Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, Volume 26, Issue 18, Aug. 24, 2018 by Neighborhood News

Volume 26

WESLEY CHAPEL

Inside:

NEWS

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Issue 18 August 24, 2018

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BUILD IT

AND THEY WILL COME With more to offer than ever, and more on the way, Wesley Chapel is finding itself at the heart of Pasco County’s rise in tourism & vistors. whelming and immediate success of Florida

BY JOHN C. COTEY Hospital Center Ice (FHCI).

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Pasco County has put its tourism department on steroids. The county’s formerly sleepy, nature-centric manner of attracting visitors is giving way to a high-powered, aggressive approach that, if everything goes according to plan, will soon yield a new brand that is expected to focus on the county’s diverse offerings. Executive director Adam Thomas of the Pasco County Visitor Bureau has commissioned Tallahassee-based public relations firm Zimmerman Agency, LLC, to help coordinate a brand relaunch at a cost of $481,000. In other words, the motto “Open spaces. Vibrant Places.” could be giving way to something that reaches a broader, more defined audience. “We are building a platform that is going to springboard us into the future and will make us relevant in the Florida tourism market,” Thomas says. Working with local leaders, the Zimmerman Agency is expected to unveil a draft plan by Aug. 31, and the new brand for Pasco tourism could launch in early October. Thomas says his goal is to help develop a “life-cycle” of tourism, where visitors fall in love with the area they are visiting, and decide to relocate their families or businesses here, and feed the ongoing growth of Pasco County. While the county already boasts a variety of festivals and outdoor activities, as well as a bustling western coastline attractive to those who like water sports like fishing, inland suburban areas like Wesley Chapel have evolved quickly to offer even more, like two thriving shopping malls. If tourism in Pasco County felt somewhat staid in the past, it could have been for a lack of product that is now becoming more ample. Wesley Chapel already is proving there is fruit on the sports tree, thanks to the over-

Helped by a two-percent increase in the Tourist Development Tax (TDT) last year to help pay for a new sports complex (see below) in Wiregrass Ranch, FHCI deserves to receive at least some of the credit for the recent boost in tourism dollars filling county coffers. The TDT has raised more than $200,000 every month through June this year, with a high of $355,279 in April. Last year, the most it raised in any month was $157,942. Managing partner Gordie Zimmermann (no relation to the agency) says FHCI is booked almost every weekend with hockey tournaments and other events, a majority of them requiring at least a two-night stay. There is a rush to build more hotels (the Hyatt Place just opened and three more are on the way along S.R. 56), so visitors have a place to stay, and FHCI is more than able to fill them. “We didn’t have as many places to stay in Pasco County in the past,” says District 2 Pasco Commissioner Mike Moore. “Now, the visitors that may have come to Pasco for a day trip or to visit family can stay. We now have (hotels).” Moore also said that in the past, the county has lost out on events, due to a lack of facilities, like FHCI, hotels and even enough shopping options and restaurants. “Now, we can handle all of those visitors,” says Moore, who lives in Wesley Chapel. Our area should be prepared to handle even more in 2019 and, as a result, more hotels and restaurants are on the way. “I don’t know if they have ever seen anything like this in the history of the county, and we’re really just ramping up,” Zimmermann says. “We have a lot of different events coming in 2019 that we didn’t even have in 2018. It’s something every week.” Even the “American Idol” auditions held last week (and one year ago) produced overnight stays. However, it has been the vari-

ous ice sports, from youth and adult hockey to figure skating events, driving Wesley Chapel’s increased impact on county-wide tourism. FHCI recently hosted a roller hockey tournament featuring 200 teams over the course of 10 days. Any number of events the facility has already hosted are the largest Pasco County has ever seen, Zimmermann says. “I’m not surprised by the increase in tourism right now,” says Hope Allen, the CEO of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce. “We can definitely tip our hat to Gordie for the majority of that.” Next year, the new RADDSports-developed Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex will enter the tourism market and, like FHCI, is likely to make a huge impact of its own. Thomas also hopes to shine a spotlight on some of Pasco County’s other treasures, including those that speak to the county’s reputation for open spaces, even if those seem to shrinking. He said “influencers” in the travel industry will be enlisted to spread the word, even travel bloggers, many of whom have large audiences. On a recent travel post, a blogger wrote of a trip she took, sponsored by VisitPasco, to the county. (L.-r.) Natalie Taylor of “Tampa Bay’s Morning Blend,” Mike Moore, Gordie Zimmermann & Adam Thomas discuss Pasco tourism. She wrote (and posted City and enjoying great food at Capital Tacos videos) about staying at the and Noble Crust in Wesley Chapel. Hilton Garden Inn near the Suncoast Pkwy., “Those are the people that can perwhere to rent a car or a bike, cycling through suade someone’s travel plans,” Thomas Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, enjoying a says. “It’s all about finding different ways balloon ride in Land O’Lakes, ziplining at and different strategies.” TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park in Dade

News: Business: News: Sports: News,Former Business & INSIDE Florida Hospital Get A New Dr. Levin Will Help Keep You Surprise! Bruce B.Will Downs (BBD) Wharton High Football Also Inside INSIDE Name In Area’s The New Year. Blvd. Is Our Worst Road PlayersWalking DeclarePain-Free. for NFL DraftEducation Updates Page3-17 10 This Issue:Pages

Pages 18-20 34-37 Pages 3-32

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Perfectly Designed, Premium Homes with Your Family in Mind Luxury, convenience, comfort and security are just a few of the hallmarks of Meridian at Meadow Point. The WCI community’s family-friendly, resort-style amenities complement large homesites and elegant homes amid ponds, shade trees and greenspaces.

The four floorplans include:

Meridian at Meadow Pointe showcases WCI’s premier new-home offerings in the Pasco County community that also provides homebuyers with an amenities center with pool, playground, club room, sport’s courts and Meadow Pointe schools.

The Hamilton, with four bedrooms and three bathrooms in 2,617 square feet, offers a popular onestory design with a seamless flow between living spaces. The Owner’s Suite is secluded conveniently along the rear of the home, while the spacious and open-concept great room and casual dining rooms are perfect for families and entertaining guests. The model, with four bedrooms and three baths, is priced from $334,990.

Miles of trails and sidewalks, and even a boardwalk, connect homebuyers with each other and with the natural beauty enveloping Meridian at Meadow Pointe. On larger-than-average homesites, some homes overlook lakes or ponds, while most back into wooded conservation swaths.

The Brentwood, a stunning two-story home of 3,382 square feet, boasts incredible connectivity between its four bedrooms and three baths, as well. A split three-car garage provides an ideal space for an extra car or storage. The model’s price starts from $374,990.

WCI’s luxury homes offer all the sophisticated features, fine architectural details and rich interior and exterior features homebuyers have come to expect from Florida’s leading premium homebuilder.

The Chesapeake’s great foyer, with a dramatic twenty-foot ceiling, serves at the grand entrance to the 4,069-square-foot design filled with rich and thoughtful details. The five-bedroom, four-bath home is priced from $409,990.

Four sophisticated, innovative and tasteful floorplans offer generous and spacious square footages that stretch across as many as 4,069 square feet and are priced from the $330,000s. Features in each home suit today’s discerning homebuyer. Birch cabinetry, top-of-the-line appliances and granite countertops are just a few appointments in the kitchen. A chef’s favorite, each gourmet kitchen provides a larger-than-average island, among other features. The lavish Owner’s Suite, also with high-quality birch cabinetry and exquisite granite countertops, create a spa-like environment with a drop-in-garden tub and ceramic tile flooring.

The Saratoga, with a large loft for casual family entertainment, provides 4,443 generous square feet that encompass six bedrooms and four baths. The two-story home also offers a spacious lanai to enjoy Florida’s year-round outdoor living, ideal for lounging with the family or entertaining friends and your new Meridian at Meadow Pointe neighbors. The Saratoga price starts from $429,990. The community’s tranquil setting is matched only by its enviable access to the best of Tampa Bay. Just 26 miles north of vibrant downtown Tampa and less than seven miles from highly desirable Wesley Chapel, the community is also only about eight miles

Meridian at Meadow Pointe provides homebuyers with an amenities center with pool, playground, club room, sport’s courts and Meadow Pointe schools.

away from I-75. Homebuyers enjoy unparalleled access to the best in shopping, dining and recreation, entertainment and more. Meridian at Meadow Pointe lies virtually around the corner from major shopping destinations, top golf courses and sprawling wilderness and nature preserves. Some of the best of these include The Shops at Wiregrass and Tampa Premium Outlets and Saddlebrook and Pebble Creek golf clubs; all of those destinations are within a 10-mile radius. For families, Pasco County Schools’ elementary, middle and high schools are all 3.5 miles. Elegant homes and beautiful settings are only two reasons to visit Meridian at Meadow Pointe, where WCI shows what 60 years’ experience in building excellent homes and lifestyle communities can buy. For more information, contact: WCITampaBay.com or 844-478-5429

‘I Only Vote In The Important Elections’ — Too Many Locals

An editorial by Gary Nager I have never been the most political (or politically correct) guy in the world, but I have watched and covered so many elections — local, state and national — over the nearly 25 years I have been the owner and editor of this publication that I can’t help but notice that more often than not, more people than not do not vote in local elections. And, the #1 reason I hear from New Tampa and Wesley Chapel residents for not voting is always the same: “I only vote in the important elections, like for our President.” Well, I’m here to tell you that if you’re a) not already registered to vote or b) don’t plan to vote in the upcoming Primary Election on Tuesday, August 28, or the General “Midterm” Election on Tuesday, November 6, you’re selling yourself — and your community — short. In August, three of Pasco’s five School Board seats (in other words, 60 percent!) are up for grabs and, unless there is a Runoff Election in any of those three districts (all Pasco School Board and County Commission seats are elected countywide), this will be your only chance to have a say in who will be responsible for building and staffing schools and protecting your public school children. That fact alone should at least get you thinking about getting out to the polls on Aug. 28, although it is past the deadline to do so if you’re not already registered to vote as you’re reading this. In addition, with so many parents concerned about the future plans (in 2020) to again re-zone the schools in Wesley Chapel, getting out to vote for the candidates you believe will be the most likely to help keep your children where you want

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News Address: 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Publisher & Editor Gary Nager Assistant Editor / Photographer John C. Cotey Correspondents Celeste McLaughlin • Brad Stager • Andy Warrener WCNT-tv Senior Video Producer Gavin Olsen WCNT-tv Video Production Assistant Giuliano Ferrara Graphic Designers Georgia Carmichael • Stephanie Vokes Flischel Billing Assistant Jannah McDonald Office Assistants “Wild Bill” Peterseim • Brad Stager 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 26, Issue 20, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, September 10 2018. 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.

them perhaps should be important enough to get you to cast a ballot this year. Two of those candidates — three-term incumbent Allen Altman in District 1 and Heide Janshon, one of two candidates attempting to unseat two-time District 3 incumbent Cynthia Armstrong — have taken ads (both on page 5) in this issue, in order to try to help convince you to get out and cast a ballot for them. There also are six local judges and several local Community Development District (CDD) Board candidates who will be elected on Aug. 28, and there will be primaries for U.S. Senate, Florida’s next Governor, Attorney General and Commissioner of Agriculture, as well as the State Senate. If you decide not (or you’re not already registered) to vote on Aug. 28, you have until Tuesday, October 9, to get yourself registered for the General Election on Nov. 6. At that time, in addition to voting for U.S. and State Senate, as well as Governor, Attorney General, Chief Financial Officer and Commissioner of Agriculture, you’ll also get to vote for two County Commission seats and our area’s Dist. 38 State Representative. One of those November contests will have Pasco County Dist. 2 Commissioner Mike Moore (see ad on this page) squaring off against fellow Wesley Chapel resident Kelly Smith (see story on pg. 4). I just wanted to make it clear that the fact that we have a story about Smith, a political newcomer, in this issue, isn’t an endorsement for her or in any way an indictment of the job that Moore has done since being elected in 2014. We just felt it was newsworthy for our readers that Mike will face an opponent who also lives in Wesley Chapel.

As For Endorsements...

The first 10 or 15 years that I owned this publication, I felt it was my job to go to as many governmental meetings as possible in order to cover those meetings for our readers and to get to know as many of our local, state and some national (such as District 12 U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis) elected officials as I possibly could. One of the reasons I did so was so I could make intelligent endorsements, based on my knowledge of our area’s infrastructure and other needs. I began phasing out making endorsements about 10 years ago, in part because I have had other people covering most governmental meetings. I never really had any problem with the often negative feedback I would receive when I would endorse one candidate over another, but I will say that I have gotten a lot less hate mail since then. At any rate, get out & vote, Wesley Chapel!

Table of Contents

Local News Updates.....................3-13 Kelly Smith Hoping For A Blue Wave In Pasco...........4 We Sent Our Guy To The Airport Via The Bus...........8 Business Briefs: New Name For Florida Hospital......10 Wesley Chapel Community Calendar.........................14

Local Business Updates..............18-23

New Tampa Foot & Ankle For Your Foot Pain..........18 SPOTLIGHT ON: Edward Jones Financial...............19 Roxanne Simmonds: Of Premier Sotheby’s Realty!...20 New Tampa Dance Theatre Plans Its Busy Winter.....22

Local School & Sports Updates..26-31 Q-&-A With Pasco’s Superintendent Of Schools....26 Chandler Making Most Of WCH Opportunity......28 High School Football Preview Capsules..................30

Official Primary Election Ballot August 28, 2018 Democratic Party Pasco County, Florida

Official Primary Election Ballot August 28, 2018 Republican Party Pasco County, Florida

• Instructions: To vote, fill in the oval completely ( ) next to your choice. Use only the marking device provided or a blue or black pen. • If you make a mistake, ask for a new ballot. Do not cross out or your vote may not count.

Representative in Congress District 12 (Vote for 1)

School Board Member District 3 (Vote for 1)

State Senator District 20 (Vote for 1)

United States Senator (Vote for 1)

School Board Member District 5 (Vote for 1)

Roque "Rocky" De La Fuente

John Manners Houman

Cynthia Armstrong

Chris Hunter

Dustin Anderson

Mike Aday

Rick Scott

Tom Lee

Meghan E. Hamer

Stephen M. Perenich

Dave Ellis

Megan Harding

Circuit Judge 6th Judicial Circuit Group 4 (Vote for 1)

Heide Janshon

Robert Matthew Tager

Roxanne Fixsen

Kassie Hutchinson

Circuit Judge 6th Judicial Circuit Group 9 (Vote for 1)

Tara M. O'Connor

Governor and Lieutenant Governor (Vote for 1)

School Board Member District 5 (Vote for 1)

Dustin Anderson Don Baldauf Not Yet Designated

O LL

Dave Ellis

Mike Aday

Roxanne Fixsen

Megan Harding

Ron DeSantis Not Yet Designated

Circuit Judge 6th Judicial Circuit Group 9 (Vote for 1)

Kassie Hutchinson

Timothy M. Devine Not Yet Designated

Claudia Elizabeth Blackwell Christine Helinger

Bob Langford Not Yet Designated

Circuit Judge 6th Judicial Circuit Group 36 (Vote for 1)

John Joseph Mercadante Not Yet Designated

Doneene D. Loar

Bruce Nathan Not Yet Designated

M SA

Bob White Not Yet Designated

Attorney General (Vote for 1)

Ashley Moody Frank White

Commissioner of Agriculture (Vote for 1)

Denise Grimsley

Circuit Judge 6th Judicial Circuit Group 40 (Vote for 1)

Adam H. Putnam Not Yet Designated

Matt Caldwell

Donald McBath

Tara M. O'Connor

Thomas H. "Tommy" Minkoff

Mike Trentalange Circuit Judge 6th Judicial Circuit Group 45 (Vote for 1)

Evan Frayman Rebecca Hamilton County Judge Group 7 (Vote for 1) Kent Compton Jeremiah Hawkes School Board Member District 1 (Vote for 1)

Mike McCalister

Allen Altman

Baxter Troutman

Kenneth J. Mathis Brian Staver

Governor and Lieutenant Governor (Vote for 1)

Claudia Elizabeth Blackwell Andrew Gillum Not Yet Designated Gwen Graham Not Yet Designated Jeff Greene Not Yet Designated Chris King Not Yet Designated Philip Levine Not Yet Designated Alex "Lundy" Lundmark Not Yet Designated

M SA

John Wetherbee Not Yet Designated

Attorney General (Vote for 1)

Sean Shaw

Ryan Torrens

Commissioner of Agriculture (Vote for 1)

Christine Helinger Circuit Judge 6th Judicial Circuit Group 36 (Vote for 1) Doneene D. Loar Donald McBath

Evan Frayman

Rebecca Hamilton County Judge Group 7 (Vote for 1)

Kent Compton Jeremiah Hawkes School Board Member District 1 (Vote for 1) Allen Altman Kenneth J. Mathis

Jeffrey Duane Porter

Brian Staver

State Senator District 20 (Vote for 1)

Circuit Judge 6th Judicial Circuit Group 45 (Vote for 1)

Nicole "Nikki" Fried

Roy David Walker

Circuit Judge 6th Judicial Circuit Group 40 (Vote for 1) Thomas H. "Tommy" Minkoff Mike Trentalange

O LL

School Board Member District 3 (Vote for 1) Cynthia Armstrong

Joy Gibson

Meghan E. Hamer

Kathy Lewis

Heide Janshon

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Keep taxes low Welcome high-paying employers to Pasco Work with Sheriff Chris Nocco to fight crime Fix aging infrastructure in a growing Pasco

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Win A $100 Gift Card In Our Pigskin Contest!....33 Try Jannah’s Keto Pizza Recipe!............................36 ‘Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes’.........38 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Classifieds..........40 @NTWCNews

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Dem. Kelly Smith To Take On Mike Moore For County Commission In November By BRAD STAGER

For Kelly Smith, running as the Democratic Party’s candidate for the District 2 seat on the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners is more about civic duty than personal achievement. “I really am coming at this from a public service standpoint. I never imagined I would run for office,” says Smith, who has lived in Wesley Chapel for 10 years and will oppose Republican incumbent and fellow Wesley Chapel resident Mike Moore (see ad on pg. 3) in this year’s general election on Tuesday, November 6. Neither candidate will face a primary opponent. In addition to partisan primaries for local, state and national offices, the primary election, which also includes the only elections for Pasco School Board (see ads on pg. 5 for candidates vying for two different seats) and several judges, will be held on Tuesday, August 28. (Note-The early voting period for the primary actually continues through tomorrow — Saturday, August 25.) Smith says that watching District 2’s boundaries evolve from relatively pastoral to thoroughly suburban provided her with the motivation to enter politics. She says her goal is to ensure that Pasco voters have distinct options as to who will best help manage the area’s growth. “We need to bring change to our community and really be looking at how we can serve our community the best,” Smith says. The foot-shaped Dist. 2 extends from the Hillsborough County line to north of S.R. 52, with its western border between

U.S. 41 and the Suncoast Pkwy., and extending all the way to U.S. 301/Gall Blvd. at its easternmost edge in Zephyrhills. Smith says she believes that the current lineup of Pasco commissioners has fallen short in meeting residents’ needs. “Without a doubt, (they’re) not planning for the infrastructure and the service needs that go along with the growth we’re experiencing,” Smith says. She says that growth is coming at a cost, and usually one that prospective homeowners can’t afford. Democrat Kelly Smith doesn’t have an opponent for next week’s primary She believes that future de- and will take on Republican Mike Moore for the District 2 seat on the Pasco velopment needs to include County Commission in the general election Nov. 6. (Photo: Brad Stager) a wider variety of affordbale make less than $15 an hour,” she says. “As the housing for residents. second largest employer in Pasco County, that “One of the big components that’s missing in Pasco County is a better variety of would certainly set a standard that hopefully the rest of the community would follow.” dwelling types and a better variety of (housSmith says her more than 20 years of ing) price points,” Smith says. professional experience provides an informed Smith also says she wants to attract background from which to draw on when it more skilled jobs to the area’s economy, comes to addressing quality-of-life issues like which already has a lot of customer service congestion. Her resume includes positions in positions. Pasco County government can encourage wage growth in the private sector, engineering operations (including data analysis she says, by setting an example and adopting and contract administration) for site development and transportation projects in the private a minimum salary of $15 an hour for fullsector and serving as a zoning administrator time positions. for the City of Marco Island, near Naples, FL. “Currently, 24 percent of full-time She also has been a coordinator for the employees (who work for Pasco County)

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Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the City of Naples and Collier County. Smith earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Liberal Arts (with minors in Computer Science, School Health Education and Special Education) from Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven. “I really do think that my experience has put me in exactly the right position to be a county commissioner,” says Smith. In addition to her professional work experience, Smith volunteers on behalf of young people, advocating for kids going through the legal system with the Florida Guardian ad Litem program and as a photographer with Heart Gallery of Pinellas & Pasco, a nonprofit organization that promotes the adoption of children in foster care. “I have always looked at how my actions can have a positive consequence outside of me,” says Smith, who lives in Meadow Pointe with her husband Patrick and their three adopted teenage children: Macy, Andrew and Carter. Running as a Democratic against a popular Republican opponent in a county where President Trump won 58 percent of the vote in 2016 might seem to be a formidable task, but Smith says she’s up to it. “I really do think I have a chance,” she says, adding that she gets a good response from people, including Republicans, when she canvases neighborhoods. “Local government is not so partisan. It’s about what’s best for your community.” Visit KellySmithforPasco.com or “Kelly Smith for Pasco County Commissioner” on Facebook to find out more.

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“As a Dad and Papa, nothing means more to me than the safety and well-being of every child in Pasco County Schools”

Pasco Sheriﬀ Chris Nocco & Allen Altman

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A First-Hand Account Of A Ride On Wesley Chapel’s New Bus Route! By GIULIANO FERRARA As we reported in a previous issue, although it is based in Hillsborough County, Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) has a brand-new bus route that picks up near Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel in Wiregrass Ranch and transports riders all the way to both downtown Tampa and Tampa International Airport (TIA). The new route is a welcome addition to the area. Prior to the introduction of Route 275LX, Wesley Chapel residents have lacked in public transit that could take them into Tampa but HART is set on fixing that with the new limited-stop service from the Wiregrass Park-’nRide lot all the way to TIA. Neighborhood News and WCNT-tv production assistant Giuliano Ferrara recently rode the bus from Wiregrass to TIA. Below is his first-hand account of that ride. “For $2 you can ride from New Tampa to the airport, that’s the best deal out there.” said Pedro, my driver for this trip and a public transit driver for more than 30 years. “The service has changed a lot [in those 30 years],” he adds. With the addition of working air conditioning and heating, power steering, and most important, a nice comfy driver’s seat, Pedro told me that the HART buses have come a long way and that Route 275LX is the first taste of a truly comfortable local public transit experience for Wesley Chapel residents. My first impressions of the bus were overwhelmingly positive. I noticed first and foremost that the HART bus is, without a doubt, the cleanest bus I have ever ridden. The bus I boarded was one of the nearly 200 that make up the HART fleet and, if they’re all as clean and comfortable as this one, those who rely on public transit in the area, and even

Unfortunately, HART has rules about taking pictures inside its buses, so this was one of only a few our reporter was able to snap during his ride from Wiregrass Ranch to Tampa International Airport. those riding a bus for the very first time, should stop just before the corner of Highwoods Preexpect to be satisfied with the service. While the serve Pkwy. and BBD in New Tampa, I hadn’t felt seats still left something to be desired in terms a single bump in the road or pothole (of which of cushioning, the powerful air conditioning there are plenty) while traveling the route. In fact should be able to compensate for any lost comI was surprised with the ease and speed at which fort during your ride. the bus had reached the stop. I arrived at the Wiregrass Park-’n-Ride lot As a daily commuter living in Wesley at 12 p.m, fifteen minutes prior to the departure Chapel, I was happy to be able to relax, sit back time, to find that my bus was already there and and trust that the bus would get me down the ready to go. At almost exactly 12:15, the bus road safely, giving me time to stare out the winleft the station and my ride to TIA had begun. dow, which is a rarity for those of us in the area who have to deal with BBD traffic on a daily basis. As the bus made its way down Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., which is the road that makes It was clear that there are still those out up more than half of Route 275LX (in terms there who would prefer not to be at the mercy of scheduled stops), I was skeptical as to how of a bus schedule, as there were only three passmooth the bus ride would be when traversing the sengers, including me, who got on at the Wireobstacle course of construction that is BBD. By grass Park-’n-Ride and the bus only stopped to the time we had reached our first stop, which was pick up three people at the nine scheduled stops to pick up one passenger waiting at the HART in New Tampa. Although HART provides a

punctual and efficient service, most of us would still rather take matters into our own hands, even if that means giving up the ability to relax and not have to stress about traffic. What HART has already done very well, however, is that they’ve made Route 275LX the best deal in town. The fact that $2 can now get you a one-way ticket to TIA from the Wiregrass Park-’n-Ride is astounding. The gas you would burn on the drive would cost far more than the $2 it will take to ride the bus all the way there. If you’re planning on picking someone up from the airport, or just want to go somewhere downtown and come back to Wiregrass, your round-trip will come to a grand total of $4. “Two dollars from Wesley Chapel to the airport is an incredible deal,” Pedro reiterated. “An Uber or taxi would cost you $30 to $40, at least.” So, when it comes to value, Route 275LX is definitely the best bang for your buck. There are some downsides to this otherwise tremendous service, however, the first and foremost being that HART has no facilities to accommodate overnight parking anywhere along Route 275LX. This seemed to be the most pressing concern among those who attended the most recent Economic Development Briefing on July 26th, where HART representatives discussed the new route with the members of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce. As it stands, you will still need to get a ride to the bus stop if you plan to take the new route to the airport. The Park-’n-Ride locations take no responsibility when it comes to overnight parking and HART has urged those who wish to utilize this service to not leave their car in these locations overnight. This means that if you have a trip out of town and want to ride the bus to the airport, you will need to sort out some plans

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For only $2, it took our reporter 1:35 to reach his final destination — TIA — on Route 275LX. wish to ride, as well as what time you do so. A for getting back home and may have to rely on HART representative I spoke with told me that someone with a car, regardless of the fact you’re weekdays during rush hour traffic and early in attempting to use public transportation. the morning are the busiest times for the route. Of course, not everyone is going to the My bus left on time, rode for exactly 1 hour and airport. I spoke with one passenger who was 35 minutes, and arrived at the airport right on on her way to the International Mall. Tonya schedule. While my experience was ideal, I can’t Gonzalez told me she is an infrequent user of promise that this will always be the case, espeHART’s services. She said that the bus was, “a nice way to get to the mall from downtown,” cially on weekdays during morning rush hour, and that, “the $4 round-trip price tag was worth but it worked out perfectly for me. it for a ride.” She also explained that the gas As I see it, there are many reasons to take it would take for her to drive from her stop at advantage of this new service. I believe that USF Pine Dr. and BBD in North Tampa to the Route 275LX could become a more utilized International Plaza/Westshore Blvd. stop would alternative to driving and could even help allevicost quite a bit more than hopping on a HART ate some of the traffic woes that are so prevalent bus and would also put wear on her personal in the area, especially along BBD. vehicle, so the bus is “a convenient alternative.” Route 275LX is a step in the right direcAt noon on a Wednesday, there were tion and I hope it becomes more widely used. only a handful of passengers who took Route If you have the time, take the bus. It will save 275LX. Out of the 28 total scheduled stops, we you gas and eliminate the unnecessary stress of only gathered a total of 10 people, including driving through Tampa. yours truly, over the course of my trip. This HART’s Route 275LX leaves the Wiregranted me an enjoyably empty bus ride but it grass Park-’n-Ride every hour between 6:15 could vary depending on the chosen day you a.m. and 10 p.m. every day.

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Business News: New Name For Florida Hospital, New Developments & Yes, Chick-Fil-A once the rainy season passes, we think you’ll start seeing the 4,877-sq.-ft. restaurant (with a drive-through) start going vertical.

Another 4,000-sq.-ft. building is labeled for retail/restaurant. The conceptual plan also proposes two entrances/exits into the Pasco C-Center, one off S.R. 54 and the other off Curley Rd.

PASCO C-CENTER?: While development proceeds in the busy S.R. 56 corridor, from Culver’s going up east of Bruce B. Downs Blvd. to Blaze Pizza and others breaking ground to the west in the hectic Cypress Creek Town Center area, representatives from Stella Management Group met with Pasco County planning officials about a new proposed retail center on the northeast corner of Curley Rd. and S.R. 54 (see photo). According to paperA potential new development, to be anchored by a pharmacy, could be work field with the county headed for the corner of S.R. 54 and Curley Rd. prior to a pre-application meeting on Aug. 6, the Changes to signage and visual elements project is named Pasco C-Center, with apat hospitals and other facilities are expected to take place in January, when the AdventHealth proximately 32,500 square feet of leasable commercial/retail space. name is fully adopted. The Pasco C-Center, according to a conAPPROVED!: For those of you beginceptual plan, will have a fast food restaurant ning to lose faith in the long-awaited Chickwith a drive-thru, a 14,698-sq.-ft. pharmacy Fil-A on S.R. 54, just east of Bruce B. Downs with 49 parking spaces, a 4,000-sq.-ft. retail Blvd., you can relax. The never-open-onbuilding divided for three businesses, and a Sunday chain received its final approval for its 5,500-sq.-ft. retail building divided for four second Wesley Chapel restaurant on July 27. occupants, none of which had been anGround has already been broken, and nounced at our press time.

NAILING IT: In the new Pleasant Plaza on the south side of S.R. 54, east of BBD, Starbucks and Pizza Hut are up and running, and according to Pasco County permitting records, a Sweet Nail Spa will be next. And, right across the street on the north side of S.R. 54, Heartland Dental is nearing completion.

By JOHN COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC), we hardly knew ye. Adventist Health Systems, the faithbased health care system that is the parent company of all of the Florida Hospitals, has announced that it is changing its corporate name to AdventHealth. As a result, all of the Florida Hospitals, including FHWC, will get the name change, too, as well as a new logo (above). On Jan. 2, 2019, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel will become AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. “We are transforming to be a more consumer-focused health care system to better meet the needs of those we care for and the communities we serve,” says Terry Shaw, president/CEO for Adventist Health System. “Becoming AdventHealth allows us to be a fully integrated and distinguishable health system across all aspects of the care continuum, while also speaking to our Christian healing ministry, message of wholeness and our rich Seventh-Day Adventist roots.” The Altamonte Springs-based Adventist Health Systems, which has nearly 50 campuses across the state — including seven in the Tampa Bay area — will kick off a transition campaign in September featuring TV and print ads in various markets across the country.

Before

After

GOODBYE, RUBY TUESDAY: Long-time New Tampa fixture Ruby Tuesday abruptly closed its doors in late July, which was a surprise to many local residents. The restaurant, which boasted “Simple Fresh American Dining” and had arguably the best (only?) salad bar around, was located on the corner of Highwoods Preserve Pkwy. and Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in front of the popular AMC Highwoods 20 movie theater. While it didn’t lack for passing traffic, it apparently was lacking for paying customers, joining more than 100 Ruby Tuesdays across the country that have been shuttered over the last year. According to RestaurantBusiness Online.com, Ruby Tuesday has closed 400 locations in the past decade. Visitors on July 22 were greeted by a printed sheet of paper taped to the inside of the front door, saying “This Location Has Closed,” and directing people to the Ruby Tuesday in Valrico.

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AUGUST 2018 Monday, August 27

Professional Business Connections (PBC) - PBC meets Mondays at 7:45 a.m. at The Happy Hangar Cafe (at Tampa North Aero Park, 4241 Birdsong Blvd., off S.R. 54, Lutz). For info, call Matt Archbold at (813) 782-1777. Wesley Chapel Speaks - The Wesley Chapel Toastmasters meet every Monday at 6 p.m. for networking, 6:30 pm for public speaking, at Wesley Chapel Nissan (28519 State Rd 54). For more info, call Martin at (813) 693-0969.

Tuesday, August 28

Wesley Chapel Lions Club - The Wesley Chapel Lions meet every 4th Tues., 6:30 p.m., at the Lexington Oaks Community Center (26304 Lex. Oaks Blvd.). For info about volunteering, community efforts, meetings, helping the vision impaired & more, visit WesleyChapelLionsClub.com or the club’s page on Facebook.

Wednesday, August 29

Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel - The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel (Noon) meets Wednesdays at noon at Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26133 Lexington Oaks Blvd.). First-time guests attend for free. For info, (813) 862-8989 or (813) 391-3895.

Thursday, August 30

BNI Networking Meeting - Business professionals are invited to attend this networking organization’s meetings on Thursdays, 7:30 a.m., at Savannah Church (3758 Maryweather Lane, off BBD Blvd., behind Dunkin’ Donuts). For more info, call Kyle Flischel at (813) 815-0250. RGA Network Weekly Meeting - The RGA Networking Group meets weekly for networking at GrillSmith at the Shops at Wiregrass mall. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; lunch is noon-1 p.m. For more info, visit RGANetwork.net. Celebrate Recovery - Meeting Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Bridgeway Church (30660 Wells Rd.), the purpose of Celebrate Recovery is to bring freedom from dysfunctional, compulsive & addictive behaviors through biblically-based principles. Dinner & free childcare available. Call (813) 907-1313.

ARE YOU BUSY TONIGHT? The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel & Wesley Chapel Nissan Are Hosting Casino Night!

The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon will host another “Casino Night” at Wesley Chapel Nissan (28519 SR 54), 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Last year’s event (photo) was attended by at least 200 people and all net proceeds will benefit local nonprofit charities! The donation to attend is $20 per person, which includes $1,000 in gaming chips, heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music, live and silent auctions, raffle prizes and more, all to benefit Clerks for a Cure (to help in the fight against breast cancer), the Rotary Club’s Wesley Chapel High School scholarship program and the Pasco Sheriff’s K9 Program. There also will be a cash beer & wine bar provided by Time for Wine. For tickets & more information, visit WCRotary.com.

of East Pasco kicks off its new fundraising season at Atonement Lutheran Church at 29617 FL-54 Wesley Chapel. The community is invited to come out and learn more about the Relay For Life event and how everyone can help the American Cancer Society attack cancer from every angle. During the kickoff event, community members will have the opportunity to register a team for the Relay For Life event, which will be held in March 2019. Visit http://www.relayforlife.org/eastpascofl to learn more.

Proudly Serving

SEPTEMBER 2018 Tuesday, September 4

NAMI Friends & Family: Mental Health Support Group - NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Pasco support group for friends & family of those with mental illness. The group meets the 1st & 3rd Tues. of each month, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m., at Atonement Lutheran Church (29617 S.R. 54). For more info, visit NAMIPasco.com.

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Wednesday, September 5

Wiregrass Ranchers Kids Club - Free entertainment for kids, featuring Mr. Tommy, the first Wednesday of every month at The Shops at Wiregrass, from 10-11 a.m. More info at TheShopsAtWiregrass.com/events.

Friday, September 7

Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Sunrise - The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Sunrise meets the 1st & 3rd Fridays of each month, 7:15 a.m., at Happy Hangar Cafe, 4241 Birdsong Blvd. For info, call Kathy Schenck at (813) 956-4436.

Tuesday, September 11

East Pasco Networking Group - Meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month at 7:30 a.m. at IHOP, 13100 US 301, Dade City. For info, contact Nils Lenz, 813782-9491 or nilslenz@gmail.com.

Dr. Lisa LaPresti

Friday, September 14

Mental Health Support Group - NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) of Pasco is a support group for adults in Pasco County living with mental illness or in recovery. The group meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month, 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. at Atonement Lutheran Church (29617 S.R. 54). For info, visit NAMIPasco.org.

Monday, September 17

East Pasco Democratic Club - Meets 3rd Monday of each month at Omari’s Grill, Scotland Yards Golf Club, 9424 U.S. 301, Dade City, from 6:30-8 p.m. For more info, visit www.eastpascodems.com.

Tuesday, September 18

2019 Relay For Life Kick-Off Event - The American Cancer Society Relay For Life 14

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New Tampa Foot & Ankle Can Help Alleviate Your Foot & Leg Pain BY CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN At New Tampa Foot & Ankle, patients of all ages can be treated for injuries to their lower extremities, often with same-day appointments. Long-time New Tampa resident Stephen Levin, D.P.M., opened New Tampa Foot & Ankle in 2002, moving the practice to its current location off of S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel (near I-75 in the Cypress Ridge Professional Center) in 2007. With 20 years of experience in private practice in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area, Dr. Levin says that what makes New Tampa Foot & Ankle great are the people — both the staff he works with and the patients. “We treat everyone — children through the geriatric population,” he says. “It’s fun and interesting.” Dr. Levin earned his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Urban Studies from the University of Maryland in College Park in 1992. He then obtained his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) degree from the Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia in 1996. He completed a two-year medical and surgical residency at Montgomery Hospital Medical Center in Norristown, PA, in 1998, and then moved to Tampa, when he began working in private practice. He is the past president of both the Florida Podiatric Medical Association and the Hillsborough County Podiatric Medical Association. Brendan Barrett, D.P.M., joined the practice in 2016. Now with two full-time doctors on staff, patients have more flexibility to schedule appointments when it’s most convenient for them. When one doctor is in surgery, the other is in the office. “Also, from a surgical standpoint,” Dr.

Podiatrists Stephen Levin, D.P.M. (left), and Dr. Brendan Barrett, D.P.M., provide outstanding care for any injury or other problem your feet or ankles may have at New Tampa Foot & Ankle, located in the Cypress Ridge Professional Center off S.R. 56. Levin says, “We tackle tough cases together.” Barrett is Board-qualified, meaning that he has Dr. Barrett graduated from Youngstown passed the board exams and is in the process of State University in Youngstown, OH, in 2008, becoming Board-certified. with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in The office accepts many forms of insurance Biology. He earned his D.P.M. degree from and also offers in-house financing options. the Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine in Cleveland, OH, in 2013. He then Everything For Your Feet completed a three-year medical and surgical Dr. Levin and Dr. Barrett care for people residency at Bay Pines VA Hospital in St. Peters- with all kinds of foot, heel and ankle pain. They burg and at the James A. Haley VA hospital in treat issues such as ingrown toenails, fungal Tampa. infections, Achilles tendon problems, ankle Dr. Levin is Board-certified in foot surgery instability, flat feet, walking deformities, diabetic by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. Dr. foot care, arthritic foot and ankle care, geriatric

foot care, bunions, corns and warts. Dr. Barrett explains that it’s rewarding to help people in this way. “A lot of times, you can give people relief right away,” he says. “For example, with ingrown toenails, it’s a lot of pain, but we can take care of it so a patient is completely pain-free, often within a couple of days.” The doctors commonly see teenagers with sports injuries, and overuse injuries in teenagers and even children. The office is completely state-of-the-art, with on-site, digital X-rays, ultrasound and laser technology. “We’ve upgraded to scanning the foot for orthotics, too,” explains Dr. Levin. “It’s much higher tech than plaster molding.” Among the many services offered is a non-invasive screening tool for people who are concerned they might have poor circulation in their feet, especially for people who have diabetes or a history of smoking. The doctors use a device called PADnet to compare the blood pressure in the arm to the blood pressure in the upper leg, lower leg and ankle, to determine if circulation is good, bad or severely bad. New Tampa Foot & Ankle also offers Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT), a method of treating heel pain. In lieu of traditional treatments, such as anti-inflammatory injections or physical therapy, EPAT uses acoustic shock waves to signal the body to increase circulation. Dr. Levin says this allows the area to heal itself more quickly and effectively. “The technology has been around for one or two decades, but it has become more amenable to an office setting,” he says. “There’s no downtime, no medications and no infections.”

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Another major concern for many patients is toenail fungus. “It’s unsightly; it’s embarrassing,” Dr. Levin says, adding that the fungus can be caused by trauma and even by pedicures in unsanitary conditions. For anyone who wants to be sure their pedicure is clean and sterile, New Tampa Foot & Ankle also has a partnership with an aesthetician who provides medical-grade pedicures in the office. “Women come in because they’ve had a poorly done pedicure and have gotten a bacterial or fungal infection,” explains Dr. Levin. “We can do their manicure and pedicure here, where everything is sterile and clean and the conditions are controlled, so our patients know what they’re getting.”

Diabetic Foot Treatments

New Tampa Foot & Ankle treats many diabetic patients, who often have poor circulation and nerve damage, need special care for blisters or sores, and need special shoes with more room and protection. Annette Knecht is a patient who says she has been seeing Dr. Levin regularly for her foot issues related to diabetes since she was diagnosed in 2012. “I like going there because everyone is very friendly, kind and supportive,” she says. “Dr. Levin is always smiling and gentle. I feel at ease when I’m there.” Annette says she appreciates Dr. Levin’s approach, where he’ll try the most conservative options first. “For my diabetic nerve pain, he started me on a vitamin regimen,” Annette explains. “It worked, and I didn’t have to go on any more medication.”

Finding You Shoes, Too

Dr. Levin says that some foot problems actually can be solved by wearing the right kind of shoes, so New Tampa Foot & Ankle also carries a full line of Vionic shoes. Men and women can buy everything from dress shoes to sneakers, sandals and even flip-flops, right at the office. “These are shoes that have an orthotic built into the shoe,” explains Dr. Levin. “They work well for people who have flat- or higharched feet, or those who experience heel pain. Especially for women, dress shoes don’t typically have great support, but these do, so you can wear a high heel or wedge shoe, and get that built-in support.” Annette says she does buy her shoes at New Tampa Foot & Ankle. “They seem to work really well with my feet,” she says. She adds that her “summer shoes” the last couple of months were a pair of Vionic orthopedic flip-flops. “They’re waterproof and I even wear them at the beach,” she says. “They’re very supportive for my ankles. If I didn’t have them, I’d be barefoot and in pain.” Dr. Levin says Vionic shoes are sold at other places, but his office offers a better variety. They are currently working to set up a full display in the lobby, where anyone can stop and shop for Vionic shoes. For now, they are sold to the practice’s patients,, so he recommends anyone who thinks they would benefit from the shoes to make an appointment for a consultation. New Tampa Foot & Ankle is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and is located at 26827 Foggy Creek Rd., Suite 104. For more information, call (813) 973-3535, visit NewTampaFootandAnkle.com or see the ad on page 20 of this issue.

SPOTLIGHT ON......Edward Jones Financial Services! Financial advisor William Morales, AAMS (Accredited Asset Management Specialist; photo), and branch office administrator Beth Ramirez make up the Edward Jones Financial Services team in the Windfair Professional Center, located across Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. from Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC). Morales has been serving clients in this location since 2012, when he closed his Tampa Palms office and moved it to Wesley Chapel. He joined Edward Jones in 2008. “I always wanted a Wesley Chapel branch,” says Morales, who has lived in Meadow Pointe with his wife for 20 years, where they raised two daughters, and where he now serves his neighbors. “We are a full-service agency, and I wear many different hats,” he explains. “When I work with clients, I may serve as their stock broker, their insurance agent and their bond dealer. At its core, my work is mainly as a financial planner.” Morales says he helps his clients in any of five different core areas, depending upon each client’s stage of life and their individual needs. They include: • Planning for a comfortable retirement (for those who are currently working) • Enjoying retirement (for those who have already retired) • Paying for education • Preparing for the unexpected • Saving money on taxes Morales adds that he works with his clients through a five-step process, start-

ing with “Where am I today?” and “Where would I like to be?” Then, he says, the next steps — “Can I get there?” and “How do I get there?” — are his job. “If we try to be everything to everyone, we lose that personal touch,” Morales says. “It makes it tough to deliver the same level of service.” Before joining Edward Jones, Morales was president of a mortgage company in New Tampa and also served six years in the U.S. Army Ordinance Corps, spending four years stationed in and around Kuwait. Originally from New York City, he and his family moved to Tampa, where he graduated from Chamberlain High. For more information, call Wesley Chapel Edward Jones branch office administrator Beth Ramirez at (813) 991-7034, and she’ll schedule your appointment with Morales at the office, located at 2748 Windguard Cir., Suite 101 (in the office plaza behind The Hungry Greek) in Wesley Chapel. Or, see the ad on page 10 or visit EdwardJones.com/ William-Morales.

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You Can Bank On Roxanne Simmonds Of Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Dennis, enjoy visiting Jackson’s of Harbour Island, Armature Works and other restaurants. Roxanne and Dennis have been married 33 years. They live with their newly-adopted Maltipoo puppy, Webster. Their daughter, Nicole, used to live in Cory Lake Isles, too, but recently moved back to Boston and will be married this October. Their son, D.J., was a Boston police officer who died in 2014 as a result of injuries sustained when he was one of the first officers to engage the Boston Marathon bombers nearly a year before. “He’s our hero,” says Roxanne.

By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

With more than 20 years of experience in banking, most recently as an executive managing teams of people, local Realtor Roxanne Simmonds of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty has the expertise to help her clients navigate the sometimes-tricky process of buying or selling a home. The Cory Lake Isles resident says she fell in love with the New Tampa area when she relocated to Tampa from Boston 11 years ago. At the time, she was a market executive with Bank of America and was later promoted to area executive for West Florida. After that, Roxanne worked as a program executive, where she says she traveled all over the country, managing the sale of financial centers to community banks. She explains that when Bank of America executives wanted to sell off financial centers that no longer fit their business model, she would manage that transition, which would include selling the physical building, transitioning clients to the new community bank and transitioning Bank of America associates to their new employer. While Bank of America brought her to Tampa, Roxanne says it was the appeal of Cory Lake Isles that drew her to New Tampa. She says she always loved her drive back home after working in downtown Tampa. In fact, although she still spends most of her time in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area, the Premier Sotheby’s International Realty local office is in South Tampa on S. Moody Ave. “There’s so much beauty (in New Tampa),” she says. “With the quietness and trees, I

About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

Roxanne Simmonds of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty and her husband, Dennis, enjoy living the Florida lifestyle. She wants you to enjoy it, too, by helping you find your dream home.

feel like I’m going to my country home right in Tampa.” She says homes in the New Tampa/ Wesley Chapel area currently are an excellent value, especially when you consider the amenities offered in many local communities — such as community pools and clubhouses — and the proximity to shopping at two major local malls and the continuing influx of new restaurants.

“We are a community that truly has something for everyone,” says Roxanne. “I love this area,” she adds. “If my husband and I decide to downsize, it will still be in New Tampa. I see the growth of the community, but it seems it’s growing closer together. You have all different backgrounds, and the diversity is fabulous.” She also enjoys the proximity to downtown Tampa, where she and her husband,

Roxanne says she was drawn to Premier Sotheby’s International Realty because it is a luxury brand with a great reputation. Although she is one of the first associates in New Tampa with the company, she is familiar with its reputation from her time in downtown Tampa and Boston. Premier Sotheby’s is affiliated with the world-renowned Sotheby’s of New York auction house (Sothebys.com). Roxanne left her role with Bank of America in 2016 and took some time off. She earned her real estate license in 2017, and that’s when she says her phone started ringing off the hook from companies who were recruiting her to join their agency. But, no one from Premier Sotheby’s ever called her. She says that’s because the company is difficult to get into because of its high standards. So, Roxanne decided to call them. The local Premier Sotheby’s management found her banking background and

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variety, too. No matter what the price point is, I make sure the client has a luxury experience.” Roxanne adds that if you’re considering selling your home, there’s no reason to try to make that decision alone. “If you are even thinking about whether or not to sell your house, contact me,” she says. “I can give you information to help with the decision, either way.” She says she also can help you understand the value of your home and have a conversation about where you want to go in the next season of life and how to get there. She helps buyers who are relocatRoxanne, with Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn. ing, those who are buying a first home, customer service focus a great match for their a bigger home or downsizing. Whether upscale company. Plus, Roxanne did residenthey need to know how to get electricity, what tial lending in the early part of her career, so a CDD is, or how flood zones work, Roxanne she already understood that important part of says she can help guide buyers and sellers the home-buying process. through all of their questions. She adds that “I know how to treat people well,” she she enjoys helping people find the special place says. “I’ve been trained through the compathat will become their home. nies I’ve worked for, but I also just know that “It is just a material thing, but it’s where it’s important to treat people with respect and memories are made, where we celebrate holto be kind.” idays and birthdays, and at the end of a hard She doesn’t overlook the simple things: day, it’s where we retreat from life,” Roxanne “If you say you’re going to do something,” she explains. “So, we want it to be comfortable, says, “do it. Be timely. Return phone calls.” whether it’s 1,000 square feet or 7,000.” While the name Sotheby’s conjures up Premier Sotheby’s International images of luxury, Roxanne says she will help Realty’s Tampa office is located at 202 anyone looking to buy or sell a home. S. Moody Ave. For a consultation with She says her current listings go up to Roxanne Simmonds, call her at (813) $850,000 right now, but she’s also work613-3687 or send an email to Roxanne. ing with a client looking to purchase in the Simmonds@PremierSIR.com. For more $180,000-$250,000 price range. information, visit RoxanneSimmonds. “We have multi-million-dollar propPremierSothebysRealty.com or see the ad erties,” Roxanne says, “but we have a wide on page 29 of this issue.

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New Tampa Dance Theatre — Still Producing Great Students & Performances By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

It may be housed in a quiet building on a busy suburban street, but the New Tampa Dance Theatre (NTDT) offers dancers a world-class, professional experience that is unmatched in the Tampa Bay area, whether you or your child like to dance for fun or dream of a career on stage one day. Located on Cross Creek Blvd. (across from Heritage Isles) in New Tampa, the 7,500-square-foot NTDT is the largest professional dance training facility in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. Owner and artistic director Dyane Elkins IronWing is in her 24th season of creating dance memories and futures for her New Tampa- and Wesley Chapel-area students, many of whom have gone on to study dance in college and/or dance professionally. “As always, I’m so proud of our students,” says Elkins IronWing. “Our dancers become excellent college students, with their impressive time-management skills, perseverance and creative thinking.” Elkins IronWing herself says she started dancing at age 5, later trained in New York City, and performed with the Ballet Metropolitan in Columbus, Ohio. She moved to Tampa in 1995 to be near family and friends and immediately opened NTDT in the Pebble Creek Collection on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. In 2002, she purchased the property on Cross Creek Blvd., designed her spacious new studio herself, and moved the school to the new building in January 2006.

Classical ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and hip-hop classes are offered at the New Tampa Dance Theatre on Cross Creek Blvd., where pre-professional and recreational dancers receive outstanding training. quickly they can drive to our school.” With the bigger location, Elkins IronWing was off and running, offering smaller All Ages & Experience Levels class sizes and larger, more varied schedules. Elkins IronWing caters to both the recShe says she also has a larger pool of reational dance lover as well as the devoted students today, especially with the ongoing pre-professional, and every level in between. explosive growth in Wesley Chapel. NTDT’s leveled curriculum offers “Our name might say New Tampa; however, our location is much closer to Wes- multiple art forms for students to explore. Through personalized attention and profesley Chapel than one might assume,” says Elkins IronWing. “We are extremely convenient sional expertise, the NTDT faculty provides a positive educational experience based on the to all of the current growth (there). Wesley studio’s core principles of respect, responsiChapel families are shocked to discover just how close we are and excited because of how bility and teamwork.

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Teen/Adult classes include four eightweek sessions (from Sept.-May) of classical ballet, tap and Zumba. Children ages 3-4 can participate in the Early Childhood Program, ages 5-8 can take part in the Children’s Program, and ages 9-18 can participate in NTDT’s Youth Program. In addition to classical ballet, the studio offers full programs in creative movement, modern, jazz, tap and hip-hop. Each program has its own directors and specific syllabuses guiding students in a structured manner through their studies. Dyane’s husband, Troy IronWing, is NTDT’s director of tap, while she will instruct ballet, jazz and creative movement classes this season. Both have continued to tour internationally, now for 14 years, with the Rhythm Extreme performance troupe. In addition, NTDT ballet director Cristy Garcia Tanner started her dance training at age 3 in her native Puerto Rico, and at age 13, she was invited to join the Ballet Concierto Company in San Juan, PR. Modern dance director Carla Armstrong, who joined the NTDT faculty in 2005, graduated from the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Dance. Jazz director Kristine Morgan has been dancing professionally since age 19, and she earned her BFA degree in Dance from Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA, and also currently is the director of entertainment at Busch Gardens. Hip-hop Director Dreama Davidson, who also has been with the school since

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2005, has 19 years of professional performances and choreography to her credit, including participating in the “Katonga” show at Busch Gardens. The facilities at NTDT are as top notch as the instructors, and include maple flooring for the tap classes, 20-25-ft.-tall mirrored walls, student locker rooms and a large studio space that can accommodate up to 200 people. Sprung floors provide shock absorption to protect the dancers’ joints, and an on-site physical therapist ensures the health of the dancers. NTDT also features a café offering light meals, snacks, coffee and other drinks.

The Training You Need

NTDT has developed a reputation for creating strong, professional dancers with alumni who have moved on to highly respected dance companies, Broadway productions and the Walt Disney Company. Because NTDT students learn to be proficient in multiple art forms, these students have an edge in the competitive world of dance and many of them have been accepted into prestigious summer intensive programs, including the School of American Ballet and American Ballet Theater in New York City, The Harid Conservatory in Boca Raton, the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago and the Boston Ballet. However, Elkins IronWing also is diligent about providing the same quality of instruction to the roughly 60 percent of the students who are enrolled in NTDT’s popular recreational programs, who have no professional dance ambitions. “If a student doesn’t choose to pursue a career in dance after high school, they can still reach a level of artistry to be accepted into many college dance programs,” says

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Elkins IronWing. “Believing in yourself, respecting the process of working toward a goal, and having a well-rounded dance education give our students the tools and confidence to continue discovering new passions throughout their lifetimes.”

Great Productions, Too!

All students get to perform in the “Spring Production” and — through the studio’s nonprofit partner, the Dance Theatre of Tampa (DTT) — in the winter production of “The Nutcracker,” as well as the “Summer Concert Series,” held in June at USF. DTT provides more than 300 free tickets to NTDT’s corporate sponsors, local community supporters, alumni members and students. A small costume rental fee for productions is the only cost over the tuition that parents have to pay at any time — there is never a requirement to buy advertising or pay performance fees. New Tampa residents Dan and Lisa Sirois relocated here from Port St. Lucie in 2016 and enrolled their daughter at NTDT. “With Cassidy dancing since she was 3, choosing the correct school was important,” Lisa says. “Right away, we knew we made the right decision. We appreciate the fact that Dyane faithfully believes in running the school with a policy that all students are treated fairly, with no favoritism. Absolutely no bullying is allowed. And, above all, Dyane strives to help guide each student to become respectful, decent human beings as well as great dancers.” Transferring at 11 years old, Lisa says Cassidy was originally placed in the Youth Program Level 3 and has made true, long-lasting friendships at NTDT.

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“Her dance technique and confidence have improved tremendously because of all the extremely caring and knowledgeable dance teachers,” Lisa says. “She loves NTDT!” Every holiday season, Dyane says local residents look forward to the community’s largest and longest-running interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, “The Nutcracker,” now in its 19th season. This year, it will be held Friday-Sunday, December 14-16, at USF Tampa’s College of the Arts Theater 1. You can catch free sneak peeks of NTDT’s “The Nutcracker” at the Shops at Wiregrass mall on Saturday, November 24,

Friday, November 30, Saturday, December 1 and Friday-Saturday, Dec. 7-9. NTDT’s much-awaited Sugar Plum Fairy Tea fund raiser is now in its 14th season and will be held Sunday, December 2, at USF’s Gibbons Alumni Center. This popular event features a light lunch, desserts (including a chocolate fountain), giveaways, a sneak preview of “The Nutcracker,” and an opportunity to dance with Clara (the lead role of the young girl who receives the beloved Nutcracker as a Christmas gift) and her “party friends.” Each year, a portion of the proceeds from the Tea is donated to the Ronald McDonald House Charities in South Tampa. Tickets for both the Tea and “The Nutcracker” go on sale on Monday, October 1. “It’s all about the children at NTDT, always has been and always will be,” Dyane says. “We are a company that enables children to succeed. The key is setting high expectations all while having fun and building self-confidence. With the amazing season ahead of us, we would like to thank all of our trusting and loyal families over the years and the organizations that continually support our vision. Without their recognition and time, NTDT wouldn’t be the magical place it has become!” The New Tampa Dance Theatre offers year-round free trial classes for prospective dancers of all ages. To tour the facility or to rent it for a meeting, party or function, visit NTDT at 10701 Cross Creek Blvd. For more information and to check out the exciting lineup of fall classes, visit NewTampaDanceTheatre.com or call (813) 994-NTDT (6838). Also, see the ad on page 27 of this issue.

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, 2018

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Pasco School Superintendent Kurt Browning’s Back-To-School Updates By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

In the weeks leading up to school starting two weeks ago, school officials across the state have been preparing to comply with a new state law. The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act was passed in the aftermath of the mass shooting at the high school in Parkland, FL, on Valentine’s Day of this year, and requires armed security on every public school campus. The new law also comes as parents are reporting having more fear about sending their kids to school. Phi Delta Kappa (PDK) International is a national professional organization for educators that has surveyed attitudes towards public education every year since 1969. This year’s poll finds that one in three parents fear for their child’s physical safety at school. PDK describes that as, “a sharp increase from 2013, when just 12 percent said they were fearful.” In Pasco County, middle and high schools will continue to have Pasco Sheriff’s Office (PSO) deputies serving as school resource officers. In addition, Pasco County Schools has hired school safety guards for all elementary schools, with each one carrying a gun and a Taser, as well as handcuffs. Simple security precautions are being emphasized, such as locking gates and classroom doors, using scanning software to check for sexual offenders/predators, and making sure everyone who comes on campus goes through the office. With the new school year just underway, we asked Pasco County Superintendent of

Pasco County Superintendant of Schools Kurt Browning meets with school safety guard Connie Novak, one of many to be stationed at schools all across the county. (Photo: Pasco County Schools) Schools Kurt Browning to tell us more about the changes in school security, and what to expect at Wesley Chapel’s schools this year. WCNN: Now that kids are back at school, what are they seeing and experiencing that is different from previous years? Browning: The elementary students are seeing armed safety guards for the first time. The guards will be easy to spot, because they’ll be wearing black polo shirts with our safety guard logo on the sleeve, and a vest with the word “Security” on the

back. Students may not see any differences related to mental health services, but there will be a better coordinated effort to respond to students in crisis between the school, the district, law enforcement and community mental health partners. We are adding social worker, psychologist and school nurse trainers to help school student services staff (members) respond to student mental health issues. WCNN: Tell us more about the changes to the way that mental health is addressed in

schools, and will students or teachers notice those changes? Browning: Student mental health needs will be broken out into three tiers of support. Tier 1 is universal prevention for all students. Tier 2 is supplemental/at-risk services involving early identification and social, emotional and behavioral interventions based on need. Tier 3 is individualized, intensive counseling and intervention, including behavior support plans, intensive monitoring, and wraparound and crisis planning. We are increasing the number of crisis intervention teams from four to five, increasing the number of trainers for Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), creating a 3-year training plan, and expanding the use of social emotional learning in instructional practices. In accordance with the new law, we also have revised our threat assessment procedures and coordinated threat assessments to include law enforcement. We will have a new mental health managing entity, the Central Florida Behavioral Health Network (CFBHN), which will provide a project manager to manage mental health services and assist with data reporting. We are implementing the Sandy Hook Promise: “Know the Signs” programs, and creating a Parent University and other parent training opportunities. WCNN: What are your thoughts about the changes in school security mandated by the new state law? Browning: They’re a good start. Without significant funding increases, though,

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it is difficult to implement all of the safety measures we would like to. We are working within our means to do everything we can to make our campuses as safe as possible. WCNN: What is the benefit to students and schools of having armed security guards on elementary school campuses? Browning: Elementary schools will have school safety guards trained by the Sheriff’s Office on campus. These men and women will provide a level of security that elementary schools have not had in the past. They will be visible at drop-offs in the morning and during dismissal. They will patrol the grounds to make sure doors and gates are locked, and to assure that everyone on campus is checked in and accounted for. They also will be a resource for students and staff, and will become part of the school community. WCNN: With all of the continued growth in Wesley Chapel, what rezoning plans are in the works? Browning: We don’t currently have any rezoning in the works. WCNN: What is the current timeline for opening Cypress Creek Middle School and transitioning the current Middle/High School to a high school only? Browning: Cypress Creek Middle School is scheduled to open in August 2020. The transition will occur at that time. WCNN: Are there any other new schools proposed or under construction in Wesley Chapel? Browning: We are working on a plan to build a technical high school in East-Central Pasco in the next five years. WCNN: On a side note, can you explain why there is a transition to call substitute teachers “guest teachers” instead?

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New River Elementary security guard. Does that apply to all substitute teachers or only those in a certain category? Is it expected that staff and students will address these teachers as “guest teachers” and not refer to the more common “substitute?” Browning: We have some really great subs and are hoping this will enhance their credibility and better demonstrate the scope and caliber of their service to kids in classrooms....as opposed to the “just a sub” mentality. We’ve also moved to professional guest teachers (formerly “professional subs”) as well as the daily and long-term guest teachers. All students and staff will be expected to use the title, although there will be a natural adjustment period.

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MAKING THE

GRADE

Wesley Chapel High senior Kris Chandler wasn’t sure he’d ever see the football field. But, fortitude overcame frustration and he’ll start tonight’s season opener for the Wildcats. By ANDY WARRENER editorialdept@ntneightborhoodsnews.com

Hidden in what could very well emerge as one of the top rushing attacks in Pasco County is a back that you’ve probably never heard of. Hitting the holes has never been a problem for Wesley Chapel High (WCH)’s Kris Chandler. Hitting the books, however, has. But, no longer. After three years of high school, with each of those football seasons spent practicing with the Wildcats but unable to compete because of academic requirements, Chandler will start tonight’s season opener against Sunlake in a great comeback story. Chandler originally attended Wharton High in New Tampa, but transferred to Wesley Chapel (WCH) after a semester. That first year in high school after moving from Alabama, however, put him in an academic hole he thought he’d never climb out of. “My first semester at Wharton was hard,” Chandler said. “We had just moved from Alabama and I didn’t like it here. I was resentful, mad, my whole focus was on going back.” There was no going back, however. So, Chandler had

to move forward. He came to WCH with a 0.7 GPA, making him ineligible to compete in high school sports. While he was still allowed to practice with the team, he could not suit up on Friday nights for games. Head coach Tony Egan took an interest in Chandler, because he saw enough raw athletic ability that he thought the running back could one day play his way into a college football scholarship. “I’ve always thought he was good enough to play D1 football,” Egan said. “Athletically, he’s a little raw but he’s as strong as can be. You should see him in tackling drills, he’s just a beast.” First things first, Egan told Chandler. The coach got with his player’s teachers, sat down with Chandler in front of guidance counselors and helped put him back on track to attaining eligibility. Egan admits that it was an uphill climb from 0.7. Chandler’s sophomore year went by, but his grade-point-average slowly climbed. He took summer classes, online classes and retook classes through Apex, an online virtual school. He was still ineligible as a junior, but he kept showing up for practice, and kept showing out in the classroom. Halfway through his junior year, he had raised his GPA to 1.78. By then, the Chandler project was taken up by his teammates and teachers. He credits science teacher

Susan Cullum and SSAP/graduation enhancement counselor Celeste Richter for helping turn things around. Then-teammates Dexter Leverett, Malik Melvin and Isaiah Bolden encouraged him. Assistant coaches Nelson Vazquez and Delroy Lewis worked with him after school. It turned Chandler’s attitude toward schoolwork on its head. “I would turn my work in early, so my teachers could check it and make sure I had done everything right,” he says. This past June, at the end of his junior year, Chandler nervously awaited his grades. “I went in to the library to check with Ms. Richter, to see if I would have to take summer school again,” he said. “She was sitting there behind the computer, smiling. She told me I had done it. I asked her, ‘Are you sure?’. She turned the computer around and showed me.” He had climbed all the way out of his hole. The computer monitor displayed a 2.3 GPA. Chandler left the library and immediately sent his mother a text with the good news. He also sent texts to his sister, older brother and dad. He ran over to the weight room to tell his coaches. Photo: Andy Warrener

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Chandler was cleared to play in 2018, so he could take the summer off and focus on conditioning with the football team. “It took a lot of weight off my shoulders,” Chandler said. “I think about it every day. I promise you, there’s no danger of sliding back now.” It’s no secret what Egan likes to do on offense — run the ball down your throat, and Chandler could be his battering ram in 2018. Egan coached offensive line at River Ridge High when the Royal Knights rushed for more than 3,000 yards in both 2014 (3338) and 2015 (3166). As head coach at WCH, Egan guided Leverett to consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, with Melvin serving as a dangerous complement in the rushing game, building one of the area’s most productive ground attacks. Chandler’s one year of high school foot-

ball will be a big one, as he steps into the role vacated by his former teammates. Egan says that Chandler squats 450 pounds, bench presses 320 and can power clean 285. He also runs a 4.4-second 40-yard dash. Chandler looks like a high school version of former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin — short, with a compact frame and tree trunks for legs. What’s more, Chandler has an awful lot to prove, not just to himself but to all of the people who helped him get to where he is. He got to pull a game jersey over his head on August 7 for the team pictures. On August 17, as we were going to press with this issue, he saw his first live game action in a preseason matchup against Land O’ Lakes. But tonight, it’s for real. Tonight, Chandler officially makes it all the way back.

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2018 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW Wiregrass Ranch and Wesley Chapel are gunning for the postseason, while Cypress Creek looks to improve. WIREGRASS RANCH BULLS

Head Coach: Mark Kantor 2017 record: 9-3 (4-2) Tonight’s season opener: @ Zephyrhills Returning players: Grant Sessums (Sr., QB, #10) Dylan Ridolph (Jr., LB, #40), Kasean Ridgel (Sr., DL, #52), Connor Lenczden (Jr., OT, #62), Mason Buie (Sr., RB, #24), Cameron Lee (Sr., LB, #30). Impact newcomer: Keith Walker (Jr., ATH, #7) THE SKINNY: The Bulls are arguably the class of Pasco County, but only only play three games against county competition because Class 7A, District 8 is Hillsborough Countybased. Kantor touts his linebacking corps as being his best unit on either side of the football. Dylan Ridolph is emerging into an elite linebacker, while Lee and juniors Nick Gaziano and Tyler Hayes will bolster the 3-4 defensive front. Ridolph and Gaziano led the team with 89 tackles last year. Ridgel isn’t a mammoth at 5-foot-10, 275 pounds, but Kantor claims he creates more disruption than anyone on the team. A re-vamped secondary will feature sophomore Noah Biglow and

CYPRESS CREEK COYOTES

Head Coach: Mike Johnson 2017 record: 0-10 (0-0) 2018 preseason opener 8/17: vs. Citrus Park Christian 2018 regular season opener 8/24: @ Gulf Returning players: Devin Santana (Sr., WR, #2), Logan Bercaw (Sr., OL/DL, #75), Trevor Maxwell (Sr., QB, #8), Jehlani Warren (Jr., ATH, #9), Jalen Warren (Jr., LB, #3), Tim Ford-Brown (Sr., RB, #5), Quinton Spears (Sr., UT, #1) Impact newcomer: Cedric McBride (Sr., ATH, #18) THE SKINNY: There were little junior Julian Gonzalez on the outside. to no expectations for the Coyotes Senior Dorien Green, a defensive back in 2017, their first year. They won their first game against Gulf, but it with an offer from Northern Illinois, later had to be forfeited due to an will likely take over at safety. Walker ineligible player and the Coyotes were adds a bit of homerun speed that outscored 470-28 the rest of the way. graduated when Jordan Miner left There are, however, a few expecfor Penn State. Mason Buie will also tations in 2018. It looks as though work the backfield. Sessums (pictured Maxwell is going to be the guy at above) completed 56 percent of his passes last season for 1,483 yards and quarterback, and he’s going to have plenty of talent around him. Santana eight touchdowns. The experience will go a long way to helping the Bulls (pictured) is a top-flight receiver, and newcomer McBride is a nice passget back to the playoffs for a third catching complement. Tim Fordstraight season.

Brown, the Warren twins (Jalen and Jehlani), as well as Colorado transfer Jovanni Addison, make for a talented and crowded backfield. The question marks, typical for young teams, are up front and on defense. Bercaw is a solid defensive end with good size and will swing around and play tackle on offense, but the Coyotes are going to need more to be successful in 2018. Coaches are pretty excited about their linebackers in Jalen Warren and Addison, but the spots in front of and behind them need to be solidified. There are definitely a few winnable games on Cypress Creek’s schedule this year.

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WESLEY CHAPEL WILDCATS

Head coach: Tony Egan 2017 record: 6-4 (4-3) Tonight’s season opener: vs. Sunlake Returning players: Jelani Vassell (Sr., ATH, #10), Fletcher Martin (Jr., PK, #36), Owen Libby (So., QB, #12), Seth Petty (Sr., C, #68), Kiaus Collins (Sr., RG, #50), Tyler Wittish (Sr., TE/DE, #9) Impact newcomers: RT #70 Sean Hunter (Jr.) & RB Kris Chandler (see story on pages 28-29) THE SKINNY: The Wildcats lost a lot to graduation, AND even more to Cypress Creek when it opened two years ago. The team’s numbers dwindled down to bare bones in the spring but have rebounded slightly, heading into fall. Athlete Jelani Vassell returns for his senior campaign and he likely will not come off the field. All-Conference senior Seth Petty moves over to center from tackle and is the leader of the group and its best blocker. He’ll have some help, however, as senior Kiaus Collins returns at right guard and Apopka transfer Sean Hunter sets up at right tackle. The biggest question mark for the Wildcats is at quarterback. Sophomore Owen Libby is the guy getting the call and, while he’s completely unproven and inexperienced, he has great size, especially for a sophomore, and coaches like what they’ve seen

through the summer and fall. The guy to keep an eye on for Wesley Chapel is Wittish (pictured), who will line up at tight end and defensive end. He’s the team’s best blocker, probably their best tackler and their fulcrum of leadership. The Wildcats are still likely going to be looking up at River Ridge and Zephyrhills in the Class 5A, District 8, but it only takes upsetting one of them to put them in the playoff picture.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 18 • August 24, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 18 • August 24, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Win A $100 Dining Gift Card In Our Season-Long Football Contest! Welcome to the 2018 Neighborhood News Football Predictions Contest! Below are questions/categories for you to fill in about our local high school, Florida (& other NCAA) & NFL teams. All questions, including the tiebreaker, must be answered on the form and your entries must be submitted by mail, email or online, no later than Monday, September 17, 2018, to be eligible. And, each blank space on the entry form is worth one point for a correct answer. Our Grand Prize winner — the person with the most correct predictions — will receive a $100 dining gift certificate to the restaurant of his or her choice in the Tampa Bay area! Our 2nd-place winner will receive a $50 gift card and our 3rd-place winner will receive a $35 gift card. There is no purchase necessary to enter and the winners will be announced in our March 2019 editions of the Neighborhood News! Good luck! – GN

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Are You Crazy About Keto Pizza? Please Try This At Home! F

By GARY NAGER

ROM what I see on Facebook, even though I don’t “get” it personally, everyone in Wesley Chapel is completely insane about the crustless pizza being sold in our area for those who are on the Keto diet. Yes, Keto pizza is all the rage, even though I can’t personally eat more than one small ”slice” of it, but not because it isn’t tasty. All I can tell you is that if I ate more than one slice of Keto pizza at a time, I might not go to the bathroom for the rest of the year. Just saying. On the other hand, someone very near and dear to my heart is on the Keto diet, so we’ve simply had to try it at a couple of local pizza places. And, all I can tell you is that my fiancée Jannah McDonald definitely has improved on any version (Top left) The pepperoni Keto pizza from 900º Woodfired of it we’ve tried in our distribution area. And, best Pizza. (Top right) Jannah’s finished Keto pizza. (Clockwise of all, this improved keto pizza is something you from below, center) The pepperoni base for Jannah’s Keto pizza. can make at home yourself, especially if you just Slices of mozzarella go on top of the pepperoni. Cover the mozhappen to have a working toaster oven. zarella slices with sauce. Cover the sauce layer with shredded Our story begins (as so many in this publica- mozzarella and pop it into the toaster oven. Bake at 450º F, for tion seem to, John Cotey) at 900º Woodfired 7-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Pizza in the Shops at Wiregrass mall, where owner five minutes, or until the edges get brown and curl up Steve Falabella became a local Facebook sensation when slightly. One of the keys to the success of this recipe our mutual friend Jennifer Ames, the administrator of is not to burn the ‘ronis. Then, while preheating the the Wesley Chapel Community Facebook group, posted toaster oven (on bake at 450º), she covers the pepperoni a photo of 900º Woodfired’s Keto pizza. “crust” with a layer of single slices of Publix-brand lowAnd yes, Jannah was among the hundreds (thoumoisture, part-skim mozzarella. sands?) of locals saying “I have to try that” following She then completely covers the top of the sliced Jennifer’s post. Literally the next day, we were at 900º cheese layer with either the tomato basil or vodka sauce trying it out (photo top left on this page) and we both from the new Cost Plus World Market, which we have agreed that although it did taste like pizza, the “crust” found to have the fewest net carbs per serving of any — a double (or triple?) layer of cheese and nothing else store-bought brand. Although you can use your own to “hold it together” — was not only ridiculously filling, homemade sauce, if you prefer, all I can tell you is that but should also come with a warning about having to you Keto diet folks out there probably can’t make a have at least a salad (or some other kind of roughage) sauce with fewer net carbs than World with it or risk being bottled up like the S.R. 56 exit off Market’s sauces (although we may I-75 during rush hour. have cleaned the store out of both Before we ever went anywhere else to sample antypes, because there hasn’t been any other store-brought Keto pizza, Jannah started working of either kind the last two times we’ve on variations of her own. And, just for the record, I do visited there). a lot more cooking in our apartment than she does, so I She then covers the sauce layer was so surprised at how charged up she was to cook that with a layer of Publix shredded mozI became her sous chef for this adventure. zarella and sprinklings of parmesan, After a few efforts, Jannah came up with the recipe and bakes it in the toaster oven for and procedure shown in the remaining pics on this 7-10 minutes, or until all the cheese page and, after the first time it worked to perfection (I gets that golden brown hue. preferred it to 900º Woodfired’s and Amici’s), I told her It still goes against everything I I just might have to write about it in these pages. So, loved growing up to have pizza withhere goes. out a New York-style crust, but hey, Although we don’t have a fancy new convection we still (in my opinion) have plenty oven or any special cooking utensils, Jannah found of great options for that in Wesley that making her smaller version of crustless Keto pizza Chapel — including not only 900º worked best in our toaster oven. Woodfired, but also La Prima Pizza, She starts with a layer of the Publix-brand largeNY NY Pizza, Amici’s Pizza, Best NY size pepperonis and puts them in the broiler for around Pizza and PizzaMania.

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| For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 18 • August 24, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Nibbles & Business Bytes The Latest & Greatest News In Dining, Shopping & Business In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel! VIPs Check Out The Hyatt Place

In our last issue, I mentioned that the new Hyatt Place Hotel & Sierra Conference Center were getting ready to open, which actually happened on July 30. A little more than a week later, on Aug. 9, representatives of the new hotel hosted a VIP event we attended (photo, right, by Stephen John Photography), where members of the North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC) of Commerce Board of Directors and other local VIPs took tours of the 132-room hotel and got to sample some of the tasty food that will be served in the Hyatt Place’s Gallery restaurant. The Hyatt Place Hotel is located at 26000 Sierra Center Blvd. For more info, stop in or call (813) 803-5600 or visit Hyatt.com, and please tell the hotel’s staff that you read about them (again) in the Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News!

Growing By New LEAPS & Bounds

Earlier in the afternoon on Aug. 9, the New L.E.A.P.S. (Listen to needs, Educate to abilities, Achieve goals, Partner with families & Succeed) Academy, which already has a Wesley Chapel location (at 27401 Cashford Cir., Suite 102), cut a ribbon (photo on next page provided by Stephen John Photography) with the NTBC at the school’s new second location, at 21754 S.R. 54 in Lutz, in the office plaza

i w t

opposite Benedetto’s Italiano restaurant. New L.E.A.P.S. Academy was founded in 2013 to cater to children with varying exceptionalities. In addition to teaching social skills and to academic standards, the school also features in-house speech, occupational and physical therapists to ensure that New L.E.A.P.S. will be a pioneer in exceptional student education. For more information, visit NewLEAPS.org or call (813) 973-7938.

Umu To Replace OTB Café

Although OTB (Only The Best)

Delights Café closed its original location at 2653 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. several weeks ago, fear not. Not only is OTB set to reopen sometime in September (see ad on pg. 36 in its new location a couple of miles further north at the Nye Commons (4873 BBD), but there already is a new restaurant getting ready to open in its old location. The Thai owners of Umu Japanese & Thai (far right photo on next page) have been transforming the old OTB space into an elegant-looking future home of great

sushi, Bento boxes and other Japanese and Thai favorites and hope to be open sometime in September. Stay tuned for details, including a more complete rundown of what’s now open & on the way at Nye Commons.

Dunkin Donuts To Begin Building

If you’ve been driving on S.R. 54 near BBD recently, you may have noticed the new building (photo, above right) that is nearing completion. Although there had been a sign mentioning that the site was go-

If you have a Wesley Chapel address . . .

30122 S.R. 54, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Hours: Monday - Thur, 11AM–10PM Friday & Sat, 11AM–11PM WESLEY CHAPEL 1821 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Ste 124 Wesley Chapel • (813) 948-5600

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 18 • August 24, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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t w n

T L

THANK YOU

22 Years!

...........

ing to be home to a new Dunkin Donuts drive-through, the stone-highlighted building that is getting set to open at the site (as we’ve previously reported) will be home to the new Heartland Dental office. The portion of the site immediately to the west of Heartland has been cleared and will be home, within a few months, to the new Dunkin Donuts.

PHYSICAL THERAPY & PERSONAL TRAINING Office: 813-907-7879

Fit 4 Life Celebrates 22 Years!

Congratulations go out to my friends Travis and Fiona Monday, the owners of Fit 4 Life Personal Training & Physical Therapy Studio (17419 Bridge Hill Ct. in Tampa Palms), who celebrated the studio’s 22nd year in business with another great Martini Party, catered by the nearby Stonewood Grill & Tavern, on July 20. The ad on this page (right) shows a smattering of photos from the event, again attended

by dozens of loyal Fit 4 Life clients and guests. For appointments and more info, see the ad or call (813) 907-7879. • Look for updates about all of the new construction on S.R. 56 near the Tampa Premium Outlets, as well as the new Hilton Garden Inn and yes, Pomodoro Pizza in our next issue! — GN

Dr. Farina and Dr. Rudy

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 18 • August 24, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

New Tampa & Wesley Chapel HOME IMPROVEMENT WESLEYCHAPELPRESSUREWASHING.COM Soft pressure exterior house cleaning, screen enclosures, pool decks, driveways, sidewalks, fences, roofs, paver sealing and deck staining. We clean everything. No job too big or small. Experience the difference when you hire a pressure cleaning professional. Licensed and insured. Owner operated. Call for a free estimate or visit our website. 813-433-6015. DAVID BRIDGES PRESSURE CLEANING Complete exterior cleaning of your home or business with a professional & 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. Call 813-215-1177. GREG’S PAPERHANGING. For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed and insured, clean, quick and reasonable. Call 973-2767 for a free estimate. RAYMOND PAINTING. Exterior & Interior Services. Exterior: Painting, pressure washing, clean & seal pavers, stucco, roofing, leaks & wood rot repair. Interior: Painting, plastering, ceiling & wall repairs & tiles. Licensed & Bonded. References avail. Free estimates. Your Neighborhood Arbor Greene Resident! We work 7 days. Call 813-994-5124. DRY WALL SPECIALIST. Not a handyman. Affordable Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings and walls, retexturing, popcorn removal, room additions, cracks, holes, plaster and stucco repair. 26 Years Experience. Wesley Chapel resident. State Certified. Call Ron for free estimate: 813-7845999. MILLENNIUM HOME REPAIR.Professional Handyman. Cabinet Installation, dry wall repair, tile installation & repair, some plumbing, laminate flooring, light fixtures, interior painting, appliance installation, pressure washing, paneling, window repair, awning installation, carpentry, garbage disposal, fence repair, crown molding, window blinds, seal baths & showers, TV mounting & more. Call 813-400-1408 or email TYCOONUNION@YAHOO.COM. Tjs Pressure Washing LLC. Driveways, Houses, Fences, Lanais and Screened Enclosures. Most residential 2 car driveways or vinyl fences starting at $60. House washing prices start at $100 for a 1 story home and $150 for a 2 story home. Looking for an instant quote? Just text me a picture of the job you need done. Call Tj at 727-808-7775

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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!! Call or Text Chris today @ 813-857-5400 or visit TranquilityPoolService. com. New customers get ONE MONTH FREE!

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HOMETEAM LAWNCARE LLC High-quality professional Services: Weekly or bi-weekly year-round full-service lawn care starting at $90/month: Mow, edge, trim, blow, mulch-bed maintenance, hedge and low-tree trim. Additional Services: Sod, Mulch, & Rock Placement; Hedge Trimming, & Tree Trimming; Landscape Installation; Fall/Spring Clean-Up. Family Owned & Operated, Licensed & Insured, Background Checked, Call or Text 813-817-9554.

SPACE AVAILABLE SERENITY SALON & SPA SUITES Wesley Chapel. Booth rental for Stylist available. Can be either full time or part time. Give us a call!: 813-3125247 or 813-997-6302.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST (PT). An established New Tampa outpatient clinic is hiring a part-time PT to provide custom, one-on-one care. Fax resume to 813-994-3080.

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FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS & WCNT-tv! Whether you want to write business stories for the Neighborhood News or you want to involved in the production of the only Facebook and Youtube-based Webcast for New Tampa & Wesley Chapel, please forward your resume & one short writing clip to Ads@WCNT-tv.com. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE Maintenance Technician We are looking for a reliable Handyman/to undertake upkeep and repair tasks at the interior or exterior of company premises for Florida Orthopaedic Institute. We’ll rely on you to keep our facilities in perfect condition by doing various odd jobs. You must be well-organized with strong general repair skills. A keen eye for detail and physical stamina are valued greatly in this job. A reliable form of transportation is required since you will need to travel to our other locations.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 18 • August 24, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 18 • August 24, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 26, Issue 18 • August 24, 2018 • WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Life happens. And when it does, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here 24/7 to provide fast, extraordinary emergency care. So you can get back to doing the things you love, with the people love most.

EMERGENCY CARE Wesley Chapel Central Pasco

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