new businesses that keep opening in our area and the fact that those owners seem to have little or no trouble spending money with us to promote those businesses, I think there is some economic momentum being built in our community.

Every year, it seems, we have a fairly sizable number of advertisers who say, “Hold me out until after the summer, because there’s no one here until the end of August.” Well, even though we did have a few businesses pull their ads this summer, there have been even more coming in to take their place. In fact, I can safely say that, culminating with this issue, the summer of 2013 has been the best — in terms of both advertising revenue and the feedback we’re getting from readers and advertisers alike — we have ever had in our New Tampa and Wesley Chapel issues for June-August!

So, to what do I attribute this success?

Several things, actually. The biggest compliment general manager Nikki Bennett and I hear from local businesses pretty much every day is that even with some people achieving outstanding results with their own online and social media advertising, if you’re trying do business in New Tampa and/or Wesley Chapel, other people are telling these businesses that they have to advertise in the Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News!

That’s pretty awesome for us as it is, but what I also see happening these days, that wasn’t happening nearly as much in 2009-12, is that whenever spaces open up in

our local shopping plazas, new businesses are quickly coming in to fill those spaces.

And, as the newcomers get ready to open, they’re being told by other businesses in the same plazas what marketing they’ve done that has worked. And, more and more of them are being told that we’re about the only thing they’ve done that worked well enough for them to warrant the cost of that advertising — especially because the free business profile articles we have written about them bring in more business than any other form of advertising, marketing or publicity, whether in print or online.

Another factor I’ve also heard is that banks and other lenders are once again lending people money, whether to buy or remodel homes or open businesses. Of course, this re-raises concerns about the banking crisis that was at the center of the economic maelstrom that started a few years ago, when the banks were just handing over money to people who had little or no chance to keep up with their payments, as though the money was free candy. And, with still no major new restrictions in place to keep the banks from making themselves fail again, the economic pundits I see on TV all seem to believe that we’re headed for another fall, but that remains to be seen.

In the meantime, plazas in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel that have been suffering for years are suddenly filling up again (see

our story on page 18 for one impressive example) and more often than not, those new businesses are turning to us — as they have for nearly 20 years now — to help them make their respective businesses work for them and for their families.

This issue (the biggest Back-to-School issue we’ve ever done in Wesley Chapel, by the way) is once again packed with both ads and features about a variety of local advertisers who have turned to us to help their businesses succeed. I hope, as always, that you will check out those features, visit or utilize those businesses and tell the business owners that you read about them in the Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News!

Wesley Chapel Rotary To Honor Non-Rotarians!

Do you know of someone in the community who puts service to others above themselves? The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel, which meets Wednesdays at noon at Ciao! Italian Bistro is recognizing and honoring non-Rotarians in our community who are giving back and making a difference.

To nominate someone for the club’s “Outstanding Community Volunteer Award,” email their full name, phone number, email address, occupation and what they are doing or have done to make Wesley Chapel a better place to Jennifer Cofini at jcofini@fordofwesleychapel.com.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News 15345 Amberly Dr., Tampa, FL 33647 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Fax: 910-2483 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Publisher & Editor Gary Nager General Manager Nikki Bennett Assistant Editor / Photographer Matt Wiley Correspondents Bonnie Mason • Lauren Saslow • Kathleen Schiop Senior Graphic Designer Porsha Lamos Advertising Sales Rep Taylor Gardner Nothing that appears in Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion.

The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 21, Issue 20, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, September 16, 2013.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, nor for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. © 2013 JM2 Communications, Inc.

Neighborhood News

Table of Contents

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS & EDUCATION UPDATES................................................Pages 1-26

Pasco Continues. Once-A-Week Watering Restrictions........................4

Wesley Chapel News Briefs........................................8

Man Beats Son In Taco Bell Parking Lot Drunk Driver Arrested For Hitting Boy On Bike Arrest Made In May BBD Shooting Wesley Chapel Community Calendar.............................10

Local Business Updates.................................14-23

Prudential Tropical Realty: Your Home-Buying Realty Team..14 Pebble Creek Family Dentistry Makes Your Family Smile........16 Celebrating The Rebirth Of The Pebble Creek Collection......18 Tri-Care Services Serves Your A/C & Plumbing Needs..........20 Cypress Point Community Church Wants You!.......................22 The Vein & Cosmetic Center Of Tampa Bay...........................24

Local Education Updates........................................26 WC Schools Tackle Tougher Standards For School Grades

Neighborhood Magazine

Best NY Pizza Gives You A Taste Of The Big City...................29 Enter Our 2013 Dining Survey & Contest.............31 & 32 Casa Ramos Brings Mexican Fare & Flair To Tampa Palms.....33 ‘Neighborhood Nibbles & Biz Bytes’...............................34

WESLEY CHAPEL COLOR CLASSIFIEDS.......36-37

Guest Editorial By Pasco Elections Supervisor Brian Corley...38

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Pasco Residents Still On Once-A-Week Watering, Despite ‘Swiftmud’ Change

By Matt Wiley Although the heat of the summer is still affecting the Wesley Chapel area (and with it, the usual pattern of afternoon thunderstorms), Pasco County remains on the once-per-day watering system that it utilizes year-round, despite the fact that the Southwest Florida Water Management District (aka “Swiftmud”) recently eased the water restrictions implemented last month.

According to a July 30 release from Swiftmud, the District’s Governing Board voted to let all Phase III water shortage orders — which limited lawn watering to once per week on specific days and determined by address, between the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. — expire on July 31.

“The Governing Board allowed the water shortage orders to expire in response to significant improvements in aquifer and river levels as a result of this summer’s above-average rainfall,” the Swiftmud release states. “The region’s major public water suppliers have also been able to capture and store large supplies of water to meet the needs of residents.”

The Swiftmud year-round water conservation restrictions took effect on August 1, which include both Hillsborough

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and Pasco counties, and allow for more than once-per-week watering. However, once-per-week watering restrictions remain active for all Pasco County residents.

“The Utilities Department decided almost 20 years ago to keep watering in Pasco at once-per-week, year-round, explains Pasco Utilities environmental biologist Jeff Harris. “Even ‘thirsty’ grass grows just fine if watered once-per-week, plus it’s less confusing for customers to keep the same water day and time yearround. It’s good to have a consistent message for customers.”

Pasco’s current restrictions allow for watering one-day-per-week, between the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 a.m., on the specific day, determined by address. However, hand watering of shrubbery or plants can be done any day, as long as it is done between the specified hours. Decorative fountains may be turned on as long as they use and display a sign indicating to the public that they use reclaimed water.

Vehicles still can be washed with potable water, as long as they are washed using a self-canceling nozzle or other device that automatically cuts off the flow of water.

For more information, including a schedule of which addresses can water when, please visit the “Utilities” page of PascoCountyFl.Gov.

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W ESLEY C HAPEL Man Beats Son In Taco Bell Parking Lot

A Wesley Chapel man has been released after being arrested for beating his son with a belt in the parking lot of the Taco Bell located at S.R. 54 and Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd.

According to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, an altercation broke out just after 11 a.m. on August 16 in the parking lot of the Taco Bell, located at 24830 S.R. 54, between Brian Keith Blum, 43, of Quail Hollow, and his 17-year-old son.

The PCSO report states that, while beating Brian Blum him with a belt, Blum pulled his son out of the passenger side door of his vehicle. Witnesses watched as the 17-year-old then attempted to defend himself against his father.

Blum’s son stated in PCSO documents that this was the first time that his father, a senior manager for multinational accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers, has ever attempted to physically harm him with a weapon. Blum was arrested on domestic violence charges and released on his own recognizance.

No additional information was available at our press time.

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News Briefs Drunk Driver Hits Bicyclist

A Wesley Chapel man is in custody after striking a young bicyclist, eluding authorities and driving through the helicopter landing zone set up to transport the victim to a local hospital.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), on July 29, Nathan Wayne Young, 52, a resident of the Quail Run RV Park on Old Pasco Rd., was driving his 1998 Ford Expedition while under the influence of alcohol on U.S. 41, south of Painter Pl., near Spring Hill.

At the same time, 14-year-old William Machacek was riding his bicycle southbound along the east shoulder of U.S. 41 with his 15-year-old brother, when he was Nathan Youngstruck by Young’s vehicle, which was headed north. However, Young did not stop. Machacek’s brother was not injured in the incident.

FHP reports that a witness had been following Young, who was driving all over the road, and called in the accident to 9-11, along with Young’s license plate number. After calling in the incident, the witness returned to the scene to try to help. Not long after, Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) deputies arrived and the witness saw Young drive by, right

through the helicopter landing zone set up to transport Machacek to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa.

After a brief pursuit, Young crashed into a tree and was taken into custody for fleeing the scene and eluding authorities, at which point a blood sample was taken.

He was released, pending the results of his blood alcohol test, and was then arrested August 5 by FHP Troopers, when the test showed his blood alcohol content was 0.262 BAC (or more than three times the legal limit of 0.08 percent) for driving under the influence with serious bodily injury, as well as leaving the scene of a crash with serious bodily injury.

Young was still in custody on a $110,000 bond at our press time..

Arrest Made In May Shooting On BBD

Details have emerged and an arrest has been made in the shooting death of a Pasco County man who was shot in his car while driving on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in May. According to the Tampa Police Department (TPD), Demetrio Earle, 27, of Tampa, was arrested around 3:45 p.m. on August 2, following an investigation into the May 31 death of 20-year-old Reggie Adams.

TPD reports that around 3:30 p.m. on May 31, Earle met Adams and a passenger, Eddy Lee, in the parking lot of the McDonald’s in the New Tampa Cen-

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ter shopping plaza at BBD just north of Cross Creek Blvd., to sell an unknown item. At some point during the sale inside the black Dodge Magnum, an altercation occurred and Earle Demetrio Earle jumped from the vehicle as it backed out of the parking lot.

The report says that Earle got into his own vehicle and chased the victims south on BBD and began firing a gun into the vehicle near I-75. Lee was struck in the arm and Adams was fatally shot in the chest. Adams was dropped off at Pasco Regional Medical Center nearly two hours later, where he died. Adams, who lived in Texas, had been in town visiting family.

Earle is being held without bond on charges of second-degree murder with a firearm, attempted second-degree murder with a firearm and shooting into an occupied vehicle.

No additional information was available at our press time.

There’s more Wesley Chapel news where these stories came from.

Keep up with everything that’s going on in New Tampa & Wesley Chapel at the new & improved NTNeighborhoodNews.com!

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Sparkling Beauty Red Hatters — The Sparkling Beauties, a chapter of the Red Hat Society (a global networking group of women age 50 & older), are enjoying life to the fullest in the pursuit of fun, friendship, freedom and fulfillment.

For info, call Queen Diamond at 907-1431 or email IamretJudy@aol.com.

Monday, September 2

Experienced Networking Professionals (ENP) — ENP meets Monday mornings at 8 a.m. for breakfast and networking at Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club (6225 Old Pasco Rd.). For more info, call Brad Benson at 973-1814.

Free Networking International (FNI) — FNI, a group of area business owners, meets Mondays for networking and discussion at Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26133 Lexington Oaks Blvd., off S.R. 54). For info, call Stacy Dalton at 469-5499.

Wesley Chapel Business Forum & Networking (WCBFN) — WCBFN meets Mondays at 8 a.m. at Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26133 Lexington Oaks Blvd., off S.R. 54). For more information, call John Roth at 377-2622, email John.Roth@IBuilderz.com or visit the group’s Facebook page.

‘Wesley Chapel Speaks’ ToastMasters — The “Wesley Chapel Speaks” ToastMasters Club meets on the first and third Monday of every month, 6:15 p.m., at Hyundai of Wesley Chapel (26944 Wesley Chapel Blvd.). Club meetings are open to all interested parties.

For more information, call David West at 610-1650 or visit WesleyChapel Speaks.ToastMastersClubs.org.

Tuesday, September 3

Business Networking International (BNI) — BNI, a group of business professionals who work to support each other through qualified referrals, meets Tuesdays, 7:30 a.m., at Heritage Church (1854 Oak Grove Blvd., off S.R. 54, in Land O’Lakes).

For more info, email Tim at Tim@TampaHomes24-7.com.

East Pasco Networking Group (EPNG) — EPNG meets every Tuesday, 9 a.m., at Beef O’Brady’s (1660 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in the Shoppes at New Tampa of Wesley Chapel plaza). For more info, call Frankie Ammons at 479-7997 or e-mail Frankie@studioglory.com.

Mothers Of Preschoolers (MOPS) — MOPS is a non-profit group for building friendships between mothers of infants to kindergarteners in the local community. MOPS meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month, 9:30 a.m., at Victorious Life Church (6224 Old Pasco Rd.).

For info, email Debbie at VLCMops@yahoo.com.

‘Networking On The Nines’ — “Networking on the Nines,” put on by Insurance New Tampa, is a great way to meet new friends and clients or strengthen existing relationships, while playing a 9-hole scramble on the third Tuesday of every month at Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26133 Lex. Oaks Blvd.), 3 p.m. Call Susan at 435-6350 for info.

Thursday, September 4

Networking For Your Success — The Networking For Your Success group meets Thursdays, 8 a.m., at Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club (6225 Old Pasco Rd.).

Visit NetworkingforYourSuccess.com or call Shawn Clark at (888) 711-2032.

Friday, September 5

WC Sunrise Rotary Club — The Wesley Chapel Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Friday, 7:15 a.m., at Quail Hollow Country Club (6225 Old Pasco Rd., off S.R. 54).

For more info, call Lynne Morgan at 695-6466.

Saturday, September 7

Florida Writers Association — The Florida Writers Association (FWA) of New Tampa/Wesley Chapel is a FREE group that meets the first Saturday of each month, 10 a.m., at the New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.). Presentation topics include editing, marketing, options for publishing, navigating social media and more.

For more info, email Cindy at Cindy.Campbell@ OmnificPublishing.com.

Thursday, September 12

Wesley Chapel Republican Club — The Wesley Chapel Republican Club meets the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m., at Wesley Chapel Hyundai (27000 S.R. 54). The club is open to Republican men & women interested in “good government.” New members welcome. For info, call Mike Moore at 777-6171, or email WCRepublican@ATT.net.

Sunday, September 15

Adult Pasco Soccer League (APSL) - The Fall season is about to begin. The league offers men’s, women's and co-ed games on Sunday afternoons at the CrossRoads Community Church (26211 County Line Rd.). Registration is open until September 7th for teams and players, who must be at least 18 years old. For more info and to register online, visit NewAPSL.com or call Colin at (747) 999-5425.

Saturday, Sepetmber 28

Women-N-Charge ‘Murder Mystery Tea - Women-n-Charge is hosting their annual Murder Mystery Fundraising Tea, "Cruise into Wealth" from 2-4pm at the Groves Golf & Country Club in Land O' Lakes (7924 Melogold Circle). Tickets are $15 or 2 for $25. Proceeds from the tea fund WNC's grant program for women in business.

To purchase tickets or for more info, visit Women-N-Charge.com or e-mail Admin@Women-N-Charge.com.

Wednesday, September 4

Wesley Chapel Rotary Club — The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel meets every Wednesday, 12:15 p.m., at Ciao! Italian Bistro (2001 Piazza Ave., in the Shops at Wiregrass mall).

For more info, call 862-8989 or 391-3895.

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Prudential Tropical Realty — A Local Leader In Residential Real Estate!

By Gary Nager & Lauren Saslow

Whether you’ve just moved into the Wesley Chapel/New Tampa area or you’ve been here for years, if you’ve ever had the pleasure of either trying to sell your home or house hunting before sitting down at the closing table and signing and initialing mountains of documents, you understand how daunting the process can be — especially if you don’t have the proper help to get the job done right.

Prudential Tropical Realty (PruTrop) is an independently-owned franchise, with 16 offices and nearly 500 agents in four counties (Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Hernando), of the nationwide Prudential Real Estate. And, PruTrop’s hugely successful location in the Shoppes at New Tampa plaza in Wesley Chapel (just south of the Shops at Wiregrass mall), can help you find the home of your dreams or sell the home you’ve loved for years at the best possible price, with the least possible amount of hassle and aggravation.

Dennis Derbes, the Market President and Managing Broker for both the New Tampa and Zephyrhills offices of PruTrop, manages a staff of 64 agents, 52 in the New Tampa office and 12 in Zephyrhills, although the market for our local office includes New Tampa, Wesley Chapel and Land O’Lakes.

One of the things Derbes says helped keep the local PruTrop office thriving the

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last few years, when many real estate offices in our area either closed or were absorbed into other agencies, is that Prudential Tropical Realty is truly a “one-stop shop” for all of your real estate needs. While all of the services available aren’t physically located at the New Tampa office, the PruTrop franchise and its divisions and affiliates can literally handle all of your real estate needs, including rentals, property management, relocation, title, mortgage and home warranty services, commercial real estate transactions and more.

The Power Of ‘The Rock!’

Plus, PruTrop also is an independent part of the Prudential Real Estate network, one of the largest in the U.S., with 1,400 offices and more than 47,000 agents nationwide.

“That’s the other thing that helps us in a down economy,” Derbes says, “the strength of the Prudential name. When people relocate to this area, they may not immediately find a small, local real estate office, but everyone can Google search ‘Prudential’ and ‘Tampa’ and find us.”

And now, for some more good news for anyone considering buying or selling a home in this market, in what some still call a lackluster economy.

“Every statistic we have for this market is showing a lot of improvement since 2011, and especially, since last year.”

For example, when comparing the first six months of 2013 to the first six months of

2012, in zip codes 33647 (New Tampa), 33543, -44, and -45 (Wesley Chapel) and 34638 and -39 (Land O’Lakes), he says that, according to the Florida Multiple Listing Service (MLS), the average home sale price rose more than 14.5 percent, to $204K Managing Broker Dennis Derbes (left), pictured with Lisa from $178K. EqTownsend (center) and Kathie Khadij, manages both the Wesley uity home sales were up in this Chapel and Zephyrhills offices of Prudential Tropical Realty.

New Tampa/ rising, you can see why we’re encouraged Wesley Chapel market about 34 percent, about the future in this New Tampa/Wesley while short sales actually went down nearly Chapel market,” he says.

8 percent, and bank-owned sales were up A Little PruTrop History more than 12 percent. Derbes adds that Prudential Tropical Realty is one of the 85% of the business at the New Tampa ofoldest and most successful Prudential franfice are homeowners in the six zip codes chises, and the only one with the same origimentioned earlier.

The stats also show that the New nal owners: Dewey Mitchell and Allen Tampa/Wesley Chapel/Land O’Lakes marCrumbley. Mitchell, a resident of the Trinity ket is ahead of the average for Hillsborough, area of New Port Richey, and Crumbley, an Pasco and Pinellas overall, where equity sales Alabama native, met when both played footare up only 27 percent and average sales ball in the late-1970s for legendary Coach price is up only about 11 percent.

Paul “Bear” Bryant at the University of Ala“With both the number of sales going bama. Bryant taught Mitchell and Crumbup and the average and median proces also ley not only the lessons of football, but also

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life lessons. Derbes explains that the two carried those tenets into their real estate business when they bought an existing real estate brokerage in 1984. It became Prudential Tropical Realty, a Prudential franchise brokerage in 1988, where their focus was (and still is) taking care of customers in “an appropriate, ethical and professional manner.”

While all PruTrop agents are individually licensed, by Florida law they must work under a supervising entity or “Managing Broker.” The Broker offers assistance and support to the agents, while also ensuring that each abides by Florida laws.

“For example,” Dennis says, “although we handle short sales, our agents are not allowed to negotiate (short sales). We have licensed negotiators we refer short sale situations to when we receive those inquiries at our office.” The Broker also provides his or her agents with the necessary marketing materials in-house that are required to successfully complete their daily operations.

Derbes explains his role, like other managing brokers, is to act as “a touchstone and a problem solver.”

While he “dabbled in residential and commercial real estate” for 25 years, Derbes actually has a long history of automotive sales. Hailing from New Orleans and graduating from Tulane University with a degree in History and Economics, Derbes managed a shopping center in New Orleans before relocating to Tampa in 1973, where he spent years as the general sales manager at Reeves Import Motor Cars in North Tampa until the mid-1980s. He eventually met his wife, Vicki — now a Licensed Real Estate Agent in Dennis’ New Tampa office — while working at Reeves. Derbes’ sales and management experience has helped him successfully lead his team of agents, which prides itself on providing individualized attention for every client.

“Yes, we have some agents who sell more houses than others,” Dennis admits, “but service is the key for every member of my team, so it doesn’t make sense for me to single out any of my agents.”

Committed To The Community & The Environment

As consumers now often prefer documents to be e-mailed to them — for not only convenience, but also as a commitment to the environment — Prudential Tropical

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Realty has pledged to go green. While some real estate documents still require hard copies, Dennis says PruTrop is working towards its goal of streamlining the business by becoming a paperless workplace, for the majority of the company’s business documents, by the end of the year.

The entire PruTrop franchise also has demonstrated a responsibility to the local community by offering money and manpower to multiple charitable organizations throughout the past three decades.

One targeted organization included funding for former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back (also originally from Louisiana) Warrick Dunn’s “Homes for the Holidays,” which offers assistance to single parent families working towards first-time homeownership by providing down payment and closing costs, home furnishings and long-term support for financial stability.

The company’s current charitable focus, “The Sunshine Kids,” is a nationwide nonprofit foundation based in Houston, TX, dedicated to organizing positive activities, events and trips — as well as emotional support — for young children receiving cancer treatment across the country, including locally at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Treatment & Research Center on the USF Tampa campus.

The Prudential team provides volunteers to accompany the children and their nurses on trips to places like Universal Studios and Walt DisneyWorld in the Orlando area so they can relax and be ‘normal’ kids for awhile. Derbes is humble when describing the contributions and also clearly humbled by the impact the children have made on him. “We can learn a lot from those kids,” he asserts. “They have a verve for life and a conviction to conquer it.”

The New Tampa office also has many plaques on the walls, thanking Derbes and his crew for sponsoring local Little League, football, soccer and other teams and schools.

The office also participates in events like the Taste of New Tampa and others.

For more info about the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel Prudential Tropical Realty office (located at 1830 BBD in The Shoppes at New Tampa plaza), visit NewTampa.PrudentialTropical.com or call 907-8200. The hours of operation are Monday -Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday & 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

15

Pebble Creek Family Dentistry Will Give Your Family Something To Smile About!

By Matt Wiley Smiles go miles, as the saying goes.

So, when taking care of your smile, it’s important to choose a dentist who wants to make your entire family smile.

Consider Pebble Creek Family Dentistry (PCFD)’s Dr. Vijay Patel, DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery), a highly trained dentist whose practice (which has been in business in the New Tampa area since November 2010) focuses on taking care of entire families, from children ages 6 and older to the elderly.

PCFD provides general dental procedures, including routine cleanings, dental exams and X-rays, composite fillings, root canals and extractions, as well as cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as porcelain crowns, tooth whitening, bridges, veneers and bonding.

Dr. Patel, an Arbor Greene resident, is a family man with two kids, 4 and 7, so it just makes sense that he wants to provide dental care for your whole family.

A University of South Florida (USF) alumnus ofr his undergraduate studies, Dr. Patel says he used to drive through New Tampa on his way to classes at the Tampa campus from Dade City every morning.

He says that he always knew the area between Dade City and USF (Wesley Chapel and New Tampa) was ripe for future development. For that reason, after earning

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his DDS degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C., he decided to set up shop in what is now the Chase Bank building at the intersection of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. and Regents Square Dr., in Pebble Creek (across from McDonald’s).

“I’ve always loved this area,” Dr. Patel explains. “It has a very young population, which is exactly the kind of area I was looking to start a practice when I got out of dental school. My patients are very caring, loyal and faithful.”

For the weary or bored patient, PCFD’s waiting room alone is enough to ease the senses, from its friendly front office staff members who welcome patients as they walk through the door, to its serene décor and comfortable leather couches, surrounding a flat-screen TV that can be tuned to your requests.

“From the moment you walk into Dr. Patel’s office, you feel comfortable and at ease,” says happy PCFD patient Ramonita Ortiz. “Dr. Patel takes the time to actually have a conversation with you. When I had work done, (he) even called me the next day to ensure that I was okay.”

The dental exam room can be another stressful place for patients who aren’t keen on seeing a dentist, but everyone loves a massage, right? Each exam room in PCFD is equipped with a reclining massage chair facing ceiling-mounted flatscreen TVs for patients to relax in as they

undergo their cleaning, or any other procedure that may have brought them into the office.

When Dr. Patel visits with you as a patient, he makes sure that you understand what he is explaining. Instead of simply muttering medical terminology, he will even bring out a cross-section diagram of a tooth to show patients which part of their tooth may be experiencing pain and show them why, before giving them options about how to treat the problem.

“We are all about dental care and we’re compassionate,” he explains. “This is not a high-volume-based practice where you’re treated like a number. We do anything and everything that is possible to take care of the patient and to make sure that they are comfortable.”

In fact, it’s attention to patient care that kept Dr. Patel out of a hospital environment when he was figuring out in which direction he wanted to take his dental career.

“I did some volunteer work in a hospital and at a dental office,” Dr. Patel says.

“I was much more impressed with the dental office and the relationships that could be developed there. It was more patient-based and I saw that you actually have the opportunity to build relationships. And, many of those patients stay with you forever. With doctors, many

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Dr. Vijay Patel of Pebble Creek Family Dentistry in the Chase Bank building on Bruce B. Downs Blvd.

times you only see them for emergencies.”

Speaking of emergencies, even if you are not a patient, if you have a dental emergency, Dr. Patel can see you.

“We happily accept walk-ins, and those patients usually are seen that same day,” Dr. Patel explains. “We try to slide (walk-in patients) into the nearest available timeslot, so that I’ll be able to see them as fast as possible. I’ll even see them on my lunch hours, if necessary.”

His attention to patient care has not gone unnoticed. Dr. Patel has patients who live as close as Wesley Chapel and Land O’ Lakes, and others who live as far away as Miami.

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Patel at Pebble Creek Family Dentistry.

“You won’t regret coming here,” Dr. Patel says. And, from looking at all of the positive testimonials on his website, it’s obvious that his patients agree.

Pebble Creek Family Dentistry, located at 19007 BBD, accepts all PPO (preferred provider option) insurances and is open Patients at Pebble Creek Family Dentistry enjoy re- Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-6 laxing massage chairs and flat-screen TVs. p.m. For more information, visit PebbleCreekFamily“This couple was in town visiting Dentistry.com or call 406-4947. their son and came in to see me,” Dr. Patel says. “Now, every six months, they still drive up in their RV to see me for their checkups.”

Coming Soon — Implant Dentistry!

Although PCFD currently only specializes in general family dental procedures and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Patel says that he is excited to be adding implant dentistry at the office, possibly as soon as sometime next year. Dental implant surgery involves literally implanting a root for an artificial tooth into the jawbone to anchor it and replace a missing tooth.

But, for now, if you and your family are looking for a new dentist that not only will leave you with a clean smile, but also leave you smiling, stop in and see Dr.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

17

Celebrating The Rebirth Of The Pebble Creek Collection!

By Gary Nager

You may not realize it, but the Pebble Creek Collection (PCC) on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. a mile south of the Pasco County line, is the oldest shopping plaza in New Tampa. Built during the 1970s, the strip center looks as good as it ever has, thanks to an ongoing facelift provided by the center’s landlord and owner, John Martinez, which has included replacing the entire roof throughout the plaza.

That’s a good thing, because our office was in the Collection more than a dozen years ago, and roof leaks were an ongoing issue when we were there.

“We’re also going to replace the plaza’s current monument sign on Bruce B. Downs with something a lot nicer,” he says.

“I’m really happy with the way the center has filled back up.”

When Martinez purchased the plaza in 2005, he says it was always close to full and bustling with activity. In fact, he was able to manage PCC from his home in California.

But, when the local economic bubble burst in 2007-08, he says it became a lot harder to keep the tenants in business, much less happy, and by 2011, Martinez decided to move to Tampa to take a more hands-on approach and get the plaza back to capacity.

He was as careful as possible to choose businesses that would complement the existing tenants and hopefully survive the ongoing economic downturn.

And today, other than the long-empty former gas station located on the northern outparcel of the plaza, with direct frontage on BBD, which Martinez hopes to be making a formal announcement about soon (see below), and a former chiropractor office in the plaza itself, PCC is now full.

The newest new tenant to open is one that Martinez is particularly excited about — Once Upon a Child, a chain of children’s consignment stores with more than 260 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

“It’s a known retail name, in our anchor tenant space in the plaza,” says Martinez. “I hope it will attract a lot of traffic for the entire plaza, from the restaurants to our real estate offices.”

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Once Upon a Child owners Melissa and Brian Levering say their store, which had been open less than three weeks at our press time, was definitely generating quite a bit of traffic from people hoping to cash in on the store’s commitment to purchasing (and reselling) high-quality, new and gently used apparel, toys, baby (L. to r.) Ramses, the new owner of Las Palmas Café, Alex of Party Scene and Melissa and Brian of Once Upon a Child invite you to check out the newly revamped Pebble Creek Collection on BBD. equipment and furniture for children moved from a at affordable, family-friendly prices. successful loca“So far, so good,” says Melissa. “We’re tion on Bearss definitely in purchasing mode right now Ave. because, and quite a few people are finding us and “this is a better bringing in their quality baby and child neighborhood clothing and accessories.” and closer to The current tenants who have been my home.” in the plaza the longest are Bryan and Another Pam Hardy of Insurance Associates of tenant who is Florida. “We’ve been here almost 20 waiting for a gas years,” Pam says. “We’ve always loved this station is Full plaza and moved our office around in it Circle Pizza quite a bit. We really like the current owner Ron lineup of tenants (see diagram) here.”

Chase. “Our Another long-time tenant in PCC is dinner business Alex, the owner of Party Scene, which is a keeps building,” small store packed with everything you he says, “but ment that the food at Las Palmas is even need to throw a great party, including her I’m betting a gas station will really pump better than it was before. “And, we’ve great dozen latex balloon special for only up my lunch crowd. I’ll probably have to been coming here long enough to have $9.99. “It’s nice to see the plaza fill up, start selling slices (of pizza) at lunch, inknown all of the previous owners.” but I will definitely benefit when that gas stead of only whole pies, like we do now.”

Changing ownership and tenant linestation comes in,” she says.”

Although he already has a pretty solid ups have long been a staple of the CollecAnd, speaking of the gas station, lunch business, new Las Palmas Café tion. For example, the current Kobé Martinez assures us that a deal is immiowner Ramses Garcia says that the combi- Steakhouse has previously been Harris & nent. “The ink isn’t dry on the deal and I nation of an anchor gas station and his Co., Durango Steak House, Wasabi and have to invest some money to have gas other restaurants, none of which has tanks located under the station,” he says, “ new-and-improved, more authentic lasted more than a couple of years.

Cuban cuisine recipes should make that but I expect that there will soon be a Cir“Hopefully, Kobé will change that,” says cle K convenience store with Chevron gas crowd even bigger.

“We’re already getting great feedback Martinez. “I’m hoping all of these tenants moving into that building very soon.” will be able to stick around.” See the ad from our customers,” Ramses says, as a Sam, the new owner of the new King on the next page for more info! couple who overheard him nods in agreeBeauty Supply in the plaza, says he

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Tri-Care Services For All Of Your Plumbing, Heating & A/C Needs!

By Bonnie Mason Customer satisfaction is at the backbone of Tri-Care Services, Inc., where the mission is to keep customers for life, not just one job, according to Master Plumbers Sam Watson and Craig Griffin.

“We treat every job with hard work, honesty and integrity,” says Watson, the company’s vice president. Combined, the duo of Watson and Griffin offers 62 years of plumbing, gas, heating and air conditioning experience. Located in Wesley Chapel, Tri-Care Services provides residential and commercial services throughout the tri-county — Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas — area.

Watson first met Griffin in the classroom in 1983, when Griffin was his instructor at Tampa Bay Tech High off E. Hillsborough Ave. Watson spent eight years in vo-tech school — four as a plumbing apprentice and four in HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) apprenticeship. Watson practiced at his trade during the day and joined his teacher, Griffin, to teach their trades to others at night.

In 2011, Griffin and Watson joined forces, marrying their extensive backgrounds and experience to become TriCare Services, Inc. Watson has more than

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16 years of plumbing and teaching experience and he is a gas contractor and certified LP qualifier for the company.

Griffin, Tri-Care’s president and owner, has nearly 30 years of plumbing and teaching experience and he also is a Master A/C Contractor, as well as a Master Plumber and Gas Contractor. Both are licensed contractors with the state of Florida and Tri-Care Services is an Arated member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

“We became Tri-Care Services to better reflect what we offer our clients,” says Griffin, “not just skillful, prompt maintenance of HVAC and plumbing systems, but also ideas, opportunities, and research to help our clients meet their goals.”

Watson adds, “We have families ourselves and know how important it is that when something needs fixing — whether it’s air, heat, or leaking pipes — that it gets done right and within budget. We personally guarantee every job is done right, at the lowest possible cost.”

Watson and Griffin keep up to date on all of the latest technologies in their trades and ensure that their staff of eleven also is kept informed and trained.

Tips From The Masters

Plumbing & Gas - Tri-Care installs water mains, provides small or large sewer/plumbing services and repairs, as well as tankless service and repairs or replacements, if needed.

“We always check on a customer’s warranties, which can help Tri-Care Services, Inc., co-owner Sam Watson says his company comsave money in re- bines hard work with honesty and integrity to get your job done right. pairs,” says Watnatural gas appliances. son. To keep costs and repairs to a Watson recommends finding a minimum, parts specifically for commercial and residential water softeners are al- “journeyman” plumbing contractor to carry out all the projects that your home ways readily available at Tri-Care. or company requires to ensure quality And, if a Tri-Care customer purstandards and safety requirements are chases materials needed for an installation, the company’s staff will install them met. A “journeyman” is someone who has completed an apprenticeship and is exactly to the manufacturer’s specificafully educated in a specific trade. Watson tions. Tri-Care pipe systems include cast also cautions anyone hiring an individual iron, plastic, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and/or a company that you need to verCPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, a thermoplastic materials) copper, stainless ify that the firm is licensed and legitiand more. The company also is L.P. gas- mate.

“Don’t hesitate to check out a comcertified, so it can provide repair and pany through the Better Business Bumaintenance services to customers with

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Jason, a Tri-Care empliyee, works on the pipes for a bathroom as part of the remodeling of a large home in South Tampa. reau,” says Watson, who adds that you can review companies through a simple search at BBB.org. “It’s always a good idea to make sure the person or company you hire is skilled at handling different gas, plumbing, and heating systems, and is knowledgeable about the latest technology and methods to effectively execute the job safely and professionally.”

Customers can have confidence that Tri-Care's professional staff is qualified and familiar with the wide range of

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plumbing issues, such as leaks, burst pipes and problems with tanks and gas pumps. The best equipment for the job is used to ensure the highest standards.

HVAC - Many Tri-Care customers are building new homes, which requires them to decide which type of heating system should be considered for installation in their new home. Whether it’s forced air, radiant heat, hydronic, steam radiant, or geothermal, each system should be considered carefully to ensure that the one you choose will be effective for your home and your budget.

Forced-air, or central heat, is the system most commonly seen in residential structures because it can be used for cooling as well as heating a home, explains Watson. Generally, air is heated in a furnace and then forced out through installed ductwork and vents placed throughout the home. This system can heat air with electricity, natural gas, propane or oil.

Watson says that nearly 80 percent of new U.S. homes today are installing central air conditioning units while under construction, while others in older homes may be considering upgrading to a central A/C unit and Watson says that most homes can be upgraded “with few issues.” Again, he advises you to find a qualified contractor such as Tri-Care to install a new central A/C unit — an en-

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hancement to your home that will make you and your family more comfortable and help you save on energy costs.

Watson explains that you can significantly reduce your electricity bill by replacing your older air conditioner with a new SEER-rated (Seasonally Energy Efficiency Ratio) central air conditioning unit. Tri-Care Services stays on top of the latest efficiency standards in all HVAC systems, as manufacturers are responding to the challenges of increased energy costs.

After-hours emergency plumbing and HVAC calls are handled by Watson himself. “We don't use an answering

service,” he explains. “All after-hour calls come directly to me. It's our mission to build a good relationship with our customers and you can't really do that if you have a hired company answering your calls.”

If your home or business needs a plumbing, gas, air conditioning or heating installation or repairs, call TriCare Services at (727) 546-2050. In addition to the Wesley Chapel location (6740 Bluff Meadow Dr.), TriCare has a second office at 1706 Avoca Dr. in Tarpon Springs. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Cypress Point Communty Church Building Momentum On Morris Bridge Rd.

By Camille Gillies Although some churches in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area have become stagnant or even lost membership in recent years, one church, located on Morris Bridge Rd. a few miles south of the Pasco County line, has blossomed — Cypress Point Community Church!

Situated on 30 verdant acres just north of the corner of Cross Creek Blvd. on Morris Bridge Rd., this now-thriving nondenominational house of Christian worship started in 1998 with a handful of individuals who gathered for Bible study in the former Hunter’s Green Model & Visitor Center. Anxious to move from that choppy office space, which once served as the Hunter’s Green community’s new home sales hub, the group had a novel idea for a more practical meeting place: the Muvico Starlight 20 movie theater on nearby Highwoods Preserve Pkwy.

“When we called (Muvico) to ask if we could rent space from them on Sunday mornings, they thought we were joking,” recalls Dean Reule, founder and lead pastor of the church. But, after some persuasive calls to the megaplex’s corporate office, the group began meeting at the movie complex just off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd.

“I think there were 11 people at our first service, and that included us and our

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kids,” Dean says, laughing, glancing at his wife and fellow pastor, Hettie, who smiles and nods in agreement.

Those humble beginnings have today grown into a 750-member congregation that now assembles in an impressive auditorium located on tree-shaded land where cattle once grazed.

“We bought this property in 2004, and after spending a couple of years in the rezoning process and another in site development, we finally opened our doors in October of 2007,” Dean remembers. “It took a while because we bought during the real estate boom.”

Dean says the church purchased the former cattle ranch with future expansion in mind, stating, “Many churches tend to outgrow their space and we didn’t want to make that mistake.”

The church currently features a 30,000-sq.-ft. auditorium/multipurpose building, a former house now used for church offices and administration, a playground and acres of land for recreation and future building projects, which, the Reules says, will include a building dedicated to youth activities and another to house a growing food assistance center.

“We started our food assistance program in 2008 and every month we provide two weeks’ worth of food to 48 families in New Tampa, Wesley Chapel and Zephyrhills,” Dean explains, adding

that he envisions expanding the program to include counseling and other services, such as haircuts and anything else that’s needed.

Additional church programs include Celebrate Recovery, which helps anyone in need overcome a broad spectrum of problems ranging from addiction to loss, and Military Support Ministry, which provides events, support and encouragement to the husbands and wives of our Military, as well as care packages, prayer and support The Reule family (l. to r., Annegrace, Mary, to our deployed men and women. Emmy and pastors Hettie and Dean) invites your We provide assistance from finanfamily to join the fun and worship at Cypress cial support, to help around the Point Community Church on Morris Bridge Rd., home, to baby supplies, to childjust north of Cross Creek Blvd. care to counseling services. structured: infant through 4th grade; 5th and 6th grades; and 7th grade through A Focus On Youth high school. From stimulating classrooms Considering the church’s lengthy list for the little ones to a comfortable gatherof children’s programs, it’s not surprising ing place for the preteens to a high-tech that the co-pastors’ wish list includes a band and activity room for the older kids, youth building. Hettie, who also serves as each age group has its own space that’s Cypress Point’s children’s pastor, runs the designed specifically to suit their interests. multidimensional youth program. With a “Our children’s ministry is age and Bachelor’s degree in Christian Educastage appropriate,” Hettie says. “And all tional Ministries from Taylor University in of our volunteers are trained and backUpland, IN, and a Master’s degree in Ed- ground-checked.” ucation from the University of North CarAn assortment of faith-based kids’ olina in Chapel Hill, Hettie has created a clubs is available, ranging from Awana (a program that appeals to every age group, kids’ Bible club) to Performing Arts which is precisely how the program is

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Club for Kids (PACK), a summer program created by public school teachers who attend the church. PACK encourages kids to explore their God-given talents through acting, voice, dance, movement, staging and costuming, which culminates in a stage production.

Activities For Everyone, Too One program at CPCC that isn’t just for kids is the Cypress Point Community Church Martial Arts Ministry, which is all about instilling biblical principles of living a Godly life. Kids and adults see the kicks and strikes, but also benefit from the high level of discipline.

Cypress Point University (CPU) offers short-term (non-accredited) classes and seminars. The goal of CPU is to provide classes that positively affect your daily life and walk with God. Classes on basic theology, biblical content and Christian life skills are held each summer.

Church Services

For Sunday services, held each week at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., kids may be checked in securely to the children’s service or attend the adult service with their parents. Children’s services feature Bible stories, worship songs, crafts and interactive games. Cypress Point Community Church’s youth services include a youthled worship band, Biblical teaching and dramas that appeal to a younger crowd.

Adult services include worship and music,

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followed by an adult Bible study.

“Our worship arts pastor Jill Barber puts together a diverse, creative musical program,” Dean says, adding that a Sunday service may feature gospel, pop and country songs. “Our church tends to attract artistic people. We like to feature those talents with activities like art shows and gallery nights where the art ties in with a Christ-centered theme.”

Pastor Dean says the church reflects a snapshot of the community, diverse in its makeup. He believes people are drawn to its authenticity and warmth, a view shared by longtime church member Chip Elmblad. Chip and his wife Kathy are Meadow Pointe residents who have attended Cypress Point since 1999 and initially were drawn to the church because it felt “real, warm and contemporary,” Chip says. “We were looking for a place with personality and spirit – a place (we could) grow with. We liked Dean and Hettie’s vision of spiritual formation and their focus on families.”

Today, Chip serves on the “eldership team” – a senior leadership team – and also is involved with the middle and high school youth band. In fact, he gives free guitar lessons to the kids. Kathy also works with the congregation’s youth and leads Bible study groups. Chip attributes the church’s success to God, the faithfulness of the staff, a contemporary orientation and core teachings that adhere to a traditional creed.

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About Pastor Dean

Pastor Dean Reule received an undergraduate degree in religious studies from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, TX, a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, NJ, and a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Religious Studies from Florida State University in Tallahassee. He says he became a Christian at age 19 and followed a spiritual path because he felt, “a mystical sense of divine vocation.” He met Hettie at a church in Charlotte, NC. Together, they moved to Tampa in 1997, initially residing in Meadow Pointe before moving to Cross Creek 10 years ago.

They have three daughters, ages 20, 17 and 12. The Reules say they enjoy life in the suburbs, especially seeing the area and the community evolve.

“When you’re people-focused, you welcome growth,” Dean says.

There’s no disputing the progress of Cypress Point Community Church, which has come a long way from its days of a few people convening in real estate sales centers and movie theaters.

For more information about Cypress Point Community Church, visit CPCCOnline.org; call 986-9100; or stop by the church at 15820 Morris Bridge Rd.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Vein & Cosmetic Center — Cutting-Edge Technology Without The Cutting! many years before there were any cosmetic surgeons or Med-Spas with offices in our area.

Dr. Hunt, who is Board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians and is a Diplomate of the Osteopathic National Boards & Flex Exam, earned his Doctor of Osteopathic (D.O.) degree from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. His post-doctoral training included a three-year family practice residency at Cuyahoga Falls General Hospital in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. He The friendly, professional staff at the Vein & Cosmetic Center of Tampa Bay on Rocky then developed and maintained a successful family and vein sclerotherapy Point in Tampa is led by Dr. Jeffrey Hunt. practice in Akron, OH, for seven years small varicose veins that have surfaced due them, our prices are usually better than before relocating with his family to Tampa. to this pregnancy, but overall my legs are you’ll find anywhere else.” Dr. Hunt also His extensive post-graduate training in110-percent better this pregnancy than beconducted FDA clinical trials to bring IPL cludes working with the founder of the fore! Thanks so much!” treatments to the U.S. His commitment to American College of Phlebology. Since research and always keeping up with the then, Dr. Hunt has performed more than Non-Invasive Treatments newest medical technology, while offering 115,000 nonsurgical vein sclerotherapy For Face & Body only the most effective and safest treatments treatments and more than 50,000 spider Dr. Hunt is an avid believer in non-inpossible, ensures that patients at the Vein & vein treatments. He has perfected the advasive cosmetic treatments for not only legs, Cosmetic Center receive outstanding care. vanced method of ultrasound-guided foam but also for your face and body, all without One patient, Lisa from Lutz, raves sclerotherapy and CoolTouch Endolaser™ surgery or the need for anesthesia. about the leg treatments she received from for the treatment of varicose veins. He is a “We have so many ways of helping Dr. Hunt: “I just wanted to thank Dr. Hunt pioneer in the treatment of venous disease people look better, with little or no down and his staff for the great care I received for and is among the first physicians in the natime,” he says, and the Vein & Cosmetic my varicose veins; I am currently 6 months tion to earn a new certification from the Center’s website (VeinCenterTampa.com) pregnant and have had NO issues like I did American Board of Phlebology (ABPh). with my first pregnancy in terms of swelling, offers a complete list of these face and body “Our treatment is one of the most pain etc. in my legs and feet. I am so happy I treatments. The non-invasive treatments comprehensive available, as we ensure proper had this done and will be back around in the often come in packages custom-designed by vein absorption with 3-4 follow-ups,” Dr. Dr. Hunt to provide the most immediate spring to take care of some new spider/ Hunt says. “And, because we do so many of

By Kathleen Schiop

Science and beauty don’t always have much in common with one another. However, at the Vein & Cosmetic Center of Tampa Bay, Dr. Jeffrey Hunt, D.O., R.V.S., has combined the two — and is proud to have been achieving amazing results for his patients throughout the Tampa Bay area — since 1991.

Today, with 18 different laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapies to choose from, the Vein & Cosmetic Center treats everything from leg veins, spots and vessels to facial creases, wrinkles and freckles, utilizing everything from Acoustic Wave Therapy and Fractional Laser Treatments to Photorejuvination, Botox®, CoolSculpting®, and too many more to name, really. Dr. Hunt is the Tampa Bay area’s most experienced leg vein specialist and he and his professional, friendly staff are dedicated to providing technologically advanced, non-invasive cosmetic care for not only your legs, but also your face and body, that can be custom-designed to suit any budget and treatment need.

Established as a medical facility dedicated to treating varicose veins, spider veins, and other venous disorders, the Vein & Cosmetic Center has been providing the most comprehensive, proven, and effective vein treatments and non-invasive cosmetic enhancement procedures for more than two decades. In fact, Dr. Hunt was making men and women living in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area look and feel better for

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and longest-lasting results possible.

“With some treatments, it can take several visits over several months to see real results,” he says, “so we focus on those that provide the best possible results in the shortest number of visits.”

A patient named Maureen writes, “I first visited Dr. Hunt for my rosacea. I had tried green undertones in my foundation, but people kept asking me what I was upset about, or what was I angry about. My face was always so red. Dr. Hunt treated my face with Photofacial™ and those upsetting comments stopped. Just recently, he treated me with the Alma Lasers™. On my recent visit home, my brother and his wife were amazed when they saw me. They actually said I looked ten years younger. I’ve recommended Dr. Hunt to friends and will continue to do so. Lasers are one thing, but Dr. Hunt’s skill and dedication while using them are extraordinary.”

Committed to research and the newest technology, Dr. Hunt conducted a recent study of a new process that dissipates fat from legs, love handles and abdomen, as well as the much more invasive liposuction.

His research showed that when CoolSculpting™ body treatments are immediately followed by Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) treatments each week for four consecutive weeks, “the fat absorption rate is twice as fast when compared with results from CoolSculpting™ treatments alone,” he says.

“This means you should see the results in half the time, so what used to take six months now only takes three, and with no down time, and patients are losing 50 - 60

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percent of their body fat in the areas that concern them the most, the trunk area.”

The results of his clinical study have been released in Europe and Asia and Dr. Hunt says manufacturers there already are using the study to sell their products.

His study of increased fat reduction results is an exciting You, too, can go from flabby to fabulous with customized treatbreakthrough for patients and ments at the Vein & Cosmetic Center of Tampa Bay. his research on this subject is feeling a mild-to-moderate warming sensain the process of being published in the U.S. tion, similar to a heating pad, during treatand is already being implemented by other ment, so it is very well-tolerated,” he says. prominent doctors in the field.

Vanquish covers larger areas of the body and tits panels can be adjusted to cover An Even Newer Way To the patient’s entire abdomen and flanks at ‘Vanquish’ Fat the same time. Since the technology is still And, the innovations don’t stop there. so new, Dr. Hunt believes that the machine “One of the newest treatment devices in the may also be used to dissipate fat in the field is called Vanquish, which promises even thighs and arms but, “we don’t even have a more breakthrough results in non-invasive protocol for that right now.” fat reduction,” says Dr. Hunt, adding that “New You magazine will be featuring the Vein & Cosmetic Center will be getting an article on Vanquish in their September this new technology sooner than expected. issue, and Allure magazine recently had a “In fact, we will be the first office in Tampa short write up — a teaser, if you will — Bay and among the first 20 in the U.S. to about the device,” Dr. Hunt says. receive this new technology exclusively for our patients.”

And So Much More Vanquish is a Czech-made device which In addition to all of the new, cutting requires the patient to simply lay flat under edge technology, the Vein & Cosmetic Centhe machine while the sensors read his or her ter also features the tried and true. body fat to determine the energy level “We are one of the largest providers for needed to dissipate the fat. Then, a focusedBotox® injections in the Tampa Bay area,” field radio frequency heats the skin to 101 says Dr. Hunt. “We also specialize in dermal degrees and the underlying fat to 120 defilters such as Juvéderm XC®, Radiesse, Begrees to eliminate fat cells. “Patients report lotero, Sculptra and Artefill,” he says, adding

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that he keeps his prices low to be affordable, and offers very competitive pricing for the variety of treatments he offers. The office’s comprehensive website describes the treatments offered. He adds that his office hours are convenient for most appointments, with the cosmetic side of the business open 50 hours a week.

Dr. Hunt says that although he doesn’t perform surgical cosmetic procedures at the Vein & Cosmetic Center, “When we get requests for rhinoplasty, facial surgery or breast augmentations, we refer our patients to some of the outstanding cosmetic surgeons in the area.”

For someone who has accomplished so much in the Tampa Bay community, Dr. Hunt also says he feels it is very important to give back to the community he serves. He and his staff are involved in numerous charitable efforts, but he modestly mentioned one. “We were privileged to participate in providing toys and needed items for our local Joshua House children’s home last Christmas and really enjoyed getting our staff and patients involved,” he says. “We were able to fill an 8-foot truck twice with all of the generous donations we collected and are looking forward to participating in something similar this year. It’s important to us to be involved in supporting local charities year-round.”

The Vein & Cosmetic Center of Tampa Bay is located at 3001 N. Rocky Point Dr E., Suite 125. For appointments and more information, including many more before-and-after pictures, call (888) 434-9192 or visit VeinCenterTampa.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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WC Schools Get Great Report Cards

By Matt Wiley School report cards are out for the 2012-13 school year in the Pasco County School District (PCSD) and, overall, Wesley Chapel’s public elementary and middle schools once again scored well.

Of the 20 “A”-rated elementary and middle schools in Pasco (which received a “C” from the Florida Department of Education {DOE} this year, a letter grade drop from its “B” in 2011-12), six are Wesley Chapel schools, including Double Branch, Sand Pine, Seven Oaks, Veterans and Wesley Chapel elementary schools, as well as Dr. John Long Middle School.

High school grades have not yet been determined and will be released later in the year, usually in December.

Across the state, the DOE reports that the number of “A” elementary schools decreased from 861 (48%) in 2012 to 479 (27%) in 2013 and that the number of “B” elementary schools increased from 443 (25%) in 2012 to 503 (28%) in 2013.

In Wesley Chapel, the number of “A” elementary schools remained at five. No Wesley Chapel schools received a “B,” but three received a “Cs,” including New River, Quail Hollow and Watergrass.

The DOE reports that the number of “A” middle schools also decreased, from 255 “A” schools (44%) in 2012 to 177 (31%) in 2013, while the number of “B” middle schools increased from 122 (21%) in 2012 to 123 (21%) in 2013. In Wesley Chapel, while Long held steady at an “A,” Thomas E. Weightman Middle School dropped to a “B.”

A Higher Standard

It should be noted that schools across the state faced newly tougher state standards to earn their respective grades in 2012-13, as Florida gets ready to begin testing using standards set under the nationwide Common Core State Standards Initiative, a set of standards that already has been adopted by 45 states to establish “a single set of clear educational standards for kindergarten through 12th grade in English, language arts and mathematics.”

Although many schools still performed well, despite the tougher standards, some schools, such as New River Elementary, al-

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ready are looking at ways to improve next year. “It’s good to see the data, and this was a wake-up call,” says New River Elementary assistant principal Clara Craig about her school’s “C” grade. “We’re looking at the data for each student to see which areas need the most work, but also looking at their strengths to see how we can be enriching their learning.”

Craig says that New River is implementing two new strategies this year to hopefully raise the school’s score next year.

For reading, New River is beginning a program called IRLA (Independent Reading Level Assessment), which will determine “a baseline reading level” for each student that the students then build upon, while learning new vocabulary and other Common Core concepts. Craig says that the program is more individual-based and helps students learn strategies that will help them read at higher levels.

And, in math, New River is starting a program called “Math Talk,” in which students practice problem-solving out loud and share strategies with the class, allowing students to build on others’ ideas toward finding a solution.

“We’re excited to work with the teachers and students to keep getting ready for Common Core,” Craig says.

The Formula

Based partly upon the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) 2.0, elementary school grades are measured using an 800-point scale for elementaries (900 for middle schools). The grades also take into account End-Of-Course (EOC) test scores, which are given in middle and high schools in a variety of subjects, and the Florida Alternate Assessment (FAA), an alternative test for students who are unable to complete the FCAT test due to cognitive disabilities.

Points are given for students who score “satisfactory” or higher and/or make learning gains. A point is awarded for each percent of the school’s students who score satisfactory or better in each subject area of each test.

For example, students that score a level 3 or higher on the math, reading and science FCAT 2.0 tests, and/or a level 4 on EOC tests, and a 3.5 or higher on FCAT writing, the percentage of students that achieve that

“Mike Moore”

Continued from page 1 Moore says that he also serves on the Seven Oaks Elementary School Advisory Council and volunteers as a soccer, football and baseball coach in the Wesley Chapel Athletic Association (WCAA).

“Mike Moore is a true public servant who is ethical, fiscally responsible, and can help our County through this economic recovery,” said Speaker Weatherford in an August 16 press release. “I am honored to support Mike in his campaign for Pasco County Commissioner. I know he will serve our community well.”

On February 13, Weatherford also appointed Moore to the advisory committee of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, the state agency that administers human services programs to benefit Florida’s elderly population. Moore also serves on the Central Pasco Advisory Board to Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-Palm Harbor).

Mariano is, so far, the only current level in each subject is the point value that the school is given. To earn an “A,” at least 95 percent of the school’s students must have been tested and at least 595 points must have been earned.

To determine learning gains, test scores for students in each subject on FCAT, EOC and FAA tests are examined by comparing those scores with the previous year. If students perform at the same level or improve on their achievement level, the school also

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member of the Commission who has endorsed Moore. “Mike is very active in the {WCAA} and wants to encourage our youth and families to play sports and to enjoy our parks and libraries without having to pay any extra taxes (fees),” Comm. Mariano said in a press release. “Mike is a family man and business man well suited for the County Commission.”

Pasco County sheriff Chris Nocco also has expressed his support for Moore’s County Commission bid.

"Mike has a strong business background and understands economic growth starts with strong public safety," said Nocco in a press release supporting Moore. “I know he will work with law enforcement to make sure our neighborhoods and kids are safe.”

Of course, it shouldn’t be too surprising that Nocco supports Moore — the sheriff’s sister Lauren is married to the cadidate. - Matt, please verify!

For more information about the Dist. 2 County Commissioner race, please visit PascoVotes.com and click on the “Candidates” tab. earns points for that percentage of students.

For more info, please visit FLDOE.org and click on the “School Grades” tab.

For the rest of the story, including a chart with each Wesley Chapel school’s grade, please visit our new and improved website at NTNeighborhoodNews.com!

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Best NY Pizza — A Delicious ‘Ristorante’ That Also Has Great Pizza!

By Gary Nager Anyone who thinks we don’t have outstanding pizza in Wesley Chapel either isn’t from New ‘Yawk’ or has never tried any of our now-plentiful variety of real NY pizza places (see this issue’s Dining Survey & Contest on pages 31-32 for the complete list). So, as a former Yankee from “Lawn Guyland,” it’s hard for me to say there could ever be too much good pizza in our distribution areas.

On the other hand, however, it’s nice to see a new NY pizza place open that has more than just great pizza and the monthsold Best New York Pizza (located on S.R. 54, west of I-75, in the Pinebrook at The Grove shopping center) has definitely brought some unique, truly “ristorante”quality cuisine to Wesley Chapel in a clean, comfortable, well-air-conditioned sit-down environment that already is attracting plenty of local customers.

Yes, Best NY Pizza does have a more traditional pizza place area, where an incredible variety of whole pies — from margherita (shown in this page’s header) to BBQ to outstanding, authentic Sicilian-style ‘za — are always on display. You can walk up to the counter, order from Best NY’s full menu and have a seat while enjoying an ice cold Peroni or other draft or bottled beer or outstanding glass of wine. But, adjacent to that part of the restaurant is Best NY’s more elegant, ristorante-style seating, which also features a huge, 70-inch TV monitor that, instead of traditional channels, offers an ever-changing variety of visual internet entertainment, including everything from underwater scenes to futuristic cities. I promise the kids will be mesmerized by it.

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But, Best NY Pizza is all about great food at very fair prices and everything I’ve sampled there so far has just been outstanding, especially anything served with a red sauce..

Owner Greg C says that’s no accident, because Best NY’s homemade pizza sauce recipe is a well-guarded secret that only two or three people know — and it intentionally isn’t written down anywhere.”

Greg says a lot of his Wesley Chapel customers already knew Best NY Pizza from it’s hugely successful location on N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Carrollwood, which he says he opened for his son Peter in 2005, after the entire family relocated from Long Island, where Greg’s family owned a fine dining Italian restaurant in Lake Ronkonkoma.

“The Dale Mabry location wound up being wildly successful, growing (twice) from a 10-seat store to 140 seats three years ago, driven by demand,” he says. “We found this location by a fluke, really. We had been looking for a while when a ‘For Rent’ sign went up on what used to be Santo’s Pizza. After I checked the area and saw the growth potential of Wesley Chapel, I knew it was a great spot for us.”

And, Best NY’s 100-seat, 3,000-sq.-ft.

Wesley Chapel location has been busy since Day One. “We taste test everything we buy and make,” Greg says. “Our recipes are truly unique twists on old family recipes.”

So, even though Peter left the pizza biz to open Hero Haven comics in the Citrus Park area, his long-time friend and manager Adam now manages the Carrollwood store, while Greg and his family are now running the Wesley Chapel location, with Greg’s son-in-law Patrick managing it.

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But, Best NY Pizza is still about delicious food. My two favorite dishes so far are the sausage appetizer, which features about a dozen succulent bite-sized pieces of sweet Italian sausage in a thick red sauce perfect for dipping with an order of homemade garlic knots, and the chicken parmigiana, which includes two huge, tender chicken breasts that melt in your mouth with the taste of melted mozzarella and perfect red sauce over your choice of delicious pasta.

Our entire office also loves the fried calamari appetizer, the chicken marsala, meatball parmigiana heros and of course, the true NY-style pizza. And, from the crowds of people already coming to Best NY Pizza for lunch, dinner and takeout, this is one new pizza place that should be around for quite a while.

Need more convincing? With the coupons in the Best NY ad on page 30, you can get two FREE slices of pizza for lunch or a FREE personal pan pizza when you buy any 18-inch pizza (see ad Best NY Pizza on S.R. 54 features delicious (clockwise for restrictions). from top left) Italian sausage appetizer, chicken For more info, call Best New York parmigiana dinner, a variety of pizza by the slice or Pizza (27429 S.R. 54) at 994-2200. the whole pie and so much more!

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Win $100 In FREE Dining In Our 2013 Dining Survey & Contest!

Please fill in as many categories as possible and all of the personal info requested. One winner, drawn at random from all legitimate entries, will receive a $100 gift card to the restaurant of his or her choice in the Tampa Bay area! To help you remember the different local independent restaurants in New Tampa & Wesley Chapel, we have provided an alphabetical list of them (& their locations) to choose from in each category, although you can write in your other favorites in each category, too, in the “Write-In” space. Fast food & national & regional chains with more than 20 locations are not listed, although you can vote for them in any category by writing them in. — GN __Mulligan’s Irish Pub (Pebble Creek CC) My Favorite Restaurants In New Tampa (Number your 5 favorites #1-#5) __New China King (Cross Creek) __Oakley’s Grille (North Palms/BBD) __Acropolis (Oak Ramble) __Peabody’s Billiards & Games (Amberly) __Apna Kabab House (Live Oak/BBD) __ Petra Mediterranean Cuisine (Highwoods) __Back 9 Café (Heritage Isles CC) __Pita’s Republic (County Line Rd.) __Biagio’s II Pizza & Pasta (Cross Creek) __Pizzazone (Tampa Palms) __Big Papa’s Pit (Bearss Ave.) __PJ Dolan’s Irish Pub (Bearss Ave.) __Burger 21 (Trout Creek/BBD) __Saffron Indian Cuisine (Cross Creek) __Café Olé (Cross Creek) __Seasons Fresh Café (Bearss Ave.) __Casa Ramos (Shoppes of Amberly) __Soho Sushi (Bearss Ave.) __China City (City Plaza) __Stonewood Grill & Tavern (Tampa Palms) __China Wok (County Line Rd.) __Sushi Café (Highwoods) __Cross Creek Deli (Shell station) __Sushi Ko (New Tampa Center) __Full Circle Pizza (Pebble Creek) __Sukhothai (Highwoods) __Fushia Asian Bistro (Shoppes of Amberly) __Takara Sushi & Sake Lounge (Oak Ramble) __Hawkeye NYS Pizza (Cross Creek/BP) __Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club __Ho King (Highwoods) __Taste of New York Pizza (Highwoods) __Hunter’s Green Country Club __Thai Ruby (Shoppes of Amberly) __Kobé Japanese Steakhouse (Pebble Creek) __Toast Fine Wine & Café (Oak Ramble) __Koizi Hibachi Grill (Tampa Palms) __Top Thai (Live Oak) __La Cubanita Café (New Tampa Center) __Woodfired Pizza (Bearss Ave.) __La Fuente Mexican Cuisine (Cross Creek) __Zeko’s Express (New Tampa Center Mobil) __Lanna Thai (old Ploy Thai; Cross Creek) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Las Palmas Café (Pebble Creek) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Liang’s Bistro (North Palms/BBD) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Little Greek (New Tampa Center) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Mr. Dunderbak’s (Oak Ramble) __Write-In (must name)___________________

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My Favorite Restaurants In Wesley Chapel (Number your 5 favorites #1-#5)

__Asian Buffet (Shoppes at New Tampa) __Amici Pizza (Grand Oaks Plaza) __Bagelicious & More (Freedom Plaza/54) __Best NY Pizza (Pinebrook Plaza/S.R. 54) __Bonsai Sushi (Shoppes at New Tampa) __Bosco’s Italian To Go (Freedom Plaza/54) __Burger Monger (Shoppes at New Tampa) __Café Fresco (S.R. 56) __China Taste (Shoppes at New Tampa) __China Wok (Village Market) __Ciao! Italian Bistro (Wiregrass Mall) __CineBistro (The Grove) __Dempsey’s Steak House (Saddlebrook) __Dempsey’s Too Lounge (Saddlebrook) __Don Pan Int’l Bakery (Shoppes at NT ) __Fine Thai Express (S.R. 54) __Gonna China (Hollybrook Plaza) __GrillSmith (Wiregrass Mall) __Hibachi Express (Village Market) __Ho Wok (next to Target) __Hungry Greek (across BBD from FHWC) __Kwan Ming Bistro (S.R. 56) __La Prima Pizza (next to Target/BBD) __Latin Twist Café (across BBD from FHWC) __Lexington Oaks Golf Club

__900º Woodfired Pizza (Wiregrass Mall) __NY NY Pizza (BBD in Seven Oaks) __PDQ (S.R. 56) __PizzaMania (Wiregrass Mall) __Poolside Café (Saddlebrook) __PrimeBar (Wiregrass Mall) __Quail Hollow Country Club __Shang Hai Chinese (Eiland Blvd./Publix) __ Taste of Boston (Shoppes at New Tampa) __TD’s Sports Bar (Saddlebrook) __365 Caffé Italiano (Wiregrass Mall) __Tokyo Grill & Sushi (Eiland Blvd./Publix) __Vallarta’s (Village Market) __Woody’s Pizza & Wings (Village Market) __Wolf’s Den (S.R. 56) __Yamato Japanese Steakhouse (Wiregrass) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________ Please only put each numeral (#s 1-5) on each list once each, including your writeins. We apologize for any inconvenience to independent restaurants not listed here.

The Survey continues on page 32!

Your Name ____________________________________________________________ Your Community (Tampa Palms, Meadow Pointe, etc.) _______________________ Your Mailing Address ___________________________________________________ Your Daytime Phone #__________________________________________________ Your Valid Email Address _______________________________________________ Please submit BOTH pages by fax, mail, email or on our website (see pg. 3) by Fri., Nov. 8.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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My Favorite Chinese Restaurants In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel (Pick or write-in one)

__Asian Buffet (Shoppes at New Tampa) __China City (City Plaza) __China Taste (Shoppes at New Tampa) __China Wok (County Line Rd.) __China Wok (Village Market) __Fushia Asian Bistro (Shoppes of Amberly) My Favorite Japanese & Sushi Restaurants In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel (Pick or write-in one)

__Asian Buffet (Shoppes at New Tampa) __Bonsai Sushi (Shoppes at New Tampa) __Hibachi Express (Village Market) __Kobé Japanese Steakhouse (Pebble Creek) __Koizi Hibachi Grill (Tampa Palms) My Favorite Thai/Indian Restaurants In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel (Pick or write-in one)

__Fine Thai Express (S.R. 54) __Lanna Thai (old Ploy Thai; Cross Creek) My Favorite Pizza Places In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel (Number no more than #s 1-5)

__Amici Pizza (Grand Oaks Plaza) __Best NY Pizza (Pinebrook Plaza/S.R. 54) __Biagios II Pizza & Pasta (Cross Creek) __Bosco’s Italian To Go (Freedom Plaza/54) __Ciao! Italian Bistro (Wiregrass Mall) __Full Circle Pizza (Pebble Creek) __Hawkeye NYS Pizza (Cross Creek) __La Prima Pizza (next to Target) __900º Woodfired Pizza (Wiregrass Mall) __NY NY Pizza (BBD in Seven Oaks)

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__Gonna China (Hollybrook Plaza) __Ho King (Highwoods) __Ho Wok (next to Target) __Kwan Ming Bistro (S.R. 56) __Liang’s Bistro (North Palms/BBD) __New China King (Cross Creek) __Shang Hai Chinese (Eiland Blvd./Publix) __Sushi Ko (New Tampa Center) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Soho Sushi (Bearss Ave.) __Sushi Café (Highwoods) __Sushi Ko (New Tampa Center) __Sukhothai (Highwoods) __Takara Sushi & Sake Lounge (Oak Ramble) __Tokyo Grill & Sushi (Eiland Blvd./Publix) __Yamato Japanese Stkhs (Wiregrass Mall) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Saffron Indian Cuisine (Cross Creek) __Sukhothai (Highwoods) __Thai Ruby (Shoppes of Amberly) __Top Thai (Live Oak) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Peabody’s Billiards & Games __PizzaMania (Wiregrass Mall) __Pizzazone (Tampa Palms) __Taste of New York Pizza (Highwoods) __Woodfired Pizza (Bearss Ave.) __Woody’s Pizza & Wings (Village Market) __Wolf’s Den (S.R. 56) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________

__Mulligan’s Irish Pub (Pebble Creek CC) __Oakley’s Grille (North Palms) __Peabody’s Billiards & Games (Amberly) __PJ Dolan’s Irish Pub (Bearss Ave.) __Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club __Poolside Café (Saddlebrook) __ Taste of Boston (Shoppes at New Tampa) __TD’s Sports Bar (Saddlebrook) __Wolf’s Den (S.R. 56) __Write-In (must name)___________________

My Favorite Hamburger Restaurant In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel (Pick or write-in one)

__Burger Monger (Shoppes at New Tampa) __Burger 21 (Trout Creek/BBD) __Café Fresco (S.R. 56) __Dempsey’s Too Lounge (Saddlebrook) __GrillSmith (Wiregrass Mall) __Hunter’s Green Country Club __Lexington Oaks Golf Club My Favorite Latin/Mexican Restaurants In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel (Pick or write-in one)

__Café Olé (Cross Creek) __Casa Ramos (Shoppes of Amberly) __Café Fresco (S.R. 56) __Don Pan Int’l Bakery (Shoppes at NT ) My Favorite Greek/Mediterranean Restaurants In New Tampa/Wesley Chapel (Pick or write-in one)

__Acropolis (Oak Ramble) __Apna Kabab House (Live Oak) __Hungry Greek (across BBD from FHWC) My Favorite Bars & Taverns In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel (Number no more than #s 1-5)

__Acropolis (Oak Ramble) __Back 9 Café (Heritage Isles CC) __CineBistro (The Grove) __Dempsey’s Steak House (Saddlebrook) __Dempsey’s Too Lounge (Saddlebrook) __GrillSmith (Wiregrass Mall) __Halftime Sports Lounge (New Tampa Ctr) __Hunter’s Green Country Club __Lexington Oaks Golf Club __Linkster’s Tap Room (Highwoods)

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

__La Cubanita Café (New Tampa Center) __La Fuente Mexican Cuisine (Cross Creek) __Las Palmas Café (Pebble Creek) __Latin Twist Café (across BBD from FHWC) __Vallarta’s (Village Market) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Little Greek (New Tampa Center) __ Petra Mediterranean Cuisine (Highwoods) __Pita’s Republic (County Line Rd.) __Zeko’s Express (New Tampa Center Mobil) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Mulligan’s Irish Pub (Pebble Creek CC) __Peabody’s Billiards & Games (Amberly) __PJ Dolan’s Irish Pub (Bearss Ave.) __Poolside Café (Saddlebrook) __PrimeBar (Wiregrass Mall) __Quail Hollow Country Club __Stonewood Grill & Tavern (Tampa Palms) __Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club __TD’s Sports Bar (Saddlebrook) __Toast Fine Wine & Café (Oak Ramble) __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________ __Write-In (must name)___________________

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Casa Ramos — A 40-Year Mexican Tradition That Started With ‘Uncle Pepe’

By Gary Nager Photos by Jayne Baker & Matt Wiley

OK, so there’s no doubt that a lot of us — including yours truly — were sad to see Sushi Tsu Japanese Steakhouse close its doors in the same Shoppes of Amberly plaza in Tampa Palms as our office earlier this year. But, I was definitely intrigued by the idea of an upscale Mexican restaurant coming in to replace it.

And, in the less than two months that it’s been open, I have to say that I am definitely enjoying getting to know Casa Ramos and owner Mateo Ramos, who is the chief operating officer of a company that operates more than 40 Azteca and Casa Ramos restaurants, primarily on the west coast of the U.S. According to Casa Ramos’ company website, Mateo’s uncle José (Pepe) Ramos grew up in Cuautla, Mexico, a small farm village in the Central Mexico state of Jalisco, where his father owned a grocery store.

With a few pesos in his pocket and unable to speak a word of English, Pepe arrived in Seattle WA, in 1973, to begin work as a dishwasher in his cousin’s restaurant.

From dishwasher to cook to chef, Ramos also worked hard at learning English. After saving $1,000, and with his cousin’s blessing, Ramos opened a small, 24-seat restaurant in Burien, a suburb of Seattle, in 1974.

Ramos eventually was able to bring the rest of his family to the U.S., which helped the family open additional restaurants, most of which (until the opening of this Casa Ramos) have been called Azteca, including several restaurants which Mateo opened in Orlando, Winter Haven, Davie and New Smyrna Beach.

Today, Mateo says, more than 1,400 Azteca and Casa Ramos employees have become an important part of the Ramos family. “Anyone can serve good food at a fair price,” he says. “But, not everyone can do it with love the way we do at Casa Ramos.”

And, as I said before, I am enjoying exploring both the menu and the inviting décor of this full-premium-liquor bar, where the servers each only have four tables in their stations and the service, at least the days and times I’ve been there, is definitely exemplary.

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I started with my usual first visit steak fajitas, which are made of delicious, tender flank steak, made sizzling to my medium rare specification and served over a huge bed of sautéed onions and green peppers, with Mexican rice (or white rice), black beans, refried or Rancho (cholesterol-free) beans, pico do gallo, sour cream, guacamole, cheddar cheese and your choice of corn or flour tortillas.

Huge portions are to From gigantic burritos (above) to the Carne Asada y Mojo combibe expected at Casa Ramos, nation plate (top right), the new Casa Ramos in the Shoppes of from the award-winning Amberly plaza in Tampa Palms will satisfy your craving for deliAzteca nachos, which our cious Mexican food. Casa Ramos also features decadent fried ice entire office loved on a cream (right) for dessert. more recent visit, to the quesadilla, burritos, enchiice cream, topped with chocolate or strawladas, tacos, tostadas and especially, the berry sauce that is big enough for four peomust-be-shared combination plates. My faple to share. Seriously. vorite combo to date is the carne asada y Casa Ramos also can provide catering mojo combo, which combines your choice platters for your football and other parties. of carne asada steak or chicken, topped with Check out the $49.95 fiesta platter on the the robust spice of a big grilled jalapeno back of the menu & you’ll probably end up pepper and accompanied by a nice-sized ordering it. serving of grilled shrimp and mushrooms, And, Casa Ramos also has awesome and served with garlic and crushed red pepHappy Hour specials served 3 p.m.-6:30 per butter. I’m allergic to the shrimp, but p.m. and 10 p.m.-close every day. The the sauce is amazing, and anyone visiting Happy Hour includes 2-for-1 premium Casa Ramos with me will get to enjoy all of house margaritas, homemade sangria, imthe shrimp if we share this immense platter. ported and domestic draft beers and well Another shrimp dish Mateo says is drinks, as well as half-price appetizers and among the most popular at Casa Ramos is Camarones Monterey, which are cilantroand-garlic-marinated extra large shrimp wrapped in bacon, baked and served fajita style. I also definitely plan to sample the marinated lamb shank with a marinade sauce, pico de gallo, avocados and rancho beans, with corn or flour tortillas.

Also highly recommended for more authentic tastes is the Plato Mexicano, which combines taquitos ranchero, carne asada skirt steak, a chile relleno and a Jalisco-style (filled with jack cheese) sauce of mild chiles.

You’ll even find burgers, salads and “VegiMex” dishes on Casa Ramos’ extensive menu. And, you can definitely taste the cilantro in the homemade salsa.

And, save room for dessert, because Casa Ramos has an amazingly decadent fried

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other delicious food specials.

Casa Ramos (15363 Amberly Dr.) opens every day at 11 a.m. for lunch and dinner. For more information, call 9772266 or visit AztecaMex.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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

Chane & Burgess Added To Johnson, Pratico & Auvil

Laurie R. Chane, a long-time Pasco County attorney, has become the newest Shareholder at the Dade City-based law firm of Johnson, Auvil & Pratico, P.A., which is now known as Johnson, Auvil, Pratico & Chane, P.A. Additionally, Danny Burgess, the current Mayor of Zephyrhills, has joined the firm as an Associate.

Chane will focus on family and criminal defense law, bringing her years of experience in the pubic defender’s office to the firm that, since 1990, has been offering solutions to clients throughout the Tampa Bay region in real estate law, probate and estate administration, business and commercial transactions and litigation, foreclosure defense and construction law.

A Florida native who was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1990 after graduating from the University of Miami (FL) School of Law, Chane has been in private practice since 1997 in the firm of Chane & Eble, P.A., since leaving the public defender’s office.

Burgess, a Zephyrhills native, joined the firm as an Associate in June 2013. He will be practicing primarily in the commercial litigation arena with Steve Pratico, and will also assist Leonard Johnson in his real estate and commercial practice.

Burgess was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2011 after graduating from the Barry University College of Law in Orlando. He has served as Mayor of Zephyrhills since April 2013, following two earlier terms on the Zephyrhills City Council, where during his first term, Burgess was the youngest elected official in the State of Florida. He also serves as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army JAG (Judge Advocate General) Corps.

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For more info about Johnson, Auvil, Pratico & Chane, call 991-6300 or visit WesleyChapelForeclosure.com.

Wiregrass Financial Cuts A Ribbon

Congratulations to owner Brinson Parker and his wife Cara on the August 22 Grand Opening & Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) ribbon cutting (photo) of Wiregrass Financial, which provides insurance and a variety of financial services for you, your family and your business.

Parker says he got into financial services because he saw his parents — both of whom worked at high-paying jobs most of their lives — not end up with the retirement savings they could have had with the proper guidance.

Please call 313-6842 and tell Parker at Wiregrass Financial (27604 Cashford Cir., in the Summergate Prof. Park behind Sam’s Club) that we sent you.

Mobile Meals Delivers!

Although some local restaurants offer their own delivery services, Mobile Meals has been providing deliveries for multiple restaurants in and around the Wesley Chapel area for several years now and currently offers on-line and phone ordering with delivery within 30-60 minutes of your order, for such local favorites as Cantina Laredo, Texas Roadhouse 900º Woodfired Pizza, Yamato Japanese Steakhouse and others.

To find out how the service works or to place an order, visit MobileMeals.com or call 907-MEAL (6325).

Winners To Be Replaced By City Grill You may have noticed that Winners

Sports Grill, which has been located in the Wesley Chapel Village Market on S.R. 54 just east of I-75, has closed. You may also have noticed a sign saying, “Coming Soon: City Owner Brinson Parker and his wife Cara (holding scissors) celebrated the Grill,” on the Grand Opening of Wiregrass Financial in the Summergate Prof. Park (bebuilding. Winhind Sam’s Club in Seven Oaks) with a WCCC ribbon cutting on August 22. ners owner Gerry Malycials every day, so check out the Skinny’s nowsky says that he plans to open City ad on page 31 or call 345-8590 for info.

Grill, which will feature, “chef-created fresh seafood, pasta and more,” within just a cou- Outback Adding More ple of weeks after you receive this issue in Outdoor Seats, Not Closing your mailbox.

When a very concerned Wesley Chapel Look for an update in a future issue. resident called to ask us if the Outback Steakhouse at 5710 Oakley Blvd. was closCheck Out The Revamped ing because she the building appeared to be Skinny’s Sports Bar! tented from I-75, I had assistant editor Matt Although I’m not a smoker, I know a Wiley get in touch with a manager at Outlot of you are, so it’s nice to know that back, who told him that all the restaurant is Skinny’s Sports Bar, located in the Pinedoing is adding eight tables and 20 or so brook at The Grove shopping center on seats to the existing patio area and giving S.R. 54 west of I-75, has been totally rethe exterior of the Outback a facelift. The vamped, and now features an even better restaurant is definitely open during the conentertainment lineup. struction, which should be completed someSkinny’s has moved the main bar furtime in September. ther back, added new, all-wood tables emAdjacent to the Outback, The Grove blazoned with the Skinny’s logo, and is now shopping center’s long-suffering separate offering free trivia (for bar tabs) on Monday, plaza featuring T’s Boutique, Lee Nails & a pool tournament on Tuesday, 3-Ball pool the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of tournament on Thursday, karaoke on Commerce office will soon have more tenThursday and Friday, live music on Saturday ants, although Maria Klein of Genesis Real and plenty of flat-screen TVs for smokers Estate Advisers says the only tenant she can who want to watch football all weekend. currently announce is Bakerfield Luxury And of course, there are great beer spe- Homes, which is building luxury homes

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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starting at $325K-$500K, in the Watergrass community off Overpass Rd. in Wesley Chapel. Klein says, however, that several other spaces in the plaza are close to being leased. We’ll update you in a future issue.

For more info about Bakerfield Homes, call 451-2055. For Outback, call 973-7717.

Energize Your Mind, Body & Spirit At Energia!

Energia Wellness Studio is a state-ofthe-art total wellness studio that integrates fitness, nutrition, massage, yoga, meditation and natural products to provide clients with a full-service experience in order to improve heath and overall well-being.

Energia’s programs are designed to work together to achieve one goal: complete wellness. More than just a fitness studio, Energia is a lifestyle. From the products in Energia’s Estilo de Vida Boutique to the customized fitness regimen designed for each client, to the spa’s commitment to the environment, Energia truly is a one-of-akind fitness haven in Tampa Bay. For info about Energia (3836 Flatiron Loop, Suite 101, off BBD in Seven

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Oaks), call 973-7300 or visit Energia WellnessStudio.com. And, by bringing in/mentioning the coupon in Energia’s ad on page 4, you can receive one free yoga AND one free meditation class!

Little Greek Restaurant On BBD Opens To Crowds

If you love freshly prepared Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, you may already be part of the crowds of people who have been visiting the new Little Greek Restaurant, located in the New Tampa Center plaza, at 19022 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. at the corner of Cross Creek/New Tampa Blvd.

Owner Percy Rosemyurgy and his friendly staff, who celebrated Little Greek’s Grand Opening July 30 with a WCCC ribbon cutting, have been handling the big lines at lunch time with little more than a 510 minute wait — and the food is definitely worth waiting for! This small, local chain of now 14 restaurants (10 in the Tampa Bay area) features the usual Greek salads, gyro and souvlaki sandwiches and platters, but also has more upscale options like grilled salmon and steak on a pita. For info, call 972-0707 or visit MyLittleGreek.com.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL H E L P

W A N T E D EDUCATION

PHYSICAL THERAPIST – An established New Tampa outpatient clinic is hiring a part-time PT to provide customized, one-on-one care. Fax resume to (813) 994-3080 HELP WANTED - Hiring housekeeper, with car and valid driver’s license. Spanish a plus. Call: 813.758.9710 or 813.758.9745 NOW INTERVIEWING - Experienced Medical Assistant position. F/T or P/T. To inquire please email resume to bobbie@fwctampa.net or call (813-994-0611 opt.1) and ask for Bobbie.

HELP WANTED - New Tampa medical office needs back office clerical support. 15-20 hours per week. Must be very detail-oriented. Some phone responsibilities as well as filing and other clerical duties.

Email resume to Sara at doctor@floridawoundcare.com. No phone calls please.

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JASMINE’S LANDSCAPING - Complete lawn maintenance, Tree, palm and hedge trimming, Planting, mulching, stones, Sod replacement, Pressure washing, Gutter cleaning and more. Cited by your HOA for violations? Need to comply for: Pressure washing, Trimming, Mulching, Sod replacement, Sprinkler repair or Mailbox repair or replacements?Ask about our HOA SPECIAL! FREE ESTIMATE! (813) 420-4465

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TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE - New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing with outstanding customer service! LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED. See why we are New Tampa and Wesley Chapel’s #1 Choice!! New customer’s ONE MONTH FREE! Call Chris Today @ (813) 857-5400 or visit www.TranquilityPoolService.com AQUATEC POOL SERVICE - keeping pools clear & swim safe since 1994. WE DO POOLS RIGHT! Commercial & Residential. CPO #33-303052 Licensed & Insured. Service guarantee. Call (813) 312-5694 TODAY and get 1 MONTH OF QUALITY SERVICE FOR FREE. www.aquatecpool.com

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PROFESSIONAL TENNIS LESSONS - Recently relocated USPTA/PTR teaching professional available for private/group/team tennis lessons. Former Head Tennis Professional at the #2 and #3 Tennis Resorts in the U.S. Past coach of former #1 singles player at the University of Florida. Call Steve Brady at (843) 422-3993 or email sbrady@hargray.com PIANO LESSONS/TUTORING - Located in Live Oak Preserve for children, teens, and adults. I am a highly qualified/certified Florida teacher specializing in piano, music theory, language arts, reading, writing, geography, elementary math, beginning Spanish, and FCAT/test preparation. Mention this ad and receive your first session for FREE! Now scheduling for the new 2013-2014 school year! Contact Mrs. Daley at 813-468-1424 to reserve your spot!

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DRY WALL SPECIALIST - Not a handyman. Affordable Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings and walls, retexturing, popcorn removal, room additions, cracks, holes, plaster and stucco repair. 26 Years Experience. Wesley Chapel resident. State Certified. Call Ron for a free estimate (813) 784-5999 NEED HOME MAINTENANCE – Almost any job, large or small, ext/int, fencing , screening, sm. concrete, sprinklers, painting, repairs, int. doors, locks, sheet rock, windows, paint, caulk, grout, trim, shelving, garages organized.

Installations, removals, pressure washing, wood restoration & more. Call Dale’s Home Maintenance @ 973-0194 or 727-2582.

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DAVID BRIDGES PRESSURE CLEANING Complete exterior cleaning of your home or business with a professional and personal touch. - Pool decks and screen enclosures - All fencing/ driveways and walkways/roofs Gutter and downspouts. Find your happiness in a fresh, bright clean home. Your neighbors will love you for it! All work guaranteed. Licensed and insured. (813) 215-1177 WEST COAST FLOORING INC - Hardwood, Laminate, and Carpet; Over 25 years experience in sales and installations; Repairs: Large and small jobs; We even do exterior pavers; Free estimates - Call Doug at (813) 2154817

GREG’S PAPERHANGING – For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed & insured, clean, quick & reasonable.

Call 973-2767 for free estimate.

HANDYMAN SERVICES - Handyman Services, Disposal and fan installations. Painting, dry wall repair, calking, tile and wooden floor installations, gutter cleaning, and much more. Great prices! Call 813.907.6994.

RAYMOND PAINTING – Interior & Exterior pressure washing, paper hanging, plaster, stucco, tiles, clean & seal pavers, roofing leaks, etc. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free Estimates. Your Neighborhoond Arbor Greene Resident. We work 7 days. Call 994-5124.

D & D PRESSURE WASHING - licensed and insured.

We clean driveways, sidewalks, homes, pool decks, screen enclosures, fences and other items. Free estimates. Call Dina or Doug 813-949-5131 www.ddpressurewash.com

FITNESS & WELLBEING 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. Adults Course: Thursday evening’s 7-8 pm. Seniors Course: Tuesday afternoons 12-1 pm. Space is limited! Also personal instruction in Tai Chi, Kempo Karate, Boot Camp Fitness training and more. With more than 30 years of training and teaching experience. Please contact me for more details or go to: chuan-fa.org. Peter #787-7560 or E-mail peter@chuan-fa.org LICENSED MOBILE MASSAGE THERAPIST Available seven days a week, 9am -9pm. $55 for 1 hour!

Types of massage available: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Aroma Therapy, Hot Stone, Corporate Seated, Pregnancy, Sports & Injury Rehab. References available. www.barkdollmassagetherapy.com CALL (727) 372-6389 Lic #MA47546.

GROUP THERAPY CLASSES – 4 groups starting: 1) Adult Stress Management, 2) Children’s Social Skills, 3) Parenting Skills, and 4) Mind-Body Wellbeing. Cost: $20-$30 per week. Conducted by licensed therapists with over 10 years of experience. Limited Space, Call Today. We also provide individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. Call Dr. Brad Palermo, Licensed Psychologist – (813)-666-5885 www.Tampa-Therapy.com

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CAR SERVICES – Don’t Have a Ride? Don’t Want to Leave Your Car? Shouldn’t Drive? We Drive You and Your Car Home! Night Clubs, Corporate Events, Sporting Events, Concerts, Appointments, Airport or Stranded...

Call Jay at (813) 966-1530.

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TURN YOUR CLUTTER INTO CASH! - Garage & estate sales, inventory liquidation,& appraisal services.

We'll sell it for you online!We evaluate & appraise your products then get you top dollar. We do the work you get the cash. Ask me how, contact Mary at 813-428-5793

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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CLEANING

SERVICES CLEANING SERVICES

V&J CLEANING SERVICES, LLC. -Residential Commercial cleaning. Quality service. Affordable rates.

Reliable, flexible scheduling. Supplies & equipment provided. Call Elizabeth for free estimates 813.454.3082.

CLEAN FIRST TIME - Let Clean First Time of Hillsborough serve you! We offer office cleaning, new home/renovation construction cleaning, Community Center cleaning, window cleaning & more, at times & intervals to suit you! We are fully insured & can provide current references. If a good work ethic & attention to detail are important to you, give us a call! 813.313.8468 BELLA’S CLEANING SERVICES - Reliable, affordable, professional, detail oriented. I have references.

Free estimates. I have many satisfied customers in New Tampa, with 5 years experience. Call: 941-544-7451.

M.Y. CLEANING SERVICE - Offering Residential cleaning, complete bath & kitchen cleaning, as well as dusting & polishing furniture. We provide our own supplies.

Free estimates! Your satisfaction is our priority! With 5 years of experience, we guarantee meticulous cleaning!

Call Mila: (813) 516-3554.

DISCOUNT JUNK REMOVAL!!! - No job to big or to small! Same day service. Senior discount. Servicing the New Tampa & Wesley Chapel, as well as surrounding areas for over 11 years. Furniture, yard debris, garage clean out, & any other items. Call Lamar Today – 813.285.4674.

Squeaky Clean Home Services - is a residential cleaning company offering weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly services.

We also specialize in move-in/move-out cleanup. All supplies & equipment provided. We are an Owner Operator company w/ over 20 years experience. "If it Needs to be Clean, We're your Team! Call us for your free in home estimate today! 813-625-6045 D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE - We have our own supplies & more than 300 clients in New Tampa! For more information, Call 758-9710.

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CYD Professional Cleaning Services Residential & Commercial - Weekly, bi-Weekly & monthly rates- Flexible scheduling, including weekends. 'Green' cleaning solutions available upon request. We provide all cleaning supplies. Quality cleaning at AFFORDABLE prices. Over 6 years experience. You'll have the same, uniformed cleaning professional every time! Call Katherine (813) 4946005

COMPUTER SERVICES PROFESSIONAL TECH SUPPORT – in your home or small business. A+ certified computer tech with 20 years of exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades & tutoring. More affordable than the large chains!

Friendly, personalized svc. Technical jargon explained in plain English. Remote assistance available. References available upon request. Call 957-8342 for free estimate.

DO YOU HATE YOUR COMPUTER?!? - WE CAN HELP YOU! Troubleshooting, installation, networking & virus removal. WE COME TO YOU! Servicing residential & businesses, w/ over 25 years experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank (813) 973-4507 today! www.WSICA.COM; Wsica@wsica.com

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TAMPA CAT LADY- Professional Cat-Sitting Service.

Cats are happiest in their own home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, & smells. When you are away, we feed, cuddle, & play with your kitties & clean & dispose of litter. Insured, bonded, & Red-Cross certified in pet first aid/CPR. Call 994-9449 or visit www.TampaCatLady.com.

NEW TAMPA PET SITTING SERVICES Under New Ownership! Please call Larisa at (813) 546-3887. Thank-you for your business over ALL these years! Please call Marina at (813) 416-5301 for references!

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Pasco’s Supervisor Of Elections: Every Vote Counts In Local Races Guest editorial by Brian Corley Pasco County Supervisor of Elections

As your Supervisor of Elections, I take very seriously the responsibility of encouraging and motivating citizens to vote. I firmly believe that our freedom, which came at such a huge cost to others, requires responsibility on the part of every American — beginning with the privilege of casting a ballot. Veterans, including my own grandfather, have crossed oceans to fight for our democracy, and yet others won’t even cross the street to vote when given the opportunity! This is why it’s important that the voters of Wesley Chapel — and all voters within our great county — exercise this precious right.

Wesley Chapel is about to be in the election spotlight in 2014, as Commissioner Pat Mulieri, who has represented the District 2 area (which includes all of Wesley Chapel) for many years, is retiring. As such, the open seat will invariably draw many candidates who wish to represent the Wesley Chapel area (see page 1). Although county commissioners are elected countywide, this seat is important for the residents of Wesley Chapel because the District 2 county commissioner is your go-to for constituent services as it relates to county government.

Whenever I’m asked if it’s important to vote in every election and if someone’s vote really does count, my answer is always a re-

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sounding “Yes!” As Supervisor of Elections with first-hand experience, I can attest that every single vote is counted, and there is no such thing as an “unimportant” election.

Among the seats up for the 2014 election are the District 2 & 4 located (just west of Wesley Chapel’s District 2) County Commissioner seats, County Court Judge Group 5 and three School Board seats, which affect students and parents at schools countywide.

Every time a voter chooses not to vote, his or her freedom of choice is relinquished to others to make decisions for them. With that in mind, it only makes sense that voting in local elections should always be a priority.

It’s these local elected officials who actually have a greater impact on our daily lives than do our federally elected officials.

All voters — Democrats, Republicans, third party supporters and voters with no party affiliation — have a stake in our future with any election. Electing a representative government has been deeply embedded in our heritage for more than 400 years, and has become part of the American identity.

With three convenient ways to vote — by mail, by voting early at specified locations or at the ballot box on Election Day — and the flexibility of different options for voting, there really is no excuse to not participate in

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 21, Issue 18 • August 31, 2013 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

your civic duty.

The next time you’re tempted to skip out on any election, I encourage you to remember these three powerful words, “Freedom requires responsi- Brian Corley addresses Wesley Chapel Chamber bility.”

In my opin- Economic Development ion, that’s a small Committee members at a July meeting. price to pay.

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