New Tampa Neighborhood News, Volume 25, Issue 19, Sept. 8, 2017 by Neighborhood News

Volume 25 Issue 19 September 8, 2017

Inside:

Tarek’s Café Makes Dinner Affordable!

In Neighborhood Magazine

Remember To View, Like & Share Every Episode Of WCNT-tv On YouTube & Facebook! The Direct-Mail News Magazines Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Since 1993! For the complete list of the neighborhoods that receive this publication by direct mail in New Tampa (zip code 33647), see page 50!

Tampa Palms Resident Is FBLA’s New National President! By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

celeste@ntneighborhoodnews.com You’d probably expect the president of an international organization with more than 250,000 members to be professional, articulate and passionate about his role and vision for his organization. What you might not expect is that he would be just 17 years old, and still in high school. Max Michel is all of the above, having recently been elected as president of the national Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) organization. “I serve our 250,000 members and work with other officers to create programs for our members,” Max explains. “I also work with the national board of directors, comprised of educators, CEOs, industry representatives and other professionals, to help steer the long-term strategies for the organization as a whole.” Max has lived with his family in Tampa Palms since 2005, before he entered kindergarten at Chiles Elementary. He then attended Liberty Middle School. When it was time for high school, he chose the magnet program at Middleton High, located on N. 22nd St. in Tampa. It was through his FBLA chapter at Middleton that Max pursued the chance to lead the national organization. He was elected president during the group’s National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, CA, on July 2, and immediately began his one-year term. The National Leadership Conference comes after the District and State conferences. “FBLA gives students the opportunity to com-

Also Inside This Issue: News, Business & Sports Updates New Tampa Council Has Eyes On City’s Budget; Wharton Student Left His Mark; Audi Bringing The Future To The Chap; ‘American Idol’ Hopefulls Leave Happy; St. James Celebrating 30 Years; Pipeline Swimming Grows Into A Powerhouse; Plus, Multiple Local Business Features!

Pages 3-36

Neighborhood Magazine

Local Hair Stylist Enjoys Moment In HBO Sun; The Learning Experience Is Growing Fast; Tarek’s Cafe Expands To Dinner; Menchie’s Is A Refreshing Treat; Plus, More Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes!

Pages 37-52

Middleton High senior and Tampa Palms resident Max Michel (left) was elected president of the national Future Business Leaders of America at the group’s National Leadership Conference on July 2 in Anaheim, CA . front of a much smaller crowd, he says he compete on District, State and National levels in 65 focus on campaigning for national president. First, he had to qualify on the state level, pletely forgot it. “I blanked out,” he says. “It different events that cover everything from public speaking to healthcare,” Max says. “It allows where he was chosen to be the candidate for was so embarrassing.” president from the state of Florida. He went up But, that was one of the things that students to find their niche.” He adds that every year, the national against candidates from Oregon and Arizona for spurred him to work on his public speaking and other skills. competition is “awe-inspiring. There are about the national honor. While Max only campaigned during the “I grew a lot because of the leadership 13,000 people there, and you see diverse faces and cultures and backgrounds and how hard conference itself, he did a lot to prepare, includ- skills I’ve learned through FBLA,” says Max. So ing writing the speech he would give at a general much so, that he says his school’s FBLA chapthey all work to have made it that far.” ter adviser, Tayo Akinrefon, recommended that In 2016, Max placed second in FBLA’s na- session in front of all of the attendees. As a freshman, Max had run for District Max run for national president going into his tional computer problem solving competition. This year, he didn’t compete so that he could office and, when it was time to give his speech in See “FBLA” on page 5.

Stay In Step Celebration Gala Fundraising Event Returns Sept. 30! By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Arbor Greene residents Romy and Gaby Camargo continue to turn a challenge into hope for others. The Camargos will host their second annual Stay in Step Celebration Gala fund raiser on Saturday, Sept. 30, 7 p.m.-11 p.m., at the T Pepin Hospitality Center on N. 50th St. in Tampa. All proceeds from the event, which attracted more than 200 guests last year, will benefit the Romy and Gaby SCI Foundation, Inc. d/b/a the Stay in Step Foundation. The gala will include cocktails, dinner, dancing, silent auctions and more. Stay in Step is a registered 501(3)c nonprofit organization dedicated to helping both military veterans and civilians with spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. Romy was on a humanitarian mission in Afghanistan in 2008 when he and his fellow soldiers in the Green Beret 7th Special Forces Group were ambushed in Zabul Province by Taliban fighters. As they fought to avoid rocket-propelled grenades and machine-gun fire, Romy was struck in the back of the neck by a bullet.

An emergency tracheotomy kept Romy alive until he could be flown to Germany and then to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Washington, D.C., where he remained for 18 months. The bullet had shattered his C3 vertebrae, paralyzing him from the shoulders down. Doctors said he would never breathe on his own, but Romy continues to prove them wrong. About two-and-half years of 4-5hour long road trips back-and-forth from New Tampa to Orlando for rehabilitation, however, took their toll. So, the Camargos raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to open the state-of-the-art Stay in Step Spinal Cord Gaby & Romy Camargo of the Stay in Step Foundation Injury Recovery Center in Tampa. For more info about the Stay in continue to dedicate their lives to helping both military vetStep Celebration Gala, visit Event- erans and civilians who have suffered spinal cord injuries. brite.com/e/2nd-annual-stay-instep-celebration-tickets-34913402928. The Stay in Step Spinal Cord Injury Recovery Center is located at 10500 University Center Dr., Suite 130, near Adventure Island. Visit StayInStep.org for more info.

My Audi Test Drive; WCNT-tv’s Drive Towards A Million & A Correction

An editorial by Gary Nager Although I’ve enjoyed virtually every vehicle I’ve owned since then, the best car I ever owned is still my 1988 Audi 5000 station wagon with a five-speed manual transmission that drove more like a sports car than most sports cars I’ve driven. We brought my older son Jared home from the hospital in that car and it was still going strong when we moved from Westchester County, NY, to Wesley Chapel, when Jared was 5 and my younger son, Jake, was only 15 months old. I bought the station wagon in the years before SUVs were created because I was concerned about the copious amounts of ice and snow I would be driving my kids around on in New York, so I reached for a little bit better, safer, more expensive vehicle than I might have otherwise purchased. I then made the mistake of having the car shipped from New York to Wesley Chapel, rather than drive with my boys, especially Jake, who couldn’t handle two-hour flights, much less a 20+-hour drive. The vehicle I loved and had only logged about 70,000 miles on in five years was shipped with a smashed rear windshield when another car on the same car carrier shifted positions during the 1,000-mile journey. My third “baby” was never the same after that and I traded it in less than a year later. At that time, the resale value on used Audis wasn’t great, due to a runaway acceleration problem with the automatic transmission 5000 sedan in 1984. As reported in the story about the Dimmitt Automotive Group’s Audi Wesley Chapel dealership’s anticipated November opening on S.R. 56 in the Wiregrass Ranch area (see page 8), the German automaker didn’t sell

New Tampa 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 Marketing/Advertising Representative Tom Damico Advertising Sales & Office Assistant Jannah McDonald Assistant Editor / Photographer John C. Cotey Staff Writer Celeste McLaughlin Correspondents Brad Stager • Andy Warrener WCNT-tv Video Producer & Editor Gavin Olsen Graphic Designers Blake Beatty • Georgia Carmichael Nothing that appears in New Tampa Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by New Tampa Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 25, Issue 21, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, September 25, 2017. New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. New Tampa Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. New Tampa Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, nor for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers.

its 100,000th vehicle in the U.S. until 2010 and went through a few lean years until then. However, thanks to an updated inventory of technologically advanced vehicles that began being introduced around that time, Audi has not only surged to the top of many rankings, it also sold its second 100,000 vehicles in the U.S. only five years later. I was therefore thrilled, excited and honored to be the first local business leader to be offered a one-week-long test drive of the redesigned flagship of the automaker’s line — the 2017 Audi Q7 Quattro Premium SUV (photo, above left), which is a sleek rocket of a vehicle which has a 3.0L, six-cylinder engine that delivers 335 horsepower, despite the SUV’s weight of almost 5,000 pounds. I’ve never really been an SUV guy, and would probably be more likely to want the Audi A6 or A8 sedans, but I’m not only impressed with the look of the Q7, there are so many technological toys on this thing that I didn’t get to use them all in a week. My current car has a back-up camera and a blind-spot camera on the passenger side, but this thing has six cameras, including one that somehow gives you a view from above the vehicle. The moonroof is seemingly the whole size of the roof of the Q7 and although there are a lot of controls on both the steering wheel and the dashboard, most of them are easy to use and really make driving easier and more fun. The front seats cradle you in comfort and the navigation system is state-of-the-art. Best of all, I actually get to hand the Q7 — which attracts attention everywhere I go, with its giant Audi and Audi Wesley Chapel logos and “Coming November 17” signage — off to Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce CEO Hope Allen. I wanted to personally thank the new dealership’s general manager Alan Majewski and seven-year Wesley Chapel resident (and Neighborhood News reader) Kirk Preiser of Audi of America for not only letting me testdrive the Q7 but also for placing full-page ads in our next couple of issues and for agreeing to have a WCNT-tv segment produced about my experience with this truly-awesome loaner car. I therefore also hope that when you read this editorial, you’ll get in contact with my friends at Dimmitt to find out more about how you can join their “Inner Circle Club.”

For more information about Audi Wesley Chapel, visit Audi.com, Dimmitt. com, see the story on pg. 8 or call (813) 607-3100. Maybe our Audi feature will be the one that gets WCNT-tv — Wesley Chapel & New Tampa Television — past a reach of one million people on Facebook and 500,000 views on YouTube and Facebook combined! I also hope you caught WCNT’s exclusive “SkinKnee Sports with Ryan Oakley” preview of the Mayweather-

McGregor match. If not, check it out now!

Sorry, Winnie!

I also wanted to apologize to Rotary District 6890 Governor Winnie Marvel (shown above right with New Tampa Noon Rotary president Vinnie Kudva) for incorrectly giving Past District Gov. Tom Wagner her title in our last issue. Winnie recently visited our club, which made me realize my mistake, and she and Wagner are both excellent speakers.

Table of Contents

Local News Updates.....................3-19

New Tampa Council Ready For Budget Fight.........4 Wharton’s Elder Leaves Behind Fond Memories......6 Audi Bringing Class & Cars Of The Future............8 Local ‘American Idol’ Hopefuls Leave Happy.........10 St. James Celebrating 30th Years In New Tampa....12 New Tampa Community Calendar..............................14

Local Business Updates..............18-32

Qvita Can Make A Difference In Your Health.......18 The Joint Is A Unique Chiropractic Center.........20 Kehoe & DeWeerd CPA To Your Tax Rescue....22 Need Someone To Clean It? Call Clean-it!........24 New Tampa Plastic Turns Surgery Into Art.......26 VIP Pest Control Offers Pet-Friendly Options........28 Check Out The Best In Class Education Center.......30

Local School & Sports Updates..34

Pipeline Swimming Club Making A Splash............34, 50

Neighborhood Magazine

Hair Stylist Enjoys Her 30 Seconds Of Fame....37 The Learning Experience LEAPS Into New Tampa.38 Tarek’s Cafe Now Serving Dinner!.................42 Military Vets Open Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt Café...44 ‘Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes’.........46 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Classifieds...........48 @NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Viera Hopes His New Tampa Council Can Influence Tampa’s Budget Process By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Since being elected to the Tampa City Council almost a year, Luis Viera has stressed pulling the New Tampa area — the fastestgrowing part of Tampa’s District 7 that he represents — together and creating one cohesive area to lobby the city on behalf of New Tampa and our area’s needs.. He has held town halls, met with HOAs and preached to anyone who would listen that a unified New Tampa is a strong New Tampa. To reach that end, Viera has formed the New Tampa Council (NTC), a collection of local leaders from many of the area’s 12 major neighborhoods that are in the City of Tampa (only Pebble Creek, Cross Creek and Live Oak Preserve are not located within the city limits among New Tampa’s subdivisions). This month could present the first real test of Viera’s efforts. When the 2017-18 city budget proposed by Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn is presented for public hearings on Wednesday, September 13, and Tuesday, September 26 (both at 5:01 p.m. ), Viera hopes to look out from his seat on City Council and see a sea of red shirts, which Tampa Palms lawyer Tracy Falkowitz is encouraging all supporters to wear. At the New Tampa Council’s August 30 meeting at the New Tampa Regional Library, the group said it is hoping at least 50 community residents, dressed in red so that they are noticed by the council members, show up to the third floor of City Hall (at 315 E. Kennedy Blvd.) for the public hearings. Mayor Buckhorn’s $972.4 million budget

for fiscal year 2018 (which begins October 1) includes $1.4 million of community investment tax funds to complete the construction of Fire Station No. 23, which will be located in the Grand Hampton/Grand Colony area off County Line Rd. It also includes $1.95 million for expanding the NTRC, which is home to a highlypraised dance, acrobatics and sports readiness program that boasts a waiting list of nearly 3,000 local residents. According to Falkowitz, Buckhorn misspoke when he suggested that the rec center money was to pay for the expansion of the current building. Falkowitz said there is no room to add to the current rec center structure since the property has added both a skate park and the co-funded New Tampa Rotary Dog Park. Instead, she said, there are already preliminary designs for a whole new building on the land behind the existing NTRC, which currently has baseball, softball and soccer fields but room for an addition to the rec center. “We want to build a totally new building, a big new structure,” Falkowitz said. “Not only for dance, where we would have five studios instead of two, but it (also would) create a large area for sports teams in the summer to practice.” Falkowitz says the land the city planners are considering won’t replace any existing playing fields. But, the building would be big enough to accommodate baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse teams looking to conduct drills in bad weather. She said the new building would also allow the NTRC to expand the popular Joe Abraham Sports summer camps, which last year had 1,700 participants in New Tampa, and 700 at

Local residents gathered at the New Tampa Regional Library to listen to New Tampa Council members discuss ways to ensure money in the proposed city budget ends up benefiting New Tampa. the Wayne C. Papy Center in Seminole Heights. put in the budget, so they don’t feel they can “Expansion would allow for another 1,500 take it away as they have in years past,’’ Dixon said. “It’s not whether these items should be (campers),’’ Falkowitz said. Last year’s budget had $3 million allocated done this way or done that way, but rather to to NTRC expansion, before it was amended and keep the money in the budget and spend it on the money was redirected to fixing the Cusca- what it was allocated for.” The proposed 2018 budget also includes den Pool in Ybor City. The New Tampa Council has tasked itself with making sure there isn’t a $90,000 for a study and design of a “sensoryfriendly” park (as reported last issue) on the land repeat of that incident. Warren Dixon, another lawyer based in behind BJs Wholesale Club, which will be develTampa Palms, told the 25 or so in attendance oped in conjunction with USF. The New Tampa Council meets monthat the New Tampa Council meeting that often, budget line items can serve as placeholders, and ly at the New Tampa Regional Library. Meetcan be diverted by City Council members to ings are open to the public. The next meeting is Mon., Sept. 25, 6:30 p.m. For more other projects. “What we’re trying to focus on in this information, email Luis Viera at Luis.Viera@ group is protecting these items that have been tampagov.net, or call (813) 274-7073.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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‘FBLA’

Continued from page 1 senior year. “I thought he was joking, but he was super serious,” Max says. “That inspired me.” “I worked on my public speaking a lot,” he adds. “Despite me not being the best speaker, I can connect with people on a genuine and authentic level, and I definitely have that desire to connect, regardless of culture or race or background.” So, Max worked to make those connections with people at the conference, and this time, he was able to give the speech he had prepared without freezing or forgetting it. When the voting was over, Max had won. He says that has a specific goal for his time in office. “I want to reach out to urban communities, which are currently underserved by FBLA,” he says. “Our end goal is to reach as many students as possible. We partner with other leadership programs and we want to offer resources for schools that are harder hit by issues such as poverty.” In the long-term, he says, that would mean allocating funds to charter chapters in those currently underserved areas.

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He says that across the nation, there are some large cities that only have one or two FBLA chapters. Even his own school has room to grow in that area. “Most of our membership comes from the magnet program, and we want to diversify,” he says.

A Born Leader

Max comes from a large family, one of seven siblings, and he and his older brother are close enough in age that they both will graduate from high school this year. Alejandro, whom Max calls Alex, is currently a senior at Freedom High. Max says he and Alex are hoping to both attend Florida State University in Tallahassee next year. The two high school boys have two older sisters and an older brother, as well as two younger brothers, ages three and five. He says being one of seven siblings has helped his leadership skills, whether it’s dividing up chores for the week or taking turns babysitting. “Being part of a big family, I’ve learned things like how to speak up for myself and being ready to help when needed,” he adds. While he doesn’t yet know what career he’ll pursue after college, he’s sure of one thing. “Whatever job I have,” he says. “I want to make a lasting influence on people’s lives and do whatever I can to help others.”

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

NJROTC Cadet’s Charismatic, Fun-Loving Character Touched Many By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN celeste@ntneighborhoodnews.com Last October, when David Elder was a freshman at Wharton High and a member of the school’s National Junior Reserve Officers Training Corp (NJROTC) program, he was participating in one of his first drill meets at Central High School in Brooksville, called the Iron Bear Challenge. It was early and still wet outside, and Elder, as his friends in Wharton’s NJROTC call him, was participating in the tire flip event. David was a little too close to another team’s tire and when he slipped, the huge tractor tire struck his leg just below the knee and slid down to the ankle, breaking both bones in his leg. “It was loud,” recalls Senior Chief Petty Officer (Ret.) David Ingalls, who is retired from the U.S. Navy and one of David’s instructors. “We knew it was a pretty bad break.” With his leg broken in two places, he should have been in a lot of pain. But, Elder somehow was making everyone else laugh, acting like a hero being carried off on the stretcher. As they closed the doors to the ambulance, he was waving to everyone and “dabbing.” “That’s when we really saw his personality,” says Ingalls. “David just had a lot of charisma.” When students arrived at Wharton for the first day of school this year, Elder’s friends were told that he had passed away. Just the day before, Elder, Connor Hale and a bunch of their friends helped lead freshman orientation at Wharton High for new students entering NJROTC. After, the cadets went to the movies. The theater was empty, except for them, so whenever a song played between dialogue, David and Connor would put on sunglasses, jump up, and “dance like spazzes,” says Connor. That was typical of the kid he calls Elder, who “could make anyone laugh or smile.” David Elder’s dad says those kids were part of what David loved best, the NJROTC program. As a freshman last school year, he jumped into every activity offered. “He excelled above and beyond anything I expected,” says Jim Elder. “He was on the rifle team, drill team, color guard, everything. He did great at everything he tried.” David even enjoyed uniform inspections, something many cadets dread. “He’d have me come out and inspect his uniform for lint and check his brass. I showed him how to shine his shoes. He was very methodical about proper appearance with his uniform.”

Connor Hale (left) and David Elder at the American Cancer Society’s New Tampa Relay For Life in May. “He was just such a good guy to be around,” Connor says. A week later, more than three dozen ca- things and set him up for success in the future.” Jim says Wharton, “just kind of worked dets from Wharton and other area schools, who had met Elder at NJROTC events, at- out at the time,” and that he couldn’t have been any happier with their choice. tended his memorial service. “I’m thrilled because the instructors there “He was enthusiastic about being a young leader and had a lot of potential,” says Major do amazing things for the kids,” he says. “They Michael Beale, who is retired from the U.S. are top notch and I can’t say enough good Marine Corps, and was another of David’s in- things. They are solid, good people there.” While NJROTC was David’s “main structors. “For a young kid to impact so many people, you know he has unique character thing,” says Jim, “he was a really welltraits. People wanted to be around him, and he rounded kid.” David was a huge history buff who was touched so many lives.” particularly into World War II. He collected “He was a model cadet,” adds Ingalls. Jim says his son had aspirations to join the military. He was interested in aviation, but since he wore glasses, he knew that was a long shot. He also loved the water, and really loved sailing. NJROTC gave him the opportunity to attend Sail Academy, a training academy hosted by Eckerd College in St. Petersburg. “He’s named after my dad, who is a retired U.S. Army paratrooper,” says Jim, who also served in the military. “David just thought his grandpa was the greatest thing walking on two feet. He always liked to hear Grandpa Dave stories.” David grew up in Pinellas County, where his mom still lives. He had been living with his dad and last summer, after outgrowing the Civil Air Patrol program for middle school students, the pair decided to move to Tampa to find a high school with a good NJROTC program. “I wanted him to be exposed to more

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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vintage firearms and military uniforms, and even taught himself some German, using Google Translate. “We’d be at the gun shop and he’d give the guy behind the counter a quick history lesson,” Jim recalls. They enjoyed shooting together, too, he says. “We would go shooting all the time. He shot better than I did, which drove me crazy.” Connor says he already misses the kid he considered one of his best friends. “This is my first time experiencing something like this,” he says. “It’s tough. I already miss his good nature. He was just such a good guy to be around.” When he recalls his many fun times with David, he calls those times “shenanigans. He was a goofball and we would just laugh at everything dumb,” Connor says, like watching YouTube videos or repeating a phrase endlessly to drive other people crazy. “There’s a lot of stuff I thought we’d (still) do together, like going back to Sail Academy and doing (the American Cancer Society’s New Tampa) Relay for Life” again. Jim says he and his son had a special relationship, especially since just the two of them lived together. “We called each other ‘bro,’ and I would tell him, ‘You’re my best bro.’” Jim has met with Hailey Acierno’s parents, who started the foundation called Hailey’s Voice of Hope. “We’re going to try to collaborate and work together so that for her daughter and my son, neither of their names are forgotten,” he says. “We want to get the word out about suicide prevention so no other kid or parent has to go through this.”

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Audi Wesley Chapel Eyes Nov. Opening At WCCC’s Economic Briefing By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com When it came time to move to Florida, Kirk Preiser did his homework before settling on Wesley Chapel. The Southern Region area director for Audi, responsible for the dealerships from Naples to Jacksonville, Preiser felt Wesley Chapel was the perfect spot in the middle of his market and an area that was quickly growing and would eventually have a lot to offer his family. He admits that he had to convince his wife, however. Then, he set his sights on convincing Audi it should join him in Wesley Chapel by opening a dealership there. It may have taken a little longer to convince Audi than his wife, but eventually, Preiser was successful — in mid-November, Dimmitt Automotive Group’s Audi Wesley Chapel will become a reality when it opens the doors at its S.R. 56 location just east of Mansfield Blvd. “I’ve been pitching Wesley Chapel to the president of the company for years,’’ Preiser told a gathering of local business leaders at the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Development briefing Aug. 24 at Pebble Creek Golf Club. “If you’re happy,” he joked, “you can thank me.” Preiser said the opening of the Mercedes dealership on S.R. 56 a few years ago helped make his case, proof that the area was able to support a luxury auto dealer. Lexus also has jumped into the Wesley Chapel market, and will open off S.R. 54 in December. Audi chose Dimmitt Automotive Group

of Dimmitt family members serve on local boards and foundations, and host a Community Values Day at the company where employees are paid to do community service. By landing Audi, Dimmitt will be selling one of the hottest car makers on the planet, Preiser said. It took until 2010 for Audi to sell its 100,000th car in the U.S., but only five years after that, it sold From l. to r.: Audi of America’s Kirk Preiser, Dimmitt Auto Group No. 200,000, while addCEO Scott Larguier, Quinn Porter of Wiregrass Ranch, WCCC CEO ing seven models. Hope Allen and Audi Wesley Chapel general manager Alan Majewski. “We have had a treto sell its high-end automobiles. mendous run,’’ Preiser Dimmitt, a fourth generation company, said. “Since 2010, we’ve been taking off like was founded in 1924 in Clearwater by the late a rocket.” Larry Dimmitt, Sr., selling Fords and Buicks. The new Audi Wesley Chapel dealership Because Dimmitt had traded cars for land, be- promises high-tech services and state-of-thecoming the second-largest landowner in Pinel- art architecture, with a luxury lounge filled las County next to the county itself, the com- with leather club chairs. pany was able to weather the Great Depression “We are building the dealership of the future,’’ Preiser said. better than most. It will be just shy of 40,000 sq. ft., and In 1930, Dimmitt became a Cadillac and Chevy dealer, and eventually grew into selling the lot won’t host a sea of cars like other new Land Rovers, Rolls Royces, Bentleys, Toyotas, car showrooms; instead, it will have 125-150 McLarens and now, Audis. Soon, the company new Audis on hand at all times. The dealership will add a Jaguar franchise to the family, said will have 50-60 employees, and promote a progressive and relaxed environment. Dimmitt CEO Scott Larguier. It also is offering an “Inner Circle” club, Dimmitt currently has locations in Clearwith special bonuses and perks, to the first 100 water, Pinellas Park and Sarasota. “Most impressive, after 23 years, is that patrons who buy an Audi. And, of course, Audi Wesley Chapel will we are still a very community-minded organization,’’ Larguier said, adding that a number sell high-quality, technologically-advanced

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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cars, which have dominated the Consumer Reports charts for best car in recent years. Preiser spoke not only of Audi’s current popular models, but also looked down the road to a time when autonomous and electric cars will be the norm, and Wesley Chapel will be one of the best spots to buy what could be the best in those categories. In May, Audi became the first company to get a license to test Level 3 autonomous cars, demoing the Audi A7 in New York (and also licenses to test cars in Nevada and California). According to Preiser, the A7 already is performing Level 3 autonomous driving tasks, meaning it can drive unassisted at highway speeds when conditions are optimal. Audi hopes to have its first Level 3 autonomous vehicle to market in the U.S. next year, and hopes to have Level 4 automobiles — which can do pretty much everything, even without prompts from the driver — by 2020. It also is hoping to make a splash in the electric car market. “We weren’t the first in the game with electric, but we won’t launch until we’re ready with an electric vehicle that is, in every way, an Audi,’’ Preiser said. The German automaker is hoping to get the Audi e-tron Sportback to market by 2019, and it has also been revealed that Audi is exploring the possibility of thin, lightweight solar panels on the roof to help save energy and increase the range of its electric cars. “We’re betting the farm on electric,’’ Preiser said. For more info, visit AudiUSA.com or Dimmitt.com, or see the editorial on pg. 3 and the ad on pg. 51 of this issue.

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St anCast or ,MD,FACS Boar dCer t i f i edPl ast i cSur geon Cer t i f i edAmer i canBoar dofPl ast i cSur ger y

813. 971. 2000

www. Dr Cast or . com

Did You Check Out The ‘Tampa Bay Idol’ Auditions At Florida Hospital Center Ice? By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

The first time Brittany Collins tried out for FOX-TV’s “American Idol,” it ended with her in tears and a long, sad drive home from Atlanta. She had been waiting for a second chance for more than a decade. She never imagined that chance would come at an ice rink right around the corner from where she lived in Wesley Chapel. On Aug. 12, Collins, 28, lined up with at least 400 other starry-eyed hopefuls, waiting for her chance to shine at “Tampa Bay Idol,” an audition for the new incarnation of “American Idol,” which is now going to air on ABCTV. The local tryout was hosted by Channel 28-WFTS-TV’s “ABC Action News” at Florida Hospital Center Ice off S.R. 56. The tryouts were an all-day affair – capped by a night-time concert on one of the complex’s five rinks by the lucky ticket winners — as those who had registered online for the 400 available slots rolled in and out of two audition rooms hoping to impress local celebrity judges. Those who got the thumbs-up were awarded a “front-of-the-line” certificate to the tryouts a week later in Orlando, as “American Idol” is being re-booted by ABC in an effort to recapture the show’s former glory as one of TV’s hottest programs. Once a juggernaut that produced stars like Carrie Underwood, Adam Lambert, Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Hudson — but no one significant in its final years — “Idol” producers are hoping hosts Katy Perry and Lionel Richie can re-stoke that interest. After belting through 45 seconds of Adele’s “Fire To The Rain,” Collins had her

Heritage Elementary teacher Brittany Collins earned a ticket to the “American Idol” auditions in Orlando with 45 seconds of Adele’s “Fire To The Rain” at the “Tampa Bay Idol” auditions at FHCI. (Photo: ABC Action News)

ticket to the front of the line for the Aug. 17 audition at the Disney Springs Resort in Orlando, where...we hear...that one Wesley Chapel resident and two “Tampa Bay Idol” contestants just may have made it to the next round of auditions. But, that’s all we can say at this time. “I had nerves,’’ Collins said. “At this point in my life, I want it more than ever. But, I am so happy with where I am in my life. If I don’t get through, I’m okay.” Collins, a third-grade teacher at Heritage Elementary in New Tampa, joked that she didn’t feel that way when she was 16. “American Idol” was hot, and she and her friend Adam Jahr drove to Atlanta to chase a dream she has

had since she started singing and dancing at age 3. More than 20,000 people were there, “just long lines and lines of people,’’ she says, and she was terrified. She remembers that her voice shook as she sang Carrie Underwood’s “We’re Young And Beautiful.” The judges declined to move her on. Someone from the show came over to clip the wristband she had been given. “They just cut your wristband and sent you in the other direction,’’ Collins said somewhat somberly. “Very severe.” By comparison, Collins said, the Wesley Chapel auditions were a dream. They let her mom Teresa in the room with her as she sang.

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Wiregrass Ranch High junior Caloi Koelndorfer (above) shows off her ticket to the auditions in Orlando for “American Idol.” Koelndorfer impressed the judges with “How Can It Be” by Christian singer Lauren Daigle. (Photo: John C. Cotey)

“They were set up so nicely,’’ Collins said. Caloi Koelndorfer, a 16-year-old junior at Wiregrass Ranch High, couldn’t wipe the smile off her face as she showed off her winning ticket. Standing in the hallway with her mother Christy, she waited for some of her friends to make their way into the judges’ room. “It was awesome,’’ Caloi said. “I just let it go and tried to have fun.” Caloi sang “How Can it Be” by contemporary Christian music singing star Lauren Daigle. One of the judges was Jeremy Risotto, a Brandon resident who finished in the top 13 in Season 11 of “Idol.” Oh, and Risotto was one of Caloi’s favorites. “I love him,’’ Caloi said. “I saw him at a church choir event, and he was my favorite in Season 11.” Caloi said she started out shaky, but hit her notes when it counted. She has been singing in the chorus since her fifth-grade year at Sand Pine Elementary, and for the outgoing teenager, trying out for “Idol” was a no-brainer. “She sings everywhere and anywhere,’’ Christy said, laughing.

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Caloi then broke out into song for those still waiting for their chance, as someone recorded her on their cell phone. The line of people applauded. Risotto left the room for a quick break and when he returned he popped his head back out and nodded towards Caloi. “She’s excellent,’’ he said. We saw that Collins didn’t make it out of Orlando. She wrote on her Facebook page that it was “TOUGH” and even with her pass, she said she was one of the last 100 auditions of the day, waiting behind people who did not have a pass. She waited in line in the sun for four hours, and still thought she “crushed her song.” But she wasn’t picked, and was back in the classroom Monday, sharing her experience with the kids. “At least I tried, gave it my best, didn’t pass out from the heat and didn’t mess my song up with nerves,’” she wrote on Facebook. According to WFTS-ABC Action News director of multimedia marketing Dennis Elsbury, if a contestant made it out of Orlando — and a reported 67 made it to Orlando from the Wesley Chapel audition — they would not be allowed to tell anyone anything going forward.

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St. James United Methodist Church Celebrates Three Decades In New Tampa! By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

celeste@ntneighborhoodnews.com In 1987, most of what is now New Tampa was just a natural landscape, with the two-lane “road to nowhere” called Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. stretching from Tampa Palms out to cement blocks at the Pasco County line, less than two miles north of Pebble Creek. It took just a few minutes to get from one end of “New Tampa” to the other, with only a couple of stoplights along the way. That July, a group of 23 people began meeting in a rented house off of Skipper Rd. That group was the beginning of what would become St. James United Methodist Church, which has been located on BBD behind Tampa Fire Station No. 20 in Tampa Palms since 1994. St. James will celebrate its 30th anniversary on Sunday, September 10, with a special service at 10:30 a.m. It will feature a special guest speaker, the church’s former pastor Rev. Riley Short. Everyone is invited to join in a community pot-luck lunch and celebration following the service. In the Sundays leading up to the celebration, the church has been recognizing its “Journey to 30” with a 1980s theme. The church has grown over the past three decades to be one of the largest in the New Tampa area, now with more than 800 members. Its current sanctuary, which was built in 1994 and expanded in 2012, today seats 725. “We have so many things to celebrate,” says Rev. Bill Fisackerly, St. James’ current senior pastor. “It’s clear that through everything, God has been at work at St. James. Sometimes it’s been through us, and some-

In 1994, senior pastor Rev. Clark Pickett and kids from St. James United Methodist Church helped to break ground on the church’s first building. St. James is celebrating 30 years in the New Tampa community since its founding in 1987 with a special service on Sunday, Sept. 10, at 10:30 a.m.

times in spite of us, but God has been at work here, and He will continue.” Rev. Fisackerly says the church has celebrated 1,176 baptisms in its 30-year history. “It’s so encouraging to see so many people come to faith here,” he says. Linda and Ken Adum have lived in Pebble Creek since they moved to the area in 1989. By that time, the church had moved from the house to the Palm Lake office building on Amberly Dr. The Adums saw a sign by the road and found their way to the church. “It was such a friendly and welcoming place,” Linda says. “There were lots and lots of young families, like ours was at the time.”

Linda says that while the church has grown and some things have changed – like it’s much harder to organize a Sunday afternoon picnic because there are just too many people – some things have stayed the same. For example, she says the children’s ministry was a highlight for her family growing up, and is still great for kids today. Back in 1989, the Adum children were 14, 9, and 1. “My oldest daughter, Amie, was in the first youth group ever started at the church,” Linda says. “She has a lot of fond memories of that group.” Now, Amie and her family attend there, and Amie’s husband, Marc MacLauchlan, is on

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the church staff. “It’s special,” Linda says, of having her grandchildren grow up in the children’s ministry and her son-in-law working for St. James. “I never would have dreamed it.” As the church moves forward, Rev. Fisackerly says its members and leadership have expressed a desire to grow deeper in their own faith, and to be a more inclusive church. “We want to reach people who need to know the hope of Christ and haven’t found it yet.” Sunday services at St. James are typically held at 9:30 a.m. (traditional) and 11 a.m. (contemporary). For more information, visit StJamesTampa.org or call (813) 971-4790.

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SEPTEMBER 2017 Saturday, September 9

Bay Chapel Food Pantry - Free food for needy families. Open every Saturday from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. behind Christian Brothers Automotive at 20300 Trout Creek Dr. (off BBD). For more info, visit BayChapel.com/foodpantry.

Sunday, September 10

St. James Church 30th Anniversary Celebration - See story, p. 12. Meditation Group - All faiths and all levels of meditation experience are welcome at this free meeting at Sanctuary Wellness Center, 8903 Regents Park Dr., Suite 120, 10 a.m-11 a.m. For more info, search “The Sanctuary Wellness Center in New Tampa” on Facebook or “New Tampa Intuitive Development Center” on Meetup.

Tuesday, September 12

Keep It Local - This seat-specific networking group emphasizes small, local businesses. Meets meets every Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. at GrillSmith at The Shops at Wiregrass. For more info, call Marino Cecchi at (813) 513-9001.

Wednesday, September 13

English As A Second Language (ESL) - The ESL group meets Wednesdays at Tampa Bay Presbyterian Church (19911 BBD Blvd. in Pebble Creek), 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Classes are taught by native English speakers. The cost is $40 each semester for the workbook & class materials. For info, call Holly at (813) 360-2077. BNI Millionaire Makers - The BNI Millionaire Makers chapter meets Weds. at Heritage Isles Country Club (10630 Plantation Bay Dr.), at 7:15 am. $13 to attend includes hot breakfast. Call Lisa Jordan at (813) 621-6015 for info. Business Networking International (BNI) - BNI, a group of business pros dedicated to helping their member businesses grow through qualified referrals, meets every Wed., 7:30 a.m., at Mulligans inside Pebble Creek Golf Club (10550 Regents Park Dr.). Call Bill Sullivan at (813) 994-1143. Partners In Network (PIN) - Partners In Network is a group of professionals, one specializing in each area of business, who form a connection for networking and business referrals. Meets Wednesdays for lunch at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club, 11:30 am. For info, call Georgianna Strickland (813-477-7306) or Ken Fernandez (813-334-6000) or email georgianna@strategicmarketingarts.com. Rotary Club Of New Tampa Noon - The New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meets Wednesdays at noon at Mulligan’s Irish Pub (in the Pebble Creek Golf Club). Guests are always welcome. For more info, search “New Tampa Noon Rotary” on Facebook.

5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.). For more info, contact David Lanigan at (813) 760-6548 or dave@davidlanigan.com or visit NewTampa Rotary.org.

Sunday, September 24

Early Registration Deadline for Lets Not Be Still! - Benefiting the Star Legacy Foundation to promote stillbirth awareness, research, education, advocacy and family support, a family walk will be held on Saturday, October 15, starting at Heritage Isles County Club (10630 Plantation Bay Dr.). Register early for discounted pricing. The whole family can walk, and a kids’ fun run and diaper dash for toddlers 3 and under will be held. Go to LetsNotBeStill-Tampa.org for details, to register, or for sponsorship information.

Monday, September 25

New Tampa Democratic Club - The New Tampa Democrats meet the 4th Mon. of every month at the New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.). For info, email newtampademocraticclub@gmail.com or call (813) 563-0845.

Saturday, September 30

Stay in Step Anniversary Celebration - See story on page 1.

Thursday, October 5

Tampa Palms Womens Club Member Appreciation Pot Luck - Come and meet the members of the Tampa Palms Womens Club at 10:30 a.m. at the Compton Park clubhouse (16101 Compton Drive). Learn about the charitable works, friendship and fun events that we have throughout the year. Current or previous residents of the Tampa Palms community, as well as members of the Tampa Palms Golf and Country Club can belong to this long-standing social club. You are welcome to bring a hot or cold dish if you wish, but it is not required for visitors. Go to TampaPalmsWomensClub.com for more info.

Visit NTNeighborhoodNews.com to add your upcoming events that are open to the public to our online calendar. Events that are free take precedence, but as long as the cost to attend is included in the info, they are still eligible.

Once approved online, they will appear in the “Events” section on Friday, September 15 our home page & may also appear Rotary Club of New Tampa - The New Tampa Rotary Club meets every in our print editions. Friday for breakfast at 7 a.m. at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (TPGCC,

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Qvita Health & Wellness Offers Both Primary Care & Cosmetic Services By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

celeste@ntneighborhoodnews.com Peggy Demetriou, ANRP, FNP-BC, is the owner and CEO of Qvita Health & Wellness, which provides primary care and cosmetic services and is located across Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. from Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) in the Windfair Professional Center. Peggy opened the practice last December and says she is continuing to see growth, as new patients discover her practice and encourage their family and friends to try Qvita, too. She says the name Qvita signifies health and wellness in Latin. She is an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) and also a Family Nurse Practitioner who is Board-certified (FNP-BC). Peggy graduated in 1998 from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Nursing (BSN). She worked as a nurse for five years, and then graduated from Concordia University of Wisconsin (in Mequon) in 2002 with a Master’s degree in Science Nursing with a specialty in Family Practice. She became Board-certified that year, too. Peggy first moved to New Tampa in 2002 and has worked in Wesley Chapel since 2008. She and her husband, Dr. Nektarios Demetriou, live with their blended family of five children in New Tampa. “I love living here,” she says. “There wasn’t much here when I first moved here, but I’m so glad I stayed because now there’s so much to do.”

Family Practice

Peggy sees people ages five and older

for all primary care tor and not getting a needs, including call back, or waiting physicals for school two hours to be seen and work (she is for five minutes. even certified to “I spend whatprovide Departever time is necessary ment of Transporwith my patients,” tation physicals) she says. “For new and managing patients, I block more chronic and comtime, but it’s complex healthcare pletely individual.” needs, such as for She says her people who have holistic approach diabetes or hyperincludes addressing tension. mental health issues, “We have a too, and that proper strong focus on diagnosis between providing excellent anxiety, depression, customer service,” bipolar or other afsays Peggy, “and flictions is the key. we go the extra “Sometimes we mile for our pasee patients who are tients and clients.” treated for anxiety She is currently and depression with accepting new different types of patients and says she Peggy Demetriou, ANRP, FNP-BC, provides pri- medications, and they can usually see them mary care and cosmetic services at QVita Health say the medications on the same day if & Wellness near Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. made them worse. they’re sick. Her That’s a red flag.” Peggy says she has the experience, office accepts all major insurance plans, along knowledge and tools to help make the with Medicare and Medicaid. right diagnosis and get the right referrals, “As a nurse practitioner-owned practice, including therapy. our approach is different,” Peggy explains. “Medication is good,” she says, “But “We focus on the whole person and on spendit’s also good to address these issues in ing time with people.” another way. A counselor or therapist Qvita Health & Wellness, according to Peggy, is a good alternative for people who are spends time to do teaching and give tools that help, too.” frustrated with leaving a message for the doc-

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Qvita also carries a preservative-free flu shot for anyone who would prefer a version of the vaccine that doesn’t have preservatives. Peggy says the ideal time to get a flu shot is around October of each year. On the Qvita Facebook page at Facebook.com/QvitaHealthandWellness, Barbara Summerall writes, “I went to visit Peggy [and] she caught a problem that no doctor ever found. I sent my husband there, too, and he agrees that she really is amazingly caring. “She takes the time to get to know your physical status and she is ready to explain future issues,” Barbara continues. “The facility is super clean and her staff is super friendly and always smiling. I highly recommend Qvita!”

Cosmetic Services

In addition to primary care, Peggy provides cosmetic services for anyone looking to maintain healthy skin and a youthful appearance. “We offer Botox and a variety of fillers, including Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse and other major brands,” she says. “We also have a new device called Ultherapy,” Peggy adds. “It’s the only FDAcleared skin tightening device. It’s not invasive and is non-surgical, and it keeps working over three months for the full effect. You only need one treatment every two years. It is necessary to repeat the treatment because natural aging continues to occur.” An aesthetician has just been added to the staff at Qvita Health & Wellness. Ashley Negron has a clinical skincare diploma from the American Institute of Beauty and is licensed by the State of Florida Board of Cosmetology as a registered facial specialist. Peggy says Ashley provides medical-grade

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skincare procedures that are results-driven, not what she calls “buff and fluff.” “We do procedures such as microneedling and plasma rich platelets (PRP), where we draw blood and extract the platelets, stem cells and growth factors, and use tiny needles to return those growth factors back into the skin. It’s excellent for wrinkles, spots, loose skin, and anti-aging.” She says Qvita also offers Kybella, a treatment for double chins, but can also be a used for off-label areas, such as bra fat or love handles. Peggy says she sees a lot of patients who come in for corrections, especially from people who have bought a Groupon. She has a warning for people who are looking for the lowest priced cosmetic services. “Don’t bargain hunt for your face!,” she says. “You don’t want to have to pay for your bargain and then pay someone else to fix it. Always interview the person who is going to do the procedure and find out if they are certified and properly trained. I have been trained by each company for each product that I sell. Sometimes, the price other places advertise is less than my cost. If that’s the case, maybe the product is old or not authentic.” She offers a free consultation for anyone interested in Qvita’s cosmetic procedures.

Vitamins & Supplements

Qvita shares its name with a line of vitamins that Peggy and her husband have developed over the last couple of years.

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“We are interested in health and wellness for ourselves and for our family,” Peggy explains. “In our practices, people ask us, what’s a good vitamin?” She says that while it’s hard to say, she generally doesn’t recommend anything readily available over the counter. “They tend to be full of fillers and additives, with large amounts of vitamins you don’t need and not enough of the ones you do. So, we came up with something we actually take ourselves.” She says they have an “awesome” multi-vitamin in powder form, and another powder for joint pain that people rave about. “People tell us all the time that they don’t need ibuprofen anymore because the powder works so well,” she says. “It’s got antioxidants that act as a high-potency anti-inflammatory.” Peggy explains that the supplements are “triple certified” by the Food and Drug Administration, Good Manufacturing Practice, and NSF International Public Health & Safety Organization. She says each batch takes about three months to manufacture, because every ingredient is tested every time. “These are medical-level supplements for people who are serious about their health and want to feel good,” she says, proudly. For more information about the vitamins and supplements, which can be purchased without a prescription, visit MyQvita.com.

For More Information

Photos of cosmetic procedures performed at Qvita are on Instagram @ QvitaHealthandWellness1 and Peggy provides her patients and the community with valuable information about health and wellness through posts on Facebook. Qvita Health & Wellness is located at 2734 Windguard Cir., Suite 101. It is open Monday-Friday at 8:30 a.m., closing at 6 p.m. on Mon., 5 p.m. on Tues.–Thur., and 4 p.m. on Fri. For more information or to book your appointment online, visit Qvita Health & Wellness at www.QvitaHealthandWellness.com. Or, see the ad on page 24 or call (813) 501-4130.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Got Pain? Check Out Affordable, Quality Care At The Joint Chiropractic Center! By GARY NAGER

Two years before I moved from Westchester County, NY, to Wesley Chapel and three years before I purchased the Neighborhood News in 1994, one of my last part-time jobs in New York was as a “freelance marketing rep,” for a company that mainly dealt with doctors, dentists and other medical professionals who prior to that time, had never done much advertising of any kind because it was frowned upon by their respective professions. My first client was a chiropractor, so I opened with a joke I had recently heard. “Doc, is it true that a chiropractor can fix literally anything that’s wrong with you...in ‘only’ 50 visits?” My client responded with a smile, “No, young man, it takes 100 visits.” Shortly after that, I spoke with an orthopaedic surgeon I greatly respected who said that, “Yes, chiropractic is at least a step above voodoo.” Well, that was more than 20 years ago and I’m not laughing anymore. I met Alex Pierroutsakos, who operates the new New Tampa location of The Joint Chiropractic Center (in the Publix-anchored New Tampa Center shopping plaza on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. at New Tampa/Cross Creek Blvd.) with his wife, Valerie, at a Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) mixer a month or two before The Joint opened in June. Alex was talking about his new franchise and how it works to a small group of Chamber members. My fiancé (then, my girlfriend) Jannah turned to me and said, “I’m definitely doing this.” Jannah, who has been seeing chiroprac-

tors for years following an auto accident that left her with chronic lower back and neck pain, said the only reason she stopped going was because she could only afford one or two adjustments a month and that wasn’t really enough to keep her pain at bay. I, on the other hand, had never had any back or neck pain of any kind through my 40s. The only ongoing pain I had ever experienced was knee pain likely caused by playing basketball on cement in my late 30s, when I was often 25-50 pounds overweight. I had arthroscopic surgery on both knees almost 15 years ago and once I also lost the bulk of that additional weight, the knee pain went away. But, since turning 50 a few (too many) years ago, it seems like every time I sleep “funny” or have to sit for too long at the computer without a break on deadline, I have been getting neck and/or lower back pain that feels like a needle jabbing me if I move too quickly. And, although I’ve never gained back more than 25 of the 50 lbs. I lost after my knee surgeries, alternating between my non-deadline weeks — where I work out and/or kayak 4-5 days a week to some deadline weeks where I do no exercise at all — had amplified my other pain and made my knees so creaky again that I was often walking with a limp. The more I got to know Alex and Valerie, the more I realized that The Joint was the place for me. Alex was involved in a car accident where someone else died eight years or so ago, that left him minus a limb. “I have struggled with managing pain as well as trying to stay active and healthy,” he says. “In order to stay healthy and not grow dependent on opioids and other drugs, I have

found massage and chiropractic care to be the keys to managing my pain and staying pain-free. Unfortunately, chiropractic care has been limited due to insurance limitations and cost and I had only been able to go when there was a problem or injury. Until The Joint, no model was available for me to get these benefits to stay aligned to prevent injury and manage bouts of phantom pain and back pain. I am still very active as a runner, golfer, basketball, and active with my kids sports. ” But, once these Wesley Chapel residents found The Joint franchise, Alex, a successful traveling business consultant, said he knew he had found the right niche for not only himself, but for a new business for his family. “I realized that by having a Joint membership that offers four adjustments Alex and Valerie Pierroutsakos and their family ina month for one low price, I could take vite you to visit The Joint Chiropractic in the Publixa more to take a proactive approach to my health, be in less pain, perform better anchored New Tampa Center plaza on BBD Blvd. in sports, while also saving money in the weekends and you never need an appointlong run. And, I wanted to share that concept ment or even to call ahead. Since Jannah and to other people.” I became the New Tampa location’s first two official clients on opening day in June, I have Member Benefits shown up more than a dozen times and have As advertised on pg. 3 of the last several never had to wait more than 5 or 10 minutes issues of this publication, The Joint charges to be seen by the doctor. only $29 for an initial visit, which includes a And, that’s by design. The Joint was consultation and physical exam with one of originally founded in 1999 by a Doctor of Chilocations licensed chiropractic physicians (more ropractic with a vision to transform the tradion them below) and an adjustment, plus just tional, often misunderstood concept of routine $69 per month for four additional adjustments. chiropractic care by making it more conveIf you need additional adjustments in a calennient, friendly and affordable. In March 2010, dar month, they cost only $10 per visit. The Joint was re-founded with the acquisition The really cool thing about The Joint is of the original eight franchised clinics. Today, that it stays open late (until 7 p.m.) and on The Joint has grown to a nationwide network

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of more than 370 clinics utilizing more than 850 chiropractic physicians and the numbers continue to grow because it works. And, although no insurance is needed, The Joint is FSA (Healthcare Flexible Spending Account) and HSA (Health Savings Account)-accepted.

My New Friend, Dr. Barney

Although I had never met him before The Joint opened, I now consider the New Tampa location of The Joint’s Doctor of Chiropractic, Barnabas (Barney) Bickerton, D.C., to be my friend. Dr. Barney (photo, right) knew that I was nervous as I watched him adjust Jannah that first day (in The Joint’s open adjustment area) and he really took the time to discuss my issues before examining me. He then pinpointed, within a few moments, not only where I was feeling pain but also the source of that pain. I told him the thing I was most worried about was having my neck adjusted, especially after watching him adjust Jannah’s neck, and he only massaged my neck in different positions that first visit. Instead, he focused not only on my back, but also on my achy knees and even the rotator cuffs in my arms. Today, I’m an old pro at having my neck adjusted, thanks to the gentle, knowledgeable and caring Dr. Barney, and every time I visit The Joint, I feel better when I leave than I did when I came in. And, Dr. Barney, who has more than 20 years of experience and earned his Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from the Logan College of Chiropractic in Chesterfield, MO, isn’t alone at The Joint in New Tampa, where you also may see fellow D.C. Edward Leonard (whose TJ Wesley Chapel is listed as The Joint New Tampa’s owner; Alex and Valerie’s VALEX Inc. is listed as the location’s manager).

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Both Jannah and her boss at the Pasco Education Foundation, Stacey Capogrosso, have both been adjusted by Dr. Leonard, as well as by Dr. Bickerton, and they agree that The Joint currently has two outstanding chiropractors. “Val and I are focused on providing the care and experience from a customer and patient point of view,” Alex says. “We are both very strong believers in chiropractic care and focus on delivering the same experience we expect for ourselves but now to our customers that we serve in our neighborhood. Our location draws from both New Tampa and Wesley Chapel, which are both very healthoriented areas.” Alex also says that the Wesley Chapel Chamber has been instrumental in helping The Joint get connected to the community and local businesses. “But, more important is how welcoming the Chamber has been to us,” he says. “We are new to the area and were unsure of how the Chamber would help us. But, the Chamber members have welcomed us with open arms and helped us feel more connected with the community.” And, The Joint has made me a believer, too. I feel great and I’ve even stopped limping. For more information about The Joint Chiropractic-New Tampa Center (19014 BBD Blvd.), call (813) 995-7380, visit TheJoint.com or see the ad on pg. 3.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Kehoe & DeWeerd, CPA — For Professional Tax & Accounting Help Throughout The Year says DeWeerd, who has a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Business Administration and a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) degree from the University of South Florida (USF) College of Business in Tampa. Some of the related services Kehoe & DeWeerd offers include developing tax management strategies with clients to minimize liabilities and maximize cash flow, as well as estate and trust planning, once again to minimize tax liabilities.

By BRAD STAGER

The clock is running out on the 2017 tax return season’s “second half,” when individuals and businesses taking advantage of a six-month extension find themselves facing the inevitability of now having to file with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). For those needing help preparing their returns, the accounting professionals at Kehoe & DeWeerd, CPA PA, located in the Cypress Glen Professional Park, just north of SR 56 in Wesley Chapel, are ready to assist. “We’re here to help anyone who has requested an extension to file,” says David DeWeerd, CPA. “Sometimes, you need additional time to get things together or circumstances in your life prevent you from getting documents in order.” According to the IRS website (irs.gov), about 15 million individual returns were filed with extensions last year. The extended filing deadline for individuals is Monday, October 16. That is also the deadline for “C” corporations to file a form 1120 return. But, the extended deadline is even earlier — Friday, September 15 — for businesses whose normal filing date was March 15 of this year. These include partnerships (form 1065 or 1065-B) and “S” corporations (form 1120S). DeWeerd says that while people and businesses are only dealing with their tax returns between January and October, Kehoe & DeWeerd is available throughout the year to assist with decisions and situations that may affect tax liabilities, such as whether to

A Little Feedback...

David DeWeerd, CPA (right), and Wesley Chapel office manager Liyen Coffey of Kehoe & DeWeerd, CPA, in the Cypress Glen Professional Park off S.R. 56. buy or lease a car, how a change in income give you the best outcome possible on your or revenue should be handled or whether taxes,” he says. “We prepare your tax returns something is deductible on a tax return. so that you never hear from the IRS.” DeWeerd says clients can inquire about those He adds that if a client does end up types of issues with Kehoe & DeWeerd with- getting audited, Kehoe & DeWeerd will be out being nickled and dimed. there when needed. “We definitely stand “We don’t send out bills for phone behind everything that we do,” he says. calls,” he says, adding that initial consulEveryone’s tax situation is different tations, whether for business or personal and, in a service profession like accounting, finance clients, are free. meeting the needs of a variety of clients calls According to DeWeerd, who has been for an individualized approach. with Kehoe & DeWeerd for 18 of its 32 “We’re a smaller firm, so we’re able to years, the firm’s purpose is clear: “We want do that and look at their return on a more to make sure we do the very best we can to customized basis and be more thorough,”

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Meadow Pointe resident Paul Davies, who is a professional stage technician for musical performing artists, says he finds Kehoe & DeWeerd’s personalized practices to be a good fit for his needs because his employment status varies and he incurs tax obligations in many states and foreign countries through his work. “I’m a sole proprietor, so it means sometimes I’m on W-2 income and sometimes it means I’m on 1099 income,” says Davies. “A lot of it is out-of-state work, and international as well, and when you go into various states you get charged withholding against a local state liability.” He adds, “Sometimes, I’ve had to file 10 state returns for my normal tax year, so it was important for me to get someone who has an understanding of not just taxes as they pertain to Florida, but taxes as they pertain to traveling all over the world.” Accessibility is another thing Davies says he likes about Kehoe & DeWeerd. “I know I can reach David anytime I need to talk to him, or send him an email from anywhere I’m at and ask him a question

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about something,” he says. “He does a fantastic job and he doesn’t send me an invoice every time I ask him a question.” Meadow Pointe resident Heather Stamp sells real estate through Exit Prime Realty and is the founder and chief executive officer of the Wesley Chapel Network, which promotes and connects 17,000 online business professionals and service providers. As a busy entrepreneur, she says DeWeerd has been her “go-to guy for anything financial for the last three years and will be for many more to come.” That kind of peace of mind is invaluable. “Taxes can be very stressful and he puts me at ease,” says Stamp. When it comes to their small business clients, the firm does more than just prepare tax returns. As any business owner knows, the compliance and reporting requirements levied upon them by government agencies and entities (such as sales and payroll taxes), are numerous and must be met. DeWeerd says his firm takes care of those requirements, and more, such as payroll processing and managing employee benefits. Kehoe & DeWeerd also is certified by Intuit, Inc., to install and manage QuickBooks accounting software for clients. “We’re always on top of all those deadlines,’’ he says. “It’s important to have somebody you trust to look out for your business and do what’s best for you.” That’s what Dr. Prematee Sarwan, D.D.S., owner of Mystic Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Wesley Chapel (see story on pg. 24), says she was looking for when she hired Kehoe & DeWeerd to take care of her practice’s tax and payroll needs. She says delegating those responsibilities allows her to concentrate on her patients.

Neighborhood News

“It means that I can take care of the other things in the office because I know David has me covered when it comes to the taxes and payroll,” Dr. Sarwan says. “And he’s so accessible. I can call him at any time with any question.” Dr. Sarwan also expresses appreciation for the customer service she receives from the Kehoe & DeWeerd staff. “We’ve been on the phone with Liyen (Coffey) so much, and she’s wonderful,” Dr. Sarwan says. Coffey manages the firm’s Wesley Chapel office, and she says the client’s needs come first. When clients visit the office for the first time, especially for tax consultations, they should bring in all of the relevant documents, such as tax returns from the previous years. “We try to make them feel at ease when they come in,” Coffey says. Kehoe & DeWeerd has successfully served the west Pasco community for more than three decades, initially in Port Richey and now in Trinity. Thomas Kehoe, who has a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Accounting from the USF College of Business Administration, founded the firm in 1985. DeWeerd, who serves on the Board of the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce, says that he and Kehoe opened the Wesley Chapel office together in November of 2015 to meet the financial management needs of the growing east Pasco community. “We have a strong client base in west Pasco and would like to build those same relationships here,” DeWeerd says. Kehoe & DeWeerd’s Wesley Chapel office is located at 26829 Tanic Dr., Suite 102. For more info, visit KDCPA.net or call (813) 279-2977.

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SPOTLIGHT ON: Devolder Family Law! When Bryan and Elizabeth Devolder decided to re-invent themselves at the ages of 35 and 37, respectively, they could have picked something easier, like a nice sales job, or buying a successful restaurant franchise, or maybe even starting their own business. Instead, they both decided to become lawyers. “It’s crazy,” Bryan says. But it worked. At Devolder Family Law, located in the former Hunter’s Green Model & Visitor Center, Bryan and Elizabeth have found immediate success in their new profession. Since opening in August of 2016, Elizabeth says business has been brisk and is well ahead of their projections after just six months; Bryan adds that they have doubled the amount of clients they expected at this time. The secret to their success might be the same thing that drew them into law in the first place — a desire to seek out answers and solve problems, while meeting people’s needs in an informal manner that makes them feel at ease. “We’re not about us, we’re about the client,’’ says Bryan. Bryan graduated in Jan. of 2016, and Elizabeth graduated in April of the same year, both finishing at the top of their class. Later in 2016, Elizabeth was among 25 future lawyers named in the National Jurist’s inaugural “Law Student of the Year” feature. “We are very down-to-earth people,”

Elizabeth says. “We weren’t born with silver spoons in our mouths, we didn’t become Harvard lawyers at 25. We worked hard our whole lives, we understand the value of money and we understand the challenges that people have. And, we answer the phone.” Bryan turns his cellphone over and reveals a Batman sticker. “This is the Bat Phone,’’ he says. “We give this number to our clients, and we are available 24/7. Ask any other attorney if they will answer their phone at 2 a.m., or if they even give that number out.” Devolder Family Law is located at 8709 Hunter’s Green Dr., at the front of Hunter’s Green before entering the gated community from BBD. It is open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. For additional information, see the ad on page 16 of this issue, search “DevolderLaw” on Facebook, visit DevolderLaw.com or call (813) 724-3880.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • Sept. 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Looking For A New Cleaning Service? Try Clean-it & See The Difference “We’re not paid by the hour, so we don’t have to look at our watches while we’re cleaning, to be sure we get in and out quickly.” She stresses that, in her business, the needs and desires of her clients are of the utmost importance. “We just do whatever it takes to make sure your house looks good every time we leave.” Celly insists that each time she cleans your home, it will be as clean as the first time. She says that her reputation has been built on satisfied customers who know she does a thorough and detailed cleaning each and every time.

By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN celeste@ntneighborhoodnews.com

If you’re in the market for a new cleaning service for your home or office, Celly de Freitas invites you to try Clean-it, her family-owned cleaning service based in Wesley Chapel and serving the surrounding areas, including New Tampa, Lutz and Land O’Lakes, which she has owned and operated since 2013. The company is unlike many, in that Celly herself meets with each client to get specific instructions and room-by-room requests and then returns to either do the job herself, or supervise it, every time your home is cleaned. Celly says other cleaning services don’t usually offer the consistency she does. Large companies hire a lot of people, she says, so you don’t always get the same crew working in your home. She says this is a recipe for miscommunication, and also considerably slows down the cleaning process. “For all of my clients,” explains Celly, “I either personally clean their house, or I check it after my crew is done. Every house, every time.” Clean-it includes four crew members besides Celly, and they are all her family members and friends. “I only have people working for me who I know and trust,” Celly says. “I’m not going to allow someone into my clients’ homes if I don’t know them.” She says she often hears from people who are not happy with their current cleaning service. “They tell me they’ve arranged their

A Little Background

Celly de Freitas (far right,) is the owner and operator of Clean-it. She and her team work together to ensure their clients’ homes and offices are thoroughly cleaned. schedule to be home, then people don’t says all you have to do is ask, as she is happy show up, and sometimes the cleaning to accommodate special requests. company doesn’t even know they’re The same goes for offices, too. Celly missing houses,” she says. “Or they don’t says she vacuums, clean the bathrooms, like that different people show up at their tables and blinds, fans, and mops floors. She house for each cleaning. So, they tell me says offices tend to be more simple, but she they’ll give me a try, and then they (usual- still accommodates whatever is needed. ly) stick with me.” “I do whatever the client asks, and I Clean-it provides general cleaning always accomplish what I promise,” Celly services, including dusting, wiping down explains. “My clients are always happy with and disinfecting window ledges, baseboards, my services, or I go back and make it right.” interior glass doors, countertops, the facings She says this is another contrast to large of all appliances, sinks, faucets, exterior cleaning companies, where a cleaning crew cabinets, blinds and ceiling fans, as well as may have so many homes scheduled that floor vacuuming and mopping. If you need they are in a rush at every home they visit. something done that isn’t on this list, Celly “This isn’t a quick clean,” says Celly.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • Sept. 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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Celly has now worked in the cleaning industry for more than 20 years, the last five as the owner and operator of Clean-it. She moved to Florida 21 years ago from Brazil and her family settled in the Seven Oaks community in Wesley Chapel more than 15 years ago. With her roots in this area, she has many long-term relationships with her clients. “I want people to know they can trust me,” she says. “I have houses I’ve cleaned for 15 years. I provide references and I welcome new clients to call my current clients and see what they have to say about me.” Julie is one of those clients who is happy to talk about how much she appreciates Clean-it’s cleaning services. She says she first met Celly in 2006 when she was looking for someone to clean her home and a neighbor referred her. “Celly is incredibly reliable, neat, prompt and honest,” Julie says. “She does a good job, and she’s careful with delicate things.”

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Julie adds, “I have a lot of plantation shutters, and Celly is obsessed with keeping them dusted and clean, even more than me,” says Julie. “And that’s a big job! I’m very happy with her.” Celly says Julie is just one of her many satisfied customers. She believes her customers stay happy because she dedicates her time to each one of her clients and puts her personal stamp of approval on each cleaning job. “Homeowners like the fact that they know me and my crew,” says Julie. “If I don’t come to your house one day, but send a crew instead, it’s still going to be someone you know who has cleaned your house before.” And, Celly will still stop by to make sure that everything has been done properly. It’s also important to Celly to use environmentally friendly products, she says. She chooses products that are efficient, ones that, “work well but are not harmful,” she says. “If you have kids and pets, we know they sometimes come into contact with cleaning products, whether that’s from licking the floor or just having their hands on the floor,” Celly explains. “So, we use products that will not be harmful to their health.” If a client wants their own, personal products to be used for cleaning instead, Celly says she is happy to oblige. Clean-it offers a 10 percent discount on your first cleaning to Neighborhood News readers who mention this story. Be sure to see her ad on page 49 of this issue, too. Like

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Celly de Freitas it says, if you choose to give her a try, “you will see the difference.” For a free estimate, call Celly at (813) 505-0431. You can learn more about Clean-it online at Facebook. com/CleanIt.Services. The business is licensed and insured. Appointments are available Mon.-Fri., with special request appointments available on Sat. Clean-it is accepting new residential and business clients for regular weekly, bi-weekly and monthly cleanings, as well as one-time services for moving in out.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • Sept. 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

New Tampa Plastic Surgery’s Dr. Peter Fakhre Provides Artistry For Your Body Updated by Celeste McLaughlin

New Tampa Plastic Surgery, a premier cosmetic surgery “boutique,” has been helping New Tampa and Wesley Chapel residents look and feel their best since 2011. Specializing in the aesthetic plastic surgery of the face, breasts and body, Board-certified plastic surgeon Peter Fakhre, M.D., rejuvenates and enhances the natural beauty of his patients with the latest cutting-edge surgical and non-surgical procedures. Dr. Fakhre also has been named one of the top doctors in the country by Vitals. com (a medical review forum for consumers). According to the website, Dr. Fakhre was named a “Vitals Top 10 Doctor.” Of more than 870,000 doctors nationwide, Dr. Fakhre has been recognized as being in the top one percent, of all physicians, as determined by patient ratings. Located in the Windfair Professional Park off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., across from Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC), New Tampa Plastic Surgery sees patients from all across Pasco and Hillsborough counties. Dr. Fakhre and his staff help everyone who walks through their doors feel welcome; their primary goal being to make the patient feel comfortable while exploring his or her best options for plastic or reconstructive surgery (as well as non-surgical alternatives, in some cases) in a highly professional and confidential environment. You can see the results of Dr. Fakhre’s work when you visit NewTampaPlasticSurgery.com. Although his work definitely speaks for itself, he also is highly recommended by his patients. In a physician review on Vitals.com, Dr. Fakhre’s patient Jane Gibbons said, “Plastic surgery? More accurately — Surgical Artistry! Dr. Fakhre is a master of his craft. He not only is an accomplished surgeon, (he also) is a man of integrity who listens, counsels and guides his patients toward the goals they are seeking. (He) then satisfies those goals with skill and precision!” She continues, “Dr. Fakhre works with his patients to determine the best surgical and non-surgical options that will achieve the desired outcome. As a bonus, his office staff is compassionate, efficient and shares his philosophy that everyone deserves to look their best. Unquestionably, Dr. Fakhre is the best that Tampa Bay has to offer!” Dr. Fakhre, who is one of the few plastic surgeons in the Tampa Bay area to be double-Board-certified by both the

publications and research projects, which have been presented at numerous scientific meetings, including the distinguished American Society of Plastic Surgeons. During his surgical training, Dr. Fakhre was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award by the Mayo Clinic Medical School and served as Chief Resident in Surgery in his final year of surgical training. Dr. Fakhre was then privileged to match at his first choice of Plastic Surgery fellowship programs at the prestigious Methodist Hospital in Dallas, TX, where he again excelled, scoring the highest in-service exam score among all plastic surgery residents in his Dr. Peter Fakhre and nurse practitioner Christina Ahrens provide program and serving as surgical and non-surgical options for their patients at New Tampa Chief Resident during his final year of plastic Plastic Surgery, located in the Windfair Prof. Park in Wesley Chapel. surgery training. “I had the wonAmerican Board of Plastic Surgery and by derful opportunity to train with members of the American Board of Surgery, explains, “There are many things that are important the original group of plastic surgeons that invented the breast implant, as well as facial in achieving successful outcomes in plastic and body plastic surgeons whose surgersurgery: an understanding of the patient’s desires, their physical examination, realistic goals, sound surgical technique, attention to detail and outstanding postoperative care, all of which contribute to success in cosmetic plastic surgery.” He earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology from the University of South Florida in Tampa, graduating summa cum laude. He then elected to attend the University of Florida College of Medicine in Gainesville. It was while he was at UF that Dr. Fakhre’s surgical talent, aesthetic eye and love for plastic surgery were realized. Dr. Fakhre then completed a general surgery residency at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, where he scored in the 98th percentile in the American Board of Surgery in Training Exam, the highest among all of the residents in his program. He was involved with numerous

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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ies have been featured on The Discovery Channel,” Dr. Fakhre says. “Working in such an environment provided great exposure to a large volume of primary as well as revision cosmetic surgery cases. This experience was priceless and I’m happy to bring this type of training to the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area.” This training and his own expertise helped Dr. Fakhre earn the highest score possible, in the 99th percentile among Plastic Surgeons in plastic surgery of the breast, on the American Board of Plastic Surgery written examination. In addition to refining his surgical skill and technique during his plastic surgery training, Dr. Fakhre also volunteered his time with Operation San José and traveled to Guatemala on a cleft lip and palate surgical mission. There, he helped deliver surgical care to many cleft lip and palate patients who otherwise may never have received the treatment they needed. Dr. Fakhre says that he was happy to return to the Tampa Bay area after his training and currently lives in Seven Oaks with his wife of 14 years and three sons, who keep them busy and entertained.

So Many Surgical Options

So many of us have things we would like to change about our bodies. Time, age and weight changes all take a toll on the body and these factors can affect your appearance and self-image. Dr. Fakhre says that cosmetic plastic surgery is a way to help you look and feel better. “When we are happy with our appear-

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ance, we feel more confident,” he says. New Tampa Plastic Surgery offers a plethora of cosmetic surgery procedures for women and men, including breast enhancement (augmentations, lifts and reductions), tummy tucks, face and neck lifts, eyelid surgery, liposuction and more. Known for his technical skill, eye for beauty and superior aesthetic practice, Dr. Fakhre will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve your desired outcome and to make the “new you” a reality. “Cosmetic plastic surgery allows the surgeon to combine artistry with sound surgical techniques to produce superior results,” says Dr. Fakhre. Breasts, for instance, are often at the core of a woman’s femininity and self-confidence. Dr. Fakhre explains that breast surgery is one of the most personal decisions a woman can make. “Breast augmentation surgery can increase your self-confidence and satisfaction with your body,” says Dr. Fakhre. “By increasing or restoring breast volume, we can help our patients achieve a better-proportioned body.” Dr. Fakhre’s breast augmentation patients are first educated about implant size and types so they can make informed decisions about which would best satisfy their personal goals. He says that the two main implant types available are still silicone and saline and that the implant selected depends upon a variety of factors. Currently, the most common implants that Dr. Fakhre uses are silicone implants, which he says look and feel more natural than their saline counterparts. Breast lift surgery removes excess tissue and repositions the breast and/or nipple

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I wasn’t just another patient to get in and out,” Christina Vargas wrote in her patient testimonial about her experience with New Tampa Plastic Surgery. “The whole process — from scheduling my appointments to the day of the procedure, even my recovery — went so smoothly. I highly recommend Dr. Fakhre. I give him 10 stars!”

Non-Surgical Options, Too

Dr. Fakhre says that “Mommy Makeovers” often include tummy tucks and/or liposuction to allow women to return to a more youthful, pre-baby appearance, often with outstanding results. to a more youthful position. This procedure is often chosen by women desiring to restore form to their breasts or reclaim their “before-baby” appearance. And, although breasts are intertwined with the feminine profile, women are not the only ones who have breast surgery. In fact, Dr. Fakhre says that he has helped many men feel better about their appearance with reduction surgery for men with female-looking breasts (also known as gynecomastia).

Liposuction, ‘Mommy Makeovers’ & More

Another popular cosmetic surgical procedure at New Tampa Plastic Surgery is liposuction, which can improve the body’s contour by removing fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction restores proportionality and minimizes problem areas. Dr. Fakhre says that if you find yourself shopping for clothes to hold your tummy in or help slim your thighs, liposuction may be your answer. He adds that liposuction offers significant results with minimal downtime.

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“In fact, many (liposuction) patients recover over a weekend and return to work on Monday,” he says. A full “Mommy Makeover” also is a popular procedure sought by women who want to get back to the body they had before they had children. Dr. Fakhre says that the most common “Mommy Makeover” combines a breast lift (with or without breast augmentation for reshaping), a tummy tuck to tighten the midsection that was stretched during pregnancy and liposuction to remove unwanted fat deposits. Dr. Fakhre, who has surgical privileges at Florida Hospital Tampa and Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, says that he performs most of his surgeries at the New Tampa Surgery Center, located nearby (off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel), although he adds that he does perform minor procedures in his office as well. Wherever he performs his artistry, however, his satisfied patients are a testament to his experience and training. “From the moment I walked through the door in his office I was always greeted on a first-name basis, which made me feel like

But, New Tampa Plastic Surgery also is a true cosmetic boutique, offering skin and other non-surgical cosmetic procedures, in addition to plastic surgery. Many of these non-surgical procedures — such as Botox and dermal fillers, Latisse eyelash lengthening and thickening, fat injections, chemical peels that rejuvenate and energize the skin to beautify your natural state and more — often provide the results a patient is looking for, and are less “invasive” than surgical options. Board-certified nurse practitioner Christina Ahrens has more than 10 years of experience in dermatology and plastic surgery and performs all of the non-surgical procedures at New Tampa Plastic Surgery. “We are fortunate to have Christina as part of our team,” says Dr. Fakhre. “She does an outstanding job in the treatment of our patients.” For your free cosmetic surgery consultation with Dr. Peter Fakhre, call New Tampa Plastic Surgery at (813) PLASTIC (752-7842). The office is located at 2541 Windguard Cir. For a full menu of services, visit NewTampaPlasticSurgery.com. And, be sure to check out the ad on page 13 of this issue and ‘Like’ New Tampa Plastic Surgery’s Facebook.com page so that you can be notified of the office’s monthly promotions on various services.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

VIP Pest Control Can Rid Your Home Of Harmful Bugs, Rodents & More! By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

celeste@ntneighborhoodnews.com VIP Pest Control owner Vicki Hutto wants her customers to know that they are “Very Important People.” “We work for you,” Vicki says. That’s why, for example, you’ll always talk with a live person when you call VIP’s office. “We give our customers personal attention. No two people are alike, and no two houses are alike.” For the past 11 years (it was established in 2006), VIP Pest Control has served Wesley Chapel and the surrounding areas of Pasco and Hillsborough counties, keeping homes and businesses free from insects — including termites, mosquitoes, ants, roaches, bed bugs and more — with treatments that include both traditional chemical and kid-friendly and pet-friendly organic options. VIP also handles problems with nuisance animals such as rodents and snakes. Same-day service is often available, especially if you have a serious issue that needs immediate attention. “If you call us in the morning,” says Vicki, “we can usually work you in that day.” She and her team emphasize the importance of taking care of the families and pets in the homes they treat. They always are aware that pets and kids spend time on the floor, so they use pet-friendly and child-friendly treatments. That’s why VIP technicians offer many organic options, and Vicki says you won’t be charged a premium for using those organic products. Prior to launching VIP Pest Control, Vicki worked for Orkin and says she was the first female termite inspector in the entire company.

VIP Pest Control owner Vicki Hutto, with her beloved pomeranians Chloe (left) and Bailey, wants to protect your home and loved ones from harmful bugs, rodents ad other vermin. She was inducted into the Orkin National Pres- whenever I call. I love VIP Pest Control!” ident’s Club three years in a row, a prestigious honor given to the top three percent of sales Termite Tips & Treatments producers nationwide. She also worked at two Vicki says the most important thing you smaller pest control companies. should get from reading this article is this: EvVicki says she’s proud that every review ery homeowner in Florida should get a termite on the company’s Facebook page rates VIP inspection every year. You should have a comPest Control as 5 stars. Vicki wants all of her pany that will inspect your home and guarantee customers to feel like Anisa Jivanjee, who they will treat and get rid of any termites that writes, “Just got my house treated by VIP’s move into your home with a termite bond. Vaughn and Vernon. I am so impressed by She says the bond is similar to an insurtheir detailed treatment of nook and crannies, ance policy. If it expires and you get termites, attic and perimeter of the house. Plus, I got a you’re no longer covered, so it’s important to very courteous explanation of what they were renew annually. doing. I can’t talk enough about Lilly, who While a sure sign of termites is a visible is always so patient, respectful and thorough swarm of the bugs, you can have termites even

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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if you don’t see that telltale swarm. “A common misconception is that when that swarm is gone and you no longer see bugs, you no longer have a problem,” says Vicki. “That’s not true. They’re still there, and you have no idea how fast they can destroy a house. They only swarm once a year, but they eat 24 hours a day, seven days a week.” Vicki explains there are two kinds of termites that typically affect houses in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area — drywood and subterranean termites — and VIP Pest Control can treat both. While many companies often treat drywood termites by spot treating (which Vicki says doesn’t work) or tenting (which is expensive, causes an enormous inconvenience and can often cause damage to your home), VIP Pest Control uses a fogging method that treats the entire house and leaves a residual product in the wall to discourage the termites from coming back. “Tenting a house means you have to move yourself, your kids, your pets, even your plants out of your home for several days, and the tent itself is heavy and can break roof tiles and ruin shrubs and sprinklers,” Vicki says. “Then, your house is filled with an odorless, colorless gas that can kill you, and then they take the tent off and you move right back in.” She says her system is not going to damage your house, and that she’s been using it for three years, with great results. VIP Pest Control also offers a preventive treatment in the walls of your home that can keep it from getting termites, and also will act as a fire retardant and protect against mold. “It costs 10 cents on the dollar to prevent instead of treating (termites),” she says. “It’s affordable and can save you a lot

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of money and headaches in the long run.”

SPOTLIGHT ON: Olympus Pools!

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are a nuisance and very difficult to eradicate. While bed bugs have a reputation for being transmitted via hotels, Vicki says you should be concerned about them even if you don’t travel. “Anytime someone’s stuff is touching someone else’s stuff — such as backpacks at school — that’s an opportunity for bed bugs to be transmitted,” explains Vicki. So, if you see black spots in a bed — a telltale sign of bed bugs — be sure to call an expert. You also can check VIPPestControlLLC.com for a wealth of information. Vicki notes that, while they can be difficult to find and eradicate, the experts at VIP can help you get rid of bed bugs with minimal headaches.

Rodent Control

“If you see signs of rodents, such as droppings, or hear noises, call us right away,” says Vicki. “Rodents can be dangerous, because they can chew through wires and actually set your whole house on fire.” She says it’s important to not only eradicate the pests, but also to close the holes that allowed them to come in to your home, so they can’t get back in.

Other Pests

You should also call a pro if you see ants or roaches. “We see it all the time,” she says. “People tell me they get a can and spray the bugs. All that does is cause them to scatter, so that by the time we come out, your problem is three times worse — and in three different places.” While palmetto bugs are big and ugly, they’re not harmful like German roaches, which carry many diseases. Vicki says that one

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If you have rodents in your home, VIP Pest Control can help you get rid of them. female German roach will have 50 babies every 28 days, so if you see one roach, that probably means you have 50 more behind your walls. VIP Pest Control also treats lawns for mosquitoes, and can provide a one-time treatment to keep your yard mosquito-free for an event, such as a wedding or party.

Woman-Owned

Vicki says that being a woman-owned business also sets her apart in the pest control industry and helps her to better relate to many of her customers. “Most times when we visit a home, it’s the woman who is there to meet with us,” she says. Vicki says she is always looking to hire female technicians to join her company, too. VIP Pest Control specializes in working with homeowners associations, townhome and condo associations, too, “because you will get what your neighbor has,” she says. VIP Pest Control is located at 119 Flagship Dr. in Lutz. It is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Now through September 30, get 30-percent off any regularly priced termite treatment. For a free quote, or for more information, visit VIPPestControlLLC.com, call (813) 2348888 or see the ad on pg. 49 of this issue.

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Backyard pools in Florida are pretty common, but Olympus Pools has helped hundreds of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel homeowners make a uniquely personal statement with theirs. “We take pride in giving people the most bang for their buck,” says James Staten, who owns Olympus Pools with his wife, Alexis. The options available to homeowners who want to build a pool are extensive with Olympus, ranging from traditional models that tend to be linear in shape, to blends of rustic and contemporary styles that combine the basic elements of fire, stone and water into a backyard oasis. Designs can accommodate features such as a dry, sunken living room, swimup bar or a cozy grotto illuminated with LED lighting and fire bowls. Water and lighting features can be managed from anywhere there’s a phone signal, via a smartphone app. While an Olympus Pools design will always be one of a kind, Staten says the level of customer service also is uniformly high. “We build them the same way for our customers that we build them for ourselves,” he says. Olympus Pools is licensed for commercial as well as residential pool construction, but Staten says creating the perfect backyard water wonderland for each customer’s needs is the heart of the business. In fact, he adds, his company built 240 pools in 2016 and he attributes this success to focusing on three

key elements: design, construction and service. “We try to make sure we’re the best in each of those three areas,” he says. Making a splash (pun intended) with a great backyard pool starts with design and Staten says meeting each customer’s individual needs, interests and construction requirements are always considered in that process. “Every design we do is custom,” he says. “Every single one. We don’t have any templates or cookie-cutter designs.” Staten says the goal is creating a pool that’s well-designed, meets your budget considerations and suits your lifestyle. “We’re known for building pools very quickly, too,” he says. In addition to the Facebook page, you can visit OlympusPoolsFL.com, call 983-7854 or see the ad on pg. 43. The Olympus Pools office & design center is located 20-30 minutes from Wesley Chapel at 4422 N. Lauber Way in Tampa.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

New Tampa’s Best In Class Education Center Promises Outstanding Test Preparation By ANDY WARRENER Both Dr. Nirjhar and his wife Swarna Pujari-Shah have always had a passion for teaching, and the pursuit of that passion has led them to become the owners of the Best in Class Education Center in the Cory Lake Isles Professional Center on Cross Creek Blvd. The mission of Best in Class Education Center, a franchise that specializes in supplemental education, is in the name – to take students in kindergarten through 12th grade and help make them the best in their class. “I was very impressed with the curriculum which is not repetitive and enhances the students’ analytical thinking,” Swarna says. “The curriculum is school-based, so students can actually see the results reflect in their performance at the school and on tests like the Florida Standards Assessments (FSA) and SAT. The only problem was, the nearest Best in Class locations were in Texas and Maryland. So the Pujari-Shahs decided to bring one to New Tampa.

About The Owners

The Pujari-Shahs both came to the U.S. from India in 2003, and met at the University of South Florida while both of them were pursuing post-graduate degrees. Nirjhar earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, while Swarna earned her Master’s degree in Computer Science. Teaching was part of their daily lives, even with a rigorous class schedule. Nirjhar began tutoring classmates at USF, primarily in math, and it was not long before he found work as an adjunct professor. Swarna started volunteering, teaching

math and English to students at Gurukulam of Tampa Bay, an educational organization dedicated to developing students of all ages that was created by the late Dr. A.N.V Rao, a former math professor at USF. As Swarna spent her Sundays tutoring middle- and high-school aged students, her passion for teaching grew. “Teaching is very close to my heart,” Swarna says. “I also believe that teachers play a very critical role in shaping students’ minds, and that is a huge responsibility.” Swarna graduated in 2005. The couple would marry in November of 2007, and a month later, Nirjhar completed his Ph.D. It would not be long before their professional careers took over the bulk of their waking hours, Nirjhar at Amec Foster Wheeler, an engineering consulting firm, and Swarna at PharMerica, a pharmacy service provider. Even so, they say their mutual passion for teaching never died. Nirjhar would continue tutoring on the side, specializing in SAT test prep, as well as math and English, while Swarna continued at Gurukulam until 2007 and did private tutoring afterwards. In 2011, their daughter Anya was born. The obligations of raising an infant while already holding down full-time jobs squeezed teaching out of the picture for a few years. By 2016, as Anya was getting about the age to start kindergarten, they began to explore getting back into the education field. “We’ve always had such a passion for teaching and it’s rewarding when you can interact with kids,” Nirjhar says. “We wanted some kind of educational work in our lives, and Anya provided the catalyst for us

to try something on our own.” It began with Swarna seeking out supplementary and kindergarten prep type of programs. She was not thrilled with what her early searches revealed. “Both my husband and I completed our primary education in India, and we did not have a good understanding about the public school system here (in the U.S.),” Swarna says. “After speaking with some of our friends to understand their experience, theirs was that they were happy with the schools. The common complaint, however, or worry, was if their kids were challenged enough in school.” While they searched for a program for Anya, the Pujari-Shahs discovered the Best in Class program. “The lesson plan is tailored to the students’ needs, which allows the students to progress at their own pace, so they are not tied down to the class- Swarna, Anya and Dr. Nirjhar Pujari-Shah of Best In Class Education Center in the Cory Lakes Prof. Center. room pace,” Swarna said Swarna convinced Nirjhar that He called the owners and discovered that Best in Class was the way to go, and that bring- their life situations were almost identical. The ing it to Tampa would benefit everyone. Houston franchisees had full-time jobs, and a “I had to sell the idea to Nirjhar, as I small child at home. They said they started out wanted Anya to benefit and also help other putting in two days per week, working evenings students in the Tampa community to benefit and weekends around their regular jobs. from this,” Swarna said. “The conversation pushed us into the It was not a hard sell. opportunity, and we contacted the corporate “We were exploring options of a franchise, office,” Nirjhar said. “We looked at other opor owning our own, and with our full-time tions, but Best in Class really clicked for us.” jobs, most on-our-own options dropped off the They agree that operating a Best in Class list early,” Nirjhar said. Education Center was the perfect opportunity. Nirjhar came across an article in a trade The hands-on training offered by the corporate magazine about a Best in Class franchise in office brought the Pujari-Shahs into the busiHouston, TX. ness side of the franchise. They spent a week in

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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Seattle, WA, where the company’s corporate headquarters is located, taking seminars. “It was the first time we were exposed to that side of the business,” Nirjhar said. “They went over everything, from how to market the business to questions that prospective parents would ask.” After the seminars, in the summer of 2016, Best in Class sent representatives down to New Tampa to help with the setup and launch of the business. The team helped with site selection, advertising and even the furniture selection and color scheme of the center. “The franchise people were very supportive,” Nirjhar said. “They even came to help with the grand opening details like invitations, creating raffle prizes, even operational things like setting up phone and internet service.” In January of 2017, Best in Class of New Tampa opened its doors to the public. Little Anya was her parents’ first customer. “There were several other kid-oriented businesses already in the shopping center,” Nirjhar said. “There is a martial arts studio, a visual arts studio, a dance academy, day care, and there is a yoga center right next door.” There also are several schools within just a few miles. Hunter’s Green, Heritage, Pride and Clark elementary schools were nearby. Benito Middle School is just down the road and Liberty M.S., Freedom and Wharton high schools are just a few miles away. Best in Class of New Tampa serves children in kindergarten through 12th grade. “We have been developing connections with PTA organizations at the public schools, and are teaming up with other similar businesses and after-care places in the area,” Nirjhar says. Just eight months into operations, Best in Class of New Tampa already employs eight teachers on a part-time basis. The Pujari-Shahs

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seek out teachers who are in their junior or senior years of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education or in pursuit of their Master’s degrees. Currently, all of Best in Class’ teachers are students at USF. Their chess teacher is the president of the USF Chess Club. Being only eight months old, Best in Class of New Tampa does not yet offer the full slate of programs listed on the company’s website. But, as the local center continues to grow, those services will be added. Currently, the center offers programs in math, reading/ writing, private tutoring, SAT/ACT test prep and writing skills assessments. And yes, chess. “Chess is a logical extension of what we are doing,” Nirjhar said. “It helps improve kids’ focus significantly. It helps with strategy, with their math and English skills, and it helps kids associate Best in Class with something fun. They don’t perceive it as work or homework.” Best is Class has programs for children that are above, on or behind their grade level. There is an assessment test administered to each student prior to enrollment. The test is a standardized test designed by the Best in Class corporation, and is designed to evaluate a student’s level in different subjects. “It is very tough to balance between a full-time job, raising a child and running Best in Class, but it is very satisfying to see the students from our community learning and excelling in academics,” Swarna said. New Tampa’s Best in Class Education Center is located at 10323 Cross Creek Blvd., Suite C, and its current hours are Tuesday 5:30p.m.-8 p.m. on Tuesdays, 4 p.m.-8 p.m. on Wednesdays and 9:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, visit BestinClassEducation.com/ locations/cross-creek, call 813-406-4220 or see the ad on page 35.

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SPOTLIGHT ON...Samantha Taylor Fitness! Fitness professional Samantha Taylor (photo) offers fitness training and nutritional counseling for women only, helping them to “age backwards,” as Samantha says, at her Wesley Chapel location, across the street from Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) in the Shoppes of Wesley Chapel plaza on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. Her Pure Health Personal Training and Fit Body Boot Camp programs start with a completely free, no-obligation consultation called a “Body Transformation Analysis” to determine goals and plan a fitness program. The most customized, personal and private option available is Pure Health Personal Training. This can be done in one-on-one, semi-private, or in small group sessions. In addition to the personal training, each client also meets with an assigned results coach monthly, to make sure they’re progressing. Clients who choose Samantha’s Fit Body Boot Camp attend regular or beginner Boot Camp sessions, which vary in cardiovascular intensity levels. Several classes are offered every day, and many women choose three or more times each week to attend. “We are getting women in amazing shape,” says Samantha. She is a Certified Personal Trainer who began her career 24 years ago and launched her own business 17 years ago. During that time, she estimates that she has trained 5,000 local women. Samantha uses her experience as a personal trainer – seeing what works and what doesn’t with her many clients – and her years of intensely studying the human body to coach women in fitness and healthy eating. “Most of the people who come to us have done all the diets,” says Samantha.

“The shakes, pills, protein diets and calorie deprivation diets. They’re shocked they can eat the way I show them. They love the food and they lose weight.” She says many of her clients see more than just weight loss – they’re getting healthier as well. “They are preventing diseases such as heart disease and diabetes,” she says. “Some clients no longer have to take cholesterol or blood pressure medication, and no longer suffer from muscle pains and aches.” Samantha’s original location also is nearby in Land O’Lakes, off S.R. 54 on Knight Rd., and she has recently opened her third and fourth locations in Carrollwood and Westchase, respectively. She’ll host another free seminar on Saturday, September 16, 12:30 p.m., at her Land O’Lakes location (2206 Knight Rd.) featuring Shannon Barker, the Samantha Taylor Fitness Nutrition Educator, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science & Nutrition. Taylor and Barker will help attendees achieve their fullest potential in health and fitness by learning to tweak their diets and track their calories for maximum results. Light snacks and gourmet coffee will be provided at the seminar, which is free for members and guests. Reserve your space at SamanthaTaylorSeminars.com. For more info, call (813) 377-3739, visit SamanthaTaylorFitness.com or see the ad on pg. 20 of this issue.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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Pipeline Swimming Growing Into One Of Tampa Bay’s Biggest & Best Swim Clubs By ANDY WARRENER and JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

Swimming has always been a part of Rene Piper’s life. She was in the pool at age 4. She swam competitively in her youth, starred on her high school team in her native Indiana, and earned a scholarship to college. She cut her coaching teeth in Sarasota, where she was a successful club coach who also started the swimming program at Lakewood Ranch High, leading it to three high school county championships. Her daughters also have been college swimmers. So, when she was asked to take over a loose collection of swimmers in New Tampa who couldn’t seem to keep a coach longer than six months, Rene jumped at the challenge. What started as 11 swimmers in 2013 is now 111 strong as the Pipeline Swimming Club — which has its largest of three training locations at the pool at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club, has become Tampa Bay’s fastest-growing swim club. It was a tragedy that originally brought Piper to Tampa Palms, as previous coach Alex Richardson left to take over at Westchase after its popular director of aquatics Kelley Allen was murdered, devastating the Tampa-area swimming community. “They just wanted me to help,” Piper says. “There were four or five hundred swimmers (in Tampa) that were just in shock. Some of what we did was grief counseling.” At the time, Piper was an assistant at St. Petersburg Aquatics under head coach Fred Lewis. Lewis had close ties to the Tampa club swimming community, and asked Piper if she wanted to head north and start the biggest and best swimming club in Tampa. That may have seemed ludicrous, considering at the time there was some doubt about whether the club would even survive. Piper moved to Tampa Palms, just a half mile from the pool at the country club, and got to work. “I really felt at home (in Tampa Palms),” Piper says. “They welcomed me in and after they’d gone through four coaches in three years. I saw it as a challenge to grow the team.” Now, four-and-a-half years later, the club boasts 240 swimmers training at three different facilities in Tampa

assistant coaches, and one of the rising stars in the Pipeline program is Goldblum’s daughter McKaley. Goldblum swam for Banks’ Blue Wave swimming program for 11 years, starring for Durant High in Plant City and at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville. McKaley is a sophomore on Freedom High’s swim team. “The first time I brought McKaley here, she just loved it,” Goldblum said. “The sport is a huge part of our lives and having Peter (Banks) here is fantastic. The staff at Pipeline is amazing and it’s like we’re one, big, happy family.” McKaley, unlike Piper, wasn’t in the pool at four years old. Rather, she was a volleyball player much of her young athletic life, and only came out for swimming this past January. HowA few of the more than 100 swimmers who call Pipeline Swimming at TPGCC home. ever, her rise has been meteoric. Piper projects McKaley will be a finalist (in Palms, New Port Richey and Eastlake Woodlands. the top 8) at the high school state meet in either the 100m or Piper, who swam for legendary coach Doc Councilman at 200m freestyle distances, or both. Indiana University in Bloomington, has brought in top coaches At McKaley’s first high school meet of the season, she won to help build the program and develop swimmers, like Peter both the 200m freestyle and the 100m backstroke. Banks, former head coach and director of aquatics for the Bran“At that first competition, I was scared,’’ McKaley says. don Swim & Tennis Club (BSAC) and the Blue Wave Swim “But I talked with the coaches and they made me feel comTeam. One of his former students, three-time U.S. Olympic fortable. They push me, but I have a lot of support from them. gold medalist Brooke Bennett, is also on the staff at Pipeline, as They make me want to get up in the morning.” well as former FSU and South African National Team swimmer Abigail Leisure, McKaley’s teammate at Freedom, also is a Jared Pike. member of Pipeline. Leisure is particularly strong in the breastWith that kind of instruction, Pipeline is shooting high. stroke and Piper thinks she’ll be in the top three in the state in “They had four coaches who all stayed around for six the event. Pipeline also has swimmers competing for Wharton, months and said there was no talent in Tampa Palms, and I King, all three Wesley Chapel high schools and others. thought that was absolutely not true,’’ Piper says. “We think Carly Joerin, a 14-year-old Liberty Middle schooler, was we’ll have 6-8 kids going to Olympic trials in Omaha in 2019.” See “Pipeline” on pg. 50 West Meadows resident Vanessa Goldblum is one of the

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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New Identities Hair Studio Featured On HBO’s ‘Hard Knocks’ With The Bucs! By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews. It wasn’t just another hair coloring appointment for Katie Ellwood. After all, Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Kwon Alexander was sitting in her chair at the New Identities Hair Studio of Tampa in Tampa Palms and a handful of television cameras were pointed right at her. Everything she said, every move she made, every hair she dyed red was going to be shown to the entire country on HBO’s popular “Hard Knocks” reality show. “Was I nervous?,’’ Katie said. “Yeah, a little.” Thanks to a recommendation from one of her customers, Bucs defensive tackle and Tampa Palms resident Gerald McCoy, Ellwood was working her magic on Alexander, who was looking to sharpen the red in his current ‘do. Katie had done a similar job on McCoy two years ago, and the All-Pro lineman noticed that Alexander’s color was fading and told his teammate he needed to go see his stylist. “Hard Knocks,” which airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. on HBO and offers a behind-thescenes look at one NFL team each preseason – this year it’s the Bucs – followed along. “That was my first experience with a camera crew focused on what I was doing,’’ said Katie, although she has been involved in other photo shoots over the years. “The production crew was very nice and very informative.” Marc Rockquemore, who owns New Identities Hair Studios of Tampa with his wife Kelly, said they had less than 24 hours to get ready for Alexander and the HBO crew. Being on reality television shows, however, is old hat for Rockquemore and the crew at New Identities, which has been featured on shows like FOX-TV’s “Ambush Makeover,”

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Katie Ellwood, a hair stylist at New Identities Hair Studios in Tampa Palms, works on Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ linebacker Kwon Alexander’s hair for an episode of HBO’s “Hard Knocks.” house to watch it when it aired. “It was a little strange to see,’’ said Katie, a big Bucs fan and “Hard Knocks” viewer even before her appearance. “I just wanted to make The Learning Channel’s “A Wedding Story” sure I didn’t sound like a goober or and MTV’s “True Life.” anything. Once my 30 seconds were New Identities also has had a long relaover, I was able to relax and just tionship with the Bucs. From 2003 until last watch the rest of the show.” year, Rockquemore sent a crew of stylists to She did receive a slew of text every Bucs game to do the cheerleaders’ hair. messages that night. Patrons at Currently, New Identities is working with the the new Fat Rabbit Pub in Tampa Tampa Bay Lightning cheerleaders. Palms, which Katie owns with her “We’ve had a lot of blessings come into husband John, congratulated her our lives,’’ says Rockquemore, whose studio the next day. Two days later, an old has more than 10,000 followers on Instagram. friend and former Bucs cheerleader Katie’s experience in front of the cameras texted her from New York to tell took more than an hour, but once edited by her she had seen her on the show. HBO producers, was distilled into her 30 “Overall, it was a really cool seconds of fame in the show’s third episode experience,’’ Katie said. (check it out on the HBO GO app). For more information about the New Identities Hair Studios in Tampa Palms Instead of any viewing parties, Katie (15307 Amberly Dr.) and South Shore (10639 Big Bend Rd., Riverview), visit NewIdensaid she just went over to her girlfriend’s titiesSalon.com, or call (813) 979-0760 (New Tampa) or (813) 741-1177 (Riverview).

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Are You Still Looking For A Preschool? Check Out The Learning Experience! By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Jhana Pardue knew her son Noah wasn’t getting everything he could out of the daycare/learning center he was attending. He was unhappy, and so was she. So, Jhana started looking around, visiting every childcare facility she could, and then walked into The Learning Experience Academy of Early Education near her home in Lakewood Ranch. “I remember it was a Friday,’’ she says. “I loved it.” Jhana (the “J” is silent) was on her way to the airport for a trip to Texas, and she filled out the registration forms on the airplane ride. By the time Monday rolled around, she was dropping little Noah off for his first day. “Fast forward two years, and here I am,’’ Jhana says, from her office at her own The Learning Experience (TLE) of New Tampa, located across County Line Rd. from the SuperTarget, behind L.A. Fitness. That’s right – Jhana, who volunteered when she wasn’t working at her accounting job, and Noah, her precocious almost-2-yearold at the time, loved TLE so much, that the Pardues decided to buy their own franchise. “I love children,” Jhana says. “I always wanted to do something and I knew accounting wasn’t fulfilling everything with me anymore. I was looking forward to volunteering more than going to work. So one day, I told my husband, ‘Why not do this?’”

New Kids On The Block

Jhana opened the New Tampa location on July 17. As a former Cory Lake Isles and Heritage Isles resident from 2011-13, she

Owner Jhana Pardue (left) and director Amy Rath take pride in the curriculum, energy and security offered at The Learning Experience of New Tampa on County Line Rd. knew the area well, and was thrilled to have the colors of the Lakewood Ranch facility, the brightness, the atmosphere, the soft children’s opportunity to build her TLE there. music and even the smell – which was always Opening day capped a whirlwind year. fresh and clean. The Pardues signed their franchise papers in It was the curriculum, however, that Feb. of 2016, and immediately afterwards, Jhanudged her to pursue her own franchise. na enrolled at State College of Florida in BraFor Noah, and many other children, it is denton to earn her Early Childhood Education Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree, to go with her a perfect fit. Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Accounting “He is discovery-based, he is really & Business Administration from the University hands on, and The Learning Experience is of Central Florida in Orlando. designed that way to let our children explore The New Tampa location isn’t much the different learning styles,’’ Jhana says. different from the TLE that Jhana fell in love “Noah adapted well, because he was able with. She says she was initially struck by the to be himself. The other school he went to

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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wanted him to learn one way.” The Learning Experience was founded by Michael and Linda Weissman in 1980 with a single location in Boca Raton, and was built on teaching through cognitive, physical and social principles; or as Jhana says, “Learn, Play and Grow.” When it comes to learning, TLE uses the proprietary Learning Experience Academic Program (L.E.A.P.) that Jhana says was written by educators with more than 25 years of experience. It guarantees that children will graduate with “exceptional core academic skills.” The curriculum was written around what TLE feels are the six stages of development – Infant (6 weeks to 1 year old), Toddler (1-2 years old), Tawdler (2-2-½ years old), Prepper (2-½ to 3 years old), Preschooler (3-5 years old), and Kindergartner (5 years old, but not offered at all locations, including Jhana’s). L.E.A.P. includes sign language for infants and toddlers, a phonics program and even foreign language programs. Mandarin is taught for one year, as well as Spanish. “It’s definitely one of the things that sets us apart,’’ Jhana says. L.E.A.P. workbooks include a journal, an interactive book and Fun With Phonics, which is specifically designed to teach reading to 3and 4-year-olds. According to Jhana, nine out of 10 children who leave TLE’s Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program head off to kindergarten able to read. “And, we’re trying to get to 100 percent,’’ she says. Children take part in activities that promote a healthy and active lifestyle. TLE offers eight enrichment programs for children, like Yippee 4 Yoga, Suddenly Science, Dancing

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Feet, Talent Sprouts and Super Soccer. A 65-inch interactive, computerized SMART Board is currently being installed in one of the classrooms as well. Jhana takes great pride in ensuring TLE’s curriculum is used and applied. She says that is not always the case at other learning centers, where the curriculum sometimes serves as more of a rough outline. And, mascots like Flexi Flamingo (P.E.), Lionstein (Science) and Bubbles the Elephant — the leader of the mascots — help lead the children through their day. “We learn through play,” Jhana says. “The children think they are playing, but they are actually learning. We do this through small group activities, more 1-on-1 interaction and more individualized teaching.”

Happy Employees, Happy Kids

All lead teachers are required to have their Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate, which is equivalent to an early childhood education A.A degree, Jhana says. Assistant teachers have to complete 45 hours of Florida Department of Children & Families (DCF) Child Care Training. In less than two months, TLE already has enrolled 90 children, and has a staff of 15. TLE’s 1-to-6 child-to-teacher ratio exceeds state requirements. “Most classes are overstaffed,’’ Jhana says. “We exceed state ratios, but I’d rather have the extra help.” Meadow Pointe resident Amy Rath was working for another childcare/learning center when she drove by TLE’s construction site for the first time. She looked online to see what

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TLE had to offer, and was impressed with the curriculum. “I said in the back of my mind, I’m going to be director of that school one day,” Amy says. After a few interviews, she was hired. “I hadn’t even posted the position when Miss Go-Getter over here started emailing,’’ Jhana says, laughing.

Piece Of Mind

Melissa De Oleo was another passerby on County Line Rd. who was eagerly awaiting the opening of TLE. She had been looking for a place for her 1-½ -yr.-old son London when construction began, “and I started stalking the place,’’ she jokes. She drove to TLE locations in Palm Harbor and Brandon for a tour, and says that she was hooked. “I love that they have a curriculum and are teaching instead of just taking care of them,’’ Melissa says. Although she says that London cried the first few days he was away from his mother, he now gleefully run towards the mural of Bubbles that greets visitors, to say hi, and then

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Children who attend The Learning Experience of New Tampa get to enjoy this cool mini-village. to his teacher Rebecca. She also receives pictures and updates “He loves it here,’’ she says. on everything from what London ate to the last time he went to the bathroom to what And, Melissa says she also loves the he learned during the day, all in real time via secure nature of the facility. Parents cannot TLE’s smartphone app. enter without their assigned key fob, and “Basically, I know everything that he is have to sign in at two different places to get doing,’’ she says. their child. Getting back to the classrooms Which, at the moment, happened to be also requires a key fob, and the playground sleeping. Melissa was there to pick London up out back is protected by 8-foot-high privaat 12:30 p.m., but instead of waking him up cy fences. to bring him to his mother, she was allowed to There are cameras in every room, and wait until he woke up on his own. in the office used by Amy and Jhana, there “That’s really nice,’’ she says. is a 32-inch television to monitor 16 security To learn more about The Learning Excameras (above, left). perience of New Tampa, located at 20780 The first few days after dropping Trout Creek Dr., visit TheLearningExperiLondon off, Melissa would hang back and ence.com/our-centers/fl/tampa/new-tampa, watch her son on the monitor. When he call (813) 534-6364 or see the ad on page began interacting with other kids, she jokes 47 of this issue. that it was a “miracle.”

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Tarek’s Café Is Now Making Dinner Affordable For Everyone In New Tampa!

By GARY NAGER

VEN IF you’ve somehow still never heard of Tarek’s Café in the Shoppes at Amberly plaza in Tampa Palms, owner Tarek Elsayed’s original Tarek’s Café on the USF Tampa campus is a 26-year institution that is packed every day with hungry — and often, cash-strapped students. So, Tarek (photo on next page) knows how to feed you on a budget. The problem is that after a decent opening in February of last year, his Tampa Palms location — which actually took over our former office in the plaza — was soon saddled with Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. construction woes which continued until very recently. “We’ve always done well for breakfast, but our lunch and dinner business in Tampa Palms was building until they started that construction,” says Tarek, trying to maintain his usual smile. “The construction really hurt us, but now that it’s over, I want your Neighborhood News readers to know that I now offer delicious, from-scratch food for breakfast, lunch and dinner!” We’ll get back to breakfast and lunch in a minute, but Tarek just brought back dinner after Labor Day and he truly is offering an outstanding selection of 12 dinner entrées, all served with salad and most served with your choice of two sides — all for just $9.99! And, you can add one of Tarek’s awesome desserts (see below) and a soft drink for just $3 more. Our office favorites are the homemade

beef (there’s also veggie) lasagne, the meat loaf (see the ad on pg. 45), the hearty beef stew and the huge serving of chicken parmigiana. I’m not a salmon lover myself, but the creamy dill sauce served on the salmon in the pic (right) is very tasty as are sides like real mashed potatoes and fresh veggies. Tarek also offers a variety of Middle Eastern favorites, including chicken with garbanzo beans, a hummus and falafel platter, a couscous salad with fresh mozzarella and tomato and more. For the kids, dinner costs just $6.50 for chicken tenders, grilled cheese or a smaller burger, and all include their choice of fries or fruit. Tarek’s is already a really convenient place for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a capacity of nearly 150 people, although the spacious dining room only has 100 or so seats as currently configured. “This is a great place for breakfast before church or brunch after, for after youth baseball, soccer and other sporting events and even for business meetings,” he says. “I also provide catering for up to 200 people. Just give me an idea of the menu you’d like to serve and let me do the rest.”

Grilled Salmon Dinner

Breakfast & Baked Goods

Although he can’t serve pork products in his restaurant (so, no regular bacon or sausage), Tarek does an outstanding job with breakfast, too. He says people still tell him he serves the best corned beef hash in town, he made me a great egg and cheese sandwich on Cuban-style bread and people rave about his pancakes, too.

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Chicken w/Garbanzo Beans

Beef Lasagne

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Beef Stew

Corned Beef Hash & Egg Breakfast

For lunch, Tarek also makes excellent gyro sandwiches with crispy French fries and a thick, juicy adult-sized burger that also is on the dinner menu. But, if you haven’t tried Tarek’s house-baked chocolate chocolate chip muffins, his baklava or our office’s favorite — his white-chocolate-covered brownie balls (photo, right), you’ll kick yourself for not trying them sooner once you do. Tarek’s Café (15345 Amberly Dr.) is open every day except Mon. for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Call (813) 252-3238, visit TareksCafeandGrill.com or see the ad on pg. 45 for a coupon for $5 off any purchase of $25 or more.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Husband & Wife U.S. Army Vets Bring Menchie’s FroYo To Wiregrass! By Gary Nager

By now, there’s probably not much I can tell you about self-serve frozen yogurt places. They pretty much all have similar flavors, similar toppings and similar brightlycolored décor. So, what is that sets Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt — now open for several months in the same outparcel building that also includes the new Irish 31 at the Shops at Wiregrass mall — apart from its competition? Based on my experience with first-time franchise owners Sheilla and Leroy Lee, two U.S. Army veterans (she spent four years in the service; he has more than 20 years in the Army and retired as a Sergeant Major, the highest rank for a non-commissioned soldier), it’s the people. They’re both warm and friendly and Sheilla, who is usually on-site at the store, is proud to call the Wesley Chapel Menchie’s a family-run business. Teenage daughters Tamara (photo) and Tiffany both work at the store, although Tamara was getting ready to head of to school at the University of Central Florida in Orlando as we went to press. “We knew we wanted to buy a franchise and we did our research,” Sheilla says. “Even though we both originally wanted different types of businesses, we agreed that Menchie’s was an outstanding, growing franchise (now the largest frozen yogurt franchise in the U.S., with more than 500 stores worldwide and about 70 in Florida) with a built-in audience,” as Menchies.com says that more than 90 percent of households in the U.S. indulge in frozen desserts. And, a truly delicious frozen dessert

it is, with a dozen constantlychanging flavors that include everything from the most popular toasty marshmallow to no-sugar-added peanut butter and from name-brand favorites like chocolate caramel biscuit, made with real Twix bars, and Dole pineapple sorbet, to New York cheesecake and “Jumpin’ Java Latté.” “We rotate the flavors in the store every two to three weeks and receive two new flavors every month,” Sheilla says. “We already have quite a few regulars who look forward to the new releases, like the new piña colada sorbet that came out earlier in August. Our customers really seem to love the product.” And yes, it is a healthy option, with probiotic cultures that aid digestion, plus gluten-free, vegan, and no high fructose corn syrup options. Menchie’s also strives to use natural flavors including real cake, cookies, spices, fruits and nuts. The entire line of frozen yogurt is certified Kosher and is awarded the live and active culture seal by the National Yogurt Association. But, what I love most at Menchie’s may not be the healthiest thing about it, because the toppings rock my world. With everything from chocolate fudge and liquid marshmallow toppings to ground Kit-Kat and Reese’s candy bars, gummy worms and oh yeah, fresh strawberries and pineapple, I’m defi-

nitely a fan of the toppings at Menchie’s. There’s also a great variety of pre-made and custom-made froyo cakes, quarts and pints of different Menchie’s flavors in the store’s freezer, plus Menchie’s “merch” like T-shirts, cute swirl-headed dolls, kickballs emblazoned with the franchise’s logo and even tie-ins to major motion pictures, like the new “Emoji Movie” cups and spoons. At only 56 cents an ounce, it’s certainly an affordable indulgence, too. And, with its ideal location between Irish 31 and Noble Crust at the mall, it’s sure to become an even

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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bigger favorite, especially with the buy-one, get-one-half-off coupon from the ad on pg. 38 of this issue. Speaking of savings, you’ll get another coupon for 20-percent off your next purchase when you donate a dollar to the American Heart Assn. at Menchie’s. Great yogurt, even better toppings and people and super savings? You owe it to yourself to try Menchie’s today! Menchie’s is located at 28356 Willet Way. For more info, call (813) 991-0365, search “MenchiesShopsatWiregrass” on Facebook or visit Menchies.com.

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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

Mouse on August 5. And, by mentioning that you saw this story in the New Tampa Neighborhood News, you can get half off the usual registration fee. Justus says you can use KidsPark as your primary preschool or as a complement to other programs. KidsPark’s flexible schedule and affordable daily and hourly rates, supervised play and active, hands-on learning, plus private parties, make it a place you should explore for your children ages 2-12. For more info, KidsPark.com or call (Far left) Owner Amanda Justus (between Mickey & Minnie) visit (813) 803-4972.

and her staff welcomed guests to the one-year anniversary party for KidsPark (Lic. #C06PA0289) on S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel.

Happy Birthday, KidsPark!

Congratulations to KidsPark of Tampa owner Amanda Justus and her staff at KidsPark, the unique daycare center located in the same plaza as Ashley Furniture off S.R. 56, just east of I-75. KidsPark celebrated its one-year anniversary with a great event that also just happened to be attended by Minnie & Mickey

El Pescador Is Coming Soon!

My friend Fabian Jimenez, the owner of the Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant in the Wesley Chapel Village Market, says he’s getting close to opening a very different new restaurant in the Publix-anchored New Tampa Center plaza at 19062 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. (less than two miles south of the Pasco line).

El Pescador Taqueria & Seafood, which will open in the space previously occupied by WingZone, will still have tacos, enchiladas and burritos, but will also feature fresh seafood such as snow crab legs, mussels and more. Fabian couldn’t give me an exact opening date at our press time, but he promises it will be worth the wait. For more information, call (813) 615-9595.

DQ Out, Snowrolls In!

The ever-changing local ice cream/frozen yogurt scene is changing again, as New Tampa’s Dairy Queen, located in the shopping center on BBD in North Palms Village, next to Oakley’s Grille, has closed. My understanding is that the New Tampa DQ had changed owners fairly recently but the place had previously had a pretty good following, so I was surprised

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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to see it leave the area. There is another Dairy Queen on S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel. And, speaking of ice cream, I’m excited about the opening of the new Snowrolls rolled ice cream parlor which opened a few weeks ago in the space most recently occupied by Ms. Jayne’s Cupcakes at 19651 BBD Blvd., in the Pebble Creek Collection almost directly behind Kobe Steakhouse. This is the second location of Snowrolls to open, with several more franchised locations also getting ready to open. Snowrolls is the brainchild of two managers — Adrian and Ely — from 900° Woodfired Pizza in the Shops at Wiregras mall and features the best variety of Thai-inspired rolled ice cream flavors in the area, although you also can customize your snowroll with pretty much any topping/flavor you like. For info, visit Snowrolls.com or call (813) 527-6556. — GN

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.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.

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LAWN & LANDSCAPING

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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.

HELP WANTED ROHE TWYMAN, an established and growing family law firm, with offices in Lake, Orange, and Sumter Counties, is expanding into the Pasco and Hillsborough area and is in immediate need of an experienced paralegal for its Wesley Chapel office. Ideal candidates possess three years’ experience in family law, however all applicants considered. Send resumes to Cindy Terry, at cindy@rohetwyman. com or call 352-742-0583. WANTED: PIANIST/ACCOMPANIST Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel is seeking a talented pianist/ accompanist to play for the traditional worship service, accompany the choir, soloists, special programs, etc. Contact Julie Pearson, Choir Director, music@trinitychurchwc.com. HIRING PERSONAL TRAINER. Private Women’s Studio with Boot Camp & Personal Training in Wesley Chapel & Land O’ Lakes owned by Samantha Taylor. Please no phone calls or walk ins.To apply part time: www.lolfitbodybootcamp.com/hire-pt. 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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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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SUNSHINE CLEANERS Top Quality...Great Prices

$5 Oﬀ Any Size Comforter $2.79 Press Only* $3.49 Drycleaning & Press* $1.59 Men’s Business Shirts * Some garments incur additional charge. Neighborhood News

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

‘Pipeline’

Continued from page 34

one of the original 11 swimmers that Piper inherited at Tampa Palms. Her mother Tibbie Farnsworth says that without Piper, the program would have never survived, and because of Piper, her daughter has thrived in the pool. “I think it’s their approach,’’ Farnsworth says. “They are involved in the kids’ lives. And they make it fun for the kids. It’s competitive, but it’s fun. They work hard because it’s fun. They brought in a great coaching staff that has the same philosophy.” It’s the little touches, Farnsworth says — like noticing when someone has had their braces taken off, asking about a test in school or even having nicknames for the swimmers. When Carly showed up for 5 a.m. practice on Aug. 31, her 14th birth-

day, the coaches were there with a cake. “Isn’t that awesome?,’’ Farnsworth says. Pipeline isn’t just a club for competitive swimmers, Piper says. The club offers mommyand-me swim classes for toddlers. There is a “Scare D Cats” program for adults who are non-swimmers. There are active Pipeline members from five years old to age 64. “Youth swimming programs are a perfect place to find an identity,” Piper said. “Being part of a club became my identity and I stuck with it. It teaches dedication, discipline, life lessons and there’s a benefit to the social aspect of it, too. A swimming friend is a friend for life.” The Pipeline Swimming Club holds tryouts every Monday and Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club pool at 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd. For more information, visit PipelineSwimming.com, or call 941-737-4455.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 25, Issue 19 • September 8, 2017 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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