New Tampa Neighborhood News, Volume 27. Issue 5, Feb. 22, 2019 by Neighborhood News

Volume 27 Issue 5

Inside:

Gary Names His 2018 Restaurant Favorites!

February 22, 2019

See Neighborhood Magazine!

Now Celebrating 25 Years As New Tampa & Wesley Chapel’s Primary News Source! 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 46!

Sneak Peek: (L.-r) Jane Castor, David Straz, Dick Greco Jr., Harry Cohen, Mike Suarez, Ed Turanchik and Topher Morrison.

It’s Time To Vote, New Tampa By JOHN C. COTEY

Tampa Palms’ Maggie Wilson remembers the days when Pam Iorio, the City of Tampa’s mayor from 2003-11, would visit New Tampa on a frequent basis to address our area’s concerns and meet with residents. Wilson remembers Iorio visiting women’s clubs, the Taste of New Tampa and other events, as well as holding public meetings at Heritage and Tampa Palms elementary schools, Benito and Clark middle schools and Freedom High, to name a few. Current mayor Bob Buckhorn did not share Iorio’s attentiveness to New Tampa, Wilson says. And, when it comes time to choose a new mayor from a large field of candidates on Tuesday, March 5, Wilson says she will likely cast her vote for whomever she decides will pay the most attention to the area in which

she has lived in since 1989. “The next Tampa mayor will be in a key position to lead on several issues,” Wilson says. “New Tampa cannot afford to be left out.” On Municipal Election Day, voters in Tampa will choose between seven candidates to succeed Buckhorn. Former Tampa police chief Jane Castor currently has a big polling lead over the rest of the field, which includes local philanthropist David Straz, businessman Topher Morrison, former Hillsborough County Commissioner Ed Turanchik, current Tampa City Council members Harry Cohen and Mike Suarez, and Dick Greco Jr., the son of former Tampa Mayor Dick Greco. Most of the candidates have been campaigning at a series of mayoral forums held across the city, including the one held in New Tampa on Feb. 19 (after we went to press with this issue, but you can find coverage at NTNeighborhood-

News.com and our Facebook page), but prior to the New Tampa forum, no one had been able to distinguish themselves enough to put a dent in Castor’s edge. According to a poll conducted Feb. 4 by St. Pete Polls, 45.3 percent of the 429 registered voters polled said they would vote for Castor. Straz was second with 12.9 percent, followed by Greco Jr. at 9.3 percent, Cohen at 7.5 percent, Turanchik at 6.7 percent, Suarez at 6 percent and Morrison at 1.4 percent. If Castor (or whoever comes in first on March 5) is kept below 50 percent of the vote, that makes the much-closer race for second the one to watch, as the top two candidates would advance to a runoff election, which will be scheduled for Tuesday, April 23, if it is necessary. New Tampa voters like local activist and lawyer Tracy Falkowitz have been See “Mayor” on page 4.

While New Tampa Waits For Sprouts, Earth Fare Opens Up By JOHN C. COTEY

For those in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel who are not wowed by new restaurants, fast food chains, big retail outlets or fancy new intersections, this one might just be for you: Say hello to the area’s first green grocer — Earth Fare. The popular and quickly-growing organic food franchise opened its doors on S.R. 56 in what is technically Lutz (but we call it Wesley Chapel) on February 20, or after we went to press with this issue. For more coverage of Earth Fare’s opening day, make sure you check out our Facebook page at Facebook.com/Neighborhood News. It seems that virtually everything new that opens in our distribution areas gets Hope Allen, the CEO of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, excited. But this, she says, is a different kind of buzz. An all-natural, organic kind of buzz, perhaps? “It’s our first one, the first organic grocery

store to land in Wesley Chapel,” Allen says. “There’s been a big demand for it. It’s going to be pretty exciting.” The Wesley Chapel and New Tampa area does boast Publix and Winn Dixie supermarkets offering organic selections, as well as the Nutrition Smart on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., which currently offers the area’s widest range of organic foods, vitamins and supplements. But, Earth Fare is bringing 24,000 sq. ft. worth of the stuff — and roughly 100 jobs — to its new location in the Cypress Creek Town Center on S.R. 56 (at 25535 Sierra Center Blvd., across from the Tampa Premium Outlets). The Wesley Chapel location will be Earth Fare’s third in the Tampa Bay area, joining stores in Oldsmar and Seminole. Overall, it will be the 12th Earth Fare supermarket in Florida. The most recent Florida opening took place in Viera, FL on Jan. 9, and there are See “Earth Fare” on page 12.

Dist. 7 Seat On The Line

Challenger Quinton Robinson says incumbent Luis Viera (above) has helped New Tampa, but not all of Tampa’s District 7.

Page 6

Familiar Faces

At Children’s Dentistry, patients get to know the faces of Dr. Greg Stepanski and office manager Melanie Phillips.

Pages 22-23

Nom Nom Nom

Publisher Gary Nager has once again tried virtually every restuarant in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area, and reveals his favorites from 2018.

Pages 35-39

Frank Scorpiniti, president/CEO of Earth Fare

Do You Want To Help Us Celebrate My 25 Years Of Owning The Neighborhood News? An editorial by Gary Nager As I mentioned in my last editorial, on February 25, 2019, yours truly will celebrate 25 years as the owner, publisher and editor of the Neighborhood News! And of course, even though life is even more hectic than usual these days, you know I can’t let such a milestone go by without some sort of celebration. To that end, sometime in April (we will announce the actual date in our next issue), the Neighborhood News will host a party at the Bayscape Bistro at Heritage Isles Country Club (see ad on pg. 37)! We also will (hopefully) be unveiling our new website — NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net (aka the “Online Network for New Tampa and Wesley Chapel”) — at that event and rest assured, there also will be great free hors d’oeuvres, karaoke (it is my party, after all), some nice prize giveaways (also to be announced) and the opportunity to hang with our staff and some of the business owners whose advertising revenue allows us to continue to not only thrive, but also expand the online and video sides of our business, which has now received funding support from the Google News Initiative (see below). All you have to do to get onto the guest list is email me us ads@ntneighborhoodnews. com, put “Neighborhood News Guest List” in the subject line and give us your first and last name, the community you live in and the names of any people you plan to bring. You’ll receive a confirmation email back from us, which also will serve as your entry into all of our prize drawings that evening (and yes, you must be present to win any of those prizes). Please note that this event will be held on a Saturday evening and is not really intended for children. For more information, please call (813) 910-2575 or visit NTNeighborhoodNews.com.

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 /Ad Sales Gary Nager Managing Editor / Photographer John C. Cotey Correspondents Libby Baldwin • Jarrett Guthrie • Celeste McLaughlin • Andy Warrener

Lead Video Producer/Multimedia Specialist Gavin Olsen Graphic Designers Georgia Carmichael • Gavin Olsen Advertising Sales & Billing Assistants Janet Levins • Jannah McDonald 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 advertising space reservations for Volume 27, Issue 7, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, March 11, 2019. New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously nonpublished 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.

Speaking Of Online...

Since receiving our funding from Google in mid-January, we have recorded two Featured Business videos, our first episode of “Chappie Chatter” (with Wesley Chapel Community Facebook page administrator Jennifer Ames), a North Tampa Bay Chamber news update and our first News Desk of 2019 (photo above left, with co-anchor Susanna Martinez), which is all about everything coming to both sides of 56 near the Tampa Premium Outlets. We’re pretty proud of the new content, but there is so much more to come and still more ways for your business to get the benefit of not only the primary print voice of the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel communities for the last 25 years, but also of our online video content, as well as our Facebook/Neighborhood News posts that link you to our website, which currently is still NTNeighborhoodNews.com. As I mentioned before, all of our online content will soon fall under the NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net umbrella and we are now offering your business the opportunity to: 1) Receive our lowest possible print advertising rates 2) Have a Featured Business Video done in conjunction with (and released at around the same time as) your print Business Feature story, just like Florida Executive Realty (see pages 24-25) has this issue and Samantha Taylor Fitness had last issue 3) Become a sponsor of our online videos and of our “regular” website content We have sent this information to all of our current, recent past and prospective advertisers, but if you haven’t received yours or you have any additional questions about how it all works, pleas call (813) 910-2575 or email Ads@WCNT-tv.com.

wing of Rotary International that has been the primary force behind the drive to eradicate polio from the world), we also recently held a hugely successful, first-ever New Tampa Brewfest in November (the 2019 Brewfest already is scheduled for Saturday, November 16; visit NewTampaBrewfest. com for tickets and details). And now, club member Barry Shuman and

his wife (and chauffeur) Claire have helped the Trinity Café, a program of Feeding Tampa Bay, raise a record $9,000 at last month’s annual Outrageous (and super-fun) Bingo event held at Hamburger Mary’s in Brandon. Barry (far left in right photo), who was this year’s event chair, and Claire were on hand at our Feb. 13 Rotary meeting when our current club president Gary Lefebvre (right) presented Trinity Café executive director Mandy Cloninger (center) with checks totalling an additional $1,000 from not only our club, but also from past president Vinnie Kudva and Sergeant-atArms Scott Hileman, who donated the proceeds from the recent opening day of the Tampa Nekter Juice Bar he has opened with business partner Brian Erwine (their second location). Small, but mighty, indeed!

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Congrats, Barry & Trinity Café!

I’ve been telling you for some time now how proud I am to be a member of the Rotary Club of New Tampa Noon, which meets Wednesdays at noon, also at Bayscape Bistro. I’ve called our club of fewer than 25 members “Small, But Mighty” in previous editorials and I have more proof of that to tell you about. Not only did our club win awards from our Rotary District 6890 for our increase in membership and for per-person contributions to the Rotary Foundation (the nonprofit

Table of Contents

Local News Updates.....................3-13

Viera Seeks First Full Term On City Council.............6 New Tampa’s Vibha Shevade Seeks Council Seat.......8 Fire Station 23 Now Serving New Tampa..............10 EV Owners Getting Another Spot To Power Up.......12 New Tampa Community Calendar..............................14

Local Business Updates..............18-25 Olympus Pools Builds Pools, Helps Community...........18 Beach House At Wiregrass Assisted Living.............20 Dr. Greg Keeps Teeth Healthy From The Start..............22 Florida Executive Expands Its Tampa Palms Office...24

Local Sports Updates...................30-32

Wharton’s Hudson Has The Tools To Succeed......30 Freedom & Wharton Baseball /Softball Capsules....31-32

Neighborhood Magazine

Gary Picks His Favorite 2018 Eateries!.....35-39 Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes..........42 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Classifieds...........44 @NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 • February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

‘Mayor’

Continued from Page 1 listening closely to the candidates on issues she says will impact New Tampa. When the budget debate raged in the City Council in 2017 regarding money to expand the New Tampa Recreation Center (NTRC) and design a new sensory-friendly park in Tampa Palms, Falkowitz led a New Tampa contingent that met with council members, sat in on the meetings and showed up for the final vote so their voices could be heard.

Don’t Oppose Our Needs!

It was Suarez’s opposition to passing the budget — which would have put the NTRC in dire straits — that doesn’t make him a contender for Falkowitz’s vote, and it was Cohen’s decisive vote in the 4-3 decision to pass the budget that she says makes him her favored candidate. Cohen also has met with local residents at a meet-and-greet in Tampa Palms, something Falkowitz says no other candidate has done. “Several of the candidates probably couldn’t find us on a map,” Falkowitz says. “I’m not even sure if they know all of New Tampa isn’t even in the City of Tampa. This is pivotal election for us. We’ve made some headway with getting noticed by the city, and this election is critical to continue that recognition of the importance of New Tampa, or we could go back to being ignored.”

Wilson agrees about the importance of electing a mayor friendly to New Tampa this election, preferably someone to piggyback on District 7 City Council member Luis Viera’s efforts. Viera, who represents New Tampa as part of his district and is up for re-election, has been omnipresent in our area while pushing a number of area initiatives to City Hall. Wilson says, however, that there is still a lot more to do. “New Tampa is no longer new,” Wilson says. “For decades, it came in last because it needed the least. But that is no longer true. We have aging roads, dangerous sidewalks, an aging population and limited transportation.” Grand Hampton resident Joe Farrell, a former aide to Mayor Buckhorn and a public affairs consultant who specializes in government relations, has two things he is looking for in this election — someone who can handle the looming budget crunch the city faces, and keeping his family safe. For him, Castor checks both those boxes. As a former police chief, she was in charge of the city’s biggest agency with the largest budget, and ably steered it during the recent Great Recession, and major crimes saw a 70-percent reduction during her tenure from 2009-15. Castor also is familiar with New Tampa, having served as the area’s district captain before she was police chief. “In New Tampa, the vast majority of people up here have kids, and most worry

about safety,” Farrell says. “No one else can say they would be better on safety than a former police chief.” But, Farrell says he also has two children in the gymnastics program at the NTRC “It’s important to have Mayoral candidate Harry Cohen (back, left) met with local leaders at Compton Park in New Tampa in January as part of a campaign to woo local voters. someone in the office who gets pared to 23 percent for the rest of the city. things done (for the city),” Farrell says, There are plenty of local issues “but we still need to get things done in important to area voters that remain — our community.” such as transportation, school safety and Farrell is a big fan of Viera, who is re-negotiating to once again provide fire credited with igniting much of the newrescue service to the thousands of New found political spirit in the area. The next Tampa residents in the unincorporated mayor could help build on that. For years, New Tampa residents have portion of Hillsborough County that includes Pebble Creek, Cross Creek and complained about not receiving a fair Live Oak Preserve. return on the taxes they pay to the city. Those things, and more, will likely In turn, some politicians have pointed dictate how many locals vote, and who to New Tampa’s dismal turnout in most they vote for, on March 5. elections, but especially, in municipal “This whole thing started with Luis elections in March. Viera bringing City Hall to us,” FalkowIn 2015, only 7.8 percent of regitz says. “If New Tampa doesn’t come istered New Tampa voters cast a ballot, out and vote and doesn’t vote for somecompared to 12.8 percent for the rest one who actually cares for New Tampa, of the city, although it should be noted we will go back to being a financial Mayor Buckhorn ran unopposed. windfall for the city with no services and In 2011, 15.4 percent turned out for Buckhorn’s win in the April run-off, com- no voice.”

“Just imagine a city hall that cares as much about the neighborhoods along Bruce B. Downs Blvd. as those along Bayshore Blvd.”

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Has Viera Done Enough For Tampa’s District 7? His Challenger Says ‘No’ Robinson, 42, says Viera doesn’t have a plan to fix the problems plaguing much of District 7, and is aggresQuinton F. Robinson says he is not sively fighting to win against what many pitting New Tampa against the rest of feel are insurmountable odds. Viera, the City of Tampa’s District 7 in his ata Hunter’s Green resident, is popular tempt to unseat current city councilman in New Tampa and elsewhere, and Luis Viera. extremely active in the area. What he says he is saying is this: He helped spearhead a renewed while Viera has accomplished a lot for effort by local political activists and New Tampa in his two years on Tampa’s community members in a fight to get City Council, Dist. 7 needs someone the city to approve funding for an adwho can do the same for the entire dition to the New Tampa Recreation district, and he’s that guy. Center and another fire station, as well “Equity in governance,” Robinson as designs for a sensory park that would simply says, and it is a prevalent theme on be the first of its kind in Tampa. his Facebook page, which uses Viera has championed hashtags like VOTEEquity, more than a dozen local BeEmpowered and, naturally, causes, from getting potholes VoteRobinson (on Tampa’s filled to advocating for safer municipal election day — roads, and organized a handTuesday, March 5). ful of town halls so residents Viera is running for could engage with city and his first full term. He has county leaders. served since 2017, after Robinson — who was defeating Jim Davison in a born and raised in West special election to fill the Tampa, graduated from seat of Lisa Montelione, who Hillsborough High and resigned for a failed attempt Florida A&M University in to run for the Florida House Tallahassee and is the former Quinton F. Robinson of Representatives. Viera, president of the Hillsborwith an endorsement from ough County Black Caucus Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, defeated — doesn’t dispute any of that. In fact, Davison in the run-off by 65 votes. he says it bolsters his pitch to voters. By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneightborhoodnews.com

District 7 Tampa City Council member Luis Viera has hosted town halls with County Commissioner Ken Hagan (top left) and District 3 Hillsborough County School Board member Cindy Stuart (top right), visited with Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn at the recent grand opening of Fire Station 23 and attended the first ever New Tampa Brew fest.

“My opponent has made strides for New Tampa, and that’s great for New Tampa,” Robinson says, “but the quality of life could be enhanced throughout North Tampa. Look at his accomplishments. Not one thing has benefited all of North Tampa. My goal is to enhance, educate, empower and elevate all of District 7.” While Robinson, who has lived with his wife and two children in the University area since 2012, does support line item funding to build a Tampa Police substation in New Tampa, many of his goals are centered around what he feels are the forgotten areas of District 7. He would like the North Tampa area in and around Sulphur Springs, Busch Blvd. and Fowler Ave. to be designated a Community Redevelopment Area, to reinvigorate the area economically. He favors beautification projects along Nebraska Ave. and Busch Blvd., needed street repairs and the repaving of 30th St. He wants flooding issues in the area addressed. Robinson also wants a “modernization” of Copeland Park & Community Center, including a kitchen, computer lab, rebuilding of the boardwalk and lighting for the existing trail. “I just don’t believe the North Tampa community should have to wait another 20 years,” Robinson says. “Unfortunately, that has been the case. Often when people run in this district, they only focus on the area north of Fowler or west of I-275. We need a councilman that is able to build that bridge to all of District 7, not just those in New Tampa.” Viera bristles at the accusation he has ignored the rest of District 7 because he is preoccupied with delivering for New Tampa. “There is an old saying – you are entitled to your own opinion, but not

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your own facts,” Viera says. “I have been active in all parts of the district.” In fact, he may be the most active member of the current City Council. One of his first tasks was to create the North Tampa Veterans Association, and he has remained involved in a number of veterans activities and created the Warrior Games Promotion Committee to promote attendance at the 2019 Warrior Games coming to Tampa in June. In Forest Hills, Viera says he helped organize residents to fight to preserve the Babe Zaharias Golf Course from potential redevelopment threats, and also supported funding for the maintenance of the golf course in the City of Tampa budget. He pushed for more street lighting and updated striping and signs in the area. Like he did with creating the New Tampa Council, to better organize the area neighborhoods, he did the same with the Forest Hills Council. And, he says he worked on facilitating more than $1 million for the Forest Hills Community Center, as well as flood mitigation improvements. Not to mention, he adds, the six town halls he hosted in the area. Along Busch Blvd. and Fowler Ave., he says he promoted a number of safety improvements in what he calls a “corridor of neglect,” helped organize a Hurricane Prepardedness Task Force to help with post-hurricane relief efforts in North Tampa communities, secured funding in the City of Tampa budget for additional lights at Copeland Park, is working on a formal crosswalk for Chamberlain High students on North Blvd., north of Busch Blvd. and has championed other safety projects and improvements on area roads. “I have to remind people sometimes that I’ve only been in office for two years,” Viera says. @NTWCNews

’

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Shevade Hopes To Add To New Tampa’s Representation On City Council By LIBBY BALDWIN Vibha Shevade is one of just two women running for one of the three available seats on the 2019 Tampa City Council, and the only female running “at large” — for the citywide District 3 seat — rather than in her home District 7. Shevade, a USF graduate and New Tampa resident for more than 20 years, hopes her desire to bring a woman’s voice to the table and professional experience in hot-button issues will translate into a win on Tampa’s Municipal Election Day — Tuesday, March 5. “I have worked in transportation, housing, technology and safety, and these are things I want to promote in City Council,” said Shevade, who also has served on the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Indian Advisory Council for the past six years, including one year as president, and on the Tampa Police Department’s Citizens Review Board. Shevade says her priority will be New Tampa neighborhoods. She and her husband send their three children to public schools in our area and want to make their commute safer, especially given the School Board’s new mandate that denies bus service to students who live within two miles of their school. “Our kids are walking to school before 7 a.m.,” Shevade says. “We have potholes, sidewalks that don’t exist or aren’t connected, and inadequate lighting.

“Commuting costs These are just basic necan be a hardship for cessities, and if we can’t students, families and meet them, are we reindividuals with car ally moving forward?” maintenance, gas and Shevade says her insurance,” she says. career background “When people have includes handling multimore transit options to million-dollar technoloeasily commute from gy budgets and creating one place to another a university transit sysfor work or school, it tem. She was part of the frees up funds to invest creation and planning in a home.” process that eventually resulted in Bull Runner, Helping Women the bus system at the In Business, Too nearby University of Another priority South Florida. for Shevade is promotShe currently is ing female-owned small a realtor at Tampa’s business growth. She NextHome Discovery, recently went on a and believes that the Tampa Black Business City of Tampa has an affordable housing crisis. Long-time New Tampa resident Vibha She- Bus Tour, a nonprofit “Everyone needs a vade is running for the citywide District 3 organization focused on raising awareness place to call home, and seat on the Tampa City Council. of African-American we have people with owned small businesses, and was shocked disabilities, young graduates and famito discover many female-owned niche lies who have been on a wait list for five shops she had never heard of before. years,” she said. “That’s unacceptable.” “Women business owners, especially Shevade, an active volunteer on the in Florida, get less funding than their New Tampa Council, started by current male counterparts,” she said. “We need District 7 City Council member Luis Viera, pointed out that a better transit system to fix that.” Shevade also thinks the city needs would serve to connect neighborhoods more focus on climate change, referencing and increase economic development, easthe recent $250 million floodwater fix that ing the burden on affordable housing.

she said didn’t take rising sea levels into account. “We definitely need new ordinances and other changes that are environmentally friendly, like solar power,” she says. “There are so many little things we can do that will have a big impact on sustainability.” Raising taxes is something Shevade believes is unnecessary, since the sales tax increases voters throughout Hillsborough County passed in November for transportation and school infrastructure will add millions to the city’s budget. She also is strongly in favor of expanding the New Tampa Recreation Center, which has a fiveyear waiting list of children and families. “Our budget is greater than last year, and there’s no reason why we have to cut out things that will increase quality of life,” she says. “I’ll fight for this (Rec Center) expansion because our families have been waiting way too long for this resource. There are plenty of options out there that don’t involve making our residents pay more.” Shevade’s bottom line is change now, for the sake of future generations. “If you want change, you need to vote for change,” she says, “and I’ll make sure that every single person has a voice at the table.” For more information about the March 5 Municipal election, visit VoteHillsborough.org. For more information about Vibha Shevade, visit the “Vibha Shevade for Tampa City Council” page on Facebook.

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Ready To Rescue: Tampa Fire Station No. 23 Now Serving New Tampa! By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

New Tampa’s fourth fire station, Tampa Fire Rescue Station No. 23, is now operational. Following a grand opening event on January 30, the station — located just off of County Line Rd. on Trout Creek Dr. — began handling calls. The new station’s primary area of service are the communities of Grand Hampton, The Hammocks, the Esplanade and the Colonial Grand at Hampton Preserve apartments. The new station also will help ease the pressure on New Tampa’s other fire rescue stations. Station 23 is the first new station to open in our area since 2012, when Station 22 opened on Cross Creek Blvd. Station 21 also is located on Cross Creek, and Station 20 is located on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in Tampa Palms. All four of the area’s fire stations belong to the City of Tampa and serve residents within the city limits. Residents in unincorporated Hillsborough County, such as Pebble Creek, Cross Creek and Live Oak Preserve are served by a contract with Pasco County, where the service is provided by Pasco Fire Rescue Station 26, located off BBD in the nearby Meadow Pointe I community of Wesley Chapel. There are mutual aid agreements in place, though, for emergencies that require additional help or when a rescue crew is already occupied with another situation. Station 23 is expected to help to improve response times from Tampa Fire Rescue stations. According to a story in the Tampa Bay Times last year, the 34-square-mile district has a median response time of 8.96 minutes, which is 90 seconds longer than the city’s other four fire department districts. “We have the worst response times in the City of Tampa (here in New Tampa),” says Luis Viera, District 7 Tampa City Council member, “so Fire Station 23 really goes a long way to addressing that.” Tampa Fire Rescue Chief Nick LoCicero agrees. “It really affords a more appropriate level of protection for the communities in New Tampa and the general vicinity of where the station is located,” says LoCicero, “It provides a more robust and prompt response for that area.” He explains it should immediately help the response time in Grand Hampton, which was previously served by the stations on Cross Creek Blvd.

(L.-r.) District 7 Tampa City Council member Luis Viera, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn and Tampa Fire Rescue Chief Nick LoCicero celebrate the opening of New Tampa’s fourth fire station, No. 23 (off of County Line Rd.), last month. (Photo courtesy of Sarah Foster) “We are closely watching that and mon- knows how many new homes in places like itoring response times,” Chief LoCicero says. K-Bar Ranch. We’re a growing area, and that He adds that some of the longer response times means the city needs to make more safety inare due to subdivisions that have enclaves that frastructure investments.” Station 23 includes a training room that are harder to access. “There’s just no easy way to get there,” he says, “but we’re looking for will serve all of the fire companies in the area, allowing in-service training on fire and EMS improvement in Grand Hampton.” LoCicero also explains that Station 23 topics to be conducted locally. This minimizis part of a phased-in program that includes the time fire companies are away from their ed a redistricting last year, creating Fire District 5 that encompasses all of New Tampa. While New Tampa was previously part of a 50-square-mile district, the new District 5 is about 34 square miles. The new station helps all of New Tampa, so that if multiple calls come in at the same time, or if a fire needs multiple companies to respond, there are more resources within the immediate area to handle those situations. It includes a truck company, which has a ladder to reach taller buildings and handles • FULL SERVICE PHARMACY primarily search and rescue; an engine com• CUSTOM MEDICATION PKG pany, which has hoses and connects to water • FRIENDLY STAFF to put out fires; and a rescue unit, which is • COMPOUNDING LAB the ambulance to help during non-fire emer• SPECIALTY VITAMINS gencies in our area. • SPANISH TRANSLATION “We’ve gone from 17,000 residents to 60,000 today,” Viera says, “with more coming because of new development and God

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station due to traveling for training. LoCicero says the grand opening itself was a nice event that showed the community’s support for its newest fire station. “It was a warm and gracious reception for all the firefighters there,” he says. “There were quite a few people there, and Winn-Dixie (also off County Line Rd.) was very hospitable and gracious to us. They gave each crew a buggy full of groceries, and Jersey Mike’s provided sandwiches. It’s nice to be appreciated like that.” He adds, “We’re happy for the community. We know they waited a long time for the station. It will be well served by the men and women of Tampa Fire Rescue.” Viera suggests that the New Tampa community should check out the area’s newest asset. “It’s a great facility,” he says. “Go by and take a look at it. Oh, and bring some donuts for the first responders.”

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New Charging Station Will Add To New Tampa’s EV Drivers’ Choices By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneightborhoodnews.com The parking lot between the Panera Bread and Dunkin’ Donuts off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in the Walk at Highwoods Preserve is undergoing a transformation that should charge some people up. If they have the right kind of car, that is. What is currently a fenced-in site with little hint of what’s to come will soon be an electric car charging station, part of an Electrify America network that is aggressively expanding across the country. The New Tampa location is one of 484 sites that will be finished by the end of June. The location, in one of New Tampa’s busier breakfast and lunchtime locations, is exactly what Electrify America is looking for, according to company spokesman Mike Moran. While Moran says the proximity to I-75 is ideal, so are the variety of things to do for those waiting for their car to fully charge. Although the technology continues to improve, to charge an electric car can take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours or even overnight, so stations are often located in highamenity areas and at many hotels. “It’s a combination of many things, really,” Moran says. “But part of the criteria is we are looking for places that are accessible and also provide an opportunity to other amenities, like shopping, food and beverages and other facilities.” Most automakers are working on, or are already producing, electric cars, or EVs (for electric vehicles). Sales of EVs in 2018 were up 81 percent over the previous, with 361,307 sales nationwide, according to InsideEVs.com. Many of the sales are being driven by the price of fueling up with gas, as

A charging station like the one above is coming to The Walk at Highwoods Preserve this summer, in between the Panera Bread and Dunkin’ Donuts off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (Photo: Electrify America)

well as awareness and concern over the effect that fuel emissions have on the environment.

An Electrifying History

Ironically, it was an emissions scandal that led to the creation of Electrify America. A wholly-owned subsidiary of German automaker Volkswagen, Electrify America was created in the aftermath of an emissions scandal in 2015 in which Volkswagen was discovered to have programmed roughly 11 million cars, including 500,000 in the U.S., to activate their emissions controls only during testing. Outside the testing facilities, however, it was discovered its cars were emitting 40 times more nitrogen oxide than allowed by the Clean Air Act. As part of its settlement with the U.S., Volkswagen agreed to invest $2 billion over 10 years in U.S. EV infrastructure, which includes new stations as well as educational initiatives, and launched Electrify America in 2018. More stations could prompt more sales. One major issue with owning

an electric car remains the range of your vehicle, and where to power up in a pinch. While a high majority of EV owners have a charging station at home, one of the by-products of owning an EV, especially for those with long commutes or looking to make a long trip, is finding a station when you need one, aka “range-anxiety.” But that is slowly changing. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels

Data Center, there were 61,067 electric vehicle charging stations in the U.S. in 2018. That number has increased every year since 2008, with the fastest growth coming the past three years, with annual growth of roughly 10,000 stations since 2015. There are about 3,000 public charging stations in Florida, compared to more than 20,000 in California, which has the most. The Electrify America station isn’t the first EV charging station in New Tampa. In fact, there are PlugShare charging stations at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites on Galbraith Rd. right behind The Walk at Highwoods Preserve, as well as two PlugShare charging stations at the USF Federal Credit Union on BBD. There also is a ChargePoint Charging Station located on Amberly Drive in the parking lot of the JAEB Center For Health Research, and Plug-In America has stations at Wesley Chapel Nissan, Honda and Chevrolet, as well as a handful of stations in and around the Tampa Premium Outlets. Tesla, which uses proprietary charging stations, has plans to build a station near the Super Target on County Line Rd. sometime this year, according to its website.

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There are two EV charging stations at the USF Federal Credit Union in New Tampa, as more stations continue to pop up nationwide to accommodate the growing electric car market. (Photo: PlugShare) 12

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‘Earth Fare’

Continued from Page 1 more to come, the company says, as it pursues aggressive expansion into Florida. “We’ve made a concerted effort in recent years to help Tampa-area shoppers have more convenient access to cleaner, healthier foods — the kind of food that will help them live a longer, happier, healthier life,” said Frank Scorpiniti, president/CEO of Earth Fare, in a statement. Earth Fare holds grand openings in the same way popular new businesses like Chick-Fil-A do, with long lines of early arrivers hoping to grab some free swag — like mystery gift cards worth as much as $1,000, as well as by other giveaways, food samples and contests. Earth Fare touts a selection of items that specifically do not contain things like high-fructose corn syrup, artificial fats, colors, sweeteners, or preservatives, or meats that were bred with antibiotics or growth hormones. The chain has a “boot list” — a long list of banned ingredients it does not allow in anything sold in any Earth Fare store.

The History Of Earth Fare

Founded in 1975 and based in Asheville, NC, Earth Fare’s tagline is “healthy food for everyone,” as the green grocer claims to offer “clean” food at prices every shoppers can afford.

The company’s 50th store opened last month in Steel Creek, NC, and Scorpiniti has said there could be as many as 100 locations in a few years. Like most green grocers, Earth Fare offers some distinct goodies to shoppers. The Wesley Chapel store has an Heirloom Café & Juice Bar, where shoppers can buy smoothies and coffee, and lunch and dinner are offered from selections that include a salad bar, hot food bar, pizza station and sandwich counter. Earth Fare also offers a small seating area with free Wi-Fi for those who want to sit and enjoy their purchase. Painted on the wall is: “Have A Seat, Stay Awhile.” Staying awhile is something you may just end up doing at Earth Fare. The store will carry a substantial selection of craft beers, one of its more popular characteristics, and also offers more than 1,000 private brand food products. There also will be a large offering of Wellness & Beauty products, like self-serve, scoop-your-own body scrubs. “We are passionate about helping our community make the connection between clean food and living longer, healthier, happier lives,” Scorpiniti said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to become the newest member of the growing Wesley Chapel community and to continue to bring the leanest, healthiest options for years to come.”

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 •February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

FEBRUARY 2019

MARCH 2019

Special Olympics Pasco County Summer Games - Wesley Chapel High School (30651 Wells Rd.) will host the Special Olympics Pasco County Summer Games, 11:30am-5:30pm. The Parade & Opening Ceremony will be at 11:30am; the Competition Starts at 12:15. More than 600 athletes will be competing in Athletics, Bocce, Cycling, Soccer & Tennis. Everyone is invited to attend the Games & Cheer on our Amazing Athletes. Volunteers are needed to assist with the Games. For more info. call Val Lundin (813) 299-4433 or visit specialolympicspasco.org North Tampa Bay Chamber: Final Friday Event - Held the last Friday of each month, Final Friday allows business professionals to meet in a ‘not-too-formal’ setting. This months event is hosted by Hyatt Place Wesley Chapel, 26000 Sierra Center Blvd, Lutz. 4:00-6:00pm. For more info, call (813) 994-8534.

Rotary Club of New Tampa - The Rotary Club of New Tampa meets every Friday for breakfast at 7:00am at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.). For more info, including the speaker schedule, contact David Lanigan at 813-760-6548 or dave@davidlanigan.com or visit NewTampaRotary.org. Saturday, March 2 COMMUNITY-WIDE YARD SALE Community-Wide Yard Sale - Compton Park in Tampa Palms - For more information, see Your JUNK could be the ad (right). SOMEONE ELSE’S TREASURE Blood Drive (The Shops at Wiregrass) - The OneBlood Big Red Bus will be at The Shops at Wiregrass-The Gatherings (28211 Paseo Dr, Ste YOU SELL IT OR WE’LL SELL IT FOR YOU! 100, Bloodmobile), 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. OneBlood OR is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 community asset. COME HUNT FOR YOUR TREASURE

Friday, February 22

Saturday, February 23

Bay Chapel Food Pantry - Free food for needy families. Open every Saturday from 9:30am11:30am, behind Christian Brothers Automotive (20300 Trout Creek Dr., off BBD). For more info, visit BayChapel.com/foodpantry. American Heart Association Family Walk - Come enjoy a fun family walk in support of the American Heart Association, 9 am-11 am at The Learning Experience of New Tampa (20780 Trout Creek Dr, New Tampa (off County Line Rd.). Please Wear Red! For more info, please call (813) 575-8268. Custom Car Show to Benefit the Sean Bartell Memorial Foundation - See ad on page 15. Battle of the Bowls Chili Cook Off - The Beach House at Wiregrass Ranch Assisted Living & Memory Care (30070 S.R. 56, Wesley Chapel) will be hosting it’s inaugural “Battle of the Bowls” Chili Cook-Off, 2:00pm-4:00pm. Sample each chili and then cast your ballot at this Free event. After ballots are counted, enjoy a bowl of chili or a hot dog with all the trimmings. For more info. call (813) 508-6677. Or, see the story on page 20 or the ad on page 22 of this issue.

Friday, March 1

Thursday, March 7

North Tampa Bay Chamber: Monthly Coffee Social - Want to gather with other colleagues and peers in a relaxed networking environment? Please join us at our No-Agenda monthly coffee social, 8 a.m.-9 a.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn - Suncoast Parkway, 2155 Northpointe Pkwy, Lutz. For more info, call (813) 994-8534.

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Monday, February 25

New Tampa Democratic Club - The Club meets on the 4th Monday of each month, 7:00pm8:30pm at Mulligan’s Pub (10550 Regents Park Dr, Pebble Beach Golf Club). Guest speakers are featured at every meeting. Come early, eat, mingle or come on time and eat during the meeting. For more info, email newtampademocraticclub@gmail.com.

Tuesday, February 26

Metro Job Fair - Looking for your next opportunity? Metro Places is expanding in Pasco County. This growth means new jobs, so Metro Places is hosting its annual Job Fair. Meet over 30 employers looking for people just like you to be part of this ground-breaking project. 9:00am-1:00pm at Pasco Hernando State College - Porter Campus (2727 Mansfield Blvd, Wesley Chapel). For more info, visit: www.jobfair.MetroPlaces.com

Wednesday, February 27

Business Networking International (BNI) - Meets every Wednesday, 7:30am, at Mulligans inside Pebble Creek Golf Club (10550 Regents Park Dr.). Call Bill Sullivan 813-994-1143. Rotary Club Of New Tampa Noon - The New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meets Wednesdays at Noon at Bayscape Bistro, inside Heritage Isles Country Club off Cross Creek Blvd. Guests are always welcome. For more info, search “New Tampa Noon Rotary” on Facebook.

Thursday, February 28

North Tampa Veterans Association meeting - All armed forces veterans and associates are invited to a weekly lighthearted Dutch-treat breakfast meeting to get acquainted and tell your tales, new and old. Location: Steak ‘n Shake just off BBD Blvd. (17509 North Palms Village Pl) - every Thursday at 7:30 am. Bring your spouse and your brag sheet. Adult Beginner Ballet - Join Della as she teaches the fundamentals of ballet. For adults age 18+ every Thursday, Noon-1:00pm at Jansen Dance Project (5330 Primrose Lake Cir., Tampa). Class will focus on alignment, body awareness, flexibility & more in a fun, non-judgemental environment. Wear comfortable clothing & ballet slippers or bare feet. Cost: $10. For more information, call (813) 979-2222.

For more infomation, contact Terri Vernon at (646) 436-2497 or email divaterriva@yahoo.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 • February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 • February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Olympus Pools Growing, And Helping, In The New Tampa Community same day (in most cases). Olympus employees use the app to post blueprints, photographs and more to keep you fully informed, even if you aren’t home. “Our technology and in-house equipment helps us deliver the finished product faster,” James says. “Nobody’s ever sad when the construction is over.” It doesn’t matter whether you’re budgeting for a $30,000 or a $300,000 pool, Olympus uses the same top-quality products. “We use the best filters, best pumps and best salt systems included with every pool,” James says. “Even the most basic design gets the most premium quality money can buy.”

By LIBBY BALDWIN

Olympus Pools owners James and Alexis Staten are getting ready to bring their business closer to the community they’ve been part of for six years. “New Tampa is our home,” says Alexis, who grew up in Coral Springs and has five children ranging between ages 9-15 with James, who was born in New Smyrna Beach. “We’re here for the long term and really take pride in being the main pool builder (in our area), so we want to invest in the area.” Alexis says that more than half of Olympus’ custom-designed pools have been built in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area, including K-Bar Ranch, Meadow Pointe, Grand Hampton and many more, so requiring customers to travel to the current showroom near Tampa International Airport was something the Statens decided to fix. “Plans are in the works for a new facility to open up in Lutz this summer, with a lot more space, so several customers can work with designers at the same time,” says James, who adds that he had worked every job there is in the pool business before opening Olympus. “Now when people are thinking about a new pool, they will be able to get to us in ten minutes or less.” The bigger and better showroom will feature a slew of brand new features, cutting-edge design and of course, the latest technology in pools — something the Statens have always made paramount. “Everything we do is digital,” says Alexis. “We want to do more than just build

How About These Add-Ons?

The team at Olympus Pools not only takes great pride in their pools, but also in their community service, like donating time and money to local schools, the New Tampa YMCA and organizations like Feeding Tampa Bay, where they filled carts of food and delivered them to the needy. (Photo: Alexis Staten)

a pool; we’re providing an experience.” The company uses a 3-D imaging AutoCAD system to bring the customer’s vision of a new pool to life before the Olympus Pools’ construction staff even breaks ground. You can take a 360-degree tour of your pool on a high-definition screen. The technology even allows you to see what the pool will look like at dusk or at night, and can also

give you a close-up view of what it will be like floating through the pool. The Statens’ latest addition to their high-tech arsenal is a smartphone app that keeps customers informed about their pool project 24/7. Users can receive daily updates via the project management app, pay bills and even ask staff questions that will be answered the

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 • February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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But, Olympus Pools doesn’t just build pools to swim in, they specialize in delivering the entire pool experience, along with other customized offerings. Built-in pool bars are a popular choice these days, because they save space that would normally be taken up on the pool deck, and they offer comfort and convenience. Olympus Pools can build something fancy or simple, and are able to accommodate virtually any design you can dream of, so customers and their family and guests can enjoy their food and drink without ever having to leave their pool. And, if you want to keep the party outdoors, Olympus Pools also builds outdoor kitchens to enhance your pool time. From a refrigerator to a grill to a storage space, outdoor kitchens can be the ultimate entertainment space.

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And, while Olympus is not a standalone kitchen builder, they can add them to your new pool construction project. Custom-designed kitchens, custom outdoor cabinetry, grilling islands with built-in grills, smokers and pizza ovens, fireplaces and fire pits and appliances are all available. The Statens also take great pride in their staff, most of whom have been with them from the company’s birth in 2013. There are six designers and four project managers on staff, and more than 150 crew members in the field on a daily basis. James, Alexis and their senior employees have more than 200 years of combined experience in a steadily-growing industry. Olympus Pools designed and built just shy of 400 pools in 2018. James says that the family-oriented, team environment in which everyone reaps the benefits of hard work is the key to Olympus’ success. “We feel the most pride and satisfaction when a customer is thrilled with his new pool; that means a lot to us,” says James. “The best people in this industry can go anywhere, so we try to create an environment where we’re supporting our staff and helping them give the best customer service possible.”

Customer & Community Service

Olympus Pools employees, more than half of whom live and work in the New Tampa area, enjoy team-building events throughout the year and have enthusiastically joined the Statens in their mission to better the community they all love. “Our kids are growing here, their lives

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are here,” says Alexis of the company’s community service efforts. “We have the means to help our community thrive, and we want to do that as much as we can.” Three years ago, James began contributing a portion of Olympus’ profits to Olympus Pools designed and constructed almost 400 pools in 2018, and will expand its presence ca lot closer to the Statens’ home DonorsChoose.org, base of New Tampa sometime this summer. (Photos: Olympus Pools) an organization that especially hard that time of year, because the Great American Teach-In each year and brings much-needed supplies and improvethey know if they don’t sell enough pools, have supported the Hillsborough County ments to low-income Hillsborough County the funds to help won’t be there. Anti-Bullying initiative. schools, and the company now sponsors a “We joke with them that if they don’t And, to celebrate Water Safety Month classroom about five times annually. sell, children won’t eat,” said James with a last May, Olympus donated more than Students at those schools recently smile. “But, they always come through.” $2,000 of that month’s profits to the New received new tablets and multimedia equipIn 2018, Olympus raised enough for ment to keep them on track with children in Tampa YMCA’s scholarship fund, providing 2,200 meals and toiletries. swimming lessons to local kids who othermore affluent schools. Olympus Pools has The company has pledged to help even wise could not afford them. also supported local schools like Hunter’s more as they continue to grow, creating one The Statens’ 9-year-old son Jacob Green and Pride Elementary and Turner/ totally unique backyard oasis at a time for introduced them to Feeding Tampa Bay, a Bartels K-8 School with technology items their customers in New Tampa and beyond. child-hunger nonprofit, when he asked for the past few years, and the pool maker also donations instead of gifts to mark his fifth For more information about Olymsupports student athletics by sponsoring birthday. He has done so every birthday pus Pools, visit the Olympus Pools several local Little League teams. since, and the organization has become a Facebook page or OlympusPoolsFL. The Statens send their children to the family favorite that now includes the entire com, call (813) 983-7854 or see the ad Turner/Bartels K-8 School and Turner ElOlympus staff. on pg. 28 of this issue. Olympus works ementary, and in 2018, James led the effort “It’s very cool to see over 20 people with clients in Hillsborough, Pasco, to remove a hazardous wooden structure filling their carts, loading and unloading pal- Pinellas and Hernando counties. Their outside of Turner. Olympus installed a new lets of food,” James says. “It’s fun for all of current design center is located at 4422 paver deck area and gazebo, creating a nice us, and it’s nice to have a hands-on activity N. Lauber Way in Tampa, but the comarea where students can eat lunch outside. pany’s new showroom will open in Lutz The Statens also sponsored the school’s rather than just writing a check.” Alexis says that her employees work sometime this summer. annual Winterfest fundraiser, participate in

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 • February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

The Beach House At Wiregrass — The Residence For Assisted Living & Memory Care! By CELESTE MCLUAGHLIN

The bright and spacious halls of Beach House Assisted Living & Memory Care at Wiregrass Ranch are coming to life, with an influx of new residents calling it home since the community opened in April 2018. Located just two miles east of the Shops at Wiregrass on S.R. 56, the 93,000-sq.-ft. facility offers 100 residential units, ranging from studio-type apartments of 450 sq. ft. to two-bedroom/two-bath units of up to 796 sq. ft. Homes at Beach House can accommodate single residents or couples, living in either the assisted living or memory care areas. In the eight months since it opened, 59 residents have moved in so far. Callie Sears, the director of community relations for the Beach House at Wiregrass, says the number of residents who have already chosen to call Beach House home is well above what they had anticipated at this time, and that those residents are already shaping the programs and features that make it such a special place to live. “We tailor and cater activities and social aspects of the community to the residents who live here,” says Sears. “The innovative, out-of-the-box thinking, and catering to residents’ wants and needs is how we’re able to really make it their community.” She says this includes bringing the surrounding Wesley Chapel community into Beach House, with volunteers from Wiregrass Ranch High, for example, and other events designed to draw people in. This month’s “Battle of the Bowls” is a chili cook-off on Saturday, February

At the Beach House’s grand opening in 2018, community relations director Callie Sears (left center) and executive director Linda Mena (right center) were joined by regional marketing and sales director Kim Hayes (far left) and regional operations manager Kim Nadwodny. 23, 2 p.m.-4 p.m. There will be live raffles, and their guests meet at the Beach House on chili, hot dogs, beer and desserts. Sears says the first Friday of each month at 7:30 a.m. everyone is welcome to enter their own chili WOW chair Mollyana Ward says, “They in the cook-off. say great minds think a like and both (NTBC “Our philosophy is to bring the outside CEO) Hope Allen, myself and Linda Mena community into these walls,” Sears explains. were all on the same page when it came to “We want to embrace Wesley Chapel and New hosting WOW at the Beach House. When Tampa and bring them in to understand what Linda gave Hope and I a tour, we were in we’re about. Our residents are vibrant and awe. Not only is the facility beautiful and have things to look forward to every day.” classy, but so accommodating. The staff preAnother way the Beach House brings pares a light breakfast for the ladies of WOW in local residents and business leaders every on the first Friday of every month. We love month is by hosting Women of Wesley Chapel having a place to call home!” (WOW) meetings. The group of as many as Meanwhile, Sears says the Beach House 100 North Tampa Bay Chamber members community also includes the family members

— and even furry friends — of its residents. Pets up to 30 pounds are welcome, and visiting family members often bring pets to the facility’s dog park. “We have a good rate of family involvement,” Sears says. “We want them to be here and give them 24/7 access to come and go.” She says mealtimes are often when families gather. “We see a family member sitting with three or four residents, or a couple of families sitting together,” Sears says. “Some families are drawn to those residents who don’t see their families as often. They almost have adopted grandparents.” Residents eat restaurant-style for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with chef-created recipes to accommodate any dietary needs. In fact, a monthly Chef’s Showcase gives residents the opportunity to sample new recipes or submit their own favorite recipes for the chef to try out. Then, the residents get to vote on which items they want added to the menu at the Beach House. With its location close to shopping and dining, families often embark on multi-generational outings. Residents also choose where to have a weekly “lunch bunch” in one of the area’s many local restaurants. There’s also plenty to do without leaving the Beach House. There are indoor and outdoor gathering spaces for wellness activities, games such as shuffleboard or pool, movies, arts & crafts, and a salon. Happy hours, which used to be once a week, are now three times a week, and include weekly live entertainment. “Our happy hours are so popular,” Sears laughs, “we need to order more furniture.”

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From shuffleboard to swimming, movies, dining and more, residents at the Beach House at Wiregrass Ranch Assisted Living & Memory Care on S.R. 56 can enjoy the ‘attrition of life’ in style.

She also says that the memory care residents have group kitchens where staff members lead activities such as baking cookies, which many residents have enjoyed doing all their lives. “It’s a shared activity, where one person measures and one person mixes,” explains Sears. “We can always smell it when they’re baking cookies.”

Like Home, Only Better

Sears says people are attracted to the name Beach House, which is intended to evoke fond memories of years gone by, such as summers on the beach. “People come in because they like the name, and then they see that Beach House has a calming sense to it,” says Sears. “Some places almost feel sterile, but they did a great job here of creating a sense of warmth and an

inviting atmosphere. People feel drawn to it.” As the first full-service assisted living and memory care facility located in Wesley Chapel, the Beach House offers many different accommodations and services to its residents. For assisted living residents, the Beach House staff provides help with a variety of daily activities, such as shopping and medication management. The separate memory care area is available for those who need it, such as for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. The Wesley Chapel location joins two existing Beach House facilities in Jacksonville and Naples, FL. They are all owned by Prevarian Senior Living, LP, which is based in Dallas, TX, and also has similar communities in other parts of Texas, Oklahoma and Arizona. Day-to-day operations at the Beach House are managed by employees of Life Care Services, a Los Angeles, CA-based company

serving the needs of more than 33,000 senior citizens at facilities throughout the U.S. To deliver services to residents of a wide range of abilities, the Beach House is licensed as an Extended Congregate Care (ECC) facility. That means a spectrum of care is offered, from limited assistance to total help with many basic needs. “We have nurses around the clock,” says Sears. “That sets us apart from most places.” Overseeing all aspects of the Beach House at Wiregrass Ranch’s daily operations is executive director Linda Mena, who has more than 25 years of experience working in senior housing. She explains that the range of care helps Beach House residents of all abilities, and as their abilities change over time. “They truly can age in place in our community and that’s important to residents,” Mena says. “With the attrition of life, their

needs become much greater and they don’t want to have to move or make a transition at that frail part of their lives.” Residents at the Beach House pay privately, as insurance plans and Medicaid are not accepted. However, if families have long-term care insurance, a staff member will assist with providing billing information to the insurance company for reimbursement. To learn more about upcoming events at the Beach House at Wiregrass Ranch, including the “Strut Your Mutt” doggie fashion show, go to Facebook.com/BeachHouseatWiregrassRanch. To enter your chili or RSVP for the Battle of the Bowls, or, for more information about the Beach House (30070 S.R. 56), visit BeachHouseWiregrass.com, call (813) 508-6677, or see the ad on pg. 22 of this issue.

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Children’s Dentistry & Dr. Greg Stepanski Still Keeping New Tampa Kids Smiling Columbus, and also earned a B.S. degree in Biology from the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, IN. He says one of his primary goals was ensuring kids’ teeth stay healthy from a very young age. “We are encouraging children to have a dental home by the age of one,” he says. Dr. Greg explains that age one is now recommended by both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics for a child’s first dental appointment. “It’s preventive,” he says. “Now we’re seeing more and more patients at age one and seeing less problems. We’re also seeing a little bit less tooth decay.”

By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN

Greg Stepanski, D.D.S., is a pediatric dentist with more than 25 years of experience in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. Dr. Greg’s Children’s Dentistry has been located in the Cory Lake Professional Center on Cross Creek Blvd. since he moved it there in 2004, after taking over another dentist’s practice back in 1991, when it was located on E. Fowler Ave. While Dr. Greg — as he’s often called, both by his patients and their parents — has been in practice for more than two decades, his office continues to be a modern, updated place with new technology, where parents love to bring their children for dental care. In fact, some parents who now bring their children to Dr. Greg were his patients when they were children themselves. When those parents arrive, they see more familiar faces in addition to Dr. Greg. Office manager Melanie Phillips has been with the practice since 1987. “That is such a compliment to know they had such good experiences here as a child that they want to bring their kids, too,” says Melanie. That’s actually what happened in her family, too, Melanie adds. “Dr. Stepanski took care of my two kids’ teeth, and now my grandkids come here.” She adds, “I love Dr. Stepanski. He’s a very good dentist. He puts a lot of thought into his treatment plans and thinks about what’s best for the child.”

Making Young Patients Feel Right At Home

Dr. Greg Stepanski and his team at Children’s Dentistry on Cross Creek Blvd. have a lot of fun with their patients, encouraging a family-type atmosphere in ways that include the annual Christmas party, where all patients are invited to visit and take pictures with Santa. “We’re creating a whole different enviShe says she loves coming to work ronment, so people take care of their teeth,” because she sees the difference that the Melanie says. “It’s a big part of their overall practice is making in people’s lives. While health. If you have decay or infection in your Melanie says she knows many people of her own generation who were — and still are — mouth, that can affect the whole body.” Dr. Greg earned his Doctor of Dental scared to see a dentist because of their own Surgery (D.D.S.) degree from the Ohio experiences, that’s simply not the case for State University College of Dentistry in Dr. Greg’s patients.

Shelly Alt, who lives in Covington Estates in Cross Creek, is mom to four girls. She says she has been taking her daughters to Dr. Greg for the last five or six years. Previously, she went to another dentist, but that office didn’t take her insurance. She said she would pay hundreds of dollars at each visit, so she decided to switch to Children’s Dentistry, which accepts her insurance and is much closer to her home. “Dr. Stepanski is fabulous,” Shelly says, “but what also makes his office are the ladies. They are always happy, they have a great time and they love kids.

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g Drs. Lockey, Fox, Ledford, Glaum, Cho & Pepper DOCTORS LOCKEY, FOX, LEDFORD, GLAUM, CHO, PEPPER

Since this picture was taken in 1993, much has changed, but the smiling faces of some long-term employees still make children feel at ease during their dental appointments. Dr. Greg (far left), office manager Melanie (far right), dental assistant Brenda (next to Melanie) and insurance coordinator Shannon (in front of Brenda) have all been with the practice for more than two decades.

They’re just wonderful.” Melanie agrees that she and her staff love their jobs. “My team has experience, they love kids and they have a good time,” she says. “They are concerned about their patients, and we have fun throughout the day.” She says the office’s friendly, happy staff creates an environment where parents are comfortable, and they hope parents will ask any and all questions at any time, even if they have to call the office after they’ve left their child’s appointment. “Any questions, ask us,” Melanie says. “We’re all parents and we know that these are your children and you have to be comfortable and have confidence in who is taking care of your children.” Melanie says that starts at the top, with Dr. Greg and the way he cares for each and every child who sits in his chair. “He creates an environment where you can’t be anything else but caring and concerned for the patients,” she says, “because that’s who he is.” Kids visit Dr. Stepanski for cleanings, which are recommended twice a year, and X-rays. They’re taught about the importance of dental hygiene and shown how to properly brush and floss. Sealants and fluoride treatments are offered as a preventative measure against decay. When decay happens, Dr. Stepanski does fillings and restorations. Also, he sees kids for emergencies, such as if they chip or knock out a tooth.

A Commitment To Community Outreach

Dr. Greg’s office is more than just a place to get your children’s teeth checked. He and Melanie say it’s a family, and they are intentional about building that community feeling, as well. Every year, Dr. Greg’s patients are invited to visit Santa at the practice’s annual Christmas party. “Our families bring their kids all dressed up and take their family Santa Neighborhood News

photos with our professional photographer,” says Dr. Greg, who adds that there also are fun activities for the kids, such as face painting, a balloon artist and crafts. “It’s become quite an event.” Alt says the holiday party is one of her favorite things about the practice. “The most fabulous thing is not having to go to the mall to see Santa,” she says. “They have games and music and face painting. My kids look forward to that every year. It’s great.” Dr. Greg enjoys it, too. “We have it here so the kids can see that it’s a fun destination,” he says. “They can interact with me and the staff while we’re having fun, not trying to do a filling or fix a tooth that was knocked out.” In addition to his office’s events, Dr. Greg reaches out to the community in many other ways. He brings “Tommy the Toothbrush” — a character who stresses good dental hygiene — to visit local schools during February, which is Dental Health Month. “We give toothbrushes to all the kids,” Dr. Greg explains, “Some of them might not have one.” He also has provided dental care for migrant children and does a program each fall where he donates a Thanksgiving turkey to Metropolitan Ministries in the name of any pediatrician or dentist who refers a new patient to him. “We like to give to Metropolitan Ministries,” he says. Dr. Greg also is a charter member and past president of the New Tampa Noon Rotary Club, an active church member at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church and he raises funds for Corpus Christi Catholic School in Temple Terrace, where his wife Sue has taught kindergarten for 15 years. For appointments and more information about Children’s Dentistry (10317-B Cross Creek Blvd.), call (813) 973-3100, visit DrGreg-ChildrensDentistry.com, or see the ad on page 28. The office accepts most major dental insurance plans. @NTWCNews

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Florida Executive Realty Celebrates The Opening Of Its Newly Expanded Office! By GARY NAGER

When I first met Kristy Darragh in 1995, she was a relatively new agent with Florida Executive Realty (FER). Since 1992, or two years before I purchased the Neighborhood News with a former partner, FER has been operating out of what was once called the “Tampa Palms Information Center.” At that time, Kristy bought one 1/8-page ad, sold the one house in the ad and called me to say she was buying a full-page ad with us. She’s been on our back cover of every New Tampa issue ever since. “I’m also going to tell my boss, Doug Loyd, that he should buy a fullpage ad, too,” she said. And, the rest of that story is history. Part of that history is that FER is the real estate office that we named, back in 2000, as our “Advertiser of the Millennium.” Fast forward about a quarter of a century. FER has grown from just that one office and two people — Doug (who actually opened the office with former partner John Zielenbach) and his now-VP/general manager Michelle Weinhold (affectionately called “Red” by many in the office) — to six offices and 200 agents and staff. In addition to helping buyers and sellers of homes, FER today also offers full-service property management, mortgage and title services and even new construction services. I sat down with Doug and Kristy recently to not only write this story, but also to do a WCNT-tv/NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net Video Business Feature about the expansion and tell more about FER and its rich history. The building which is home to FER today — and which, rumor has it, was built in about 30 days — was one of the first two con-

(L.-r.) Neighborhood News’ Gary Nager, with Doug Loyd and Kristy Darragh of Florida Executive Realty

structed in Tampa Palms back in 1986. “This building was here before Tampa Palms Country Club, before Tampa Palms Elementary and definitely before any homes or shopping centers,” Doug says. “They were just starting to build the first subdivisions in Tampa Palms — Ashmont, Coventry and Canterbury.” Through it all, the building has held up pretty well, but FER kept outgrowing it. So, shortly before Kristy bought into FER as Doug’s partner 16 years ago, a second floor was added to the original 3,200-sq.-ft. building, but despite several interior re-dos since then to accommodate the office’s growing staff, Doug and Kristy have been talking about expanding and upgrading it. Well, with Kristy and Doug, talk usually becomes action, and so today, the Tampa Palms office has been expanded by about 1,200 sq. ft. inside, and a beautiful patio and garden area (perfect for special events and even weddings that is dedicated to the memory of former FER Realtor Mark Stern) have been created outside. And, the entire building has received a wi-fi and wiring upgrade. And, while Doug is thrilled to finally

have a legitimate office, Kristy is proudest of the new “virtual agent” office that is adjacent to the new conference room.“Because everything is online today,” she says, agents don’t have to work 9-to-5 anymore. So, we created a space where agents from all six of our offices can stop in, plug in and then get going again.” Doug adds, “It’s hard to believe we’ve been in business this long and haven’t had a proper conference room. But maybe, the most popular thing we’ve built is the patio. And, Phase 2 of the expansion will be to redo the rest of the existing office to match this new look.”

Still Truly Local...

Doug says that despite the fact that there are many real estate companies with offices in every U.S. state, “real estate, by definition, is still a truly local business.” Kristy adds, “And, while Tampa Palms is still the mother ship for us, I have listings and have sold homes throughout New Tampa, Wesley Chapel and beyond. Doug has had a vision for this company and it’s working.” Part of Doug’s vision has been to duplicate what he did in Tampa Palms, as

FER’s Westchase and Fishhawk Ranch offices also are in the former community centers/ information offices for those developments. And, all six offices — Tampa Palms, Westchase, Fishhawk, South Tampa, Carrollwood and Brandon — participate in FER’s HOPE Foundation, a Florida 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization established in 2015 (HOPE is an acronym for Housing, Opportunity, People and Education). Doug says, “The HOPE Foundation is our way of giving back to those in need throughout the areas we serve.” There currently are four nonprofit organizations receiving contributions from the Foundation — the Academy Prep Center of Tampa, A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay in Brandon, Quantum Leap Farm of Odessa and former Tampa Bay Bucs WR Vincent Jackson’s Foundation — Jackson in Action. “With contributions from all six offices, we’ll be donating about $40,000 to those charities (total) this year,” Doug says. “We’re pretty proud of that.” The Foundation also names a “Humanitarian of the Year” every year at FER’s “Awards of Excellence” ceremony. The 2018 Humanitarian of the Year was Sue Dei from FER’s Carrollwood office. The Tampa Palms office of Florida Executive Realty is located at 15802 Amberly Dr. For more information, visit FloridaExectutiveRealty.com, call the office at (813) 972-3430, or Kristy Darragh at (813) 931-6700, or see the ads on pages 27 and 48 of this issue. And, visit YouTube.com/WCNT-tv or search “Neighborhood News” on Facebook to view FER’s Featured Business segment.

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Wharton’s Versatile Hudson Uses Tools To Succeed On And Off The Field

By JARRET GUTHRIE When talking about an up-and-coming baseball prospect, the chatter always comes down to the “tools” a player has in his repertoire: Is he fast? Can he hit? How’s his glove? Wharton High senior first baseman and designated hitter Michael Hudson has a number of the tools college coaches look for, so much so that he has been offered a chance to play baseball at the college level next year at nearby Saint Leo University near Dade City. However, it was a whole different set of tools Hudson relied on for two weeks last October, as he and his father, Scott, joined other members of Cypress Point Community Church on a mission trip to Thailand. There, the Hudsons and other volunteers spent a week working at a local orphanage in Chiang Mai, addressing the serious building and rehabbing needs of the girl’s dormitory. Hudson said he split his days hanging new lockers, replacing doors and windows, and sanding and repainting interior and exterior walls. But, because he was one of the few workers under 25 years of age, he often found himself being pulled away from the work by the young children of the orphanage to play sports — often finding himself challenged to foot races. “The smiles on the kids’ faces when they saw me, because I was with a bunch of adults, was really special,” Hudson says. “They knew I could run, so they made me run a lot. They were 12-hour days and I’d spend about six hours building, sanding or painting. The other six hours I’d spend playing with them.” Hudson said the trip was a great experi-

ence, both because it gave him a sense of accomplishment in providing care to the facilities at an orphanage, as well as getting to spend some quality time working beside his father, Scott, who owns and operates ServiceMaster of Tampa Bay, a contracting business that specializes in emergency rehabs of flood, fire and mold damage. Wharton baseball player Mike Hudson and dad Scott (top left) and Mike “The thing with one of the children who insisted he play sports with her while he was in that stood out for Thailand this past summer. (Photos courtesy of Mike Hudson) me was how me “He’s our resident construction guy here and my Dad connected throughout the trip,” at school,” Hoffman says. “He’s a big help to Michael says. “He is busy at work and I have this team, a great student and a tremendous school and baseball, but this was two weeks leader for our program.” we were able to spend together, building our For Hudson, the sense of challenge and relationship up.” the resulting feeling of accomplishment is what Although the work in Thailand was the he enjoys most about any creative project. first official building project the younger Hud“When you start a project, sometimes son has undertaken, it’s far from his first time you start to think, ‘Oh wow, I’m never going showing off his handy side. to get this done,’” he says. “But you keep At Wharton, Hudson has never shied working super hard at it and you finish it up. I from helping with field upkeep, being labeled always get that tingling feeling that makes me as the go-to guy by baseball head coach Scott appreciate what I was able to do.” Hoffman for projects like putting up the On the field, Hudson was a key windscreen around the baseball field fences, contributor last season as a junior, hitting or replacing the tires and the netting on the .312 for the year with 15 RBI and 12 runs batting practice roll-cage. scored, while serving as the Wildcats 1B/

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DH. He began his career at Wharton aiming to play shortstop; however, a series of injuries changed those plans and led to his transition to first base. “We thought he was going to be our guy at shortstop for the future when he came in as a freshman, but he ended up blowing out his right knee,” Hoffman says. “He came back from that and hurt it again, then came back and dislocated his shoulder, but he never once complained. He’s been through hell and has the best attitude in the world.” For Hudson, the injuries were no different than any other task put in front of him to accomplish. “Injuries happen to all athletes, you just have to put your faith in God,” Hudson says. “You do what you have to do. You fight, you just work harder.” Playing baseball at the professional level is still Hudson’s dream, and he plans to study business at Saint Leo with the hope of working in athletics. He doesn’t see a career in construction or contracting in his future, but he says he hopes the desire to build and create will always be a part of his life. “Baseball is going to be that number one goal for me after college,” Hudson says. “But at Saint Leo, I plan on majoring in sports-related business and would look to work for some (professional) organization, so I don’t really see construction as a career path for me at this time,” Hudson said. “But I’ll never be paying anyone to do anything once I get my own house, I’ll always be doing that kind of stuff myself.”

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Coach: Scott Hoffman Last season: 17-9 (5-2 in Class 8A-4) Key returners: Brian Baughman (Sr., LHP, OF), Zach Ehrhard (So., 2B), Mike Hudson (Sr., 1B), Dylan McDonald (So., INF), Grady Maguire (Jr., SS). Promising newcomers: Ryan Fry (Fr, RHP) and Michael Rivera (So., LHP). Breakout Star: Dubbed by Hoffman as the team’s “Ben Zobrist” for his incredible versatility on defense, junior shortstop and infielder Grady Maguire opened last season on a tear with hits in 10 of the first 11 games. He finished his sophomore season hitting .357, with 20 runs scored and 12 RBI.

Outlook: District runners-up last season and riding a streak of four straight regional playoff appearances, Wharton will again bring a highlytalented team to the table this season. The Wildcats will be led by senior pitcher and outfielder Brian Baughman, who burst onto the scene last year by hitting .398, more than 100 points better than his 2017 batting average, scored 26 runs and went 6-3 on the mound with a 1.94 ERA and 60 strikeouts. Sophomore Zach Ehrhard had an impressive varsity debut last year, hitting .371 and scoring 20 runs, while Mike Hudson (see story on previous page) had 15 RBI and Dylan McDon-

ald drove in 14 runs, including one in each of the team’s last four games. Freshman pitcher Ryan Fry hasn’t even thrown a high school pitch yet, but he already has made an early oral commitment to the University of Miami this winter and may make an immediate impact on the mound for the‘Cats. Lefthanded sophomore Michael Rivera transferred in from Alonso High, where he did not see any varsity action. Hoffman says: “Our seniors like Brian (Baughman) and Mikey Hudson are guys we lean on a lot and they show how about we go about our business around here... the younger guys see and follow them.”

doubles, 12 RBI and 15 runs scored. Outlook: The Wildcats cruised through district play last season, going 6-0 in the regular season, before winning its district tournament semifinal game against Wiregrass Ranch. In two regular season games against Freedom, the Wildcats outlasted the Patriots. However, in the district championship Wharton hitters were held to just four hits in a mercy-rule loss to Freedom, and then knocked out of the state playoffs 14-0 by East Ridge. Despite the end-of-season stumble last year, Bonea, a former Saint Leo University player, has steered the Wildcats to three straight District championship games, and four straight

winning seasons since taking over the program in 2015. Wharton loses four of its top five hitters due to graduation, but will regroup offensively behind solid crop of returners. Senior Jordyn Gendron (.306, 19 RBI and 10 runs scored in 2018), Hana Schwindler (.292, 12 runs scored) and Vaughn will key the offense. Junior Jillian Long returns to the mound for her junior campaign after posting a 13-4 record last season, with a 3.33 ERA and 44 strikeouts. Bonea says: “Our goal this year is to make sure that the players take their mental game as serious as their physical game.”

Tieley Vaughn, pictured here with USF coach Ken Eriksen, has already orally committed to play for the Bulls in college. (Photo: Twitter)

WHARTON BASEBALL

Brian Baughman is the top returning player in New Tampa, after batting .398 and going 6-3 on the mound in 2018. (Photo: Jarrett Guthrie)

WHARTON SOFTBALL

Coach: Brittany Bonea Last season: 15-7, Class 8A, District 4 runner-up Key returners: Jordyn Gendron (Sr., 3B); Jillian Long (Jr., P/OF); Hana Schwindler (Sr., P/2B); Tieley Vaughn (So., SS). Promising newcomers: Riley Collins (Fr., P/2B/OF) Breakout Star: A University of South Florida oral commitment as a freshman, Tieley Vaughn is a powerhouse hitter according to Bonea, who also boasts a cannon of an arm from shortstop. Last season, Vaughn was the leading hitter for the Wildcats amongst the regulars, hitting .352, with six

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Freedom Baseball & Softball Preview FREEDOM SOFTBALL Coach: Autumn Hernandez Last season: 19-6 (Class 8A-District 4 Champions, region semifinalist) Key returners: Ellis Erickson (Jr., C); Lilly Kiester (So., OF); Abigail Vandeberg (Sr., SS). Promising newcomer: Kylie Coffin (Jr., P; see photo) Breakout Star: A speedy runner with a great ability to read the ball off the bat, sophomore Lilly Kiester is already one of the best outfielders in the county according to Hernandez. As a freshman, Kiester scored 26 times last season and hit .333. Outlook: Freedom claimed its first softball district title last season and is looking to build on that with a juniorheavy lineup, but one that returns a lot of starting experience. For Hernandez, leaders like Ellis Erickson (.442, 19 RBI, 21 runs, and six doubles in 2018) and senior Abigail Vandeberg (.361, 20 runs, 17 RBI) will be crucial to the success for the Patriots, who are still adjusting to some defensive realignment heading into the start of the season. Erickson, who has already orally committed to play in college for Northern Illinois, is the “heartbeat of the team” according to Hernandez and is the field general from behind the plate. The Patriots biggest boost on defense, however, might come from its most crucial new edition – Carrollwood Day School junior transfer Kylie Coffin. Last season while pitching CDS to the Class 3A regional final, she posted a 17-9 record with a 1.90 ERA and 156 strikeouts. Relying on a nasty screwball and a solid curve, she will immediately take over the heavy lifting on the mound for Freedom, and she is no slouch at the plate after hitting .487 with

Freedom softball P Kylie Coffin

(Photo courtesy of Dan Sidwell, Freedom Revolution)

three home runs and 32 RBI for CDS. Senior Abigail Vandeberg makes the move from first base to shortstop this season, filling a key role defensively for the Patriots, and returns solid numbers at the plate after hitting .361 with 17 RBI last season. Hernandez says: “We are a small team this season with just 11 players, so we are moving a lot of players around the field this season. To fill some holes, I’ve had to move some people to new spots, so there may be a bit of a learning situation taking place early on. But I think we are getting better every day, and once we get into district play I expect us to be ready.”

FREEDOM BASEBALL Coach: Tripp Merrell Last season: 6-16 (1-5 in Class 8A-4) Key returners: Mitchell Leroy (Sr., RHP), Jeremy Carrick (Sr., SS), Kevin Kirby (Jr., 1B/ RHP), Brylan West (Jr., 3B/RHP). Promising newcomers: Sebastian Burgess, Sr., Util/P; Jack Richardson Sr., OF Breakout Star: The Patriots success this season will be highly dependent on pitching ace Mitchell Leroy, and according to Merrell the senior righty is just fine with that pressure. Mitchell is a workhorse on mound, who Merrell says is a “big-game pitcher,” who loves the limelight and wants to have the ball in his hands for the biggest game. Outlook: Merrell is the fourth new baseball coach in as many years at Freedom, and he is tasked with turning around a program that has had only one winning season, back in 2012. A Sickles High grad and former college player at Webber International University in Babson Park, FL, Merrell will likely lean on Leroy, who was 2-4 last season. However, the Hillborough Community College oral commitment posted a 2.88 ERA, with 59 strikeouts in 56 innings. He is 6-foot-3, and boasts a fastball that gets up to 90 mph. Jeremy Carrick, a four-year starter committed to NCAA Division III’s Norwich University in Vermont, will play a pivotal role on defense and will look to be a leader at the plate after scoring a team-best 16 runs last season, while juniors Kevin Kirby and Brylan West (the 32

Tripp Merrell, Freedom’s fourth baseball coach in as many years, hopes to finally turn Patriots baseball into a winning program. (Photo: Freedom Revolution). top returning hitter with a .267 average) will contribute at the plate and on the mound this season. Returning for their final prep seasons after two years away from the program are seniors Sebastian Burgess and Jack Richardson, who Merrell hopes can be impact players this season for the Patriots. Merrell says: “We have a tough schedule and I’m happy about the teams we played in the fall. And in most of those games, we hung in there and I feel like those things prepared us for this tough district. Come (district tournament) time you only have to win one game to advance, but I know every team in our district

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My 2018 Dining Favorites — State Road 56 Eateries Changing Everything! By Gary Nager Even though I know many of us are, like me, tired of mainly chain restaurants opening in our area, the fact is that all of the newcomers continue to expand our dining options in New Tampa and, especially, in Wesley Chapel — and that is good news. Also encouraging is the fact that many of the later newcomers

— and many of the chains already announced as still to come — are eateries that we at least haven’t had in our area before. For example, after my recent visit to Orlando, I am really excited about the Saltgrass Steakhouse (see page 40) that will open, hopefully before 2020, between the Tampa Premium Outlets and I-75, just as I was pretty pumped that both MOD Pizza (which opened

Dempsey’s Steak House at Saddlebrook

As it has been since it opened, the only problem with Dempsey’s Steak House at Saddlebrook Resort is that the average working guy can’t afford to eat there, other than for a very special occasion. With its $40-$60 steaks and all a la carte pricing, I wouldn’t eat at Dempsey’s at all, other than the fact that everything from the filet mignon to the bone-in ribeye steak (photo above) is as good as anywhere you’ll find in Tampa — including Council Oak, Fleming’s and Charley’s. The fresh seafood is equally impressive and there’s no doubt that the crab cake appetizer and sides for two are unequaled.

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in 2018) and Blaze Pizza (which opened earlier this year; again, see pages 40-41) coming to our area, even though there will never be anything better than true New York-style pizza at the top of my Favorite Pizza list. But, I am a fan of the new “fast casual” pizza options — and I also like that MOD and Blaze both also have excellent make-your-own salad options. There are some surprises on my list for 2018 and please realize that I got to wait until 2019 to make my choices (unlike our readers,

who had to submit their surveys by November of last year), but I still have not included any restaurants on this list that were not yet open in 2018. I will say that all of the new chain options did make it more difficult for me to pick just 50 favorite restaurants — I likely considered at least 100 different eateries between our two markets for this list. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed doing the research for it. See pages 36-39 for more of Gary’s favorites!

Stonewood Grill & Tavern

I feel like I’ve known Stonewood’s Tampa Palms proprietor Dave Rathbun forever, but the bottom line is that this mini-chain is known for great food at fair, but certainly not bargain prices, and for outstanding service. Whether for lunch or dinner, dining at Stonewood (or even just enjoying food and beverages at the bar), is an experience, not just a meal. Is it worth $5-$10 more for Stonewood’s aged New York strip or filet mignon than you’d pay at Longhorn or Outback? I’d have to say yes. Recent menu changes, like the southern fried shrimp platter shown below (that I can’t eat because of my accursed shellfish allergy) and reasonably priced bowls (like an excellent tuna poke bowl) for lunch have moved Stonewood up to my favorite restaurant in New Tampa.

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Grillsmith

Bahama Breeze Island Grille

Little Italy’s Family Restaurant & Catering

Noble Crust

Ford’s Garage

Thai Ruby

Anytime a restaurant I’ve tried before adds new menu items that are in my dining “wheelhouse” — like the addition of truly fresh “short trip” fish, like the mahi-mahi Mediterranean style pictured above at Grillsmith — I have to give it a try. But, while a lot of places do mahi or grouper, Jannah and I have gotten to enjoy wahoo, cobia and snapper at Grillsmith, which also has the best mashed cauliflower and sautéed spinach in our area. With a little better variety of steaks, Grillsmith could challenge Stonewood for #2.

Bahama Breeze was fast becoming our favorite new restaurant last year when the Island Grille stopped having any “fresh catch” other than swordfish on the menu. We recently got to enjoy a fresh mahi-mahi at Bahama Breeze, and I do really enjoy the Jamaican specialties, but additional steak (top sirloin or filet) and chicken options would help.

Without additional new menu items added in 2018, Little Italy’s dropped a few spots on my list, but it still has the best veal parmigiana and lasagne in our area and their pizzas and calzones are back. A fresh fish special and some veggie sides would be welcome additions.

When Noble Crust opened, I loved that there was usually a fresh fish special and I do still love the double-cut pork chop, chicken fried chicken parmigiana, pizzas and sides like broccolini, garlicky greens and crispy Brussels sprouts, plus the homemade desserts.

Despite another limited menu (unless you really love burgers), Jannah and I do crave the ahi tuna appetizer, chop-chop salad, chicken Henry and petite filet at Ford’s Garage, which also has good veggie side dishes and white cheddar mashed potatoes.

The ambiance is second to none and the food never disappoints. I love Thai Ruby’s fresh fish specials and the crispy duck with ginger sauce is still the best in our area. This is a great place to start an intimate date night.

Longhorn Steakhouse

Ciccio Cali

Acropolis Greek Taverna

Sukhothai

Amici Pizza

Liang’s Bistro

Whenever I’ve compiled my list, I try to think of the places that I have visited the most and what I realize is that Jannah and I have spent a lot of time sharing food at the bar at Longhorn. Yes, it’s only a mile from where we live, but we love sharing Longhorn’s Flo’s filet and I feel the outlaw ribeye is a pretty good value. We also love the recent addition of cheesy baked cauliflower (you can get it that way for broccoli, too), as well as the salad, bread and the outstanding service at the bar.

Ciccio Cali continues to please with three yummy tuna “Cali Bowls” on the menu, as well as the chicken and baby broccoli stir-fry, new spicy Brazilian bowl, wrap sandwiches and thin-crust pizzas. Other new menu items include two hummus appetizers, a vegan chopped salad and even the “impossible” burger. Nice wine selection, too.

Acropolis continues to expand its menu with more authentic Greek and Middle Eastern dishes, but my favorites are still the lamb chops, the Athenian fish and the Greek salad. Acropolis would finish higher on my list if I loved the roasted veggies and other side dishes.

Sukhothai’s fresh sushi (especially the tuna tataki) and combination fried rice are still among my favorites in our area and I also love the crispy duck with ginger sauce, the new tuna sashimi poke bowl and the shoes-off, below-floor seating.

Our readers’ new favorite pizza place definitely makes my top 5 for favorite New York-style ‘za, but what really helped the new location move up in my rankings were the authentic linguine with white clam sauce and tasty veal and eggplant parmigiana.

I haven’t always placed Liang’s this high on my list, but I realize that it does feature my favorite New York-style barbecue spare ribs, great egg rolls and the sautéed green beans are among my favorite veggie dishes in the area. We always order them spicy!

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Nightly Traditions, Specials and Events

Omari’s Bar & Grill at Lexington Oaks Golf Club

Kobe Japanese Steak

La Prima Pizza

The Fat Rabbit

My favorite non-chain newcomer in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel, Omari’s menu will continue to grow as more folks make requests, but with super-fresh, chef-prepared dishes like the flounder almendrine pictured above, it is a definite must-try.

Kobe already had the highest-quality hibachi steaks in our area, but Jannah and I also love it for its reasonably priced appetizers at the full-liquor bar.

Still my favorite New York-style pizza in our area and the Italian fare, like veal parmigiana and lasagne, also gets high marks.

The best blackened wings I’ve had (photo below), amazing salads and great sandwiches in a comfortable setting keep The Fat Rabbit in Tampa Palms high on my list.

Thank you, Readers, for naming us your favorite Pizza Place in New Tampa & Wesley Chapel! DINE IN • TAKE OUT

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900° Woodfired Pizza

The Hungry Greek

Bayscape Bistro at Heritage Isles Country Club

Fushia Asian Bistro

One of my top-five New York-style pizza places, which also has the best penne with pesto Genovese in our area. Try adding fresh spinach and grilled chicken. Yum!

If you like getting great value for your money, you’re probably already one of the regulars at Hungry Greek, which features our area’s best gyros and authentic Greek salads.

Another highly-ranked newcomer on my list, I haven’t yet sampled the fresh fish sauté special, but the Fiesta Fridays, wings, burgers and salads are all top-notch.

The menu continues to move towards more authentic Chinese fare, but I love Fushia for the best Chinese combination fried rice and beef with Chinese broccoli in our area.

Outback Steakhouse

Jannah and I definitely enjoy the Victoria’s filet and the Alice Springs chicken, and I do think the bone-in natural cut ribeye is a good value for the money.

Sushi Café

OTB Café

Up there with Sukhothai for the best sushi in our area, I also enjoy the soft shell crab appetizer, the kitchen-made hibachi fare and the tempura and ton katsu fried options.

Not only has the new location on BBD in Wesey Chapel added some new menu items, the addition of real bacon for breakfast has upped OTB’s stock with me a lot.

Fratelli’s Pizza & Café

Ginza

Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant

Hilton Garden Inn Garden Grille & Bar

Koizi Endless Hibachi & Sushi

This newcomer in the former Woody’s location in the Wesley Chapel Village Market features very good pizza and excellent penne with broccoli rabe and sausage.

Our area has more than its fair share of value Japanese restaurants, but Ginza’s Mongolian beef, sushi and appetizers are all-you-can-eat for $12.95 during the week.

Although some say the quality of the food isn’t the highest, Jannah and I can’t get enough of Vallarta’s chicken fajitas, which are better than the rest in our area.

It’s still pretty new, so I haven’t sampled all of the menu for breakfast or dinner yet, but the Pan Asian ribs and NY strip steak are both enough to keep me coming back.

Just a tad below Ginza for my tastes, I do enjoy the fact that the hibachi is cooked tableside and the even-lower-than-Ginza price of $10.95 for weekday lunch.

The Rest of My Top 50 (in alphabetical order)

Arroy Thai -Great garlic & black pepper sauce! Bonefish Grill-Two words: tuna sashimi! Bonsai Sushi-Popular for sushi & Japanese fare Bosco’s-Try the gator pizza & pasta Capital Tacos-Tasty fajita salads Culver’s-Good burgers, amazing frozen custard FJ Expresss-New value-priced & tasty Japanese fare Hibachi Express-Best prices for tasty hibachi! Irish 31-Great salads & upscale pub grub Lanna Thai-Really good food, great atmosphere

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Minerva-Lamb kababs & Chinese-style fried rice NY NY Pizza-Try the Grandma’s pizza! Oakley’s Grille-Best burgers & now great meatballs O’Brien’s Irish Pub-Burgers, tater tots & karaoke Prost Kitchen & Bar-Best schnitzel & spaetzle Texas Roadhouse-Good steaks, bad line dancing Top Shelf-Great wings & sauteed veggies Wolf’s Den-Inexpensive, good breakfast choice Woodfired Pizza-Great pizza & salads (Bearss) Yamato Japanese Rest.-Good hibachi fare

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Gary’s Favorite NY Pizza

1. La Prima Pizza 2. NY NY Pizza 3. Amici Pizza 4. 900° Woodfired 5. Taste of NY Pizza

6. Best NY Pizza 7. Fratelli’s 8. Capri Pizza 9. Pizza Mania 10. Westshore Pizza

Gary’s Favorite Asian Fare

1. Sukhothai 2. Thai Ruby 3. Liang’s Bistro 4. Kobe 5. Fushia

6. Sushi Café 7. Ginza 8. Koizi 9. Yamato 10. Arroy Thai

Gary’s Favorite Pasta

1. Fratelli’s 2. Amici 3. Omari’s Grille 4. Little Italy’s 5. Bahama Breeze

6. Noble Crust 7. La Prima Pizza 8. Stonewood 9. Garden Grille 10. PizzaMania

Gary’s Favorite Steak

1. Dempsey’s 2. Longhorn 3. Stonewood 4. Omari’s Grille 5. Outback

6. Kobe 7. Texas Roadhouse 8. Garden Grille 9. Yamato 10. Ginza

DRONE SERVICES

Gary’s Favorite Burgers

1. Oakley’s Grill 2. Sonny’s BBQ 3. Stonewood 4. OTB Café 5. Bayscape Bistro

6. Top Shelf 7. Bahama Breeze 8. Grillsmith 9. Burger 21 10. Five Guys

Gary’s Fave Ice Cream/Yogurt

1. Bruster’s 2. Culver’s 3. Snowrolls 4. Twistee Treat 5. Cold Stone

6. Happy Cow 7. Batter & Dough 8. Baskin-Robbins 9. Menchie’s 10. Dairy Queen

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Nibbles & Business The Latest & Greatest News In Dining, Shopping & Business In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel!

The New Las Palmas Is Open!

For those who have been waiting to find out where and when everyone’s favorite Latin restaurant in New Tampa was going to reopen, Ramses Garcia, the owner/chef of Las Palmas Latin Grill, says that you should come check him at his new location, in the same plaza as Five Guys Burgers & Fries off County Line Rd. at Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. Ramses and his wife Ana promise that the new menu includes all of your old favorites from his former location in the Pebble Creek Collection, with even more authentic Cuban recipes for you to sample. Of course, I had to try Ramses’ mojo roast pork the day before he opened and I loved the new red beans served with his always

moist, but with a crispy edge, roast pork. Please tell Ramses and Ana that Gary at the New Tampa Neighborhood News sent you and please tell them how hard you’ve been trying to find out about their new location. The new Las Palmas Latin Grill is located at 6431 County Line Rd., Tampa. For more info, call (813) 907-1333 or search Las Palmas Cafe on Facebook.

Coming Soon: Smallcakes!

Do you have a sweet tooth? Doesn’t everyone? The good news is that Smallcakes is coming to the Shoppes at The Pointe plaza in Tampa Palms, next to our friends at the Palms Pharmacy, between Koizi and Ciccio Cali. The bad news is that this cupcakery (is

that a word?), which has an existing location in Oldsmar, looks to still be more than a month from opening. We’ll keep you posted.

Hummingbird Jerk House To Open Feb. 28!!

If you travel on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. every day, you probably couldn’t have missed the giant sign that says only “Jamaican Cuisine,” but is actually for the Hummingbird Jerk House, which is scheduled to open in the former Dairy Queen location in North Palms Village on BBD (next to Oakley’s Grille) on Thursday, February 28. We didn’t yet have a menu or any additional info about the Hummingbird Jerk House, but I hope to see you there on opening day!

Checking Out Saltgrass Steakhouse & Main Event...In Orlando!!

With all of the restaurants and stores that have opened on the north side of S.R. 56 (across from the Tampa Premium Outlets), the eatery coming to our area that I’m now most excited about is the Saltgrass Steakhouse, which recently broke ground on the south side of 56, between the outlet mall and I-75. My son Jared and his wife Mary live in a new section of Orlando — also near a new outlet mall — which is home to many of the same restaurants we have, including Longhorn Steakhouse and others. But, the one that caught my eye was the sign for Saltgrass Steakhouse, which is the steakhouse chain under the Landry’s Seafood House umbrella.

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Dave & Buster’s, with video games, a bar and cafe, but with really nice bowling alleys — and the food looked pretty decent, too. Jannah and I will have to go back and visit Main Event for dinner to tell you more about it, but I’m certain it will become a major attractor for our area. Also coming to that part of S.R. 56 is Rock & Brews, a scratch kitchen with a rock & roll theme. In addition to a nice-looking menu, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of the rock group KISS make appearances at every opening. Fun stuff. Of all the restaurants in our area, pricewise, Saltgrass is probably closest to Stonewood Grill & Tavern in Tampa Palms, with most steaks at least $30. But, whether you choose a filet (Jannah and I split the huge 12oz. version) or Jared’s bone-in ribeye (at least 22 oz.; photo above), the Angus steaks are truly tender, well-seasoned and delicious. There are fresh veggies galore and the salad, bread and desserts are all top-notch, too. Jared and Mary also live near International Dr., which is home to a Main Event entertainment center — which also is coming to the same area of S.R. 56 as Saltgrass. The feel is like a big

Blaze Pizza & Sweetea Café Open!

If you’ve been waiting to find out what the Sweetea Café on S.R. 56 (in the same plaza as Mellow Mushroom) is all about, wait no more. The café is all about delicious. I like hot and cold tea and I’m OK with the Boba (bubble) tea featured at the Sweetea Café, but the most pleasant surprise on my first visit was the delicious, authentic Vietnamese cuisine. I really enjoyed the grilled pork rice plate shown in the photo left, and, especially, the crisp, overstuffed chicken & veggie egg rolls and sweet dipping sauce. Meanwhile, in the same plaza as Chipotle, a little west of Mellow Mushroom, Blaze Pizza (photo on previous page), our area’s second fast-casual pizza place, has opened almost directly across S.R. 56 from MOD Pizza, its biggest competitor nationwide. Think: more tasty pizzas and salads, plus desserts. For more info about the Sweetea Café, visit SweetTeaFL.com or call (813) 406-5961! For Blaze Pizza, call (813) 907-0097 or visit BlazePizza.com and tell them both I sent you! — GN

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DALE’S HOME MAINTENANCE Pressure washing, screen repairs, garage cleaning and organizing, shelving, re-grout tile and caulking, and more. Call: 813-727-2582.

PROFESSIONAL TECH SUPPORT in your home or small business. A+, Certified computer tech with 20 years exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades & tutoring. More affordable than large chains! Friendly, personalized svc. Technical jargon explained. Remote assistance available. References available. Call (813) 957-8342 for a free estimate.

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. DRY WALL SPECIALIST. Not a handyman. Affordable Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings and walls, retexturing, popcorn removal, room additions, cracks, holes, plaster and stucco repair. 26 Years Experience. Wesley Chapel resident. State Certified. Call Ron for free estimate: 813-7845999. MILLENNIUM HOME REPAIR.Professional Handyman. Cabinet Installation, dry wall repair, tile installation & repair, some plumbing, laminate flooring, light fixtures, interior painting, appliance installation, pressure washing, paneling, window repair, awning installation, carpentry, garbage disposal, fence repair, crown molding, window blinds, seal baths & showers, TV mounting & more. Call 813-400-1408 or email TYCOONUNION@YAHOO.COM. Tjs Pressure Washing LLC. Driveways, Houses, Fences, Lanais and Screened Enclosures. Most residential 2 car driveways or vinyl fences starting at $60. House washing prices start at $100 for a 1 story home and $150 for a 2 story home. Looking for an instant quote? Just text me a picture of the job you need done. Call Tj at 727-808-7775 CHARLES POPPE ELECTRIC. Electric of all kinds pools, spas, service changes, new circuts, low voltage, repairs, upgrades, changes to existing, trouble shooting, GFCI performance testing, generators. Expert in the field - over 40 years experience. Discount for retired people 50%. Licensed and Insured Master Electrician EC 13002399 - free phone estimates. Call 813-477-9068.

COMPUTER/BUSINESS SERVICES

DO YOU HATE YOUR COMPUTER?!? WE CAN HELP YOU! Troubleshooting, installation, networking & virus removal. WE COME TO YOU! Residences & businesses, more than 25 years exp. Contact Jeffrey Blank at (813) 973-4507, visit WSICA.COM or email Wsica@wsica.com.

CLEANING SERVICES

B CLEANING SERVICES: Over 16 years experience! Commercial & residential; Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly; New house & post construction clean-up; Window cleaning; Move-in or move-out cleanings; Pressure washing; FREE estimates; References available. Call today: 813-531-0154 or e-mail: bcleanings@hotmail.com D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE We have our own supplies and more than 400 clients in New Tampa! For more info, Call 758-9710.

POOL SERVICES

TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE. New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing with outstanding customer service! LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED. See why we are New Tampa and Wesley Chapel’s #1 Choice!! Call or Text Chris today @ 813-857-5400 or visit TranquilityPoolService. com. New customers get ONE MONTH FREE!

HELP WANTED

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.

SPACE AVAILABLE SERENITY SALON & SPA SUITES Wesley Chapel. Booth rental for Stylist available. Can be either full time or part time. Give us a call!: 813-312-5247 or 813-997-6302.

LAWN & LANDSCAPING

A.T.B. Landscaping & Lawn Service. Licensed and insured serving the Tampa Bay area over 20 years. Family owned and operated. Quality work at affordable prices. We provide services in pressure washing and sprinkler repair. Landscaping and property maintenance including: sodding, trimming trees and hedges, and clean ups. Other services are available. CALL 813-907-LAWN (5296) Jasmine Landscaping, Inc. Complete lawn maintenance: Tree, palm & hedge trimming, planting, mulching, stones, sod replacement. Gutter cleaning, leaf removal & more. Cited by your HOA? Ask about our HOA Compliance Special, our Fall/Spring Special & FREE ESTIMATE! Licensed & insured. Accepting new residential & commercial accounts. We accept Visa, MC, PayPal, Zelle, AmExp. Call or text 813-420-4465. Now hiring full-time workers.

MISCELLANEOUS DOWNSIZING? SPRING CLEANING? HANDLING AN ESTATE? We pay cash for CDs, vinyl records, Blu-Rays, DVDs, cassettes, turntables, vintage receivers, reel-to-reel tape decks, stereo speakers in pairs, non-fiction books, and more. Learn more about Sound Exchange, locally owned since 1987, at soundexchangetampabay.com or call 813-978-9316. Two locations, including North Tampa at 14246 N. Nebraska Ave. (between Bearss and Fletcher).

PHOTOGRAPHY

The Neighborhood News Features The Color Classified Ads

That Your Neighbors Actually READ!

Call (813) 910-2575 or go to

ntneighborhoodnews.com/ classified-listings/ to order yours today!

Squeaky Clean Home Services LLC. - is a residential cleaning company offering weekly, biweekly, and monthly services. We also specialize in Move-in / Move-out cleanings. All supplies and equipment provided. We are an Owner Operator company with over 20 years experience that is Licensed, bonded and insured. Call us for your Free in home estimate today! 813-625-6045 www. squeakycleanhomeservices.com

JUNK REMOVAL FIRST CALL JUNK HAUL Do you need items removed or clutter cleared? Let First Call Junk Haul be your best call! We offer appliance removal, furniture removal, foreclosure clean-outs, garage clean-outs, yard waste removal and more! Affordable prices and professional service gurranteed! Call or Text 813-970-6440 for a FREE ESTIMATE!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 • February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

PHOTOGRAPHER AVAILABLE Retired Professional Photographer (over 45 years experience) in the Tampa Bay Area. Corporate Events, Personal Occasions, Portraiture, Pets, Comercial Photography, and Real Estate. Reasonable rates. Call/Text 813748-3901. Visit: russellleprephotography.com

@NTWCNews

We Don’t Cut Corners, We Dust Them

“Residential and Commercial’’

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email: eduardotampa@yahoo.com

• • • •

We offer much more!

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• Windows • Gutters • Siding • Soffit Fascia • Screen Enclosures Licensed & Insured: SCC131150705

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High quality at a great price.

SUNSHINE CLEANERS Top Quality...Great Prices

Whole Home Generators Whole Home re-pipe

Join our Customer Rewards Program and get a punch every time you spend $10 or more. After your 10th punch, you’ll receive $10 oﬀ your next order of $10 or more.

NTNN Exp. 3/31/2019

Electrical Panel Upgrade Whole Home Generators

NTNN Exp. 3/31/2019

$2.99 Press Only* $3.99 Drycleaning & Press*

813-343-4951

$1.99 Men’s Business Shirts * Some garments incur additional charge.

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 • February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

�The ONLY Publication Direct-Mailed to 27,500 Homes* in Zip Code 33647! Arbor Greene Cory Lake Isles Cross Creek Easton Park Grand Hampton/ The Hammocks 46

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 • February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 5 • February 22, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews