Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, Volume 29, Issue 18, August 31, 2021

WESLEY CHAPEL

NEWS

Volume 29 Issue 18 August 31, 2021

Ready for

TAKEOFF! Story by John C. Cotey * Photos by Charmaine George

Quarterback Rocco Becht stands on the launch pad, ready to reach the stars.

He has been waiting.

He waited his turn as a freshman at Wiregrass Ranch High as the junior varsity starter, was prematurely thrown into the starting role as a sophomore and saw his junior year clipped by an inexperienced team and Covid-19. He has still managed to put up good numbers, but they have not met his expectations.

He’s a senior now. And he is ready.

“I definitely feel like I have something to prove,” he says.

Rocco is ready for liftoff.

10…9…8….

Rocco is the son of former Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Anthony Becht, although he shares few of his pop’s imposing physical attributes. Anthony was a 6-foot-6, 270-pound monster of a tight end. Rocco is a little on the smallish side — he’s now

6’-1”, 185 lbs. — and says that when he played Pop Warner football, “I’m not going to lie, I was afraid to get hit.”

However, he acquired the love for football watching dad catch passes and block defenders in the NFL. And, he could throw a football better than the other kids, so he ended up being the quarterback. He played flag football for Liberty Middle School in New Tampa, and full-pads Pop Warner football for the South Pasco Predators.

What he lacked in physical stature he made up for with hard work and smarts.

As a freshman at Wiregrass Ranch in 2018, he started for the JV. Just a month before the start of the 2019 season, varsity starter Hunter Helton bolted for Armwood. Rocco was elevated to starter, and threw for 1,985 yards, 21 touchdowns and just eight interceptions while See “Rocco” on pg. 28

Which Wesley Chapel Restaurants Are Your Favorites?

To win a $100 gift card to the restaurant of your choice, see pgs. 32-34!

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AHCI Introduces New Global Prospects Academy Hockey Director An editorial by Gary Nager If both of your kids played high school ice hockey, as mine did, more than a decade ago, there was no way (or place) locally for kids who were good enough to play travel hockey to play youth or high school hockey at the highest level while also receiving a great education.

My kids both decided to play hockey, instead of the competitive sports they grew up with, after the Tampa Bay Lightning won their first Stanley Cup championship back in 2004. They weren’t alone, as many outstanding young athletes at that time also either first took up or decided to focus on hockey because of being bananas for the Bolts.

Thirteen years later, the same developers who built the Brandon Ice Sports Forum — where kids from high schools in and near Tampa had been practicing and playing — finally opened Florida Hospital (now AdventHealth) Center Ice (aka AHCI), right here in Wesley Chapel.

The new place was (and still is) a palace for both hockey players and figure skaters, especially when compared with any other ice skating facility in the entire Tampa Bay area — with three NHL-sized rinks, one (larger) international-sized rink and a mini-rink, plus a great pro shop and an actual restaurant. AHCI, the largest skating facility south of New York, even offers curling, a cult favorite Winter Olympics sport.

In 2019, the Lightning were again favored to win the team’s second Stanley Cup at the start of the 2019-20 season, despite a disappointing first-round sweep at the sticks of the Columbus Blue Jackets to close out their 2018-19 campaign, which saw them win the President’s Cup for having the NHL’s best regular-season record.

Of course, the Covid-19 pandemic shortened that season and caused the entire Cup playoffs to be played in two “bubbles” in Canada, but somehow, the Bolts did prevail and brought Lord Stanley’s chalice home to Tampa. And of course, the Lightning repeated as Cup champs to end of the 2020-21 season.

It just so happens that 2020-21 also was the first year that AHCI offered its Global Prospects Academy (GPA), combining top-notch hockey training and lots of ice time for 15 young players, as well as a full-fledged private school experience affiliated with North Tampa Christian Academy (NTCA), which is located just three miles from AHCI on County Line Rd. in New Tampa.

AHCI co-owner Gordie Zimmermann hosted a press conference on August 12 to announce the intended expansion of the rink’s GPA program and the hiring of new Academy Director of Hockey, former NHL player Glen Metropolit, whose career included 400 games with six NHL teams (including two games with the Lightning), followed by six years of international experience with top-level European clubs.

“Our goal is to establish an elite hockey program,” Zimmermann said at the media event, “in order to keep them here in Florida before they turn 16 and move up north to Boston or Michigan to play. There haven’t been any programs here with academics and hockey training.”

Zimmermann also introduced former Lightning star Brian Bradley (who still works for the team) at the event, and admitted that AHCI’s Neighborhood News

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success, “also has to do with the Lightning’s success.” He also said that he expects the rink’s GPA program to double in size this school year (to 30 or more students) and ultimately, to 300 or more — and promised to expand the GPA to include figure skating in the future.

Stephen Herr, the Head of School at NTCA, also spoke at the press conference and said that the school will offer GPA students in-person classes at both NTCA and at the rink (with on-site teaching staff), plus Zoom classes.

“Our primary goal is the same as Advent Health Center Ice’s goal,” Herr said, “helping students to become people of character and leaders.” For additional information, visit AHCenterIce.com/global-prospects-academy.

INSIDE:

The Wesley Chapel Recreation Center is now open off Boyette Rd.!

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(L.-r.) Gordie Zimmermann of AdventHealth Center Ice, AHCI’s Global Prospects Academy Director of Hockey Glenn Metropolit & Stephen Herr of North Tampa Christian Academy.

One-Stop Landscape Supply has everything your green thumb needs.

Pages 22-23

Omari’s Grill offers great specials & an awesome location for special events.

Pages 36-37 Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News

OUR NEW ADDRESS: 28949 State Road 54 Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Phone: (813) 910-2575 Advertising E-mail: Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Editorial E-mail: EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Publisher & Editor /Ad Sales Gary Nager Managing Editor / Photographer John C. Cotey Correspondents Celeste McLaughlin • Isabella Douglas Lead Video Producer/Multimedia Specialist Charmaine George Graphic Designers Georgia Carmichael • Valerie Wegener Billing Assistant Jannah Nager 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 advertisement reservations for Volume 29, Issue 20, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Monday, September 13, 2021.

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.

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FDOT Hoping To Get DDI & S.R. 54 Projects Back On Track

By John C. Cotey

john@NTNeighborhoodNews.com With roughly $80-million worth of road projects in Wesley Chapel sitting in limbo, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) says it shouldn’t be too long before the Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) at S.R. 56 and I-75 and the S.R. 54 widening projects are both back under construction.

The $33-million DDI project, which began in January 2019, has been stalled since the end of June, when Inglis, FL-based D.A.B. Constructors was removed from the project.

Due to the fines and costs incurred by the DDI snafu, D.A.B. said about a month later (on July 28) that it was voluntarily defaulting on the S.R. 54 widening project and going out of business. Both Wesley Chapel projects were supposed to be finished by the end of this year.

But, it isn’t just the DDI and S.R. 54 widening project (which were both supposed to be completed by the end of the year) from which D.A.B. Constructors is walking away. The company, which has closed its office in Inglis, also will not be completing five other projects in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties: • C.R. 580 (Sam Allen Rd.), from S.R. 39 to Park Rd. • U.S. 19 Widening from W. Jump

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Ct. to W. Fort Island Trail • U.S. 19 Widening from Green Acres to W. Jump Ct. • U.S. 19 Resurfacing from the Hernando County line to Green Acres • S.R. 52 Widening from Suncoast Pkwy. to U.S. 41 “FDOT will be working with the surety company to take over and complete the projects,” FDOT spokesperson Kris Carson says.

D.A.B. Constructors issued a statement, signed by president Deborah Bachschmidt and executive vice president Bill Bachschmidt, saying that, “After over 33 years as a small heavy civil construction firm based in Inglis, Florida, D.A.B. is winding down all operations and putting the completion of ongoing projects in the hands of our bonding companies.”

D.A.B. essentially says the DDI project, and how FDOT handled it, led to its pulling out of its other projects, due to financial strain.

FDOT has been working with the surety company to find contractors to finish the D.A.B. jobs. As of Aug. 18, the surety company was reviewing multiple bids for the DDI, with an announcement expected shortly (and perhaps even before this issue arrived in your mailbox, as we went to press on Aug. 21).

The $43-million S.R. 54 widening project, which will transform the road from two

to four lanes from east of Curley Rd to east of Morris Bridge Rd., will take a little longer. FDOT is waiting on the surety company to sign the takeover agreements on that project and, in the meantime, says it has mowed the overgrown grass and collected any trash throughout the 4.5-mile project.

FDOT District 7 secretary David Gwynn (photo) told the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) on Aug. 12 that the surety company, “has FDOT District 7 secretary David Gwynn (right) updates the been very responsive so far,” Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization on Aug. 12 and that he is “optimistic” about the DDI and S.R. 54 widening projects. that all seven of the projects change,” Gwynn said. “They’ll get penalized D.A.B. defaulted on can be smoothly transifor every deadline they don’t meet, based on tioned to other contractors. that original contract.”

“Hopefully those bids will lead to a pretty Gwynn did have some good news for rapid change into a contract,” Gwynn said, Wesley Chapel travelers — the construction “and we can get the (new) contractor out there at the new Overpass Rd. Interchange at I-75 and get these projects not only going, but acis proceeding smoothly. “The Overpass Road celerating (them) as quickly as possible.”

Interchange is ahead of construction,” Gwynn The surety is responsible for any addisaid, “so I think there’s capacity out there tional fines for late delivery of the projects. to get other good contractors and get these “The end date of the contract doesn’t (other) jobs moving forward.”

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The Wesley Chapel Rec Center Is Open!

The newest place to shoot hoops, play volleyball and hold meetings in Wesley Chapel held its Grand Opening on Aug. 28, after we went to press with this issue, but Pasco County was kind enough to show us around beforehand. One word: Wow! (Photo: Charmaine George)

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Mike Moore chats with Chris Sprowls, the Speaker of the House of the Florida House of Representatives, on a recent episode of “Reel Talk,” Moore’s new radio show/podcast.

Mike Moore Adds Radio Host To His Media Portfolio

By John C. Cotey

john@NTNeighborhoodNews.com There are two Mike Moores.

One is the Pasco County Commissioner representing District 2, which includes most of Wesley Chapel.

The other is a regular guy who has a media itch he needs to scratch, and is the new host of “Reel Talk” show and podcast on conservative radio station WGUL-AM 860 The Answer on Saturdays at 7 a.m..

“Two different guys,” says Moore, emphasizing that his radio show has nothing to do with his role as a county commissioner because that would be not allowed.

“I have to keep them separate. If I have to vote on it, we won’t talk about it.”

So, if you’re looking to hear what Moore thinks about things like Wesley Chapel’s traffic, business development and the area’s massive growth, “Reel Politics” may not be for you.

If you enjoy conservative politics and learning about conservative politicians, however, it might be worth your time.

Moore’s first show (they are prerecorded) focused on his guest — District 38 State Representative Randy Maggard — and mostly on why Rep. Maggard got into politics and some of the bills he has

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worked on and sponsored. On the second show, guest Chris Sprowls, the Speaker of the House of the Florida House of Representatives, and Moore discussed school choice legislation, the HB 1 protest bill, taxes and other Republican issues.

“We’ll discuss national things — infrastructure, how to do things better, things like that,” Moore says of the one-hour show.

“We’ll get some pundits and some celebrities on there talking about politics, but it won’t be people going at each other’s throats.”

Moore, a former radio/TV major at the University of Central Florida, isn’t just dabbling in radio. The precursor to “Reel Talk” was a television version by the same name, where he took his guests out on a boat and had the same kind of discussions. Three episodes were filmed before Covid-19 hit.

Moore also has the Freedom Broadcasting Network, which is available on Roku and other streaming devices, which carries conservative shows like “Diamond and Silk,” as well as some fishing shows.

Moore laughs when it’s suggested that he could someday become a media mogul, and adds that he has no plans to get out of politics.

“I’m just getting back to my roots,” he says. For more information or to listen to past show,s visit TheAnswer. com/radioshow/9757.

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Wiregrass Ranch High Senior Named National SADD President

By Isabella Douglas Correspondent

Shaina Finkel was only four years old when she started going to Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) events and campaigns with her father.

Now 16, the Wiregrass Ranch High senior will represent all 7,500 SADD chapters as the organization’s national student president for the 202122 school year.

In this position, Shaina will be expected to be a spokesperson for SADD nation, oversee the Student Leadership Council and advise the SADD national Board of Directors, which is comprised of adults.

Above all, she says she is focused on improving the mental health of students across the nation.

“I’m just really looking forward to being able to bring my ideas and the things my chapter has worked on to a bigger stage,” Shaina says.

Shaina is the first person ever from Florida to serve in this position, and SADD CEO Rick Birt says her passion is what made her stand out.

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“Shaina is truly the embodiment of the word passion,” Birt says. “In everything she does and in every interaction you have, you see that she is truly the embodiment of this word and we are so honored and excited to have her (serving) in this role.”

Shaina has been president of Wiregrass Ranch’s SADD club since her sophomore year. She said the club opens students’ eyes to the dangers of making destructive decisions, especially driving under the influence, and the need to maintain good mental health.

“We have English, we have history, but we don’t have a class about how to save your life,” Shaina says. “So, the fact that we have a club for that or a chapter for that, and we as peers are able to help our own peers, that’s just honestly the most beautiful thing.”

Shaina’s father, Gregory Finkel, is the advisor of Wiregrass Ranch’s SADD club and also the school’s driving teacher. He said he can’t wait to see where her role as national student president takes his daughter.

“I’m super excited for everybody that’s going to see her, because she’s

Wiregrass Ranch High senior Shaina Finkel is the SADD National Student President for the 2021-22 school year. going to make a huge difference,” Gregory Finkel says. “As long as everybody listens, they will see that she’s got a true heart.”

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Finkel’s mother Jessica couldn’t stop smiling when she heard the news that her daughter would be the next SADD national student president. She says Shaina is always so excited when it comes to SADD-related topics and is constantly participating in a variety of SADD events.

“I’m so proud of her for accepting it and taking on the challenge,” Jessica says. “I’m not concerned. I know she can do all of this. She always takes on a lot, and she’s very successful at everything she takes on.”

Shaina says that SADD is already a big part — and will continue to be a big part — of her life. She is excited to represent her community on a national level and uphold the mission and vision of what SADD stands for.

“Not only does this position give me a voice, I think it gives Wiregrass SADD a voice,” Shaina says. “It gives Wesley Chapel a voice, and it gives Florida a voice.”

For more information about the national Students Against Destructive Decisions organization, visit SADD.org.

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For PTSD, Covid Concerns & More, Try Tampa Palms Psychology

By Gary Nager There’s little doubt that, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the past couple of years have been especially tough to deal with for most of us.

For many people, whether or not to wear masks everywhere we go, whether or not to take a Covid-19 vaccine and not being able to go out to eat, to a movie, sporting event or concert has put more strain on us emotionally than perhaps any other situation in most of our lifetimes.

That’s where Brian Wilson, Ph.D., of Tampa Palms Psychology, comes in. Dr. Wilson (no relation to the co-founder of the Beach Boys rock group with the same name) says that although he doesn’t treat couples, adolescents or young children, he can help individual adults with a wide range of emotional problems — including depression, anxiety, work stress, aging, surviving abuse, dementia, compassion fatigue, insomnia, grief, relationship concerns and more — deal with their issues.

He also offers ongoing psychological treatment for people with chronic medical problems, including geriatric patients.

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Dr. Brian Wilson can help adults with a wide range of emotional issues, from PTSD to Covid-19 fears and more, with his telehealth practice based in Tampa Palms. (Photos by Charmaine George)

“These are challenging times,” he says, “so working with a skilled psychologist can help you navigate them with success. I am focused on helping you cope

with the demands of the modern world through compassion, careful listening and comprehensive psychotherapy.”

Dr. Wilson graduated with a Bachelor

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of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Florida in Gainesville and earned both his Master of Science and Ph.D. degrees from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. He also completed a psychology residency at the Minneapolis Veterans Administration Hospital, where he specialized in PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as an adult generalist.

He has been practicing since 2003, and moved to Tampa in 2009 and to New Tampa in 2013. He says his private practice today is exclusively telehealth and, to that end, says that it was important to invest in good technology, with a nice computer and fast internet, even though he does also have a physical office location in Tampa Palms. He isn’t sure when he will begin seeing patients again in person, but says that transitioning to telehealth only hasn’t affected his ability to help his adult patients.

“The ripple effect of the Covid-19 pandemic is that everyone’s overall stress level is up,” Dr. Wilson says. “Even without Covid, however, many adults feel that there is often not enough time in the

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day to both accomplish our goals and care for ourselves. Responsibilities and commitments can be overwhelming. Raising children, pursuing career advancement, helping aging parents, retirement and coping with losses can leave us emotionally depleted. Such stressors and setbacks can feel even more difficult to manage with the state of affairs in the world.”

Because of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act) rules, Dr. Wilson doesn’t offer online testimonials but he says he has had a lot of success treating veterans and others with PTSD, and says that many people’s fears and concerns about Covid-19 (especially for those who have lost loved ones or seen them hospitalized long-term) have caused many of the same issues.

“It helps to have a professional to talk to about these concerns,” he says. “A lot of my current patients have been referred to me by a friend or family member I’ve been able to help.”

And, while he says that word of mouth is still the best way to build a practice in his profession, he has had a lot of success with his ads in this publication, too.

“Building a practice is very much a grassroots thing,” Dr. Wilson says. “But, I’ve found that the Neighborhood News is the best way to do that locally. My ads

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have generated a lot of calls.”

Dr. Wilson’s wife, Jessica, is a psychologist with the Department of Veterans Affairs and they have a six-yearold son who attends Chiles Elementary in Tampa Palms. And, even though he’s no Beach Boy, he says that he enjoys not only playing, but also buying, selling and refurbishing guitars (“to fund my habit”) and working out.

For appointments with Dr. Brian Wilson and more info about Tampa Palms Psychology, call (813) 4919343, visit TampaPalmsPsychology. com or see the ad on pg. 7.

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NTDT — A Tradition Of Outstanding, Safe Dance Instruction!

Special to Neighborhood News Whether you or your child likes to dance for fun or dreams of a career on stage one day, the New Tampa Dance Theatre (NTDT) offers dancers a world-class, professional experience that is unmatched in the Tampa Bay area.

Located on Cross Creek Blvd. (across from Heritage Isles) in New Tampa, the 7,500-sq.-ft. NTDT is the largest professional dance training facility in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. Owner and artistic director Dyane Elkins IronWing is in her 27th season of creating dance memories and futures for her students, many of whom have gone on to study dance in college and/ or dance professionally.

“As always, I’m so proud of our students,” says Elkins IronWing. “Our dancers become excellent college students, with their impressive time-management skills, perseverance and creative thinking. Our hearts are bursting with excitement, seeing our beautiful students again. We are continuing to give back to the community during this pandemic with our “Pay It Forward” program and offering all new students $25 per month tuition for every class!”

NTDT’s complete schedule of classes is being offered with in-person classes. Elkins IronWing says that the safety of her students has always been her top priority, so social distance guidelines, extra disinfecting nightly with hospital-grade products and wearing masks are all required at this time.

“Our students are extremely excited being back dancing at the school again and spending time with their dance family,” says Elkins IronWing. “We’re extremely proud of our faculty and students’ dedication and perseverance during this pandemic. They are all truly living up to the NTDT motto of ‘Respect, Responsibility and Teamwork.’”

A Chance To ‘Do As I Have Done’

Elkins IronWing says she started dancing at age 5, later trained in New York City and performed with Ballet Metropolitan in Columbus, OH. She moved to Tampa in 1995 and immediately opened NTDT in the Pebble Creek Collection. In 2002, she purchased the current NTDT property on Cross Creek Blvd, and moved her school to the new building in January 2006.

With the bigger location, Elkins IronWing was off and running, offering smaller class sizes and larger, more varied schedules.

She says NTDT also has a larger pool of students today, with the ongoing explo-

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physical therapist ensures the health of the dancers. NTDT also features a café offering light meals, snacks and drinks.

The Training You Need

Located on Cross Creek Blvd. in New Tampa, the 7,500-sq.-ft. New Tampa Dance Theatre is the largest professional dance training facility in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. sive growth in Wesley Chapel, as well as in large studio space that can accommodate up New Tampa. to 200 people.

“Our name might say New Tampa,” Sprung floors provide shock absorption she says, “but our location is much closer to to protect the dancers’ joints and an on-site Wesley Chapel than one might assume. We are extremely convenient to all of the current growth (there). Wesley Chapel families are shocked to discover just how close we are and are excited because of how quickly they can drive to our school.”

NTDT has developed a reputation for creating strong, professional dancers with alumni who have moved on to highly respected dance companies, Broadway productions, national tours and even the Walt Disney Company.

Because NTDT students learn to be proficient in multiple art forms, these students have an edge in the competitive world of dance and many of them have been accepted into prestigious summer intensive programs, including the School of American Ballet and American Ballet Theater in New York City, The Harid Conservatory in Boca Raton, the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago and the Boston Ballet.

“With just passing our milestone 25th 2.0 anniversary celebration season, it’s a time for reflection with extreme gratitude and love for all the amazing people who have been a part of our dance programs and family,” says Elkins IronWing.

One local former student certainly agrees with that assessment.

All Ages & Experience Levels

NTDT caters to both the recreational dance lover as well as the devoted pre-professional — and every level in between.

The studio’s leveled curriculum offers multiple art forms for students to explore.

Through personalized attention and professional expertise, NTDT’s professional faculty strives to provide a positive educational experience.

Children ages 3-4 can participate in the school’s Early Childhood Program, ages 5-8 can take part in the Children’s Program and ages 9-18 are invited to join NTDT’s Youth Program.

In addition to classical ballet, NTDT offers full programs in creative movement, modern, jazz, tap and hip-hop.

Each program has its own directors and specific syllabuses guiding students in a structured manner through their studies.

The facilities at NTDT are as top notch as the instructors, and include maple flooring for the tap classes, 20-25-ft.-tall mirrored walls, student locker rooms and a

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“I credit all of my success as a professional dancer to the foundational training I received at NTDT from ages 6-18,” says Victoria DeRenzo, who today is a professional dancer and choreographer who has toured internationally in 28 countries on four continents, most notably with the renowned Pilobolus Dance Theatre in Washington Depot, CT. “I loved every second of my experience growing up there,” DeRenzo adds, “but I had no idea how spoiled I was until I graduated. Not many people receive a top-notch dance education in multiple artforms during their lifetimes, let alone at the age of 6.”

If a student doesn’t choose to pursue a career in dance after high school, they can still reach a level of artistry to be accepted into many college dance programs, says Elkins IronWing.

“Believing in yourself, respecting the process of working towards a goal, and having a well-rounded dance education give our students the tools and confidence to continue discovering new passions throughout their lifetimes,” she says.

Great Productions, Too!

All students have the opportunity to perform in NTDT’s “Spring Production” and — through the studio’s nonprofit partner, the Dance Theatre of Tampa (DTT) —

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“The Nutcracker” is in its 22nd Dance Theatre of Tampa season, and this year will be held Friday-Sunday, December 17-19, at the USF Tampa College of Arts Theater 1. in the winter production of “The Nutcracker,” as well as the “Summer Concert Series,” held in June at the University of South Florida’s Tampa campus.

DTT provides more than 300 free tickets to NTDT’s corporate sponsors, local community supporters, alumni members and students. A small costume rental fee for productions is the only cost over the tuition that parents have to pay at any time — Elkins IronWing says there is never a requirement to buy advertising or pay performance fees.

New Tampa residents Gary and Charity

Hartley relocated here in 2018 from Virginia, and enrolled their daughter Hope at NTDT. “The New Tampa Dance Theatre and the entire staff were the linchpins for our transition into the New Tampa area,” Charity says. “The warmth of the studio, quality of instruction and wonderful students have made us feel right at home. We especially love the way (NTDT) manages the educational aspect of their DTT company members, ensuring they have exposure to various dance forms in their weekly training, master classes and dance performances they attend as a group.”

Every holiday season, Elkins IronWing says local residents look forward to the community’s largest and longest-running interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, “The Nutcracker,” now in its 22nd DTT season. This year, it will be held Friday-Sunday, December 17-19, at the USF Tampa College of Arts Theater 1.

“It’s all about the children at NTDT, always has been and always will be,” she says. “We are a company that enables children to succeed. The key is setting high expectations, all while having fun and building self-confidence. With the transition season ahead of us, we would like to thank all of our trusting and loyal families over the years and the organizations that continually support our vision. Without their recognition and time, NTDT wouldn’t be the magical place it has become!”

The New Tampa Dance Theatre offers year-round free trial classes for prospective dancers of all ages. To tour the facility or to rent it for a meeting, party or function, visit NTDT at 10701 Cross Creek Blvd. For more information and to check out the exciting lineup of fall 2021 classes, visit NewTampaDanceTheatre.com, call (813) 994-NTDT (6838) or see the ad on page 26. You also can follow NTDT on Facebook and Instagram at “New Tampa Dance Theatre.”

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Mosquito Shield Keeps Those Pesky Biters Away Joe adds that the natural oils also help block the carbon dioxide that you breathe out, which attracts mosquitoes.

“I spoke with someone recently who told me he turned his garage into a gym,” says Joe. “I explained to him that because you’re exercising, you’re breathing heavy and basically putting out a neon sign for a mosquito buffet.”

But, Joe says the natural oils Mosquito Shield uses can help to turn out those neon lights, keeping mosquitoes from bothering you anywhere on your property.

By Celeste McLaughlin

Correspondent In Florida, mosquitoes are everywhere, and most people assume you just have to put up with them.

But Joe Rakocy, the owner of Mosquito Shield of North Tampa, says it doesn’t have to be that way.

“Everybody’s got mosquitoes because they don’t think they can get control of it,” Joe says. “But, what we do is different.”

Joe explains that basic pest control companies and other mosquito control companies come out monthly to treat your home and spray to kill mosquitoes.

“If you look at their labels, (the sprays are) supposedly good for 30 days,” he explains. “But really, you begin riding a roller coaster where it works for two weeks, then it doesn’t.”

So, after Mosquito Shield first treats your property, the technician comes out again seven days later, and then comes out every 10-17 days, depending upon the weather. When there’s more rain, technicians come out more often.

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A Company Trusted Nationwide

(L.-r.) Mosquito Shield of North Tampa owner Joe Rakocy, with his wife Wanda, who does the bookkeeping, and son Frank, who is a Mosquito Shield technician. (Photos courtesy of Joe Rakocy)

Joe says Mosquito Shield kills mosquitoes with a small amount of pesticide, similar to his competitors. But, Mosquito Shield technicians do something else, too, creating an invisible “shield” made from

an assortment of natural oils, such as garlic, cedar, and flower oils. “These natural oils build a barrier around your property so the mosquitoes don’t want to come in your yard,” he explains.

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Mosquito Shield is a franchise, with more than 100 locations across the nation.

In 2021, the company is celebrating its 20th year in business — and it is continuing to grow.

About nine months ago, Joe brought Mosquito Shield to North Tampa, and his territory includes both New Tampa and Wesley Chapel.

He is a long-time Wesley Chapel resident, having lived in the same home for more than 30 years. He says his family

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“grew up here” and he still lives in Wesley Chapel, and both his son and son-in-law work for Mosquito Shield as technicians.

So, even though it’s a franchise, “it’s very much a family-owned business,” says Joe, who answers the phone when customers call, and whose wife Wanda does the bookkeeping and helps with office work and marketing.

He’s pleased to bring the Mosquito Shield franchise to this area, where he says it is definitely needed.

“Mosquitoes are pests and they’re a health hazard,” he says, because they bite and have the potential to spread disease.

“We spray a product that is unique to us. No one else has it,” Joe says. “It was developed and patented by Mosquito Shield.”

The technicians use the knowledge and experience the company has built over the last 20 years to know when and how much to spray, too. “We spray a heavier concentration around congregating areas, such as a your fire pit, barbeque, or outdoor kitchen,” he says. “We build a heavier barrier around that.”

Joe says the service is often needed in the beautiful, new subdivisions, where there are lots of ponds and water features. That water is where the mosquitoes breed, and Joe says they breed heavier where there’s fertilization. That makes newer subdivisions

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with their heavily fertilized St. Augustine grass a hotspot for mosquitoes.

He says he often fields phone calls from homeowners who are hosting a party or wedding and want to be sure their guests don’t have to contend with mosquitoes. Mosquito Shield can work with those homeowners to ensure their yard is perfect for that big day.

Mosquito Shield also offers a tick protection product, although Joe says that service is not as popular as the mosquito service in the Tampa Bay area.

Carol Nofsinger moved into her lakefront home in April, but quickly found there were points in the day that she

couldn’t access the dock in her backyard because the mosquitoes were so bad. She and her family were frustrated to be kept away from the lake and trapped inside, away from the mosquitoes.

She says she has been nothing but pleased since she first reached out to Mosquito Shield.

“They were prompt, came right out, and went through their process with us,” she says. “I don’t know the owner outside of hiring them, but he’s very friendly, attentive and answers emails right away.”

Carol was concerned about choosing a service that would not cause harmful pesticides to run off into the lake.

“With the Mosquito Shield product, it doesn’t affect the lake life, fish and plants,” Carol says. “They actually went out and sprayed the dock, so now we can just stand out there — and even go fishing — where before, we couldn’t get close to the lake.”

She also appreciates that the technicians come out as often as needed. At first, it was very frequently, until she says she saw relief and a big improvement.

Now they come out regularly — once every 14 days.

Carol says the technicians and Joe all seemed to care that the problem was completely resolved, and that she contin-

ues to have no mosquitoes.

She took advantage of their offer to come out and treat at the optimum time before she hosted an outdoor party for her daughter’s graduation — at no additional charge.

Mosquito Shield has no contracts and Joe says his services are 100% guaranteed.

And, you can cancel at any time.

Currently, the Mosquito Shield ad on pg. 24 of this issue offers a special introductory rate of $39 for the first month of service, which includes three sprays — the initial spray, then seven days later, then every 14 days after that.

After the introductory pricing, homeowners pay a monthly fee at a regular rate.

Please call Mosquito Shield for pricing for your home and property.

Joe spent decades in food sales and as the owner of a food sales agency that he sold in 2013. Shortly after, he purchased a furniture repair franchise called Furniture Medic, where he still has two technicians who do furniture and cabinet repair and refurbishment. Joe says that’s an offshoot of his hobby, which is woodworking.

For more information or to set up your treatment, call Mosquito Shield at (813) 693-5604, visit moshield.com or see the ad on page 24 of this issue.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News • Volume 29, Issue 18 • August 31, 2021 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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Gun Safety Comes First At Hamblen Security

By John C. Cotey

john@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Jeb Lewis knew more than most about firearms when he took Garrett Hamblen’s Carrying a Concealed Weapon (CCW) class last year. But, he didn’t realize how much else there was for him to learn.

“That class was awesome,” says Lewis. “I mean, I don’t know if you’ve ever taken one, but the information he throws at you is amazing. It’s everything.

He’s very good at what he does.”

Lewis got so much out of the class, he has taken another more advanced class with Hamblen, who owns Hamblen Security.

Although he started the security company in 2020, Hamblen — who is certified by both the National Rifle Association (NRA) and the U.S. Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) to teach CCW classes — has been helping people get their CCW permit for a long time before that.

Lewis’ eagerness to learn more is exactly what Hamblen is hoping for when he instructs prospective gun users. He says he grew up around guns all

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Garrett Hamblen started Hamblen Security after teaching people for years about gun safety and getting concealed carry permits. (Photos courtesy of Hamblen Security).

his life. He is the son of a Marine, and learned at an early age the importance of properly handling a firearm. Now, as an adult, Hamblen, a strong defender of the Second Amendment, is passing on to others his knowledge of how to safely do the same thing.

And, safely is the key word.

“The second amendment is your right to own a gun,” he says. “I feel that people should be able to protect themselves, and if you’re going to have a gun, you absolutely need to be able to do it safely. You need to know how to use it.

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Not everybody is going to buy a gun, but if you do, you definitely should take a class and understand gun safety.”

Hamblen and his small staff at Hamblen Security, which is based in Wesley Chapel, have a private range in Zephyrhills they use for actual shooting, and they rent out space for a classroom for lessons. He also takes his class on the road.

That’s how Jeb Lewis became a client. After a service at Spark Church (which meets at The Grove movie theater) where he (Hamblen) is the Pastor, Hamblen met a group of 10-11 members of the Calvary Chapel on Livingston Ave. for a CCW class.

Lewis said the 3-4 hour class — which primarily teaches gun safety but also focuses on the laws relating to where and when you can (and can’t) carry a firearm — convinced him and just about everyone else to sign up for the next level class that teaches how to shoot the gun.

A .22-caliber semiautomatic pistol is used for the CCW class, but you can bring your own gun for the class on how to properly and safely shoot a firearm.

“I would say at least half of the

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Some recent graduates of Garrett Hamblen’s Carrying A Concealed Weapon (CCW) permit course show off the certificates they will use to apply for a permit, which then takes about 6-8 weeks. Hamblen walks you through the entire process.

students come back take the second class, because that one actually teaches you how to shoot,” Hamblen says. “The first class is how to get your concealed carry license; the second class teaches you what to do with the pistol, how to use it and how to shoot it. Some people don’t want a concealed permit, they just want to learn how to use their gun.”

The CCW class, which costs just $59 per person, is Hamblen’s most popular, he says, one of many of his classes to have seen a rise in participation in the last year. He recently instructed 20 residents in a local community at their clubhouse and says he has taught roughly 500 people who have applied for and received their CCW permits.

“In 2020, with all the unrest in the country, it has exploded,” Hamblen says.

“We had a pandemic and we had protests around the country and I think that is what really triggered a new wave of gun owners.”

Hamblen’s CCW class is between three and four hours long, and covers everything from gun safety to laws like Stand Your Ground, as well situational awareness and a little shooting to cap it off. The follow-up basic pistol class, which focuses mostly on using the gun and shooting, is also roughly four hours.

He says he is very thorough, whereas some larger ranges rush through the class to get students out shooting on the range, which is where they make their money.

“We really wanted to do better,” Hamblen says. “Our core model is do better and let’s go above and beyond.”

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1. Never point the gun at anybody 2. Make sure the gun isn’t loaded 3. Keep your finger off the trigger While gun safety is paramount, situational awareness is just as vital, Hamblen says. What do I do if someone breaks into my house? What do I do if somebody attacks me? What do I do if somebody mugs me on the street?

“I don’t tell them what I would do or what they need to do,” Hamblen says.

“What I do is talk about all the different options, and what to expect with each option….my goal is to teach people to be as safe as possible.”

Hamblen can teach anyone, and lately, he’s been surprised by the people who have been showing up the most for both group and private instruction.

“We’re seeing now that my classes are probably more than half women, coming to learn how to shoot and to be able protect their families,” Hamblen says. “That’s what was surprising to me.

It’s not just this macho man thing.”

But, the classes aren’t limited to the adults. Hamblen’s ability to make it fun and informative draws all ages.

“We’ve got folks who will bring the whole family to take gun safety classes,” he says. “Multiple families can get together and take it. I’ve taught kids as young as 7, 8 and 9 years old. We’ve even got a markmanship program for kids. We do it all.”

To schedule a class with Hamblen Security, visit PascoCCW.com, where you can book online, or call (813) 444-8050. Mention this article or the ad on page 22 to receive 10% off.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News • Volume 29, Issue 18 • August 31, 2021 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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Make One-Stop Landscape Supply Your Only Stop

By John C. Cotey

john@NTNeighborhoodNews.com There are few jobs too big or too small for One-Stop Landscape Supply, a retail and wholesale garden and landscape supply company on S.R. 54, across the street from the New River Library.

Need a single plant? Stop on by.

Looking for some mulch, rocks or soil? One-Stop has you covered.

Have a large commercial project that needs tending to? Yep, you’re still in the right place.

“We handle just about everything,” says co-owner Matt Pratt. “We can supply a contractor for a massive job — from irrigation all the way down to plants and sod and shovels and rakes — to a homeowner who can walk right in and grab a few plants for their front yard.”

Pratt comes from a long line of family members who have worked in the green, or landscape, industry. Not only did Matt’s grandfather and father work in the industry, but his son Elijah is the manager of One-Stop Landscape Supply.

One-Stop offers a wide variety of

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products with the kind of specialized and experienced customer service that is hard to find.

“When customers walk in, they are getting that knowledge, expertise and experience,” Matt says. “We can handle their questions, not only on a homeowner level, but for any job no matter the size. We have a well-rounded staff here.”

Elijah grew up around the business, so helping customers find what they need is nothing new for him.

But, not only does One-Stop Landscape Supply offer plants, trees, rocks, mulch and soil, its 3,000-sq.-ft. warehouse behind the store is stocked with fertilizers, irrigation products (they carry the K-Rain brand) and tools.

And, if they don’t have just what you’re looking for, One-Stop can get Elijah Pratt manages One-Stop Landscape Supply it for you, no problem. The store reon S.R. 54 and is the fourth generation in his family to work in the Florida landscape industry. cently forged a partnership with a sod (Photos: Charmaine George) grower, due to requests from customers, and will soon be selling sod, too. son of Cypress Creek Landscape, LLC, Having a landscape supply company who says he is busier than ever these days conveniently located in Wesley Chapel has thanks to all of the new home construcbeen a boon to contractors like Jeff Johntion and growth in the area. Johnson says

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he has become a regular at One-Stop.

“When we started our company, there wasn’t really a local landscape supply store that would outfit the local landscaper,” Johnson says. “With Matt bringing One-Stop into Wesley Chapel, that’s a huge opportunity there. I immediately hooked up with them. Their plant prices are pretty much phenomenal.”

One-Stop works with companies like Johnson’s, as well as with municipalities and on large government projects in nearby counties, while still handling the individual customer, like Michael Dautel.

Dautel says his usual go-to for landscaping supplies was Home Depot or Lowe’s. But, when they didn’t have the kind of palm trees he was looking for, he happened upon One-Stop. Not only did they have that palm tree, but Matt talked Michael into a more attractive palm tree requiring less maintenance.

“I discovered them somewhere around last September,” Dautl says, “and I haven’t gone anywhere else since. The place is exceptionally clean, the plants are bigger and look healthier cost are less money, and the staff is really knowledge-

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able. They don’t just sell you something, they tell you how to take care of it, like what fertilizer to use. I’m a faithful customer for life.”

Landscaping and gardening continue to be popular pastimes in Florida, with old and new homeowners finding it to be the most convenient, and often cheapest, way to beautify their yards.

“Most of our customers are new homeowners or just The warehouse at One-Stop Landscape Supply is stocked with a moved into a new house and wide variety of items to help you take care of your home’s landwant to re-do their entire scaping from start to finish. landscape,” Elijah says.

And, for a reasonable fee, One-Stop “They either want to do it themselves, Landscape Supply will even deliver your or they come to us to help them design a products to your home. whole new landscape for them.”

While some of the other landscape supply companies and big-box stores will If You Can Imagine It, deliver rocks, for example, a customer can One-Stop Can Design It! walk into One-Stop and pick out plants, Sometimes, it’s as simple as bringing mulch and rocks and still get it them all in a picture of your yard to the store. For delivered to their home. more intensive projects, One-Stop LandAnd, that’s not the only advantage to scape Supply will come to your home and choosing One-Stop over big-box waregive you a free estimate and use its design houses. Despite what you might think, software to help make a plan for you.

Matt says the store beats the big-box “We can either help design and chains on plant prices almost across the install or supply them with all the plants board, and its 3-gallon plants are somethey need,” Elijah says. “Our software times $2-$3 cheaper. Bagged mulch is a shows you exactly what it will look like better deal too. when it’s finished.”

“But, what really separates us, what Elijah says the service is so popular, we get complimented on every day, is our One-Stop is going out to customers’ personalized service,” Matt says. “ homes almost daily.

One-Stop Landscape Supply opened Every customer is looking for someJuly 31, 2020, smack dab in the middle of thing different, but because Florida’s the pandemic, and recently celebrated its suffocating heat can make tending to one-year anniversary with a cookout and your yard an unwelcome task, the most celebration. While the road work on S.R. common items these days are low-main54 in front of the store has been a chaltenance plants and materials, like rocks, lenge, new customers continue to come in which can be used to fill in any landscapand grow the roster of One-Stop regulars. ing while requiring no work afterwards.

Matt and Co. have rewarded their loyal customers by expanding their offerings and adding to the store’s product lines every month.

They continue to source new products in order to provide plants and products other places don’t carry.

One-Stop Landscape Supply (34100 S.R. 54) is open Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.; and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday.

For specials, follow One-Stop on Facebook (@OneStopLandscapeLLC) and Instagram (@OneStopLandscape), and for more information, visit Customers like Mike Dautel say the plants look bigger and OneStopLandscape.com, call healthier at One-Stop Landscape Supply than at the area’s (813) 355-3480 or see the ad on page 42 of this issue. big-box warehouse stores.

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Organic Safe Lawns Keeps Your Lawn Both Green AND Healthy! says the products use a proven technology that was originally designed for fruits and vegetables, although Organic Safe Lawns deals strictly with lawns and ornamental plants.

By John C. Cotey

john@NTNeighborhoodNews.com Nick Pipitone has used other lawn service companies, and even tried to keep his yard green and healthy himself, but he says he was looking for a safer, more environmentally sound option to keep his lawn, as well as his beloved English bulldog, chemical-free.

That’s why, about five years ago, Pipitone decided to hire Jim Schanstra and his Organic Safe Lawns to take care of his lawn.

“I gotta tell you, there is stuff out there, the stuff they (Organic Safe Lawns) uses, that greens up the grass real good,” says Pipitone, a Wesley Chapel resident.

“You don’t need all the chemicals. That’s what I was looking for...and they have done a great job.”

Keeping lawns green, free of pests and healthy is Organic Safe Lawns’ specialty. Whether it’s because your kids play in the grass or your pets like to run around in the yard, making sure they stay danger-free is a big deal for Schanstra.

In fact, he says it’s why he started his business in the first place.

Schanstra suspects that exposure to DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) as a youngster had something to do with his wife Julie developing non-Hodgkin’s large cell lymphoma cancer. DDT was used in the U.S. in agriculture as a pesticide and as a household insecticide in the 1940s and 1950s, only to be banned in 1973.

Julie won her fight against cancer, with help from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, but it was a constant reminder to Schanstra of the potential effects of chemicals used in the environment.

In 2006, just before a scheduled sales meeting with an organic fertilizer

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Trademarked Products

Jim Schanstra says his Organic Safe Lawns technicians go beyond just fertilizing grass — they will check your plants for health and your irrigation system to make sure it’s properly functioning. manufacturer, Schanstra says that one of the associates said that he’d read a recent news article that claimed Florida was using more chemical-based fertilizers and pesticides on residential properties than the rest of the United States combined.

“That statement hit me like a lightning bolt,” Schanstra says. “It was in that moment that I decided to do something about it. That was the conception of Organic Safe Lawns.”

In January of 2010, Organic Safe Lawns, Inc., became a Florida corporation.

“When I started out, that was my big, hard sell: how do I tell people we can really do it?,” he says. “If we can grow fruits and vegetables organically, why can’t we grow grass that way? That was the concept in my mind.”

Schanstra works closely with one of the top organic fertilizer manufacturers and pioneers of the industry. The

products — fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides — used by Schanstra and Organic Safe Lawns are certified by the Organic Materials Review Institute or OMRI, an independent testing company that certifies organic products. He

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Organic Safe Lawns, Inc., has now designed and manufactured more than 30 different organic fertilizer products of its own that are owned and trademarked by the corporation.

While most typical fertilizers are made up of synthesized chemicals, Schanstra says the products he uses are mostly mined from the shale level of the earth, where healthier and more acidic soil exists. There are richer supplies of micronutrients, enzymes and bacteria found in this soil than in other fertilizers.

“There’s no downside with our fertilizers,” Schanstra says.

Other lawn companies also use mined products, but they are converted into a granular form — those little balls you see in your grass after the lawn company has stopped by — by incorporating binders and fillers to keep their shape.

That’s where Schanstra says carcinogens

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are often entered into the mixture.

“Once those little balls dissolve, those chemicals end up running off into our aquifers, which are sometimes only a foot or two deep below, and can get into our water, streams and ponds and cause algae blooms,” Schanstra says.

Typical fertilizers come in two types of encapsulation. The first is water-based, meaning the fertilizer is released by coming into contact with water. The second is a polymer, or plastic encapsulation. Its releasing agent is heat.

Schanstra says those forms of release may be fine for more moderate northern climates. However, Florida’s famously erratic weather — sometimes too much rain and often too much heat — can sometimes cause the release of a month’s worth of fertilizer in a week or even a day.

Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides may lead to greener lawns — due to their higher concentrations of nitrogen — but they also can lead to the same typical lawn problems so common here in Florida. These problems include fungus and disease, chinch bugs, webworms and mole crickets, all of which are often found in high-nitrogen soils.

“We found that by reducing the nitrogen level (in the products Organic Safe Lawns uses), we almost eliminate fungus and pests,” Schanstra says. “The cheapest way to get green grass is with high-nitrogen fertilizer.”

Schanstra also says that high-nitrogen fertilizers push top growth and weaken root structure. Over time, the lawn’s root system can’t sustain the foliage.

“A weakened root structure is like candy to bugs,” Schanstra says. “After using our treatment, you’ll see the bugs moving over into the neighbor’s yard.”

Chemical-based fertilizers are designed to be absorbed through the leaf (called foliar absorption). All of the organic fertilizers that Schanstra uses are absorbed through the roots. And, he

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Organic Safe Lawns will keep your grass and plants looking green and healthy using only products that are safe for you and your family. adds, they are all water-soluble liquids that are safe for pets, wildlife and humans.

“When we apply organic fertilizers, we’re spraying that into the soil,” he says. “The only way the plant absorbs it is into the root system. My grass will grow a little bit slower, but my roots will be stronger.”

Top-coated lawns treated with synthetic pesticides and herbicides puts people and pets in danger. Why do you think people applying pesticides wear rubber boots? Because, Schanstra says, they don’t want to get any of the application on them.

In that case, he adds, why would you want you, your children or your pets to track that into your house?

“The dog goes over into the neighbor’s yard to pee, and they’re chewing on their paws when they get back,” Schanstra says. “Kids crawl around and play on the grass and absorb it when they walk in it.”

The chemical herbicide Atrazine is still used widely across the U.S. and Flor-

ida to prevent pre- and post-emergence of broadleaf weeds, especially during the summer. It was found by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases (ATSDR) to have adverse effects on the endocrine systems of mammals and that it likely also contributes to some birth defects.

“A lot of lawn companies will blanket

your yard with Atrazine,” Schanstra says.

“It costs just five dollars for a 600-gallon mix. They use it because it’s cheap.”’

But, Organic Safe Lawns’ technicians offer a safer chemical solution for weed control, which is spot-treated throughout the year. It isn’t as cheap as Atrazine, he says, but generally, the stronger root system his lawns have developed lead to fewer weeds anyway.

“We are about the process and the materials,” Schanstra says, “as opposed to using harmful chemicals with regard to weed control.”

Schanstra says he recommends treatment every 30 days, and that it isn’t any more expensive than hiring the lawn care chains. He said he also works with his customers to ensure they are watering and mowing their lawns correctly — two extremely important ways to keep your lawn in tip-top shape that are often overlooked and under-appreciated.

Organic Safe Lawns, Inc., services homes in Tampa, New Tampa, Wesley Chapel and Land O’ Lakes. For additional information, call (813) 393-9665, email organicsafelawns@verizon.net, visit OrganicSafeLawns.com or see the ad on page 41 of this issue.

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Rocco: Senior quarterback & his Bulls are primed for a breakout season Continued from page 1.

Rocco continued honing his skills leading the Bulls to the postseason and a with noted quarterback coach Chip 7-4 final record.

Bennett and his son C.J. in Tampa.

“He got thrown into the fire,” He survived a junior slump in a CovidAnthony says. “Physically, he couldn’t 19-shortened season and this past offseadevelop his sophomore year because son attacked the recruiting camp circuit he was still young and just getting into with a vengeance. weights. Mentally, he had to speed In April, he orally committed to the that process up. I didn’t know what to Big 12’s Iowa State University in Ames. expect. He wasn’t very big then. I was Although he had received an offer — worried about him physically...but he did with more likely to come — from Ole a great job with it. Once his sophomore Miss a week before he committed, Rocco season was done...he started thinking, passed on Lane Kif‘You know, I got fin and the prestigsomething here.’” ou throw for 450 ious Southeastern Rocco says Conference and yards, tweet that until that season, stuck with the Cyhe wasn’t sure if he clones, who offered out, people put likes on it, hadn’t peaked, if him first, during his and it’s good for a week. there was a “next sophomore year. level” waiting for A 4.0 student, Rocco wants to do somehim. But, fully comRocco will gradumitted afterwards, ate from Wiregrass thing with this team that he set his sights on Ranch in December lasts a lifetime.” being great. and enroll at Iowa 7...6...5…

State in January.

-- Anthony Becht From the end Also in April, of his sophomore Rocco was named the MVP at a Rivals season through this summer, few have Camp in Miami, earning an invite to the dedicated themselves more to their craft prestigious Rivals100 5-Star Challenge in than Rocco.

Atlanta in June.

“I’m not sure anyone has worked Competing against the likes of Cade harder,” says Wiregrass Ranch head coach Klubnik (Clemson commitment), A.J. Mark Kantor. “He’s dedicated, that’s for Swann (Maryland commit) and other sure. He sets the example.” higher-rated quarterbacks, Rocco stunRocco went to his father after the ningly dominated the event and again 2019 season and told Anthony that he earned MVP honors. was all in. It was all Anthony needed “I was told I was one of the last guys to hear. It started in the garage of their picked to go to the Rivals thing,” Rocco Wesley Chapel home, where, as the pansays. “I went out there and balled. That demic raged, dad laid out the roadmap to put a bunch of confidence in me. It gave success for his son, which included workme a lot of momentum for this season.” ing out, eating right, watching film and Two weeks ago, Rocco earned anabsorbing the game. other star in the Rivals rankings, making

“Y

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him officially a 4-Star-rated quarterback.

4...3….

This season, Rocco will lead a Bulls team that is loaded on offense and still developing on defense, and opened arguably its most promising season Aug. 27 against Hernando (after we went to press with this issue).

The Bulls take on neighborhood rival Wesley Chapel High on Sept. 3.

Rocco is “stoked” about the possibilities. Like many of his teammates, he has been working hard for this moment.

Anthony will be calling the plays at Wiregrass Ranch this season, as the team’s offensive coordinator. In the spring game, Rocco threw four TD passes to three different receivers. He and wideout Bryson Rodgers — who has offers from Alabama and Florida, to name a few — might be the best QB-WR tandem in Tampa Bay high school football.

But, they are just pieces of a puzzle, Anthony says. “Rocco wants to win,” he says. “That’s what is most important. Not

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how many stars you have, not how many yards you have, but can we go to the playoffs? You throw for 450 yards, tweet that out, people put likes on it, and it’s good for a week. He wants to do something with this team that lasts a lifetime.”

Rocco may have been a late bloomer, but he still has plenty of quarterback swagger. He says he believes that the Bulls can win every game this season and make a deep run in the playoffs. He has circled the Mitchell game on Sept. 10, after the Mustangs returned the opening kickoff in last year’s game against the Bulls en route to a 42-14 romp. Powerhouses like Armwood and Tampa Bay Tech await the Bulls as well.

“I feel like I’ve earned everything I’ve gotten, from hard work and dedication to the game,” Rocco says. “It’s going to pay off at the end of the day. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for me.”

Yes, Rocco Becht is on the launch pad, ready to reach the stars.

2….1….blast off!

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Our Preview Of The 2021 Season For All Three Wesley Chapel High School Football Teams once, in 2019, with the Wildcats posting a CYPRESS CREEK 19-0 win. On Oct. 29, they play again, and COACH: Mike Johnson LAST YEAR: 3-7, lost to Tampa Catholic 55-7 in the first round of Class 4A playoffs.

KEY RETURNEES: Owen Walls (Sr. QB, 1,233 yards, 13 TDs in 2020); Andrew Burgess II (Sr. RB, 119 yards, 1 TD); Dontrell Clerkley (Sr. WR, 427 yards, 6 TDs); Merrick Simmons (Sr. WR, 331 yards, 6 TDs); Dernere Jones (Sr. WR, 166 yards); Colton Corrao (Sr. PK); James Cleary (Sr. OL/DL); Austin Slusher (So. OL/DL), Vincent Tre (Jr. LB).

THE SCHEDULE: The two toughest, and most important games (because they are District 5A-9 games) will be at home, against Nature Coast Tech (Sept. 17) and Zephyrhills (Oct. 15).

GAME TO WATCH: Cypress Creek and nearby Wesley Chapel have only played

this time it’s a district game and could have some meaning. Time to rev up this rivalry!

THE SKINNY: With a young and unproven offensive line and loads of talent at quarterback and receiver, we might see a version of Air Johnson this year. Clerkley (pictured right) and Walls (far right) should click, and Simmons and Burgess II also are versatile athletes. Clerkley, also a standout at DB, caught TD passes in five of the last six games of 2020. Johnson said in the spring he was expecting freshman WR Jaelen Collins to add to the firepower. Defensively, transfer MLB Niko Huitz was a standout in the spring and could play a big role. Cypress Creek has one of the top kickers around, senior Colton Corrao, who was ranked No. 13 in the country by Kornblue Kicking, a recruiting company that holds camps, trains and ranks kickers.

Dontrell Clerkley

WESLEY CHAPEL

Ayden Roysdon

WIREGRASS RANCH COACH: Mark Kantor LAST YEAR: 4-5, had to forfeit playoff game due to Covid-19.

KEY RETURNEES: Rocco Becht (Sr. QB, 1,550 yards, 18 TDs in 2020); Corneil McCrary (Sr. RB, 453 yards, 3 TDs); Kenneth Walker (Jr. WR, 527 yards, 6 TDs); Bryson Rodgers (Jr. WR, 47 catches, 710 yards, 10 TDs); Izaiah Williams (So. WR); Abram Beer (Sr. LB/SS); Nate Kidd (Sr. LB); Logan Ridolph (Sr. OL/DL); Christian Loaiza (OL/DL).

THE SCHEDULE: Yikes! The Bulls play two teams that advanced to the State semifinals last year (Mitchell and Tampa Bay Tech), another team that has won multiple State championships (Armwood) and three other teams that finished 9-3, 7-2 and 6-1 (Zephyrhills, Wharton and The Villages, Neighborhood News

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Nehemiah Morgan

COACH: Tony Egan LAST YEAR: 5-5, lost to Chamberlain 40-0 in first round of Class 5A playoffs.

KEY RETURNEES: Ethan Harper (Sr. QB, 699 yards, 7 TDs in 2020); Nehemiah Morgan (Sr. WR/S, 399 yards, 3 TDs); Jaylan Blake (Sr. RB, 485 yards, 4 TDs); Max Hembrecht (Jr. OL/DL); Ryan Warren (Jr. OL/DL); Briac Riles (Sr. OL/DL); Josh Poleon (Jr. LB); Ayden Roysdon (Jr. LB); Yael Diaz (So. LB).

THE SCHEDULE: The Wildcats probably have the second toughest schedule in the county, behind Wiregrass Ranch. It will be tough to catch up if they come out of the gate slowly.

GAME TO WATCH: The Nature Coast Tech game on Oct. 1 may be the most important, but the Sept. 3 game against Wiregrass Ranch might be the most fun. The neighborhood rivals skipped last year’s game, so this should draw a

respectively). Did we say yikes already?

THE SKINNY: The offense is loaded, with Iowa State commit Becht throwing to Rodgers (a certain 5-Star recruit who already has been recruited by Alabama, Florida, Florida State and Georgia, among many), Williams or newcomer Malachi McLaughlin. All good choices. Walker and McCrary are 1,000-yard threats in the backfield, and tackles Loaiza and Ridolph bookend a very promising line. The Bulls scored at least 41 points in every win last year.

Wiregrass Ranch will score points this season, but the defense has some questions that need to be answered after a bumpy 2020 and a spring game where it allowed 36 points. LBs Kidd and Beer (photo) will try to shore up a unit that is shallow up front, but can place talented athletes in the defensive backfield. If the defense can take the next step, big things could await the Bulls.

Nate Kidd

Owen Walls

boisterous crowd from both schools.

THE SKINNY: Rain washed out a ton of practice time for the Wildcats, and the 27-0 preseason loss to The Villages is not a promising sign. But the Wildcats have some nice pieces on offense, including the biggest offensive line Egan has had in his five seasons at the school. If Harper converts some of the promise he showed last year, and Morgan breaks out, the Wildcats should put up some points. Defensively, Wesley Chapel has excellent linebackers in Poleon and Roysdon, and the addition of Tampa Bay Tech transfer Jorden McClaslin will elevate that group. There have been some injuries, however, that could hamper the team’s depth.

The Wildcats have gone 5-5 the past three seasons, and Egan is tired of .500 and is setting the bar higher.

“I’m expecting to compete for a district title,” he says. “We have to get in the playoffs. It would be nice to win the first playoff game here.”

Abram Beer

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31

Enter Our Dining Survey & Contest To Win A Free Dining Gift Card!

We have continually tweaked our annual Reader Dining Survey & Contest every year, but we had our best response ever (1,500+ entries!) from our readers to the 2019 contest.

So, when we received about half as many entries last year (during the pandemic) as we did the previous year, I decided to go back to a modified version of our 2019 survey entry form, with more choices (to reflect the increase in the number of local restaurants) and to again split the contest by distribution area.

In other words, the entry form on pages 33-34 (front and back of the same page if you cut/tear out the entry form and mail it in to us) asks you to name only your favorite restaurants in Wesley Chapel and the Lutz area around the Tampa Premium Outlets (TPO). Wesley Chapel residents will have a chance to pick their favorite New Tampa eateries in a future issue.

On page 33 (right), we have listed what I believe is every non-fast-food restaurant located in Wesley Chapel’s three zip codes (33543, 33544 & 33545), plus those located on Wesley Chapel Blvd., S.R.s 56 & 54, within a mile of TPO. As always, in case I missed any Wesley Chapel restaurants (or if you really prefer Chick-fil-A or Jersey Mike’s to the restau-

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rants we’ve listed), you can write in up to five restaurants in the spaces provided, as long as your write-ins are located in either zip codes 33543, 33544 or 33545 (you can always Google search them to make sure).

Then, on page 34, there are five additional categories — Favorite Pizza Place, Favorite Dessert Place, Favorite Latin and Asian Restaurants and Favorite Bar in Wesley Chapel.

In order for your entry to be considered for one of our three free dining prizes — $100, $60 and $35 gift cards to the restaurant of your choice in the Tampa Bay area — you must select or write-in five restaurants on page 33 and select or write-in one place in at least three of the five categories on page 34 or none of your votes will count!

You also must include your first and last name, complete address (including zip code and the community you live in) and valid daytime phone number and email address and mail the entry form to us no later than Monday, November 8, in order to be eligible to vote and win. You also can enter by going to NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net and completely filling out the entry form with the same info by the same date.

Good luck and Bon Appetit! — GN

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2021 Reader Dining Survey & Contest!

Your Chance to Win $100, $60 or $35 in FREE Gift Cards to the Restaurant of Your Choice in the Tampa Bay Area!

Please Circle or Select Your Five (5) Favorite Restaurants in Wesley Chapel from the list below!

(*Note - Do not number your selections in order, just circle, select or write in your five favorites. Although we include some restaurants located in Lutz that are outside of the Wesley Chapel zip codes on the list below, ALL write-ins must be located in zip codes 33543, 33544 or 33545.

365 Café Italiano 900º New York Pizza (The Grove) 900º Woodfired Pizza (Shops at Wiregrass) Amici Pizza & Deli (Lutz) Applebee’s Grill + Bar Arepa Mia (Lutz) Arroy Thai (S.R. 54) Asian Buffet Aussie Grill (Lutz) Bagelicious & More Bahama Breeze (Lutz) Beef O’Brady’s (2 locations) Best NY Pizza BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse (Lutz) Blaze Pizza (Lutz) Bonefish Grill (Lutz) Bonsai Sushi Bosco’s Italian to Go Brooklyn Water Bagels Brunchies (Lutz) Bubba’s 33 Buffalo Wild Wings Burger Monger Cantina Laredo Capital Tacos Caprese Pizza House Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Chili’s China Gourmet China Wok Chipotle Mexican Grill (Lutz)

Chuck E. Cheese Chuck Lager America’s Tavern Chuy’s Tex-Mex (Lutz) Cracker Barrel Culver’s (2 locations) Dempsey’s Too (in Saddlebrook Resort) Dickey’s BBQ Don Pan Int’l Bakery Entre Panes (Lutz) Falabella Family Bistro First Watch FJ Express Florida Ave. Brewing Co. Ford’s Garage (Lutz) Fratelli’s Pizza & Café Garden Mediterranean Grille (Lutz) Glory Days Grill Gonna China Grillsmith Grove Theater, Bistro & Ent. Happy Hangar Café (Lutz) Hibachi Express Hilton Garden Inn/Garden Grille Honeybaked Ham Ho Wok Hot Wok 88 Hyatt Place Hotel/Gallery Restaurant (Lutz) Irish 31 Keke’s Breakfast Café King of the Coop

Latin Twist Café LongHorn Steakhouse (Lutz) Main Event (Lutz) Medilish Mediterranean Grill Mellow Mushroom Pizza & Spirits (Lutz) MOD Pizza (Lutz) Moe’s Southwest Grill Moschella’s Italian Eatery & Market New York New York Pizza Noble Crust O’Brien’s Irish Pub Omari’s Grill at Lexington Oaks Golf Club Omnivorous (at Double Branch Artisanal Ales) Outback Steakhouse Panda Express Panera Bread Pasta di Guy PDQ Pholicious Pinchers Crab Shack PizzaMania Poké Falls Pollo Tropical Pomodoro Pizza Raining Berries (Lutz) Red Robin Refuel Energy & Nutrition Rice-n-Beans

Rock & Brews (Lutz) Señor Tequila Shang Hai Chinese Sweetea Café (Lutz) Taco Bus (Lutz) Taco Son Texas Roadhouse The Hungry Greek Tijuana Flats Token Ramen Tokyo Grill & Sushi Top Shelf Sports Lounge (at AdventHealth Center Ice) Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant Umu Japanese & Thai Urban Grid Nutrition Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant Waffle House Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar WingHouse Wing Stop Wolf’s Den Yamato Japanese Restaurant Zukku-San Sushi Bar & Grill WRITE-INS (Must be located in zip codes 33543, 33544 or 33545): ______________________ ______________________ ______________________ ______________________ ______________________

YOU’RE NOT DONE YET! SEE PAGE 34 TO ENTER THIS YEAR’S DINING SURVEY! Neighborhood News

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2021 Reader Dining Survey & Contest (Page 2)!

Win A FREE Gift Card to the Restaurant of Your Choice!

Your Favorite Asian/Middle Eastern Restaurant In Wesley Chapel

Your Favorite Place For Pizza In Wesley Chapel

(Please circle, select or write in only ONE — no more, no less!)

All of the Wesley Chapel/Lutz restaurants listed below are either pizza places or have NY-, Chicago- or flatbread-style pizzas on their menus.

NY NY Pizza Hilton Garden Inn/ 900º New York Pizza O’Brien’s Irish Pub Garden Grille 900º Woodfired Pizza Papa John‘s Pizza Little Caesar’s Amici Pizza & Deli Pasta di Guy Marco‘s Pizza Best NY Pizza Pizza Hut Mellow Mushroom Pizza Blaze Pizza PizzaMania & Spirits Bosco’s Italian to Go Pomodoro Pizza MOD Pizza Caprese Pizza House Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen Moschella’s Italan Eatery & Chuck E. Cheese WRITE-IN: Market Fratelli’s Pizza & Café _____________________ Noble Crust Grillsmith

Your Favorite Latin Restaurant In Wesley Chapel

(Please circle, select or write in only ONE — no more, no less!)

All of the Wesley Chapel/Lutz restaurants listed below specialize either in Mexican, Southwestern U.S. or Latin American cuisines Moe’s Southwest Grill Arepa Mia Pollo Tropical Cantina Laredo Rice-n-Beans Capital Tacos Señor Tequila Chili’s Taco Bus Chipotle Mexican Grill Taco Son Chuy’s Tex-Mex Tijuana Flats Don Pan International Bakery Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant Entre Panes WRITE-IN: _____________________ Latin Twist Café

Your Favorite Dessert Place In Wesley Chapel

(Please circle, select or write in only ONE — no more, no less!)

All of the Wesley Chapel/Lutz places listed below specialize in desserts (or smoothies), they’re not just restaurants offering desserts — no matter how yummy!

Dairy Queen Smoothie King 35 Below Don Pan Int’l Bakery Snowie 365 Café Italiano Dunkin’ Donuts Starbucks (3 locations) Barnes & Noble Café Fresh Healty Café Sweet Dreamz Ice Cream Baskin Robbins Green Mango & Dessert Parlour Bianco Gelato Ice Dreammm Shop Twistee Treat Blondie’s Cookies Clean Juice Le Macaron Coffee Latitudes Menchie’s Yogurt Café WRITE-IN: Crumbl Cookie Nothing Bundt Cakes _____________________ Culver’s Raining Berries

YOUR FIRST & LAST NAME: ___________________________________________ YOUR STREET ADDRESS: ______________________________________________ YOUR CITY & ZIP CODE: _______________________________________________ YOUR COMMUNITY: ___________________________________________________ (Estancia, Lexington Oaks, etc.)

(Please circle, select or write in only ONE — no more, no less!)

All of the Wesley Chapel/Lutz restaurants listed below offer Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Korean, Middle Eastern/Mediterrnean, Thai and/or Vietnamese Cuisine.

Arroy Thai Panda Express Asian Buffet Pholicious Bonsai Sushi Shang Hai Chinese China Gourmet Sweetea Café China Wok The Hungry Greek FJ Express Token Ramen Garden Mediterranean Grill Tokyo Grill & Sushi Gonna China Umu Japanese & Thai Hibachi Express Yamato Japanese Restaurant Ho Wok Zukku-San Sushi Bar & Grill Hot Wok 88 WRITE-IN: _____________________ Medilish Mediterranean Grill

Your Favorite Bar Or Tavern In Wesley Chapel

(Please circle, select or write in only ONE — no more, no less!)

All of the Wesley Chapel/Lutz places listed below have an actual bar area (not a sushi bar) to sit at and offer beer, wine and/or hard liquor, whether they serve food or not.

Applebee’s Bahama Breeze Beef O’Brady’s BJ’s Brewhouse Bonefish Grill Bru Florida Growler Bar Buffalo Wild Wings Cantina Laredo Chapel Cigars Cheddar’s Chili’s Chuck Lager America’s Tavern Chuy’s Tex-Mex Cigars International Double Branch Artisanal Ales Florida Ave. Brewing Co. Ford’s Garage

Glory Days Grill Grillsmith Grove Theater, Bistro & Entertainment Hilton Garden Inn/ Garden Grille

Hyatt Place Hotel/ Gallery Restaurant Irish 31 Joe Whiskey’s Longhorn Steakhouse Main Event Mellow Mushroom Metro Lagoon Bar Noble Crust O’Brien’s Irish Pub Omari’s Grille/Lex Oaks Outback Steak House Pinchers Crab Shack

Red Robin Rice n’ Beans Rock & Brews Señor Tequila Texas Roadhouse The Brass Tap Top Shelf Sports Lounge Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar WingHouse Yamato Japanese Restaurant Zukku-San Sushi & Grill

WRITE-IN: _____________________

If You Write-In A Restaurant Or Bar That Isn’t Located In Wesley Chapel’s 33543, 33544 or 33545 Zip Codes, Your Write-In Vote Will Not Count! This Includes Any Place Located In New Tampa!

YOUR DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER (w/area code): __________________________________________________________________________ YOUR VALID EMAIL ADDRESS: _________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Enter online at NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net or mail your COMPLETELY FILLED IN entry form, by Monday, November 8, 2021, to: NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS 2021 DINING SURVEY & CONTEST • 28949 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 34

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35

Host Your Next Event At Omari’s Grille At Lexington Oaks GC!

By Gary Nager

When classically trained chef Anass ElOmari and his wife Susana Herrera purchased Lexington Oaks Golf Club about three years ago, I was excited about the prospect of having another real restaurant in Wesley Chapel.

And, although Anass at first revamped the existing golfer-oriented menu at the golf course’s restaurant, which he re-named Omari’s Grille, he ended up scaling back his everyday offerings of fresh fish, pasta and filet mignon, and has kept the menu smaller and simpler since reopening Omari’s after the Covid-19 pandemic shut it down for a few months in 2020.

But now, while Omari’s regular menu is still mainly comprised of burgers, sandwiches, wings and other fast, simple foods favored by the golfers who frequent his completely renovated golf course, Anass has brought back some of the dishes I loved on his original Omari’s menu as specials on Friday evenings.

Anass loves both cooking and talking about cooking. So, in conjunction with this article, we recorded our second “Cooking With Anass” segment that was released a few days before this issue arrived in your mailbox, where he made an amazing Cajun pasta, with both Andouille sausage and top sirloin steak in a semispicy cream sauce that’s as good as anything you’ll find in any fine dining establishment.

“Good food is actually really simple to make,” he said as he set some hot oil on fire before sautéeing the steak and sausage together.

“The key is knowing what ingredients and how much of each to use. I love sharing my secrets.”

And, I love tasting his recipes, because Anass is a true culinary artist who serves up some of the best food in our area, even if many locals still don’t know it. So, whether you want to start with authentic Colombian empanadas, crispy calamari or shrimp tempura salad, or enjoy a great grilled chicken caprese or salmon teriyaki entrée, you can’t go wrong at Omari’s.

Great Events, Too!

Now that things have gotten a little more normal in this Covid-crazy world, people are again looking for great places to host events like

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(Above left) Owner/chef Anass El-Omari of Omari’s Grille fires up his sautée pan to create (below left & above right) delicious Cajun pasta. (Photos by Charmaine George) (Below right) Tasty finger foods beautifully presented will help make your next event at Lexington Oaks Golf Club & Omari’s Grille a success.

weddings, quinceañeras, baby showers, anniversary parties and even memorial gatherings and you can’t go wrong if you host your next event for 20-80 people at Lexington Oaks.

Omari’s offers a complete appetizer catering menu — featuring burger sliders, minicroissants stuffed with chicken and tuna salad and more — as well as a sit-down dinner menu for events, so you can serve London broil with mushroom sauce, orange chicken and a variety of shrimp dishes, plus a dessert bar. Anass and his staff also can custom-design pretty much anything else you’d want to serve.

And, while the indoor space currently is

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limited to 80 people, Anass says he plans to extend the room out to the existing patio area, so that up to 120 people could fit in the air conditioned, indoor space. And, there is an additional covered outdoor space that can fit another 60 or so people.

“I think Wesley Chapel really needs an event space like this,” Anass says, “and the food will always be good. “Plus, we have the area down by the water (photo above) for weddings (as in the photo above) and the people love it.”

Omari’s Grill at Lexington Oaks Golf Club (16333 Lexington Oaks Blvd.) is open Wednesday & Thursday, 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m., 11 a.m.7:30 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m., and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday & Sunday. For additional information, call (813) 929-4217, visit LexingtonOaksGolf.com. or see the ad on pg. 39. Or, call the golf course’s main number — (813) 907-7270 — to talk to a catering specialist about scheduling, and designing a menu for, your event.

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37

Pick Of The Week: Poké Island Plus!

Jeremiah’s To Expand To WC Congrats to partners Pete and Dru Patel, who opened their first Jeremiah’s Italian Ice franchise earlier this month at 7936 Gall Blvd. in Zephyrhills.

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, which was opened at its original location in Winter Park, FL, in 1996 by founder and Philadelphia native Jeremy Litwack, now has 60 locations in Arizona and throughout Florida.

The good news for Wesley Chapel isn’t just because of Jeremiah’s unique gelati (Italian ice layered with soft-serve ice cream), but also because the partners also plan to open two Wesley Chapel locations. Visit JeremiahsIce.com or call (813) 438-5754 for more info.

So, if you thought that the new Poké Island Plus, which opened shortly before we went to press with this issue in the same Village at Hunter’s Lake plaza that also is home to Fresh Kitchen, First Watch, Via Italia and Touch Nail Spa (see page 12), was “just another poké bowl place,” guess again.

Great sushi, Vietnamese food and boba teas are the “Plusses” at Poké Island Plus. So, whether you like California, Mexican or spicy tuna rolls or hand rolls, or Vietnamese bun noodle bowls (like the top left photo, with marinated, grilled pork), pho noodle soup, rice plates or fried rice, Poké Island Plus also has you covered. Oh, and there’s also delicious appetizers, like the pork, cabbage and onion gyoza dumplings shown below, as well as Vietnamese fresh rolls with shrimp, pork, vermicelli rice noodles and lettuce wrapped in rice paper, mini vegetable egg rolls, chicken skewers, edamame, tempura shrimp and steamed bao buns. There’s even fried donuts for dessert.

But, the poké bowls, whether you custom-design your own — with 1-3 scoops of tuna, salmon, spicy tuna or salmon, krab mix, fried chicken, steamed shrimp, fried tofu or tamago as your protein(s) of choice — or choose one of the Signature Poké Bowls or Burritos (from Krispy Krab to Philly to Land Meets Sea to Protein Junkie (with salmon, tuna, spicy salmon and spicy tuna), everything at Poké Island Plus that we’ve sampled in the short time it’s been open has been fresh and delicious.

In fact, managing editor John Cotey, whose wife is Vietnamese, says his entire family loved the pho noddle soup and other Vietnamese specialties, so you know it’s good.

Photographer/videographer Charmaine George also said that her taro boba milk tea with mango popping bobas was delicious, too.

Poké Island Plus (8636 Hunter’s Village Rd.) is open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. every day. To place an order, call (813) 866-POKE (7653) or check them out on Facebook, Doordash or Uber Eats.

If you do stop in, please tell them you read about them in the Neighborhood News! — GN

Buttermilk Provisions Opens At KRATE!

The last thing we were told the day before we went to press with this issue was that the new location of Buttermilk Provisions — the first repurposed shipping container (photo below) to open in the KRATE container park (at 5862 Goldview Pkwy., #s 102 & 104) at The Grove, was awaiting its final health department approval and was expected to be open by a few days before you received this issue in your mailbox.

Owner Dana Morris said that although it has taken about two years since she signed the lease to get open, “We’re confident our customers will believe it’s been worth the wait.”

Morris, who also is getting ready to open another Buttermilk Provisions in the former Seasons Fresh location in the Palms Connection plaza on E. Bearss Ave. (just west of BBD Blvd.), says both new locations will have a slightly larger variety of gluten-free baked goods and non-bakery items than the location which closed on BBD in Wesley Chapel.

Neither Morris nor a spokesperson for developer Mark Gold knew when the other KRATE containers were likely to open. — GN

Falabella’s New 900º New York Pizza Is His 3rd Wesley Chapel Eatery!

To a native New Yawka like me, few things are as perfect as a slice of great NY-style pizza.

Well, my friend Steve Falabella — who also owns 900º Woodfired Pizza at the Shops at Wiregrass and the Falabella Family Bistro in the Village at The Grove plaza — has opened his third Wesley Chapel-based restaurant — 900º New York Pizza, located next to the Falabella Bistro in The Grove, and yes, the pizza (by the slice, or pie) is legit NY-style and delicious.

When you visit the new 900º location, you can expect not only Steve’s delicious NY-style

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pizza, but also great calzones, fresh focaccia bread, keto/low carb and gluten-free pizza, as well as great appetizers like bruschetta, ovenbaked wings, garlic knots and more.

Meanwhile, Steve has made good on his promise to me (and apparently, a few other regulars) to expand the menu at the Falabella Bistro, thanks in no small part to new Executive Chef Chance Drake.

Chance, who started as a dishwasher with Steve’s 900º Woodfired Pizza in the Shops at Wiregrass ten years ago, moved on to hone his

chef skills at Noble Crust, Rocco’s Tacos and Lake Jovita Country Club.

In addition to weekend specials like the amazing pan-seared mahi-mahi (photo) and rich cauliflower ciabatta toast, the Bistro has added gnocchi Genovese, lobster ravioli and sides like a fresh veggie medley and delectable crispy broccoli to the Bistro’s already-delicious menu!

For the addresses and phone numbers for all three of Steve’s Wesley Chapel restaurants, see the ad on pg. 35 of this issue & please tell them I sent you!— GN

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New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News Is Willing To Overpay A Part-Time Office Assistant!

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Repairs for sale/rent. Hang flatscreen TVs. Setup wifi & home theater. Install closet organizers. Cabinets, pullouts, shelving. Gen’l carpentry. Crown molding. Kitchen backsplash. Door install/repair & more! Call 813-751-4998 or email JosephHomesllc@outlook.com AMBLER ENTERPRISES Home Improvement. Call James at 813-385-6402. 30 Years of exp. Specialist in Kitchens & Bathrooms. Referrals upon request. All interior work: Drywall, Texture Paining, Doors, etc. Use us once & you won’t need to look elsewhere. Google us to see pictures: Wesley Chapel Ambler Enterprises. See our display ad at the bottom of this page!

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

WESLEYCHAPELPRESSUREWASHING.COM Soft pressure ext. house cleaning, screen enclosures, pool decks, driveways, sidewalks, fences, roofs, paver sealing & deck staining. We clean everything. No job too big/small.

Exp. the difference when you hire a pressure cleaning pro. Licensed & insured. Owner operated. Call for a free estimate or visit our website. 813-433-6015.

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

CHARLES POPPE ELECTRIC. Electric of all kinds: pools, spas, svc changes, new circuits, low-voltage, repairs, upgrades, changes to existing, troubleshoot’g, GFCI performance testing, generators. We are experts w/40+ years exp. Discount of 50% off labor for senior citizens! Lic’d & Insured Master Electrician (EC 13002399) - free phone estimates. Call 813-477-9068.

MILLENNIUM HOME REP. Prof’ Handyman. Cabinet install, dry wall rep, tile install & rep, some plumbing, laminate flooring, light fixtures, int. painting, appliance install, pressure washing, paneling, window rep, awning install, carpentry, garbage disp, fence rep, crown molding, window blinds, seal baths & showers, TV mount & more.

Call 813-400-1408 or email TycoonUnion@yahoo.com.

DRY WALL SPECIALIST. Not a handyman. Affordable, Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings & walls, re-texturing, popcorn removal, room addt’ns, cracks, holes, plaster & stucco repair. 26 years exp. WC resident. State Certified. Call Ron for a free estimate: 813-784-5999.

TJ’s PRESSURE WASHING LLC. Houses, Fences, Driveways, Lanais & Screened Enclosures. Most resdt’l 2-car driveways & vinyl fences start at $75. House washing starts at $150 /1-story home, $199/2-story home.

Need an instant quote? Text me a picture of the job you need done. Call Tj at 727-808-7775.

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Classifieds HOME HEALTH CARE

HOME DIALYSIS PARTNER: Why travel for dialysis?

Home Hemodialysis Partner LLC ‘s Cert. Home Health Aide & Phlebotomy Tech will come to you! We attend mandatory training at your clinic, assemble your machine at home, check vitals, start & finish treatment w/you, maintain contact w/an on-call nurse & safely remove you from the machine. Accepting new clients June 21! Email YourDialysisPartner@gmail.com or call 813.841.3754.

CAREGIVER/HOUSEKEEPER URGENTLY NEEDED! This is a live-out position. Work Mon-Thurs, $650/wk.

Childcare & light housekeeping. Must be able to interact w/children & speak English. Non-smoker, please! MUST HAVE REFERENCES & BE RESPONSIBLE! If interested, email Linda at flowershop998@gmail.com.

CNA/HHA available to do private duty care in your home. 30 years of exp. Will attend to all of your daily needs. References upon request. Call Rhonda at 850-586-1868.

SENIOR OVERNIGHT COMPANION SITTERS Two kind senior sisters seeking work safeguarding your loved one during the overnight hours. We’ve been working w/the senior population for 10 years & have seen a need for local, English-speaking, backgroundchecked, Covid-tested, dependable companions w/their own transportation. Very reasonable rates. Call Diane or Elisa at 813-938-8614.

COMPUTER & BUSINESS SERVICES

DO YOU HATE YOUR COMPUTER?!? WE CAN HELP YOU! Troubleshooting, Installation, Networking & Virus Removal. WE COME TO YOU! Residences & Businesses, more than 25-Years Experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank at 813-973-4507, visit WSICA.COM or email Wsica@wsica.com.

PROFESSIONAL TECH SUPPORT in your home or small biz. A+, Cert. computer tech w/20 years exp. Maintenance & Repairs, Upgrades & Tutoring. More affordable than large chains! Friendly, personalized svc. Tech jargon explained. Remote assistance & refs. avail. See our ad on pg. 41 or call (813) 957-8342 for a free estimate.

MISCELLANEOUS

ELITE RIDES. Private rides in a sanitized 2020 Tesla, plus concierge services. Airport, schools, medical appointments, shopping, etc. Courteous, reliable professional. New Tampa to Tampa Int’l Airport - $35 (one way, 24/7). Driver vaccinated w/two shots. Cory Lake Isles resident. Call/text 813.765.2037.

GET $500 TOWARDS CLOSING COSTS... when you buy a NEW CONSTRUCTION HOME with Florida Homes with Geri at Epperson OR Mirada. Schedule a PRIVATE TOUR of both Communities by a Resident Realtor. Join @LifeAtTheLagoon with @RealtorGeri Call/Text 813-609-0966. Connect with me on Instagram & Facebook.

CLEANING SERVICES

PATY CLEANING SERVICE. Comm’l or resid’l cleaning service. We have our own supplies & 6 years of exp.

Free estimates. Call 813 943 6054 or email patycleaningservice@hotmail.com.

A-to-Z CLEANING & ORGANIZING. Home & Ofc Cleaning & Organizing Svcs! We use our own supplies. Affordable & Reliable. Family-Owned & Operated. WC resident. Weekly & Bi-Weekly / Deep Cleaning/ Move-In / Move-Out. Serving WC & NT. Call today for a FREE No-Obligation Quote: 813-4621270. Local references supplied upon request.

B CLEANING SERVICES: Over 18 years exp.! Comm’l & Resid’l; Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly; New house & postconstruction clean-up; Window cleaning; Move-in & move-out cleanings; Pressure washing; FREE estimates.; Refs. avail.

Call 813-531-0154 or e-mail: bcleanings@hotmail.com

LAWN & LANDSCAPING _

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

NTLC Property Maintenance. Residential & Commercial lawn maintenance for New Tampa & Wesley Chapel.

Sprinkler repairs, tree trimming, mulching, landscaping & clean-ups also available. Licensed & Insured. CALL BILL @ (813) 973-3825.

A.T.B. Landscaping & Lawn Service. Lic’d & insured, serving the Tampa Bay area 20+ years. Family owned & operated. Quality work, affordable rates. Gutter clean-outs, screen repairs, pressure washing & sprinkler repairs. Landscaping & property maint., including sod, tree & hedge trimming & clean ups. Other services avail.

CALL 813-907-LAWN (5296).

Jasmine Landscaping, Inc. Complete lawn maint.: Tree, palm & hedge trimming, planting, mulching, stones, sod replacement. Gutter cleaning, leaf removal & more. Cited by your HOA? Ask about our HOA Compliance Special, our Fall/Spring Special & FREE estimate! Lic’d & insured. Accepting new resid’l & comm’l accounts. Visa, MC, PayPal, Zelle, AmEx. Call or text 813-420-4465. Now hiring FT workers.

HEAVY HITTER LAWN CARE: Veteran owned & operated lawn care maint. service, focused on lawn mowing, trimming, edging & blowing (flexible w/extra svcs.). Well maintained & professional laborer ensuring cust. satisfaction & on-time cuts. Rain or shine, quality & schedule will be kept. Lic’d & Insured. Call or text 678-673-7856 for your FREE Estimate.

Neighborhood News Classified Ads Are the Ones Your Neighbors READ! To order yours, visit neighborhoodnewsonline. net/Classified Listings

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News • Volume 29, Issue 18 • August 31, 2021 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

POOL SERVICES

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ALLSTARPOOLSOFTAMPABAY.COM. Pool cleanups, & acid washing of old pool finishes. Marcite, quartz & pebble finishes from $3K. We offer cool decking, Eurocrete & paver decking options. Paver, river rock sealing, leak detection & inground vinyl liner replacements avail. Quality salt & ozone generators, pumps, motors & filters. Mention this ad for a $79 pool svc. (restrictions apply). Serving NT & WC since 1990. Call/text 813-244-7077 or visit AllStarPoolsofTampaBay.com.

TRANQUILITY POOL SERVICE. New Tampa owned & operated. Great Pricing w/outstanding customer service!

LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED. See why we are New Tampa and Wesley Chapel’s #1 Choice!! Call or Text Chris today @ 813-857-5400 or visit TranquilityPoolService.com. New customers get ONE MONTH FREE! AQUATEC POOL SERVICE has been keeping pools clear & swim-safe since 1994. WE DO POOLS RIGHT! Commercial & Residential. CPO #33-303052 Licensed & Insured. Service guarantee. Call 813-312-5694 TODAY and get ONE MONTH OF QUALITY SERVICE FREE. www.aquatecpool.com.

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

PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHER AVAILABLE! Retired Professional Photographer (45+ years experience) in the Tampa Bay area. Corporate Events, Personal Occasions, Portraiture, Pets, Commercial Photography & Real Estate. Reasonable rates. Ask me about “Front Porch Portraits,” taken from the safety of your front porch, FREE OF CHARGE! Great for Families, Children, Pets & more! Call or Text (813) 748-3901 or Visit: russellleprephotography.com.

FITNESS & WELL BEING

YOGA, PERSONAL TRAINING, NUTRITION & PHYSICAL THERAPY w/DR. LAUREN LEIVA, DPT! Phys Ed for everyone, including all children, w/a certified personal trainer who also is a degreed Dr. of Physical Therapy. Ask Dr. Leiva about her PE4ME sliding scale pay program! For more info, visit TheExerscienceCenter.com, call 813.464.0313 or see the ad on pg. 31 of this issue.

Break It Down Productions. Customized Private Yoga Sessions w/Susanna Jones. Develop strength & flexibility, while learning how to breathe & relax. I specialize in working w/beginners and those requiring a more gentle approach than most group Yoga classes. I explain everything, and provide variations so that you actually feel good in the stretch instead of strained.

Gift certificates available. www.breakitdownproductions.com or Call (813) 802-8393.

TREE SERVICE

FITZPATRICK’s TREE SERVICE. 25-yrs of Prof. Service. Licensed & Insured. Free Estimates. Tree Trimming & Tree Removal. Stump Grinding. Dead-Wood Removal.

Affordable Rates. 24-Hour Emergency Storm Service.

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

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News • Volume 29, Issue 18 • August 31, 2021 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News • Volume 29, Issue 18 • August 31, 2021 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News • Volume 29, Issue 18 • August 31, 2021 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News • Volume 29, Issue 18 • August 31, 2021 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews