New Tampa Neighborhood News, Volume 27. Issue 19, September 6, 2019

Volume 27 Issue 19

Inside:

Your 2nd Chance To Win In Our Annual Dining Survey!

September 6, 2019

See Page 39!

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

For the complete list of the neighborhoods that receive this publication by direct mail in New Tampa (zip code 33647), see page 46!

THE BEST

First Look Inside:

STORY & PHOTOS BY JOHN C. COTEY

Never Forget

The first truck pulled up to Wharton High in 1997, and head custodian Tirso “Junior” Cintron was waiting.

He pulled the first chair off the truck. The first desk.

“The first everything,” says Carmen Aguero, one of the first teachers at the school.

Junior set the desks and chairs up in the classrooms and offices. He made sure the bathrooms had toilet paper and soap. The lawn was mowed. The floors were shined.

Wharton was ready.

And every day, for the next 22 years, before any teachers and students arrived for the day, thanks to the diligence, determination and dedication of Junior, you could count on one thing.

Wharton High was ready. *** Junior’s last day at Wharton was August 26. To say he will be missed hardly does his legacy justice.

“I’m telling you, and this is no exaggeration, he is the most beloved person ever to walk the halls of Wharton High,” says Tommy Tonelli, a guidance counselor and the school’s long-time, beloved boys basketball coach. “He has done more for Wharton in the history of our school than any other person that has ever worked here.”

That’s high praise from Tonelli, who isn’t prone to hyperbole. He was one of hundreds of friends that Junior made at Wharton over the years. Junior’s retirement party on Sept. 12, Tonelli says, will be the most attended retirement party ever at New Tampa’s oldest high school.

A school custodian can be a thankless job, and rarely does one rise to the level of hallway celebrity, but Junior somehow did just that.

He was always affable, earnest, positive, productive and those who knew him say he never had a bad day.

He arrived every morning at 5 a.m., checked the air conditioning, swung by the kitchen to make sure the cooks had gas, went building to building turning off all 16 alarms, and made a sweep of the school to make sure everything was safe and ready for another day.

During the day, he answered calls on his radio for See “Junior” on page 4.

A 9/11 Run/Walk & dedication of Pasco County’s first 9/11 Memorial will be held tomorrow at Tampa Premium Outlets.

Page 11

Prime Rx Pharmacy

Vikas Ghiya says his personal touch — he’ll deliver! — separates his Prime Rx Pharmacy on Cross Creek Blvd. from the big chains.

Pages 24-25

Take That!

The Wharton volleyball team’s 10-game losing streak against Plant High comes to an end, in thrilling fashion.

Page 34

A Restaurant Survey & Contest Update & My Wife’s Exciting New Job!

An editorial by Gary Nager Pretty much every year since I took over the Neighborhood News in 1994, we have held our annual Reader Dining Survey & Contest. At one time, it was just our most popular contest for our readers but today, it is the only one we still run year after year.

And honestly, it’s also a tremendous amount of work to put together (and tabulate the results of) the contest each year, as so many restaurants continue to come and go in our distribution areas, especially recently in New Tampa, where fewer newcomers have been replacing those that exit than in Wesley Chapel, where there are so many newbies, even though most of them are regional or national chains.

This year, after participation in this annual contest dwindled somewhat the past two years, I tried to find a way to ask you to name fewer favorites yourselves but hopefully, still find a way to give every restaurant currently operating in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel and those located directly adjacent to both markets a better chance to be among our readers’ favorites.

I also was trying to find a way to prevent “ballot stuffing” by local residents who only entered the contest to vote for one place. As always, entries that are not completely and/or incorrectly filled out will not have their votes included, but it seems that the format this year is already reducing disqualifications.

Also new this year is the fact that if you live in New Tampa, you only got to vote last issue (and this issue) for restaurants located in New Tampa (or on Bearss Ave. near BBD in Lutz). Likewise, those living in Wesley Chapel were only asked to vote for restaurants in Wesley Chapel (and on S.R. 56 and S.R. 54 in Lutz). In our October issues, New Tampa residents will get to vote for their favorites in Wesley Chapel and Wesley Chapel residents for their favorites in

New Tampa Neighborhood News Address: 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B 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 • Andy Warrener Lead Video Producer Charmaine George Photography, Videography & Video Editing Eric Cupps • Richard Nasrallah • Matt Tsvetkov Graphic Designer Georgia Carmichael Advertising Sales & Billing Assistants Janet Levins • Jannah Nager

Nothing that appears in New Tampa Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by New Tampa Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion.

The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertising space reservations for Volume 27, Issue 21, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, September 23, 2019.

New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously nonpublished outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. New Tampa Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials.

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New Tampa, although both surveys are available online now, and you can submit one entry in each market at NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net or by U.S. Mail.

And, based on the fact that we already have more than doubled last year’s total number of entries in just the first two (of six total) issues the contest has run so far is an indication that I may be onto something, even though the task to include every restaurant, fast food place, café and cafeteria in both of our markets has proven even more daunting than I had anticipated.

In our last New Tampa issue, for example, I correctly listed all of the candidates for “Favorite Restaurant in New Tampa” by where they were located, rather than in alphabetical order, but I ended up excluding two of my favorite pizza places in New Tampa — Taste of New York in Highwoods Preserve and Woodfired Pizza on Bearss Ave. — from the “Favorite Pizza in New Tampa” list, completely by accident. You’ll note that both of them have been added to the second run of the New Tampa survey on pg. 39 of this issue. You’ll also find that I have reorganized the full list of New Tampa favorites alphabetically this time around.

I did even worse in Wesley Chapel, where, among a couple of others, The Brass Tap was inadvertently left off the “Favorite Bar or Tavern in Wesley Chapel” list, and my 2018 favorite restaurant in Wesley Chapel — Dempsey’s Steakhouse in Saddlebrook Resort — was left off the “Favorite Restaurant in Wesley Chapel” list, as was TD’s Sports Bar at Saddlebrook. Yeesh.

But, that’s one reason why we run the contest multiple times, so we can get the listings right. The other is that we want as many local residents in both of our markets as possible to participate because, quite honestly, it helps both us and the restaurants themselves get a better handle on which places our readers truly like best in and near their neighborhoods. And, despite the amount of work that it takes to create and score the contests, it also is a lot of fun for me, as one of our area’s better-known “foodies,” to oversee.

make her even more well-known and popular right here in Wesley Chapel than she has become from all of the publicity she’s had in these pages.

As of Sept. 1, Jannah is now the director of marketing for the (mainly) indoor Wesley Chapel Sports Complex at Wiregrass Ranch (that is the working title) being developed by RADD Sports just off S.R. 56! It truly is a huge, exciting opportunity for her and Jannah already is looking to establish partnerships for the complex with local companies and sports organizations.

Stay tuned for more announcements and congrats, babe!

Correction From Last Issue

In our last issue’s Nibbles & Bytes column, I called Cindy Cruz the “proprietor” of the new Rice n’ Beans in Wesley Chapel. Cindy and her husband David actually own the delicious new restaurant together and Cindy is the executive chef. I apologize for any inconvenience and hope you’ll tell Cindy, David & their staff I was the Jannah & Gary Nager at a wedding on Cape Cod Aug. 17. one who sent you! —GN

The procedure is performed by our licensed practitioner.

Book your free consultation at our website.

New clients only. Expires 9/30/2019.

Financing is available

Don’t Let Arthritis Pain Hold You Back

Congratulations, Mrs. Nager!

Loyal Neighborhood News readers know that Jannah has been working for the Pasco Education Foundation (the nonprofit organization that raises money to support the Pasco School District) for the past four+ years, but she has an exciting new job that definitely will

Table of Contents

Local News Updates.....................3-18 New Tampa Performing Arts Center Has A Designer.....6 Bumpy Brookron Gets A Makeover In Cross Creek.....8 Pebble Creek Vet Works To Build A Monument.......10 9/11 Display Headed To Tampa Premium Outlets..11 Austism Park Proponents Regrouping....................12 North Tampa Bay Chamber Celebrates 25 Years....16 New Tampa Community Calendar...........................18

Local Business Updates..............22-33

New Tampa Plastic Surgery Can Improve Your Look....22 Personal Touch Makes Prime Rx Pharmacy Special.....24 Devolder Law A Neighborhood Resource & Friend...26 Decorating Den Offers Decades Of Experience..........30 American Wood Flooring Has The Floors You Need!...32

Sports News....................................34

Wharton Athletes Turning Up Big In Early Season.......34

Neighborhood Magazine It’s Time For Our Dining Survey & Contest!.... ..39 Neighborhood Nibbles & Business Bytes...........42 New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Classifieds...........44 @NTWCNews

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‘Junior’

Continued from Page 1 assistance, never saying no, never sighing, never hanging his head. When the school served as a hurricane shelter, it was Junior who made sure everyone was as comfortable as possible.

Even the dreaded call to clean up after a sick student — the one task he liked least — was hastily handled.

“I am an easy person,” Junior says.

“I always had a good attitude, that’s why I win so many people. If a teacher saw me in the hall and said she needed a new board in her room, when she showed up the next morning, the board was there.”

Junior, 67, was born in Puerto Rico and moved to The Bronx, NY, when he was 18. He worked as a waiter in a hotel for 17 years, met and married Rosa, his wife of 42 years, and started a family — daughters Elaine and Jennifer, who are now teachers in Hillsborough County, and son David, who is a U.S. Marine.

In 1989, the Cintrons moved to Tampa, where Junior started work at Hillsborough High from 2:30 p.m.-11 p.m., while holding a second full-time time cleaning floors at Tampa General from 11:30 p.m.-8 a.m.

Those at Wharton can thank Aguero for Junior. The two met when Junior was the head custodian at Hillsborough.

When she was promoted to the athletic director at Wharton, and the new school was looking for a custodian, she had one word for principal Mitch Muley: Junior.

Aguero lured him to Wharton, where Junior soon became indispensable.

“He was the heart and soul of Wharton,” she says.

Aguero chuckles recalling the time Junior Wharton career counselor Magda Rodriguez has a student take a picture of her and Junior, one of her best friends at Wharton. helped chase away the biggest squirrel either soap dispenser. “After that, they never of them had ever seen, and the time he call me again,” Junior says. had to remove a dead alligator from the When some kids made fun of him tennis courts. for being a custodian, he pretended When Aguero left Wharton to benot to understand or would just ignore come principal at Webb Middle School, them. Those that didn’t, he would fist she had her head custodian sit down bump or salute. with Junior, “to teach him how to do “I was like that with them all time; the job right.” they would say 'he’s cool,” Junior says, Junior had his own way of dealing smiling proudly. “They like me because with problems. When parents comI’m cool.” plained that their kids said there were Junior loved joking with students no soap dispensers in some of the bath- and teachers, and wasn’t above the occarooms, Junior explained that the school sional prank. One of his favorite victims couldn’t replace the ones student were was Tonelli. destroying fast enough.

Despite the basketball coach’s fear When the parents showed up to of frogs and snakes, that didn’t stop discuss the issue a second time, he was Junior one time from putting a frog in a ready with a pile of smashed and broken bag of donuts he left for Tonelli. Junior

waited in an adjoining room with some other teachers, all eagerly waiting to hear the reaction. Junior leans forward as he tells the story, slapping his knee.

And yes, Tonelli was still Junior’s biggest fan.

“They should rename the school after him,” Tonelli says. “That’s how much he has meant to Wharton High School.”

On Junior’s last day at Wharton, he was summoned to the auditorium where the school’s teachers were waiting for him. He received a standing ovation, two sweaters for the winter — he hates the cold — and lunch.

He got a second lunch later when the ladies who work in the cafeteria made him his favorite — pork, rice and black beans.

“Two big lunches,” Junior says, grinning ear to ear.

However, even the happiest guy in world couldn’t escape the sadness on that last day. At 2:30 p.m., he took his radio and told everyone it was time for his final call. He thanked current principal Mike Rowan and all the teachers, and it was as if the entire school wept along with Junior.

Then, he walked out the front door, turned around, and gave the school he had served for 22 years one last glance.

“I looked at everything, and I say, 'Okay. That’s it.’”

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(ACROSS THE STREET FROM WHARTON H.S. IN FRONT OF LIVE OAK)

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Firm Picked To Design New Tampa Performing Arts Center!

By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com

In one of the more significant steps in the long, sometimes-tortured history of a proposed cultural arts center in New Tampa, the Hillsborough Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has approved the hiring of a firm to design the facility.

Last month, the BOCC awarded a $598,413 contract to Fleischman Garcia Architects to draw a plan for the longawaited facility, which is now officially being called the New Tampa Performing Arts Center (NTPAC), after years of being referred to as a “cultural center.”

“It’s an extremely significant and critical step in the process,’’ said District 2 county commissioner Ken Hagan, who represents New Tampa and has been involved in the project in various forms since it first sprouted in 2001. “It’s an important move.”

The design of the center — which will be located directly across Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. from the main entrance to Hunter’s Green, in the new Village at Hunter’s Lake development — is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with bidding for the construction services tentatively scheduled for May of 2020.

It is hoped that the $6-million construction of the NTPAC will begin

6

The New Tampa Performing Arts Center (in red) off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. will be part of the Village at Hunter’s Lake mixed-use development. (Photo: Charmaine George) The stage area at the NTPAC will be sometime by November 1, 2020, and is more than 2,000 square feet, and Hagan expected to open by Jan. 1, 2022. said it will include an orchestra pit that he The facility — long-heralded to be helped add after meeting with the NTP the centerpiece of the New Tampa comand addressing some of their requests. munity — will be 20,000 square feet on The center also will host cultural/ its first floor, with the capability to have a arts education classes, as well as meetings, 10,000-sq.-ft. second floor added later.

The building will include a 350-400- banquets and other events.

There will be 1,040 square feet dediseat theater/multi-purpose room and cated to NTPAC operations and education stage to be used for community theater programs employees, including an office performances. It will be the home of the New Tampa Players (NTP) acting troupe, for the NTP. The education wing will feature two which currently stages its performances at the University Area Cultural Development studios with ballet and dance floors, mirrors and movable walls.

Center (UACDC) on N. 22nd St., just Hagan made note that the NTPAC south of Bearss Ave.

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also will be sustainable, incorporating solar power and electric vehicle stations.

Plans for the NTPAC date back to 2001, when a Connecticut firm was paid $27,000 by the City of Tampa for a study that determined New Tampa could support a small cultural center of its own.

A nonprofit group, called the New Tampa Cultural Arts Center, was offered the six acres of land it requested for the project, but the city requested the group come up with a $10-million endowment to pay for it, which killed the effort back in 2005.

Doug Wall, who was involved with those initial efforts, revived it again in 2007. But Wall, the New Tampa Players president and founding artistic director, could not secure the funding and he passed away in 2017.

Former county commissioner and Tampa Palms resident Victor Crist helped keep the project alive as he worked on finding funding. In 2014, the larger Village at Hunter’s Lake project, of which the NTPAC is a central part, was approved.

In a 2016 meeting at Hunter’s Green, Crist told the NTP he had secured partnerships with the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts, the Patel Conservatory and the Prodigy Cultural Arts Program to bring gravitas to the project and elevate it to a high-level arts center.

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Brookron Dr. Gets Resurfaced

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Brookron Dr. was a hodgepodge of more than 50 pothole repairs (left) until recent repairs helped smooth out the ride for area drivers and bicyclists. (Photos: John C. Cotey) wise seat but now represents New Tampa

By JOHN C. COTEY in District 2, was aware of the problem, as john@ntneighborhoodnews.com a former resident of Creekwood who had driven the road many times.

Brookron Dr. in New Tampa, once Although Brookron Dr. had been on seemingly held together by a never-endthe unfunded project list — meaning the ing series of potholes patches, has a new 50 or so potholes repairs applied over the surface. years would have to hold it together until Hillsborough County had all but at least 2021 or ‘22 — Hagan worked to completed the $686,841 project at our get the road reclassified from a local to press time. The one-mile circular loa connector road, and got it funded for cal road, located off Cross Creek Blvd. fiscal year 2019. (across from the entrance to Cory Lake Workers spent the month of August Isles) and winding past the communities repaving the road. Also included in the of Pinehurst, Magnolia Trace, Meadow work were ramp improvements for those Creek and Creekwood to Kinnan St. in with disabilities, and pedestrian improvethe Cross Creek development, had fallen ments at the light at the intersection of into disrepair in recent years.

Brookron Rd. and Cross Creek Blvd.

The project was originally expected Pilawski, who says the county always to start later this year and finish in 2020. promptly repaired any potholes she reThe 18-year-old road is used by most ported, praised Hillsborough’s efforts. of the Cross Creek II community’s 1,236 “I am really impressed with the households, as well as by residents of the response you get from the county,” she adjacent Addison Park and Andover Place says.

“I think they really do a good job. apartment communities.

I’ve always found that to be the case. I “They just showed up to fix it; it was very nice,” says Jo-Ann Pilawski, the head don’t know if it’s because I complain so much, but they always respond.” of property management for the Cross Creek II community.

In 2017, Pinehurst resident Sasenarine Persaud emailed county commissioners and the Neighborhood News to express disappointment that the county had approved $250,000 towards building an unplanned Kinnan St.-Mansfield Blvd. connector, while just a mile south was a busy road Persaud said was in “thirdworld condition” and “a motley (collection) of patches, ridges and depressions, with a new pothole opening every week.”

Due in part to the complaints of Persaud and Pilawski, as well as a handful of others, the county sent an engineer to do a full inspection of the road.

County commissioner Ken Hagan, who at the time held a District 5 county8

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Pebble Creek Vet Helps Build Monuments At Bushnell National Cemetery

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN

A short drive north of Pebble Creek in New Tampa, where retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Wayne Rich lives, his father, mother and wife are all buried at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.

Averaging 7,000 burials a year — about 30 each day — Florida National Cemetery is the second most active cemetery in the U.S. When Wayne arrives after the 45-minute drive up I-75, he takes in the rows upon rows of gravestones, sprawling across 600 acres.

It’s hardly possible to view the markers for all 130,000 people who are laid to rest there.

At certain times of the year, volunteers come out and mark the graves with flags. Last Memorial Day, they placed 105,000 flags.

Near Christmas, they laid 30,000 wreaths.

Bushnell National Cemetery, however, is lacking something you might expect to see — a monument to the veterans and their spouses who have died and are buried there.

In 2018, Wayne became part of the committee that is working to design monuments for the cemetery, raise the money to fund them, and eventually carry out their installation, as well.

Called the Florida National Cemetery Joint Veterans Support Committee, it is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Wayne also serves on a separate subcommittee, called the monuments committee, that is working to determine the plans and the rollout of the monuments.

After 21 years on active duty, and as a

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combat veteran from Vietnam, Granada, and Panama, Wayne is spending his retirement in a different kind of service. He was asked to join the Joint Veterans Support Committee as a representative of the Special Forces Association, of which he is a member. That group focuses on community service, as well.

“How could I not volunteer to help in the effort?,” Wayne asks.

Wayne works with committee chair Doug Gardner, also a Vietnam vet, who was inspired to join the effort when the cemetery’s executive director, Tony Thomas, shared his vision for a memorial that would welcome Vietnam veterans home.

“That caught me in one sentence,” says Doug, who understands that the memorial is not just about veterans from one conflict, so the committee came up with a design that would honor everyone buried at the cemetery.

The centerpiece of Freedom Memorial Plaza, which will be located at the main entrance to the cemetery, will be a tribute to a military honors funeral, with two bronze military figures folding a flag which will be powder-coated red, white and blue, over a bronze casket.

It will be surrounded by 14 additional monuments, with etchings displaying memorials for specific groups, such as Vietnam and World War II veterans, special forces, and more. It also will feature the Defenders of Freedom Wall, which will be 470 feet long, using the back of a columbarium (a public storage of cremated remains) that will delineate the border of the Memorial Plaza.

Pebble Creek resident Wayne Rich and his daughter at the 2019 Gasparilla parade as part of Ye Special Forces Krewe on Tampa Bay, representing the Special Forces Association.

The wall will have granite panels that depict scenes from every U.S. conflict since the Revolutionary War. Doug is not only a veteran, he’s also a volunteer who helps visitors to the cemetery by answering questions, locating graves and even taking those who can’t walk out to the gravesites they want to visit on a golf cart.

He recently drove a World War II veteran who used a walker out to his wife’s grave. It had been a few months since she passed away, and there were lots of tears.

It was emotional, but Doug says he felt something was missing. He looks forward to

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the time when he can take those veterans to a monument that will show them how much their service to their country is appreciated.

“We’ll get in that same golf cart, but on the way, we’ll go to the Defenders of Freedom Wall,” Doug says. “We’ll stop by the World War II section and it will bring back memories for him.”

He hopes it will be meaningful for those it is intended to tribute, and educational for everyone who sees it. “We have a half million visitors a year at the cemetery,” Doug says.

“With the monuments, now it can become an educational experience for all.”

He emphasizes that all of the monuments will focus on sacrifice, not victory, and will give those who view it an understanding of the sacrifice that has happened throughout our nation’s history.

Wayne says it will honor not only his parents, but the values that they passed on to him.

“My parents instilled into me the principals of duty and honor and serving one’s country,” he says.

Those values will one day be on display at the cemetery where they’re buried, thanks to the efforts of the entire committee and all those who support it, making Freedom Memorial Plaza a reality to both remember and honor all of the veterans buried at the Florida National Cemetery.

To find out how you can support the effort to bring the Freedom Memorial Plaza to life, go to the Joint Veterans Support Committee website at JVSC.us or search “jvscfl” on Facebook.

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Run/Walk To Kick Off 9/11 Memorial At TPO Tomorrow!

By JOHN C. COTEY

john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Every year when the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel is handing out miniature American Flags on the anniversary of Sept.

11, 2001, current club president Chris Casella is moved to tears.

People who lost a brother, sister, loved one or a friend thank Casella and his fellow Rotarians, and share their heartbreaking stories.

“It never fails,” says Casella, who, due to an injury, was on limited duty as a sworn officer with the New York Police Department (NYPD) when the World Trade Center towers crumbled to the ground.

The latest project hatched by Casella and his fellow Board member Troy Stevenson and the Rotary Club (with help, see below) is Pasco County’s first permanent 9/11 Memorial, which will be dedicated at the Tampa Premium Outlets on Saturday, September 7, at 8:46 a.m., the time the north tower was struck in 2001.

Stevenson is a 13-year first responder with the National Disaster Medical System and U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services. Casella and Stevenson have received a lot of help from not only their fellow Board members, but especially from Wesley Chapel resident Stephen Spelman, a retired Fire Department of New York (FDNY) emergency medical technician who was at the foot of the north tower when it collapsed.

The dedication of the new memorial will follow a one-mile Memorial Run/Walk at TPO — which will begin at 7:30 a.m.. The run/walk is open to all ages and costs just $10 per person to participate. All net proceeds will go to fund local scholarships for graduating high school students in Pasco County A piece of the ladder from FDNY Ladder Truck 18, pictured above being pulled who intend to from the rubble of the north tower of the World Trade Center, will be the centerpursue careers as first piece of a 9/11 Memorial being developed by the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel. responders.

Motts Military Museum in Ohio, which he The centerpiece of the 9/11 Memorial will be a two-foot piece was unable to attend, due to Hurricane Irma.

For the past two years, Spelman and of the ladder from FDNY Ladder Truck 18 Casella have discussed what to do with the (photo), which will be framed and hung on a piece of ladder. Ideas ranged from donating 25-foot stretch of wall at TPO’s food court. it to a library or local firehouse to building a The wall will have a vinyl wrap depicting memorial, which wasn’t financially feasible. images from that day, as well as the names of While organizing the Memorial Run/ everyone who perished.

Walk with TPO, one of the mall’s executives According to Casella, FDNY Ladder Truck 18 was destroyed by falling debris, but mentioned that he had been approached by a guy looking for help with a possible the firefighters on the truck were all spared. memorial. Casella asked if the guy’s name “Everybody on that truck survived by happened to be Steve...and it was. jumping under the ladder,” Casella says.

Once TPO agreed to host the 9/11 The ladder segment belongs to Spelman, Memorial by donating the space, plans took who received it for being a scheduled guest off and eventually came to fruition. speaker at a ceremony on 9/11/17 at the

Casella also has been active in organizing events to benefit first responders, such as having Rotary Club members serve breakfast at all of the Fire Rescue Stations in Wesley Chapel and the Pasco Sheriff’s District 2 office in Dade City each year on 9/11.

The 9/11 Memorial and Run/Walk, however, may be his proudest achievement.

“It’s emotional for me, and I know it is for Steve as well,” Casella says, his voice cracking.

“Memorializing it is a big deal for, I think, everybody. It’s something we’ll never forget.”

Casella says the response to the Memorial Run/Walk and 9/11 Memorial has already been “incredible.”

Spelman has been in contact with two women who lost their husbands on that terrible day who also will share their stories at the dedication. Surviving first responder John Berrang also recently emailed Casella to applaud the Rotary Club’s efforts and said he’d like to participate in the one-mile run, despite currently undergoing treatment for stage 3 cancer contracted at the World Trade Center site. It was an email that Casella says was both inspiring and difficult to read, but a reminder that Sept. 11 remains a terrible day with a lot of meaning to many people.

“Thanks again,” Berrang wrote to Casella, “for remembering the heroes we lost on 9/11.” For more information or to sponsor the Run/Walk, visit WCRotary. com/911-Memorial-Mile, or email Casella at Cdcasella@me.com or Stevenson at Troynyc65@aol.com.

Pasco County's first permanent 9/11 Memorial to be dedicated in the Tampa Premium Outlets Food Court at 8:46 a.m., following the Walk/Run.

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11

Inclusive Playground Coming To Wesley Chapel While New Tampa Waits

By JOHN C. COTEY john@ntneighborhoodnews.com Luis Viera says he was disappointed to see the proposed Fiscal Year 2020 budget (look for an update next issue) by newly elected Tampa Mayor Jane Castor had virtually nothing in it for New Tampa, and in particular, no money to begin work on a planned “sensory-friendly” park in Tampa Palms.

Now, that sensory park may need to be moved to another location, too.

According to Viera, the Tampa City Council member for New Tampa’s District 7, the park’s current proposed site behind the B.J.’s Wholesale Club on Commerce Palms Dr. in Tampa Palms may be too close for the liking of some Stafford Place residents.

Nearly a dozen residents whose homes are adjacent to the site of the proposed park have contacted Viera about concerns over possible noise. That has Viera looking into a new site, possibly in the K-Bar Ranch area.

“We’re investigating,” says Viera.

“There’s a lot of different possibilities.

We’re meeting with city staff on that.”

The city already has paid $90,000 to David Conner & Assoc. to begin designing the park. Viera wasn’t sure if that design would be transferable to another site.

12

While plans for a sensory-friendly park in New Tampa have hit a snag, there may be an option in Wesley Chapel when it comes to finding a playground for their children with physical or mental challenges

Viera is continuing to push for those with disabilities, however, while the sensory park in New Tampa gets sorted out.

He has directed city staff to look into the possibility of having handicap-accessible playground equipment added to every one of the 78 parks in the city.

The staff was expected to brief City Council at its meeting on Sept. 5 (after we went to press with this issue).

Viera thinks it could involve a 5-7year plan, costing a “couple of million dollars,” he says he was told.

At the park at the New Tampa Recreation Center in Tampa Palms last year, Viera pushed to have some swings added

to accommodate children in wheelchairs.

New Park Coming To The WC

For New Tampa residents eagerly awaiting the construction of park for those with special needs, there could be another option in early 2020 a few miles north of the Pasco County line in Wesley Chapel.

Red tape and money issues did not slow down plans to build an “inclusive playground” at the Wesley Chapel District Park (WCDP) on Boyette Rd. that will be welcoming and useful to those with physical challenges.

On Aug. 6, the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners enthusiasti-

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cally endorsed the concept and accepted a total of $120,000 in contributions from community leaders towards building the new playground — with $5,000 more in contributions expected — and agreed to kick in $215,000 of public money as well.

The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon agreed to donate $40,000 in all, and Rotary District 6950 (which includes about 40 Rotary Clubs, including two Wesley Chapel clubs) is giving a $10,000 grant to match the Wesley Chapel Noon Rotary’s donation.

The club will maintain a butterfly garden adjacent to the playground.

The Lennar Foundation also donated $50,000, while AdventHealth contributed $25,000 to the inclusive park project.

“Our brand promise is to feel whole,” says AdventHealth chief financial officer Tyson Davis. “I can’t think of a better way to apply that brand promise in our community than being a part of this project.”

Perhaps no one, however, was more pleased than Pasco County District 2 commissioner Mike Moore, who says the inclusive playground will go down as one of the highlights of his career.

“It’s not always the government doing things, it’s the community coming together for the betterment of all of our kids,” he said. “After this project is

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done and complete…this will rank as one of the top things we’ve ever done.”

The goal is to build a playground that is available to everyone, and isolates no one. It will be the first of its kind in Pasco County, but not the last, Moore hopes.

“We want a place where kids have the opportunity to participate and AdventHealth CFO Tyson Davis presents a $25,000 check not just sit on the sidelines, towards the construction of a new, all-inclusive park for those no matter what their abiliwith physical and mental challenges in Wesley Chapel to Pasco ties are,” Moore said. commissioner Mike Moore. (Photo provided by AdventHealth) While many area parks “We want a place that takes away the somay be compliant with Americans with cial barriers and gives parents an opportunity Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, few to participate as well,” Moore says. “Parents truly meet the standards of what propodon’t always feel they are part of something, nents consider to be inclusivity. because their kids can’t take part.”

To meet those inclusive standards, Viera said the New Tampa business many of these playgrounds incorporate community could have the same impact wider pathways and easier-to-navigate on the sensory-friendly park, which he says surfaces, activity panels that are at ground will cost more because it will be a more height, larger swings with more back sup“robust” park than what’s planned for port and sensory elements that include Wesley Chapel. touch and music.

He mentioned the Rotary Club of While the Wesley Chapel playground New Tampa as an eager sponsor. may focus on physical activities, Moore “We first need the city’s commitsays promoting socialization is a significant ment,” Viera says. “I have no doubt that benefit of inclusive playgrounds, which brings kids who might otherwise shy away when the city commits to Step 2, the prifrom others (due to their challenges) vate and charitable sectors will get behind together by promoting active play. it 100 percent.”

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15

The North Tampa Bay Chamber’s 20 Years Celebrated At Breakfast!

By GARY NAGER I have known North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC) president & CEO Hope Allen since the day she took over the leadership of the former Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce in 2013.

I and the Neighborhood News also have been strong supporters of the Chamber since it first formed back in 1998, so I have seen all of the changes the Chamber has gone through during its 20-year history.

Therefore, the North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC)’s monthly Business Breakfast at Pasco Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch in Wesley Chapel on Aug. 6 was a great trip down memory lane for me, as Hope was the featured speaker and she definitely hit the highlights of the still-growing Chamber’s incredible 20-year journey.

Fresh off her first major vacation away from the Chamber she leads and loves, Hope’s Power Point presentation at the breakfast told the tale of a fledgling Chamber that first met in one of its then-65 members’ garages in July 1998.

The old Wesley Chapel Chamber unveiled its first logo in January 1999, and held its first awards banquet and hired its first part-time employee later that year. In January of 2000, the Chamber unveiled its first website and held its first Community Festival in March 2001.

And, even though there was a 12-year gap in her presentation between 2001 and

16

the best, the go-to organization, for local businesses.”

In February of 2014, the Chamber unveiled its official Facebook page and in 2015, it acquired the faltering New Tampa Chamber and its primary asset — the Taste of New Tampa, which wasn’t held for several years because of that defunct Chamber’s issues.

North Tampa Bay Chamber president & CEO Hope Allen regales Chamber “That’s when members and guests with stories of the Chamber’s 20-year history on Aug. 6. we really started to grow,” Hope 2013 (when Hope took over as executive director), as someone who attended most of said of the merger with New Tampa. “More businesses started to reach out to us on both the Chamber’s ribbon cuttings and events sides of the county line.” prior to 2013, I can assure you that things Hope also told those in attendance that didn’t really start to take off for the old Wesley Chapel Chamber until Hope arrived she was particularly proud of the fact that the Wesley Chapel Chamber earned the Florida on the scene.

Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP) “The Chamber evolved over time, as Certified-Plus designation and that she has it has to, in order to serve the needs of the businesses in the community where it is situ- earned her Florida Chamber Certified Professional (FCCP) certification. ated, and we certainly have,” Hope said at “Of more than 300 Chambers of the breakfast. “In 2013 (when the ChamCommerce throughout Florida, only 18 ber had about 300 members), the Board have earned certification and only seven are decided that we were going to switch our Certified-Plus Chambers with a CEO who focus from being into parties, pageants and also is certified,” she says, adding that it takes parades, to being the connector, convener and catalyst for businesses. We wanted to be five years of consecutive senior leadership to

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become FCCP-certified. “And you have to have three peer reviews and submit a dissertation.” Hope’s dissertation was on the fiduciary responsibilities of a Chamber.

And Still More Changes...

During her presentation at the breakfast meeting, Hope also talked about her Chamber’s 2017 asset acquisition of/ joining forces with the former Greater Pasco Chamber, which helped the NTBC increase its membership by more than 200 businesses, although it also brought with it a fresh set of new challenges for Hope and her small staff.

The Greater Pasco Chamber’s membership was mostly on the west side of Pasco County (it also had some western Pinellas members). One of the challenges was trying to host networking and other business events on both sides of the Suncoast Pkwy.

But, perhaps the biggest challenge was to come up with a new name for the Chamber, which now had members in Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough.

Many Wesley Chapel Chamber members, including yours truly, were concerned that unless Wesley Chapel was still in the Chamber’s name, some members might defect and the Chamber could lose its identity altogether.

The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce name was officially adopted in January 2018 and neither Hope nor her staff has taken a backwards step since then.

In fact, the Chamber moved its office

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from The Grove in Wesley Chapel to just off S.R. 54 in Lutz and has grown to 730 members and four full-time employees.

Although I personally haven’t attended many events on the west side, my understanding is that they also are well-attended, and the ribbon cuttings, breakfasts, Final Friday and coffee events continue to attract new faces in both New Tampa and Wesley Chapel.

Hope and the NTBC also have continued their advocacy efforts regarding transportation in our area, including the Diverging Diamond Interchange at I-75 and S.R. 56, the S.R. 56 expansion to U.S. Hwy. 301 in Zephyrhills, the planned Overpass Rd. exit off I-75 and others.

“Our Vision is to be the trusted leader

and driving force for the growth and success of our business community,” she said. “And our Mission is to provide valuable services to our members, advocate for a positive business community and sustain and further develop a thriving economy for the North Tampa Bay Region.”

All I can say is mission accomplished...so far...and keep it going!

For membership & other information, visit the North Tampa Bay Chamber at 1868 Highland Oaks Blvd. (off S.R. 54), Lutz, or at NorthTampaBayChamber.com, or call (813) 994-8534.

And, some of the NTBC’s events also are listed in this issue’s Community Calendar on page 18.

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17

SEPTEMBER 2019 Saturday, September 7

lots of business cards. First Thursday of every month, SpringHill Suites Tampa North-Land O’ Lakes (16615 Crosspointe Run, LOL), 8 a.m.-9 a.m. For more info, call 813-994-8534.

Tampa Palms Women’s Club Welcome Luncheon - See the ad below!

Bay Chapel Food Pantry - Free food to help needy families. The Bay Chapel Food Pantry is Saturday, October 5 open every Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., behind Christian Brothers Automotive on BBD Blvd. Hunter’s Green Community Association Trash & Treasure Sale - It’s time once again for the Annual in New Tampa (20300 Trout Creek Dr). For more info, call (813) 731-4040.

Trash & Treasure Sale! Hunter’s Green Community Park (9456 Highland Oak Dr., Tampa), 7:30 a.m.- 11:30 Sunday, September 8 a.m. Open to the Public. “One-stop shopping for all types of great bargains and unique treasures!”

Cruisin’ At Wiregrass Car & Truck Show - A special show honoring First Responders. Custom, classic & new cars cruise in and line the streets. Noon -4 p.m. Participating cars must arrive between 10 a.m.-Noon.

JOIN US! For car registration info. visit premiumcarshows.com.

Wednesday, September 11

BNI Business Leaders (New Tampa) - Our BNI Chapter is a dynamic, committed group of business people who know how to refer business to each other. Meets every Wednesday, 7:30 a.m., at Mulligans inside Pebble Creek Golf Club (10550 Regents Park Dr.). Call Lauren Hopper @ (727) 786-2427.

Rotary Club Of New Tampa Noon - The New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meets Wednesdays at Noon at Bayscape Bistro, inside Heritage Isles Country Club off Cross Creek Blvd. Guests are always welcome. For more info, search “New Tampa Noon Rotary” on Facebook.

Thursday, September 12

North Tampa Veterans Association meeting - All armed forces veterans and associates are invited to a weekly lighthearted Dutch-treat breakfast meeting to get acquainted and tell your tales, new and old. Location: Steak ‘n Shake just off BBD Blvd. (17509 North Palms Village Pl.) - every Thursday at 7:30 a.m. Bring your spouse and your brag sheet.

Friday, September 13

Rotary Club of New Tampa - The Rotary Club of New Tampa meets every Friday for breakfast at 7 a.m. at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.). For more info, including the speaker schedule, contact David Lanigan at 813-760-6548 or dave@ davidlanigan.com or visit NewTampaRotary.org.

Have a Ball!

Tampa Palms Women’s Club WELCOME LUNCHEON!

(or, get down to business)

Thursday, October 3, @ 11 a.m. at Compton Park at Tampa Palms Clubhouse (16101 Compton Dr.) All ladies who are Tampa Palms residents OR Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club members are welcome to join the Tampa Palms Women’s Club.

Call Pat @ (813) 215-0356 for more information.

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Thursday, September 19

Job Fair: Bausch & Lomb - Join us at our on-site Job Fair, 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Prepare for success: Wear proper business attire. Bring several copies of your resume. Arrive with a positive attitude.

Be prepared for on-the-spot interviews. Expand your skill set or even learn a whole new career. All attendees will need to come to the Main Entrance: Bausch & Lomb (8500 Hidden River Pkwy., Tampa). To see a list of our career openings, visit us at: www.bauschhealth.com/careers

Saturday, September 21

Brittany Hutchinson Benefit Golf Tournament - Pebble Creek Golf Club - Shotgun start: 8 a.m. $75 per player, 4-person scramble, Closest-to-Pin, Long-Drive, Mulligans, Raffles, Prizes, Lunch Buffet. Sponsorships Available! Hole Sponsorships cost just $100. This tournament is for a great cause! Brittany is a Wesley Chapel resident in need of a 2nd kidney transplant - A portion of the proceeds will go towards her medical expenses. Pebble Creek Golf Club is located at 10550 Regents Park Dr, Tampa). Register online at BelovedBQueen.com . For more info, call Tony at (917) 578-7779 or email lebco22@gmail.com.

Monday, September 23

New Tampa Democratic Club - The Club meets on the 4th Monday of each month, 7 p.m.8:30 p.m. at Mulligan’s Pub (10550 Regents Park Dr, Pebble Creek Golf Club). Guest speakers are featured at every meeting. Come early, eat, mingle or come on time and eat during the meeting. For more info, email newtampademocraticclub@gmail.com.

Wednesday, September 25

North Tampa Arts League - The mission of the North Tampa Arts League is to develop, nurture, and support the arts and the artists of North Tampa by working in concert with community leaders to make North Tampa a vibrant art community. All are welcome! NTAL meets 7 p.m.-9 p.m. on the 4th Wednesday of the 1st and 3rd month each quarter (except as noted) at: Compton Park Community Center, Tampa Palms (16101 Compton Dr.). For more info, email NTALboard@gmail.com or visit website www.northtampa-arts.com.

Friday, September 27

North Tampa Bay Chamber: Final Friday Event - Held the last Friday of each month, Final Friday allows business professionals to meet in a ‘not-too-formal’ setting. This month’s event will be hosted by Grillsmith (2000 Piazza Ave, WC), 4 p.m.-6 p.m. There is no fee to attend this event. For more info, call the Chamber office at (813) 994-8534.

OCTOBER 2019 Tuesday, October 1

Job Fair: The Shops At Wiregrass - Mall-wide Job Fair in time for the Holidays! Job seekers may visit participating stores individually for job opportunities from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. A list of participating stores will be available at Guest Services after 3 p.m. on October 1st. We respectfully request you do not visit the stores early in order to give stores time to prepare for applicants. For more info, visit TheShopsAtWiregrass.com

Thursday, October 3

North Tampa Bay Chamber: Coffee Social - Want to gather with other colleagues and peers in a relaxed networking environment? Please join us at our Free, no-agenda monthly coffee social. Bring 18

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21

8/21/19 5:04 PM

New Tampa Plastic Surgery’s Dr. Fakhre Can Deliver A New You turn to the Tampa Bay area after his training and currently lives in Seven Oaks with his wife of 16 years and three sons, who keep them busy and entertained.

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN

New Tampa Plastic Surgery, a premier cosmetic surgery “boutique,” has been helping New Tampa and Wesley Chapel residents look and feel their best since 2011.

Specializing in the aesthetic plastic surgery of the face, breasts and body, Board-certified plastic surgeon Peter Fakhre, M.D., rejuvenates and enhances the natural beauty of his patients with the latest cutting-edge surgical and non-surgical procedures.

Dr. Fakhre also has been named one of the top doctors in the country by Vitals. com (a medical review forum for consumers). According to the website, Dr. Fakhre was named a “Vitals Top 10 Doctor.” Of more than 870,000 doctors nationwide, Dr. Fakhre has been recognized as being in the top one percent, of all physicians, as determined by patient ratings.

With a brand new office located on Cypress Ridge Blvd. in Wesley Chapel, behind (just north of) Synovus Bank and the Mercedes Benz dealership, New Tampa Plastic Surgery sees patients from all across Pasco and Hillsborough counties.

Dr. Fakhre and his staff help everyone who walks through their doors feel welcome; he says their primary goal is to make the patient feel comfortable while exploring his or her best options for plastic or reconstructive surgery (as well as non-surgical alternatives, in some cases) in a professional and confidential environment.

You can see the results of Dr. Fakhre’s work when you visit NewTampaPlasticSurgery.com. Although his work definitely speaks for itself, he also is highly recommended by his patients.

In a physician review on Vitals.com, Dr. Fakhre’s patient Jane Gibbons said, “Plastic surgery? More accurately — Surgical Artistry! Dr. Fakhre is a master of his craft. He not only is an accomplished surgeon, (he also) is a man of integrity who listens, counsels and guides his patients toward the goals they are seeking. (He) then satisfies those goals with skill and precision!”

She continues, “Dr. Fakhre works with his patients to determine the best surgical and non-surgical options that will achieve the desired outcome. As a bonus, his office staff is compassionate, efficient and shares his philosophy that everyone deserves to look their best. Unquestionably, Dr. Fakhre is the best that Tampa Bay has to offer!”

Outstanding Credentials

Dr. Fakhre, who is one of only a few plastic surgeons in the Tampa Bay area to be double-Board-certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and by the American Board of Surgery, explains, “There are many things that are important in achieving successful outcomes in plastic surgery: an understanding of the patient’s desires, their physical examination, realistic goals, sound surgical technique, attention to detail and outstanding postoperative care, all of which contribute to success in cosmetic plastic surgery.”

He earned his Bachelor of Science 22

So Many Surgical Options

The friendly, professional staff at New Tampa Plastic Surgery’s new office on Cypress Ridge Blvd. is led

by Dr. Peter Fakhre and nurse practitioner Christina Ahrens (in lab coat).

(B.S.) degree in Biology from the University of South Florida in Tampa, graduating summa cum laude. He then elected to attend the University of Florida College of Medicine in Gainesville. It was while he was at U-F that Dr. Fakhre’s surgical talent, aesthetic eye and love for plastic surgery were realized.

Dr. Fakhre then completed a general surgery residency at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, where he scored in the 98th percentile in the American Board of Surgery in Training Exam, the highest among all of the residents in his program.

He was involved with numerous publications and research projects, which have been presented at a number of scientific meetings, including the distinguished American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

During his surgical training, Dr. Fakhre was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award by the Mayo Clinic Medical School and served as Chief Resident in Surgery in his final year of surgical training.

Dr. Fakhre was then privileged to match at his first choice of Plastic Surgery fellowship programs at the prestigious Methodist hospital, where he again excelled, scoring the highest in-service exam score among all plastic surgery residents in his program and serving as Chief Resident during his final year of plastic surgery training.

“I had the wonderful opportunity to train with members of the original group of plastic surgeons that invented the breast implant, as well as facial and body plastic surgeons whose surgeries have been featured on The Discovery Channel,” Dr. Fakhre says.

“Working in such an environment provided great exposure to a large volume of both primary and revision cosmetic surgery cases.

This experience was priceless and I’m happy to bring this type of training to the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area.”

This training and his own expertise helped Dr. Fakhre earn the highest score possible, in the 99th percentile among Plastic Surgeons in plastic surgery of the breast, on the American Board of Plastic Surgery

written examination.

In addition to refining his surgical skill and technique during his plastic surgery training, Dr. Fakhre also volunteered his time with Operation San José and traveled to Guatemala on a cleft lip and palate surgical mission. There, he helped deliver surgical care to many cleft lip and palate patients who otherwise may never have received the treatment they needed.

Dr. Fakhre says that he was happy to re-

Many of us have things we would like to change about our bodies. Time, age and weight changes all take a toll on your body and these factors can affect your appearance and self-image. Dr. Fakhre says that cosmetic plastic surgery is a way to help you look and feel better.

“When we are happy with our appearance, we feel more confident,” he says.

New Tampa Plastic Surgery offers a plethora of cosmetic surgery procedures for women and men, including breast enhancement (augmentations, lifts and reductions), tummy tucks, face and neck lifts, eyelid surgery, liposuction and more. Known for his technical skill, eye for beauty and superior aesthetic practice, Dr. Fakhre will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve your desired outcome and to make the “new you” a reality.

“Cosmetic plastic surgery allows the surgeon to combine artistry with sound surgical techniques to produce superior results,” says Dr. Fakhre.

Breasts, for instance, are often at the core of a woman’s femininity and self-confidence. Dr. Fakhre explains that breast augmentation surgery is one of the most personal decisions a woman can make.

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“Breast augmentation surgery can increase your self-confidence and satisfaction with your body,” says Dr. Fakhre.

“By increasing or restoring breast volume, we can help our patients achieve a better-proportioned body.”

Dr. Fakhre’s breast augmentation patients are first educated about implant size and types, so they can make informed decisions about which would best satisfy their personal goals. He says that the two main implant types available are still silicone and saline and that the implant selected depends upon a variety of factors.

Currently, the most common implants that Dr. Fakhre uses are silicone implants, which he says look and feel more natural than their saline counterparts.

Breast lift surgery removes excess tissue and repositions the breast and/or nipple to a more youthful position. This procedure is often chosen by women desiring to restore form to their breasts or reclaim their “before-baby” appearance. And, although breasts are intertwined with the feminine profile, women are not the only ones who have breast surgery. In fact, Dr. Fakhre says that he has helped many men feel better about their appearance with reduction surgery for men with female-looking breasts (also known as gynecomastia).

Liposuction, ‘Mommy Makeovers’ & More

Another popular cosmetic surgical procedure at New Tampa Plastic Surgery is liposuction, which can improve the body’s contour by removing fat deposits that are

went so smoothly. I highly recommend Dr. Fakhre. I give him 10 stars!”

Non-Surgical Options, Too

The new office of New Tampa Plastic Surgery is state-of-the-art and even includes an on-site surgery facility. Call the number at the end of this story to schedule a free consultation and tour of the facility.

resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction restores proportionality and minimizes problem areas. Dr. Fakhre says that if you find yourself shopping for clothes to hold your tummy in or help slim your thighs, liposuction may be your answer. He adds that liposuction offers significant results with minimal downtime.

“In fact, many (liposuction) patients recover over a weekend and return to work on Monday,” he says.

A full “Mommy Makeover” also is a popular procedure sought by women who want to get back to the body they had before they had children. Dr. Fakhre says that the most common “Mommy Makeover” combines a breast lift (with or without breast augmentation for reshaping), a tummy tuck to tighten the midsection that was stretched during pregnancy and liposuc-

tion to remove unwanted fat deposits.

Dr. Fakhre, who also has surgical privileges at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel and AdventHealth Tampa, says that he performs surgeries both in the surgery facility in his office as well as at the Tampa Bay Surgery Center, located at the corner of N. Dale Mabry Hwy. and Fletcher Ave. Wherever he performs his artistry, however, Dr. Fahkre’s satisfied patients are a testament to his experience and training.

“From the moment I walked through the door in his office I was always greeted on a first-name basis, which made me feel like I wasn’t just another patient to get in and out,” Christina Vargas wrote in her patient testimonial about her experience with New Tampa Plastic Surgery. “The whole process — from scheduling my appointments to the day of the procedure, even my recovery —

New Tampa Plastic Surgery also is a true cosmetic boutique, offering skin care and other non-surgical cosmetic procedures, in addition to plastic surgery. Many of these non-surgical procedures — such as Botox and dermal fillers, Latisse eyelash lengthening and thickening and chemical peels that rejuvenate and energize the skin to beautify your natural state and more — often provide the results a patient is looking for, and are less “invasive” than surgical options.

Board-certified nurse practitioner Christina Ahrens (in photo on previous page, in lab coat, next to Dr. Fakhre) has more than 13 years of experience in dermatology and plastic surgery and performs all of the non-surgical procedures at New Tampa Plastic Surgery. “We are fortunate to have Christina as part of our team,” says Dr. Fakhre. “She does an outstanding job in the treatment of our patients.”

For your free cosmetic plastic surgery consultation with Dr. Peter Fakhre, call New Tampa Plastic Surgery at (813) PLASTIC (752-7842). The office is located at 2525 Cypress Ridge Blvd. For a full menu of services, visit NewTampaPlasticSurgery.com. And, be sure to check out the ad on page 15 of this issue and ‘Like’ New Tampa Plastic Surgery’s Facebook.com page so that you can be notified of the office’s monthly promotions on various services.

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23

Prime Rx Pharmacy Fills Your Prescriptions With A Personal Touch! he moved to the United States. He explains that in the U.S., his doctorate in Ayurveda is not recognized.

So, Ghiya enrolled at St. John’s University in Queens, NY, and received his B.S. degree in Pharmacy in 1992. Then, he moved to Florida.

“Even back then, corporate pharmacy was looking at quantity, not quality,” he says. Instead, he chose to be an independent pharmacist.

“This way, I get to spend more time with each patient,” he says, using both his pharmacological training and physiological training from India.

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN Prime Rx Pharmacy in the Cross Creek Center plaza on Cross Creek Blvd. has only been open for about three months, but owner Vikas Ghiya, R.Ph. (Registered Pharmacist) is a long-time New Tampa resident who was happy to bring his business home to his neighborhood.

Ghiya has worked as a pharmacist since 1992, first for Eckerd, then Publix. In 2009, he established Prime Rx Pharmacy in Seminole, in Pinellas County, in partnership with others who opened other Prime Rx pharmacies in St. Petersburg and Riverview.

When the partnership dissolved in 2012, Ghiya kept his Seminole location open while he commuted from New Tampa. Recently, his landlord notified him that he needed to move the pharmacy, so he decided to relocate all the way to New Tampa, cutting 3 hours a day out of his commute. He says he now travels less than three miles each way to work.

Vikas has been married to his wife, Harsha, for 32 years. Harsha manages the office and billing for the pharmacy, and also has a license as a pharmacy technician, so she can help her husband with that part of the business when needed.

Currently the staff also includes Joseph Ortiz, who is Prime Rx’s primary pharmacy tech, and Ghiya says the staff prides itself on being both fast and accurate, plus going

The Prime Rx Difference

Vikas Ghiya and his wife, Harsha, are long-time New Tampa residents who recently moved Prime Rx Pharmacy from Seminole in Pinellas County closer to home on Cross Creek Blvd. above and beyond what is typical at a corporate pharmacy/chain drug store.

“Here, customer service is a priority,” explains Ghiya. “We often recognize our customers and welcome them by name.”

While Ghiya is quick to say he would never criticize a fellow pharmacist, he says in a corporate environment, pharmacists

generally are simply too busy to offer such personalized service.

Not so at Prime Rx Pharmacy.

In India, Ghiya says he was educated in Ayurvedic medicine, which is a holistic healing system developed more than 3,000 years ago. Ghiya earned a doctorate degree and practiced Ayurveda in India until 1988, when

Whether medicine is needed in a hurry or it’s just your regular prescription, Prime Rx Pharmacy will deliver it to your home (provided it is within a certain distance from the pharmacy) at no charge.

“We offer free delivery,” says Ghiya.

“If the kids are sick and Mom can’t leave the house, we deliver.”

In fact, Ghiya says closing his pharmacy in Seminole hasn’t meant losing all of those patients as customers. He says that Prime Rx Pharmacy still delivers medications to Seminole twice a week.

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pharmacy,” says Harsha. “They say, ‘you drove to us for 10 years, now we can drive to you once a month.’”

The pharmacy also offers compounding, such as mixing creams for male and female hormones. Each patient requires a completely custom tailoring of estrogen, progesterone and/or testosterone, which must be done in a compounding pharmacy such as Prime Rx. Prime Rx Pharmacy also provides compounding for veterinary medicines when needed for your dog or cat.

And, it offers free flavorings in certain medications, which is especially popular in some antibiotics for kids.

In addition to prescriptions, the pharmacy also carries durable medical equipment (DME) for sale, and some items are also available for rent, such as wheelchairs, canes and more.

Prime Rx also sells oil diffusers and essential oils, such as lavender and jasmine, to help people with sleep issues or anxiety, as well as CBD oil.

“We carry a broad spectrum of over-the-counter medicines and specialty vitamins, too,” says Ghiya, including the brands Pure and Ortho, which he says are high-quality vitamins.

“They work better and are absorbed better,” he explains. “You cannot find this stuff in Walmart, CVS or Walgreens.”

He says he and his staff also are

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should take it. This is especially helpful for people who are chronically ill and take several medications at different times throughout the day.

“Instead of opening three or four different bottles, patients just open one blister pack,” Ghiya explains. “It helps the patient not to miss any pills.

We count and make sure they get the exact dosage they need.”

He tells the story of one patient he recently helped with this type of packaging. “She took 18 medications, some once At Prime Rx Pharmacy on Cross Creek Blvd., owner/pharmacist a day, some four times a Vikas Ghiya is happy to help patients who have to take multiple day,” he explains. “That medications every day. These blister packs divide your meds by means she’s opening bottles when they need to be taken, marked with the day and time, to 20-30 times a day. Instead, reduce the instances of patients forgetting to take their medication we give her a blister pack, and each one says which or accidentally taking more medication than they need. date and time to take it, so happy to counsel patients on the best vitamins, especially when they are taking she knows if she missed a dose.”

Nine months later, he says that the prescription medications. patient’s health has improved.

“Her doctor asked her what she was Custom Pill Packaging doing to improve her health, and she Prime Rx Pharmacy also offers said, ‘My pharmacist helped me,’” Ghicustomized pill packaging, with medications sorted by the day and time a patient ya says. “It’s because she’s not missing

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doses or taking extra doses.”

Now, he adds, she’s only on 12 meds and some of those are at reduced dosages.

Taking Time With Patients

“We like to make it fun and make people laugh when they come here,” Ghiya says. “People come in from the doctor and they’ve already waited and waited.”

Often, they’re stressed because they’ve received a bad diagnosis, so Ghiya and his staff always offer a listening ear, comfort and moral support.

“One patient moved here from New York and her daughter is diabetic and needs a particular insulin,” explains Ghiya. “She doesn’t have a car and was able to walk in to our pharmacy. Within two days, we took care of everything and delivered her special order to her. She said it was a totally different experience than at other pharmacies.”

He says the mom was nervous about using a syringe to give her daughter insulin, so he taught her how to use an insulin pen instead of a syringe.

“It’s easier to use and more accurate,” Ghiya explains. “We sat with her for 45 minutes to help her. We’re happy to do that.”

Prime Rx Pharmacy is located at 10010 Cross Creek Blvd. at Kinnan St. It is open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. For more information, see the ad on page 30, visit PrimeRxPharmacy.com or call (813) 955-7777.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 19 • September 6, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

25

Need Expert Legal Advice From A Friend? Ask The Devolders!

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN When life throws you a curveball, sometimes you just wish you had a friend who also happens to be a lawyer to help you sort it out.

Bryan and Elizabeth Devolder of the Devolder Law Firm, located in the Hunter’s Green Professional Center off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. and Hunter’s Green Dr., want to be that friend.

The husband-and-wife-team opened their firm in August 2016, and it has continued to grow over the last three years and now has a staff that includes a paralegal, legal assistant and case manager.

The Devolder law office overlooks a beautiful and serene pond in the neighborhood where the Elizabeth and Bryan live with their two children. Both previously had successful careers in other fields and decided to go back to school to achieve their shared dream of becoming lawyers.

Married since 2009, Bryan was working as a computer engineer for Verizon and Elizabeth had been in sales for the Yellow Pages.

With lots of professional and life experience under their belts, they enrolled at the Western Michigan University-Cooley Law School satellite campus in Riverview, FL, in 2013.

Both graduated in 2016 and opened the office together shortly after.

They’re down-to-earth, hardworking people who help families through times of transition, resolve conflict, and give good

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“In every divorce, for example, one family is becoming two,” says Elizabeth.

“The client usually has to sell a home, buy a home or rent one, so they often need a real estate attorney.”

That’s something the Elizabeth and Bryan Devolder of Devolder Law Firm offer a variety of Devolders will legal services that can resolve problems before they become too unwieldy handle that other family and expensive. (Photo: Stephen John Photography) law attorneys advice whenever you have a question. might not. “We had someone tell us their di“A core value of ours is approachvorce attorney wouldn’t look over their lease ability,” says Bryan. “I talk like a lawyer in court, but with clients, it’s more like having because he’s not a real estate attorney. There are all these separate attorneys you have to a beer with a friend.” go to,” explains Elizabeth.

While most attorneys specialize in one While their practice covers a variety of area, the Devolders are able to help with a areas, the Devolders do not handle crimvariety of legal issues. inal defense, personal injury or medical “We do family law, wills, trust and estate law, probate, real estate, elder law and malpractice cases.

But, for many situations, especially as all the stuff in between,” explains Elizabeth. life is transitioning — such as starting a busi“Our goal is to help a family through their ness, a divorce, a child going off to college, life with all of the needs they will have.” getting ready to downsize a home or apply They say this is a benefit to families, whose problems often don’t fit neatly into spe- for Medicaid — the Devolders say it’s always

a good idea to consult an attorney.

“Most of the expensive and complex cases we’ve had to deal with were because someone didn’t get $200 worth of legal advice up front,” says Bryan.

So Many Stories…

If you think there might be a chance you could need a lawyer in the future, Bryan and Elizabeth highly recommend you consult them early on.

For example, the Devolders offer a discounted rate for an estate plan for students leaving for college. Many parents don’t know that once their child turns 18, the parents are no longer legally allowed access to their medical records, even if their child has an accident. An estate plan makes arrangements for all kinds of “what ifs.”

Plus, Elizabeth says, it has another benefit. “Now they have a relationship with an attorney, so if something happens and they’re scared to call their parents, they can call us,” she says. “Please don’t go to Google or your 19-year-old friend.”

Bryan and Elizabeth could tell stories all day. They say their best stories are kept completely to themselves for privacy, but they do share a little.

“A client tried to sell a business and wrote it on a piece of notebook paper, signed by a notary,” says Bryan. “The guy lost $100,000 and has to spend money in litigation, and his family doesn’t have an income because he didn’t have an attorney.

Things can blow up.”

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e

The Devolders also recently had a client whose sister’s health was declining.

Because she no longer used services such as her phone or car insurance, her brother tried to turn them off, but he didn’t have the authority to do it. A simple power of attorney document would have done the trick early on, but now he has to get the court to award him guardianship over his sister so he can handle her affairs.

“Proactively talking to an attorney will prevent some situations from escalating,” Bryan says.

Cindy Matthews is one of those clients who leans on the Devolders as legal issues arise in her life. She brought each of her parents, who are divorced, to the Devolders to handle their wills and estate plans.

“Bryan and Elizabeth gave excellent advice and were so knowledgeable. They are warm and easy people to talk to,” she says.

Shockingly, Cindy’s parents died within two days of each other, and she says she turned to the Devolders to walk her through a most difficult time.

“Even though neither of my parents were local, they handled the probate of both estates in a seamless and professional transition,” she explains. “It was a lot of detailed paperwork. They were extremely efficient with their services and their fees were reasonable. I’ve seen other attorneys drag their feet, but they did a lot of work in the time that was billed.”

During that difficult time, a conflict came up with Cindy’s ex-husband. She didn’t call the divorce attorney who handled her case years ago, she called the Devolders.

“They were able to jump in and handle

it,” says Cindy. “I immediately felt my level of anxiety and stress dissipate because of the professionalism and assurance I received from them.”

Cindy says the argument was swiftly and decisively resolved in her favor.

“Elizabeth is the finest quality of professional,” says Cindy. “She’s such a thinker, and she has a genuineness about her. She really does care when things aren’t right.”

When things aren’t right is when the Devolders want you to give them a call.

With the wide range of issues they deal with, they know that bad things often happen to good people.

Judge Not, Lest Ye...

“Some people are afraid to see a lawyer because they don’t know if they’re going to be judged,” says Bryan.

“We’re not judgmental if someone comes in with a story,” agrees Elizabeth.

In part, that’s because they say they can relate. “We weren’t born with silver spoons in our mouths,” Elizabeth says. “We worked hard our whole lives, we understand the value of money and we understand the challenges that people have.”

Plus, she adds, “We have really good coffee and a nice view.”

Devolder Family Law (8709 Hunters Green Dr., at the front of Hunter’s Green before entering the community’s gates) is open Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m., with weekend and evening appointments available. For additional information, search “DevolderLaw” on Facebook, visit DevolderLaw.com, call (813) 724-3880 or see the ad on page 36.

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29

Debbie Demboski Celebrates 30 Years Of Decorating Your Dens (& More!)

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN

In 2019, Decorating Den Interiors is celebrating 50 years in business.

Tampa Bay-area franchise owner and decorator Debbie Demboski has been a Decorating Den franchisee since 1989.

She is proud to be celebrating 30 years in business herself, as one of the company’s longest-tenured representatives.

She says Decorating Den continues to be successful because clients appreciate that the business comes to them with a completely free consultation and no hourly fees, whether you want to update a room, a piece of furniture, your window treatments, or redecorate your entire home from top to bottom.

“There are not a lot of 50-year-old companies,” says Debbie, especially as home design businesses seem to be contracting because so many people now turn to online shopping. “But, Decorating Den is growing, and the last couple of years have been really tremendous for us.”

Debbie says one of the biggest benefits of working with Decorating Den is that her design studio gets parked right in your driveway.

Stocked full of samples of fabrics and colors, the Decorating Den van at your home or office means your designer will

Whether you want to redecorate your entire home or just a room or two, you can trust Decorating Den’s Debbie Demboski and Sara McKenzie (l.-r. in photo on next page) to get the job done right — on your budget! help you choose how to decorate your not only fits your style and budget, but has been her partner for the last five years. interior space while standing inside and also works perfectly in your space.”

“Sara takes most of our new clients looking at that very space.

Debbie has a Bachelor of Arts degree and has built her clientele to where she is That’s something online shopping in design and business from West Virginia now getting repeat business and referrals, just can’t do.

University in Morgantown. She says she as well,” Debbie says.

“So many people have a vision and got into the interior decorating business Sara and Debbie admit that their get excited, purchase something and when she was living and working in Atlan- biggest competitor today is the online bring it home, before realizing that it just ta and a friend became a Decorating Den shopping craze, but once people try workdoesn’t work,” says Debbie. “Having a franchise owner. Debbie went to work as a ing with Decorating Den, they realize how professional opinion can actually save you decorator for that business and, soon after, much better it is than the trial-and-error time and money. I will come to you and started her own franchise. process of buying online themselves. assist you in picking out something that Debbie’s daughter, Sara McKenzie, “Every now and again, maybe the

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best product is from one of those online sites,” Debbie says. “But, Decorating Den has such vast product lines and we know the quality, size and proportion of all of those products.”

Decorating Den offers a “good, better, and best” mix of product lines to meet every budget.

“A decorator can help you so much versus doing it yourself,” Debbie says.

Why Decorating Den? While other designers charge an hourly fee for their time, Decorating Den does things differently. Debbie says the reasons why her clients love working with Decorating Den are outlined in the following “NIFTY” benefits: •N-National umbrella: Decorating Den has the buying power of a national company.

•I-In-home decorating: Design decisions are made in your home, in your existing lighting, working with what you already own.

•F-Free consultation: Not only do Debbie and Sara come to you, there is no cost for the consultation and never any hourly fees for their time.

•T-Training: Decorating Den provides opportunities for decorators to constantly update their skills and learn about the latest trends through conferences and working with other franchise owners in the region.

•Y-Your lifestyle: Your likes, dislikes and budget are Debbie and Sara’s highest priority, to be sure that your home reflects your personal taste — not theirs.

Jennifer Pressley became a client of Debbie’s when she lived in Apollo Beach and hired Debbie to decorate her home as her budget allowed — one room at a time.

When the Pressleys moved to FishHawk Ranch in Lithia just a few months ago, they immediately hired Debbie to begin decorating their new home, too.

“She’s amazing,” says Jennifer. “She really understands how to ask the right questions and get the feel of how you want to decorate the house. Coming into this house, I had no clue where to start.”

One of the first rooms they decided to tackle was Jennifer’s daughter’s bedroom. Jennifer says Debbie had to endure the 11-year-old saying, “No, I don’t like that,” to many, many options.

“Debbie’s so patient,” says Jennifer, explaining that she didn’t get frustrated, but just kept looking until she found the absolutely perfect curtains for the room.

Jennifer says that when she originally was looking for help to decorate her former home, she talked with several designers who charged $100 per hour for a consultation. “Debbie doesn’t do that,” Jennifer says. “The consultation is free and then her fee is ‘hidden’ in the cost of what you purchase.”

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That’s why Jennifer says she has recommended Decorating Den Interiors to her friends. She loves working with Debbie because, she says, “She’s not pushy, she’s not expensive, and she works with you on a budget.”

Franchises Throughout Central Florida For the past 25 years, Debbie also has owned the regional Decorating Den territory license and can sell franchises from coast to coast in the central part of Florida.

“I just sold a franchise on the east coast,” says Debbie. “The new franchise owner is currently in corporate training.

I’ll help her set up her business, go with her to her first few appointments, help her with marketing ideas and do ongoing training.”

In fact, Debbie says, franchise opportunities are available right here in the Tampa Bay area, too.

“There’s a new subdivision every time you blink,” says Debbie.

While Debbie and Sara currently cover everywhere from Odessa to the west to Thonotosassa in the east, and Wesley Chapel to the north to Lithia in the south, Debbie says that’s a large enough geographic area that could easily support a new franchise.

Debbie also offers her expertise, at no cost, to groups who are looking for a unique guest speaker.

“We constantly do free workshops,” explains Debbie. “One of my most popular talks is on decorating for the holidays.

We can show before-and-after pictures, trends and talk about products.”

She says groups of Realtors, homeowners associations or any group looking for a guest speaker is welcome to reach out to her.

Decorating Den Interiors comes to you at your home or office in Wesley Chapel or New Tampa for an absolutely free consultation. For more information, see the ad on page 36, call Debbie at (813) 982-2820 or visit DecDens.com/DebbieD. @NTWCNews

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 19 • September 6, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

31

American Wood Flooring Outfits Your Home With The Hottest Trends

By ANDY WARRENER

American Wood Flooring has been operating as a family business for more than 25 years. It began as a small storefront in New Port Richey, selling wood flooring exclusively. The showroom in the Super Target-anchored Northwood Plaza in Wesley Chapel opened 12 years ago.

CEO Andy Dunning has always kept on top of the latest trends and products in the flooring business. While American Wood Flooring has stayed true to its roots, still offering traditional carpet, wood, tile and laminate options, Dunning says the product dominating the floor covering market these days is Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring.

“In July, we did 33 installs just out of our New Tampa store, and 25 of them were LVP,” Dunning says. “Vinyl plank could make laminate products obsolete.”

Dunning says that LVP flooring has only been available for about a year-anda-half, but the product is dominating the market, and for good reason.

Why LVP?

Dunning says the number one reason is durability, which breaks down into three aspects: LVP is waterproof, dent-proof and scratch-resistant.

And, LVP floors are 100-percent waterproof. This is huge for Floridians, who

Andy Dunning is holding Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring, which he says is the hottest product in flooring, due to its durability and quality. (Photo: Andy Warrener)

often have swimming pools or pets and endure sometimes torrential rainfall in the late summer and fall months. LVP’s high-density material is nearly impossible to dent and its uniform consistency makes it extremely scratch-resistant.

“LVP is different than most flooring in that there are no wood particles, and no glue,” Dunning says. “It’s a lock-and-fold system. There is some

subfloor prep but it’s minimal.”

A high-quality and waterproof floor covering? What’s not to like? LVP floors are waterproof for a couple of reasons.

One, they are not made from wood.

LVP floor panels are made from a PVCtype material. There’s never any swelling or cracking.

Second, even if moisture somehow gets past the tight lock-and-fold system,

C

the attached padding is made from an anti-microbial melamine material. The melamine material comes attached to the LVP panels and leaves no air pocket between the panels and the sub floor, as laminate flooring does.

Waterproofing aside, LVP floors are some of the most durable on the market.

There are currently only three mills in the world that have patent rights to produce LVP’s Rigid Core material.

“The material in the Rigid Core is much more dense than the material used in the cores five to 10 years ago,” Dunning says. “I have two great Danes and I can tell you that my LVP floor is close to being indestructible.”

Animals large and small will find it nearly impossible to scratch the LVP floor. “We have two pugs that go up and down the stairs a lot and we have not seen any marks anywhere,” American Wood Flooring customer and Land O’ Lakes resident Kurt Kraemer says.

Competitive Pricing

Thanks in large part to the ease of installation, LVP floors can be installed at very competitive prices, when compared with other flooring.

And, through the months of August and September, American Wood Flooring is offering complete installation of LVP flooring for as little as $4.99 per square foot.

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can be viewed either in Dunning’s showroom or on the web at FlooringForFlorida.com.

Top-To-Bottom Service

American Wood Flooring doesn’t just throw the floor down and leave. The company is there for every step of the process.

Dunning offers a free in-home consultation where he brings samples to your home, takes measurements and is able to give a very accurate quote.

“I had my whole house done — bedrooms, bathrooms, closets — and it all looks really nice and the whole process was really smooth,” Kraemer says. “We even had the stairs done and it finishes off the place very nicely. We were very happy with the work; they even put all the furniture back in place where it was.”

Kraemer also was pleased with how the work design allowed him to still utilize his home during a Even big old Bentley — one of Andy and Sara Dun- complete floor replacement. ning’s two Great Danes — can’t damage the LVP floor “They did the important areas in the Dunnings’ home. first,” Kraemer said. “They did the bedrooms first, so I wasn’t inconHardwood floors can cost as much as venienced much. I was so grateful for this, $17-$18 per square foot and don’t offer anywhere near the durability that LVP does. coming home from work and being able to use my house.”

Dunning currently has four different Even if you’re just trying to sell your styles/colors to choose from: Windsor, home, a new LVP floor might be the Blarney, Conway and Edinburgh. Samples

Luxury Vinyl Plank (or LVP) flooring is popular and trendy, but American Wood Flooring carries many different types of flooring to fit every need and desire.

clincher in helping make that sale.

“We had the LVP product installed in a home we were revamping to sell,” local Realtor Cherry Norris says. “Andy came over and was very professional. We checked other pricing and his quote was better for LVP flooring, plus some carpet.

We were all happy with the price and the quality of material. It totally changed the look of the house and the house sold to the first buyer that saw it. The buyers really liked the way it looked and felt. It’s a tight installation with no gaps. The clients loved the color and said it looked like real wood planks.”

American Wood Flooring stays on top of the emerging technologies in the industry and offers first-rate service at premium pricing, while still offering a list of traditional flooring options. The company even offers Bloomin’ Brands gift cards (good at Outback, Bonefish and Carraba’s) to clients who refer friends and family.

American Wood Flooring’s Wesley Chapel showroom is located at 1285 BBD Blvd. and is open Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sat., and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sun. For more info, visit FlooringforFlorida.com, call (813) 991-7999 or see the ad on page 46.

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33

THE SPORTS PAGE

‘CATS TOPPLE PLANT!

WELCOME BACK

The Wharton football team is coming off a 1-9 season, but free safety Daevon Crouch’s best-ever performance in the season opener already has the Wildcats off to a better start in 2019.

Crouch, who cuts an imposing figure in the defensive backfield at 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds, kicked off the 2019 season by picking off host Brandon three times in a 26-6 Wildcats win on Aug. 23.

“He (Crouch) has vision, ball skills, he’s able to read a quarterback from 1015 yards out and once he sees that arm go, he’s ready to take off,” says Wharton defensive coordinator Lee Haynes.

“He’s been under the radar because he doesn’t go to a lot of camps or 7-on-7 tournaments.”

Crouch injured his knee in last year’s season opener and didn’t play in the final nine games. He made his return to the lineup a memorable one.

The three interceptions are a rare and impressive feat, especially when you consider current Tampa Bay Bucs defensive back (and 2016 first-round pick) Vernon Hargreaves, who graduated from Wharton in 2012, never had three picks in a high school game (but had multiple games with two his senior season).

“Those three picks were no fluke, they were designed,” Haynes said. “We are going to do a lot of things to put Daevon in a position to be successful.”

Crouch can play linebacker and will flip around and play wide receiver as well this season, but it’s his presence in the defensive secondary that has coaches at Wharton excited for both the present and the future.

“Once teams figure out where he is, we’re going to have to find different things for him to do,” Haynes said.

“He’ll blitz, he’ll play linebacker but when the ball’s in the air, we like him out in centerfield where he can go get it.”

34

The Wharton volleyball team ended a long stretch of frustration against archnemesis Plant High.

(Story & photos by John Cotey/Andy Warrener)

Every Wharton volleyball season since 2014 has been just about exactly the same.

Post a great regular season record.

Make the District final...lose to Plant. Two weeks later in the Regional playoffs, lose to Plant again. Season over.

However, the Wildcats may be poised to write a different ending this year. In their first meeting with the Panthers on Aug, 28, Wharton thrilled a boisterous home crowd with a nerve-wracking 3-2 victory, snapping a 10-match losing streak against their Class 7A, District 7 rivals.

The 25-21, 25-16, 16-25, 18-25, 15-12 win was the first against Plant since the Wildcats posted a regular season win on Sept. 16, 2015.

In other words, it was the first win over Plant for Wharton’s four seniors, and they all played key roles in the win.

Middle blocker Jamie Koopman (#14, right) led the team with 12 kills and six blocks, while outside hitter Jeanette Henderson added 10, including a miraculous play in the third set, where she went running off the court to save an errant hit, only to get back in time to take the set and smash a kill. Henderson and Koopman have played since their freshman year, and were 0-8 against Plant.

Senior middle blocker Alexis Morse, who joined the varsity as a sophomore, added three kills, while Deborah Rodriguez, in her second season, had 11 kills and 13 digs.

Kills by Morse and Rodriguez in the first set helped seal it after Plant had pulled within 22-20.

Rodriguez set the tone in the second set with a thunderous cross-court shot that put the ‘Cats ahead 15-12 as they cruised to a 25-16 win and a 2-0 lead.

Plant, however, did not go down easy, no surprise considering they are 10time State volleyball champions.

The 25-16 and 25-18 wins by the Panthers in the middle sets were decisive and seemed to shift the momentum.

“We had to try and get back to basics,” said Wharton head coach Eric Barber.

“Games one and two, we were playing our game plan. I think we were too amped for games three and four and we had to get back to doing the little things.”

The Wharton Blue Crew student section got back into the match for the fifth and deciding set, exchanging chants with the Plant faithful.

Koopman (#14, pictured right) and Rodriguez stuffed the very first Panther kill shots at the net to start the decisive set.

Koopman made another block at the net that put the Wildcats up 5-3.

Wharton looked well on the way to the win when the ‘Cats took a 10-6 lead, but the Panthers very quickly knotted it 10-all.

Koopman put the Wildcats on her shoulders, presenting a ferocious obstacle at the middle of the net, both blocking and swatting down short sets. It would be a touch shot from Koopman, snuck just beneath a Panther block attempt, and then an angled shot that found the floor that clinched a 15-12 win in the set and 3-2 win of the match, setting off a wild, bench-clearing celebration.

While the seniors were the stars, contributions from the underclassmen may prove to be the key to keeping the old script flipped on Plant come playoff time.

Junior setter Payton Kenny had 21 assists, and sophomore Gabrielle Frye added 17 for Wharton, while junior libero Jacqueline Kelly had a team-high 25 digs and sophomore hitter Isabella Bonatakis added four kills and three blocks.

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NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL

2019 Reader Dining Survey & Contest!

Win $100 in Dining Gift Cards to the Restaurant of Your Choice!

NEWS Below is a list of (I hope!) every restaurant in New Tampa’s zip code 33647 and some others that border onto Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in Tampa or Lutz, regardless of zip code. Due to some confusion and a couple of places accidentally left off the list last issue, the restaurants are now in alphabetical order, rather than by geographic area. Please circle or select FIVE (5) of these restaurants as your favorites in New Tampa. Do not number them. No write-in votes are allowed, except in the Dessert category. Then, circle or select ONE (1) favorite for each of the additional options (Pizza, Dessert & Bar/Tavern). Then, complete the entry form with your name, address (with community — Tampa Palms, Pebble Creek, etc.), daytime telephone number and a valid email address and mail your entry to 2019 Neighborhood News Dining Survey, 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 by Monday, November 11, 2019, to be eligible to win a $100 gift card, $60 gift card or $35 gift card to the restaurant of your choice in the Tampa Bay area! This form also is available on our website — NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net and must be COMPLETELY filled in for you to be eligible. One entry per person per household only. See pg. 3 for more details!! — GN

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

Acropolis Greek Taverna Al-Sham Palace Aroy Thai Bayscape Bistro (at Heritage Isles GC) Bearss Tavern & Tap Burger King Burger 21 Cantina Mexican restaurant Cappy’s Pizzeria Capri Pizza-n-More Chick-fil-A Chili’s Grill & Bar China City China One China Wok Chipotle Ciccio Cali Cracker Barrel Cross Creek Deli (inside Shell) Deano’s Pizza & Pasta

Domino’s Pizza (inside Shell) Don Julio’s Mexican Restaurant El Pescador Five Guys Burgers & Fries Full Circle Pizza Fushia Asian Bistro Ginza Endless Hibachi & Sushi Glory Days Grill Ho King Hummingbird Jerk House Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs Hunter’s Green Country Club Jersey Mike’s Subs Jimmy John’s Juice Factory - NEW! Kobe Japanese Steakhouse Koizi Endless Hibachi & Sushi Las Palmas Latin Grill Liang’s Bistro Asian Cuisine Marco’s Pizza

You’re Not Quite Done Yet! There are still three more categories for you to respond to — but we only want you to circle or select your ONE (#1) favorite place for pizza (or flatbreads), your favorite dessert place and your favorite bar or tavern in New Tampa.

Your Favorite Place For Pizza In New Tampa

(Please circle or select only ONE (1) no more, no less!)

Cappy’s Pizzeria Capri Pizza-n-More Ciccio Cali Deano’s Pizza-n-Pasta Domino’s Pizza Full Circle Pizza Glory Days Grill

Your Favorite Dessert Place In New Tampa (Please circle or select only ONE (1) no more, no less!)

Baskin Robbins Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Cold Stone Creamery Dunkin’ Donuts Neighborhood News

Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs Marco’s Pizza Panera Bread Papa John’s Pizza Peabody’s Grill & Bar Pizza Hut Precinct Pizza Taste of New York Pizzeria TGI Fridays Westshore Pizza Woodfired Pizza (Bearss Ave.) La Berry Yogurt Cafe Mr. Penguin (NEW) Smallcakes Cupcakery Sprinkles Ice Cream (NEW) Snowrolls The Cake Shop Twistee Treat Write In -______________________ @NTWCNews

McDonald’s Minerva Indian Restaurant Mr. Dunderbak’s Mulligan’s Irish Pub (PCGC) New China King Oakley’s Grille Olive Garden Palm Thai Panera Bread Papa John’s Pizza Peabody’s Grill & Bar Petra Mediterranean Express Pizza Hut PJ Dolan’s Irish Pub Precinct Pizza Red Lobster Saffron Indian Cuisine (new location) Sake House Sushi Steak n Shake Stonewood Grill & Tavern

Your Favorite Bar Or Tavern In New Tampa (Please circle or select only ONE (1) no more, no less!)

Acropolis Greek Taverna Bayscape Bistro (at Heritage Isles GC) Bearss Tavern & Tap Chili’s Grill & Bar Glory Days Grill Hunter’s Green Country Club Kobe Japanese Steakhouse

Subway Sukhothai Sushi Avenue Sushi Cafe Tabla Indian Cuisine Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club Taste of New York Pizzeria TGI Fridays Thai Lanna & Sushi Thai Ruby The Fat Rabbit The Little Greek Tijuana Flats Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant Wendy’s Westshore Pizza Woodfired Pizza (Bearss Ave.) Xtreme Body Nutrition & Smoothies Linkster’s Tap Room Mr. Dunderbak’s Mulligan’s Irish Pub Olive Garden Peabody’s Grill & Bar PJ Dolan’s Irish Pub Stonewood Grill & Tavern Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club TGI Friday’s The Fat Rabbit Vallarta’s Mexican restaurant

YOUR FIRST & LAST NAME: ________________________________________________ YOUR STREET ADDRESS: ___________________________________________________ CITY: _________________________________________ ZIP CODE: __________________ YOUR COMMUNITY: ________________________________________________________ (Heritage Isles, West Meadows, etc.)

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 11, 2019, to: 2019 NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS DINING SURVEY 29157 Chapel Park Dr., Suite B, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 19 • September 6, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

39

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FOR ALL YOUR COSMETIC AND MEDICAL DERMATOLOGY NEEDS.

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41

p w i

Nibbles & Business The Latest & Greatest News In Dining, Shopping & Business In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel!

NTBC’s New Tampa Ribbon Cuttings

As someone who has been covering both New Tampa and Wesley Chapel for the last 25 years, I was glad to see that the North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC) had some recent ribboncutting events either in zip code 33647 or involving New Tampa residents.

NerdsToGo — For anyone walking around with the Spider-Man version of your mobile phone or tablet (no, I’m not talking about the Marvel superhero), you might want to visit the new NerdsToGo store (photo above left) in the Pebble Creek Collection (19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., next to Snowrolls).

Local franchise owner, U.S. Air Force vet and long-time Information Technology (IT) “nerd” Michael Varnadore (with scissors, in white shirt) says that interest in the New Tampa location has grown since hosting an NTBC

42

ribbon-cutting event on Aug. 15. With nearly 40 locations in 20 states and growing like the spread of new technologies, NerdsToGo offers mobile service and support for all Microsoft Windows and Apple products and more.

For more information, call (813) 5245353 or visit NerdsToGo.com.

Morningstar Storage — Some local residents say we have too many self-storage places in both of our distribution areas, but the fact is that they keep not only opening, but filling up in both New Tampa and Wesley Chapel, as most people just don’t have enough space for all of their “stuff” in their home or apartment.

The newest entry in Wesley Chapel is Morningstar Storage, which is located at 28999 Anise Dr., behind Audi Wesley Chapel off S.R. 56 in Wiregrass Ranch.

Morningstar held an NTBC ribbon-

cutting event earlier in the day on Aug. 15 than NerdsToGo, and is one of 150 self-storage facilities in more than a dozen U.S. states owned

by Morningstar Properties, LLC. For more information, call (813) 5862574 or visit NerdsToGo.com.

Olympus Pools — New Tampa residents James and Alexis Staten were tired of having to drive all the way to the Westshore business district in order to work at their old showroom, so when Olympus Pools (see ad on pg. 25) outgrew that location, the Statens and their crew began working to open a new showroom a little closer to home.

The result? The new Olympus Pools showroom (21859 S.R. 54 in Lutz, between Collier Pkwy. and U.S. Hwy. 41), which is only 15-20 minutes from most of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel. Olympus hosted its own NTBC ribbon-

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 19 • September 6, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Neighborhood News

cutting event (photo above left) on Aug. 17.

James says the new showroom also is bigger and more modern, with technology to help you envision the perfect pool, spa or outdoor kitchen before it gets built — and the best installers around to make your dream a reality.

“We’re not the number one pool builder in New Tampa for nothing,” James says. “Stop in and find out why.”

For more information, call (813) 9837854 or visit OlympusPoolsFL.com.

India Gate To Open On CC Blvd.!

Last issue, we told you that the original owners of the former Saffron Indian Restaurant in the Cross Creek Center plaza on Cross Creek Blvd. had reopened a mile or so to the east of their old location and that the new Saffron Palace Indian restaurant had closed.

@NTWCNews

A

L

A spokesperson for the Cross Creek Plaza says (and a banner sign, see photo on previous page) proclaims that the former Saffron location will reopen as India Gate, an upscale, fine dining Indian restaurant from the same owner as the Hyderabad Biryani House on E. Fowler Ave. We’ll have more details in a future issue.

Lexington Oaks Re-Opens!

Owners Anass El-Omari and his wife Susana Herrera are proud to announce that the Lexington Oaks Golf Club golf course (26133 Lexington Oaks Blvd. in Wesley Chapel) and Omari’s Grill have reopened.

The golf course has been closed since shortly after a great 4th of July event, and although the original plan was to keep Omari’s Grill — the outstanding, real restaurant at the club — open during the golf course renovations, it also closed, to give Anass and his staff time to revamp Omari’s already excellent

menu. “We wanted to make it easier, faster and even better,” Anass says. “And I believe we’ve done just that. Come give us a try.”

Although my two favorite dishes on the old menu — the flounder Almendrine and the Chef’s filet mignon — are no longer menu items, Susana says they’ll still be offered as specials. I did sample a couple of new items, including a delicious and understated Buffalo chicken wrap sandwich which surprised me with how much I loved it. It was served with great, crispy fries, too.

We’ll have a full-length dining video about Omari’s soon, but in the meantime, Anass, an avid golfer, says that his reconditioned greens may now be the best in our area, despite an act of vandalism while the course was closed. For more info about the restaurant and golf course, visit LexingtonOaksGolf.com, or call (813) 907-7270. — GN

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DRY WALL SPECIALIST. Not a handyman. Affordable Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings and walls, retexturing, popcorn removal, room additions, cracks, holes, plaster and stucco repair. 26 Years Experience. Wesley Chapel resident. State Certified.

Call Ron for free estimate: 813-784-5999.

A-to-Z CLEANING AND ORGANIZING. Office-House Cleaning Services! Free estimates. We use our own supplies. Affordable & Reliable. Family-Owned & Operated. Wesley Chapel Resident. Weekly / Bi-Weekly / One-Time Cleaning / Move-In / Move-Out & DeepCleaning Services. Serving Wesley Chapel and New Tampa. Call today for a FREE No-Obligation Quote: 813-462-1270.

HEAVY HITTER LAWN CARE: Veteran owned and operated lawn care maintenance service, focused on lawn mowing, trimming, edging and blowing (flexible with extra services). Well maintained and professional laborer ensuring customer satisfaction and on-time cuts. Rain or shine, the quality and schedule will be kept. Licensed and Insured. Call or text 678-673-7856 for your FREE ESTIMATE.

B CLEANING SERVICES: Over 18 years experience!

Commercial and Residential; Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly; New house and post-construction clean-up; Window cleaning; Move-in or move-out cleanings; Pressure washing; FREE estimates; References available. Call today: 813-531-0154 or e-mail: bcleanings@hotmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS

TJ’S PRESSURE WASHING LLC. Did your HOA send you a letter ordering you to clean your driveway, house, screened enclosure, fence or even your roof? However, you’re too busy or too tired to clean it. Call or Text TJ, a current 20-year Sheriff’s Department veteran and a professional exterior home cleaning expert. You can trust me with your investment. Call or Text: 727-808-7775.

CHARLES POPPE ELECTRIC. Electric of all kinds pools, spas, service changes, new circuts, low voltage, repairs, upgrades, changes to existing, trouble shooting, GFCI performance testing, generators.

Expert in the field - over 40 years experience.

Discount for retired people 50%. Licensed and Insured Master Electrician EC 13002399 - free phone estimates. Call 813-477-9068.

AMBLER ENTERPRISES Home Improvement. Call James at 813-385-6402. 30 Years Experience. 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.

Please Google us if you would like to see pictures: Wesley Chapel Ambler Enterprises.

RAYMOND PAINTING. Exterior & Interior Services. Exterior: Painting, pressure washing, clean & seal pavers, stucco, roofing, leaks & wood rot repair. Interior: 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.

CLEANING SERVICES

D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE We have our own supplies and more than 400 clients in New Tampa!

For more info, Call 813-758-9710.

HELP WANTED

HIRING PERSONAL TRAINER. Private Women’s Studio with Boot Camp & Personal Training in Wesley Chapel & Land O’ Lakes owned by Samantha Taylor.

Please no phone calls or walk ins.To apply part time: www.lolfitbodybootcamp.com/hire-pt.

BOSCO’S ITALIAN-TO-GO is hiring! Inside & Delivery positions available. Must be 18+, have a good attitude & have your own reliable transportation. Stop in at 30122 S.R. 54, Wesley Chapel to fill out an application.

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. Call/Text 813-748-3901 or Visit: russellleprephotography.com

Jasmine Landscaping, Inc. Complete lawn maintenance: 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! Licensed & insured.

Accepting new residential & commercial accounts.

We accept Visa, MC, PayPal, Zelle, AmExp. Call or text 813-420-4465. Now hiring full-time workers.

NEIGHBORHOOD POOLS Wesley Chapel owned and 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.

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

SALON SPACE AVAILABLE

SERENITY SALON & SPA SUITES Wesley Chapel. Booth rental for Stylist available. Can be either full time or part time. Give us a call!: 813-312-5247 or 813-997-6302.

COMMERCIAL SPACE AVAILABLE 1,850 sq.ft. Commercial/Medical Space Available to Lease. Address: 24420 State Road 54 in Lutz (in the Medi-Weightloss Building). For more info, call 813-2934377 or email: gwillett@mediweightlossclinics.com.

Charles Junk Hauling, Tree Cutting & Demolition.

Junk, trash, debris-removal, garage clean-outs, yard-waste removal, whole-house clean-outs, we haul everything from A-to-Z. Demolition: Tile, cabinets, carpet, walls, sheds, decks, fencing, hottubs, swing-sets, concrete porches, etc. Low-low cheap prices – guaranteed, quality work. Call: 813-528-7683. 7-days a week.

PIANO LESSONS

PIANO LESSONS. Summer is a great time to start! 30+ Years of Experience. Reasonable rates. Children or Adults. Call 813-994-7857 for a FREE interview.

CORY LAKE ISLES – COMMUNITY-WIDE RUMMAGE SALE. Don’t miss this SEMI-ANNUAL EVENT on Saturday, October 5th, 2019 from 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Household goods, baby items, trinkets, treasures, plants & MORE. BEACH CLUB PARKING LOT, 10441 CORY LAKE DRIVE, TAMPA, FL 33647.

NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Notice is hereby given that the undersigned pursuant to the Fictitious Name Statute, Chapter 865.09, Florida Statutes, will register with the Division of Corporations, Department of State, State of Florida upon receipt of this notice, the fictitious name, to-wit: Le Jolie Papillon Events, under which I am engaged in business. Address that the party interested in said business enterprise is as follows: 8540 Gablebend Way, Tampa, FL 33647. Date: 06-September-2019.

ELITE RIDES. Private Rides in a Luxury Car and Concierge Services. Airport, School, Medical Appointments, Shopping. Courteous, Reliable, Professional. New Tampa to Tampa Airport: $35.00 One-Way. 24/7. Call/Text: 813-765-2037.

CLI Resident.

TREE SERVICE

ESTATE / ANTIQUE SALE: September 13, 14 &15 – 9:00am-3:00pm. Appliances, Furniture, Kitchen-Ware, Bedding, Collectibles, Miscellaneous Tools and MORE. Location: 31200 Shaker Circle (Whitlock in Meadow Pointe), Wesley Chapel.

FITZPATRICK’S TREE SERVICE. 25-years of Professional 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. Our Classified Ads are the ones your neighbors in New Tampa & Wesley Chapel actually read!

Free Estimate Exterior Home Cleaning

Pressure Washing, Soft Washing & Roof Cleaning, Pool Cages, Driveways, Pavers & More!

Before

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Check us out on Facebook facebook.com/SBSoftSpray

Veteran Owned & Operated

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44

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 19 • September 6, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

Neighborhood News

@NTWCNews

High quality at a great price.

SUNSHINE CLEANERS Top Quality...Great Prices

Gardner Gutters

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Join our Customer Rewards Program and get a punch every time you spend $10 or more.

After your 10th punch, you’ll receive $10 off your next order of $10 or more.

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Protect your children and pets with Tampa Bay’s only organic monthly fertilization and pest control • Courteous, friendly customer service • Monthly service from $40 per month • State licensed spray technicians • Organic/natural fertilizers • On-time service • Amazing results • No contracts • Special discounts on irrigation repairs and inspections

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Neighborhood News

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 19 • September 6, 2019 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

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Doing business in Pasco and Hillsborough County area since 1978

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Call KT or Cole Topash (owners/painters)

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Wesley Chapel 1285 Bruce B. Downs 813-991-7999

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�The ONLY Publication Direct-Mailed to 27,500 Homes* in Zip Code 33647!

Arbor Greene Cory Lake Isles Cross Creek Easton Park Grand Hampton/ The Hammocks 46

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 27, Issue 19 • September 6, 2019 • NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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HOW DO YOU GET YOUR

?

Volume 26 Issue 25

Inside:

For Great Gift Ideas, Shop Our Gift Guide!

December 1, 2018

In Neighborhood Magazine!

Remember To View, Like & Share Every Episode Of WCNT-tv On YouTube & Facebook!

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

BRUCE B. DONE!

For the complete list of the neighborhoods that receive this publication by direct mail in New Tampa (zip code 33647), see page 50!

Imagine being a traffic engineer for the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and director of public works in Hillsborough County for 29 years, going to work, designing traffic layouts and signals to help traffic flows in 14 Florida counties.

Imagine doing your highly stressful job so well and acquiring so many admirers along the way, that when you suddenly pass away, it is so heartbreaking that they re-name a road in your honor.

Now, imagine your name is Bruce Barkley Downs.

••• In New Tampa, you won’t have Bruce B. Downs to kick around much longer, as the widening of the much-maligned, and breathlessly-besmirched boulevard that bears the late Mr. Downs’ name is now — finally — complete.

But, not completely complete, mind you.

See “Bruce B. Done!” on page 6.

News:

Business:

News: Sports: LongtimeBruce LocalB. Politicians Voted News, Business & Looking For Unique Holiday Gifts?

INSIDE Surprise!

Downs (BBD) Former Wharton High Football Also Inside INSIDE Blue Wave.

Try Updates Creativity Unpinned.

Blvd. IsOut OurInArea’s Worst Road Players Declare for NFL DraftEducation Page3-17 10 This Issue:Pages

Pages 28-29

Pages 34-37 Pages 3-32

Neighborhood Magazine: Neighborhood Magazine: The First New Tampa Brew Fest The Readers Have Spoken!

Was AAre Smashing Success.

Here Their Favorites!

Pages Pages 39-40 39-52

WESLEY CHAPEL

Inside:

NEWS

A Recap Of The 2019 Taste Of New Tampa!

See Neighborhood Magazine

Volume 27 Issue 8 April 5, 2019

Now Celebrating 25 Years As New Tampa & Wesley Chapel’s Primary News Source!

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

For the complete list of neighborhoods that receive this publication by direct mail in Wesley Chapel (zip codes 33543, 33544 & 33545), see page 46!

First Look Inside:

Openings Galore

Burlington and 5 Below are open, and Wawa and Chick Fil-A aren’t far behind.

Cue the applause.

Pages 10-11

ONE HEART To me, the story of my relationship with the former Jannah

Story by Gary Nager Photo by Jillian Joseph Photograhy

the Neighborhood News, we first got together when I walked into the now-defunct Stage Left (the music Johnson McDonald is so much venue on S.R. 54 in Lutz), the night more than just your usual case of of my birthday in 2015. boy-meets-girl, boy and girl fall in The place was packed. Jannah love and live happily ever after.

Ours is the story of two people and I were both members of the Rotary Cub of Wesley Chapel, so who have been through a lot in their lives — although not nearly as when I heard and then saw a group much as some people we know and of women, all of whom also were members of that same Rotary Club, love — but who somehow figured invite me, rather loudly, to join out how to be there for each other them at their table, I didn’t refuse. and became two stronger, better So yes, ours is a match made in people because of our mutual respect for and support of each other. Rotary heaven, and we know a few other couples who also met through the This marriage may not be the world’s largest service organization. first rodeo for either of us — and, But, enough of that mushy quite honestly, neither one of us thought we’d ever get married again stuff. Because we decided to put on our wedding ourselves, I knew I — but after knowing each other for would have to pull together a lot of as many as eight years and being tothe contacts I’ve made through the gether for more than four, we both just knew it was the right time for us Neighborhood News in order to put on the kind of wedding we wanted. to make this thing official.

I owe these businesses and busiAlthough we actually met ness owners a lot because only with all when Jannah was working for the of their help, could we have the wedAmerican Cancer Society and was ding of our dreams. So, the story that putting on the Wesley Chapel Relay follows is my way of thanking them. for Life and I was covering it for See “The Business Side Of Jannah & Gary’s Wedding” on page 4.

Vroooom!

The Man Cave will give your hair a professional and relaxing tune-up in a cool, guy-oriented setting.

Pages 22-23

Newcomer Tops At Taste

The Taste of New Tampa & Wesley Chapel attracted roughly 1,000 patrons, who sampled the wares of neary 40 local eateries, and two Taste-y newcomers made this year’s top three.

Pages 40-41

New Tampa Neighborhood News

Directly mailed every four weeks (13 issues per year) to every home, apartment & business in zip code 33647 — nearly 27,700 addresses & more than 65,000 people! Publisher & editor Gary Nager has been providing REAL, hyperlocal news for the residents & businesses of New Tampa since the name was first coined.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News

Directly mailed every four weeks (13 issues per year) to nearly 26,000 addresses and more than 60,000 people in Wesley Chapel’s three zip codes — 33543, 33544 & 33545! Our Wesley Chapel edition was the first & is still the only local news magazine dedicated to covering the fastest-growing area in Florida!

NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net

The online news & information source for New Tampa & Wesley Chapel, thanks to thousands of click-throughs per day generated by our daily news posts on Facebook (search “Neighborhood News”).

Neighborhood News Online Videos

Whether you watch us on Facebook (search “Neighborhood News”) or YouTube (search “Neighborhood News Online’), our video content has reached two million people and has been viewed for more than two million minutes since 2016!

The Tampa Bay area’s ONLY Neighborhood News publications have been the REAL news source for New Tampa & Wesley Chapel for 25 Years!

And, thanks to our recent funding from Google, the Neighborhood News is now the ONLY truly multimedia advertising medium by, for & about the residents & businesses of New Tampa & Wesley Chapel!

To find out what we can do to promote your business, call (813) 910-2575!

10209 Waterside Oaks Dr.

JUST LISTED 4 Bed | Den/Office | 3 Bath | 2,891 SF | 3 Car Garage | Beautiful Waterfront Home Site, 3-Way Floor Plan, Fireplace, Built-In Entertainment Center, Designer Tile Flooring, Bamboo & Laminate Wood Floors, Granite Counters, 42” Cabinetry & Island Work Station in Kitchen, Custom Pool/Spa Area Offered for $439,000

8131 Brinegar Cir.

JUST LISTED

5410 Burchette Rd.

JUST LISTED

5 Bed | Bonus Room | 4 Bath | 3,700 SF | 3 Car Side-Load Garage | Home Site on 1/3 Acre, Ceramic Tile Flooring, 42” Maple Cabinetry, Corian Counters, Island Work Station, Recipe Desk, Walk-In Pantry, 2-Story Screened Lanai w/Balcony, Saltwater Pool & Spa, Conservation Views Offered for $439,000

4 Bed | 3 Bath | 3025 S.F. | 2 Car Garage | French Doors, Granite Counters, Stainless Steel Appliances, Pass-Thru Window in Kitchen, Remodeled Bathrooms, Wood Floors, Built-Ins in Family Room, Vaulted Ceilings, Newer Roof, Lagoon Style Pool w/Rock Waterfall, Fireplace Offered for $489,000

17849 Arbor Greene Dr.

7212 Hammet Rd.

20103 Oak Alley Dr.

4 Bed | 3 Bath | Office | 2,751 SF | 3 Car Garage | Engineered Hardwood Floors, Crown Molding, Built-In Closet Systems, Newer A/C & Water Heater, New Water Softener, Newer Interior & Exterior Paint, Kitchen w/Quartz Counters, S/S Appliances, Large Corner Lot, Waterfront Views Offered for $389,000

4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,988 SF | 3 Car Garage | New Roof, New Porcelain Tile Floors, Resurfaced Pool, New Granite Counters in Kitchen & Bathrooms, New Interior & Exterior Paint, Gourmet Kitchen w/42” Maple Cabinetry, New S/S Appliances, 2-Story Screened Lanai, Pool & Spa, Stunning Water Views Offered for $389,000

4 Bed | 5 Bath | Bonus Room | Media Room | Study | Computer Center | 4,603 SF | 3 Car Garage | Courtyard Entry, Crown Moldings, Tray Ceilings, Bonus Room w/Balcony, Kitchen w/Granite, S/S Appliances, Island Workstation, Covered Lanai, Brick Paver Pool Deck, Conservation Home Site Offered for $575,000

18105 Courtney Breeze Dr.

9115 Canberley Dr.

4 Bed | Den | Bonus Room | 3 Bath | 4,275 SF | 3 Car Side-Load Garage | High End Finishes Include Bast Hardwood Floors, Crown Molding, French Doors, Water Filtration System, 2 Tankless Water Heaters, Kitchen w/Granite, S/S Appliances, Ice Machine, Bosch Dishwasher, Conservation Offered for $675,000

5 Bed | 3 Bath | Office | 3,044 SF | 3 Car Garage | 2-Story Ceilings in Formal Area, Leaded Glass Double Door Entry, Upgraded Kitchen w/42” Stacked Maple Cabinetry, Granite Counters, 2 Pantries, Remodeled Master Bath, Cul-De-Sac w/Large Rear Yard, Screened Veranda Offered for $399,900

4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,959 SF | 2 Car Garage | Tile Roof 2014, Plantation Shutters, Tile & Engineered Hardwood Floors, Fireplace, Kitchen w/42” Maple Cabinetry, S/S Appliances, Quartz Counters, Subway Tile Backsplash, Island Workstation, Pavered Lanai, Plumbed for Outdoor Kitchen Offered for $439,000

Tampa Palms

Retreat at Carrollwood

Cory Lake Isles

16366 Heathrow Dr.

SALE PENDING

SALE PENDING

SALE PENDING

4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,372 SF | 2-Car Garage | 20 ft. Ceilings | Maintenance Free Living in Tampa Palms, Newer Exterior Paint, Wood & 20” Italian Ceramic Tile Flooring, Wet Bar, Fireplace, Kitchen w/42” Cabinetry, S/S Appliances, Granite Counters, Breakfast Nook, Wood Deck, Conservation Home Site Offered for $319,000

5 Bed | 4 Bath | Office | Bonus Room | 4,520 SF | 3 Car Garage | Coffered Ceilings, Plantation Shutters, Whitewashed Plank Laminate Wood Floors, Kitchen w/Quartz Center Island, Espresso Cabinetry, Travertine Backsplash, Butler’s Pantry, S/S Appliances, Lanai, Outdoor Kitchen Offered for $639,000

5 Bed | Office | Theater Room | 4.5 Bath | 4,704 SF | 3 Car Garage | Granite Counters, 18” Tile Throughout Lower Level, Wood Flooring, Coffered Ceilings, 3M Solar Tinted Windows, Screened Lanai, Heated Saltwater Pool w/Jacuzzi, Summer Kitchen, Waterfront Dock w/Boat Lift Offered for $765,000

The Ridge at Wiregrass

Hunter’s Green

Avila

SOLD 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | Loft | 2,890 SF | 2 Car Garage | Open Floor Plan, Master Bedroom Downstairs, Expansive Walk-In Closets, Gourmet Kitchen w/42” Cabinetry, Stainless Steel Appliances, Granite Counters, Breakfast Nook, Covered Patio, Outdoor Kitchen, Resort Style Community Amenities Offered for $430,540

SALE PENDING 5 Bed | 3 Bath | Office | 3,192 SF | 3 Car Garage | Marble Floors in Formal Dining, Hardwood Floors Throughout, Kitchen w/New Cabinetry, Bosch Dishwasher, Built-In Wine Rack, S/S Appliances, 5-Burner Gas Range w/ Cavaliere Range Hood, Granite Counters, Island Workstation, Pool & Spa Offered for $330,000

SOLD 6 Bed | 5.5 Bath | Office | Studio/Playroom | 7,039 SF | 3 Car Garage | Corner Home Site On 2/3 Acre In Cul-De-Sac, 20’ Ceilings, Marble & Wood Floors, Crown Molding, Plantation Shutters, Gourmet Kitchen, Fireplace, Custom Built-Ins, Saltwater Pool w/Heated Spa, Outdoor Kitchen Offered for $1,299,000