Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, Volume 28. Issue 6, March 13, 2020

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Volume 28 Issue 6 March 13, 2020

Down On The (Wiregrass) Ranch STORY: JOHN C. COTEY | PHOTOS: CHARMAINE GEORGE

JD

Porter and his family don’t look at themselves merely as developers trying to make a buck. They look at themselves as curators of a 5,000acre family heirloom that has been in the family since 1937, when James “Wiregrass” Porter bought the sprawling ranch land and moved to Wesley Chapel.

That land now has an elementary, middle, high school, a state college and multiple residential subdivisions.

There is a mall and a hospital, a hotel and a high-end car dealership, and so much more already standing, with a state road that was built with six lanes long before it actually needed that many lanes slicing through it.

“We’ve done some great things,” says JD, the developer and driving force behind Wiregrass Ranch’s residential and commercial expansion.

And there’s more on the way.

Even as developed as his family’s ranch is, if you take a peek at what is still to come, it doesn’t even feel half done.

So, as the Wesley Chapel area surrounding Wiregrass Ranch explodes with lagoons and trendy shipping container crates, restaurants and town centers, Porter continues to bide his time and slowly build something different.

The State of The Ranch

“It’s good. It’s busy,” Porter says.

While nothing new has been announced recently for Wiregrass Ranch, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing new planned, or any negotiations ongoing.

In fact, there’s plenty new planned, and talks almost daily.

In poker parlance, Porter always plays his cards close to the vest, and will only reveal those cards well after the hand has been finished.

“I’m not trying to be coy,” he say matter-of-factly. “It’s just how we’ve always done business.”

While there won’t be ay details announced until later this year, Wiregrass Ranch chief operating officer (COO) Scott Sheridan says it will be a busy time on the ranch.

“We’re pretty excited about 2020,” he says. “We don’t see any slowdown on the near-term horizon.”

Porter says he is content playing the long game. No flashy restaurants or activity centers or trendy grocery stores are coming anytime soon.

While others may be filling immediate needs and desires, “We are working on infrastructure” that in the end, will make Wiregrass Ranch vibrant

See “Wiregrass Ranch” on page 4.

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The Unexpected Local Effect Of The Coronavirus Outbreak An editorial by Gary Nager According to the World Health Organization (WHO), which is monitoring and reporting new cases, hospitalizations and deaths due to Covid-19 (the illness caused by the novel coronavirus; see chart), the respiratory illness had affected nearly 100,000 people worldwide, including fewer than 20,000 cases in under 100 countries outside of China at our press time. China also had seen nearly ten times more people die from the coronavirus (more than 3,000) than all other countries combined.

Here in the U.S., there had still been fewer than 200 cases reported and only ten deaths at our press time. Meanwhile, here in Florida, there were still only a couple of handfuls of reported cases, although the first three were all here in the Tampa Bay area. But, all of those patients were OK at our press time.

To me, it’s not so much about the number of cases of the new virus, which no one had even heard of shortly before the new year, it’s about the hysteria over an illness that basically affects (and kills) people similarly as influenza, or the common flu. And, while I hate hearing about anyone who dies from any illness (or for any reason, for that matter), which illness has a higher or lower death rate per infection isn’t as much of a concern how crazy many of us are getting because of Covid-19.

I’ve only had the actual flu once that I can remember and it was horrendous, but I was young and otherwise healthy at the time and came through it OK. Both the flu and the coronavirus take much deadlier aim at immunocompromised and older people than they do children and even (thankfully) babies.

But, the fact remains that although Covid-19’s rapid spread and the number of people it already has killed in a very short time is frightening, the flu currently still affects and kills 100-300 times more people (anywhere from 250,000 to nearly 650,000, depending upon whose numbers you use) every year — not just the last few months — the world over.

And, the fact remains that the easiest way to avoid getting either of these two potentially fatal illnesses is getting a flu shot (even though there is no vaccine for coronavirus right now) and proper, frequent hand-washing, especially immediately after coming in contact with someone you suspect might have more than “just a cold.”

No, considering how debilitating both the flu and Covid-19 can be, you’re not being rude if you’re not so quick to shake the hand of every stranger you come in contact with (much less want to stand near anyone who is sneezing, even if they say “It’s just my allergies”), especially when this year’s flu season continues to be such a doozy.

On the other hand, the recent worldwide backlash against people who appear to be Chinese to those of us who aren’t Asian (even though the majority of Americans don’t think people from China look any different than people from Thailand, Japan, Korea or Vietnam) makes no sense at all.

First of all, WHO and other governmental health agencies around the world are tracking every known case of the coronavirus. Second, anyone who has been on a cruise ship or airplane from anywhere near the new illness’ epicenter of Wuhan, China, has been quarantined and then closely monitored for any sign of Covid-19. Third, absolutely no one is closely monitoring the more than 120,000 people of all races, religions and ethnic groups who have been hospitalized for the flu during the 2019-20 flu season, or the hundreds of thousands more who were treated by doctors Neighborhood News

without being hospitalized or the thousands more who somehow were able to beat back the disease without even seeing a doctor.

People getting sick enough to die from their illnesses during the cold and flu season isn’t a Chinese problem.

This scary new malady may have started in one particular area of one particular country, but that doesn’t mean that anyone of Chinese or Asian descent, especially if they live anywhere but in the Hubei province of south central China, is any more likely to be afflicted with Covid-19 than you are, especially if they haven’t visited their native country since the virus started.

But, I know there are a lot of seemingly nor-

mal people who are losing their minds over the coronavirus outbreak, just as they have over many other issues that don’t need to be debated here.

But, when I read that Chinese restaurants from Australia to Florida have lost 30-70 percent of their usual business — or had to close their doors altogether — in the less than three months since the outbreak first hit, well, that’s where this lifetime Chinese food lover has to draw the line.

This isn’t the time for anti-Chinese sentiment, much less for hating Chinese-Americans or...Heaven help me, Chinese food.

So, whether your favorite local Chinese restaurant is Liang’s Bistro, Hot Wok 88 or my favorites — Fushia Asian Bistro here in Tampa Palms and Yummy House on E. Hillsborough Ave. — or any other, now is the time to do yourself and the family that owns that eatery a favor and get yourself some potstickers and Yang Chow fried rice.

And, please tell them I sent you!

INSIDE

Is Wesley Chapel getting a fancy new downtown area?

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(813) 991-6161 You had your say about local dining, now it’s publisher Gary Nager’s turn!

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Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News Address: 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Publisher & Editor /Ad Sales Gary Nager Managing Editor / Photographer John C. Cotey Correspondents Celeste McLaughlin • Libby Baldwin Lead Video Producer/Multimedia Specialist Charmaine George Photography & Videography Richard Nasrallah • Benjamin Hobe • Amy Stewart Graphic Designers Georgia Carmichael • Valerie Wegener Billing Assistant Jannah Nager

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3

The Ranch: Deliberate Development Has Set Up Wiregrass Ranch For The Future Continued from page 1.

and sustainable for years, like it did building S.R. 56 as a six-lane highway long before the area was bustling.

In The Plans

Porter says a 200,000-sq.-ft. office project will come out of the ground later this year.

“We have a unique blend of users,” he says. “It’s going to be nice.”

Porter also has submitted plans to build another retail strip on S.R. 54 at the northernmost edge of Wiregrass Ranch, next to the recently completed first retail project (which is anchored by a new Glory Days Grill; see ad on page 31) on the S.R. 54 side of Wiregrass Ranch, which runs all the way from 54 to south of S.R. 56. Another restaurant is planned for the latest budding retail project, but Porter says no leases have yet been signed.

But, later this year — Porter won’t exactly say when — you might have to buckle up for an announcement or two.

“There’s some exciting things coming down the pipeline,” Porter says. “Some of the things will be gamechangers for the area that I don’t think anyone has expected.”

Who doesn’t love a little suspense?

JD Porter isn’t giving away any hints, but he says look for some major announcements coming soon.

Building The Donut

Porter has had plans for a town center — which he has claimed will serve not only as Wesley Chapel’s downtown but a downtown for the entire North Tampa Bay area — for a while now. But, before that project sprouts to life, he says it is important to build an apparatus — revolving around residential — that will support it, which they are doing.

“I know there has been a ton of stories about town centers recently,”

he says (see story on page 6). “We’ve talked about that for, what, 15 years?

But we’re working in a direction that surrounds that donut hole.”

Which would make that donut the residential support, Sheridan says.

“We’re getting that donut, for lack of a better word, closed in.”

The town center would be located in the heart of Wiregrass Ranch. It will be connected to all of the development by a series of trails and sidewalks — a vast spiderweb, if you will, with the

north-south spine running through the middle of it being the underconstruction Wiregrass Ranch Blvd., which should be completed from 54 to 56 by 2023.

That road will have traffic-calming roundabouts throughout, another way that Porter and Sheridan are trying to stay ahead of the game.

Meanwhile, Wiregrass Ranch’s future town center area is slowly becoming surrounded by homes.

Estancia, The Ridge and the Arbors at Wiregrass Ranch, the Altis apartments and a Fairfield Inn hotel are already in place, and Persimmon Park and the 800+ home Esplanade 55-and-older community are under construction.

And, now, S.R. 56 has been extended to U.S. 301, which will bring with it more homes and even more residents who will be flocking to the area.

Porter says he is thrilled to have Esplanade starting with Taylor Morrison Homes on board as the builder. The 55plus community, the residents of which will likely consist of many retirees, will provide much of the daytime business when the town center is built.

“It was an underserved market, and a great fit for us,” Porter says.

More people means more busi-

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nesses, which leads to a need for more entertainment and neighborhood retail, leaving developers with a greater responsibility to find the right combination to make the “live here, work here, play here” model work.

In the past, Porter has talked about a performing arts center in Wiregrass Ranch, but that is no longer necessary due to the one the county is building next to Cypress Creek middle and high schools to the north.

But, something with a similar impact will take its place as an anchor.

“We are actively working on, and looking at, some unique catalysts in our town center,” Sheridan says.

“The end of the earth used to be Meadow Pointe Blvd., but that’s not the case anymore,” Porter says. “The town center is 10 times more viable than it was 10 years ago, and it was viable then. We’ve just been extremely patient to get the right blend.”

As for the town center, well, just you wait, says Porter says. It won’t be anchored by a Publix and a laundromat, he jokes. It will be something special.

“It will be a true, mixed-use, walkable, pedestrian-focused town center,” Sheridan says.

under way or wrapping up this year: •Esplanade and Persimmon Park: Persimmon Park, which is geared towards families and will have 340 townhome units by David Weekley Homes and ICI Homes, should have models ready to view and future homes ready to sell by April.

•The Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County will open in July, and will host its first event in September. The massive campus will feature a 98,000-sq.-ft. indoor sports facility, plus outdoor fields on the 80acre parcel, and eventually a 128-room Marriott Residence Inn. The public-private partnership facility will provide an economic boon to the Ranch.

•And...AdventHealth Wesley Chapel: Built on the land where Porter was raised, is expanding, in partnership with Moffitt Cancer Center. A three-story, 100,000-squre-foot medical office complex, with 28,000 square feet dedicated to a cancer outpatient center, is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

• Plus...Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch of Pasco Hernando State College (which started as a community college and has room for expansion) and Beach House at Wiregrass Ranch Adult Living & Memory Care. All of these are Wiregrass Ranch projects that have been patiently developed for years, and have come to fruition.

Flashy? No. Pillars for building a strong community that will contribute to residential and commercial growth?

Absolutely.

Developing Wiregrass Ranch is a job Porter says he takes personally and that he is in it for the long haul, he says, which makes his approach different, and more careful.

While he enjoys the competition from other developers and seeing what they will be building — and rooting for them, by the way, because he says he wants to see Wesley Chapel flourish — he feels he has a greater responsibility to make the right decisions.

“This land has provided a huge opportunity, not only for my family but the whole area,” he says. “We’ve been here 80 years, why wouldn’t we want to make it better for the next 80 years?

That business model doesn’t work for publicly traded companies that have to make 25 percent for investors every year. That allows us to work on filling the gaps and being sustainable.”

“There’s some exciting things coming down the pipeline. Some of these things will be game-changers for the area that I don’t think anyone has expected.”

— JD Porter

Still Waiting...

Raymond James Financial filed plans last year to build its massive 1-million-sq.-ft. satellite campus on 65 acres at the corner of S.R. 56 and Mansfield Blvd.

When that actually will happen, though, no one knows.

“They own the property. They have the permits. Everything is ready to go,” Porter says. “They are a big company and when they decide they are ready, they are going to do it. It’s been put on a silver platter.”

Since Raymond James, which will create thousands of new jobs when it finally builds its campus, closed on the property last year, Porter says other projects in Wiregrass Ranch have already created 2,000 jobs.

Another long-anticipated project is the move of the Publix grocery store from the corner of S.R. 54 and Bruce B. Downs Blvd. to a space across Wiregrass Ranch Blvd. from Walmart.

It’s still happening, says Porter, who adds that Publix may be looking to build two other stores within Wiregrass Ranch.

Wrapping It Up

Just consider the things that are open, Neighborhood News

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5

Incentives Deal To Pave The Way For Wesley Chapel’s “Downtown”

By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Avalon Park Group/sitEX is developing what some believe will serve as Wesley Chapel’s downtown (see separate story about this on page 8), plans which were paved by the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners (BOC), which has unanimously and enthusiastically approved up to $33 million of incentives for the public infrastructure project.

Developer Beat Kahli said Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, which previously has been called Avalon Park West, will be a place where residents can live, work and play without ever leaving their community.

Kahli, the president and CEO of Avalon Park Group, also developed Avalon Park Orlando. He says he told those residents 20 years ago, “If you don’t want to leave, you don’t have to because we can satisfy all of your needs here…that’s our A downtown area similar to this is on the horizon for Wesley Chapel after county commissioners goal here.” recently approved an incentive package for the developers of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

The BOC vote to approve the incen(Photo: Pasco County) tive package was 4-0.

“A” office space and 190,400 square feet of 14,000 trips a day on S.R. 54.

“It’s such a great project,” said commercial development.

“That can solve traffic problems,” District 3 Pasco commissioner Kathryn The project will include four-story Kahli said. “Instead of building subdiviStarkey. “This will be downtown Wesley buildings, with neighborhood commercial sions, we have to build towns.”

Chapel. They don’t have a downtown…

The total cost of the Avalon Park Westhey have (malls), which some people count on the bottom floor and the other three floors reserved for residential. as downtown, but this will really be the There will be multiple parking decks downtown of Wesley Chapel.” and four freestanding Class A office buildDistrict 2 commissioner Mike Moore, ings, which are typically larger, and feature who represents much of Wesley Chapel, top-of-the-line amenities and high-income missed the meeting with an illness but says tenants, and are located in a central locahe, too, supports the plans.

“It’s definitely a great project,” Moore tion, which in this case would be the new downtown Wesley Chapel. said. “It’s going to bring some muchAvalon Park Wesley Chapel also will needed Class A office space, which will lead include two schools with capacity for to some high-paying jobs. That’s what I’m 3,386 students — New River Elementary, most excited about.” which already exists, and Pinecrest Charter The plan for Avalon Park Wesley School, which is opening this fall.

Chapel, whose 215 acres are located east According to David Engel, the manof Curley Rd. on the north side of S.R. 54, ager of the county’s Office of Economic goes well beyond your typical subdivision.

Growth, 50 percent of trip generation by The urban mixed-use center will have Avalon Park Wesley Chapel will remain on a 10-year buildout and boasts 2,695 resisite, resulting in a reduction of more than dential units, 165,000 square feet of Class

ley Chapel proposal is $785 million.

The county’s commitment to the $83.3 public infrastructure investment

by Kahli will be $33 million via what is essentially a 30-year property tax rebate, provided the project hits certain benchmarks and triggers.

The deal also includes a $1.2-million loan (through the Penny for Pasco 1 cent sales tax ) to accelerate construction of the first office building, which is required to be at least 75,000 square feet and is one of the development agreement’s triggers.

The county says it will benefit greatly from the deal – 1,065 permanent jobs resulting in an estimated $42-million in payroll. A tax revenue forecast conducted by Wynne & Associates, LLC, said that over a 30-year period, the project will generate more than $198 million in ad valorem property taxes alone, which is approximately $112 million more than a conventional, suburban development would bring in.

“The return on investment to the county is substantial,” Engel said.

Moore said the success of Avalon Park Orlando is a good sign for Kahli’s efforts in Wesley Chapel.

“They have been very successful with the project in Orlando,” Moore says. “But, this is going to be bigger and better.”

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N G

New Charter School Breaks Ground In The Connected City

By JOHN C. COTEY is to make (InPrep) one of the best edu-

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com It may not have been as awe-inspiring as the groundbreaking of the Crystal Lagoon® amenity in Epperson, but the latest addition to the Connected City project in Wesley Chapel may be even more important.

Innovation Preparatory Academy, or InPrep, a charter school located on Curley Rd. just north of the Epperson community and promising to focus on the latest in technology and innovation, broke ground on Feb. 19, is expected to open in the fall.

The school is a public-private partnership between Epperson/Connected City developer Metro Development, Charter Schools USA (which will operate the school), Red Apple Development (which will develop and construct the facility) and the Pasco County School District.

InPrep will initially be a K-6 school, but will expand over the next two years to K-8, enrolling up to 765 students, says Metro Development Group president Greg Singleton.

It will be the second charter school developed for a Metro property in Wesley Chapel; the first is Union Park Academy in Metro’s Union Park development off Meadow Pointe Blvd.

“This one is going to be like that one, but on steroids,” Singleton said. “The goal

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cational facilities in this particular region.

We’re super excited about that.”

According to its website, InPrep’s curriculum will be based on the “WISH” model — Wellness, Innovation, Science and Health. The school also intends to offer the Cambridge Program (designed by England’s University of Cambridge) for its gifted and higher-achieving students.

Technology will be a major driver at the school. Metro’s ULTRAFI technology, which offers 1-Gigabit speed internet, is central to the Connected City’s Smart Gigabit Community concept, and Singleton said hat will help InPrep instantly become one of the most advanced schools in the area.

Pasco School Board member Alan Altman praised the partnership, saying it yields more choices for area parents that weren’t available when he joined the school board 13 years ago.

He mentioned the recent naming of the Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation high school — also on Curley Rd., just north of the InPrep site — that will open in 2022, as well as the Pinecrest Academy charter school in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel (see pg. 6) opening in the fall.

“Neighborhoods can send kids to any kind of school they want to with any kind of curriculum, and that is rare,” Altman said. “The families and the citizens of this community will benefit for years to come.”

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9

Wesley Chapel Rotary’s ‘Duck Fest’ The Biggest Yet! Congratulations to the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel (which meets Wednesdays at noon at Omari’s Grill inside Lexington Oaks Golf Club) for making its fifth annual Duck Fest & Car Show the biggest and best-ever.

With more ducks purchased than ever before — at least 1,600, according to the club’s president-elect Jodie Sullivan — and hundreds of local residents on hand, club member (and Omari’s Grill owner/chef) Anass El-Omari won the day’s top prize — an oversized check for $1,000 (below). Anass and his wife isSusana are using the money to start a scholarship fund for high school culinary students who want to continue their culinary educations in college.

The club now turns its attention to its next fund raiser — the third annual Hats & Horses Kentucky Derby Party on Saturday, May 2, at the beautiful Waller Ranch in nearby Dade City.

Get out your craziest hats and outfits and join the club for this afternoon of great food, adult beverages and the fastest two minutes in sports!

Visit WCRotary.com & look for more info about Hats & Horses next issue! — GN

10

Photos courtesy of David Alvarez of DCA Media Consulting. Thanks, David!

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Big Changes Planned For AMC Highwoods 20!

By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneightborhoodnews.com AMC Highwoods 20, the New Tampa movie theater complex that has been the target of recent criticism over its appearance inside and out, may be looking at a major $6-million facelift.

According to plans filed by Kansas City-based BRR Architecture with the City of Tampa, the AMC Highwoods 20 location just off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. could be receiving major interior renovations that include an upgraded lobby, new carpet and paint, larger bathrooms and new projection and speaker systems, with roomier recliner seating inside the theaters.

AMC Theatres public relations director Ryan Noonan did not confirm any specific enhancements, but did tell the Neighborhood News that “the renovation process is in place” and, if permitting goes smoothly, it could begin sometime around June and be completed by the end of 2020.

A woman who identified herself as one of the AMC Highwoods 20 managers declined comment.

Noonan said that the New Tampa location would likely receive the same upgrades AMC is putting in at many of its other theaters across the country.

Neighborhood News

“The new recliner seating is always the star of the show,” he said.

According to the plans, the renovations to the 82,815-sq.-ft. movie theater would cost roughly $6.6 million.

“That’s great news,” said Tampa City Council member, New Tampa resident and frequent Renovations at the AMC Highwoods 20 movie theater will be welcomed by the New Tampa community. (Photo: John C. Cotey) AMC 20 patron Luis Viera, whose district had recently been receiving. includes the theater.

“They had been discussing (renoViera wrote to AMC’s corporate vating) the Highwoods 20 before any management in November of 2019 stating of that came to light,” said Noonan. that the New Tampa theater was “unkempt A Much-Needed Boost and not properly reflecting the exterior An upgrade would be a big boost to standards of New Tampa” and could use New Tampa’s only movie theater, which some TLC. opened in 1999 and pales in comparison Many on social media agreed. to the nearby and newer Cobb Grove 16 Posters on various platforms shared their horror stories, while others said they in Wesley Chapel when it comes to ameniwould rather drive an extra 20 minutes to ties like food, comfortable seating and offering a more modern experience. see a movie in Wesley Chapel.

AMC is currently renovating a Noonan acknowledged that AMC was aware of the bad press the theater number of its nearly 700 theaters across

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the country and has been for the last decade, Noonan said. He said there are less than a handful of new theaters built

by AMC each year, with the company instead focusing of renovating its existing properties with better and reserved seating, touch-screen ticketing kiosks, eco-friendly restrooms and a full-service MacGuffins Bar. Any AMC Highwoods 20 renovations would typically not cause the entire theater to be closed, just certain sections at a time.

Most of the 20 auditoriums will have their current capacities reduced to make room for the larger, more comfortable seating. Auditorium 4, for example, currently has seating for 284, but plans indicate that once renovated, there would only be seating for 140.

“There will be a 40-60 percent reduction in seating,” Noonan said. “With the new seating, it’s no longer an elbow-toelbow experience.”

Viera said he hopes those who have been unhappy will support the effort to modernize the theater.

“They are taking the steps to fix it, and I would hope New Tampa recognizes that and supports it,” Viera said. “I’m thrilled to see this happen.”

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Hours: Mon-Sat, 9:30am-7:30pm • Sun 11am-5pm

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13

Olympus Pools Is Now Open In Lutz As It Keeps On Growing!

By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN After moving the Olympus Pools flagship store from near Tampa International Airport to nearby Lutz (just west of Collier Pkwy. on S.R. 54), the company is getting ready to open a new showroom in Lakewood Ranch, too.

The Grand Opening was expected to be held on Mar. 7, after this issue went to press. The Lakewood Ranch showroom will serve customers in Bradenton and the surrounding areas of Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Owner James Staten says Olympus Pools has grown 30 percent each year since he first opened the business in Tampa in 2013.

A location in Lakeland opened four years ago.

James emphasizes that as it grows, Olympus Pools is not only getting bigger, but also serving its customers better, too. For example, the move to Lutz is a benefit to the many Olympus Pools customers in the Neighborhood News readership areas.

“Now, everyone in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel is basically 10 minutes (or so) from us,” he says.

The new Lutz store opened last

Olympus Pools owner James Staten, in the company’s new showroom on S.R. 54 in Lutz, where you can touch and feel products, work with a designer and see your custom pool in virtual reality. You also can just stop by and ask questions. technology front and center, with digital June, making it much easier for those kiosks and videos to explain the available who are considering purchasing a pool products, such as how automation systo stop in. tems work and what options you have “Here, you can touch and feel to heat your pool. everything,” says James. “We hand-seYou can take a 360-degree tour of lect the materials, including handcrafted your custom pool on a high-definition tiles from Italy, Mexico, Japan, Spain screen or even use virtual reality. The and Africa. And every year, we evaluate all of our finishes and materials. We like technology allows you to see what the pool will look like at dusk or at night, to make sure our customers get the and can also give you a close-up view of absolute most bang for their buck with what it will be like floating in the pool. products that work well.”

James and his wife Alexis have made The Lutz showroom also puts

the store kid-friendly. Those high-definition screens have Netflix and a PS4, too.

Kids are entertained while their parents give their full attention to creating the pool of their family’s dreams.

That might include a built-in pool bar, fireplace or fire pit, or even an outdoor kitchen with custom outdoor cabinetry, grilling island with built-in grill, smoker or pizza oven, and other appliances.

Olympus Pools can build something fancy or simple and can accommodate virtually any design you can envision in your imagination.

James says a pool is a special place that can bring families and friends together.

“Whether you’re 2 or 72, you can enjoy being around the swimming pool,” he explains. “There aren’t a lot of activities everyone can enjoy at the same time, but swimming pools are that activity.”

He says his main goal is to listen to customers to understand their current lifestyle and learn what type of lifestyle they want to create. Then, Olympus Pools creates the space to bring that lifestyle to life.

And, there’s never a rush.

“If you want to build a pool in three years, that’s okay. We’ll help everyone. We’re not going anywhere,” James

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says. “But, we also have people who come in on a Saturday morning and purchase a pool by lunch.”

He says Olympus Pools is committed to helping each person who walks into any of the showrooms get exactly what they need, with the highest quality and best customer service.

“Some people may see our premium facility and the quality of service and products and assume we’ll be expensive,” James says. “But, due to my relationships in the industry and the volume of pools we sell, we can negotiate better pricing than an average pool company and pass those savings on to you.”

He says Olympus Pools pulled more permits last year than the second and third largest local pool companies combined. “We built 600 pools last year and no two were the same,” he says.

“We get so many referrals from people who tell their friends about us,” he adds. “We stand behind our work.

We don’t stop until they’re satisfied.”

Jay Sousa is one of those customers who heard from a co-worker that he should choose Olympus Pools, and now he recommends the company, too.

Jay says he moved to a neighborhood off of Cross Creek Blvd. in New Tampa from New York at the end of last summer. “The house didn’t have a pool, so that was non-negotiable for the family,” he says.

Jay liked that Olympus Pools gave him the very best service and the best possible pool in the market. He says the same options with other builders would have been more expensive and that he’s been happy with his decision ever since.

“The construction was very well coordinated,” Jay says.

Now, he and his family, including two kids ages 7 and 11, have been swimming in the pool almost daily. “It’s been a life changer for us,” says Jay. “It’s a beautiful pool and I’m really happy.”

Community Service

Even as Olympus Pools has opened new locations and built more pools,

James says the thing he’s most proud of is the growth of the company’s charitable programs and partnerships.

He says that last year, Olympus Pools partnered with the YMCA to provide “Learn To Swim” programs, which grants scholarships to kids who can’t afford swim lessons.

“If you have a pool,” James says, “it’s pretty easy to learn to swim in just a few days. But, if you don’t have a pool, it’s not. This is near and dear to our hearts.”

Olympus Pools also sponsors classroom needs in local schools through DonorsChoose.org, especially for low-income schools.

“We believe income shouldn’t be an

impediment to learning — whether it’s learning to swim or learning in school,” James says.

Olympus Pools also supports James and Alexis’ son, Jacob, who holds a food drive to support Feeding Tampa Bay every year for his birthday.

“We donate $100 for every pool sold,” says James. “Last year, we provided 50,000 meals for families in our community. The year before it was 8,000 meals, and before that it was 5,000. The fact that we could grow it that much meant a lot to my family and our company.”

And, Olympus Pools continues to add even more charitable programs.

James says he is currently working on partnerships with local law enforcement in each of the areas where Olympus Pools showrooms are located, to support them when there are tragedies in the law enforcement family.

“We live here, our kids go to school here, and we want to give back,” says James. “As we grow, it allows us to do even more.”

The newest Olympus Pools showroom is located at 21859 S.R. 54 in Lutz. It is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., and 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. For more information, visit OlympusPoolsFL.com, call (813) 983-7854, or see the ad on page 18 of this issue.

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15

Stark Injury Law Helps Wesley Chapel Residents With A Personal Touch

By CELESTE MCLAUGHLIN When Wesley Chapel resident Aaron Keaton was in a car accident, he knew he needed help from a lawyer.

What he didn’t expect was for the lawyer to show up in his hospital room — in person — for his initial consultation.

And, when fellow Wesley Chapel resident Ken Martinez needed an injury lawyer, too, he didn’t expect the lawyer to visit him in his home.

But, that’s the way personal injury attorney George Stark of Stark Injury Law, who has an office in the Brookside Professional Park off S.R. 54, says he likes to conduct business.

“The personal attention we give and the concern we have for people is what differentiates us from other folks,” Stark says. “We pride ourselves in being responsive to our clients’ needs, supporting their medical treatment decisions, resolving their vehicle damage claims, and providing them with the information needed to best resolve their claim.”

Both Aaron and Ken say George and his staff have become like a family to them.

“Anytime you go to the office, all of them come out and speak to you,” Ken says.

Aaron adds, “He’s so different. I met his wife, and I was there when his grandkids came in.”

cases, “from sprain-and-strain injuries that are not disabilities, to those that are catastrophic.”

Stark also says that anyone who has been in an accident should consult with and — if appropriate — retain the services of an experienced lawyer.

“A law firm is needed to assist in the various activities necessary to successfully pursue a claim both prior to and, if necessary, after litigation,” he explains, “including investigating, documenting, evaluating and ultimately negotiating a settlement or filing a lawsuit.”

A Little Background

Personal Injury attorney George Stark, who has an office in the Brookside Professional Park off S.R. 54, is proud to have a team of professionals helping him serve his clients, including (l.-r.) Holley Brennan, Kristin Everett & Maxine Stark. (Photos by Charmaine George) Stark has built his successful personal he is the courts in Hillsborough County. injury law firm since 1987, when he first Stark Injury Law helps those who opened his practice in downtown Tampa. are injured because of someone else’s When he and his wife Maxine moved to negligence, often because of car acciSaddlebrook in 2007, he opened a satel- dents, but also because of slip-and-fall lite office of Stark Injury Law, which he accidents, defective products, medical says has grown over the past 12 years. negligence and other causes.

Now, Stark says he spends most of “All injuries are serious,” he exhis time in his Wesley Chapel office and plains, and he says he is knowledgeable is as familiar with Pasco County courts as and experienced in handling a variety of

Stark is a graduate of California State University and Southwestern Law School, both located in Los Angeles.

He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1976 and first got started in the Tampa Bay area as an assistant public defender for Hillsborough County that same year.

He was assigned to the felony division and continued to work as a public defender until 1981. He also worked in a general civil practice before opening his own firm.

Stark’s clients say they recommend him to anyone who needs a personal injury attorney.

“He is very professional,” says Aaron. “He will sit down and talk with you face to face, he’ll make you feel comfort-

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Attorney George Stark lives in the Saddlebrook Resort area and has an office in nearby Brookside to better serve his clients in our area. able, and tell you what might or might not happen.”

“He’s the best,” adds Ken. “He’s very knowledgeable and he has so much experience. In my other experiences with lawyers, they usually only talk with you about the law. He’s more understanding of all the things your family is going through. He’s more human in the way he explains things. He gives you that feeling of confidence, that everything’s going to be okay.”

Stark Injury Law continues to grow because of word-of-mouth referrals from clients such as Aaron and Ken. “As a referral practice, I’ve been in business long enough that now I have three generations of people I’ve represented,” he says.

His clients appreciate that Stark is personally involved with their case. That’s a big difference in hiring him instead of one of those firms you might see advertised on TV. “Most of those folks [who hire a large firm] never see a lawyer,” says Stark, “unless their case cannot be amicably resolved by way of settlement.”

He says that nearly all of the cases he takes on — and the vast majority of those that are taken on by all other firms, too — are resolved by settlement, not through actual litigation.

“I pride myself on my ability to be successful in trial,” Stark says, “but the reality is that personal injury cases rarely go to trial.”

He says the busiest trial lawyers, such as himself, are only in court one or two times a year.

In fact, he says, 95 percent of his cases are resolved by settlement within six to nine months, often without even filing an actual lawsuit.

“That’s the norm,” he says, “and not just for my office.”

But, whether your case is being settled or going to trial, you’ll have oneon-one interactions with Stark himself Neighborhood News

throughout the process.

“I advise all of my clients that they control my schedule,” he says. “My clients can speak with me at any time, and if I’m not available, they just schedule a telephone conference. No one is ever left hanging.”

In addition to being accessible, Stark says he makes no decisions on his clients’ behalf without their personal involvement.

“I enjoy the dialogue with the clients,” he says. “It’s important for them to understand the process and make an informed decision. I hope they’ll listen to what I have to say, but ultimately, it’s not my case — it’s their case.”

Whether you’re an international resident, snowbird, taking an extended vacation or own a home that is currently vacant, Brenda and Mike Martyniak can be the eyes — and neighbor — everyone wishes they had.

At POV Home Watch, the Martyniaks offer the kind of protection that is hard to find. By signing up with POV Home Watch, which is nationally accredited, bonded and insured, you can rest assured that the Martyniaks will be stopping by your home every two weeks (or more often, if you request) to monitor and report on the condition of your home.

Their services include things like checking to make sure your lawn and pool are being taken care of to being your contact if the home alarm goes off.

POV Home Watch also will check for obvious maintenance issues like leaks, storm damage, bug infestations, vandalism and anything else that needs to be immediately addressed. ‘‘We check under the sinks, the ceilings and in every corner of the home,” Brenda says.

Brenda adds that POV Home Watch, which serves Pasco, Hernando and northern Hillsborough counties, has already saved a couple of its clients from having to buy new pumps because they noticed low water levels in their swim-

ming pools. “We can reduce your risk and save you money,” she says.

POV Home Watch and its clients design a custom checklist, right down to the company the client would prefer if any repairs are ever needed while they’re away. Photos are taken of new clients’ homes before, and during, check-ins, for insurance purposes.

For additional information and a free consultation, call (727) 868-6059, email bmartyniak@tampabay.rr.com or visit POVHomeWatch.com. Also, make sure you check out their ad on pg. 42 and tell them we sent you!

A Top-Notch Staff, Too!

Stark says he’s supported by great staff members who also help to make the process easy for his clients.

Maxine is a retired teacher who helps with administrative and bookkeeping duties for the office.

Kristin Everett and Holley Brennan are the paralegals who answer the phones and greets clients when they arrive at the office.

“Kristin’s been with me for five years,” Stark says. “She’s a people person, and she’s excellent at taking care of problems as they arise.”

Aaron says that although his case is now resolved, George, Kristin, Holley and the team remain important to him.

“I always go by and stop and say ‘hi,’” Aaron says, “because he helped us when we needed help. With all the pain and suffering you go through, it means a lot when you get the right people to help you out.”

Stark Injury Law is located at 29150 Chapel Park Dr. in the Brookside Professional Center. The practice also has a downtown Tampa office located at 400 N. Ashley Dr. You can reach attorney George Stark by calling (813) 991-6161. Or, visit StarkInjuryLaw.com, or see the ad on page 3 of this issue. @NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 6 • March 13, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

17

Palms Pharmacy Is An Independent With A Prescription For Growth

By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com There is a chain pharmacy right across the street, and two other Publix pharmacies located right down the road on each side of her.

And yet, Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) Shahida Choudhry says her Palms Pharmacy is thriving at its location in The Shoppes at The Pointe plaza in Tampa Palms — just off the Bruce B. Downs Blvd. exit of I-75.

Dr. Choudhry may not have the national and regional backing of her nearest competitors, but she has something she says is just as valuable — a hard-working and committed staff that is growing and genuinely cares about providing the exceptional neighborhood touch that comes with being a locally owned and community-focused business.

“And don’t forget, woman-owned,” says Choudhry, who opened the pharmacy in 2016 between the popular Ciccio Cali and Koizi Endless Hibachi & Sushi eateries in the plaza.

She says a strong relationship with local physicians, as well as word of mouth and advertising in the Neighborhood News have helped Palms Pharmacy grow from what was once just Choudhry and Naivis Valdez — who Choudhry says “runs the

18

The staff at the Palms Pharmacy in Tampa Palms (l.-r.): compounding pharmacist Jake Johnson, pharmacist Shahida Choudhry, pharmacy clerk Alexandra Garcia-Rubio, senior technician Naivis Valdez and pharmacy intern Dustin Williams. (Photo: Charmaine George) show” — to a staff that has grown to tions ready as they’re walking in the door six people, including a second full-time — they also learn about their patients’ pharmacist, two pharmacy students and a medications so the staff can provide the pharmacy clerk. best possible care for them.

Despite Palm Pharmacy’s now-larg“Lots of folks like the 1-on-1 service er staff, Dr. Choudhry still promises the we give them,” Dr. Choudhry says proudpersonalized service and familiarity that is ly. “When they pull up, we have their stuff hard to find in a typical chain drug store. ready. I know you’ve heard that before, She and her staff get to know all of but it’s true.” their customers. Not only do they learn The pharmacy will celebrate its fourth their names — so they can greet them anniversary in Tampa Palms on April 15.

It already has expanded once, in 2018, personally and start getting their prescrip-

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when it literally moved one door over to a larger location, allowing more room for pharmacists and technicians to work, a separate room for prescription compounding, and another separate room where durable medical equipment (such as walkers, crutches and nebulizers) is sold and fittings for compression garments are done.

Even so, Palms Pharmacy has almost already outgrown its newfound space.

Dr. Choudhry received her Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy, then went on to receive her Pharm.D. degree, both from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY, in 2001.

Before opening Palms Pharmacy, Dr. Choudhry was the pharmacist at the Publix in Tampa Palms for 10 years. She loved her job and her customers, but her search for a better balance of her work life and home, where she has two small children, led her to starting her own business.

So, she says, she took classes and read books and asked questions of many people who served as mentors to her, eventually opening Palms Pharmacy and hiring Naivis to work alongside her.

“It’s a hustle,” she says about owning her own business.

She must be doing something right, though – she has been asked to speak in June about owning a pharmacy at a Women in Pharmacy conference in Austin, TX.

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Success Spurs Growth

What’s Palms Pharmacy’s secret sauce?

“We do exactly the same as every other pharmacy,” Dr. Choudhry says, showing off her ever-present wide smile.

“But, we do it better.”

And, she adds, just because Palms Pharmacy is a small business doesn’t mean its prices are any higher than the chains. “We actually are competitive and in many cases, cheaper,” she says.

Palms Pharmacy boasts a wait time that Choudhry says is usually “next to nothing,” along with compounding medications and selling durable medical equipment not available at typical big chain pharmacies. Choudhry and her staff also provide immunizations such as flu shots, vaccines for pneumonia and shingles, and travel vaccines.

Dr. Choudhry says she had Shingrix, a shingles vaccine, when no one else around had it.

“We try to stay ahead of the market,” she says.

The entire staff also thrives on helping patients with especially complicated health or insurance issues, which are becoming more and more common these days. Dr. Choudhry says that when insurance companies decline to cover a patient’s medications, that’s when she picks up the phone. “I know the doctors and the medical assistants,” she says. “I work with them to get their patients what they need, usually within the day.”

This is in huge contrast to other pharmacies, which may take 7-10 days to come up with a solution when an insurance company won’t cover a medication.

In fact, Dr. Choudhry says many of her patients find Palms Pharmacy through their doctors.

“Doctors are supportive of us because we take care of their patients,” she says.

And, it’s not always about the sale.

Choudhry is always suggesting helpful lifestyle changes, such as exercise and diet recommendations, to help customers avoid bigger health problems down the road, as opposed to just handing over your medication and rushing you out the door.

Always Evolving

Dr. Choudhry also embraces new technologies when it comes to providing convenient customer service, as environmentally-friendly QR codes are now included with every prescription.

Patients can now point their cell phone cameras at the QR codes on their prescriptions and be taken to a website that will play a video offering the same description of the medication, and its possible side effects, that come on the folded up paper with the small print that has always previously come with your prescription.

The website also contains other information, as well as a form to fill out, and any questions will go directly to Dr. Neighborhood News

Choudhry’s email. “We started it in January, and have had a really good reception to it,” she says. “I think it’s really cool, and a lot of folks lose their stuff, so it’s really convenient, too.”

More Than Prescriptions

Choudhry also says she tries to hit the trade shows to make sure that Palms Pharmacy’s shelves are always stocked with the latest and best products.

She has recently begun carrying three different brands of CBD products — Procana, Medterra and Ananda — at various price points (you can get two tablets for $4 if you’re only looking to try it out), in various forms and in a variety of dosages.

And, Dr. Choudhry and her staff will work with you to help you find the right product and dosage that will work best for you.

Over the past year, Palms Pharmacy has added products like handmade soaps from the highly-rated Old Whaling Company, as well as carrying aluminum-free natural deodorant from American Provenance, beeswax and honey soaps from Joan’s A Keeper and organic cleaners from Rena Naturals.

“I like to carry stuff no one else is carrying,” Dr. Choudhry says.

Palms Pharmacy also sells natural vitamins and supplements, from top companies such as Pure, Nordic, Metagenics and Mason. The store also sells LovePop popup greeting cards and most of the popular the Zum line, such as all-natural soaps, lip products, body lotions and more.

What’s the next hot product? “I’ll let you know in two weeks,” Dr. Choudhry says, as she is off to another trade show.

“Always hustling,” she says, adding that opening her own pharmacy has been extremely rewarding.

“I love it,” she says. “We’re growing every day and it’s a blessing. I wake up every morning and I’m excited to get to work every day.”

Palms Pharmacy is located at 17008 Palm Pointe Dr., Tampa, and is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

For more information, call (813) 252-9063, see the ad on pg. 23 or visit ThePalmsPharmacy.com.

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19

For Trusted Tax Help This Season, Turn To Murtha & Murtha, LLC

By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Tom Murtha and his son Patrick do more than just crunch numbers during tax season. Partners and owners of their own accounting firm — Murtha & Murtha, LLC — in the Seven Oaks Professional Park off S.R. 56 (across from Sam’s Club), the father-son duo has more than 50 years of combined experience in handling ever-changing tax laws on behalf of their accounting clients.

The Murthas consult, advise and deal in complicated and intricate tax laws and provide things like business valuations and due diligence while also running the successful Murtha & Murtha Mergers and Acquisitions, LLC. And of course, they do taxes.

“We do it all,” says Tom. And, as they help businesses grow and prosper, so has their own business.

The Murthas are coming off a year in which they merged with another office in Zephyrhills, which is now called Henson & Murtha, CPAs. Tom says that transition went off seamlessly and is helping the Murthas spread their influence across eastern Pasco, an area they feel is underserved. “(The merger) was very, very successful,” Tom says. “We (inherited) some great people, haven’t lost any cli-

20

Tom (seated) and Patrick Murtha have not only helped area businesses grow, but have grown quite a bit themselves since moving to Wesley Chapel in 2015. (Photo: John C. Cotey) ents and have grown over there.” codes at his father’s business, graduated Tom, who earned his B.S. degree in from the University of South Florida in Management from Long Island University 2009 with Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Brooklyn, NY, in 1976, and his M.B.A. degrees in both Finance and Accounting.

(Master of Business Administration) deHe joined his father in opening a firm gree in Accounting from St. John’s Uniin Tampa in 2010, focusing on mergers versity in Queens, NY, in 1981, has been and acquisitions. One of Patrick’s first doing mergers, acquisitions and business tasks was to sell Tom’s former Englewood valuations since the 1990s. accounting firm.

Patrick, who grew up around tax In 2013, the Murthas expanded to

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full service, and in 2015, moved to their current location in Wesley Chapel.

Currently in the middle of tax season, Murtha & Murtha is expecting to do more than 2,000 tax returns between the two offices. In its Wesley Chapel location alone, where the Murthas and senior accountant Kyle Flischel, CPA, are particularly busy, business is up 70 percent.

Tom calls it “explosive.” Patrick draws a laugh from his father when he says this tax season has already been like “trying to drink water from a fire hose.” During a recent two-day span, Patrick says he had meetings with 20 new, potential clients.

That speaks to the success of the firm.

The staff has grown and stayed ahead of the growth, allowing Murtha & Murtha, LLC, to provide business services that are never interrupted by seasonal changes or having too much on their plates.

Business Gurus, Too

Much of what Murtha & Murtha does is help businesses large and small handle their accounting. While the proliferation of online filing software has replaced the duties of many accountants over the years, Tom says it has only helped his business thrive.

Now, instead of using most of their time inputting numbers into a computer program, the Murthas have more time to

@NTWCNews

advise businesses on more important matters that can improve their bottom line.

“Today, with QuickBooks and other accounting software, that stuff is already done,” Tom says. “That doesn’t do anything for the client; it’s all after the fact.

We can actually help clients with what they need. We’re helping them become successful, not just doing this work that shows them where they were last year.”

That’s why the Murthas suggest that businesses meet with them during the year, to make decisions before tax time, when it may be too late to help maximize a return or save money for that year.

Services Your Business Needs

Murtha & Murtha offers a “CFO Retainer Package,” which is designed to help businesses and those who are self-employed whose company may need a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) but don’t have the budget to hire a full-time manager or accountant for that job.

For a fraction of the cost of a fulltime CFO, the Murthas operate in an advisory position and can handle everything from accounting and bookkeeping to setting up payroll and ensuring that all of a client’s income and expenses are classified correctly.

They also will put together a budget, which Patrick says hardly any other companies do. The Murthas are big on budgeting, which helps their clients make

Neighborhood News

decisions in real time, instead of waiting until the end of the year.

And of course, they will take care of all of the tax preparation and planning.

Patrick says it is that personal touch that differentiates Murtha & Murtha from others. While some CPAs may take a pass on your more complicated business problems, the Murthas specialize in taking them on — and solving them.

At Murtha & Murtha, the person you talk to is the person who does your tax return. Whether you’re a filer from a lower income tax bracket, a business bringing in $100,000 a year or someone with an $80-million stock portfolio, you get personalized treatment.

“We want our clients to view us as advisers,” says Patrick, “not just the guys who do their tax returns.”

And if the help you require is outside of their parameters, they will help you find the right person, whether it’s a lawyer or a certified financial planner (CFP).

“Helping the client is our brand,” Tom says. “We help people be successful.

That’s what our firm does.”

Murtha & Murtha, LLC, is located at 2236 Ashley Oaks Cir., Suite 101, Wesley Chapel. For more info, visit TampaTaxFirm.com, see the ad on pg. 19 or to schedule a free consultation, call (813) 991-1120. Henson & Murtha, CPAs, is located at 5315 8th Ave. in Zephyrhills.

For info, call (813) 782-0580.

@NTWCNews

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21

F45 Training To Bring Unique Group Fitness To The Grove

By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com When Bob Balfe started looking into opening his own gym in Wesley Chapel, he started his research in the typical spots — you know, in rooms filled with treadmills, weight machines and iron plates scattered about.

But, he says it wasn’t until he started looking at “functional fitness,” and becoming a personal trainer himself, that he discovered F45 Training.

“I saw the videos, the way they used the technology and just the level of the instructors that they had blew me away,” Bob says.

Now, he and his wife Kim are just weeks away from opening their own F45 Wesley Chapel, located in the rapidly developing Village section of The Grove off S.R. 54.

While F45 Wesley Chapel will hold a soft opening later this month, expect the Grand Opening to be held in April. By signing up for the unlimited classes now and reserving your spot for $10, however, you can lock in a monthly Founder’s rate that is 30-percent less expensive than a regular membership will be (and you also get a little F45 swag with that as well).

And, more than 500 people have already expressed interest in the new training facility.

But why wait, the Balfes say. F45 Wesley Chapel is already holding free outdoor bootcamps every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 7 a.m., and Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6:15, as well as Saturday mornings at 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., in the parking lot behind the Spectrum office across the street in The Village.

“We’re already seeing the (F45) community develop,” Kim says. “There’s people already forging relationships. It’s one of the great things about the group workouts.”

F45 Training’s website (F45Training.com) says it is the fastest-growing fitness franchise in the world, with more

(l.-r.) Head trainer Kristy Hess and owners Kim and Bob Balfe say F45 Training’s unique approach to working out will keep clients coming back for more. (Photo: John C. Cotey)

than 1,700 studios in 45 countries, including more than 650 in the U.S. It is part of a trend towards high-tech fitness boutiques, which go way beyond the traditional big-box gyms by offering a friendly experience. Heck, there’s a good chance you may end up working out right next to Bob, who isn’t just an owner, but also an enthusiastic and frequent F45 participant.

Founded in Sydney, Australia, in 2011 by equities trader Rob Deutsch, F45 offers a fast-paced succession of “functional” exercises in grueling 45-minute classes — hence, F45.

There are three days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) of cardio classes (no running, though), and each workout has a unique name. The Firestorm, for example, takes you through 27 stations, the most possible. The Athletica is a “declaration of war against body fat,” Brixton uses elements of mixed martial arts and boxing and Templars is a set of 14 different exercises you do with a partner, to name a few.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the classes focus on resistance training, with workouts like Angry Bird and Moonhopper, an 18-station workout described on the F45 website as “insane.”

And, Saturdays are reserved for hour-long hybrid sessions, including the DJ-infused Hollywood, as well as Func-

tional Flexibility Recovery Sessions.

There are 1,400 different exercises spread across 36 different programs, Bob says, and F45 is always working on adding more. The website boasts that their 45-minute workouts can burn up to 750 calories per session.

“Every single day is a totally different workout,” Bob adds.

Classes at F45 Wesley Chapel will be held in the morning, around lunchtime and in the evening. The studio has five flat-screen TVs showing a recording of a trainer demonstrating each exercise.

Classes won’t be any bigger than 28 people at a time, and there is plenty of room in the 3,300-sq.-ft. location, which is large by F45 standards.

Head trainer Kristy Hess, a Certified Physical Trainer with more than 10 years of experience (and formerly with Samantha Taylor Fitness) and assistant Alyssa Lomantini supervise the workouts to make sure you are doing the exercises correctly, in order to get the best results and avoid injuries.

While similar to CrossFit, Hess says F45 is quite different. It does employ the same high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which offers a quickly occurring series of different exercises focusing on different muscle groups, but there are no

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Even though F45 Wesley Chapel isn’t open yet, free bootcamps that are offered Tues., Thur. and Sat. have already fostered a community of eager fitness enthusiasts. (Photo courtesy of Bob Balfe)

heavy weights and the exercises are less likely to result in injuries, she says.

Do not mistake that for an easier workout, however.

“It’s a tough workout. It is humbling,” Kristy says. “As trainers, we can do everything, but sometimes you’re just like, damn, I still have another 15 minutes?”

Kim says F45 has a wider appeal as well. Each class is filled with people of varying degrees of fitness, each encouraged to do as much as they can in each stop at each station, with alternative ways to do the toughest exercises always offered for beginners.

“It’s a nice environment, higher technology, better equipment, you’re not running around outside, and there are fewer injuries,” Kim says. “It’s an inviting environment. It appeals to a more diverse membership.”

The group setting also is a plus, says Bob. Although he never thought much about taking group classes, he has found them to be enjoyable and motivational.

“I never bought into the team training things,” he says. “I’d go to the gym, not talk, and run by myself. But now, I love it.”

F45 Wesley Chapel also has recurring

eight-week challenges — with nutrition coaching, meal plans via F45’s app and other perks — to further differentiate itself from the fitness pack. It’s another community-building benefit that F45 Wesley Chapel will strive to achieve.

Bob, a software developer turned technical sales executive, loves the social aspect of F45, as do Kim and Kristy.

The company has a slick website, highly-active Facebook and Instagram pages and stays in touch with its members via text. Doing so helps build camaraderie amongst those trying to get and stay in shape, and also offers the kind of accountability that is difficult for many to have working out on their own.

“Accountability is the biggest thing,” Kim says. “When I go to a regular gym, no one cares if I show up or not.”

At F45, they will.

F45 Wesley Chapel is located at 6207 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 102.

You can win a free month of training by attending the First Friday event at the Tampa Premium Outlets on April 3, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. For more information, visit F45training.com/ thegrovewesleychapel/trial, call (813) 666-8547 or see the ad on page 29.

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25

Wesley Chapel’s Outstanding Seniors

CAMRYN FARQUHAR WESLEY CHAPEL HIGH

I have been enrolled in rigorous classes such as various Honors, AP, and Dual Enrollment courses. I have been able to maintain an A in all of my classes every year and I continue to work hard to keep up with deadlines and the content in each course. Additionally, I have been able to further my education and knowledge within my agricultural classes by testing for industry certifications.

LEADERSHIP: Through my involvement in the various clubs I have joined, I have been able to improve and develop leadership skills. My experiences as the president of my school’s FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapter has been like no other, however. I run meetings and organize school events. At community functions, I promote our chapter and speak to the public about the agricultural industry. In our chapter, I encourage members to try new competitions in order to find their passion.

SERVICE: Within student government, I make an effort to volunteer for my class by helping to decorate our hallways for homecoming or go to car washes for fund raisers. The past couple of years, I have done presentations at freshman orientation where I discussed different programs, clubs, and sports available to each student at school. I answered any questions that students had to the best of my ability.

CITIZENSHIP: I have been an active member of the FFA and have completed many projects and competitions since sixth grade. Because of my experience, I serve as a mentor for many exhibitors at my school’s barn. If any new exhibitor needs help, I make sure to take the time to assist them. If they need help cleaning out a bucket of water or need advice on their record book, I am more than happy to help.

AIDAN PERSAUD WIREGRASS RANCH HIGH

I am a National Merit Semifinalist and a National AP Scholar, earning a score of a 5 on all eight AP tests I have taken. My intention is to take five more AP exams at the end of my senior year. I am a Dual Enrollment student and have over 90 credit hours with Pasco-Hernando State College. I was one of 40 Florida students selected to attend Florida State University’s Young Scholars Program in summer of 2019.

LEADERSHIP: I have been the president of Wiregrass Ranch High’s Class of 2020 for four consecutive years. (I also am very proud of being the Class of 2020’s Powderpuff cheerleading captain for all four years.) I am WRH’s National Honor Society Secretary and Adopt-A-Highway coordinator. I organize litter cleanups on a 1.5mile stretch of State Road 56.

SERVICE: I have over 120 logged service hours. Through my membership in the Scouts BSA, I give my time to Wesley Chapel’s Helping Hands Food Pantry by packing and unloading canned donations and serving breakfast at pantry fund raisers. For my Eagle Scout Service Project, I also planned and executed the construction of eight bluebird nest boxes. These nest boxes provided safe housing for over 30 new bluebird hatchlings during 2019.

CITIZENSHIP: As an Eagle Scout, I face every day with optimism and treat every peer with compassion. In the AP Capstone Program, I attempt to contribute something new to scientific knowledge with my research on solar cells. I take pride in being a Wiregrass Ranch Bull and involve myself in after-hours school activities, whether tutoring struggling students in math and science, orienting incoming freshmen and their families, or cheering on the marching band.

JOSEPH VREELAND CYPRESS CREEK HIGH

Throughout my entire academic career, I feel that I have done everything to my fullest potential. I feel no regrets and do not think I could have done anything better. Was I perfect?

Of course not. I took many challenging courses to push myself, and though I did not ace every class, I feel successful and proud to have excelled in the majority of them.

LEADERSHIP: I believe that I am a natural leader, both in the classroom and on the court.

What I pride myself on, though, is being (a leader) in the most humble way. What distinguishes simply an intelligent person from a natural leader is that the leader does not feel the need to be credited as the smartest one or the one in charge.

I truly believe that this is the way I am.

SERVICE: Helping others is a significant part of who I am. Everyone needs service hours to graduate, but it is more than just checking a box for me. I love the feeling I get from knowing that I made a difference in someone’s life, whether it be tutoring students to help them succeed, providing assistance at food pantries to help others survive, or even just assisting in the little community things that many take for granted.

CITIZENSHIP: Being a kind, caring person who does the right thing is something that I am proud to be. If one is not doing the right thing or being a good person, one can’t possibly be happy. Being a good citizen is something that I look for in other people, as good people are just kinder, warmer, and more fun to be around. I feel good knowing I am one of those kind-hearted citizens.

Note — One Outstanding Senior is recognized at each Pasco County public school by the Pasco School District each year for his/ her academic record, service, leadership, citizenship & evidence of commitment to his/her school and community. A panel of School District employees and community members choose the winners.

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27

Coyotes Set To Howl In 2020

By MIKE CAMUNAS It’s been fast times at Cypress Creek High (CCH), especially for its baseball team.

The Coyotes, while young, have made leaps and bounds as a program in just their third year of varsity play.

In 2018, CCH had just seven wins, but last season that total jumped to 17 and nearly resulted in a spot in the State playoffs.

Now, with the 2020 season underway, CCH has lofty goals in mind, and coach Joe Neale attributes a good portion of his team’s early success to a pair of baseball brothers: Peyton and Ethan Petry.

“I really feel that those two, along with a few other guys, just in terms of their talent and the leadership qualities that they bring, are the big reasons for our success,” Neale says.

“So, I’m really looking forward to what they do in the future and where that takes us as a team.”

Peyton, the team’s hard-throwing No. 1 pitcher, centerfielder and leadoff hitter, is a junior, while Ethan is the big-bat, the sophomore third baseman slotted into the third spot in the lineup.

So far, the brothers have picked up right where they left off last season. Combined through the first three games, they are 10-for-20 at the plate with 10 runs scored, 8 RBI, two doubles and two triples.

Last season, Ethan led the team with 20 RBI while batting .325 with nine doubles and two home runs — the first two homers hit in the program’s history.

Peyton, on the mound, was 4-1 with a 1.35 ERA and a teamhigh 34 strikeouts in 36 innings, while batting .333 with seven RBI on 13 hits.

“He’s definitely the better hitter,” Peyton says of his brother, with a smile, “but we push each other and everyone to be better, and we’re just going to get better.”

Not only have the brothCypress Creek High baseball players, junior pitcher Peyton Petry (left), and his brother, sophomore third baseers continued to excel statistiman, Ethan Petry, lead the Coyotes in the program’s third season in existence. (Photo: Mike Camunas) cally on the field, they have grown into their respective “Everyone sees us as an underdog “This season, from the start, leadership roles. Peyton, in particu— an easy win,” Ethan says. “So we’re it’s been about winning Districts,” lar, took on that role for the Coyotes coming ready to win every game, no Neale says. “We got to the District right from the start. matter who it is, even if we’re playing semifinals last season and lost one we “Even with Peyton coming in as (a team like nationally-ranked) Jesuit. probably should’ve won, so its not a freshman in Year 1, it was pretty eviWe’re ready to go and want to win.” been about, ‘Let’s improve a little.’ dent he would be leading us,” Neale Cypress Creek will play in Class It’s been, ‘Let’s set some high goals says. “We were young, to the point 4A this season, in a new district comand achieve them.’ And, the Petry where we had no seniors and only a prised of Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, Brothers have done that on their couple of juniors on the squad, so he Mulberry, Lakeland McKeel Academy own. They’ve brought that mentality was able to step into that leadership and Tampa Robinson. to the team and everyone has fed off role pretty easily. I think that also CCH has set the bar high in 2020. of that.” helped him as a freshman a lot, too, because it really accelerated his development as a player and he’s just rolled A W ESLEY C HAPEL R ESIDENT & A T OUGH ATTORNEY with that role from the start.”

W HO I S N OT A FRAID TO TAKE O N THE B IG L AW F IRMS Things were tough early, but not all bad. Peyton threw CCH’s first-ever no-hitter: a 13-0 win vs. Zephyrhills Academy on March 16, 2018.

Quick improvement, however, made the Coyotes a Class 5A, District 7 contender in their second season, and key players from that team return alongside the Petrys — senior shortstop Matt Snyder (last year’s leading hitter), pitcher Zach Buelk (already 2-0 this season) and pitcher Raj Latchana (5-1, three saves last year), to name a few.

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E OP

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G IN

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N OO

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DEMPSEY’S IS #1 AGAIN!

Every year, after we report the results of our annual Reader Din-

ing Survey & Contest, I always feel compelled to give you my dining favorites, including all of the restaurants that opened in (or very near) New Tampa and Wesley Chapel the previous year. Some of you love my opinions; others...not so much.

Even so, most people I meet out in our neck of the woods tell me they agree with my choices more than they do those of the readers year after year.

For example, even when my kids were young and I ate a lot more fast food, I liked Chick-fil-A, Steak-n-Shake and others enough, but when I see enough people voting for any fast food eatery to place it in our readers’ top-10 — especially now, when we have more than 150 different restaurants between our two markets — I always feel like I need to have my say, too.

But, when I get to sit down to a perfect medium-rare, bone-in ribeye (photo) or big filet, with spicy bourbon creamed corn, a Caesar salad (with or without anchovies) and a glass of Malbec from my favorite restaurant in Wesley Chapel — Dempsey’s Steak House at Saddlebrook Resort, I know my judgement can’t be all bad. — GN

GARY’S FAVES

Check out the rest of Gary’s 2019 Favorite Restaurants in Wesley Chapel on pages 32-37!

Neighborhood News

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 6 • March 13, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

31

1

DEMPSEY’S STEAKHOUSE

3

GRILLSMITH

BUBBA’S 33

Saddlebrook Resort 5700 Saddlebrook Way (813) 907-4574

F

rom the day it first opened at Saddlebrook Resort off S.R. 54 somewhere around 20 years ago, Dempsey’s has been my favorite restaurant in Wesley Chapel — and for good reason!

It’s not because I used to live in Saddebrook before Dempsey’s opened, or because it’s the most expensive restaurant in New Tampa or Wesley Chapel. Dempsey’s gets my nod year after year because the steakhouse named for Saddlebrook owner Tom Dempsey always features the best hand-cut steaks, freshest, top-quality fish and amazing starters and sides.

In other words, Dempsey’s isn’t just the best restaurant in the Chap. It’s a top-5 steakhouse in the Bay area, as good (and as pricy) as the Council Oak at the Seminole Hard Rock, Fleming’s, Charley’s and the 1200º Chophouse on St. Pete Beach.

When I told Saddlebrook assistant food and beverage director Geoffrey Rutgers that Dempsey’s was #1 with me again this year, the long-time Neighborhood News reader quickly set up the photo shoot for my picture on pg. 30. “I’ve trusted your picks for years and I know I’m not the only one,” he said.

4

OMARI’S GRILL Lexington Oaks Golf Club 26133 Lexington Oaks Blvd.

(813) 907-7270

My friends Anass El-Omari and his wife Susana only renamed and reopened the restaurant inside the Lexington Oaks Golf Club a little more than a year ago but it has been a best-kept secret in Wesley Chapel ever since. And, even though you can only get Anass’ perfect grilled mahi-mahi (above), crispy, but tender chicken parmigiana and filet mignon with cream sauce as daily specials since he revamped his own menu after the golf course was closed for renovations last year, the more golfer-oriented food is still excellent (see ad, pg. 39).

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E

2000 Piazza Ave #100 Shops at Wiregrass (813) 907-1900

26340 Silver Maple Pkwy.

(813) 522-5090

B

ven though Grillsmith has always made my top-10 since it first opened in the Shops at Wiregrass, it’s now grabbing its loftiest spot on my list of WC favorites since the Tampa Bay-based chain first opened because of the addition of what they call “short-trip” fresh fish (like the grouper Mediterranean style shown above; we’ve also enjoyed corvina, snapper, mahi and even pompano and never had a bad piece of fish). There’s now also a larger selection of steaks and the mashed cauliflower is the best around.

ubba’s 33 may be the highest-finishing new restaurant on my list since Dempsey’s, even though it’s an entirely different concept, price-point and feel (see ad, pg. 37).

Local Bubba’s 33 franchisee Jeff Dean and his wife (and marketing whiz) Crista have years of experience in the restaurant business, but Texas Roadhouse’s new concept also is amazing — sports bar prices with restaurant-quality food. “Everything is house-made,” Crista says. “From our handtossed pizzas to our hand-cut steaks.” And, the chicken-&-not-waffles above is my current favorite brunch item in Wesley Chapel.

6

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LONGHORN GARDEN GRILLE BONEFISH GRILL STEAKHOUSE Hilton Garden Inn Tampa-WC 1640 Bruce B Downs Blvd.

2647 Creek Grass Way, Lutz (813) 909-0003

When Jannah and I feel like a delicious filet at a fair price, with great sides included, Longhorn is the first place we both usually think of — and not just because it’s the closest steakhouse to where we live. From the tender Flo’s filet to the NY strip (above), Longhorn’s steaks are aways done to perfection and if you’re somehow ever not happy, management will always make it right. We love the salad, the crisp-crust bread and always-fresh veggies, too. And, although we wish the bar area was a little bigger, the bartenders and drink prices are outstanding.

26640 Silver Maple Pkwy.

(813) 591-6900

Please stop me if you’ve heard me say this before, but when the Hilton Garden Inn Tampa-Wesley Chapel first opened in late 2018, it hosted a Grand Opening event, where the food served in the hotel’s Garden Grille restaurant was so good, I thought it must’ve come from an outside caterer.

Wrong! The food at the Garden Grille is excellent, from delicious crispy wings, to tasty meatballs and even a great ribeye steak.

I wish the Garden Grille was open for lunch, but it’s also great for “event” food like the French toast casserole shown above.

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Neighborhood News

Shoppes at New Tampa (WC) (813) 907-8202

When you’re looking for the best seared tuna sashimi appetizer (photo) in Wesley Chapel, there’s no doubt in my mind that Bonefish Grill’s is #1. The thick slices are always fresh, always well-seared but still rare and covered in black and white sesame seeds. Bonefish does also feature excellent fresh fish, but not as good for my money as Grillsmith’s. And, the Outback-quality steaks are an added bonus. I can’t eat the bangbang shrimp because of my accursed shellfish allergy, but people say it’s the best — and most often imitated — you’ll find anywhere. @NTWCNews

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FORD’S GARAGE NOBLE CRUST 25226 Sierra Center Blvd., Lutz (813) 540-3673

28330 Paseo Dr. Shops at Wiregrass (813) 703-2602

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(813) 953-1032

Speaking of seared tuna, Ford’s Garage probably has my second favorite version of it in Wesley Chapel, but everything — from the Buffalo chicken sandwich shown above to the prime black angus burgers to the grilled chicken Henry entrée and chop salad — is always top-quality. I feel like the burger buns are a little too big, but you gotta love the “Ford’s Garage” logo they bear. There probably is more indoor and outdoor bar seating at Ford’s Garage than any restaurant in Wesley Chapel not named Bahama Breeze (see below) and the drink prices are great, too.

There is no doubt in my mind that with a little larger and more diverse menu, Noble Crust would finish higher on my list of Wesley Chapel favorites. I love the housemade gnocchi and unique beef and pork meatball appetizers (there’s even Impossible meatballs available now), as well as the double cut pork chop, bistro steak and chicken fried chicken parm (above) entrées and even though the bar area is a little tight, it offers an amazing selection of ultra-premium liquor and a great, fun vibe.

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GLORY DAYS GRILL

LITTLE ITALY’S

BAHAMA BREEZE

25830 Sierra Center Blvd., Lutz (813) 949-0779

Bahama Breeze is more than just another chain restaurant. Even though some say it’s out of place in our area because it doesn’t border on a body of water, people really buy into the tropical look and feel of the Breeze and the food is pretty good, too. Although the ever-changing Market Catch fish isn’t always an option we like, the blackened mahi tacos above, skirt steak churrasco, burgers and Jamaican-inspired specials like the braised oxtail are all tasty entrée options and we also enjoy the wings, the beef empanadas and chicken quesadilla appetizers. It’s also our area’s largest restaurant and bar area.

Neighborhood News

28812 S.R. 54 (813) 535-7678

When our distribution area’s first

Glory Days Grill opened in New Tampa a few years ago, replacing the popular Lee Roy Selmon’s, I will say I wasn’t a big fan.However, when Jannah and I first tried the new Glory Days on S.R. 54, less than a mile from my office, we immediately recognized that the menu had been greatly upgraded. We absolutely love the zucchini fries appetizer shown above, as well as the steak rice bowl, the grilled chicken and comeback chicken entrées, boston chowda and the 1/2-lb. proprietary blend burgers (see ad on pg. 31). @NTWCNews

5710 Oakley Blvd.

(813) 973-7717

The steak quality at the Outback Steakhouse has never been in question. The ice rinks when both of my sons played ice Victoria’s filet shown above is very similar in hockey, I had no real expectations for good quality and price to Longhorn’s Flo’s filet. food when what is now called AdventHealth It’s all a matter of whose seasoning you preCenter Ice first opened three years ago. Boy, fer. In addition to the great variety of steaks, was I wrong. Not only does Top Shelf have Outback also is famous for its shrimp on the some of the best wings, burgers and bar food barbie and bloomin’ onion appetizers, Alice around, it also serves delicious mixed veggies Springs chicken and surf & turf options that as a side and the beers from owner Keelan I sadly can’t enjoy, but rewards members Cottle’s own 81Bay Brewing are definitely (like me!) get $20 off at Outback or Bonepopular with the hockey moms and dads. fish or $40 off at Fleming’s every third visit.

Based on my experience at other

24436 FL-54, Lutz (813) 909-2122

Owners Jessica and Carl Meyers’ seemingly hard-to-find location on S.R. 54, a mile or so west of the Tampa Premium Outlets, has been bringing in hungry fans from the moment it opened and the addition of beer, wine and homemade sangria definitely hasn’t hurt business, either. Although I’ve always said that the menu could be more diverse, if you’re looking for the best lasagne, chicken or veal parmigiana (the latter is usually a special) in our area, this is your place — and the portions are huge, especially the calzones! The homemade Sicilian-style pizza is also unique and yummy.

15

THE HUNGRY GREEK

2653 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.

(813) 345-8526

Any time you can offer quality food at excellent prices, you should have a chance to be successful in the restaurant biz and The Hungry Greek is proof of that theory. Years before AdventHealth Wesley Chapel opened directly across the street, The Hungry Greek was packing in the people, especially at lunch time, with its classic gyro and souvlaki sandwiches and platters, shish kabob combo and chicken Caesar pita sandwich and the Greek salad is the most authentic and delicious in our area, too. I also really enjoy the Greek beer and decadent desserts.

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33

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35

10/10/19 3:17 PM

GARY’S FAVORITES (Cont.)

16

900º WOODFIRED PIZZA 28152 Paseo Dr. #195 Shops at Wiregrass (813) 527-6940

17

AMICI’S PIZZA & DELI

26602 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Lutz (813) 973-9734

The new location of Amici’s on Wesley

18

FRATELLI’S PIZZA & CAFE 5327 Village Market (813) 991-1118

19

LA PRIMA PIZZA

1211 Bruce B Downs Blvd.

Northwood Plaza (813) 907-2878

The fact that I have been friends with owner (and fellow transplanted New Yawka) Willie Lopez (and his son and pizza man Chris, photo) for more than 20 years has nothing to do with why I say La Prima has my favorite NY-style pizza in Wesley Chapel (or New Tampa, for that matter). However, it takes more than just great, oversized slices of pizza to make my list of favorite restaurants and La Prima also has really good Italian specialties like huge calzones and oven-baked meatball parmigiana subs.

places and Italian restaurants in Wesley Chapel all in a row. I personally prefer the NY-style to the woodfired Neapolitan-style pizza at 900º Woodfired Pizza, but my favorite dish is definitely the freshly-made penne pesto Genovese shown above, although I usually have owner Steve Falabella’s happy crew add grilled chicken and even some sautéed spinach to mine. The penne alla vodka and lasagne are awesome, too!

Chapel Blvd./S.R. 54 in Lutz has brought me ever closer to the Mannino brothers and their delicious pizza, like the sausage and pepperoni NY-style shown above. But, like 900º Woodfired, Amici’s makes my list of Wesley Chapel favorites in part because it features a very authentic NY-style version of another one of my favorite pasta dishes — the linguine with white clams. I can’t really call it a sauce, because it’s correctly more of a light broth, but it is loaded with whole clams and garlic and is a definite must-try!

Even though I didn’t remember the name of their long-time, open-24-hoursa-day original Fratelli’s in the Hunts Point Market in The Bronx, NY, I am so happy that the Fratelli brothers decided to sell that location and bring their tasty NY-style pizza and pastas to Wesley Chapel. I was even happier when I first sampled the truly authentic penne with broccoli rabe, chicken and sausage shown above. You won’t find a better broccoli rabe in the Tampa Bay area and the baked pastas and hot subs also rock!

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23

RICE-N-BEANS

YAMATO JAPANESE

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

ARROY THAI

Here come four of my favorite pizza

27405 Wesley Chapel Blvd.

(813) 803-7974

Although I never really thought of Puerto Rican food as one of my favorite Latin cuisines until I tried the original location of Rice-n-Beans on S.R. 54 in Lutz, the spacious and beautiful new location (in the former location of Cody’s Roadhouse) has kept me a fan of Wesley Chapel’s Rice-nBeans, especially the amazing fried chicken chicharrons shown above. I’m also a fan of the roast pork mofongo, the grilled pork chops and chicken breast in garlic sauce.

And yes, the rice and (I prefer the red) beans served with every meal are also delicious and authentic. Great drink prices, too.

36

28347 Paseo Dr. Shops at Wiregrass (813) 907-8701

26409 Silver Maple Pkwy.

(813) 907-8188

I can live without the line dancing, but the food and service at Texas Roadhouse Wesley Chapel, Yamato has a tremendous va- are both very good and I like picking out riety of hibachi-grilled proteins (photo) and my own steak from the steakhouse’s display the quality of the NY strip and filet mignon, window before I order my meal. I prefer as well as the chicken and even tuna teppan- the NY strip over the filet or ribeye at Texas yaki dishes (and veggies) is good, although Roadhouse, but all of them are tasty and not maybe not quite at the same level as Kobe in as heavily seasoned (or quite as expensive) New Tampa. Even so, the sushi also is fresh as at Longhorn or Outback. And, although and Yamato even has a full, premium-liquor I usually prefer bread with a crisp crust, the bar, as well as its popular sushi bar and tephoney butter Roadhouse rolls are kind of addictive. Jannah and I always sit at the bar to panyaki tables. Jannah and I enjoy the food more than the show at Japanese steakhouses. avoid the sometimes-long wait for a table.

Still the only Japanese steakhouse in

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 6 • March 13, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Neighborhood News

27427 Wesley Chapel Blvd.

Pinebrook at The Grove (813) 501-4924

Not only is the fast-and-casual Arroy Thai still the only Thai restaurant in Wesley Chapel, it’s also one of the better ones in our area. I enjoy the lunch specials, which include steamed jasmine rice, fried wontons and a salad with peanut dressing for only $8.95-$13.95, depending upon the protein you choose — which for me is usually chicken or pork with garlic and black pepper sauce, although I do also love the spicy basil and fresh ginger sauces, too. I also love the crispy duck dinner entrées, although I’m not big on curry sauces or noodle dishes. @NTWCNews

GARY’S NEXT 25 FAVES

24

25

IRISH 31

LOS VALLARTAS

28358 Paseo Dr. Shops at Wiregrass (813) 907-2306

All of these restaurants are very good, just not good enough (in my opinion) to make my Top-25 in Wesley Chapel. I’m even admitting to liking three “fast food” places.-GN Hibachi Express Best NY Pizza BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Hot Wok 88 Bonsai Sushi Jersey Mike’s Subs Bosco’s Italian-to-Go Mellow Mushroom Brunchie’s NY NY Pizza Burger Monger O’Brien’s Irish Pub 365 Caffé Italiano OTB Café Cantina Laredo PizzaMania Chuy’s Pomodoro Pizza Culver’s Red Robin First Watch Umu Japanese & Thai Five Guys Burgers & Fries Wolf’s Den FJ Express

5335 Village Market (813) 907-5161

Mexican food primarily means steak and/or chicken fajitas to me and I prefer much of the menu is fried, so I have limited Los Vallartas’ always-sizzling and cookedoptions to choose from. My favorite appeto-perfection fajitas (above) to the more tizer are the crisp-and-light zucchini sticks. I expensive Cantina Laredo and the better bar also like the popular boxty (fried potato balls atmosphere of Chuy’s. Vallartas’ onions and stuffed with everything from Shepherd’s pie peppers always com out well-cooked and I to Velveeta, bacon and chives). My favorite like the restaurant’s addition of tomatoes to entrées are the fish & chips (photo) and its fajitas. I also really enjoy the huge menu, the hearty and tasty Mulligan stew. Even especially the grilled ribeye steak Mexicana, the salads are fresh and delicious, with the topped with grilled onions, tomatoes and 31 chopped salad being my favorite and of jalapeños. And all of the entrées come with course, the atmosphere is great, too. rice and delicious refried beans.

Although I enjoy the food at Irish 31,

(in alphabetical order)

Still smoker friendly!

• Full Liquor Bar! • Watch all the games here!

• Karaoke & Entertainment

(813) 973-8336 27429 County Rd 54 Wesley Chapel, FL 33544

FREE APPETIZER

Monday-Thursday Valid Monday-Thursday ONLY, w/purchase of an entrée & this NN ad.

Expires 3/31/2020.

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

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37

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

Five Guys Opens On S.R. 56!

Congratulations go out to franchisee Scott Strahm (photo) and his happy crew at the new Five Guys Burgers & Fries, which opened just before we went to press with this issue in the same building as Raining Berries in the Cypress Creek Town Center North area at 25599 Sierra Center Blvd., Lutz, on the north side of S.R. 56.

Five Guys, which made my top-50 favorite restaurants in Wesley Chapel this year (see page 37), offers the perfect combination of better-than-fastfood burgers and fries at lower than restaurant prices and was named the “Burger Restaurant Brand of the Year” for 2017 and 2018 by the Harris Poll EquiTrend Study. For more information, stop in or call (813) 949-8088 or order online at FiveGuys.com. — GN

More Italian, Honest!

Oronzo Honest Italian is expected to open in late-April in the old Men’s Wearhouse store (above) in the Walk at Highwoods Preserve on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in New Tampa.

Dan Bavaro, who founded Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria in down-

town Tampa in 2009, is teaming up with the Front Burner Brands restaurant group on this fast-casual Italian concept.

“Oronzo is named after my grandfather, Oronzo Bavaro, who migrated from Giovinazzo, Italy, to Gravesend, Brooklyn, NY, in the early 1900s,” said Bavaro in a press release. “My grandfather established Oronzo & Sons General Trucking Company, which made deliveries to area grocery stores and restaurants.”

Front Burner Brands owns The Melting Pot and Burger 21 franchises. Its CEO Bob Johnston said in the release that when

he first met Bavaro, “We knew there was something special about him.”

The menu at Oronzo’s will focus on from-scratch recipes, many featuring Piadana, a thin Italian flatbread whose dough is made by mixing imported Italian flour, water and lard or olive oil and then grilled and sandwiched around different fillings. The menu will also have chicken, steak, hand-rolled meatballs, Forza bowls and homemade pasta, as well as vegan options like zucchini noodles. — JCC

Lima Opens In El Pescador’s Place!

Quick, which cuisine is widely regarded as the finest of Latin America? No, it’s not Mexican, Cuban, Puerto Rican or Colombian.

If you want to find out the answer, head to the new Lima Restaurant, which is located in the former El Pescador location in the Publix-anchored New Tampa Center plaza, near the Mobil gas station.

Lima, owned by Oscar Escudero and his family, is named, of course, for the capital of

Peru and yes, Peruvian food is world-famous for unique flavors like the best rotisserie chicken (photo on next page) and the most incredible fish and seafood ceviche.

At Lima, which opened two weeks before we went to press, both dishes live up to their lofty reputations. The chicken has a crispy coating and even though the meat is extremely well done, it’s still juicy inside, and is served with two different, moderately spicy dipping sauces. Since I can’t eat the seafood ceviche, I got the mahi-mahi ceviche marinated in a trio of different sauces, with those incredible giant Aztec corn kernels (think corn nuts, only better). If you order either of these dishes and hate them, tell Oscar to call me and I’ll come take ‘em off your hands!

For more info, stop in or call Lima

Only at the Lutz location.

Cannot be combined with any other coupons or offers.

30122 S.R. 54, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Hours: Monday - Thur, 11AM–10PM Friday & Sat, 11AM–11PM

We are Bosco's Italian to Go, where we serve hand-tossed New York-style pizza & fresh Italian food with a friendly smile! We use locally sourced produce & our cheese is hand-grated daily!

Vegan, Vegetarian, & Gluten Free Options Taco Bus proudly delivers a healthy, fresh authentic Mexican taste experience to our Florida fans. Just one bite of a burrito, tostada or quesadilla and your taste buds will be singing traditional Mexican folk songs.

With coupon only. Exp. 3/31/2020

Pizza

Pasta

Salads

Wings

www.BoscosItalianFL.com | 813-907-2440 38

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 6 • March 13, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

25195 State Rd 54, Lutz, FL 33559 • 813-949-4012 (Inside the Shell gas station)

www.Taco-Bus.com

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

(19062 BBD) at (813) 304-0205.

Sean Bartell Foundation Pasta Dinner!

I hope you’ll check out the 6th Annual Sean Bartell Memorial Foundation Pasta Dinner, which will be held on Saturday, April 4, 5 p.m.-8 p.m., at the Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel (33425 S.R. 54).

Sean who passed away unexpectedly from a rare skin disease as he was getting ready to

attend the prestigious Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, was the older of Paul and Jamie Bartell’s two sons. The family and some of Sean’s friends started the Foundation to help graduating seniors further their education with $1,000 scholarhips. Over the five previous years, the Foundation has donated $37,000 to deserving graduating seniors.

This year’s pasta dinner will again have food (American chop suey) provided by Little Italy’s Family Restaurant & Catering.

The event is sponsored by Platinum Homes Realty-Yza Perez.

Donations can be made at the door the day of the event or at SeanBartell.org.

Or, search “Sean Bartell Memorial Foundation” on Facebook. The cost to attend is $15 for adults, $8 for kids ages 5-12 and kids under age 5 will be admitted for free. To go boxes will be available! — GN

Wesley Chapel/Lutz is NOW OPEN 25599 Sierra Center Blvd., Lutz, FL 33559 (813) 949-8088 | Order Online at FiveGuys.com

Burger Restaurant Brand of the Year Harris Poll EquiTrend Study 2017 & 2018

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

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39

New Tampa & Wesley Chapel HOME IMPROVEMENT

WESLEYCHAPELPRESSUREWASHING.COM Soft pressure exterior house cleaning, screen enclosures, pool decks, driveways, sidewalks, fences, roofs, paver sealing and deck staining. We clean everything. No job too big or small. Experience the difference when you hire a pressure cleaning professional.

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DRY WALL SPECIALIST. Not a handyman. Affordable Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings and walls, retexturing, popcorn removal, room additions, cracks, holes, plaster and stucco repair. 26 Years Experience. Wesley Chapel resident. State Certified.

Call Ron for free estimate: 813-784-5999.

TJ’S PRESSURE WASHING LLC. Did your HOA send you a letter ordering you to clean your driveway, house, screened enclosure, fence or even your roof? However, you’re too busy or too tired to clean it. Call or Text TJ, a current 20-year Sheriff’s Department veteran and a professional exterior home cleaning expert. You can trust me with your investment. Call or Text: 727-808-7775.

AMBLER ENTERPRISES Home Improvement. Call James at 813-385-6402. 30 Years Experience. Specialist in Kitchens & Bathrooms. Referrals upon request. All interior work: Drywall, Texture Paining, Doors, etc. Use us once & you won’t need to look elsewhere.

Please Google us if you would like to see pictures: Wesley Chapel Ambler Enterprises.

RAYMOND PAINTING. Exterior & Interior Services. Exterior: Painting, pressure washing, clean & seal pavers, stucco, roofing, leaks & wood rot repair. Interior: Painting, plastering, ceiling & wall repairs & tiles. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free estimates. Your Neighborhood Arbor Greene Resident! We work 7 days. Call 813-994-5124.

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 50% off labor for senior citizens! Licensed and Insured Master Electrician EC 13002399 - free phone estimates. Call 813-477-9068.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

CLEANING SERVICES

A-to-Z CLEANING & ORGANIZING. Office-House Cleaning Services! Free estimates. We use our own supplies. Affordable & Reliable. Family-Owned & Operated.

Wesley Chapel Resident. Weekly / Bi-Weekly / One-Time Cleaning / Move-In / Move-Out & Deep-Cleaning Services. Serving Wesley Chapel & New Tampa. Call today for a FREE No-Obligation Quote: 813-462-1270.

B CLEANING SERVICES: Over 18 years experience!

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For more info, Call 813-758-9710.

MISCELLANEOUS

CORY LAKE ISLES COMMUNITY-WIDE RUMMAGE SALE! Don’t miss this SEMI-ANNUAL EVENT on Saturday, March 28, 8am – noon.

Household goods, baby items, trinkets, treasures, plants & more! BEACH CLUB PARKING LOT (10441 Cory Lake Dr., Tampa, FL 33647.

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Schedule a PRIVATE TOUR of both Communities by a Resident Realtor. Join @LifeAtTheLagoon with @RealtorGeri Call/Text 813-609-0966. Connect with me on Instagram & Facebook.

TREE SERVICE

FITZPATRICK’s TREE SERVICE. 25-years of Professional Service. Licensed & Insured. Free Estimates. Tree Trimming & Tree Removal. Stump Grinding. Dead-Wood Removal. Affordable Rates.

24-Hour Emergency Storm Service. Free Mulch.

Call 813-495-9541 or 813-788-TREE.

COMMERCIAL SPACE AVAILABLE

1,850 sq.ft. Commercial/Medical Space Available to Lease. Address: 24420 SR 54, Lutz (in the MediWeightloss Building). For more info, call 813-293-4377 or email: gwillett@mediweightlossclinics.com.

LAWN & LANDSCAPING

_

NTLC Property Maintenance. Residential & Commerical lawn maintenance for New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Sprinkler repairs, tree trimming, mulching, landscaping & clean-ups also available.

Licensed & Insured. CALLBILL @ (813) 973-3825.

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 gutter clean-out, screen repair, 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.

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We accept Visa, MC, PayPal, Zelle, AmExp. Call or text 813-420-4465. Now hiring full-time workers.

HEAVY HITTER LAWN CARE: Veteran owned and operated lawn care maintenance service, focused on lawn mowing, trimming, edging and blowing (flexible with extra services). Well maintained and professional laborer ensuring customer satisfaction and on-time cuts. Rain or shine, the quality and schedule will be kept. Licensed and Insured. Call or text 678-673-7856 for your FREE ESTIMATE.

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 Experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank at 813-973-4507, visit WSICA.COM or email Wsica@wsica.com.

POOL SERVICES

ALLSTARPOOLSOFTAMPABAY.COM. Pool cleanups, & acid washing of old pool finishes. Marcite, quartz & pebble finishes from $3K. We offer cool decking, Eurocrete & paver decking options. Paver, river rock sealing, leak detection & in-ground vinyl liner replacements avail. We sell quality salt & ozone generators, pumps, motors & filters.

Mention this ad for a $79 pool service (restrctions apply).

Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel since 1990. Call or text 813-244-7077 or visit AllStarPoolsofTampaBay. com. Also, see our display ad below for more info.

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 @ 813-8575400 or visit TranquilityPoolService.com. New customers get ONE MONTH FREE!

NEIGHBORHOOD POOLS Wesley Chapel owned & operated since 1999. Weekly service. No long term contracts. Mention this AD for one-month Free service. Call 813-907-7322 for details or text Joe at 813-758-7608.

AQUATEC POOL SERVICE has been keeping pools clear & swim-safe since 1994. WE DO POOLS RIGHT! Commercial & Residential. CPO #33-303052 Licensed & Insured. Service guarantee. Call 813-312-5694 TODAY and get ONE MONTH OF QUALITY SERVICE FREE. www.aquatecpool.com.

FITNESS & WELL BEING

Break It Down Productions. Customized Private Yoga Sessions with Susanna Jones. Develop strength and flexibility, while learning how to breathe and relax.

I specialize in working with beginners and those requiring a more gentle approach than most group Yoga classes. I explain everything, and provide variations so that you actually feel good in the stretch instead of strained. Gift certificates available. www.breakitdownproductions.com or Call (813) 802-8393.

PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHER AVAILABLE Retired Professional Photographer (45+ years experience) in the Tampa Bay area. Corporate Events, Personal Occasions, Portraiture, Pets, Commercial Photography & Real Estate.

Reasonable rates. Specials for the Holiday Season! Families, Children, Pets, Gatherings, Parties & more! Call/Text 813-748-3901 or Visit: russellleprephotography.com.

HELP WANTED

Plastic surgery practice in Wesley Chapel/New Tampa area is seeking a motivated, friendly Medical Assistant to work full time in both front office and back office capacities.

Candidate must be professional, reliable, and familiar with computer software. Please send your resume and a cover letter with your qualifications for the position to TampaPS@gmail.com.

We Don’t Cut Corners, We Dust Them

“Residential and Commercial’’

Family Owned Business with 20Years of Experience We are your all-purpose cleaner with: • High Quality Services • Competitive Rates • Great References • Always the Same Crew

(813) 381-1430 40

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 6 • March 13, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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with Any Repair

3/31/2020

Protect your children and pets with Tampa Bay’s only organic monthly fertilization and pest control • Courteous, friendly customer service • Monthly service from $40 per month • State licensed spray technicians • Organic/natural fertilizers • On-time service • Amazing results • No contracts • Special discounts on irrigation repairs and inspections

Organic Safe Lawns COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

813.393.9665

WWW.ORGANICSAFELAWNS.COM

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 6 • March 13, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

41

CLEANING SERVICES

$3 OFF

FREE DOLE WHIP

with the purchase of a Poke Bowl*

*Must present ad at time of purchase. Limit one per customer. Valid only at this location. Dine in or take out. May not combine with any other offer. Expires 4/15/20.

ISLAND FIN POKE COMPANY-WESLEY CHAPEL 6417 E. County Line Rd., #101 | Tampa, FL 33647 | 813.575.8002 Located between LA Fitness and Winn Dixie | ISLANDFINPOKE.COM

Expires March 31, 2020

......iaila

Aberdeen Ashley Pines Avalon Park West Belle Chase Bridgewater Brookside Chapel Pines Citrus Trace 42

Direct-Mailed to 25,000+ Homes in Zip Codes 33543, 33544 & 33545

Country Walk Estancia Epperson Fox Ridge Hamilton Park Lexington Oaks Meadow Pointe New River

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 6 • March 13, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Northwood Palm Cove Pinewalk Pine Ridge Quail Hollow Saddlebrook Saddleridge Estates Saddlewood Estates Neighborhood News

Seven Oaks The Ridge Watergrass Williamsburg The Lakes at Northwood Villages ofWesley Chapel Wesley Pointe Westbrook Estates @NTWCNews

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 6 • March 13, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 28, Issue 6 • March 13, 2020 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews