16-10 WCNN 1-36 web

Volume 18 Issue 16

WESLEY CHAPEL Inside:

Aja Opens In The Shops At Wiregrass!

July 31, 2010

NEWS

In Neighborhood Magazine!

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

Debbie Yoerg Named Honorary Mayor At Wesley Chapel Chamber Event!

An editorial by Gary Nager We congratulate local Trump Network marketer and long-time Wesley Chapel resident Debbie Yoerg on receiving the most “votes” and being named Honorary Mayor of Wesley Chapel by the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) for 2010-11. An obviously thrilled Yoerg, who called not only her husband Richard up to the microphone with her, but also nearly half of the remaining audience, when she was named the new Mayor by WCCC executive director David West on July 15, called her group the “Think Big & Dream Team.” And, she added, “the dream came true for us and of course, Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Tampa Bay,” Yoerg’s chosen charitable recipient for the campaign.

At that Chamber mixer, held at the Hampton Inn & Suites Wesley Chapel located off S.R. 56, West announced that Yoerg had beaten out last year’s Mayor, local Realtor Theresa Jacobs, by raising more than Jacobs did of the

more than $8,000 total raised by this year’s campaign — a truly impressive total amount raised, considering not only the economy but also the fact that two of this year’s other candidates dropped out of the race a few weeks before the Chamber event. Jacobs, who said she was “just happy to be able to wear a [Chamber] sash for another year,” was obviously thrilled to be named Deputy Mayor and to still have the ability to get involved in an official capacity in Chamber ribbon-cuttings.

I didn’t do an official head count, but I’m guessing that more than 100 Chamber members and friends of the candidates attended the mixer, which featured not only an opportunity to tour the two-year-old Hampton Inn, but also to enjoy truly delicious BBQ ribs and mashed potatoes from the Texas Roadhouse and incredible sliced steak and pasta by Mark Vesh, an independent local caterer who also is the “house” caterer for the Hampton Inn and its sister hotels in New Tampa (the Wingate Inn & Holiday Inn Express, both of which are located off of Bruce

(Above) There was plenty of great food at the Chamber mixer.

(Right) Outgoing Honorary Mayor of Wesley Chapel Theresa Jacobs (left) and new Mayor Debbie Yoerg.

B. Downs Blvd.). Wine Harvest, located in the SuperTarget-anchored Northwood Plaza on BBD, provided the wine and beer for the event.

I just have to say again that the Wesley Chapel Chamber truly is one of the most vibrant and energetic groups of its kind that this publication has helped promote over the years. West told me after the event that the WCCC

is now nearly 500 members strong and still growing, “not just despite, but maybe because of the economy, since folks realize they need to work together to make business better for everyone in the greater Wesley Chapel area.”

Congrats to Ms. Yoerg and Ms. Jacobs and to the Chamber for another spectacular evening of networking, See “Mayor” on page 33.

one of the speakers at the ribbon-cutting, along with fellow county commissioner Michael Cox, State Rep. Will Weatherford, executive director David West of the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce, members of the Porter family and others.

Those “hiccups” included the abrupt departure of WDG Construction, Inc., the original contractor on the project, which went out of business earlier this year, and a dispute over the relocation of utilities at the intersection of Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (BBD) and S.R. 56. In May, county officials were able to come to an agreement with the Tampa Electric Co. (TECO), over the utility issue and a new contractor, RIPA & Associates, took over the extension project in June to complete the work left by WDG. As part of their contract,

RIPA was required to have the extension ready for traffic by August 2, and it appears they have met that deadline.

There still remains some work to be done on the project, however, including the installation of traffic signals at the Mansfield Blvd. and Meadow Pointe Blvd. intersections with 56.

According to Pasco County spokesperson Deborah Bolduc, there will be stop signs at both intersections when the roadway opens, but the actual signals themselves won’t be installed until January.

See “S.R. 56 Opening” on page 6.

Food, Fun & 4-Mile Walk/Run To Mark Grand Opening Of S.R. 56!

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE!

Judge Orders Revision Of Cypress Creek Saddlebrook Resort In This Issue’s Summer Town Center Permit, August 24 Primary ‘Staycation’ Spotlight, Changes At Circles New Tampa Bistro & More!

Voting Information & Much More!

See pages 3-22!

See pages 23-36!

ECRWSS

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS & SPORTS UPDATES

Postal Customer

Also Inside This Issue!

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

Months after it was originally expected to be completed, the longawaited extension of S.R. 56 between Mansfield Blvd. and Meadow Pointe Blvd. in Wesley Chapel is finally ready to open to drivers, and a host of state and county officials and other local dig-

nitaries will be on hand to mark the happy occasion with an official ribboncutting ceremony and inaugural walk/ run event and more (see below for additional info) on Saturday, July 31.

“It really was good planning, but there were a few hiccups along the way,” says Pasco County District 2 commissioner Pat Mulieri, who will be

Dated Material Please Rush!

By Michael Smith

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

1

L UA T VIR TOUR

Hunter’s Green $265,000 Pool home in gated community on overVL]HG FRUQHU ORW %5 2IÀFH %$ VI /DUJH FHQWHU LVODQG EXLOW LQ GHVN IRUPDO URRPV ÀUHSODFH ZDON LQ FORVHWV Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

MLS# T2427552

Equestrian Parc $73,900 /X[XU\ FRQGR Z %5 6XQURRP %$ VI FDU GHWDFKHG JDUDJH YDXOWHG FHLOLQJV GLQLQJ DUHD ÀUHSODFH FDUSHWLQJ IUHVK QHXWUDO GpFRU FURZQ PROGLQJ MLS# T2425793

L UA T R VI TOUR

2

Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

MLS# T2426989

Arbor Greene $400,000 *DWHG FRPPXQLW\ ZDWHUIURQW SRRO KRPH Z %5 %$ 6) 5HFHQWO\ SDLQWHG UHPRGHOHG UH ODQGVFDSHG 7LOH URRI FURZQ PROGLQJ DWWLF VWRUDJH

Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

MLS# T2422839

MLS# T2425610

Hunter’s Green $425,000 6WXQQLQJ SRRO KRPH SRQG FRQVHUYDWLRQ YLHZ %5 RIÀFH ERQXV URRP %$ &* VI :KROH KRPH JHQHUDWRU H[RWLF JUDQLWH FRXQWHUV XSJUDGHV JDORUH

Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

MLS# T2425990

Cory Lake Isles $425,000 6WXQQLQJ ZDWHUIURQW SRRO KRPH LQ JDWHG FRPPXQLW\ Z %5 GHQ ORIW %$ VI *UDQLWH FRXQWHUV FURZQ PROGLQJ ZRRG Ă RRULQJ VFUHHQHG ODQDL Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

MLS# T2419818

MLS# T2424226

Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

MLS# T2425793

Primrose Gardens $475,000 &XVWRP EXLOW SRRO KRPH RQ WULEXWDU\ RI +LOOVERURXJK 5LYHU %5 ERQXV URRP RIĂ€FH %$ &* VI )HQFHG \DUG GHVLJQHU Ă RRU WLOHV JDV UDQJH Z KRRG

Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

MLS# T2423754

L UA T VIR TOUR

Cory Lake Isles $399,000 0HGLWHUUDQHDQ KRPH RYHUORRNLQJ )ODWZRRGV %5 RIĂ€FH ERQXV URRP %$ &* VI +HDWHG SRRO VSD FURZQ PROGLQJ SUH ZLUHG IRU VXUURXQG VRXQG

Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

Palm Ridge Estates $248,000 6HPL FXVWRP EXLOW KRPH LQ VPDOO WRZQ VHWWLQJ %5 %$ &* VI 6WDLQOHVV VWHHO DSSOLDQFHV IRUPDO GLQLQJ URRP KDUGZRRG Ă RRULQJ VFUHHQHG ODQDL

L UA T R VI TOUR

L UA T R VI TOUR

Lexington Oaks $178,500 ,PPDFXODWHO\ PDLQWDLQHG %5 %$ KRPH VI Z SDUWLDO SRQG FRQVHUYDWLRQ YLHZV YDXOWHG FHLOLQJV ZDWHU VRIWHQHU EXLOW LQ GHVN DQG HDW LQ NLWFKHQ Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

L UA T VIR TOUR

L UA T R VI TOUR

L UA T R VI TOUR

Meadow Pointe $275,000 1HDUO\ QHZ KRPH Z %5 6WXG\ %$ VI *DWHG FRQVHUYDWLRQ FXO GH VDF IRUPDO OLYLQJ URRP GLQLQJ URRP VFUHHQHG ODQDL RYHUORRNLQJ QDWXUH SUHVHUYH Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

Heritage Isles $189,900 3RQG FRQVHUYDWLRQ JROI FRXUVH YLHZV VFUHHQHG ODQDL %5 %$ ORIW VI Z HDW LQ NLWFKHQ Âľ XSSHUV GRZQVWDLUV PDVWHU FDWKHGUDO FHLOLQJV JUHDW URRP Ă RRU SODQ

L UA T R VI TOUR

L UA T R VI TOUR

Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

L UA T VIR TOUR

L UA T VIR TOUR

MLS# T2419471

Cory Lake Isles $280,000 &RQVHUYDWLRQ YLHZV %5 %$ FDU JDUDJH VI *UDQLWH WLOHG FRXQWHUV Âľ XSSHUV ZRRG Ă RRULQJ ERQXV URRP ORIW ODUJH XWLOLW\ URRP XSJUDGHV JDORUH

Call Team Bohannon 979-4963

MLS# T2415357

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

One Opinion About How To Make Soccer Work In The U.S. Considering how many people I saw really getting into the World Cup, it’s kind of hard for me to believe there are still so many Americans (and even New Tampa residents) who not only don’t embrace soccer, but actually say they hate it.

No, there will never be a whole lot of scoring in truly world-class soccer, nor are there cheerleaders and yeah, there’s too much diving and complaining to the referees, but for anyone who really tried to enjoy World Cup 2010 to say they still can’t get into what the rest of the world calls football — or guarantee that it’ll never make the big time in the U.S. — well, let’s just say I think it can...and will.

And, it just so happens that yours truly has a plan to make it a reality.

Now, before you try to drown me out with the nearest vuvuzela, realize that waaaay back in 1978 or 79, I was sitting in the next to last row in Giants Stadium with 78,000 other New Yorkers trying to catch a glimpse of the great Pélé, Giorgio Chinaglia, Franz Beckenbauer and the rest of the highflying New York Cosmos as they took on their arch-rival Tampa Bay Rowdies.

Then, a couple of years later, I was able to truly get inside the head of soccer fans from around the world at the Italian deli located across the street from where I worked on E. 43rd St. in Wesley 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: NTNNEdit@yahoo.com

Publisher & Editor Gary Nager Managing Editor Michael Smith Correspondents Melissa O’Brien

Advertising Customer Service Managers Nikki Bennett • David Zacharia Art Director Billing Manager Tony Sica Ashley Knoblach Office & Marketing Assistant Karen Glenn

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 advertisements for Volume 18, Issue 18, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, August 16.

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. © 2010 JM2 Communications, Inc.

An editorial by Gary Nager Manhattan. The Italians had made an unlikely run to the final game, after drawing all three of their opening round matches and eliminating Cameroon, which also had three ties.

The Italians would be taking on the always tough West Germans (now, just Germany) in the final and both teams would be seeking their third World Cup. The Italian family who owned the deli closed it to watch the game and brought in five or six TVs with rabbit ears (of course, cable was pretty scarce in the city back then) and had them playing all over the place. At least 150 people, including as many as 20 Germans, were crammed into a space meant for maybe 60. The food and beer were all free and there was plenty of drinking going on.

I didn’t really have a rooting interest in the game, but had become friends with the Italian deli owners and, considering I look a lot more Italian than German, I couldn’t help but get caught up in a game that, like this year’s final pitting Spain against The Netherlands, was 0-0 at halftime. But, the fresher Italian team scored early in the second half and added two more quick scores to render Germany’s lone goal in the 83rd minute meaningless.

By then, the Italians and Germans were all drunk and hugging each other, crying and telling each other that both teams would be back. And they both have been.

But, I digress. The bottom line for me is that I understand why many Americans didn’t understand the game back then. But today, when virtually every kid under the age of 12 has

played soccer for at at least a year, with their parents having to learn how the game works, whether they wanted to or not, I just think it’s wrong that we still don’t embrace this type of football.

Gar y’s Plan

It’s been more than 30 years since the Cosmos and Rowdies tore up the old North American Soccer League, but after watching this year’s World Cup from South Africa and seeing the number of quality players in most of the 31 other countries competing for the Cup, it became obvious to me that

if we ever want soccer to take hold in the U.S., we’re going about it all wrong. The problem with signing one big-name star like David Beckham to a $25 million contract is twofold — 1) he’s only one guy who can (and did) get hurt and 2) Our Major League Soccer is really just average minor league soccer, so bringing one or even two or three stars into our fold simply isn’t going to change that fact.

No, what we need is to bring the best players on the best club teams from Europe and South America to the See “Soccer” on page 33.

Table of Contents NEWS UPDATES...................................Pages 1-11 News Briefs..............................................................4-5 Judge Orders Revision Of CCTC Permit Roommate Charged In Writer’s Death S.R. 56 (cont. from Page 1)..............................................6 Your Guide To Voting In The Aug. 24 Primary......8-9 Wesley Chapel Community Calendar...................10-11

BUSINESS UPDATES...................................12-18 Heather’s Illusions Offers Beautiful Murals & More!......12 Business Briefs...........................................................14 Freestyles Dance Studio A Visit From The Wienermobile Check Out Cross Creek Auto Service Rentalex Has Your Rental Equipment!............................16 Kids R Kids Combines Learning & Fun!.........................18

WESLEY CHAPEL SPORTS UPDATES..........19 T-Ball Team Wins State Championship Republican Party Golf Tournament

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE......23-36

Saddlebrook In Our Summer ‘Staycation’ Spotlight!....23 Circles New Tampa Bistro Reopens.................................25 Aja Wiregrass Is The Place To See & Be Seen..................28 Soccer Editorial (cont. from page 3)................................30 Novel Is A Mother’s Gift To Her Late Son......................31 Bostonian Hair Studio Is Labor Of Love For Caetano.....32 Wesley Chapel’s New Honorary Mayor (from page 1)....33

WESLEY CHAPEL COLOR CLASSIFIEDS...34

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

3

W ESLEY C HAPEL Judge Orders Army Corps To Revise CCTC Permit

The Tampa Bay chapter of the Sierra Club won a major victory in its lawsuit challenging the permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the Cypress Creek Town Center (CCTC) recently when the federal judge hearing the case ordered the Corps to go back and address issues regarding the environmental impacts of the project located north and south of S.R. 56, off Exit 275 of I-75.

In an order issued June 30, Judge Royce Lamberth of the U.S. District Court gave the Corps and the developer of the proposed 1-million-sq.-ft. mall, the Richard E. Jacobs Group (which is a co-defendant in the action), 20 days to submit a proposed remediation plan that addresses the issues outlined by the Sierra Club in its suit.

Among those are the allegation that the mall, if it is built as designed, has the potential to cause irreparable harm to the environment, specifically, to the Cypress Creek watershed, which is a major tributary of the Hillsborough River, a primary source of the City of Tampa’s drinking water supply.

The suit also alleges, and Lamberth concurred, that in issuing the permit for the project, the Corps did not follow proper procedures required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Clean Water Act (CWA), because of the potential for harm to the environment and/or endangered species, or when wetland areas are affected, as is the case with the CCTC. Lamberth even compared the case to others where the Corps “resorted to arbitrary and capricious meaning — manipulating models and changing definitions where necessary — to make this project seem compliant with [CWA] and [NEPA] when it is not.”

In addition, Lamberth writes, “The record here shows a similarly disturbing pattern,” noting that the Corps failed to prepare a required Environ-

4

News Briefs mental Impact Statement (EIS) for the CCTC project site pursuant to NEPA and failed to require the Jacobs Group to demonstrate that other, less potentially harmful, alternatives were not available, as is required under the CWA. “I’m thrilled,” says local Sierra Club spokesperson Denise Layne, who says that the judge’s opinion amounts to a “scathing” indictment of the Corps and its permitting process. “It just agrees with what we’ve been saying all along, that the permit was illegal, but he [still] didn’t revoke it.”

Layne adds that the judge could still order the permit to be revoked, if he doesn’t agree with the action plan that is submitted by the Corps and the developer, but that remains to be seen.

She also adds, however, that stopping the mall from being built was never the intent of the lawsuit in the first place.

“We just wanted them to reduce the footprint of the mall, and get it [further] away from the creek,” she says. “So now, we’re right back to what the Corps should have done when they first received this permit application — make the developer comply and do it right. It’s just a shame that this thing has taken so long when they’ve blatantly broken state, federal and local laws.”

A spokesman for the Corps said he could not comment on the case, since it is ongoing. Deeanne Robertson, a spokesman for the Jacobs Group, meanwhile, gave the following written statement: “We are disappointed by the Judge’s rulings and we are presently consulting with our legal advisors regarding an appropriate response. The judge’s order could potentially result in the loss of thousands of new jobs and millions of dollars in new tax revenue for Pasco County citizens. This development has been responsibly planned, studied, and scrutinized perhaps more than any other similar development in the state’s history. Its environmental impact has been carefully studied by

numerous federal and state agencies.

All environmental mitigation required by those agencies has already been completed. We will offer specific recommendations in response to the judge’s rulings prior to the Army Corps of Engineer’s deadline for responding. In the meantime, we will finish the work on the CR 54 extension that routes through our property.

To stop work now would leave unstable conditions on the site and could imperil adjacent environmental assets.

Completion of this half-built road will be in the best interests of the public and the environment.”

Robertson also noted that despite a notice on the developer’s website which says that the CCTC is scheduled to open in 2011, that date will have to be revised. She would not comment on the company’s negotiations with potential tenants for the mall, which was originally supposed to open in 2007.

Roommate Charged In Sci-Fi Writer’s Death

The former roommate of a Zephyrhills man who wrote several episodes of the “Thundercats” television cartoon has now been formally charged with killing him.

According to reports, James W. Davis, 45, who had been a “person of interest” in the disappearance of 56year-old Stephen Perry, was charged

July 7 with one count of first degree murder.

Davis and his wife, Roxanne, had been living with Perry when Perry was first reported missing in mid-May. Shortly after his disappearance, Perry’s Stephen Perry van was found parked at a North Tampa motel, and Tampa Police (TPD) investigated after guests at the motel reported a foul smell near the vehicle. TPD investigators found a severed arm in a nearby trash bin and DNA testing later determined that it did belong to Perry, as did a human torso that was found in the Angus Valley area of Wesley Chapel in early June.

Perry, who also wrote for other TV shows and authored several different comic books, was battling bladder cancer at the time of his death. He also reportedly had financial troubles, which is why he took in the Davises as roommates. However, before his death, he allegedly told friends and family members that the couple was stealing money and medications from him. Both Davises have extensive criminal backgrounds.

At our press time, James Davis was being held in the Land O’Lakes Jail with no bond. Police say that Roxanne’s role in the crime is still under investigation, but she also is being held on an unrelated probation violation.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

5

“S.R. 56”

Continued from page 1 56 To Provide S.R. 54 Relief

Meanwhile, the opening of the S.R. 56 extension will allow drivers to bypass the traffic congestion caused by the widening of S.R. 54 between BBD and just east of Curley Rd., which is now under way. It also sets the stage for future development within the 5,000acre Wiregrass Ranch Development of Regional Impact (DRI), says Porter family spokesman J.D. Porter.

“The opening of the extension will bring a lot of convenience to commuters, but it’s also step one for many things that are going to be coming down the pipeline,” Porter says.

Porter added that he can’t comment yet on the specifics of much of what is in store for the Wiregrass development, other than the previouslyannounced branch campus of PascoHernando Community College (PHCC), which he says should begin construction by the end of the year, and the 80-bed hospital which will be built on a site just north of 56 on the east side of BBD by a joint partnership between the Adventist Health System and University Community Health.

Porter did say, however, that the family is still looking at options for a multi-purpose sports/recreation facility

6

that would be built within the development, in place of the national tennis center that originally had been proposed to be built on a site donated by the family to the county near Saddlebrook Resort.

“When we originally gifted that land to the county, it was a natural fit with Saddlebrook,” Porter says. “But now that that has fallen by the wayside, it opens a lot of doors for other options, and we’re working closely with the county to develop something that will benefit both the [local] community and the county.”

The same goes for the residential portion of the Wiregrass development, too. The original lead developer, Pulte Homes, sold its 800-acre stake in the project to Tampa developer Bob Sierra last year. Porter says that the family is in no hurry to find a replacement for Pulte, which planned to build three different communities totaling roughly 2,000 homes. Porter says whoever eventually comes in to build will have to have a plan that matches the family’s vision for the property’s development.

“We could have sold off a bunch of smaller lots, but we’ve chosen not to do that in order to maintain the integrity of the ranch,” he says. “We’re a different type of development than what you normally see, because there’s not a house in Wiregrass yet, but we’ve already got a mall, a high school, a

middle school, and plans for a hospital and college campus and more. In most developments, it takes 20 to 25 years to build all that, but we’ve enjoyed being able to put in those additional services before we’ve even gotten started on the residential side, and now we’ve got the luxury of sitting and waiting for the right deal to come along. I can’t tell you exactly what we’re looking for, but we’ll know it when we see it.”

He also says that some projections have put the number of vehicles that will use the S.R. 56 extension at 25,000 cars per day when it opens, and if that turns out to be the case, it will attract additional retail and commercial builders to the development. “It’s going to open up what will eventually be one of the most high-intensity retail corridors in Pasco County,” he says.

Ribbon-Cutting Plans

In the meantime, the official WCCC ribbon-cutting ceremony and Chamber-sponsored FREE Mini-Business Expo for the S.R. 56 extension will be held on Saturday, July 31, at the intersection of S.R. 56 and Mansfield Blvd. Prior to the ribbon-cutting (which will be held at 10:30 a.m.), the Expo will begin at 8 a.m. and there will be a celebratory 4-mile walk/run that will be held on the new stretch of roadway beginning at 9 a.m. The walk/run will begin at the same intersection,

Mansfield and S.R. 56, and participants (the first 200 walkers/runners will receive a free event T-shirt) will have the option of either doing the whole 4mile route or marked 2- or 1-mile routes. Attendees also will be able to enjoy free snacks and beverages provided by Publix, Juice Zone, Cosi Café and Bagelicious & More. There also will be a special lunch menu and pricing for Chamber members afterwards at Aja Wiregrass.

West says the Chamber would like to invite all its members to participate in an event that will allow you to promote and market your business without having to pay for your space or display and, if you know someone who’s not a Chamber member who would benefit from this exposure, let’s get them registered as WCCC members ASAP. You can bring your own table, chairs, banner, promotional literature, and any giveaways you would like to distribute. (You may also bring a popup tent, if you like; your booth must be in place by 8 a.m.) Parking will be in the north lanes and the event will be held in the south lanes of S.R. 56.

“We have no idea how many people will attend,” says West, “but we do expect a nice turnout.”

E-mail the Chamber at office@wesleychapelchamber.com or call 994-8534 to participate.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

7

The August 24 Primary Election Early Voting Period Begins Aug. 9!

By Michael Smith Now that you’ve (hopefully) registered to vote, researched the candidates and made up your mind who you are going to vote for in the Primary Election on Tuesday, August 24, all you have to do is make sure you know where cast your vote on Election Day. A complete list of voting precincts is available on the Pasco County Supervisor of Elections website, PascoVotes.com, where you can type in your home address to see what polling place you are assigned to. However, if the prospect of having to stand in line (although Primary Election lines are usually not very long) to cast your vote doesn’t appeal to you, then you may want to consider taking advantage of the opportunity to cast your vote before Election Day. It’s too late to request a ballot by mail, at least for the primary election, but Pasco County does still also offer early voting. Pasco’s supervisor of elections Brian Corley says that the usage of early voting has skyrocketed from 2004, when fewer than 30,000 votes were processed countywide during the early voting period for the General Election, to 2008, when almost 70,000 Pasco voters cast their ballots prior to Election

8

Day.

This year, the early voting period for the August 24 primary begins on Monday, August 9, and runs through Saturday, August 21. There will be seven early voting sites across the county, including the Wesley Chapel (in the Village Market shopping center at the corner of Bruce B. Downs Blvd. and S.R. 54), Dade City and New Port Richey supervisor of Elections offices, and four public libraries, including the New River Branch Library on S.R. 54, just a few miles east of BBD, as well as the Land O’Lakes (on Collier Pkwy, near S.R. 54), Hudson Regional and South Holiday branches. The hours for early voting at each of the sites are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday.

In addition, Corley says that the county has added a new feature to the supervisor’s website that allows voters to check the wait times at each of the early voting centers in order to further avoid waiting in long lines.

Corley also says that it’s a good idea to take a minute to preview a sample ballot before heading to the polls, whether you’re planning to vote early or on Election Day itself. All registered voters in the county will receive a sample ballot by mail beginning Thursday,

August 5, and sample ballots for each of the primaries also are available on the website, which also contains a wide variety of other information to facilitate you in exercising your right to vote.

To give you a head start, we’ve provided a sample ballot below of the Democratic and Republican candidates who will be participating in the primary election. Remember, though, that since Florida is a closed primary state, you can only vote for the candidates in the party for which you are registered, unless no opposition party candidate will be on the ballot in November, in which case the winner of the primary wins the seat or office.

This year, however, the primary also will include elections for a number of circuit judge and school board candidates, which are non-partisan. Those are not listed here, but they will be included in the sample ballot that you receive in the mail and they also are listed at PascoVotes.com.

Democratic Candidates In The Aug. 24 Primary U.S. Senate Glenn A Burkett Maurice A. Ferre Jeff Greene Kendrick B. Meek

Governor Brian P. Moore Alex Sink Attorney General Dave Aronberg Dan Gelber

Republican Candidates In The Aug. 24 Primary U.S. Senate William Escoffery III William “Billy” Kogut Marco Rubio U.S. Congress (Dist. 9) Richard B. “Rich” Nugent Jason Sager Governor Mike McAlister Bill McCollum Rick Scott Attorney General Holly Benson Pam Bondi Jeff Kottkamp Florida Senate (Dist. 12) Kevin Ambler Jim Norman Florida House of Representatives (Dist. 61) Will Weatherford Kevin Wright Pasco County Board of County Commissioners (Dist. 2) Ken Littlefield Pat Mulieri

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Aug. 24 Primary Election Recommendations — Gary Nager

I haven’t yet studied the candidates for Governor or the national offices, but in the local primaries, I support long-time friend of the New Tampa area Jim Norman over Kevin Ambler in FL Senate Dist. 12, incumbent Will Weatherford over Kevin Wright for FL House Dist. 61 and, although I know and like former Dist. 61 Rep. Ken Littlefield, I support incumbent Pat Mulieri for Dist. 2 County Commissioner.

Wesley Chapel Voting Precincts #007 - Supervisor of Elections Office - 5325 Village Market #062 & #146 - Victorious Life Assembly - 6224 Old Pasco Rd. #111 - Williamsburg Tanglewood Club - 28429 Williamsburg Dr. #112 - Country Walk Community - 30400 Country Point Blvd. #127 - Lexington Oaks Community Ctr - 26304 Lexington Oaks Blvd. #132 - Meadow Pointe Clubhouse - 28245 County Line Rd. #134 - Meadow Pointe III Clubhouse - 1500 Meadow Pointe Blvd. #142 - Seven Oaks Clubhouse - 2940 Sports Core Circle #143 - Meadow Pointe II Clubhouse - 30051 County Line Rd.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

9

W ESLEY C HAPEL Adult Co-Ed Kickball

Community Calendar

GOKickball Tampa, a co-ed adult kickball league, is holding open registration for its fall season through Thursday, September 2. The season starts on Sunday, September 12, and games will be held at the Family of Christ Christian School (16190 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in Tampa Palms). The cost for registration is $55 per person.

For more information, or to register your team or as an individual, visit GOKickball.com/tampa.

Christian Day Camp

Monday, August 2 – Atonement Lutheran Church (29617 S.R. 54) will offer a week-long Christian Day Camp, beginning Monday, August 2, for children ages 5-12. The Camp will include a variety of fun, Christian-based educational programs and activities, at a cost of $30 per child ($15 extra for each additional child from the same family).

For more info, or to register, visit the church or call 973-2211.

WC Toastmasters

Monday, August 2 – The new Wesley Chapel Speaks Toastmasters Club meets every Monday, 6:15 p.m., at Hyundai of Wesley Chapel (26944 Wesley Chapel Blvd.). Club meetings

10

are open to all interested parties.

For more information, call 4065931 or visit Toastmastersd84.org.

Free Networking Int’l

Monday, August 2 – Free Networking International (FNI), a group of area business owners, meets each Monday for networking and discussion, 8 a.m., at the Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26140 Lexington Oaks Blvd.).

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

Business Networking Int’l

Tuesday, August 3 – Business Networking International (BNI), a group of business professionals who work to support each other through qualified business referrals, meets every Tuesday at 7:30 a.m. at Song & Dance Studio (27221 Foamflower Blvd.) in Wesley Chapel.

For more information, contact Nancy Cross at 789-7836 or by email at nancycross@crossrealty.com.

East Pasco Networking

Tuesday, August 3 – The East Pasco Networking Group meets every Tuesday morning, 9 a.m., at Beef O’Brady’s (1660 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in the Shops of New Tampa at Wesley Chapel plaza).

For more information, contact Frankie Ammons at 479-7997 or at Frankie@studioglory.com.

Wesley Chapel Rotary Club

Wednesday, August 4 – The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel meets every Wednesday at 12:15 p.m. at Dempsey’s Steak House at Saddlebrook Resort (5700 Saddlebrook Way).

For more information, call 8628989 or 391-3895.

Civil Air Patrol

Wednesday, August 4 – The Wesley Chapel Civil Air Patrol squadron meets every Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., at Tampa North Aero Park (4241 Birdsong Blvd.).

For more information, visit WesleyChapelCAP.com or call Cheryl Spence at 973-7270.

Networking For Success

Thursday, August 5 – The Networking For Your Success group meets every Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-10 a.m., at Song & Dance Studio (27221 Foamflower Blvd.) in Wesley Chapel.

For more information, call John Anglada at 298-3232 or visit NetworkingForYourSuccess.com.

WC Wind Ensemble

Thursday, August 5 – The Wesley Chapel Wind Ensemble, a community group of brass and woodwind players,

meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at Hyundai of Wesley Chapel (27000 Wesley Chapel Blvd./S.R. 54). New members are encouraged to join.

For more information, contact Glenn at 746-4821 or by e-mail at trombonegww@juno.com.

Red Hat Society

Thursday, August 5 – A new chapter of the Red Hat Society for ladies over 50 meets on the second Thursday of each month at different locations. For information, send an email to livingood326@verizon.net.

WC Sunrise Rotary

Friday, August 6 – The Wesley Chapel Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Friday at 7:15 a.m. at the Lexington Oaks Golf Club (26140 Lexington Oaks Blvd.).

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

WOW

Friday, August 6 – WOW, aka the Women of Wesley Chapel, a business networking group for women, meets on Fridays at 7 a.m. at Cosi Café (28139 Paseo Dr., in the Shops at Wiregrass mall).

Reservations are requested. To make a reservation, send an e-mail to Vhhamilton@earthlink.com.

For more information, call Debbie Yoerg at 788-6237.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

MS Support Group

Saturday, August 7 – A multiple sclerosis support group meets once a month at noon on Saturdays at the New River Library (34043 S.R. 54).

For more information, call Noreen at 312-3345.

Babysitter Training Course

Sunday, August 8 – A Red Cross babysitter’s training course will be offered from 1 p.m.-5:30 p.m. at the clubhouse in Seven Oaks (2910 Sports Core Circle). The course, which is designed for 11-15 year-olds, costs $85 per person and will include babysitting fundamentals, first aid, instruction manual, backpack and lunch, as well as Red Cross certification.

For more information, call Lonnie Clark at 784-0381.

PACA

Thursday, August 12 – The Pasco Alliance of Community Associations (PACA) will meet at 7 p.m. at the Land O’Lakes Community Center (5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.).

For more information on PACA, contact either membership director David Quinones at 991-1505 or club president Joe Wyatt at 907-2081, or visit the PACA website at MyPACA.org.

WC Republican Club

Thursday, August 12 – The Wes-

ley Chapel Republican Club will hold its regular monthly meeting at 7 p.m. at Hyundai of Wesley Chapel (27000 S.R. 54). The club’s scheduled guest speakers will be the judicial candidates for the 6th Circuit Court, Group 18.

For additional information, contact Peter Hanzel at 907-6614 or by e-mail at Wesleychapelrepc@aol.com.

NE Tampa Women In Business

Thursday, August 12 – The Northeast Tampa Women in Business networking group will hold its monthly dinner meeting at 6 p.m. at Hunter’s Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run Dr.). The group’s guest speaker will be Joan Priest of New York Hats, Caps & Accessories. Reservations are requested.

For more information, or to make a reservation, call 841-5932 or visit NETWIB.org.

Offering Moms Support (MOMS) Club of Wesley Chapel, a non-profit social group for stay-at-home mothers, meets at 10 a.m. on the third Monday of each month at the Lexington Oaks clubhouse (26304 Lexington Oaks Blvd.) for activities, field trips and more.

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

Autism Seminar

Thursday, August 26 — Dr. Patrick Flynn & Dr. Thomas Myers (Defeat Autism Now-Certified) will present information about a novel approach to autism that has helped

many families. Dr. Flynn’s combined biomedical and bio-nutritional approach, together with his love for autistic children, has led to his success in dealing with this condition. He uses a revolutionary approach to synergistically restore function and wellness to his patients all across the U.S. The seminar will be held in the Grand Ballroom at Tampa Palms Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.).

Space is limited. Register prior to August 4 for a discounted fee of $7 per person; $10 thereafter.

For more information, or to register online, visit WorldClassHealth Center.com or call 973-8883.

Walk-In Open House

Saturday, August 14 – The Doctor’s Walk-In Clinic located at 20677 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., will hold an Open House, 9 a.m.-noon. The event will include music, food, prizes, giveaways, games and activities and more.

For more information, call 9739731.

MOMS Club

Monday, August 16 – The Moms

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

11

Heather’s Illusions Can Transform Any Wall Into Art!

By Melissa O’Brien If you have dined at the Saffron Indian Restaurant on Cross Creek Blvd. in New Tampa and felt you were actually at the Taj Mahal or visited Chuck’s Natural Health Food Store in Brandon and believed you were visiting a pastoral farm, no doubt you have seen the artwork of popular local muralist Heather Tabman.

Heather, the owner of Heather’s Illusions, can take any space, no matter how large or small, and transform it into the land of your dreams by creating murals that seem so real, you’ll feel like you are part of the art yourself.

“The murals I paint are called trompe l’oeil murals,” says Heather.

“They are paintings on a wall, ceiling or floor that, when viewed from the correct position, will deceive the viewer into thinking the art is ‘real.’ The term trompe l’oeil means ‘trick of the eye.’

By using this technique, I can create a three-dimensional or photo-realistic painting. If you have an idea of what you would like, or a photo of an image that is special to you, I can create it.”

Heather says that murals in a bedroom, kitchen or office help to create a mood and bring the viewer into the “atmosphere” that is outside of the art.

12

“Murals can be used to make false windows, archways and doorways that appear to be completely real,” she says.

“What lies behind these ‘false windows’ is open to infinite possibilities. Murals may create the illusion of more physical space or depth, brightening small or dark rooms or expanding small patio spaces into large, tropical gardens.”

If you visit Heather’s website, HeathersIllusions.com, you will find that it is filled with examples of spectacular murals she has created for Tampaarea clients. From a small banner in a child’s room, to a full-scale baseball stadium, Heather’s murals can fit anyone’s budget and wall space.

“A mural can change the environment of an entire room,” she says. “For some people, the room with the mural becomes their haven, their place to get away. I can paint a big window in a small space and the homeowner can look out onto anything he or she wants. It can enliven that atmosphere and affect their entire mood.”

For Odessa resident Lynne Dausch, old time baseball came to life in her twin boys’ bedroom through a mural painted by Heather.

“My boys were turning 10 and it was time to change their room, says Dausch. “I had a set budget in mind

Play ball! This lifelike mural of old Yankee Stadium is just one of the many amazing creations available from Heather Tabman of Heather’s Illusions. and thought about having a mural done. I saw Heather’s car parked at Flatwoods Park with her logo painted on it – so I guess it was kind of fate.”

Dausch says her twins had fallen in love with baseball and, since they were already 10 years old, they did not want something too childish for their room.

“We decided on making the room look like an old-time baseball stadium,” says Dausch. “Heather really approached it like a big homework assignment – she looked at photos of stadiums and was very analytical about getting all of her facts straight. She

came to us with everything sketched out and we loved her ideas.”

The baseball room at the Dausch house encompasses all four walls and is intricately detailed.

“Heather took the time to paint details on many of the 2,000 faces in the stands and used muted colors that were typical of that era,” Dausch says.

“Not only did she get the feeling of the old Yankee Stadium when Babe Ruth was playing, there is even a life-sized Babe Ruth, an old fashioned baseball mitt and Coke bottles that match the time period. We love the mural and

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

everyone that comes here loves it. It is something so special and unique that it cannot be duplicated. We think of it as an eloquent personalized treatment in our home that was well worth the investment.”

In addition to private homes, Heather can create murals for offices, schools, outdoor patios or anywhere there is a blank, boring wall. Another specialty she offers is a faux brick treatment that makes it look as thought the homeowner’s wall has real brick.

Jessica Bocko, who lives in Seven Oaks, recently turned her sunroom into a bar area and hired Heather to create such a “brick” wall. “She uses a material that looks and feels like real brick,” says Bocko. “She painted by hand a 100-sq.-ft. wall and she even uses a “grout” color to fill it in. Then, on the other walls, she added more faux brick so that it looks like the brick is showing through the wall.”

“I have received so many comments from friends and neighbors,” says Bocko. “It’s beyond my expectations.

Heather is flexible in her schedule, always very prompt and doesn’t leave a mess when she leaves for the day. I have recommended her to friends and given her number out to many people who like our ‘brick’ walls.”

Heather has a passion for art and says she grew up with a sketch book in her hand. She received her Bachelor of

Fine Art degree from William Paterson University in New Jersey.

In 2002, she lived in Florence, Italy, where she attended the Lorenzo De Medici School of Art and studied and practiced drawing, photography and the restoration of Heather frescoes. Heather also Tabman has learned the ancient technique and history of Chinese ink painting and, in June 2005, she joined several students and a master Chinese painter traveling around China studying calligraphy. She later moved to Florida to be closer to her family and resides in Seven Oaks.

problems and I have always been interested in art as therapy. [The creation of] art uses a different side of the brain and it is so important to the learning process. Unfortunately, we are losing it in some of our schools. Some kids grow up never even hearing of a Picasso or ever taking an art class in school, but it is so important. That is one of the reasons I volunteer to teach it and offer private lessons, as well.”

Heather Tabman of Heather’s Illusions can create murals, artwork and faux brick walls for offices, restaurants, schools, private homes and more. Prices vary based upon the project. For more information about Heather’s Illusions, or to see

Heather’s Taj Mahal mural is at Saffron Indian Restaurant on Cross Creek Blvd. in New Tampa. more examples of her work, visit HeathersIllusions.com. To set up an appointment, call 395-4078 or email murals@heathersillusions.com.

Learn From A Pro

Art is not just a career for Heather but a passion she likes to share with others, especially children. She teaches classes called the Prodigy Cultural Arts Program at the University Community Center on N. 22nd St. in North Tampa (just off Bearss Ave.), which offers free art and music classes for kids ages 7-17.

The program is open to the public.

“Some of the kids I teach at the Community Center have already been though the court system and are mandated to take art classes,” says Heather.

“Art can help people deal with their

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

13

Freestyles Dance Studio Opens

Most of us who have teenage kids would be hard-pressed to believe that our children could possibly run a business of their own.

I was therefore surprised when I got a call from Steve Young saying he had helped set up his 17-year-old daughter Kristin and her friend, 16-year-old Bianca Morales, both of whom live in Wesley Chapel, in their own professional Bianca Morales and Kristin Young (5th and 6th from dance studio, known as left) and their friends and families celebrated the openFreestyles Dance Studio, ing of Freestyles Dance Studio on S.R. 56 on July 10. located on S.R. 56, in the same plaza (in front of Sam’s Club) ballet, jazz combo, belly dancing and even an adult hip-hop class on Saturday as the Little Feet shoe store. afternoons. Bianca says salsa lessons also Freestyles, which opened July 10, are planned in the future. already has held its first-ever summer “Kristin and Bianca have both dance camp for grades 5-12. The camp, been taking intensive dance classes since which ran through July 28 and culminated with a final dance showcase at the they were little girls,” says Young.

Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center on “They may be young themselves, but they are both great teachers who take July 29, was two weeks of intensive modern and hip-hop dance instruction, their dancing very seriously.”

Freestyles Dance Studio is locatconditioning and choreography. ed at 27607 S.R. 56, #105. For The studio also offers a variety of more info, call Kristin at 335-8506 dance classes. Among the offerings are or Bianca at 766-9601. — GN modern, hip-hop, daisy (beginning)

14

Oscar Mayer ‘Wienermobile’ Visits The Wingate Inn

“When your job has you driving around the country in a 27-foot-long hot dog, how can you help but put smiles on people’s faces?”

During a recent visit to the Wingate Inn (971-7676) in New Tampa, “Hotdoggers” Kylie Nellis & Brian Mallioux (photo) gave me a tour of Oscar Mayer’s “Wienermobile,” which visits churches, schools and more and has put smiles on 3 milYou’d always be smiling, too, if your job had you lion faces to date. Mission driving a 27-foot-long hot dog around the U.S. (again) accomplished!

Check Out Cross Creek Auto!

Here’s an easy one: Why take your vehicle (import or domestic) to your dealership when Cross Creek (CC) Auto Service has certified technicians who will do the same job for less money? From oil changes to transmission rebuilds and everything in between, Cross Creek Auto (10024 CC Blvd., in the CC Center plaza) is the best place to bring your car, truck or SUV for service — and it’s minutes from any part of Wesley Chapel!

Call my new buddy Ray at 9941600 and ask about CC Auto’s $19.95 oil change and $39.95 A/C performance check-up specials!— GN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

15

Get The Right Equipment For Your Next DIY Project At Rentalex (which is located at 1022 Skipper Rd., just east of Skipper’s Smokehouse and Being a renter myself, I don’t have N. Nebraska Ave.), and assumed, as I did, that it was primarily for professional to do much in the way of home improvements or repairs, thankfully, but contractors.

And, while Rentalex does have a even so, there have been a few times huge selection of heavy equipment and when I have undertaken a project, only other machinery that the average to find that I am lacking the necessary tools or equipment to get the job done. homeowner will most likely never have That won’t happen again, however, a use for, the family-owned business also has plenty of equipment for the donow that I’ve discovered Rentalex. If it-your-selfer or home handyman. you’ve ever driven down Skipper Rd., “With our diverse inventory, we just south of New Tampa, you’ve probably noticed the array of cherry pickers, have pretty much everything anyone scissor lifts, bulldozers and other equip- could need,” says owner Bob Krueger, whose grandfather founded the compament on display at the Rentalex office, ny in Michigan in 1929.

The family still operates an office in Kalamazoo, MI, as well as another in Hudson.

Bob moved to Florida in 1982 and The Krueger family, including (l.-r.) Zach, Bob and Thomas, opened the Tampa office, has been in the equipment business for three generations.

By Michael Smith

16

which moved to the Skipper Rd. location 15 years ago.

Over the years, you’ve probably seen some of the Rentalex inventory in action, so to speak, without even knowing it, since the company has provided equipment for events like the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, the Florida State Fair and many others.

“We also provided probably 70 percent of the equipment used in the construction of the Shops at Wiregrass mall,” Krueger says.

Now, while you may not need industrial-grade equipment such as what was used at those events, Big or small, Rentalex has the right tool Rentalex also has just about every for the job. kind of tool and equipment for operate the equipment properly, and, home projects, too, including pressure since they have their own on-site mainwashers, carpet cleaners, dehumidifiers, tenance and repair facility, you can be plumbing equipment, lawn and landsure that all of the equipment that you scaping equipment, paint sprayers and lease will be in tip-top working condimuch more. The company also can supply you with chairs and tables, light- tion. And, if you have a broken tool or piece of equipment, they also offer ing and even portable air conditioners complete repair services. or heaters for your next party or event, Rentalex is open Monday-Friday, and offers complimentary delivery and 7 a.m.-5 p.m., and 7 a.m.-1 p.m. on pick-up for all orders of at least $50.

Saturday. For more information, call Rentalex will provide you with the 971-9990 or visit Rentalex.com. necessary training and knowledge to

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

17

Kids R Kids Offers Hands-On Learning In A Caring Atmosphere

By Michael Smith The new school year is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for the right educational program to begin or enhance your child’s learning experience, then you’ll definitely want to check out the Kids R Kids School of Quality Learning in Wesley Chapel.

Located on Overpass Rd., just east of the Overpass/Boyette Rd. intersection, Kids R Kids combines a proven educational philosophy with a genuinely caring and compassionate atmosphere that encourages children to learn, says owner Bimal Bhojani.

“We’re not just a day care program, we’re a real school with a real curriculum,” Bhojani says.

Kids R Kids is a chain of learning centers that was founded in 1985 and now includes nearly 200 locations in 14 states, each independently owned and operated by franchisees like Bhojani, who opened the Boyette Rd. location last fall.

Since then, Bhojani says, response from the community has been very favorable, with enrollment swelling from 69 students at opening to the approximately 150 who currently are registered in the center’s educational and summer programs, which are designed for children from the ages of 6 weeks through 12 years.

“We’ve been experiencing doubledigit growth every month that we’ve been open,” Bhojani says. “Virtually every person who comes through the door ends up enrolling their child.”

The reason for the enthusiastic response, Bhojani says, is two-fold. First of all, the sparkling $4-million, 17,000sq.-ft. facility itself is pretty impressive, and it includes some real cutting-edge innovations that benefit both parents and students. For example, the entire facility, including the play areas and cafeteria, are wired with a camera system that allows parents to observe what their children are doing at any time

18

during the day, in real time, at their home or office, via the internet.

In addition, Bhojani says each of the classrooms and activity rooms are built with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that not only give the school a light, open ambience, but also help to increase safety and security.

And, each of the classrooms has direct access to its own age-appropriate, shaded play area, and the center even has its own mini water park.

“No other place has all of this,” Bhojani says.

But, even more important than the facility is the Kids R Kids curriculum and the center’s staff and administrators, each of whom is fully certified and specially trained in the Kids R Kids philosophy, which is summed up in the motto, “Hug First, Then Teach.”

Among these is center director (or principal) Maria DuPree, who worked in the day care industry for more than 10 years before coming to Kids R Kids when it opened.

“What I like is that they really go above and beyond the required standards,” DuPree says, “and the curriculum is always being tweaked to make it better or to address areas of specific need.” Bhojani adds that the Kids R Kids curriculum is based on hands-on learning, with age-appropriate activities for students at every grade level, and includes everything from potty training and computer activities to regular subjects like math and science.

“Everything they do is through interaction,” he says.

Parent Tom Lewis of Wesley Chapel, whose 5-year-old daughter is in the voluntary pre-kindergarten (VPK) program at the center, says he looked at several different programs before choosing Kids R Kids. He says the camera system was a big incentive for him, because, “it gives me peace of mind,” but he also says that the school’s teaching methods have helped his daughter achieve even more than he thought she

could.

“She is doing so well, she is ahead of where she is supposed to be, and there’s no one to thank but the teachers and the Kids R Kids program for that,” Lewis says. “It has been absolutely Hands-on activities are the focus of the curriculum at excellent for her.”

The new school the state-of-the-art Kids R Kids Learning Center on Overpass Rd. at Boyette Rd. year at Kids R Kids begins Monday, on the cost of the wrap-around proAugust 16, coinciding with the Pasco gram, as well as a 10-percent discount County School District’s calendar. For off the regular weekly tuition cost for parents needing before- and/or afterits other programs for up to 12 school care for their children, the center months. In addition, Bhojani says Kids offers pick-up and drop-off services for R Kids also will waive the regular regisstudents who attend Wesley Chapel, tration cost of $75 per child (or $125 Watergrass, Veterans, Quail Hollow, for multiple children from the same Double Branch and New River elemen- family) — again, however, for a limited tary schools. time only.

The free VPK program is open to If you would like to learn more children who will turn 4 years old on or about what the Kids R Kids probefore September 1. It runs Mondaygram can offer your child, call 355Friday, 9 a.m.-noon, but Kids R Kids 4824 or just stop by the center (at also offers a special “wrap-around” pro- 30100 Overpass Rd.) anytime gram that provides additional care between 6 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Mondaybetween 6 a.m.-6:30 p.m. for $95 per Friday for a tour of the facility. For week. For a limited time, however, the additional information, visit KidsR center is offering a 10-percent discount KidsBoyetteRoad.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

W ESLEY C HAPEL

Sports Briefs

Congratulations to the Wesley Chapel American T-ball team, above, which won the Dixie Youth League State Championship at the State championship tournament held in Wauchula in early July. Before advancing to the State tourney, however, the team also won first place at both the District 6 tournament and the Southern Regional tournament in Bushnell in June.

Pasco Republican Club Hosting Golf Tourney

Come enjoy a round of golf and help support the Republican cause at the same time, when the Republican Party of Pasco County hosts its third annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, August 14, at Lexington Oaks Golf Club (on Lexington Oaks Blvd., off S.R. 54). Registration for the tourney will be 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., and the shotgun start for the scramble format/best ball tournament will be at 1 p.m. There will be Longest Drive, Closest-To-The-Pin, and Lowest Score contests, as well as three Hole-in-One contests, with prizes including a Hyundai Genesis, a Mazda CX-9 and $500 cash. Registration is required by Saturday, August 7.

For more information, or to register, call 838-3556 or 907-6614. — MS

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

19

20

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

21

22

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Saddlebrook Resort & Spa Is Literally In Your Back Yard!

By Gary Nager We have nice hotels in New Tampa. We’ve got great golf courses...and really nice salons, spas, fitness centers, tennis courts and even wonderful restaurants.

But, there’s only one place in all of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel that offers all of those amenities in one spectacular 600-acre location — Saddlebrook Resort & Spa Tampa, located off S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel, less than 20 minutes from anywhere in New Tampa!

In fact, when I first started this “Summer Staycation Spectacular” last month, Saddlebrook was again my first thought because it has all amenities that compare favorably with the finest resorts I’ve ever stayed at and it’s so close that you can leave work at five and be lounging by the Saddlebrook Superpool by 5:30, enjoying one of the best steaks in the Tampa Bay area by 7

and be playing golf or tennis or enjoying truly European-style spa services all weekend long. Saddlebrook may not be on the beach, but you won’t have to fight that beach traffic in both directions and you’ll be treated like royalty throughout your stay. From the valet parking crew to the concierge desk to the spa attendants, everyone at Saddlebrook makes you feel like they really mean it when they say “My pleasure to serve (or assist) you!”

Nothing Typical About It!

Here’s a “typical” day at Saddlebrook: Wake up from your Saddlebrook “Bed of Paradise” at a leisurely hour in your gorgeous room (or suite — there are 540 accommodations at Saddlebrook, including 400 1- and 2-bedroom suites!) and enjoy room service or breakfast at the always-delicious Tropics restaurant, where you can enjoy a continental or hot buffet breakfast or have omelettes, French toast or Belgian waffles made to order until 11 a.m.! Your room will be equipped with everything from an ironing board to Signature Tropical Tea bath products, porch or patio, hair dryer, EVERYTHING to Imagine a twilight dinner by the Superpool — if you make you feel right at home. can dream it, you can do it at Saddlebrook!

Each of the more than 400 1- and 2-bedroom suites at Saddlebrook Resort & Spa Tampa is nearly as luxurious and spacious as this Presidential Suite.

The Arnold Palmer-designed Saddlebrook and Palmer courses offer great challenges for experienced duffers, but Saddlebrook also offers a great “New Player Academy” (above) and “Play with a Pro” lessons for those still learning the game.

Then, golfers can hit the links on either of two truly scenic, challenging championship courses, tennis players can play on 45 courts in every Grand Slam surface or take lessons at the Hopman Academy from the pros who have taught everyone from Pete Sam-

pras to Jim Courier to John Isner (the guy who recently won the longest match ever at Wimbledon) or start out at a leisurely pace by lounging at the Superpool.

Or, enjoy the world-class fitness See “Saddlebrook” on page 24.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

23

“Saddlebrook”

Continued from page 23 center and follow that up with a visit to The Spa, where you can get everything from amazing couples massages to facials, aromatherapy, and hair and nail services. If pampering is what you need, The Spa has got you covered!

If he’s a golfer and she’s not (or vice-versa), or if you have kids, there’s always so much to do at Saddlebrook.

You can play regular or water basketball, water volleyball, ping-pong, rent bicycles, go fishing or let the kids have a blast without you at the S’Kid’s Club for ages 4-12!

Outstanding Dining

Anyone who’s been reading this publication for any number of years probably knows that I lived in the community inside the gates at Saddlebrook,

If you’ve been needing a pedicure, visit The Spa at Saddlebrook!

24

adjacent to the resort. At that time, although Saddlebrook was always a gorgeous place, I’d have to say the food was average at best (although the hamburgers and hot dogs grilled by the Superpool were always awesome).

The past few years, however, the restaurants at the resort have been transformed into some of the best fine dining establishments you’ll find anywhere. The Tropics Restaurant isn’t always open for dinner, but the recently revamped and beautiful Tropics Lounge is — and it offers the same great menu as The Tropics.

But, there’s no doubt that Dempsey’s Steak House, which is proudly named for Saddlebrook owner Tom Dempsey, is as terrific a restaurant as there is in the entire Bay area. The service is always impeccable and the At Dempsey’s Steak House, you can enjoy not only the best bone-in Cowboy ribfood is well worth the price. eye steak in the Tampa Bay area, but also the most elegant salad bar and sides For example, you haven’t had a like fresh asparagus and the crispiest steak house hash browns anywhere! salad bar until you’ve had the salad, boy ribeye steak at least once and pair it AND 7th nights FREE! The package cheese, olive, bread and side dishes like includes: a hotel room, 1- or 2-bedwith the best and crispiest steak house balsamic-sautéed onions at Dempsey’s. hash browns anywhere! And remember, room suite, 2 adult breakfasts daily Think the salad bar is too filling (even per paid night of stay, plus free Dempsey’s and The Tropics are always though it’s soooo worth it)? you can open to the public, whether you stay at breakfast for 2 children 10 and have a wonderful Caesar salad prepared under, one hour biking on property the resort or not! tableside. Or, start with those wonderdaily, S'Kids Club for 2 hours per Saddlebrook Resort & Spa ful Maryland lump crab cakes or truly day for 2 days, overnight valet parkTampa (5700 Saddlebrook Way, colossal shrimp cocktail. ing for one car and 30-minute golf Wesley Chapel) is offering an aweThen, although the Gulf snapper, and tennis clinics.

Chilean sea bass and other fresh seafood some summer special: Stay for 3 Call Saddlebrook at 973-1111 nights and get the 4th night FREE! may be hard to resist, you have to try Or, stay for 5 nights and get the 6th for details or visit Saddlebrook.com.

Dempsey’s huge, 22-oz. bone-in Cow-

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Circles New Tampa Bistro Reopens Under New Management An editorial by Gary Nager There’s just no easy way to say goodbye to someone who isn’t going anywhere. Anyone who has read this publication the last nine or ten years or so knows how much I love Circles New Tampa Bistro in Pebble Creek and owners Donna and Louie Sinudom. Circles has been my favorite restaurant (and our readers’ fave as well) in New Tampa every year since Donna and Louie converted the former Mama Mae’s Pizza into this unique Thai/American/Italian fusion experience with sauces like few others in the entire Tampa Bay area.

Well, as of July 1, Donna and Chef Louie no longer own Circles — and yes, it hurts...at least a little. The good news, other than the fact that the Sinudoms live in Wesley Chapel, so I can still have a glass of wine with Donna, is that we can still pour that glass of malbec (or whatever) at Circles. I can even have it while enjoying my favorite garlic pepper filet (well, NY strip, but that’s a long story), Hunan chicken and peanuts (even though I really don’t like peanuts) and black-and-white-sesame-crusted tuna (which has a sauce so good it might be illegal in some states) because that

the old Circles menu is still available — at least for now.

In addition to being my good friend and favorite restaurateur (although I am close with many of the restaurant owners in this part of town), Donna also is the reason, as far as I’m concerned, that there still is a New Tampa Noon Rotary Club. Even though our club is still the smallest of the three New Tampa Rotaries, I believe our core group has stayed together in no small part because none of us wanted to stop enjoying the best lunch in New Tampa.

On the other hand, I already feel great things about new owners Sandy (the “front of the store”) Antona and Chef Santino Baisi, even though, as I’m writing this, I’ve only sampled Santino’s own cuisine once, as he and Sandy weren’t changing the Circles menu for at least a few weeks after the restaurant reopened July 19.

The reasons I still feel so good about Circles are: 1) Santino has owned, managed and cooked at great Italian restaurants and pizzerias all over New York, from the Bronx to Croton-on-Hudson, 2) Donna is genuinely excited about Santino’s homemade raviolis, red and pink sauces and everything else he has planned, 3) our

Rotary Club is still getting to enjoy lunch at Circles, 4) Sandy has been a pleasure to work with and 5) you can just see how ready and excited both of them are about embarking on a new journey in a new community.

And yes (sigh), he will change some things up, in some part based on the dishes you folks — Circles’ customers — tell him you won’t be able to live without. But, he definitely has many changes and additions coming as he settles in.

Santino is eventually going to convert the current “family dining side” of Circles into an Italian deli and hot and cold specialties market, sort of a much-more-awesome-sounding version of the old Mazzola’s Little Italy on Cross Creek Blvd.

Meanwhile, the fine dining other side of Circles will remain just that. It also is where Santino has begun experimenting by offering different

Louie & Donna Sinudom of Circles New Tampa Bistro at a Rotary Pig Roast. daily specials, like shrimp and scallops over cheese tortellini, even as Circles’ existing menu is still being offered.

In other words, even though I’m sad that Donna and Louie will no longer be the driving forces behind my favorite (and yours) local restaurant every year since Mama Mae’s went away, I really am jazzed over the possibilities of the new Circles (19651 BBD Blvd., Pebble Creek Collection).

Call 973-7703 to find out more.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

25

26

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

27

Aja Invites Wesley Chapel To Dine, Drink & Dance In Style!

By Gary Nager I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve heard people in my age group in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel — single and married — say that there simply, “isn’t a place for us to go out at night in our area.”

Well, forget all that. The Shops at Wiregrass mall is doing everything it can to make the mall a true destination for people of all ages, including “old folks” like yours truly! In addition to already-rocking hot dining and fun spots like The Brass Tap, Prime Bar, GrillSmith, Cantina Laredo and Pagelli’s, The Shops also is now home to Aja Wiregrass, the newest venue under management company, Reign MG, which also oversees The Drynk Soho in South Tampa and Aja Channelside in Downtown Tampa. All three locations specialize in offering a unique style specifically suited to each club’s local demographics.

“This is exactly what we’ve needed” is about all I hear every time I visit Aja. Even though it’s only been open a short time and the mid-week crowds aren’t yet as tightly packed as those on Friday and Saturday nights, Aja is truly a New Tampa/Wesley Chapel “thing.”

As far as the eye can see, well-

28

dressed men and women from their 20s to their 50s are enjoying valet parking, great cocktails, the way-hot servers, bartenders and hosts/ hostesses, dancing and yes, great food, too.

Too Much Fun?

In order to build its following during the week, Aja is offering specials virtually every day. For example, Monday night is “In the Biz” Hospitality Night, with half-off house wines, The outside of Aja Wiregrass is beautiful, but your bartenders (l. to r.) Crystal, Austin select cocktails, domestic and Musette make the inside even more spectacular. beers and appetizers all been smoking hot, playing everything seating area that has retractable walls night long. to protect against inclement weather from today’s dance and pop hits to Coming soon is Latin Night and the patio area has ceiling fans so old-time rock and R & B. I loved every Wednesday and every Thursday big they can even keep you cool in the Hook’d, the band that was playing the already is Ladies Night, with prize Florida heat. Really. weekend we went to press, which Aja giveaways and complimentary chammarketing director Christina Navatta pagne and martinis from 9 p.m.-11 Gourmet Cuisine says will be back by popular demand. p.m. for all ladies and DJ Tha Mixfits I have to admit that I really wasn’t Looking for a truly Happy Hour? expecting Aja to have such truly outplaying top hits through the generaAja offers $4 calls, $5 premium liquors standing, obviously fresh cuisine, but tions. Every Friday, you can enjoy and $7 super premiums and select complimentary food selections, 5 considering that Executive Chef Josh martinis, plus $5 Happy Hour appep.m.-7 p.m. Different popular live Melich came to Aja from the Renaistizers every Monday-Wednesday, 7 bands play 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. and DJ sance Vinoy Resort and Gallagher's p.m.-8 p.m. and 4 p.m.-8 p.m. on dancing is available every Friday and Steakhouse, I suppose I shouldn’t be Thursday-Saturday.

Saturday, 11 p.m.-2 a.m. surprised at all.

And, Aja has a unique outdoor So far, both bands I’ve seen have But seriously, don’t ever confuse

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

Upcoming Special Events At Aja Wiregrass

Aja, which is a member of the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce, supports the community, too, with these upcoming special events and others throughout the year: First, the official Chamber ribbon-cutting will be held on Thursday, August 12, 5:30 p.m., followed by the American Cancer’s Society’s Kick Off Party at 6 p.m. to announce ACS’s Breast Cancer walk being held at the Shops at Wiregrass in October.

Aja Wiregrass is excited to be a proud sponsor of this year’s Breast Cancer walk and invites everyone to

join this evening’s festivities while benefiting a great cause. A portion of the proceeds of the evening’s sales will be donated to ACS. Then, on Thursday, August 19, 7 p.m., Aja will host “Our Stimulus Package” Book Event and Signing.

And, on Saturday, August 21, Aja will be participating in the Bike Night and Poker Walk at the Shops.

Aja Wiregrass (28211 Paseo Dr.) is open Monday-Wednesday, 7 p.m.2 a.m., and Thursday-Saturday, 4 p.m.-2 a.m. It is closed on Sundays.

For additional information or to reserve a table, call 994-0002 or visit AjaWiregrass.com.

(Above) Aja Wiregrass has excellent (clockwise from top left) fried calamari, grilled chicken, sautéed snapper and filet mignon.

Aja with the typical bar serving typical bar food. From great appetizers like freshly made guacamole with plantain chips (yum) and excellent fried calamari to recently added entrées like filet mignon, balsamic grilled chicken and a truly excellent snapper in lemon butter sauce, Aja’s food is an enhancement of the overall experience, as opposed to detracting from it. All of the side dishes served — sautéed green beans, grilled asparagus, artichoke risotto, etc. — all look and taste

absolutely fresh. And the full menu is served until 1 a.m. every day it’s open.

For those of you looking for smaller nibbles, Aja also offers (just to name a few) the Ultimate Sliders, amazing wings with a variety of wing sauces, empanadas and freshly made pizzas, and rumor has it on Friday and Saturday nights between 1:30 a.m.--2 a.m., you can get a fresh pizza pie for only $5. In other words, from full meals to light bites, you never have to go hungry at Aja.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

29

“Soccer”

Continued from page 3 U.S. to play real games every year. Not exhibitions, actual matches that count.

Here’s how: Every World Cup country, with the exception of the U.S. and places like North Korea, has a true “Premier” club league featuring the best talent in that country (and yes, they do often bring in talented players from other countries for these club teams) squaring off against each other in very long seasons that I have heard some Europeans and South Americans say are actually a little too long.

I therefore say that instead of paying individual players to come here, the U.S. should spend money to bring two of the top teams from the Premier leagues in Brazil, Germany, Argentina and England to play one game on their respective schedules in a major U.S. city each year.

Imagine how many people would pay to see Real Madrid vs. Barcelona FC in Miami? Or Manchester United vs. Chelsea in Boston? I think people who never watch soccer except maybe during the World Cup would love to see that. I also think the foreign teams would love to have a reason to bring the world’s best footballers to New York, L.A., D.C. and Chicago.

Unfortunately, Landon Donovan alone can’t make soccer popular in the U.S., so who can?

I also believe, although true soccer fans tell me it can never happen, that the World Cup should be played every two years instead of every four. No matter how good these guys may be, three World Cups span 12 years, which means that players who first make their national teams in their early 20s are too old to compete for their respective countries for very long.

I know it takes nearly two years to qualify a field of 32 nations, but I believe it could be shortened to 18 months, so that the teams who qualify aren’t then waiting and watching their players get old or hurt for two years before getting to play for the Cup. I also would love to see soccer become what it is, for the most part, around the world — a way for poor,

hungry people to pull themselves up and make big money, something many don’t believe can happen here because our greatest athletes all want to play in the NFL or NBA, not realizing that the money paid to top club soccer players rivals the contracts paid to LeBron James and Tom Brady.

If, when those club teams do come to play here under my plan, they would also be required to visit the low-income areas and give soccer clinics - and tell their own rags-to-riches stories — more and more Americans would recognize that soccer is not only a great game, it’s another multi-million-dollar option for those who get the proper training and competition.

And yeah, I’d love to see the diving and crying to the referees ended and for soccer to finally embrace the concept of fresh legs by allowing way more than three subs per game.

In other words, I believe it CAN happen here, even though I’m not optimistic it WILL happen, even if we add cheerleaders and somehow increase the number of goals scored.

But, no matter what, soccer truly is a beautiful game. And, although the final against The Netherlands was too “tactical” (boring?) for many fans here, I still thought it was exciting because Spain was so good offensively, every team they faced had to try to keep the Spaniards in check defensively. Bravo!

WELCOME TO FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dr. Neeraja Jasthi

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

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

“Let Our Family Be Here For Yours”

866-9913 30

Dr. Neeraja Jasthi, DMD

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

A Mom’s Novel Gift To Her Late Son

By Michael Smith There are many ways to honor the passing of a loved one, and when David Mercadante, the son of Tampa Palms residents Pete and Lucy Mercadante, David Merpassed away in 2007 at the age of 43 cadante from melanoma, Lucy says she wanted (above) to commemorate her son’s passion and love of life by publishing one of the sev- wrote The Victim eral novels that he had written in his (right) spare time. before he “He was in the business world, but passed away he loved to write,” says Lucy Merin 2007. cadante, a retired reading teacher who is originally from Long Island, NY. tim, is who is the case’s true victim?

Mercadante says David moved to To find out, you’ll have to visit Tampa to attend St. Leo University near Amazon.com, where the book is availDade City, but he later moved to the able for just $9.90, and where it has Orlando area, where he worked as a received some pretty positive reviews manager for the Standard Register comfrom those who have read it. pany. Lucy says David was an avid Bucs The sales and the compliments fan and besides writing, he also was a have been gratifying, Mercadante says, devoted family man who enjoyed spendbut that really wasn’t the point of having time with his wife Vicki and their ing the book published. She says she three young children. really just wanted something concrete to The book, entitled The Victim, is a commemorate her son, whose sudden crime thriller set in the Tampa Bay area that tells the story of a businessman who death was a terrible blow for the entire family, and it was the best way she could is falsely accused of sexual harassment, think of to share her memories of David and the mystery deepens when his with those who never had the opportuaccuser suddenly ends up dead. The nity to know him. question, Mercadante says in The Vic-

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

Up to 3 Months SEND REFERRALS

FREE *New customers only

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

17231 Dona Michelle Dr.

www.storageflorida.com

813-463-8890

– WE PAY YOU!

newtampa@spaceplusstorage.com

COMMITTED TO QUALITY...COMMITTED TO YOU For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

31

Caetano’s New Bostonian Hair Studio Truly A Labor Of Love!

By Gary Nager Even though his original Bostonian Hair Studio in Tampa Palms has been closed for more than a year, most area residents still recognize the name of the salon’s owner, District 7 Tampa City Council member Joseph Caetano.

After being one of the New Tampa area’s original business owners, having opened the first Bostonian salon in 1988, Caetano was a victim of the local economic downturn who promised he would open another salon someday.

Well, in January of this year, Caetano began making good on that promise by signing a lease on a small space in a new shopping center located on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in Wesley Chapel, just north of S.R. 56.

Then, in April, Caetano’s new Bostonian Hair Studio opened in the same plaza as The Hungry Greek restaurant and Dickey’s BBQ, after only about three months of intense labor on his part, although Joseph says it was definitely a labor of love.

“I designed and built everything in this salon myself,” Caetano says proudly. “I installed and stained the floor and most everything else in here because I really wanted to get it right.”

Caetano, who does still do some

32

styling himself, also has assembled a wonderful team of professional hair stylists and aestheticians at the new salon, including “facialist” Kim Moore, who has 20 years of experience, including several at the former Bostonian Salon & Spa. Moore, who also does bikini waxing, microdermabrasion, nail services, permanent makeup and other spa treatments, says she loves the two treatment rooms at the new Bostonian.

“It’s just a really nice work environment,” Kim says. “The customers seem to like it; Joseph did a great job of putting this place together.”

Other stylists at the new Bostonian include Joanna, who previously worked at the HQ Aveda salon in The Shops at Wiregrass mall; Stacy, who was formerly with J. Joseph Salon in Land O’Lakes (Stacy also is a nail specialist who also provides waxing and facial services; and Teresa, who has been with Bostonian, Salon Athena and others. “Guest rep” Kim also had worked at HQ Aveda.

“Our advertising in the Neighborhood News already has brought us a lot of new customers,” Joseph says. “So many people have started calling and coming in, saying ‘I had no idea you were back in business.’ It’s been a really interesting couple of months.”

At one time, Caetano owned two

The staff of the new Bostonian Hair Studio on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in Wesley Chapel includes (l. to r.) Teresa, Stacy, Kim (Moore), Joseph Caetano, Kim and Joanna.

Bostonian salons, with the second location less than a mile south of the Pasco/Hillsborough county line, in the Publix-anchored New Tampa Center “I sold that salon to one of my former employees,” Joseph says. “I really didn’t know for sure if our customers would find us here in Wesley Chapel, but I think we’ll be just fine.”

The new salon and spa is a lot smaller than the Tampa Palms Bostonian, but Caetano says there is room for him to grow if everything clicks.

“The restaurants in this plaza have definitely helped us already,” he says.

We’ve had a lot of very excited people walking in after eating lunch.”

Call the new Bostonian Hair Studio (2653 BBD, Ste.105) at 9917887 for an appointment and ask about the salon’s August specials — Summer ‘Lites’ for $85, including accent highlights, eyebrows, wax & haircut and an $84 deep-cleaning European “Perfect Facial,” with masks & vitamins to suit your needs.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

“Mayor”

Continued from page 1 camaraderie and some great prizes, many of which were donated for the event by another local newspaper.

If you want to join and/or get involved with events sponsored by the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce, here’s another fantastic opportunity — on Saturday, July 31, 8 a.m.-11 a.m., the Chamber is hosting not only a ribbon cutting, but also a free walk/run event and FREE Mini Business Expo (see story at the bottom of page 1 for details).

Or, call 994-8534 or visit the

Executive director David West of the Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber office (29142 Chapel Park Dr., in the Brookside Professional Park off S.R. 54, next to Saddlebrook Resort & Spa Tampa. Or, visit WesleyChapelChamber.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

33

NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL H E L P

W A N T E D

Join OrthoTechnology’s Winning Team!

Ortho Technology, an international orthodontic supply distributor located in New Tampa, is seeking talented energetic candidates for the following full-time positions: Distribution Associate: High energy individual needed to receive, restock, pull & pack customer orders. Fast paced environment. Basic math & computer skills, ability to stand/walk for entire shift & lift up to 50 pounds required.

QC Inspector: Entry level position responsible for accuracy of outgoing orders. 1-2 yrs exp w/QC responsibilities. Ability to stand/walk for entire shift, close vision, basic color differentiation and basic math req’d.

Small parts/med device experience a plus.

We provide a great work environment, excellent benefits package and growth potential. Submit resumes to careers@orthotechnology.com.

PTA position available. Part-time (Tampa Palms clinic). Fax Resume to: 813-994-3080 Part time Medical Assistant. Must have lab/blood draw experience. Wesley Chapel office, family medicine. evening and Saturday hours.

Fax resume to 813-994-0085.

Classifıeds

You’ll have the same cleaning professional every time!!! Call Catherine at 813-965-4162.

(English/Spanish) Images Cleaning Svc. Pressure Washing Commercial/Residential, driveways, walks, decks, enclosures & homes. Gutter cleanout, trash removal, move in/out cleaning. 30 years of experience. Starting @ $50. Call Robin @ 813.240.1981.

L A N D S C A P I N G Everyday Gardener’s Club. Full-service property maintenance available for residential & commercial. One-stop shopping with licensed, insured professionals. Specializing in landscape design with conceptional drawings & renderings available. Let your imagination & our professionals come together to create dreams that will last a lifetime. Call 933-1120 or visit www.EverydayGardenersClub.com

LAWN MAINTENANCE Enjoy your time & let A.T.B. Landscaping & Lawn Service do the work for you. We provide landscaping, lawn maintenance, clean-ups, tree & hedge trimming, sodding, sprinkler repair & fertilization. Other services also available. 907-LAWN Lawncare. Residential/Commercial We are a Father and Son Business. Licensed and Insured.

Affordable pricing for all. Per cut or with a contract up to you.Call Patrick or Dora anytime.

(813)907-1234 (Hauling Service too!)

Office/ Marketing Position. Tampa Bay MatchMakers, a traditional matchmaking and life-coaching company is seeking a part-time professional person to handle general office functions as well as company marketing and customer care. Knowledge of Microsoft office is preferred as well as good phone skills. Please call 813-907-0410 or send resume to Nancy@tampabaymatchmakers.com

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

Licensed & Insured. Call Bill @ 973-3825.

COMPUTER SERVICES

P O O L

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.

Tranquility Pool Service. New Tampa Owned & Operated! Great pricing w/outstanding customer service. Relax & enjoy while we keep your pool in pristine swimming condition!

Licensed, Bonded & Insured. Call Chris today for a free quote @ 857-5400 or visit us at www.tranquilitypoolservice.com to see why we are New Tampa’s #1 choice! New customers mention this ad & receive one month FREE!

HOME

IMPROVEMENT

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.

RAYMOND PAINTING. Interior & exterior, pressure washing, paper hanging, plaster, stucco, tiles, concrete, clean & seal pavers. Licensed & Bonded.

References available. Free estimates. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ARBOR GREENE RESIDENT. We Work 7 Days. Call 994-5124.

Greg’s Paperhanging. For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed & insured, clean, quick & reasonable. Call 973-2767 for free estimate.

CLEANING SERVICES D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE. We have our own supplies & more than 200 clients in New Tampa! For more information, call 758-9710.

Isn’t life busy enough? Save time. We can help.

Your satisfaction is our first priority. Guaranteed, affordable, reliable, quality domestic svcs. Free estimate: Chelsea Maid Company @ 994-6662.

CYD PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICES Residential & Commericial - Weekly, Bi-Weekly & Monthly Rates - Flexible Scheduling - Quality Cleaning at Affordable Prices/5 years Experience

34

These are the Color Classifieds Your Neighbors R E A D! Call Dave @ 910-2575 to order your ad today!

New Tampa Pet Sitting Service. Lots of love & care for your pets. Great experience & references.

Recommended by Angie’s List. Licensed, Insured & Red Cross Certified. Call Maria @ 416-5301.

C

H

I

L

D

C

A

R

E

Home day care in a loving home. 10 years experience. We encourage social development activities, games, play times & more. Infant & up. CPR & first aid. Reg. R23PA0154. Call Hilda @ 388-9148.

B U Y I N G

G O L D

D

A

T

I

G

SINGLE and FRUSTRATED? Find out what you want in life and a relationship. Tampa Bay MatchMakers is a professional life-coaching and matchmaking service that can assist you in finding the right match! Call for a complimentary consultation today! 813.907.0410.

T A I C H I L E S S O N S

NEED EXTRA MONEY…We can turn your unwanted, old or broken gold jewelry into CASH! Take advantage of high gold prices which may not last long. Don’t sell to the fly by night companies.

Take it to Tampa Palms Hometown Jeweler. Jeweler on staff w/ 35 yrs. exp. Charles Jewelers, 9724653 (next to Stein Mart on Bruce B. Downs).

Tai Chi Classes open to the public at the Club Tampa Palms. Benefits: Strength, Flexibility, Balance, Focus. Classes Tues. 2:303:30 pm, Wed. 8-9 pm. New Beg. Class Tuesdays 7-8 pm. Cost-$10/class. Also personal instruction in Tai Chi, Kempo, Fitness training and more. With more then 28 years of teaching and training exp. Call Peter today #787-7560

M

M U S I C

A

S

S

A

G

E

Licensed Mobile Massage Therapist. 9am -9pm, Mon, Tues & Wed. $50 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.

L E S S O N S

Acoustic, Electric & Bass Guitar Drums, Music Theory Jazz, Rock, Classical Music Adjusted To Your Skill Level Young Energetic Teacher 813-789-6869, 813-385-5368

S E R V I C E S

Aquatec Pool Service **Special Offer: New customers get 1 Month FREE!** We follow strict National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) standards - We do pools right. All technicians are in uniform, drug-free, and background checked. Quality, professional service.

Licensed & Insured. Call Today 780-8616 or visit our website www.aquatecpool.com to see why you should choose us!

P E T

N

S I T T I N G

Tampa Cat Lady Professional Cat-Sitting Service. You say goodbye - we say hello. Cats are happiest when 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. Licensed, bonded & Red-Cross certified in pet first aid/CPR. Call 994-9449 or visit www.TampaCatLady.com.

Professional Pet Care. Exp’d. Pet sitter. We walk, play, feed & administer medicine, all in the comfort of your pet’s home. We also bring in mail, water plants & help maintain home security while you’re away. Bonded, insured & trained in Pet First-Aid & CPR. Call For The Love Of Pets at 545-8406 or 416-3126 or visit www.FortheLoveOfPetsOnline.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com

35

36

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 16 • July 31, 2010 • www.WCNeighborhoodNews.com