03-10 NTNN 1-56 web

ty previously planned to then do the1.5-mile Segment D before the 3.6-mile Segment A, but moved Segment Aup on the priority list a couple of yearsago and already has full funding for thatlongest segment, which is scheduled tobegin being widened in 2011.

But, while Segment D already isdesigned, former county engineer ScottPassmore, who is now working for theconstruction engineering firm for theproject (KCI Technologies, Inc., of

Tampa), says that while Segment Dcurrently is not funded, some new fed-eral stimulus funds may make fundingof that segment a reality soon, too.

In addition, although there was nomention of it at the Hillsborough pub-lic hearing on January 6, Pasco Countyalready has begun the process of widen-ing its three-mile section of BBD fromits current one or two lanes in each

were both armed withhandguns, told thevictim to throw themoney he had wonwhile gambling at thecasino on the ground.As one of the suspectsbent down to pick upthe money, hedropped his pistol,which went off.

The victim wasnot harmed, but thetwo suspects fled, andthe victim immediate-ly contacted police,and was able to pro-vide them with a partial tag numberfrom the suspects’ vehicle.

Then, on January 17, two of the

same suspects allegedly robbed anoth-er casino customer, a 67-year-old man,as he got out of his vehicle at hishome in Clearwater. Police say thesuspects attacked the victim in hisgarage, one striking him as the othershot him in the face and shoulder witha stun gun. After committing that rob-bery, the suspects returned to Hills-borough, however, and shortly after-wards, their vehicle was spotted by anofficer with the Seminole (Tribe)Police Department near one of theentrances to the casino. The Seminole

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 3 • January 30, 2010 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com 1

Volume 18Issue 3

January 30, 2010

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

NEW TAMPA: Arbor Greene • Cory Lake Isles • Cross Creek • Grand Hampton • Heritage Isles • Hunter’s Green • Hunter’s Key • K-Bar Ranch • Lake Forest • Live Oak Preserve • Pebble Creek • Richmond Place • Tampa Palms • West Meadows

WESLEY CHAPEL: Aberdeen • Belle Chase • Brookside • Chapel Pines • Country Walk • Lexington Oaks • Meadow Pointe • New River • Northwood • Pinewalk • Pine Ridge • Saddlebrook • Saddleridge Estates • Saddlewood • Seven Oaks • Lakes at Northwood • The Villages of Wesley Chapel • Wesley Pointe • Westbrook Estates • Williamsburg

THIS INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER IS DIRECTLY MAILED TO:

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS,SPORTS & EDUCATION

City Of Tampa Studies Impacts FromPlanned Bridge Project, Focus On The

USF Dermatology Clinic, A Wharton Vs.Freedom Weekend & More!

See pages 3-36!

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE!

A Few Suggestions To Help Spice Up YourValentine’s Day, Our Exclusive FebruaryEntertainment Calendar & Much More!

See pages 37-56!

Also Inside This Issue!

ECRWSSPostal Customer

Dated MaterialPlease Rush!

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDTAMPA FL

PERMIT 2801

Inside:Valentine’s Day Is Still

All About Her!See Magazine Section!

See “News Briefs” on page 4.

An editorial by Gary Nager

When I attended this month’spublic hearing hosted by HillsboroughCounty public works officials at Paul R.Wharton High about the impendingwidening of Bruce B. Downs (BBD)Blvd. between Palm Springs Dr. inTampa Palms and Pebble Creek Dr.,my first thought was, “Wow! Anothermajor New Tampa road project begin-ning construction in my lifetime!”

My second thought, however, was“Uh-oh.”

The $40-$42 million wideningproject now beginning is just the firstthree years of what is shaping up as atleast five years of reduced speeds andeven greater tie-ups somewhere onBBD. In other words, it’s definitelygoing to get and stay worse along NewTampa’s main drag long before it getsbetter, especially considering that theother two phases of the BBD wideningin Hillsborough (from Bearss Ave. toPalm Springs Dr. and from PebbleCreek Dr. to the Pasco County line) are

not yet fully funded and at least onesegment may not begin building untilafter the first segment is completed,even if funding for it becomes available(more on this below). Of course, thatmeans the current bottlenecks on BBDwill just be moved to the northern andsouthern ends of the first phase of theBBD widening project when it is com-pleted in 2013.

Just for clarity’s sake, a few yearsback, Hillsborough broke BBD intofive segments:

•Segment A - From Bearss Ave. toPalm Springs Blvd. in Tampa Palms

•Segment B - Palm Springs Blvd.to Richmond Place Dr. (across from theBBD entrance to Flatwoods Park)

•Segment C - Richmond Place Dr.to Pebble Crek Dr.

•Segment D - Pebble Creek Dr. tothe Pasco County Line Rd.

•Segment E - County Line Rd. toS.R. 54 (all in Pasco County)

The widening project now underway in Hillsborough includes SegmentsB and C, a 3.5-mile section. The coun-

Bruce B. Downs Widening Begins A New Chapter In New Tampa

By Michael Smith

A pair of Orlando men werearrested earlier this month after policesay they robbed two Tampa Bay areamen, one of whom is a New Tamparesident, who had won money at theSeminole Hard Rock Casino.

According to a report issued bythe Tampa Police Department (TPD),

Christopher R. Neff, 27, and EdgardoRivera, 31, along with a third manwho is still unidentified, followed aNew Tampa resident from the casinoto his condo in the Vista Grand atTampa Palms complex early on themorning of January 9 and robbed himat gunpoint as he exited his vehicle.

One of the suspects waited insidetheir car while the other two, who

Police Arrest Two Men Who Targeted Hard Rock Casino CustomersSee “BBD Widening” on page 6.

EdgardoRivera

ChristopherNeff

The current left turn from northbound Bruce B. Downs Blvd. onto Pointe of TampaWay will no longer be available when the BBD widening project is completed.

2 For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 18, Issue 3 • January 30, 2010 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

#1 Agents in Tampa #1 Agents in the Nation #2 Agents in the WorldFor 2 Years Running, out of 125,000 Coldwell Banker Agents Worldwide

Arbor Greene $235,000Stunning home in gated community w/4Br, 3BA & 2,381 sq ft. Silestone counters, 42” cabinets, tile throughout, expansive lanai & cul-de-sac location. Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2395445

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Grand Hampton $175,000Maintenance free home w/ designer upgrades, cabinets, granite, upgraded carpet, screened lanai. Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2392521

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Cory Lake Isles $230,000Waterfront home w/ boat dock, 4BR, 3.5BA, 2CG & 2511 sq. ft. Maple cabinets, granite counters, 1st Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2391162

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Grand Hampton $235,000Corner lot w/ pond views, 4BR, 3BA & 2,471 sf. 42” upper cabinets, gas cooktop, bay windows, granite, large family room, formal dining room.Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2375074

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Foxwood Condos $70,000parking, screened lanai w/ fantastic views, across street from private airport & golf course Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2398322

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Grand Hampton $339,000Stunning 4BR, 3.5BA, 3 car garage & 3,211 sf.gas appliances, expansive lanai with views of pondCall Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2399250

VIRTUAL

TOUR

The Preserve at Lake Thomas $159,000Spectacular pool home in gated community offers

-cious kitchen, formal dining room & fenced yard.Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2389526

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Meadow Pointe $74,500Maintenance-free, end unit townhome w/ 2 BR,2.5BA & 1,184 sf. Conservation views, hardwood Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2398600

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Arbor Greene $320,0004BR, 3BA, home w/ 3 car garage & 3,041 sf. 42” cabinets, tiled backsplash, volume ceilings, crown Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2397260

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Arbor Greene $335,0004BR, 3BA home w/ 2,249 sf. Gas appliances, for-mal areas, upgraded fans, lush landscaping, sunken garden tub, heated pool/spa, and screened lanaiCall Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2397052

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Cory Lake Isles $649,900Breathtaking lakefront property w/ 6BR, 2 dens, 7.5BA, 3 car garage & 5,399 sf. Private dock, pool Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2400844

VIRTUAL

TOUR

Heritage Isles $235,000Fabulous two story home w/ 5BR, bonus room, Loft, 3BA & 3,309 sf. Gourmet Kitchen, built in desk, living-dining combo, spacious family room.Call Team Bohannon 979-4963 MLS# T2400409

VIRTUAL

TOUR

The first time I metElaine Genna, she tookone look at me, assumed I

was Italian and took me to see the pic-tures she and her husband Dan tookwith the Pope on a recent trip to Italy. Ialmost didn’t have the heart to tell her Iwas Jewish and not much into lookingat pictures of the Pontiff.

Elaine was our former billing man-ager Doreen Selby’s mom, but severalyears ago, when Doreen’s husband Timand I expanded with a new publicationinto the Trinity area of New PortRichey, Elaine became the only personother than yours truly I trusted to han-dle writing the reviews of restaurants inthe Trinity area. Between trying to splittime between our two offices and cov-ering the news of New Tampa and Wes-ley Chapel, I wasn’t able to get out tothat area often enough to do diningreviews in the Trinity issue myself.

Elaine was the perfect candidate totake over those duties — she’s a greatcook (her homemade Italian spaghettisauce was among the best I had evertasted) who loved great food and meet-ing new people. She also already was apublished author of a children’s book(called The Little Red Sailboat) who wasinterested in learning a new way to useher ability with words.

Around three years later, at thetoo-young age of 70, Elaine passedaway after a year-plus-long battle withcancer. Her passing wasn’t sudden orunexpected, other than the fact that she

remained so positive and upbeatthroughout her ordeal that you wouldswear she wasn’t sick at all.

Elaine and I would sit and go overmy edits to her “Dining with Elaine”reviews at her home in Tarpon Springsand I loved debating with her about heroveruse of adjectives like “stretchy”cheese. She took all of my edits to heartand truly loved her little freelance job— including all of the attention she gotwhenever she dined out in the Trinityarea, even though her picture rarelyappeared in any of her reviews. Peoplewould see her taking pictures of herfood while dining with Dan, her hus-band of more than 50 years (they weretogether since their mid-teens), and tellher how much they appreciated herreviews of local dining hot spots.

Even though Tim and I are nolonger partners, I know how lovedElaine was by her entire family. She wasa sweet, giving person who, as one ofher longtime friends said at her memo-rial service, “made friends out of ene-mies and family out of friends.”

Elaine is survived not only by herhusband Dan, Doreen and Tim, butalso by son, Danny Jr., Danny’s wifeKristy and three grandchildren: Mor-gan, Matthew and Nicholas.

As editor Kim Thomas wrote onthe Trinity Area Neighborhood Newswebsite, “Those who had the opportu-nity to meet Elaine can tell you that shewas joyous and passionate every day ofher life and she will be missed by somany. We know that our readers will

also miss Elaine’s descriptive voice thattempted so many of us to try newrestaurants. Elaine bravely workedthrough chemotherapy and sickness,still writing beautifully for us and foryou. We will all miss Elaine's exuberantpersonality and joy for life.

“The Selby and Genna familiesthank you for all of the thoughts andprayers. In lieu of flowers, the family isasking that donations be made to TheSuncoast Hospice. More informationabout how you can donate or volunteerfor this wonderful organization can befound at TheHospice.org.”

Former Trinity Area NeighborhoodNews dining reviewer Elaine Genna lost

her battle with cancer in December.


New Tampa Neighborhood News15345 Amberly Dr., Tampa, FL 33647Phone: (813) 910-2575 Fax: 910-2483Advertising E-mail: [email protected]

Editorial E-mail: [email protected] & Editor

Gary NagerManaging EditorMichael SmithCorrespondents

Kate Kramer • Melissa O’BrienAdvertising Customer Service Manager

David ZachariaArt Director Billing ManagerTony Sica Ashley Knoblach

Office & Marketing AssistantsJacob Glenn • Karen Glenn

Nothing that appears in New Tampa Neighbor-hood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or inpart, without permission. Opinions expressed by NewTampa Neighborhood News writers are their own and donot reflect the publisher’s opinion.

The deadline for outside editorial submis-sions and advertisements for Volume 18, Issue 3, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, January 4 , 2010.

New Tampa Neighborhood News will considerpreviously non-published outside editorial submissionsif they are double spaced, typed and less than 500words. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves theright to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submis-sions and makes no guarantees regarding publicationdates. New Tampa Neighborhood News will not returnunsolicited editorial materials.

New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the rightto edit &/or reject any advertising. New Tampa Neigh-borhood News is not responsible for errors in advertisingbeyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, notfor the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. ©2009 JM2 Communications, Inc.

Table of ContentsLOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS & SPORTS UPDATES...............................................Pages 1-28

New Tampa News Briefs (cont. from page 1).......4Woman Arrested For Theft From Foster Care Agency Man Jailed For DUI After Son Calls 911

City Studies Impacts Of Its I-75 Bridge Project............8New Tampa Community Calendar..................10-11On Helping Haiti & Other Fund Raisers...................14

New Tampa Business News.....................16-21New Tampa Chamber Of Commerce News..........16City Plaza Publix Is Demolished................................18Paws & Claws Pet Salon & Spa..................................19USF Dermatology......................................................20

New Tampa Education News..................25-26Saluting New Tampa’s Teachers Of The Year.............25Local Students Plant Trees On Arbor Day..................26

New Tampa Sports Updates....................31-33 Wharton Wins 2010 ‘Neighborhood Challenge’.......31Local Cheerleaders Advance To State Meet................32Benito Jaguars Score An Undefeated Season.............33

Neighborhood MagazineValentine’s Day Special Section ....................37-44The Most Romantic Hotel—The Don CeSar..........37, 44The Best Place To Shop For Her—T’s Boutique.....40Other Valentine’s Day Gift ‘Hints’ For Her...........41

‘Have Your Photo Taken With Gracie’ Contest.......45Check Out The New Panda Buffet!...............................48Neighborhood Nibbles.................................................49February Entertainment Calendar.................................52WC Resident Is A Model Citizen...........................53

NEW TAMPA COLOR CLASSFIEDS..............54

Remembering My Friend Elaine Genna (1939-2009) An editorial by Gary Nager

officer contacted the HillsboroughCounty Sheriff’s Office, who thencalled in the TPD detectives who wereworking on the Tampa robbery case.

After interviewing the suspects,the TPD detectives obtained a searchwarrant for the suspects’ vehicle, andfound a stun gun and a .357-caliberrevolver inside, along with propertybelonging to the Clearwater victim.

They then placed the two suspectsunder arrest, at which point Riveraallegedly confessed to committing therobberies in Tampa and Clearwater, aswell as another in Polk County. Healso implicated Neff in the Tampa andClearwater robberies, but said that hehad committed the Polk County rob-bery by himself.

Neff, meanwhile, denied involve-ment in any of the robberies, but wascharged after the Tampa victim identi-fied him from a photo line-up.

At our press time, Rivera wasbeing held without bond in the OrientRoad jail. He is charged with fivecounts of robbery and one count ofbattery upon a victim older than 65;Neff, meanwhile, is being held under abond of $247,500, and he is chargedwith two counts of robbery, one countof felon in possession of a firearm, onecount of battery on a victim older than

65 and one count of attempting todestroy evidence.

The investigation is still ongoing,and TPD detectives are still looking forthe third suspect in the case.

Local Woman Charged InTheft From Foster Agency

A 23-year-old New Tampa womanwas arrested January 14 after police sayshe used gift cards that were supposedto be given to foster families to pur-chase items for herself.

According to an arrest affidavit,Kristie Feliz Smith, of 8611 TessaraLane, was employed asan administrative assis-tant at HillsboroughKids, Inc., the agencythat oversees the fostercare system in Hillsbor-ough County, where oneof her assignments wasto mail out 13 $50 Wal-Mart gift cards to localfoster families.

However, police say that Smithremoved at least six, and possibly eight,of the gift cards from the envelopesand never delivered them to theintended recipients.

Police began investigating the caseafter the agency started receiving com-plaints from families about receivingempty gift envelopes. They recoveredsurveillance video from the Wal-Mart


“News Briefs”Continued from page 1

SuperCenter on Bruce B. Downs Blvd.in New Tampa, which showed Smithusing the cards to make a $288.13purchase on October 3.

Upon questioning, Smith admit-ted to making the purchase, but saidthat she had thought she was using giftcards that her mother had given her.She also denied using two other cardsthat were cashed in at other local Wal-Mart stores. The remaining five giftcards were deactivated before theycould be used, a Tampa Police Depart-ment spokesperson said.

Although she did reimburse Hills-borough Kids, Inc., for $400, and wassubsequently fired from the agency,Smith was charged with one count ofgrand theft and was released from jailafter posting a $2,000 bond.

Father Arrested For DUI After Son Calls 911

A 33-year-old HillsboroughCounty man was arrested January 18and charged with DUI after his 13-year-old son called 911 to report him.

According to reports, Gary JoeGreer, of Dover, was arrested shortlyafter midnight at 10960 Cross CreekBlvd. after police say he began arguingwith an adult passenger in his vehiclenear the intersection of Cross CreekBlvd. and Morris Bridge Rd. At thetime, Greer’s children, ages 2 and 13,also were in the car, and at some point,

the 13-year-old got outof the car and called 911.

When police arrived,they reported that Greerhad trouble standing andappeared to be intoxicat-ed. He refused to take asobriety test, but allegedlytold deputies, “I’mdrunk,” and asked themto take him to jail.

Greer, who has a lengthy arrestrecord, was charged with one count ofdriving under the influence, one countof driving while his license was sus-pended or revoked, and two counts ofchild abuse. He was released from cus-tody after posting $6,250 bond.

Kristie F.Smith

Gary Joe Greer


direction to three lanes in each direc-tion (with additional turn lanes), a proj-ect that is expected to be completed bythe end of this year. In other words,when that construction is concluded,those three lanes in Pasco will have tobe funneled down to two lanes crossingthe county line and then down to theconstruction site less than two mileslater — for at least two years!

Passmore also notes that althoughthere will be plenty of lane closuresmaking an already difficult drive alongBBD even more stressful, the countydoesn’t anticipate any actual road clo-sures during construction of any of thephases. He adds that although theremight be some issues with some of thesegments of the bike path along BBDduring the construction, the bike pathitself “has to remain open throughoutthe construction.”

Other Issues To Deal WithOther Issues To Deal WithIf you’ve ever been on a major

roadway when it’s been under con-struction (and who hasn’t?), you’veprobably seen those blue signs thatsometimes include the names of thebusinesses on the other side of the con-struction. Other times, the signs simplysay “Business Entrance,” which is all

the construction contractor Kamminga& Roodvoets, Inc., is required to pro-vide in the case of this first phase ofBBD widening.

But, District 7 Tampa City Coun-cil member (and Tampa Palms resident)Joseph Caetano has pledged that thecity will provide signs that say the actualbusiness names on them.

“Even though Bruce B. Downs isa county road and the widening is acounty project,” Caetano said at thejanuary 6 public hearing, “all of thosebusinesses (not including those in frontof Pebble Creek and Live Oak Pre-serve) are in the city, so I will get theCity Council to provide better signage,because doing business during roadconstruction is hard enough. Peopledefinitely still need to be able to findthose businesses.”

Caetano already has played a rolein one improvement now included inthe plan — a traffic signal and the abili-ty to turn left out of the Publix-anchored New Tampa Center plaza (infront of the McDonald’s and Mobil gasstation) at S. Regents Park Dr. Current-ly, the median on BBD in front of theplaza is closed off, so drivers can onlymake a right out of that plaza exit.

“It’s hard enough to get out ofthat shopping center now, without theconstruction slowing things down evenmore,” Caetano told interested resi-dents at the public hearing. “A signal

“BBD Widening”Continued from page 1

and a way to turn left there is definitelythe right thing to do.”

Caetano also is trying to help outthe Frost family, which owns theMcDonald’s franchises at both the NewTampa Center and next to Red Lobsterin Tampa Palms. The Frosts and theowners of the 7-11 gas station, as wellas several other business owners in TheShoppes at The Pointe in Tampa Palmsaren’t happy with the fact that the cur-rent left turn from BBD northboundinto the plaza at the McDonald’s and7-11 will no longer exist when the con-struction is completed.

“If you’ve ever tried to make theleft turn onto Tampa Palms Blvd. infront of Red Lobster during rush hour,you know how hard it can be to getthrough that turn signal,” John Frostsaid during the hearing. “And, we’renot the only ones upset about that turngoing away.” He notes that he is in dis-cussion with Marriott International,which is in the process of building theSpringHill Suites hotel off CommercePark Blvd. (near USAA Insurance).

“The Marriott people told us theydidn’t know the turn wasn’t going tobe there anymore,” Frost said. “It’shard enough to get back there behindour plaza now, with the turn in place.”

Caetano said he didn’t know ifthere was anything that could be doneabout the turn going away, but prom-ised to continue to work on the issue.

Another Idea Bites The DustA certain newspaper editor who

attended the meeting had anotheridea to help out the already difficulttraffic situation on the other side ofthe same intersection — CommercePalms Blvd., between Lowe’s andCVS. I told Passmore that one of theworst current BBD bottlenecks duringrush hour happens when people aretrying to make a right turn onto BBDfrom in front of CVS. Consideringhow much worse the traffic will getwhen the construction begins inearnest, I wondered whether it waspossible to allow at least a temporary(if not permanent) right turn out ofthe Market Square at Tampa Palmsplaza (anchored by BJ’s WholesaleClub and Staples) in order to allowsome of those trying to get on BBDnorthbound to have a fighting chanceto get home.

“I really don’t think so,” Pass-more told me shortly after I postedmy comments about the possibleright-out addition at that location onthe county’s project website — Hills-boroughCounty.org/pwprojects.

“That right-in turn is very closeto the entrance to I-75 and the federalgovernment is much more concernedabout the traffic on I-75 than they are

It’s only five or six miles from myoffice to Wharton High, which nor-mally takes 15-20 minutes, even dur-ing rush hour. That night, however, ittook more than 35 minutes for me tomake that same trip, but while it wasfrustrating, I felt it also was fitting. Noone who made their way from anypart of New Tampa could possiblythink BBD doesn’t need to bewidened, even though some in atten-dance I spoke with wished it wereonly being widened to six lanes total,instead of eight. I also always like itwhen public officials, most of whom(whether elected or staff members)don’t find their way “up here” fromdowntown very often, get a first-handtaste of our traffic issues.

I’ve been attending meetings likethis since 1994 and I have to say it’salways like old home week for me

whenever I go back. Many of the peo-ple who attended this most recentpublic hearing are folks who havebeen involved in New Tampa’s trans-portation woes as long (or at leastalmost as long) as I have, from Joeand Debby Amon of Pebble Creek toBill Schneider of Tampa Palms andfrom Lutfi Jadallah of Meadow Pointeto Councilman Caetano himself.

Like I said earlier, it’s nice thatanother New Tampa road project isbeing built in my lifetime — and I’vebeen waiting for this one for alooooong time.. But now, here comesthe really hard part for us — trying tolive — and make a living — in thisarea while this project is being built. Iknow it’ll end up being worth it whenit’s all said an done, but until then,let’s try to keep our spirits up and ourroad rage down.


about local roads being able to accessthe interstate. I agree that a right-outcould help that bottleneck somewhat,but I think the developer of that partof Tampa Palms (Warren Kinsler ofNew Tampa Inc.) even tried to sue toget a right-out as well as a right-in atthat spot.”

Green Vs. Green? Green Vs. Green? Considering the crazy fluctua-

tions in the cost of gasoline, morepeople than ever are talking about —and pushing for — additional masstransit opportunities, both Tampa Bayarea-wide and in the New Tampa area.

Even so, even those who arestrong proponents of bringing a lightcommuter rail system to BBD have tobe wondering if this whole BBDwidening wouldn’t be a lot easier ifthe designers of the project didn’thave to include the 20-foot-wide lightrail “envelope” along the entire lengthof BBD.

We were originally told that theonly way the light rail would workwould be if it went down the center ofBBD, so instead of landscaped medi-ans, we’d have commuter trains in themiddle of the roadway.

Now, however, the BBD widen-ing has been designed to include therail envelope on the east side of BBD— the same side as the existing 10-foot-wide BBD bike path.

Although light rail may neverhappen along BBD and even the mostrealistic estimates say it won’t happenuntil somewhere between 2025-2050,Passmore did admit at the public hear-ing that, in some locations alongBBD, there may not be enough roomfor both a rail envelope and the BBDbike path. He didn’t elaborate onwhere the bike path might have to atleast be reduced in size, but howmuch fun will it be to have to rideyour bike alongside speeding trains?

I’ve never felt that the light railsystem, as proposed, was a good ideafor New Tampa, but even the

strongest proponents of it would haveto agree that pitting one form ofgreen transportation against anotherwould not be ideal for our communi-ty. In other words, if it were up to me,I’d rather save the bike path thanworry about trains that may nevercome. Of course, like most thingsthese days, that’s not my call.

They Really Do Care!They Really Do Care!Speaking of gripes, if you particu-

larly love or hate any part of the BBDwidening project, or you just have aquestion about it I strongly suggestvisiting the aforementioned projectwebsite (HillsboroughCounty.org/pwprojects) and posting your com-ments. Passmore got back to me thesame day I posted mine about theright-out at Staples and he said it was-n’t because I’m a newspaper guy.

“We’re really trying to address asmany resident concerns as we can,”Passmore said. “We know it’s going tobe difficult during the construction,but knowing what you’re up againsthas to help.” He added that all of thecomments posted on the website, aswell as all of the hand-written andvideotaped comments made duringthe public hearing (or mailed in afterthe hearing) will be available to thepublic, but he didn’t know when.

Patrick Murray, the county stafferwho hosted the public hearing, saidvery few attendees chose to be video-taped, “even though a lot of them hadvery strong opinions about the projectthat we would have loved to have hadon tape. We really would like to beable to address your concerns, soplease let us know, even though the‘official’ public comment period forthe hearing has ended.”

Familiar Faces & StrugglesFamiliar Faces & StrugglesIt just so happens that I was

about 20 minutes late for the start ofthe meeting, in part because the trafficon BBD was particularly gridlockedthat evening.

More lanes and more turn lanes (bottom illustration) will help alleviate thebottlenecks on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. by Spring 2013.

City Examines Issues Related To The I-75 Bridge ProjectBy Michael Smith

While the widening of Bruce B.Downs (BBD) Blvd. is now under way,the City of Tampa has agreed to delaythe start of construction on its plannedbridge over I-75 between Tampa Palmsand West Meadows.

The decision to do so was an effortto placate residents of the two subdivi-sions who will be most affected by thebridge—residents who expressed fearsthat if the bridge was built before thewidening of BBD began, their neigh-borhoods would become a bypass routefor drivers looking to avoid the dustand delays caused by the widening.

However, city officials continue towork towards moving forward with theproject, and recently revealed the resultsof a traffic safety study that the city hadcommissioned to look at issues relatedto the bridge project as it would affectthe two neighborhoods — West Mead-ows and Tampa Palms Areas 4 & 8(nearest to Commerce Park Blvd.).

The city hired consulting firmVanus, Inc., to conduct the study, andaccording to a presentation given byVanus representatives and city officialsto the members of the Board of Direc-tors of the Tampa Palms CommunityDevelopment District (CDD) earlierthis month, the purpose of the studywas fourfold: 1) to identify the citizens’concerns; 2) to collect current data; 3)to perform necessary traffic analyses;and 4) to make recommendations forpotential improvements.

The Vanus study concluded thatthe top areas of concern for residents ofthe two subdivisions were the potentialfor cut-through traffic, especially onTampa Palms Blvd. and on New TampaBlvd., the effects that traffic would haveon the safety of pedestrians, bikers andother drivers, the delays that trafficwould cause within the two neighbor-hoods and other issues related to thedecline in quality of life that the trafficproblems would be expected to cause.

Vanus’ study looked at both the

major roadways and side streets thatwould most likely be impacted by thebridge project, and included speed andvolume counts on all of the roadwaysand at specific intersections within theproject area, turning movements at theintersections and an analysis of the acci-dents that already occur in those areas.

The main roadways examined inthe study were New Tampa Blvd.(specifically the segment betweenMeadow Pine Dr. and BBD), Com-merce Park Blvd. (between W. TampaPalms Blvd. and the Freedom High/Liberty Middle School campus), theentire length of Tampa Palms Blvd.,both east and west of BBD, andAmberly Dr. The study also specificallylooked at issues related to access to theLiberty/Freedom campus, access to theNew Tampa Center plaza at BBD andNew Tampa Blvd., school bus stops onNew Tampa Blvd. and access to theWest Meadows Community Center.

After looking at all those things,the consulting firm made a list of 36separate recommendations to improvetraffic conditions within the study area,both now and when the bridge is built.Most of the recommendations, 14, tar-get New Tampa Blvd., and especiallythe access to the New Tampa Center.The study noted the hazardous condi-tions that currently exist at the entranceto the plaza from New Tampa Blvd.,where through traffic has to competewith vehicles trying to get into and outof the plaza and the lines of cars thatqueue up at the BBD New TampaBlvd. intersection.

The study notes that as part of theBBD widening project, dual left turnlanes will be installed from eastboundNew Tampa Blvd. to northboundBBD, and an additional eastbound lanewill be added for vehicles going acrossBBD to Cross Creek Blvd. Therefore,they did not recommend that a trafficsignal be installed at that entrance, butthey did call for one at the plazaentrance at BBD and Regents Park Dr.

S. (which was not originally included inthe BBD widening plans, but which hasnow been added, see the BBD widen-ing story which begins on page 1).

Vanus also suggested revising thetiming of the existing traffic signal atBBD and New Tampa Blvd., restripingthe roadway to reduce some of theconfusion for drivers, and changing thelandscaping in the median of NewTampa Blvd. to give drivers clearer linesof sight in all directions.

Meanwhile, on the Tampa Palmsside, many of the study recommenda-tions dealt with access to the schoolcampus on Commerce Park Blvd.Vanus noted that the area becomes atraffic nightmare, especially on schooldays, when buses mix with both stu-dent drivers and vehicles driven by par-ents trying to pick up their children.

“No kids who attend Liberty Mid-dle live on the other side of I-75, so allthe cars (driven by parents picking uptheir children from Liberty) go downthere and turn around,” says MaggieWilson, a consultant for the TampaPalms CDD. “So when the bridgeopens, it going to become an even big-ger mess down there.”

Among the recommendations thatVanus made to alleviate the situation atthe school campus are additional turn

lanes at the school’s northernmostdriveway, as well as a part-time trafficsignal at that driveway and additionalspeed limit signs along that stretch ofCommerce Park Blvd. Wilson says theCDD Board was told that the city isworking with officials from the Hills-borough County School District tomake those recommended changes.

Other recommendations targetedthe intersections of W. Tampa PalmsBlvd. and Amberly Dr. and at W.Tampa Palms Blvd. and the Shoppes atThe Pointe Plaza, which are both notedas places where accidents frequentlyoccur, and at the intersection of NewTampa Blvd. and Highwoods PreservePkwy., where Vanus noted that a trafficsignal may be warranted in the future.

Although we were unable to reachcity transportation officials for com-ment, Wilson says the city officials she’stalked to have said they are committedto either make the recommendedchanges themselves, or to work withother entities, such as the HillsboroughCounty School District, the CDD andthe Tampa Palms Homeowners Associ-ation, to get them done.

A complete copy of the trafficstudy results can be found at thewebsite for the West Meadows com-munity, West-Meadows.org.


• Same Day Appointments

4444 E. Fletcher Ave., Suite B813-903-0060

Solo Practice!Practicing 14 years in TampaGraduate of UF & USFResidency All Children’s Hospital

Teena Hughes, M.D., P.A.Pediatrics

Board Certified

Most MedicalInsurance Plans

Accepted!


• Cleanings(Ages 4 and up)

• Crowns, Bridgesand Implant Crowns

• Veneers• Zoom & Take

Home Whitening• Root Canals &

Extractions

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY20441 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.

(across the street from Wharton H.S.,in front of Live Oak)

Dr. Neeraja Jasthi, DMD

WELCOME TOFAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dr. Neeraja Jasthi

866-9913“Let Our Family Be Here For Yours”

through qualified referrals, meets everyWednesday at 7:30 a.m. at HeritageIsles Clubhouse (18630 Plantation BayDr., off Cross Creek Blvd.).

For more information, call JalIrani at 451-8229.

Civil Air PatrolCivil Air PatrolWednesday, February 3 – A new

Civil Air Patrol squadron now meetsevery Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m., atTampa North Aero Park (4241 Bird-song Blvd., off S.R. 54, WesleyChapel). Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is thevolunteer civilian auxiliary arm of theU.S. Air Force, and membership isopen to youths ages 12-18 and theirparents. Adult members performsearch-and-rescue, disaster relief andother emergency services, while teenmembers, or cadets, learn through lead-

ership and character-building activities,including flight training.

For additional info, visit WesleyChapelCAP. com or call CherylSpence at 973-7270.North East Tampa North East Tampa Women In BusinessWomen In Business

Thursday, February 4 – TheNorth East Tampa Women in Business(NETWIB) group will hold its firstmeeting for the New Year at 6 p.m. atHunter’s Green County Club (18101Longwater Run Dr.). Guests are wel-come, but registration is requested.

To register, or for more infor-mation, call president Kay Dunn at841-5932 or visit NETWIB.org.New Tampa EveningNew Tampa EveningRotary ClubRotary Club

Thursday, February 4– The New

Community CalendarNEW TAMPA

Household Items NeededHousehold Items NeededA couple of months ago, we told

you about Starting Right, Now, a newNew Tampa-based program that assistshomeless families and students withfinding new homes, jobs and otherresources. Now, program founder VickiSokolik says that need has been sogreat, the organization desperatelyneeds all kinds of household items, suchas linens, towels, pots and pans, uten-sils, etc. Monetary donations also arevery welcome.

For info about how you canhelp, visit StartingRightNow.org.

Health & Wellness FairHealth & Wellness FairMonday, February 1-Thursday,

February 4 - The H. Lee Moffitt Can-cer & Research Institute’s IntegrativeMedicine Department will host a freehealth & wellness fair, 8 a.m.-12:30p.m. each day, at the Moffitt ClinicBuilding at 12902 Magnolia Dr., onthe University of South Florida campus.The fair will include free chair massages,yoga and tai chi demonstrations, well-ness consultations, live music and more.

For more information, call SarahRausch at 745-2194.

New Tampa Noon RotaryNew Tampa Noon RotaryWednesday, February 3 – The

New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meetsevery Wednesday at noon at CirclesNew Tampa Bistro (19651 Bruce B.Downs Blvd. in the Pebble Creek Col-lection shopping plaza).

On February 10, New TampaNeighborhood News editor Gary Nagerwill be the featured speaker. Gary willprovide a full update on the wideningof Bruce B. Downs Blvd. and the plansfor the New Tampa Gateway Bridgeover I-75 linking West Meadows toTampa Palms.

Seating will be limited. If you’dlike to attend the Feb. 10 meeting,please call 973-7703 or 910-2575 byFriday, February 5.New Tampa Kiwanis Club

Wednesday, February 3 – TheKiwanis Club of New Tampa meetsevery Wednesday at 11:45 am at theTampa Palms Golf and Country Club(5811 Tampa Palms Blvd).

For more info, please send anemail to [email protected] visit www.newtampakiwanis.org.

Business Networking Int’lWednesday, February 3 – Busi-

ness Networking International (BNI), agroup of business professionals dedicat-ed to helping their businesses grow

All 3 Local Rotary Clubs To Team Up For 2010 Pig RoastAlthough New Tampa’s original Rotary Club, which meets Fridays, 7

a.m., at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club, started the annual Pig Roast tra-dition, the older club invited the New Tampa Noon Rotary Club (whichmeets Wednesdayys at noon at Circles New Tampa Bistro) to join in the PigRoast fun the last two years.

This year, the fledgling New Tampa Evening Rotary Club (which meetsThursday evening, 6:15 p.m., at Hunter’s Green Country Club) will also helpwith the event, which is scheduled for Sunday, March 21, at St. Mark theEvangelist Catholic Church on Cross Creek Blvd.

You can expect even more teams roasting pigs, with lots of prizes, musicand as always, a fun family atmosphere.

To sponsor or volunteer at this year’s Pig Roast, visit any of thearea’s three Rotary Clubs. — GN


Tampa Evening Rotary Club meetsevery Thursday, 6:15 p.m., at Hunter’sGreen Country Club (18101 Longwa-ter Run Dr.).

For more information, call Sher-ri Ferguson at 892-9782.

Computer WorkshopsComputer WorkshopsThursday, February 4 – Every

Thursday, the New Tampa RegionalLibrary (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.)offers computer workshops for adults.Upcoming topics include: mouse skills,internet search engines and workingwith menus, toolbars and graphicobjects in Microsoft Office.

Registration is required in person,no earlier than one hour before thebeginning of the workshop.

Call 273-3652 for more info.

New Tampa Rotary ClubNew Tampa Rotary ClubFriday, February 5 – The New

Tampa Rotary Club meets every Friday,7 a.m., at Tampa Palms Golf & Coun-try Club (TPG&CC, 5811 TampaPalms Blvd.).

On February 5, the group’s guestspeaker will be Dr. Zhaoying Han ofThe Confucius Center at the Universityof South Florida. All club members andtheir guests are invited to attend.

For more information, visitNewTampaRotary.org or contactKaren Frashier at 375-2663.

Women-N-ChargeWomen-N-Charge

Friday, February 5 – Women-N-Charge, a group that offers educationand support for business women, meetsthe first Friday of every month at 11:30a.m. at Pebble Creek Golf Club (10550Regents Park Dr.).

For more information, visitWomen-n-Charge.com or call SueDavis at 435-5128.

Temple Ohev ShalomTemple Ohev ShalomSaturday, February 6 – Temple

Ohev Shalom (6460 Tampa PalmsBlvd.) will host a variety of eventsthroughout the month of February,including Shabbat services at 9:30 a.m.on Saturday, February 6, and at 7:15p.m. on Friday, February 12; a Com-munity Bagel Brunch and Open Housefor the Temple’s religious school onSunday, February 21, beginning at10:30 a.m. and 9 a.m., respectively; anda Purim Carnival that will begin at10:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 28.

For more info about these andother events, call 632-9900 or visitTempleOhevShalom.org.

Liberty Middle School Liberty Middle School Chorus Garage SaleChorus Garage Sale

Saturday, February 6 – In orderto raise money for a trip to perform atCarnegie Hall in New York City laterthis spring, the advanced chorus stu-dents from Liberty Middle School willhold a Garage Sale, 8 a.m.-noon, at the

First Baptist Church of New Tampa(28125 County Line Rd., off BBD, inMeadow Pointe).

Red Hat SocietyRed Hat SocietyThursday, February 11 – A new

chapter of the Red Hat Society forladies over 50 meets on the secondThursday of each month.

For more information, send ane-mail to [email protected].

New Tampa Job New Tampa Job Networking GroupNetworking Group

Wednesday, February 17 – TheNew Tampa Job Networking Groupmeets on the third Wednesday of everymonth at St. Andrew PresbyterianChurch (5338 Primrose Lake Circle).

For more information, call 907-3057 or visit SaintAndy.com.

Free Jazz ConcertFree Jazz ConcertMonday, February 22 – In cele-

bration of Black History Month, theNew Tampa Regional Library (10001Cross Creek Blvd.) will host a free per-formance by accomplished jazz singer

Rose Bilal, who has sung with the likesof Gladys Knight & The Pips and TheO’Jays and recently packed houses inEurope with her unique style. The per-formance will begin at 7 p.m.

For more info, call 903-2284.Free Memory ScreeningsFree Memory Screenings

Monday, February 22-Friday,February 26 – If you’re concernedwith changes in your memory or thememory of someone close to you, theUniversity of South Florida Alzheimer’sCenter will offer free memory screen-ings at the Johnnie B. Byrd Alzheimer’sCenter & Research Institute (4001 E.Fletcher Ave.). The screenings takeapproximately 30 minutes, and appoint-ments are required.

For more info, or to make anappointment, call 974-4355.

ATTENTION: In order to make sure that our Community Calendaris current, we are asking all club and group representatives to pleaseupdate their meeting and contact info for the New Year. To do so, pleasesend an e-mail to [email protected]. You may also submit info by faxat 910-2483 or by regular mail to: New Tampa Neighborhood News,15345 Amberly Dr., Tampa FL 33647, Attn: Community Calendar. Call910-2575 if you have any questions. Thank you. — MS

Are You Raising Money For AnyNot-For-Profit Cause?

Let us help you promote yourgroup’s efforts! Send info, with picturesto [email protected] and see page14 for this issue’s fund-raising recap.


By Gary Nager

The earthquake and aftershocks inHaiti obviously have left most Ameri-cans feeling like we want to do some-thing to help the millions of peopleaffected by this horrific natural disaster.

Already one of the poorest coun-tries in the world, the earthquake whichdecimated the capital of Port-au-Princehas rightfully made Haiti the epicenterof attention for those wanting to helptheir fellow man, woman and child.

With quick links on the internetand text message donations helping toquickly raise hundreds of millions ofdollars in the U.S. for legitimate causeslike the American Red Cross, DoctorsWithout Borders, OXFAM-America(which benefited from the multi-mega-star “HOPE for Haiti Now” telethonon January 22) and others within thefirst two weeks after the quake, itbecame obvious to me that, despite ourreputation for apathy and a still-shakyeconomy, most Americans of any meanswhatsoever felt compelled to do some-thing after seeing just a few images ofthe death and destruction a few hun-dred miles south of us.

Of course, just as there were in theaftermath of Hurricane Katrina’s devas-tation in New Orleans and the Missis-

sippi Gulf Coast, there already arewarnings of scam organizations usingnames similar to legitimate charities try-ing to bilk you out of your $10 (ormore) donation, so please continue togive, but be careful of to whom you’regiving your hard-earned money.

I also remember when Katrina hitthat the Red Cross in particular waswarning those making donations thatthe money collected would benefit theRed Cross as a whole and there were noguarantees the money raised at thattime would go to directly benefit thehurricane victims. It seems now that allof the major charities involved (thereare links to nearly two dozen organiza-tions) on Yahoo.com alone) in the reliefefforts in Haiti are allowing donors toearmark their funds for “Haiti Earth-quake.” The hope here is that themoney will actually used to help thosedevastated neighbors of ours and that,most important of all, it can help theHaitian people recover from this terribleordeal and rebuild their country.

Of course, the people of NewTampa and Wesley Chapel have alwaystried to help those in need, so eventhough most of the following notes areregarding efforts not related to the dis-aster in Haiti, to us, the people involvedin these and any other efforts to help

others are still worth highlighting inthese pages, whether the efforts rase $1or $1 million, To that end, I hope youwill continue to send us informationabout anything you or your organiza-tion are doing to help those in need.

Please send information and pic-tures (in any digital photo format) [email protected].

Deacon Blues For HaitiDeacon Blues For HaitiAlthough I’m no longer a member

of the group (thankfully for everyoneinvolved), I hope you will attend thefree “Blues for Haiti” concert by theDeacon Blues band on Saturday, Feb-ruary 6, 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m., atThe Palms Lounge at Peabody’s(15333 Amberly Dr., in the Shoppes atAmberly plaza). The concert is free, butcash and other donations will beaccepted at the door and, consideringthat several members of the DeaconBlues are emergency room doctors,they can guarantee that 100 percent ofthe proceeds will be given directly tothose in need in Haiti.

Reservations are not required,but for more info, call 972-1725.Easter Seals Photo Contest

All kids are special and can make adifference. It’s as simple as a smile.

Bob and Kim Thompson, owners

of Thompson Studios on Cross CreekBlvd. in New Tampa, joined the EasterSeals Florida Tampa Bay Region Boardof Directors a year ago and have com-mitted themselves to continuously raisemoney to help the children of EasterSeals. This commitment comes not onlyfrom their hearts, but also from theThompsons’ experience with their son,Eric, who was born with Down syn-drome and a host of other life-threaten-ing health issues.

With the support and love fromprofessionals in the special needs com-munity, however, today Eric is a happy

Haiti Earthquake Relief Taking Center Fund-Raising Stage

(L. to r) Michael Martz, BernieDesrosiers, Dr. Kelly O’Keefe andthe rest of the Deacon Blues Band

will play a benefit concert for Haitiat The Palms Lounge on Feb. 6.

To enter, send a 3’ x 5’ colorphotograph, a parent’s e-mailaddress, telephone number, homeaddress and include the $20 entryfee payable to “Easter Seals TampaBay” and mail it to Thompson Stu-dios, 10329H Cross Creek Blvd.,Tampa, FL 33647.

Photos will not be returned.Entry fees are tax deductible. Makeyour check payable to “Easter SealsTampa Bay.” The deadline for entriesis February 28, 2010. It all startswith a smile. When children smile,everyone wins.

Andreychuks Help Leukemia Society Event

In December, New Tampa resi-dent Bonnie Bishop was happy to beable to enlist the help of fellow NewTampa resident and former Tampa BayLightning captain Dave Andreychukand his wife Sue for an event Bonniehosted at WineStyles (in front of theSuperTarget-anchored Northwoodshopping center on Bruce B. DownsBlvd. at County Line Rd.

The event, which featured out-standing food 100-percent donated byStonewood Grill & Tavern in TampaPalms, live entertainment, free chairmassages and silent auctions, as well aswine tastings by WineStyles ownerTroy Melquist, brought togetherabout 30 of Bishop’s friends to raise

about $1,000 to benefit the SuncoastChapter of the Leukemia & Lym-phoma Society’s “Team in Training”of which Bonnie is a member.

Bishop said she wasn’t really con-cerned about how much money sheraised, “because every little bit reallydoes help.” Andreychuk, who auto-graphed bottles of wine for attendees(as well as a hockey stick that was auc-tioned off), said, “It’s a great causeand the Bishops are good friends ofours,. Sue and I were happy to help.”

If you’d like to help (or findout more about) the SuncoastChapter of the Leukemia & Lym-phoma Society, visit Leukemia Lym-phoma.org.


and healthy 16-year-old freshman atNew Tampa’s Wharton High.

“I don’t know what we wouldhave done then or how well our sonwould be doing now without the earlyintervention therapies, counseling andfriendship of the professionals in thespecial needs community,” says Kim.

One of those professionals was ayoung woman named (at that time)Aleisha Wilber, who babysat for Ericfrom when he was 3 until he was 5years old, while she attended the speechlanguage pathology program at theUniversity of South Florida. TheThompsons lost track of Aleisha whenshe completed college and started herown career, but 10 years later, Aleisha(whose last name is now Linck) walkedinto Thompson Studios. Not only didshe become a professional speechpathologist, she also got married, hadtwo children and became the adminis-trative director of Independent LivingPediatrics speech pathology clinic,which recently opened its second out-patient therapy clinic in the Summer-gate Professional Center in Seven Oaks.

With open hearts and an excite-ment for creating a fun and worthwhileproject that will bring smiles to manyyoung faces, Aleisha, Kim and Bobtogether created “Portraits in thePark,” a photo contest where ten kidswill be chosen to participate in a profes-sional photo shoot — and the selected

images will permanently hang in Inde-pendent Living Pediatrics’ clinic inSeven Oaks.

To enter, send $20 and a photo ofyour child’s smiling face to the Portraitsin the Park photo contest (see below),which is open to children ages 1-10,from all walks of life, with and withoutspecial needs,.

One in five households has a childwith a special health care need, yet withearly intervention, half of them will goto school without needing special serv-ices. Each $20 entry fee goes directly toEaster Seals of Tampa Bay to help thesechildren hope, dream and succeed.

The ten winners of the contest willbe announced in early February andwill get to participate in a professionalportrait shoot by New Tampa’s award-winning Thompson Studios.

The winning portraits also will bedisplayed in a futureNeighborhood News,announced through the ThompsonStudios’ e-newsletter, on the studio’ sblog and on Independent Living’s website. The final art pieces will be show-cased in a one-night gallery opening atThompson Studios honoring all contestparticipants, before permanently hang-ing in the park-like lobby of Independ-ent Living Pediatrics, which specializesin physical, occupational and speechtherapy to bring out the best in everychild. Winners will receive an eight-image portfolio of the photo shoot.

(L. to r.) Bob & Bonnie Bishop, WineStylesowner Troy Melquist, Dave & Sue Andrey-chuk helped raise about $1,000 to benefit theSuncoast Chapter of the Leukemia & Lym-

phoma Society.


2008-09 NTCC Board of DirectorsPresident-Scott D. Estes

New TampaChamber of Commerce, Inc.

15310 Amberly Dr., Suite 250Tampa, FL 33647

Information: (813) 293-2464 Fax: (813) 973-8259

Website: NewTampa.Org“under construction”

Temple Ohev Shalomof New Tampa

6460 Tampa Palms Blvd. Tampa, Fl. 33647

813-632-9900

Somerset Professional Park - 15283 Amberly Dr., Tampa, FL 33647

James R. Kist, CPA, P.A.Accounting & Tax Services

Commerce Park Professional Center5301 Technology DriveTampa, FL 33647

Office: (813) 972-3033Fax: (813) 972-9033

James R. KistCertified Public Accountant

Matt Palmer, Treas.Rachel Haviland, Secy.Connie BladonSeema JainJerry Miller

Rodney KoschmanKristen KippRegina RamalheiraMary Ann YaneyMatt Urbanovsky

Mailing Address:P.O. Box 46155

Tampa, Fl. 33647

Administrative Assistant: Karen Frashier

14201 Professional Plaza • 14201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd

(North Thirtieth Street) • Tampa, Florida 33613

Todd J. Wiener, DMD, PAGeneral Dentistry

Telephone (813) 977-6962

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

BAY AREA REAL ESTATE & RENTALS

Serving New Tampa Since 1993

Mary Ann DiorioEmail: [email protected]

To View My Services and Available Rentals,please visit:

www.maryannrents.com

813-417-2164

Board Members:

Happy New Year & Get Ready For The 2010 Taste Of New Tampa!If you ‘ve ever attended the Taste

of New Tampa® & Business & HealthExpo in the past, then you knowwhat it’s like. The Taste is the placewhere you can spend an entire after-noon savoring nibbles from all of themajor restaurants in and around NewTampa, listen to great live music andhave a wonderful time with your fami-ly, friends and neighbors.

On Sunday, April 18, the NewTampa Chamber of Commerce willhost the 17th annual Taste at Free-dom High in Tampa Palms, 1 p.m.-4p.m. This year, the Taste also will fea-ture an area for artists and unique craftartisans along with all the food andfamily-oriented fun.

The Taste of New Tampa® alsois an awesome opportunity to high-light your business to literally thou-sands of potential customers. Wehope you will want to become anevent sponsor again this year, or atleast pay to set up a business booth atthe event.

This will be the first year that theTaste will officially be hosted buy Newtampa’s own Chamber of Commerce,as the previous 16 Tastes were hostedby the New Tampa Community

Council, which no longer exists. And,just as the “old” NTCC did, theChamber will again rely upon volun-teers to help run New Tampa’s best-attended single-day annual event. Ifyour organization is looking for waysto volunteer your time, this is a greatopportunity. Please contact us at [email protected] for moreinformation about how your busi-ness or organization can become apart of the Taste of New Tampa.

Ambassadors Wanted!Ambassadors Wanted!The New Tampa Chamber also is

seeking ambassadors who will assistwith ribbon cuttings and welcomingnew Chamber members. Ribbon-cut-ting ceremonies are among the mostvisible ways most chambers of com-merce get involved with the local busi-ness community and the New TampaChamber Board would like to see thattradition take hold here as well.

If you’re interested in findingout more about becoming a Cham-ber ambassador or about having aChamber ribbon-cutting, pleasecontact Kristen Kipp-Palinsky [email protected] or call 514-2888 for details.

You Can Get Involved With The New Tampa Chamber Of Commerce At These Monthly Events!

Chamber Luncheons - The 2nd Monday of each monthat Pebble Creek Golf Club. Registration opens at 11:30; lunch is served at noon.

Chamber Breakfasts - The 3rd Tuesday of each month at Tampa Palms Golf &Country Club. Registration at 7:30 a.m., breakfast is served at noon.

Networking Happy Hours - The last Thursday of the monthat Stonewood Grill & Tavern, Tampa Palms at 5:30 p.m.

Please call the NTCC Hotline at 293-2464 for exact start times.

Membership Drive KickingMembership Drive KickingInto High Gear!Into High Gear!

Our membership drive kicks offin February, and our luncheon onMonday, February 8, will featureJohn Walkinshaw, the executive direc-tor of the Hillsborough River Water-shed Alliance. He will explain “Whatbusinesses and citizens can do to pro-tect our watershed.” The CypressCreek Preserve, which has been in thenews quite a bit because of the still-unbuilt Cypress Creek Town Centermall and planned development, is animportant part of the Hillsboroughwatershed. The Watershed Alliance isa not-for-profit environmental organi-zation that has provided education,research, and community forums since1992. We therefore hope you willjoin us on Feb. 8, noon to 1 p.m., atPebble Creek Golf Club (on N.Regents Park Dr., opposite the Wal-Mart Supercenter).

As of this writing, the NewTampa Chamber has nearly 180

members and our goal is to grow to500 members within five years! Lookfor more details about the benefits ofa New Tampa Chamber membershipat our upcoming breakfast meetingon Tuesday, February 16, 8 a.m.-9a.m., at Tampa Palms Golf & Coun-try Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.).

We’re looking forward to all thenew friends and connections we willmake this year. We hope to see youall at our next event.Scott EstesPresidentNew Tampa Chamber

NewTampa.org Website StillBeing Developed

Please be advised that the Cham-ber’s website — NewTampa.org —is still in the process of being com-pletely overhauled and upgraded.There currently is some basic infoabout the Chamber on the site, but itwill soon have much more info, linksto our members’ websites and more.


By Michael Smith

After 20-plus years as the place toshop for groceries in Tampa Palms, thePublix supermarket at the City Plazashopping center is no more.

The store closed its doors for thelast time on January 2, and workmenspent the next couple of weeks remov-ing refrigerators, freezers and otherequipment from the empty shell of thebuilding before cranes and bulldozersmoved in last week to tear it down.

According to project manager

Randy Boyette of Hawkins Construc-tion, the old store will have to be com-pletely removed, all the way down tothe foundation, to allow for new utili-ties to be placed for the new, larger andmore modern store that will be built inits place. Boyette said that the demoli-tion of the former store, which openedin 1988, was expected to be completedby the time you receive this issue of theNew Tampa Neighborhood News, andwork on the new Publix would beginshortly after that.

Construction of the new store,

City Plaza Publix In Tampa Palms Comes Crashing Down

which will measure 54,340 sq. ft.,about 5,000 sq. ft. larger than the oldone, is expected to take approximatelynine months. During that time, thefacade of the plaza itself will also berenovated, and the parking lot will beresurfaced. While the new store will

take some of the space formerly occu-pied by the Bostonian Hair Studio &Spa, Java Joe’s coffeehouse and Oliver’sBike Shop, all of which are now closed,the rest of the businesses in the plazawill remain open during the construc-tion of the new Publix.

It’s the end of an era as bulldozers tear down the Publix grocery store in CityPlaza at Tampa Palms.

Despite his close proximity to the construction, Steve Rothfarb of Frame ByFrame Gallery (who took these photos for us), says his business will stay open.


Paws & Claws Pet Salon & Spa Can Make Your Pet Look Great, TooBy Gary Nager

For most of us, bathing and/orgrooming our dogs or cats isn’t some-thing we look forward to or reallyenjoy, so I recommend bringing yourdog or cat to visit my friend KristenMyers of Paws & Claws Pet Salon &Spa, located inside the Texlea Feedbuilding on S.R. 54, less than a half-mile west of Curley Rd.

Kristen is a registered member ofthe National Dog Groomers Associa-tion of America, Inc. (NDGAA),which means that she has had all thetraining she needs to groom your dogor cat properly, even if you like exoticcuts for your poodle or Persian cat.

At first glance, you might notthink Kristen is a big enough personto pick up a 100-lb. dog, like mygolden retriever Goldie (who’s actuallydown to a svelte 88 lbs. these days),much less handle a rambunctious rot-tweiler or German shepherd, butyou’d be wrong. Kristen easily picksup and places most any size breed ofdog into her tub and onto her groom-ing table and she has a great way withthe animals that makes them feel atease — not an easy task with some.

In addition, Kristen has the skills,training and years of experience tomake your dog or cat look his or herbest — and you won’t have to breakthe bank or get soaked, literally orfinancially, in the process.

Although she had already workedin the grooming business for a coupleof years, Kristen took that experienceone step further when she graduatedfrom the Tampa Bay Area PetGrooming Academy (TBAPGA) onGandy Blvd. in South Tampa.

“It’s a great program whichteaches you all of the different cutsand clips for dogs and cats,” she says.“In addition, you learn how to keepthe shop sanitary, so your pet goeshome as happy and healthy as whenyou brought him [or her] in here.”

According to the TBAPGA’swebsite, “A diploma from Tampa BayArea Grooming Academy lets theemployers [and customers] know thatyou have received the highest qualitytraining and have been evaluatedthroughout the program. Therefore,we are able to provide future employ-ers with recommendations that theycan count on.”

All I know is that self-employed

Kristen can get the job done. Eventhough Goldie is the type of dog wholoves to be touched, she isn’t particu-larly cooperative when you’re tryingto bathe her. I asked Kristen if sheneeded my help holding or handlingGoldie, but she just giggled and said,“This sweet baby is just fine.”

It’s obvious that Kristen lovesanimals and really enjoys her work.She also recently groomed sales repDavid Zacharia’s long-haired

dachsund Buddy, who was dirty andmatted going on, but sweet-smellingand silky-smooth when he wenthome. “Buddy’s a sweet dog,” shesaid afterward. “No problem at all.”

For grooming appointmentsand more information about Paws& Claws Pet Salon (30209 S.R.54), call 479-7676. New customerswho bring in or mention the ad inthis issue will receive 10-percent-offtheir first grooming visit.

Thanks to National Dog Groomers Association of America, Inc.-certifiedgroomer Kristen Myers of Paws & Claws Pet Salon, Goldie never looked better!


USF Dermatology Offers Comprehensive Care For Your Skin

appointments because of the office’sphysician extenders – Advanced Regis-tered Nurse Practitioners (ARNP) andPhysician’s Assistants (PA) who alsocan see patients.

Dr. Fenske started the depart-ment 33 years ago. “It is the only jobI have ever had,” he says. Fenske, wholives in South Tampa and is a memberof the Ye Mystic Crewe of Gasparillaand the USF Boosters, adds “I havetrained many residents who now workthroughout the Tampa Bay area andthroughout the country.”

Dr. Fenske also adds that therehas been an evolution in the practice

of dermatology over the years. “Therehas been a dermatological metamor-phosis,” he says. “It is not just acneand warts. Twenty-five years ago, asmall part of the practice was skin can-cer and melanoma. Across the countrynow, there is more skin cancer in anaging population. For many years thepopular thing to do was to go to thebeach. There is a whole wave of olderpatients who didn’t use sunscreenswhen they were young. In morerecent years, because of people’s inter-est in remaining youthful, dermatol-ogy also transformed into a surgicalspecialty which is now a major part ofour training program.”

Dr. Fenske says the beauty ofUSF’s program is that they offer com-prehensive dermatological care. “Wehave a complete menu of services,”says Dr. Fenske. “We need to be com-prehensive providers of servicesbecause to be accredited, we need tooffer comprehensive training opportu-nities for our residents.”

Some of the other services USFDermatology offers include cosmeticand general dermatology, treatmentfor acne, rosacea, sun-tanned skin,laser vein therapy, pediatric dermatol-

By Melissa O’Brien

One of the many great quality-of-life features about New Tampa is itsclose proximity to the University ofSouth Florida (USF). In addition tooffering our community great sportsand arts events, we auspiciously bene-fit from being neighbors to a teachinghospital with its many medicaladvancements and the expert care itprovides patients. These benefitsinclude the great team of physicians atthe USF Health Department of Der-matology and Cutaneous Surgery.

“One of the most importantthings we want New Tampa residentsto know is that we are here to servethe community,” says professor NeilFenske, M.D., Chair of Dermatologyat USF Health, who was recentlynamed among four dermatologists inthe Southeast and 17 nationwide asAmerica’s Top Doctors for Women inWomen’s Health magazine. “A lot ofpatients think they need a referral tosee us, but they can come here oftheir own volition to see our doctors.”

“When you come in to see us,you have the added benefit of having

a resident with a physician,” he adds.“It increases the quality of care tohave two sets of eyes looking at youand every patient has a team workingfor them. Dermatology is one of themost competitive and difficult medicalspecialties. Because it is so competi-tive, we have the best and the bright-est residents.”

The physicians at the USF HealthDepartment of Dermatology andCutaneous Surgery specialize in thediagnosis and treatment of both com-mon and rare skin disorders inpatients of all ages. From psoriasis andeczema to aging skin and Mohs skincancer removal (a form of surgery thatremoves the least amount of tissue),USF Dermatology offers a wide rangeof services for patients. It is staffed bya team of physicians certified by theAmerican Board of Dermatology.

Physicians in the practice in addi-tion to Dr. Fenske include PhilipShenefelt, M.D., Basil Cherpelis,M.D., George Cohen, M.D., andMary Lien, M.D. Physicians JaneMessina, M.D., and L. Frank Glass,M.D., are dermatopathologists withthe team but do not see patients.Patients can often receive same-day

Dr. Neil Fenske, M.D., heads up theUSF Dermatology Dept.

USF Dermatology staff regularly goout into the community to performcommunity outreach. They offer“Melanoma Monday” cancer screen-ings and have performed free cancerscreenings at sporting events and atcommunity functions around theTampa Bay area.

Sandra Koch of Carrollwood saysshe likes the USF Dermatology prac-tice because the doctors are knowl-edgeable about the latest proceduresand have perfected their techniques.

“There are doctors who performcosmetic procedures out of theiroffice, but it is not their first special-ty,” she says. “Dr. Fenske has perfect-ed his techniques and for him, it isalmost like an art. He takes all thenecessary precautions and does it withfinesse, so I think the results you getare better.”

Koch says she first visited theoffice for a discoloration on her face

but since then has had other cosmeticprocedures done as well.

“The office staff is, by far, themost professional I have ever beento,” she says. “They make you feelright at home and answer every ques-tion you have. I think the communitydoes not take advantage as much aswe should of the USF Hospital. Theyare up on every latest procedurebecause they are a teaching hospital.Dr. Fenske is always on the cuttingedge of knowing what is new.”

USF Health Department ofDermatology and Cutaneous Sur-gery has two offices — 12901Bruce B. Down Blvd. on the USFCampus and 17 Davis Blvd., Ste.402, on Davis Islands. Both officesare open Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-6p.m. For more information, call theUSF office at 974-4744 or theDavis Islands office at 259-8694 orvisit www.usfdermatology.com.


ogy, Botox, skin cancer screenings andtreatment for skin of color, for whichthere is a growing need in the com-munity but which few physicians offer.The group even offers hypnosis to

reduce anxiety, needle phobia and painduring cutaneous surgery, as well asreducing postoperative discomfort.

In addition to the work they per-form in the office, the members of the

Dr. Fenske and two members of his team, residents Sarah Bair, M.D., andBrooke Baldwin, M.D., examine a patient for signs of cancer.


• Heritage Elementary: ToY – LoraTorres; ISE – Clinton Allen; IBDE –Charles Stanback.

• Hunter’s Green Elementary: ToY– Nancy Elliott; ISE – NydiaDeHoyos; IBDE – Joni Cagle.

• Liberty Middle : ToY – DenaPisaneschi; ISE – Debra Tetlow;IBDE – Phillip Lana.

• Pride Elementary: ToY – Lindsay

Green; ISE – Omayra Sinclair-Fontanez; IBDE – Hannah Bowman.

• Tampa Palms Elementary: ToY –Brent Paschal; ISE – Awilda Valentin;IBDE – Mary Carroll.

• Turner Elementary: ToY – MelissaRusso; ISE – Carlos Sierra; IBDE –Susan Hopper.

• Wharton High: ToY – BarbaraWoolley; ISE – Iris Noriega; IBDE –Kedric Harris.

By Michael Smith

We all know that teachers andother school employees are some of thehardest working, and yet most under-paid and under-appreciated peoplearound, so we would like to take thisopportunity to recognize the candidatesfrom our area who were nominated forthe various 2010-11 HillsboroughCounty School District employee of theyear awards.

One teacher from every publicschool in the county is nominated byhis or her peers for the coveted Teacherof the Year (ToY) award, but there alsoare awards for the best InstructionalSupport Employee (ISE) of the Year,which is given to employees other thanteachers who do the most to supportstudents and education at their schools;and for the Ida S. Baker Diversity Edu-cator of the Year (IBDE), which isnamed after former educator Ida S.Baker, the first African-American to beappointed Deputy Superintendent inthe Florida Department of Education,and is awarded to the person who goesabove and beyond the call of duty tomeet the needs of the District’s diversestudent population.

Five finalists have been selectedfrom each category, and the winners ofeach award were scheduled to benamed at a special ceremony held bythe Hillsborough Education Founda-tion last week. We have two finalists inour area (in bold), and if either of themwins in their respective categories, wewill have a follow up in our next issue.

The nominees for each award fromour area are:

• Bartels Middle: ToY – AngelaBlakley; ISE – Ann Krawczyk; IBDE –Megan Leahy.

• Benito Middle: ToY – Mary Baker;ISE – Joni McCraryl IBDE – PatriciaBrown.

• Chiles Elementary: ToY – MelanieMucitelli; ISE – Suzie Morse - Final-ist; IBDE – Zunia Hill.

• Clark Elementary: ToY – DawnaMarsee; ISE - Kimberly Yodzis; IBDE– Kelly Wisneski.

• Freedom High: ToY – CrystalDukes – Finalist; ISE – Jamal Guiler;IBDE – Hugh Herndon.

We Salute Our Local Teacher/Employee Of The Year Nominees


By Michael Smith

On January 15, which was ArborDay here in Florida, fourth and fifthgrade students here in New Tampaand around the county rolled up theirsleeves and contributed to the “green-ing” of the Earth by planting pine treeseedlings at their schools.

The project was part of a county-wide effort spearheaded by Keep Hills-borough County Beautiful, Inc.(KHCB), with the support of RepublicWaste Services and the Fourth GradeForesters USA program, who donatednearly 1,000 pine tree seedlings to beplanted at 12 county schools, includ-ing Heritage Elementary in the CrossCreek area and Lawton Chiles Ele-mentary in Tampa Palms.

At Heritage Elementary, theschool’s chorus opened the ceremonywith a few songs about trees and theirimportance to the environment, andthen, cheered on by KHCB mascot

“Pete the Pelican Pirate,” the school’sfourth graders planted 96 young pinetrees in a line along the school’s backfence boundary, burying haiku poemsthat they had written in the holesalong with the seedlings.

“This project was made possiblebecause community businesses likeRepublic Waste Services helped coverthe cost of each of the individuallypackaged evergreen trees, so that therewas no cost to the students, the teach-ers, the school or the taxpayers,” saidKHCB education and outreach coor-dinator Pat DePlasco.

Heritage Elementary principalShirley Porebski said that as part of theFourth Grade Forester program, thestudents will continue to care for thetrees as they grow. She said they willalso have to try and protect them fromthe deer that occasionally wander ontothe school’s campus, and turned theschool’s vegetable garden into a smor-gasbord last year.

Heritage Elementary Kinder-garten Round-Up Is Feb. 18

Heritage Elementary (18201 EastMeadows Rd., off Cross Creek Blvd.)will host a Kindergarten Round-Up forprospective students and their families,beginning at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Feb-ruary 18. At the event, parents can tourthe school, meet the teachers and getinformation about the kindergartenprogram.

For more information, call theschool office at 740-4580.

Sign Up For The ‘SpotlightOn Talent’ Competition

Calling all future stars!If you’re a student with talent,

whether it’s singing, dancing, acting,baton twirling, ventriloquism, or what-ever, then you’re invited to register forthe the 27th annual “Spotlight on Tal-ent” competition, sponsored by theHeritage Arts Center Association(HACA) of Pasco County.

The competition, which includesdifferent age categories for both soloand group acts, is open to students upto the 12th grade. Trophies are award-ed for the top three finishers in eachcategory, along with more than $2,000in cash prizes.

The deadline for entries is Thurs-day, February 11. Entry forms andother information can be found on theHACA website, heritagearts.org.

Education UpdatesNEW TAMPA

Heritage Elementary fourth graders carefully plant their trees.

Elementary School ‘Foresters’Plant Pine Trees For Arbor Day


Tampa Real Estate GuideFloridaExecutiveRealty.com

MarcStern

MARC@ FLORIDAEXECUTIVE.INFO WWW.FLORIDAEXECUTIVE.INFO [email protected]

(813)760.0809

DougMuehl

(813)340.7939

Lutz - Exceptional, versatile property w/ no CDD or HOA fees & no deed restrictions. Separate 24X12 flex building w/air conditioned office, internet, phone & water. Three horsestalls, fencing & a complete equestrian center adjacent to theproperty. Set on 2.61 beautifully manicured acres. $500,000

Lutz - The oversized homesite, long driveway & grandfatheroaks add to the charm of this home w/ 4 bedrooms, 3 baths& bonus room. Most rooms overlook large sparkling pool &spa w/ brick pavered deck. Country setting, but still near goodschools, dining, hospitals, & major highways. $415,000

CALL DOUG OR MARC TO SEE THESE FINE LISTINGS IN LUTZ

FOR SALE FOR SALE

Call us for the latest informationand make an appointment

to preview this excitingnew addition toTampa Palms!

Two Great Reasons To Start The Year Off Right:• New construction single family homes now available in Tampa Palms starting in the High 170’s!• Buyer rebates have been extended (Call for details)!

Lutz - Not a short sale! 3/2 that backs up to conservation.Kitchen has raised white panel cabinetry, crown moulding,breakfast area & sliders overlooking backyard. Downstairsmaster w/ walk-in closet. Newer community just north ofBearss on Livingston. HOA fee includes basic cable. $145,000

FOR SALE


Odessa - A true custom builtmasterpiece of European inspired

architecture & design. Secure,privately gated & located on 3acres w/ lake views. Too many

upgrades to list. $2,800,000GINGER & LORA (813) 486-9160

DINA HUNTER (813) 404-7867

Tampa Palms - Rare 3 bedroom, 2bath one story, end unit in Faircrest.

New tile and carpet with a greatconservation view. All appliances

included. $105,000

Bayside - Great location. Large2 bed/2.5 bath condo in great

condition. Double dock that holds a40 foot boat & oversized balcony towatch the tranquil waterway. Mustsell. Make an offer today. $75,000

Clearwater - 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, split bedroom floor plan home on a large corner lot conveniently located near

shopping, major roads, and a short distance to the airport. $209,000

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL CHRIS KELLISON (813) 468-3245

Contract pending in 5 days

Amberly Drive - Professional Office Space forLease in New Tampa. 1,250 SF of space-

5 Offices, Reception Area, Break room andParking. Directly off BBD Blvd. $18/PSF

Technology Drive - Locatedin Tampa Palms. 1,800 SF.

Six Large Offi ces, Reception,Conference Room, Kitchen,

Restroom, Open workspace andlots of Parking. NEG/ NNN.

Vanguard Circle -Brand New 3,000 SFProfessional Office Bldg. –Wesley Chapel.

May be Divided to 1,500 SF. Sits Directly onBBD Blvd. Never Occupied. For Sale/ For

Lease.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO SEE THESE PROPERTIES CALL TINA MARIE ELOIAN (813) 935-9600

• CLOSINGS • SHORT SALES• 1031 EXCHANGES • REFINANCES

Office 813.961.3391Fax 813.960.8959www.ETOTB.com

PHIL CLARK (813) 961-3391

5303 Technology Dr.Tampa, FL 33647


FLORIDA EXECUTIVE PROPERTY SERVICES• 3/2.5/2, 2500 sq. ft. home, $2400• 2/2/2, 1544 sq. ft. villa, $1300• 3/2.5/2, 1586 sq. ft. townhome, $1350• 2/2, 1088 sq. ft. condo, $850

WESLEY CHAPEL LAND O’LAKES/LUTZ• 3/2/1, 1396 sq. ft. home, $1100• 3/2/2, 1350 sq. ft. home, $925• 4/3/2, 2488 sq. ft. home w/ pool, $1900

RIVERVIEW• 3/2.5, 1506 sq. ft. townhome, $990

RENTALSTo view our rentals onlineplease go to our website

www.ferleases.comor email to

[email protected]

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT IRENE OCASIO AT (813) 632-9452

NEW TAMPA

We’ve Got You CoveredRELOCATING ACROSS TOWN

-OR-ACROSS THE WORLD...

YOUR LOCAL CONNECTIONWITH A NATIONAL PRESENCE.

Let me connect you to unmatched relocation services anywherein the world. I welcome the opportunity!

Jane Gowarty, RCC - Relocation Director1-888-200-6077 • 813-972-3430

Seffner - Quick access to I-4 &I-75. 3 bedroom, 2 bath corner

lot home updated w/ metal roof,newer A/C, double pane windows,

hurricane protection, newerappliances & more. $140,000

DIANE ACKEN (813) 299-4758

West Meadows - Four bedroom,three and a half bath pool home

with study and bonus room. Threecar garage. Nearly half acre

conservation homesite. Gatedcommunity. $294,900

Tampa Palms - Gorgeous four bedroom, three bath home overlooking pristine

conservation. Granite counters, stainless steel appliances, cherry cabinets, 18x18 ceramic tile. Upgrades galore. Enlarged

screened and pavered lanai. $287,500 FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL PETERADEKA (813) 760-1979

and the high-speed checkingof Jake Nager and JohnCollins and inspired netmind-ing by J.P. d’Ambrosio, whooutdueled rival Chris Burtbetween the pipes. ShaunDickinson had the only goalfor the ‘Pats.

At our press time, Whar-ton was set to play NewsomeBlue, the other team tied forfirst place, while Freedom fell2-1/2 games between fourthplace Jesuit (12-3-2).

Look for more Whartonand Freedom winter sportsupdates next issue. — GN

The weekend of January 22-24 wasa great weekend to be a Wildcat, as theWharton high boys and girls basketballteams and the school’s ice hockey teamall dominated New Tampa rival Free-dom High.

It’s been a couple of years since Iattended a Wharton vs. Freedom boysor girls basketball game, but I was on-hand, giving away some free prizes asthe 22-1 ‘Cats boys knocked off the 9-9Pats 66-46 and the 18-4 Wildcats girlstopped the 16-5 Lady Patriots 65-42 infront of a packed crowd at Freedom thatleft disappointed. The bad news contin-ued the following evening, as a group ofwhite-hot ‘Cats moved into a tie for firstplace in the local high school club teamleague playing at the Brandon Ice SportsForum by knocking off the fifth-place‘Pats 4-1.

On the hardwood, the gamebetween the two girls teams was expect-ed to be closer than the final score, butWharton’s power inside of freshmansensations Shayla Cooper (19 points)and Tesha Hanson (18) was too muchfor the Pats, who were led by guards(and co-captains) Shaunice Hobbs (16)and Kaitlynn Pacholke (15).

Wharton’s boys, ranked in the top-25 in the state, were every bit as domi-nant as the girls, bringing the trophy for

this year’s “Neighbor-hood Hoops Classic”back home. (Note-VisitThe BlueCrew.net formore WHS hoops info).

The game was closeuntil the last minute or soof the first quarter, butWharton pulled away andnever looked back. The‘Cats were led in scoringby juniors A.J. Astrothand Xavier Owens, whohad 20 and 17 points,respectively.

High-flying seniorguard Damian Dixon wasthe big sparkplug all night, as his explo-sive first step and play above the rim atonly 6’-1” tall electrified the crowd.Owens had two monster dunks thatdrove the Wharton faithful into a frenzy.Coach Tommy Tonelli, who never wona State title despite several outstandingyears on the bench at Wharton, has asurefire contender this year.

And, on the ice, the Wildcats (14-3) avenged an earlier loss to Freedom(10-6) with its best effort of the year atboth ends of the ice. Four different‘Cats scored goals, led by freshman wingMikey Lozicki (1 goal, 1 assist) and cap-tain Matt Cazes (two assists) on offense


Wharton Dominates All Three Games Against Freedom!

(Above) Freedom girls basketball coach LaurenPacholke tries to keep her team in the game.

(Top) Wharton’s Damian Dixon was a blur allnight. (Above) Jake Nager keeps the puck away fromthree Patriots. If you want to see significantly better

hockey pics than mine, visit Frozen-Photos.com.


Congratulations to the competi-tive cheerleading squads at Whartonand Freedom high schools, both ofwhich competed in the Western Con-ference championship at FreedomHigh on January 19.

Bloomingdale High won the con-ference meet, but both Freedom andWharton did well enough to advanceto the state championships, which willbe held at the Silver Spurs Arena inKissimmee on February 5-6.

Local Squads Advance ToState Cheer Championships

Photos courtesy of Amazing Sports Photos (AmazingPictures.com).


“Benito pride is hard to hide!” …as the Benito boys basketball team com-pleted an undefeated Fall 2009 season.

Through the outstanding talents ofCoach Kevin Howard, Coach RodneySharpe and Coach Linden James, theBenito boys were 5-0 this year. It wasthe team’s first undefeated season inmore than five years, as the Jaguarsachieved victories over Van Buren,Buchanan, Bartels, Greco and LibertyMiddle Schools.

“You can always win with athletictalent, especially in basketball,” Coach

Howard stated. “But it’s wonderful tosee our entire Benito team step up andcontinue to exhibit teamwork, class andleadership both on and off the court.As a coach and teacher, that is the truemeasure of success and I am so veryproud of these boys this year!”

These dynamic 8th graders led thepack with ongoing full-court pressureand terrific shot making. And it goeswithout saying that the victories wouldnot have occurred without the powerfulsupport of the talented Benito 6th and7th grade players.

Benito Jaguars Score An Undefeated Season

The Benito Middle School boys basketball team completed a 5-0 2009 season.


1 MILE NORTH OF BEARSS AVE., CORNER OF BRUCE B. DOWNS BLVD. & TAMPA PALMS BLVD. WEST

CITY PLAZAAT TAMPA PALMS

MANAGED BYCROSSMAN & COMPANY

•PUBLIX•STEIN MART•ALLSTATE INSURANCE•ANTIQUE ARMOIRE•BENEFICIAL•BLOCKBUSTER VIDEO

•CHARLES JEWELERS•EDWARD JONESINVESTMENTS

•ELLEN’S HALLMARK•GAURANG NANAVATI, DDS•FRAME BY FRAME GALLERY•GENERAL NUTRITION CENTERS•NATIONWIDE INSURANCE

•PLAY IT AGAIN SPORTS•McNATT’S CLEANERS•SUNTRUST BANK•TAMPA PALMS ANIMALHOSPITAL

•TAMPA PALMS TRAVEL WORLD•THE UPS STORE•WASHINGTON MUTUAL

RESTAURANTS

•CHINA CITY•CICCIO’S/THE LODGE•SUBWAY

I-2

75

Bruce B.H

CITY PLAZA ATTAMPA PALMS

I-75

Tampa Palms Blvd.

Amberly Dr..Bearss

30th

St.

I-275

Fletcher Ave.

Fowler Ave.

Busch Blvd.

56th

St.

N

other words, whether youwant to enjoy the fun andfunky nightlife of St. PeteBeach or never come out ofthe room except to eat, youwon’t be disappointed at“The Pink Palace.”

Spectacular Dining AtThe Maritana Grille

The elegant MaritanaGrille is the dining centerpiece of yourstay at the Don. With a four-diamondrating from AAA the past 14 years,the Maritana Grille features NewAmerican cuisine with Floribbeanaccents. The food and its presentationeven more spectacular than the hugeaquariums, one of which is “protect-ed” by CeSar, the resident moray eel.

During my most recent visit to“The Pink Palace,” Executive Sous

Experience The Magic Of Valentine’s Day Any Day At The Don CeSar!

See “Don CeSar” on page 44.

By Gary Nager

The next few pages of this issueare devoted to giving you some roman-tic ideas for St. Valentine’s day — Sun-day, February 14. I may not have allthe answers, but since Valentine’s Dayis still mainly about her, I’ve come upwith a quick guide to some of the bestplaces to bring that special someone tostay, dine and/or shop for her not onlyfor this most romantic of holidays, butevery day.

The Most Romantic Hotel —The DonCeSar !

If you’ve lived in the Tampa Bayarea for any period of time, you’veprobably heard of the DonCeSar, ALoews Hotel, aka “The Pink Palace.”

Originally built by Thomas Roweto be a replica of the Royal WaikikiHotel, the Don became a military hos-pital in 1942,when Rowe’s estrangedwife allowed it to fall into disrepair.Some say the hotel is actually hauntedby a woman named Lucinda, the greatlove of Rowe’s life, although I’ve seenno evidence of ghosts any of the timesI’ve stayed there.

Now restored to even greaterglory, the Don, one of the Bay area’smost famous destinations, still sitsalongside the crystal blue waters andwhite sands of St. Pete Beach. It’s alsoeasily, in one man’s opinion, the mostromantic hotel you can bring that spe-cial someone to this Valentine’s Day —or any day, for that matter.

As visually stunning as the Don isfrom the outside (and many coupleshave gotten married in the hotel’s spec-tacular courtyard), it’s even morebreathtaking inside.

The elegant lobby is home to theMaritana Grille, an outstanding culinaryexperience (see below), as well as theimpressive Lobby Lounge. Every deskclerk, bellman and bartender makes youfeel like someone special.

The guest rooms provide evenmore luxury. No appointment has beenleft without proper attention to everydetail, from the thirstiest towels to themost comfortable beds to the best skinand hair care sundries. All of the TVsare high-definition flat screen modelsand even the furnishings themselves arean invitation to romance.

The Don also features an elegantEuropean-style spa, magnificent shops,a spectacular outdoor pool and spa andmultiple lounges inside and out. In

(Above left) There’s no more romantic place you can stay than at the Don CeSar, a Loews Hotel, aka “The Pink Palace.”(Aboveright) Even the lobby at the Don is the perfect combination of soothing and exciting. (Below) One of the Don’s elegant guest rooms.

CeSar, the moray eel, enjoys watching youeat dinner at the Maritana Grille.

I have to admit that the main rea-son I keep coming back to T’s Bou-tique in the separate plaza in front ofThe Grove shopping center on WesleyGrove Blvd. (off S.R. 54) in WesleyChapel isn’t the great selection of gifts“for her.” No, it’s because ownerTheresa Loftin is a great, fun person totalk to who really knows the kind ofgifts women want. Anytime I’m stuckwhen looking for a gift, I visit Theresaand she comes up with anything from acool dress in University of Florida (orother schools’) colors to a great T-shirtfor the upcoming Gasparilla parade toscented Tyler candles to beautiful,unique handbags and costume jewelry.

T’s Boutique has everything froman extensive line of Vera Bradley hand-bags to hand-painted glassware for anyoccasion and so much more that it’suseless for me to try to describe every-thing in the store. All I can tell you isthat if you’re looking for a unique giftfor any woman of any age or size, withTheresa’s help, you can find the perfectgift for Valentine’s Day or any day.

But, speaking of SSuunnddaayy,, FFeebbrruu--aarryy 1144,, Theresa is having a couple ofspecial events prior to V-Day that willnot only be fun get-togethers, they’llalso be great shopping opportunities.

“Men are often at a loss when it

comes to buying something appropriatefor Valentine’s Day,” Theresa says.“That’s why I figured that if I gavethem a free keg to kill, I’d probablyinterest a lot of guys in coming here toshop for their special someones.”

In fact, Theresa is offering twoexclusive shopping days. The first, onTTuueessddaayy,, FFeebbrruuaarryy 99,, will be forwomen only and will feature free mar-garitas. Then, on TThhuurrssddaayy,, FFeebbrruuaarryy1111 (can you say “last minute?”), There-sa is a having an exclsuive “men only”shopping experience and yes, she is seri-ous about that keg.

“You’ll get as much free beer asyou want and a chance to find the per-fect gifts for all of your special some-ones,” she says. “Howbad could that be?”

TT’’ss BBoouuttiiqquuee iissllooccaatteedd aatt 66002277 WWeess--lleeyy GGrroovvee BBllvvdd..,, SSuuiittee110011.. TThhee ssttoorree iissooppeenn TTuueess..--SSaatt..,, 1100aa..mm..--77 pp..mm..,, aannddnnoooonn--55 pp..mm.. oonn SSuunn--ddaayy.. FFoorr mmoorree iinnffooaabboouutt TT’’ss uuppccoommiinnggeexxcclluussiivvee pprree--VVaalleenn--ttiinnee’’ss sshhooppppiinngg ddaayyssffoorr mmeenn aanndd wwoommeenn,,ccaallll 997733--44440055.. — GN


The Best Place To Shop For Her? T’s Boutique In The Grove!

At T’s Boutique in The Grove in Wesley Chapel, you’ll find great gift ideas for her for Valentine’s Day,from hand-painted glasses (top) to unique handbags & jewelry (bottom right), Gasparilla shirts and more!


Here’s Some More Of Gary’s Favorite Valentine’s Day Options!Whether you’re shopping for

your spouse, girlfriend or even yourmom this Valentine’s Day, here’s a fewof my favorites:

•• TThhee mmoosstt rroommaannttiicc rreessttaauurraanntt—— CChhaarrlleeyy’’ss SStteeaakk HHoouussee?? To me, arestaurant can’treally be all thatromantic if thefood isn’t great,so few things aremore enticing tome than enjoying a full order of (inmy opinion) the best tuna sashimi inthe Tampa Bay area (and that’s sayinga lot!) and the best New York stripsteak (photo) in one outstanding mealat a very fair price.

Plus, although I usually eat at thebar at Charley’s for the Manhattan-like ambience and people-watching,the restaurant does have some privatedining areas for those seeking a moreromantic backdrop for that greatValentine’s meal.

CChhaarrlleeyy’’ss SStteeaakk HHoouussee iiss llooccaatt--eedd aatt 44444444 WW.. CCyypprreessss SStt..,, ooffff tthheeLLooiiss AAvvee.. eexxiitt ooff II--227755.. CCaallll 335533--99770066 ttoo fifinndd oouutt mmoorree aabboouuttCChhaarrlleeyy’’ss ssppeecciiaall VVaalleennttiinnee’’ss DDaayymmeennuu FFeebbrruuaarryy 88--1144..

•• TThhee mmoosstt rroommaannttiicc EEuurroo--ppeeaann--ssttyyllee ssppaa —— SSppaa MMoorriittzz!! Wehave lots of great salons and spasadvertising with us, but there’s nodoubt in my mind that if you want toget her a gift of a day of beauty, thereis no more beautful, pampering localethan Spa Moritz, located on Com-merce Park Blvd., opposite FreedomHigh in Tampa Palms.

Spa Moritz is elegant and classy-looking, has well-trained hair stylists,nail technicians and massage therapistsand some of the best spa treatmentsyou’ll find anywhere. That’s why Ibelieve a gift card from Dyan andDennis Piller’s Spa Moritz (photo) isone of the best gifts you can give tosomeone you really want to see smile.

SSppaa MMoorriittzz iiss llooccaatteedd aatt 1177440011CCoommmmeerrccee PPaarrkk BBllvvdd..,, iinn tthheeOOrrtthhooTTeecchhnnoollooggyy bbuuiillddiinngg.. CCaallll997711--44777722 oorr vviissiitt SSppaaMMoorriittzz..ccoommffoorr mmoorree iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn..

•• TThhee bbeesstt ppllaaccee ttoo bbuuyy tthhaattppeerrffeecctt rroossee bboouuqquueett —— AA SSppeecciiaallRRoossee FFlloorriisstt!! For me, the wholedozen red roses thing has been doneto death, so I long ago decided that ifI was giving a dozen roses, they’dhave to be in assorted colors, just tobe different.

My friend Rose O’Berry at ASpecial Rose florist, located in theShell gas station on Bruce B. DownsBlvd. just south of Tampa Palms,knows that I love giving roses of asmany different colors as possible, so

she always has agreat selection forme. At any rate, ifyou have to giveroses this Valen-tine’s Day, I knowyou won’t find bet-ter quality flowersof any kind than you will at A SpecialRose. And, order by WWeedd..,, FFeebb.. 1100,,to get 10-percent off your order!

CCaallll AA SSppeecciiaall RRoossee FFlloorriisstt((1144554466 BBBBDD BBllvvdd..)) aatt 997799--99445533 oorrvviissiitt AASSppeecciiaallRRoossee..ccoomm.. — GN


SEVEN OAKSFAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Welcoming new patients of all ages

Dr. Lee Daniels

Seven Oaks Professional Park(Next to Sam!s Club)

2112 Ashley Oaks Circle

(813) 907-7313

Over 14 yearsexperience

• Access to Discount Dental Plans• Most insurance plans accepted/In-network• Nitrous Oxide Available• Tooth Colored Fillings• Crowns, Bridges, & Veneers• Whitening, Zoom! 2 & Take Home Kits• Implant Dentistry• Extractions, Root Canal Treatment• Digital X-Rays

“Don Cesar”Continued from page 37

You can enjoy outstanding lamb chops(top) and crab cakes (left) at the Mari-

tana Grille or have Thomas (above)make you the omelet of your dreams in

the Sea Porch Café at the Don.

Chef Scott Lazlo created what he calledan “amuse bouche,” but I called themost delicious crab cake ever. He saidthe cake, which was topped with a giantslab of Alaskan king crabmeat, was actu-ally held together by chopped scallopsinstead of bread crumbs and toppedwith caviar. Yum!

The rib lamb chops and pan-friedsalmon were equally spectacular and theservice was second-to-none.

I also thought the Sunday brunchserved in the Sea Porch Café was a dealat $19.95 per person, as the omelet sta-tion had every ingredient imaginableand the French press coffee and freshbaked goods rocked my world.

In other words, if you’ve neverbeen to the Don CeSar or haven’t visit-ed recently, you owe it to yourself andyour special someone to check it out.

For more info about the DonCe-Sar, a Loews Hotel, call (727) 360-1881 or visit LoewsHotels.com.


Enter Our ‘Get Your PhotoTaken With Gracie’ Contest!

If you’ve visited our office inTampa Palms recently, you mighthave seen a little golden retrieverpuppy looking out the window fromher playpen or walking outside in ourShoppes at Amberly plaza.

Although I also still help takecare of Goldie (see page 19), my 10-year-old golden retriever, 14-week-oldGracie Leigh is the new puppy in mylife and she’s such a sweet, fun-lovingpup who really loves people (especiallyyoung children) that everyone here atthe Neighborhood News agreed that weshould include her in a little contestidea we had.

If you visit NTNeighborhoodNews.com, you can enter the “GetYour Photo Taken With Gracie” con-test by telling us, in 50 words or less,why you or your child should get tohave his or her picture taken with 15-lb. (at least as of this writing) Gracie,who’s even sweeter in person than shelooks in this pic.

Feel free to get creative. Despiteher innocent little face and lovingdemeanor, Gracie is an extremelyenergetic little pup who loves to climb(photo) and prance like a rabbit or a

kangaroo through the bushes outsideour office. She’s always getting intotrouble, like the average character inthe average Disney film.

Submit your entries by Friday,February 26, and we’ll pick up to 10winners, who will each win a prizeworth at least $20. Those winnersalso will be invited to come to ouroffice to have their photo taken withGracie. We will then display all of thewinners in an upcoming issue and onour website.

Like I said — have some fun withit and try to get a little creative! Gra-cie Leigh is waiting! — GN

Little Gracie Leigh really loves the Neighborhood News!


Panda Buffet Is A GREAT Chinese Buffet! There, I Said It!By Gary Nager

I will freely admit that I’ve neverbeemn a big fan of buffet-style Chineserestaurants. A buddy of mine backwhen I lived a few miles outside ofNew York City in Westchester Couny,NY, once summed it up this way: “Iwant my Chinese food to be so freshthat it sings to me. You can’t get thatfrom heat lamps.”

You can therefore imagine howskeptical I was when the new PandaBuffet restaurant opened last month inthe Shoppes at The Pointe plaza inTampa Palms.

Well, in this case, I was wrong.Owner Lixin Shi and his family havecreated a clean, comfortable, casualplace with really good Chinese food atprices you can’t beat. Shi, who alsoowns the Golden China takeout placein Highwoods Preserve (behind BostonMarket), has gone to great lengths touse delicious ingredients for dishes bothcommonplace and unique and best ofall, the crowds of visitors have been bigenough that the food never seems to sitso long as to get to the point where itseems or tastes like it’s been sitting outtoo long.

The sushi bar at Panda Buffet pro-vides standards like California roll and

unique items like seaweed saladroll, and all of the items I’ve sam-pled have looked and tasted fresh.

I really like the appetizers, likethe egg rolls, teriyaki chicken on astick and pan-fried dumplings. Ialso have enjoyed the Brazilianbeef with broccoli so fresh andcrisp it might actually sing to you,the chicken with broccoli in garlicsauce and the ropast pork withmixed Chinese vegetables.

The 100-item (I’m guessing)buffet bar, which allows you toenjoy all-you-can-eat of everythingfrom fresh salads to fresh fruit,from pizza pies (seriously) to hotapple pies and from candied yamsto you-peel-’em shrimp, all for theridiculously low price of $6.99 forlunch, $9.99 for dinner on week-days and $10.99 for dinner on Saturdayand Sunday (when Panda Buffet addsfresh oysters on the half shell to yourchoices). And, crab lovers (like my sonJake) can simply add $4 to any lunch ordinner order and enjoy all the freshsnow crab legs you can eat. In addition,with the ad in this issue, you can get10-percent off your bill Jan. 30-Feb. 6.

Panda Buffet does also offer acomplete a la carte dine-in and takeoutmenus, but trust me, you’re going to

want to try the buffet first, if only to seewhich dishes you like the best and tosample one of the best values in Chi-nese food anywhere in New Tampa —where seniors (60+) get a 10-percentdiscount, kids under 3 eat for free andkids 3-9 cost just $3.99 for lunch and$6.99 for dinner.

PPaannddaa BBuuffffeett ((1177001122 PPaallmmPPooiinnttee DDrr.. iiss ooppeenn eevveerryy ddaayy ffoorrlluunncchh aanndd ddiinnnneerr.. CCaallll 997788--88993388 oorrssttoopp iinn aanndd pplleeaassee tteellll aannyy mmeemmbbeerr oofftthhee SShhii ffaammiillyy wwee sseenntt yyoouu!!

At Panda Buffet, you can enjoy allyou care to eat of great (clockwise

from lower left): chicken with broccoli,you-peel-’em shrimp, fresh sushi, egg

rolls and pan fried dumplings.


Neighborhood Nibbles—Checking Out World Of Beer & More!When last we checked in (in these

pages) with Tampa Palms World ofBeer (WoB) franchise owners PhilippeTheodore and Jason Rappaport, theyand their staff were at an event forReeves Porsche-Audi serving a few ofthe hundreds of beers now beingenjoyed every day at the new WoB inThe Shoppes at The Pointe plaza inTampa Palms, behind Olive Gardenand next to Stonewood Grill & Tavern.

The Tampa Palms location of WoBfeatures a classy-looking bar area down-stairs, a private upstairs party room andliterally hundreds of beers from aroundthe world — including dozens of thepopular German and Belgian offerings,as well as most of my favorite beersfrom places like Japan, Mexico, theCaribbean and the Philippines.

If you haven’t visited the TampaPalms WoB yet, the weekend of thisyear’s biggest football game is a greattime to try it. On SSaattuurrddaayy,, FFeebbrruuaarryy66,, WoB will have its Grand Openingparty, featuring live music, complimen-tary food and other giveaways, as wellas samples of many of WoB’s greatselection of draft beers.

If you can’t make it Saturday, youshould definitely visit WoB for an awe-some “Big Game” party on SSuunnddaayy,,FFeebbrruuaarryy 77.. You’ll find lots of great

flat-screen TVs, great beers, fine winesand a selection of finger foods you defi-nitely should try. And, with the ad inthis issue, you can get half off your firstdraft beer (through March 31).

WWoorrlldd ooff BBeeeerr iiss llooccaatteedd aatt1177000044 PPaallmm PPooiinnttee DDrr.. FFoorr mmoorreeiinnffoorrmmaattiioonn,, ccaallll 663322--00002200 oorr vviissiittWWooBBTTaammppaaPPaallmmss..ccoomm..

Cole’s BBQCole’s BBQ On The WOn The WayayThe plaza that is now home to

Panda Buffet (see previous page) andWorld of Beer will soon also be hometo Cole’s BBQ. It just so happens that Imet owners (and New Tampa residentsBradley and Tracey Cole on a recentvisit to WoB and I was one of severalpeople who got to sample some of thegreat BBQ chicken, ribs, sausage, sliced

TVs and taps abound at the newWorld of Beer in Tampa Palms.

pork and beef brisket, plus macaroniand cheese and collared greens comingsoon to The Shoppes at The Pointe.

Bradley says Cole’s BBQ couldopen sometime in March. He also sayshis awesome semi-sweet homemadeBBQ sauce is actually his Dad’s recipe.But, no matter who gets credit for cre-ating it, the stuff is gooood!

FFoorr mmoorree iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn aabboouuttCCoollee’’ss BBBBQQ,, ccaallll 448844--22001133..

Celebrate TCelebrate Two Big Eventswo Big EventsAt Café Ole!At Café Ole!

My friends at Café Olé in the

Cross Creek Center plaza on CrossCreek Blvd. hope you will try “A TrueTaste of Spain” at either of twoupcoming events.

First of all, call for details aboutCafé Olé’s “Big Game” party on SSuunn--ddaayy,, FFeebbrruuaarryy 77..

The following weekend, celebrateValentine’s Weekend on SSaattuurrddaayy,,FFeebbrruuaarryy 1133,, with a fixed-price three-course dinner, a Flamenco dance showand much more!

CCaallll CCaafféé OOlléé aatt 990077--55224422 ffoorrddeettaaiillss aabboouutt bbootthh eevveennttss!! —— GN


Dade City Kumquat FestivalSaturday, January 30 - The

Greater Dade City Chamber of Com-merce will host the 2010 Kumquat Fes-tival, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., in downtown DadeCity. The event, which celebrates theannual kumquat harvest, includes a fullday of old-fashioned, family-friendlyfun, including live music, wagon rides, aclassic car and truck show, a farmer’smarket, arts and crafts show, games andother activities, and, of course, plenty ofkumquat-flavored delicacies.

For more info, call (352) 567-3769 or visit Kumquat Festival.org.

Gasparilla Pirate InvasionSaturday, January 30 - Down-

town Tampa will once again face theonslaught of hundreds of pirate vesselsand their “krewes” during the annualGasparilla Pirate Invasion. The massiveboat parade will enter Hillsborough Bayat 11:30 a.m., landing at the TampaConvention Center at 1 p.m., whereMayor Pam Iorio will surrender the keyto the city. That will be followed by theInvasion Parade, which will kick off atthe intersection of Bay to Bay andWestshore boulevards at 2 p.m., andfollow Westshore Blvd. into downtownTampa.

Meanwhile, the Gasparilla StreetFestival also begins at 10 a.m. alongAshley Dr., and will feature plenty ofactivities for all ages, including midwayrides, games and amusements, and,once the sun goes down, plenty of livemusic from bands including CollectiveSoul and others.

Admission to the Street Festival isfree, but there is a charge for reservedseating for the Invasion Parade.

For complete information, visitGasparillaPirateFest.com.

Florida State FairThursday, February 4-Monday,

February 15 - According to organiz-ers, this year’s Florida State Fair isgoing to be a “Super Fair,” with awhole host of new attractions, eventsand activities joining those you alreadyknow and love. For example, at thisyear’s fair, you can enjoy helicopterrides in the real “Batcopter” from the1960s “Batman” TV show, an all-newFlorida arts & crafts showcase and aWorld Village and International TalentStage, featuring entertainment fromaround the globe. That’s in addition tothe features that are making a returnfrom last year’s line-up, such as the“Country Gold Tour” concert, FCWwrestling, “Fiesta Gigante Day,” spon-sored by Univision TV, the finals of theElvis Extravaganza Impersonators com-petition and four nights of breathtakingfireworks displays.

In addition to regular fair admis-sion tickets, which get you into the fairand the free events, there also are anumber of package deals, discount ridedays and other special offers for admis-sion and special events.

For complete information, visitwww.floridastatefair.com.

John Mayer & The Black Eyed Peas

Friday, February 5 & Wednes-day, February 10 - The first big con-

certs of the new year will bring poprocker John Mayer and dance super-group the Black Eyed Peas to the St.Pete Times Forum in early February.

First, Tampa will be the secondstop for Mayer (“Your Body is a Won-derland”) on his North American “Bat-tle Studies” tour, named for his fourthstudio album, which was released inDecember. Opening the show will bethe eclectic Michael Franti & Spear-head. The show kicks off at 7:30 p.m.,and tickets cost $37-$68.25.

Next, the musical juggernaut thatis the Black Eyed Peas (“I Gottta Feel-ing,” “My Humps”) will bring their“The E.N.D. World Tour” to the

Forum on February 10, beginning at7:30 p.m. Like Mayer, the Peas’ tour isnamed for their latest album, “TheE.N.D.,” (which stands for ‘The Ener-gy Never Dies’), which includes theNo. 1 hits “Boom Boom Pow” and “IGotta Feeling” and has sold more thannine million copies worldwide since itsrelease last summer. The show will kickoff with a performance by special guestLMFAO.

Tickets for the Black Eyed Peascost $47-$79.50. Tickets for both JohnMayer and the Black Eyed Peas areavailable at the Forum ticket office,through Ticketmaster (287-8844) andonline at sptimes.forum.com. Call 301-2500 for more information.

John Mayer will rock out at the St.Pete Times Forum on February 5.

The Black Eyed Peas will surely have everyone at the St. Pete Times Forumon their feet and dancing February 10.

The pirates will be back to capturethe city of Tampa during the 2010

Gasparilla Invasion.

The annual Dade City KumquatFestival features plenty of old-fash-

ioned family-friendly fun.

Kumquats & Concerts Star On Our Entertainment Calendar


parts in productions for MTV, and hesays he’s been offered parts on a coupleof reality shows, but so far, he’s turnedthem all down.

“I’m hoping for something moreserious,” he says.

But, since his modeling career hasbeen taking off, he’s been spending alot of time in L.A. and New York,where he’s been making contacts andmeeting plenty of other famous folks,too, including former Tampa Bay Buc-caneer-turned-broadcaster Warren Sapp,with whom he says he’s become goodfriends, and actor Brad Pitt, amongothers.

Despite his success, however, Justinstill is the same friendly and down-to-earth guy he’s always been, accordingto his father, Leo, who is an avid CivilWar buff and re-enactor and modeltrain collector. Leo also played in aband and did some modeling of hisown, he says, and he says that he alwaysencouraged Justin and his older brotherLeo, Jr., to follow in his footsteps, buthe never expected that Justin wouldreach this level of success.

“I always used to tease Justin[because I’d done those things],” Leosays. “But, he’s just passed me by.”

Meanwhile, if the acting doesn’tpan out, Justin says that he will proba-bly take some of the money he’s earned(he won’t say how much he makes,only that modeling is definitely a lucra-tive pursuit) and go to college.

Otherwise, on the increasingly rareoccasions when he’s back home, he sayshe just likes to relax and unwind fromhis hectic modeling schedule, and hisfavorite things to do are to hang out atthe beach or go fishing with his dadand his brother.

This Wesley Chapel Resident Is Living A Model LifeBy Michael Smith

It’s said that many famous people,such as movie stars, politicians andpower brokers from other walks of life,have a “certain something” that makesthem stand out in a crowd.

You could also say that is certainlythe case with Wesley Chapel residentJustin Zabinsky, who is quickly makinga name for himself in the world of fash-ion modeling. Zabinsky, who is knownin the modeling industry simply as“Justin Z.,” has garnered plenty ofexposure and positive word of mouthsince he started his career just threeyears ago, when he was “discovered” bya photographer at a Pinellas Countyshopping mall.

In that short time, Zabinsky’spiercing blue eyes, long blond hair andchiseled physique have appeared in sev-eral major publications and nationaladvertising campaigns, and at this point,the sky seems to be the limit for thepersonable 20 year old.

“At first, I thought it was a joke,”Zabinsky says of the day when he wasapproached by a photographer at theTyrone Square Mall in St. Petersburg.But, the Pinellas Park High grad agreed

to pose for some test photos at a localbeach, and those shots landed him amanagement deal with the ReQuestModel Management agency in NewYork City. “Then, it just blew up fromthere,” he says.

Although fashion modeling is acrowded and very competitive field,Zabinsky’s natural good looks havehelped him score some major gigs. Oneof his earliest assignments was fordesigner Ralph Lauren’s Rugby line ofclothing and accessories, and he’s alsoappeared in the pages of the Germanedition of GQ magazine. He alsorecently renewed an ongoing contractas the face of the Hang Ten surf cloth-ing line for Kohl’s department storesnationwide, which means that he is fea-tured not only in the store’s newspaperadvertising circulars, but also in displaysin many of the stores themselves. He’salso done local shoots and commercialsfor clothing, fitness equipment and vari-ous modeling websites.

Ultimately, Zabinsky says he wouldlike to make the jump to acting, and, ifyou look closely, you’ll see him (in anon-speaking role) in pop singer TaylorDayne’s 2008 video for her song“Beautiful.” He’s also had a few small

Wesley Chapel resident Justin Zabin-sky is a rising star in the world of

high fashion modeling.


There!” In-your-home pet-sitting svcs, includingdog walks, multiple & overnight visits, administer-ing meds, plus love & attention. Licensed, bonded& insured. Call 765-5515 for a free consulta-tion. Or, visit www.animalsbestfriend.net.

New Tampa Pet Sitting Service. Lots of love &care for your pets. Great experience & references.Recommended by Angie’s List. Licensed, Insured& Red Cross Certified. Call Marina @ 416-5301.

S E R V I C E S A V A I L A B L ETHE GAS DOCTOR. 24-HOUR EMER-GENCY SERVICE. Residential * Commercial *Industrial. * New Construction & Remodels * Nat-ural & LP Gas Piping Systems. Gas Appliance Instal-lation, Service & Repair. Providing connections for:Gas Lights, Ranges, Dryers, Fireplaces, Furnaces,Generators, Grills, Space Heaters, Water Heaters,Pool Heaters, Firepits & Tankless Water Heaters.TECO Rebates on Natural Gas Appliances. 516-2927 or thegasdoctor.com. License # MG 24668

Clean-outs—abandoned homes, garage cleaning.Pressure washing; odd jobs—painting, tile work,etc. Contact Sure Window Cleaning 926-9943.

Trash removal. Trash clean-up, garage clean-outs.Will haul furniture, appliances, yard debris, lowest ratesguaranteed; starting at $40. Call 285-4674.

SKFinancial is a full service CPA firm located inSeven Oaks. Contact us for free QuickBookstraining. Tel 813-322-3936 orwww.skfinancial.com.

F O R R E N T Town Home for rent in Meadow Pointe, gated 1car garage, 3br, 2.5 bath—Maint. Free.$1150/mo. Please call 541-3158.

R E A L E S T A T E

O F F I C E S P A C E 2 office + Reception and Cabinet Area.Location: 33647 zip in Commerce Park Pro-fessional Center. Estimated Cost $900/1000per Month 3yr/1yr. 10X15 =150 11x11=121 14x16 =224...Estimate Sq ft: 550 SqFt. Also Include 1 closet and Unisex Bath-room. Available Jan 1 2010. Address: 5307Technology Dr Tampa, Fl. 33647. Contact:Bob Lamb 813.340.3000.

M U S I C L E S S O N S FREE GUITAR WITH LESSONS! Don'tworry about spending money on an instrument ifyou or your child doesn’t stick with it. Get a newguitar free when you sign up for 3 months of les-sons. Offer good while supplies last. For moreinformation visit Bigel Music, 20435 Bruce BDowns Blvd, Tampa, FL 813-907-6363.

C H I L D C A R E Home day care in a loving home. 10 years experi-ence. We encourage social development activities,games, play times & more. Infant & up. CPR & firstaid. Reg. R23PA0154. Call Hilda @ 388-9148.

B U Y I N G G O L D NEED EXTRA MONEY…We can turn yourunwanted, old or broken gold jewelry into CASH!Take advantage of high gold prices which may notlast long. Don’t sell to the fly by night companies.Take it to Tampa Palms Hometown Jeweler. Jewel-er on staff w/ 35 yrs. exp. Charles Jewelers, 972-4653 (next to Stein Mart on Bruce B. Downs).

E M P L O Y M E N T O P P O R T U N I T YStart your own Business. in 2010 partnering withthe doctors who created Proactiv Solution. No par-ties, no inventory, no paperwork, no experience nec-essary, part-time, full time, free training, minimalstart-up and huge earning potential. Call: Diane at813-541-1114.

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

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

CLASSIFIED RATES1 issue...........................$352 issues..........................$506 issues........................$120

H E L P W A N T E D

P/T Massage therapist. Please send résumé to POBox 47254 Tampa, FL 33647 or fax to 994-3080.

P/T Medical Asst. for doctor’s office in NewTampa. With experience. Good salary & benefits.Fax resume to 632-7114 or call 632-7111.

HR Manager Tampa, FL based Dental OfficePlan, direct & coordinate HR activities to maximizethe strategic use of human resources & related per-sonnel policies & regulatory compliance. Apply induplicate. BK PARASHER DDS. P. A 11017,N. Dale Mabry, St # A, Tampa, FL 33618.

Home Health Worker. New Tampa-Wesley Chapel-Zephyrhills. Reliable People W/Experience. Neededfor Various Hours. Call Mary M-F 9am to 4pmonly. 813.788.1717. Lic HHA 299992388

RN’s in Pasco for HHA - PT/Per Diem, Medicare- Assessment Experience a Plus - Call: 727.259.2337

RECEPTIONIST - Healthcare management com-pany in Tampa Palms has a position open for a cour-teous, seasoned receptionist w/ multi-line phone sys-tem and experience and a willingness to help.Computer skills required - Please send resume to:[email protected].

C O M P U T E R S E R V I C E SProfessional Tech Support in your home orsmall business. A+ certified computer tech with 15years of exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades &tutoring. More affordable than the large chains!Friendly, personalized svc. Technical jargonexplained in plain English. References availableupon request. Call 957-8342 for free estimate.

H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T

Need home maintenance? Almost any job, large orsmall, ext/int, fencing, screening, sm. concrete,sprinklers, painting, repairs, int. doors, locks, sheetrock, windows, paint, caulk, grout, trim, shelving,garages organized. Installations, removals, pressurewashing, wood restoration & more. Call Dale’sHome Maintenance @ 973-0194 or 727-2582.

Quality Handyman, specializing in HomeImprovements, repairs & installations of all typesfrom A to Z, including telephone & computercabling. 18 years of exp. No job too small. [email protected] or call 451-6541for questions or Free Estimates.

Greg’s Paperhanging. For all of your wallpaperingneeds. Licensed & insured, clean, quick & reason-able. Call 973-2767 for free estimate.

Dan Turner Decorating Wallcovering Installa-tion. The most important thing about the wallcov-ering you select is...the installer. Don’t sacrifice thebeauty of wallcovering, turn to the experts. Calltoday for a free consultation. Licensed & insured.Call 928-2160.

C L E A N I N G S E R V I C E S

D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE. We haveour own supplies & more than 200 clients in NewTampa! For more information, call 758-9710.

Isn’t life busy enough? Save time. We can help.Your satisfaction is our first priority. Guaranteed, af -ford able, reliable, quality domestic svcs. Free esti-mate: Chelsea Maid Com pany @ 994-6662.

A+ Cleaning Service. FSU grad, honest &dependable. Moving very successful business toTampa Palms area to be near first grandchild. MyTallahassee clients included FSU coaches & profes-sors. For FREE estimate & references call Randiat (cell) 850-509-6615. Yes, I do Gators, too!

L A N D S C A P I N G

L A W N M A I N T E N A N C E

NTLC Property Maintenance. Residential &Commercial lawn maintenance for New Tampa &Wesley Chapel. Sprinkler repair, tree trimming,mulching, landscaping & clean-ups also available.Licensed & Insured. Call Bill @ 973-3825.

P O O L S E R V I C E S

P E T S I T T I N GAnimals’ Best Friend says, “Pets Deserve GoodLove & Care, Even Times When You’re Not

NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL ClassifıedsJoin OrthoTechnology’s Winning Team!Ortho Technology, an international ortho-dontic supply distributor located in NewTampa, is seeking talented energetic candi-dates for the following full-time positions: Distribution Associate: High energy individ-ual needed to receive, restock, pull & pack cus-tomer orders. Fast paced environment. Basicmath & computer skills, ability to stand/walkfor entire shift & lift up to 50 pounds required.QC Inspector: Entry level position respon-sible for accuracy of outgoing orders. 1-2 yrsexp w/QC responsibilities. Ability tostand/walk for entire shift, close vision, basiccolor differentiation and basic math req’d.Small parts/med device experience a plus.We provide a great work environment, excellentbenefits package and growth potential. Submitresumes to [email protected].

HERE I COME! I specialize in all types of clean-ing: houses, apartments, townhouses, garages, etc.Best prices in the Bay area. References available.Call for a free estimate. Call 735-7979.

Sparkling Clean! Commercial, residential &rentals. Professional service @ affordable prices!Please call 1-630-561-3173

Custom Painting! *Artist* “20 yrs. Exp.” Faux,Murals & designer finishes at bargain prices. Call630-561-3173.

Lawn Maintenance *Commercial*Residential*Rentals*HOA Cleanups*Investment Properties*Complete Lawn Care at Prices you can AFFORD!Service that you can depend on Ken 334-3460.

WINDOW WASHING most windows $6.00incl. inside, outside & sills. “Make Your WholeHouse Shine” 10+ yrs. experience. Convenientappointments. A POINT OF VIEW WINDOWWASHING. Wesley Chapel. 813-973-1451.

Tranquility Pool Service. New Tampa Owned& Operated! Great pricing w/outstanding cus-tomer service. Relax & enjoy while we keepyour pool in pristine swimming condition!Licensed, Bonded & Insured. Call Christoday for a free quote @ 857-5400 or visit usat www.tranquilitypoolservice.com to seewhy we are New Tampa’s #1 choice! Mentionthis ad & receive one month FREE!

Aquatec Pool Service has been keeping poolsclear & swim safe since 1994. We offer qualityWEEKLY full service at an affordable price & fol-low strict National Swimming Pool Foundation(NSPF) standards. Licensed & insured. Call 780-8616 or visit our website www.aquatecpool.comto see why you should choose us! Mention this adand get one month FREE!

Enjoy your time & let A.T.B. Landscaping &Lawn Service do the work for you. We providelandscaping, lawn maintenance, clean-ups, tree &hedge trimming, sodding, sprinkler repair & fertil-ization. Other services also available. 907-LAWN

Tai Chi Classes open to the public at Club TampaPalms. New Beg. 6/week course. Tuesdays 7-8pm starts Feb. 16th, Cost-$60. Benefits: Strength,Flexibility, Balance, Focus. On going classes Tues.2:30-3:30 pm, Wed. 8-9 pm. Cost-$10/class.Also personal instruction in Tai Chi, Kempo, Fit-ness training and more. With more then 28 yearsof teaching and training exp. Call Peter today tofind out more #787-7560.

OWN A CATTLE FARM IN COSTARICA for just $600,000. One hour fromSan Jose City. Ten acres with 2 homes, onefor owner w/cable TV and phone, and onefor foreman. 30 heads of Brahman Cattle, 3pure breed "paso fino" horses with new sta-bles. For information and pictures contactGerardo Acosta at [email protected] or ph.813-504-3240.

Everyday Gardener’s Club. Full-serviceproperty maintenance available for residential& commercial. One-stop shopping withlicensed, insured professionals. Specializing inlandscape design with conceptional drawings& renderings available. Let your imagination& our professionals come together to createdreams that will last a lifetime. Call 933-1120or visit www.EverydayGardnersClub.com

Tampa Cat Lady Professional Cat-SittingService. You say goodbye - we say hello. Catsare happiest when in their own home, sur-rounded by familiar sights, sounds & smells.When you are away, we feed, cuddle & playwith your kitties & clean & dispose of litter. Wehelp deter crime by bringing newspaper/mail& rotating lights/blinds, giving your home thatlived-in look. Licensed, bonded & Red-Crosscertified in pet first aid/CPR. Call 994-9449or visit www.TampaCatLady.com.

03-10 NTNN 1-56 web

Documents

Transcript of 03-10 NTNN 1-56 web