New Tampa Neighborhood News, Volume 34, Issue 11, May 26, 2026

Gabe Hassan Remembered At Bench Dedication Event

The Wharton High Grad Has A Bench At New Tampa Rec Center Dedicated In His Honor & Memory

By Gary Nager

District 7 Tampa City Council member and New Tampa resident Luis Viera has led a lot of efforts to help the people in all areas of his district.

Very few of those efforts have been as personally important to him as the event that took place at the New Tampa Recreation Center in Tampa Palms on May 8, when Viera and the city’s Parks & Recreation Department unveiled a small plaque on a bench in the playground just outside the Rec Center dedicated in honor and memory of Gabriel (Gabe) Hassan.

Gabe is the Wharton High graduate who passed away in early 2024 at age 17 (less than two weeks after receiving his diploma from Wharton in his hospital room) from complications related to Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome, a rare genetic form of leukemia affecting the bone marrow, exocrine pancreas and skeleton.

Viera admits that he was on a mission to find a way to honor and remember Gabe and was happy to be able to have the bench dedicated in his memory. He said that because it was only a bench dedication, not a renaming of a portion of the park, like with the Harrison Boonstoppel dedication we reported about a couple of issues ago, he did not have to have City Council vote to make this dedication happen.

“I was able to do it administratively,” Viera said. “But, I did make a presentation to Council, and had Gabe’s parents, Mahmoud and Carolyn Hassan, attend that meeting last October to show their support for the idea.”

The Dedication

“We’re here to honor the legacy of a young man who left us too soon,” Viera said as he opened the dedication event on May 8. “There are some hurts in life that no person should ever have to go through, but some people do go through them. And, they hurt in places that we didn’t know exist. When you undergo that pain, you’re tested in ways that you never knew, but so are your friendships and so is your family and so is your faith. And I can tell you the Hassan family, [their] friendships and faith have been tested.

“But, just look at all of the diverse people here today — Muslim brothers and sisters, Christian brothers and sisters, the State of

Florida (State House Minority Leader, Dist. 67 Rep. Fentrice Driskell was on hand), Hillsborough County Public Schools (Dist. 3 School Board member and New Tampa resident Jessica Vaughn also was in attendance), the City of Tampa, Jewish brothers and sisters...all coming here to support them. That’s what this moment is truly all about.

“Gabe was a young man who was truly exceptional. He would undergo some terrible struggles in his life and he would meet them with characteristics that were truly God-given because he was a child of God created with resiliency and strength...the kind of resiliency and strength that comes from being raised by a good mom and a good dad and [being] loved by a family.

“And I have no doubt that when Gabe went through his struggles, he would remember not only the strength from his creator, but also the lessons and values that were imparted to him day by day, by the love given to him by his

New Tampa Democratic Club hosted seven candidates for City & County offices. See pages 6-8

mother, his father and his entire family.

“He was a young man of achievement who, despite all of his struggles, would get a 4.7 GPA at Wharton High School. And he was an Eagle Scout. That means something. It’s about integrity, character and patriotism. It’s about love of your community.

“His parents speak of a young man who loved his community deeply with all of his heart.

“And he was a young man who believed in his faith, who was raised unapologetically a believer of the Muslim faith, passed down from his parents, from their parents and from their parents and so on. He reached into that faith during his darkest times, [during] his deepest hits.

“There’s a saying, ‘My feet are tired, but my soul is well-rested.’ But sometimes, your soul isn’t well rested, especially when you have these tremendous hits. It’s on everybody here to support this family and to always check up on them.”

Up next was Gabe’s Scoutmaster, long-time

New Tampa resident Dave Thompson, who said, “I’ve spent the last week with hundreds of thoughts about what to say.

“I’m not here to mourn the passing of a

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School Is Almost Out — Can We Please Try To Drive Even More Carefully?

An Editorial by GARY NAGER

With the 2025-26 school year ending in just a few days, one thing that has me worried is the way people drive around our area.

We’ve all seen the speeders and people who think the shoulders on I-75 and I-275 are their personal “I have to get home faster than you” lanes. But, as if those highway issues weren’t enough, the local neighborhood roadways are now also being inundated by golf carts, electric bicycles, skateboards and scooters — and it’s clear that many parents either don’t realize, don’t understand or somehow don’t care that some of their children are riding these dangerous vehicles on the same streets as your neighbor’s Cybertrucks and high-powered sports cars.

I am not pointing fingers at anyone in particular here — we all know that many people drive too fast, don’t use turn signals, don’t stop at stop signs or at signalized intersections before turning right and are generally distracted by texting/looking at screens, eating and/or applying makeup when they drive.

But now, with children as young as 8-9 years old both on motorized vehicles and out of school — kids who clearly don’t know the rules of the road — sharing the local roadways at all hours of the day, as well as at night, as a father and grandfather, I am truly scared for all of us.

Just a few weeks ago, one Wesley Chapel family suffered the ultimate loss, as the father of a 12-year-old boy struck and killed his own son, who was riding his electric skateboard in their own neighborhood. Obstructed views from hedges were cited as a factor in the tragic accident, but when you hear of this kind of horror that anyone has to endure, it’s not about looking to blame anyone, it’s about trying to prevent the next tragedy from happening.

First of all, I honestly believe that no unlicensed young driver should be allowed to own and operate one of these motorized vehicles without first having to complete an extensive safety course — with their family members, so everyone is aware of the sometimes difficult-tofollow rules governing each different type of these vehicles. I’m not talking about an online course. I’m talking about something in person, with law enforcement officials at least providing the rules if not the actual training, so that every kid who is given the ability to go 10-25 miles per hour — or more — on any kind of motorized vehicle understands the potential for tragedy they have beneath them.

We’ve already published stories about how the insurance industry is now having to deal with writing policies for these vehicles, many of which didn’t exist just a few years ago, but here are a couple of those stats again:

• E-Scooter injuries soared by 80% from 2020-24, from less than 30,000 to more than 115,000.

• E-Bike injuries rose from just 1,600 in 2018 to 23,000+ in 2022

Since standard auto and homeowner’s policies don’t include coverage for motorized bikes and scooters, thousands of claims have been denied. These vehicles are also 2.5 times more

likely to be stolen than cars, with an estimated $1.4 billion in annual bicycle theft losses.

But, it’s not about the monetary cost. It’s about losing someone you love, especially a child, to something so senseless.

I’m fine with it if you disagree, if you say that kids should have their freedom, too. That’s easy to say until it’s your child who pays the ultimate price.

All I can say is that if you’re not going to be extra careful, especially now that school is about to be let out and the number of these new motorized threats sharing the road with already-distracted drivers is about to skyrocket, you’re literally asking for more tragedy to affect someone else’s family...or your own.

So, please drive carefully...and please talk to your kids about the very real dangers.

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I don’t think that ever occurred to him. It just wasn’t in his nature.

Continued from page 1

young man. I’m here to celebrate the life of a young friend — a life of compassion, service, curiosity and determination, something his mom would call ‘stubborn.’

“But, I’ve had the pleasure of knowing him and his family for over twelve years, from the time he joined my Cub Pack 280 at TurnerBartels to the time he crossed over to our Scout Troop 148, and Gabe was a daily inspiration to me. Despite his physical challenges, Gabe was a happy soul. He never whined or complained about his situation, it was all just part of his reality.

“He was always there whenever anyone needed him. As one of our older Scouts, if a younger Scout was having challenges with setting up the tent on a campout, Gabe was the first one to show him how to do it and help him put it together. The younger Scouts often sought him out when they had questions, because Gabe was always approachable. He was there whenever we had service projects to complete, whether it was a food drive for the food pantry, raising a fence at the church, painting classrooms at Wharton or upgrading the playground at Quail Hollow Elementary.

“And, even while in the hospital, Gabe, through his determination, completed his studies to graduate from high school and finish the requirements for his Eagle Scout. Many of us in that situation would’ve just given up. Not Gabe.

“One of my favorite memories was when I was driving three of the Scouts back from an event. One was Jewish, one was Catholic and one was Gabe. The boys were carrying on a conversation, talking about their faiths...just a beautiful conversation, talking about the similarities and differences. There was no arguing or fighting, each was just teaching a little bit about themselves to the others.

“And I thought about how nice it would be if all of us could share thoughts and ideas like this. And that was Gabe, caring and sharing.

“It’s been two years, but not a day goes by that I don’t think of you. I still hear him in my mind saying, ‘Hey, Mr. Dave.’ I have a lot of good memories of him.

“And now that this bench is here, I’ll be visiting occasionally, just to sit and talk with my friend, because I know he’ll be listening.”

And finally, Mahmoud Hassan thanked Viera and the Parks & Rec Dept. for dedicating the bench “in honor of our son Gabriel.

“Dear Gabriel, we love you so much and we admire the amazing but short life you lived. Mom and I always called you our ‘Sunshine Baby, because Gabriel was born on May 10, 2006, on a beautiful, sunny day.

“As we commemorate you and dedicate this bench in your honor, it is still a beautiful, sunny day.

“You radiance illuminates us with precious memories and how loving you were to us and how ‘Gabe’s

much we dearly loved you. This Sunday would have been your 20th birthday, and although sunny days are ahead, your passing has left us with the darkness and gloom that still causes us to cry and lament your unfortunate passing.

“You have visited your Dad in dreams and I feel your warmth and caress during my prayers. You are with our Lord now and I get a sense of serenity that you are in comfort and peace as you await your family to one day join you.

“We are so proud of your accomplishments and we look at your pictures in awe of how bright, kind and noble you were. One of the things I admire most about you, Gabriel, was your bravery. You were not shy about approaching strange situations, or speaking to people.

“Most of all, you faced your own death with peace and understanding that you will meet God. I can only hope and pray that I will be as brave as you when my time comes.

“Gabriel had said, ‘There is no power, verily, than that which God provides.’

“Gabriel was at peace. He prayed with me, and he knew that the end was coming, and I talked to him peacefully about that. And although I expected him to shake with fear, a calmness and serenity was with him that I can not describe in words. When you’re in that state,

and you have a connection with your higher power, with God, God puts that serenity in you...and he was glowing with that serenity. I will never forget that glow he had that day.

“We miss your laughter, your silliness, your voice, as well as your warm embrace. Mom, Sophia (Gabe’s sister) and I are still struggling to make it through each day, and we wish you were still here with us.

“Your new baby brother, Ibrahim, is a shining light and a precious gift from God. And, when he was born, I felt your presence protecting him. I know you are watching over him and I feel your love for him...until you eventually meet one another.

“Not a day goes by that I don’t think about you and the impact you had on our lives. You are my first-born son, and one of the strongest shining lights in our lives. I still miss you very dearly, and I will always love you, dear Gabriel.

“I hope that this bench brings comfort and peace to our community members who come by this park and need a place to sit and relax.

“I want to thank the [city] officials, and the Parks & Recreation director (Ted Fowler), for dedicating this honor (photo below) to him.

“And most of all, I just want to say that, as a father, this is one of the deepest tragedies I’ve ever faced. But, every day, you inspire me, dear Gabriel, to keep striving on. I don’t get lost in despair, but rather, I get moved by hope when I think of this. Thank you all again for coming.”

City Council Candidates Make Their Case To The New Tampa Democrats

By Joshua Gabel & Gary Nager

The City of Tampa’s Municipal Elections won’t be held until Tuesday, March 2, 2027 — but that’s not too far off to keep the New Tampa Democratic Club from hosting four declared and potential candidates for Tampa City Council at the club’s Apr. 27 meeting.

Among the candidates who appeared at that Apr. 27 event were New Tampa residents Alan Cohn and Morris Lopez, both of whom have officially filed to run for the District 7 Tampa City Council seat currently occupied by fellow New Tampa resident Luis Viera. (Note-Both Lopez and Cohn have been featured in profiles in the Neighborhood News in previous issues.)

Also appearing at the same meeting were New Tampa resident Gene Siudut, who has not yet officially filed to run for Viera’s seat, but told the New Tampa Democrats about his intention to do so, and Candice Cowen, who also has not yet filed to run, but who told the Neighborhood News shortly after the meeting that she is now intending to run instead for the citywide Dist. 3 seat currently occupied by Councilwoman Lynn Hurtak. Hurtak is one of eleven candidates now running to replace the Hon. Jane Castor as Mayor of Tampa (see the story on page 8 to meet two of the other ten candidates for Mayor).

Viera, of course, is nearing the end of his two-term limit in Dist. 7, and he has filed to run for the Dist. 67 Florida House seat currently occupied by his friend and fellow Democrat — and State House Minority Leader — Rep. Fentrice Driskell, who also is term-limited out of her seat and is running for the Dist. 16 seat in the Florida Senate.

In addition to all of the city-based neighborhoods in New Tampa, Dist. 7 also includes North Tampa and parts of Sulphur Springs and Old Seminole Heights. The district also is home to the University of South Tampa and Busch Gardens.

Although Viera’s term doesn’t end until March, because, under Florida’s “Resign-to-Run” law, he has now submitted his letter of intent to resign from his current seat, or at least ten days prior to the start of qualifying for the House seat (which is June 8); his resignation won’t take effect until Nov. 2 at midnight.

At the first Tampa City Council meeting following the Nov. 3 election, the six remaining City Council members will then appoint someone to fill the remainder of Viera’s current term— which

will give that appointee the inside track to victory come Municipal Election Day in March.

Each City Council candidate shared their vision for the City of Tampa and what they hope to achieve should they win next March.

Alan Cohn Cohn (right), the former investigative journalist who started off the evening’s proceedings, stated that he is not running “against anybody” but instead is “running for you.” He also informed those in attendance that New Tampa contributes more in tax dollars than it receives, yet first responder services are severely lacking in the area.

“It’s unacceptable that the closest police station to here is down at Busch Gardens,” Cohn said. “And some areas of New Tampa, [especially] K-Bar Ranch, have some of the slowest fire department response times in the entire city.”

Cohn was asked about his time as an investigative reporter and briefly highlighted his work in network radio, along with local ABCTV stations in Tampa and Sarasota, joking that he “commuted from here to Sarasota every day

so I could tell you something about our highway system,” alluding to traffic concerns that have plagued the region for years.

For more information about Alan Cohn, visit AlanCohnforTampa.com.

Candice Cowen

Cowen (right), who appeared at the meeting as a potential Dist. 7 candidate prior to her decision to switch to the Dist. 3 seat, touted her Tampa roots and shared that, like many families in the city, she struggled to be able to afford a home.

“I went ahead and started working, doing what you’re supposed to do, doing all the right things,” she said. “But I could not attain home ownership. And I couldn’t understand why, if you’re doing all the correct things, why couldn’t I [afford to buy a home]?”

She shared that she was able to later obtain a home through Habitat for Humanity and now uses her experience to advocate for housing affordability all the way up to the nation’s capital.

“I went to D.C., I go to Tallahassee and I advocate for affordable housing, policy reforms, appropriations and seeing how those on the fed-

eral, state and local level can give back and really give the community what they need,” she said. “I use my own life experiences to show [elected officials] what their return on investment really looks like.”

Cowen felt that elected officials at the state and federal level aren’t providing solutions that are truly helping the community and too often benefit people not from Tampa.

“Sometimes those solutions that are coming down aren’t even fit for what we need,” she said. “Sometimes they’re not listening because they can’t empathize or sympathize because they don’t understand what we’re going through. I feel like we need to invest in Tampa first. There’s other people who may be awarded these contracts that aren’t necessarily local. We need to invest in our people. We need to invest in our children.”

When asked what Tampa is doing well with regards to affordable housing, Cowen (who is working as a community development specialist for the City of Tampa) said that, “We aren’t doing NIMBY (Not In My Backyard)-ism.” Instead, she said, Tampa is pushing back on that mentality and investing in the community.

“Sometimes,” she added, “we have development, an empty lot…where you want to build upon that, right? Some people may come to City Council and say, ‘We don’t want this,’ but they

don’t understand the impacts, the positive impacts that it will have in the neighborhood. They may have certain stereotypes in their mind that they don’t necessarily understand. They may say affordable housing isn’t really affordable. Well, affordability is relative, right? What’s affordable for me may not be affordable for you.”

Morris Lopez III

Up next was Lopez (right), who spoke candidly that he was not a politician and was not looking for a stepping stone to a higher role. He believes that the next City Council person for Dist. 7 needs to tackle the district’s challenges.

“We need to maintain our quality of life right now,” Lopez said. “And we need strong public safety to keep our neighborhoods safe. We need transportation to reduce our traffic flow. We need infrastructure that’s smart and that is resilient so that people don’t get flooded (as with Hurricane Milton).

“But most important right now, [I’m telling] you the basics, because, like you, I just want the services that I pay for to the City of Tampa to be consistent and reliable. That’s simple. That’s what we pay for.”

He was asked if his running was a conflict of interest in his role as a Hillsborough County firefighter and he stated that his decision to run for City Council was approved by the county but he would look at retiring should he be elected.

“This is not a conflict of interest,” Lopez said. “Of course, I can’t do city business on

county time, but my plan is to continue my career serving you. I’m ready to retire [from the county fire department]. I’m already in the highest position in the fire department that still works a 24hour shift, and I’m 60 years old. I’d like to spend nights in my own bed. It’s been at least 20 years. I’m still working, and I’ll do both, but I’ll transition out if I’m lucky enough to get [elected].”

He also was asked if his job as a firefighter will help the district finally get a fire station in New Tampa. “I think we will get that done with my relationships. I have four decades of relationships with both [the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County] fire departments and what we need is station placement. We need to get those response times down.”

For more information about Morris Lopez, visit MorrisLopezforTampa.com.

Gene Siudut

He stated that the most important thing for any member of City Council to do is to approve the Mayor’s budget and bring home money to their district.

“City Council’s number one job is to approve the budget,” he said. “You have to have that good relationship [with other members] to get things in the Mayor’s budget. Can you bring the bacon home for your area?”

When asked about what he believes is the identity of New Tampa, Siudut said that New Tampa “is sort of an area that runs itself,” but added that he thinks the district is also forgotten by the Mayor and City Council at times.

“What needs to be remembered is District 7 isn’t just this area. It’s also North Tampa and the Busch Gardens area, which have great infrastructure needs. There are areas with no

sidewalks, no street lights. Based on what you [or] I believe affordable [housing] is…there’s areas where there’s nothing. There’s areas where there’s no local supermarkets.”

Siudut also was the only candidate to mention that the Dist. 7 seat will have a new face before the municipal elections in March 2027, due to Florida’s “Resign-to-Run law.

“This seat will actually be filled before this election, because [Councilman Viera] does have to resign to run, so this [Dist. 7 seat] will be an appointment first.”

For more information about upcoming elections, how to register to vote or to find your polling place, visit VoteHillsborough.gov.

Siudut (right), the assistant editor for La Gaceta newspaper, closed out the evening by highlighting his volunteer work with the New Tampa Family YMCA, first as a basketball coach and now as chair of the New Tampa Y’s Volunteer Advisory Board, to paint how he views the district and its challenges.

“[The YMCA], to me, is sort of our center of town,” Siudut said. “That’s a great slice of what this area of the city is. With the YMCA… whether it’s socioeconomic or racial or religious, it’s a great mixture of what this area is. This area is more than just a few green grass areas and white picket fences.”

Other Candidates Also Introduced Themselves To The New Tampa Democrats

By SP Gordy Neighborhood News Correspondent

Three other candidates for local office — District 7 Hillsborough County Commission candidate Aileen Rodriguez and Gary Hartfield and Ryan Edwards, both of whom are running for Mayor of Tampa next March — also had their say at the Apr. 27 meeting of the New Tampa Democratic Club.

Aileen Rodriguez (right) is currently unopposed for the Democratic Party primary that’s set for Tuesday, August 18, but will vie for the seat against one-term Republican incumbent Joshua Wostal. Rodriguez came to the New Tampa Democratic Club meeting looking to shore up some support for the midterm General Election on Tuesday, November 3.

But, while she already is gaining some traction — the Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections website VoteHillsborough.gov said her campaign had already raised close to $28,000 at our press time — she has a steep fund-raising hill to climb against Wostal, whose campaign has already taken in more than $119,000.

During her introduction, Rodriguez said, “We have a lot of things we need to fix in our county and I believe being in office should be about serving the community, not about partisan politics.”

She told the crowd that she is their neighbor, not a politician, and that part of her heart is still here, as her older son attended Hunter’s Green Elementary, after she moved to New Tampa in 2003. She lived in the area for eight years before moving to Forest Hills in 2011.

Rodriguez also said that it was during her time in New Tampa when her path into politics first began. She worked as the Regional Director of Constituent Services for the now retired former Republican U.S. Senator Mel Martinez, from 2007-09.

“That was how I gained an understanding of how government works,” she told the Neighborhood News after the meeting. “I was based in Hillsborough County, but I helped people in eight counties along the Gulf Coast navigate through government services. I believe my experience working in this role will really be helpful when I serve the residents living

throughout [Hillsborough] County.”

According to her bio, Rodriguez was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, but grew up in the Tampa Bay area. She also attended Hillsborough College (formerly Hillsborough Community College) and earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Organizational & Interpersonal Communications with a concentration in Psychology from USF. She is currently the principal of AR Public Affairs & Strategic Solutions and, in addition to working for Sen. Martinez, she previously worked for the Moffitt Cancer Center, Helios Education Foundation, the Tampa Bay Host Committee for the Republican National Convention (RNC), and the TGH Experience at Super Bowl LV in 2021.

Rodriguez received both the NFL/Tampa Bay Buccaneers Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award, and the City of Tampa Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Council Leadership award in 2019.

During her interview with the Neighborhood News following the New Tampa Democratic Club meeting, she said that she used to be registered as a Republican, but she left the party in 2019 to register as a Democrat.

“I didn’t know much about politics back then, but while working for Sen. Martinez, I would see how he always tried to work across the aisle, but would then get attacked by his own party for it. That partly led to why I changed parties. I also came to realize that I’m fiscally more conservative, but socially more liberal, and I consider myself to be more of a moderate in the center of both sides.”

Rodriguez also explained that it was while she was still a registered Republican that she worked on the Tampa Bay Host Committee for the RNC. “It was a nonprofit role, and not political at all,” she said. “The committee’s aim was to promote Tampa Bay, while all eyes were on the area during the convention in 2012.”

Rodriguez says she’s excited about how her campaign for County Commission is going so far. “There’s a lot of momentum,” she says. “I’m traveling all over the county, meeting as many people as I can. I’ve been very familiar with the county, since I first moved to the Tampa Bay area as a kid, when I lived on a dairy farm in Plant City. I think right now people are just tired of the arguing and fighting and just want someone to hear them.”

Rodriguez said the platforms she is running

on are “health, education, government and transportation.” She also mentioned at the meeting that she is planning to have a Meet-&-Greet event in New Tampa, and that she will make sure to share that information soon.

For more information about Aileen Rodriguez’s campaign, visit VoteAileen2026.com.

Stumping For Mayor

Meanwhile, the Mar. 2, 2027, race to replace the Hon. Jane Castor as Mayor of Tampa today has eleven candidates in total, including former two-term Mayor Bob Buckhorn.

Neighborhood News editor Gary Nager interviewed Buckhorn in Sept. 2025, when he first stated his intention to run. While Buckhorn seems to be the favorite and his campaign has already raised $1.8 million, candidates Gary Hartfield and Ryan Edwards both shared their vision for the city with the New Tampa Democrats.

campaign at our press time. His campaign website is GaryforTampaMayor.com, Ryan Edwards (right) expressed his excitement about running during the meeting, where he quoted civil rights activist and poet Maya Angelou: “Nobody will ever remember what you said, or did, they will only remember how you made them feel.”

Gary Hartfield (right) said, “This is a tumultuous time in our country’s history. In the City of Tampa, we have more foreclosures than anywhere in the U.S., high gas prices and groceries that are exceedingly high.” He added that the reason he is running for Mayor is because he wants to bring change to the city and how it is run.

“I [will] get to serve my community and represent for my children and my community [in] a different way. As opposed to disruptive partisan politics, I [will] get to be reasonable...to show that there’s a better future for our city, and carve out a path that looks forward, that’s innovative.”

Hartfield is the owner of Serenity Village Insurance & Consulting in South Tampa. He is an entrepreneur, builder and CEO who sits on the Board of well-known organizations like BayCare Hospital, CareerSource, the CEO Council of Tampa Bay and United Way of the Suncoast. He previously sat on the Board of the Hillsborough Transit Authority, but resigned earlier this year, prior to announcing his mayoral bid. He said his priorities are, “economic opportunity, small business growth, sustainable workforce housing, transportation that moves people, thriving neighborhoods, community investment and transparent and accountable leadership.”

According to VoteHillsborough.gov, Hartfield had raised just under $4,000 for his

Edwards (right) said he lives by that quote and added that he knows what the people of Tampa want: “Everybody wants to feel safe. They want a roof over their heads, and they want finances in their pocket. In my background, I have had the opportunity to train with the federal government, which gave me the opportunity to focus on public safety. I’ve also been working with the City of Tampa on affordable housing, and I’m just enjoying the journey.”

Edwards is a Community Development Specialist for the City of Tampa and is a “public speaker and community advocate...dedicated to empowering young people and raising awareness around mental health, helping communities build resilience, reducing violence, and creating positive change. He said his platforms are, “public safety, housing and mass transportation.”

VoteHillsborough.gov doesn’t show that Edwards’ campaign has raised any money so far, but it is still early in the race. His campaign website is LeadWithRyan.com.

Following the meeting, New Tampa Democratic Club Board member, Erin Uhler said, “It was wonderful hearing Aileen Rodriguez, Ryan Edwards and Gary Hartfield during our meeting. It was a great opportunity to discuss the future of our community, share ideas and build the relationships and momentum needed to move our city and county forward together. It was also refreshing to see two candidates running for the same position focus on the issues and their vision for the community, rather than taking cheap shots at one another. That kind of respectful dialogue is something voters deserve more of.”

The next New Tampa Democratic Club meeting will be held on Monday, June 1, 7 p.m., at the New Tampa Regional Library (10101 Cross Creek Blvd.). The topic will be “How will State and Federal redistricting affect New Tampa’s voters?” For more info, visit NewTampaDemocrats.com or see the ad on pg. 10.

Upcoming Events — Lots Of FREE Health Care Events, ‘Sleeping

Wednesday, May 27, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. –North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon Cutting. At Synergy Outdoor Kitchens & More (25712 Sierra Center Blvd.). Help celebrate the ribbon cutting, meet the team and explore their custom outdoor living solutions. Refreshments will be provided. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534. Or, visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Friday, May 29, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Final Friday. At Bubba’s 33 (26340 Silver Maple Pkwy.). Connect, engage and network with chamber members in a relaxed environment. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534 or visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Saturday, May 30, 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Face Foundrié Grand Opening. At Face Foundrié (28249 Paseo Dr. #190). Your glow-up destination is here. Free facial certificates to the first 50 guests, swag bags for all attendees and there will be vendors including a coffee bar, permanent jewelry and candles. Free to attend. For more info, call (656) 246-5141.

Monday, June 1, 7 p.m. – New Tampa Democratic Club meeting. At New Tampa Regional Library (10101 Cross Creek Blvd.) Find out how redistricting will affect New Tampa voters. For more info, visit NewTampaDemocrats.com or see the stories on pgs. 6-8 & the ad below.

Tuesday, June 2, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Business Breakfast. At Pasco Hernando State College-Porter Campus (2727 Mansfield Blvd, Conference Ctr., 3rd floor). The featured speaker will be Ron Pierce, President & CEO, RSA Consulting Group. The cost to attend is $25 for Chamber members & $30 for non-members. For more info or to register, call (813) 994-8534. Or, visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Friday, June 5, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Leading Ladies Network.

At USF Credit Union (20610 Bruce B. Downs, Conference Room). The featured speaker will be Michelle Stanaland, founder of Shark Branding Solutions. Her topic will be “Getting your business AI-ready.” $15 to attend. Online registration is required. For more info or to register, call (813) 994-8534 or visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Saturday & Sunday, June 6-7 — “Serve for Strength” Weekend. At Saddlebrook Resort (5700 Saddlebrook Way). A full weekend of pickleball & golf. To register to play or for more info, visit ServeforStrength.org.

Tuesday, June 9, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon Cutting. At Brain and Stroke Center (5812 Old Pasco Rd.). Come out and help celebrate the opening of the Brain and Stroke Center. Free to attend. For more information, call (813) 994-8534 or visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Friday, June 12, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. – AllFly Charity Golf Event. At Saddlebrook Resort (5700 Saddlebrook Way). Attendees will enjoy championship-level play paired with a full resort experience. This is a three-day gathering of meeting planners, travel professionals, business

New Tampa Democratic

Club

Monthly Meeting — Monday, June 1, 7 p.m. at New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.)

How will State & Federal Redistricting affect New Tampa's voters? Get the latest information at this meeting! newtampademocrats.com • Facebook.com/NewTampaDemocrats

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owners and industry partners coming together for golf networking and a great cause. Stay for the weekend with special rates. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the North Shore Animal League. $130 includes tournament entry and post-round lunch and networking. For more info or to register, visit Luma.com/agdqfstg

Wednesday, June 17, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Coffee Social. At PopStroke (25297 Sierra Center Blvd.). A relaxed morning designed for casual networking and meaningful connections. Join the Chamber for coffee, light refreshments and great conversations — with no agenda. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534. Or, visit Business. NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Sunday, June 21, 3 p.m.-5 p.m. – Pieces

of Eight: A Tribute to Chicago. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Pieces of Eight is Tampa Bay’s favorite soul and funk horn band! They’ll bring all the great hits from Chicago, Tower of Power and others. Pieces of Eight has a full horn section and sound that will keep you coming back for more. Tickets $17.50-$25 depending upon seat selection. Select tickets are available for $10 through NTPAC’s Affordable Art commitment. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, to purchase tickets visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/events/pieces-ofeight-a-tribute-to-chicago

Monday, June 22, 6 p.m. – New Tampa Town Hall with Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera & Hillsborough School Board Member Karen Perez. At Compton Park at Tampa Palms (16101 Compton Park Dr.). It’s good to be informed on what’s going on – both with the City of Tampa and for our local public schools. If you have any question on any relevant topic, come out to the meeting and ask it. Free to attend. For more info, email luis.viera@tampagov.net

Saturday, June 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. – The Signed Edition Book Fair. At Hyatt Place Wesley Chapel (26000 Sierra Ctr. Blvd., Lutz). Meet some of your favorite authors and take home personally signed copies of their books. Check out local vendors with unique items for sale. General admission is free, VIP early entry (10 a.m.-12 p.m.) $17.85, and VIP early entry with swag bag $39.19. For more info or to purchase tickets, visit Eventbrite.com/e/the-signed-editionbook-convention-tickets-1980629938463

Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Wesley Chapel ‘Topped Out’ At Event

By Gary Nager

Although the actual opening of the new John’s Hopkins All Children’s Hospital (JHACH) in Wesley Chapel is still another year or more away, the Neighborhood News crew was thrilled to be on hand for the “topping out” ceremony held at the hospital’s construction site on May 8.

The $300-million, five-story, 239,000-sq.ft., 56-bed hospital (with a 16-bed emergency department) sits on 112 acres (the first phase of the hospital takes up only about 30 of those acres) at the corner of Overpass Rd. and McKendree Rd. It will be more than just the first pediatric hospital to open in our area; it will be an opportunity for thousands of young patients in New Tampa, Wesley Chapel and beyond to no longer have to travel to the JHACH in St. Petersburg to receive specialized pediatric care.

Among the 200 or so people in attendance were dignitaries who were introduced by JHACH president K. Alicia Schulhof: Pasco County Commissioners Seth Weightman and Ron Oakley, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and State Representative Kevin Steele.

“Today, we are reaching new heights, literally and figuratively, and marking the ‘topping out’ of this incredible facility,” Schulhof said. “Our mantra is ‘All we do, all for kids,’ and you can feel it happening here today.”

Schulhof then introduced Wesley Chapel residents and sisters Valentina, age 10, and 7-year-old Isabella De Jesus.

“Standing before us are these two young ladies who represent patients and family members and remind us why this work matters so much,” Schulhof said. “We are so excited because these folks live here in Wesley Chapel and they currently commute to St. Petersburg for care (Valentina has been being treated for leukemia).”

Valentina said, “I’m glad it’s nearby (the new hospital) and we won’t have to travel so far.”

“So far” isn’t only about our distribution areas. According to research released by JHACH, “Currently, 93% of patients living in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties travel outside the area for pediatric specialty care.

Justin Olsen, the VP and chief operating officer of JHACH, mentioned that this is the 100th anniversary of the pediatric hospital giant.

“This topping out is more than a construction milestone,” Olsen said. “It’s a visible reminder of commitment, collaboration and care. But, what this moment really represents is a century of caring for children and families and building on our legacy of trust, compassion and cure in our community. And that legacy continues today, here in Pasco County.”

Dr. Joseph Perno, the Wesley Chapel hospital’s chief administrative officer — and its first employee — said that he is very proud to have been part of JHACH for more than 20 years:

“And, I’m so proud to be part of seeing this built from the ground up, to serve this community, to serve Valentina and her family. What we’re building here matters in access for families. We’re now talking about shorter drives, faster care, designed for our patients and their families.”

Schulhof also said that this closer access to care is “being built right in front of us...one beam, one floor, one patient at a time. Every part of this facility reflects our shared mission to

JHACH VP & chief operating officer Justin

out ceremony attendees

A rendering of the new JHACH (Rendering provided by JHACH)

got to take tours of the new hospital, where staffers showed renderings of each department along the way.

deliver the very best care, closer to home, in an environment where families feel supported and children can heal.”

The Topping Out & The Tours

Following the presentation, Valentina got to push the button to start the topping out process for the final beam, which was decorated with children’s handprints in JHACH’s rainbow of

colors, as well the signatures of all of the event’s attendees. In accordance with a Scandinavian tradition, the beam was adorned with a small evergreen tree that was secured to it for good luck.

Then, the audience was divided into groups that got to tour two floors of the construction site, which includes 60 million lbs. (30,000 tons) of concrete, 2.8 million lbs. (1,400 tons) of rebar and 19 miles of underground piping. As you can see in the photos on the next page, although the framing allows you to visualize some of the finished product, each stop along the way

included renderings of what each section of the finished hospital will actually look like, including the hospital’s ground-floor reception area, the 16-room emergency center, 4 imaging and 4 operating rooms, 12-bed rehabilitation unit, full-service pharmacy, sleep laboratory, clinic space (with room to grow with the community), support services and dining areas, the 25,000-sq.-ft. outpatient center and more.

And, speaking of room to grow, the view from the hospital’s second floor allowed attendees to see the other 90+ acres of the campus that will allow the hospital to be expanded as needed in the future. Although, as Dr. Perno said during the introductions, the children who are most critically ill will still have to be treated at the St. Petersburg JHACH (which is adding 28,000 sq. ft. of emergency and surgical suites), there’s no doubt that the new JHACH will be a tremendous addition to the local community when it opens in the Fall of 2027. For more information about the new hospital, visit HopkinsAllChildrens.org.

Statewide Safety Effort Brings ‘Watch For Motorcycles’ Signs To Local Crash Site

By Joel Provenzano Neighborhood News Correspondent

Tyler Norman (photo) was riding east on County Line Rd., the road still quiet in the early morning hours, and the hum of his motorcycle steady beneath him as he approached the signal for the intersection of County Line Rd. and Grand Hampton Dr.

It was the kind of ride that feels routine — familiar roads, familiar turns — until, suddenly, it wasn’t. Tyler’s life was cut short at age 19.

Five months later, two small matching roadside signs now stand along that same stretch of asphalt. Simple, temporary, easy to miss if you’re not looking. But, for those who know, it marks something permanent.

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Florida, and this year, those signs and their familiar message, have taken on a deeper meaning across Wesley Chapel, New Tampa, and the surrounding areas.

As part of a statewide effort, Florida’s Motorcycle Safety Coalition — also known as “RideSMART Florida” — and its partners announced the following at the end of April: “RideSMART Florida and our statewide partners will begin placing hundreds of “Watch for Motorcycles” signs throughout the state at

the sites of 2025 motorcyclist fatalities. This powerful visual tribute aims to honor fallen riders and raise driver awareness leading up to the start of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month on May 1.”

After the initiative began, those signs (paid for by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) appeared locally — including the one placed along County Line Rd., in front of Grand Hampton (photo, right) — each one tied to a real story, a real life lost.

One of those lives lost was 19-year-old Tyler Norman.

According to investigators, Tyler was riding a 2012 Kawasaki motorcycle eastbound around 2:30 a.m., on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, when a Nissan Rogue traveling westbound attempted to turn left onto Grand Hampton Dr. Authorities say the driver, 50-year-old Mauricus “Rico” Labron Green, turned directly into Tyler’s path, violating his right of way. The motorcycle struck the front of the SUV.

Tyler (who was wearing a helmet) was transported to a nearby hospital, where he died from his injuries.

Green remained at the scene and was arrested. Police reported signs of impairment. Court records show he was charged with DUI manslaughter and refusal to submit to testing, along with a citation for an improper left turn. His case remains open and is scheduled to continue later this year. Records also indicate a prior DUI arrest in Lakeland in 2017.

Above graphic source: RideSMART Florida

Behind the legal process, though, is the reality those roadside signs are meant to convey.

Tyler’s family, like too many others, was devastated by the loss. And, across Florida, similar signs now stand for other riders — each representing family and friends navigating the same kind of grief, the same unanswered questions, the same sudden absence.

The goal of the campaign is not only remembrance, but prevention.

Motorcycle crashes often come down to a narrow margin — visibility, timing, judgment. In many cases, including this one, right-of-way violations and impairment play a role.

But, safety officials emphasize that responsibility for these crashes is shared. Drivers are urged to doublecheck intersections, especially before turning left, always use their turn signals, even if they think no one is nearby, and to remain alert for motorcycles — which can be harder to see and judge in distance.

Riders, in turn, are encouraged to stay visible, ride predictably and anticipate potential hazards at every intersection.

Those small signs along the roadside are easy to pass by without a second thought. But they are placed with intention — at the exact locations where moments like Tyler’s unfolded.

They are reminders that every commute, every late-night drive and every routine ride carry weight. And, that looking out for one another on the road isn’t just a slogan — it’s what may one day separate a close call from a devastating loss.

State officials stated that due to safety and maintenance reasons, the temporary signs would only be placed on local roads, not interstates or limited access roadways.

To learn more about RideSMART’s statewide initiative, visit RideSmartFlorida. com/may/

Neighborhood News correspondent and local Realtor® Joel Provenzano serves on the Board of Directors of Florida’s Motorcycle Safety Coalition, aka RideSMART Florida.

North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon-Cutting Events — Face Foundrié,

Hale Law & Drybar

It’s been another busy few weeks for the North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC)’s giant scissors, as there were four NTBC ribbon-cutting events just between Apr. 21 and Apr. 29, including the Face Foundrié, Hale Law Accident Attorneys and Drybar Wesley Chapel.

On Apr. 21, the Face Foundrié not only cut a Chamber ribbon but also opened its doors for the first time at 28249 Paseo Dr., Unit 190, in The Shops at Wiregrass. Its Grand Opening will be held on Saturday, May 30, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

Local franchise owners Brenda and her daughter Elle Vansteenburg (right) welcomed Chamber members to tour the beautiful new facial spa, one of nearly 90 Face Foundrié locations in 25 U.S. states (10 in Florida). The company was founded in Edina, MN, in 2019 by CEO Michele Henry, and the Wesley Chapel Face Foundrié offers a variety of facials, lashes, brows & skin care products, with memberships available. For more info about the Face Foundrié, call (656) 2465141, visit FaceFoundrie.com or see the listing in this issue’s Events Calendar on pg. 10.

Next, on Apr. 23, Hale Law Accident Attorneys cut an NTBC ribbon at the firm’s office location at 6408 E. Fowler Ave. in Temple Terrace. Founded by Patrick Hale (at right in photo, right) in Sarasota in 2018, Hale and co-managing partner Patrick Iyampillai (with microphone in same photo), fellow partner Rose Kasweck and attorneys Patrick Barnes, Maxwell Shrem, James Tanton and Kristi Paschall, are all dedicated to representing everyday Floridians who have been wrongfully injured by someone else’s negligence.

As the official accident law firm for USF, Hale Law does not take on corporate clients or insurance company defense work — “just people who need someone to fight for them,” Hale said.

The partners in the highly-rated firm (the Temple Terrace office has a 5.0-star rating on nearly 30 reviews on Google) told everyone who attended the ribbon-cutting event that they should “Go to Hale (Law)” if they’re ever injured.

For more info, call (813) 547-4980 (24

location at 28163 Paseo Dr., Suite 135, is an elegant-looking salon that specializes in styling and blow-drying all different types of hair, with catchy cocktail-copying names (putting the “bar” in “Drybar”) for the styles, like “The Cosmo” and “The Old Fashioned.”

Franchise owners LeShundra Haughton (in Drybar yellow in photo, right) and her son Xavier (with sunglasses) and LeShundra’s husband August Haughton (left) and her sister LaTonya DeShazier (far right) welcomed Cham ber members to check out all that Drybar has to offer, including not only the blowout services, but also braids, clip-in hair extensions, hair care products, memberships and gift cards.

Drybar, which today has nearly 200 loca tions (15 in Florida), debuted in Brentwood,

PTSD Foundation Also Cuts A Chamber Ribbon

The following week, on Aug. 28, the PTSD Foundation of America Florida Chapter also hosted a Chamber ribbon-cutting event at its office in the Mango Coworking Space at 2831 Allegra Way (off Wesley Chapel Blvd.) in Lutz. Florida PTSD Foundation Chapter general manager Luis Pancha (at right in photo with NTBC president and CEO Hope Kennedy), a Marine Corps veteran, told attendees that the Foundation isn’t made up of therapists, but it does provide much-needed services for veterans and their families, including in-person peer mentoring and putting those who are at risk of becoming another one of the 44 U.S. military veterans each day who commit suicide in touch with licensed therapists. Foundation volunteers also help vets with writing grants and even with finding jobs.

“This office is a place where veterans and their families can come for support, connection and hope,” Pancha said.

Pancha clearly is the right person for the job. He told the attendees, “I’m not here to ask for donations. I ask for word of mouth because that’s how our Foundation can grow. So, I hope five people here will talk to five people to spread the word.”

He also said that the local chapter actually started back in 2023 because, “As a veteran, I know that the need is great. It’s very difficult for people to understand what PTSD really is, but I

suffer from PTSD a lot myself and my wife Sa mantha helped pull me out of the darkness. Now, I get to reach into people’s darkness and help pull them out as well.”

The need is clearly great, as two veterans I met during the event told me that they had attempted suicide more than once.

The event included huge donations of food from multiple sources, and Craving Donuts co-owner Vanzelle Nibbs parked his donut truck at the event and gave each attendee at least one free donut. I had enjoyed these gourmet donuts at previous events, but until you’ve had them hot and crisp outside and soft inside, you haven’t really tasted them! For more info about the PTSD Foundation, call (813) 940-0015 or visit PTSDUSA.org. For Craving Donuts, call (813) 466-9365 or visit CravingDonuts.com. — GN

Welter Law Expands In Wesley Chapel To Help With Estate Planning & Probate

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

It wasn’t too long ago that the Welter Law Office was bursting at the seams in its small loca tion in Wesley Chapel, as the reputation of estate planning and probate lawyer Denise A. Welter, Esq., continued to grow.

“I wanted to serve my clients better than I could in such a small space with just one assistant,” says Denise, who first opened her firm in the area four years ago.

So last June, Denise moved to a larger office in the Cypress Ridge Professional Park, just east of I-75 and north of S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel.

She also expanded her staff, which now includes probate paralegal Katie Zupkosky, client care coordinator Esthenye Quero, and virtual assistant Tara Ellis.

“Everyone loves coming to work now,” Denise says, “and now we have the capacity to take care of more people.”

But helping more clients doesn’t mean that Denise’s attention is divided. In fact, she is intentional to keep the firm’s focus very narrow.

“I only focus in probate and estate planning,” she explains. “I find that concentrating just on those areas makes for a better experience for my clients, and ultimately a better estate plan.”

That plan may include wills, trusts, trust administration, advanced health care directives and durable powers of attorney. She also handles probate, the court-supervised process of validating a will, paying debts and distributing assets.

“You wouldn’t go to a dentist for a heart

surgery,” she says. “So, why would you go to a criminal attorney to have your will done?”

Before Denise opened her Welter Law Office, she was a partner at another firm, since moving from South Florida to New Tampa when her husband retired about 10 years ago. Before passing the bar on her first try in 2002, she had been a legal secretary for 17 years.

At that time, she had been let go from her position, a turning point she describes as the “best worst thing that ever happened to me.”

As a busy mom of two young boys, she then made the decision to pursue a law degree.

Over the next five years, she obtained both her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree, majoring in Legal Studies, and her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, both from Nova Southeastern University, which is based in Ft. Lauderdale.

After assisting in another firm’s real estate department, she found her calling in estate planning and probate. “I found my niche, and I’ve been doing it ever since,” she says.

She is a member of the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys, Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys, The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, The Real Property Probate & Trust Law Section of the Florida Bar, Lawyers of Distinction and Lead Council Verified.

Denise takes her role as counselor seriously, helping people determine what will happen to them and their assets as they age and may not be able to make decisions for themselves anymore, or when they pass away.

“When people don’t make an estate plan,” she says, “by default they have chosen the State of Florida’s plan.”

She explains that Florida statues are clear on what happens when someone dies, and if you don’t have an estate plan, then Florida’s state laws determine what happens to your assets.

“You might be okay with that,” she says, “but most people aren’t.”

For example, she explains, the statutes say that if you’re not married, everything goes to your children. But sadly, more and more families these days have estranged children, so some people may not want everything going to a child they haven’t seen in decades.

“Blended families have unique planning techniques, too,” Denise adds. “When you marry someone, they automatically get rights, unless you’ve otherwise planned for it.”

But more important than asset distribution, Denise emphasizes, are your health care directives.

“Your health is more important than your stuff,” she says. “It’s important to say who is

Denise says these decisions are never onesize-fits-all. While some documents are similar, how they are used by each client is unique.

“I meet with clients and give a complimentary consultation first,” she says. “I get to know them, they get to know me, and I can narrow down their special issues based on their family and their goals. Then, I can give them a recommendation of what the best planning technique would be for them.”

She says some clients may just need a will-based package, while others want to avoid probate and make things as easy as possible on their children, so they may want a trust. Denise spends time talking with each client about how these things work.

She also sends digital follow-ups annually to inform her clients of any law changes that could

affect them and encourages them to review their estate plans every five years, or anytime there are important life changes.

Jan Potter recently moved to Esplanade in Wesley Chapel from Palm Beach County.

She is retired after running an asphalt contracting business for 35 years.

Due to changes in her family, she wanted to update her will and trust. After seeing an ad in Neighborhood News, she reached out to Welter Law Office.

“The whole experience from beginning to end was well done,” Jan says. “Denise was very patient and spent a lot of time with me. She gave me some great suggestions I hadn’t considered.”

Jan was then impressed by the turnaround time, and how “beautiful” the final product was returned to her.

“Her presentation was amazing,” Jan says. “She gave me a binder with everything in it compartmentalized with tabs, and gave me suggestions for things I may want to hand write and add to the binder. It was back to me in a week, which doesn’t usually happen in legal offices.”

Jan added that after decades in business, she’s dealt with many attorneys, and she calls Denise “the best of the bunch.”

In fact, Jan says, when she received her binder, it didn’t feel like just another completed transaction.

“I felt like family,” Jan says. “I felt like I had made some true friends in the area.”

For more information about the Welter Law Office, located at 2312 Cypress Cove, Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel), call (813) 736-9080, visit WelterLawOffice.com, or see the ad below.

Palms Pharmacy Celebrates 10 Years Of Community, Care & Growth In Tampa Palms

By Jordan King Neighborhood News Correspondent

When Shahida Choudhry, Pharm.D., opened Palms Pharmacy in The Shoppes at The Pointe plaza in Tampa Palms in 2016, she never imagined the small independent pharmacy would one day grow into a team of about 30 employees. A decade later, the business is not only successful but continuing to expand its services, product offerings and ties to the local community.

To mark the ten-year milestone, Palms Pharmacy’s customers and the local commu nity were invited to celebrate with the staff at an in-store event. The anniversary celebration included delicious ice cream from the Ice Dreammm Shop’s mobile unit, fresh lemonade from Laymouna Lemonade Stand, custom House of Malak lip gloss, goodie bags, and a chance to win a $100 gift basket, along with a 15% discount on vitamins.

Dr. Choudhry says that about 100 people attended and the lucky winner of the raffle was customer Nancy K. A hilarious video of the drawing is posted on the store’s social media sites. The Palms Pharmacy staff understands that without the community, the independent pharmacy’s success would not be possible, so this event acted as a “thank you for making the dream of this independent business a reality.”

(Above) Dr. Shahida Choudhry celebrated the 10th anniversary of Palms Pharmacy in The Shoppes at The Pointe in Tampa Palms on Apr. 24. (Right) A customer checks out vitamins & supplements during the anniversary event. (Bottom left) Delicious lemonade was served by Laymouna Lemonade Stand. (Bottom right) Attendees also received free House of Malak lip gloss samples. (Photos on this page by Charmaine George)

Behind the scenes, the pharmacy’s growth is reflected not just in numbers, but in relationships. Several members of the Palms Pharmacy team began their careers there as interns and chose to stay on after completing their training. They are there for each other for all the big moments, from graduations to being parentsto-be. For Dr. Choudhry, that loyalty speaks to the culture she works intentionally to build — one centered on mentorship, collaboration and genuine care for both employees and patients.

Earlier this year, Palms Pharmacy gained another achievement by earning URAC accreditation, a nationally recognized designation for quality and patient-centered care. This accreditation is awarded to healthcare organizations that meet rigorous standards for clinical excellence, integrity, and safety. Dr. Choudhry says that, “The same commitment to clinical understanding guides our decisions throughout the pharmacy, helping ensure that our patients are offered options that truly fit their needs.”

Dr. Choudhry holds both a Bachelor of

Island University in Brooklyn, NY. She stays actively involved in the profession through her membership in the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) and the Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC). She also says that she is currently working toward advanced certification in menopausal health, an area she believes is increasingly important and underrepresented among pharmacy professionals.

More Than Just Prescriptions

In addition to standard prescriptions, Palms Pharmacy also offers compounding services that allow the pharmacy to tailor medications when standard options aren’t the right fit. That could mean adjusting dosages, removing certain ingredients, or creating alternatives that are easier to take.

Palms Pharmacy also provides immunizations, making it convenient for patients to stay up to date without the long waits often associated with larger chains. Dr. Choudhry says, “Consultations are another important part of what we offer, giving customers the opportunity to sit down, ask questions, and talk through

a meaningful difference in how people experience their healthcare.

While Palms Pharmacy offers a full range of pharmacy services, Dr. Choudhry says that what many people remember most is how the store feels when they walk in. She describes it as a “five-sense experience,” with welcoming staff, inviting music, visually striking displays, and a wide assortment of samples to try.

She says the Korean skincare options, in particular, continue to be a customer favorite, with all items costing just $12 — or less — drawing people in to browse and ask questions. Staff members know many regulars by name, and it’s not unusual for conversations to stretch beyond prescriptions into everyday life.

At the same time, Dr. Choudhry says affordability remains a top priority. The pharmacy stays highly competitive with large chains on non-prescription items, a fact that often surprises first-time visitors.

“There is a common misconception,” she explains, “that independent pharmacies are more expensive than the retail chain stores, when, in reality, careful sourcing and private-label options allow us to keep prices affordable

the store, which features a rotating selection of gifts, supplements, and specialty items that Dr. Choudhry says are hand-picked based on current trends and feedback from the local community. Palms Pharmacy carries a variety of different items, from natural soaps and essential oils to unique candies and even pet products.

Several products in the store are Floridasourced, like A Bee’s Place honey based in St. Petersburg and Florida Salt Scrubs founded in the Florida Keys — reinforcing Dr. Choudhry’s commitment to supporting small businesses and keeping money circulating close to home. That sense of connection extends beyond the physical store itself. Palms Pharmacy has an active presence on social media, including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, where Dr. Choudhry and her team share updates, highlight products, and engage with customers between visits. The accounts also offer lighthearted glimpses of daily life at the pharmacy. They show the behind-the-scenes moments, playful team antics, and everyday routines, giving followers a candid look at the people behind the counter and reinforcing the approachable atmosphere customers experience in person.

After a decade in business, Dr. Choudhry says the heart of Palms Pharmacy remains unchanged. “In an industry increasingly dominated by large chains, we continue to focus on clinical excellence, personalized service and making healthcare feel accessible.”

The pharmacy currently holds a 4.9-star overall rating with more than 560 Google

seem to get in every area, it is a pleasure to go to an excellent pharmacy that still gives you that ‘Mom and Pop’ attention and service. If you’re looking for a per sonalized and professional pharmacy, then run, don’t walk, to Palms Pharmacy for all your prescriptions.”

“We know people have options,” Dr. Choudhry says. “So when someone chooses to walk through our doors, we want them to feel welcomed, supported, and confident they’re getting the best care possible.”

Palms Pharmacy is located at 17008 Palm Pointe Dr. and is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. You can call the store at (813) 252-9063 or text the secure text-only prescription line at (727) 513-3210. For more info, visit ThePalmsPharmacy.com, check out the store’s social media pages or see the ad on pg. 26.

•Wellness Dentistry for kids and teens

•Holistic nutritional counseling for teeth and gums

•Ozone therapy for oral care

•Recommendation of non-toxic materials

•Sedation dentistry (nitrous oxide) and Sedation

•Invisalign First for children & Invisalign Teen

•Digital 3D scans, ITERO (no goop) and digital X-rays

•Laser dentistry (release of tongue tie for infants, children and teens)

•Relaxed environment, so your children can enjoy their visit

or questions,

Trust Jaime Bryant’s Wesley Chapel GEICO Local Office For Personalized Service

By Traviyon Bigby Neighborhood News Correspondent

Finding the right insurance coverage isn’t always as simple as clicking “Get a Quote.” For many, it comes with uncertainty, unanswered questions, and a lack of personal connection. As Wesley Chapel continues to grow, so does the need for trusted, reliable businesses that understand the needs of local residents. That’s the philosophy driving owner Jaime Bryant’s GEICO Wesley Chapel local office in the Target-anchored Northwoods shopping center on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. — where service goes beyond just selling policies and blossoms into real relationships.

Jaime and his staff offer a range of insurance products designed to meet the needs of individuals and families, such as auto, home, boat, jewelry, umbrella, flood, motorcycle, RV, and more.

“To be able to offer bundled coverages, to facilitate discounts and significant cost-saving features to our clients is what matters the most,” he says. His staff’s approach to guiding members to make the right decisions is simply to ask the right questions and understand their individual needs. This commitment to clarity and customer care is what drives Jaime’s team’s day-to-day operations.

Jaime is a devoted father and resident who has been working with GEICO for more than 16 years. He believes his extensive experience, along with the Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree he earned from the University of South Florida, allows him to view the insurance business through a different lens. It wasn’t until he moved to Wesley Chapel in 2018,

after previously working at GEICO’s Lakeland office, that he saw growth and opportu nity to serve the community by taking the initiative to open his own local office in 2020 during Covid-19.

As we know, the pandem ic was a tough time for many — some experienced job loss, the loss of a family member or even the loss of personal assets such as their homes or vehicles. Jaime felt this was the perfect time to focus on his unique approach to cultivating a direct connection with residents in the surrounding community. His theory has always been, “Saving my clients money without sacrificing service will always be a win-win situation for me.”

Depending upon which statistics you go by, GEICO (a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc.) is the second or third largest insurer in the U.S. The company insures more than 30 million people nationwide. And, while many customers turn to online platforms or call the 1-800 number for convenience, real human support is not a thing of the past.

Jaime’s office offers something different — a real, human connection. “Insurance is meant to be personalized,” says Jaime. “It’s not a one-size-

fits-all approach.” His team provides this hands-on support by understanding each client’s unique situation and ensuring that clients’ questions are answered. Jaime says this support makes a significant difference, especially when navigating important or complicated coverage decisions. His office also is committed to being an active part of the Wesley Chapel community by building relationships that extend beyond business transactions and by partnering with local schools to sponsor take-home folders, field banners

and sporting tickets. This year, Jaime has even implemented a $1,000 scholarship for two student athletes at Wesley Chapel High who exhibit athletic achievement and character. A committee of coaches, school administrators and the school’s booster club president selects the recipients.

Jaime recalls a time when, “a customer in Zephyrhills couldn’t log into her computer to access urgent documents due to a connection failure. With her husband too ill for her to leave the house, she felt helpless. That’s when our office

manager Craig Blas stepped in to turn a stressful day around. Not only did he make the trip to hand-deliver the vital insurance documents, but he also played IT support, fixing the connectivity issue. This went beyond just insurance; it reconnected the couple with family members whose emails had gone unread, providing peace of mind during a tough time.”

For many, the true value of working with a local office becomes clear in moments of uncertainty. “Being able to rely on an honest, upfront agent who offers guidance without judgment, along with clarity and consistent communication, is a priority,” Jaime says, “not just when purchasing a policy, but throughout the entire experience.”

At its core, he adds, “It’s about more than insurance; it’s about trust, accessibility, and protection. With more than 590 reviews and a 4.9-star overall rating on Google, clients con sistently highlight the agency’s staff and their commitment to exceptional service.

Satisfied customer Aliyona Wilson shared her experience in her 5-star review: “Sunshine was absolutely amazing to work with! If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and honest auto insurance agent, she is the one to call. She took the time to thoroughly explain my auto insurance quote, reviewed my motor vehicle report with me, and clearly broke down what was impacting my rate. What really stood out was her trans-

parency and integrity. She made sure I received my military discount and helped structure the best payment schedule for my needs. She didn’t just rush through the process — she educated me and made sure I understood my policy coverage options...[and] she was able to save me over $100 per month compared to the policy I had with another insurance company. Shopping for car insurance can feel stressful and overwhelming, but Sunshine made the entire experience smooth and reassuring. If you need help with auto insurance, policy discounts, or finding better rates, I highly recommend Sunshine. I wouldn’t go to anyone else!”

In closing, Jaime offers this advice for residents considering coverage options:

“Obtain quotes from at least two different carriers that are reputable, that you can trust,” he says. “Insurance is meant to be personalized and individualized, therefore it’s important to know whom you are doing business with, whether it’s with a particular company or agent.” In a growing community like Wesley Chapel, having a reliable, local resource can make all the difference, and Jaime and his staff strive to be just that.

The GEICO-Wesley Chapel local office is located at 1227 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. It is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and 10 a.m.5 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, visit GEICO.com/Wesley-Chapel-Bryant, call (813) 953-4200, or see the ad on page 31.

Congratulations To The Top-10 Graduating Seniors At Freedom High School

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

It’s graduation season, and we are thrilled to celebrate all of you in our community who graduating from college, high school, or even kindergarten or preschool. In New Tampa, students at two public high schools are getting ready to walk across the stage, receive their diplomas, and then toss their caps in the air in celebration.

Thank you to the school administrators and guidance counselors at both Freedom and Wharton high schools, who helped to provide all of the following information, so that we can salute the top students at Freedom and Wharton and say congrats to all of our community’s graduates!

Freedom High School — Gradua- tion Ceremony: Thursday, May 28, 8 a.m., at Florida State Fairgrounds

1. Maggie Takamatsu, Valedictorian

GPA: 8.64

Clubs/Activities: SGA

VP, HOSA president, United in Christ president, varsity golf, varsity track & field, varsity cross country, volunteer for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Humane Society of Tampa Bay.

College planning to attend: University of South Florida

Planned major or future career: Health Sciences on pre-med track aspiring to be an ophthalmologist.

Best thing about high school: Getting the opportunity to challenge myself both in & outside of the classroom while meeting my best friends.

2.Stephanie Daglo, Salutatorian

GPA: 8.56

Clubs/Activities: SGA, black student union, NHS, National English Honor Society, French Honor Society, Rho Kappa, DECA, FBLA

College planning to attend: Howard University

Planned major or future career: Political Science major/lawyer

Best thing about high school: Hanging out with friends.

3. Leah Wood

GPA: 7.96

Clubs/Activities: Spanish Honor Society, Book Club, Key Club, Little Lives Club, Junior Class Council, Senior Class Council, Tri-M Music Honor Society, NHS, Girl Scouts Bronze, Silver & Gold Award recipient, varsity swim, varsity track, varsity lacrosse

College planning to attend: Florida State University Honors

Planned major or future career: Sports management & economics/international sports agent

Best thing about high school: Baking for my friends to celebrate every holiday and their achievements

4.Zuri Moore

GPA: 7.43

Clubs/Activities: Lacrosse, Math Honor Society, math tutoring, Cause for Paws Club, Environmental Sciences Club, Science Honor Society

College planning to attend: University of Chicago Planned major or future career: Environmental Science

Best thing about high school: Hanging out with friends at lunch and football games

5.Hayder Alfatlawi

GPA: 7.26

Clubs/Activities: FBLA, golf at First Tee

College planning to attend: University of Florida

Planned major or future career: Biomedical engineering/ dentist

Best thing about high school: The people. My friends made the journey so much more enjoyable & helped me decompress after a stressful schedule throughout the years.

GPA: 7.12

Clubs/Activities: National Art Honor Society president, National English Honor Society VP, Key Club VP, NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, varsity lacrosse, basketball, varsity golf

College planning to attend: University of Florida

Planned major or future career: Biology/ pre-med

Best thing about high school: Getting the chance to play sports and join clubs, where I met some of my closest friends.

7.Raj Guntuku

GPA: 6.90

Clubs/Activities: FBLA president & district president, HOSA VP, MAO president, Speech & Debate founder & president, Senior Class secretary, Little Lives secretary, DECA treasurer, varsity tennis

College planning to attend: University of Florida Honors College

Planned major or future career: Computer science & business

Best thing about high school: All the friends I made. Without them, high school would have been a completely different experience that I just cannot imagine going through. I am forever grateful for meeting my friends

8.Ainsley Meyer

GPA: 6.88

Clubs/Activities: International Thespian Society, softball, Best Buddies, French Honor Society, NHS, Girl Scouts College planning to attend: Savannah College of Art & Design

Planned major or future career: Film & TV

Best thing about high school: Meeting all kinds of people who love and support me.

9. Brooke Teague

GPA: 6.88

Clubs/Activities: NHS, Tri-M president, other Honor Societies, Cause for Paws Club founder & president, orchestra (first chair, violin)

College planning to attend: Univ. of South Florida

Planned major or future career: Animal Biology

10. Andrew Feaster

GPA: 6.69

Clubs/Activities: Rho Kappa, NHS, Key Club, HOSA, FBLA, Speech & Debate Club

College planning to attend: University of South Florida

Planned major or future career: Exercise Science & Kinesiology/Physical Therapist or Endocrinologist

Best thing about high school: The friendships I made, the fun times at lunch & at football games, the variety of classes I got to take, and all the teachers who supported me.

Our thanks to correspondent Celeste McLaughlin for compiling all of the student information on these pages. — GN

Congratulations, Ky’mari! Freedom High Wrestler Will Be The First In Her Family To Go To College!

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

When graduating senior Ky’mari Riley came to Freedom High School as a freshman, she didn’t have any experience as an athlete. She had never played sports growing up.

“I wasn’t able to,” she says, “I had a very strong interest in golf, but I couldn’t play because of financial issues.”

But, Jenna Lamour, Freedom’s athletic director & assistant principal for administration, noticed Ky’mari and encouraged her to try flag football. At the time, she says, “She came in really shy as a freshman, timid and nervous to get involved.”

But once Ky’mari took the field, Lamour says, something special comes out.

“She’s an absolute beast on the field.”

And Ky’mari was always up to try something new. First, she played softball, then participated in track and field, where she tried shot put.

It wasn’t until her junior year when she first joined the wrestling team.

“Girls’ wrestling is really taking off,” says Lamour. “There are lots of opportunities in the sport right now, and she thrived.”

That year, Ky’mari earned first place in Hillsborough County in her weight class.

This year, as a senior, she had an even better wrestling season, as she was the county runner-up, District 1A-7 champion, Region R2 runner-up, and placed sixth overall in the State.

“This year was her year,” says Lamour. “She would have won States if not for an injury that ended the match.”

Perhaps best of all, however, is that Ky’mari thrived in the classroom, as well. She took extra classes so that she could finish high school early. While she’ll walk across the stage and officially graduate with the rest of her class at Freedom’s graduation on May 28, she completed all of her coursework last December, freeing up her schedule to work this semester to help with finances.

While she spent a couple years of high school living with her single mom, she had previously and currently again lives with her grandmother. It wasn’t always easy, but she says the circumstances she has overcome have helped push her harder to pursue her dreams.

While no one in her family has ever even attended college, Ky’mari says her aunt has always encouraged her to be the one who would be the first to do so.

And, thanks to her hard work on the mat and in the classroom, she has earned a scholarship to Andrew College in Cuthbert, GA, where she will attend and wrestle this fall.

Ky’mari says she owes her success, at least in part, to Freedom wrestling coach Derrick McCoy, whose support included driving her to practices and matches.

McCoy is himself a Freedom graduate who came back to his alma mater. After graduating in 2006 as one of the school’s top wrestlers, he attended the University of South Florida in Tampa. He returned to Freedom in 2011 to coach wrestling and teach marketing classes.

McCoy has now been the head wrestling coach at Freedom for 14 years and Ky’mari is not the only student athlete whose life has been changed by his influence.

“He’s selfless and pours his heart and soul into his student athletes and cares for them like they’re his own children,” Lamour says, adding that McCoy is a great coach from a technical standpoint, but, “his heart is even bigger.”

In addition to the support from McCoy, Lamour says Ky’mari’s success also is a reflection of her character, which shines both on and off any playing field or wrestling mat she has been on during her time at Freedom.

“She’s the nicest student we have,” Lamour says. “She’s so loving, so kind and extremely hardworking. Her teachers rave about her because she contributes positively in the classroom and she’s both a team player and a leader. She’s a high achiever who has set high standards for herself.”

Those are all qualities that make Lamour certain Ky’mari will thrive in her next chapter.

“I am ready to go,” Ky’mari says. Especially knowing she’s joining a wrestling team where she’ll make new connections and bonds with new teammates and coaches, “I feel like it’s a new start, and I’m very stoked and excited.”

Ky’mari adds that she’s looking forward to getting on campus and joining some clubs, and of course, wrestling.

While Ky’mari is currently working to overcome the injury she experienced at States, she says that it’s just a temporary setback.

“My injury is going to heal. I’m going to be training hard and I’m going to come back 10 times harder,” she says. “I think I’m going to have a great season.”

Editor’s note — We first found out about Ky’mari because Hillsborough County Public Schools highlighted her on Facebook as a graduating senior who “has overcome great obstacles to succeed.” The School District has done (or is planning to do) the same thing for all of Hillsborough’s high schools, but the honoree from Wharton High had not yet been highlighted at our press time.

We are proud to give students like Ky’mari, who may not graduate in the Top-10 of their respective graduating classes, but whose accomplishments are no less impressive, a little “ink.”

But, we can’t possibly find out about all of these cool success stories without your help, so please email me at ads@ntneighborhoodnews. com to let me know about a student you know about who hasn’t been featured on these pages — even if they go to a private school or aren’t even in high school yet! — GN

Congratulations To The Top-10 Graduating Seniors At Wharton High

Wharton High School — Graduation Ceremony: Wednesday, May 27, 8 a.m., Florida State Fairgrounds

1.Aarna Patel, Valedictorian

GPA: 10.5305/3.9705 unweighted

Clubs/Activities: National Beta Club, NHS, Science NHS, National English Honor Society, Spanish NHS, Women in STEM, FBLA College planning to attend: University of Florida

Planned major or future career: International Relations & Public Policyy

Best thing about high school: The people I have met. I have especially met amazing teachers like Mr. McKernan, and I feel so lucky to have had such an amazing teacher.

2.Chavi Lakhotia, Salutatorian

GPA: 9.0/4.0 unweighted

Clubs/Activities: SGA, NHS, HOSA, Band (percussion), Speech & Debate, FBLA, TSA, Key Club, yearbook, tennis, dance College planning to attend: University of Texas at Austin

Planned major or future career: Environmental Science, Environmental/ Conservation Law

Best thing about high school: Getting to explore my interests and make amazing memories with some of my best friends

3. Vy Doan

GPA: 8.8410/3.9610 unweighted

Clubs/Activities: FBLA, Art Club, piano, drawing, guitar College planning to attend: University of Florida

Planned major or future career: Psychology & International Affairs

Best thing about high school: Meeting new people, making new friend & getting to experience new things!

4.Ashray Sayini

GPA: 8.5090/3.8690 unweighted

Clubs/Activities: Red Cross, National English Honors Society, Mu Alpha Theta, FBLA, volunteer at Bay Chapel Food Pantry, Mayor Youth Corps, Herd Youth Trailblazers College planning to attend: University of Florida

Planned major or future career: Computer Science

Best thing about high school: The time I’ve spent with my friends outside of the classroom, like staying late just to talk, play pickleball, eat brownies & enjoy the freedom of being together after long school days. I not only improved intellectually but also built connections and created moments of joy, making things more exciting.

5.Himani Mehra

GPA: 8.2676/3.9876

Clubs/Activities: Tri-M, FBLA, tennis, Boy Scouts, band, Speech & Debate, Science NHS College planning to attend: University of Florida

Planned major or future career: Animal Science

Best thing about high school: Being able to see how much I have accomplished over the years in band, tennis and academics this year. Having the opportunity to grow and do these things with my friends has made me many lasting memories.

6.Luke Dostal

GPA: 8.1346/3.9746

Clubs/Activities: Theater, Key Cub, band, FBLA, TSA, Speech & Debate, HOSA, SNHS, track, Tri-M

College planning to attend: University of Florida

Planned major or future career: Pre-pharmacy & communication disorders/speech

Best thing about high school: Being in Wharton’s Theater Company.

7.Arvind Iyer

GPA: 7.8428/3.8428

College planning to attend: New York University Planned major or future career: Mathematics Best thing about high school: Seeing all the people I’d like to see every day.

8.Fernando Soto-Briceno

GPA: 7.7455/3.9855

College planning to attend: University of Florida Planned major or future career: Aerospace Engineering Best thing about high school: Having funny moments while trying to stay serious during class

9.Lauren Galfond

GPA: 7.6630/3.9538

Clubs/Activities: Varsity volleyball, Blue Crew, SADD, NHS, Beta Club

College planning to attend: Florida State University Planned major or future career: Elementary education Best thing about high school: Getting to play volleyball in the Wharton gym in front of all my friends and family.

10. Jayden Tang

GPA: 7.5938/3.9538

Clubs/Activities: FBLA, TSA, SNHS, piano, guitar, coding College planning to attend: University of Florida

Planned major or future career: Electrical engineering Best thing about high school: Playing games with my classmates.

Realtor® Dee Strom — Changing The Real Estate Experience One Client At A Time!

By Jordan King Neighborhood News Correspondent

For many people, the idea of buying or selling a home brings uncertainty long before the process begins. The stakes feel high, the decisions feel permanent, and the pressure to get it right can be overwhelming. Real estate is rarely just about property. It is often connected to life changes such as growing families, fresh starts, downsizing, or saying goodbye to a home full of memories. Despite this, the experience itself can feel impersonal, rushed, or confusing. Bridging that gap and changing the perceptions of real estate “one client at a time” is what drives Realtor® Dee Strom, who is based at the Florida Executive Realty office in Tampa Palms.

“I’ve been in this business long enough to see the shifts,” Dee says. “Markets change, strate gies evolve and even how people make decisions is different now. But, one thing hasn’t changed. People don’t just need a real estate agent. They need someone they trust to guide them through one of the biggest decisions of their lives.” This focus on trust continues to shape how Dee works with every one of her clients.

Dee says the current local market requires a more thoughtful approach than it did just a few years ago.

“On the seller’s side, the market is more strategic than ever,” she says. “Homes are still selling, but not by accident. Pricing, presentation and negotiation matter more now than they have in years.”

For buyers, Dee sees a lot of opportunity, especially for those who have the right guidance, “and if you know where to look. Builders are offering incentives we haven’t seen in years.”

She says she recently helped a client secure a new construction home with a 3.875% adjustable rate mortgage, something many buyers would not expect in today’s market.

“That kind of opportunity does not show up unless you are actively working the market and having the right conversations,” she says.

approach often leads to lasting relationships.

One client, Cindy Lou C., shared her experience on Realtor.com: “We won the lottery when a friend recommended Dee Strom. Dee is extremely organized and intuitive. She quickly understood what we were looking for and helped us secure a highly sought after property. On the sales side, she recommended staging, which was excellent advice. Our home was listed on a Thursday, shown on Friday, and under contract by Sunday. The process was painless. We would recommend Dee without question.”

Dee’s perspective on the profession of residential real estate is also shaped by what matters most in her own life. As a wife and mother of two daughters, she says her family keeps her grounded in an industry that rarely slows down. It is a mindset that carries into how she works with clients, with patience, intention, and an understanding that real estate decisions do not exist in a vacuum. They affect daily routines, long-term plans, and the people clients care about most.

With more than a decade in real estate, Dee has built a strong track record in the Tampa Bay market. Still, she is quick to point out that experience is not just about time in the business.

“There’s a big difference between someone who holds a real estate license and someone who operates as a true real estate advisor,” she says. For her, that difference comes down to how well an agent can guide clients through

decisions, not just complete a transaction. It shows up in pricing, negotiation, preparation and how situations are handled when things don’t go as planned.

At the center of Dee’s motivation is a simple idea — that every client is different and every situation deserves attention beyond just the numbers.

“I think about clients who are selling a home they have lived in for 20 years while building their next chapter,” she says. “That kind of transition is not just a transaction. It is emotional. It is personal.” Dee believes her role is to guide clients through those moments while keeping them focused on what matters most. She says this

It Takes A Village

As her following has grown, Dee also has changed how she operates behind the scenes.

“With the help of great clients along the way, I realized that I could not do everything alone if I wanted to serve people at the highest level,” she says.

To that end, she has built a network of trusted vendors, from building contractors to room-staging experts, so clients are not left figuring things out on their own. “Now, my clients are getting a full level of support, systems

efits and the limitations of this new technology.

“Consumers are using AI more than ever to research the market,” she says, “and I think that is a good thing when it is used the right way — but it cannot replace experience. It cannot read emotion or manage a situation when things start to fall apart and decisions need to be made in real time.”

Instead, Dee helps her clients understand the information they are seeing and how it applies to their specific situations.

“Real estate is not just numbers,” she says. “It is timing, leverage, and understanding people.”

Dee continues to work with clients throughout Pasco and Hillsborough counties,

“At the end of the day, my goal is simple,” she says. “I want to improve the experience of buying and selling real estate, one client at a time. This business is about trust. It is about guidance and experience. It is about helping people move into the next chapter of their lives with confidence.” That is the “Dee Strom Difference.”

Realtor® Dee Strom is based at Florida Executive Realty’s Tampa Palms office at 15802 Amberly Dr.

For more information, visit DStrom. floridaexecutiverealty.com. You also can find her @DeeStromRealtor on Facebook and Instagram or by calling (813) 525-7851. Or, see her ad below.

Cypress Glen Professional Park 26852 Tanic Dr., Suite 102 Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 (off S.R. 56 near I-75)

AllergyTampa — Allergy Specialists On The Cutting Edge Of Research & Care

By SP Gordy Neighborhood News Correspondent

If you or someone you love is suffering from allergies and in need of some relief, a visit to the experts at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associ ates of Tampa Bay (aka AllergyTampa.com) can be well worth the short drive from Wesley Chapel or New Tampa.

Located in the University Community Medical Center on BBD Blvd., and E. 138th Ave. in Tampa (near AdventHealth Tampa Hospital), the office of Drs. Mark Glaum, Seong Cho and Emily Dzoba has been treating allergy patients since 1984. All of the physicians are Board-certified in Allergy, Asthma, Rhinosinusitis and Immunology; they treat patients of all ages, from young children to adults.

In fact, Dr. Glaum says, “20 to 30% of our practice is pediatrics,” which is one of the things that led him down the allergy pathway. “I had allergies myself as a kid, so I can appreciate what people go through, and I found the science very interesting,” he says.

Dr. Glaum has been with the practice founded in 1984 by Dr. Richard Lockey (who also co-founded USF’s Division of Allergy and Immunology in 1973) since moving to Tampa 22 years ago from Philadelphia. In 1999, he earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from Hahnemann University School of Medicine (now Drexel University College of Medicine) in Philadelphia, PA. He continued at Hahnemann and earned a Ph.D. degree in Microbiology & Immunology in 2001.

After completing his residency in Internal Medicine at Hahnemann University Hospital, Dr. Glaum completed a Fellowship in Allergy & Immunology at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia. He also is a Fellow of the Academy of Allergy, a Committee Member on the American Lung Association Professional Education & Research Committee, a member of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, and a member of the Robert A. Good Immunology Society. Dr. Glaum has written extensively about Allergy& Immunology in several publications.

Meanwhile, before becoming an ear, nose & throat (ENT) specialist, Dr. Cho earned his M.D. degree from Kyung Hee University School of Medicine in Seoul, South Korea, in 1989. He completed an Allergy & Immunology Fellow-

ship at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, IL, in 2009. He also completed a medical residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center’s Department of Medicine in Memphis. Dr. Cho has won several awards and authored more than 90 peer-reviewed articles. He is a member of the American Rhinologic Society and the European Academy of Allergy & Clinical Immunology (EAACI).

Last but not least, Dr. Emily Dzoba earned her M.D. degree from the University of Florida in Gainesville in 2019. She also completed her medical residency at UF in 2022. During her residency at UF, Dr. Dzoba received the Outstanding Ambulatory Resident Award. She was also a Chief Fellow during her Allergy & Immunology Fellowship at USF in 2024. Dr. Dzoba has written several abstracts and research articles. She is a member of the Florida Medical Association, American Medical Association, the American College of Asthma, Allergy & Immunology, and the American Academy of Asthma, Allergy & Immunology.

The USF Connection

When the doctors are not in the office treating patients, they are training students at the USF, where Dr. Glaum is an Associate Professor at the College of Medicine, Internal Medicine.

“All of the doctors [in the practice] teach at the University,” he says.

He explains that being a part of the

medical research at USF gives him and the other physicians in the practice a doorway to the latest technological advancements in the field.

He says, when it comes to allergies, “it’s rare to have patients hospitalized.” Dr. Glaum credits this to the ongoing development of Biologics, which, he says, are “antibodies made in the laboratory and for a long time, there was only one approved, but now, there’s about seven or eight, and more are on the way. Being a part of USF allows us to be involved with clinical trials for medicines in development.”

Translating that to his work in the office, when treating patients, Drs. Glaum, Cho and Dzoba can see what possibilities are on the hori-

zon for allergy care and put them to action, upon Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approval. However, you do not need to be a patient or even have health insurance to participate in clinical trials at the USF Division of Allergy & Immunology Clinical Research Unit (CRU). At AllergyTampa.com, there is an option (by clicking on the “Research” tab) to fill out a clinical research participation form. The form says that the “study medications, labs, physical exam and other medical tests are at no cost to you.” That page even includes a full list of the conditions being researched.

Drs. Glaum, Cho and Dzoba offer patients a wide range of treatment options. They can

drome and how climate change is affecting allergy season in the Tampa Bay area.

handle everything from asthma, chronic cough and sinus issues, to food and pet allergies, and can even test things like insect hypersensitivity, and allergic skin reactions.

In addition to treating patients, running clinical trials and teaching medical students, the AllergyTampa.com website also provides helpful and educational information to the public. There is a pollen count link that brings you to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. You can search for your location on the map and sign up for email alerts when pollen levels change in your specific area.

AllergyTampa.com also offers a Patient Education Library, which is a searchable database where you can find information on educational topics. It provides an option to search for key words or through an alphabetical listing of topics. Dr. Glaum says that, “Dr. Richard Lockey originally established the library, and the information is adapted from academic organizations.”

There also is an ongoing blog on AllergyTampa.com, providing even more public information. Some recent topics covered include sleeping better with allergies, oral allergy syn-

Luckily for many people in our area suffering from allergies like oak tree pollen, that season is starting to wind down. Dr. Glaum says that oak tree pollen is typically the most common environmental allergy in this part of Florida. “The season kicks off around December or January and typically runs into May,” he says.

He adds that dust mites are another big problem in Florida. “They thrive in humid environments — the more humidity, the more dust mites you will see indoors. So, keep humidity levels down [inside] and keep things dry because dry environments will minimize dust mites.”

Dr. Glaum also says that one of the strengths of the office is the “longevity of the practice.” He says that AllergyTampa has been around so long that some patients they saw as children now have their own children, and even grandchildren. He emphasizes how rewarding the work is when you can see the impacts across generations. He says the future of the practice looks much like it has for the last several decades. The doctors will continue to remain involved with training physicians and keeping an eye on the latest advancements in the field. And, another doctor will be joining the practice in October.

AllergyTampa is located at 13801 BBD Blvd., Suite 502. Its South Tampa location is at 1906 W. Platt St. For more info or to schedule an appointment, visit AllergyTampa.com, call (813) 971-9743. or see the ad on pg. 35.

Gary & Jannah Return To (The All-New) Saddlebrook Resort!

Checking Out The Changes Since Mast Capital’s $92-Million Investment To Return The Resort To Its Former Glory

By Gary Nager

The last time Jannah and I stayed at Saddlebrook Resort was the night we got engaged back in 2015. Our room was big, but dated and musty. The restaurants we both loved — especially Dempsey’s Steak House — were either gone or no longer worth the money. We didn’t tell anyone at the resort, but we did tell each other that this would probably be the last time we would visit Saddlebrook unless we had a very good reason to do so.

A little more than a decade later, the resort’s new ownership group — Mast Capital — has largely completed its $92-million revamping of Saddlebrook, and has finally given us that very good reason to return.

Although Jannah and I had already visited (and I reported about it in these pages more than once) the new RARE 1981 steak house multiple times, there was so much other new “stuff” to do that we decided to take a short “staycation” in one of Saddlebrook’s recently revamped rooms to check out the upgrades to the legendary Superpool and Palmhaus pool bar & restaurant, and watch a Tampa Bay Lightning game at the new GOAT (aka “Greatest Of All Time”) Kitchen & Bar, which definitely has an upscale sports bar feel but with better food than any of the chain restaurants in Wesley Chapel.

The only things we didn’t get to enjoy were the resort’s now-27 holes of true championship golf — since neither of us still plays at all; I was terrible when I did play — or the new eight beau tiful, new pickleball courts or the European-style

Esthetics813 “The Spa at Saddlebrook.”

The good news is that everything we did do was so impressive that we surely will be back!

In the meantime, you can check out everything we enjoyed during our return trip and all

of the tasting and indulging we shared.

The bottom line is that the new Saddlebrook Resort is now well worth your time and money. If you haven’t been there recently, you honestly haven’t been there at all!

For more pictures & information about Jannah & Gary’s stay at the all-new Saddlebrook Resort, see pages 32-33!

Gary & Jannah Return To Saddlebrook — & Love Everything About It!

After experiencing the RARE 1981 steak house media preview and the separate Saddlebrook Media Day, both back in Nov. 2025 (both of which I reported about extensively in our Dec. 23 issue, so you won’t see RARE photos in this feature), and the much more recent media preview of the new GOAT Kitchen & Bar, Jannah and I decided to reserve one of the resort’s fully redesigned hotel suites because we wanted to experience as much of the all-new Saddlebrook as possible for this story about everything new.

I then interviewed Saddlebrook general manager Jeff Mayers to make sure I wasn’t missing anything that the resort’s new owner Mast Capital had redone as part of its $92 million makeover. Bottom line? Although you can’t really do all there is to do at Saddlebrook in one day or even an entire weekend, you can get a pretty good taste of what was once a worn out “old lady “of a resort returned to her “Grand Dame” former glory.

On these pages and page 30, I hope you’ll get enough of a feel for all there is for couples and families to savor at the all-new Saddlebrook to want to stay there yourselves, or at least have a great meal. Want more good news? If you do visit just to dine at RARE 1981, GOAT or the also-new Palmhaus pool bar, ask your server to validate your valet parking ticket (there is no more self-parking at the resort) and Mayers says your $30 valet charge will be waived!

“We have had much higher engagement and better response from both our members and the local community regarding all of the improvements,” Mayers says. “RARE 1981,

in particular, has seen tremendous turnout for member events and from local residents, although GOAT and Palmhaus also have gotten great reviews.” He also told me that the number of memberships has increased significantly since the improvements have been open.

On a recent Friday afternoon, Jannah and I checked in to our completely overhauled two-bedroom, two-bath suite (one of 451 rooms at the resort) — which is bigger than some of my previous apartments. It not only had all-new carpeting and furnishings, but also new fixtures in the bathrooms, and the kitchen was full-sized, with a new freezer and ice maker, plus a full oven and four-burner cooktop, as well as a full coffeemaker (although there is also the BREW lobby café for artisanal coffee drinks and on-thego bites). Unlike when we last stayed at the resort, everything smelled as clean and fresh as it looked. The bed was super-comfy and there were also bedside connections for electronic devices.

Our patio looked out onto the 9th hole of the newly revamped 9-hole Oak golf course, one of three 9-hole Rees Jones-designed layouts (top right photo on next page) that have replaced the two 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed original courses. The former driving range, located just inside Saddlebrook’s front gate, is gone and has been replaced by a much better driving range and putting green using some of the former golf course space.

I was told by a guy at the golf and racquet sports pro shop that both the Oak and Pine courses are completely redone and together are -

GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) Kitchen & Bar!

(Above, top to bottom & l.-r.) The GOAT Kitchen & Bar is all-new and features great elevated sports bar fare like fish & chips, double smash burger, Hall of Fame short rib nachos and a decadent bananas Foster cheesecake. (All photos on this page by Charmaine

press, the third nine-hole course, is still having its renovations finalized. And yes, you can still play golf (as well as tennis and pickleball) at Saddlebrook without having a membership (see info

below), whether you stay over at the resort or not. You also don’t have to be a member to play on Saddlebrook’s fabled 41 tennis courts that include every championship surface (even Wim-

tems installed inside GOAT and RARE that have outdoor patio broadcast capabilities, “even for sporting events.”

You also don’t have to be a member or even a resort guest to indulge yourself at the Spa at Saddlebrook, also known as Esthetics813, operated by Kyymara Rose Wickiser, an Aveda Spa alum and long-time aesthetician in the Wesley Chapel area.

bledon-style grass) or its eight gorgeous, new pickleball courts. You might, however, get to see some current and future tennis or golf pros training at the Saddlebrook Golf Academy, Happy Hopman Tennis Academy and Saddlebrook Preparatory School, all of which train at the resort, which also is the home of both the Professional Tennis and Professional Pickleball Registries. There’s also an amazing fitness center that resort guests can use as part of their $28 per night (per room, not per

Kyymara says, “Esthet ics813 is a premier holistic wellness and spa program. We are proud to be among only two resorts in Florida offering a fully curated, comprehensive wellness program that goes far beyond traditional spa services.” She adds that the Spa’s philosophy is “Bare-Faced Naked, which has nothing to do with the absence of makeup. It is the courageous, beautiful act of being fully comfortable and confident in who you are.”

person) resort fee. And of course, there’s also the renowned Saddlebrook Superpool, now made even better by the addition of the Palmhaus Pool Bar, which also features live entertainment on the weekends. Don’t want to deal with kids running around? The resort also has an adults-only pool.

“The Superpool now offers DJ music on the weekends,” Mayers says, “and there are sound system enhancements being added out there.”

He adds that there already are new sound sys-

Spa services include customized facials, therapeutic massages, body treatments, manicures and pedicures, yoga, stretch and aqua classes, guided meditation and more.

Memberships & Club

Saddlebrook offers a variety of memberships, from social to racquet sports to golf, and each membership type comes with its own set of privileges.

Mayers says that although there have been ongoing discussions about converting or replacing the building that formerly housed Dempsey’s Steak House as a private club for Saddlebrook members, “nothing has been finalized yet. But, we will provide updates as those plans solidify.”

In other words, if you last visited Saddlebrook before all of these improvements came online, you owe it to your self to visit again. Don’t expect anything to be “cheap,” but I believe it is now well worth the money you’ll spend.

For reservations and more info about Saddlebrook Resort (5700 Saddlebrook Way), call (813) 973-1111 or visit Saddlebrook.com. To book services at Esthet ics813, visit Esthetics813TheSpaatSaddlebrook.com or call (813) 474-4486. Or, see the ad below. — GN

It Doesn’t Have To Be Cinco De Mayo To Enjoy Don Julio’s Mexican Restaurants

By Gary Nager

Like the Mexican restaurant equivalent of St. Patrick’s Day, when everyone is Irish, people just love heading to their favorite Mexican restaurant to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, which is not (contrary to popular belief) Mexico’s Independence Day, but an annual holiday commemorating the Mexican army’s unexpected victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla way back in 1862.

Mexico’s version of the 4th of July, celebrated on Sept. 16, commemorates the start of the country’s 11-year war for its independence from Spain (1810-1821). I have no idea how Cinco de Mayo became the holiday everyone celebrates with tacos, margaritas and sombreros.

What I do know is that it doesn’t have to be Cinco de Mayo to enjoy a great Mexican meal at either of the authentic Don Julio’s Mexican Restaurants in our area — the one in the Palms Connection plaza on E. Bearss Ave, a little west of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., and the other in the City Plaza at Tampa Palms shopping center.

Owner Julio Rodriguez and his family and staff are happy to welcome you to either location, both of which have delicious food, full liquor bars with nice varieties of upscale tequilas and excellent service.

Jannah, Charmaine and I got to the Bearss Ave. location right before the line for tables start ed on Cinco, as dozens of hungry locals arrived for DJ Mo$ Money to blast a nice mix of dance music. Instead of bulky sombreros, the Dos Equis girls gave out bandanas and free bottles of Dos Equis lager and everyone enjoyed the festive at mosphere and, of course, the food. According to Julio, Don Julio’s is where “family tradition meets authentic Mexican flavor.”

So, What Did You Have?

No matter what you have for your main dish, any group visiting Don Julio’s should al ways start their meal with a Don Julio’s Sampler (top left photo). It includes crisp taquitos (we had them filled with chicken), a tamale (corn dough stuffed with pork, wrapped in a corn husk and steamed), a sope (handmade thick corn tortilla topped with refried beans, lettuce, onions, cheese and sour cream; we added ground beef to it), a tostada (similar to a sope, but flatter; we added carne asada steak to it), nachos (we added marinated pork pastor and ground beef) and our new favorite, the perfectly cheesy quesadillas (to which we added shredded chicken).

shrimp were nice sized, done to perfection and the light garlic sauce they were cooked in had a savory flavor that nicely complemented the Mexi can rice, pico de gallo and refried beans.

Jannah has recently gone crazy for birria tacos and the Quesabirria Tacos & Consomé at Don Julio’s (below far right) are definitely among her current favorites. The tender, slow-cooked beef and melted Oaxaca cheese are perfect for dipping in the beef’s own broth. So good!

Lunch, Brunch & More

Both locations also offer great lunch specials (from $11.99 for two tacos with your choice of

meat, including quesabirria; up to $14.99 for three enchiladas).

On Sat. & Sun., Don Julio’s also offers a variety of great brunch items, including a Breakfast Burrito, Huevos Rancheros (two eggs any style with a signature red sauce) and more.

I always try a different dish every time I re-visit a Mexican place I’ve been to before, so even though I’ve enjoyed Don Julio’s steak fajitas and Bistec Ranchero (which is still my favorite steak dish at the restaurant, with its sauce of tomatoes, onions and serrano peppers) before, I got the Chimichurri Steak (above left), which came out sizzling on a fajita plate and was served with rice, pico de gallo and my choice of beans (I picked the delicious black beans, instead of the usual refried beans). The steak was tender and nicely seasoned and I didn’t even need the soft corn (or flour) tortillas served with it.

Charmaine tried the Camarones (shrimp) Ajillo (right), which (of course) I couldn’t sample because of my shellfish allergy, but she said the

And of course, you always have to leave room for dessert, whether you want churros, flan, fried ice cream (Helado Mexicano) or the decadent Choco Banana (far right).

It’s a fried pastry stuffed with chunks of banana and small chocolate kisses, and topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup and a cherry.

Don Julio’s has won many “Best of the Best” awards

Mexican Restaurant, #1 Taco, #1 Margarita Bar, #1 Happy Hour and #2 Brunch.

So, even though Cinco de Mayo is over, please go check out either Don Julio’s location and tell Julio and his staff I sent you! Both award-winning Don Julio’s loca- and “Happy Hour” specials. For reservations (not required but suggested, especially on the weekends), call (813) 898-2860 (Bearss Ave.) or (813) 644-7899 (Tampa Palms).

WhenYouSpend $50orMore! Foodportiononly; drinks&taxnotincluded. Musthaveormentioncoupon. Onecouponpertableonly. Cannotbecombinedwithotheroffers. EXPIRES2/10/2022

Now Open At The Hub At Lexington — La Creacion, The

By Gary Nager

If you still think The Hub at Lexington will be just like every other development in Wesley Chapel, you haven’t been paying enough attention to what’s happening at this 40,000-sq.-ft., sixbuilding center that is being developed by Courtney Bissett-Hayes and her brother Paul Bissett of Center Connect Development on Wesley Chapel Blvd., in front of the Sentosa Lexington Oaks apartments.

With several of the first businesses now open at The Hub at Lexington and more opening this month (and others soon), you and your family will soon be able to “Sip, Savor and Socialize” at more than a dozen restaurants and retail shops.

There will be a number of events — including a Grand Opening sometime in September of this year — some with live music, all centered around The Hub’s shade-providing artificial trees.

So, what’s open now and what’s coming soon to The Hub? Here’s a quick rundown:

Now Open At The Hub!

Headlines Barber Shop — The first tenant to actually open its doors (at 27053 Halter Loop) at The Hub was Headlines Barber Shop, a local chain which has about a dozen Tampa Bay-area locations (and 7,000+ 5-star Google reviews).

Favian, the barber in the top left photo on this page, is clearly a popular guy, as our Facebook post about the attractive-looking barbershop — way back on Mar. 19 — had more than 12,000 views. Fellow barbers Luis, Max and Martha also are available for bookings at Headlines’ Hub at Lexington location.

For more info, call (813) 428-5034 or visit HeadlinesBarbersTampaBay.com!

La Creacion Bistro — The first restaurant to open at The Hub. Please see pg. 38 for lots of photos and the full story about this delicious new Puerto Rican cuisine-inspired eatery!

The Clubhouse Golf Simulator — Only open for a few weeks at our press time, and having just hosted a North Tampa Bay Chamber ribbon-cutting event (below left) on May 12, The Clubhouse (27061 Halter Lp.) is owned by Wesley Chapel High grads (and brothers) Mark (with scissors) and Tyler Ward (not in photo). Tyler told me that he and Mark have been thrilled with the response to their new business so far, as a few hundred people have already come in to give it

try Club (the course in the photo below right), also will have local PGA teaching pros available to provide lessons. “Plus, it’s better than playing four hours in this Florida heat,” Mark says.

In addition, although The Clubhouse doesn’t yet have its beer and wine license, Mark says it is “coming very soon” and there also are snacks and soft drinks available for purchase, “and you can bring your own beer and even food in the meantime.” For more info, call (813) 904-2867 or visit Clubhouse.golf.

Pet Wants — Pet Wants, which was open for only a couple of weeks (at 26939 Halter Lp.) at our press time, promises “Nutrition You Can Trust,” with fresh dog and cat food and treats, bones and natural chews, pet health and wellness products (like Nootie ear and dental wipes), toys and Pet Wants-created “Natural Spaw” products and more. The Hub Pet Wants franchise owner Nickole Davis, who previously owned All Good Things Gifts in the KRATEs, says that the chain is around 20 years old and today has about 100 locations, including either four or five in Florida.

“It’s a cool, fun place to shop for, and with, your pets,” Nickole says. “Come check us out!” Murphy, the long-haired dachsund above, would definitely agree! For more info, call (813) 365-0704 or visit PetWantsWesleyChapel.com.

Lexington Nail Lab — It wasn’t yet open at our press time, but the business that had the first sign up (right) at The Hub several months ago, should be open as this issue is reaching your mailbox. This upscale nail salon (at 27105 Halter Lp., next to Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken; see

Clubhouse & Pet Wants

— This gourmet cinnamon bun chain (photo below), which was founded in Berkeley, CA, in 2010, today has 85 locations in 26 U.S. states (four in Florida, including a location on S.Howard Ave. in Tampa) and could open (at 27145 Halter Lp.) within a month or so after Bonchon. With 20 frosting flavors and lots of unique toppings, you can design your own Cinnaholic creation or choose from one of the chain’s best-sellers, like “Cookie Monster” and “Campfire S’Mores.” For more info, visit Cinnaholic.com.

ingtonNailLab.com or call (352) 691-6073.

Also open as you’re reading this (although not yet at our press time) is Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken (see story on next page).

Opening Soon!

Saigon Pho Restaurant — Although the sign (below) only says “Vietnamese Restaurant,” we spoke with the owners of the successful (and tasty!) Banh Mi restaurant at The Hub at Bexley,

who confirmed both the name and that they also own the upcoming Saigon Pho, which they hope will open by sometime in July.

Also Coming Soon:

•Urban Crunch Creamery Café & the Brew Bar Self Pour

— the self-proclaimed “First Daiquiri Bar in Wesley Chapel!” (top photo on next page)

•Island Grill

Bonchon Korean

Whether you already love crunchy Korean fried chicken or you’ve never tried it before, you have to try Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken now that it has opened at 27093 Halter Lp.

Before the new location opened, I stopped in at the Bonchon on E. Fletcher Ave., where owner and GM Sam Takla was interviewing prospective employees for both stores and Sam was so excited that we were giving him some publicity that he not only refunded what I had already paid for two items but also brought out several other dishes, so photographer Charmaine George and I “would know just how delicious our food is.”

He’s right. Even though I always order any kind of fried chicken without sauce on it (top photo), there are six different sauces (from Korean BBQ to spicy Yangnyeom) to choose from and our six-piece combo (four wings and two jumbo drumsticks) came with our choice of side. We chose cole slaw, but there’s also pickled radish.

The chicken was crispy and juicy, the pork gyoza dumplings were excellent, too, and the Bulgogi beef bowl (above right), sautéed with mushrooms, scallions, onions and sesame seeds, had just the right hint of sweetness. Sam also turned us onto the Japchae (glass noodles, red bell pepper, onions, spinach, mushrooms and bulgogi stir fried with soy garlic sauce), which Charmaine said was her favorite dish.

We also got to try a unique Mopo “corn dog” (below), which is actually mozzarella cheese wrapped in crispy breading, with potato cubes and soy garlic on a stick, but no hot dog.

We both loved the two-piece Korean donuts (bottom right) and their sweet cream dipping sauce. There are many more items on the menu I can’t wait to try, too, and Sam says

La Creacion Bistro Is The First (Delicious) Restaurant To Open At The Hub!

As we told you in the full update about The Hub at Lexington on pages 36-37 of this issue, the first restaurant to open at The Hub was La Crea cion Bistro. This Puerto Rican cuisine-inspired eatery is elegantly pretty inside, with a beautiful, premium liquor bar (that had just received its liquor license at our press time; bottom right pho to) — and the food is absolutely spectacular!

La Creacion Bistro (located at 27073 Halter Loop) is owned by the brother-and-sister team of Armando and Christina Viruet (top right photo) and Christina’s husband Ramon, who also is the owner of La Creacion Express the KRATE at The Grove container park and a co-owner of the also-excellent Tallo Restaurant in Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

But, whether or not you’ve been to Tallo, La Creacion Express or both, La Creacion Bistro (aka LCB) is a totally different restaurant with its own unique menu, created by Chef Armando (not Christina’s brother) Casanova, and vibe. It is open for weekend brunch, lunch and dinner every day (except Mon.) and although Jannah and I have not had brunch there yet, photographer Charmaine George and I recently got to sample a couple of items from the Brunch/Lunch menu and we’ve flipped for everything we’ve had at LCB so far.

To date, we have sampled three of the Starters on LCB’s limited (Chef Armando says a lot more items will be added when the kitchen perfects all of these) opening menu — the crispy Fish-and-Chips Bites (top left), the Spicy Ahi Tuna Poké Nachos (below left) and the filet mignon Beef Skewers (not pictured). The golden fish, which I believe was swai the day we visited but will be grouper in the future, paired perfectly with the creamy, housemade tartar sauce. And, speaking of pairing, the truffle parmesan fries were a great complement to the fish bites. The nachos are only slightly spicy and the ahi, real crab meat, super-fresh avocado and crispy wonton chips all made this mine and Charmaine’s favorite Starter so far.

The Beef Skewers, also known as “pinchos,” are marinated in a savory house-made bourbon reduction and skewered with fresh onions and peppers and served with tasty garlic bread.

Other Starters include Grilled Shrimp with Spicy Mango-Lime Aioli (which I sadly can’t try) and the amazing-looking Stuffed Plantain Cups, which are filled with savory Caribbean-style seafood or chicken. I wish we got a picture of these!

Jannah’s favorites so far at LCB are the Island Fish Tacos (below), which are crispy, flavorful red snapper bites, with homemade mango salsa, and also paired with the truffle parmesan

but she said LCB’s flour tortillas were every bit as good.

Charmaine and I also were gaga for the Churrasco Steak & Eggs, which is grilled, tender churrasco-style skirt steak served with two eggs prepared any way and lightly seasoned, delicious breakfast potatoes. The dish is served with a side of chimichurri sauce, but the steak itself is so flavor-forward, it really doesn’t need it.

Speaking of brunch/lunch items, LCB’s extra-crisp Chicken & Waffles (below) is on the “Starters” menu, but is big enough to enjoy as a meal. The two waffles are as light and fluffy as the menu claims, and the dish is served with a hint of warm syrup and fresh fruit.

But, mine and Char maine’s favorite main dish so far has been the Pasta a la Viruet (below right), which is a properly al denté bucatini pasta served over sautéed spinach in a delicately pink combination of white and red sauces. We topped it with nicely seasoned grilled chicken, although it also may be topped with salmon, steak or shrimp.

Speaking of seafood dishes I can’t try at LCB, there’s also Pasta de la Concha (in a favorite sauce of mine — olive oil, fresh garlic, roasted cherry tomatoes, red pep per, lemon juice, parmesan cheese and parsley — but with shrimp and scallops) and La Paella Cari bena, a Caribbean twist on classic Spanish paella, with shrimp, mus sels, calamari, white fish and lobster.

There are also four different flatbread options, including BBQ chicken, veggie, one with habanero bacon jam and the one we tried — the Chef’s Signature Meat Flatbread, with steak, bacon, sweet apple chicken sausage and a blend of cheeses. So good, and the crust also is properly crisp.

Or, try a Classic Caesar, BBQ Chicken or Caribbean Salad or LCB Burger.

Also on the Brunch

menu are Avocado Toast, Summer Croquettes, “Funche” Caribbean Grits, a Monte Cristo Sandwich, Mi Isla French Toast, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Omelets, Benedicts and more.

Save room for dessert! Jannah, Charmaine and I have sampled both the somehow-still -light piña colada cheesecake (left on next page) and the Mojaito (right) — a traditional Puerto Rican “wet cake” that is moist, buttery, super-dense, with a distinct almond flavor, topped with whipped cream. Both are homemade and decadent but not overly sweet! There’s also Bread

a coconut milk pudding). And yes, the café con leché shown in the Mojaito photo also is spot-on! LCB is already one of the top restaurants in Wesley Chapel (or New Tampa), so just go try it! For more info about La Creacion Bistro, call (813) 388-5872 or visit LaCreacionBistro. com. — GN, photos by Charmaine George & GN.

Cali Tampa Palms Celebrates Redesign With A Chamber Ribbon-Cutting Event

I believe the first time I met Cali Tampa Palms managing partner Chris Kowalik was at the well-attended North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC) ribbon-cutting event celebrating the redecorating and Grand Reopening of Cali on May 7.After, “Hey, it’s nice to meet you,” the first words he said to me were “How come we keep dropping in your ‘Gary’s Favorites’ every year?”

So, of course, I had to look up where I placed Cali on my list each of the last three years. I had the tasty bowl-&-pizza place as my 14th Favorite Restaurant in New Tampa in 2023, 16th in 2024, but actually up to 12th in 2025. Of course, Cali had usually always been in my top-10 when it used to also serve a variety of delicious pastas, instead of just rice and noodle bowls, as well as its tasty sourdough pizzas. And, just for the record, our readers have consistently placed the restaurant even higher than I have — 4th Favorite in 2023, down to 8th in 2024 but back up to 5th in New Tampa last year.

In other words, even with its somewhat limited menu, the food has always been pretty great at Cali.

It was fun visiting Chris, brand president David Cudnik and head chef José Granados and their super-friendly staff at Cali on May 7 for both lunch — following its NTBC ribbon-cutting, with fresh-cut flowers to take home in a cardboard Cali “vase,” Cali-labeled air fresheners and even a throw blanket from Seventh Ave. Apothecary in Ybor City), plus live music and even “aura readings” — as well as its VIP dinner event that same night.

And yes, Jannah, photographer Charmaine George and I all found some new favorite dishes that day, including the Bee Sting pizza (top far right photo), with pomodoro sauce, mozzarella cheese, legit pepperoni, fresh basil and a generous, but not overdone, blanket of hot honey, all with an herb, garlic & oil crust. The pizza was so good we had it both times we visited that day so Charmaine could have a few slices to take home with her.

Jannah’s new favorite was the California Club Wrap (middle right), with romaine, pico de gallo, bacon, guacamole, lime Caesar dressing for dipping and char chicken on a locally sourced flour tortilla.

My fave was the Thai Bowl (bottom right), with mango, scallions, carrots, jicama, peanuts, a peanut aioli, a not-overly-spicy Thai marinade and fresh herbs, to which I added seared ahi tuna and chose perfectly done udon noodles as my base.

During our two visits, we also enjoyed the Mexican Bowl, the Fajita Bowl, the Spicy Rio Burrito, the Lime Caesar Salad, as well as the Cali Guac and Hand-Cut Herb Fries “Share Plates.” We

were all great. Even the big S’Mores cookies (our favorite of the three cookie varieties on the “Sweet Treats” menu) were packed with flavor, too. And, best of all, the revamped décor inside & out looks great and the new inside booths were a lot more comfy. Great beer and wine options, too. So, yes, Chris — you can expect to move up in next year’s “Gary’s Favorites.” Great job! Cali (17004 Palm Pointe Dr.) is open every day for lunch/brunch & dinner. For info, visit EatatCali.com or call (813) 975-1222. — GN, all photos by Charmaine George

Slap Burger Is Coming To Oak Ramble Plaza Pasta Flame Is Open In Former Mpanitas Spot

You long-time readers know how much I love finding — and telling you about — new restaurants that open (or will open) in our area, especially when they’re hidden Mom-&-Pop gems that I think deserve to build a following.

Although I liked Mpanitas, the Venezuelan empanada & arepa spot previously located in the building behind the Mobil gas station at 10865 Cross Creek Blvd., the new Pasta Flame restau rant that has been open in Mpanitas’ old spot for only a few weeks definitely has my attention.

The halal pasta place, which looks from the outside like it could be a chain (but is the first link of a possible future chain), owned by my new friend Saif (pronounced “Safe”), offers truly delicious-looking burgers and other sandwiches, but the stars of this show are Chef Muhammad (who previously cooked at Marriott and Hilton hotels) and his excellent al denté pastas, like the creamy tomato rosé pasta shown here (right), which has fresh tomatoes, onions and yellow peppers. I added grilled chicken to it and made it a combo with fresh, warm sliced ciabatta bread.

As I was doing my New Tampa “rounds” just before our press time, I couldn’t help but notice that a new restaurant is getting ready to open at 14915 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in the Oak Ramble Plaza (next to Papa John’’s Pizza

Slap Burger is a family-run burger shop founded in Paterson, NJ, in 2023, that, according to SlapBurgersNJ.com, is “dedicated to serving juicy smash burgers, hot chicken sandwiches, loaded platters, creamy milkshakes and refreshing lemonades.

“Founded by two brothers with a shared vision, Slap Burger was built on the idea of creating something lasting, exciting and full of flavor. That vision quickly became a reality with the opening of our first location in Paterson, followed a year later by our second location in Clifton, NJ, designed to offer more space and seating for our growing customer base.

I definitely need to try the truffle chicken Al

(top photo) in a wheel of parmesan cheese, like a cacio e pepe at a fancy Italian place, with chicken, sautéed mushrooms and rich truffle cream sauce.

The place itself isn’t fancy, but the food is delicious, so please visit Pasta Flame ASAP!

For more info, visit PastaFlame.com or call (813) 599-3310 & tell Saif I sent you! — GN

“With two thriving locations already serving our community in New Jersey, and four additional branches set to open in New York (with the Oak Ramble loca tion the young chain’s first of its “bold ex pansion plan” outside of those two states), Slap Burger is growing into a destination where bold flavors meet great times.”

The place inside looks a lot like a Five Guys store to me, but, whether or not the burgers are as good or better than Five Guys remains to be seen.

Based on what the contractor told me, the new Slap Burger should open in less than a month after the time you’re reading this issue. — GN

Locals Are Still Going Crazy For The New Whataburger Across From The Outlet Mall

A lot of restaurants in our area are busy when they first open, but very few have had the kind of ongoing crowds we’ve seen at the new Whataburger (Store #1687), located at 25340 Sierra Center Blvd., across S.R. 56 from the Tampa Premium Outlets (in the former location of Aussie Grill).

Some locals clearly don’t “get” the mystique and mania surrounding the new Whataburger — which is now among the Texas-based chain’s roughly 1,200 locations in 17 U.S. states (after being founded more than 75 years ago)

But, while the car lines had died down somewhat at our press time since the restaurant’s Apr. 16 North Tampa Bay Chamber ribbon-cutting and Grand Opening event, the place is still regularly packed.

Operating partner Rolando Torres (top right photo) has already welcomed thousands of customers to his location, including Richard Coley (below), who received a nice prize package for being the first in line at the Grand Opening, having arrived in the afternoon the day before to claim his well-deserved booty.

Whataburger’s menu isn’t unique, but it is available 24 hours a day, making it the chain’s only 24-hour location in the Tampa Bay area.

Breakfast is served 11 p.m.-11 a.m. and features favorites like the tasty hon ey butter chicken biscuit (bottom center) and egg, cheese & bacon biscuit.

The burgers, like the Double Meat Whataburger (top left) and Patty Melt sandwiches, as well as the grilled and Whatachick’n chicken sandwiches, wings, and strips, plus salads, shakes, fries and onion rings, are all available all day.

The crowds may eventually die down but Whataburger is definitely a hit! To order online, visit Whataburger.com. — GN, photos by Charmaine George

Lines Still Too Long At Whataburger? Check Out The Tasty New Beef & Buns On BBD!

Now open (since Mar. 21) in Wesley Chapel, the new Beef N’ Buns restaurant, located in the space previously occupied by Balanced Foods (at 1211 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., next to the Target store) is a non-chain specializing in halal smash burgers and fresh-battered chicken sandwiches, wings, fries and desserts.

Photographer Charmaine George and I sampled a few items at the new Beef N’ Buns, which is the restaurant’s second location (the original is in Orlando), with the third location in Plantation, FL, also having just opened.

And, oh yeah, we enjoyed everything we tried. The smash burgers are available as singles, doubles and even triples (we ordered the B&B Smash double; top right photo), with caramelized onions, American cheese and old-fashioned pickles on a brioche bun. Other burgers include the Karachi Fire (with “cashew fire” sauce), the Gaucho Burger (with cilantro lime aioli and a sunnyside-up egg) and many more.

We also liked the extra-crispy O.G. Chicken Sandwich (middle photo, right; we ordered the garlic aioli on the side).

There are also Mango Habanero, Nashville Hot and Buffalo Ranch chicken sandwich es. We paired our sandwiches with crispy sweet potato fries, but there also are Cajun and truffle fries and even onion rings. I’ll be back to try the Steak N’ Cheese and Birria Bomb sandwiches, and the Cookie Caramel Sundae for dessert. For more info about Beef N’ Buns, call (813) 345-8116. Or, search “beef.n.buns” on Instagram. — GN, photos by Charmaine George

Gronk & His Mom Work The Drive-Thru Window At The New Greenlane Salads & Wraps!

When you hear the name “Rob Gronkows ki,” what’s the first thing that comes to mind?

Future Hall of Fame football player and Tom Brady’s favorite clutch target on both the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Bucs?

A pretty good studio analyst on Fox Sports’ “Fox NFL Sunday?” A guy who’s not afraid to poke fun at himself in national TV ads for USAA Insurance and Pizza Hut?

How about “Drive-thru window attendant?”

A lot of people online expressed regret that they weren’t among the 160 vehicles and hundreds of people who got to see “Gronk” work the drive-thru window on May 6 at the new Greenlane Salads & Wraps, located at 24801 S.R. 54 in Lutz, less than a mile west of the Tampa Premium Outlets.

The Neighborhood News was the only local news medium on hand to see Gronk — who is a co-founder and co-owner of the new Tampa Bay area-based fresh salad and wrap sandwich chain — take and deliver every order and credit card, plus chat and pose for selfies with, and sign autographs for every car that came through Greenlane during his two-hour shift, when he didn’t take even a single break to make sure everyone who waited in the line got to have their 3-5 minutes with him.

Dozens of other people who didn’t pre-order decided to not wait in the constantly-moving line and just parked at one of the neighboring businesses to see and wave hello to the still-super-popular former star, who also brought his mom Diane (bottom photo) along with him for the event, which was held four days before Mother’s Day.

“You think if I go bankrupt and need some work and people are hiring to work a drive-thru, that I have a future doing this?,” he asked me.

Gronk’s Greenlane co-founders and co-own ers Chris Kern and Erica Spector Wishnow have now had the former tight end on hand to work the window at each of their five locations a couple of months after each has opened — and more Greenlane locations are on the way.

They purposely didn’t allow the day and time Gronk would be on hand at the new location to be released to the public until after 8 in the morning the same day, because they knew, from past experience, that Gronk would keep the car line packed for as long as he was working the window, “And two hours is definitely my limit,” Gronk said. “I’m spent...I’m delirious from doing five things at once, but that’s what it’s all about, baby. I do it all!”

He wasn’t kidding. I told him I have newfound respect for him after watching him work the window for that long without a single break.

If you haven’t tried Greenlane yet, Jannah, Charmaine and I all definitely recommend it. If you don’t like everything on one of the chain’s “named” salads and wraps — including “The Gronk” (with roasted broccoli, sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, green onions, cheddar jack cheese

and romaine, and “Greenlane Goddess” dressing) you can always custom-design your own salad or wrap (like the ones pictured above). For more info, visit GoGreenlane.com.— all photos by Charmaine George

The Green Table Is Open At The KRATEs!

of the all-plant-based Green Table restaurant has opened in the KRATE at The Grove container park, in the space previously occupied by ShakeA-Salad at 5817 Goldview Pkwy, Unit 105.

I met co-owner Rafik Yezli and sampled a simple house garden salad (right) on one of the first days the Green Table WC was open and the

Seitan (a meat substitute made from wheat gluten) Sammies or burgers, although I did see a seitan Philly (left) being made and it looked and smelled pretty yummy. To order online or for more info, visit GreenTableWC.com. Or, call (813) 991-5355. — GN

N ew T ampa & w esley C hapel Classifieds

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