New Tampa Neighborhood News, Volume 32, Issue 15, July 23, 2024

Hillsborough Seeking New Hearing In Pebble Creek Rezoning Case

By Gary Nager

Long-time Pebble Creek resident Leslie Green is still in limbo, but it’s nothing new for the founder of “Save Pebble Creek,” the organization she started two years ago in an effort to prevent Pebble Creek Golf Club owner Bill Place and his Ace Golf from rezoning the golf course land to allow for further residential development.

Development company GL Homes had attempted to rezone the 149-acre golf course property in order to build 250 single-family homes. At that time, Green and her Save Pebble Creek group began holding community meetings and distributing petitions asking the community to oppose Place’s plan to sell the golf course to GL Homes. And, although there were some members of the community who supported the idea of redeveloping the shuttered golf course, the campaign resulted in a flurry of emails to Hillsborough County Commission Chair and District 2 Commissioner Ken Hagan.

Place then sued Green for defaming his character and for interfering with his attempts to find a developer. She filed a countersuit in May 2022, but then sought to have Place’s suit dismissed under Florida’s Anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) statute. A little more than two years later, that case still has not been decided.

In July of 2023, GL Homes’ attempt to rezone the golf course property was denied 5-2 by the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), after Hagan said he had received 1,800 letters from residents of the community, the vast majority of which were in opposition to the rezoning.

Our editor thanks the local businesses who made moving into a new apartment as easy as possible. See page 3

Green, whose home has faced the golf course for more than 30 years, applauded Hagan’s efforts to preserve the beauty of her community. Hagan said at the time that Place only had a couple of options going forward:

“He can come up with another developer with a different plan that might be more acceptable to the residents,” Comm. Hagan said after the July 17 meeting. “We’ve also discussed the possibility of the county purchasing the golf club to convert it to a county-owned course, but he (Place) would have to come down in price a lot for us to be interested.”

Green also suggested that Place might’ve been waiting for this year’s elections, when three of the seven Commission seats are up for grabs, in the hopes that perhaps the new commissioners might look more favorably upon the rezoning proposal.

But, GL Homes found another option. In October of last year, the home builder appealed the county commission’s denial of the rezoning request to Hillsborough County Circuit Judge Paul Huey.

Eight months later, on June 24, Judge Huey “quashed” the decision by the BOCC to deny the rezoning, which means, in legal terms, “to set aside or void.” (Note-For a lot more information about why the BOCC’s decision was quashed, see page 4.)

It also meant that now, the county had its own decision to make: Either ask Judge Huey for a rehearing, appeal the judge’s verdict to a higher court, or allow GL Homes to proceed with its development plan.

On July 5, the county filed a petition to the Circuit Court for a rehearing.

See “Pebble Creek Revisited” on page 4.

Several recent incidents spurred the need for a Public Safety Town Hall.

Long-time Pebble Creek resident Leslie Green, who started the “Save Pebble Creek” organization, says her only motivation is to preserve the natural beauty of her community. Green is waiting to see what happens next in the attempt to rezone the Pebble Creek golf course.

The Nagers Are Thankful For The Local Businesses That Helped Us Move Into Silversaw

An Editorial by GARY NAGER

Neighborhood News deadlines are almost never easy for yours truly, but the deadline week to get our July 9 Wesley Chapel issue to the printer was surely more challenging than pretty much any since I suffered a detached retina in my left eye in September of 2023.

Jannah and I signed a lease to move into the beautiful new Silversaw Luxury Apartments (next to the Hyatt Place Hotel on the north side of S.R. 56 at I-75) a couple of months ago and we both did the best we could to try to get as much done every off-deadline week since signing that lease to make the packing and moving as painless as humanly possible.

What’s poet Robert Burns’ old saying about the “best laid plans of mice and men?”

In other words, despite all of our efforts 6-8 weeks before the move — although we moved into our incredibly spacious and comfortable new apartment on the usually quiet Monday of the deadline week for this issue — I guess we should have given ourselves at least one additional day to get moved in. It’s now clear to me that unpacking — and finding a place for everything in a new place — is infinitely harder than throwing out as much old “stuff” as possible and putting the rest in boxes and suitcases in anticipation of a move. It’s as though our entire previous apartment — located less than a mile from our new one — was one giant junk drawer and both Jannah and I were (and still are) determined to not let the same thing happen to our new digs.

The truth of the matter is that other than brief interludes during my breaks between working on both ads and stories for this issue, Jannah did most of the actual unpacking, while I covered for her as much as possible to get all of our ads done. But, getting the multiple stories I had to write to fill the space in that issue to my satisfaction was an even tougher task for me.

In fact, as I wrote this editorial on Sunday evening, with the paper due at the printer early on Monday, I still had three more stories to write, so I actually missed my deadline by a few hours, but the issue did still arrive in mailbox by (or before) its cover date of July 9. But, it sure wasn’t easy.

Thanking Those Who Made It Easier

The good news is that a number of local companies, only one of which is one of our advertisers, helped immensely with even making it possible for me to get the July 9 issue done on time.

The first is Bull Moving, located on N. Florida Ave. a little north of Fowler Ave. These guys are pros. From just one phone call with Jannah, they determined what size truck we needed and how many guys (three) it would take to get our short-distance move completed on Monday.

The crew showed up on time, worked pretty much non-stop to get everything neatly loaded onto the truck and bring it all in one trip into our new second-floor apartment. And, even though the job took longer than what was estimated, it most definitely wasn’t the fault of these three very courteous young men, who never stopped giving their all, making sure they carefully dropped off each piece of furniture and every box where we directed them to do so.

Of course, not moving very far helped keep our cost down, but I don’t really believe any company could have done a better job for less money or in less time. For more info, call Jeremy at Bull Moving at (813) 943-6043 or visit BullMoving.com.

Of course, whenever you leave an apartment, you have to leave it “broom clean” and our friends

Erica and Reggie of Final Touch Quality Cleaners, who also have provided our regular clean-ups every two weeks, specialize in “move-out” cleans. Erica handled our job herself in just a few short hours, wiping down every surface (especially those we hadn’t seen behind furniture that hadn’t really been moved in five years), packed up and threw out all of the garbage we left behind, swept and mopped every floor and vacuumed every inch of carpeting in our two bedrooms, fully cleaned our two bathrooms, our refrigerator and freezer, our oven (which we rarely used) and even our laundry room. If you’ve been looking for a new residential or commercial cleaning service, you won’t find better than Erica and Reggie of Final Touch. For more info, call Final Touch Cleaning at (813) 530-5591.

And finally, although our air conditioning works great in our new place, Jannah and I have

always had ceiling fans in our bedrooms and living room and we realized that there were none in our new place, which has a third bedroom that we are now using as our first dedicated home office space.

We bought four nice-looking ceiling fans from a local home improvement warehouse and rather than pay that company to install the fans, we hired our friend (and licensed electrician) Jorge Gonzalez of GQ Electric. The day we brought the fans home, Jorge (left in photo) and his assistant showed up to professionally install all four fans in about two hours, cleaned up after themselves and did it for less than what the home improvement store would have charged — and Jorge is just the nicest guy and super-trustworthy. For more info, call (352) 4672412 or visit gqelectricneartampa.com.

And, for more info about Silversaw Luxury Apartments, visit SilversawApts.com. Please also

note our new mailing (not our physical) address in the yellow box below.

about your home’s value? Get a free, instant estimate online with my FREE Automated Valuation Model. ZERO COST.

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Judge Huey’s ruling on the developer’s appeal was that, “The court cannot find that the Board of County Commissioners relied on competent, substantial evidence when it denied GL Homes’ proposal.”

The judge also felt that the BOCC’s decision was more of a personal attack on Place, even though neither he nor his Ace Golf submitted the rezoning proposal. Although the Board’s original decision was based on the rezoning “not being infill and not compatible with the Comprehensive Plan,” the judge saw that GL Homes’ rezoning request was recommended for BOCC approval by the county’s Planning Commission and the zoning hearing master (ZHM), both of which said the proposed development was consistent with the comprehensive plan.

The judge also noted that Hagan said he was basing his decision to deny the rezoning, in part, on the Pebble Creek resident emails that accused Place of “spiteful tactics, intimidation, vindictiveness, innuendo, and fearmongering.”

But, in its petition for rehearing, the county claims that Judge Huey, “overlooked record evidence or misapprehended several points of law or fact in a manner that the County believes fundamentally affected the Court’s Order Granting Petition for Writ of Certiorari (“Order”). The County requests rehearing and requests that this Court rescind its Order Granting Petition for Writ of Certiorari and issue an Order Denying Petition for Writ of Certiorari.”

In other words, the county said that Judge Huey did not consider all of the factual evidence upon which the county based its decision, claiming, “The Application for rezoning as proposed would result in a complete change to the character of the existing community, by eliminating the central feature of a neighborhood which has existed for decades. Further, this decision has the potential to impact redevelopment of other similar communities within the State of Florida.”

The county’s arguments for requesting the rehearing included the following:

1. There was Competent Substantial Evidence for the BOCC to Deny Petitioner’s Application. As the Court notes in its Order, the Florida Supreme Court has set forth a framework that requires rezoning applicants to prove that their proposal is consistent with the comprehensive plan and complies with all procedural requirements of the zoning ordinance. If a rezoning applicant provides competent, substantial

evidence that its application is consistent with the comprehensive plan, the Board may still deny the application to accomplish “a legitimate public purpose,” at which point the Board has “the burden of showing that the refusal to rezone the property is not arbitrary, discriminatory, or unreasonable.”

2. The county’s petition also says, “Ultimately, the Court concluded that there was no competent substantial evidence that the Application did not comply with the Comprehensive Plan, nor was there competent substantial evidence to support the County’s legitimate public purpose for denying the Application. However, in reaching the above conclusions, the Court overlooked competent substantial record evidence on which the Board could have relied, or misapprehended several points of law or fact.”

“Under this Court’s limited scope of review, it must be determined whether the record contains any competent substantial evidence to support the Board’s denial. In evaluating the evidence presented, it does not matter whether there is also evidence to support a conclusion different from that reached by the Board for ‘the point is that when the facts are such as to give the County Commission a choice between alternatives, it is up to the County Commission to make that choice — not the circuit court.’”

As for the evidence that the BOCC made the correct decision, here is a summary of what the petition for rehearing says:

1.[The Application] is inconsistent with he Comprehensive Plan.

2. The open space character of the subject property is an integral part of the neighborhood.

3. The removal of the open space around which the surrounding existing neighborhood was developed and constructed would not protect nor maintain the neighborhood’s character

4. The golf course was opened in 1967, five years before the Pebble Creek Planned Development was rezoned. The golf course was included as a central part of the zoning, and integral to the neighborhood design.

5. The golf course also was an integral part of the neighborhood’s character. The golf course is identified on the plan as the center of the planned development, around which the other uses in the neighborhood were designed and planned.

6.Because the golf course came first, it is a central component — or cornerstone — of that planned development. To completely replace this use, which currently makes up 25 percent of the acreage of the planned development, with additional residential housing, is a significant change to the character of this golf course community.

At the June 10 Town Hall meeting hosted by County Commissioner Ken Hagan, Leslie Green thanked Hagan for his efforts to prevent the rezoning of the Pebble Creek golf course.

7. There is testimony in the record taken by the ZHM that supplements the other record evidence that the existing 150-acre golf course is the centerpiece of the neighborhood, and that to completely eliminate its use and to replace it with a residential development would be to lose an integral part of the neighborhood itself.

8.Pebble Creek was “uniquely designed” to incorporate the golf course, and by removing it “you are removing the very thing that built the community.” The golf course was a “primary reason” or “major factor” for some of the homeowners to live in the community.

9.In the Court’s Order, the Court notes that “[t]he Board argues logically that because the neighborhood was designed and built around the golf course, the land acts as a fundamental ‘centerpiece,’” which appears to imply that that the Board’s determination about the neighborhood having been designed and built around the golf course was based merely on logic and inference, rather than substantial competent evidence in the record. However, the County used future land use maps, zoning maps, the prior approved plan, and lay witness fact-based testimony to support its determination.

10. The Board also cited evidence that supports that the retention of the existing zoning accomplishes “a legitimate public purpose.” As argued at the Hearing, the legitimate public purpose is to protect the character of the neighborhood, which is not only a recognized public purpose under current case law, but also a mandate of the County’s Comprehensive Plan.

11.Judge Huey also ruled that the Board’s decision was based, in part, on the belief that

the president of Ace Golf “lacks good sense and common decency.” However, the basis for the Board’s denial must be found in its adopted resolution, and not in singular comments made by a particular commissioner regarding an application or voting on an application.

The Board’s petition concluded that, “The record contained competent, substantial evidence that the Application was inconsistent with the County’s Comprehensive Plan, and that there was a legitimate public purpose to maintain the existing zoning, and therefore support a denial of the Application. Moreover, the Court misstated the Board’s reasons for denial of the Application by relying on a commissioners’ comments rather than the Board-adopted resolution.”

Comm. Hagan says that once Judge Huey rules on the Petition for Rehearing, the county has 30 days to accept his decision or appeal the judge’s ruling to an appellate court.

Meanwhile, Green says, “We still feel that the BOCC made the right decision and the rehearing will give them the opportunity to give the judge more clarity to see that they did in fact use proper evidence in making their decision.”

The bottom line, she adds, is that, “This is my home. Rezoning the golf course will change completely the character and beauty of our neighborhood forever.”

She’s holding out hope that the county’s Tampa Sports Authority will be able to purchase the golf course and reopen it, as Comm. Hagan mentioned could happen at his June 10 New Tampa Town Hall meeting (as we reported last issue).

In the meantime, all Leslie Green can do is continue to wait.

MELONY WILLIAMS

Tampa Police & Viera To Host A Follow-Up Public Safety Town Hall On July 30

Few answers provided, no suspects named at June 24 Town Hall, following three fatal shooting incidents in four days in New Tampa

By Gary Nager

In the five days from June 17 through June 21, there were four people killed or found dead in New Tampa, in three separate shooting incidents, which prompted Tampa Police Department (TPD) Chief Lee Bercaw and District 7 Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera, himself a New Tampa resident, to co-host a Town Hall meeting at the New Tampa Recreation Center in Tampa Palms on June 24.

Then, another incident which began on E. Bearss Ave. ended with a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Deputy run over by a suspect in Tampa Palms on July 5. Considering how little major crime has taken place in New Tampa in the 30 years I’ve owned the Neighborhood News, this spree of major crimes certainly has been a cause for concern for local residents.

First, To Recap...

On June 17, 24-year-old Kyle Prisco of Wesley Chapel was fatally shot in mid-afternoon broad daylight on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., in front of the Chase Bank in Pebble Creek. Prisco was found on the ground outside his white Mercedes. He was pronounced dead at the scene and, although Prisco’s name was not released until a few days later, the Bean Bar Co. owner Danielle Henry organized a GoFundMe campaign “to assist Kyle’s sister, Kayla, and his mother, Lisa, with any expenses related to the funeral,” which was held at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church on Cross Creek Blvd. on June 27. That campaign had raised nearly $24,000 of a $30,000 goal at our

press time, with nearly 300 donations made.

Although that incident alone was shocking enough in normally peaceful New Tampa, on June 21, two people were fatally shot and a third taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries in an incident that began in front of the Portofino Apartments on New Tampa Blvd. at the front of the West Meadows community, where the body of a man was found with gunshot wounds. A short time later, Hillsborough Sheriff’s deputies found a vehicle near Bearss Ave. with the two other people with gunshot wounds, one of whom was pronounced dead.

of days of each

To cap off that one gruesome week, earlier on June 21, Tampa Police (TPD) officers found a decomposed body in a car near the Metro Self Storage adjacent to the New Tampa Nature Park on Doña Michele Dr.

With the people of New Tampa desperate for answers about the incidents on BBD and New Tampa Blvd., no suspects had yet been arrested or even named in either of those shootings and no additional details about them have yet been released.

Even so, Chief Bercaw said his primary reason for hosting the Town Hall — which was packed with a standing-room-only crowd of about 200 local residents — was to try to assure the public that they are safe.

“These incidents appear to be unrelated and were not random,” Chief Bercaw said. “In the case of the shooting on New Tampa Blvd., it is believed that all of the people involved knew each other.”

He also noted that because Prisco’s body was found on BBD, which is a county road, HCSO was leading that investigation, “but we are working feverishly, day in and day out, and closely with the Sheriff’s Department on both of these cases.”

The room at the New Tampa Recreation Center was packed as Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw (third from left at dais) and District 7 Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera (with microphone) update the community about the two fatal shootings within a couple

other in New Tampa. (Photo by Charmaine George)

Even so, many in the audience of New Tampa residents were wondering why no one from HCSO attended the Town Hall to provide any updates or at least show support for the event.

“I can’t speak for them,” Chief Bercaw said when I asked that question shortly after the meeting ended, “but I assure you that we have a great working relationship with the Sheriff’s Office and are sharing all information on these cases.”

As for the decomposed body, sometime after the June 24 Town Hall ended, it was reported that TPD had arrested and charged 29-year-old Andre Aris (photo) with the first-degree murder of the 35-year-old man who was found “in an advanced stage of decomposition” in that 2006 Dodge Charger.

Although the dead man — whose body was riddled with bullets — was not officially identified

by TPD, a lanyard hanging around the man’s neck contained a Florida driver’s license that helped investigators identify him as 35-year-old Andre Dyke.

Those investigators learned that Dyke had been living out of his red Dodge Charger and discovered, with the help of license plate readers, that someone else had been driving the car after he died, according to a TPD report. The Dodge was found at the Hunter’s Key townhomes, an apartment complex located a few hundred feet north of where Dyke’s body was found. TPD said that Aris had recently dumped the body between Metro Self Storage and the New Tampa Nature Park. He also faces a charge of Grand Theft of a motor vehicle.

About The Town Hall

Councilman Viera, who has hosted dozens of Town Halls on a variety of subjects, some better attended than others, said that he found the crowd at the June 24 meeting encouraging.

“I’m not going to say it’s a pleasure, because of why we’re all here, but it is a pleasure to see so many people here, because it obviously shows that we all want to hear from law enforcement about these incidents. It shows that the New Tampa community, which has sometimes been accused of being apathetic, will come out in force when they have major concerns about public safety.”

With most of the speakers who asked questions of the police at the June 24 Town Hall saying they didn’t feel safe because of the sudden wave of violent crimes in New Tampa, Chief Bercaw asked for the community’s help, especially if they had any video or information that could help with the cases.

One question asked whether “Shot Spotter” — a gunshot detection, acoustic surveillance technology that uses sensors to detect, locate and alert law enforcement agencies of possible gunfire incidents —

See “Town Halls” on pg. 8

Andre Aris

Kyle Prisco & his sister Kayla (Photo source: GoFundMe)

‘Town Halls’ Continued from pg. 7

could be brought to New Tampa, Dep. Chief Calvin Johnson, who also was at the dais answering questions, said that the technology didn’t make sense for New Tampa, “because there aren’t normally enough shooting incidents here to warrant that investment. Plus, unlike in, say, East Tampa, people here would immediately call 9-1-1 if they heard shots fired.”

Meanwhile, although Chief Bercaw also said that TPD was close to making an arrest in the New Tampa Blvd. incident, no arrests had been announced at our press time for this issue. He added that although the lack of information coming out is troubling to the local residents who spoke at the Town Hall, “Sometimes, I want to tell but I also don’t want to compromise the case.”

The TPD Chief also said that New Tampa has three very strong Neighborhood Watch groups and “If you’re not yet a part of one of those groups or your community doesn’t yet have one, please join or help start one. See us after this and we will provide assistance for you.”

To that end, residents of the Ashington Estates community in Tampa Palms later sent Viera a notification that they were organizing a Neighborhood Watch for their community (see story on pg. 12).

Chief Bercaw also promised that, “This is not the end, this is the beginning.” And, true to his word, TPD and Councilman Viera already have organized a follow-up community meeting on public safety that is scheduled for Tuesday, July 30, 6 p.m., at the Compton Park clubhouse (16101 Compton Dr.), also in Tampa Palms. Dep. Hall Leaves TGH

The incident where HCSO Deputy Kalin Hall ended up with a broken leg didn’t start in New Tampa. Shortly after midnight on July 5, the 11-year

HCSO veteran stopped a suspect he wanted to question at the intersection of E. Bearss Ave. and N. Nebraska Ave. because he noticed the suspect’s black BMW was unable to stay in one lane. When the vehicle took off, Dep. Hall said he did not give chase, but ended up locating the vehicle 25 minutes later, this time backed into a parking space at the Amberly Place apartments on Plantation Oaks Dr. in Tampa Palms (off Amberly Dr, and just east of BBD).

Law enforcement officers followed Lewis as his friend drove them into Pasco County. When the pair stopped at an unidentified shopping plaza, deputies arrested both of them.

In addition, Lewis’ girlfriend, Keilise Garrison, 23, also was arrested. She was charged with accessory after the fact. She deleted all of her text messages, so she also was charged with tampering with physical evidence.

1.Fullyfundedtrafficreducingprojectslikethe CitrusParkRoadExtensionandaccelerated neighborhoodroadresurfacingplans.

When Hall got out of his vehicle, the BMW rammed into him and ran over his leg. The 33-yearold deputy was treated at Tampa General Hospital for one leg that was broken in two places, a broken ankle, and a stress fracture in the other leg.

The good news in Dep. Hall’s case was that he was able to leave TGH the next day and that William Todd Lewis, Jr. 24, the suspected driver of the BMW, and two other people were arrested a few days later.

Lewis was charged with aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, possession of more than 20 grams of cannabis, leaving the scene of a crash with serious bodily injury, reckless driving with serious bodily injury, aggravated fleeing to elude serious bodily injury or death and fleeing to elude a police officer.

Meanwhile, Lewis’ friend who was driving the rental car, 24-year-old Zachoiry Carnegie, was charged with having a baggie of Xanax that didn’t belong to him.

2.Recordinvestmentsinneighborhood infrastructureincludingsidewalks,lighting, parks,theartsandyouthsports.

As Lewis drove away after ramming Dep. Hall, Hillsborough Sheriff Chad Chronister said the suspect called his girlfriend and told her what had happened. He then ditched the BMW about a mile away from the scene. The girlfriend called Lewis’ mother, who picked up her son and drove him home.

3.Continuetomakedeveloperspaytheir fairshare.

According to Chronister, Carnegie was out on bond after being arrested by the Tampa Police Department for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, which has since been upgraded to attempted murder.

“Instead of doing the right thing, Garrison made the conscious decision to conceal Lewis’ involvement,” Sheriff Chronister said. “This choice to protect a criminal rather than uphold justice is not only deceitful but also deeply disappointing,. Her selfishly motivated actions undermined the integrity of our investigative efforts and put the community at further risk. For her role in this incident, she will face the full consequences of her actions.”

1.Fullyfundedtrafficreducingprojectslikethe CitrusParkRoadExtensionandaccelerated neighborhoodroadresurfacingplans.

Chronister also noted that he expects Lewis’ charges to be upgraded to attempted murder of a law enforcement officer and that there would be at least one more arrest in this case, but didn’t say whether or not that additional arrest would be of Lewis’ mother.

2.Recordinvestmentsinneighborhood infrastructureincludingsidewalks,lighting,

4.Developingnewprogramsandprojects thatprotectthequantityandqualityofour drinkingwater.

5.Fighttokeeptaxeslow,budgetsbalancedand

Detectives went to the home and, when they interviewed Lewis, they said he showed zero remorse and asked for an attorney. An arrest warrant was issued for Lewis, but a surveillance team had been keeping tabs on him and believed he was about to take off again. According to Chronister, the surveillance team saw Lewis and his friend get a rental car and watched them fill it with items from inside the home where Lewis was staying.

3.Continuetomakedeveloperspaytheir 4.Developingnewprogramsandprojects

6.WorkwithourSherifftocontinuetokeepour familiessafeandfundnewinitiativestoreduce

5.Fighttokeeptaxeslow,budgetsbalancedand

1.Fullyfundedtrafficreducingprojectslikethe CitrusParkRoadExtensionandaccelerated neighborhoodroadresurfacingplans.

2.Recordinvestmentsinneighborhood infrastructureincludingsidewalks,lighting,

7.Focusonkeepinghousingaffordable-

6.WorkwithourSherifftocontinuetokeepour familiessafeandfundnewinitiativestoreduce violentcrimes.

3.Continuetomakedeveloperspaytheir fairshare.

3.Continuetomakedeveloperspaytheir fairshare.

7.Focusonkeepinghousingaffordableespeciallyinoururbancores.

3.Continuetomakedeveloperspaytheir fairshare.

4.Developingnewprogramsandprojects thatprotectthequantityandqualityofour drinkingwater.

4.Developingnewprogramsandprojects thatprotectthequantityandqualityofour drinkingwater.

4.Developingnewprogramsandprojects thatprotectthequantityandqualityofour drinkingwater.

5.Fighttokeeptaxeslow,budgetsbalancedand countyspendingtransparent.

•New Tampa Performing Arts Center - Opened 2023

•$100m widening of Bruce B Downs Blvd.

5.Fighttokeeptaxeslow,budgetsbalancedand countyspendingtransparent.

6.WorkwithourSherifftocontinuetokeepour familiessafeandfundnewinitiativestoreduce violentcrimes.

5.Fighttokeeptaxeslow,budgetsbalancedand countyspendingtransparent.

•Our New $7m Branchton Park - Opening Fall 2024

6.WorkwithourSherifftocontinuetokeepour familiessafeandfundnewinitiativestoreduce violentcrimes.

•New Tampa’s first public recreation center/gymnasium Groundbreaking Fall 2024

6.WorkwithourSherifftocontinuetokeepour familiessafeandfundnewinitiativestoreduce violentcrimes.

•Widening of Cross Creek Blvd.

7.Focusonkeepinghousingaffordableespeciallyinoururbancores.

7.Focusonkeepinghousingaffordableespeciallyinoururbancores.

7.Focusonkeepinghousingaffordableespeciallyinoururbancores.

•Flatwoods Trail Improvements

• $2.1m for Morris Bridge Rd. safety improvements - Nov. 2024

SHERIFF CHAD

you have any questions -please call me on my cell phone

you have any questions -please call

If you have questions -please me on my cell at any time.

William Todd Lewis, Jr.

Zachoiry Carnegie

Keilise Garrison

Hillsborough Sheriff’s Ofc. Dep. Kalin Hall leaves Tampa General Hospital a day after having surgery on his broken leg after rammed by the BMW being driven by William Todd Lewis, Jr. (All photos on this page were provided by HCSO)

City Councilman Luis Viera Provides Updates On Crime, Fire Response Times & More

By Luis Viera

Tampa City Council - District 7

I wanted to update the New Tampa community about what is happening at City Hall.

Homicides in New Tampa

As everyone knows, the New Tampa community has been rocked by a number of recent homicides. Public safety is always issue number one with me. I have always proudly stood with our police and fire departments even in tough political times, with hits from both left and right.

On July 1, 2024, I put together a town hall in New Tampa where Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw briefed the community (see story on pg. xx). The turnout showed that New Tampa is united against crime and that we are ready to respond. Our cops in New Tampa know we support them. I will continue to support our cops and push for a Public Safety Master Plan.

We will be having a follow up town hall on Tuesday, July 30, 6 p.m., at Compton Park in Tampa Palms. I hope to see you there.

New Tampa Fire Response Times

Next is the Tampa Fire Rescue (TFR) Department. Since I took office, we have built two new fire stations for North and New Tampa — with a third coming for North Tampa. The problem for New Tampa is not call volume, but response times — especially for K-Bar Ranch. I have been working with TFR for a plan for New Tampa. I favor a modular station for

K-Bar Ranch — something the Administration opposes. So, if I can not get a home run, I will fight for a double. That means another vehicle for Station 22 for response times. And (as reported in these pages a couple of issues ago), working on a potential “cut through” on Morris Bridge Rd. to provide easier access to K-Bar Ranch from TFR Station No. 22 on Cross Creek Blvd.

I tell people: whether it is a new station, a cut through, another vehicle or 10 Our Fathers and 10 Hail Marys, I will work for any solution that addresses this problem.

K-Bar Ranch Park

In this year’s budget, I asked for design funding for a multi-acre city park in K-Bar Ranch. This will set up this project for construction funding in the coming years.

I hope this will create a pathway for a cricket field presence in New Tampa, something the Indian-Americans in our area have long lobbied for. If we secure the design money, then the public engagement process begins, and I will push hard for a cricket presence in this space. If this passes, it will likely be built after I leave office — but I want to make sure that this moves forward now for K-Bar Ranch.

We need to make sure City Hall knows that New Tampa – the Alaska of Tampa – exists and has needs.

About The 2024 Elections

We’ve all got a big election coming up. People have their opinions — God knows I have

mine — but I tell everyone this: Do not empower the idea that we are one another’s enemies because of our mainstream differences.

As an elected official, I work with anyone who will help me improve the lives of my constituent — Republican or Democrat.

Let’s see the best in one another as Americans. In this acute time, there is no greater American challenge than to build bridges with one another — and build back normalcy. Ever wonder how extreme movements like “Defund the Police” or “Stop the Steal” on January 6th get so much oxygen? They happen when we let politics become our identity. So, stop yelling at MSNBC or Fox and instead go to church, go for a walk or chat with your neighbor about baseball or something.

Tampa City Council Pay Raises

Lastly, I have received many calls and seen many comments about the recent Tampa City Council pay raise, where my fellow Council members voted 4-3 to give us all a 40% pay raise. I wanted to explain my “No” vote.

Here is my view: a pay raise makes sense. But, it’s the timing that kills me. The 27th Amendment of our Constitution mandates that Congress first vote on a pay raise, then have an election, then get the benefit of it. If this formula

is good enough for Congress, then it should be good enough for City Council, too.

A higher salary will allow more people from different backgrounds to run for Council — a good result. But, why have us benefit before voters have their say on who gets this amount? Makes sense to me and, I bet, to many of you, too.

Conclusion

Know what a pleasure it has been to represent you. I have been in office almost eight years with political ups and downs, but with my constituents it has always been a pleasure. Also know that I always remain available at luis.viera@tampagov.net.

Dist. 7 Tampa City Council member Luis Viera (left) and Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw at the Public Safety Town Hall meeting in Tampa Palms on July 1. (Photo by Charmaine George)

Ashington Estates At Tampa Palms Neighborhood Watch Program Off To A Good Start

By Gary Nager

Photos by Charmaine George

When Tampa Police Dept. (TPD) Chief Lee Bercaw and District 7 Tampa City Council member Luis Viera co-hosted the New Tampa Public Safety Town Hall meeting on July 1 (see story on page 6), Chief Bercaw told those in attendance that if they want to be an even greater asset to their local law enforcement officials, they should join their community’s Neighborhood Watch program — or start a new one if their neighborhood didn’t already have one.

Ashington Estates at Tampa Palms resident Kevin Kelly took that advice to heart, as he immediately began to organize a new Neighborhood Watch group for his subdivision of about 100 homes. On July 5 — the Friday afternoon of the 4th of July holiday weekend and less than two weeks following the TPD Town Hall — there were ten TPD officers, Viera and several of Kelly’s fellow residents meeting inside the gates of Ashington Estates, only a few weeks after the series of violent crimes that touched New Tampa.

And, although the TPD officers outnumbered the number of Ashington residents who stopped by the organizational meeting while yours truly and photographer Charmaine George were on hand, Kelly said he was encouraged by the turnout and support that day.

“ We had about 14-15 residents in attendance overall, including drive-bys,” Kelly said after the meeting. “We currently have 21 in our neighborhood watch group and two of those signed up for our Facebook group since the roll call.”

As his community’s new Neighborhood Watch coordinator, Kelly also said he was, “very pleased with our police turnout. It shows their interest in Neighborhood Watch groups and the synergy those groups bring to the Police Department. I honestly only expected about 10 neighbors for this first roll call, so we surpassed that by a little.”

Those who did attend basically heard the TPD officers recap what happened during New Tampa’s week of three violent events that left four people dead and two others injured, with only one arrest having been made. The officers explained that the incident that occurred on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. on June 17 was being investigated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), but that TPD always works closely with HCSO and was being updated on that case.

Meanwhile, the Ashington Estates neighbors talked about things like people from other neighborhoods fishing in their pond, as there had never been any actual crime reported in their community, but TPD Major Brett Owen explained that hosting regular Neighborhood Watch meetings and occasional events will help keep the police — and the community — informed about anything that does happen inside those gates.

As to how Kelly hopes to increase participation in the program, he said, “I’m trying to get some work parties together for small jobs in the neighborhood’s common areas (trimming, painting, etc.), which I’ve already suggested to our Homeowners Association’s president.”

Kelly also said that he hopes to see, “more social media interaction within our group. It’s

been a bit slow up to this point, so regular interactions should generate interest. Our information mechanisms of choice currently are Facebook and WhatsApp.”

Kelly also said that the Neighborhood Watch’s next meeting has not yet been planned, but that there were now “tentative

Estates neighborhood with the TPD officers on

plans” to do something for National Night Out (Tuesday, August 6), but that nothing specific had yet been planned at our press time.

(Top) Tampa City Council member Luis Viera (2nd from left) was among those who attended the organizational meeting for the Ashington Estates at Tampa Palms Neighborhood Watch program. (Above) Watch coordinator Kevin Kelly (far left) talks about his Ashington

hand for the event.

How Do Florida’s New Homeowners & Condo Association Laws Affect You?

Although

By Iris Vitelli, Neighborhood News Correspondent & Gary Nager

A number of the bills Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law on May 31 of this year will have far-reaching effects on homeowners (HOAs) and condominium associations, licensed community association managers (LCAMs) and home and condo owners themselves.

According to PearlAntonacci.com (the website of the Pearl Antonacci Group of Compass Real Estate, based in Boca Raton), the 2024 HOA (Florida House Bill 1203) and condo (HB 1021) laws introduce stringent requirements for structural safety, financial transparency, and board governance:

“Key highlights include:

• Reserve Studies & Funding: Condo associations are now required to conduct comprehensive reserve studies periodically. This ensures that sufficient funds are available for major repairs and replacements, providing a clear financial roadmap for future needs.

• Increased Transparency: Associations must provide detailed financial reports to all members annually, ensuring that every dollar spent is accounted for, fostering trust and clarity within the community.

• Structural Integrity Inspections: In light of past incidents, there is a heightened focus on the physical health of buildings. Regular, mandatory inspections are to be carried out to guarantee the safety and durability of the structures.

• Insurance Adjustments: The laws mandate that condo associations maintain robust insurance

policies covering a wide range of potential damages, which might lead to increased premiums but significantly better protection against unforeseen events.

• Enhanced Board Requirements: Board members are subject to stricter eligibility criteria and training requirements, aiming to professionalize HOA management and enhance decisionmaking processes.

For homeowners, these changes mean more rights and protections from potentially overreaching HOA boards. It’s important for homeowners to be proactive, by attending HOA meetings and staying informed about their rights under the new laws.”

But, while not all of Florida House Bill (HB) 1203 is yet in effect, many of these changes did take effect on July 1. The new law requires homeowners associations, certain community association managers and community association management firms “to post certain documents on their websites or make available such documents through an application by a date certain.” The law also provides that an association or its agent is required to apply and enforce certain standards regarding architectural or construction improvements “reasonably and equitably.”

Key Changes & Requirements

Several new laws address property management companies. While some HOAs and property management companies have adhered to these now-required practices for years, others were rushing to comply by July 1, when most of the requirements kick in. However, the website requirement is extended to January 1, 2025. The law states that HOA documents must be accessible via a website

or mobile app, with a password-protected portal for homeowners. Required documents include:

• Declaration of Covenants & Amendments

• Articles of Incorporation & Amendments

• Bylaws & Amendments

• Current Rules

• Contracts & Bids

• Annual Budget

• Financial Reports

• Insurance Policies

• Director Certifications

• Agendas & Minutes

• All Contracts, Notices & Documents related to Conflicts of Interest

• Member Meeting Notices & Agendas

• Board Meeting Notices & Enclosures Although many documents will be available

on the HOA’s website, homeowners can still request to view documents kept by the property management company. Requests must be made by certified mail, and appointments will be arranged. Homeowners may take pictures or request and pay for copies of the records.

Penalties & Compliance

The law now explicitly states that directors or property managers who knowingly solicit, offer, or accept kickbacks are guilty of a third-degree felony. If a director is removed, the Board must fill the position immediately. When entering into a contract with an HOA, the contract must have a conflict of interest section. The property management company may recommend a vendor they have a stake in but must now disclose that information in the contract.

Among the many bills Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law in May was Florida House Bill (HB) 1203, which is now changing the way many homeowners associations do business. (Photo is from FLVoiceNews.com)

Fining Committees & Procedures

Not all HOAs already have a fining committee but under the new law, all HOAs are now required to establish such a committee. This committee will be made up of homeowner peers, and can not include any Board members or HOA employees. The committee will hear the homeowner’s explanation for not addressing the violation or contacting the property manager to make arrangements. After hearing the homeowner’s side, the committee will decide whether or not to impose the fine. The only authority the fining committee has is to approve or reject the fine; they cannot make alternate arrangements with the homeowner.

Previously, the fining committee met at a location; the new law states that a homeowner can attend these meetings via phone or other electronic means. This law also prohibits a fine or suspension from being imposed if the violation is cured before the hearing has been held.

The law also prevents associations from levying fines and suspensions for leaving garbage at the curb 24 hours before or after collection time or for leaving holiday decorations or lights on longer than allowed by governing documents, unless they are left for more than a week after the HOA gives written notice of the violation.

Expert Opinions

Attorney Jonathan Ellis, who is Board-certified in condominium and planned development law and a Partner and Community Associations Business Sector Chair at the Tampa office of Shumaker, Loop, and Kendrick, and an expert in HOA law, says, “Unfortunately, year after year, more amendments complicate HOA operations. Associations will need to consult counsel more often.” He adds that, “many changes are beneficial but will require HOAs to

spend money to accommodate them.”

For example, he says, “One change that could end up in front of a judge is the new law about commercial vehicles. Homeowners can now park in their driveways. The new law lacks a clear definition of what is considered a commercial vehicle. Is it the definition of the Dept. of Motor Vehicles or the minivan that has a ladder on the top? If someone challenges it, a judge will get involved.”

Ellis also says that the cost to create, update and maintain an HOA website and for HOA directors to complete certification classes will likely be passed on to the homeowners. Previously, property managers would have new Board members sign a form stating they had read the documents and encouraged them to do so. The new law now requires that all new Board members take the Certification Course and mandates four (4) additional hours of education each year for properties with 2,500 or fewer units, or eight (8) hours per year for larger properties.

“Although some changes may be open to interpretation and might end up in court, one thing is clear: Mandating directors to take the certification class and additional education is a positive development,” Ellis says.

He adds, “The new law says HOAs may no longer prevent a homeowner from protecting their home against hurricanes. This may mean changes to the architecture of the property.” He advises HOAs to consult an architect to understand what this means for the HOA’s Architectural Review Committee.

To read the complete bill, you can visit flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2024/1203.

Freelance writer Iris Vitelli is the president of the Pebble Creek Homeowners Association of Hillsborough County, Inc., in New Tampa.

Wyndfields Blvd. — Wesley Chapel’s Major Arterial Road With (Too) Many Names?!?

By Joel Provenzano

There’s a main north/south road that’s planned to connect New Tampa directly into the middle of Pasco County. It will run from the K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. extension in Hillsborough County, all the way north to eventually intersect with Prospect Rd., near the south side of the Mirada development in San Antonio. You read that correctly.

Once completed, this one road of many names will be a little over 11 miles long (mostly in Wesley Chapel) and end up connecting 10 major existing and future developments together, becoming one of Pasco’s most important north-south thoroughfares. But, most local residents aren’t even aware of the overall plan occurring right in their own backyards. We did the research and pored through hundreds of public records to bring you the complete picture.

This road will be much bigger than many might realize. At just over 11 miles long, that would make it longer than the combined north-south stretches of Morris Bridge Rd., Eiland Blvd., and Handcart Rd. The only north-south road that might be longer in the area would be the Meadow Pointe Blvd./Curley Rd. combination, once those thoroughfares are fully connected together as one road, with the planned realignment of Curley Rd. through the Chapel Crossings community.

Parts of Wyndfields Blvd. already exist, but different segments are now being constructed at different times, in bits and pieces — and with a number of different names. It’s like a ninja road that is very stealthily being put together, with multiple names and multiple dead ends, seemingly isolated in each development. But, before you know it, it will be stitched together to become one major continuous road

The History

If you’ve been paying attention, you probably couldn’t help but notice that Wyndfields Blvd. (the southernmost portion of this road) has been getting mentioned a lot in recent Neighborhood News articles, including, “Will Rezoning Provide Viera’s Safety Cut -Through in K-Bar?” a couple of issues ago.

But Wyndfields (the 1,200-acre MPUD development) has been talked about for a long time — almost 20 years — and has been mentioned in over a dozen articles in this publication since then.

It may end up with many names, but one day, it will all be connected. The photo on the left is the existing Wyndfields Blvd. in Union Park, looking north towards the future Wyndfields Blvd. extension through the South Wyndfields development. (Right) This photo was taken on the under-construction Watergrass Pkwy. extension in the Watergrass community, looking south towards the future connection to River Glen Blvd. in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. See pg. 18 to see where these pieces of the roadway connect. (Photos by

Many times, decades before they are ever built, county planners will envision where future roads will go, as areas begin to grow with new development and new infrastructure is needed. These are known as “Vision Roads” and are often the responsibility of land developers to build in order to get their communities approved. These roads often take the names of the major DRIs (Developments of Regional Impact) or MPUDs (Master Planned Unit Developments) in which they are located. That’s why this one road will possibly end up with at least five different names when it’s all finally built.

Why Should We Care?

Wyndfields Blvd. will be one of three “local

collector” connections between Pasco and Hillsborough counties, including Meadow Pointe Blvd. (existing), and Kinnan St./Mansfield Blvd. (restricted). Of course, there also is Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (C.R. 581), which is located between the Wiregrass Ranch and Seven Oaks communities but only goes 3.5 miles from the Hillsborough line north to S.R. 54 in Pasco. But, the north-south “Vision Road” we’re calling Wyndfields Blvd. has long been a high priority for Pasco County. Many local leaders, developers and residents feel that connecting multiple developments together fosters stronger communities and helps to alleviate and spread out the traffic burden from other main roads, and reduce travel times. Some on the Pasco side have proven to be a little more cautious when

that traffic may originate from Hillsborough.

Gary Gaal, a New Home Consultant with M/I Homes in K-Bar Ranch, says that, “Every future road benefits us even more.” Gaal has been working out of K-Bar for years, has attended HOA meetings, and has heard from county representatives. He is hopeful that with each new approved connection to spread out the traffic burden, Pasco might be more amenable to opening up the longcontentious Kinnan/Mansfield connection. “Any time you have open roads it helps immensely, but I understand Pasco’s hesitancy,” he says. When asked if he believes Pasco would open up Kinnan/Mansfield with the completed Wyndfields connection, Dist. 7 City of Tampa Councilman Luis Viera says he doesn’t believe it would be

Joel Provenzano)

a done deal, but notes, “Having a pathway there [to get the connection open] would be great. It would be good and encouraging for all residents.”

The connections to Hillsborough were studied years ago as part of a report commissioned by Pasco County, which reviewed the potential traffic impacts. What does appear to be a done deal, however, is the Wyndfields Blvd. connection between the two counties, which is part of the required development agreements on both sides of the county line.

Details Of The Road Plan

So what’s the total length of Wyndfields Blvd. from Hillsborough up through Pasco? How much is already constructed and open to traffic, how much is under construction and how much is still planned? How will it affect each of the developments it goes through? Below are the lengths of the road (and its names), from south to north, in each community. For

the full details of each, see the map on pg. 18):

K-Bar Ranch (New Tampa): (proposed as Wyndfields Blvd.) - 0.9 miles

Union Park: (existing Wyndfields Blvd.) - 1 mile

Wyndfields South: (under construction [UC] as Wyndfields Blvd.) - 0.9 miles

Two Ridges: (UC as Two Ridges Rd.) - 1.6 miles; (proposed Two Ridges Rd.) - 0.4 miles

Avalon Park WC: (existing River Glen Blvd.) - 1.5 miles; (proposed River Glen Blvd.) - 0.2 miles

Vida’s Way: (proposed Watergrass Pkwy.) - 0.5 mile; (UC Watergrass Pkwy.) - 0.5 mile

Watergrass: (existing Watergrass Pkwy.) - 0.8 mile

Kirkland Ranch: (prop. name unknown) - 1.7 mi.

Magnolia Island & Evans: (prop. name unknown) - 1.3 miles

Total Length of the Road: 11.3 miles

See ‘‘Wyndfields Blvd.” on pg. 18

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‘Wyndfields Blvd.’

K-Bar Ranch: Huge (2,200+ acres total) K-Bar Ranch has been a long-term growing community, with new houses still being built, making it the only “unfinished” major community in New Tampa. In a previous issue from this year, we had an article talking about the newest part of K- Bar that the Eisenhower Property Group (EPG) submitted to Tampa on March 1, called “K-Bar Ranch Homestead Parcel Phase 1.” This community would have just under 500 new homes on a 400-acre site adjacent to Morris Bridge Rd. EPG is well on its way to having its rezoning approved as, a couple of weeks ago, it passed its first reading with the Tampa City Council.

Perhaps the most important parts of this proposed community were the two roadway extensions shown in the plans. The first was the proposal to extend K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. to the east, out to Morris Bridge Rd. The second was a proposed north-south collector road shown to connect K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. with the existing north-south road (Wyndfields Blvd.) inside of Union Park, connecting Hillsborough County to Pasco.

While it’s not known if the road’s name will still be Wyndfields Blvd. in K-Bar, at its very southern end, this collector road will align with Nature’s Spirit Dr., inside of K-Bar’s separately developed Easton Park community, where there currently is an odd intersection to nowhere. This intersection is where K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. will pass through east-west. From this intersection, the road would travel 0.9 miles north into Pasco County.

In the previous article, it was mentioned that Wyndfields Blvd. ended 540’ north of the county line, but between the article’s release and now, this missing 540’ in Union Park has now been constructed, bringing the end of pavement right up to the Hillsborough County line, making it easier for the K-Bar development to connect to it.

Union Park: Union Park is a large (580-acre) MPUD isolated back behind Meadow Pointe, where the last of its 1,800 dwelling units were just completed and sold this year by DR Horton. Until the Woodcreek development was recently built next door, the only way in and out of Union Park was via Oldwoods Ave. out to Meadow Pointe Blvd., where a traffic signal had to be installed to handle the heavy traffic. With the roads now built in Woodcreek, there is now an indirect way to get out to S.R. 56.

The existing north-south road (Wyndfields Blvd.) currently starts at the Pasco/Hillsborough county line and runs north through Union Park for about 1 mile (as a two-lane road) and it ends at Oldwoods Ave., just past the wood bridge at a T-intersection (near Union Park Charter Academy; see photo on pg. 16). Pasco owns a small tract of land on the west side of that school, where the road will be extended up into the bottom of Wyndfields South (see below) to continue north to S.R. 56. This will provide a much easier (and direct) way for residents of Union Park to get in and out of their community with good access to both S.R. 56 and Morris Bridge Rd. Wyndfields South: Wyndfields South will be a 378-acre development (mostly on

the south side of S.R. 56) being built in many phases by DR Horton, in conjunction with engineering firm WRA. Current plans show that it will have a total of approximately 960 residential units (138 villas, 212 townhomes, and 610 single-family lots). It’s part of the greater Wyndfields MPUD which encompasses 1,200 acres.

In the plans, Wyndfields Blvd. is expected to be two lanes (as built by the developer from its southern property line near Union Park to run north up to S.R. 56 ), for a distance of approximately 0.9 miles, with the option for Pasco County to widen it to four lanes in the future, as was shown in the recent “Innovate Pasco 2050” Planned Wesley Chapel Area Road Improvements list.

Wyndfields South includes the recently constructed community of Woodcreek, which also will have a connection to Wyndfields Blvd. via internal roadways (Rosepine Blvd.). The Bainbridge Apartments that are currently under construction also will have a rear connection to Wyndfields Blvd. To handle all of the traffic and allow for easier lefts-out for residents, the Wyndfields developer is responsible to permit, pay for, and install a new traffic signal at the intersection with S.R. 56 when it meets warrants. Wyndfields Blvd. will widen out to a 4-lane road as it approaches the signal.

Two Ridges: Two Ridges is the area immediately north of S.R. 56 and, as you might expect, contains two ‘Ridge’ communities being built by GL Homes — Winding Ridge on the south side and the age-restricted (55+) Valencia Ridge under construction on the north side, which stretches from the north side of Winding Ridge (where the east-west Chancey Rd. extension will be built) all the way up to S.R. 54. These communities also are part of the Wyndfields MPUD.

The road (now named Two Ridges Rd.) will extend north for 2 miles as a 4-lane divided corridor, starting at S.R. 56, where it will align with Wyndfields Blvd, and ending at S.R. 54, where it will align with the existing signal at River Glen Blvd that goes into Avalon Park (see below). Currently, the southern 1.6 miles of Two Ridges Rd. (connecting with S.R. 56) is under construction and the northern 0.4 miles (to connect with S.R. 54) will be done at a later date.

The southern part needed to be done now, as it provides the only access into Valencia Ridge. The existing community of Ashton Oaks also will be connected to this new road at Grecko Dr., giving those residents access down to S.R. 56 for the first time.

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel: Avalon Park is the massive 1,800-acre MPUD on the north side of S.R. 54 at River Glen Blvd., which includes a number of established and new communities, some of which are still under construction by home builder DR Horton. The road (River Glen Blvd.) has been around for a long time now, and currently serves as the community’s main north-south road.

The signal at the newly widened S.R. 54 was designed in such a way that the new Two Ridges Rd. will be able to easily tie in as the southern leg of that intersection, allowing motorists to continue north into Avalon Park. As you travel north, that existing portion of River Glen Blvd. is 4-lane divided, and about 1.5 miles long, but there

is still roughly 0.2 miles left to construct on the north end to tie into the future Watergrass Pkwy. extension (see photo on pg. 16) that will be constructed in the Vida’s Way community.

Vida’s Way: Vida’s Way is a new 332-acre community that’s currently being constructed by Pulte Homes. It’s located just north of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel and just south of Watergrass. It’s part of the larger Depue Ranch MPUD, which encompasses approximately 930 acres. The road will be extended 1 mile north through here, and will eventually connect River Glen Blvd. to Watergrass Pkwy., ultimately giving Watergrass residents another way to access S.R. 54.

Currently, only the northern half (0.5 miles) of the road (the Watergrass Pkwy. extension) is under construction, as a 4-lane divided roadway, which is connecting to Watergrass Pkwy. The active construction ends at the south side, where the future east-west Wells Rd. extension also will be going through this community. The remaining 0.5 miles of the Watergrass Pkwy. extension will be south of that, and will connect with the north end of River Glen Blvd. to become one road.

Watergrass: Watergrass is an established MPUD of nearly 1,040 acres of beautiful homes. A little less than halfway through Watergrass, along Overpass Rd., you’ll run into the existing north-south Watergrass Pkwy., which serves communities like Whispering Oaks Preserve and Windchase Villas on the north end and, on the south end, Whisper Pointe, The Gardens and Cypress Bend. This existing stretch of road is about 0.8 miles long, top to bottom.

As the new part of the Watergrass Pkwy. extension is being built in Vida’s Way to the south, the developer also is widening the existing part through Watergrass from 2 lanes to 4-lane di-

from the

the

Rd. At the northern end, Watergrass Pkwy. deadends as a two lane road at the Kirkland Ranch property line.

Kirkland Ranch: Kirkland Ranch is situated to the north of Watergrass, immediately east of Curley Rd., on just over 1,000 acres of land. It’s mostly undeveloped, except for the existing Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation and the brand new Kirkland Ranch K-8 dedicated magnet school that, according to the Pasco School District’s website, will be focusing on world languages and entrepreneurship. The magnet school is planning to be open for the upcoming 2024-25 school year.

According to the Pasco Vision Road map, the Watergrass Pkwy. extension is planned to run north through Kirkland Ranch, behind both schools, for approximately 1.7 miles, until it intersects with Keifer Rd. at the north end of Kirkland’s property boundary. Currently, Kirkland has not submitted any preliminary development plans to the county, so this community is still a ways out. It’s unknown if the extension will retain the Watergrass name or be called something different.

Magnolia Island & Evans: Just north of Kirkland Ranch and Keifer Rd. are two developments listed in the Pasco development mapper — Magnolia Island MPUD (216 acres) and Evans (219 acres), which are part of the historic Villages of Pasadena MPUD. According to the map, the vision road will extend north through these two developments for approximately 1.3 miles until it intersects with Prospect Rd. at the north end. There are no current plans for either development, so it will still be a least a few years before the full 11 miles of what we collectively refer to as Wyndfields Blvd. is completed.

vided,

southern end near

Cypress Bend community up to Overpass

NN map by Joel Provenzano

Upcoming Events — The Chamber Cuts Ribbons & Hosts The Summer Rum & Seafood Festival!

Monday, July 22, 7 p.m. — New Tampa Democratic Club Monthly Meeting. At New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.). With Special Guest, Dist. 3 Hillsborough County School Board member Jessica Vaughn. For more info, see the ad below or visit NewTampaDemocrats.com.

Wednesday, July 24, 7 p.m. — Proposed Wesley Chapel Elks Lodge Membership Drive. At Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant (5335 Village Market, Wesley Chapel).

For info, call (732) 598-7883 or email foodnwine0125@gmail.com.

Friday & Saturday, July 26-27, 8 p.m. & Sunday, July 28, 3 p.m.— “Singin’ in the Rain.”. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). The second and final weekend to catch the New Tampa Players’ production of “The Greatest Movie Musical of All Time.”

For tickets ($21-$35) & info, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org or NewTampaPlayers.org.

Tuesday, July 30, 6 p.m. — New Tampa Public Safety Town Hall. At the Compton Park clubhouse (16101 Compton Dr.), also in Tampa Palms. Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera and the Tampa Police Department will provide updates on the reeent crimes that touched New Tampa. Seating will be limited, so arrive early! For more information, see the story on pg. 6 of this issue.

Friday, August 2, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. — The Leading Ladies Network. At the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s Wiregrass Office (28210 Paseo Dr.,

in the Signature Workspace Building, Shops at Wiregrass). The guest speaker is Dr. Davina Jones, the Provost at Pasco Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch. Her topic is “Authentically You - Women Enhancing Male Defined Leadership Models.” The cost to attend is $15 per person & online registration is required, as seating is limited. For more info, visit NorthTampaBayChamber.org or call (813) 994-8534.

Friday, August 2, 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. p.m.

— The Market Elaine. At The Grove (6013 Wesley Grove Blvd.). Join 150 local businesses selling delicious food & baked goods, refreshing coffee & drinks, house & exotic plants, pet adoptions, live music, bounce house, caricature artists & more, with free admission & parking. For more info, visit “The Market Elaine” on Facebook.

Sunday, August 4, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Back To School Street Market. Located between Rock

& Brews and Main Event (26000 S.R. 56 & 2839 Creek Grass Way, next to Tampa Premium Outlets) & proudly supporting the Pasco Education Foundation’s Stuff the Bus with Wise Supplies. Featuring local artisan vendors, live DJ, food & drinks, scavenger hunt & school supply drive. For more information, see the Rock & Brews ad on pg. 49 of this issue or visit PascoEducationFoundation.org.

Sunday, August 4, 3 p.m.— “The Piano Man: A Tribute to Billy Joel.” At New Tampa

Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Mark Anthony, dubbed “Florida’s Billy Joel,” and his band (right photo) invite you to experience the energy of a Billy Joel concert, performing hits like “Piano Man,” “You May Be Right,” New York State of Mind” and many more! For tickets ($20-$25) & more information, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org.

Tuesday, August 6, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.. — North Tampa Bay Chamber Business Breakfast. At Pasco Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch (2727 Mansfield Blvd.), 3rd Floor Conference Room. Hillsborough County Clerk of Court & Comptroller Cindy Stuart is the featured speaker. The cost to attend is $25 for NTBC members, $30 for non-members.

For more information, visit NorthTampaBayChamber.org or call (813) 994-8534.

New Tampa Democratic Club Monthly Meeting (4th Monday of the month) Monday,

(Left) On July 4, the Florida Jazz Express performed patriotic hits at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center. (Photo by Charmaine George) (Right) The Mark Anthony Band brings “A Tribute to Billy Joel” to the NTPAC on Aug. 4. (Photo: MarkAnthonyBand.com)

Primary Care Of Wesley Chapel — Nurse Practitioner-Run Primary Care

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

Scarlette Owens, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, has spent her entire career caring for patients. First, as a nurse in obstetrics and gynecology, then as a nurse practi tioner.

With decades of practice in the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area, the word has gotten out that Scarlette is a knowl edgeable, experienced primary care practi tioner who listens to her patients and treats them with compassion and care.

When Scarlette found herself at a ca reer crossroads, the timing seemed perfect for her to open a new primary care practice of her own.

So, Scarlette joined fellow nurse practitioner Megan Dudley, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, to open The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel just after Memorial Day weekend of this year. The office is located in the new Cypress Bend Professional Park, off Wesley Chapel Blvd., next to Harley Davidson of Wesley Chapel.

high blood pressure or is having an allergic reaction, they can speak to a health care provider right away.

The letters behind their names mean Scarlette and Megan have advanced credentials and participate in ongoing training to treat both female and male patients, ages 18 and up. They have each received a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, earned credentials as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and have earned Board certification as family nurse practitioners (FNP-C) by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board.

Both Megan and Scarlette say they were looking for more flexibility in their work/life balance and thought that opening a new practice, with each of them as part owner, would give them that opportunity.

Megan, as the mom of 10-year-old twins, wanted a schedule that allows her to chauffeur her kids to soccer games and figure skating practice. Scarlette, after 18 years in internal medicine as a partner at a local Florida Medical Clinic office, was looking to slow down with a schedule that allowed her to work just four and a half days each week.

As a member of the clinical faculty at the University of South Florida, in Tampa, Scarlette says she has trained many nurse practitioners.

“I made a big leap to leave all of that behind,” she says, adding that she had signed a contract to work for a company that was putting primary care practices inside of Walgreens pharmacies. At the last minute, that company pulled the plug on the practice and told Scarlette they no longer had a job for her. She attempted to return to primary care, but the right fit wasn’t available, so she started working in urgent care for Florida Medical Clinic.

“I loved the crew there,” Scarlette says. But, she says that her former patients were

tracking her down, asking her where they could see her for primary care again.

“It was very humbling,” Scarlette says. “You’re busy doing your job, so you don’t realize how much your patients appreciate you and want to see you.”

In addition to Scarlette and Megan, The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel has two employees who are both cross-trained as front desk staff and medical assistants, Alexis and Maggie. Scarlette says she expects them to become the leadership team as the practice grows.

There also are two other providers in the office. Fellow Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Patricia Moore, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is a part-time provider who focuses on women’s health. While she’s trained as a primary care provider, Patricia can take the time to have more lengthy conversations surrounding women’s issues and problems, such as hormones, bladder issues and contraceptives.

And, occupational therapist Irfan Choudhry, OT/PTA, is expected to offer occupational therapy services at the practice starting in a couple of months. (See the ad on pg. 32 for pictures of Patricia and Irfan.)

Scarlette and Megan say they are both focused on being available, accessible and good listeners, proactive in decision making and taking care of people.

“So many people can’t get in to their primary care provider for six months,” explains Scarlette. Or, she adds, they may have an urgent issue — such as an infection or low blood sugar — and they’re told they can wait three weeks for an appointment or go to the emergency room, because those are the only options.

“They don’t feel cared for,” Scarlette says. “I saw it from the urgent care perspec-

tive. All these people were there because they couldn’t get into primary care.”

So, at The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel, the team has telehealth appointments available every day. If someone is on vacation and needs antibiotics or has

“We are small, but that’s what makes us special,” says Megan. “We know our patients expect us to have knowledge and experience but we also want to have kindness and personal interactions. I hope people feel listened to, heard and valued. That’s what we’re here to do.”

Megan says she often has patients she recognizes from her kids’ school or activities in the community, since she and her husband have lived in Wesley Chapel for more than 10 years now.

“We live here, we’re raising our kids here, we go to church here and they go to public school here,” Megan says. “We’re entrenched in our community, and I love that I’m home from work in less than 15 minutes.”

Scarlette says it means a lot to her that her patients continue to seek her out.

“As a former OB nurse, I have patients who remember that I was the one who told them they were pregnant, and I’m still seeing them,” she says. “And now, those babies I delivered are all grown up and sometimes I see them, too.”

One of Scarlette’s long-time patients is Donna, who asked that we not use her last name. She first met Scarlette nearly 20 years ago. “She is always so responsive and caring,” says Donna. “When I first became her patient,

the team of (l.-r.) Alexis, Megan, Scarlette and Maggie. (Photos provided by Primary Care of WC)

everything. She really listens and doesn’t just run in and out of the room.”

Donna says she’s already seen Scarlette at The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel for both an in-person well check and sick visits via telehealth.

“The whole staff is so personable,” Donna says. “They seem so genuine and caring. And the office is beautiful.”

The Primary Care of Wesley Chap-

“Obamacare” marketplace. Patients also can self-pay if they don’t have insurance.

The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel is located at 2935 Pearson James Pl., off Wesley Chapel Blvd. It is open Mon.Fri., 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. . For appointments or more information, call (813) 991-4243, visit PrimaryCareWesleyChapel.com or see the ad on page 32 of this issue.

Dr. Nicole Mitchell-Toth Of Blue Water Dental Wants To Be Your Family’s

By Iris Vitelli Neighborhood News Correspondent

Dr. Nicole Mitchell-Toth, a highly skilled, caring and dedicated dentist, has been practicing in the New Tampa area since 2006. She offers family, implant and cosmetic dentistry, with an extensive array of dental services — and has the experience and background to match.

Dr. Mitchell (which is what she says her staff and patients call her, despite her recent married name) graduated from the University of South Florida in Tampa, where she received her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Chemistry. She earned her Doctor of Medical Dentistry (D.M.D.) degree from the University of Florida College of Den tistry in Gainesville.

After graduation, Dr. Mitchell served in the United States Army, where she was stationed at Ft. Benning, GA, and completed her residency in AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentistry), as well as the “Spear Curriculum” in advanced comprehensive dentistry. She earned the rank of Major before leaving the Army.

the patient how and why things have changed and what they can do to improve.”

For more than a year, Dr. Mitchell also has been using AI software to analyze X-rays.

“The software highlights problem areas in different colors (see photo on next page), making it easier to explain to patients what they need,” she says. “This visual aid helps patients understand their dental health and the necessary treatments.”

Dr. Mitchell’s approach to dentistry is grounded in honesty and openness. She ensures that each patient is fully informed about treatment options and costs, empowering them to make the best decisions for their dental health.

She also emphasizes the importance of education in maintaining oral health. New patients fill out detailed questionnaires about diet and lifestyle to identify potential causes of dental issues.

“You may not realize it, but what you eat or drink can affect your teeth,” she says.

Dr. Mitchell has received implant training from implant educators and has averaged about 100 hours of continuing education per year for the last 20 years. She also completed the Executive Practice Management Curriculum through the University of Florida.

She opened her first private practice office 18 years ago in The Walk at Highwoods Preserve plaza before moving to her current location in the Pebble Creek Collection in 2020.

Having moved just before the Covid-19

pandemic hit, Dr. Mitchell calls the move, “perfect timing. We were able to complete everything before building materials became scarce,” she says. “I was very fortunate to be a dentist in Florida, since the relatively lenient restrictions here allowed us to resume seeing patients after only six weeks,” which was a small amount of time compared to the six months some states shut down dental offices.

Using AI Technology

During the pandemic, Dr. Mitchell says she was introduced to new technologies that continue to benefit her patients, including both hardware and software that utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI). For example, she has a device that attaches

to a smartphone camera, enabling patients to take and then transmit pictures of their teeth to the office for evaluation, eliminating the need for some (but not all) in-person visits.

“It’s not just what we see but also what the AI technology analyzes.” Dr. Mitchell explains.

In the office, AI technology enhances dental care by identifying problem areas in photos and X-rays. “The AI can detect early signs of cavities, allowing me to prescribe medication before they become serious,” she says. This tech also allows her to create 3D models of a patient’s teeth, which can reveal changes over time, such as gum recession or wear and tear.

“We can use these images overlaid to show

The Blue Water Dental team includes three dental hygienists, four dental assistants, three administrative staff members and therapy dogs Max and Mandy.

“In January of 2016,” says Dr. Mitchell, “we welcomed to the office these two nine-week-old Maltese-Shih Tzu mix pups, who we named after the Maxillary and Mandibular jaws. These therapy dogs were trained for the purpose of providing comfort and kindness to our patients.”

These hypoallergenic pups enjoy roaming the office, “but mostly they enjoy sitting on the laps of patients and getting a good belly rub” says Dr. Mitchell, who adds that most patients find Max and Mandy to be very calming and comforting.

cosmetic dentist who has been practicing in New Tampa for 18 years. (Photo by Charmaine George)

Mitchell specializes in cosmetic dentistry and dental implants.

“Creating new smiles is a favorite part of my job,” she says. Her practice offers a number of cosmetic procedures, including veneers, crowns and teeth whitening. She provides comprehensive assessments and multiple treatment options, ensuring that patients can choose the best solutions for their individual needs.

When it comes to implants, Dr. Mitchell handles everything from individual teeth to complete replacements. “Replacing teeth can significantly improve a person’s appearance and confidence,” she says. “Depending upon what the patient wants or needs, the implant process can take from four months to a year.”

Cosmetic services include single-visit permanent crowns, customized cosmetic veneers, specialty orthodontic care with virtual checkups, dental implants and same-day emergency appointments.

Giving back to the community also is important to Dr. Mitchell. She volunteers with Missions Smiles, a program of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Mission Tampa that provides dental care via a mobile unit to underserved areas.

she says. “This program also assists survivors of human trafficking.”

Another volunteer effort is with “Operation Stand Down,” presented by the Chapters Health Valor Program of HPH Hospice in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. This annual event provides comprehensive services to veterans, “many of whom are homeless and haven’t had dental care in years,” Dr. Mitchell explains. The event offiers a range of services and accommodations, creating a supportive environment for these veterans in need.

Dr. Mitchell has built long-term relationships with her patients, some of whom she has cared for since they were school aged and are now married with children. She takes pride in building these relationships and doing her absolute best to cater to every patient’s needs

For more information about Blue Water Dental, the Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry office of Dr. Nicole Mitchell-Toth (19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Suite A-1), call (813) 957-5887 or visit NicoleMitchellDMD.com to request an appointment. Or, see the ad on pg. 33. The office is open Monday- Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Friday.

(Left) Dr. Mitchell uses AI technology to show patients where they have problems with their teeth. (Right) Mandy is one of two hypoallergenic therapy dogs in Dr. Mitchell’s office.

Butash Law Group For Personal Injury, Criminal Defense & Family Law

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

If you need professional legal assistance with a criminal defense, personal injury or family law case, Michael Butash might be the attorney for you.

Unlike large firms that position receptionists, paralegals and junior staff members between clients and an attorney, or newer firms that are still learning the ins and outs of the legal system, Butash, a seasoned attorney with more than 20 years of experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney, is both welltrained and very accessible.

Butash has worked independently as an attorney since he struck out on his own in 2002, when he founded Michael G. Butash, P.A., in Tampa. After about a decade practicing successfully on his own, he moved his practice to S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel to be closer to where he and his wife, Lisa, live.

A couple of years later, he joined with attorney Shawn Donovan to form Butash & Donovan. When Shawn moved on to start his own solo practice a couple years ago, Mike formed the Butash Law Group, where he currently is the only attorney in the practice, although he has a professional staff helping him every step of the way.

Mike is a Tampa Bay-area native, originally from Clearwater. He graduated from Florida State University in Tallahassee with honors

and earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in criminology. He then earned his Juris Doctor (law) degree from the Stetson University College of Law in Gulfport, FL, graduating in 1997.

He met Lisa in Palm Harbor, and the couple married in 2000. They have a son, Chris, who is 23 years old and recently graduated from college himself. Chris is now working toward a Master’s degree at Limestone University in Gaffney, SC, with a goal to follow in his father’s footsteps and attend law school.

Mike started his legal career as a prosecutor, working as an Assistant State Attorney for the 6th Judicial Court in New Port Richey, handling cases in Pinellas and Pasco counties. He then worked as an in-house counsel for Nationwide Insurance in the Clearwater office, before founding his private practice.

While Mike is licensed to practice throughout the entire state of Florida, he primarily handles cases in Pasco, Hillsborough and

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Hernando counties, and occasionally Pinellas.

“I enjoy helping people, and I always pride myself on doing the right thing,” Mike says. He calls himself a “straight shooter” who tells clients the truth about their case, whether or not it’s what they want to hear.

“I don’t beat around the bush,” he says. “If I can’t help someone, I’ll tell them that. If they’re in trouble, I tell them that. I’d rather tell you the truth now than over promise and then

Mike says his reviews speak for themselves. A Google search shows nearly 80 reviews of his practice with more than 70 of them being the highest available ranking, or five stars out of five.

“My ultimate pride is that 90 percent of our new business is from referrals,” he says. “Any business owner would want that.”

Mike explains that he can’t always make every client happy, but his role is to be “the GPS,” in other words, to be the person steering clients to where they want or need to go.

“There are multiple ways to get there, and you can change the route along the way,” he explains. “Do you want to take the best route, the fastest route or the scenic route? In other words, do you want to take my advice or go a

Continuing with the analogy, if you don’t take his advice, he says you might find yourself re-routing or getting a bit lost, but it’s always up to the client as to which way to go.

Your CBD Store Of New Tampa Still Has Delta & Keeps Adding New Products!

Located in the Pebble Creek Collection on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., Your CBD Store of New Tampa has calming blue-grey walls, greenery throughout the store, comfortable seating and an expansive, open layout. With informational displays and posters, exceptional customer support, and product knowledge, the husband-and-wife team of David Calcador and Debra Curler make you feel immediately at home.

David & Debra opened their Your CBD Store franchise location in November 2019 and it has thrived through the pandemic, thanks to the dedication of these two New Tampa residents. “When customers come in, we ask them what they know about CBD,” Debra says. “Some are well-educated and we walk the others through the store and introduce and educate them about our product line. We find out what their problems are health-wise. Are they in pain? Are they having problems sleeping? Do they need energy? We need to know what is happening in their bodies to help direct them to the proper products.”

Your CBD Store is a holistic boutique providing USDA organic and carcinogen-free oral and topical SunMed CBD products for customers and their pets. At Debra and David’s store, CBD comes in both flavored and flavorless tinctures, oils, pills, gummies, weight-loss products, as well as a skincare line, bath bombs, lotions, massage oils, pain creams and products for dogs and cats.

Unlike marijuana, Your CBD Store offers broad-spectrum CBD products that have zero THC, as well as full-spectrum products with the 0.3 legal limit of THC that contain all cannabinoids (CBD and THC), terpenes, or flavonoids.

With anti-inflammatory and other health effects, flavonoids are plant compounds that

give plants their colors and flavors. Flavonoids work with cannabinoids and terpenes, which are naturally occurring compounds in cannabis that shape aroma, taste, colors and therapeutic benefits, to produce the “entourage effect” enhancing their impact. “CBD needs to have terpenes and flavonoids,” David says. “They bond to receptors in your body. Without those, you won’t have the full benefit of CBD.”

doctors who send patients to us because they know the quality is there.”

What’s New?

Debra and David are enthusiastic about their store’s newest products, some of which have been enhanced with more CBD, like their SunMed topical

cream, which is now available in 4,000-milligram strength, while others are brand new.

in a gummy form. People love it. I have a lady who comes in weekly and buys two jars. It helps with aches and pains throughout the body.”

Your CBD Store of New Tampa also sells both “Above” (with Delta 8 THC) and “Beyond” (with Delta 9 THC) by SunMed, both of which are all-natural (non-synthetic). Debra says that although both houses of the State Legislature passed a bill reducing the THC limits in Delta 8 & Delta 9 products, “Thankfully, Governor DeSantis vetoed that bill because Delta 8 and 9 help a lot of people. We’re proud to be able to continue to sell them.”

As some prescriptions can conflict with CBD, Debra and David suggest that if you are taking medications, you should speak with your physician before starting any CBD regimen.

Debra and David says that love educating their customers and clear up misinformation about CBD. Their CBD products won’t get you high, aren’t illegal, won’t make you impaired and you don’t need a Medical Cannabis card to purchase them.

Instead, their products help with anxiety, sleep issues, chronic pain and more.

“Our products are all-natural, organic, and non-addictive, Debra says. “You can buy CBD anywhere — a smoke shop or gas station, even on Amazon — but you don’t want to do that because anything you are putting on your body or in your body, you want to make sure it is good quality. You risk getting a synthetic, damaging product that can harm your health.

David adds, “We’re third-party tested. We have QR codes on everything we sell; you can bring up each product’s lab report. We have referring

“Our topical cream is amazing for isolated pain,” Debra says. “I had a knee replacement years ago, and I had not been able to walk long distances. The product came out in December, and my husband and I were going Christmas shopping, and I could walk the entire mall. It’s been selling off the shelves left and right. We’ve always had 1,000- and 2,000-milligram strengths since we opened, but the 4,000 milligrams is amazing.”

Debra also recommends Neuro, a water-soluble CBD, for pain management. While the store’s original daily oil tincture takes time to work, based on your metabolism and weight, the as-needed, water-soluble Neuro CBD effects are felt more quickly. “You take the dropper of Neuro and put it in a Dixie cup size of water and drink it,” she says. “It goes into your body within 10 minutes, comes in 900- and 1,800-milligram strengths, and is also

For pet parents, beyond their regular CBD pet treats, chews and tinctures for health and anxiety, Debra recommends another new product — Broad Spectrum Allergy Aid CBD Pet Chews, which have only been in the store for about a month, to help with “hot spots” and seasonal skin allergies. Debra and David are proud of their store’s Google reviews, which average a 4.9 stars out of 5, based on 170 reviews.

“If you look at our reviews,” Debra says, “you’ll see people love the products and that they’re changing lives.”

Your CBD Store of New Tampa (19651 BBD Blvd. Suite B-1) is open Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and 1 p.m.– 5 p.m. on Sun. Ages 55 or older can save 20% off their purchases. The store also has a bonus system whereby customers accrue points for discounts and free products. Free local delivery/free shipping are available for orders of $100+. For more info, call (813) 9940599 or visit GetSunMed.com.

The Right Staff, Too

Mike also says that he usually meets his clients in a time of crisis, when they need immediate help. Maybe they just got served with divorce papers, just got arrested or got a ticket, or were in a car accident. That’s when he and his staff get to work, starting with a free consultation.

“I have a great team here,” Mike says. “My staff is fantastic.”

That staff includes Butash Law’s personal injury paralegal Elsie Valenciano, who has more than 30 years of experience. And, Mike says his family law paralegal Manar Awad, who goes by “Mimi,” is extremely detailed and has worked for him for the past few years.

Lisa is the firm’s office manager. She wears many hats, taking care of things behind the scenes, managing the company’s website and marketing, while also handling billing and accounting.

Mike and Lisa are animal lovers who are passionate about rescuing pets in need. They’ve rescued not only a few dogs but also some horses. “My wife rides horses and I ride a Harley Davidson,” he jokes.

The Butashes currently have two adopted dogs. Butter was rescued from Pasco County Animal Services, and Mike says she’s a “true mutt.” They also had two dogs from an animal rescue based out of Spring Hill called Saving His Angels. They affectionately refer to Princess as their gimpy chihuahua, and Biscuit was their blind chihuahua. Unfortunately, they recently

Mike more than a decade ago when he received a ticket for driving under the influence. Since then, Romeo says he has turned to Mike every time he has needed a lawyer, from getting advice on legal matters that affect his business or helping him navigate the legal trouble his wife’s son got into because of mental illness.

“Mike is very diligent,” Romeo explains. “He has been able to help me with everything I’ve hired him for.”

He says he recommends Butash Law to anyone who needs an attorney for criminal

Chris. (Photo provided by Lisa Butash)

New Tampa Palms Apartments Offers Luxurious Larger Spaces For Less Money!

By Gary Nager

by Charmaine George

I have known Warren Kinsler of New Tampa, Inc., for about 25 years. Kinsler, who is still developing what had been known as Tampa Palms Area 3 — from the plaza that includes BJ’s Wholesale Club south to the Compton Place apartments on the east side of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. — is finally getting close to completing his large portion of the Tampa Palms community.

His latest venture, which he calls the New Tampa Palms Luxury Apartment Homes, is a 400unit rental community that boasts truly elegant 1-and 2-bedroom apartments with larger living spaces than most others in the New Tampa area, at more affordable prices than you’d expect, based on current market trends.

“I wanted to give the New Tampa community better value for their money,” he says, “and New Tampa Palms delivers on that promise.”

Kinsler, whose New Tampa, Inc., is a subsidiary of New Jersey-based Garden Communities, says the company has developed — and still owns and manages — 100,000 apartment units in Arizona, California, Florida, New Jersey, New York and Connecticut (as well as 25 million sq. ft. of retail, office and hotel space).

“Unlike a lot of other apartment developers,” he says. “We don’t build them to sell them. Our tenants don’t have to worry about a new management company taking over every couple of years.” In fact, the 383-unit Compton Place was the first piece of Kinsler’s puzzle in Tampa Palms a quarter of a century ago and yes, it is still owned and managed by New Tampa, Inc.

“We only have one piece left to develop in Tampa Palms,” he says. “It will be a 600-unit rental community where Commerce Palms Blvd. currently dead-ends next to BJ’s.” Area 3 also includes the New Tampa Family YMCA, on land Kinsler donated. The Y was the cornerstone around which he built his many single-family subdivisions.

Introducing New Tampa Palms

When you arrange or stop in for a tour of New Tampa Palms, you’ll be greeted by Kinsler’s assistant manager Isabella (she goes by Bella) Tamochunas and leasing specialist Simona (who prefers to be called Mona) Beltran, two very happy, helpful and knowledgeable team members who are always happy to show you around.

Since the office is in the clubhouse just inside the community’s gated entrance on Tampa Palms Blvd., your tour starts in the clubhouse’s spacious,

comfortable resident lounge, which features lots of seating areas, a cof fee station and more.

Next, Bella and Mona will lead you to the resort-style saltwater pool, which has a sundeck, veranda, pergola, al fresco dining and lounge area with a fire pit. Next to the pool deck is the entrance to the community’s fitness center, with free weights, circuit training machines, treadmills and elliptical machines.

But, even with electric vehicle charging stations next to each of the community’s 17 build ings, as well as dog parks, a nature trail and walking path that are all under construction (along with several of the buildings themselves), the apartments are still the stars of this show.

Available now are 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom “Palm Springs” models with 1,264 sq. ft. of living space that currently are ranging in price from $1,705-$1,865 per month, and 2-bedroom, 2-bath

“Palm Shores” units with 1,409 sq. ft. of space and priced from just $1,905-$2,005 per month.

Available August 7 are 2-bedroom, 1-bath “Palm Bay” units with 1,333-1,571 sq. ft. of space and costing just $1,805-$1,965 per month. Then, on September 13, the 2-bedroom, 2-bath “Palm Gardens” floor plan will become available, also with 1,571 sq. ft. of living area, and priced from $2,205$2,385 per month.

All of these prices are subject to change, but every unit has a spacious patio or balcony, each with a private storage space, with ceiling heights from 9 to 16 ft., a gourmet kitchen with custom white wooden cabinetry, top-grade granite countertops, gooseneck faucets, breakfast bars and pantries. Each unit also has walk-in closets and laundry rooms equipped with full-size washers and dryers, carpeted bedrooms, frameless showers, self-closing kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors and generous closet space. The mail area even has Amazon lockers.

“The apartments really do sell themselves,” Mona told me. “We just show people around.” She also says that the buildings that have come online since the community first opened in February this year have been pre-leased to capacity.

delivered on every promise he made to the Tampa Palms community.

“We have maintained the character of New Tampa’s original and best-known community,” he says. “And we’re not quite finished yet.”

New Tampa Palms Luxury Apart ment Homes is located at 7970 Tampa Palms Blvd. and the office is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. For more information, see the ad on pg. 1

Photos

The New Tampa Palms Luxury Apartment Homes (above) features amenities like a beautiful resident lounge (below) & (bottom) electric vehicle

Small World Pediatrics — Keeping New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Kids Healthy For 21 Years!

By Gary Nager

by Charmaine George

I have only met Dr. Nancy M. Silva and Dr. José D. Jiménez a few times in the 21 years they have had their Small World Pediatrics in the Wesley Chapel, but they still feel a little like fam ily to me — even though they were never even my kids’ doctors.

These personable, married M.D.s have been keeping our area’s kids healthy all these years, but my favorite thing about reading their dozens of 5-star reviews on Google and Facebook is how many of these reviewers comment on how caring both doctors are and how quickly they return after-hours phone calls.

Small World Pediatrics is located in the Windguard Professional Center across Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. from AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. It has been at this location since 2010, when the practice moved from its original loca tion in the Northwoods plaza on BBD in Wesley Chapel, near the SuperTarget.

And, although the Covid-19 pandemic changed a lot of the ways most medical offices do business, Dr. Silva — who joined her husband at the practice in 2014 — says that at least some of the changes definitely have been for the better.

“One of the good changes that came out of the pandemic,” Dr. Silva says, “was that nobody wanted to be around other sick people, obviously, so it allowed us to start doing a lot more Telemedicine, which I will say is really nice. Because sometimes, we are able to see and hear your child and actually treat them over the phone. So now, we’re doing more Telemedicine than ever before, because people are a lot more comfortable with it — even asking for it.”

She also notes that Telemedicine also allows the doctors to “see” patients after hours, “and even when we’re on vacation.”

Dr. Jimenez notes, “As doctors, we sometimes felt that when we were on vacation, we were letting our patients down, because we’d be gone for a week. But now, we can still have contact with our patients, even when we’re away, and we feel like we’re providing better service for them. It’s a nice feeling.”

As for the cases they are seeing more of recently, Dr. Silva — who earned her M.D. degree from the State University of New York (SUNY) Health Science Center in Brooklyn in 1997, after earning a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in an Honors B.S./M.D. program at City University of New York (CUNY) Brooklyn College in 1993 — says that, “Not so much right now, but we saw a lot more flu cases in kids this year. We were actually surprised at how much flu there was.”

With all of the rapid tests now available — including for flu, Covid, strep throat and even RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), it’s definitely easier for pediatricians to quickly diagnose and treat these contagious illnesses.

And, speaking of RSV, Dr. Jimenez — who earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida in Gainesville in 1992, after transferring from Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, and earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the University of South Florida (USF) College of Medicine in Tampa in 1996 — says that, “We didn’t see a whole lot of RSV cases, but most of it that we did see was last fall. In the spring, it

ies, just like pregnant mothers were getting flu or Covid shots to protect their babies. I wouldn’t be surprised if we end up offering that antibody shot for children up to two years old. We’re just not there yet because it is so new.”

They also note that whenever a new vaccine or treatment comes along, it also causes a billing problem “for about six months,” Dr. Silva says, “until the insurance companies start acknowledging it and paying for it. Parents then get these bills for thousands of dollars, so we have found that it’s best to wait.”

About “Anti-Vaxers”

was a good amount of strep and in June and July, we’re also still seeing flu and Covid.”

Dr. Silva adds that early diagnosis and treatment are so important in these cases.

“With any of these illnesses, the sooner you take medication the better. The longer you wait, the higher the viral load and the more the virus replicates. And, the anti-viral medications we have don’t ‘cure’ these viruses, but they do help you fight the symptoms better. With flu, you need to treat it within two days, with Covid, 5-10 days, but the sooner you get the medication, the sooner you start to get better.”

Especially with the flu, she adds, if you don’t start that medication within two days of the symptoms, “it’s not really going to help at all. If it’s that second day and your kid still isn’t looking good, just bring them in.”

Both of the doctors completed their pediatric residencies at USF in 2000. Dr. Silva worked for a group in Brandon before joining Dr. Jiménez at Small World Pediatrics.

Meet The New Office Manager!

As for what’s new at Small World Pediatrics, Dr. Silva says the practice has a new office manager — Tonya Weicht.

She says the previous office manager — Shaneka Phillips — “left to pursue her nursing career. She got her degree and now she’s working as a nurse while pursuing another degree. All of us loved Shaneka and she left on very good terms. She just changed her profession.”

But, Dr. Jiménez adds, “Tonya was our receptionist for almost five years, so she already is known by the patients and their parents and is a very good fit for us. The patients probably were more familiar with Tonya than they were Shaneka because Shaneka was the office manager from her start with us in 2015, although she also was a certified medical assistant, so Shaneka could and did also help out with cases, too.”

Dr. Silva notes that there also is a new RSV “vaccine “ that’s actually an antibody, but we’re

not doing that yet, just because a new vaccine came out. We want to hear more feedback on it before we just start providing it for our patients.”

She adds that, “A lot of mothers are getting this vaccine when they’re pregnant, so their unborn babies will already have those antibod-

“I think we’re steady with the number of people who refuse to give their child any childhood vaccines (such as DPT, diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus; chicken pox; MMR, or measles, mumps & rubella, etc.),” Dr. Silva says. “But there are other people who express their worries about these vaccines and we usually try to work with them. But, if it’s someone who really doesn’t want any vaccines, we usually recommend they find another pediatrician, because in that case, you really need to find someone

Photos

The friendly, caring staff of Small World Pediatrics, located in the Windguard Professional Center off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (across from AdventHealth Wesley Chapel.) includes (l.-r.) — receptionist Marina Abdalla, Dr. Nancy Silva, Dr. José Jiménez, office manager Tonya Weicht and medical assistant Courtney White.

who is connected with you on that level.”

Dr. Jimenez adds that it’s not only about vaccines, though. “When people come in for their prenatal visits to meet us and our staff, we tell them to expect to have at least a dozen visits with us that first year., and that’s if the child is well. So, you definitely need to find someone you’re comfortable with.”

Considering that many people who are against vaccines express concerns about any possible link between autism and vaccines, Dr. Silva says, “We’re still waiting for an accepted genetic test for autism, like they have for cystic fibrosis. but they are finding more and more genetic links for autism, They just don’t have that test yet for autism, but I say ‘yet’ because I am hopeful for the future.”

“However,” Dr. Jiménez says, “All the studies are out there — preservatives didn’t cause it, vaccines didn’t do it and not having vaccines didn’t do it. Parents have the right to make up their own minds, but there has been no link found between vaccines and autism.”

“Look, we’re not car salesmen,” Dr. Silva says. “This car isn’t leaving the lot. The vaccines will still be here tomorrow, they’ll be here next year. If you change your mind, you can always come back to us (although some childhood vac cines do have to be given by a certain age). I’m not going to try to convince you, it’s up to you.”

Taking one final look back at the Covid pandemic, the doctors are happy that they never had to close the office at all. “We stayed on our same schedule the whole time,” Dr. Silva says. “I am really proud that we stayed open and served the community. We did all those Facebook videos (updating people on the pandemic) and were still available on the phone and in the office. We

Pointe), our kids go to public schools (their son Jonathan just graduated from Wiregrass Ranch High, will attend USF and earned the rank of Eagle Scout), I go to Publix or Starbucks and I see our patients. It’s nice to be part of this community.”

Small World Pediatrics (2527 Windguard Cir., Suite 102) is open Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and is accepting new patients. Most insurance plans, including Medicaid. For more information, see the ad on page 36, call (813) 907-8001 or visit SmallWorldPediatrics.com.

Budget Blinds — The Company That Brings A Full Design Showroom To Your Home!

By Iris Vitelli Neighborhood News Correspondent

As Florida summers seem to get hotter (and start sooner) every year, keeping cool inside becomes a growing priority for local homeowners. You can crank up the air condi tioning, but what you may not realize is that a more efficient and stylish solution to the heat is getting new window treatments. These not only help regulate temperature but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, both inside and out.

When it comes to finding a company that meets all of your window treatment needs, Budget Blinds of North Tampa & Land O’Lakes stands out. Owned by Wesley Chapel residents Adriane and Mike Wonder lin, the local franchise on W. Fletcher Ave. (near I-275) in Tampa offers personalized consultation services. Whether you visit their showroom or invite a Budget Blinds consult ant into your home, you can choose from the company’s huge variety to find the perfect window treatments that align with your budget and style preferences.

Adriane says, “Many people think blinds are expensive, but we offer a wide selection that can fit any budget.” Mike, with more than 30 years of experience in the business, and Adriane have expanded their service area from San Antonio to Palmetto and now Lakeland. Their showroom is a hub for exploring various styles, although in-home consultations remain a key part of Budget Blinds’ services.

“Our consultant will come to your home and help you pick out just the right style and material,” says Adriane.

Employing a team of about 40 people, the Wonderlins are looking to expand further by hiring additional administrative staff and installers in Tampa. Adriane encourages anyone reading this story to contact her (see contact information at the end of the story) if interested or looking for more information.

The Wonderlins just came back from the Budget Blinds Expo called “Shaping Our Future Together” in Grapevine, TX, and shared that the most recent trends in the industry have not changed.

“Motorization is still one of the most popular features with customers,” Adriane says. “One older trend that is making a comeback, are draperies. In the ‘80s and ‘90s, the trend was draperies, but for many years since then, it’s been blinds or shades. However, over the last couple of years, draperies have made a comeback. The difference is that now, shades and blinds are accompanied by draperies — all of which are motorized.”

The landscape of the window treatment industry has seen some notable changes, especially with the rising popularity of motorized blinds. For example, “In Canada,” Adriane notes, “a law mandates motorized blinds for safety, prohibiting the sale of homes with corded blinds.” While the U.S. has not adopted this regulation, Budget Blinds edu-

cates customers on the benefits of motorized blinds, anticipating potential future legislation. For those who don’t want the expense of motorized blinds, but are still concerned about safety, Budget Blinds does also offer a variety of manual pull-down cordless blinds.

Adriane and her outstanding sales team are always happy to run down the variety of blinds available, including vinyl, wood, fabric, faux wood and aluminum. Adding draperies for accent can enhance the look with a pop of color. Budget Blinds’ drapery specialist Cheryl Visalli, who has a degree in interior design, assists customers in choosing the perfect drapes to complement their blinds or shades.

Among those who appreciate not only Budget Blinds’ selection, but the service she has received, is customer Tina Marie, who says in one of the hundreds of 5-Star Google reviews the franchise has received, “We had our beautiful blinds installed today after about 6 weeks of initial contact with this company. We could not have been more happy! Luis was our installer and made it extremely easy from beginning to end! He was very professional, (we were) impressed with how quiet he was with the installation of all rooms and cleaned up like he wasn’t even here. Also very quick on installing the entire house, our home having 13 windows. I’m very impressed and excited and I will definitely recommend this company as they are the BEST!”

The Wonderlins actively market their services through advertisements (including in the Neighborhood News), highlighting the benefits of upgrading from builder-grade window treatments. The company offers a buy-one-get-halfoff-deal, appealing to those looking to enhance efficiency and aesthetics, as well as 12-month interest-free financing.

For those who prefer shades, the many options include roller, pleated, Roman, woven wood, bamboo, sheer, solar, or graphic

varieties, along with an assortment of panels, valances and drapes.

Also available are shutters, made from wood or composite materials, which remain a popular choice in Florida due to their durability and innovative designs like the invisible tilt feature, which offers an unobstructed view.

Even the motorization trend has new advancements that make these systems more affordable and quieter. “Smart Homes,” says Adriane, “benefit greatly from improved motorization features.” This technology is particularly useful for Florida homes with large or high windows, allowing homeowners to easily manage light and heat.

Businesses also benefit from motorized window treatments, which can be set on timers or controlled via smartphone, remote, wall switch, or voice command. About 70 percent of Budget Blinds’ orders now feature motorized options.

Budget Blinds, founded in 1992 in Orange County, CA, has grown to more than 1,000 franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The Wonderlins’ North Tampa franchise, purchased in 2018, earned Budget Blinds’ national Franchise of the Year award in 2020, marking the location’s third such honor since 2016.

Beyond business, Adriane and Mike are committed to community involvement. They partner with Homes for Our Troops, providing window treatments for homes built for permanently disabled military personnel.

To schedule a complimentary in-home Budget Blinds consultation, call (813) 968-5050. For more information, follow “BudgetBlindsofGreaterTampa” on Facebook or Instagram, visit BudgetBlinds. com/NorthTampa or see the ad on pg. 37.

If you’ve been thinking about enhancing the beauty of your home, call Budget Blinds of North Tampa & Land O’Lakes for an in-home design consultation. (All photos on these pages provided by Adriane Wonderlin)

Choudhry, OTR

Dr. Martha Tapia — Why This Former NYC Cop Should Be Your Therapist!

By Gary Nager

Martha Tapia, Ph.D., and her Community Family Counseling provides family counseling to help with a variety of mental and emotional issues for children, adults, couples and families. She also is a certified clinical hypnotherapist who can help people dealing with post-traumatic stress, anger and depression. She approaches every case she handles holding firm to her deep commitment to her Chris tian faith. She brings her own unique background and training to her job and has helped many people in the three years she has worked as a therapist, since moving to Florida from New York in 2016.

When I say unique, I’m guessing that most psychotherapists in our area probably were not working as a New York City police officer when 9/11 changed life in the United State forever. But, Martha was at Ground Zero the day after the towers fell, only two years after joining the police academy.

“I missed the last police van to go to Ground Zero that day, so they kept me patrolling on Staten Island until the next morning,” she says.

“The things I saw and smelled those days,” she says. “No one should have to see that. The body bags, the devastation. There’s no doubt that I had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) myself after what I saw and went through because of 9/11.”

Like so many who worked at Ground Zero, Martha developed major health issues, including severe asthma, which she was diagnosed with in 2005, only three+ years later. She was pregnant with her daughter Marlene when she had issues with the pregnancy, especially great difficulty breathing. Marlene also has been diagnosed with asthma.

“A lot of the kids of those first responders are having health issues, too,” she says. “But that’s not something that most people talk about.”

“Breathing that air and eating food with white ashes that we would just wipe off, eat and keep working — we were all poisoning ourselves. Many of my fellow officers and firefighters lost their lives to the cancers and illnesses we were all dealing with.”

Martha did end up retiring from the police force, but not until 2008, while working at Precinct 50 in The Bronx, after trying to arrest a suspect and having multiple people end up on top of her, herniating two of the discs in her back.

“They put me on medication for my back, but it reacted with the asthma medication I was taking and I got more sick from it,” she says. “I went into a deep depression because I didn’t know how I would be able to take care of my kids. I just knew I had to survive for them.”

With her early retirement, Martha went on to become a leader of a Girl Scout troop and went back to church, where she became a volunteer in the women’s group. “I couldn’t just be retired,” she says. “I had to stay busy.”

Two years later, she met and married her husband John Bevilacqua, who worked for a labor union,

but when he retired in 2016, they did their research and ended up buying a house in Wesley Chapel. Martha and John have seven children and a grandson (named Zion) and granddaughter (Antonella) between them — Martha’s sons Matthew and Adam and her daughter Marlene. She also raised her niece Keren and nephew Phillip. Her other nephew Geovanny, who is a autistic, but highfunctioning and in his 40s, and John’s daughter Madison also live with them.

More Trauma & A Life Change

“I understood what happened to me after 9/11,” Martha says. “What I didn’t know is how that trauma affected my older son Matthew. He was only 8 years old at the time and he had a panic attack because he was so worried about me. He was diagnosed with anxiety, so we put him in counseling, but eventually, they said he was fine.”

Unfortunately, Matthew’s anxiety resurfaced in high school and got even worse with each move the family made and worst of all when the family moved to Florida when he was in his 20s.

“Matthew was having panic attacks all the time — he was afraid of dying —and all anyone did was put him on medication, which made him sick. I knew I had to find another way.”

That different way came in the form of Dr. Henry Castellanos, a Bible-based “Theo-Therapist” who was preaching at Martha’s Spanish-speaking church in Zephyrhills. Dr. Castellanos, an expert in what is known as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapy, is from Puerto Rico and he teaches EMDR therapy at the Ecotheos International University Bible College & Seminary he owns in Toa Baja, PR.

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north of S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel, can help children, adults, couples and families with a variety of issues, from PTSD to chronic pain, with her unique combination of experience and, she says, her faith in God.

Photos by Charmaine George

“Once I learned about how EMDR therapy works from Dr. Castellanos and he tried it with Mat thew, I saw how effective it was and I knew I needed to find out more.”

Martha asked people to hook her up with Dr. Castellanos so she could learn more about EMDR and she sat and talked about it with him at an event. “I told him I was desperate to figure out how to help my son,” she says. “He’s about to lose it and I’m afraid he’s going to end up in a mental institution.”

Martha ended up bringing Dr. Castellanos to her house because Matthew was still in her car having a panic attack. “He said his English was not very good, so he would need someone to be the translator between him and Matthew, so of course, I agreed to be the translator.” Martha is from Ecuador, so she was fluent in Spanish and, since she had lived in New York since age 16, she also is fluent in English and her Latin ac cent makes everything she says in English sound better.

She says that where eight other ther apists had failed, Dr. Castellanos was able to get through to Matthew with EMDR. “We took a family cruise to Puerto Rico, so I told my husband to take the kids to the beach because I was going to take Matthew to see Dr. Castellanos again at the University. He did a few intensive sessions with him and I saw an instant change in my son. He totally healed him and Matthew has never had that type of anxiety since then.”

In 2019, she decided that since she was retired and was looking for something to do, she would enroll online at Ecotheos University to get her degree in Christian Clinical Counseling. She also attended two one-week sessions in person at the University, where she became certified in EMDR by Dr. Lucina Artigas, the creator of what is known in EMDR as the “butterfly hug,” which is used worldwide.

At the same time, Martha and John were opening Martha’s Grill & Bar in Dade City, but when that shut down due to Covid in 2020, she decided to fully dedicate herself to becoming a therapist. In Oct. 2021, she had earned her Ph.D. degree (graduating Summa Cum Laude) in Philosophy Counseling and TheoTherapy Systemic Therapy. She also is certified with the International Reciprocity Board of Therapeutic Professionals (IRBO) Therapeutic Family Counselor II and has earned a Certificate of Completion as an EMDR Therapist for Children & Adolescents.

To enhance her skills as a therapist, she also began studying how hypnotherapy also can help patients and, in 2022, she was certified as a Hypnotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist by the Institute of Hypnotherapy in Tampa. Earlier this year, she also has added ZYTO Link scan services, which uses your smartphone to scan your face and read the biometrics and emotions that help people improve their wellness while working on their negative emotions that needs to be addressed.

“We recommend selective natural products that assist your body and lifestyle system to help your body feel healthier and have an energetic balance,” Martha says, adding that her daughter Keren Bolanos is the ZYTO Link technician, who handles the scans. She wasn’t planing to open a private practice, “but my husband convinced me that I could do it,” Martha says. “And, here I am!”

Starting with counseling only for individuals, she says that she believes that God shifted her direction, “like he wanted me to do this. I wouldn’t be where I am if not for Him.”

“I wanted to specialize in helping kids, with

EMDR and Play Therapy, that’s why I got my child EMDR certification,” she says. “But somehow, my practice has evolved into nearly 80% marriage and couples therapy. The Christian base helps a lot with that, as long as both partners are still wanting to stay together. I help them find common ground.”

With all of these tools at her disposal, Martha says she is proud to be able to help people, “one family at a time. It’s OK to feel angry. It’s OK to feel sad. It’s not OK when it lingers.”

As for her foray into clinical hypnotherapy, Martha says that, “Sometimes, you have to go deeper with people, reach their subconscious mind and hypnotherapy is a relaxation technique. Especially as a Christian, hypnotherapy gets a bad rap, but I have used it to help so many people. It allows me to get to a deeper level with them.” And, never fear, you never lose consciousness and Dr. Martha won’t turn you into a chicken or get you to bark on command.

“Some people do get stuck with EMDR, but hypnotherapy helps me get you un-stuck,” she says. “It’s just good to have many options to help people.”

Martha also wanted me to mention that she is very committed to her new church — the new Paradise Community Church on Boyette Rd. She also occasionally posts on Facebook that she hosts Christian-based events at her home. She also sponsors the annual “Dance Your Dream” gala hosted by Hope Services, a not-for-profit vocational service organization in Wesley Chapel that helps people living with disabilities find jobs. “My son Adam (who is developmentally disabled) and nephew Geo (who is autistic) have enjoyed attending the gala, too, “ she says.

I also can give a personal testimonial about Dr. Martha. Jannah had some PTSD of her own following the serious car accident we had in 2017. She had spoken with other therapists since then because driving on the highway since that day had terrorized her.

But, two hypnosis and EMDR sessions with Dr. Martha seems to have helped Jannah get over her panic while being a passenger in a car. Hearing how much better she’s doing made Martha very happy.

“I just love helping people,” she says.

Dr. Martha Tapia’s Community Family Counseling is located at 2604 Cypress Ridge Blvd., For appointments and more info, call (813) 8035968 or visit CommunityFamilyCounselor.com.

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Experience

Dr. Martha can provide both traditional psychotherapy (top) and hypnotherapy (above) to help adults, children & couples.

Lavender Spa & Nails Can Make Your Nails Look Beautiful While You Shop At The Outlets!

By Jannah Nager

If you’ve never visited Lavender Spa & Nails, located at the Tampa Premium Outlets (on the south side of S.R. 56), now is the time! The nail spa’s convenient location makes it the perfect spot for getting a mani cure and/or pedicure in between shopping and dinner.

Indulge in a luxurious spa experience, as Lavender Spa & Nail’s highly skilled profes sional technicians customize your treatment to your needs, leaving you relaxed and reju venated. The spa is now under the ownership of Chris and Gaiu (who goes by “Lee”) Alley, the same husband-and-wife team that also owns Colorful Nails in the Freedom Plaza on S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel.

Chris, who has a background in infor mation technology (IT), takes care of the “back end” of the business, such as managing the software at the salon and its website and marketing, while Lee oversees the day-today activities at the spa. The Wesley Chapel residents took over ownership of Lavender in February of this year but the previous owners and most of the staff stayed on to make for

cians have been at Lavender Spa & Nails for more than five years.

“We weren’t really planning to open another salon, but this opportunity came along and we decided to go for it,” says Chris. “You sure can’t beat the location.”

Lee has made several improvements to the spa by expanding the area for facials and adding a massage room — and massages will be available soon by appointment only. She also has updated the interior with an elegant new décor. Lee also has added a number of new nail services, including the Hot Sweet Pedicure that incorporates hot steam into the luxurious Lavender Detox Pedicure (with the most luxurious pedicure products to reduce anxiety and stress with a fragrance you will love for total relaxation, leaving your feet and skin purified and replenished).

Lavender Spa & Nails also offers a wide array of other pedicures, including a paraffin spa pedicure (a high-end, eco-friendly paraffin alternative that is 100% natural, with shea butter and essential oils, that is great for dry and cracked heels); a volcano spa pedicure (with five steps of organic ingredients, including detox volcano crystals and activator, combined to create a fun, bubbling “explosion”); and the ultimate aloe spa pedicure

Photos by Charmaine George

(Left) The revamped interior of Lavender Spa & Nails lets you know you’re in for a luxurious experience. (Center) The machine in this picture adds invigorating steam to the Hot Spa Pedicure. (Right) Lavender’s nail techs can re-create pretty much any design and style of nails you want.

(with natural aloe jelly that retains heat, soothes aching muscles and alleviates joint pain; the jelly also acts as a gentle exfoliant while the aromatic natural oils soften the skin and relax your mind and body. This pedicure also includes a hot stone massage and EcoFin wax in medicated boots in four different heavenly scents) — to name just a few.

Manicure services include acrylic, gel, Gel-X, and dip powder nails. Spa services offered are waxing, facials and eyelash extensions. If you’re looking to treat your little ones, there are several Princess services available for ages 11 and under.

Five-Star Service!

Speaking of those Princess services, Lavender Spa & Nails client Cheyenne Alderman, in her 5-star Google review (Lavender has a 4.6 out of five overall Google rating, on nearly 600 reviews), raves about the services for younger clients.

“Took my nieces to get their nails done for their birthdays, the staff was absolutely amazing! They were very accommodating to us, had great prices and they did a wonderful job! Would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a quality nail salon!”

Lee says, “What sets us apart from other salons is that we truly treat our staff and clients like family. Customer service is our highest priority.”

With a staff of 13 highly qualified technicians, you will always be treated to highquality services and a friendly atmosphere.

In another 5-star review on Google, Sydney Caplinger says, “I loved how relaxing the environment was! Everyone was so nice. Halle did my manicure and she was so nice and respectful and I showed her a picture of what I wanted for my nails and she exceeded my expectations!”

Lee says, in fact, that Lavender Spa & Nails specializes in nail art.

The spa also has a reward program — you receive a stamp with a purchase of a ser vice over $32 and, on your 10th service, you receive $10 off. Seniors age 65+ and active military and veterans receive a 5% discount and you’ll receive a 10% discount on your birthday, too. Everyday pricing is competitive with the area, despite Lavender’s desirable (and not inexpensive) mall location.

And finally, customer Lindsay Kendall says in her 5-star review, “This is the best nail salon experience I have ever had! The salon is gorgeous and the owner is so nice. All of the nail techs are friendly and take their time. I felt so at home and relaxed the entire time. Dolys did my full set and Nina did my pedi cure. Highly recommend these ladies!”

The next time you’re shopping at the outlet mall, give yourself a break and get the pampering you deserve at Lavender Spa & Nails, located at 2398 Grand Cypress Dr., Suite 430, Lutz. The spa’s hours are Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and 11 a.m.–6 p.m. on Sun. For appointments or more info, call (813) 300-3005, visit LavenderSpaNails.com or see the ad on pg. 47.

The Glazer Children’s Museum — A Fun Place To Go With Your Kids This Summer!

So, with still three weeks left before the end of the sweltering summer and your younger kids have to go back to school, where can you take them for a fun day — any day — in air-conditioned comfort?

I suggest a trip to the Glazer Children’s Museum, located in the heart of downtown Tampa’s Arts District, right near the Straz Center for the Performing Arts and the Tampa Museum of Art.

I had two reasons for wanting to visit the Glazer Museum. The first was that Jannah and I were going to be babysitting our young grandchildren — 4-1/2-year-old Rosie and her 15-month-old brother Gio — for five days and there’s only so much pool, TV/screen and dining out time this Grammie and Grampa can handle without having something to do and Gio isn’t old enough yet to sit through a movie, much less Busch Gardens or (gulp) Disney.

The second motivation was the fact that the museum was hosting a new traveling, temporary exhibit that first opened in May — the “Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit.” Even my sons, now both in their 30s, grew up being read, and then reading themselves, Carle’s most famous book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and when I saw the promotional photos for the exhibit, with giant versions of each page that kids can walk through, I thought the opportunity was too good to pass up — especially at only $18 per person.

But, while Rosie enjoyed the Carle exhibit — especially standing in front of the butterfly wings of Carle’s transformed caterpillar and tromping through the tall grass like the author’s The Very Clumsy Click Beetle — Gio was too young to appreciate it and even Rosie found almost everything else at the museum to be more interesting — and fun!

Something For Every Young’n!

While I refuse to call them “littles,” there’s no doubt that if you have children from toddler age up to at least 6-8 years old and maybe as high as age 10, there truly are many things all of them will enjoy at the Glazer Children’s Museum.

On the first floor, your journey begins

(Above) If your kids love The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other books by Eric Carle, the Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa is hosting the traveling “Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit” through September 8. (Top right) Even before you get inside, your kids will know a big, fun time awaits them! (Above right) Your kids will love tromping through the tall grass like Carle’s The Very Clumsy Click Beetle (Bottom right) Gio thinks shopping carts are just so much fun, whether they have food in them or not!

with “Tugboat Tots,” where the kids get to steer a mini tugboat, “fish” off a mini-pier and play “I Spy” with an ocean mural. There also is an open play space for kids ages 3 and under that Gio loved, especially the “tasty” blocks (photo on next page). Rosie put on a smock and played not only with gliding boats through the water, but also with light and sound on the colorful “Light Cloud” piano, which also is on the first floor.

But, the second level was probably both of the kids’ favorite. It started with a visit to

a farm, where Rosie sat on a pig statue’s back and bottle-fed it and got to “milk” a cow statue (with fairly life-like udders), while Gio gathered tomatoes and oranges in a wheelbarrow and walked around with them. From there, Gio spent a lot of time checking out the “Safety Village,” where he could put groceries at the Publix supermarket in a shopping cart (he thought the empty cart, above, was super-fun, too!), sit in a fire

Story & photos by Gary Nager

See “Glazer Museum” on pg. 40.

you venture up to the third floor. See the next pages for details.

On the first floor of the Glazer Children’s Museum, there are fun activities that involve water, lights and sound. In addition to the Eric Carle exhibit, the second floor has a fun “working farm” among its many exhibits that is perfect for kids from toddlers to at least ages 6-8. But, the excitement gets even bigger when

truck at the firehouse and play with stuffed animals at the “Vet Clinic.” Rosie first checked out the Eric Carle exhibit and then flew off to the two-story-tall, fully-enclosed “Water’s Journey Climber,” where she climbed way up high (tentatively at first, but she caught on fast) and then loved the journey back down even more!

Rosie also got very into the “Family Play Project” area, where she cut and pasted different paper and fabric swatches to create a unique artwork.

Both kids enjoyed the “Twinkle Stars Theater,” where Rosie tried on costumes and Gio loved banging the buttons that controlled the lights and sound on the theater’s stage.

Rosie then found the “Vet Clinic,” where she looked at pretend X-rays of some stuffed animals and then took time to properly groom them with a blow drying hose.

Rosie also felt like a big girl while sliding down the fire pole at the firehouse and watching her skeleton move along with her on “Skelevision” at the “Hospital” sponsored by St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Among her favorite exhibits on the second floor, though, were the “Pizza Place” — where she created and “cooked” a pizza of her own design in the oven that looks hot, but isn’t — and the “Ice Cream Parlour,” where she made a two-scoop cone for Grampa and a cup of ice cream with toppings for Grammie.

On To Big John!

The third level of the Glazer Children’s Museum is where you’ll find “Big John,” purported to be the “world’s largest” triceratops.

The 66-million-year-old fossilized dino, which is on loan for three years from Tampa-based businessman Siddhartha Pagidipati, is the focal point of the museum’s dinosaur exhibit. Big John was reportedly reconstructed in less than a week upon his arrival to the museum.

Gio had a blast playing with the plastic dinosaurs and popping out of a dinosaur egg, while Rosie properly matched bone shapes to a small version of Big John’s skeleton. Both kids also got a kick of weighing themselves against Big John’s 10-ton weight.

Of course, by now, the children had to visit the cute store back on the ground floor, where we bought them a mini-copy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar and a transparent car filled with plastic dinosaurs.

The museum also has a great private room for hosting kids’ birthday parties.

Hop On The Pirate Water Taxi!

Of course, after this three-hour romp, the kids were tired and hungry and, since we parked in the lot next to the museum, we were able to walk down to the Hillsborough River at the adjacent Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and catch a ride on the Pirate Water Taxi (bottom right photo on next page) that took us upstream to Armature Works — only one stop away. Because we’re Florida residents, adults can stop at all 16 of

the Pirate Water Taxi stops all day for $26, while children ages 2-12 can ride all day for $16 (those under age 2 ride for free). Rosie thought it was so cool that she was riding a boat since her parents were on a cruise while we were watching them!

More About The Glazer Museum

The 53,000-sq.-ft. Glazer Children’s Museum opened in 2010 after a $22-million capital campaign, with construction begin-

ning in 2009. It was named in honor of the Glazer Family Foundation, which donated $5 million. The Foundation, at that time led by Edward Glazer and his brother Bryan, was founded by their father, the late Malcolm Glazer, who was the owner and president of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Manchester United Football Club.

The Glazer Children’s Museum dates back to Tampa’s original Safety Village,

Rosie had so much fun creating and then “baking” her pretend pizza in the oven at the museum. “Don’t worry, Grandpa,” she told me. “It only looks hot. It’s not really.”

located in Lowry Park, which opened in 1965. According to the museum’s website, the museum’s Mission is to “create and foster engaging, impactful PLAY experiences for children and families to learn and thrive.” Its Vision is “a community that values PLAY as the foundation for the learning and development of families across generations.”

All I can tell you is that it is a super-fun place and a great way to spend a day with your children or grandchildren.

The Glazer Children’s Museum is located at 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza in downtown Tampa. A “Playmaker Membership” costs just $250 ($55 tax deductible) and includes 12 months of play for up to six members, access to members-only events and other discounts. For more information, including everything about memberships and donations, call (813) 443-3861 or visit GlazerMuseum.org. For the Pirate Water Taxi, visit PirateWaterTaxi.com.

Enter Our 2024 Reader Dining Survey & Contest & To Win $200 In FREE Dining!

Although our 2023 Reader Dining Survey & Contest was super successful, we’re changing up the format for this year’s contest yet again.

Instead of putting up different categories every issue, we’re going back to showing you the lists of every local or small chain restaurant in a number of categories in both New Tampa (see next page) and Wesley Chapel (see pg. 45) and asking you to name your favorites in each category. One difference is that unlike previous years, you can skip as many categories as you like, but we’re grouping the lists of restaurant by type. On the next page, here are those categories:

1) Your Five Favorite (overall) Restaurants in New Tampa (NT)

2) Your Favorite American Restaurant in New Tampa

3) Your Favorite Pizza Place in NT

These same categories also appear on the Wesley Chapel ballot on pg. 45. Both entry forms also include lists of places that ask you to pick your Favorite in New Tampa (NT) AND Wesley Chapel, often (but not always) because there aren’t enough in a certain category in just one of our distribution areas. Here are those other categories:

1) You Favorite Mexican Place in NT/ WC

2) Your Favorite Latin (but not Mexican) Restaurant in NT/WC

3) Your Favorite Chinese Place in NT/WC

4) Your Favorite Japanese/Sushi Restaurant in NT & WC

5) Your Favorite Thai or Korean Restaurant in NT/WC

6) Your Favorite Italian Food in NT/WC

7) Your Favorite Greek or Mediterranean Restaurant in NT/WC

8) Your Favorite Indian Place in NT/WC

9) Your Favorite Breakfast Place in NT/WC

9) Your Favorite Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt or Gelato Place in NT/WC

10) Your Favorite Bakery in NT/WC

11) Your Favorite Coffee Shop in NT/WC

We’re providing the list of places, although we’ve left out the large national and regional chains (with more than 50-60 total locations), because you have to write (or type) the names of your favorites in the spaces provided and we’re pretty sure you know those if they’re your favorite in a category — and yes, you can still include them (we just wish you would focus on local).

Fill out as many categories as you like, but please don’t put the same name in every category, because those votes won’t be counted and if a restaurant is on our Wesley Chapel list, your vote won’t count if you write the name of that restaurant in any New Tampa’-only spaces and vice-versa. You can submit both New Tampa & Wesley Chapel ballots without being DQed.

We have upped the prizes for this year — the Grand Prize is now $200, plus prizes of $100 and $50, chosen at random from among all correctly-filled-out entries received by email or on our NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net website (Note-no U.S. Mail entries will be accepted for this year’s contest!) by Friday, October 18 Good luck! — GN

NEW TAMPA (NT)

My Five Favorite (Overall) Restaurants in NT (Only):

5)__________________________________

American Restaurants (NT Only)

Bayscape Bistro

Burger 21

Cali Tampa Palms

EggTown Breakfast & Lunch

Fat Rabbit Pub

Frammi American Grille & Italian Food

Fresh Kitchen

Hungry Crab Juicy Seafood

Hunter’s Green Country Club

Mr. Dunderbak’s (German & Sandwiches)

Peabody’s Grill & Bar

Provisions Coffee & Kitchen

Stonewood Grill & Tavern

Subs & Such (Livingston Ave.)

Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club

The Bean Bar Co.

The Grill at Morris Bridge

The Wexford Irish Pub

Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park

Zio’s NY Bagel & Deli Co.

My Favorite American Restaurant in New Tampa Is______________

Pizza Places (NT Only)

Cali Tampa Palms

Cappy’s Pizzeria

Capri Pizza-N-More

Johnny C’s Italian Eatery

NY Pizza Express (Livingston Ave.)

Peabody’s Grill & Bar

Taste of NY Pizza

Via Italia

Westshore Pizza

My Favorite Pizza Place in New Tampa Is______________

Mexican Restaurants (NT & WC)

Azteca D’Oro

Cantina Mexican Grill

Don Julio’s

Los Vallartas

Señor Tequila

Taco Bus

Taco Son

Tacos el Patron

My Favorite Mexican Restaurant in NT or WC Is_________________

Latin (but not Mexican)

Restaurants (NT & WC)

Arepa Mia

Chamo Bites

Cross Creek Gourmet

Don Pan International Bakery

Hummingbird Jamaican Cuisine

La Creacion Xpress

Las Palmas Latin Grille

Latin Twist Café

Lima Peruvian Cuisine

Macondo Coffee Roasters

Mojo Grill

Mpanitas Restaurant

Pisco Express

Rhythm Pon de Grille (Jamaican)

Rice N Beans Express

Rice N Beans Puerto Rico

My Favorite Latin (but not Mexican) Restaurant in NT/WC is_______________

Chinese

Restaurants

(NT & WC)

Asian Buffet

China City

China Gourmet

China One

China Wok

Gonna China

Ho King

Hot Wok 88

Ho Wok

Liang’s Bistro Asian Cuisine

New China King

Rain Bistro

Shang Hai

My Favorite Chinese Restaurant in NT or WC Is_____________________

Japanese/Sushi Places (NT/WC)

Asian Buffet

Ato Sushi

Bluefin Sushi

Bonsai Sushi

Crazy Sushi

FJ Express

Ginza Endless Hibachi & Sushi

Ha Long Bay

Hibachi Express

Kobe Japanese Steakhouse

Koizi Endless Hibachi & Sushi Eatery

Michi Ramen

Poké Island Plus

Poké Lulu

Sushi Avenue

Sushi Café

Sushi Haru (Lotte Plaza Market)

Sushi Raw

Tasty Ramen

Thai Lanna & Sushi

Token Ramen & Tea

Tokyo Grill & Sushi

Umu Japanese & Thai

Yamato Japanese Steak House

Zukku-San Sushi Bar & Grill

My Favorite Japanese/Sushi Restaurant in NT or WC Is_________________

Thai/Korean

Places (NT & WC)

Arroy Thai

bb.q chicken (Lotte Plaza Market)

MyungGa Gyo-dong (Lotte Plaza Market)

Ha Long Bay

Jaws Topokki (Lotte Plaza Market)

Palm Thai

SGD Dubo (Lotte Plaza Market)

Thai Lanna

Thai Ruby

My Favorite Thai/Korean Restaurant in NT or WC Is_________________

Italian Restaurants (NT & WC)

365 Caffé Italiano

900º New York Pizza

900º Woodfired Pizza

Amici Pizza

Best NY Pizza

Blush Wine Room

Bosco’s Italian-to-Go

Cali Tampa Palms

Caprese Pizza House

El Pasta & More

Falabella Family Bistro

Frammi American Grille & Italian Food

Fratelli’s Pizza & Café

Johnny C’s Italian Eatery

Mama B’s Pizzeria

Moschella’s Italian Eatery & Market

New York New York Pizza

Pasta di Guy

PizzaMania

Taste of NY Pizza

Via Italia

Westshore Pizza

My Favorite Italian Restaurant in NT or WC Is_________________

Greek/Mediterranean

Restaurants (NT & WC)

Acropolis Greek Taverna

Al-Sham Palace

Cafe Zorba

El Prince Mediterranean

Fire Up Halal Grill

Garden Mediterranean Grill

Kabob Café & Grill

Little Greek Fresh Grill

The Hungry Greek

My Favorite Greek/Mediterranean Restaurant in NT or WC Is______________

Indian Restaurants (NT & WC)

Bang-Bang! Bowls

Blush Wine Room

Dosa Hut

Gorkhali Kitchen (Nepalese)

Ice Spice Indian Street Food Café

Indian Street Kitchen

Minerva Indian Restaurant

Namaste Express

Nawabi Hyderabad House

Persis Indian Grill

Saffron Indian Cuisine

Taaza Mart Café

My Favorite Indian Restaurant in NT or WC Is______________________

Breakfast Places (NT & WC)

365 Caffé Italiano

Bayscape Bistro

Brooklyn Water Bagel Co.

Brunchies

EggTown Breakfast & Lunch

Happy Hangar Café

Keke’s Breakfast Café

Macondo Coffee Roasters

Provisions Coffee & Kitchen

The Bean Bar Co.

Tropics (Saddlebrook)

Zio’s NY Bagel & Deli

My Favorite Breakfast Place in NT or WC Is_________________

Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt/Gelato Shops (NT & WC)

35 Below Ice Cream

Astro Ice Cream

Bianco Gelato

Hello Sweetness

Ice Dreammm Shop

Ice Spice Indian Street Food Café

Ice SSScreamin

Le Macaron French Pastries

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

Paleta Mia

SubZero Nitrogen Ice Cream

Twistee Treat

You Do The Dishes

My Favorite Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt/ Gelato Shop in NT or WC Is_____________

Bakeries (NT & WC)

Bakery X

Beirut Bakery & Meat Market

Brooklyn Water Bagel Co.

Ice Dreammm Shop

Le Macaron French Pastries

Mediterranean Market

Mochinut Donuts

Nothing Bundt Cakes

The Cake Shop

Urban Sweets

Zio’s NY Bagel & Deli

My Favorite Bakery in NT or WC Is_____________

Coffee Shops (NT & WC)

Bad Ass Coffee

Coffee Latitudes

Le Macaron French Pastries

Macondo Coffee Roasters

Provisions Coffee & Kitchen

Raining Berries

Sorbo Coffee

The Bean Bar Co.

You Do The Dishes

My Favorite Coffee Shop in NT or WC Is_____________

Our 2024 Neighborhood News Dining Survey & Contest!

To enter to win up to $200 in FREE dining to the restaurant of your choice, please fill out as many of the spaces on this page as you like — plus all of the information requested on the entry form below — and email a picture of the entire form to us at Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com, with “Dining Contest” in the subject line of the email by Friday, October 18. Or, enter at NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net. No purchase necessary to enter or win, but please see our website for all of the official rules.

Your First & Last Name________________________________________________

Community You Live In (Cross Creek, Tampa Palms, etc.)

Your Daytime Phone Number___________________________________________

Your Valid Email Address_______________________________________________

WESLEY CHAPEL My Five Favorite (Overall) Restaurants in WC (Only):

5)__________________________________

American Restaurants (WC Only)

Bacon Boss HQ

Bagelicious & More

Bahama Breeze

Bebo’s Cheesesteaks

Brooklyn Water Bagel Co.

Brunchies

Bubba’s 33

Burger Monger

Chick’n Fun

Chuck Lager America’s Tavern

Dempsey’s Too (Saddlebrook)

Dummy Crabby

EggTown Breakfast & Lunch

Flipn’ Fries

Florida Ave. Brewing Co.

Ford’s Garage

Garden Grille (Hilton Garden Inn)

Glory Days Grill

Green Market Café

Grillsmith

Grove Mini-Golf

Mac’s Custom Meats & Deli

Main Event

Marquee Suites (B&B Theatres)

Noble Crust

O’Brien’s Irish Pub

Omari’s Bar & Grill (Lexington Oaks GC)

Palani’s Hawai’i Noodles

Pinchers Crab Shack

PopStroke

Retro Dogs

Rock & Brews

Shake-A-Salad

Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar

Skybox Rooftop Bar (Residence Inn)

The Living Room

The Placery (Hyatt Place Hotel)

Top Shelf Sports Grille (AH Center Ice)

TrebleMakers Dueling Piano Bar

Tropics (Saddlebrook)

Winghouse Bar & Grill

My Favorite American Restaurant in Wesley Chapel Is______________

Pizza Places (WC Only)

900º New York Pizza

900º Woodfired Pizza

Amici Pizza

Best NY Pizza

Blush Wine Room (flatbreads)

Bosco’s Italian-to-Go

Caprese Pizza House

Fratelli’s Pizza & Café

Mama B’s Pizzeria

Moschella’s Italian Eatery & Market

New York New York Pizza

Pasta di Guy (flatbreads)

PizzaMania

My Favorite Pizza Place in Wesley Chapel Is______________

Mexican Restaurants (NT & WC)

Azteca D’Oro

Cantina Mexican Grill

Don Julio’s

Los Vallartas

Señor Tequila

Taco Bus

Taco Son

Tacos el Patron

My Favorite Mexican Restaurant in NT or WC Is_________________

Latin (but not Mexican) Restaurants (NT & WC)

Arepa Mia

Chamo Bites

Cross Creek Gourmet

Don Pan International Bakery

Hummingbird Jamaican Cuisine

La Creacion Xpress

Las Palmas Latin Grille

Latin Twist Café

Lima Peruvian Cuisine

Macondo Coffee Roasters

Mojo Grill

Mpanitas Restaurant

Pisco Express

Rhythm Pon de Grille (Jamaican)

Rice N Beans Express

Rice N Beans Puerto Rico

My Favorite Latin (but not Mexican)

Restaurant in NT/WC is_______________

Chinese Restaurants (NT & WC)

Asian Buffet

China City

China Gourmet

China One

China Wok

Gonna China

Ho King

Hot Wok 88

Ho Wok

Liang’s Bistro Asian Cuisine

New China King

Rain Bistro

Shang Hai

My Favorite Chinese Restaurant in NT or WC Is_____________________

Japanese/Sushi Places (NT/WC)

Asian Buffet

Ato Sushi

Bluefin Sushi

Bonsai Sushi

Crazy Sushi

FJ Express

Ginza Endless Hibachi & Sushi

Ha Long Bay

Hibachi Express

Kobe Japanese Steakhouse

Koizi Endless Hibachi & Sushi Eatery

Michi Ramen

Poké Island Plus

Poké Lulu

Sushi Avenue

Sushi Café

Sushi Haru (Lotte Plaza Market)

Sushi Raw

Tasty Ramen

Thai Lanna

Token Ramen & Tea

Tokyo Grill & Sushi

Umu Japanese & Thai

Yamato Japanese Steak House

Zukku-San Sushi Bar & Grill

My Favorite Japanese/Sushi Restaurant in NT or WC Is_________________

Thai/Korean Places (NT & WC)

Arroy Thai

bb.q chicken (Lotte Plaza Market)

MyungGa Gyo-dong (Lotte Plaza Market)

Ha Long Bay

Jaws Topokki (Lotte Plaza Market)

Palm Thai

SGD Dubo (Lotte Plaza Market)

Thai Lanna

Thai Ruby

My Favorite Thai/Korean Restaurant in NT or WC Is_________________

Italian Restaurants (NT & WC)

365 Caffé Italiano

900º New York Pizza

900º Woodfired Pizza

Amici Pizza

Best NY Pizza

Blush Wine Room

Bosco’s Italian-to-Go

Cali Tampa Palms

Caprese Pizza House

El Pasta & More

Falabella Family Bistro

Frammi American Grille & Italian Food

Fratelli’s Pizza & Café

Johnny C’s Italian Eatery

Mama B’s Pizzeria

Moschella’s Italian Eatery & Market

New York New York Pizza

Pasta di Guy

PizzaMania

Taste of NY Pizza

Via Italia

Westshore Pizza

My Favorite Italian Restaurant in NT or WC Is_________________

Greek/Mediterranean Restaurants (NT & WC)

Acropolis Greek Taverna

Al-Sham Palace

Cafe Zorba

El Prince Mediterranean

Fire Up Halal Grill

Garden Mediterranean Grill

Kabob Café & Grill

Little Greek Fresh Grill

The Hungry Greek

My Favorite Greek/Mediterranean Restaurant in NT or WC Is______________

Indian Restaurants (NT & WC)

Bang-Bang! Bowls

Blush Wine Room

Dosa Hut

Gorkhali Kitchen (Nepalese)

Ice Spice Indian Street Food Café

Indian Street Kitchen

Minerva Indian Restaurant

Namaste Express

Nawabi Hyderabad House

Persis Indian Grill

Saffron Indian Cuisine

Taaza Mart Café

My Favorite Indian Restaurant in NT or WC Is______________________

Breakfast Places (NT & WC)

365 Caffé Italiano

Bayscape Bistro

Brooklyn Water Bagel Co.

Brunchies

EggTown Breakfast & Lunch

Happy Hangar Café

Keke’s Breakfast Café

Macondo Coffee Roasters

Provisions Coffee & Kitchen

The Bean Bar Co.

Tropics (Saddlebrook)

Zio’s NY Bagel & Deli

My Favorite Breakfast Place in NT or WC Is_________________

Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt/Gelato Shops (NT & WC)

35 Below Ice Cream

Astro Ice Cream

Bianco Gelato

Hello Sweetness

Ice Dreammm Shop

Ice Spice Indian Street Food Café

Ice SSScreamin

Le Macaron French Pastries

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

Paleta Mia

SubZero Nitrogen Ice Cream

Twistee Treat

You Do The Dishes

My Favorite Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt/ Gelato Shop in NT or WC Is_____________

Bakeries (NT & WC)

Bakery X

Beirut Bakery & Meat Market

Brooklyn Water Bagel Co.

Ice Dreammm Shop

Le Macaron French Pastries

Mediterranean Market

Mochinut Donuts

Nothing Bundt Cakes

The Cake Shop

Urban Sweets

Zio’s NY Bagel & Deli

My Favorite Bakery in NT or WC Is_____________

Coffee Shops (NT & WC)

Bad Ass Coffee

Coffee Latitudes

Le Macaron French Pastries

Macondo Coffee Roasters

Provisions Coffee & Kitchen

Raining Berries

Sorbo Coffee

The Bean Bar Co.

You Do The Dishes

My Favorite Coffee Shop in NT or WC Is_____________

Valid Email Address_______________________________________________ To enter to win up to $200 in FREE dining to the restaurant of your choice, please fill out as many of the spaces on this page as you like — plus all of the information requested on the entry form below — and email a picture of the entire form to us at Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com, with “Dining Contest” in the subject line of the email by Friday, October 18. Or, enter at NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net. No purchase necessary to enter or win, but please see our website for all of the official rules.

Cold Stone Creamery Has New Energy To Go With Its New Owners!

By Gary Nager

Photos by Charmaine George

When we first brought up the idea of doing what we call a “Dining Feature story” about his Cold Stone Creamery location off (but visible from) Bruce B. Downs (Blvd.) in New Tampa, franchise co-owner Meet “Sunny” Choudhry said he saw no reason for us to do so.

“Pretty much everyone knows Cold Stone,” he said. “We’re a chain, like any other national chain restaurant.”

But, while that is true — as Cold Stone has about 1,000 U.S. locations and another 300 around the world — I told Sunny that since his ads with us tout “Under New Ownership & New Energy,” didn’t he want to share that new energy with, oh, 80,000 or so of his “closest friends” in New Tampa’s 33647 zip code?

So, Sunny — who only officially took over this 18-year-old location in May, with his partner, Sunny (not a misprint) Patel — did ultimately agree to be interviewed for this story.

“Most of the people who had worked at this location didn’t stay when we took over,” Sunny admits. “But, we took that as a positive because we were able to bring on a whole new crew of young people, mostly high school students, who understand that Cold Stone Creamery isn’t just an ice cream place, it’s an experience.”

To illustrate his point, he adds, “Every time someone walks in, we make sure every team mem ber yells, ‘Welcome to Cold Stone!’ (Yes, they also sing songs for tips!) And, watching the crew mix in your favorite toppings on our cold stone counter is always fun, too. And, we stand behind our ice cream as the best, too!”

The married Wesley Chapel resident says that when his uncles opened the new Cold Stone location in the Shoppes at New Tampa plaza on BBD in Wesley Chapel last year, he worked in the store as a team member, receiving the same training as any other employee, “So when this store became available, my partner and I decided, ‘Why not? Let’s run our own Cold Stone!’ even though we really were hoping to open a brand new location.”

He notes, however, that he and Sunny still plan to open a new second location of their own, but in the meantime, he is focused on making sure that every time someone hears “Welcome to Cold Stone!,” they leave with a smile on their face.

About The Ice Cream & Mix-Ins

According to the company’s website, “After 35

up their own Cold Stone Signature Creations™.”

My current favorite flavors are both new — Caramel Truffle and “Despicamallow” (the latter is marshmallow-flavored ice cream turned “Minion

usually a sorbet kind of guy, I genuinely enjoyed the peach mango sorbet, as well as the “Silk® Chocolate Almond Milk Frozen Dessert,” which is perfect for those who are lactose-intolerant.

the huge variety of available mix-ins. From fresh fruit, like bananas, raspberries and strawberries, to candy like M&Ms®, Kit Kat® and gummy bears, plus nuts like pecans

actual Cold Stone “Signature Creations™,” from the “Mega Minion Marshmallow Meltdown” and “Peanut Butter Cup Perfection®” to “Mud Pie Mojo®” “Founder’s Favorite®” and many more. If you want to know what’s in each of these “Creations,”, visit ColdStoneCreamery. com or (my suggestion) stop into the store. And of course, not only is all of the ice cream

the front of the store.

Cakes, Shakes, Smoothies & Treats

In addition to those freshly made cones and cups, Cold Stone also offers other specialties, including fresh fruit smoothies (try the strawberry and blueberry) and hand-spun shakes (with your favorite ice cream flavor and mix-in). And, in the freezer at the front of the store, there’s also a variety of pre-packed quarts in four of those

“Signature” flavors, as well as an even larger selection of Signature ice cream cakes, includ ing the new “Heist Cream Cake” (featuring that Despicamallow ice cream), Cake Batter Confetti™ (photo on this page), “Midnight Delight®,” Oreo® Cookies & Extreme Cream” and many more in small (serves up to 8 people) and large (up to 14 people) round sizes. And of course, you can order completely customized cakes, with your favorite ice cream flavors, mix-in and frosting, in a number of different sizes.

“I was never a big fan of ice cream cakes until I had ours,” Sunny says. “And we usually can create your custom cake within 24 hours.”

Also available in the freezer at the front door are four-packs of ice cream cookie sandwiches and six-packs of ice cream cupcakes and my favorites, the Reese’s® Peanut Butter Ice Cream Cups.

Creamery (17519 Preserve Walk Ln.) is open every day at 11 a.m. and stays open until 10 p.m. Mon.-Thur. until 11 p.m. on Sun. and until midnight on Fri. & Sat. For more info, call (813) 977-0024, visit ColdStoneCreamery.com or see the ad on pg. 42, where you’ll find this month’s Daily Store Specials. For special orders, call Sunny directly ay (813) 469-7954.

Sunglass Krate is located in one of the largest container parks in the world that attracts visitors from all over the globe. Check out krateatthegrove.com Sunglass Krate is owned and operated by Jim Lambrou, a Licensed Optician in the state of Florida with over 30 years in the optical industry! His goal is to help you protect your eyes from sun damage.

Saffron & Woodfired Close; Bamboo Sushi Bowls To Open

After nearly two decades in New Tampa, with one name change and a move to a new location, Saffron Indian Cuisine, located inside the convenience store at the Mobil gas station at 10865 Cross Creek Blvd., has permanently closed.

The restaurant, which was first opened in our area by the husband-and-wife team of Nimesh and Sunita Chheda in the Cross Creek Center plaza on Cross Creek Blvd. at Kinnan St. (that location is now occupied by the Nepalese restaurant Gorkhali Kitchen) more than 17 years ago, enjoyed some success, despite being located inside a gas station convenience store, but Nimesh had told me several months ago that he and Sunita were planning to retire, he just didn’t say when that would happen. Unfortunately, I was unable to

(just west of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd.) had closed and that “the rumor” was that Woodfired Pizza in the same plaza, also was closing.

Well, not long after that June 25 issue hit mailboxes, I caught up with Woodfired owner (and long-time Tampa Palms resident) Peter Taylor as he was clearing out his local favorite restaurant. Peter said that Woodfired (not to be confused with, or related to, 900º Woodfired Pizza in the Shops at Wiregrass) closed because of a huge increase in common area maintenance charges at the plaza, which is a tremendous loss for the

In the good news department, however, I spotted a new sign in the Pebble Creek Collection (at 19651 BBD Blvd.) that a new restaurant called Bamboo Sushi Bowls was moving into the space (Suite D1) previously occupied by 35 Below ice cream, which closed several months ago.

Although a Google search of the name said that the restaurant was already open, the website BambooSushiBowls.com still correctly says that the restaurant is “Coming Soon” and is “Now Hiring.”

on the website (and in the photo, left), and the menu itself, look quite promising.

Calling Bamboo “Your new go-to spot for delicious deconstructed (and customizable) sushi bowls that blend traditional flavors with a modern twist,” the restaurant’s menu has tempura-style sushi rolls, miso soup, fried chicken dumplings, edamame, summer rolls, create-your-own and named (like the “Twister,” with tuna, salmon, squid salad, icrab stick, cucumber, carrots, edamame, takun, bamboo sauce, mango and mandarin ginger dressing sushi bowls and more. We do not yet know Bamboo’s opening date, but we’ll keep you posted. Visit the website to get on their email list. — GN

NEW TAMPA

Potbelly Update — Still No Time Soon!

Updating the story that we last updated in our May 28 New Tampa issue, despite some other recent published reports that said that Potbelly Sandwich Works was getting ready to announce an opening date in the former Oronzo Honest Italian space in The Walk at Highwoods Preserve plaza on BBD, I can assure you that the earliest the popular sandwich shop with more than 425 locations across the U.S. is still at least several months away from being able to open here.

Yes, Ron Asmar, the president of RTA Restaurant Group, LLC, has added four additional Potbelly locations to his commitment, with the New Tampa shop expected to open in “late spring/ summer” of this year, but based on what I’ve seen inside (right photo above, taken July 11), and

what the person working inside said, there is little chance the new Potbelly will be open before the fourth quarter of 2024, and could even take until the start of 2025.

That is bad news for the multiple people I’ve seen since our last story ran two months ago, who told me they love Potbelly’s “Hot Sandwiches (and soups) and Chill Vibes,” as well as for anyone in our area (like me) who is always on the lookout for new places, even if they are national chains.

As I also said in May, feel free to visit the location at 4738 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. (near Raymond James Stadium) or the one at 2520 S. Falkenburg Rd. (near Brandon) for the Chicago-based chain’s “famous toasty sandwiches, soups, salads, freshbaked cookies and hand-spun milkshakes.” — GN

Meet Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant’s New Owners

In case you missed it, Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant is now under new owner ship, as Jordan and Jason Scott (top photo) have purchased the popular eatery and night spot from the former partnership trio of Lee Bevan and broth ers Jamie and Joe Hess.

Jordan and Jason, the latter of whom is an accomplished pianist and musician himself who previously booked the dueling piano players that perform every Friday and Saturday (and now Thursday night, too) at Treble Makers, formally in troduced themselves to their customers on June 20.

“We’re committed to making sure the food, service and entertainment meet and exceed your expectations,” Jason said. “We do have some menu changes coming up but first, we’re working as hard as we can to make sure you always enjoy your visit to Treble Makers.”

In the meantime, the restaurant’s cool robot server (left) will still bring you the same delicious menu items (like the baked Imperial crab dip below) many of you already know and love. And, don’t forget to try the new $8 lunch specials! or more information about Treble Mak ers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant (6034 Wesley Grove Blvd.), including the new $8

WESLEY CHAPEL

Indian Street Kitchen Opens In The KRATES!

We told you last issue that the Chicken Boss was being replaced at the KRATEs by Indian Street Kitchen, the faster-food concept from owners Harry and his brother Mike Patel from Persis Indian Grill, the instant hit that opened earlier this year next to Double Branch Brewing in the Village at The Grove.

Well, the new Indian Street Kitchen KRATE opened just in time for the hugely popular June 28 R&B Only Night and although we didn’t end up sampling the cuisine that night, the new eatery is indeed now serving “every type of Indian street food,” as promised by the Patels.

In addition to the sticky, spicy Masala wings shown here, Indian Street Kitchen has everything from chicken nuggets and egg and spring rolls to paneer (cheese) and chicken tikka rolls, vada pav (deep-fried potato dumpling slider sandwiches), crunch corn and even Masala calamari, to name just a few — and nothing on the menu costs more than $11.99!

The next time you visit The Grove or the KRATEs, stop in at Indian Street Kitchen (5888 Grand Oro Ln., Suite

casual restaurant. And please, tell Harry and Mike that I sent you! — GN

Azteca D’Oro Celebrates Its 1st Anniversary!

Congratulations go out to co-owners Victor (at right in top photo) and Armando (not pictured) Ramos and general manager Cristina Casimiro (left in same picture) of Azteca D’Oro Mexican Restaurant, which celebrated its one-year anniversary in The Shops at Wiregrass on a rainy June 29.

The authentic Mexican restaurant celebrated with live DJ Rico Smooth (below right) and an outdoor bar in front of the restaurant at 2000 Piazza Ave., Unit 170.

“We were packed earlier today,” Victor said, “but once the rain hit, it definitely kept away a lot of people, even though it let up.”

We tried to help out by posting on our Facebook page that the anniversary party was still going on — which reached nearly 7,000 people (with more than 800 engagements) — but thankfully, Azteca is still open every day for lunch and dinner (we love the made-tableside guacamole (bottom photo), the chicken taquitos and fajitas) and still has mariachi and Latin DJ music every Thursday night and more DJ music every Saturday night.

For more info, call (813) 5276033, visit Aztecadoro.com or see the ad below right.—GN

HOME IMPROVEMENT

BATHROOM & KITCHEN REMODELING. Top quality, professional, licensed, & insured contractors. Family owned & operated for over 30 years. We take the hassle out of remodeling. Call Ken for an estimate. 813-460-4548 or see our display ad on the next page for additional info.

FLOORING- Luxury Vinyl Plank Installed! Buy anywhere, we will install it!. $1.69/sq. ft. (over 300 sq.ft.). Regular-size bedroom - $399, We will haul away carpet/tack strip & move major furniture pieces. Call for free estimate 813-417-7689. Let’s save some money!

NEED HELP PACKING, UNPACKING & ORGANIZING? Let us help you! We LOVE putting things in their place. We specialize in helping you de-clutter, organize & purge unwanted/unused items. We can unpack & organize your new home or help you prepare & pack for your move. Call 813-523-2421 or 813-469-7935 or visit homesweettampabay.com.

JUNK HAULING SERVICE! We handle all types of furniture removal — bdrm sets, chairs, mattresses & box springs • Hot water heaters & hot tubs - take apart & remove • Construction material • Carpet removal • Estate, eviction, yard, garage & attic clean-outs • Ofc, home & factory • Comm’l/res’l. GorillaJunkremovalExperts.com. For appts, call/ text Nigel @ 888-346-5865.

WESLEYCHAPELPRESSUREWASHINGCOM Soft pressure ext. house cleaning, screen enclosures, pool decks, driveways, sidewalks, fences, roofs, paver sealing & deck staining. We clean everything. No job too big/small. Exp. the difference when you hire a pressure cleaning pro. Licensed & insured. Owner operated. Call for a free estimate 813-433-6015.

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

DRY WALL SPECIALIST. Not a handyman. Affordable, Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings & walls, re-texturing, popcorn removal, room addt’ns, cracks, holes, plaster & stucco repair. 30+ years of exp. WC resident. State Certified. Call Ron for a free estimate: 813-784-5999. Lic. #SCC131149699

___TREE SERVICES ___

FITZPATRICK’s TREE SERVICE, INC. 27 yrs of Prof. Svc. Licensed & Insured. Free Estimates. Tree Trimming & Tree Removal. Stump Grinding. Dead-Wood Removal. Affordable Rates. 24-Hour Emergency Storm Service. Free Mulch. Call 813495-9541 or 813-788-TREE.

LAWN & LANDSCAPING_______

JOHN IDEAL LAWN & LANDSCAPES. We provide all normal lawn & landscaping svcs: •Mow •Edge •Turf Trim •Air-Sweep •Right-of-Way Weed Control •Bed Edging •Resod •Design Your Lawn •Mulch •Shrub Trim/ Shape •Hedge Trim •Yard Cleanup. “For no lawn stress, just join John’s Curb Appeal Success!” Save 12%/mo for 6 mos w/a 1-yr contract. Call Maitland John @ 813.327.1039.

ALL DIMENSIONS LANDSCAPE & EXTERIORS, LLC. Complete resid’l & comm’l landscape, hardscape & softscape. Mulch & decorative stone. Patios, decks, retaining walls, property maintenance & lawn care. Sod & lawn install’n, artificial turf, fencing, railings, soft & hard pressure washing, painting. We do anything exterior. Call (724) 541-2535 or (813) 485-6661 for a 25% discount on labor & materials.

J’S CUTTING EDGE LAWN SERVICE — Over 5 years of quality full lawn care and landscaping services at affordable rates, Including Mowing, Edging, Trimming, Blowing, Cleanups & more. Call or Text 813-842-7753 for your free quote today.

__TRANSPORTATION _

AIRPORT SHUTTLE SVC. C&R Transportation Svcs of Tampa Bay, LLC, is a shuttle service that provides safe & reliable transportation to & from your destinations.• New Tampa Transfer, $69 • Wesley Chapel Transfer, $79 • ZHills Transfer, $89 • Dade City Transfer, $129. Book Online @Crtransportation. org or call (813) 895-7413. Receive a FREE T-shirt w/ every transfer.

AUTOS WANTED! Autos/trucks/small campers/small boats wanted! We pay top dollar! Any condition, Free Removal 24/7. For more info, call (813) 461-0062.

ELITE RIDES. Private rides in a sanitized 2023 Tesla, plus concierge services. Airport, schools, medical appointments, shopping, etc. Courteous, reliable professional. New Tampa to Tampa Int’l Airport - $45 (one way). Cory Lake Isles resident. For more info, call or text 813.765.2037.

REAL ESTATE & OFFICE

SPRING SKIING IN THE ROCKIES? Top Flr Deck w/ beautiful mountain views from a 2 bdrm/2 ba condo. Sleeps 6. Yours to enjoy, Week 17 (last wk in Apr ‘25) for just $500-cheap annual maint. fee of $872 (only $125/day). For details, call 720-838-3551 visit swanmountainresort.com or email geierent@aol.com

Steven Kessel, REALTOR® w/Future Home Realty, Inc., has created just for you, the most advanced, upto-date, user-friendly propty search engine for homes for sale in the Tampa Bay & Central Fla area — & it’s FREE to use & enjoy. BuyYourDreamHome.com.

For Rent — Three BR, fully furnished ground flr condo in Anand Vihar, a beautiful indpndnt living, gated community in the lovely Wesley Chapel area. Beautiful Clubhouse, with gym, swimming pool, game room, auditorium & dining hall. Lunch or dinner meal plans are available If needed. Contact Dinesh @ 716-830-7260

If your long-running Classified ad is no longer listed on this page, please call (813) 910-2575 with a payment to re-start your ad.

Please also call if you believe your ad being pulled was an error on our part.

MISCELLANEOUS

Were you self-employed during 2020 and 2021? If so, the IRS is giving out refunds — get your money in only 2 weeks. It takes only 10 minutes to find out how! Call 813-451-3274.

SHARPENING SERVICE. Knives, Scissors & Garden Tools. Prices/Services & Calendar of venues available @ mmsharpening.com. Every Fri, 9am-4pm, Oct 4, 2024 - March 28, 2025. In front of: CROSS CREEK MOBIL MART (10865 Cross Creek Blvd, Tampa). Contact - M&M SHARPENING - Mark Bertsche518-260-5916.

CNA/HHA & Companion. Will provide private care in your home. 25+ years of exp. References available upon request. Call Rhonda at 850-586-1868.

Prof’l Resume Guru & Consulting Services LLC. Ready to unlock your full career potential? At PRG, we specialize in resumes, cover letters, residency statements, editing & much more! Transform your documents into a powerful tool that gets you noticed! Contact us today @ 813-405-5065 or email resume_guru@outlook.com.

Equip yourself with the skills to stay safe! Register for 2A Rated Training for self-defense training classes. Our NRA Certified Instructors provide training to help you gain confidence & proficiency to protect yourself & loved ones responsibly. Don’t compromise your safety. Visit our website & register at 2ARatedTraining.com. Train with us. Empower yourself. Email: info@2ARatedTraining.com.

RAYSPHOTOGRAPHS LLC! Do you have a special occasion/moment you’d like to capture? Specializing in weddings, engagements, portraits, headshots & events, let me capture the moments that matter most to you! Visit raysphotographs.com for samples. Call/text (813) 380-2655 or email ray@raysphotographs.com. Mention this ad & receive 20% off!

360 BOOKKEEPING LLC - We focus on your Bookkeeping so you can focus on your Business. Est’d business? We’ll clean up your books to get you back on track. New Business? We can set up your chart of accounts to get you organized & efficient. Call now & get peace of mind—plus 20% off set-up fees— (813) 336-1363.

Hughes School of Music accepting new students! Study Saxophone, Piano, Music Production, Composition or Theory w/a Master of Music. Zoom sessions also avail.! Contact us at 813-748-3216.

COMPUTER SERVICES ____

PROF’L TECH SUPPORT in your home or small biz. A+ Cert. computer tech w/25 years of exp. Maint. & Repairs, Upgrades & Tutoring. More affordable than chains! Friendly, personal svc. Tech jargon explained. Remote assistance & refs. avail. Call (813) 957-8342 for a free estimate!

CLEANING SERVICES

ROSE’S CLEANING SERVICE. We make sure your home will be shiny & clean. Whether you need onetime, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly services, we will customize a plan that accommodates your needs. Residential/offices/airBnB,etc. Call or text Roseli for a free estimate anytime: 813 400.4946. Or, email:rrduar@yahoo.com.

NEXT HOME CLEANING. With over 20 years of professional house & office cleaning services available. Trustworthy, efficient, and affordable. Transform your space into a spotless sanctuary. Eco-friendly products. Satisfaction guaranteed. Book now & enjoy a pristine home! FREE ESTIMATES! Contact us today at 813-860-1524 or visit our website nexthomecleaningservices.com.

YOU HAVE IT MAID CLEANING SERVICES. Give yourself the time that you deserve. We are reliable & have 20 years of exp., with references. Licensed. Call for an estimate — 727.900.3844.

ANA PARRA HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES. Prof’l House Cleaning — Best prices & quality,.Licensed & Insured. Routine, Deep & Move-In/Move-Out cleaning. Serving New Tampa /Lutz/Wesley Chapel & more. Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or special needs. Avail. Mon-Sat. Refs avail. We supply our own cleaning products & equipmt. Call or text for free est: (305) 338-0981.

PURE SHINE CLEANING Office & House Cleaning Services! Carpet cleaning, too! Free estimates. We use our own supplies. Affordable & Reliable. Family-Owned & Operated. Wesley Chapel Resident. Weekly/Bi-Weekly/1-Time Cleaning/Move-In/ Move-Out & Deep-Cleaning Svcs. Serving Wesley Chapel & New Tampa. Call today for a FREE NoObligation Quote: 813-462-1270.

MARY’S CLEANING SERVICES. We provide flexible domestic & office cleaning. “Jesus is the Lord.” Give us a call at 352-206-8809 for a free estimate or email marynovociclo@gmail.com.

PATY CLEANING SERVICE. Comm’l or resid’l cleaning service. We have our own supplies & 6 years of exp. Free estimates. Call 813 790-8715 or email patycleaningservice@hotmail.com.

CLEANSWEEP CLEANING CO, LLC. Fully licensed/bonded, 8 years exp, satisfaction guarantd. Prof’l staff. On-time. We can bring our own products or use yours, if you prefer. Christian-based, familyowned company that lives in New Tampa, serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Call (813) 340-0908 for a no-obligation free quote. Ask for John. SPRING SPECIAL-10% OFF! All Tampa Cleanig Svcs, including: tile & grout cleaned, carpet & upholstery cleaned/deodorized, house cleaning-routine, move-out & deep cleaning. Plus, get a FREE bottle of our multi-purpose surface cleaner! Call/Text: 813.785.3315 - tampatotalcleaning@gmail.com. TampaTotalCleaning.com.