Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, Volume 31, Issue 20, October 3, 2023

So, Really — Wherefore Art Thou, Wesley Chapel?

By GARY NAGER Research by Joel Provenzano

One of the debates that has raged for at least ten years in our area has been over the boundaries of the community we love — Wesley Chapel.

According to us, and how we directmail this publication, Wesley Chapel has, for nearly 30 years now, included only the communities within zip codes 33543, 33544 & 33545. The mail delivery of all three of those zip codes is still handled by the Zephyrhills Post Office, even though most of Wesley Chapel is 20-30 minutes (or more) from it. Our version of Wesley Chapel now includes more than 33,000 homes, apartments and businesses and, according to the Post Office, a little more than 90,000 people.

However, our editorial researcher and current Realtor (with Florida Executive Realty in Tampa Palms) Joel Provenzano, who previously was a transportation engineer with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), says that the zip code map on this page isn’t the only way to determine the boundaries of Wesley Chapel.

In fact, Joel was put smack-dab in the middle of this controversy ten years ago when, as part of his job with FDOT, he was responsible for placing a road sign

Our

EDITORIAL

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that said simply “Wesley Chapel” on the east side of Wesley Chapel Blvd., a little bit north of S.R. 56.

The problem was that since the zip code of the land upon which the sign sat was in Lutz’s 33559 zip code (as is everything west of I-75 on both sides of S.R. 56, including the Tampa Premium Outlets, see map), our friends from Lutz basically insisted that FDOT remove the sign — which today no longer sits at that location.

However, Joel says that although the zip code in that area says Lutz, the U.S. Census Bureau’s list of Census Designated Places (CDPs) includes portions of both Lutz and Land O’Lakes within its Wesley Chapel boundaries (see map on page 5). Interestingly enough, there also are portions within zip codes 33543, 33544 & 33545, which is what I always have called “Wesley Chapel proper,” that aren’t included in the Census Bureau’s Wesley Chapel CDP. In fact, according to the 2020 U.S. Census, the population within the boundaries of the Wesley Chapel CDP was only about 60,000 people, because of the communities that are and are not included in the CDP boundaries.

So, depending upon whose boundaries you use, one person’s Wesley Chapel is another person’s Lutz and vice-versa.

Although there are other ways to determine the boundaries of an unincorporated community, the Neighborhood News has always considered the boundaries of Wesley Chapel to be the communities within zip codes 33543, 33544 & 33545 only. See

“SHREK THE MUSICAL!”

Fresh off a successful Fall Festival weekend, the NTPAC will present a classic musical.

See pages 10-15

WALMART ROBOTS?

The New Tampa Walmart is one of the first to offer automated fulfillment centers.

See page 16

MORE NEW EATERIES!

Slim Chickens, Shuckin’ Shack, Sorbo, Bad Ass Coffee & Kobé are all open!

See pages 42-45

New Challenges Don’t Usually Faze Me, But This One Took A Toll

By GARY NAGER Editorial

Over the past nearly 30 years, the Neighborhood News has faced more challenges than I even care to remember — including new competition, the growth of online communities, paper shortages, Covid-19 and many more.

When you’ve been doing what I do for as long as I have, there also are likely to be at least a few health-related issues, but I’m so appreciative I’ve been fortunate enough to not have to deal with any long-term complications.

A few weeks before the Covid pandemic shut everything down, I had the second of two cataract surgeries at the St. Luke’s Eye Center in Tarpon Springs. On my follow-up appointment with my optometrist, David Scamard , O.D., of Excellence in Eye Care (see ad on this page), a few months later, Dr. Dave asked me if I was having any “floaters” in either of my surgically-repaired eyes and I emphatically and happily told him “no.”

That response continued to be true until less than two weeks before this issue was supposed to go to press, when I finally understood what he meant by “floaters.” I visited Dr. Dave at the Costco south of S.R. 56, where he took digital photos of my eyes and said he saw the likely source of my floaters. He told me to come back a few days later for a full eye exam.

It was at that appointment, at about 11 a.m., with my vision in my left eye suddenly blurry, that he determined that I had a detached retina. He immediately set up an appointment for 2-1/2 hours later with retinal specialist Alfred White, M.D., of Retina Vitreous Associates of Florida, which has an office on the north side of S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel.

Dr. White, who combines a great bedside manner with being super matter-of-factly about what I was about to go through, confirmed the detached retina and scheduled me for emergency reattachment surgery the next day. I had two questions about this — could I hold off the surgery for a week or two so Jannah and I could go to North Carolina to visit her daughter and her family and see a concert we had been planning to attend for more than six months, and of course, how would I get this issue that you are now holding in your hands done if I had to keep my head in a face-down position in a massage chair donut hole for 45 minutes of every hour after surgery for at least the next 5-7 days?

Dr. White told me that if I didn’t have the surgery, my detached retina could get worse and make the recovery from the surgery more difficult. And, whether I had it or not, the pressure in that eye could get so bad that the plane we planned to fly in to NC could have had to make an emergency landing on my behalf.

So of course, I had the surgery the next day. And, while keeping my head down for that many hours and that many days — and having to sleep face-down until my follow-up appointment a week later — was anything but easy, my wife Jannah did everything for me to make sure I got through these difficulties by driving and doing most everything else for me during my recovery.

For the few minutes each hour that I wasn’t looking down, I was at my computer working to finish this issue, which went to press just three days after our usual deadline — and hopefully is only arriving in your mailbox a day or two after the planned Oct. 3 date. I apologize if it was any more delayed than that.

I also am sorry that we don’t have quite as many news stories in this issue as we usually do. It wasn’t easy for me to do research for my planned stories because I simply couldn’t put in my usual man hours at the computer.

Even so, I appreciate the efforts of not only Drs. White and Scamard, but also of our editorial research specialist Joel Provenzano, who helped me get as much info as possible for this issue’s cover story about the two different approaches to determining the boundaries of Wesley Chapel; to our amazing graphic designer Valerie Wegeman, for getting the maps for that story and our ads done; and especially, to Jannah for doing pretty much everything else that I normally do to complete an issue and for making sure that this edition is chock full of ads so that I had less space to fill than usual.

I also am equally appreciative for all of you — our amazing readers — who continue to give me a reason to do what I have done for nearly three decades.

As to what caused my retinal detachment, Dr. White said that people who have been extremely nearsighted for most of their lives — as I was until I had my cataract surgeries in 2020 — are more prone to this problem because being nearsighted constantly stretches your retinas as you age. Other possible causes are actually having had cataract surgeries (but that would normally have happened sooner), being diabetic (which I’m not), injuries to the eye (which I haven’t had) and, as often as not, bad luck.

So, while getting a detached retina may have been bad luck, I am going to recover my eyesight, which actually makes me feel lucky.

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So, Really — Wherefore Art Thou, Wesley Chapel? (Continued

By GARY NAGER

Research by Joel Provenzano

Although the name “Wesley Chapel” seemed relatively new to those of us whose families haven’t lived in this area since before “The Chap” became one of the fastest-growing communities in the U.S., according to the super-interesting book Images of America: Wesley Chapel by historian Madonna Jervis Wise, the name “Wesley Chapel” actually dates back to before the Civil War and much of the land that today is known as Wesley Chapel was at one time owned by a land trust headed by none other than the financier John D. Rockefeller.

Although it became more commonly known as “Wesley,” as shown on the map above from 1917, Wesley Chapel was a small community located due west of Zephyrhills and east of the adjacent town of Godwin. It extended south basically to the Pasco/Hillsborough county line, where it met up with the community of Branchton, or what we more commonly refer to as New Tampa today.

In fact, according to a map in Wise’s book, most of the area west of what is now called Old Pasco Rd. likely wasn’t considered part of the original town of Wesley Chapel as, dating back to the 1840s, the property owned by four families — the Boyett(e), Gillett(e), Godwin and Kersey families (see marker signs on next page) —

(Source:

only encompassed the area between Old Pasco Rd. to the west, the county line to the south (when all of what is now Pasco County was considered to be part of Hernando County), “Over Pass Rd.” to the north and Handcart Rd. to the east were included in the homesteads of those families.

But, in the mid-1900s, several other ranch/farming families ended up buying up most of the land the Rockefeller-Weyerhauser Trust owned, including 15,000 acres purchased by James Barney Porter, the father of James H “Wiregrass” Porter, in 1937.

But, it wasn’t until former publishing magnate Tom Dempsey purchased (around

1979) a few hundred acres on the south side of S.R. 54 (which was, at the time, nothing more than a twolane country road that connected New Port Richey on the west side to Zephyrhills on the east side) to develop into Saddlebrook Resort (which opened in 1981) that anyone other than those ranching old timers really used the name Wesley or Wesley Chapel at all.

The only other part of Wesley Chapel already developed before Saddlebrook was Williamsburg, a small community with still fewer than 300 single-family homes that was originally intended (in the 1970s) to be a retirement community to be called “Levittown Florida,” after developer Abraham Leviitt, (and his sons), who developed the original (and much larger) Levittown on Long Island, NY.

Fast forward almost two decades later, as other portions of the former ranch lands in Wesley Chapel began developing (beginning with Meadow Pointe in the early 1990s), the name Wesley Chapel still didn’t really catch on. In fact, the first shopping center built in Meadow Pointe was called “The Shoppes at New Tampa,” as the devel-

from page 1)

opers tried to capitalize on the more-developed and better-known community located south of the county line. The shopping center’s name was changed to “The Shoppes at New Tampa of Wesley Chapel,” as people who lived in the newly burgeoning community north of the county line resented being referred to as “New Tampa.”

Is it Lutz Or Wesley Chapel?

But, the reason there’s even a story to tell here is primarily because the developers and the businesses located within those developments had different goals than the people who already lived in those areas.

The greatest example of this had to do with the long-awaited construction of the Cypress Creek Town Center, which is located west of I-75. To that end, the mall and all of the businesses that have popped up around it have Lutz zip codes, even though those businesses often referred to themselves (and still do) as being located in Wesley Chapel. This problem was definitely exacerbated by the fact that not only did many of the people who lived in the more rural Lutz not want their community to become part of the sprawl they saw happening in Wesley Chapel, there also were two chambers of commerce serving that area — the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber (which was renamed and rebranded as the North Tampa Bay Chamber, or NTBC, in 2018) and the Central Pasco Chamber (which was renamed

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Historic map of Wesley Chapel & Godwin

History of Pasco County: Wesley Chapel, Fivay.org, Aug 2020)

the Greater Pasco Chamber, or CPCC).

The Central Pasco Chamber fought along side the long-term residents of Lutz to not only prevent anything located in a Lutz zip code from being considered part of Wesley Chapel, they also resented that what had long been referred to as “Old C.R. 54” being renamed Wesley Chapel Blvd., and that the sign saying “Wesley Chapel” had been placed on property with a Lutz zip code.

But, according to both our editorial researcher Joel Provenzano, who worked for the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) at that time, and Hope Kennedy — who was the president and CEO of the former Wesley Chapel Chamber who now

holds the same titles with the NTBC — neither of them had anything to do with the sign being placed at that location.

“FDOT put the sign where it was on Wesley Chapel Blvd. because the U.S. Census Bureau said that everything east of Old 54/Wesley Chapel Blvd., was part of the Wesley Chapel Census Designated Place (or CDP),” Joel says. “In fact, the Census Bureau never recognized that the community of Lutz, which was historically only part of Hillsborough County, as even extending north of the Pasco County line. The Pasco portions of Lutz are part of the Central Pasco CCD, or Census County Division.”

See “Wesley Chapel” on pg. 6

The two-sided marker sign near what is now the First Baptist Church of Wesley Chapel (formerly Double Branch Church) on S.R. 54 tells part of the story of Wesley Chapel’s history.

“Wesley Chapel”

Continued from page 5

In other words, just as the people who lived in Wesley Chapel didn’t want to be part of New Tampa, the people of the Pasco-based portions of Lutz did not want to be thought of as Wesley Chapel, no matter what the Census Bureau, the county or the State of Florida thought about it.

In fact, Hope says she remembers when the Central Pasco Chamber tried to not only get the name “Wesley Chapel Blvd.” removed from the roadway that currently provides some of the zip code boundaries between Lutz, Wesley Chapel and Land O’Lakes, but also from the Wesley Chapel Blvd. extension that one day will extend to the Pasco-Hillsborough county line (as we reported in the Feb. 12, 2016 edition of the Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News), with new developments already planned in that area (that we plan to update you about in a future issue).

The Central Pasco Chamber and Lutz community also fought against a plan for Wesley Chapel to incorporate as its own city that never gained enough traction to be brought before the Pasco Board of County Commissioners (BCC). Hope says that part of the reason that idea failed was because neither side could get the county to come to an agreement as to what areas the boundaries of the “City of Wesley Chapel” should include.

Hope also says that she was told that the Census Bureau tries to use “natural” bounda-

ries whenever possible to create census tracts, but even that methodology failed when it came to establishing the Wesley Chapel CDP. Although it is not shown on the map

above, Cypress Creek runs from south of where I-75 meets the Pasco-Hillsborough county line, to the north and slightly to the west of Wesley Chapel Blvd. But, if Cypress

Creek was used to establish the Wesley Chapel CDP boundaries, Lexington Oaks and The Grove, which have Wesley Chapel zip codes, would be included within its boundaries, instead of in the Central Pasco CCD (see map).

Speaking of not being included, also not within the boundaries of the Wesley Chapel CDR are Chapel Crossings and New River Township/Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. At our press time, we had no idea why these Wesley Chapel communities are not included in the Wesley Chapel CDP.

We also were surprised that other communities located north of S.R. 54 and east of Curley Rd., especially Watergrass, are considered by the Census Bureau to be part of the Pasadena Hills CDP. I always thought of Pasadena Hills as being more of a Zephyrhillsarea development, with most of the CDP located east of Handcart Rd./Eiland Blvd., and had no idea that Watergrass was considered part of it, even though Watergrass does extend all the way east to Handcart.

The exclusion of these large-scale developments from the Wesley Chapel CDP boundaries explains why the Census Bureau believes there are so many fewer residents — 60,000 compared with our zip code count of just over 90,000 in 33543, 33544 & 33545.

What it unfortunately doesn’t clarify is where the boundaries of Wesley Chapel really are or should be. So, I admit that this article has been something of an exercise in futility, even though it definitely has been an extremely interesting one — at least to yours truly.

To be continued!

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, all of the Pasco areas in orange on the map above are considered to be part of Wesley Chapel, even though everything in orange located west of I-75 is in Lutz’s 33559 postal zip code. (Neighborhood News map by Valerie Wegener)

Watergrass Chapel Crossings

Avalon Park WC

Live Oak Preserve Park Site Sale Will Help Pay For Pride Rec Center

By GARY NAGER Research by Joel Provenzano

Hillsborough County has been planning to build an indoor recreation center at Pride Park, just south of Pride Elementary for some time now.

The problem the county faced was how to fund the nearly $7 million needed to build the 16,000-sq.-ft. indoor Pride Recreation Center, which is planned to include space for basketball, volleyball, pickleball and even space for meetings, after-school programs and perhaps an outdoor splash pad.

Well, for many years, as part of the development of Live Oak Preserve, Hillsborough has owned an unused 61.89-acre parcel a little bit west and north of where the Pride Rec Center is planned that abuts the boundary between Live Oak in the county and the City of Tampa’s K-Bar Ranch/Easton Park development.

The same parcel, which is shaped like a much smaller version of the state of Nevada (see map), also extends north to the Hillsborough/Pasco County line, basically to where Kinnan St. (in the city) meets Mansfield Blvd. in Pasco County — where there currently is a gated arm that only opens for emergency vehicles, as Pasco has rejected all attempts over the years to open that patch of roadway to regular vehicular traffic.

On Apr. 5 of this year, Hillsborough County sold this nearly 62-acre parcel — which countywide Dist. 2 County Commissioner Ken Hagan said was not in the plans to be developed into a park by the county — to Anand Vihar, LLC, for the price of $6,001,200.

It just so happens that Anand Vihar, LLC (and its development group, Convergent Capital Partners) is the same group that owned and developed the property immediately to the north, in Wesley Chapel, as an age 55+ community by the same “Anand Vihar” name.

That Pasco-based property, which is home to a large number of doctors and engineers originally from India, was just turned over to the community’s condo

2023, and is now home to 167 attached townhomes.

However, Santosh Govindaraju, the chief executive officer of Convergent Capital partners, says that when plans are filed in November with Hillsborough County, Convergent will seek approval for 111 single-family homes on the new property, with homes ranging in price from $550,000 to $1 million, and from 1,800-2,500 square feet. The property in Live Oak also is expected to be developed as an age 55-and-older community.

Although the original zoning approval for the site would allow for 143 homes, Govindaraju has said that with only 111 homes, there will be more open “green” space available. In other words, whether the Hillsborough-based community also will be called Anand Vihar

or not, it will prove to be a more upscale community than Anand Vihar in Pasco.

What remains to be seen, of course, is whether or not the two separate communities can ever be connected by anything other than the nature trail that is in the current site plan for the Hillsborough County property. At the present time, the residents of the Hillsborough County Anand Vihar property would only be able to access Pasco County by taking K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. east to Meadow Pointe Blvd., turn north to Beardsley Dr. and then back to the west on Beardsley Dr. to access the Anand Vihar property on Mansfield Blvd.

Is there a possibility — with former Dist. 2 Pasco Commissioner Mike Moore — who never budged on allowing the connection at Kinnan St./Mans-

field Blvd. — now replaced by Commissioner Seth Weightman in Pasco’s Dist. 2, that a road connection between the two Anand Vihar communities could be allowed? That remains to be seen.

As for the Pride Recreation Center, Commissioner Hagan says the $6-million in proceeds from the Live Oak park site sale will pay for most of the cost of its construction, which is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2024 and be completed by the end of next year or early in 2025.

“There was an additional funding need of about $750,000 or $775,000 to build the rec center,” Hagan says. “But, we already have that additional funding worked out in our fiscal 2024 budget.”

Hagan adds that he is excited that the rec center is now coming to fruition.

(Left) The 61.89-acre parcel in Live Oak Preserve purchased by Anand Vihar, LLC, from Hillsborough County is outlined in purple. (Right) The monument sign (top) and a drone shot of the Anand Vihar 55+ community just north of the Pasco County line on Mansfield Blvd. in Meadow Pointe. (Map & photos provided by Hillsborough County & AnandViharTampa.com) association in June

Oak Preserve Blvd.

Kinnan

St.

Anand Vihar, LLC to K-Bar Ranch Pkwy

Hillsborough-Pasco boundary

K-Bar Ranch

Recapping The New Tampa Performing Arts Center’s First Fall Festival

If you somehow missed the first-ever Fall Festival at the all-new New Tampa Performing Arts Center (NTPAC), you missed a truly special weekend (Sept. 8-10) of 100% free performances of virtually every kind. Everything from ballet to modern dance and from Broadway to traditional Indian dance was available to attendees, thousands of whom packed the NTPAC throughout the weekend. NTPAC executive director Keith Arsenault was clearly beaming all three days of the Fall Festival.

“We couldn’t be happier with the performances, the attendance and the feedback we’ve received from everyone who visited this weekend,” Arsenault said. “It’s clear that this community has been hungry for more cultural opportunities.”

Although we weren’t able to take pictures at every performance, Neighborhood News photographer Charmaine George and I were proud to be on hand for most of the weekend’s festivities, which also included Arsenault unveiling a plaque of thanks to Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan. Arsenault said that the land for the NTPAC was dedicated 15 years ago, and that it took 15 County Commission votes to make the Center a reality.

“We have many people at the county to thank,” Arsenault said, “but we would not be standing here today without the long-standing efforts of Ken Hagan.”

Hagan was clearly moved by the plaque. “Politicians are rarely at a loss for words, but I am blown away by this. Thank you!” — GN (All photos on these pages by Charmaine George)

Among the memorable performances and activities at the NTPAC’s Fall Festival were song-&dance routines by the Freedom High chorus (top), a spectacular dance performance by the Jansen Dance Company (above) and (left) the cabaret lounge set by New Tampa Players l.-r., Makayla Raines, Trevor Lloyd, Alyson Gannon, pianist G. Frank Meekins & Kyle Billington).

Other outstanding performances at the NTPAC’s Fall Festival included (top) a set by the Wharton High performance band and (above) the spectacular leaps, costumes and projected sets of the Tampa City Ballet.

More NTPAC Fall Festival Highlights Appear on Page 12!

More Highlights From The Fall Festival At The New Tampa Performing Arts Center!

Continued from page 11 (All photos on this page by Charmaine George & Gary Nager)

After the impressive and superfun performances on Friday and Saturday (see pages 10-11), the NTPAC’s Fall Festival didn’t have any let-up on Sunday, as the Rudram Dance Company brought a huge number of traditionally-costumed Indian dancers to the NTPAC’s main stage.

Then, before two one-act plays (“Co-Workers” and “Sherlock Holmes & Case of the 5-Pound Note”) were presented by winners of the Tampa Bay Theatre Festival, the folk rock acoustic duo of Daisies & Axes performed in Studio 2.

And, all throughout the weekend, The Florida Orchestra hosted a unique musical instrument “Petting Zoo,” where attendees young and old got to not only look at, but also feel and attempt to play violins, drums, cymbals and more. As seen in the photos on this page, the kids who visited definitely seemed to enjoy what may have been their first experiences with these instruments.

There also was a “Fun with Broadway Trivia” game presented by the New Tampa Players, followed by ATLAS Modern Ballet’s contemporary dance performance, but we didn’t get to shoot those because of our deadline for the Sept. 19 New Tampa issue. Wow!

But, you don’t have to wait until next year’s Fall Festival to experience the fun and excitement happening all year ‘round at the NTPAC. In fact, on page 14, we’ll tell you all about the next performances by the New Tampa Players —”Shrek The Musical!” — GN

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(Top right) The Rudram Dance Company’s performance filled the NTPAC’s ,main stage with traditional Indian dance, costumes & pageantry. (Center right) Daisies & Axes performed acoustic folk rock favorites in the NTPAC’s Studio 2. (Above) The award-winning short play “Sherlock Holmes & the 5-Pound Note.” (Left photos) Kids who attended the Fall Festival really seemed to enjoy The Florida

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Check Out ‘Shrek: The Musical’ At The New Tampa Performing Arts Center!

By NORA PAINE

NTP Producing Artistic Director

Remember that terrifying-but-secretlylovable ogre, his annoying-but-lovable donkey, and that captive princess hiding a secret or two? Dreamworks’ classic movie “Shrek,” loosely based on a book by William Steig, was one of the biggest animated hits of all time: a funny, irreverent send-up of fairy tale clichés, with catchy music, iconic voice acting, and — underneath it all — a heart of gold. “Shrek” spawned several sequels and a hit Broadway show: “Shrek The Musical,” with twenty original songs. “Shrek The Musical” is coming to the New Tampa Performing Arts Center (NTPAC) for two weekends — October 20-22 & 27-29.

The New Tampa Players (NTP) theatre troupe has been operating for 20 years and more than 70 productions, but “Shrek The Musical” will be only the second Broadway musical the troupe has presented at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center (NTPAC), the beautiful, 350-seat facility located across Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. from the main entrance to Hunter’s Green that opened its doors earlier this year (see pages 10-12).

As we have already come to expect from our NTP, “Shrek The Musical” will have a shockingly-talented local cast, a live orchestra and gorgeous costumes, sets, and lights. NTP’s previous Broadway musical, “Grease,” completely sold out the last four of its six performances in July, with a waiting list of 60, so if you want to catch everyone’s

favorite green ogre, you should pick up those “Shrek” tickets right away.

“Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek….” — thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists being rescued. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and more than a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. And luckily, there’s one on hand, and his name is Shrek.

Shrek the Musical’s cast of 30 includes residents from New Tampa and the local area, including Chris Cordero (right photo) as Shrek, Brianna Filippelli-Peterson as Fiona, Evan Lomba as Donkey, and Kyle Fisher as Lord Farquaad. Cordero, FilippelliPeterson and Fisher were featured performers in NTPAC’s dedication performance in March, and if you were lucky enough to catch “Grease,” you saw Fisher as Kenickie.

NTP also has assembled an amazing artistic team with newcomers Karissa Barber, Megan Zietler and Victoria Zisi as director, music director, and choreographer, respectively.

For Barber, Shrek is a passion project and very dear to her heart.

“Shrek is about loving yourself and finding your people in life,” she says.

Cordero, as the titular ogre, agrees wholeheartedly with Barber, “Most of the characters have to learn not to judge a book

by its cover. Everyone has their own story, their own dreams and things that make them special. This show is about acceptance, vulnerability and love. These themes are universal to everyone, and everyone will find something in this show that will touch their hearts.”

“Shrek The Musical” is funny and fast-paced with a warm heart. Seeing familiar characters brought to life on stage (along with some truly stunning costumes and effects) makes the show exciting and accessible for kids, parents, grandparents, and anyone who enjoys a musical good time. Similar to the animated film, “Shrek the Musical” is

considered appropriate for ages 12 and up, due to mild language and some crass humor. Some jokes will be over the younger kids’ heads and, as always, parents should use their own judgement.

Mark your calendars and get your tickets now for “Shrek The Musical” on Fri. & Sat., Oct 20-21, both at 8 p.m. & Sun., Oct. 22, at 3 p.m.; it also will be performed Fri.-Sat., Oct. 27-28, at 8 p.m., & Sun., Oct. 29, at 3 p.m., all at the beautiful New Tampa Performing Arts Center. Tickets can be purchased at NewTampaPlayers.org.

Source: IMDb, original Broadway cast poster

(Above) Chris Cordero will play the titular ogre

Walmart To Begin Utilizing Robotic Order Fulfillment By Next Year

By GARY NAGER

Research by Joel Provenzano

A few months ago, we posted a story on our “Neighborhood News” Facebook page about the New Tampa Walmart’s drone delivery of a surprise reward for two teachers at Clark Elementary.

The New Tampa location, a mile or so south of the Pasco County line, is still one of very few Walmart stores nationwide, and one of fewer than ten in Florida, to offer drone deliveries.

But, for those who couldn’t help but notice the long-term construction at the New Tampa Walmart, the news about that construction is that the local Walmart store will be the first in Florida — and only the second in the country — to offer robotic/automated customer fulfillment pods for pickup orders. Walmart calls them “auto dispense towers” and the corresponding area inside the store as a Market Fulfillment Center (MFC).

Items (including groceries) will be placed in blue containers on a rail system that runs through (and inside of) the thick blue part of the ceiling structure, from inside the store, and then down to waiting vehicles parked under the awnings that cover the parking area (see top photo on this page).

Customers awaiting their pickup orders put in a code, and their groceries and other items are transported through the ceiling out the door in front of their vehicles. There are eight dedicated parking spaces for customers to pick up from these digital auto dispense towers. There also are an extra four loading spaces to the right of the large doors for ‘other’ customer orders — including for larger items, etc., where employees will manually bring the items out to the waiting vehicles.

The very large “fulfillment center” area behind the newly constructed pharmacy inside of the Walmart is where products will be pulled in an automated fashion to fill orders. There will be refrigeration for cold items. Employees also will be back

there to ensure orders are filled correctly.

It may be hard to understand how the auto dispensing works without being able to see it, so we have provided some photos from Walmart’s recently begun pilot program at its Store 100 in Bentonville, AR, near the company’s headquarters.

The MFC is built inside the store and is powered by a proprietary storage and retrieval system — named Alphabot (photo below). Walmart believes fulfillment through digitization and connecting its store and supply chain assets end to end will transform order fulfillment. And, along with it, the company believes, this should improve customer satisfaction and offer more opportunities for associates.

“This new order fulfillment system is truly game changing,” said Ryan Simpson, the store manager at Walmart’s Store 100. “Not only does it enhance the customer experience through quicker, more accurate online order fulfillment, it also provides us the runway to continue growing our business now and in the future.”

Once the fulfillment center opens, Walmart management believes that customers can expect to see the benefits of the MFC almost immediately.

MFCs will significantly increase the number of orders the store is able to fulfill in a day, promising faster fulfillment with lower substitutions. Walmart+ members have even more to look forward to, with free unlimited deliveries. MFCs also improve the in-store shopping experience by freeing up associates to help customers shopping in-store.

“I love the MFC,” says Gilbert Giron, MFC digital team lead at Walmart.

“The dedicated space allows us to concentrate on picking items for our online customers. I feel confident that the items our associates are looking for are going to be there when a customer wants them. I know our team is providing our customers with great service.”

When Will It Open?

Walmart began the permitting

process for the New Tampa store’s new addition back in the fall of 2021. According to the plans filed, the inside portion of the new MFC area will take up approximately 27,000 sq. ft. inside the Walmart building. This will be one of the first operational MFCs in the nation with this new tech.

The staff at the New Tampa Walmart stated that they expect the new system to be open for customers by sometime early in 2024. They explained that once the construction has been completed, they will need to test the system and run multiple trials to smooth out any kinks.

(Top) The construction of the auto dispense towers at the New Tampa Walmart on BBD Blvd. should be completed and open for business by early 2024. (Photo by Joel Provenzano) (Above) Blue bins that have been loaded with groceries & other items into the Alphabot are then brought to the store’s Market Fulfillment Center. (Photo from Walmart Corp.)

(Above) The track-and-rail system of bins inside the MFC at Bentonville, AR. (Right) A Walmart associate inputs data for an order in one of the blue bins filled with groceries. (Below left) A filled blue bin being brought out to the waiting area. (Below right) A Walmart associate in Bentonville helps load a customer’s groceries. (All photos from Walmart Corp.)

Business

Briefs — Hobby Town USA To The Grove; The Spa At Saddlebrook Cuts A Ribbon

Although The Grove at Wesley Chapel already has a Michael’s Arts & Crafts and there also is a Hobby Lobby store on the north side of S.R. 56, a lot of locals are excited that HobbyTown USA is opening in The Grove.

Whereas Hobby Lobby and Michael’s are both much more craftsoriented, HobbyTown USA is a much more male-skewing hobby store, focusing mainly on model airplanes, boats, cars, trucks, drones, helicopters, rockets and toys.

Hobby Town USA, which has more than 125 stores in 39 states (with the closest location being on N. Dale

Grove. We had not yet heard of an opening date for the Wesley Chapel location.

Esthetics813 Cuts A Ribbon At The Spa At Saddlebrook

Although, as we reported several issues ago, Saddlebrook Resort is cur rently undergoing major renovations, we send out our congratulations go out to Esthetics813 (located at 1051 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.) at owner Kyymara Rosey, who recently reopened the long-dormant 7,000-sq.ft. Spa at Saddlebrook Resort (5700 Saddlebrook Way).

Kyymara and her husband Kurt Wickiser hosted a well-attended North Tampa Bay Chamber ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 8 (top photo), with tours of the many treatment rooms, where both hotel guests and locals can receive a variety of luxurious spa ser vices — from massages, facials and skin treatments to waxing services, microder mabrasion, brow sculpting, spray tans and many more. There’s even a Far Infrared Wellness Sauna (right), hair salon cuts and blowouts, separate men’s and women’s dressing rooms and much more.

For more information about the The Spa at Saddlebrook Resort, call (813)474-4486 or visit spa-at-saddle brook---esthetics813.square.site and

Business Briefs — Updates On Crunch Fitness & Sana Dental + Medspa!

The new Crunch Fitness is going directly next to Ace Hardware in the Wesley Chapel Village Market, in the space formerly occupied by Bealls Outlet, which closed during the summer of 2022 (after a new one opened nearby at the Grove). But, about a year later (May of 2023), Crunch submitted plans to Pasco County for approval.

The new Crunch will be 33,000 sq. ft. and construction is ongoing, but the current plan is for it to open at the end of this fall.

This location will be Crunch’s 12th in the Tampa Bay area, with close to 450 locations nationwide.

In front of the site at the plaza, Crunch’s management sets up a tent every day to answer questions and sign people up to the fitness facility’s email system.

Jay Valez, the assistant general manager, says that the new Crunch is getting ready for a cyber pre-sale “rate reservation,” where membership plans will be offered for as little as $9.99 per month for a basic membership (normally $14.99/month) and $19.99 for the full membership (normally $29.99/month).

The first 500 to sign up also will receive a $1 “Joining Fee” on Crunch Wes ley Chapel’s “cyber sale day,” which is has

not yet been announced, as well as receive their first month free, plus “merch” and other discounts.

Plus, if you are one of the first 500 members, these “Founders Rates” will be for the lifetime of your membership. An email will be sent out to those who have signed up, letting them know when the one-day sale will be. All Crunch memberships are individually priced, with no family plans offered. Full membership includes access to all available classes, including Zumba, Yoga, Pilates, Cycle, and HIIT Classes, which their website says is a, “high intensity training program unlike any other.”

Valez says that Crunch plans to offer 55 -60 mixed classes a week, with some starting in the early morning hours, early enough to allow workouts before work.

For more info, call the Wesley Chapel

Spotlight On: Sana Dental Studio + MedSpa!

The renowned Sana Dental Studio +Medspa is thrilled to announce its grand expansion, bringing a wave of excitement to beauty and wellness enthusiasts across Wesley Chapel. The latest addition to their services is the exclusive “Sana Squad” membership, offering an array of unbeatable deals on Botox, Fillers, Lasers, Expert Opinions and Medical-Grade Skin Care.

Members of the “Sana Squad” will have access to the latest in aesthetic enhancements. Botox treatments, known for their remarkable ability to smooth wrinkles and lines, are now within reach for those seeking a youthful, rejuvenated appearance. Additionally, premium fillers are available to enhance lips, cheeks, and facial contours with expert precision.

Sana Dental Studio + Medspa’s expanded services also include state-of-the-art laser treatments. Whether you’re looking to remove unwanted hair, reduce the appearance of scars, or rejuvenate your skin’s texture, the spa’s advanced laser technology is designed to meet your unique needs.

The “Sana Squad” membership extends beyond treatments. Members will receive expert opinions and personalized care plans tailored to their specific goals. The experienced team at Sana Medspa is dedicated to helping clients achieve their desired results while ensuring a comfortable and informed experience.

lence in aesthetics and wellness has made it a trusted destination for those seeking topnotch treatments and personalized care, led by Sana Yusuf, DMD. The introduction of the “Sana Squad” membership is a testament to their dedication to providing accessible, high-quality services to their valued clients.

To learn more about the exclusive “Sana Squad” membership and the exciting expansion of Sana Dental Studio + Medspa, visit SanaDentalStudio.com, stop by the spa at 5728 Post Oak Blvd., or see the ad at the bottom of this page. Beauty, confidence and wellness await you.

Tampa Palms Psychology, LLC

Brian Wilson, Ph.D.

Trust ‘Dr. Mac’ Of McNamara Health & Wellness With Your Back!

By Nidhi Jani Neighborhood News Correspondent

If you’re struggling with a newfound pain that is not going away or are still suffering from years of pain, despite trying medical or surgical treatments in the past, it never hurts to have a consultation with Edward McNamara, D.C., of McNamara Health & Wellness in the Summergate Professional Center (behind Sam’s Club).

Dr. Edward McNamara, or “Dr. Mac” (as many clients refer to him), has been a practicing Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) for more than 23 years. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree from Colorado State University in Ft. Collins, Dr. McNamara earned his D.C. degree from Life University in Marietta, GA, in 1999. He first worked in the Destin and Orlando areas of Florida before coming to practice in Wesley Chapel in 2015.

Dr. Mac specializes in a variety of active release and massage therapies, as well as full spinal adjustments and exercise rehabilitation. He believes strongly in minimizing the use of drugs and surgeries.

“Human beings were not born with too many parts and not enough pills,” says Dr. Mac. “Surgery and medications can help for a while, but then the body can become reliant on them. It’s better to help the body heal itself.”

Although most people visit a chiropractor for back or neck pain, some other

back!”

common conditions that Dr. Mac can help with include headaches and migraines, musculoskeletal pain, sinus pain, jaw (such as temporomandibular joint, or TMJ) pain, whiplash from car accidents, work-related injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, and sport injuries.

“Trust is a big part of my job,” he says. “(Chiropractic medicine) is a touchy-feely business, so if you’re not comfortable with me, you’re not going to be receptive to my care. If you want to keep things quick, I can, but I am hands-on and I listen well.

Generally, I spend time to get to know all about my patients, and they hear everything about me as well.”

Spend just five minutes talking to Dr. Mac and you’ll hear some great stories. How he originally hailed from Buffalo, NY, to his ten years of service in the U.S. Air Force to working in the ceremonial honor guard at the White House during Ronald Reagan’s presidency, he’ll put you at ease while he’s taking care of you.

“I believe in being personable, effective, affordable and family-oriented,” says

Dr. Mac. To that end, he is always happy to accommodate patients with evening, weekend, holiday, emergency, and same-day appointments, in addition to his regular office hours.

Caring For Patients Of All Ages

Dr. Mac says he first got interested in chiropractic therapy in his youth after getting hurt while playing rugby. He now assists athletes, weightlifters, gymnasts, cheerleaders, dancers and more heal from their injuries faster and helping them increase their athletic performance. Chiropractic care can improve range of motion, flexibility, balance, coordination, reaction times, and speed.

Patient Peggy D’Alessandro recalls a positive experience when bringing her daughter to the office. “So thankful for Dr. McNamara! My daughter hurt her back while cheerleading. After a few days, I began to worry because she was still in pain, so I brought her in to see him. Her pain was relieved in minutes and completely gone by the next day! It was her first time seeing a chiropractor so she was a little bit nervous, but he was so nice, made her laugh and really put her at ease. We both couldn’t have been happier!”

In addition to adults and athletes, Dr. Mac has patients of all ages — from 6 months to 80 years old.

“Being born can be pretty traumatic for babies. I help infants with reflux, colic and infant adjustments, which are very different

See “Dr. Mac” on page 28.

(Photo by Charmaine George)

‘Dr. Mac’

Continued from pg. 26

than the adjustments that I perform on adults,” he says. “School-aged children need help with pain from heavy backpacks, “cell phone neck,” minor sports injuries, scoliosis, and allergies (sinuses). Pregnant women often suffer aches and pains and chiropractic care before delivery can help reduce labor time. Seniors come to get relief from basic arthritic conditions.”

Dr. Mac works alone, so you will always talk to and receive care from him directly. But, on some days, especially Saturdays, you may see his “part-time receptionist,” aka his sixyear-old son, Sebastian (photo). Often dressed up as Spiderman, Sebastian greets patients and works hard as the “face of the practice” to get his $1/hour paycheck that he’ll cash with his dad later at the bank.

Dr. Mac loves to get involved in the community as well. “My son plays hockey, so I am always supporting sport fund raisers for kids. I also am enthusiastic about helping those who are struggling with addiction,” shares Dr. Mac. If you visit the office’s Facebook page, you will see that Dr. Mac loves to help out, from promoting various donation efforts to offering assistance to local families needing extra help during the holidays.

No matter how you interact with Dr. Mac, he’ll always try to help you.

“The one thing that was a constant in my life was chronic back pain for 20+ years. Dr. McNamara is the FIRST to really help me instead of just saying “surgery or prescription” and for that I am very grateful,” says patient

Google, “Dr. Mac is Wesley Chapel’s most recommended chiropractor and for good reason. He is experienced, knowledgeable, skilled, gentle, effective and affordable. If you are still living in pain not knowing what to do or who to see, come to Dr. Mac. You won’t regret it.” McNamara Health & Wellness is located at 27453 Cashford Cir., Suite #101, in Wesley Chapel. The office is open Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-11 a.m., and 2:30 p.m.-6 p.m., and Sat. by appointment. See the ad on pg. 33 for more information. Call (813) 343-1680 or visit LutzChiro. com/ to schedule an appointment today. You also may visit “McNamara Health & Wellness” on Facebook for the office’s latest updates and special offers.

Need An IT Expert For Your Home Or Business? Try NerdsToGo!

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN Neighborhood News Correspondent

In the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel area, there is no shortage of places that claim to be able to fix a broken device, such as mobile phone, laptop or computer.

But, NerdsToGo is the only one owned and run by Michael Varnadore, a U.S. Air Force veteran with four decades of experience and education that have all dovetailed into his latest endeavor.

Michael enlisted in the U.S. Air Force right out of high school, four days after his 18th birthday. Of his 20-year military career, he says that 15 were spent in computer service, including teaching his entire squadron how to use personal computers when they received them while stationed in Korea.

Along the way, he earned a Bachelor’s degree and went on to receive a Doctorate degree in information systems management.

After retiring from the military, Michael started his second career at an aerospace corporation. He served as director of personal computing, responsible for 80,000 end points (personal computers and laptops). After nearly two decades, he retired again, and that’s when he decided to take all of the knowledge he had gained to start something new, as the local franchise owner for NerdsToGo, located in the Pebble Creek Collection plaza on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd.

“Everything I’ve done — starting with working on my first Tandy 1000 in 1986 — has led to where I’m at today,” Michael says, “it’s been a progression of skill sets and responsibilities, and I’m still learning.”

He teaches, too, as a college professor teaching introductory computer classes at Hillsborough Community College and University of Maryland online.

Those decades of experience and extensive education have given Michael the expertise to help both consumers and businesses with any computer or IT issue that may arise.

Since opening the business in 2019, Michael says he’s proud that his small business has served the needs of the New Tampa area and has racked up more than 150 5-star reviews on Google, and an average of 4.9 stars out of 5.

“As a small business, I don’t have any way to brush off bad reviews,” he says. “We have very few untrue or unfair reviews.”

NerdsToGo is a growing franchise, with about 35 locations nationwide.

Michael explains that when you hire NerdsToGo, you’re hiring an IT spe cialist, and he and his staff provide the expertise to fix your problem.

Got a cracked phone screen? Bring it in. NerdsToGo can fix most devices and even has a special laser to remove the back glass off iPhones. Without that laser, Michael says, it can take hours to try to pry it off by hand because of the strong glue that holds it in place. At NerdsToGo, repairs are quick and you can generally get your phone back within a couple of hours.

Virus on your computer? Michael says this is a big issue these days. You clicked on something you didn’t realize was a scam and now you’re having all kinds of problems with your computer? He and the other “nerds” at NerdsToGo know exactly what to do to get rid of any signs of the problem you encountered.

Michael says he also often helps people upgrade computers that are running slow. It can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars to replace a computer, but Nerds ToGo can offer upgrades that will keep your computer running efficiently for years without having to buy a whole new system.

NerdAssure For Business

But, don’t just think of NerdsToGo for your own personal needs.

As a small business owner, Michael knows all too well just how many hats have to be worn and how many things small business owners have to become experts in just to get by.

He promises that those who own small businesses don’t have to learn to be

IT experts, as Nerds ToGo’s exclusive NerdAssure program will manage all infor mation technology services for you.

He says the service uses software to monitor machines for performance and fix hardware before it breaks, along with providing antivirus services, cloud back up to ensure all data and email is backed up and recoverable in case of a problem, and the administra tion of some kind of office productiv ity software, which could be Office 365 or something else.

He says this includes making sure everyone has access to the things they should

complements that and takes a lot of work off their shoulders.”

That’s how it works at Ridge Manor Christian Academy, where assistant principal Nathan Puentes is responsible for the school’s IT but can’t do it by himself.

“We’ve worked with five different companies over the last 13 years, and before NerdsToGo, no one was as accessible to us as we needed them to be,” Nathan says. “When something goes wrong, we can’t

“These guys are amazing,” he says. “They are performing updates, identifying issues in the system, getting the right people right away to solve problems.”

NerdsToGo is located at 19651 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Suite C6. The store is open Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m., and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, visit NerdsToGo.com, call (813) 321-1700 or see the ad on pg. 44.

Dr. Sam Jureyda Will Make You Smile At Radiance Orthodontics

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN Neighborhood News Correspondent

The world of orthodontics is changing at lightning speed.

Emerging from the recent fad of do-it-yourself aligners that have oversimplified the process of moving teeth, to a newer trend where large corporations are buying independent orthodontic practices, the idea of a neighborhood orthodontist may seem a bit old-fashioned.

That’s just fine with Sam Jureyda, DMD, who considers his relationships with patients to be his top priority and understands the value that his decades of experience as an orthodontic specialist brings to them.

“In this environment,” he says, “we focus on what we do best — offering our expertise in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, and providing the best possible customer service to our patients.”

That includes treating patients like family, Dr. Jureyda explains. “When you’re here,” he says, “you’re a neighbor and a friend.”

“Dr. J,” as his patients call him, opened Radiance Orthodontics more than seven years ago to serve patients of all ages, including kids, teens and adults. The practice is located in the Tampa Palms Professional Center off of Commerce Park Blvd., near the New Tampa Recreation Center, less than a mile from the Bruce B. Downs Blvd. exit off I-75.

Before moving into private practice in 2006, and subsequently opening Radiance Orthodontics in 2016, Dr. J taught graduate-level orthodontics at the University of Buffalo, NY. Prior to that, he earned a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, a Certificate of Specialty in Orthodontics from the Howard University College of Dentistry, and completed a clinical fellowship in Orthodontics at the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, Department of Orthodontics.

His education includes years of studying facial biology and growth dynamics, and his practice has included decades of treating patients with sophisticated cases.

Patients at Radiance Orthodontics are offered both traditional braces and Invisalign, along with Dr. J’s expert opinion on which option would be better for each particular case, and why.

“There are so many factors that go into a decision about an appliance that you may wear for 18 months or more,” says Dr. J. “I am happy to go over all of that information so that you can make the right choice about the treatment plan that is best for you.”

These days, general dentists are more frequently offering tooth move-

ment and aligners. Radiance Orthodontics offers a deeper understanding of the dentofacial orthopedics involved in aligning teeth and jaws over a lifetime, whether it’s during the early years of childhood growth or even in older adults.

Christy Schnell is a local mom who chose Radiance Orthodontics when her dentist suggested it was time for her daughter to get an evaluation for orthodontic treatment.

“Dr. Jureyda is such a huge supporter of our local schools,” Christy explains, saying that she is so impressed by the way Radiance Orthodontics shows up for kids in our community that she decided to visit his office first. “After that initial visit, I could tell it was a really good fit,” she says, “so I didn’t even look anywhere else.”

Christy appreciates how Dr. Jureyda includes her daughter Lyla in the conversation about her treatment, explaining the equipment and processes, and giving her the opportunity to ask questions.

“Lyla had a lot more questions than I thought she would,” Christy says, “We were all so comfortable when we left (Radiance).”

Since that initial consultation, not only has Lyla has started treatment — so has Christy.

“My teeth were shifting because I didn’t wear my retainer from when I was little,” she says. “So, I figured while I’m here with my kids, I might as well get my teeth straightened as well.”

She says Dr. J made it both easy and affordable to start treatment.

He says that’s an important part of the way he serves his patients.

“We’re seeing so much inflation right now, which is stretching families,” says Dr. Jureyda. “Radiance Orthodontics is a small business and we are in touch with what’s happening in our community. We try to walk that fine line between meeting the demands of running a business and keeping our fees affordable and payments flexible for our patients.”

He promises reasonable fees that avoid the need for coupons or complex payment structures. Initial consultations are always completely free, as are consultations for those seeking a second opinion from Dr. J, where he may be able to provide additional avenues for treatment or a lower cost than other options. Radiance patients can rest assured that they will be given a fair price.

That’s another reason Christy says she chose Radiance Orthodontics.

“Friends had told me that Invisalign was much more expensive than braces, but at Radiance, the prices were actually similar,” she says. “It was so nice to be able to make the decision based on what was best for my daughter and me, without having to make a choice based on cost.”

Never Too Young...

Christy’s younger kids are already seeing Dr. Jureyda, too, although they’re not ready for treatment.

He suggested that her son needed an evaluation, but Christy appreciates that Dr. J is watch ing his growth with appointments every six months, but not pushing treatment.

Dr. J explains that treatment is always unique to the individual.

“We often rec ommend ‘phase one’ treatment, which is for children as young as seven — and in some cases even younger — so that we can do early intervention that will make treatment easier down the road,” says Dr. Jureyda. “We follow the concept that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.”

However, that doesn’t mean that every child will need early treatment. It just means that all children can take advantage

to get an expert opinion on what kind of treatment may be needed at an early stage, or somewhere down the road.

And, speaking of kids, as a former educator, Dr. Jureyda makes it a high priority to support students and educators in our community.

Not only is Radiance Orthodontics a business partner at all of New Tampa’s public schools and some Wesley Chapel schools, too, he also awards scholarships

year, he also will offer a scholarship to a senior at Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High School in Tampa.

Suite A, in the Tampa Palms Professional Center, search “Radiance Orthodontics” on Facebook, visit www. MyRadianceBraces.com, or see the ad on page 5. (formerly Gadgets Emergency Room) Business SolutionsPersonal & Business Solutions + Business IT Onsite Support + Network & Wireless Support + Cybersecurity / Cloud Computing + Remote Network Monitoring + Data Backup & Recovery + Remote IT Support

+ Home Onsite Repair + Computer / Laptop Sales + Computer / Laptop Repair + MacBook / iMac Repair + Cell Phone / Tablet Repair + Software Support 1750 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 2745 E. County Line Road Lutz, FL 33559 Now Open! 30925 Mirada Blvd. San Antonio, FL 33576

Tell Us Your Favorite Burger Place & Asian Restaurant In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel!

Enter Our 2023 Neighborhood News Dining Contest!

Here’s yet another chance to win FREE dining to the restaurant of your choice! One entry per person, per question. Below, name just your Favorite Burger Place in New Tampa OR Wesley Chapel! Mail your entry to “2023 Neighborhood News Dining Contest” at 2604 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Suite 102D, Wesley Chapel 33544. Or, enter at NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net or email the entry form to Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com. Even if you already named your five favorite restaurants in New Tampa & Wesley Chapel, you can still enter again by filling out this entry! — GN

Question #6: What is your Favorite Burger Place located in (or near) New Tampa OR Wesley Chapel?

Your First & Last Name___________________________________________________

Community You Live In (Epperson, Lexington Oaks, etc.)

Your Daytime Phone Number______________________________________________

Your Email Address_______________________________________________________

In this issue, we are giving you two more chances to win our FREE dining prize of $100, $60 or $35!

Hopefully, you’ve already told us your Favorite Restaurants in New Tampa AND Wesley Chapel and/or your Favorite Pizza, Sushi and (non-Mexican) Latin places in our communities. But, if you haven’t yet, ALL of this year’s previous Survey questions are available again on pg. 38 of this issue). Even if you have already entered before, you can still enter and win free dining by also telling us your Favorite Place for Burgers in our distribution areas (entry form above). This is always one of the toughest categories because so many restaurants serve burgers that people like — and we only ask you to name one as your favorite.

And below, please also tell us your Favorite Asian Restaurant — which can be Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, Indian or serve a fusion of more than one of those cuisine types — in (or near) New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Just fill out either or both of the entry forms on this page (or any or all of the five on pg. 38) and mail your entries to us at 2023 Neighborhood News Reader Dining Survey & Contest, 2604 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Suite 102D, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544. Or, you can email your entries to us at Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com. You also may enter this year’s contest by visiting our website — NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net.

Each time you answer a different Dining Survey question, you’ll receive an additional chance to win one of our FREE dining prizes — to the restaurant of your choice located anywhere in the Tampa

Bay area! You all love free dining, right?

Note — Please don’t forget that we include restaurants located in Lutz (either on Wesley Chapel Blvd., S.R. 56 or S.R. 54, within two miles of I-75) as Wesley Chapel eateries; and those located in the Palms Connection Plaza on E. Bearss Ave. and the Oak Ramble Plaza on BBD Blvd. (both are located in zip code 33613) as acceptable places to vote for in New Tampa.

Please also be sure to completely fill out the entry forms, whether from our print publications, on our website or by email, because we have had a few people — out of more than 1,000 total entries so far — try to enter with just their first name only, and another who took the time to send us an entry without naming any restaurants.

Despite those issues, it definitely appears (as we expected) that more of you like this year’s format — with individual questions for you to answer in each issue — than in the recent past, when we asked you to answer the same full page of questions across multiple issues.

Remember, whether you enter by mail, email or on our website, there is never any purchase necessary to enter and win, but we do need your first AND last name, the community you live in, your daytime telephone number and a valid email address to be eligible to win any of our FREE dining prizes — and please enter all of your Survey entries by no later than November 1 to be eligible to win prizes!

Check out all of the Survey questions we’ve already run in previous issues on pg. 38 and see our website for the complete list of our official rules. — GN

Enter Our 2023 Neighborhood News Dining Contest!

Here’s another chance to win FREE dining to the restaurant of your choice! One entry per person, per question. Below, please name just your Favorite Asian Restaurant in New Tampa OR Wesley Chapel! Mail your entry to “2023 Neighborhood News Dining Contest” at 2604 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Suite 102D, Wesley Chapel 33544. Or, enter at NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net or email the entry form to Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com. Even if you already answered other Survey questions, you can enter again by answering the question below! — GN

Question #7: What is your Favorite Asian Restaurant located in (or near) New Tampa OR Wesley Chapel?___________________________________

Your First & Last Name___________________________________________________

Community You Live In (Seven Oaks, Union Park, etc.)

Your Daytime Phone Number______________________________________________

Your Email Address_______________________________________________________

You Can Still Respond To These Survey Questions To Win FREE Dining Prizes To The Restaurant Of Your Choice!

Whether you’ve never entered our Reader Dining Survey & Contest before, or you’re a regular Neighborhood News reader and contest entrant who simply forgot or hasn’t yet had the time to enter this year — or you’ve only responded to one or two of the questions below — we’re giving you still more chances to enter this year’s Survey & Contest. You will receive one additional chance to win $100, $60 or $35 in FREE dining to the restaurant of your choice anywhere in the Tampa Bay area each time you properly enter by responding to a question, as long as you haven’t already responded to that question yet this year! — GN

Enter Our 2023 Neighborhood News Dining Contest!

Each issue, you’ll be asked one or two Dining Survey question to answer to be entered to win $100, $60 or $35 in free dining prizes. One entry per person, per question. This question, please name 5 different restaurants for your top 5. Mail your entry to “2023 Neighborhood News Dining Contest” at the address below or enter at NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net. — GN

Enter

Here’s another chance to win FREE dining to the restaurant of your choice! One entry per person, per question. Below, please name just your Favorite Place for Latin (but not Mexican) food in New Tampa OR Wesley Chapel! Mail your entry to “2023 Neighborhood News Dining Contest” at 2604 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Suite 102D, Wesley Chapel 33544. Or, enter at NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net or email the entry form to Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com. Even if you already answered other Survey questions, you can enter again by answering the question below! — GN

Question #5: What is your Favorite Place for Latin (but not Mexican) food located in (or near) New Tampa OR Wesley Chapel?___________________________________

Question #1: Name your Five Favorite Restaurants (of any kind) located in Wesley Chapel or near the Tampa Premium Outlets. #1

Your First & Last Name___________________________________________________

Community You Live In (Estancia, Wesley Pointe, etc.)

Your Daytime Phone Number______________________________________________

Your Email Address_______________________________________________________

Enter

Our 2023 Neighborhood News Dining Contest!

Here’s a Bonus Question for you! Please Question #2: Name your Five Favorite

Your First & Last Name___________________________________________________ Community You Live In (Aberdeen, Watergrass, etc.)

Your Daytime Phone Number______________________________________________

Your Email Address_______________________________________________________

Independently owned by brothers Frank & James Gouveia, The Grill

Featuring a 250-bottle wine list with carefully selected bottles starting at $25 while also featuring some iconic wineries from around the world, plus craft cocktails, a premium full-liquor bar and a curated beer list.

SAVE$10 WhenYouSpend $50orMore!

Foodportiononly; drinks&taxnotincluded. Musthaveormentioncoupon. Onecouponpertableonly. Cannotbecombinedwithotheroffers.

EXPIRES2/10/2022

The Grill is open for dinner seven nights a week and for lunch Wednesday through Sunday, with New Tampa’s best Saturday & Sunday Brunch!

We also offer indoor & outdoor seating, plus a bar menu with sandwiches & pizza for those looking for lighter fare!

Wesley Chapel! Mail your entry to “2023 Neighborhood News Dining Contest” at 2604 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Suite 102D, Wesley Chapel 33544. Or, enter at NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net or email the entry form to Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com. Even if you’ve already answered the previous three questions, you can enter to win again by filling out this entry! — GN

Question #4: What is your Favorite Place for Sushi in (or near) New Tampa OR Wesley Chapel? ______________________________________________________

Your First & Last Name___________________________________________________

Community You Live In (Ridge at Wiregrass, Avalon Park, etc.)

Your Daytime Phone Number______________________________________________

Your Email Address_______________________________________________________

Check Out The Revamped Skybox Rooftop Bar Menu At The Residence Inn!

By CELESTE McLAUGHLIN Neighborhood News Correspondent

If a night out at a rooftop bar sounds like a fun way to spend an evening or the perfect venue to host a party, there’s no need to head to downtown Tampa.

Stay right here in Wesley Chapel instead, where the Skybox Rooftop Bar is perched atop the Residence Inn Tampa-Wesley Chapel, located next to the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County, just off S.R. 56 near the Shops at Wiregrass. Skybox is a unique and fun spot for gatherings with gorgeous sunset views, small plate food options, and tasty drinks.

Residence Inn Tampa-Wesley Chapel is a Marriott-branded hotel designed and man aged by Mainsail Lodging & Development. Mainsail was founded in Tampa by Joe Collier in 1998, and now has eleven hotel proper ties in Florida, Georgia, and the Caribbean, including signature properties such as the Fenway Hotel in Dunedin and the Epicurean Hotel in South Tampa.

Not only is Skybox the only rooftop bar in Wesley Chapel, it’s also the first-ever at a Resi dence Inn. It’s available to both hotel guests and those who want to enjoy craft cocktails and tasty small plates, even if they’re not hotel guests. Many of the Skybox’s online reviews refer to it as a “hidden gem” in Wesley Chapel.

“It’s a sports bar atmosphere with TVs and a beautiful sunset view,” says Becky Hayes, the Residence Inn’s general manager and director of sales.

Becky says that makes it the perfect place to watch football, with specials on wings on Sundays and beer buckets on Thursdays. There also are sangria specials on Tuesday, and Wednesday is Hospitality Night with specials for anyone working in the hospitality industry.

Any night, you can try a Skybox whiskey flight or a “bubbles and wine” flight offering a variety of wines and champagnes.

There’s also a large selection of premium alcohol craft cocktails, fine wines, craft beers and non-alcoholic beverages.

The Skybox Rooftop Bar’s food menu was revamped as of early September. While there are only a few small plate options, Becky says there’s enough variety to find something for everyone, from wings to flatbreads to the soon-to-be-famous Skybox Cuban.

Becky says Skybox is an absolutely perfect

where an area of the bar is reserved for your group, and private parties also can be booked. For more information or to book a party, go to SkyboxRooftopBar.com or contact sales manager Erica Davis via email at EDavis2@mainsailhotels.com.

If you want to visit Skybox, be sure to look for the Residence Inn sign on S.R. 56, as there is no separate sign for the rooftop bar.

Staying At Residence Inn

Although Skybox is worth the trip without staying in the hotel, some locals find that the Residence Inn Tampa-Wesley Chapel is great for a weekend getaway, as well.

Theresa Pandales is a New Tampa resident who says she recently visited the hotel for a quick “staycation,” spending a weekend away from her busy life with kids and grandkids.

She was pleasantly surprised at how perfect the entire weekend turned out to be.

“I like that it feels like home away from home,” Theresa says. “It’s so inviting. The lobby even smells amazing.”

for those who need long-term accommodations, as it is fully equipped to be a home away from home.

“Because we’re extended stay, we offer full amenities, including full kitchens with refrigerators, dishwashers, stove tops — although not all units have ovens — pots and pans, dishware, silverware, living and sleeping areas,” Becky says. “All rooms have a living area and a sleeping area, while some are open and some have one or two bedrooms.”

She says the hotel also is a great choice for guests coming to visit family in the area. Also, a lot of people stay at the hotel while they are purchasing a home, waiting for a closing or the completion of their home’s construction.

The hotel offers 128 rooms, including 65 studio king suites, 24 studio kings with conservation views, 19 studios with two queen beds, 8 one-bedroom king studios, 8 one-bedroom studios with two queen beds and 4 two-bedroom suites with one king and one queen bed.

Other on-site amenities include complimentary hot breakfast, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, market and an on-site laundry with washers and dryers. Some other fun and unique perks include bicycle rentals with the first hour free, and outdoor grills by the pool for guests. “We are perfect for families,” Becky says.

And, while larger parties are hosted at the

recently won a Marriott award, called the Silver Circle Award, for meeting stringent Marriott standards and placing in the top 20% of all 856 Residence Inns in the U.S. and Canada, based on how guests rated the hotel in customer service, cleanliness and their intent to recommend the hotel to others.

Becky says the award is thanks in no small part to the housekeeping staff. She says the housekeepers are the hardest working group in the hotel. The Residence Inn management recently celebrated the team during “Housekeeping Week,” providing meals, gift and activities to thank them for their efforts to keep the hotel clean and up to the guests’ high expectations.

Based on her stay, Theresa feels the award is well deserved. “Everyone was so nice, the food was delicious and the service was unbelievable,” Theresa says. “My sixtieth birthday is coming up, and that’s where I’m going,” she says. “I won’t go anywhere else.”

The Skybox Rooftop Bar and the Residence Inn Tampa-Wesley Chapel are located at 2867 Lajuana Blvd. For more info about hosting a party at Skybox or booking a stay, call (833) 214-9098, visit Marriott.com or SkyboxRooftopBar.com.

The Skybox is closed on Monday, open Tuesday-Thursday & Sunday, 5 p.m.-10 p.m., and 5 p.m.-11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Or, see the ad on page 45.

(Photo above by

Shuckin’ Shack: Now Serving Fresh American Seafood!

The only people who have been waiting for the opening of the 20th Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar (at 25026 Wesley Chapel Blvd. extension) longer than yours truly are the people in the top photo — (l.-r.) co-owners Bill DiPaola and Brad Harper, GM Alie Ragsdale, manager Shane Cllett & kitchen manager Hunter Tilton.

Well, the wait is over and all I can say is that I genuinely like the North Carolinabased chain. The casual new eatery had only

tacos and steamed local clams. Pho tographer Charmaine George said the “Greggah” lobster roll sandwich also was spot on. But, my favorite item so far has been the clam-loaded New England-style clam “chowda.” Trust me, this is not just potato soup with a bite or two of clams. So good!

Jannah and I already feel very much at home at the spacious bar (be low left), which has plenty of TVs, full premium alcohol and specialty drinks,

Also Now Open: Slim Chickens, Bad Ass Coffee & Sorbo!

isn’t unusual here in Pasco County, Chickens (at 27244 Wesley Chapel Blvd.) is finally open and the Arkansas-based chain with 225+ units and many more on the way is definitely worth a try..

The trio of partners who opened the Wesley Chapel Slim Chickens — Patrick Lee, Jared Blair and Charlie Blumberg — also have five additional units in development, with the closest planned for Mirada.

Jannah, Charmaine and I all enjoyed our sampling of the Slim Chickens menu two days before it opened. We loved the hand-breaded chicken & waffles, the crispy and aptly-named chicken tenders (photo, right), the garlicky Texas toast, the super-crisp wings with multi

the signature mason jar brownie dessert. And yes, you can take home the mason jar! For more info, visit SlimChickens. com or call (813) 923-7727.

It Is Bad Ass!

If you’re like me and crave delicious coffee from someplace other than the “S” word, I definitely recommend visiting Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, inside the same Shell gas station that already is home to a Taco Bus where it meets S.R. 56 and Wesley Chapel Blvd. in Lutz.

Owners Jillian and Christopher Bruck ner, who also own the adjacent Taco Bus, are excited about the response so far from the community.

And, please don’t be offended by the name. Born on the shores of The Big Island in our 50th state, the coffee is named for the stubborn donkeys who originally carried the coffee down the steep mountains.

Whether you love the name or hate it, the chain’s 30 locations serve delicious coffee and other beverages as well as a variety of breakfast and dessert items. My favorite beverage so far is the hot Caramel Wave with both caramel and vanilla flavors, while Jannah is partial to the iced blended Chai

or see the ad on the next page.

Sorbo Opens On BBD!

For those who have more upscale taste in coffee and tea but also are partial to baked goods and wine, check out the new Sorbo at 2653 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. Owned by the same owners as Umu Japanese & Thai in the same plaza across from Advent Health Wes ley Chapel, Sorbo specializes in Matcha teas, espresso beverages and Refreshers. We’ve only sampled the cappuccino and green matcha tea so far. For more info, visit SorboWesleyChapel.com or call (813)428-5396. — GN

Mochinut To Open Two Area Locations!

When I visited the Mochinut Koreanstyle donut and rice hot dog (not a misprint) place at 11401 N. 56th St. in Temple Terrace for the first time — to sample what has been announced as coming to the former location of Mahana Fresh on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. — I got a few surprises.

First of all, the donuts, which are now served at more than 130 locations around the country, and are available in a rotating variety of flavors — from caramel churro (below) to lavender — are light, airy and definitely taste nothing like Krispy Kreme or Dunkin’ Do nuts. The rice flour hot dogs sound...interest ing...too, although I’ve yet to sample them.

The bigger surprise was that not only is New Tampa getting a Mochinut store, so is the Lutz/Wesley Chapel area across from the Tampa Premium Outlets, as Mochinut also

Cookie Plug To Open At The Grove

Coming this month to the Village at The Grove, right next to the Ice Dreammm is Cookie Plug, a Southern Califor nia-based chain founded in 2019 with 25 stores in the Golden State and more than 40 overall in six states and Puerto Rico, with plans for at least 40 more in the works.

Cookie Plug says that if you’re “pas sionate about great music, street cultures and cookies, Cookie Plug is both a great place to work and to enjoy the thickest, tastiest cookies you’ll find anywhere,” including the “Firecracker S’Mores” (top photo) and “OG” (chocolate chip) ice cream cookie sandwich.

For more information, visit Cookie Plug.com. — GN

For more information, visit or call the Temple Terrace location at (813) 3745781 and please tell them that I sent you. Or, visit Mochinut.com — GN

Kobé Japanese Steakhouse Finally Opens

Like many of you, we have been waiting for about two years for the official word that the relocated Kobé Japanese Steakhouse would be opening in its new location at 17641 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. (next to Chili’s Grill & Bar) in New Tampa, a lit tle more than a mile south of its former loca tion in front of the Pebble Creek Collection.

Well, our wait is over, as the new Kobé opened on Sept. 13, and it is definitely a larger, nicer location (previously occupied by two failed Mexican concepts and Romano’s Macaroni Grill before that) than its previous locale and has already been bringing in large numbers of people since that day.

The New Tampa Kobé is one of about a

Las Palmas Ready To Reopen By Oct. 12!

Although Jannah and I enjoyed the Las Palmas food truck, we were excited to hear that our friends Ramses and Ana Garcia (photo) were getting close to reopening their Las Palmas Latin Grill in the same brick&-mortar space as it was previously, at 6431 County Line Rd., off BBD, in the same plaza as LA Fitness and Five Guys.

It’s been nearly two years since a kitchen fire shuttered Las Palmas, prompting Ramses to buy a food truck so he and Ana could still serve at least some of their delicious, award-winning Cuban-style fare to their loyal customer base. The revamped Las Palmas is expected to reopen by Thursday, October

12, or one day after the two-year anniversary

On our first visit, Jannah and I and photographer Char maine George and her boyfriend Brendan all sampled not only some great filet mignon, sirloin steak, chicken, shrimp and scal lops on Kobé’s teppanyaki table, we also enjoyed great appetiz ers like pan-fried gyoza (pork dumplings), a seared tuna tataki and vegetable tempura (bottom photo) — all of which were excellent. And of course, who doesn’t love fresh veggies, lo mein noodles and fried rice from the hibachi grill? Jannah also said that her lychee martini from the new Kobé’s full-liquor bar was excellent. For more info about Kobé Japanese Steakhouse’s New Tampa location, which is open for dinner only Mon.-Sat. and for lunch & dinner on Sun, call (813) 6805800 or visit KobeSteakhouse.com. — GN

& w esley C hapel

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