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Volume 17 Issue 22

WESLEY CHAPEL Inside:

25,000 Attend WCCC Craft Fair!

NEWS

See page 3!

October 30, 2009

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

Local Road Projects Progressing According To Schedule Although there will be plenty of roadwork in the Wesley Chapel area over the next several months and even years, Pasco County officials are reporting that the county’s ongoing road projects, including the eastward extension of S.R. 56 and the widening of both Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (C.R. 581) and S.R. 54, are all progressing according to schedule. Chief project manager Bob Shepherd says the eastward extension of S.R. 56 from where it currently ends at Mansfield Blvd. to Meadow Pointe Blvd. should be completed by midNovember. The asphalt for the fourlane extension already has been laid and all that is left to be done is final surfacing, striping and some fencing and sodwork along the roadside. The county also plans to add traffic signals at the intersections of Mansfield Blvd. and S.R. 56, Meadow Pointe Blvd. and S.R. 56 and at the S.R. 56 entrance to the Shops at Wire-

grass mall, but Shepherd says that work on the first two of those signals won’t begin until the extension is nearly complete, so at first there will only be stop signs at the Mansfield Blvd. and Meadow Pointe Blvd. intersections. He adds that the signal at the mall entrance most likely will not be added until after the holiday season. The extension of S.R. 56 is key to the county’s plan for widening S.R. 54 from two lanes to four between C.R. 581 and Curley Rd., since that plan calls for drivers to use that roadway as a way to bypass the work on S.R. 54 once it begins. Shepherd says that all of the property needed for the S.R. 54 widening finally has been acquired, and the work of relocating utilities and businesses along the right of way is set to get under way. Pasco is now accepting bids for the project, and once the bidding ends on November 17, the Pasco Board of County Commissioners will most likely select the winning bid at its meeting in December, which should allow actual construction to

begin in early 2010. “Everybody is really anxious to get going on that project,” Shepherd says. Meanwhile, workers also have been busy with the initial groundwork for the widening of Bruce B. Downs from two lanes to four lanes between S.R. 54 and County The eastward extension of S.R. 56 to Meadow Pointe Line Rd. Blvd. in the foreground above, is nearly complete. Although they Shepherd says that should happen have been making steady progress within the next month or two. southward, Shepherd says the BBD And finally, the removal of the project is a little behind schedule, existing bridge over S.R. 54 at I-75, thanks to summer rains, but is still moving along nicely. He says that once which also will allow for the eventual widening of the interstate in that area, the foundation for the new lanes, also is on track, with most of the work which are being added on the west taking place during the overnight side of the existing roadway, has been hours. Shepherd says that project is laid, the county will then move traffic scheduled for completion by around over to those lanes while improvethis time next year. ments are made to the existing lanes.

Although the Mike “the A-Train” Alstott no longer runs through, around and over opponents at Raymond James Stadium, the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers fullback will be back in action for a good cause this month, as he heads up the third annual “Hike for Hospice,” Sunday, November 8, at the Wesley Chapel

District Park (7727 Boyette Rd.). The 5K Hike, which benefits Gulfside Regional Hospice in Dade City, starts at 9 a.m., but Alstott will be on hand to sign autographs and lead participants in a pre-Hike warmup exercise beginning at 7:30 a.m. “We are very grateful to Mike being a part of the Hike for Hospice

for the third year,” says Gulfside Regional Hospice president and CEO Linda Ward. Ward notes that Gulfside, which was founded in 1988, is the only hospice organization certified by the state of Florida that is directly dedicated to serving all areas of Pasco County exclusively. The non-profit organization provides a full range of services to patients who are facing terminal medical conditions and their families, including medical care for patients living at home, in assisted living facilities, or in one of Gulfside’s three Hospice Houses. Ward says that the Gulfside serves an average of 1,600-2,000 patients every year. Although Gulfside does receive support from both corporate and pri-

By Michael Smith

Hike With Mike For Hospice Or Play A Round Of Golf For VA Nurses

See pages 3-19!

See pages 21-32!

ECRWSS

Check Out The Latest BMW & Porsche Lots Of Chamber Events To Discuss, Models, Enjoying The Hungry Greek Local Man Arrested After High-Speed Restaurant, Our 2009 Neighborhood News Pursuit, Top Notch Pest Control Can Dining Survey & Contest & More! Protect Your Home Or Business & More!

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vate donations and sponsorships, the annual Hike also is a great source of funding for the organization, having raised more than $200,000 over the past three years. Ward says that all of that money goes directly to services for patients and their families. The cost to Hike with Mike is $25 for adults (children 10 and under are free), and every participant will receive a T-shirt, morning snack and beverages during the Hike. This year’s course is wheelchair-friendly, too. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. See “Hike For Hospice” on page 27.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Chamber Follows Up Successful Craft Fest With Health Fair An editorial by Gary Nager A couple of issues ago, I told you that my plan was to get more involved with the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC). To that end, I was a recent visitor to the Chamber’s awesome ‘70s Disco Flashback Night (that doubled as its awards banquet and officer induction ceremony) at Saddlebrook Resort (see page 28) and, just a few weeks later, I thoroughly enjoyed myself and was incredibly impressed at the WCCC’s first-ever HyundaiMazda Craft Show, held at The Grove plaza. Although the events were different in nature and scope — the Awards banquet was mainly attended by Chamber Board members and business sponsors, while the crowd of local residents at the weekend Craft Show (which was blessed by incredible weather both days) was estimated at more than 25,000 — both again showed that the Chamber is incredibly involved in and passionate about the Wesley Chapel community. Perhaps even more important is that both events also showed that despite the economy (or maybe because of it?), the people of Wesley Chapel continue to need and respond to their Chamber. I was one of the 13 “celebrities” who participated as judges of the Chamber’s annual Battle of the Wings,” a blind taste test of (this year) wings from eight different restaurants, from traditional “medium” Buffalo wings to blackened to this year’s winning “Texan Chili” wings from the Texas Roadhouse on S.R. 56. See “Chamber” on page 28.

(Left) Among the 13 Wesley Chapel Chamber Battle of the Wings”judges was a certain Gator fan. (Right) Incredible weather all weekend brought out a huge crowd to the Chamber’s first annual Craft Show

Some of the photos on these pages were taken by WCCC Ambassador Jeff Martin. Visit SmartMoveTampaBay.com or call 994-6795.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News 15345 Amberly Dr., Tampa, FL 33647 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Fax: 910-2483 Website: WCNeighborhoodNews.com Advertising E-mail: NewTampaNN@aol.com Editorial E-mail: NTNNEdit@yahoo.com

Publisher & Editor Gary Nager Managing Editor Michael Smith Correspondents

Kate Kramer • Melissa O’Brien • Matt Rubin

Advertising Sales & Billing Manager Julie Rinaldi Advertising Account Executive Sandra Nelson Art Director Tony Sica Graphic Designer Sandra Nelson Office & Marketing Assistants Jacob Glenn • Karen Glenn

Nothing that appears in Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 17, Issue 24, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, November 9, 2009. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertisingspace itself, not for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. © 2009 JM2 Communications, Inc.

(Center) Texas Roadhouse won this year’s Wing Battle. (Above) Everyone loved the “Living Statue” at the Craft Festival.

Table of Contents NEWS UPDATES.....................................Pages 1-9 News Briefs (cont. from Page 1)....................................4-5 Wesley Chapel Prison Guard Arrested Local Man Arrested After High-Speed Pursuit Castor Calls For EPA Review Of CCTC Permit Wesley Chapel Community Calendar.......................8-9

BUSINESS UPDATES...................................11-17 Dentist Luz Hernandez Offers Personalized Service..12-13 Let Top Notch Pest Control Rid Your Home Of The Creepy Crawlies.......................................................16-17 LOCAL SPORTS.................................................19 Longhorn Volleyball Team Goes Undefeated

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE Reeves Unveils New BMW & Porsche Models.............21 Hungry? Visit The Hungry Greek Restaurant................22 Neighborhood Nibbles...................................................23 Our Exclusive 2009 Dining Survey & Contest..........26 Hike For Hospice (cont. from Page 1)............................27 Chamber Events (cont. from Page 3)..............................28

WESLEY CHAPEL COLOR CLASSIFIEDS...30

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

W ESLEY C HAPEL Wesley Chapel Prison Guard Arrested

A Wesley Chapel correctional officer was arrested this month after arguing and scuffling with a pair of Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) deputies who responded to a 911 call at his home. According to a PCSO report, Geoffrey L. Linder, 35, who works as a guard at the Zephyrhills Correctional Institution, called 911 to report a domestic battery complaint just after 4 a.m. on October 18. When deputies responded to his residence at The Columns at Cypress Point apartment complex off S.R. 54, Linder told them that he had been punched in the face by another resident of the complex, and that he called 911 before she did. When the deputies asked why the female would call if Linder had been the one who had been punched, Linder, who allegedly had been drinking, became upset, according to the report, and began insulting the deputies. He also told them that he no longer wanted them to take the report and said he was going to report them to their supervisor. As the deputies turned to leave, however, Linder followed them into the breezeway of the apartment

News Briefs building and continued to shout insults at them. Linder then followed them into the parking lot and began yelling that “these deputies are refusing to help me and take my report.” After being advised to quiet down because of the lateness of the hour, he called 911 again and began yelling at the dispatcher, saying that the deputies were refusing to help him. At that point, several of Linder’s neighbors had come outside to see what was going on, and as the deputies approached one of the neighbors to see if she was disturbed by the ruckus, Linder allegedly ran up and yelled at the neighbor to “don’t open your door or say anything.” At that point, the deputies advised Linder that he was going to be placed under arrest for disturbing the peace, and he tried to run back into his apartment. A short struggle took place, during which time Linder tried to avoid being handcuffed, but the deputies were able to subdue him and place him under arrest. Linder was taken to the Pasco County Jail and charged with one count each of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest without violence, but

was released after posting a $150 bond.

Local Man Arrested After High-Speed Car Chase

A 36-year-old Wesley Chapel man was arrested after leading Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers on a high-speed chase that started on the Suncoast Pkwy. and ended at his home in the Chapel Pines subdivision. According to FHP spokesman Sgt. Larry Kraus, the incident began on the morning of Oct. 14, when an FHP trooper clocked Reginald Howard driving his Nissan Maxima at 75 miles per hour in a 60 mph zone. When the trooper tried to get Howard to pull over, however, he sped up. Then, after exiting the Suncoast at N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Howard struck the side of another trooper’s vehicle and continued on, Kraus said. Howard made several U-turns on Dale Mabry Hwy. before turning north on U.S. Hwy. 41, then east on S.R. 54 and north on Curley Rd. and finally stopping in the driveway of his house at 30550 Birdhouse Dr. He jumped out of the vehicle and ran into a nearby stand of woods, but was quickly apprehended after a brief foot pursuit. The car chase began with three FHP cruisers following Howard’s vehicle, but by the time he got to Wesley Chapel, nearly a dozen FHP and Pasco County Sheriff’s Office vehicles were

involved in the pursuit. Coincidentally, shortly after he got there, his probation officer also arrived at the house. That’s because Howard, who has a lengthy criminal Reginald record, was not only Howard on probation for a previous charge of grand theft at the time of the chase, but his driver’s license also was under suspension. He was charged with one count each of felony fleeing to elude a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and driving with a suspended license. “Hopefully, this time we’ll be able to get a conviction and get his license revoked,” Kraus said.

Castor Calls For EPA To Review CCTC Permit

Although the Cypress Creek Town Center (CCTC) is now back on track, since, as we told you in our last issue, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) reinstated the mall developer’s building permit after an 18-month review of environmental issues at the site, the project will now be getting additional scrutiny from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), thanks to a request

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

from District 11 U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Tampa). “I ask you to give every due consideration to suspending this permit and examining the very serious environmental issues at stake,” Castor wrote in a September 29 letter to EPA administrator Lisa Jackson. “The land in question is also important to the drinking water supply in Tampa, as Cypress Creek is a tributary of the Hillsborough River, one of our main sources of drinking water.” Castor, who served on the Hillsborough Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) between 2002-06, also raised questions about the 1-million-sq.-ft. CCTC project after it was originally approved by Pasco County officials in November 2004, and led the BOCC members to join with the Florida Department of Community Affairs (DCA) in an official objection to the project in January 2005. That objection led to a deal between the Jacobs Group and the state to reduce the amount of wetlands that were scheduled to be destroyed at the site, and also called for the Jacobs Group to more closely monitor discharges from the site into the surrounding environment. The project was then approved and permitted by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (Swiftmud) and the Corps and construction began on the

project in June 2007. Work was halted in early 2008, however, after several discharges of turbid (muddy) water from the site leaked into the Cypress Creek watershed, for which the developer was fined nearly $300,000 by the USACE. The Corps spent 18 months reviewing the permit it had issued for the project, and after some minor modifications, reinstated that permit in September, allowing work to continue. According to EPA spokesperson Dawn Harris Young, however, the U.S. Clean Water Act gives the EPA the power to restrict or even revoke the USACE permit in cases where projects will have unacceptable adverse effects on municipal water supplies. Therefore, the EPA’s Regional Office is now in the process of reviewing the CCTC project, to determine whether restricting or withdrawing the permit is warranted, and Young says that a decision on the matter should be reached within the next 60 days. “We are very grateful for the opportunity to have another set of eyes reviewing the project,” says Denise Layne, the spokesperson for the Tampa Bay chapter of the Sierra Club, who adds that it is very rare for the EPA to go back and look at a project that it had already reviewed previously, as in the case of the CCTC. “For them to go back and take a second look means that they must

think there is a possibility of harm to the environment,” Layne says, adding that a lawsuit filed by the Sierra Club in federal court challenging the USACE permit, which was on hold during the Corps’ review of the permit, is now also back on track again, but will basically have to start from scratch because of the modifications made by the Corps to the project permit following its review. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Jacobs Group says the company also has to basically start over with new bids for construction of the project and with negotiating with potential tenants because of the lengthy delay while the permit was being reviewed.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

W ESLEY C HAPEL

Community Calendar

Chamber Breakfast

Tuesday, November 3 – The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly Business Breakfast, 8 a.m., at the Tropics restaurant at Saddlebrook Resort. The guest speaker will be Karen Bowman of Hernando Pasco Hospice. The cost is $7 for Chamber members and their guests, and that includes a full buffet breakfast. Space is limited, so reservations are required. For information or reservations, call the Chamber office at 994-8534.

Open House

Thursday, November 5 – Independent Living Inc., a new outpatient occupational, physical and speech therapy clinic for children located at 27650 Cashford Circle, Suite 102, in the Summergate Professional Park in Seven Oaks, will hold a free Open House, 4 p.m.-7 p.m. The event will include information about the company’s services, balloon twisting with Mr. Fudge, snacks and more. For more info, call 963-6923 or visit independentlivinginc.com.

Community Garage Sale

Saturday, November 7 – The residents of the Quail Hollow subdivision

in Wesley Chapel will hold a community garage sale, 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. To get to Quail Hollow from S.R. 54 (Wesley Chapel Blvd.), turn north on Old Pasco Rd. and then left on Quail Hollow Blvd. Then, just look for the signs at the participating residences.

Meadow Pointe 1 Holiday Fair

Saturday, November 7 – The Meadow Pointe 1 Community Council will host a free Holiday Fair, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Meadow Pointe 1 Clubhouse (28245 County Line Rd.). The event will showcase products and services offered by Meadow Pointe 1 residents and other local vendors. There also will be raffle prizes, snacks and beverages available for purchase, a bounce house, face painting and other activities for kids and more. For more information, send an e-mail to mp1cc@yahoo.com.

Health & Wellness Fair

Saturday, November 7 – The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce and Florida Hospital Zephyrhills will host the First Annual Wesley Chapel Family Health & Wellness Fair, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at Wesley Chapel District Park (7727 Boyette Rd.). The fair will include a variety of

free pre-screenings for all ages, health seminars throughout the day and more. For more info, call 994-8534 or visit WesleyChapelChamber.com.

Pre-School Open House

Saturday, November 7 – The Kids ‘R’ Kids of Meadow Pointe (1540 Mansfield Blvd.) Preschool and Daycare Center will hold an Open House, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The event will include face painting, a bounce house, train rides and other activities for children and their families. Proceeds will benefit the Joshua House of Tampa. For more info, call 994-4525.

Florida Writers Association

Saturday, November 7 – The Florida Writers Association meets the first Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.noon, at the Barnes & Noble bookstore at the Shops at Wiregrass mall in Wesley Chapel. All meetings are free and open to the public. Call 907-7739 for more info.

Maurice Sklar Concert

Saturday, November 7 – World renowned violinist, prophetic psalmist and teacher Maurice Sklar will visit Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue at Trinity United Methodist Church (33425 S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel) at 7 p.m. Admission is free, but an offering will be collected. For more information, call 760-

3269 or visit ShoreshDavid.org.

T’s Boutique Anniversary & Ornament Exchange

Sunday, November 8 – T’s Boutique (6027 Wesley Grove Blvd., in The Grove at Wesley Chapel Plaza) will hold its one-year anniversary celebration, noon-5 p.m. The celebration will include music, snacks and beverages, and special sale prices. Also, mark your calendars for T’s Boutique’s Ornament Exchange, which will be held on Sunday, November 15, 3 p.m.-5 p.m. There is a $15 fee for this event, and reservations are requested. For more information, or to make a reservation, visit the store or call 973-4405.

Holiday Extravaganza

Sunday, November 8 – Get a jump on your Christmas shopping with the New Tampa Chamber of Commerce’s first “Holiday Extravaganza,” 1 p.m.-4 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites (8310 Galbraith Rd.). The event will feature 50 local businesses offering special products, services and gift certificates, plus other holiday gift ideas. For more information, call 2932464 or visit NewTampa.org.

Free Networking Int’l

Monday, November 9 – Free Networking International, a group of

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

area business owners, meets each Monday for networking and discussion, 8 a.m., at the Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26140 Lexington Oaks Blvd.). For more information, call Stacy Dalton at 469-5499.

Business Networking Int’l

Tuesday, November 10 – Business Networking International, a group of business professionals who work to support each other through qualified business referrals, meets Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m. at Song & Dance Studio (27221 Foamflower Blvd.). For more information, contact Nancy Cross at 789-7836 or by email at nancycross@crossrealty.com.

East Pasco Networking Group Tuesday, November 10 – The East Pasco Networking Group meets every Tuesday morning, 9 a.m., at Beef O’Brady’s (1660 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in the Shops of New Tampa at Wesley Chapel plaza). For more information, contact Frankie Ammons at 479-7997 or email Frankie@studioglory.com.

Wesley Chapel Rotary Club

Wednesday, November 11 – The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel meets every Wednesday at 12:15 p.m. at Los Vallartas Mexican Restaurant (in the Village Market shopping center at S.R. 54 & Bruce B. Downs Blvd.).

For more information, call 2637188 or 383-6683.

Brown-Waite To Address PACA

Thursday, November 12 – The Pasco Alliance of Community Associations (PACA) will meet at 7 p.m. at the Land O’Lakes Community Center (5401 Land O’Lakes Blvd./U.S. 41). The group’s guest speaker will be Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.myPACA.org, or call president Bill Parsons at 991-6003.

Networking For Your Success

Thursday, November 12 – The Networking For Your Success group meets every Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-10 a.m., at Song & Dance Studio (27221 Foamflower Blvd.) in Wesley Chapel. For more information, call Pamela Butler at 966-5156 or visit NetworkingForYourSuccess.com.

Wesley Chapel Wind Ensemble

Thursday, November 12 – The Wesley Chapel Wind Ensemble, a community group of brass and woodwind players, meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at Hyundai of Wesley Chapel (27000 Wesley Chapel Blvd./S.R. 54). New members are encouraged to join. For more information, contact Glenn at 746-4821 or by e-mail at trombonegww@juno.com.

Wesley Chapel Repub. Club

Thursday, November 12 – The Wesley Chapel Republican Club meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m., at Wesley Chapel Hyundai (27000 Wesley Chapel Blvd.). The club’s guest speaker will be Hillsborough County Commissioner Jim Norman, who seeking election to the District 12 State Senate seat in 2010. The meetings are open to club members, new members and guests. For more information, call Peter Hanzel at 907-6614 or send an email to Wesleychapelrepc@aol.com.

NE Tampa Women In Bus.

Thursday, November 12 – Northeast Tampa Women in Business, a networking group for professional women, will host a dinner meeting, 6 p.m., at Hunter’s Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run Dr.). The group’s guest speaker will be Pasco County Clerk of Court Paula O’Neill. Reservations are required by Monday, November 9, and may be made by calling 841-5932. For more info, visit NETWIB.org.

Sunrise Rotary Club

Friday, November 13 – The Wesley Chapel Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Friday at 7:15 a.m. at the Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26140 Lexington Oaks Blvd.). For more information, call Lynne Wilson at 695-6466.

WOW Business For Women

Friday, November 13 – WOW, a business group for women, meets every other Friday (the second and fourth of each month) at 7:30 a.m. at First Watch. All area businesswomen are invited to attend for networking and socializing. In addition, the group now holds its regular club meetings on the first and third Friday of each month at Vallarta’s Mexican restaurant beginning at noon. There is a $10 charge, which includes lunch, and those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP. For more info or to make a reservation for the lunch meetings, call Darlene Reed at 263-4598.

Air Force Band Concert

Friday, November 13 – The U.S. Air Force “Airmen of Note” concert band will hold a free concert, 7:30 p.m., at the Wesley Chapel Center for the Performing Arts (30651 Wells Rd., on the Wesley Chapel High School campus). Tickets are available at the Center box office, but seating is on a first-come, first-seated basis. For more information, or to request tickets, call 794-8772.

Guitar Strings For Food

Saturday, November 14 – Bigel Music (20435 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.,

just south of County Line Rd.) will hold a Free Guitar & Bass Restring Food Drive, 10 a.m.-3 p.m, to benefit America’s Second Harvest of Tampa Bay. For every two non-perishable food items that are donated, the staff at Bigel Music will install a new set of D’Addario strings, polish and tune your instrument. For more info, call 907-6363.

Bridgewater Fall Festival

Saturday, November 14 – The Bridgewater community, located on Wells Rd., just east of the Wesley Chapel middle/high school campus, will host a Fall Festival, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Rain date is Sunday, November 15). The event will include live music, games and activities for kids, dance/martial arts demonstrations, an old-fashioned cakewalk, more than 60 vendors, flu shots by Walgreen’s, pet vaccinations, a visit by Santa Claus, and more. All proceeds will benefit the Helping Hands Food Bank, and donations of non-perishable food items will be accepted. For more info, send an e-mail to 3granbabys@tampabay.rr.com.

Senior Resources Fair

Saturday, November 14 – New Tampa Marketing & Concierge Services will host a free Senior Resources Fair, noon-3 p.m., at Pebble Creek Golf Club (10550 Regents Park Dr.). The fair, which is aimed at seniors age 55 and older and their families, will include a host of local businesses and professionals with information about health care, home and financial services and products. For more info, call 765-8113 or visit NewTampaMarketing.com.

Networking On The 9s

Tuesday, November 17 – The Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly golf networking group, Networking on the Nines, 3 p.m., at Lexington Oaks Golf Club. The cost is $7 per person, which includes 9 holes of golf, plus cart and greens fees. For more information, call Rob Kellog at 817-5655 or visit WesleyChapelChamber.com.

ThanksVegan Feast’

Thursday, November 26 – The Unitarian Universalist Church of Tampa (11400 Morris Bridge Rd.) will host their fourth annual “ThanksVegan Feast” potluck dinner, 1:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. The cost is $5 per adult with the donation of a dish for the dinner or $15 per adult without donating a dish. Reservations are required and may be made online at VegTampa Thanksgiving.com. For more information, visit the website or call Michelle at 325-2904.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Luz Hernandez, DDS, Offers Personal, One-On-One Approach To Dentistry By Melissa O’Brien When Tampa Palms resident Wendy Baughman began looking for a new dentist after moving from Arizona to New Tampa, she wanted someone she could trust. “I was looking for a dentist who was honest,” Wendy says. “Someone who had integrity and who would tell me the about the procedures I needed to have done as opposed someone who is just trying to add on services. I found that dentist in Dr. Hernandez.” Luz Hernandez, DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery), PA, recently opened her Dental Arts Center in the Tampa Palms Professional Center (located off Commerce Park Blvd., across from Freedom High). “My goal is to educate my patients about the condition of their teeth,” Dr. Hernandez says. “I don’t try to push treatments on patients if they don’t need them. If someone is happy with their smile and the color of their teeth, I am not going to tell them they need to make them straighter or whiter. While I do offer these cosmetic services, my goal is to make sure each of my patients have good overall dental health.” Dr. Hernandez says she also believes that in dentistry, there is a difference between wants and needs.

“I try to be very conservative with my treatments and always try to get the most out of options that are affordable for my patients,” she says. “Dentistry can be expensive. Most Luz Hernandez, patients have that in DDS their minds before coming here and might hesitate to go to a dentist because they think it will cost them a lot of money. This sometimes prevents them from receiving the treatment they need to correct a problem early and it can end up costing them more in the long run.” At a typical office visit, Dr. Hernandez presents her evaluation of what she believes are the needs of a patient. If the patient desires extra services such as Zoom Whitening or other cosmetic treatments, she will offer those services as options. “With my clinical knowledge, I go through with them what should be done to maintain good dental health,” she says. “I want to ensure the end result is always satisfactory.” In addition to routine cleanings and preventive dentistry, the office uses

state-of-the-art, low-radiation digital Xrays, to provide both the doctor and the patient with detailed information about that patient’s dental health. The office also offers cosmetic dentistry procedures and services, such as veneers, Invisalign (a clear alternative to traditional braces that can straighten the teeth) and whitening. Restorations such as crowns and bridgework also are available. Dr. Hernandez was born in Pereira, Colombia, but came to the U.S. when she was a teenager, and she says that it was during high school that she was inspired to become a dentist. “Most of the people who wanted to enter the health profession wanted to be a medical doctor in high school,” she says. “I had a friend who wanted to be a dentist. She got me thinking about it and then I talked to my personal dentist, who really encouraged me to pursue it as a career.” After high school, Dr. Hernandez received a scholarship to the City University of New York (CUNY) where she attended for two years. She then transferred to the State University of New York (SUNY) at Stony Brook, where she finished both her undergraduate degree and her DDS degree. “I performed a one-year residency at University Hospital at Stony Brook,”

says Dr. Hernandez. “I then worked at a dental office on Long Island for the next a couple of years, but being from Colombia, and wanting to be in a warmer climate, I decided to move south. I moved to Tampa, where my parents had already lived, and I really like it here.” When she first relocated to our area, Dr. Hernandez worked for both a private practitioner and for a dental group, but soon decided to branch out on her own, opening her New Tampa office three months ago. “Everything is brand new and computerized,” she says. “The walls are neutral and calming and I have massage chairs to help patients take their mind off the fact that they are at the dentist. But, more important to me is that I take time with my patients. I never make them wait more than ten minutes in the lobby, because I know that my time is valuable, and so is theirs.” She adds that patients also feel more comfortable when they aren’t being rushed. “I always take time to explain everything,” she says. “My goal is that every patient who walks in feels comfortable and feels a trust in me.”

Helping Those In Need, Too

Another important element of Dr. Hernandez’s life, in addition to her two

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

children (Adam and Nia), is her volunteer work. Last year, she traveled to the Dominican Republic with the Nativity Church as part of an effort to provide dental services to people in need and says she plans to return in 2010 to help again. This year, she also will work at a clinic in Hillsborough County through the Hillsborough Dental AssociaDr. Hernandez and assistant Agnes Rivera work tion to provide free with a young patient. dental services to people who otherwise might not be able to nitely recommend her to other people.” Wendy Baughman adds that one of get or afford them. the reasons she visits Dr. Hernandez is Gary Lifshin of San Antonio, FL, because she goes the extra mile. was recommended to Dr. Hernandez “I feel like I can totally trust her by his wife Karen’s colleague. and she is such a kind and gentle per“We had just moved back to the son.” Baughman says. “I’m thankful New Tampa area from Massachusetts that I found her.” and I had not been to the dentist in a The Dental Care Center of Dr. while,” says Lifshin. “Dr. Hernandez Luz Hernandez, DDS, PA, is located made the process very easy. She is very at 17427 Bridge Hill Ct., Ste. A (off nice and her staff is very friendly. She Commerce Park Blvd. in Tampa takes the time to go over everything with you and recommends to you what Palms). The office sees patients of all ages and accepts most major insurshe believes is necessary. I wanted to ance plans. Office hours are Mondayhave a cosmetic procedure done, and Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For more she did a great job. I am very happy information, call 903-8888. with the outcome, and I would defi-

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Top Notch Pest Control Can Help Rid Your Home Of Creepy Crawlies By Melissa O’Brien If you’re like many people in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area, you probably are not a native of Florida, so your concept of killing lawn bugs or house ants may have been to throw a bag of bug killer on the lawn or spray a can of “Raid” in the garage. Perhaps it took a month or two for you to realize that pest control in Florida is a much more serious endeavor. Here, in the land of palms trees and sun, a spray can is no match for the types of pests that live here and most new residents soon realize that lawn treatment is better left to the professional bug killers — like Top Notch Pest Control. “The Tampa Bay area is like a sauna for six months out of the year,” says Michael Carli, the company’s owner. “The higher the humidity, the more active the insects are. The key is to use the proper product with an accurate application procedure. We make sure we educate our clients about our process so they understand the philosophy behind the treatment.” According to the Certified Pest Control Operators of Florida (CPCO) website,the Sunshine State has one of the largest pest control industries in the country. More than 75 percent of all Florida homeowners employ some type of pest control protection for their homes, including termite protection. And, each year across the country, homeowners and businesses who don’t seek termite protection suffer some $2 billion in property damages. Since there are many companies out there that treat bugs, it is important to choose one that has the experience to treat twhatever problem you may be experiencing. Carli is an expert on insects – with more than 20 years of experience in the pest control business. He started his career in the U.S. Air Force, where he received training as an entomology specialist. “I went into the Air Force with the

idea of learning a trade and starting my own business,” says Carli. “My parents were in the restaurant business in Pinellas County, but I wanted to do something on my own. I attended the Air Force’s entomology program by taking courses through the Purdue University Extension.” Carli returned to Florida and opened Top Notch in 1990. In February of 2010, the company, which today employs 11 people, will celebrate 20 years of service to the six counties in the Tampa Bay area. Top Notch offers residential and commercial interior and exterior pest control, rodent control, weed eradication and fertilization for lawns and ornamental shrubs and trees. Carli, who is a member of the Largo, Clearwater, Palm Harbor, Upper Tampa Bay and New Tampa Chambers of Commerce, says one of the key elements of his business is the time he spends with his customers and potential customers. “I offer face-to-face estimates,” he says. “You can’t just drop off a flyer with information or leave behind information about what you offer. We take the time to build a relationship with each client, to explain what we are doing and why. Lawn service is not a six-minute job. Our company can do up to 15 lawns a day maximum. There is a difference between the service you get with us and other companies that I believe you will notice right away.” Carli adds that another important aspect of his business is that Top Notch always uses the correct amount of pestkilling product. “Society is demanding that the pest control industry use less material less often because they are concerned about the environmental effects of pesticides,” he says. “A lot of companies are calling their products ‘natural’ or ‘safe,’ but this can be misleading. If (a product) is killing something, it is still going to affect the environment around you. The key, then, is to strategically

The outstanding, professional staff at Top Notch Pest Control will be happy to take care of your residential and commercial pest control needs. place the application. If you minimize information effectively and can explain the application around a living environ- to a customer what will work best at his ment, you minimize the risk. We make or her home.” sure our application process is very preFor John Meyer, president of cise and use a lot of baiting methods Marimba Lawn Care, working with because [the baits] are ingested into the Top Notch Pest Control has been a stomach by the bugs.” great experience. Carli says another important ele“It really is a great company,” says ment of educating a customer is talking Meyer. “My business is lawn mainteabout price. “We explain to clients that nance and I recommend Top Notch to it is about the quality of service they do all of my clients’ pest control and receive,” he says. “Sometimes, treatfertilization. They do everything from ment requires an expensive product that lawns and bushes to trees and ornacan be used less often, but you need to mental shrubs and do a fantastic job. I have a staff that communicates that try to encourage my customers to use

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

their services because of the results I have seen. Greg (Kearley, Top Notch’s sales manager), is really easy to work with and if there is ever a problem, they are there right away to fix it at no extra charge. There aren’t a lot of companies that will address a problem without charging an extra service fee.” Hunter’s Green resident Gary Stenzel says he uses Top Notch for both his home and for his business – Freedom Property Associates. “Our company manages properties for homeowners associations (HOAs) and apartment complexes,” says Stenzel. “Top Notch has been our preferred vendor for pest control the past four

years because of the quality of their service. Coming from a military background myself, I really respect the fact that Mike takes a personal and professional interest in his clients. His level of professionalism separates his business from others. Our company was working on a townhouse project in Pasco and the great service Mike’s company provided was very instrumental in securing that job for us. He made a great impression on the homeowners.” Top Notch Pest Control is located in Oldsmar, but welcomes all customers from Wesley Chapel and New Tampa. For more information, call 855-9056 or visit WeKill.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

SEVEN OAKS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

W ESLEY C HAPEL

Sports Briefs

Youth Football Programs Gear Up For Playoffs Most Cowboys Squads Still In Playoff Hunt

competitive Cowboys squads have either already clinched or were at least still alive for a playoff berth. The Wesley Chapel Athletic AssoThe Varsity (ages 14-15) Cowboys ciation (WCAA) Cowboys continue to had clinched the WCYFC’s National be one of the dominant programs in the West Coast Youth Football Confer- Division regular season championship with a 6-2 record, following a tough ence (WCYFC). 13-12 win over the Brandon Broncos. At our press time, four of the five That record was upped to 7-2 with a forfeit win over the Lakeland Eagles the following week, although we did not have any of the other results for the games played by the other Cowboys squads on October 24. The Super Midget (ages 8-9) Cowboys have rolled to an 8-0 record (following a 29-0 whitewash of the Broncos, although the ‘Boys hadn’t yet clinched a title because the Plant City Dolphins were just Congrats to the volleyball team at John Long Middle a game behind at 7-1. Meanwhile, the School in Wiregrass Ranch, which finished the year 8-0, to secure a second straight championship for the school. Flyweight (ages 6-7), at

Long Volleyball Team #1 Again!

3-5, and the Midget (ages 10-11), at 26, Cowboys were both still alive for the playoffs. At our press time, only the 0-8 Jr. Varsity (ages 12-13) ‘Boys were eliminated from the postseason. We will have a full-season recap about the Cowboys in an upcoming issue. We also thank and congratulate the Cowboys for having the most incredible website (leaguelineup.com/ wcaacowboys) of any youth sports program we’ve ever seen.

Most New Wesley Chapel Bulls Teams Also Still Alive

Meanwhile, the new Wesley Chapel Bulls (formerly the Vipers) of the Pasco Police Athletic League

(PPAL) are also holding their own in the hunt for the postseason. The Bulls’ Varsity (ages 13-15) squad, at 7-2, was in second place, only a game behind the Land O’Lakes Gators, in the PPAL’s Eastern Conference, following a 1-0 forfeit win over Dade City. The Bulls’ Jr. Flyweights (ages 5-6) were tied with Lutz, at 5-4, for second place, after beating the Pirates 26-12. At 4-5 following a 42-0 shellacking of Dade City, the Bulls’ Mighty Mites (ages 9-10) were in third. Meanwhile, the Bulls’ Flyweights (ages 7-8), at 3-6, and Junior Varsity (11-12), at 0-9, were the program’s only teams in danger of not making the playoffs. — GN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

WELCOME TO FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Reeves Events Unveil New BMW & Porsche Models For 2010 By Gary Nager For this reporter, any opportunity to enjoy a great party that also provides an opportunity to promote one or more outstanding local businesses is very much appreciated. Therefore, I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed both the Oktoberfest party co-hosted by Reeves Import BMW on E. Fowler Ave. and Tampa Bay Illustrated magazine and the unveiling of a new Porsche model at a separate event the following week. Reeves Import Motorcars owner Vivian C. Reeves and her daughter Kim Reeves-Rogers unveiled the beautiful new BMW 550 Gran Turismo, as well as the X5 M and X6 M models, at a party that not only showed off the beautiful dealership, but also gave attendees a chance to sample authentic German cuisine and a great variety of German beers (as well as some nice wines) from World of Beer, which will open soon in The Shoppes at The Pointe in Tampa Palms. World of Beer franchisees Philippe Theodore and Jason Rappaport also provided beverages for the party the following week at which Reeves unveiled the new 2010 Porsche Panamera, a four-door sports car with a turbo model that does 0-60 in just 4 seconds, starting at $132,000. The Porsche party was kicked off with a visit from Detlev von Platen, the CEO of Porsche Cars North America Inc. Both events were packed with lux-

The 2010 BMW 550 Gran Turismo (left) debuted at Reeves Import Motorcars a week before dealership owner Vivian C. Reeves (left in photo, right) hosted Porsche Cars North America Inc. CEO Detlev von Platen while unveiling the new Porsche Panamera.

Hip-hop dancers helped Reeves show off the 2010 Porsche Panamera Turbo (left) for the first time. At both events, a variety of wonderful German beers (and some fine wines) were provided by World of Beers (right) which will open soon in Tampa Palms. ury car afficionados who got exactly what they expected — an opportunity to enjoy great food and beverages and be the first to see these magnificent new models in person. And, what you can expect from the Reeves family of outstanding auto deal-

erships, including Porsche, Audi, BMW, Volkswagen, Maserati, Hummer, Land Rover and Subaru? More great events and an ongoing commitment to community service to and involvement with charities and nonprofit organizations throughout the Tampa Bay area.

The eight Reeves Import Motorcars dealerships are based at the corner of W. Fowler Ave. and Florida Ave. in North Tampa. For more information about any of the dealerships, call 933-2811 or visit ReevesImportMotorcars.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

The Hungry Greek—More Than Just Great Gyros! By Gary Nager We first told you about The Hungry Greek Restaurant, located in the new retail plaza on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., north of Rooms to Go, several months ago when it first opened and promised to do a more full-length review in the future. Well, the time has come for this reporter to say in print what he has been telling Hungry Greek owner George Constantinou every time he’s visited since the place opened — that The Hungry Greek is the first Greek restaurant in our area to remind me of the great gyro sandwich takeout places I grew up with in and around New York City. The main reason for me is

Hungry Greek owner George Constantinou will treat your delicious gyro sandwich with tender loving care, too!

that not only are The Hungry Greek’s overstuffed gyros sliced off a gyro “cone” (instead of those vile, frozen gyro patties some places use), George also grills the freshly sliced lamb-andbeef meat over an open fire, giving the gyros a flavor nothing else can match. But, as the title above indicates, The Hungry Greek is about more than just great gyros. George, whose father Dino is his partner in this and another Hungry Greek location in the Westchase area, says he marinates the chicken used in his chicken souvlakis overnight — and the flavor is truly something special. The same can be said forThe Hungry Greek’s fried grouper, mousaka (Greek-style lasagne), pastitsio (Greek-style baked pasta) and dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), spinach pie (spanikopita) and even its cheeseburgers, grilled chicken salads and Greek pastries. “My father had the original Farmer Boy restaurant in Clearwater for many years,” says George. “It was famous for its Greek salad dressing (you can buy bottles of it at The Hungry Greek and many area supermarkets) and New York-style Greek specialties.” I’m sure Dino himself has to be proud of The Hungry Greek in Wesley Chapel. It even has beer and wine, great party platters and a terrific kids’

If you love lasagne, try the delicious Greek take on your favorite — the mousaka at The Hungry Greek!

Our editor says you can’t beat the chicken souvlaki and Greek salad at The Hungry Greek restaurant on Bruce B. Downs Blvd.

From homemade baklava to a variety of chocolate pastries, the desserts at The Hungry Greek are decadent! menu! Check it out for yourself and please be sure to tell George and his staff that we sent you! The Hungry Greek is located at 2653 BBD Blvd., in the same plaza as Party Fever. It is open every day, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. For additional information, visit TheHungryGreek.com or call 345-8526.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood Nibbles - Brass Tap, Circles, WineStyles & More! than 100 wines for sale for less than $25 per bottle. WineStyles is located at 1051 BBD Blvd. Call 994-2200 or visit WineStyles.net.

By Gary Nager

Circles & Brass Tap Team Up! Although I probably still prefer wine, I do enjoy an ice cold beer with great food, so the beer-and-food pairing dinner hosted by Circles New Tampa Bistro in the Pebble Creek Collection (less than a mile south of the Pasco-Hillsborough county line), featuring craft beers provided by The Brass Tap in The Shops at Wiregrass, still sounds like a delicious idea to me. On Tuesday, November 10, 6:30 p.m., at Circles, you can sample four courses, plus dessert, each paired with a different craft beer. For example, try fig-crusted lamb and caramelized shallots paired with Westmalle Dubbel Trappist Ale from Belgium and sundried tomato beer-braised beef brisket paired with Brooklyn (NY) Lager — and so much more! “We had no idea The Brass Tap had so many great beers we had never tried before,” says Circles co-owner Donna Sinudom. “It really was a lot of fun putting this menu together!” For reser vations and more details, call Circles (19651 Br uce B. Downs Blvd.) at 973-7703. For The Brass Tap, call 991-4343 or visit BrassTapBeerBar.com.

Polo’s Of fering $10 Early Bird Specials & $10 Of f!

Circles New Tampa Bistro will host a beer-and-food pairing dinner featuring craft beers from The Brass Tap.

Polo’s Italian Grill, located at 19040 BBD Blvd., in the Publixanchored New Tampa Center plaza, is the latest local dining establishment trying to give local diners even more value for their money. Owner/chef Paul Proscia is now offering a variety of delicious Early Bird

specials every Tuesday-Saturday, 4 p.m.6 p.m., including his awesome meat lasagne, stuffed shells, chicken marsala and more, for just $10 each! In addition, no matter what time you visit Polo’s (which is open until 10 Tues.-Sat. and until 9 p.m. on Sun.), you can get your choice of $10 off your check or two free glasses of wine when you purchase any two dinner entrées. “Everyone needs more value these days,” says Proscia, “and this helps make dining out more affordable.” For details, call 615-0087 or visit Polo’sItalianGrill.com.

WineStyles To Host A ‘Taste Of The NFL’ Charity Event!

Owner Troy Melquist of Wine Styles, which we’ve told you about in previous issues, invites you to check out all of his great events, including an upcoming “Taste of the NFL” charity event on Saturday, November 14. Melquist says he hopes to have current and former NFL players and Bucs cheerleaders on hand and promises there will be live entertainment, BBQ on the patio, bottle signings and more. WineStyles also has other live music events, Ladies Nights and more

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Our Dining Survey & Contest has a whole new format — simply tell us your ten favorite restaurants in New Tampa, your 10 favorites in Wesley Chapel and your ten favorites in the entire Tampa Bay area (you can even include your favorite coffee houses, sandwich and smoothie shops, etc.). The bottom line is still the same — all entries have a chance to win one of at least ten $20 (minimum; it could be more!) gift certificates to a local dining establishment AND an equal chance to win a $100 gift certificate to the restaurant of your choice in the Tampa Bay area! If your name is selected at random to be our Grand Prize winner, we’ll give you $100 to the restaurant you selected as your “#1 Favorite in the Tampa Bay Area!” Enter by fax, U.S. mail or e-mail (don’t forget to include ALL of your personal information — name, address, community you live in, zip code & daytime telephone number — on all e-mailed entries) or enter at our website (WCNeighborhoodNews.com) by Friday, November 6, 2009, to be eligible! — GN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

“Fund Raisers”

Continued from page 1 on the day of the Hike, but you also can register in advance at FirstGiving. com/hikeforhospice or by calling (800) 561-4883. For more information about Gulfside Regional Hospice, visit GCHospice.org.

NOVA Golf Tournament Benefits VA Nurses

This Veteran’s Day, you can help to make a difference in the lives of America’s military heroes by simply playing a round of golf. That’s because the Tampa chapter of the Nurses Organization of Veterans Affairs (NOVA) is sponsoring its first annual golf tournament to raise money for nursing scholarships and research grants that will ultimately benefit all of the veterans that the organization serves. “If you are a veteran, or if someone you love is a veteran, then someday a Veteran’s Administration nurse is going to make a difference in your life,” says NOVA chairman and tournament organizer Mary Seamen. The tournament will be held on Veteran’s Day, Wednesday, November 11, at the beautiful Tampa Palms Golf

Mike Alstott poses with fans at last year’s Hike for Hospice. & Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.). Registration on the day of the tournament begins at 10:30 a.m., or you can register in advance at VANurse.org. The cost is $125 per player or $450 for a four-player team, which includes greens and cart fees, a box lunch, four different hole-in-one contests, where you can win $10,000 cash or a variety of other great prizes (in addition to the prizes for the top three finishers), a one-hour post-golf beer and wine bar, and admittance to the awards ceremony and dinner banquet. All of the money will go to benefit NOVA’s national programs. For more info, visit the website or call (707) 799-5163. — MS

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

“WC Chamber”

Continued from page 3 Although I personally didn’t vote for the Texas Roadhouse (or for the medium Buffalo wings from first runner-up Santo’s Pizza), I did give one of my three votes to the blackened wings from second runner-up Beef O’Brady’s. My favorite wings on the day were the Thai Asian wings from Winner’s Grill, but all eight varieties myself, Pasco County commissioners Pat Mulieri and Jack Mariano, Clerk of the Court Paula O’Neill, Honorary Mayor of Wesley Chapel Theresa Jacobs and eight other judges sampled were tasty, indeed. The weather was incredible, the food was outstanding and the crowds that arrived both days seemed very happy with the Craft Show.

The Craft Show brought out some dancing young “divas.”

Special thanks go out to the Chamber’s committee chairs, Laura Miller of Charles Rutenberg Realty and Cindy Fleming of Bay Insurors, for their months of hard work. Huge thanks also goes to Scott Hutson, Property Manager of The Grove as well as all the sponsors (Hyundai & Mazda of Wesley Chapel), volunteers, musicians and businesses who played their part in the success of the event.

Next Up—5K & Health Fair!

The first-ever Wesley Chapel 5K Run & Walk will be held Saturday, November 7, 8 a.m., at Saddlebrook Resort. The run will be a proper kickoff of Wesley Chapel’s Family Health & Wellness Fair, sponsored by Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, at the Wesley Chapel District Park on Boyette Rd. the same day, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Family Health & Wellness Fair will feature a wide variety of health-related sponsors and business exhibitors, but will also feature great food and beverages. The weekend kicks off with a “Carb Up” spaghetti and marinara sauce dinner (for those who plan to participate in the 5K the next morning, and those who simply enjoy spaghetti and salad, of course) at the Crossroads Community Church (26211 County Line Rd.), on Friday, November 6, 5 p.m.-8 p.m. The cost is just $7 per

At least one of the Chamber’s new Board members was inducted in his best ‘70s outfit during the “Disco Flashback” event at Saddlebrook Resort. For more information, call the person or $25 for a family of four. Chamber office at 994-8534 or visit The Chamber, which is partnering WesleyChapelChamber.com. with Big Brothers & Big Sisters of I also want to thank WCCC execTampa Bay to bring a healthy event to utive director Sheri Goldberg for helpWesley Chapel, is still seeking restauing me get the info I needed for this rants and sponsors/exhibitors for Famreport and Jeff Miller for his photos. ily Health & Wellness Fair.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL H E L P

W A N T E D

Join OrthoTechnology’s Winning Team! Ortho Technology, an international orthodontic supply distributor located in New Tampa, is seeking talented energetic candidates for the following full-time positions: Distribution Associate: High energy individual needed to receive, restock, pull & pack customer orders. Fast paced environment. Basic math & computer skills, ability to stand/walk for entire shift & lift up to 50 pounds required. QC Inspector: Entry level position responsible for accuracy of outgoing orders. 1-2 yrs exp w/QC responsibilities. Ability to stand/walk for entire shift, close vision, basic color differentiation and basic math req’d. Small parts/med device experience a plus. We provide a great work environment, excellent benefits package and growth potential. Submit resumes to careers@orthotechnology.com.

Classifıeds

or small, ext/int, fencing, screening, sm. concrete, sprinklers, painting, repairs, int. doors, locks, sheet rock, windows, paint, caulk, grout, trim, shelving, garages organized. Installations, removals, pressure washing, wood restoration & more. Call Dale’s Home Maintenance @ 9730194 or 727-2582. Quality Handyman, specializing in Home Improvements, repairs & installations of all types from A to Z, including telephone & computer cabling. 18 years of exp. No job too small. E-mail eddieperdomo@yahoo.com or call 451-6541 for questions or Free Estimates. Greg’s Paperhanging. For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed & insured, clean, quick & reasonable. Call 973-2767 for free estimate. RAYMOND PAINTING. Interior & exterior, pressure washing, paper hanging, plaster, stucco, tiles, concrete, clean & seal pavers. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free estimates. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ARBOR GREENE RESIDENT. We Work 7 Days. Call 994-5124. Dan Turner Decorating Wallcovering Installation. The most important thing about the wallcovering you select is...the installer. Don’t sacrifice the beauty of wallcovering, turn to the experts. Call today for a free consultation. Licensed & insured. Call 928-2160

CLEANING SERVICES HERE I COME! I specialize in all types of cleaning: houses, apartments, townhouses, garages, etc. Best prices in the Bay area. References available. Call for a free estimate. Call 735-7979. D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE. We have our own supplies & more than 200 clients in New Tampa! For more information, call 758-9710. Isn’t life busy enough? Save time. We can help. Your satisfaction is our first priority. Guaranteed, affordable, reliable, quality domestic svcs. Free estimate: Chelsea Maid Company @ 994-6662. LEBOM Cleaning service. Are you tired of cleaning? Call us & let us do the dirty job for you. Residential & Commercial. Move in/Move out. 6 years working for the best. Good references. Great prices. Licensed! Call 325-7904 now for free estimate.

P/T Massage therapist. Please send résumé to PO Box 47254 Tampa, FL 33647 or fax to 994-3080. P/T Medical Asst. for doctor’s office in New Tampa. With experience. Good salary & benefits. Fax resume to 632-7114 or call 632-7111. HR Manager Tampa, FL based Dental Office Plan, direct & coordinate HR activities to maximize the strategic use of human resources & related personnel policies & regulatory compliance. Apply in duplicate. BK PARASHER DDS. P. A 11017, N. Dale Mabry, St # A, Tampa, FL 33618.

COMPUTER SERVICES Professional Tech Support in your home or small business. A+ certified computer tech with 15 years of exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades & tutoring. More affordable than the large chains! Friendly, personalized svc. Technical jargon explained in plain English. References available upon request. Call 957-8342 for free estimate.

HOME

IMPROVEMENT

Need home maintenance? Almost any job, large

A+ Cleaning Service. FSU grad, honest & dependable. Moving very successful business to Tampa Palms area to be near first grandchild. My Tallahassee clients included FSU coaches & professors. For FREE estimate & references call Randi at (cell) 850-509-6615. Yes, I do Gators, too!

L A N D S C A P I N G Everyday Gardener’s Club. Full-service property maintenance available for residential & commercial. One-stop shopping with licensed, insured professionals. Specializing in landscape design with conceptional drawings & renderings available. Let your imagination & our professionals come together to create dreams that will last a lifetime. Call 933-1120 or visit www.EverydayGardnersClub.com COMPLETE SOD SERVICES. Start to finish sod work including stripping and disposal of existing surface, sprinkler check, pre-plant insect and fertilizer treatment, and sod, all varieties. Professional work, competitive pricing. Call (813) 5452205 for a free estimate.

These are the Color Classifieds Your Neighbors R E A D! Call Julie Rinaldi @ 910-2575 to order your ad today! complete lawn care at prices you can afford! Service that you can depend on. Call Ken 334-3460. Enjoy your time & let A.T.B. Landscaping & Lawn Service do the work for you. We provide landscaping, lawn maintenance, clean-ups, tree & hedge trimming, sodding, sprinkler repair & fertilization. Other services also available. 907-LAWN Call Bay Estates Landscaping And Lighting for all your landscaping needs, no job to big or small. We offer landscape design and installation, lighting, mulch, rock, from clean ups to complete renovations. Owner operated. licensed and insured. Please call 813-997-5055.

P O O L

S E R V I C E S

Tranquility Pool Service. New Tampa Owned & Operated! Great pricing w/outstanding customer service. Relax & enjoy while we keep your pool in pristine swimming condition! Licensed, Bonded & Insured. Call Chris today for a free quote @ 857-5400 or visit us at www.tranquilitypoolservice.com to see why we are New Tampa’s #1 choice! Mention this ad & receive one month FREE!

P E T

S I T T I N G

Animals’ Best Friend says, “Pets Deserve Good Love & Care, Even Times When You’re Not There!” In-your-home pet-sitting svcs, including dog walks, multiple & overnight visits, administering meds, plus love & attention. Licensed, bonded & insured. Call 765-5515 for a free consultation. Or, visit www.animalsbestfriend.net.

Beautiful outdoors! Construction superintendent at your service! Landscape design, clean-up & mulching, repairs for roofs, screening, sprinklers, drywall & shelving. Garage clean out, help with moving, packing & storage. Pressure washing, painting inside & out. Professional service at bargain prices! Call Dennis 601-4560. Clean-outs—abandoned homes, garage cleaning. Pressure washing; odd jobs—painting, tile work, etc. Contact Sure Window Cleaning 926-9943. Trash removal. Trash clean-up, garage cleanouts. Will haul furniture, appliances, yard debris, lowest rates guaranteed; starting at $40. Call 285-4674. Wesley Chapel Taxi, $50 flat rate to airport. Call 464-0264.

Town Home for rent in Meadow Pointe, gated 1 car garage, 3br, 2.5 bath, loft—Maint. Free. $1250/mo. Please call 541-3158.

M U S I C

L E S S O N S

FREE GUITAR WITH LESSONS! Don't worry about spending money on an instrument if you or your child doesn’t stick with it. Get a new guitar free when you sign up for 3 months of lessons. Offer good while supplies last. For more information visit Bigel Music, 20435 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 813-907-6363.

Professional Pet Care Exp’d. pet sitters. We walk, play, feed & administer medicine, all in the comfort of your pet’s home. We also bring in mail, water plants & help maintain home security while you’re away. Bonded, insured & trained in Pet First-Aid & CPR. Call For The Love Of Pets at 545-8406 or 416-3126. Or visit www.ForTheLoveOfPetsOnLine.com.

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

B U Y I N G

New Tampa Pet Sitting Service. Lots of love & care for your pets. Great experience & references. Recommended by Angie’s List. Licensed, Insured & Red Cross Certified. Call Marina @ 416-5301.

WINDOW CLEANING

S E R V I C E S AVA I L A B L E THE GAS DOCTOR. 24-HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE. Residential * Commercial * Industrial. * New Construction & Remodels * Natural & LP Gas Piping Systems. Gas Appliance Installation, Service & Repair. Providing connections for: Gas Lights, Ranges, Dryers, Fireplaces, Furnaces, Generators, Grills, Space Heaters, Water Heaters, Pool Heaters, Firepits & Tankless Water Heaters. TECO Rebates on Natural Gas Appliances. 5162927 or thegasdoctor.com. License # MG 24668

Home day care in a loving home. 10 years experience. We encourage social development activities, games, play times & more. Infant & up. CPR & first aid. Reg. R23PA0154. Call Hilda @ 388-9148.

G O L D

NEED EXTRA MONEY…We can turn your unwanted, old or broken gold jewelry into CASH! Take advantage of high gold prices which may not last long. Don’t sell to the fly by night companies. Take it to Tampa Palms Hometown Jeweler. Jeweler on staff w/ 35 yrs. exp. Charles Jewelers, 9724653 (next to Stein Mart on Bruce B. Downs).

NEW TAMPA, Christmas & Thanksgiving are coming. Do you need YOUR windows cleaned? VERY current references, immediate availability. Call Scott @ 957-3043.

T A I C H I L E S S O N S Tai Chi Classes open to the public at Club Tampa Palms. Strength, flexibility, balance, awareness & focus are some of the benefits of Tai Chi. Classes geared for all ages & skill levels. Over 28 years of Martial Arts teaching & training. Wednesdays 8-9 pm and Tuesdays 2:30-3:30 pm. $10/per class. Call Peter @ 787-7560.

LAWN MAINTENANCE NTLC Property Maintenance. Residential & Commercial lawn maintenance for New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Sprinkler repair, tree trimming, mulching, landscaping & clean-ups also available. Licensed & Insured. Call Bill @ 973-3825. Lawn maintenance * commercial & residential * rentals * HOA clean ups * investment properties *

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 22 • October 30, 2009 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com