New Tampa Issue 19-11 by Neighborhood News

Volume 19 Issue 19

Inside: An Exclusive Interview With Skateboarding Legend Tony Hawk!

September 10, 2011

See page 48!

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

New Tampa Woman, 23, Killed By Neighbor’s Exhaust Fumes By Sean Bowes At our press time, charges had not been filed against Andrew Grywalski, 22, a New Tampa man who, police say, forgot to turn off the ignition in his car, which left one of his neighbors dead from what the Tampa Police Department (TPD) says was most likely a “terrible accident.” Family members and co-workers at Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) are grieving over the death of Rebecca Hawk, 23, an “always smiling” child protection investigator for HCSO who died from carbon monoxide poisoning when Grywalski left his car running overnight in the garage of his Vista Grande apartment in Tampa Palms.

According to TPD report, Grywalski pulled his gunmetal 2011 Mazda 3 hatchback into the garage around 8:30 p.m. on September 1 and failed to bring the key inside with him. With the garage door closed over night, the colorless and odorless carbon monoxide gas from the Mazda’s exhaust filled the garage and crept into Hawk’s apartment overnight at 5207 Cypress Palms Ln., which shared a wall with Grywalski’s garage. It was just after 9 a.m., more than 12 hours after the Mazda pulled into the garage, when a Vista Grande maintenance worker smelled the Mazda’s noxious exhaust fumes. The worker immediately notified Tampa Fire Rescue (TFR), and started knocking on

neighbors’ doors to evacuate tenants before firefighters had arrived. Authorities and Vista Grande management had not released the worker’s name at our press time. When TFR showed up, it was already too late for Hawk. According to TPD spokesperson Laura McElroy, the fumes also affected Hawk’s roommate, Kashaunda Joyner, 20, who also was inside the apartment, but her condition was reported as “stable” at University Community Hospital at our press time. A 62-year-old woman who lived upstairs from the roommates also was transported to the hospital because she felt light-headed, but she was later released. According to HCSO spokesperson

Larry McKinnon, the Sheriff’s Office is “mourning one of their own,” McKinnon sais. “Rebecca has been employed with HCSO for the past ten weeks and had just completed her class training. She was always smiling, she had a promising career and was just a lovely woman.”

Rebecca Hawk, 23, a child protective investigator for thge Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, was found dead of carbon monoxide poisoning.

GrillSmith Restaurants Donate Profits For Slain New Tampa Siblings

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE!

The Dougherty Gang’s Wild Ride, A Tony Hawk Catches ‘Big Air’ in Tampa, We Crazy Week For Freedom High, A Visit to Check Out Sushi Tsu, P.J. Dolan’s Irish Pub Taylor Morrison Homes in Tampa Palms & Stacy’s Gluten-Free Bakery & More! & Much More!

See pages 3-38!

See pages 41-52!

Calyx, 16, was to start her junior year in the International Baccalaureate program at King High, where she ran cross-country, and Beau, 13, would have been an incoming freshman at Freedom High (last year, he was an 8th grader at Liberty Middle School). See “Schenecker” on page 36.

ECRWSS

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS, SPORTS & EDUCATION

Col. Parker Schenecker (left) sits with friends during the fund raiser’s kick-off at GrillSmith.

Postal Customer

Also Inside This Issue!

bisque soup and 938 orders of the spicy Thai shrimp appetizer were sold. According to Schenecker, who worked with U.S. Central Command in Tampa, GrillSmith was the siblings’ favorite restaurant. Parker Schenecker says he has dedicated his life to the Calyx and Beau Schenecker Memorial Fund, which he started last February to spotlight promising Tampa Bay teenagers with leadership, athletic and performing arts opportunities. “We were certainly humbled when Mr. Schenecker approached us to help honor Calyx and Beau’s memory and shared with us that they were such huge fans of GrillSmith,” said GrillSmith spokesperson Alisha dos Santos. “By celebrating their lives during this Back to School Week event at all GrillSmith locations, we hope to raise awareness about this memorial fund as well as shine a light on two amazing kids who were taken too soon. It is our privilege to be able to help in whatever way we can.”

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 2801

Thanks to the combined efforts of Col. Parker Schenecker and the six GrillSmith restaurant locations in the Tampa Bay area, a foundation named in honor of Schenecker’s children now has $10,500 in its coffers. The one-week event began at GrillSmith’s Wesley Chapel location at the Shops at Wiregrass, where Shenecker kicked off the event with 13 of his close family and friends. Col. Schenecker, the father of Calyx and Beau, the New Tampa siblings who were tragically killed by their

mother last January in their Tampa Palms home, recently teamed together with GrillSmith restaurants for a “Back to School Week” fundraiser that will donate the money to teens in the Tampa area, in memory of the brother and sister who were taken too soon. From August 22-28, GrillSmith donated 100-percent of sales from Calyx’s favorite GrillSmith dish, the Caribbean pumpkin crab bisque soup, and Beau’s favorite appetizer, the spicy Thai shrimp, to the Calyx and Beau Schenecker Memorial Fund. During the six-day event, 885 orders (bowls and cups) of the Caribbean pumpkin crab

Dated Material Please Rush!

By Sean Bowes

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

16+ 1 6+ acres acres Equestrian Eq u e s t ri a n

IImpressive mpressive 8 8,600 ,600 ssqft qf t

Sanctuary on Livingston

$1,674,000

Cory Lake Isles

$2,000,000 $2 000 000

Waterfront W aterfront M Mediterranean editerranean hhome ome ooffers ffers 6 bbedrooms, edrooms, 2 bbonus ed onus rrooms, ooms, m media edia rroom, oom, 2 ooffices, ffices 66.5 5 bbathrooms, a h ooms a 33CG CG & w// pprivate The 77,217 ,217 sf sf of of living living aarea rea w rivate ddock. ock. T he ggourmet ourmet kkitchen itchen ffeatures eatures ggranite raannite ccounters, ounters, ccenter en e island, s and 442â&#x20AC;? 2â&#x20AC;? uupper ppe ccabiab w/crown molding, nnets ets w /crown m olding, bbutlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s utlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ppantry, antry, ssub-zero ub-zero rrefrigerator, efrigerator, ggas aass rrange, ange, sstainless tainless ssteel teel aappliances ppliances & bbreakfast eak as aarea. ea Wood media Relax W ood fflooring looring iin n tthe he bbedrooms, edrooms, ooffices ffices & m edia rroom; oom; ttravertine ravertine fflooring looring tthroughout. hroughout. R e ax oon n the he ccovered ove ed lanai ana which ooverlooking verlooking tthe he cconservation onservation oorr sstroll troll ddown own tthe he bboardwalk oardwalk tto o tthe he pprivate rivate ddock ock aand nd llake ake w h ch oopens pens to o the he sski k lake. ake

$1,295,000 $1,2995,000

The Reserve at T Tampa aampa Pal Palms lms

Grand Hampton H

$500,000 $5000 000

Med e an Mediterranean anean ppool oo hhome ome in n a ggated a ed ccommunity ommun y ooffers e s 4 bbedrooms, ed ooms a bbonus onus room, oom ann ooffice, ce 4 bbathrooms, a h ooms a 3 ccar a ggarage a age & 33,725 725 ssquare qua e feet ee oof living v ng aarea. ea G Gourmet ou me kkitchen chen w w/ ggranite an e ccountertops, oun e ops 442â&#x20AC;? 2â&#x20AC;? uupper ppe ccabinets, ab ne s ggas as range ange w/ range w ange hhood, ood a tiled ed bbacksplash accksp ash & sseparate epa a e bbreakfast eak as as aarea ea ooverlooking ve ook ng the he ppool. oo O Other he features ea u es include nc ude ccrown own molding, m o d ng aart nniches, ches w wood ood flooring, oo ng pplantation ann a on sshutters, hu e s bbonus onus room oom w w/ ppool oo ac access, ccess aand nd a sspacious pacc ous ooffice ce w w/ French F ench ddoors. oo s Enjoy En oy the he sscreened c eened lanai ana w w/ bbrick ck ppavers, ave s ssparkling pa k ng hheated ea ed ppool oo w w/ sspa pa & cconservation onse va on vviews. ews

LD O S

$850 $850,000 000

Inspiring nsp ng w waterfront a e on vviews ews an and nd ssophisticated oph s ca ed eelegance. egannce T This hsC Custom us om bbuilt u M Mediterranean ed e anean V Vernacular e nacu a bby y Fechtel Other F ech e features ea u es 4 bbedrooms, ed ooms a sstudy, udy bbonus, onus 44.5 5 bbathrooms, a h ooms a 3 ccar a ggarage a age aand nd 55,579 579 ssquare qua e feet. ee O he feaea WXUHV Ă RRULQJ ZLGH X HV LQFOXGH QF XGH DD IRUPDO R PD GGLQLQJ Q QJ URRP RRP VVHSDUDWH HSD D H JJXHVW XHV VVXLWH X H IDX[ DX[ SSDLQWLQJ DX D Q QJ WUDYHUWLQH DYYH QH Ă RR QJ Z GH EEDVHERDUGV DVVHERD GV molding, Relax with ccrown own m o d ng aand nd aan n intercom n e com ssystem. ys em R e axx ooutdoors u doo s oon n the he eexpansive xpans ve sscreened c eened lanai ana w h ssummer umme water kkitchen, chen large a ge hheated ea ed ppool, oo sspa pa aand nd sspectacular pec acu a w a e vviews! ews

Thonotosassa Thonotos sassa

Equestrian E questriann eestate state w w// ggated ated eentry ntry ooffers ffers oover ver 116.5 6.5 aacres cres ooff lland annd ssurrounded urrounded bby y sstately tately ooak ak ttrees. rees. T The he ppalatial allatial hhome ome ffeatures eatures 66,297 ,297 ssff w w// 6 bbedrooms, edrooms, 44.5 .5 bbathrooms, athrooms, a bbonus onus rroom, oom, lloft oft & sstunning tunning w wood ood cceilings. eilings. T The he ggourmet ourmet kkitchen itchen iincludes ncludes ccommercial ommerciall ggrade rade sstainless tai ainless ssteel teel V Viking iking ap appliances, ppliances, a 6 bburner urner ggas as rrange, ange, ttile ile bbacksplash, acksplassh, ggranite ranite ccounter ounter ttops, ops, ccopper opper ssink, ink, ccenter enter iisland, slannd, ccavernous avernous w walk-in alk-in ppantry anntry & sseparate eparate bbreakfast reakfast aarea. rea. T The he eestate state iincludes ncludes a w// ttack and w// vviewing 4 car car ggarage, arage, sseparate eparrate rrental entall aapartment, partment, 9 sstall tall sstables tables w ac ack ck rroom oom & ffeed eed rroom oom an nd a sshow how rring ing w iewing aarea. rea.

Picture P ic ture P Perfect er fec t

7,217 sqf sqftt of B Beauty eauty

Live L ive iin n ccomfort omfort & lluxury. uxury. IImpressive mpressive ppool ool hhome ome iin n ggated ated ccommunity ommunity ffeaturing eaturing 8 bbedrooms edrooms ((incl. incl. 2 m master aster ssuites), uites), 8 bbathrooms, athrooms, ann ooffice, ffice, a ttheater heater rroom, oom, bbonus onus rroom, oom, m mother other iin n llaw aw w aapt., pt., ttwo wo ccar ar & tthree hree ccar ar ggarage, arage, & 88,660 ,660 ssff of of living living ar area rea ssituated ituated oon n aalmost lmost 2 aacres. cres. C Custom ustom ffeatures eatures iinclude nclude 220x20 0x20 ttravertine ravertine fflooring, looring, B Brazillian razilliann wood w ood flooring, flooring, fformal ormal ddining ining rroom, oom, ooffice ffice w w// bbuilt-in uilt-in sshelves, helves, w wide ide bbaseboards, aseboards, ssoaring oarring cceilings, eilings, 2 bbalconies, allconies, uuppwet with Espresso maker. Truly sstairs tairs & ddownstairs ownstairs oownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rretreats, etreats, aand nd a w et bbar ar w ith ann iin-wall n-waalll aautomatic utomatic E spresso m aker. T ruly oone ne ooff a kkind! ind!

Sanctuary Sanctuar ry on Livingston

$1,070,000 $1 0770 000

$ WUXH $ XH GGHFRUDWRU HFR D R GGHOLJKW H JK P PLQL Q HHVWDWH V D H KKRPH RPH RRIIHULQJ H QJ EEHGURRPV HG RRPV RRIĂ&#x20AC;FH Ă&#x20AC;FH P PHGLD ERQXV HG D ERQXV KKDOI D EEDWKV D KV VVSDUNLQJ SD N QJ ppool, oo relaxing e ax ng sspa, pa ppeaceful eacce u ppond, ond sspacious pacc ous 44-Car Ca ggarage, a age 2 bbalconies, a con es tilee roof oo & sso om much uch m more. oe D Designer es gne FFXVWRP XV RP XXSJUDGHV SJ DGHV LQFOXGHV QF XGHV JJRUJHRXV R JHRXV SSROLVKHG R VKHG WUDYHUWLQH DYH QH Ă Ă RRUV RR V HHODERUDWH DEER D H Z ZURXJKW RXJK LURQ RQ VVWDLUFDVH D FDVVH JJUDFHV DFHV DF the he two wo sstory o y oopen pen living v ng room, oom impressive mp ess ve C Crown own m moldings, o d ngs ccustom us om bbuilt-ins u ns in n aall cclosets, ose s ccustom-built us om bu FFDELQHWU\ DEE QH \ LQ Q WKH KH RRIĂ&#x20AC;FH Ă&#x20AC;FH VVSHFWDFXODU SHF DFX D P PHGLD ERQXV HG D ERQXV URRP RRP $ $ UDUH D H Ă&#x20AC; Ă&#x20AC;QG QG

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 19, Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ September 10, 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

A Dip Into The Mailbag & Our Dining Survey & Contest Dear Mr. Nager: Regarding your editorial about Will Weatherford in your August 27, 2011, edition, I wanted to point out a small error. While I think that Will Weatherford is a great leader and will be good for Pasco County and the State of Florida, he will not be the youngest Speaker ever in Florida. That position was held by Doyle Connor, in 1958, at the age of 28. While Connor was Commissioner of Agriculture, my father, who was at the time the County Agricultural Agent for Lake County, had many dealings with him and I met the commissioner on several occasions. He was also a fraternity brother of my brother-in-law at the University of Florida in the 1950s. I enjoy your Neighborhood News. Sincerely, Daniel M. Norris Wesley Chapel

I received a few comments regarding my editorial about Dist. 61 State Rep. Will Weatherford (R-Wesley Chapel), which appeared not only in our Aug. 27 Wesley Chapel issue, but also in our Aug. 13 New Tampa issue. Mr. Norris’ letter was the only one which pointed out that Weatherford will only be the youngest Republican Speaker of the House in Florida’s history, not the youngest state Speaker ever. Most of the other comments I received were regarding the, well, ebullient tone of the editorial and the fact that I said that as the head of the State

New Tampa Neighborhood News 15345 Amberly Dr., Tampa, FL 33647 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Fax: 910-2483 Adv. E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: NTNNEdit@yahoo.com

Publisher & Editor Gary Nager Senior News Reporter Sean Bowes Correspondents Camille Gillies • Alicia Pack • Sheryl Young

Art Director Billing Manager Tony Sica Ashley Knoblach Advertising Customer Service Manager Nikki Bennett

Advertising Account Executive David Zacharia Nothing that appears in New Tampa Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by New Tampa Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 19, Issue 21, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, September 26, 2011. New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. New Tampa Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. New Tampa Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, not for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. © 2011 JM2 Communications, Inc.

An editorial by Gary Nager House redistricting committee, Will and his committee could use redistricting to help his party in certain voting districts, despite the fact Florida voters passed Amendments 5 & 6 to the Florida Constitution in 2010. Amendment 5 stated that “Legislative districts or districting plans may not be drawn to favor or disfavor an incumbent or political party,” but more political folks than me (including a group called “Fair Districts Florida”) have said that the amendments only diminish the party in charge’s power over redistricting. It doesn’t take that power away entirely. I have written many political editorials over the years, but they’re usually associated with an upcoming election because politics is neither my specialty nor in any way my passion. My intent with the editorial was to try to convey the really good feeling I had that day listening to Will speak, despite the fact I’m a registered Republican who endorsed President Obama in last year’s Presidential election. And, I believe that what I felt about Will pervaded the room at Saddlebrook Resort on August 2, and many I spoke with afterwards — Republicans and Democrats alike — seemed to agree. I promise, however, that as we approach the 2012 elections, I will spend some time with the future Speaker and outline more clearly for you what he believes his accomplishments have been in office and what his plans

are to help our state and local economies going forward.

Our 2012 Reader Dining Survey & Contest!

Please note that this is the first issue of 2011 inviting you to take part in our annual Reader Dining Survey & Contest. Not only is the contest a way for you to win some great prizes, it also lets local restaurant owners know how Neighborhood News readers feel about them, their food and their service, especially in these tough economic times. Check out your first chance to enter this year’s contest on pg. 47.

Corrections From Last Issue In our last issue, we wrongly listed Harold H. Clark Elementary as a “B” school for the 2010-11 school year, when in fact, Clark Elementary received an “A” grade from the State Dept. of Education. Also, in the article about Colonial Grand at Hampton Preserve apartments, we wrongly stated that both 2- and 3-bedroom apartments have garages when only the 2-bedroom units actually have garages. Also, in our story about Orangetheory Fitness, we gave an incorrect maximum number of students in each class. The new group personal training facility allows a maximum of 24 students per class, not 12. We apologize for the errors.—GN & SB

Table of Contents

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SPORTS UPDATES....................Pages 1-38 Police Thwart Jared Cano’s Bomb Plans....................6 Freedom Teacher Accused Of Sex With Student ........8 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel News Briefs..............10-11 Dump Truck Flips Over On Amberly Dr. Tampa Man Busted With Counterfeit Bills New Exit Ramps Open On I-75 & I-275 The Dougherty Gang’s Wild Ride................................12-13 New Tampa Community Calendar..................18-19

Local Business Updates................16-17, 20-35 New Tampa Chamber Newsletter.......................16 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Business Briefs.......17 Party Scene Is Your Halloween Headquarters Sim City Golf Now Open In Wiregrass Mall Sweet Darling Quilts Opens On S.R. 54 Eyeglass Factory Celebrates Ribbon Cutting Salon Athena Celebrates New Ownership................20 Taylor Morrison Homes In Tampa Palms.................24 Insurance & Trust ...................................................28 Topash Painting.......................................................30 Green Rangers & FL Waterworks............................34

Local Education & Updates.....................37-38 Cub Scouts Visit The Neighborhood News Free SAT Prep Courses For Local Students Frog-Loving Girl Wins Int’l Eco Award

Neighborhood Magazine Uncle Bo’s Smokin’ BBQ..........................................41 Sushi Tsu.................................................................42 PJ Dolan’s................................................................44 Stacy’s Gluten-Free Baked Goods............................45 ‘Neighborhood Nibbles’..........................................46 Our 2011 Reader Dining Survey & Contest.......47 Tony Hawk Visits SPoT............................................48

NEW TAMPA COLOR CLASSIFIEDS..............50

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Expelled Student Facing Adult Charges For Plans To Bomb Freedom The first day of school goes smoothly at Freedom High despite teen’s bomb plans, a teacher’s arrest & unwanted media attention By Sean Bowes Expelled former Freedom High student, Jared Michael Cano, 17, who was described as a “quiet loner” by his peers, will be charged as an adult for his alleged plans to kill Freedom students and staff members on the first day of school. If convicted, the teenager could face up to 35 years in prison. Until recently, Cano was being held at a juvenile assessment center in Hillsborough County, but he is now being held without bail in Orient Rd. Jail. Reports of Cano’s plan had shaken some students and parents at Freedom, but after a hectic first day, principal John Farkas says the school is now back on track. News reporters, police officers and bomb-sniffing dogs surveying the campus at Freedom isn’t the start of a typical day at the school, especially not the first day back from summer vacation, but that is exactly what students at Freedom will remember from their first day back for the 2011-12 school year, just days after the Tampa Police Department (TPD) thwarted Cano’s planned attack on the school. On the night of August 22, hours before school buses full of students

would pull onto campus for the first time this school year, TPD K-9 Squads were checking every locker and classroom for anything out of the ordinary. But, Farkas says the school did open safely and the day went smoothly, with an increased law enforcement presence. Hillsborough County Public Schools spokesperson Linda Cobb said Freedom’s attendance was down 166 students compared to last year’s first day of school; however, she could not directly attribute the absences to the bomb scare. The fifth day enrollment was down 50 students from last year at Freedom, which has 2,033 students. “There is no way of knowing why the attendance was down,” said Cobb. “But a lot of the (Hillsborough County) schools had a low enrollment for the first day this year.” Cano already had a considerable arrest record and a manifesto on how he would kill as many as 30 Freedom students and two assistant principals. Cano, who lived with his mother, Michelle Cano, at their Cypress Run at Tampa Palms apartment, has been charged with possessing bomb-making materials, cultivating marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possessing marijuana and threatening to throw,

project, place or discharge a destructive device. Cano, 17, was arrested August 16 after an anonymous tipster called the TPD call center and let them know about his plans, which, according to TPD Chief Jane Castor, Jared Cano is being charged as an adult for planning included a minuteto blow up Freedom High. by-minute plan to kill Freedom High apartment complex with a stun gun and students and staff. Cano’s goal was to stealing CDs out of cars. surpass the number of fatalities at the “We’ve been very, very familiar massacre at Columbine High in Colwith him,” said TPD Maj. John Neworado in 1999, which killed 12 students man. and one teacher, Castor said. On Cano’s Facebook page, which Police found fuel sources, shrapnel, until recently was accessible to the pubplastic tubing, timing and fuse devices lic, were pictures of him posing with a at the Cypress Run apartment where machete, drinking bottles of Olde EngCano lived. lish 800 malt liquor and posting things Reports speculated that Cano’s like he attended class at the “University plans could have stemmed from resent- of Marijuana,” where he’s studying ment towards the administrators who “how to grow weed.” His most recent expelled him last year for inappropriate post stated, “I jut (sic) did the dumbest behavior in an off-school-grounds incithing ever!,” just hours before he was dent. Cano has previously been arrested arrested. for breaking into a friend’s home and Since being expelled in 2010, stealing a handgun, walking around his Cano has been home-schooled; his

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

mother is a math teacher at Riverview High. Police say she claims she knew nothing of the bomb building or materials that were in her son’s bedroom. Cano’s father, Alexander, who has had little contact with him since divorcing his mother, also has an arrest record, including a 2001 arrest for assault with intention to commit sexual battery and previous domestic violence offenses. Farkas said he has been happy with TPD’s response to the threat at his school, which he treats like a second home. “There’s a little bit of fear that goes along with that," said Farkas. “If there's a threat to my school, I feel like they’re attacking my family.” Friends have recently described Cano as a kid “who did not know how to vent,” or as a troubled teen. Since his arrest, a string of Facebook support pages have popped up like: “Save Jared Cano,” “Support Jared Cano” and “Free Jared Cano,” which literally have hundreds of “Likes” each. Cano is currently at the mercy of the courts. He is being represented by a public defender, and the State Attorney’s Office has charged and will try him as an adult. Neither of his parents was present at his first court hearing.

A Crazy First Week Cano’s arrest marked the first of two incidents involving Freedom High

that happened within one week of the first day of school. Just days after Tampa Police Department (TPD) found the explosive materials in Cano’s bedroom; they arrested Dwight Levasiyea Ellick (for more information on that story see page 8), a math teacher at Freedom who allegedly had sex with a 16-year-old student. “I’ve been watching the news about Cano and the teacher Dwight Ellick and I thought about switching schools,” said Felicia Ortiz-Clifton, the parent of a sophomore at Freedom. “But, I watched the school’s quick reaction, and they continued to let us know what was happening. I still feel comfortable with my daughter here. This could have happened anywhere.” Freedom High administrators sent out automated messages to students’ households to update them on each of the situations, in addition to speaking to the press. Note -Typically, the Neighborhood News chooses to not publish the names of juveniles involved in crimes. However, because 17-year-old Jared Cano’s name and mugshot previously had been published by news sources around the country — and due to the serious, adult nature of his charges, we felt inclined to use his name, as well.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Freedom High Teacher Arrested For Sex With Student By Sean Bowes The 2011-12 school year has just begun, but at Freedom High, at least one faculty member will no longer be a part of the staff. Dwight Levasiyea Ellick, a former football and track star at New Tampa’s Paul R. Wharton High and current teacher at Freedom High in Tampa Palms, is back in his New Tampa home after posting a $7,500 bond for allegedly having sex with one of his students. The 28-year-old math teacher, assistant football coach and girls track coach at Freedom was arrested August 19 for having sex with a 16-year-old female student at his apartment at 16327 Compton Palms Dr. in Tampa Palms on June 4, 2010, according to the Tampa Police Department (TPD) which investigated the encounter after rumors about Ellick and the 16-yearold started to circulate around the school. The rumors eventually reached the ears of school officials, who then contacted TPD. Ellick has been charged with unlawful sexual activity with a minor. “Once we found out, we pulled him out of the classroom, and out of the school – never to return,” said Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) spokesman Steve Hagerty during a recent interview with “ABC Action News.” The 5’10’’, 185-lb. Ellick was a star cornerback, running back and receiver for the Wharton football team in 2000. He also won the Florida Class 4A State titles in the 100m and 200m sprints for the school’s track team his senior year. On the football field, Ellick had 1,135 receiving yards, 2,034 rushing

yards and 38 total touchdowns in his career at Wharton, before taking off to the University of Notre Dame, where he excelled on special teams all four years for the Fighting Irish. Freedom High Ellick partici- teacher & coach pated in the Tampa Dwight Ellick. Bay Buccaneers training camp in 2006, the year after his college football career ended. He reportedly was one of the Bucs’ final cuts before the regular season started. According to TPD spokeswoman Andrea Davis, Ellick and the 16-yearold female student had consensual sex just that one time. This arrest was the second major incident at Freedom High just days before the first day of school. Less than a week before Ellick’s arrest, TPD thwarted an alleged bomb attack on the school by an expelled former student (see page 6).

Teena Hughes, M.D., P.A. Pediatrics Board Certified

Solo Practice! Practicing 17 years in Tampa Graduate of UF & USF Residency All Children’s Hospital

• Same Day Appointments We’ve moved to a larger office just next door!

4444 E. Fletcher Ave., Suite C

813-903-0060

Most Medical Insurance Plans Accepted!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

N EW T AMPA Alleged Counterfeiter Caught Some people have trouble keeping their hobbies down to just one or two things. Derek Jamaal Shaw, 19, a Tampa resident, recently told the Tampa Police Department (TPD) that he is a student at Shear Excellence barber shop. On Twitter, however, he is an aspiring rap artist, and in August, TPD says, he tried his hand at counterfeiting currency and possessing stolen goods taken during a recent burglary in New Tampa. In early August, TPD received complaints that Shaw was printing and selling money out of his duplex apartment at 1426 E 108th Ave. in Tampa, a half-mile north of University Mall. For the next three weeks TPD, with the assistance of the U.S. Secret Service, conducted an investigation in which Shaw sold counterfeit bills to an undercover agent several times. With the investigation under way, agents gathered enough evidence for probable cause and a warrant was issued for the search of Shaw’s home on August 22. He had previously written on his Twitter account that he was holding a “big pocket full of yes-

News Briefs terday’s money.” “Members of TPD’s Tactical Response Team (TRT) executed the search warrant because there was the possibility of firearms in Derek Jamal Shaw the home,” said flaunts his allegedly TPD spokesper- counterfeit money. son Laura McElroy. “During the search and investigation, officers seized a significant amount of counterfeit currency and equipment used to produce it.” Shaw was charged with three counts of forging bank bills, three counts of possessing more than 10 counterfeit bills and one count of possessing an instrument used for forging. TPD didn’t say how long Shaw’s operation lasted or how many bills he had produced, but the Secret Service determined that the bills passed throughout Hillsborough County several times. TPD says the bills ranged from $1 bills to $100 bills. According to McElroy, a 1995

GMC Jimmy SUV was seized during the search, in addition to several laptops, including one that was stolen from a burglary at 10617 Lucaya Dr. in Heritage Isles on August 14, where jewelry and other electronics also were stolen. At our press time, Shaw had not been charged with the burglary although additional charges are pending as TPD is Crews return an overturned dump truck on continuing its investigation. Amberly Dr. to its upright position. Shaw was released from Orient he was driving normally when a car in Rd. Jail on August, 25, where he front of him hit the brakes for the yelposted bond for his $14,000 bail. low light and he was forced to make the spit-second decision of either hitDump Truck Flips Over On ting the car in front of him or trying Amberly Dr. At BBD to make the turn onto Amberly Dr. to Things are a bit quieter today at “run it out.” the intersection of Amberly Dr. and “The car had passed me earlier Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (BBD) than and I knew there was a woman drivthey were the morning of August 12. ing and a child in the car,” said At that intersection, a 16,000-pound Dixon, who was delivering the load of dump truck filled with 22 tons of dirt careened off BBD, flipping over on its dirt for World Haulers, a trucking company out of Tampa. “It was either side while skidding onto Amberly Dr. [I had to] go off the road myself or while the driver fought to avoid colpush into that car and through the liding with a car that had stopped intersection.” quickly in front of him when a traffic Unfortunately, the weight of the signal turned yellow at BBD. load in the truck was too much for The dump truck driver, Dexter the right-hand turn, and Dixon Dixon, a Florida native who has been smacked the side of a small median, driving trucks for nearly 15 years, says

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

while braking, which sent the truck sliding on its side towards a group of cars waiting to turn left onto BBD from Amberly Dr. According to Tampa Police Department (TPD) officers, one woman waiting at the traffic light saw the truck coming at her, and sped forward to avoid a collision. The dump truck eventually stopped after colliding with the median in the middle of Amberly Dr. with such force that it sent its load of dirt onto at least three cars waiting at the light. “It is definitely one of the more unusual accidents I’ve ever seen,” said Tampa Police Corp. Wayne Hutches, “A lot of people are very lucky to be alive today. Very lucky.” The three cars waiting at the light on Amberly Dr. were all damaged by the contents of the dump truck; however, Corp. Hutches says that none of the cars were “totaled” from the crash. The same could not likely be said for the dump truck, which looked mangled following the accident. Lanes were closed on Amberly Dr. from the time of the crash, around 8:25 a.m., until 12:30 p.m. Both TPD and the Tampa Fire Department (TFD) were dispatched to the crash. It was also reported that a small fire started while the dump truck was

being pulled out of the median. TFD quickly put out those flames. Dixon, who sustained only minor injuries, was wearing his seatbelt. He said he jumped out of the cab to make sure no one was injured immediately after the crash. According to Corp. Wayne Hutches, Dixon was cited with “following too closely,” a moving violation that carries a $155 fine. The woman who stopped in front of Dixon was not ticketed and no one in her vehicle was injured. “I’m just glad no one was hurt,” said Dixon, as he wiped a bit of blood off his eyebrow.

‘Bye Bye Old Ramp’ & Hello To The New S.R. 56 Ramps By now, you probably realize that we have waved “so long” to the old northbound exit ramp for S.R. 56 and have welcomed two new and improved ramps to Exit 275 from I-75. The new improvements definitely seem to be easing traffic congestion for vehicles entering I-75 from the I-275 interchange, and also allow drivers from both interstate highways swift access to S.R. 56, especially during peak travel hours. The new exit ramps are the latest edition of the ongoing interstate widening project in our area, according to Florida Department of Transportation

The new exit ramp for S.R. 56 from I-75 northbound is 2 miles south of the old exit. (FDOT) spokesman John McShaffrey, and the project is coming along as scheduled. SEMA Construction, Inc., started the $31.4-million project on October 17, 2009. “This is going to make things much easier for anyone trying to get on S.R. 56,” McShaffrey says. “Unless they miss the ramp the first time, and have to turn around, but after they get used to it, people will appreciate how much better this is (than the previous ramp).” FDOT has erected three different signs to notify drivers on both I-75 and I-275 about the entrance to the new ramps, and to make sure no one tries to access the old ramp to S.R. 56 – which has been blocked off with road barriers and will no longer be accessible. Vehicles that do enter the new exit ramps from I-75 and I-275 will meet at a two-lane, 2.3-mile-long stretch of

highway that runs parallel with I-75 until it merges right onto S.R. 56. The important thing to note about the exit ramp off I-75 is that it is now located nearly two miles closer to the Bruce B. Downs Blvd. exit off I-75 than the old one and is now south of where the County Line Rd. “apex” crosses the two interstates. As of now, both lanes are open and have had a positive reception from the community. McShaffrey says that FDOT has made efforts to keep lane closures to a minimum on the new exit ramps, as further construction around the new lanes is still planned, although he says they are likely to take place during early morning hours. Crews will be laying down a new top layer of pavement, and the work around the medians will take place until the construction of the exit ramps has been completed, which FDOT officials estimate will be sometime in the spring of 2012. According to McShaffrey, the roadway may seem a bit rough until the final layer of asphalt is on the ramp. For drivers who do accidentally drive past the new exit ramp from I-75, it will mean driving 4.2 miles further north until they can turn around at S.R. 54 (Exit 279) and then return to the S.R. 56 exit. McShaffrey says that if drivers do happen to miss their exit, it’s unlikely they will do it again. — SB

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

The Wild Ride Of The ‘Dougherty Gang’ Started Near Wesley Chapel By Sean Bowes Some families do everything together, it seems. Unfortunately, for the three Dougherty siblings, family activities ranged from high-speed car chases and police shootouts to a bank robbery and an eight-day, nationwide manhunt, which started on August 2, ended earlier this month. The trio, Ryan Edward Dougherty, 21; Dylan Dougherty Stanley, 26; and Lee Grace Dougherty, 29, all lived with each other in Lacoochee, a small, poverty stricken town about 30 miles north of Wesley Chapel. All of them had arrest records before their wild ride began in Pasco County on August 2. For Zephyrhills Police Department (ZPD) Officer Kevin Widener, it started as a typical Tuesday which turned into a chase that he says “trumps them all” compared with other calls he’s been on during his six years at ZPD. Ofc. Widener was looking for speeders on a stretch of S.R. 54 three miles east of Wesley Chapel that has a 35 mph speed limit, when he noticed a late-model Subaru sedan passing by at 45 mph, 10 over the limit, so he flipped on his lights. With the sirens howling, the Doughertys’ Subaru gathered speed and a chase ensued, at some points reaching speeds up to 100-mph on S.R.

54. As the vehicles came across Allen Rd., heading towards Wesley Chapel, a passenger began firing shots at Ofc. Widener’s vehicle at 7:12 a.m.. “During the attack, I was concerned about civilian safety,” said Ofc. Widener at a recent news conference. “More than 20 shots were fired (at his cruiser).” Eventually, the chase led to the CVS Pharmacy parking lot at 4910 Allen Rd., where a passenger again fired shots at Widener, this time striking his front left tire. He continued the pursuit until the tire went completely flat at Morris Bridge Rd. and S.R. 54, where he reported that the suspects were headed north. Just minutes before the shooting started, Ryan, the youngest of the trio, had cut off his ankle monitor that was court-ordered, as he was convicted just one day before the car chase for his latest crime: exchanging sexually explicit text messages with an 11-year-old girl, making him a registered sex offender. It was reported that just before the chase started, Ryan had text messaged his mother saying, “There’s a time for all of us to die.” The trio, whom authorities considered heavily armed and extremely dangerous, then spent the next few hours driving north before they committed

Zephyrhills Police Dept. Ofc. Kevin Widener (left) was the first law enforcement officer shot at by the Dougherty siblings (l. to r.) Lee Grace, Dylan and Ryan, during a recent eight-day crime spree and nationwide manhunt. their next crime, authorities say. County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO). Lee-Grace, the oldest of the trio, is After the bank robbery, authorities a stripper who worked at a club called around the nation began the manhunt Cheetah’s in Cocoa Beach. She said on for the siblings. Their mugshots were her photo webpage that she is, “28 but posted on billboards, social networking I act like I'm 17 most of the time. I sites and reports came out from hunlove to farm and shoot guys and wreck dreds of different news channels and cars. I’m a redneck and proud of it. I newspapers. Pasco Sheriff Chriss Nocco like milk and German engineering and spoke to the media trying to get out causing mayhem with my siblings.” information that would help lead to the By the time the “Dougherty capture of the Dougherty siblings. Gang” reached Georgia, it seemed they “These are not just some kids,” were ready for more “mayhem.” Nocco said in a news report. “They’re According to the FBI, three suspects street smart. They’re extremely dangermatching the trio’s descriptions, ous and they have an arsenal.” entered a bank in Valdosta, and opened After the bank robbery in Georgia, fire with an AK47 assault rifle, shooting their next crimes were two separate carat the ceiling, and stole an undisclosed jackings in Pleasant Grove, Utah. amount of cash. According to Pleasant Grove Police Ryan is believed to have purchased Detective Jordan McNaughton, the trio an AK47 two years ago at a Zephyrhills are the main suspects where carjackers pawn shop, according to the Pasco stole one car and abandoned it, and

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

unsuccessfully tried to steal another, with weapons drawn. It was reported that the getaway car for the unsuccessful car theft was a white Subaru sedan with Colorado plates. With the manhunt under way in nearly every state, the “Dougherty Gang” was spotted next in Colorado Springs, CO. The siblings were seen purchasing a tent from an REI outdoor sporting goods store, and they were spotted driving the same white Subaru sedan, which had since been reported stolen by Ryan’s girlfriend. The next morning, August 10, it was reported that their vehicle was seen at a campground at the San Isabel National Forest. Authorities were then dispatched to the surrounding area, where they eventually spotted the Subaru at a gas station off of I-25. A Colorado state trooper approached the trio, who then took off in the stolen vehicle. It would be the second time the Dougherty Gang would lead police on a 100+ mph police chase. As the trio sped along at speeds up to 120 mph, they blasted gun fire at police cruisers behind them, Pueblo County Sheriff Kirk Taylor said. As the pursuit continued, officers laid down a Teflon spike strip across the interstate, which sent the trio’s speeding Subaru into a cartwheel, with machine guns and automatic weapons flying out of the car, until it finally came to rest on

the side of a guard rail. According to the police report, Lee Grace tried to escape on foot with a Mac 11 pistol in her hand. Authorities shot her in leg after she pointed her gun at Walsenburg Police Department officers, who then arrested her, and her two brothers gave themselves up shortly after the crash. “I pointed a gun at a cop,” LeeGrace later told authorities, “I deserved to get shot.” Back at home, Ofc. Widener’s phone started ringing off the hook, as friends and coworkers wanted to let him know that the trio had been finally been caught, in Colorado of all places. “I would have loved to have been there when they arrested them,” says Ofc. Widener. “I’m just so thankful that no one was hurt. I prayed every night that (the Doughertys) would not hurt anyone.” ZPD Chief David Shears says that the trio’s shootings at Ofc. Widener are the only time he can recall shots being fired at a ZPD officer in his 20 years at the department. Chief Shears says since the Doughertys committed crimes all over the U.S., he is unsure of where they will be charged. “I want the maximum punishment, and if that's through the federal system, let it be through the federal system,” said Chief Shears.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

New Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

2010-11 NTCC Board of Directors President-Rachel Haviland

Board Members:

15310 Amberly Dr., Suite 250 Tampa, FL 33647 Information: (813) 293-2464 Fax: (813) 388-4408

Officers: VP-Said Iravani Treasurer-Lesley Zajac

Non-Officers: Regina Ramalheira Craig Miller Secretary-Connie Bladon Earl Meyer Lee Hoffman Executive Director: Karen Frashier

Website: NewTampaChamber.Org

Buy Tickets Now For The Chamber’s 1st Annual Busines Forum! The New Tampa Chamber of Commerce’s first annual New Tampa Business Forum is quickly approaching and will be held on Thursday, September 29, 3 p.m.-8 p.m. As the largest networking event in New Tampa, the forum will feature John Harding, regional CEO of Florida Hospital, who will give the keynote address on the state of health care in our burgeoning part of Hillsborough and Pasco counties. The forum also will host a “Personal Brand in Businessland 2.0” workshop presented by Bernie Borges, the CEO of Find and Convert and author of Marketing 2.0). Workshop attendees will receive a copy of Borges’ book. A Chamber member Business Expo, cocktail hour and networking event will follow the keynote address. Seating is limited! RSVP now to reserve your seat by registering online at NewTampaChamber.org. The cost for Chamber members is $35, or $45 for non-members. Non-members also can

attend the keynote only for $15. Business Expo admission is free and open to the public. Vendor booths are limited and are for Chamber members only. Presenting sponsorship opportunities are still available. Please contact the Chamber for more information and to reserve your booth or become a sponsor by calling 293-2464 or by emailing Chamber Executive Director Karen Frashier at kfrashier@ NewTampaChamber.org.

Tampa International Airport Lifting Off!

Join us on Monday, September 12, noon, when the Chamber hosts Chris Minner, Tampa International Airport (TIA) VP of Marketing, as our featured luncheon speaker in the newly refurbished banquet room at Pebble Creek Golf Club, 10550 Regents Park Dr., Tampa (off Bruce B. Downs Blvd.). TIA is adding non-stop flights and looking at pay-for-play improve-

ments in its contracts, as well as renegotiating its concession contracts. National studies show improving air service also improves economic development options. Here's your chance to ask how TIA is contributing to our economic development. Register online at NewTampaChamber.org — the cost is $20, including lunch.

Welcome To ‘Mobi World!’ The typical U.S. mobile subscriber sends and receives more SMS text messages than telephone calls, according to research released by Nielsen Mobile. Nielsen reports that 38% of US mobile phone owners have a smartphone as of May 2011, and expects smartphones to become the majority by the end of 2011. Reaching potential customers on their smartphone is a skill you're going to find useful. On Thursday, September 15, New Tampa Chamber member Chuck Ward, the owner of Florida Mobile

Fusion will show you how to market your business to mobile users. Learn: • How to create mobile websites • How to create mobile video • How to get free advertising with mobile marketing and Facebook. The workshop will be held in the Lobby Conference Room, 2 p.m.-4 p.m., at Pebble Creek Golf Club. Register online at NewTampa Chamber.org. The cost is $45.

Ribbon Cuttings

The Chamber would like to congratulate Barbara and Arno Schlappig on the Grand Opening of their second salon in New Tampa! See page 20 for details!

We Want Your Opinion!

The Chamber focuses on helping our member businesses thrive, giving residents a voice and pushing New Tampa in a clear direction for the future. Our success depends on input from our members and our community. The chamber is planning to hold a series of “Open Discussion” meetings in October 2011 to receive your constructive input and to help us understand your needs and priorities. Stay tuned for more information on dates and locations! Updates will be posted at NewTampaChamber.org.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

N EW TAMPA & W ESLEY C HAPEL

Business Briefs

By Gary Nager Whether you need a Halloween costume or supplies for your Halloween party, or you like golf, quilting or free refreshments, check out this issue’s Business Briefs below for the latest info.

Party Scene Is Your Halloween Headquarters!

Although two seasonal Halloween costume shops have opened in anticipation of this year’s “spooky season,” I suggest visiting Party Scene (19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.) in the Pebble Creek Collection for all of your Halloween costume and party needs. Of course, Party Scene owners Alex and Lisa have been providing the costumes, wigs, accessories, balloons, party supplies and everything else you need to “get your party started” for many years. See the ad below for exclusive Party Scene savings offers for Neighborhood News readers. Or, call 9946868 or visit PartySceneStore.com for more info.

Sim City Golf Now Open In Wiregrass Mall Even the most hard-core Florida golfer would have to admit that it’s a

little less fun playing 18 holes in the heat of our summer. So, whether you’re looking for a lesson from a licensed PGA professional, or want to try your hand at playing 60 of the world’s most challenging courses without leaving Wesley Chapel, wouldn’t it be nice to do so in air-conditioned comfort? Sim City Golf, which opened recently in the Shops at Wiregrass mall (near Barnie’s Coffee and Dillard’s at 29329 Paseo Dr.), is owned by PGA pros Fred Bender and Tim Polce, who promise that their GolfBlaster 3D simulators are state-of-the-art and the facility offers not only lessons, but also great golf leagues, closest-to-the-pin contests and even mini-golf for all ages. And, since Fred and Tim are licensed by their overseas partner Jan Burger to sell the GolfBlaster 3D simulators, you can even buy one for your “man cave” at home or open a Sim City franchise of your own. For more information, call 9732222, visit SimCityGolf.com.

Sweet Darling Quilts Opens On S.R. 54 If you’re a quilting enthusiast, or at least interested in finding out more about it, visit our friend Cathy Tokish at her new Sweet Darling Quilts, which

PGA pro Fred Bender takes a swing at the GolfBlaster 3D simulator at Sim City Golf, where you can play in air conditioned comfort every day at the Shops at Wiregrass mall.

is now open next to Chapel Cigars, in the Grand Oaks Square plaza on S.R. 54, just a little west of Lexington Oaks. Cathy notes, however, that hers is the closest independent quilting shop to the New Tampa area. Sweet Darling Quilts has everything from a huge selection of quilting patterns, fabrics, notions and supplies to quilting classes and so much more. Sweet Darling Quilts (26240 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Lutz) is open Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more info, call 994-2994, see the ad on p. 46 or visit SweetDarlingQuilts.com.

Eyeglass Factory’s Ribbon Cutting & Mixer! Our friend, Dr. David Scamard of

the Eyeglass Factory and Showroom on S.R. 54, less than a mile west of the intersection with S.R. 56, is proud to announce that he is hosting a Chamber ribbon-cutting and mixer on Thursday, Sept. 22, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The event will include food, refreshments and plenty of great door prizes. Dr. Scamard previously had a location in New Tampa and many of his loyal New Tampa patients travel to the new Lutz location. See the Eyeglass Factory ad on page 12 for special savings for Neighborhood News readers. Dr. David Scamard’s optical office is located at 24444 S.R. 54 in Lutz. For more info, call 949-7274 or visit Eyeglass FactoryandShowroom.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

N EW T AMPA

Community Calendar

Ladies ‘Foodie’ Club Of New Tampa/Wesley Chapel

A new club for women in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel areas who enjoy socializing, trying out new restaurants and cooking ideas, sharing recipes and other food-related activities is now forming. For more information, send an email to Eileen.jones@yahoo.com.

MOMS Club Of New Tampa The MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) club of New Tampa, which offers a variety of activities for stay-at-home mothers, is looking for new members. The club boundaries include all of the New Tampa area, except for Tampa Palms, Grand Hampton and Live Oak. For info, call 991-0406 or visit MomsClubNewTampa.webs.com.

An ‘Evening Of Elegance’

Saturday, September 10 — The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) is hosting its annual Awards Banquet at Saddlebrook Resort Tampa (5700 Saddlebrook Way, off S.R. 54). Cocktails will be served at 7 p.m., and the banquet begins at 8 p.m. The dress is Cocktail/Evening attire and the

evening will have a Frank Sinatra theme. The price is $55 per person, which includes dinner, parking and gratuity and you do not have to be a WCCC member to attend. For more info, including sponsorships, call the Chamber office at 994-8534.

Griefshare Recovery Support Group Tuesday September 13, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. This group meets every Tuesday for those grieving the death of someone close. Meet others who understand the pain of loss. The program is conducted at Lake Magdalene United Methodist Church, 2902 W. Fletcher Ave., Room 307. For more info, call 963-1254, or Email A.King4104@verizon.net.

Business Networking Int'l

Wednesday, September 14, 7:30 a.m.- (BNI), a group of business professionals dedicated to helping their respective businesses grow through qualified referrals, meets every Wednesday morning at the Heritage Isles Country Club clubhouse (18630 Plantation Bay Dr.). For more information, call Jal Irani at 451-8229.

Karaoke Contest For Little Jan’s Campaign! On Friday, September 23, 6 p.m., come sing your heart out at Pebble Creek Golf Club (PCGC) and an event you won’t want to miss. The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) has teamed together with Big Brothers Big Sisters to host a local “Karaoke Show Down.” There will be prizes for the top three competitors in the “under 18” and over “over 18” age groups. Come enjoy great food and drinks in the newly remodeled PCGC banquet room and some great entertainment. Also, you’ll get to meet Honorary Mayor of Wesley Chapel candidate “Little Jan” Roberts. The cost to compete is $10.

New Tampa Noon Rotary Wednesday, September 14, noon - The New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meets every Wednesday for lunch at Hunter's Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run Dr., inside the Hunter’s Green subdivision).

nections (CBC) Networking group. The CBC Networking group meets every Thursday at Heritage Church at 1854 Oak Grove Blvd., off S.R. 54 in Lutz, behind Organic Life Coffeehouse & Bakery. Call 300-7511 for more info.

Tampa Toastmasters

Bowl For A Cause

Wednesday, September 14, 7 p.m. - Great speeches & great topics. Come and hone your public speaking skills. Tampa Toastmasters meets every Wednesday evening at Pebble Creek Golf Club, located at 10550 Regents Park Dr., off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. New guests are always welcome. For additional information, call 428-6356.

Christian Business Connections Networking Thursday, September 15, 8 p.m. - Come together with like-minded professionals at the Christian Business Con-

Saturday, September 24, 3 p.m. 8 p.m. The Florida Medical Clinic and the Florida Medical Clinic Foundation of Caring will partner with Starting Right, Now to raise money for homelessness. Lanes may have up to 4 people bowling. Assemble a team, make a donation and/or become a lane sponsor. The Florida Medical Clinic Foundation of Caring will match whatever is raised, dollar for dollar, up to $20,000. Head to Pin Chasers at 6816 Gall Blvd. Zephyrhills make a difference while having fun.

Hunter's Green Community

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Trash & Treasure Sale Sunday, October 1, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.- Come see what treasures you can find at this year’s “Trash and Treasure” community rummage sale. To find the sale, enter Hunter's Green’s Capt. Nathaniel Hunter Park from the community’s Cross Creek Blvd. entrance. For more info, call 991-4818.

Kingshyre Community Wide Garage Sale Saturday, October 1, a.m. - 2 p.m. — Swing into the Kingshyre community in Cross Creek to pick up some great items. Keep your eyes peeled for furniture, clothing and toys and enjoy the deals.

Saturday Night Lights Saturday, October 8, 7 p.m.- 11 p.m - Come watch the football games in style. The New Tampa YMCA is hosting a tailgating fund raiser where guests will enjoy dinner, cocktails and televised entertainment and an auction that should not be missed. Tickets should be purchased in advance, the cost is $50 per person. Visit YMCASaturdayNightLights.com for more information.

Arts & Crafts Under The Palms Saturday-Sunday, October 15-

16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. — The Tampa Palms Women’s Club will host its 21st annual Arts and Crafts Under The Palms for the first time at the Market Square in Tampa Palms shopping plaza, which is anchored by BJ’s Wholesale Club, near the intersection of I-75 and Bruce B. Downs Blvd. This exciting event, which has previously been held at City Plaza at Tampa Palms, will feature artists and crafters from all over Florida displaying their original works of pottery, jewelry, flowers, wood carvings and many other unique items.

Miss New Tampa Pageant Sunday, October 23, - The 3rd Annual "Miss New Tampa Pageant" will be held at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club. Age categories range from infants to young adults. There will be a special "Pretty in Pink" competition. Profit from admission fees will be donated to support the fight against breast cancer. For more info, call 714-6513 or visit MissNewTamPageant.com

community yard sale, located at 26304 Lexington Oaks Blvd., off S.R. 54, in Wesley Chapel. Exhibitor booth spaces are available for $15. For applications and information, call Sharon at 967-5677. If your community organization or business has an upcoming event you’d like to promote in our Community Calendar, send your information and any pics to NTNNedit@yahoo.com, Attn: Community Calendar. Calendar announcements are free.

Lexington Oaks Women’s Club Seeking Vendors Saturday, October 15, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. — The Lexington Oaks Women’s Club is seeking vendors and sellers to participate in the club’s annual fundraising event, in conjunction with the

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Salon Athena Celebrates New Ownership With A Ribbon-Cutting Congratulations go out to Arno and Barbara Schlappig, the new owners of the beautiful Salon Athena, which is located on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., just south of Tampa Palms, in the Oak Ramble Plaza. The Schlappigs celebrated the June 1 purchase with a Grand Opening and New Tampa Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting at Salon Athena on August 30. Salon Athena is the second New Tampa-area salon for the Schlappigs, who also still own the popular Salon at The Walk in The Walk at Highwoods Preserve plaza, next to Best Buy. Although they own both salons jointly, Arno says that he will continue to be the primary manager of Salon at The Walk, while Barbara will now be the primary manager at Salon Athena. “With the acquisition of Salon Athena,” Barbara says, “we are confi-

dent that you will enjoy the quality of our service as well as the salon’s beautiful ambiance.” Salon Athena offers a variety of services, including (but not limited to) hair styling, color and highlights, Keratin smoothing treatments, hair extensions, sew-ins, feathers, relaxers and perms, as well as manicures, pedicures, facials and waxing services. “Our mission is to ensure that you receive the finest service in a warm, friendly atmosphere that will make you feel like a goddess,” she adds. Just as they are at Salon at The Walk, Salon Athena’s stylists are talented and highly trained, and are eager to assist you in determining your perfect style, based on your hair texture, eye color and complexion. “Just come in and see for yourself,” Barbara says. And, if you book an appointment in September at Salon Athena with Jes-

sica or DeMaley for hair services, or with Rebecca for facial treatments, you will receive 20-percent off! Just mention that you read about the salon in the Neighborhood News. Please note that this special offer is for new clients only! The Schlappigs served wonderful food from Acropolis Greek Taverna and Mr. Dunderbak’s German Biergarten & marketplace at the event. Salon Athena is located between the two Salon Athena owners Barbara (blonde hair) and Arno restaurants in the Schlappig (wearing glasses) get ready to cut the ribbon, with same Oak Ramble New Tampa Chamber president Rachel Haviland and VP Plaza. Said Iravani, at Salon Athena in the Oak Ramble Plaza, Salon Athena which is now the second New Tampa salon the Schlappigs own. (14933 BBD Blvd.) is open Monday-Saturday. For Salon at The Walk (18059 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy.), visit hair, nail, facial or waxing service SalonatTheWalk.com or call 979appointments, visit AthenaHairDe2899. — GN sign.com or call 910-2770. For

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Taylor Morrison Building Luxurious Homes In Tuscany At Tampa Palms By Alicia Pack For more than 100 years, Taylor Morrison has been building homes based on the principle that customers come first, and by helping to provide the American dream for families. In 2009, Builder magazine ranked Taylor Morrison as the no. 1 for-profit private builder and no. 13 among all U.S. builders. Also in 2009, AVID, a customer loyalty firm, awarded Taylor Morrison’s West Florida Division the honor of “Best Customer Experience.” AVID surveys taken by Taylor Morrison customers consistently find that 95 percent of customers are satisfied and 95 percent also would recommend Taylor Morrison homes to a friend or family member. These honors come from listening to the customer and by building homes based on customer input. Recent Taylor Morrison home buyer Ann Reynolds says, “I would absolutely recommend Taylor Morrison. They have really good customer service. They walk you through the entire process and they are open to concerns and questions. It’s been a great experience. The customer service is the best I have experienced, and the quality of their homes is really solid.”

Today, Taylor Morrison has more than 130 properties across the U.S., with the company’s headquarters in Phoenix, AZ. Locally, the West Florida Division runs from Tampa south to Naples and includes 25 communities. Here in our area, Taylor Morrison in Tuscany purchased 77 nature-centered home sites in Tampa Palms. All but a few of the planned home sites in Tuscany at Tampa Palms back up to water, conservation or both. Home owners get to enjoy the beauty of their backyards with the indoor/outdoor feeling that the floorplans provide. Many of the homes in Tuscany are planned for the person who really enjoys the Tampa Palms community but is looking for a beautiful, but smaller house. “Our goal was to come here and target the buyer who wanted to downsize, but wanted to stay in Tampa Palms,” says Cammie Longénecker, vice president of sales and marketing for Taylor Morrison. Most home sites in Tuscany are 40 feet wide, with homes built on those sites about 30 feet wide. All of the Taylor Morrison homes in Tuscany are specifically designed to give the feeling of an open, spacious floorplan without the very large size. The builder is offer-

ing five designed floorplans, with some of the layouts having different options for room layouts. Houses start at $189,900 for a 1,435sq.-ft. two-bedroom, two-bath homes (with den and two-car garage) and go up from there. All Tuscany at Tampa Palms homes are nestled in quiet cul-desacs and the community is the only new build site in Tampa Palms that offers gated security. You can check out the Taylor Morrison model home Taylor Morrison’s in Tuscany at Tampa Palms seven days a week. motto of “luxurious For those who need to move in homes inspired by you” can truly be realized by all of the design options that quickly, Tuscany at Tampa Palms does have showcase houses and models that new buyers can choose from in Tusare move-in ready. Benefits to buying a cany. To some, designing their own new home by Taylor Morrison versus a home from the ground up could be an foreclosure include a one year warranty, overwhelming undertaking, but Taylor the fact that new homes cost less to Morrison is always there to help. The company has a 5,000-sq.-ft. design cen- insure, peace of mind, energy efficiency and, of course, everything in the home ter in Brandon with professional decois new. rators there to assist new buyers. FeaTaylor Morrison chose to buy and tures that can be included in your new build in Tampa Palms for several reahome include many energy efficient sons, but Longénecker says the biggest options, gourmet kitchens, stunning reason is the community itself. bathrooms and more.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

“Tampa Palms is one of the premier master-planned communities in the area,” she says. “It is near the (H. Lee) Moffit Cancer Center and USF, and the location is established, and (has) a lot of stability.” One of the intrinsic values the company wanted for the Tuscany site was for owners to maintain the type of active lifestyle that the Tampa Palms area can provide. Tuscany at Tampa Palms home Luxurious kitchens with granite countertops owners can take advantage of Tayand stainless steel appliances, fine, real wood lor Morrison’s partnership with cabinets and many more upgrades are availTampa Palms Golf & Country able in your Taylor Morrison home in Tuscany. Club, where home owners can enjoy a free 30 day trial memberdonated by home builders. In Decemship. Also nearby is the New Tampa ber 2006, Sgt. Roland’s vehicle was Family YMCA, which Taylor Morrison involved in an explosion in Iraq. He sponsors. suffered multiple injuries, including the “The YMCA is within walking dis- amputation of both of his legs, as well tance, the country club is nearby (less as brain trauma. than 3 miles, without having to drive “I am proud to work for a comon Bruce B Downs (BBD) and there is pany that does what they do to benefit a lot of shopping very close by,” says the customer,” says Katy Walker, Taylor Reynolds, “It’s a real plus to live near Morrison’s marketing manager. professional businesses.” Tuscany at Tampa Palms is Each quarter, the Taylor Morrilocated at 7706 Tuscany Woods Dr. son’s Outreach program helps out in a off of Tampa Palms Blvd. The Taycharitable act. In August, the West lor Morrison model home hours of Florida Division supported Homes for operation are Monday-Saturday, 10 Our Troops to build a specially a.m.-6 p.m., and noon - 6 p.m. on designed home for retired Army Staff Sunday. For additional information, Sergeant Juan Roland and his family in visit TaylorMorrison.com or call Parrish, FL. All materials and time were 374-9141.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Tampa Real Estate Guide FloridaExecutiveRealty.com

ST JU TED LIS

Gated Wrencrest in Meadow Pointe Impeccable 2,200 sq. ft. 4/2 home, fenced and on a conservation lot ready to move in! $159,900

MU SEE ST

AIL QU REEK C

ST JU TED LIS

Hunters Green Beauty! This 2,350 sq. ft. home has 3 beds plus den, 2 bathrooms, pool & spa. Shows like new! $229,900

Brookﬁeld in Hunter’s Green Nice 3,450 sq. ft. home with 5 beds, 3.5 baths, den, loft, pool and spa. $349,900

CALLTOM BOSSO (813) 334-0007 OR EMAILTOM@FLORIDAEXECUTIVEREALTY.COM

ICE D PR DUCE RE

D EN

Live Oak Preserve - Great Price! 4 bedroom/3 bathroom grand home on cul-de-sac & pond with two bonus rooms and master suite upstairs. 3,120 sq.ft. $200,000. Short Sale approved.

Arbor Greene Townhomes - 4 Bedroom, 3.5 bathroom, 3 story townhome with conservation views, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Maintenance-free living at its best! 2 car garage and 3,040 square feet of living space. $170,000

Arbor Greene - Custom built Arthur Rutenburg 5 bedroom plus den, 3 bath home in Arbor Greene. Custom pool and spa, conservation view, gourmet kitchen and more. $409,900

Raintree Village - 2/2 ground ﬂoor, former model shows beautifully. Close to USF, hospitals, highways & shopping. $59,900

RELOCATING ACROSS TOWN -ORACROSS THE WORLD... YOUR LOCAL CONNECTION WITH A NATIONAL PRESENCE. Let me connect you to unmatched relocation services anywhere in the world. I welcome the opportunity! Jane Gowarty, RCC - Relocation Director

1-888-200-6077 • 813-972-3430

DEBBIE PEARSON (813) 340-7916

• CLOSINGS • SHORT SALES • 1031 EXCHANGES • REFINANCES

• RESIDENTIAL LOANS • REFINANCE • 100% FINANCING

5303 Technology Dr. Tampa, FL 33647 Ofﬁce 813.961.3391 Fax 813.960.8959 www.ETOTB.com PHIL CLARK

(813) 961-3391

(813) 760-0909 • (813) 340-7939

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MY LISTINGS OR CALL DINA AT (813) 404-7867

We’ve Got You Covered

Tampa Palms - This spectacularly decorated and highly upgraded Hannah-Bartoletta pool home is in the gated community of Whitehall. Call for Details!

• FHA

3325 W. Bearss Ave Tampa, FL 33618 Ofﬁce 813.961.3900 Fax 813.676.1989 www.dhmloans.com JANE FLOYD

(813) 961-3900

• VA

FLORIDA EXECUTIVE PROPERTY SERVICES NEW TAMPA • 3/2.5/2, 2286 sq. ft., $1800 • 4/3/3, 2639 sq. ft. home, $2300 • 4/3/3, 3546 sq. ft. home, $2600 • 4/4/3, 3468 sq. ft. home, $3100

RENTALS To view our rentals online please go to our website www.ferleases.com IRENE OCASIO (813) 632-9452

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

‘Insurance And Trust’ Lives Up To Its Name With Quality Service By Sheryl Young It’s an insurance agency with a simple name, “Insurance and Trust,” and owner Michael Chernoff has indeed built his Carrollwood/North Tampa-based company on trust. For more than 25 years, Chernoff has committed himself to providing the best possible service to his clients by putting together attractive and dependable insurance coverage packages, using the most highly rated insurance companies. “Our company stays between only six and seven people strong, yet with immediate and personal customer service,” Chernoff says. “When you call, you won’t get a phone message asking you to answer recorded questions or push a hundred options.” When he started Insurance and Trust 1984, Chernoff decided the only way to get customers and keep them happy was to be honest, knowledgeable, thorough and accessible. “My clients always have a way to reach me,” he says. And, it works. Most of Insurance and Trust’s business comes by way of referrals or some sort of customer connection. Chernoff says he has now

added some of his original clients’ grown children to his customer base. And, speaking of children, joining Chernoff in the business several years ago was his son Jeff. Although the Insurance & Trust office is in North Tampa on N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Jeff says, “I live in the Arbor Greene subdivision of New Tampa. I’m happy to visit clients and prospective clients in the entire New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area as well as in nearby neighborhoods. I will come to you.” The Chernoffs specialize in insurance for high-value homes and personal assets, cars, excess liability (umbrella insurance), long-term care and life insurance. “For high-net-worth homeowners, the way to insure a home and other structures on the property is not by placing the value on the price of the home, but on what it would cost to re-build it,” Michael says. “We’ll usually advise insuring these homes at 1.5 times their value. And, because we’re one of the few agencies in the area who’ve been doing this for so long, our relationship with insurance companies is such that we’re allowed to (offer) ready-made insurance cover-

age plans and add tailor-made options according to a client’s needs.” He classifies high-net worth homes as those above 4,000 square feet. However, Insurance and Trust does also have clients insuring smaller home sizes. Michael advises that, by using one agency like Insurance and Trust for all of your family’s insurance needs, creating this kind of policy package can result in an overall savings of 20 to 30 percent. He says, “We can, in many cases, even bundle the homeowner, car and various life insurance elements into one policy, instead of a client needing to manage and keep track of several separate paperwork packages.” But, he adds that Insurance and Trust also respects a person’s loyalty to certain insurance companies and can get creative to help them use an existing service, or find a new one. “We’re a full-service broker,” he notes. “We can look at each insurance risk and do whatever works for our client – whatever they’re passionate about. We’ll also be there to assist (you) when damages occur.” For example, they will do longterm care and life insurance policy

Jeff (left) and Michael Chernoff of Insurance and Trust offer many different insurance options. packages separate from home and car to accommodate a customer. “We’ll also meet with clients to personally deliver the policy paperwork, rather than use fax or snail mail,” Jeff says. “We can put the policies on flash drives or Email them – whatever makes the most sense.” One client, attorney Mary Ellen Hogan of Carrollwood, testifies to the Chernoffs’ level of personal and convenient service. “My husband, Dr. Robert Lavey, and I moved here three years ago from California,” Hogan says. “We had to transfer all of our insurance, get our cars re-registered…it was just overwhelming. Someone referred us to Michael. From the very first minute we talked to him, our minds were set

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

at ease. The service has always been prompt and personal and has given us a feeling of confidence.” She adds, “We carry our longterm care and other services through Insurance and Trust, and have had a couple of claims which, because of Michael, have caused us no headache at all. We’re secure in the fact that he’s not just pushing a product to get a commission. There are packages he could have recommended to us where he would have made more money.” Regarding long-term care insurance, Jeff says, “It is more valuable than people know. We can obtain a policy for you that could pay for someone who becomes disabled or for elderly people. For example, say you decided to carry $9,000 per month of care. Your premiums would stop the minute you activate your need for the policy. That $9,000 could pay for livein assistance to help someone stay in their own house, or it could fully pay monthly rent at a nice assisted living facility, or help you get into an upscale nursing home. Plus, the checks are mailed without having to submit bills.” Other insurance ideas that people may not usually think to include: • They recommend memberowned insurance companies. It’s hard to get in, but since the policy holder owns part of the company, can-

cellation is highly unlikely. • People with a life insurance policy of less than $99,000 can charge their premiums to their credit card and earn points for paying it off in full. • Sometimes insurance companies insist on separate car insurance packages if a person owns more than three cars. Insurance and Trust can get all of your cars placed under one policy. • Wine collections, and the generators needed to keep the wine at the right temperature, can be insured. • The Chernoffs offer a hurricane protection service – licensed people that can go into areas that have been evacuated before homeowners are allowed back – to secure or repair a house at no extra charge. • There are even insurance policies for kidnap and ransom cases, illness while traveling, identity theft, insurance for Boards of Directors of non-profit agencies, staff theft insurance for employers in certain instances and more. Insurance and Trust is located at 8548 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., near Humphrey St., in Carrollwood. The phone number is 933-7333. For additional information, visit InsuranceAndTrust.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Topash Painting: Still Keeping Our Area’s Homes Beautiful! By Sheryl Young K.T. Topash grew up in paint. The painting business, that is. K.T. worked in the family business with his father, Paul, for 16 years, and has now owned the Wesley Chapel-based Topash Painting for the past three. “It’s always been a family business,” says K.T. “My dad considered me (to be) his partner. Since he handed the business on to me, I’m already bringing my son Cole in, and my wife Hollie does our bookkeeping.” Topash Painting specializes in interior and exterior home and commercial painting. Sometimes, Cole, age 10, accompanies K.T. to job sites. Despite the shaky economy, or perhaps, at least in part, because of it, K.T. says he is being kept very busy with painting jobs. “Oh yes, the bulk of my business is coming from (home) re-painting,” he explains. “Many people aren’t moving, so they’re deciding to re-vamp their houses, inside and out, either the same color for freshness, or changing the colors of their rooms. Paint is the least expensive way to give your home a totally new look.” Although K.T. says his favorite job is still exterior painting, he adds that

no job is too small for him. He’ll do an interior job that could take a week or more, or he’ll come out to paint a front door that might have complicated trim work. He and Hollie also stay up on the latest paint trends, so he can advise his clients about today’s best color choices and even impart some décor intuition. And, since Topash Painting is a mobile business, K.T. uses a trailer as an “office on wheels.” “My trailer is my office, my rolling workshop, that I travel in,” he says. “I have every possible needed sample and tool on board.” K.T. does all of the work on his jobs himself, beginning with a free estimate. He’ll work with other contractors that need to be on the property at the same time, like floor installers or cabinetry companies. He will also use environmentally friendly “green” paints upon request. He explains that environmentally friendly paints means those with “low to-zero VOCs,” with the initials standing for “Volatile Organic Compounds.” VOCs may include chemicals that sometimes cause low-level toxins to be released into the air that can irritate allergies, or cause gas emissions now known as harmful to the environment. At one time, lead was the

(L. to r.) Holly, Cole and K.T. Topash of Topash Painting. biggest health hazard in paint, but although that’s been removed from most products, traditional paints may still contain some VOC-producing chemicals. K.T. is savvy in which paint companies are now producing low to zero VOC paint lines, including low-odor paints for those who are fragrance-sensitive. He warns, though, that because some essential elements might be removed from this type of paint, it may not last as long. Speaking of how your paint job can last, when it comes to updating and maintaining the appearance of your home, K.T. is quick to share some valuable advice. “On average, exterior paint lasts seven years,” he says. “The best thing a

homeowner can do to preserve their exterior paint is power-wash the house every 12-18 months. It will protect against mold and mildew. And, it won’t wash off the paint – it will keep it fresher and easier to paint the next time. The worse a house needs painting, the more chances there are that water can seep past the exterior and into the house.” K.T. also can do your power-washing before painting. So what are some of the latest interior paint trends? “People who don’t like really shiny walls in their bathrooms and kitchens are discovering that a satin or eggshell finish cleans just as well as a semi-gloss,” K.T. says. “And, accent walls are still popular. But, if you’re staying in the same color group as the other three walls, choose

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

a shade more than one shade away from the first color, or it will just look like a shadow.”

How To Hire A Painter

For the occasional unavoidable schedule clash, K.T. will hire or recommend other painters he knows and trusts to do the work. So, here are some of his tips on how to find a good painter: • Ask friends and neighbors about painters they’ve used. • A reputable painter will be known to area stores. Mention any painter you are considering at your local hardware or home supply store to see if they are known there. • A clean vehicle indicates a neat painter who takes pride in his or her work. Observe the vehicle he or she arrives in when they come to do the estimate. • You shouldn’t be asked to buy your own paint before the job. • Another warning sign is if the person doesn’t return your calls in a timely manner. • They must be able to show they are licensed, bonded and insured in your county.

On Being Self-Employed

K.T. says he is thankful to be an independent business owner in a time when so many people are losing their

jobs. He gets much of his work from repeat customers and their referrals, but wants to thank the Neighborhood News for the exposure he’s received that’s brought him many new clients over the years. In fact, K.T. wants readers to know that he periodically runs specials in this publication, so keep your eyes open for those specials. John and Shannon Triplett were impressed by K.T., from when they first spoke to him about painting the exterior of their home — and even moreso after the painting was completed. “K.T. did a great job,” John says. “Several days before the painting, he came out and power-washed the house, as well as the sidewalk and driveway. On the day he painted, I went to work, came home and he already was done. Besides, the house looked great and everything was left spotlessly clean.” The Tripletts say they already have called K.T. back for another job. “We’re having him do the interior now,” John adds. “I hate to paint!” K.T. Topash of Topash Painting can be reached for estimates and appointments at 780-2511, or by email at topashpainting@gmail.com. The Facebook link for customer compliments for Topash Painting is Facebook.com/pages/TopashPainting/122435881136778.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Green Rangers & FL Waterworks Create Beautiful Landscapes Together By Camille Gillies If you’e a New Tampa or Wesley Chapel-area homeowner, you know how challenging it is to keep your lawn looking lush and lovely. For many of us, it’s nearly impossible unless you have a background in horticulture or enlist some professional help. The weeds, the pests, the stressed-out grass, the list of annoyances goes on and on. That’s why it’s so important to hire experienced pest control, lawn care and irrigation specialists. If you’re still looking for top-notch lawn care and/or pest control, two area businesses have teamed up to tackle your lawn maintenance headaches. Although not officially partners, and each owning his own business, friends Charlie Wolfle and Frank Lauria have been working in tandem for the past five years to provide their customers with the best landscape service possible. Charlie owns Green Rangers, a full-service lawn care and pest control company, and Frank owns FL Waterworks, specialists in irrigation. Together, they can establish a landscape design from inception to completion, and provide the maintenance necessary to keep it green and healthy for the long term. “If I notice chinch bugs, grubs or

worms at one of my customer’s properties, I refer them to Charlie,” says Frank. “If he sees dying grass at one of his customer’s homes and knows it’s not caused by a pest problem, he refers them to me. Many times the grass is suffering because there is an area that isn’t being irrigated properly and I can fix that for them.”

FL Waterworks

Located in Tampa, FL Waterworks serves customers in Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. A licensed irrigation contractor, Frank offers services that include installation and redesign of irrigation systems, general sprinkler system repair, valve repair, wire tracking and fault finding. The Tampa native started the company five years ago, after working for Walt DisneyWorld in Lake Buena Vista, where he spent a year maintaining the extensive irrigation systems throughout the Disney theme park system. He says honesty and integrity are the hallmarks of FL Waterworks. “A lot of irrigation contractors cut corners by using inferior products,” he comments. “I use only real irrigation wire and quality parts and equipment. I pride myself on quality workmanship and I always strive to save money for my customers.”

One way he watches each customer’s dollar is by monitoring the amount of time a system is running to make sure it is working efficiently. “You can water your grass too much, and then you are just wasting water and stuck with a big utility bill,” Frank explains, adding that he is very conscientious about water usage and conservation. His customers include both residential and commercial accounts, such Frank Lauria (left) owns FL Waterworks, as office complexes and the common an irrigation company and his friend areas of large communities. He guaranCharlie Wolfle owns Green Rangers, a tees that he will stick with a job until it lawn maintenance firm. Together, they can is completed to the customer’s satisfactake care of all your landscaping needs. tion. “I am not done with a job until it’s done right,” he states emphatically. Charlie is a hands-on business owner who often goes out on job sites Green Rangers completing the work himself. Evidently, Wolfle, the owner of Green his customers appreciate his personal Rangers, has been in business in the involvement because he says many of Tampa Bay area for 21 years. Located them have been loyal to his business in Land O’ Lakes, his company serves throughout its 21-year existence. commercial and residential customers One such long-term customer is primarily in New Tampa, Wesley Wesley Chapel resident Chuck Rizzo, Chapel, Lutz and Land O’ Lakes. who relies on Green Rangers to take It’s not surprising that Charlie care of lawn pest control and shrub refers business to his good friend Frank pruning at his 1.5-acre property in Sadbecause Green Rangers is a tight-knit establishment. “We have a small, family- dlewood Estates. Chuck says he met Charlie 20 years ago as the result of an run business of five employees, includadvertisement in a church bulletin. “I ing myself, and we are all either family had just built a house in Saddlewood or friends,” he says.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

and was looking for someone to do my lawn and shrub care,” Chuck recalls. “I hired Charlie and he’s been doing my lawn ever since.” Chuck says he appreciates Charlie’s attention to detail, as well as his accessibility and fair pricing. “He’s a good fellow to do business with, very straight forward,” says Chuck. “He surveys my property and tells me what needs to be done, but he also tells me if something can be done at a later time.” The company also believes in offering flexible lawn maintenance programs to suit a variety of needs. “We have several programs to fit people’s budgets,” Charlie comments. “We also offer free analysis and complimentary service calls.” Pest control can be contracted for as little as six months at a time and mowing contracts are yearly, with mowing services performed every week from April through October and every other week from November through March. For his New Tampa-area clients, Charlie says that he is prepared for the new government-mandated restrictions on nitrogen that the Tampa City Council passed on June 23. The new ordinance, which goes into effect in 2012, bans the sale of nitrogen-packed fertilizer between June 1 and Sept. 30 and also prohibits residents from putting it on their lawns and gardens. Charlie says

that he already has been employing other fertilizing alternatives for the last three years. “I have been using iron and a variety of micronutrients for several years now,” he says, so the ban won‘t have a significant impact on his customers. Pasco County has yet to implement any kind of nitrogen-packed fertilizer ban, but if they do, Charlie will be equipped to comply with any new regulation. In addition to pest control expertise and full-service lawn care, Green Rangers also features landscape design services. Charlie attended Farmingdale State College in Farmingdale, NY, where he studied landscape design. “My father and uncles were all in the landscaping business in New York,” he notes. “With my background and years of experience, I am able to plan and install a customer’s landscaping and then care for it in all respects, from fertilizing and mowing to applying the pest control treatments.” The area he doesn’t specialize in — irrigation — is Frank’s specialty, which makes for a friendly reciprocal arrangement between Green Rangers and Fl Waterworks. For a free lawn analysis or more information about Green Rangers, call 949-9994. For irrigation services, call FL Waterworks at 239-7345 or visit FlWaterWorksIrrigation.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

“Schenecker”

Col. Schenecker. “They were everything a parent could ever ask for – Continued from page 1 responsible, loving and connected to backyard of the family's Tampa those around them.” Palms home by police, who had been The GrillSmith “Back to School” summoned to the house by a relative event took place just two weeks after who was concerned that Schenecker the Hillsborough State Attorney's might harm herself. What police found Office filed its notice of intent to seek were the bodies of the two teenage sib- the death penalty against Julie Schelings, and a note allegedly detailing how necker. If sentenced, Mrs. Schenecker Julie Schenecker had planned to carry would join Tiffany Cole, who is curout the murders because the children rently the only woman on death row in were, in her words, “mouthy.” Police Florida. Col. Schenecker, who was also found a gun, which Schenecker deployed overseas at the time of the bought earlier that week, empty bullet killings, filed for divorce from his wife casings and nearly a dozen different shortly after her arrest, which was finalmedications, including narcotic pain ized in early February. On August 12, killers. Julie Schenecker’s public defenders “Calyx and Beau were devoted announced that she would plead insanifriends, classmates and teammates,” said ty in he case. According to published reports, she had a history of substance abuse and mental illnesses. For additional information about the Calyx and Beau Schenecker Memorial Fund, visit the Community FounThe week-long fund raiser was centered around the favorite dishes of Calyx and Beau Schenecker at Grill- dation of Tampa Bay smith — the spicy Thai shrimp (left) that Beau loved and website at CFTamCalyx’s favorite, the Caribbean pumpkin crab bisque. paBay.org.

CALL US TODAY! New Tampa’s Premier Self Storage Facility + WE RENT TRUCKS + We Sell Boxes and Packing Supplies + State-of-the-Art Video Surveillance and Fire Alarm System + Storage Access 365 Days/Yr. + Climate & Non-Climate Controlled Spaces + We now will sell your items on Ebay for you

Up to 3 Months SEND REFERRALS

FREE *New customers only

*Refer your friends and receive a gift card of your choice. *Two referrals per household per month.

17231 Dona Michelle Dr.

www.storageflorida.com

813-910-2900

– WE PAY YOU!

newtampa@spaceplusstorage.com

COMMITTED TO QUALITY...COMMITTED TO YOU

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Local Cub Scout Troop Tours New Tampa Neighborhood News As the 2011-12 school year kicks off, so does the scouting year. In scouting, generally, Cub Scouts don’t start meeting until the first week of September, but the boys in New Tampa Cub Scout Pack 142 got an early start this year and stopped by the New Tampa Neighborhood News office the first week of school to earn beads towards their Tiger Cub badges. After completing 15 Achievements, earning one bead for each Achievement, the Tiger Cubs are each awarded the Tiger Cub Badge, the final patch they need before becoming Wolf Cubs. Pack 142, a group of mostly 7year-olds who attend Harold H. Clark Elementary in West Meadows, were led on a tour through the “spacious” Neighborhood News office (one young scout complained “I’m tired of being in this little room!”) by publisher and editor, Gary Nager, who showed the troop the ins-and-outs of our 18-year-

old community news magazine. Nager explained the tasks involved with the reporting, editing and art processes of putting together a news magazine, as well as how the the advertisements that go into each issue of the paper are made. Art director Tony Sica also showed the scouts the functions available on our website, NTNeighborhoodNews.com. According to Pack 142’s den leader, Tom Miller, the group of 2nd graders earned a black bead (for a “go see it” activity) from the tour, which would bring each of the scouts one step closer to the 15 beads needed for the Tiger Badge. — SB

Free SAT Prep Courses For High School Students Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is offering free SAT prep courses Saturdays in September, October, February, March, April, and May at Freedom and Paul R. Wharton High for New Tampa students in grades 9 through 12. Each prep course will be facilitated by a highly qualified teacher using the College Board's SAT online course. Students will receive a login

ID and password and participate via an SAT prep “webinar.” They will be able to continue accessing the online course from school and home after they attend the prep courses. Student applications to attend a prep course are available in all high school guidance offices. Refer to the chart below for specific prep course dates, times, and locations.

Session #s & Dates

Meeting Day

Time

Session 1 Sept. 10-24

Saturday

9 a.m.-2 p.m. Freedom

October 1

Session 2 Sept. 8-29

Saturday

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wharton

October 1

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Freedom

Mar. 10, 2012

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wharton

June 2, 2012

Session 3 Feb. 11Saturday Mar. 3, 2012 Session 4 Apr. 28Saturday May 19, 2012

Location

SAT Test Date

We are looking for education & sports correspondents for every New Tampa school & youth sports/extra-curricular program. Send an email to NTNNedit@yahoo.com telling us which school or program you want to cover & include at least one (non-published is OK) writing sample and your resume and put “Education/Sports Freelancers” in the subject line of your email.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Frog-Loving Wesley Chapel Girl Wins International Eco-Award By Sean Bowes Do you know the difference between a toad and frog? Do you know how amphibians and reptiles are different? If you cannot answer either of those questions with absolute certainty, then it doesn’t seem likely that you could list the six most populous frogs in the Wesley Chapel area and be able to identify each of them just by hearing their unique frog calls. But, Avalon Theisen, a 10-yearold girl who lives in Meadow Pointe, knows all of this, and more. Avalon, who recently won the 2011 Action for Nature International Young EcoHero Award, an honor presented annually to young people ages 8-16 for their environmental achievements around the world, is more than just an animal lover. She is more like an eco-prodigy. Just a decade old, she spends her time traveling to countries in Central America, like Nicaragua, to study indigenous amphibians such as the red-eyed tree frog, and to release reptiles like endangered Nicaraguan iguanas. “They’re very cute,” says Avalon about the tree frogs. “Predators think they might be poisonous because of their (bright) colors, but really they’re harmless.” Her mother, Deborah, says that Avalon has always been a naturelover. When she was outside as a toddler, she would love spending time looking up at the treetops. Avalon used to participate in a lot of beauty pageants, too, she says, but her devotion to animals started to get in the way. “She would be wearing her dress and tiara, and just be covered in lizards or holding frogs,” says her

mom. Action For Nature, a non-profit organization, gives the Young EcoHero Award to students who have made an exceptional achievement to protect the Earth. However, Avalon’s accomplishments cannot be measured with just one specific example. Beryl Kay, president of Action For Nature, says Avalon was rewarded for her tremendous efforts for the protection of the environment throughout her life. Additionally, last year, the homeschooled student designed the logo for a bio-sand water filter company, Friendly Water for the World Inc., which supplies water filters to underdeveloped countries, like Kenya, to produce clean water from untreated, bacteria-ridden water sources. Avalon also has previously been granted the Nate the Newt Award for her efforts for SaveTheFrogs.com (she made a presentation on how digital programs could replace frog dissection in high schools), she has won first place in a frog call identification contest, and was featured on CurrClick.com as “Student Of The Week” for her environmental awareness. “She is a very talented and driven little girl,” says Kay. “What these young people achieve is amazing.” When Avalon isn’t raising tadpoles in her backyard, kayaking around Florida state parks or making temporary homes for feral toads next to her family’s compost pile, she spends her time studying for her home-school AP Biology class (a course usually reserved for 10th graders), learning Spanish and working for Friendly Water. She says learning Spanish will help her communicate with locals when she travels to Honduras in January, where she will spend several days with herpetologists

to study frogs and snakes. George Heinrich, a biologist and wildlife educator in Pinellas County, meets with Avalon nearly every week to study the animals that live in rivers around the area. “She is an excellent student,” says Heinrich. “She is just so excited about learning new things. I wish all of my students had that same excitement.” In addition to all of her environmental activities, Avalon keeps busy by running her own business, which she oversees online and takes abroad to different events. Selling homemade crafts from vendor booths, she sells magnets, necklaces and keychains with her own artwork designs. And, instead of stuffing the cash she collects into her piggybank, she donates it to either the Camp Bayouu Outdoor Learning Center (a Tampa-area preserve) or to SaveTheFrogs.com. “All I ever want is peace and love, which you cannot buy,” said Avalon when she was awarded her Student of the Week award. “By giving the profits away, I can help many other people.” To learn more about Avalon Theisen and her achievements, you can visit her website at ConserveIt-

Ten-year-old Avalon Theisen, of Meadow Pointe, shown here holding six of her froggy friends in Nicaragua, recently won an international Eco-Hero award. Forward.com where you can watch videos and photo galleries of her handling amphibians and reptiles. For more information about Friendly Water for the World or to see Avalon’s logo, visit FriendlyWaterForTheWorld.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Uncle Bo’s Smokin’ BBQ — Wesley Chapel’s Roadside Secret! By Gary Nager I have only know Ace “Uncle Bo” Jenkins for a few months, but not only he is a friendly and genuine guy, he also serves some of the best BBQ I’m almost certain you haven’t yet tried...that is, unless you’ve driven by his roadside stand on S.R. 54 less than a half-mile east of the northernmost entrance to Meadow Pointe. It’s a little far away for some New Tampa residents, but if you live north of Cross Creek Blvd. — or anywhere in New Tampa, really — it’s worth the trip! Ace keeps his smoker working its magic on the road every day (yes, on Sundays, too), noon-8 p.m., pumping that delicious wood-smoked aroma and plumes of smoke rising into the air in order to attract hungry drivers on their way to lunch or on their way home from work. “The smoke and the aroma are what draws them in,” he admits. “Then, it’s up to me to keep ‘em coming back for more with great food at a great price.” And man, does he ever deliver. I’ve mentioned in previous stories that I’m not the biggest BBQ fan in the world, but I particularly love Uncle Bo’s meaty pork ribs and sliced beef brisket, which are cooked and smoked without sauce and then served just drizzled with his awesome homemade slightly-sweet, slightly-spicy sauce. If you need extra sauce, he’s happy to oblige, but I, for

Whether you crave tasty, meaty pork ribs (left) or a yummy pulled pork sandwich, Uncle Bo’s Smokin’ BBQ always serves your favorites with your choice of potato salad or his homemade baked beans and cole slaw. one, appreciate that he doesn’t try to drown his delicious food in sauce. And, you can’t beat the price, either. Three of those big ribs (or multiple slices of the beef brisket) and two sides cost just $9, or without sides, the cost is just $8. A full rack of ribs (14 bones) is just $27 and a half-rack (7 bones) will set you back $14. Also available from Uncle Bo (which is what his nieces call him) are smoked BBQ pork or chopped smoked sausage on a bun ($6) or his awesome daily chicken special of a leg quarter and two sides for just $5! You also can get a five-dinner family feast (the rib orders come with two bones each), with each dinner served with sides, for only $34.

A la carte side dishes (the homemade baked beans and cole slaw are my faves; although the potato salad is good, too) are just $1 apiece and you simply have to wash his delicious food down with a glass of his homemade sweet tea, which also costs just $1. Pepsi Cola products and bottled water also are available for just $1. In other words, you can’t get better food from a better guy at a better price. And, while Ace doesn’t have 20 years of restaurant experience, he does know what he’s doing and enjoys his customers as much as he enjoys the business. He notes that he got into the BBQ biz by necessity, after his wife had suffered multiple strokes in 2009 and

Ace “Uncle Bo” Jenkins is waiting to serve you on S.R. 54, just east of the entrance to Meadow Pointe. 2010 and he had to leave his full-time job to care for her. He originally was located on S.R. 54 on the other side of I-75, near Wesley Chapel Honda, but decided to move further down 54 last October, when the construction between I-75 and Curley Rd. cut his business in half. Take a little ride, New Tampa! Uncle Bo’s Smokin’ BBQ is open every day, noon-8, on S.R. 54, just east of Meadow Pointe, next to Payless Homes. For more information, call Ace at 732-4136 and please tell him we sent you!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Another Yummy Visit To Sushi Tsu Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi! By Gary Nager It’s been almost two years since A.J. Jewell and his wife Tawnya purchased Sushi Tsu Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar in the Shoppes of Amberly from A.J.’s former boss and Sushi Tsu founder Jay Choe, so it’s kind of hard for me to believe I haven’t yet done a full-length feature on the “new” owners of my (still) favorite Japanese steakhouse and sushi bar in New Tampa. A.J., who is a talented sushi and teppanyaki (hibachi) grill chef in his own right, and Tawnya, who handles

You can’t beat the thin-sliced cobia (bottom) and Peruvian snapper sashimi at Sushi Tsu.

the bookkeeping and marketing, have revamped and expanded the already wonderful menu at Sushi Tsu and they continue to weather the tough economic times with outstanding Japanese cuisine and always-excellent service. I have loved the sushi at Sushi Tsu since the years before it became a fullblown Japanese steakhouse and it’s still my favorite sushi in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel. The seared tuna tataki is always high on my list and A.J. and his awesome sushi chefs also specialize in creating unique sushi rolls, as well as always stocking my favorite white meat fish sushi “flavors” — snapper, grouper, flounder, tilapia and cobia. I have to admit that although I find cooked cobia delicious, I never really got into it as sushi because its texture is quite a bit chewier than most other white meat sushi. But, I now love cobia at Sushi Tsu because the sushi chefs slice it extra thin for me, so it’s not quite so tough and chewy — and the taste is delicious! I haven’t yet sampled all of the new appetizers on the new menu, but I saw a number of new items, including pork egg rolls, calamari tempura, seasoned black seaweed, tempura-fried gator tail, Japanese fried chicken nuggets and more. There are even

teppanyaki appetizers, including Kobe beef negimaki and teriyaki tofu. And of course, you can still get your favorite edamame (soybeans), gyoza (pan-seared dumplings), age shumai (pork dumplings) and Yakisoba (stirfried noodles).

A Teppanyaki Tale!

But, the thing that brings most people back to any Japanese steakhouse is the teppanyaki-grilled specialties, all of which at Sushi Tsu are served with delicious onion (not miso) soup, a fresh salad with a delicious ginger dressing, awesome Japanese-style fried rice AND lo mein noodles, the freshest veggies (onions, zucchini, broccoli, carrots and mushrooms) and, of course, “GoodyGoody” (mayonnaise-based) and “Yummy-Yummy” (ginger) sauces. On my most recent visit to Sushi Tsu, my guests and I were treated to food created by Chef Ana, one of only two female Teppanyaki chefs in the state of Florida. “The Japanese are very traditional people,” says A.J. “So, we actually got phone calls and letters from some people who don’t think a woman should be a teppanyaki chef. But, Ana has been working with me for years in our inside kitchen and she’s picked up the hibachi

A.J. and Tawnya Jewell invite you to check out Sushi Tsu Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar in Tampa Palms. routine very nicely, too.” I have to say I agree. Although Ana doesn’t yet put on the kind of show you get with Roger, Sushi Tsu’s best-known teppanyaki chef, everyone at my table loved her hibachi steak, scallops, shrimp (which I’m allergic to) and especially, the teriyaki chicken...and she does still catch shrimp tails in her hat, create a Mt. Fujiyama volcano on the table and other teppanyaki standards. You also can get hibachi lobster, fresh fish (today’s catch) and a variety of surf-&-turf and land-lover combos at Sushi Tsu, from the Chef’s Special (NY

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Chef Ana, one of only two female teppanyaki chefs in the state of Florida, sets Mt. Fujiyama on fire and cooks up delicious chicken, shrimp and steak. strip and chicken teriyaki) to a Japanese Kirin and Sapporo), hot and cold sake, iron skillet, with chicken, shrimp or plum and house wines, too. scallops and white wine sauce, a SamuAnd yes, Roger and the gang (of rai’s Choice (teriyaki chicken with calaservers and chefs) will bang the gong mari, shrimp or scallops), and Yuki’s and sing for your birthday, anniversary Choice (filet mignon, lobster and scalor other special occasion at your table. lops). You can even get authentic Kobe In other words, if it’s been a beef yakiniku (thin sliced in a special while since you’ve eaten at Sushi sauce), although the Kobe beef is quite Tsu, you owe it to yourself to visit a bit pricier (as you’d expect). again and enjoy 20-percent off, just There’s even Japanese curry dishes, for mentioning this story or the ad vegetarian and hot noodle dishes, early on page 44. Sushi Tsu is located at bird, “late owl” and children’s menus 15363 Amberly Dr., in the Shoppes and a full dessert menu. of Amberly plaza in Tampa Palms. And, don’t forget that Sushi Tsu For reservations (which are not also has an ultra-premium, full-liquor required) and information about bar, as well as those delicious Japanese Sushi Tsu’s new lunch hours, call beers (my favorite Asahi Dry, as well as 910-9404 or visit SushiTsu.com.

Roger (with gong), perhaps the best-known teppanyaki chef at Sushi Tsu, bangs the gong for another delicious birthday celebration.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

PJ Dolan’s Irish Pub — Beer, Brunch & So Much More! By Gary Nager I know, I know. You've heard this before. There was the original Remington’s Steak House, which was good, but it’s gone. Then came Cody’s Roadhouse. Also pretty good, but also gone. And then...Bullseye Saloon...also no longer in business. Unfortunately, the anchor tenant restaurant in the Palms Connection plaza, which is on E. Bearss Ave., just a 1/4-mile west of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. isn’t the only location in our area that has seen several restaurants come and go the last 20 years. So, while the challenge facing the three-month-old P.J. Dolan’s Irish Pub as the newest anchor in the Palms Connection may not be unique, the restaurant and tavern itself is unlike any that has ever opened in our area. It’s both a true Irish pub that not only features many of the great beers or the Emerald Isle (including Guinness, Harp, Kilkenny and Smithwick’s on draft, but also a variety of imported and domestic bottles, a full, premium liquor bar (with great Irish and Scotch whiskeys and ultra premium vodkas) and Irish and English cuisine specialties like Shepherd’s pie, delicious fish & chips, an authentic Reuben sandwich, corned beef & cabbage and much more. Proprietor Mark James (which is actually two guys named Mark) says that P.J. Dolan’s is named for Patrick James Dolan, aka Mark’s famous “Uncle Paddy,” one of 16 children born and raised in Tipperary, Ireland. “If you spent anywhere from five minutes to five hours with Uncle Paddy, he’d be your uncle, too,” says Mark. “He’s the kind of guy who makes everyone feel like family. And, that’s the feeling we’re shooting for at P.J. Dolan’s.” And, so far, so good. Since P.J. Dolan’s first opened a couple of months ago, several new menu items and a weekend (Saturday & Sunday, 10

P.J. Dolan’s Irish Pub & Grille is now serving Sunday brunch! You can select from menu items like a delicious breakfast sandwich (left), or choose scrambled eggs smothered in gravy or fresh fruit and desserts from P.J. Dolan’s awesome weekend brunch buffet. a.m.-2 p.m.) have been added and Mark promises more is on the way.

A Brunch Bonanza

When you visit P.J. Dolan’s for brunch on Saturday or Sunday, you can If you’re looking for lunch and dinner items, try P.J. Dolan’s tasty ribeye steak topped with onions, gorge yourself on allpeppers, mushrooms and three shrimp (left) or a traditional fish & chips served with cole slaw. you-can-eat scramcheeseteak sandwiches, authentic Guin- upcoming entertainment schedule by bled eggs, the best thick-slice bacon in calling 374-2338 or by visiting ness beef stew (served with Irish soda town, pancakes and a variety of other PJDolans.com. P.J. Dolan’s (2836 E. bread), shrimp scampi with pasta and buffet specialties, including breads, Bearss Ave.) is open every day at 4 garlic bread and more. fresh fruit and desserts, for just $11.95. p.m. (2 p.m. on Friday) and stays Check out P.J. Dolan’s great For just $7 more, you can enjoy unlimopen as late every night. Please tell beer and food specials in the ad on ited make-your-own mimosas and ‘em the Neighborhood News sent you! page 42. Find out more about the Bloody Marys, too. P.J. Dolan’s also offers an a la carte brunch menu, with a big Irish breakfast (four eggs, bacon, pancakes and home fries), a delicious breakfast sandwich, fluffy omelets and more available. “We think our brunch is the perfect way to kick off a day of college or pro football,” Mark says. “Come for the brunch and stay all day!” I also have genuinely enjoyed P.J. Dolan’s crispy smothered potato skins, grilled ribeye steak, traditional fish & chips, Shepherd’s pie and Tony, our art director, says he liked the open faced corned beef sandwich smothered with melted provolone cheese. Also on the menu are unique garlic parmesan wings, crisp salads, chicken wrap and

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Stacy’s Gluten Free Goodies Making Its Mark In New Tampa! By Gary Nager There is no way that I can say, in all honesty, that the new Stacy’s Gluten Free Goodies, the new allergen-free bakery located in the Cory Lake Isles Professional Center on Cross Creek Blvd., is my favorite place to enjoy cookies, cakes or breads. What I will say is that Stacy’s goodies are definitely tasty, despite the fact they are not only gluten- but also allergen-free. Owner Stacy Hiles, a CPA whose older son Zachary wasn’t diagnosed with his allergy to wheat gluten (which is know for giving baked goods made with wheat their elasticity and chewiness), dairy and eggs until age 3, has dedicated herself to making tasty baked goods that will allow children and adults with food allergies to still enjoy bakery items. “Zachary’s developmental delays resembled autism,” Stacy says. “But, once his doctor tested him for food sensitivities and we took those items out of his diet, we slowly started to see a change in him.” Stacy says three years later, Zachary no longer exhibits autistic tendencies and is developing normally. Interestingly enough, because so many gluten-free breads and cookies use corn as a substitute for wheat, Stacy

and her husband Stephen’s younger son Nicholas ended up with an allergy to corn. “All of us now eat gluten- and allergen-free at home” says Stacy. “We didn’t think it was fair to the kids to have all of us eating different things.” It’s obvious that Stacy really takes the time to test her recipes, combining the best possible taste with the safest ingredients. For example, while most gluten-free breads aren’t (Above, left) If you want to serve your family yummy, gluten-free desserts, Stacy’s Gluten Free Goodies particularly tasty, Stacy’s on Cross Creek Blvd. offers everything from the best blueberry muffins in town to donuts, cookies and “Hope Bread” (There is mini-carrot cakes. (Above right) Stacy, with her son Nicholas, who has a corn allergy. (Below) Chocohope for gluten-free holics will love Stacy’s moist double chocolate cake. (Bottom) Yes, Stacy’s sells gluten-free breads, too! bread), which features ingredients like potato going to make me forget my favorite starch, tapioca flour, teff flour, organic sweet treats, they are tasty enough to millet flour, sorghum flour and guar give children and adults with food allerpalm oil, is actually very tasty. gies reasonable substitutions for items So far, of all the items I have samthey should not eat. pled at Stacy’s, my favorites are the On my most recent visit to Stacy’s, moist blueberry muffins, the equally a woman named Mara and her daughmoist double chocolate cake, the sunter Serena just happened to stop into flower butter cookies and anything with the bakery when they were visiting her vanilla icing, from a tasty carrot cake another business in the same plaza. The to vanilla cupcakes. While her chocolate Seven Oaks residents found out that chip cookies and brownies are never Serena had Celiac Disease only a few months ago and had been struggling to find tasty foods to replace those Serena was told to no longer eat. “This place is fantastic,” Mara said as she and Serena sampled Stacy’s banana nut bread. “I am so glad we found you!” Apparently, that’s a regular occurrence at Stacy’s. “We have at least five people a day who just stop in or have been told by someone else about us,” Stacy says. “It lets me know I’m doing the right thing with my mission of sharing this knowledge with people.” Stacy’s Gluten Free Goodies Goodies.com to see Stacy’s full (10335 Cross Creek Blvd.) is open menu. Also, don’t forget to ask every Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Call about Stacy’s catering partnership 477-4247 or visit Gluten-Freewith Miracles Catering.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Neighborhood Nibbles — Mexican On The Move In Our Area! By Gary Nager

Jalapeno - New Tampa’s Authentic Mexican Cuisine! So, we finally have Mexican cuisine in New Tampa that can not be classified as “fast food.” Jalapeno Mexican Grille, which opened recently in the space previously occupied first by the Louis Pappas Market Cafe and more recently by Joy of Tokyo in the Oak Ramble Plaza, is a casual, but elegant restaurant featuring truly authentic (and delicious) Mexican cuisine. Owner/chef Miguel Espinosa and his wife, Dawn Boyer, opened Jalapeno only a couple of months after Joy of Tokyo closed, due to the death of its owner (which we have reported in previous issues). The place is lovely, the food is delicious and the price is right at Jalapeno, with everything from sizzling fajitas (photo, $10.95-$12.95), pescado Tampeno (lightly Pankobreaded and seared catch of the day served on a bed of rice and topped with arugula and pico de gallo, $10.95) and even a grilled 8-oz. New York strip steak served with an enchi-

lada mole sauce ($12.95) are all priced low enough to enjoy every day. Most entrées and small plates at Jalapeno cost $5.95-$11.95 and Miguel, who worked at many different types of restaurants in New York City, delivers on his promise of delicious food. Even the homemade salsa rocks! For more information, see Jalapeno’s ad on page 45, stop in at 19493 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., call 977-0800 or visit JalapenoTampa.com. Jalapeno is open every day for lunch and dinner.

Machismo Moves To Palms Connection If you’re looking for something a little faster, Machismo, the Southwestern build-your-own burrito bar that previously was located in the Oak Ramble Plaza (very close to Acropolis Greek

Taverna), has re-opened in the Palms Connection on E. Bearss Ave., just west of BBD, less than a mile south of its previous location. Now under new ownership, Machismo still features fresh, huge, create-your-own burritos and salad bowls, nachos, tacos and quesadillas with the finest ingredients and more than 30 different hot sauces at its hot sauce bar, but has now added ice cold Mexican and other imported and domestic beers to the mix. If you liked Machismo before, check out its larger, more comfortable location and please tell them that the Neighborhood News sent you! Machismo Burrito Bar is located at 2808 E. Bearss Ave., next to Big Papa’s Pit. For more info, visit MachismoBurritoBar.com or call 977-9796.

Tijuana Flats Opens On BBD Speaking of fast Mexican/Southwestern cuisine, Tijuana Flats has opened another location in our area (the other close locations are on S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel and on S.R. 54 at Collier Pkwy. in Land O'Lakes). The newest Tijuana Flats (17501 Preserve Walk Lane) opened in August in the space previously occupied by Shane's Rib Shack, next to Verizon Wireless, in Highwoods Preserve off BBD at Dona Michelle Dr. Tijuana Flats features burritos, quesadillas, chimichangas, enchiladas, tostadas and even fish tacos. For more information, call 975-0483 or visit TijuanaFlats.com.

Pointe plaza in Tampa Palms, has reopened in the space formerly occupied by Jimmy Z’s BBQ in the Cross Creek Plaza at 10861 Cross Creek Blvd., less than a mile west of Morris Bridge Rd. Owner/chef Bradley Cole and his wife Tracy invite you to visit Coles’ spacious new location or call 9869500 for more info. Although we did not have details at our press time, we saw that Wasabi Japanese Steak & Sushi on BBD in front of the Pebble Creek Collection has been sold. The new restaurant will still have a Japanese flavor, as the small Kobe Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar chain was getting ready to open in Wasabi’s space at 19601 BBD at our press time. Call (866) 543-5623 or visit KobeSteakhouse.com for info. And finally, I recently stopped in on a Tuesday night at Café Olé in the Cross Creek Center plaza on Cross Creek Blvd. and I was surprised to hear the dulcet tones and light acoustic guitars of Vincent Indelicato and Conner McNamee singing and playing the guitar. The two New Tampa residents and Jesuit High juniors, who also attended Benito Middle School together, will be performing at Café Olé during $5 Tapas Tuesdays, including next Tuesday, September 13. For info, call Café Olé at 907-5242.) The boys also will perform at Mulligan’s Irish Pub at the Pebble Creek Golf Club (PCGC) on Saturday, September 16. For info, call PCGC at 973-3870. — GN

Here & There, This & That

In nonMexican/Southwestern dining news, Cole's BBQ, Vincent Indelicato (left) and Conner McNamee which previously was locat- will again be performing at Café Olé on Cross ed in the Shoppes at The Creek Blvd. on Tuesday, September 13.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Win $100 In Free Dining In Our 2011 Reader Dining Survey & Contest! With the economy still sputtering and local businesses and especially restaurants needing your help more than ever to succeed, wouldn’t you like to win some FREE dining AND help local restaurateurs find out how many of you really enjoy their respective establishments? With super-couponing sites like Groupon and Living Social gaining in popularity, it’s amazing to me that many more of you haven’t been participating in our annual Reader Dining Survey & Contest, where we reward you with FREE dining! This year, we will again offer a $100 gift certificate to the restaurant of your choice in the Tampa Bay area to one lucky winner, drawn at random from among all correctly submitted entries. We’ll also give away at least 10 other dining prizes valued at no less than $20 apiece and at least two prizes worth at least $50 each! Submit your entry by U.S. Mail, fax, e-mail or you also can enter at NTNeighborhoodNews.com no later than Friday, November 18, 2011, to be eligible to win any of the prizes named above. — GN

My 5 Favorite Restaurants In New Tampa! 1. __________________________________________________________ 2. __________________________________________________________ 3. __________________________________________________________ 4. __________________________________________________________ 5. __________________________________________________________

My 5 Favorite Restaurants In Wesley Chapel! 1. __________________________________________________________ 2. __________________________________________________________ 3. __________________________________________________________ 4. __________________________________________________________ 5. __________________________________________________________ NOTES - “New Tampa” (NT) is anyplace in zip code 33647 (Bruce B. Downs Blvd., from Bearss Ave. to the Pasco County line & all of Cross Creek Blvd.) and “Wesley Chapel” (WC) is anyplace in zip codes 33543-45 (BBD from the Pasco County line north to S.R. 54, west to Lexington Oaks, east to New River Township, and all of S.R. 56). Votes for Wesley Chapel restaurants as one of “My Favorites in New Tampa” or New Tampa votes for restaurants in Wesley Chapel will NOT be counted! Votes for restaurants located outside of these boundaries (e.g., Benedetto’s, Amici Pizza) will not be counted. Votes for restaurants that are out of business (Circles, Wasabi, etc.) will not be counted. Please also note that there are some new categories this year. — GN

My favorite Asian restaurant in NT or WC (Chinese, Japanese, Thai or Indian) __________________________________________ My favorite place for Latin/Mexican food in NT or WC _______________________ My favorite Pizza place in NT or WC ________________________________________ My favorite Sandwich or Sub shop in NT/WC________________________________ My favorite restaurant for Steak in NT or WC ________________________________ My favorite Bar or Tavern in NT/WC ______________________________________ My favorite place for Dessert/Ice Cream in NT/WC __________________________

Your Name_________________________________________________ Mailing Address___________________________________________ Community (West Meadows, Tampa Palms,, etc.) ____________________ Zip Code______________ Daytime Phone Number _______ Valid Email Address _________________________________ Please include all information requested above on your entry form to be eligible, whether you enter by mail, e-mail or on our website (NTNeighborhoodNews.com). You must submit your entry form by U.S. mail, fax, email or on our website no later than Friday, November 18, 2011, to be eligible to win prizes!

New Tampa Neighborhood News 2011 Dining Contest 15345 Amberly Dr., Tampa, FL 33647 Fax: (813) 910-2483 E-Mail: NTNNedit@yahoo.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Tony Hawk Catches Some Air & Shoots The Breeze In Tampa By Sean Bowes Every job has its perks — teachers have summers off, airline employees fly for free and once in a blue moon, a news reporter is assigned to interview one of his or her idols. A few of weeks ago, Tony Hawk’s public relations department called to inform me that the skateboard legend would be visiting the Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT) with his skate-entourage on August 22, and he was willing to do an exclusive interview with me, a veteran skateboarder of 12 years who knew Hawk’s name even before I ever stepped on a board. Of course I would interview him! If you’re a skateboarder, you know that meeting Tony Hawk is like being a basketball player and getting to meet Michael Jordan. It just doesn’t get any cooler than that. For those who don’t know, since turning professional at age 14, Hawk has invented dozens of “vert” skateboarding tricks, he was the first person to land a 900 (spinning two-and-a-half full rotations in the air), and he continues to win contests while skating against kids less than half his age. Just two weeks before Hawk came to Tampa he won the Coastal Carnage best trick contest in Huntington Beach,

CA. He has also built a “skate empire” around his name, endorsing everything from clothes and shoes to finger skateboards and USB flashdrives. A little back story on me. In high school I would search couch cushions to get gas money together for the 130mile drive north from Cape Coral to Tampa, to skate at SPoT. I once missed a flight home from Arizona because I was sitting in front of the gate at the airport reading Hawk’s autobiography, Hawk: Occupation Skateboarder, and never looked up to see my plane leaving the runway. The trunk of my car has looked like a mobile skate shop since I got my driver’s license. Skateboarding is a hobby that has been fully flared addiction for me, and besides a few creaky bones, I couldn’t be happier with it. Tony Hawk chose SPoT as his second stop on his Birdhouse “MIA to NYC” skateboard tour because of its history and the impact it has had on the skateboard community. Traveling with a caravan of decked-out RVs, Hawk rounded up the Birdhouse skate team, which includes legends Willy Santos and Kevin Staab, as well as newly turned professional, Aaron “Jaws” Homoki, and Hawk’s son Riley, 18, an amateur skateboarder who is a skilled “street” skateboarder, to skate at the

The great Tony Hawk catches some air during his recent visit to the Skatepark of Tampa. famed Tampa park. “The park is pretty gnarly,” said Riley Hawk, “The layout of the course is really good, and the contests are cool, and the guys that run the park know what they’re doing.” Team Pain, the same skatepark constructors who built the 14,000-sq.ft. New Tampa skatepark on Commerce Park Blvd. in Tampa Palms in 2009 builds a new course at SPoT each year.

SPoT has two courses, a beginner’s course and a pro course, in addition to the 13-ft.-tall halfpipe, which skaters are welcome to skate year-round. Hawk is a self-proclaimed fan of SPoT. He featured it in two of his Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video games, allowing gamers to play as SPoT employees. The skatepark, which was built in 1993, is home to two of the most highly regarded contests in skateboarding, the

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Tampa Am and the Tampa Pro, for amateur and professional skateboarders, respectively. “It is an honor to be here,” said Hawk. I have been regularly visiting SPoT for nearly a decade, and it was an entirely different scene when Hawk and the Birdhouse gang rolled into the park. With SPoT’s parking lots overfilled and cars lining the roads in either direction for a quarter-mile, fans of all ages, skill levels and knowledge of skateboarding crammed into the park, which employees jokingly refer to as “the crusty skateboard hut.” Young punk rockers, old guys covered in tattoos, grandparents with holding their kids’ hands and literally everyone in between came together to watch Hawk and the Birdhouse team shred SPoT’s halfpipe ramp. And, the “Birdman” did not disappoint, performing mind-boggling tricks like the Madonna (a trick he invented where he front foot behind him while grabbing the board in the air) lengthy backside lipsides, and to the crowd’s approval, a 540 on his first attempt. “He’s the only guy twho can do this,” said SPoT general manager Ryan Clements. “When you think of Tony Hawk, you immediately think of skateboarding. He is the only person who has crossed skateboarding into the mainstream.”

My Interview With Hawk

Q- When was the last time you were in Tampa? A-I was doing the Boom Boom HuckJam demo and came to Tampa. That was in 2008 Q-Why did you choose Tampa as a stop on your East Coast tour? A-The Skatepark of Tampa is its own staple of skateboarding. The park has stayed open through the days when skateboarding wasn’t as popular. It has been here through the dark days. Really, I’m proud to be here. Q-Is that why you chose SPoT as a level in your video games? A-Yes. And, because of the people who work here. All of the employees, they make sure that this is a top-notch facility. Q-For the record – how old are you and how is your body holding up from the years of slams and falls? A-I am 43. Actually, it has been pretty good.* Q-Do you take any special measures to stay healthy? I know some pro skateboarders adhere to a vegan diet or do yoga, while others swallow a handful of Ibuprofen before skating a contest, what do you do? A-Honestly, nothing. I’ve had my ups and downs for sure, but I’m used to it. The biggest thing for me is just getting enough rest. Q-When was the last time you

landed a 900? A-I did one in Sweden in May of this year. Q-Jaws (Birdhouse pro-skater) recently jumped down a 13 ft. high, 27 ft. long set of stairs, and there is a 14-year-old landing 900s. Does this progression of skateboarding scare you at all? A-I’m not scared because I’m not the one doing it (laughs). But really, I’m not worried about it. Skateboarding will continue to progress. The skaters know what they’re doing. Q-How does it feel to have your son Riley on the team and to be skateboarding with him? A-It’s great now to be on tour and hang out with him. He’s 18 now and into his own thing and his own friends. Actually, this way, when we’re on tour and we’re on the road, we spend a lot more time together. It’s great. Q-When do you plan to stop skateboarding? A-I will do this as long as I can.

Our own Sean Bowes (left) is all smiles as he gets to meet his skateboarding idol, Tony Hawk. *Note-Tony’s idea of his body holding up “pretty good” may differ from most people’s; within 24 hours of this interview, he had knocked his front tooth out skating ramps at Jacksonville’s Kona Skatepark with friend and teammate, Kevin Staab. He has previously broken his elbow, cracked a few ribs and has had countless scrapes and sprains.

WELCOME TO FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dr. Neeraja Jasthi • Cleanings (Ages 4 and up) • Crowns, Bridges and Implant Crowns • Veneers • Zoom & Take Home Whitening • Root Canals & Extractions

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY 20441 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (across the street from Wharton H.S., in front of Live Oak)

“Let Our Family Be Here For Yours”

866-9913

Dr. Neeraja Jasthi, DMD

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL H E L P

W A N T E D

Join OrthoTechnology’s Winning Team! Ortho Technology, an international orthodontic supply distributor located in New Tampa, is seeking talented energetic candidates for the following part-time positions: Distribution Associates (F/T and P/T) High energy individuals needed to receive, restock, pull & pack customer orders. Fast paced light industrial environment. Required: Basic math & computer skills, ability to stand/walk for entire shift & ability to lift up to 50 pounds. WMS experience preferred. F/T Hours: 9:30a6:15p P/T Hours: 3p-6:15p Qualified candidates should submit resumes to careers@orthotechnology.com or fax to (813) 991-5986, Attn. Lynn. Seeking Full-time Physical Therapist for Tampa Palms Outpatient Facility. Please send resume to (813) 994-3080. Part time Medical Assistant. Must have lab/blood draw experience. Wesley Chapel office, family medicine. evening and Saturday hours. Fax resume to 813-994-0085. HAIR STYLIST: Are you ready to stop paying a commission to your employer and make 60% more income? If so, rent a room in a beautiful salon in New Tampa and be your own boss. Call 813-435-0408 for all the great details of having your own business. No contract required. Caring Dependable People Needed. We’re a non-medical company with a need for compassionate and honest people to provide companionship/homecare services to seniors. Training provided. Flexible schedules. Home Instead Senior Care. Call today: 813-991-7524.

M E D I C A L B I L L I N G Looking to increase your revenue or unhappy with your current Medical Billing system?? - We are a local consulting company with EMR, PM and Medical Billing Services that is ready to assist you. Also don’t forget 5010 compliance is just around the corner, are you ready? Contact us today at (813) 704-0448 and learn how you can start collecting the MAXIMUM REVENUE for your practice! You may also email us at billing@anaseed.com

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

HOME

IMPROVEMENT

HANDYMAN WORK and BOBCAT SERVICES: Great quality work, clearing and grading, affordable exterior and interior home repairs, painting, caulking, drywall repairs, ceramic tile, wood flooring, plumbing, fan replacement, fencing, disposal repair and installation, sprinklers, closet installation, screen replacement, locks/doors installation, call N.J. at (813)907-6994. Need home maintenance? Almost any job, large or small, ext/int, fencing , screening, sm. concrete, sprinklers, painting, repairs, int. doors, locks, sheet rock, windows, paint, caulk, grout, trim, shelving, garages organized. Installations, removals, pressure washing, wood restoration & more. Call Dale’s Home Maintenance @ 973-0194 or 727-2582. Greg’s Paperhanging. For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed & insured, clean, quick & reasonable. Call 973-2767 for free estimate.

Classifıeds

P E T

RAYMOND PAINTING. Interior & Exterior, pressure washing, paper hanging, plaster, stucco, tiles, clean & seal pavers, roofing leaks, etc. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free Estimates. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ARBOR GREENE RESIDENT. We work 7 days. Call 994-5124. FLORIDA FLOOR SYSTEMS INC. COLUMBIA LAMINATE from $2.49SF COLUMBIA WOOD from $4.99SF MOHAWK/SHAW CARPET from $1.99SF MATERIAL, LABOR, INSTALLED CALL DAVID 813-943-4772 FLORIDAFLOORSYSTEMS.COM, FREE ESTIMATES

CLEANING SERVICES D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE. We have our own supplies & more than 200 clients in New Tampa! For more information, call 758-9710. Isn’t life busy enough? Save time. We can help. Your satisfaction is our first priority. Guaranteed, affordable, reliable, quality domestic svcs. Free estimate: Chelsea Maid Company @ 994-6662. The Happy Hauler - Smith's Cleanup Service Junk Removal, Garage Cleanouts, Small Buildings Torn Down, Above Ground Pools and Playsets Removed. Available for all your hauling needs.Call Don 813-727-6655. CYD PROFSESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICES Residential & Commercial – Weekly, BiWeekly & Monthly Rates - Flexible Scheduling including week-ends. Green Cleaning Solutions available upon request. We provide all cleaning supplies. Quality Cleaning at AFFORDABLE prices/ 5 years experience. You’ll have the same uniformed cleaning professional every time! CALL CATHERINE AT 813-965-4162.

L A N D S C A P I N G Enjoy your time & let A.T.B. Landscaping & Lawn Service do the work for you. We provide landscaping, lawn maintenance, clean-ups, tree & hedge trimming , sodding , sprinkler repair & fertilization. Other services also available. 907-LAWN

S I T T I N G

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

P O O L

S E R V I C E S

ENJOY YOUR POOL, WHILE WE MAINTAIN IT. KJ POOL SERVICE. Servicing pools for over 6 years. FIRST MONTH FREE, PLUS FREE EVALUATION & QUOTE Owner & Operator. LICENSE, BONDED & INSURED. Office: 813.909.9466 Cell: 813.748.9817. kjpoolservice@yahoo.com. Visit our website @ kjpoolonline.com TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE - New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing with outstanding customer service! Licensed, Bonded & Insured. CALL CHRIS TODAY @ 813857-5400 or visit WWW.TRANQUILITYPOOLSERVICE.COM to see why we are NEW TAMPA’S # 1 CHOICE! New customer’s ONE MONTH FREE! 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 813-780-8616 TODAY and get 1 MONTH OF QUALITY SERVICE FREE. www.aquatecpool.com

TRINITY CHURCH of Wesley Chapel, an Independent Mission Church, David Huff Senior Pastor, invites you to Sunday Services at 8:15am, 10:45am & Sunday School at 9:30am; State Road – 54; NEW PRAISE SERVICE every Sunday at 12:34 pm; music by Barney Barnard & Christian Rock Band. Your attendance is requested. QUESTIONS? Phone 813-788-2898;813-312-1971.

Busy Bees Tutoring - Elementary Reading and Math;

ESOL Certified; For rates and info call (813) 9078993 or e-mail at Duffy47@verizon.net

R E A L

E S T A T E

Foreclosure Homes & Bank REO listings by email at www.TampaForeclosuresToday.com. Team Bohannon, Coldwell Banker 813-982-7512

O F F I C E

S P A C E

Office Space for rent. Small private offices in upscale office park located in Tampa Palms area. Very Affordable. Call Jeanette Yates, WEICHERT, REALTORS-Yates & Associates at 813-933-1761.

T A I C H I L E S S O N S Tai Chi Classes open to the public at the Club Tampa Palms. Benefits: Strength, Flexibility, Balance, Focus and reduced stress. New Beginner 6 week courses starting every few months Thursday evening’s 7-8 pm. space is limited. Also personal instruction in Tai Chi, Kempo Karate, Boot Camp Fitness training and more. With more than 31 years of training and teaching experience. Please contact me for more details. Peter today #787-7560 or E-mail chuan-fa@tampabay.rr.com

A U T O S

F O R

S A L E

2006 Acura Integra - This Acura has everything that you need on it already it has a six speed manual transmission, leather seats, a full Pioneer Navigation system with bluetooth and a Ipod slot that you can control all of the songs through the car as well as lowering and handling springs, Weapon R headers, a Megan Exhaust, and a AEM cold air intake, as well as a Hondata chip, short shifter, as well as shifter bushings, carbon fiber shift knob, and HID's. This car has over 245 horsepower. It also has Kazera rims, blacked out lights, sun/moon roof and is in great shape. It has below 58,000 miles on it and has never been in a crash! Please call me at 813-731-9088 for more details. ALSO I HAVE ALL STOCK PARTS!!!! All this for only $15,800.

S E L L Y O U R S T U F F Turn your clutter into cash! Garage & estate sales, inventory liquidation,& appraisal services. We'll sell it for you online!We evaluate & appraise your products then get you top dollar. We do the work you get the cash. Ask me how, contact Mary at 813-428-5793

HOME DECORATION Decorate your home for the Holidays now! At The Thread Said, we focus on affordable custom window treatments, bedding, pillows and more. Schedule your FREE in-home Consultation by calling us at 813-313-3962.

LICENSED MOBILE MASSAGE THERAPIST 9am -9pm, Mon, Tues & Wed. $55 for 1 hour! Types of massage available: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Aroma Therapy, Hot Stone, Corporate Seated, Pregnancy, Sports & Injury Rehab. References available. www.barkdollmassagetherapy.com CALL 727-372-6389 Lic # MA47546.

D R I V I N G S E RV I C E Don’t Have a Ride? Don’t Want to Leave Your Car? Shouldn’t Drive? We Drive You and Your Car Home! Night Clubs, Corporate Events, Sporting Events, Concerts, Appointments, Airport or Stranded... Call Jay at 813-966-1530.

B A B Y S I T T I N G Nanny/Babysitter is AVAILABLE Nov 1st 2011 to babysit your children. 16 years experience. DAYS, EVENINGS, WEEKENDS. I also do pet sitting. Call 973-1216 or 220-7030 or email HUGHJUL5@aol.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

2006 Audi A4

LEATHER, MOONROOF

2006 Ford Escape

LOW MILES, AUTOMATIC

2007 Ford F-150

SONY CD, LOW MILES

2008 Ford Fusion

GREAT GAS MILEAGE!

$14,995

Stock #10X05193A

$13,995

Stock #12U28340A1

$14,995

Stock #11S32310A

$16,995

Stock #P2920

2011 Hyundai Sonata $28,995

TURBO, LOADED!

Stock #11X91156A

2008 Chevy Uplander $16,895

SEATS 7, LOW MILES!

2011 Ford Escape

7800 MILES, V6

2010 Ford F-150

LARIAT OFF-ROAD 4X4

2010 Ford Fusion

V6, LOW MILES!

2004 Lexus GX 470

V8, SEATS 7

Stock #11E06452A

$25,995

Stock #P2948

$36,995

Stock #11R63277A

$19,995

Stock #11T89327A

$23,995

Stock #12B13021A

2008 Chrysler T&C

$20,995

TOURING PACKAGE!

Stock #P2942

2004 Ford Expedition

EDDIE BAUER, 1 OWNER

Stock #11E10278A

2006 Ford Freestyle

$15,895

LEATHER, SEATS 7!

Stock #P2947

2011 Ford Mustang

V6, OVER 300 HP!

2010 LINCOLN MKX

LEATHER, 1 OWNER

$10,988

$23,875

Stock #12F72621A

$35,995

Stock #P2937

2008 Dodge Gr Caravan $18,995

1 OWNER, LOW MILES!

2010 Ford Focus

LEATHER, MOONROOF

2010 Ford Focus

GREAT GAS MILEAGE!

2010 Ford Mustang

CONVERTIBLE, LEATHER

2008 Nissan Altima

MOONROOF, POWER SEATS

Stock #P2923

$17,995

2008 Buick Enclave

$27,995

LEATHER, SEATS 8

Stock #P2950

2000 Ford Explorer

$6,795

Stock #P2932

EDDIE BAUER, MOONROOF

Stock #P2928A

$16,495

2011 Ford Focus

$18,925

Stock #P2933

$24,995

Stock #P2929

$17,995

Stock #P2936

LEATHER, MOONROOF

Stock #11C64987B

2008 Honda Accord

$23,995

MOONROOF, V6

Stock #P2938

2010 Volkswagen CC

LEATHER, PREMIUM SOUND

$24,995

Stock #11E34163A

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 19, Issue 19 • September 10, 2011 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com