Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News Issue 16-12

Volume 20 Issue 16

Inside: Car Show Attracts A Big Crowd To Wiregrass Mall!

In Neighborhood Magazine!

July 28, 2012

The Direct-Mail News Magazines Serving Wesley Chapel & New Tampa Since 1993!

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

Debby Wreaks Havoc On Pasco, Officially Declared Disaster Area

By Matt Wiley Parts of Pasco County, including Wesley Chapel, are now eligible for federal disaster assistance in the wake of Tropical Storm Debby.

According to Pasco County’s website, on July 3, U.S. President Barack Obama declared Florida a “major disaster area,” following a request by Gov. Rick Scott, allowing for help to flow through many Florida counties from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The federal assistance is to help those qualified residents in need with temporary housing, uninsured property loss and other disasterrelated expenses. More information can be found at DisasterAssistance. com or by calling (800) 621-3362.

Parts of Wesley Chapel are still recovering from the effects of Debby, which sat on top of the Tampa Bay area for days, bringing with it a barrage of wind, rain, tornadoes and flooding.

From June 24-28, Wesley Chapel residents tried to go about their everyday lives as Debby swirled overhead, stalled just offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. Pasco County was one of the hardest hit counties in the state and the

Pasco Board of County Commissioners issued a “Local State of Emergency” just a few hours before Gov. Scott declared a Level One State of Emergency for the entire state.

The National Weather Service (NWS) estimates that Debby dumped more than 15 inches of rain on the Bay area, with about 11 inches falling in Wesley Chapel and the surrounding areas of Pasco.

Along with the rain, Debby’s winds also caused severe power outages.

A representative from the Tampa Electric Company (TECO) reported more than 20,000 customers without power during the storm’s peak.

Besides flooding, the most dangerous part of a tropical storm is the possibility of tornadoes, 11 of which have been reported so far across Tampa Bay, including one in northern New Tampa on June 24 that may have moved north into the Wesley Chapel area.

“I actually found out about it from someone sending me a link to your article on WCNeighborhoodNews. com,” says NWS meteorologist Dan Noah. “That’s how we go back after a storm to find out exactly how many (tornadoes) may have touched down;

we work with the local media.”

Noah says that there was rotation in storm cells moving through that area all day on June 24 and that the NWS could have missed a few.

“The radar estimated that there could have been tornado development in that entire area,” he says. “We have 60 days to go back and find as many as possi- The National Weather Service has confirmed that this damage ble before we publish in the Grand Hampton community on County Line Rd. in New Tampa was caused by an apparent tornado. a final report.” touched down, or at least hovered Tornado In Grand Hampton Mangled fencing and the remnants above, the area during a tornado warning between 4 p.m.-5 p.m. on June 24. of the community clubhouse’s tennis The community clubhouse’s tennis shed decorated the tennis courts behind courts, which were still surrounded by the clubhouse of the Grand Hampton yellow caution tape and adorned with community along County Line Rd. in “Keep Out” signs when we visited a New Tampa after a tornado touched day later, hardly resembled a place to down during Debby. Several residents play tennis. The fence posts were stickof the Grand Hampton community reported numerous instances of damage ing out at sharp angles or were bent in from the now-confirmed tornado that

See “Debby” on page 18.

Chamber Newsletter To Appear In Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News!

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE!

Penny Tax Will Plant ‘Economic Gardens,’ High-Speed Car Chase Ends In Wesley Chapel & Much More!

Amputee Color Guard Is The Nation’s First, Full Circle Pizza Gives Taste Of Chitown, Plus Local Biz Bytes & Nibbles & More!

Pages 1-26

Pages 27-33

ECRWSS

NEWS, BUSINESS, SPORTS & EDUCATION UPDATES

25 “Back to School” edition of the Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, and once the Chamber’s special reducedrate ad spaces on its page are filled, no more ads will be sold — unless we have enough businesses interested to warrant a second Chamber page each month!

To order your Chamber ad, or for more information, call Nikki at 910-2575 or visit WCNeighborhood News.com today! — GN

Postal Customer

Also Inside This Issue!

tising sales and design for Chambermember businesses who want to purchase any of the very limited number of spaces available each month.

“We’re very excited about this opportunity,” says Chamber executive director Mary Adele Cluck. “We’ve always appreciated the coverage the Chamber has received in the paper already, but once we heard the Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is directly mailed to more homes (16,000) in more communities in zip codes 33543, 33544 and 33545 than any other publication, it was an easy decision for us.”

The WCCC newsletter will appear for the first time as soon as the August

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

We are proud to announce that the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) has agreed to utilize the Wesley Chapel Neighborhood

News as the exclusive location for distributing its printed newsletter.

In order to make the page pay for itself, the Chamber also has agreed to allow us here at the Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News to handle the adver-

Dated Material Please Rush!

Reserve Your Ad Space In The Chamber Newsletter Today!

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Editorial-Why You Should Vote In The Aug. 14 Primary Election!

Even though I went into the 2008 election season with an open mind and watched all of the debates prior to making my selection, as a registered Republican, I took quite a bit of abuse four years ago for endorsing Democratic candidate (and now, U.S. President) Barack Obama over Arizona Sen. John McCain to be our country’s top executive officer.

This year, I will admit that I’m even more torn — and will likely remain that way until I find out who Republican candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney will choose as his running mate — about the upcoming election. No, I don’t believe Pres. Obama has made good on all of his promises and although I see some evidence of the local economy rebounding, it certainly hasn’t happened quickly enough for my tastes.

So, if Gov. Romney picks someone as a running mate who can make me feel more comfortable about who would be running this country if something happened to him — such as former U.S. Secretaries of State Condoleezza Rice or ret. Gen. Colin Powell — who to endorse in this so-called “big” election might be easy for me.

But, speaking on that topic, the reason I put “big” in quotes is because I still hear waaaaay too often when discussing voting — from otherwise very intelligent people — “I only vote in the ‘big’ elections.” If you honestly believe that voting for U.S. President is a “bigWesley Chapel Neighborhood News 15345 Amberly Dr., Tampa, FL 33647 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Fax: 910-2483 Website: WCNeighborhoodNews.com Adv. E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Publisher & Editor Gary Nager Assistant Editor/Photographer Matt Wiley

Correspondents Camille Gillies • Michael Murillo • Sheryl Young

Advertising Customer Service Manager Nikki Bennett Marketing Director Ashley Knoblach Senior Graphic Designer Porsha Lemos Nothing that appears in Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion.

The deadline for outside editorial submissions and ads for Volume 20, Issue 18, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, August 13, 2012.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, nor for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. © 2012 JM2 Communications, Inc.

An editorial by Gary Nager ger” election for us than the elections of our county commissioners, state legislators and/or our local school board representatives, well, I simply don’t understand your logic.

In terms of just the value of your vote, even if the state of Florida again comes down to a recount, the likelihood that your single vote — out of a few million votes statewide and tens of millions nationwide — might “sway” the presidential election in any way is very low, indeed.

However, considering that fewer than 40 percent of the nearly 300,000 registered voters in Pasco took part in the August primary elections in 2008, when nearly 74 percent of all registered voters in the county cast ballots in the 2008 general election, it’s definitely possible that a committed bloc of local voters can affect the outcome of one or more of the races to determine who will run your state and county governments and the Pasco School Board.

In the case of the School Board elections, the August “primary” is always the only vote for these non-partisan elections, which will elect just one of the five Board members (District 2, where current Board chair Joanne Hurley faces “conservative candidate” Don Stephenson; all county commission and School Board seats are elected countywide in Pasco) for 2012-13. Two seats were up for grabs, but District 4 incumbent Alison Crumbley will be re-elected (since she’s running unopposed).

In case you hadn’t heard this, the School Board members determine how the Pasco School District spends its money on your children’s schools, including when and how to build new ones, which schools (if any) will have to

add portable classrooms, etc., and make a myriad of other decisions that affect the lives of every one of the parents, kids, teachers and staff at every local elementary, middle and high school.

You say your kids are all in private school, so what do you care about voting for the School Board? For one thing, many of these schools are located within your communities, even if your kids don’t attend them, so how those schools are taken care of in the face of ever-shrinking budgets might be of some interest to you.

Looking past the School Board, however, those who run our county government play an even bigger role in our lives by controlling the purse strings for things like new and improved roads and parks, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office and Fire Dept., etc. Even though our District 2 commissioner Pat Mulieri doesn’t have to run this year, she could have three new colleagues on the Board, as the District 1, 3 and 5 seats are all being contested now...and could be over long before November.

For example, in District 1, incumbent Ted Schrader faces two Republican challengers on August 14. If any of the trio — which includes Ronald E. Oakley and Wesley Chapel Republican Club member Rachel O’Connor — wins

more than 50 percent of the vote in this “Universal Primary” (which means everyone can vote in the election, even though all three candidates are Republicans), there will be no runoff; that candidate will win the seat. If none of the three garners more than 50 percent, the top two vote-getters will advance to a runoff in September.

In District 3, there are five Republicans squaring off to see who faces Democrat Matthew R. Murphy in November. The winner will replace current Board chair Ann Hildebrand And, in District 5, incumbent Jack Mariano will face just one opponent, fellow Republican William “Bill” Gunter, in a winner-takes-the-seat race.

And yes, all Wesley Chapel residents also can help elect a new District 17 State Senator from among former State Rep. Rob Wallace, Lutz resident John Korsak and current State Rep. John Legg in yet another all-Republican “Universal Primary.”

In other words, definitely watch or go take part in the Republican National Convention next week, but if you really want to do something to invest in your community, I hope you’ll remember to cast a ballot on Tuesday, August 14!

We will have full Wesley Chapel Primary Election results next issue!

Table of Contents LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS, EDUCATION UPDATES........................................................Pages 1-24 Penny Tax Will Plant ‘Economic Gardens’ For Pasco. ...........4 Republicans Open Romney Office, Welcome Crist, Mack.....9 Wesley Chapel News Briefs ..............................................10 Pebble Creek Death Ruled A Homicide J.D. Porter Arrested On Domestic Violence Charges High-Speed Chase Ends In WC For Car Burglars Updates On Two Crashes That Killed WC Residents Wesley Chapel Community Calendar..............................12

Local Business Updates..................................16-22 Excel Music Helps Accelerate Musical Skills..........................16 Drs. Lockey, Fox, Ledford & Glaum: ‘Allergy Docs’...........20 Development News: Chapel Crossings & More..................22

Local Education & Sports Updates................24-25 Wesley Chapel Schools Get Good ‘Report Cards’................24 WCAA Tribe Lacrosse Team Wins Big !................................25

N eighborhood M agazine

Premium Wheels Invade Wiregrass Mall...............................27 ‘Freedom Fest’ Was The Place To Be For The 3rd!..............28 Wesley Chapel Resident Starts Amputee Color Guard.........29 Full Circle Pizza Is New Tampa’s Taste Of Chicago!............30 Oakley’s Grille Celebrates First Anniversary!.........................32 Neighborhood Nibbles & Biz Bytes................................33

WESLEY CHAPEL COLOR CLASSIFIEDS........34

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Gallagher: ‘A Penny Taxed Is A Penny Earned For Economy’

By Matt Wiley Gardening is pretty much self-sufficient. Seeds are planted, and if tended to correctly, plants grow from them, supplying food or flower to those who helped raise them. This is the plan for the new “Penny for Pasco” tax if renewed for another 10 years — creating economic incentives and “tending” to already existing businesses.

Pasco County administrator John Gallagher addressed the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) on June 28, inside American Consulting Engineers (located off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel) with a nearly hour-long presentation about the “Penny for Pasco” tax that will be appearing on the November 2012 ballot for renewal. The tax is currently set to expire on December 31, 2014, if it is not renewed. So far, the Penny has raised more than $423 million for the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), Pasco School Board and the county’s six cities and, if renewed, is expected to bring in more than $502 million for the county over its next 10-year lifespan.

“Originally, when we went doorto-door, telling people about the Penny in ’04, there was a really negative

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response,” Gallagher said. “But, now, people have actually seen where their money has gone. It’s really changed people’s minds.”

He added that in recent surveys, there has been a 70-percent approval rating for the renewal of the Penny tax.

And, if renewed for another 10 years (expiring December 31, 2024), this Penny will be even more lucrative for the county.

Gallagher described what the proposed tax will do as “economic gardening.” It will be allocated the same as the original Penny (45 percent going to the County Commission, 45 percent to the School Board and 10 percent to the cities), but the BOCC will distribute its percentage differently to help attract economic incentives, as well as to take care of the already-existing businesses in the County.

“Other than transportation,” said Gallagher, “the biggest job for the Penny is creating economic incentives.”

The Breakdown Twenty percent of the BOCC’s take will go towards job creation and economic development through a “Job & Economic Opportunity Trust Fund.” This fund will be used to pay for business incentives for qualified tar-

get industries, which include manufacturing, industrial or office type businesses, such as Raymond James Financial or T. Rowe Price. In addition, these businesses also must create at least 10 jobs that meet or exceed the Tampa Bay Median Wage Index, which is currently at about Pasco County administrator John Gallagher (standing) tells those $35,000. The in attendance at a June 28 Wesley Chapel Economic Developfund also will pay to create support ment Council meeting about the plans for the ‘Penny for Pasco.’ services for startvehicles and laptops, an upgrade to the up businesses and to educate and train Public Safety Radio System and the the workforce. replacement of Fire Station #13 in the The BOCC also will set aside 40 Quail Hollow area of Wesley Chapel. percent of its share of the tax for transOf the 40-percent that will be alloportation improvements, 20 percent for cated to transportation, the biggest public safety and 20 percent to acquire projects that would benefit the Wesley environmental lands for conservation.

Chapel area are a planned I-75 interIn the public safety area, funding change at Overpass Rd. (north of the will go towards Pasco County Sheriff’s S.R, 54 exit) and new bus bays placed Office (PCSO) vehicles and laptops, at strategic positions along S.R. 54.

Pasco County Fire Rescue (PCFR) “The most pressing need for the

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county right now is transportation,” said Gallagher. He also mentioned the idea of one day having Wi-fi on all buses and bus lanes in the county’s medians, but as of right now, he said, “these are just ideas.”

On the education side, of the 40 percent of the tax dollars given to the Board, 77 percent will go towards the improvement and remodeling of current Pasco County schools, 16 percent will go towards technology upgrades for schools, 4 percent will go towards remodeling career training spaces — such as those at Marchman Technical Education Center in New Port Richey and at Zephyrhills High) and the final 3 percent will go towards other campus safety improvements and equipment.

The original Penny tax paid to build Double Branch Elementary in Wesley Chapel, along with three other schools.

During the meeting, WCCC president-elect Jeff Novotny brought up the point that many of the Penny projects don’t directly affect Wesley Chapel, as most benefit the western part of the County.

“In my opinion, the Penny is a very critical item,” said Wiregrass Ranch Development of Regional Impact (DRI) owner/developer Don Porter of the Porter Family Trust. “It’s such a simple and straightforward tax.

Tell me anyone with a rational mind that would vote ‘No.’ You can see what your money bought.”

Several other topics were covered during the meeting as well, such as the still-controversial Mansfield Blvd. (in Meadow Pointe)-to-Kinnan St. (in New Tampa) connector at the Pasco/Hillsborough line, east of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd.

“It’s still closed,” said Gallagher with a laugh. “But it’s an issue that will sooner or later make it onto the County Commission agenda.”

Gallagher also reiterated his excitement for the Fields at Wiregrass sports complex that is currently being negotiated between the Porter family and the County, as well as the long-awaited development of the Cypress Creek Town Center DRI. “I’m excited about anything that pulls money out of Hillsborough County,” he said. “Everyone used to spend their money and do their shopping down south. Now, it’s all going to come home.”

Gallagher gave no projection on a timeframe for the development of Cypress Creek, but insisted that it is moving forward and will happen.

“This is the most exciting time in Pasco County,” he said. “In the next five to eight years, you’ll really see it.”

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Busy Republicans Open Romney Office, Welcome Gov. Scott & More

By Matt Wiley & Gary Nager June and July have been busy months for Pasco County Republicans as “Mitt Romney Victory Offices” have opened across the county, Gov. Rick Scott came to assess Tropical Storm Debby damage before speaking at the Pasco County Republican Party’s annual “Reagan Day Dinner” in New Port Richey and U.S. Sen. candidate (and current U.S. Rep.) Connie Mack, IV (R-Ft. Lauderdale), all visited our area.

Wesley Chapel’s ‘Romney Victory Office’ Opens

Hot on the heels of the first two Pasco County “Mitt Romney Victory Office” openings in Hudson and New Port Richey, a third Romney Victory Office has opened, this one on S.R. 56 in front of Sam’s Club.

It was a scalding hot Saturday morning on July 14, but that didn’t stop more than 200 Wesley Chapel-area Republicans from coming out to support the candidate they want to see win the presidency after he accepts his nomination at the upcoming Republican National Convention (RNC) next month in downtown Tampa.

Adorned with small American flags and banners that read, “Defeat Obama Here,” Wesley Chapel Republicans

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crowded into the small office space amongst the tables lined with telephones and cake to hear several speakers rally supporters and build excitement for the Romney campaign.

“Does anyone remember that Super Bowl commercial with Clint Eastwood when he described that it’s halftime in America?,” asked current Florida House District 61 Rep. Will Weatherford (R–Wesley Chapel) to the fired-up crowd. “I think it’s time for a new quarterback.” The ribbon-cutting at the “Mitt Romney Victory Office” on S.R. 56 (left) featured State Rep. Rep. Weatherford reminded Will Weatherford making the first phone call from the office to a prospective voter (right). the crowd of the $20-trillion deficit our country is facing and mony, the crowd escaped from the heat chair Joanne Hurley. “We knew the said that this election will be a defining to watch Weatherford make the first office opening would be big,” said moment for the entire U.S., as well as voter phone call from the new office.

Moore. “And it was.” for Pasco County. “We make a differ“I asked if he’d be voting Republience,” he said. “And we can make can,” said Rep. Weatherford. “And he Gov. Scott Attends Reagan THE difference in this next election.”

Day Dinner responded, ‘Heck yeah!’”

Weatherford was followed by Other attendees included Wesley In the wake of Tropical Storm Pasco’s Republican Party chair Randy Chapel Republican Club president Debby, Florida Governor Rick Scott Maggard, who said he hopes to keep Mike Moore (who also spoke; see declared parts of Pasco County a ‘disasthe room as packed as it was for the below), and several Republican canditer area’ and came to see the damage opening each day with volunteers dates running for re-election in Pasco, first hand on June 29. Afterwards, Gov. spreading the word of why voters including property appraiser Mike Scott joined Republicans from across should support Mitt Romney to be our Wells, County Commissioner Jack Mar- the county as the featured speaker at next President. “It’s up to you folks,” iano and two non-partisan candidates, Pasco’s annual Reagan Day Dinner at Maggard said. “It’s game time.”

Pasco schools superintendent Linda Spartan Manor in New Port Richey.

After a short ribbon-cutting cereFiorentino and current School Board “It was a packed house,” says Wes-

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ley Chapel Republican Club president Mike Moore. “There were probably 400 people in attendance..”

Gov. Scott spoke about job growth and how he plans to bring more large corporations to the state. He went on to express his disappointment with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to pass President Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act (ACA), stating that the Act will kill jobs. He was particularly disappointed with Chief Justice John Roberts, a conservative who was the deciding vote for the controversial law.

Although he didn’t mention it during his speech, following the dinner, Gov. Scott dida Fox-TV News interview with Greta Van Susteren in which he announced that he would not be complying with the ACA. Also in attendance at the dinner were Rep. Weatherford, Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco, nearly the entire Pasco Board of County Commissioners (except for Comm. Ted Schrader, who was out of town) and Pasco property

appraiser Mike Wells, among others.

Connie Mack IV Visits WC

A couple of weeks later, Moore’s Wesley Chapel Republican Club hosted current District 14 U.S. Rep. Connie Mack, IV, at a packed fund Connie Mack IV raiser at Moore’s home in Seven Oaks.

Mack, who is running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Orlando) and formerly held by his father, Connie Mack, III, said Americans (and Floridians) are “very much engaged in this election” and that he believes both Sen. Nelson and U.S. President Barack Obama to be out of their jobs after the election.

“We need to get back to work and back in charge,” Mack told the sizable crowd. “And we will make it happen!”

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W ESLEY C HAPEL Former Student Found Murdered In Pebble Creek

An investigation into the mysterious death of a man on a New Tampa sidewalk has officially been declared a homicide. According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), 18-year-old Grant Woodham was found bleeding on a sidewalk inside the Pebble Creek community.

HCSO says that just before 8 p.m. on July 19, a resident of the Pebble Creek community (located off Bruce B. Downs [BBD] Blvd.), called to report an unknown man bleeding on the sidewalk in front of the caller’s home on Fox Hearst Dr. Hillsborough Fire Rescue (HFR) responded and pronounced Woodham, who also was a Pebble Creek resident and former Wharton High student, dead at the scene, due to upper body trauma.

The Medical Examiner has officially declared the death a homicide. Further details were unavailable at our press time. HCSO urges anyone with any information to call the sheriff’s office at 247-8200.

Wesley Chapel Man Dies In Fatal I-275 Crash

A Wesley Chapel man is dead and a Tampa man is facing multiple charges

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News Briefs following a head-on collision on I-275 near downtown Tampa that closed all northbound lanes of the interstate for several hours.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), just before 3 a.m. on July 19, William Brooks Angel, 20, of Wesley Chapel, was driving north on I275 in his 2000 Ford Mustang with two passengers when he was hit headon by another vehicle going the wrong way, just south of the I-4 interchange near downtown. Angel was pronounced dead at the scene.

His two passengers, Jay Davis, 20, also of Wesley Chapel, and Robert Patrick Newberry, 20, of Lutz, both sustained serious injuries and were transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital on Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. No one in the vehicle was wearing a seatbelt.

The report released by FHP says that the vehicle that was traveling north in the southbound lanes that caused the accident was a 2012 Ford Fusion driven by Christopher Ponce of Tampa.

Ponce also sustained injuries and was transported to Tampa General Hospital in downtown Tampa. And, at our press time, Ponce, 22, had been charged with driving under the influence manslaughter, vehicular homicide, two counts of reckless driving involving seri-

ous bodily injury and two counts of DUI with serious bodily injury..

Traffic was shut down for all northbound lanes of I-275 until 6:45 a.m. and was diverted to Ashley Dr.

J.D. Porter Arrested On Domestic Violence Charges

Well-known local land developer J.D. Porter of the Porter Family Trust, which is developing the Wiregrass Ranch Development of Regional Impact (DRI) in Wesley Chapel, was arrested on domestic violence charges on July 4.

According to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), deputies arrested and charged developer James Don (J.D.) Porter, Jr., with felony criminal mischief and misdemeanor domestic battery after an incident at his home in the Farmington Hills community of Dade City.

The report says that Porter, 33, and his girlfriend, Maridy Gregory, 30, had been out for drinks at the Shops at Wiregrass Mall on July 3, but had returned to Porter’s Dade City home.

After Porter fell asleep on the porch, the report says, Gregory found a text message from another woman, smashed the phone where he was sleeping and confronted Porter about the situation at around 2:30 a.m. July 4.

The report says that Gregory told PCSO deputies that Porter followed

and pushed her as she attempted to leave, spit in her face and threw chewing tobacco on her. She went back into the house, grabbed some clothes and went back to her car. Porter then grabbed a pile of her clothes and set them on fire in the driveway.

Gregory told deputies that she left, but returned to Porter’s residence because she had been drinking. He confronted her in front of his home and held her against her car after spitting on her again, the report says.

After he released her, Gregory decided to leave. While she was pulling out, the report says that Porter picked up a barrel from his yard and smashed the back windshield of her Mercedes C300, causing $1,000 worth of damage. She drove to Porter’s father’s home inside the same community and called PCSO. The report says that deputies responded to Porter’s home and found evidence of chewing tobacco on the driveway, along with a barrel fitting Gregory’s description in his garage and what appeared to be a burnt pile of clothes in the driveway.

The PCSO report also says that in an interview with Porter at his home, he said that what he threw at Gregory’s vehicle was a water bottle and that he didn’t mean to damage it. When asked how a water bottle could inflict so much damage, he responded that it was

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a “big water bottle.”

Porter was taken into custody around 5 a.m. and transported to the Land O’ Lakes Detention Center. He was released on July 5 on $6,500 bond.

Porter had not returned phone calls for comment at our press time.

High-Speed Car Chase Ends In Wesley Chapel Two car burglars are being held without bond in a Hillsborough County jail after a high-speed chase across Tampa that ended with a crash in Wesley Chapel. What began as a day of petty crime in Valrico (southeast of Brandon), ended with incarceration for Lucious Lee Felder, 23, of Ft. Lauderdale, and Terry Lamar Joseph, 25, of Pompano Beach.

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), Felder and Joseph broke into three separate cars in the Campo Family YMCA parking lot in Valrico, after which they proceeded to use credit cards from the burglaries at a nearby Mobil gas station and Taco Bell restaurant.

The two burglars then traveled to Lithia Springs Park, burglarized another car and headed to the nearby Fish Hawk Sports Complex, the HCSO report says, where they broke into two more vehicles. A witness heard glass shatter and saw a vehicle leave the park-

ing lot moments later. The witness, who was not named, climbed into his car and followed the burglars while on the phone with sheriff’s deputies.

Air support spotted and followed the vehicles along U.S. 301 and then onto northbound I-75.

HCSO says Terry Joseph that the vehicle then exited at Martin Luther King Blvd. into the Seffner area and drove safely until the suspects spotted marked HCSO Lucious Felder vehicles.

The suspects picked up speed and fled the scene, throwing stolen property from the car. An unknown female suspect also bailed out of the vehicle, but she had not been located as of our press time.

The report says that the suspects proceeded back onto northbound I-75 and drove into Pasco County, where Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) deputies assisted in the chase. The vehicle exited onto eastbound S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel and then back westbound, where an HCSO deputy deployed “Stopsticks” (a lightweight,

mobile spike strip that is thrown in front of a vehicle) and blew out the vehicle’s front driver-side tire. The car crashed into a traffic sign while attempting to get back on the I-75 ramp. Both suspects fled the vehicle, one before it had stopped, but they were apprehended in the nearby area.

The two suspects were taken to Florida Hospital Tampa for medical treatment and later booked into the Hillsborough County Jail on multiple burglary charges. Felder has an additional out-of-county charge for possession of marijuana, and Joseph has an additional charge for violating probation. The case is still being investigated, HCSO says, and more charges could be added as further details emerge.

Fatal Crash Update

New details have emerged regarding the events leading up to a car accident that killed a Wesley Chapel man on June 5.

According to the report from the Tampa Police Department (TPD), just before the fatal crash, the late William Gallagher, 19, of the Country Walk community of Wesley Chapel, left the K-Bar Ranch pool where he and some friends were congregating with two passengers — 16-year-old Charles Trimbl of Tampa and 21-year-old Camron Davis, also of Wesley Chapel.

The trio traveled from K-Bar to

the Shell station at the intersection of Cross Creek Blvd. and Kinnan St. in a grey 1998 Honda Accord and purchased beer and cigarettes. They never made it back to the pool.

When his car flipped after hitting a curb, Gallagher was partially ejected and pinned underneath the vehicle, and was later pronounced dead at the scene.

His two passengers could not confirm whether or not he was wearing a seat belt. Davis fled the scene, saying he couldn’t be caught there because “he was joining the military.” He later lied to TPD in an initial phone interview, denying that he had been involved in the accident.

In a follow-up investigative interview, after being told by police that he was seen on surveillance cameras purchasing beer at the time the trio was said to be at the Shell station, Davis admitted to being involved, saying that he fled for fear of being arrested “for something.”

Gallagher’s friends told TPD that he had been sending some strange text messages that night and seemed depressed about some personal issues, but none of the witnesses cited that as a reason for the fatal accident. A toxicology report on the deceased is still pending. This accident marked the twelfth traffic fatality for the City of Tampa this year and the 80th for Hillsborough County. — MW

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W ESLEY C HAPEL

Community Calendar

Adult Premier Soccer

Tuesday, July 31 – The deadline to register for the newly formed Adult Premier Soccer League is the last day of July. The league offers men’s, women’s and coed games in an 8 vs. 8 division on Friday nights and an 11 vs. 11 division on Sunday afternoons beginning in August at the Land O’Lakes Recreational Complex on Collier Ave. Players must be 18 or older.

For more info, visit APSLeague. com or call Colin Eke at 444-7529.

Wesley Chapel Rotary Club

Wednesday, August 1, 12:15 p.m. — The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel meets every Wednesday at Pagelli’s Italian Restaurant in the Shops at Wiregrass mall (2001 Piazza Ave.).

For more information, call 8628989 or 391-3895.

Networking For Success

Thursday, August 2, 8 a.m. — The Networking For Your Success group Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club, located at 6225 Old Pasco Rd. For additional information, call Shawn Clark at 888-711-2032 or visit NetworkingforYourSuccess.com.

WC Sunrise Rotary Club

Friday, August 3, 7:15 a.m. —

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The Wesley Chapel Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Friday at Quail Hollow Country Club (6225 Old Pasco Rd.) *Note-The Club no longer meets at Lexington Oaks Golf Club.

For additional information, call Lynne Wilson at 695-6466.

Women Of Wesley Chapel Friday, August 3, 7:30 a.m. Women of Wesley Chapel (WOW) at Branch of Christ Ministries Building. This month’s speaker is Lori Banum.

For more information, contact Loran Tripp at Loran@Latitude27 Marketing.com.

Family Field Day

Sunday, August 5, 10 a.m. PROtential Sports is hosting a FREE community youth sports festival at the Seven Oaks community in Wesley Chapel. Everyone is invited to this FREE event that will celebrate our youth, their achievements and commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

For more information, visit PROTentialSports.com.

Experienced Networking Professionals (ENP)

Monday, August 6, 7:30 a.m. — This networking group meets Monday mornings at 7:30 a.m. for breakfast and

at 8:00 a.m. for networking at Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club (6225 Old Pasco Rd.).

For more information, call Cindy at 505-3065.

Hyundai of Wesley Chapel (26944 Wesley Chapel Blvd.). Club meetings are open to all interested parties.

For more information, call 4065931 or visit Toastmasters84.org.

Free Networking Int’l

Business Networking Int’l

Monday, August 6, 8 a.m. — Free Networking International (FNI), a group of area business owners, meets each Monday for networking and discussion at the Lexington Oaks Golf Club clubhouse (26133 Lexington Oaks Blvd., off S.R. 54).

For more information, call Stacy Dalton at 469-5499.

Wesley Chapel Business Forum & Networking

Monday, August 6, 8 a.m. - The Wesley Chapel Business Forum & Networking (WCBFN) is a free gathering of local business leaders in the South Central Pasco and North Hillsborough areas. WCBFN meets Mondays at the Lexington Oaks Golf Club, located at 26133 Lexington Oaks Blvd.

For more info, call John Roth at 377-2622, send him an email at John.Roth@IBuilderz.com or visit the group’s Facebook page.

Wesley Chapel Toastmasters

Monday, August 6, 6:15 p.m. — The “Wesley Chapel Speaks” Toastmasters Club meets on the first and third Monday of every month, at

Tuesday, August 7, 7:30 a.m. — Business Networking International (BNI), a group of business professionals who work to support each other through qualified business referrals, meets Tuesdays at Song & Dance Studio (27221 Foamflower Blvd., off Old Pasco Rd.).

For more information, contact JD Lane at 391-5018 or by e-mail at Jdlane@benchmarkbusiness.com.

East Pasco Networking

Tuesday, August 7, 9 a.m. — The East Pasco Networking Group meets every Tuesday, 9 a.m., at Beef O’Brady’s (1660 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in the Shops at New Tampa of Wesley Chapel plaza). Contact Frankie Ammons at 479-7997 or by e-mail at Frankie@studioglory.com.

MOMS Club Of WC

Monday, August 20, 10 a.m. — The Moms Offering Moms Support (MOMS) Club of Wesley Chapel, a non-profit social group for stay-athome mothers, meets the third Monday of each month at the Lexington Oaks Golf Club clubhouse for activities,

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field trips and more.

For more information, e-mail Heather at WCMoms@yahoo.com.

GriefShare

Tuesday, September 4, 6:30 p.m. – GriefShare is a biblically based, video seminar-support group for anyone who is grieving the death of a

loved one. Beginning in September, the group will begin meetings on Tuesdays at Lake Magdalene Methodist Church, located at 2902 W. Fletcher Avenue, Room 311 of the CEC building. There is a $20 charge for the 13 sessions.

Find healing and hope.

For information or registration, call 963-1555.

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Excel Music Helps Students Of All Ages Hit The Right Notes

By Michael Murillo You’ve never played before. You don’t own any instruments. You can’t read music. You think you’re too young to learn...or maybe too old to learn. It’s been too long since you played. You don’t know anybody with the experience to teach you.

People often have a myriad of excuses for why they don’t pursue their dream of making music, but the owners of one local studio located only minutes from Wesley Chapel say all of these excuses can be overcome.

Since 2006, Excel Music, located in the Cory Lake Isles Professional Center on Cross Creek Blvd. in New Tampa, has been teaching students of all ages and skill levels how to improve their playing, learn something new or, often, pick up an instrument for the very first time. And, according to Excel owner John Thrasher, overcoming those objections and finding the time to play music is always worth the effort, especially if you’re a busy adult who deals with a lot of stress in your life.

“Many people find (learning to sing or play an instrument) to be a great way to relax,” Thrasher says.

“Music tends to require your full attention, making the stresses of the day fade into the background.”

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For more than 25 years, Thrasher and his wife Sheri have been using music to reduce stress and maintain their own successful careers. Playing since he was seven, John has made appearances on several television shows (“The Joan Rivers Show,” “Solid Gold” and “Hee-Haw”), performed during telethons hosted by Lou Rawls and Jerry Lewis and played at such venues the White House and the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN. Between them, the couple has sold tens of thousands of records, and performed live in front of everyone from foreign dignitaries to two U.S. presidents.

Their focus now, however is on the hundreds of their current Excel students and their ability to develop and enhance each student’s talent. John says the demand is always highest for piano and guitar lessons, as well as voice improvement, but Excel students also can learn to play more exotic instruments, such as the marimba (a percussion instrument where bars are arranged like a piano and struck with a mallet); the tabla (hand drums played with fingers and palms); plus violin, tuba, saxophone and many more.

John says there aren’t really any limits for student ages, either. He described Excel’s classes as being for ages four and older, with little else

keeping students from learning to play an instrument.

“We can assist students at any skill level and with any style of music,” he says, noting that Excel once taught an 86-year-old man to play the trumpet.

In order to educate a large number of students on a wide variety of instruments, John says the quality of the instructors is key. He Students at Excel Music on Cross Creek Blvd. in New Tampa can perform in two student recitals per year. says that while some In addition to traditional music instrucschools offer online classes, he doesn’t tion, they also offer special group expebelieve online instruction alone can riences. In “Rock Band,” students join provide the instruction necessary for a together to form rock and roll bands truly strong music education. and play classic and contemporary rock “Music is a discipline which really staples with other students of similar requires a skilled, interested and dediskill levels (think “School of Rock”). In cated private instructor,” he explains.

“There are a great number of subtleties “Glee Group,” students mimic the popular television program and sing a which demand that a teacher be physivariety of songs with other vocalists of cally present in order to hear, see and different ages and ability levels. assist in the nuances of developing Excel also offers at least two musical skills.” All Excel instructors are recitals each year. While participation in university trained, and many of them the recitals is never required, the events have Master’s degrees. The Thrashers are designed as low-pressure opportuniwill only hire instructors who not only ties for students to show what they’ve perform well themselves, but also can learned and demonstrate their abilities teach well and relate to students with a on stage in a supportive atmosphere. true interest in their progress.

“I have been taking piano at Excel The strong faculty allows Excel to now for more than two years,” says offer different types of lessons as well:

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local resident Linda McGann. “Before finding Excel, my experiences taking lessons were not all positive. But, I have had several instructors during my time at Excel and it is very obvious that a high level of professionalism is required of all of the staff. It truly is a top-shelf environment in which to pursue learning music.”

Students can even rent instruments from Excel that they don’t already own or don’t want to buy, the school offers classes six days a week and the company is run by individuals who have used their own backgrounds in music to create a positive learning experience for students of all ages. The goal is to help people overcome obstacles that prevent

them from pursuing their musical goals, and John says he gets special satisfaction from seeing students improve, describing that “a-ha!” moment each time a student recognizes that they’ve learned a new skill. He adds that watching them play live also is special.

“The performances are also a great joy,” John says proudly, “because we get to see the progress of each student over time, and to relive a bit of our own early music excitement through watching our students play.”

For additional information about lesson times, registration and general information, call Excel Music (10353 Cross Creek Blvd.) at 9911177 or visit ExcelMusic.org.

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“Debby” Continued from page 1 half and reaching for the ground. Residents report storm damage to at least a dozen homes in Grand Hampton after Debby entered our area.

One particular home, that the Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News editorial department saw first-hand (see photo on page 1), had its entire pool cage ripped to pieces and scattered across the backyard, with much of the debris landing either in the pool or in the adjacent vacant lot in one of the newer sections of Grand Hampton.

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The homeowner’s large, metal grill was still standing, but in the grass on the edge of the adjacent property.

The Grand Hampton Homeowners Association (HOA) would not release any details about how many homes had been damaged, what the estimated cost of that damage may have been or make any comment about whether or not a tornado actually touched down in the community.

Even after the tornado was confirmed by the NWS, we could not get a spokesperson for the Grand Hampton HOA to comment on the damage to the homes caused by Debby in that community.

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Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates Promise Quality Care

By Camille Gillies When you’re surrounded by exemplary medical professionals, it can be easy to take quality medical care for granted. Residents of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel are fortunate to have in their own backyards an elite community of top-notch doctors who conduct research, teach and practice medicine.

One such team of renowned doctors – Drs. Lockey, Fox, Ledford and Glaum – comprises the practice of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates of Tampa Bay, located in the University Community Medical Center on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., just north of the University of South Florida (USF), minutes from Wesley Chapel.

Listed in “Who’s Who in Medicine and Health Care” and “The Best Doctors in America,” all four Board-certified doctors not only care for patients at this busy office, but also at locations in Citrus Park and Brooksville. They also are faculty members at USF’s Morsani College of Medicine. They are the only allergy specialists in the Tampa Bay area who are members of the USF faculty, training medical residents and fellows in medicine, pediatrics, allergy, asthma and immunology. If those credentials weren’t impressive enough, the doctors also actively participate in clinical state-

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of-the-art research, lecture both nationally and internationally, and are well known for leadership in their specialties.

Richard Lockey, M.D., who founded the practice in 1973, is past president of the World Allergy Organization, which represents more than 80 countries, and both he and his colleague, Dennis Ledford, M.D., have served terms as president of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

The goal of these distinguished physicians and their other esteemed colleagues — Roger Fox, M.D., and Mark Glaum, M.D., Ph.D. — is to provide their patients with the most current and scientific medical care, diagnostic testing and treatment.

“Our doctors are on the cutting edge of allergy and immunology research,” says Angie Renner, the practice’s front office assistant. “With the most up-to-date scientific information, they treat people – both adults and children – for asthma, hay fever, chronic cough, sinusitis, immune system problems, allergic skin conditions, and allergies to insects, foods, drugs and pets.”

Anyone with any of these conditions will tell you that these ailments can be miserable and adversely affect your quality of life. For example, patient and New Tampa resident Beth Malone, has been seeing Dr. Lockey for

six years and who suffers from asthma, allergies and eczema, says she first heard about Dr. Lockey from her boss.

“My boss recommended Dr. Lockey to me,” she says.

“And he’s been wonderful. He is compassionate and helpful.

When he’s been out of town or out of the office, I have seen the other doctors and they are all good, too. Plus, it’s easy to make an appointment, you rarely have to wait and they’re very prompt.” Beth speaks from experience. She says at one Dr. Mark Glaum, one of four doctors at Allergy, Asthpoint she was visiting the office ma & Immunology Assoc. of Tampa Bay on BBD. monthly; today, her appointstating in the practice brochure, “I treat ments are every three months.

Perhaps it’s Dr. Lockey’s approach all my patients with respect, never forgetting that they deserve the same to medicine that makes him so popular with his patients. He says he advises his excellent care I would want any member of my family to receive.” medical students to “be honest, work Dr. Fox adds, “I sit down with hard and take care of patients like they each patient and ask, ‘How can I help are their own next of kin.” you?,’” stressing the importance of lis“I tell my students they also need tening. “For me, the clinical process to be intelligent but that’s probably begins with active listening.” only fourth on the list,” he laughs.

Meanwhile, Dr. Glaum credits his “My philosophy is to treat patients like work at USF’s College of Medicine and you were treating a member of your his concentration on research with own family and refer (patients) to making him a more informed physi(other doctors) who share that same cian: “It keeps me up-to-the-minute philosophy.” on evolving science,” he says.

Dr. Ledford shares the sentiment,

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All four doctors strive to improve their patients’ quality of life with quality care. When you make an appointment with Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, you can expect to be evaluated by a doctor who is at the forefront of medical science.

“We practice medicine optimally,” says Dr. Lockey. “We want to keep patients out of the hospital and treat them on an outpatient basis whenever we can.” He adds that he and his colleagues try to accommodate their patients’ needs as much as possible by being accessible to them and by educating them about self-management of their conditions and diseases.

Two of the nurses at the practice are nationally certified asthma educators themselves. “Our nurses focus on patient education,” Angie says, “and they’re great at it.”

The staff shares the same fondness for the practice as they do the patients.

Despite boasting a staff of approximately 20 people, Angie says there hasn’t been much turnover.

“Some employees have been here more than 20 years,” she says.

This expert team of physicians can help if you or a family member has any of these conditions: allergic conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis, anaphylaxis, asthma, cough, dermatitis, exercise-induced asthma, food allergy, GERD (heartburn), headaches, immune system dis-

orders, influenza, insect hypersensitivity, latex allergy, medication allergy, shortness of breath, sinusitis, upper respiratory infections or urticaria (hives).

What to Expect

On the first visit, patients complete a questionnaire and are examined by one of the physicians who will discuss diagnostic tests and laboratory procedures, determine treatment plans and make recommendations.

Patients who need an allergy test can have it done on-site. The physician will review the results and discuss a course of treatment.

If you require immunotherapy (allergy injections), your physician will write a vaccine prescription based on your history and test results. The BBD office has a schedule of injection hours Monday through Friday to accommodate patients’ busy schedules.

For a wealth of information about Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates of Tampa Bay, visit AllergyTampa.com. You can request an appointment and complete some of the initial paperwork online in the comfort of your own home before your first visit. The website also includes a more in-depth look at the impressive credentials of all of the practice’s fine doctors. For appointments, call 971-9743, or visit the main office, located at 13801 BBD (north of Fletcher Ave.), Suite 502.

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Chapel Crossings Coming To S.R. 54 Sprinkled amongst the hundreds of campaign signs that line S.R. 54 east of Curley Rd. are several large signs that won’t be disappearing after this November’s election. Their message isn’t to tell drivers who to vote for, but to alert them of one of the next large developments coming to Wesley Chapel — Chapel Crossings.

Just miles from their most recently completed project — Seven Oaks — Chicago-based Crown Community Development is in talks with Pasco County to develop 432 acres along the northern side of S.R. 54, between Curley Rd. and Meadow Pointe Blvd.

“We are currently working with the county to get entitlements and zoning,” says Barbara Kininmonth, a spokesperson for Crown. “It’s all proposed and planned. We’re just working out the details.”

The plan, she says, is for a mixeduse development with single- and multi-family housing, as well as office and retail space. However, she says construction won’t begin for at least a year.

“It takes time to get everything approved,” she says. “But, it’s a wonderful location at the apex of two major roads (S.R. 54 and the under-construction Zephyrhills Bypass).”

The soon-to-be-developed property was purchased by Crown from

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There are multiple signs like these on S.R. 54 for Chapel Crossings.

Tampa-based Harrison Bennett Properties. Crown is best known locally for their development of both Seven Oaks and WaterGrass in Wesley Chapel.

For more information, please contact Barbara Kininmonth at (630) 870-9472. — MW

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Tighter School Grade Guidelines No Problem For Most Local Schools

By Matt Wiley It’s time for report cards. This may sound strange, considering that Pasco County students have been on summer vacation for weeks, but these report cards aren’t for them — they’re for the schools that those students attend.

This past school year marked the first year of increased standards for the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) since the standards were last raised in 2007. Performance of each school’s students on the FCAT is one of the defining ways that public schools in Florida are evaluated. For this reason, Florida Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson sent out a letter to the parents of Florida students, warning them that many of their schools may see a drop in overall school grade.

“That does not necessarily mean that the schools, teachers or students are not doing as well as they were before,” he says in the letter. “Each time Florida’s school grading system has increased expectations, student performance has improved over time, which is the primary goal of Florida’s accountability system.”

However, for Wesley Chapel schools, most of the news is very good

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news anyway. In fact, of the 10 elementary and middle schools in Wesley Chapel (Florida’s public high school grades will not be released until December), half of them earned an “A” for the 2011-12 school year, including Sand Pine, Wesley Chapel, Veterans and Double Branch elementaries (Double Branch improved from a ‘B’ in 2010-11), as well as Dr. John Long Middle School.

Two Wesley Chapel schools received a “B” — WaterGrass Elementary (WE) and Thomas E. Weightman Middle School — both of which earned “As” in 2010-11. New River and Quail Hollow elementaries each earned a “C” this school year.

This year’s drop isn’t as alarming as it looks on paper to WaterGrass principal Scott Mitchell, whose school dropped from an “A” in the two years previous. “The FCAT is only one assessment,” says Mitchell. “It’s important for the public’s perception when people are looking at schools, but we’re not going to get too upset about it.”

Mitchell says that he thinks that the increased standards for the FCAT definitely had a direct impact on his school’s score.

“We have to look further down

the road,” he says. “But, if we change what we do every time the state changes its standards, we’ll never see any improvement.”

He referenced several variables that he thinks also contributed to WE’s lower score, including staff turnover.

However, despite the drop in this year’s grade, Mitchell is confident that WaterGrass will bounce back.

“We’re looking at strategies to get our students back on track,” says Mitchell. “We’re going to spend some time having meetings to discuss what we can improve.”

Over at Weightman, assistant principal Nicole Sciarratta has a similar opinion about her school’s lower grade.

“Changing the grading criteria was a big factor in our grade,” she says.

“Historically, we have been an ‘A’ school.”

Sciarratta says that through the

school’s newsletter, parents were educated throughout the school year about how the standards were going to be different when it came time for the school’s evaluation. Since school grades have been released, she says that Weightman hasn’t received any calls from parents upset with the school’s ‘B’ grade this year.

“Our teachers and students work really hard,” she says. “Most of our students still made learning gains, which is important. We’re going to maintain a focus on both struggling and achieving students, so that we continue to tend to the needs of all of our students, as well as look at some other strategies we can put in place next year.”

Although Florida’s high school grades will not be released until December, both Wesley Chapel and Wiregrass Ranch High received “A” grades in 2011.

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Local Lacrosse Team Wins Three Sunshine State Titles!

By Michael Murillo Even if you don't know anything about the sport of lacrosse, you should know that the Wesley Chapel Athletic Association (WCAA)’s Tampa Tribe Girls High School team (photo) is good. Very, very good. As in, three-forthree-in championships good.

“It's always thrilling to win a game or tournament on your own home field, but this victory was especially awesome," explained Renée Diaz, the Wesley Chapel resident who is the assistant director of lacrosse for the WCAA. "For the players who have played (on) Tribe for a number of years, it’s a true underdog-type story." Diaz says that the team, once considered an easy win and annually relegated to consolation brackets, surprised opponents on its way to a record-setting year.

First, the team won the Broward Sunshine State Games championship, which was held in Parkland, FL May 18-20. Next, the team of high schoolaged girls, many from the Wesley Chapel/New Tampa area, conquered the Sunshine State Games at the University of Florida in Gainesville June 910. And finally, the Tribe won the third and final Sunshine State Game championship June 16-17, at Wesley Chapel District Park. Although the Tribe’s

titles were all at the “B” level, by sweeping those contests, they became the first girls team in Sunshine State Games history to win all three championships in the same year, at either the “A” or “B” level.

“Lacrosse, like all youth sports, teaches discipline, good sportsmanship, respect for self and others, and of course the health benefits of exercise,” she said. And as the sport continues to grow in the college ranks, more schools are adding boys and girls club teams and still others are adding lacrosse as a scholarship sport.

WCAA Lacrosse is divided by team names: The Chiefs (for post-high school adults); The Warriors (providing spring competition for children in kindergarten through eighth grade); and The Tribe (active in summer and fall for both boys and girls through high school). Tribe players are separated into different groups based on age and ability, and the Girls High School (GHS) team claimed its three straight titles in just its sixth season.

While the Tribe has players from places such as Ocala, FishHawk Ranch and Palm Harbor, one local player, 17year-old Arianna Diaz of Wesley Chapel High, is not only Renee’s daughter, she’s also the longest-tenured player on the Tribe GHS team, having been with

the squad since its inaugural season in 200. Arianna says she is happy to finally experience success after several years of struggles and challenges — often with few rewards to show for it. “It makes me feel like all the hard work we did paid off," she said. "When we first started, we didn't win anything at all."

Taking third or fourth place was realistic, but before this year, she says the team never really entered tournaments thinking they had a chance to win.

"It was surprising to see how much we've grown," she said.

WCAA Lacrosse has grown to accommodate approximately 200 players across its teams serving K-12th grades. That’s a lot of growth from just a few years ago, when girls and boys either had to play together or had trouble filling age- or gender-specific rosters. As recently as last year, Diaz said the GHS team struggled to field a full

complement of 12 players at tournaments. But in 2012, the Tribe not only had enough players on the field, there were enough substitutes to field a second GHS squad!

As for the future, the Tribe's GHS team isn't looking to rest on its laurels.

In fact, Diaz says they'll be looking to branch out and take on tougher opponents: The team recently participated in its first out-of-state tournament, and will consider moving up to A-level competition next year. While that might affect the Tribe’s win column as they challenge better teams, Diaz said it’s all part of improving the quality of area lacrosse and the players who enjoy it.

“I am a firm believer that the way to excel is through challenging your team to reach higher limits,” she says.

For more information about the WCAA and the Tampa Tribe, call 994-6633 or visit WCLacrosse.org.

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866-9913

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Dr. Neeraja Jasthi, DMD

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Premium Car Show Attracts Premium Wheels To Wiregrass!

By Matt Wiley Paseo Dr. is a long, winding road through the Shops at Wiregrass that has any number of cars on it each day.

But, on the afternoon of July 14, the entire road was a parking lot of cars most people only dream about driving during the mall’s Premium Productions Car Show.

More than 200 cars lined Paseo Dr. as shoppers and car show attendees alike marveled over the impressive machines that included everything from classic roadsters to 2013 Chevy Camaros in an open show for all types of vehicles.

“There are a lot of nice cars out here,” said Premium Car Show judge Allen Moledor. “The judging is going to be tough.”

Moledor, who lives in Lehigh, FL, and who travels from Miami to Georgia to judge cars for Premium, explained that judging in an “open show” is based primarily on cleanliness and the condition of the vehicle. Considering the judging was delayed due to an early thunderstorm, all of the cars got a pass on water spots, Moledor said.

Bob Batz’s replica “General Lee” from the popular 1980s television show “The Dukes of Hazzard” was a crowd pleaser, complete with the authentic horn jingle. Batz’s “Lee” had previously won “Best In Show” for its class at Downtown Disney’s Car Masters Weekend in Orlando on June 3.

“It usually does well when I bring

it out,” says Batz.

The judging was broken down into 21 different classes based on year and vehicle type, with a “Best In Show” in each category. Premium does not release a final list of winners in each category, so a full breakdown of the winning vehicles was not available as of our press time, but Batz’s “General Lee” once again took “Best In Show” in its class.

And, this special event — like so many other before it — also helped bring new customers out to many of the mall’s businesses, which means that the winning vehicle owners weren’t the only winners that day.

“As the owner of a new business in the mall, we were thrilled with all the people who came to the car show,” says Kristin Green, the co-owner of the new Monkey Bizness kids’ play place on Paseo Dr. “We got to introduce ourselves to a lot of new customers!”

Despite the heat and early afternoon thunderstorms, there was an impressive turnout of shoppers, car buffs and hot rods at the Shops at Wiregrass Mall (bottom left) for the Premium Productions Car Show on July 14, including the sleek 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 (above) and Bob Batz’s replica of the classic “General Lee” from “The Dukes of Hazzard,” which was one of the overall “Best In Show” winners.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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The ‘Freedom Festival’ Was Wesley Chapel’s Place To Be On The 3rd!

When a friend of mine asked me, “How come our area doesn’t have its own fireworks display for the 4th of July?,” I responded that local residents need to embrace and get more involved in the annual “Freedom Festival,” presented by the (noon) Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel. The Festival was held this year at the Shops at Wiregrass mall on July 3, so local residents could celebrate closer to home and still head out to the beach for the 4th itself.

And, despite temperatures nearing 100º F that roasted attendees for more than five hours, the Freedom Festival was definitely a tremendous success which included many titles being awarded, including the “Little Miss & Little Mr. Firecracker,” separate hot dog- and watermelon-eating contests, a bicycle decorating contest and the folks who paid for it all — a number of wonderful sponsors and business exhibitors who braved the sweltering heat in order to get their names out in front of thousands of attendees. It was difficult to estimate the size of the crowd, because there were also many people on hand who were just visiting the mall, but anyone who ended up at the Shops certainly had to enjoy the adorable kids decked out in their red, white and blue splendor, as well as the multiple live bands who performed

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(Clockwise from top left): We gave the fireworks display 9 points (out of 10)! The new Little Miss Firecracker (Alyssa Burgess) & Mr. Firecracker (Jack Semeraro) were a big part of the festivities. Long-time New Tampa resident Sean McAveety won the hot dogeating contest. All photos this page courtesy of OurTownFla.com.

throughout the event, the inflatable playgrounds, bungee jumping and so much more.

Congratulations to the Wesley Chapel Rotary, the Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce, the Shops at Wiregrass and everyone who made the “Freedom Festival” the place to see and be seen on the 3rd of July.

As for the many winners at the Freedom Festival, the new Miss Firecracker was 7-year-old Alyssa Burgess, with Paityn Jetter (23 months) and Julia Anderson (age 3) winning the titles in the their respective age groups.

For the boys, the new Mr. Firecracker is 9-month-old Jack Semeraro, with Tysen Jefferson (2-1/2) and Dylan Cofini (6) winning the titles in the other boys’ age groups.

The hot dog- and watermelon-eating contest winners were Sean McAveety and Spencer McCabe, respectively. The awesome, rockin’ country of JT Curtis won the Battle of the Bands. We did not have the names of the winners of the kids’ bicycle decorating contest at our press time, but you can see pics of all the winners at NTNeighborhoodNews.com. — GN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Meadow Pointe Resident Organizes Amputee Color Guard! serves as the group’s vice president.

By Matt Wiley From sporting events to the Republican National Convention (RNC) that will invade Tampa in late August, the U.S. flag is presented at events at many events to honor those who fight and have fought for the freedom of our nation. One color guard group, lead by a Meadow Pointe resident, carries not only Old Glory, but also hope and inspiration for wounded vets and amputees, alike.

Since March, Rudy Salas, a retired U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. who lives in Meadow Pointe, has been the commander of the Amputee Veterans of America Support Team (AVAST) Amputee Color Guard which, Salas says, is the nation’s only all-amputee color guard.

AVAST is a support group based out of the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital located on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. The group helps those who have recently experienced an amputation to adapt and become independent individuals. Salas also serves as AVAST’s president.

Salas says he got the idea for an amputee color guard while attending the American Veterans Adaptive Golf Program, which meets on Fridays at the Terrace Hill Golf Club in Temple Terrace. He says that he and the other members of the program would get invited to 20-30 golf tournaments a year, most of which had opening ceremonies, usually including a color guard presentation from the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), MacDill Air Force Base or the American Legion.

“I thought to myself one day, ‘Why don’t we put a color guard together?,’” he says. “We can have a unique situation where each member is an amputee. At first it was difficult getting people to buy into the idea. A lot of the amputees think, ‘No, we can’t do that.’ My response is always, ‘Yes we can. We’re just like everybody else, except we’re a little more unique.’”

Full Speed Ahead

Meadow Pointe resident Rudy Salas (2nd from left) leads his all-amputee Color Guard.

So, Salas got together with six others from AVAST and the Adaptive Golf Program and put his idea to work. The group consists of Jack Wiseman and Bob Fleischman as the group’s two flag bearers, and Jerry Lemoyne and Steve Allberry as the group’s two riflemen.

The color guard also has two alternates — Jim Daniels and Doc Milligan. Of the seven in the group, six are Vietnam veterans. Allberry represents amputees in the civilian community which, according to Salas, also is important.

“There are a lot of amputees out there in civilian life, and we wanted someone to represent those amputees, too,” he explains. “So, Steve represents the community.”

Salas says that due to the prosthetics involved, a lot of the formations and drill steps had to be modified.

“Our guys can’t turn certain ways,” he explains. “We had to adjust our drilling and marching to make it look good. And it works.”

The color guard’s first appearance was May 14 at Hunter’s Green Coun-

try Club in New Tampa, where the quintet presented the colors during a golf tournament to raise money for the Haley VA Hospital’s research and development department.

“It was pretty nerve-racking,” says Wiseman. “Even though we’re almost all ex-military, getting back into the marching routine and remembering the moves took a lot of practice.”

Wiseman, who retired from the U.S. Army as a Private First Class and currently resides in Lutz, says that relearning the drills was a little easier for him because he is an upper extremity amputee, while the other guys in the group are all lower extremity amputees, all of which are missing only one leg.

“The marching takes a lot of practice for the leg amputees,” he says. “Of course, they won’t let me carry a rifle because of only having one hand, so I carry the American flag and make sure it stays straight up at all times.”

Wiseman met Salas through the Adaptive Golf Program and then became involved in AVAST. He now

Ever since the color guard’s first appearance, the group has been a hit, and their calendar shows it.

“We did the first couple of golf tournaments, and then it was just ‘boom, boom, boom,’” says Wiseman.

“We have booking after booking all the way through November right now.”

But, they have bigger plans than just presenting the colors at local fund raisers and golf tournaments.

“We started thinking, ‘Where can this go?’” Salas explains. “Then someone mentioned that the RNC was coming to town. So, we started calling people to see who they knew. We hope to present the colors for the convention.

We’ve been talking to U.S. Senator Marco Rubio’s people. We’ve also spoken with U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis to see if we can be considered. We’re trying to get the word out about us.”

The color guard’s next big event will be on September 7, when they will be presenting the colors at a golf tournament at the Cheval Golf & Country Club in Lutz, along with four other color guards, although they will be making appearances at a few smaller events before then.

Since the color guard is a part of AVAST, presenting the colors is more than just representing the nation at different events — its goal is to raise awareness of AVAST in the community.

“It brings attention to the community and to the people who are involved in the war effort right now,” explains Salas. “A lot of the soldiers coming back are amputees. We wanted to show the people of the community and the nation that even though you’re an amputee, you can still come back and be a part of society. A lot of these young guys don’t know that.”

For additional information about AVAST and/or the Amputee Color Guard, please visit AVASTOnline.org.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Full Circle Pizza & Grill — New Tampa’s Taste Of Chicago!

New Tampa Bistro, the tenant that replaced Mama Mae’s. I told him that While most of us who aren’t from although Circles was my favorite restauthe Windy City only think of deep dish rant in New Tampa literally every year pizza as being “Chicago-style,” longsince it opened, I also enjoyed the true time Chicago resident Ron Chase, the New York-style pizza served at Bella owner of the all-new Full Circle Pizza Vita, which replaced Circles. & Grill in the Pebble Creek Collection In other words, there’s been a lot on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in of great pizza and Italian food served in New Tampa has something special he the space now occupied by Full Circle would love for you to try.

Pizza (a name Ron came up with in Ron has been around our area tribute to Circles and because he hopes long enough to remember the old this location has now come “full cirMama Mae’s Pizza, the original tenant cle”), but as a first-time restaurateur, he in this location in the Collection, and hopes that everyone in our area who he admits he loved (as I did) Circles loves great food at excellent prices will come check out his unique new menu.

And, after several visits to Full Circle Pizza, I can assure you that Ron’s food is not only different than anything else in the area, it’s also delicious.

On my most recent visit, I took our entire office to a sampling of Ron’s wonderful cuisine.

We sampled three different crispy, thin-crust, brick-oven pizzas (the “traditional” South Chicago Italian sausage and cheese pie, a tasty BBQ pizza with BBQ brisket Full Circle serves its lemony fettuccine with fresh on one half and BBQ chicken on tomatoes, spinach, and chicken or plump shrimp. the other, and an awesome chicken

By Gary Nager

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and pesto pie), several different sandwiches (see below), a savory Full Circle salad (try the Jalapeno ranch, creamy Caesar and wasabi dressings), perfect garlic knots served with a chunky and thick marinara dipping sauce and more.

Ron’s been refining his tomato sauces — both his pizza sauce and his marinara — and I think they’re all outstanding. The meatballs in his meatball sub (I will definitely order it as a meatball parmigiana next time) are very flavorful and the meatballs are the right size — and the oven-toasted Italian Try the BBQ chicken & brisket pizza at Full Cirbread is to die for.

Although I can’t eat shrimp, cle Pizza & Grill in the Pebble Creek Collection. everyone who sampled the shrimp Chicago beef and gardinera peppers on wrap sandwich (which is now on Full a pizza at Full Circle. YUM! Circle’s lunch menu, where everything Another favorite at the table was costs just $5-$7 and is served quickly; Ron’s Full Circle fettuccine, which isn’t Ron promises that more items will be in an overpowering cream sauce. added to the lunch menu soon) raved about it. Ron also served us a thick-slice Instead, it is tossed with lemon, olive oil, spinach, mushrooms and a light BBQ beef brisket sandwich slathered in Alfredo sauce topped with fresh cherry a zesty BBQ sauce and most everyone tomatoes. Add grilled chicken or at the table’s favorite — the authentic plump, tender shrimp and you have an Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich, awesome meal for at least two! heated in its own gravy/natural juices Ron also serves spaghetti with on a Chicago turano roll with sauteed those homemade meatballs, burgers, mild green peppers and hot gardinera fries, potato salad, cole slaw, a tasty fried peppers. You can even order the same

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

ravioli, fried mozzarella sticks, jumbo wings (which I definitely will sample on my next visit), chicken parm and Italian subs, New York-style cheesecake, plus Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi wines and ice cold draught and bottled beers, all (Above left) The chicken and pesto pizza and (above center) the at truly outshrimp fettuccine pasta and the authentic Chicago Italian beef standing prices. sandwich are both among our favorites at Full Circle Pizza.

The place a.m.-9 p.m., noon-10 p.m. on Saturhas been completely remodeled and day and 3 p.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday. there are nice flat-screen TVs everywhere, so there’s really no reason not to Reservations are not required and take out and dine-in are always availgive Full Circle a try — and please tell able. Call 994-3700 to place an Ron we sent you!

Full Circle Pizza & Grill (19651 order or for more info and please be sure to tell Ron that the Wesley BBD Blvd.) is open every day except Chapel Neighborhood News sent you.

Monday, as follows: Tues.-Fri., 11

Save some room for a slice of Full Circle’s decadent New York-style cheesecake for dessert.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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Oakley’s Grille Celebrates An Anniversary & Expands Its Menu! shop has expanded its menu options, adding some It’s been a great first year for Oak- tasty fajitas, blackened ley’s Grille, located on Bruce B. Downs tilapia sandwiches and even crisp sweet potato fries, as (BBD) Blvd., between Dairy Queen well as offering specials and Supercuts, just a couple of miles every day but Sunday. south of the Pasco County line.

For example, Monday Owner Keith Oakley, his son Ryan is Ladies Day, where ladies and their outstanding team have made a name for themselves in the communi- receive 15-percent-off their ty with some of our area’s best burgers, check; on Tuesday, you can fries, sandwiches, salads and more. get my favorite Black Angus A year later, Oakley’s still features cheeseburger and fries in the same comfortable, brightly-lit, fami- New Tampa for just $5.99; ly-friendly atmosphere, with flat-screen on Wednesday, Oakley’s great TVs and no alcohol served, outstanding new blackened tilapia sandwich service and everything is still literally and fries cost just $6.99; on cooked to your order.

Thursday, get what I believe is Since our last full-length feature on the best real ribeye steak Philly Oakley’s, the burger-and-sandwich cheesesteak in New Tampa (or the also-delicious chicken Philly) and fries for just $7.99; on Friday, Oakley’s features its delicious chicken or steak fajitas (served with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese and (Clockwise from top left) Graphic artist Porsha Lemos recommends the blackened tilapia sandwich, our editor raves about Oakley’s Philly cheesesteaks, fries and bacon cheeseburgers and office manager more), which are always just Nikki Bennett gave thumbs-up to the chicken fajitas. Photos for this story & Full Circle Pizza by Matt Wiley. $9.99; and Saturday is Family Oakley’s Grille (17631 BBD) is Day, when families receive one free Kids Cubans and other pressed sandwiches, open for every day for lunch at 11 & assistant editor Matt Wiley’s highly recMeal for each adult entrée purchased. ommended corned beef Ruebens, patty for dinner until 9 p.m. (10 p.m. on If nothing I’ve mentioned so far Fri. & Sat.) For more info, call 523melt sandwiches, zesty Caesar, chef and Try the new sweet potato fries with season- has you salivating, I don’t understand 5075 or visit OakleysGrille.com.

Greek salads...and still more. how that can be, but Oakley’s also has ing salt or cinnamon & brown sugar.

By Gary Nager

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

The Latest & Greatest News About Dining, Shopping, Retail & More In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel!

Monkey Bizness Opens In Wiregrass - Families with young children should be excited about the recent opening of the new Monkey Bizness play place in the Wiregrass mall, near Dillards. Co-owner Kristin Green says these colorful play places, which are geared to kids under age 10, started in Colorado and has only midwestern U.S. locations other than this one.

“We don’t sell food and there are no video games, but it is a comfortable, fun place for families and there’s even an art room for older kids,” Kristin says. “We hope you’ll check us out the next time you visit the mall.”

For more info, call 388-2922 and ask about the Monkey Bizness Grand Opening on Sat., July 28!

Bits & Bytes Cybe Café Coming To Wiregrass - Although we had no further info at our press time, a sign has gone up announcing that Bits & Bytes Cyber Café & Island Grill is coming to the space previously occupied by Cosi Café in the Shops at Wiregrass.

Ribbon Cuttings & Mixers - It seems that there are fewer of these free events in the summer, but we still got to attend a few before our press time.

Among the most recent was a Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting at the new A&A Boutique (528-8765), located at 2653 BBD Blvd., Suite 108, in the same plaza as Baja Fresh and Dickey’s BBQ. Twin 16-year-old sisters and boutique owners Allie and Amber Mal-

ott and their mom Lori call A & A Boutique, a “high-end couture consignment shop for men and women.”

A & A features designer items by Versace, Burberry, Salvatore Ferragamo and Louis Vuitton and the sisters, who hope to be fashion designers themselves one day, say customers can expect to pay 50-75 percent less than what’s being sold on retail shelves, and consigners can look forward to a 50-80 percent return on items consigned and sold — and promise to have items you won’t be able to find at the Shops at Wiregrass or International Plaza.

Anista Adds Aesthetics Expert Anista New Tampa, the urgent care center located in the Anista Plaza (across from Muvico) at 18101 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy., is proud to announce the addition of medical aesthetic procedures, including injectable neurotoxins such as Dysport and Botox, as well as all dermal fillers, performed

by Nurse Practitioner and National Injectable Trainer Jenny Molloy, ARNP. Ms. Molloy graduated with top honors from USF’s nationally ranked College of Nursing, where she earned the Clinical Excellence Award and was inducted into the National Nursing Honor Society. She’s also a member of the Amer. Academy of Medical Esthetic Professionals. For more information or appointments with Jenny Molloy, call Anista at 972-2900.

Fushia Is Now KTV Asian Café - Those of us who appreciate New

sing all you want in one of KTV’s private karaoke salons.

Peabody’s Goes Smokeless! - No, that’s not a misprint! After years of requests from yours truly and many of its other regular customers, Peabody’s Billiards (972-1725), which also is located next to our offices in the Shoppes of Amberly plaza, is now a smoke-free environment! Yes, smokers are still welcome on the covThe Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce helps the own- ered outdoor patio, but ers of the new A&A Boutique on BBD cut a ribbon. smoking has been banned York-style Chinese food will be happy inside Peabody’s for a couple of weeks to learn that the activity you may have now, as the popular pool hall and enterseen in the same Shoppes of Amberly tainment venue concentrates more on plaza on Amberly Dr. in Tampa Palms its food — including the unveiling of where our office is located is merely an an all-new, expanded menu. The eye expansion and name change for the candy and TVs are still everywhere, so existing Fushia Asian Bistro (903please visit the new, smoke-free 6705). My friends Sharon and Charlie Peabody’s soon and please tell them we Wang, the owners of Fushia, have taken sent you! over the adjacent former “Kidz Club” Freedom High To Host Rebels location and have transformed it into Championship Game - To see live pro KTV (as in “Karaoke TV”) Asian basketball as a prelude to the Summer Café, an even more impressive-looking Olympics, check out the Tampa Bay restaurant with six private karaoke Rebels Florida Basketball Assn. (FBA) “salons” for 5-30 people. team, which will host the FBA ChampiSharon and Charlie have brought onship game on Saturday, July 28, 8 in a new chef with plenty of experience p.m., at the Rebels’ home court at in New York City for KTV Café, and Freedom High in Tampa Palms. The have added authentic rotating dim sum Rebels (10-1) host the Heartland Prowl (appetizer) trays where you can sample (9-3). Tickets cost just $10. For more dozens of New York-style dim sum spe- info, call 477-0934 or visit Tampacials and then hang out after dinner and BayRebels.com. — GN, MM & MW

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL H E L P

W A N T E D

Join OrthoTechnology’s Winning Team!

Ortho Technology, a medical supply distributor located in New Tampa, is seeking talented energetic candidates for the following positions: Distribution Associates - Small parts pick/pack/ship experience preferred. Strong attention to detail, computer skills, ability to stand/walk for entire shift & lift up to 50 pounds required. We provide a great work environment, excellent benefits package and growth potential. Submit resumes to careers@orthotechnology.com.

Visit our website at www.orthotechnology.com for additional information and other job opportunities.

We provide a great work environment and excellent benefits package.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST – An established New Tampa outpatient clinic is hiring a part-time PT to provide customized, one-on-one care. Fax resume to (813) 994-3080 HELP WANTED - Medical Billing Personnel, part-time, flexible hours, Local PT Clinic. Fax resume to 813-994-3080.

HELP WANTED! - Experienced line cook needed. Send detailed resume to Ron at Fullcirclepizzaandgrill@gmail.com to apply!

HAIRSTYLISTS & NAIL TECHNICIANS NEEDED! - Paris Hair, the New Look, a beautiful free-standing Salon & Spa in the heart of Temple Terrace. With an extremely professional team, we are a thriving business! We offer a relaxed atmosphere, excellent customer service, and we're ready to increase our staff! Hairstylists & Nail technicians needed! For more information, Contact: Alexander Jasmine at (813) 985-3343 or online at parishairthenewlook.@hotmail.com STYLIST NEEDED - Upscale and affordable hair salon in Lutz/land o lakes is interviewing experienced passionate hair stylists. Please consider joining our team of talented professionals. We are located in a very busy plaza. We are a commissioned based employer, offer on-line booking and complete schedule/ booking access via your smartphone. Contact us today for a confidential interview. 813-948-1270 HELP WANTED - Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel is now hiring experienced nurses and clinical staff to join its inaugural team in preparation for its October opening. Professionals can apply and view positions at www.fhwesleychapel.org by clicking on Careers. To be alerted when new positions post, follow the hospital on Facebook.

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FIND YOUR DREAM HOME FROM YOUR CELL PHONE! - Wish you could see home details while you are driving around looking at homes? NOW YOU CAN! With Team Bohannon's Mobile MLS Search application, you can search for any home in the area on your cell phone.

Check out price, beds/baths, details, maps, even photos – all from the convenience of your cell phone. SEARCH PROPERTIES WHENEVER AND WHEREVER YOU WANT! GET IT NOW - Text: MLS4YOU to: 87778 Compliments of Doug, Annette and Dale Bohannon Coldwell Banker 813-979-4963 FOR RENT - 24' X 12' Office Space. In a busteling Organic Spa Group w/ 5 busy professionals, all active in the community, who offer: organic hair color, facials, nails, weight management and personal training as well as European Massage therapy. Ready made clientele waiting for you to join us!

Perfect for Accupunturist, life coach, therapist, small boutique, wig salon, artist, small florist, bridal, etc. Available immediately. Please contact Star at 813.973.8787.

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Classifıeds

HOME

IMPROVEMENT

DRY WALL SPECIALIST - Not a handyman.

Affordable Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings and walls, retexturing, popcorn removal, room additions, cracks, holes, plaster and stucco repair. 26 Years Experience. Wesley Chapel resident. State Certified. Call Ron for free estimate (813) 784-5999 NEED HOME MAINTENANCE – Almost any job, large or small, ext/int, fencing , screening, sm. concrete, sprinklers, painting, repairs, int. doors, locks, sheet rock, windows, paint, caulk, grout, trim, shelving, garages organized. Installations, removals, pressure washing, wood restoration & more. Call Dale’s Home Maintenance @ 973-0194 or 727-2582.

GREG’S PAPERHANGING – For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed & insured, clean, quick & reasonable. Call 973-2767 for free estimate.

RAYMOND PAINTING – Interior & Exterior pressure washing, paper hanging, plaster, stucco, tiles, clean & seal pavers, roofing leaks, etc. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free Estimates. Your Neighborhoond Arbor Greene Resident. We work 7 days. Call 994-5124.

DAVID BRIDGES PRESSURE CLEANING Complete exterior cleaning of your home or business with a professional and personal touch. - Pool decks and screen enclosures - All fencing/ driveways and walkways/roofs - Gutter and downspouts. Find your happiness in a fresh, bright clean home. Your neighbors will love you for it! All work guaranteed.

Licensed and insured. 813-215-1177 FLORIDA'S TRU-PROFESSIONALS: Certified professionals who specialize in roof repairs/installation, remodeling, repairing, flooring needs, construction clean-up (excavation, demolition, xeriscaping designs, & scaffolding), lawn maintenance (sodding, plant removal/installation, rock gardens, irrigation, tree removal/installation), and professional, residential, and commercial cleaning. For more information, contact (813) 444-5455 or (813) 516-2008.

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CLEANING SERVICES

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D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE - We have our own supplies & more than 200 clients in New Tampa!

For more information, Call 758-9710.

TURN YOUR CLUTTER INTO CASH Garage & estate sales, inventory liquidation,& appraisal services. We'll sell it for you online! We evaluate & appraise your products, you get top dollar. Call Mary: 813-428-5793.

M.Y. CLEANING SERVICE - Offering Residential cleaning. We offer complete bath & kitchen cleaning, as well as dusting and polishing furniture. We provide our own supplies. Free estimates! Your satisfaction is our priority! With 5 years of experience, we guarantee meticulous cleaning!

Call Mila: (813) 516-3554.

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JASMINE’S LANDSCAPING - Complete lawn maintenance, Tree, palm and hedge trimming, Planting, mulching, stones, Sod replacement, Pressure washing, Gutter cleaning and more. Cited by your HOA for violations? Need to comply for: Pressure washing, Trimming, Mulching, Sod replacement, Sprinkler repair or Mailbox repair or replacements?Ask about our HOA SPECIAL! FREE ESTIMATE! 813.420.4465 LAWN CARE - We Specialize in Residential Lawn & Landscape Maintenance! Landscaping, Mulching, Clean-ups, Palm/Tree Trimming & Sprinkler Repair also available. Owner Operated over 17 years. Call us today for Reliable Service for everything that grows @ your property 813-973-3825 or visit: ntlcpropertymaintenance.com

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TAMPA CAT LADY- Professional Cat-Sitting Service." Cats are happiest in their own home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, & smells. When you are away, we feed, cuddle, & play with your kitties & clean & dispose of litter. We help deter crime by bringing newspaper/mail & rotating lights/blinds, giving your home that lived-in look.

Insured, bonded, & Red-Cross certified in pet first aid/CPR. Call 994-9449 or visit us at www.TampaCatLady.com.

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FITNESS &WELLBEING TAI CHI CLASSES - Open to the public at the Club Tampa Palms. Benefits: Strength, Flexibility, Balance, Focus and reduced stress. New Beginner 6 week courses starting every few month’s adults Thur. evening’s 7-8 pm and seniors Wed. 2:30-3:30 space is limited. Also personal instruction in Tai Chi, Kempo Karate, Boot Camp Fitness Training and more. With more than 31 years of training and teaching experience. Please contact me for more details or go to: chuan-fa.org Peter 787-7560 or e-mail peter@chuan-fa.org LICENSED MOBILE MASSAGE THERAPIST Available seven days a week, 9am -9pm. $55 for 1 hour! Types of massage available: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Aroma Therapy, Hot Stone, Corporate Seated, Pregnancy, Sports & Injury Rehab. References available. www.barkdollmassagetherapy.com CALL 727-372-6389 Lic #MA47546.

M I S C E L L A N E O U S SPRINGER STORAGE: RV & Boat Storage Port Richey, FL Starting at $35.00 mo. Pay first two months, 3rd month free. 24 hour access & 24 hour monitoring. Call to reserve your spot. 813-8331191.

CAR SERVICES – Don’t Have a Ride? Don’t Want to Leave Your Car? Shouldn’t Drive? We Drive You and Your Car Home! Night Clubs, Corporate Events, Sporting Events, Concerts, Appointments, Airport or Stranded... Call Jay at (813) 966-1530.

Get your listing printed Call 813-910-2575!

S E R V I C E S

TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE - New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing with outstanding customer service! LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED. See why we are New Tampa’s #1 Choice!! New customer’s ONE MONTH FREE! Call Chris Today @ (813) 857-5400 or visitTranquilityPoolService.com KJ POOL SERVICE – Enjoy Your Pool, While We Maintain It. Servicing pools for over 6 years. First Month Free, Plus Free Evaluation & Quote. Owner & Operator. LICENSE, BONDED & INSURED. Office:(813)909-9466 Cell:(813) 748-9817 kjpoolservice@yahoo.com. Visit our website @ kjpoolonline.com AQUATEC POOL SERVICE - keeping pools clear & swim safe since 1994. WE DO POOLS RIGHT! Commercial & Residential. CPO #33-303052 Licensed & Insured. Service guarantee.

Call 813-780-8616 TODAY and get 1 MONTH OF QUALITY SERVICE FOR FREE. www.aquatecpool.com

COMPUTER SERVICES PROFESSIONAL TECH SUPPORT – in your home or small business. A+ certified computer tech with 15 years of exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades & tutoring. More affordable than the large chains! Friendly, personalized svc.

Technical jargon explained in plain English. References available upon request. Call 957-8342 for free estimate.

DO YOU HATE YOUR COMPUTER?!? WE CAN HELP YOU! Troubleshooting, installation, networking & virus removal. WE COME TO YOU! Servicing residential and businesses, with over 25 years experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank at 813.973.4507 today! www.WSICA.COM; Wsica@wsica.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 16 • July 28, 2012 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com