Volume 34 Issue 17 August 18, 2026 Scan the QR code to your left with your phone to access our website!
Welcome To The ‘Subcontinent Of New Tampa!’ New Tampa Has Become A Haven For Indian Food — Now With 11 Restaurants Serving Cuisine From Every Region Of India!
House of Biryanis & Kebabs
Gorkhali Kitchen
Nawabi Hyderabad House
Kabob Cafe & Grill
Ambarsari Zaika
Namaste Express
Dosa Hut
For all of New Tampa’s Indian & Halal Restaurants, see pages 24-25.
Enter Our 2026 Reader Dining Survey & Contest! To enter, plus news about Frammi, Buddy Brew & much more, see pgs. 32-45! 1 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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Congratulations To New Tampa’s Jolie Frankfurth & Moffitt’s Speros Campus An Editorial by GARY NAGER
founder Dick Schulze and the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, the center was officially dedicated during a It’s not too often ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 23. that someone I’ve About a week before the center’s known for more than Grand Opening event, photographer 30 years becomes Charmaine George and I were part of the president of a a media tour where we got a close-up nationwide volunteer organization, but that’s look at this massive three-story-tall exactly what’s happened machine, which had to be lowered into the Proton Center building before to Jolie Frankfurth, the roof was put on. We met the chair who has lived in New Tampa with her of the Moffitt Speros Radiation Onhusband and local dentist Dr. Tom Frankfurth cology Department Dr. Kosj Yamoah (Left) Jolie & Dr. Tom Frankfurth at Jolie’s installation as the president-elect of the General Federation of Women’s for 36 years. (photo on pg. 5), who explained why Jolie, who was a charter member of both Clubs in Scottsdale, AZ. (Right) GFWC Florida President Sara Dessareau, Jolie & GFWC Florida Director of Junior having the Proteus® ONE is such big the General Federation of Women’s Clubs Clubs Racquel Sturgis. (Photos provided by Jolie Frankfurth) See “Moffitt” on pg. 5 (GFWC)’s New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club and the GFWC Woman’s Club of New Tampa, New Tampa as well as the newer GFWC Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News Woman’s Club — and has served in leadership roles in all of them (as well as at the state and OUR MAILING ADDRESS: regional level) — has now been named the 27251 Wesley Chapel Blvd., # 426 president-elect of the 139-year-old national Wesley Chapel FL 33544 OFFICE HOURS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY! GFWC. Jolie was installed in her new role at the Office Phone Number: (813) 910-2575 GFWC annual convention June 26-29, at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, AZ. Advertising E-mail: “It’s been an incredible journey for me as an Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com inaugural member of these clubs,” Jolie says. “And Editorial E-mail: in 2028-30, I will move to Washington, DC, to EditorialDept@NTNeighborhoodNews.com run the organization! Exciting times ahead!” According to the press release Jolie sent me, Publisher & Editor/Ad Sales “Her background in adult education was relied Gary Nager upon to launch the Organization’s online Learning Academy in January 2026. In this role, Frankfurth Correspondents will serve on the GFWC Executive Committee Celeste McLaughlin • Joel Provenzano alongside GFWC International President Wendy Mary Durbin • Joshua Gabel Carriker of North Carolina. The Executive Jordan King • Issac Morgan Committee serves as the governing leadership of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, [which Editorial Research by was] founded in 1890 and today unites clubs in Joel Provenzano every state, as well as more than a dozen countries. “Together, they set the strategic direction Ad Sales/Marketing Director for more than 60,000 members whose work Jannah Nager spans education, the arts, environmental Photographer/Lead Video Producer/ conservation, healthy lifestyles and the fight Multimedia Specialist against domestic and sexual violence. Through Charmaine George that leadership, the Executive Committee helps translate the federation’s mission into meaningful Graphic Designers impact in communities across the country and Georgia Carmichael • Valerie Wegener around the world.” Congratulations, Jolie!
Moffitt Opens Proton Center
In our Feb. 3 issue, we told you about the new Speros FL campus of the Moffitt Cancer Center, located on Wilton Way in Land O’Lakes. At that time, I wrote, “Even though it’s located at least 20 miles from any part of Wesley Chapel, perhaps the biggest news story in Pasco County for 2026 is the opening of this sprawling new 775-acre campus.” I knew at that time that whenever Moffitt opened its new Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Proton Center at the Speros campus, I would again be writing about it, because it’s such big news for those suffering from any number of different forms of cancer — and their families. The Moffitt Cancer Center is already the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida, and now, it is one of only a handful of proton therapy centers in Florida — and the first anywhere in the Tampa Bay region. Made possible through a transformative $15-million gift from Best Buy Neighborhood News
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The Resurfacing Of New Tampa Blvd. In West Meadows Has Finally Begun! By Gary Nager
When I attended the official groundbreaking ceremony for the resurfacing of a 1.8-mile stretch of New Tampa Blvd. in West Meadows on Aug. 5, I was thrilled to see that one of District 7 Tampa City Council member (and New Tampa resident) Luis Viera’s most ardently-pushed projects was finally coming to fruition. “There are a few projects left that I am still working to get done before I leave office on Nov. 2,” Viera told me after the ceremony also attended by Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, Viera’s fellow City Council member and chair Alan Clendenin, City of Tampa Mobility Department director Brandon Campbell and long-time West Meadows resident Brad van Rooyen. “But finally getting New Tampa Blvd. repaved has definitely been one of my top priorities.” But, with the first New Tampa Blvd. repaving already having started the day before the groundbreaking event, all of the day’s speakers were thrilled to get this project finally started. “Since the loss of the All For Transportation sales surtax,” Mayor Castor said, “which would have been a great source of funding for paving projects like this throughout our city, we’ve had to look at other options. We’ve used a lot of our General Fund we’ve put into paving projects. We’re also looking at our regional infrastructure accelerator and some other ways to not only solve our transportation issues, but also the safety and conditions of our roads.” She lauded the work of the city’s two inhouse paving crews, which she said, “They can do our [paving] work at about half the price in about half the time [of using an outside contractor], so they’ve been doing a really great job.” Mayor Castor also noted that, “We set a record in the City of Tampa last year, paving over 80 miles of roadways. But, even though that doesn’t begin to address the needs of our community, it really shows that we are focused on paving our streets.” She also complimented the city’s “Fix It Fast” program. “Anyone that sees a pothole in a roadway, signs being down, anything like that, if you call, the goal is within 72 hours to fix that. And, most of them are done in 48 hours.” And finally, she said, “One of the things we’ve been very intentional about is making sure that we’re hitting every single neighborhood. If anybody has a question about our paving progress and what roads we intend to pave in the future, go to Tampa.gov. There’s a map that
(Above left) Tampa Mayor Jane Castor & Dist. 7 City Councilman Luis Viera at the groundbreaking event for the resurfacing of New Tampa Blvd. in West Meadows on Aug. 5. (Above right, l.-r.) Tampa’s mobility director Brandon Campbell, Mayor Castor, City Council chair Alan Clendenin, Viera & longtime West Meadows resident Brad van Rooyen in front of New Tampa Blvd. The dark gray strip is the first piece of the roadway to be resurfaced. shows all of the paving that’s been done and the New Tampa, but to all areas of the city.” person and a great community leader.” streets we’re going to hit in the future.” He added that, “So, far this year, we’re The Council chair started his comments by She also noted, however, that while “it’s an saying, “To say that Councilman Viera is a cham- at about 30 lane miles of resurfacing and this inconvenience for our driving public to go over project will ad three-and-a-half more lane miles pion for New Tampa would be the biggest unbumpy roads and potholes, for us, as that road to that bank as we make our way towards last derstatement anyone at this [event] would make deteriorates, it goes from a simple paving job to year’s record of 80 lane miles being resurfaced. today. I’ve never met anyone as passionate about a rebuilding job. Every road in the city is graded, his community as Councilman Viera has been Since 2019, we have resurfaced over 330 lane and we are hitting the worst first.” miles throughout the city, which I think is a about New Tampa serving on City Council.” When introducing Viera, the Mayor said, testament to the commitment from the Mayor, “[Since] we started this, we have exponen“Short of jumping up on my desk with a map of tially increased our paving budget,” Clendenin City Council and my department.” New Tampa Blvd. saying ‘Pave this or else,’ he The final speaker was van Rooyen, the said. “Working with the administration, we have has been on this project relentlessly. So, I want to doubled our in-house paving crew. If you drive president of The Promenade at West Meadows say thank you to Luis and his persistence and for around the city, you see paving projects in every Homeowners Assn. “and I previously served as really being a champion for New Tampa.” president of the West Meadows Property Owners corner of the city. So, wherever you live in the Viera started his comments by saying that, City of Tampa, [your streets] are on our radar.” Association. I also served three four-year terms “Since I’ve been in office, with K-Bar Ranch on our Community Development District. He added that, “We’re making up for forthcoming, we’ve gotten about $20 million in “I have lived here for 22 years and I decades and decades of neglect of the roads not new parks funding for New Tampa alone and honestly thought this project was never going to being paved. So, this isn’t a problem solved in about 80% of that has been in partnership behappen. But, while Marvel has Captain America, one, two or three years; it’s a much longer-term tween City Council and Mayor Castor, who has project, but we will get to those roads. we finally got ‘Capt. New Tampa,’ Luis Viera. proven herself to be, in my time, not just a good “I want to thank Luis for listening to us. “There’s a commitment on City Council person, but a real supporter of New Tampa.” He’s stayed engaged with the community. He and the administration to make sure we have heard our concerns and he advocated for us. And of course, Luis reiterated his slogan that the funding and the other six people I sit with “New Tampa asks for very little of the city. New Tampa “is the Alaska of Tampa. Most of the on City Council are absolutely committed to We have homeowners associations and CDDs people in New Tampa aren’t from Tampa. They’re improving the city’s infrastructure. who take care of our infrastructure, so all we ask from up north and different parts of the world. “I’m happy for New Tampa for this accomfor from the city are safe roads, mobility and We’re religiously and culturally diverse and all we plishment. This is the first, not the last. And, we public safety — and this is the first administrawant are safe neighborhoods and just the basics. look forward to continuing this momentum.” tion that has heard our concerns. So, thank you This project is a very big win for New Tampa.” Up next was Campbell, who said that, to the Mayor, City Council and city staff for “You’ll probably notice that the contractor is not Viera also mentioned that he and van making this project a reality.” out here today because this road carries about Rooyen “went to high school together. Brad Viera has since posted that now with New 12,000 cars a day, which hopefully means that helped me out on my first campaign and since Tampa Blvd. underway, “Before I leave Council, we’ll have 12,000 happy customers at the end of I got elected, this road has been his Moby Dick I hope to see the ‘cut-through’ finally being open and he is Captain Ahab. He is obsessed with this this project. But, it also means that they’re doing for K-Bar Ranch (see page 6), formal passage of most of their work at night.” road because he’s a community leader here in $8 million for the historic K-Bar Ranch park, Campbell also noted that along with New West Meadows and he’s a wonderful person and passage of our Public Safety Master Plan ordiTampa Blvd., “we recently repaved Commerce a good friend and a great family man.” nance and some progress on provisional funding Palms and Compton Dr. as well — and that reNext, Viera introduced Clendenin, whom for a New Tampa Police Substation presence.” ally just highlights our commitment to not only he called, “a good friend, a good and decent
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‘Moffitt’
Continued from pg. 3
radiation, but since he recently had radiation for the lymph node cancer, we chose not to do the radiation at that time. But now, we and his doctors felt this was the best option for him.” Alex was treated at Speros on July 27. We hope to be able to update how Alex is doing following his proton therapy in a future issue. For more information about Moffitt’s Speros FL campus (16370 Wilton Way, Land O’Lakes), visit Moffitt.org.
news for both Moffitt and cancer patients in the Tampa Bay area. “Proton therapy is distinguished by its ability to target tumors with sub-millimeter precision,” Dr. Yamoah said. “It allows us to spare the surrounding healthy tissue and minimize side effects. It is particularly advantageous for cancers located near critical organs, offering improved quality of life for patients.” The new proton machine offers pencil-beam scanning for targeted treatment. It features a 360º rotating gantry for delivering radiation from multiple angles and advanced imaging and patient positioning for enhanced accuracy. “It is a much-improved therapy over traditional radiation treatments,” Dr. Yamoah said, “especially for treating brain tumors, breast cancer, head (Above) Radiation oncologist Dr. Kosj Yamoah of the Speros FL and neck cancers, lung, prostate, campus of Moffitt Cancer Center in Land ‘O Lakes, who helped pancreatic and liver cancer, sarcomas cut the ribbon at the Richard M. Schulze Foundation Proton and spinal tumors.” Center on July 23. (Photo provided by Moffitt Cancer Center) That same day, we also got to meet the first patient to be treated with Moffitt’s Proteus® ONE, Alex Shaffer, 35, who has previously beaten childhood leukemia and cancer of his lymph nodes years later. Alex’s mom Cindy says her son isn’t actually being treated for cancer with the proton therapy. “He had a rare benign brain tumor removed a few years ago and he was supposed to follow that up with
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K-Bar Ranch Pkwy.-Morris Bridge Rd. Cut-Through To Be Completed Sept. 15 By Joshua Gabel
Neighborhood News Correspondent
New Tampa residents who have been waiting to learn if first responders will get early access to the under-construction K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. received few clear answers at the Aug. 6 Tampa City Council meeting. The new roadway will connect several K-Bar Ranch neighborhoods, including the Easton Park subdivision and ultimately will reach Morris Bridge Rd. Tampa Mobility Dept. director Brandon Campbell says the new cut-through remains on track for a Sept. 15 completion date. He says that utility acceptance testing is underway but city officials are still assessing whether emergency vehicles can be permitted to use the cut-through ahead of the roadway’s completion. The proposal to open the cut-through early for first responders originated when Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Capt. (and District 7 Tampa City Council candidate) Morris Lopez brought up the idea during public comment at the July 16 City Council meeting and Lopez’s idea was supported by outgoing Dist. 7 Councilman Luis Viera, who has long pushed for improving response times in New Tampa. According to the Tampa Firefighters Union, the 33647 zip code suffers from some of the city’s longest emergency response times, averaging 10 minutes and 38 seconds. “Getting this cut-through open is my top priority right now,” Viera says. “It will reduce response times substantially. I am working to see if we can get it done before September 15 for first
Long-time New Tampa resident, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Captain & District 7 Tampa City Council candidate Morris Lopez is trying to get Tampa to allow access to the unfinished K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. cut-through to Morris Bridge Rd. opened to emergency vehicles only prior to the roadway’s expected Sept. 15 completion date. (All photos on these pages by Charmaine George) responders only, although the contractor says how long residents in the eastern part of K-Bar that this may be difficult. But, I am still pushing Ranch and Easton Park need to wait before first for it, nevertheless. New Tampa residents expect, responders arrive. Opening the cut-through rightfully so, that their elected officials will early would allow first responders to simply take leave no rock unturned in public safety and core Morris Bridge Rd. north to K-Bar Ranch Pkwy., government services.” cutting response times down significantly. Currently, crews from Fire Station 22 on Lopez, who is running to succeed Viera in Cross Creek Blvd. must travel west to Kinnan Dist. 7, spoke with the Neighborhood News about St. and loop back north (past Pride Elementary) the project and said that while he is disappointed to reach K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. This route extends that there was not a definitive answer on the
early opening of the cut-through during the Aug. 6 meeting, he thinks that it will still get done. “Even though the report was not sufficient today, there is progress being made and my feeling is that it’s positive no matter what,” Lopez said. “I think we’re going to end up getting it worked out and I think they will be able to open it [early].” Lopez also lauded the efforts of the Mobility Department staff, saying “it was great to see that Mobility was on it and that they’re engaged with the contractor.” The push for early emergency access comes after years of delays on the long-awaited roadway project, which has been pushed by Viera for several years and was approved by City Council back in 2024. After a long wait without the project being started, Viera brought up the issue at the July 6 City Council meeting, wondering if there was an any update on the project. He later visited the construction site himself, documenting what he saw on his Facebook page (as we reported last issue), when he found that while a significant amount of progress had already been made, he called for the project to be expedited. At the July 30 City Council meeting, Boyan Pargov, the engineer of record with Heidt Design for the K-Bar Ranch Pkwy. project, told Council members that ongoing work on a water main connection was blocking part of the road when asked why the cut-through couldn’t be opened to first responders. He also said, however, that it could be possible to provide emergency access before the project’s completion
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When completed, the cut-through will provide significantly quicker access to neighborhoods in Easton Park & the eastern part of K-Bar Ranch for emergency vehicles — and local residents — from Morris Bridge Rd.. if the water main issue could be resolved sooner. Following the meeting, Viera sent a memo to Tampa Fire Chief Barbara Tripp and the city’s Mobility and Development & Growth Management departments for City Council to be briefed at the Aug. 6 meeting on what “steps would be necessary” to allow first responders to begin using the roadway. Viera will be holding a community town hall on this and other issues on Tuesday, August 18, 6 p.m., at the Easton Park Community Center at 10851 Pictorial Park Dr. Like all of Viera’s town halls, the meeting is open to the
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general public, so you do not have to be an Easton Park or K-Bar Ranch resident to attend. For now though, residents will have to wait a little longer to learn whether emergency crews will receive early access or whether first responders will have to wait until the roadway officially opens to the public in mid-September. — which is the schedule as long as no significant weather delays cause it to take longer to complete. Either way, Viera and Lopez agree that this cut-through is of major importance to New Tampa residents living north of Cross Creek Blvd. off of Morris Bridge Rd.
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Back To School: Chiles Elementary & Freedom High Have New Principals By Gary Nager
The beginning of the 2026-27 school year in Hillsborough County (unfortunately for our schedule) began on Aug. 10, or the day after we went to press with this issue. And, while we did not get to interview new Freedom High principal Deanna McCahan (below) before school started, we did chat with (and photographer Charmaine George got a few pictures of) new Chiles Elementary principal Kelly Wackes. In her Principal’s Message on Freedom’s web page on the HillsboroughSchools.org website, McCahan (who spent the last five years as principal at Shields Middle School in Ruskin, said, “As your principal, I am thrilled (Far left below) New Freedom High principal Deanna McCahan (Photo from Freedom HS Facebook page). (Above & left) New Chiles Elementary principal Kelly Wackes (Photos by Charmaine George)
Welcome, Kelly!
to welcome you to another exciting school year. Our dedicated staff is committed to providing a supportive and challenging environment where every student can thrive. We believe in fostering a community of respect, responsibility, and excellence. Whether you are a returning student or new to our school, we are here to support you every step of the way. Let’s make this year memorable and full of achievements.” McCahan succeeds Kevin Stephenson, who is the new principal this year of Sgt. Smith Middle School in the Citrus Park area.
Kelly Wackes is already a familiar face to many New Tampa residents, as she served as the assistant principal at Clark Elementary in West Meadows for the past five years and has been part of Hillsborough County Public Schools for the last 11 years — first as a math coach and then as a teacher. “This week, getting to know the staff has been amazing,” Wackes told me just before the 2026-27 school year began. “Everyone has been so welcoming.” She said she is proud to be the new principal at Chiles, as this is the school’s 25th year
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of existence, “and it’s never been anything other than an ‘A’-rated school,” she said. “And, all of us — the teachers, staff, parents and students — are committed to continuing that tradition of excellence. Our motto this year is, ‘Honoring the Past, Soaring into the Future.’” Wackes, who holds a Master of Education (MEd) degree from the University of Central Florida in Orlando, said her oldest child is entering the 4th grade and is still at Clark, “but my youngest is starting Kindergarten with me at Chiles. I’m so excited for this year!” She added that the 25th anniversary celebration for Chiles has been temporarily set by the District for March 5, 2027.
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The New Tampa Players’ Production Of “Annie” Was An Absolute Triumph! Congratulations to the New Tampa Players (NTP) for its triumphant two-weekend run of the beloved musical “Annie” at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center (NTPAC)! NTP’s production, led by director Karissa Barber and musical director G. Frank Meekins (who led a packed orchestra pit of 14 musicians, which gave every musical number a huge, lush sound), featured an amazingly talented cast of local performers, with colorful sets and memorable songs. “Annie,” which finished its performances on Aug. 2, surely was the perfect family fun event to end the summer and get the children (and parents) of New Tampa ready to go back to school. The timeless story of this beloved comic strip character come to life is set in a New York City girls orphanage during the Great Depression. Annie, portrayed by two different young future stars — Saoirse White, 13, and 10-yearold Jordan Boyett (who also played Young Fiona in NTP’s production of “Shrek: The Musical”) for alternating performances — tells the story of the young orphan whose optimism and determination change the lives of everyone she meets. Note - We’re sorry that by chance, photographer Charmaine George and I both only got pictures of Jordan portraying Annie, so we used a photo by Picture This of Palma Ceia for Saoirse. From the opening scene, featuring the orphanage girls — Molly (played by the 7-year-old scene-stealing cutie Giada Abalos), Kate (Alexa Lipositz), Tessie (Charlotte Crouch), July (Nora Duffy) and Duffy (Avery McDowell) and the rest of the Orphan Ensemble (Ava Adams, Alana Hallums & Taylor McCrea) — the tone for this super-fun show was set with the always-memorable song “It’s the Hard-Knock Life.” And of course, once you hear Annie sing the still-hit “Tomorrow” (with Legacy, the golden lab, doing an amazing job as the stray dog Annie finds and names Sandy) and the mean, loud orphanage manager Miss Hannigan (Christy Adams) perform “Little Girls,” there is no denying the dynamic at the orphanage — Annie will keep trying to escape from Miss Hannigan, even though the redheaded orphan loves and keeps the other girls in check, and Miss Hannigan clearly has been doing her job for too long.
After Annie does escape in a laundry basket (with the unwitting help of NTP veteran Michael Neary as genial Mr. Bundles, the laundry man, one of Michael’s two roles in the show), she meets Grace Farrell (Ansley Van Epps), the Act I scenes from NTP’s “Annie”: (Above left) Donal Duffy as Warbucks, with Saoirse White as Annie. (Photo by Picture This of Palma Ceia) (Right) sweet assistant to Giada Abalos as Molly & Jordan Boyett as Annie. (Below, top to bottom; photos by Charmaine George) Miss Hannigan (Christy Adams) with the billionaire tycoon orphans. Grace Farrell (Ansley Van Epps; far right) & the servants in the Warbucks mansion. Annie & Sandy. Grace, Annie & Warbucks. Oliver Warbucks (played with charm by Donal Duffy) and sings “I Think I’m Gonna Like It Here” with Grace and all of Warbucks’ servants. The song “NYC” still rings true (“You’re big, you’re loud, you’re tough...the frankfurters answering back”). And, the solo performance by Cassia Dixon during this song was magical. Act I ends with Warbucks telling Annie he wants to adopt her after singing “Why Should I Change a Thing?” and Annie, Grace and the servants singing “You Won’t Be An Orphan for Long.” But, Annie cries that she still wants to find her real parents.
Act II — Schemes & Happy Endings
In Act II, Warbucks pledges to find Annie’s real parents and starts the search with an appearance on Bert Healy’s “Hour of Smiles” radio show, with Blaine Moss properly serious, but super-funny as Healy, who joins the Boylan Sisters (Dixon, Megan Melody and Alaina Qureshi as the stylish 1930s trio) to sing “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile.” The radio broadcast announces that Warbucks is offering $50,000 to find Annie’s parents, when Miss Hannigan, her criminal brother “Rooster” and his girlfriend Lily St. Regis (the perfectly over-the-top duo of JD Stauffer and Bri Filippelli) devise a plan to prove that Rooster and Lily are Annie’s real parents because of Miss Hannigan’s knowledge of Annie’s past. The three of them are spot-on performing the campy song “Easy Street.” Warbucks, Annie and Grace then meet with President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (played by legit FDR lookalike Rick Taylor) and his cabinet, as FDR pledges to help Warbucks find Annie’s parents. The other highlight songs of the second act are after Rooster and Lily are exposed as frauds, including Warbucks’ heartfelt solo “Something Was Missing” and Annie, Warbucks, Grace and the servants singing “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” featuring a beautiful waltz with Warbucks and Annie. NTP producing artistic director Nora Paine said the cast embraced the show’s themes of hope, perseverance and family — and it definitely showed. And, even though I’ve never been a fan of this show or the song “Tomorrow,” Nora’s prediction came true as many attendees left humming the tunes as they left the theater. The set designs, costumes and
orchestra were all part of yet another incredible NTP production. NTP’s’ production of “Annie” was supported through the Florida Arts & Culture, Hillsborough County and the Hillsborough County Board of Commissioners, City of Tam-
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pa, Tampa Hybrids and the Neighborhood News. What’s next for NTP? The troupe’s 2026-27 season has been announced, with all performances again being held at NTPAC. For tickets & more info, visit NewTampaPlayers. org or see the ad on the next page. — GN Neighborhood News
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Act II scenes from “Annie”: (1) Lily (Bri Filippelli), Miss Hannigan & Rooster (JD Stauffer). (2) The full cast of “Annie.” (Photo by Charmaine George) (3) Bert Healy (Blaine Moss) & his “Hour of Smiles” crew. (4) FDR (Rick Taylor) and his cabinet. (5) The Boylan Sisters. (6) “You told me to never lie, Miss Hannigan.”
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Upcoming Events — ‘A Taste of N’Awlins,’ ‘Aces & AI Charity Poker & NTPAC’s ‘Arts Fest!’ fle Day” Celebration. At Hampton Inn Tampa- Wesley Chapel (2740 Cypress Ridge Blvd.). Celebrate National Waffle Day featuring a fun waffle bar with a variety of toppings, including sprinkles, chocolate syrup, caramel whipped cream, chocolate chips and more. A cash bar will be available. Free to attend but please register. For more info or to register, call or email Lisa (813) 591-6930 or lmoore@emeraldhospitality or Bradley (813) 591-6907 or Bradley.sandler@hilton.com.
Tuesday, August 18, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. – Emergency Management Hurricane Preparedness Talk. At New River Branch Library (34043 S.R. 54, Wesley Chapel). You need to plan ahead for a safe and healthy Hurricane Season. Pasco County Emergency Management specialists will be presenting Hurricane Preparedness & Evacuation Planning. Free to attend. For more info. Call (813) 788-6375 or visit PascoLibraries. libnet.info/event/16726921 Tuesday, August 18, 6 p.m. – Easton Park Town Hall with Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera. At Easton Park Community Center (10851 Pictorial Place Dr.). Issues like the K-Bar Pkwy. cut-through (see story on pg. 6), crime, mobility, parks and anything else you would like discuss will be addressed. Make your voice heard. Free to attend & you do not need to be a resident of Easton Park. For more info, email Luis. Viera@tampagov.net Wednesday, August 19, 9 a.m.-10 a.m. – Wesley Chapel Black Chamber Morning Mingle. At JW Health Solutions (28210 Paseo Dr., #190 - Event Space Lobby, in the Shops at Wiregrass). Network with Chamber members. There will be coffee and light bites. Free to attend. For more info, visit wcbcc.org/events/ Wednesday, August 19, 5 p.m.-8 p.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber 2026 Chamber & Networking Night with the Tampa Bay Rays. At Tropicana Field (1 Tropicana Dr., Tampa). Watch the Rays take on the Toronto Blue Jays. Join fellow Chamber members across the Tampa Bay area for an exciting evening of baseball, networking and fun at this annual event. Tickets in the 200 level start at $45.60. For more info & to purchase tickets, visit gofevo.com/ event/2026chamber6, call (727) 825-3406 or email groupsales@raysbaseball.com Wednesday, August 19, 6 p.m. – Central Pasco Democrats Club Monthly Meeting. At Meadow Pointe I Clubhouse (28245 County Line Rd.) and on Zoom. Come out and meet other Democrats. All friends of the Democratic Party are invited. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 453-1663 or email CentralPascoDemocraticClub@gmail.com Thursday, August 20, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon Cutting. At MSN Tampa – Neurology Clinic & Outpatient
“Seeds of Knowledge: Disaster & Hurricane Preparedness.” At Wesley Chapel Library (27531 Mystic Oak Blvd.). Pasco County Emergency Management will be presenting information and resources for disaster and hurricane preparedness. Fee to attend. For more info, call (352) 518-5064 or visit PascoLibraries.libnet. info/event/16836996. Friday, August 28, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Final Friday. At the Volvo showroom at The Shops at Wiregrass (28329 Paseo Dr., Ste. 130). Connect, engage and network with Chamber members in a relaxed environment. Free to attend. For more information, call (813) 9948534. Or, visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.
Monday, August 24, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. – Aces & The Venezuelan Wattaka Choir was one of many musical groups performing during the 2025 “Arts Fest” at the New Tampa Performing Arts AI – Charity Poker & Casino Saturday, August 29, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 Night: Benefiting the Robert Center. The 2026 Arts Fest will be held at NTPAC Sept. 11-13. a.m. – PBS Kids Workshop: Getting Ready: Noa Foundation. At TrebleMakInfusion Center (18956 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Emergency Preparedness for Families. At Wesers Sports Bar & Dueling Pianos (6034 Wesley Lutz). Meet Dr. Mark Cawcione and tour the new ley Chapel Branch Library (27531 Mystic Oak Grove Blvd., The Grove at Wesley Chapel). This state-of-the-art-facility. There will be appetizers, Blvd). Parents and children ages 4-8 are invited to will be an unforgettable evening of cards, comrefreshments & raffle giveaways. Free to attend. a special “PBS KIDS Weather Hunters” screenmunity & giving back. Admission price includes: For more info, call (813) 994-8534. Or, visit ing and related activities and information about dinner buffet, $25 in play chips, professional Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events. weather and hurricane preparedness. Preparing casino tables with experienced dealers & opporfor emergencies is necessary for every family with tunities to network with local businesses. We also Thursday, August 20, 6 p.m.-8 p.m. – young children. Beloved characters from “PBS will be filming for the new “Chapel After Dark” Home Gadgets Hosts Sourdough Workshop. KIDS” and “Sesame Workshop” help share this podcast. Tickets cost $44.52 & pre-registration At Home Gadgets (28250 Paseo Dr. Unit 180, information. Free to attend. Space is limited. is required. For more info, see the story & ad Shops at Wiregrass). This is a hands-on class Please register each family member separately to that will teach you the basics of sourdough bread on pg. 37. To purchase tickets, visit Eventbrite. ensure adequate seating for all. com/e/aces-ai-charity-poker-and-casino-nightmaking, including starter care, mixing, shaping, For more info and to register, call (352) scoring and baking techniques. Each participant tickets-1996503011251 518-5064 or visit PascoLibraries.libnet.info/ will take home a loaf mixed during class, a sourevent/16887273 Thursday, August 27, 11 a.m.-noon – dough starter and jar, a printed sourdough guide with recipes, a banneton bowl and tea towel. $65 to attend and you must pre-register. For more THE LAW OFFICE OF info and to register, visit TheShopsatWiregrass.com/event/42226-home-gadgets-hostssour-dough-workshops
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Sunday, August 23, 4 p.m.-8 p.m. – “A Taste of N’awlins!” – A Dining Event to Benefit Faces of Courage. At Arbor Greene Community Center (18000 Arbor Greene Dr.). Faces of Courage is a local non-profit dedicated to supporting cancer patients and survivors. Dinner will be gumbo, red beans & rice & assorted fish po’boy sandwiches. The cost is $20 to attend, cash only. For more info, visit FacesofCourage.org or see the story & ad on pg. 37 of this issue.
Monday, August 24, 4 p.m.-7 p.m. – “Waf-
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Tuesday, September 1, 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon Cutting. At PAM Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Wiregrass Ranch. Tour this new state-of-theart rehab facility, meet the team and connect with fellow chamber members. There will be hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534. Or, visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events. Friday, September 4, 8 p.m. – American Stones Tribute Band Concert. At Saddlebrook Resort (5700 Saddlebrook Way). America’s premiere tribute to the Rolling Stones. Rockin’ live performances of your favorite Rolling Stones hits: “Satisfaction,” “Jumping Jack Flash,” “Tumbling Dice,” “Start Me Up” & many more. The cost to attend is $44.22 per person. For more info, visit Facebook.com/ FLPenguinProductions/events Saturday, September 5, 7 p.m.- 12 a.m. – Labor Day White Party. At Saddlebrook Resort (5700 Saddlebrook Way). Dress to impress in your favorite all-white attire and join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance, music, and celebration at the beautiful Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel. Tickets $108.55 per person. For more info, visit Facebook.com/ FLPenguinProductions/events Sunday, September 6, 12 p.m.-5 p.m. – Labor Day Weekend Pool Party. At Saddlebrook Resort (5700 Saddlebrook Way). This will be an unforgettable afternoon filled with signature cocktails, music and good vibes. Enjoy a high-energy soundtrack from a live DJ, resortstyle poolside ambiance and an exclusive crowd
dressed to impress. Tickets $108.55 per person; Reserved cabanas cost $1,500. For more info, visit Facebook.com/ FLPenguinProductions/events Wednesday, September 9, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber “Rise & Connect”: TPA Elevating The Passenger Experience. At Hunter’s Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run). Hear about upcoming expansion projects & major airport developments, evolution of dining, retail and passenger experiences and much more. $10 for members an $15 for non-members to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534. Or, to register, visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events Friday-Sunday, September 11-13; 7 p.m.9:30 p.m. on Fri., 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. on Sat. & 2:15 p.m.-6:30 p.m. on Sun. – “Arts Fest ’26.” At the New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.).NTPAC’s annual Arts Fest will again feature a huge variety of music, art, dance and culture. Celebrate the upcoming 202627 season with a weekend full of free activities and performances by Tampa Bay-area artists. For more info, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org or call (813) 829-2760. Wednesday, September 16, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Coffee Social. At GTE Financial (8040 Curley Rd.). 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/event.
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13
Chamber’s 2nd ‘Pitch With A Purpose’ Nonprofit Showcase Was Another Success I’m really hoping that the next time the North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC) hosts its now-annual “Pitch With a Purpose” nonprofit showcase, that even more people will show up to find out about — and support — the nonprofit organizations that come out to ask for your help. And, that doesn’t necessarily have to be financial help. The four nonprofits that came to the second annual “Pitch” on Aug. 4 at the Pasco Hernando State College Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch — Dads Figure It Out (DFIO), the Wesley Chapel Elks Lodge, the Suicide Prevention Training Institute (SPTI) and Premier Community HealthCare — were all looking for different types of assistance from the local business leaders in the Chamber. With NTBC Board member Chuck Sullivan (the managing partner of McFarland Gould Law) moderating the panel-style event, each organization’s representative had ample time to tell the 50 or so attendees what their respective organizations are all about and what kind of help they need. Also on hand was Chuck Tiernan (in blue below), the senior director of community connections for the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay, which is known as “the leading philanthropic investor in Tampa Bay...which inspires and supports philanthropic giving by connecting philanthropists with nonprofits that are addressing the community’s challenges. “This is a perfect place for us to be,” Tiernan said. “People don’t give to us, they give through us.” Sullivan then introduced the idea of the event by saying, “As business leaders, our currency is profit. But, for these not-for-profits, their currency is change. And change gives us a community that’s worthwhile to live in.” Miguel DeLeon, the founder and president of the year-old DFIO, was the first “pitcher.” DeLeon said that for those of us who can remember a father or grandfather who took us to our first major sporting event, “nothing else existed in the world for those few hours you’re at the stadium. DFIO’s mission is to help families facing life challenges create meaningful memories through live sports “Game Day Experiences” with gifted tickets, meals, parking, trusted referrals and community support.” As someone who had a half-season ticket package to the Tampa Bay Lightning, I definitely
(Above, l-r.) Miguel DeLeon of Dads Figure It Out, Jerry Bianchi of the Wesley Chapel Elks Lodge, Dr. Derrick “TC” Copper of the Suicide Prevention Training Institute, NTBC Board member & event moderator Chuck Sullivan & Joseph Resnick of Premier Community HealthCare at the NTBC’s “Pitch With a Purpose” on Aug. 4. (All photos on this page by Charmaine George) will gift some of the tickets I can’t use to DFIO. by repeating the word “Suicide. It’s the word that founded in 1979 and has Board-certified and caught your attention but the actions that led up Board-eligible physicians, dentists, pharmacists, Next up was Jerry Bianchi, the “Exalted to it is what we are missing.” Ruler” of the BPOE (Benevolent & Protective nurse practitioners and physician assistants who He noted, however, that he didn’t mention Order of Elks) Wesley Chapel Elks Lodge provide high-quality, cost-efficient medical care #2893, which was chartered in Feb. of this year. his title, because “when in you’re in crisis, who to residents of Pasco and Hernando counties, do you want [to help you], the one with the title Bianchi said that although the Elks was, regardless of their ability to pay. or the one with the experience?” at one time, a men-only organization, “that “In Pasco, if you count our school-based According to his bio, Dr. Copper provided changed in the mid-90s and we’re now open to site,” Resnick said, “we have 18 clinical sites and behavioral health services to the Department men and women.” two mobile dental sites that go out to schools of Defense, U.S. Army, Army Substance Abuse He also noted that the Lodge, which still and provide services to the students. Program for 35 years. In each of his assignments, doesn’t have — and needs — a building to call “Last year, we served over 150,000 patient he was deeply involved in suicide prevention home, was chartered with 74 members and is visits, which equates to about 50,000 residents education efforts and during his tenure with the already up to 91 members, with an average age we provided our services to.” U.S. Army, he became a registered LivingWorks of 65, “but we’d like that to be in the 50s.” He added that although Premier”does Bianchi also noted that the Elks have three ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills receive federal funding, only 19% of our budget major projects — “community, youth and veter- Training) trainer. comes from the federal government. “Other ans. We can do community grants, but because than that, we earn our revenue from providing Today, since founding SPTI in 2019,. he we’re so new, no one’s really given us any money said, “We offer a two-day workshop where we patient services on a sliding fee scale, based on yet. We also send kids to our Florida Elks Youth teach individuals how to do hands-on learning. your household income. Our highest population Summer Camp in Umatilla for free — we were Our program is evidence-based. When individuals is Medicaid. We serve the uninsured and the unable to send five kids this summer. We also have come to us, we have a pre-test and a post-test. Our derinsured. In addition to that, we do fund raisa children’s therapy service with 32 therapists ing and we are the only health care organization pre-test showed that 38% of the 373 individuals who do physical and occupational therapy for providing these services in Pasco and Hernando.” we’ve trained who said, ‘Yeah, I think I can go out kids at no charge. We also Resnick also was looking for financial and help a person with thoughts of suicide.’ just started autism testing in assistance to continue to offer its services to as “At the end of our training, we’re at 96% 2025 and tested 60-70 kids, who say, ‘I feel confident I can talk to a person many local residents as possible. “Every gift helps and that program is growing. with thoughts of suicide and hold that conversaus remove barriers to care, improve health outWe’re also offering contests tion with them and get them the help they need.’ comes and bring hope to those who need it most for kids in Pasco County Dr. Copper wasn’t shy about what he need- — families, children, agricultural workers, the Schools — a posted contest unhoused and thousands of uninsured neighbors ed from the people in the room was “financial for grades 3-5, and essay support. We don’t have enough lifesavers to keep who depend on us.” contest for grades 6-8 and For more information about DFIO, call growing and our greatest priority is to increase for high school, a video con- our training. Last year, thanks to financial dona(813) 842-6166 or visit DadsFigureItOut.org. test. We start at the Lodge For the Wesley Chapel Elks Lodge tions, we reached a goal of hosting 12 ASIST level and if they win there, #2893, which currently meets at Harleytrainings. Why not become a sponsor for us? they can advance to District, Host your own ASIST workshop, or pay for your Davidson of Wesley Chapel on the 1st & 3rd State and National. Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m., visit employees to get them trained?” “We need members Elks.org. He also quoted stats that said there were and we need a building, For SPTI, call (813) 807-SPTI (7784) or 106 suicides in Pasco and 225 in Hillsborough preferably somewhere in visit EducatingToSaveLives.org. County in 2024. “But, ladies and gentlemen, Wesley Chapel.” And, for Premier Community Healtheven though I hate clichés, sometimes they ring Then, psychologist Dr. true — one suicide is too many.” Care, call (352) 518-2000 or (727) 645-4185 Derrick “TC” Copper, the or visit PremierHC.org. The final “pitcher” was Joseph “Joey” founder and executive direc- Resnick, the president & CEO of Premier Great job, Chuck Sullivan & NTBC! — tor of SPTI, started his pitch Community HealthCare Group, which was GN; all photos by Charmaine George
14 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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15
Livewell Animal Hospital On WC Blvd. Cuts A North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon Congratulations to Dr. Katarina Fielding, for the Aug. 5 Grand Opening and North Tampa Bay Chamber ribbon-cutting at the new Livewell Animal Hospital Wesley Chapel — the first business to open in the Lexington Oaks Crossings plaza at 28855 Wesley Chapel Blvd. in Lutz. Dr. Fielding (with scissors in the ribboncutting photo, right) and her hospital manager Brittany Haskins (to Dr. Fielding’s right in the same photo) were thrilled to welcome Chamber members to the beautiful new veterinary office, which actually opened to the public on June 22. “Becoming a veterinarian was a lifelong calling,” Dr. Fielding said at the event. “I was the child rescuing worms from puddles. In high school, I knew I wanted to devote my life to helping animals who were vulnerable, voiceless, frightened or in need of comfort.” Dr. Fielding, who went to veterinary school in Glasgow, Scotland, and Haskins also made a $1,000 donation to Cindy’s Pets, a 501(c)(3) all-volunteer nonprofit organization founded in
2010 that provides more than 2,000 pounds of dog, cat, and bird food each month to more than 400 pets belonging to senior citizens enrolled in Pasco County’s Meals on Wheels program. The Livewell brand has locations in 17 states and Washington, DC. It is part of a network of more than 900 hospitals nationwide backed by the Mission Pet Health, which partners with local founding veterinarians like Dr. Fielding to maintain a community feel, but Livewell locations also offer standardized services like walk-in availability, online appointment booking and modern diagnostic equipment. The local Livewell offers wellness and preventive care, senior veterinary care, internal medicine, x-rays, ultrasound, a state-of-the-art surgery suite, on-site and online pharmacies, and a lab to perform efficient, basic diagnostic tests. For more info about Livewell Animal Hospital, visit LivewellAnimalWesleyChapel. com to book an appointment, or call (813) 426-1331. — GN, photos by Charmaine George
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17
AdventHealth WC’s Wellness Marketplace Draws A Crowd To The Sports Campus! By Gary Nager All photos by Charmaine George
Our congratulations go out to Advent Health Wesley Chapel (AHWC) and the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County (3021 Sports Coast Way) for providing free school and sports physicals for more than 500 kids at the second-ever Kickstart Wellness Marketplace event on July 11. Kids who pre-registered received full school sports physicals, including their height and weight, had their vision tested and even received electrocardiograms (ECGs) — which are required beginning with the upcoming 2026-27 school year throughout Florida (under the state’s new Second Chance Act) for all student-athletes entering 9th grade and for first-time student-athletes in grades 10-12. “This is just another way AdventHealth gives back to our community,” said AHWC president & CEO Ryan Quattlebaum. “Our doctors are here, donating their time all day (from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.), to provide these services. We are so proud to offer this for free. The average wait time from check-in to check-out was only 20 minutes without an ECG and less than 45 minutes with one. We’ve had amazing feedback about it from the parents and kids and definitely will plan to offer it again next year.” The day also included a Wellness Village, with local doctors, dentists and other health- and wellness-oriented vendors and community resources, as well as chances for attendees to check out an AHWC ambulance, transport helicopter (and the helicopter’s patient-calming and loving
(Above) The AdventHealth Wesley Chapel Kickstart Wellness Marketplace event, held at the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus on July 11, was where more than 500 pre-registered students received free school & sports physicals, which included (below left) height & weight measurements, (below middle) state-required electrocardiograms & (below right & bottom left on next page) visits with therapy dog Skye and the crew of the AHWC transport helicopter. mini-doodle therapy dog named Skye), plus bounce houses, free snacks and water — and fun for everyone. For more information about AHWC (2600 BBD Blvd.), visit AdventHealth. com, call (813) 929-5000 or see the ad on pg. 9 of this issue.
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(Above left, l.-r.) AHWC president & CEO Ryan Quattlebaum, with physicians Gina Hope and Danielle Shelton. (Above right) Students had their vision tested all day during the Kickstart Wellness Marketplace event.
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Finding Community, Independence & Peace Of Mind At Blue Heron Senior Living By Jordan King
Neighborhood News Correspondent As Wesley Chapel continues to grow — and age — so does the need for options that allow older adults to maintain their independence while having access to additional support when they need it. In fact, Blue Heron Senior Living & Memory Care (located off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. near BayCare Wesley Chapel Hospital) has become a unique option for local families because it offers four levels of care on one campus: assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation and long-term skilled nursing care. Blue Heron residents can move between these levels of care as their needs change without leaving the community they’ve grown to call home. And, unlike many senior living communities, Blue Heron operates strictly as a rental community and does not require a large entrance or “buy-in” fee, allowing families to choose the care they need without having to make a large upfront investment. That’s one of the features executive director Meagan Kopstad says sets Blue Heron apart. “We offer the ability to age in place,” she explains. “Whether it’s assisted living, memory care, inpatient rehab or long-term care, residents can remain in the same community surrounded by familiar people.” Residents also don’t have to give up their privacy. Assisted living administrator Joel Gaitan says all residents in memory care, rehabilitation and skilled nursing have private rooms, while assisted living residents live in private apartments, with some units accommodating couples. Studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans allow residents to personalize their spaces with treasured furniture, family photos and other keepsakes while leaving behind the upkeep of a larger home. For couples, staying close together can make a difficult situation much easier. If one spouse requires rehabilitation or long-term skilled nursing care, they don’t have to leave the community to stay connected. “They’re not driving to another facility or spending hours arranging transportation,” says community relations director Lilly Gonzalez. “They can check in throughout the day, go back to their apartment, attend an activity and come back later. That’s one of my favorite
ment. Blue Heron’s transportation program helps make those outings possible and transportation to and from medical appointments also is provided. The community recently expanded this resident transport service with the addition of a larger passenger vehicle. Residents also proudly earned the most gold medals at this year’s Golden Senior Olympics, where competing communities participated in events such as bowling, checkers and air volleyball. Of course, some traditions remain unbeatable. “Bingo,” Gaitan says when asked about the community’s most popular activity. (Above) The team at Blue Heron Senior Living & Memory Care in Wesley Chapel is led by community relations director Lilly “You’ll never get away from Gonzalez (purple dress), assisted living administrator Joel Gaitan (gray jacket) & executive director Meagan Kopstad (red jacket). classic Bingo,” Gonzalez adds. (Below left) The view from a balcony. (Below right) The skilled nursing check-in desk. (All photos by Charmaine George) When they’re not attending activities or outings, residents things about what we have to offer.” if she needs it. Residents are equipped with can often be found gathering with friends in Since opening in 2021, Kopstad says that emergency response systems that allow them to the community’s lounges and family rooms, Blue Heron’s skilled nursing and rehabilitation quickly summon assistance, while healthcare spending time in the courtyard or stopping by programs have cared for more than 4,600 supervision, medication support and regular the salon. patients, while nearly 300 residents have called safety checks provide reassurance for residents Blue Heron also features a theater and priits assisted living community home. and their families. vate dining room, which families can reserve for One of the biggest misconceptions about special celebrations. Three chef-prepared meals So Much To Do, Too! senior living, according to Kopstad, is that are served daily in a restaurant-style setting, and On any given week, Blue Heron residents residents lose their freedom after moving into a residents regularly provide feedback that helps might find themselves heading out to a local community. “The belief is that life stops,” she shape menu offerings. restaurant, visiting a museum, catching a Tamsays. “But life here continues.” While the amenities and activities are pa Bay Rays game, or attending live entertainGonzalez says that many residents find they gain more time and flexibility by removing the responsibilities they no longer want to handle on their own. “We’re here to take on the burdens that people no longer want to have to manage themselves,” Gonzalez says. “Things like housekeeping, meals, transportation and home maintenance. That frees them up to spend their time doing the things they enjoy.” Resident Sue Thomas moved to Blue Heron after her husband’s passing and says the transition provided something she didn’t realize she needed. “There’s lots of relief here,” she says. “It’s a good life.” Thomas says she especially appreciates being able to get where she needs to go, spend time with friends and know help is available
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popular, Blue Heron’s leadership team says maintaining a sense of purpose can be just as important. “Some folks move in and they’re happy to relax and enjoy retirement,” Gaitan says. “But, others still want to create, teach, research or share the things they’ve spent their lives doing. We’re looking at ways to help residents lead clubs and activities because that sense of purpose is important.” One resident recently started a crochet club. Another resident artist painted a blue heron that was later featured on community greeting cards. Others are helping develop activities based on their professional backgrounds, hobbies, and interests. Dr. Karolyn Snyder, a writer and researcher, is one of those residents. “My daughter recommended it three times before I decided to really give it a look,” Dr. Snyder says.
Today, she sees the move differently. “At home it can be isolating,” she says. “Now, opportunities have arisen because I live here.” Dr. Snyder says she now spends her time working on projects and helping develop resident-led programs. “Every day is a new opportunity,” she says. Blue Heron employs more than 270 team members and the leadership works hard to keep familiar faces in the building. Staff are intentionally assigned to consistent areas whenever possible, allowing them to build relationships and understand residents’ routines and preferences. Sometimes, the little details can make a big difference. Gonzalez talks of one resident whose cereal, milk and coffee are waiting on the table each morning before she arrives for breakfast. “It’s those little things that make
(Left) Blue Heron residents Sue Thomas (left) & Dr. Karolyn Snyder in Thomas’ apartment. (Above) Blue Heron’s rehabilitation center helps residents get back to enjoying the senior living community’s fun activities. on studies and internships that help prepare people feel known,” Gonzalez says. future healthcare professionals. For residents living with Alzheimer’s disFor residents like Dr. Snyder and Thomas, ease or other forms of dementia, Blue Heron’s what stands out most about Blue Heron isn’t memory care neighborhood centers on getting any single service or amenity. It’s having more to know each resident as an individual. Gaitan time to enjoy life and less time worrying about says staff members are trained to understand the unique challenges these residents experience everyday responsibilities. Dr. Snyder is certain she made the right decision. and to redirect behaviors through patience, “I receive energy daily from fellow resifamiliarity and connection. dents and friends,” she says. “I regret nothing.” “It’s about knowing the resident,” he At Blue Heron, growing older doesn’t have says. “Even when someone may not remember to mean slowing down. For many residents, it a specific face or conversation, they can still means discovering new friendships, new opporremember how you made them feel. Building tunities and a renewed sense of purpose. those relationships is incredibly important.” Blue Heron also has become part of the Blue Heron Senior Living & Memory broader Wesley Chapel healthcare community. Care is located at 5071 Eagleston Blvd. in The facility works closely with all three area Wesley Chapel. For more information, visit hospitals, serves as a clinical training site for SeniorLivingAtBlueHeron.com, call (813) nursing students and has partnered with USF 454-0513 or see the ad on pg. 31 of this issue.
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New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
21
Capital Wise Investment’s Dana Lyon Can Help You Enjoy Your Retirement Sooner! By Celeste McLaughlin
Neighborhood News Correspondent Accredited Wealth Management Advisor (AWMA) and Charter Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC) Dana Lyon says he’s passionate about helping people realize when it’s time to retire. “Someone may live 30 years in retirement, but your health span is different than your life span,” Dana says. “You may only have 10 years left where you have your energy, vitality and health to actually really enjoy your retirement.” Dana is the founder of Capital Wise Advisory. He is a registered investment adviser and an independent retirement planner. Dana spent more than three decades as a financial advisor at a number of large firms, including Merrill Lynch, Charles Schwab and American Express Financial Advisors. Prior to that, Dana earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in finance from Florida State University in Tallahassee in 1988. He earned his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Kennesaw State University, in Kennesaw, GA, in 1999. It was back in April of 2024 that Dana finally launched his own firm. “I wanted to focus exclusively on retirement planning,” he says. “I left corporate America to become an independent, fee-only fiduciary, which means I’m legally required to do what’s in my client’s best interest at all times.”
Accredited Wealth Management Advisor & Charter Retirement Planning Counselor Dana Lyon of Capital Wise Advisory wants to help you be able to enjoy your retirement sooner. (Photo by Charmaine George)
He adds that he also wanted to create free, educational content online, but couldn’t do that as an employee of a big firm. But now, you can find Dana’s videos with tips for retiring well on LinkedIn and @RetireWithDana on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. “People can learn my approach and how I think by watching that content,” he says. Dana and his wife Silvia have three adult children and three grandchildren. Their twin daughters graduated from high school before they couple moved to Wesley Chapel, and their younger son attended John Long Middle School and Wiregrass Ranch High.
The Lyons family has been in Wesley Chapel for nine years, after having lived in Atlanta for 27 years. Dana says they moved to Wesley Chapel to pursue the Florida lifestyle they wanted to enjoy after their own retirement. They took the advice Dana often gives to clients to not waste any precious time during the prime years of your life. “I’m passionate about getting people to retire earlier rather than later,” he says, “but do it responsibly, so they can have experiences and make memories.” He says some people put off retiring be-
cause they don’t know how long their money will last. They assume that one more year of working and making contributions into their savings, with no withdrawals coming out, is always their best option. “The problem with that is it comes at a big cost,” he says. “It’s not just one of your 30 years of retirement. You’re [possibly going to be] trading your very best year.” He says that many people actually end up dying with more money than what they started with when they retired. They often regret not spending more when they were healthy enough to do so. “The skills that get you to retirement are different than the skills that get you through retirement,” he says, “To save enough to retire, that means you’ve been frugal, deferred gratification and gotten into a good savings habit. It can be hard for those people to switch to spending.”
Forecasting Your Financial Future
Dana says he understands that many people are afraid of running out of money, so he shows them exactly what their financial future will really look like. He will look at all of your assets, all of your liabilities, how you want to live and how much that is likely to cost. Then, he takes all of your income into consideration, such as pensions or social security, and then subtracts what you spend to determine how much money you’ll need from
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savings and investments. That’s the start of a customized, comprehensive retirement plan. “We develop year-by-year cash flow projections to make sure you never run out of money and still do all the things you want to do,” he says. “For example, we build a vacation fund, looking at the retirement ‘go-go’ years, ‘slow-go’ years, and ‘no-go’ years. Yes, there’s a lot of math involved.” But, it’s not just math, he adds. Dana will talk with you about how to optimize claiming Social Security, how couples can coordinate debt and which accounts to withdraw from first. “Sequencing matters a ton,” he says. “Some people can save tens of thousands of dollars in taxes if they do that properly.” To have Capital Wealth Advisory do all of that planning work for you, Dana will charge you a one-time fee. “I’m only paid by my client, for my client, and I’m not selling anything,” he says. “I get paid for my advice. I’ve accumulated a lot of wisdom and judgment sitting across from thousands of people.” Once he’s completed all of that planning, he says many clients recognize that his deep and nuanced understanding of their finances make him the best choice to execute their plan, manage their assets and make adjustments over time. Eva Salokar recently moved to Boca Raton from Wesley Chapel. She met Dana when he was working for Merrill Lynch in the Wesley Chapel area. “He set me on the right track,” Eva says, “I really felt like he cared about me and my invest-
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ments and he was looking out for my future.” Then he left that position, and someone else took over managing Eva’s investments. She says she wasn’t happy with that change. Several months later, she was thrilled when Dana reached out and told her he had started his own business. Eva is now retired, while her husband is still working and getting ready to retire. “He’s worried about money,” she says. “But with Dana, I’m not worried anymore.” Eva adds that she is on board with Dana’s advice to retire as soon as possible and enjoy the fruits of the labor they have worked hard all of their lives to earn. “We have friends who waited to retire,” she says, “but then got sick and never got to enjoy it.” She says that it’s important to have the right financial advisor. “Dana has a gift,” she says. “He’s personable, has a wealth of experience and knows how to advise people. He’s easy to talk to and always willing to help.” Dana meets with locals in person or via Zoom for a 30-minute initial retirement conversation. He also is available nationally for your family or friends who live outside of Wesley Chapel or New Tampa. For more info about Capital Wise Advisory or to schedule an appointment, email Dana@CapitalWiseAdvisory.com, call (813) 778-3856, or visit CapitalWiseAdvisory.com. You can also follow Dana Lyon on LinkedIn or on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok @ RetireWithDana. Or, see the ad on page 28.
New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
23
‘Indian Restaurants’ Continued from pg. 1
When I first bought Neighborhood News in 1994, there were no Indian restaurants in zip code 33647. The first was Saffron on Cross Creek Blvd., which moved and then closed. Minerva in the New Tampa Center plaza on Bruce B. Downs was the second and there were only two or three for several years. Today, with the growth of the local Indian population, there are now eleven Indian restaurants in New Tampa, all of which are listed on this page. On the next page, you’ll find the list of the nine restaurants in New Tampa that serve Mediterranean/Middle Eastern food or at least serve Halal meat options. Next issue, we will provide the same type of list of the Indian & Mediterranean restaurants in Wesley Chapel. — GN
House of Biryanis & Kebabs — 19430 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813)
388-6777. HBKTampa.com Authentic Hyderabadi dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, traditional spices and a commitment to quality and great hospitality.
Ice Spice Café — 20304 Trout Ambarsari Zaika Indian Creek Dr., #101. (813) 591-1758. IceSpiCuisine — 10865 Cross Creek Blvd., in ceIndianStreetFoodCafe.shop
Mobil gas station convenience store. (656) 239-2813 Linktr.ee/AmbariZaikaTampa Pure veg, Sattvic- & Jain-friendly meals with bold, rotating menus. Ghar jaisa khaana, made fresh daily. Live pani puri. Chaat, Amritsari Kulcha, Paranthas
Dosa Hut — 10942 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 886-4555. GaramDosaHut.com Casual South Indian eatery featuring crispy dosas and other breakfast staples, plus a vegan menu.
Gorkhali Kitchen — 10044 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 388-6404. Gorkhali KitchenTampa.com Locally owned & dedicated to serving up great Himalayan-inspired, authentic flavors of Kathmandu City, Nepal, for lunch & dinner.
Authentic taste of Indian street cuisine with a fresh, vegetarian focus. Serves a range of flavorful dishes like chaat, samosa sandwiches, pav bhaji & Bombay sandwiches. Also serve unique Indian ice creams and fruit shakes.
Nawabi Hyderabad House — 15345 Amberly Dr. (813) 443-0198. Minerva Indian Restaurant
— 19050 Bruce B Downs Blvd. (813)
978-8586. MinervaTampa.com Known for specialties like Gongura Chicken, Masala Dosa, and Onion Wada, this restaurant focuses on Halal and spicy dishes, plus a daily-changing lunch buffet.
Namaste Express — 17503 Preserve Walk Ln., Ste B. (813) 866-1300. Namastexp.com Casual eatery for authentic dishes of South Indian cuisine, also offering vegan choices.
Nawabihhtampa.com Growing chain of Indian restaurants known for authentic Hyderabadi cuisine, with a menu that showcases the flavors and spices of the Indian city of Hyderabad. Also known for its variety of biryanis.
Taaza Mart Café — 6260 Commerce Palms Dr. (inside Taaza Mart grocery store). (813) 564-8100. TaazaMartFL.com Indian & Pakistani store featuring fresh produce, spices, sweets and Halal meat, the café offers a variety of hot Indian foods, prepared fresh daily.
Jay’s Kitchen — 17501 Preserve Walk Ln., #103. (813) 866-5297. Jays KitchenUSA.com From rich & creamy gravies to smoky Tandoori delights, the menu includes vegetarian, vegan & non-vegetarian options.
Kabob Café & Grill — 18101 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy., Ste 100. (813) 405-8740. KabobCafeandGrill.com Pakistani restaurant with meat curries, veg curries, kabobs, biryanis and some appetizers & desserts.
24 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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If you’re looking for Greek, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern eateries, the New Tampa area has nearly as many of them as it does Indian restaurants — as well as others that serve Halal meats, even though they’re serving pizza, pasta or burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. On this page is the list of all nine existing restaurants that either serve Mediterranean or Middle Eastern food, plus those that serve only Halal meat — or at least have Halal options. If you’d like to vote for any of the restaurants on these pages (or any others) as being among your five favorite restaurants in New Tampa — for a chance to win a FREE dining prize worth up to $200 at the restaurant of your choice in the Tampa Bay area — turn to pages 32-35 to enter our annual Reader Dining Survey & Contest. — GN
Baba Dough Pizza Bar (Not all Halal) — 2824 E. Bearss Ave. (813) 9991814. BabaDough.com Classic New York–style pizza, prepared with care and baked to bring out bold flavor in every slice, with some Halal meat options, but also serving beer & wine.
Beirut Bakery & Meat Market — 19651 Bruce B Downs Blvd., E4. (813) Acropolis Greek Taverna (Not Halal) — 14947 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813) 971-1787. AcropolisTaverna.com/ newtampa Vibrant destination offering classic Greek & Mediterranean cuisine, plus full alcohol & frequent live entertainment.
Al-Sham Palace — 19651 Bruce
B. Downs Blvd. 813-907-8233, AlShamPalace.com Family-run Halal eatery dishing up Greek and Middle Eastern fare including kebabs and shawarma.
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Little Greek Fresh Grill —
19022 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813) 9720707. LittleGreekFreshGrill.com Counter-serve Greek chain eatery serving Halal meats & featuring a menu of salads, pita wraps, gyro platters & souvlaki.
536-1000. Facebook: @Beirut Bakery & Meat Market Mediterranean Market — Lebanese Halal-only meat market, bak- 19412 Bruce B Downs Blvd. (813) 388ery and deli offering an array of Mediter2903. No website or Facebook page ranean fare, including breads and specialty Gourmet grocery store specializing in meat pies. Halal meats & Middle Eastern foods such as pita bread, spices, cheese & baked goods.
Pasta Flame — 10865 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 599-3310. PastaFlame.com Every dish is a celebration of Italian tradition and the primal art of fire cooking. With all Halal meats, Pasta Flame is the area’s first Halal Italian restaurant.
Slapburger — 14915 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813) 284-7064. SlapBurgerUS.com Handcrafted Halal hamburger patties and fresh chicken sandwiches, plus loaded platters, specialty lemonades and milkshakes. Every item is crafted to satisfy and delight your taste buds
Fire Up Halal Grill — 10016 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 591-1133 FireUpHalalGrill.com New York-style Mediterranean eatery offering shawarma, falafel & other familiar dishes for dine-in or takeout, committed to 100% Zabiha Halal quality.
New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
25
Budget Blinds Of Greater Tampa For Custom Motorized (& Other) Window Treatments By Jordan King
Neighborhood News Correspondent When Mike and Adriane Wonderlin purchased Budget Blinds of Greater Tampa in 2018, they hoped to build on the company’s established reputation while expanding its reach throughout the Tampa Bay area. Nearly eight years later, the business serves much of the Tampa Bay market. Mike, who has more than 30 years of experience in the window-covering industry, worked as a salesperson for the previous owner before he and Adriane purchased the franchise. Since then, the couple has added Lakeland in 2020, Central Tampa, Palm Harbor and Dunedin in 2025, and South Tampa earlier this year. “South Tampa was really the last missing piece for us,” Mike says. “When we purchased the business, we knew we wanted to grow it. We’ve built a great team, expanded our service area and now serve nearly the entire Tampa Bay market from one central location.” Operating from a showroom on W. Fletcher Ave. in Tampa, Budget Blinds offers a range of window coverings. Customers can choose from custom blinds, shades, shutters and draperies in a variety of styles, materials, and finishes. These include wood, faux wood, roller, Roman, woven wood and solar shades, as well as plantation shutters. The company carries products from leading manufacturers, including Hunter Douglas, Norman and other nationally recognized brands.
says. “Whether you’re looking for a simple solution for one room or a more customized look throughout the house, we can help you find options that fit your style and price point.”
More Affordable Motorization
(Above) Mike & Adriane Wonderlin have owned Budget Blinds of Greater Tampa since 2018 & have expanded their franchise’s reach throughout the Tampa Bay area since then. (Below) The Wonderlins say that motorized window coverings are now more affordable than ever. (All photos provided by Budget Blinds of Greater Tampa)
Most clients begin with a complimentary in-home consultation, where Budget Blinds’ design consultants bring product samples directly to the home and help homeowners evaluate options in their own space. That process is especially valuable for homeowners who may feel overwhelmed by the number of window treatment choices available. “Our consultants spend time learning what you want the room to accomplish,” Adriane explains. “Are you looking for privacy?
Energy efficiency? Light control? Something decorative? We help guide you through those decisions and find the right fit.” Consultants also take detailed measurements and will help you properly match the available materials and colors with your home’s existing décor. To help you manage larger projects, Budget Blinds also partners with Service Finance Company, a subsidiary of Truist Bank, to offer a variety of financing options. “We work with every budget,” Adriane
According to Adriane, motorized window coverings have quickly moved from being considered a luxury feature to becoming a standard request for many homeowners. Budget Blinds offers motorization through its Smart Home Collection, as well as motorized systems from recognized brands such as Lutron, Somfy and Hunter Douglas, all of which will allow you to control shades and blinds by remote control, smartphone app or even voice assistant. Mike says the cost of motorized window treatments has decreased significantly over the last several years, putting them within reach for more budget-conscious homeowners. Today’s motorized options go far beyond simple roller shades. Homeowners can incorporate motorization into Roman shades, woven wood shades, draperies and large patio-door applications while still maintaining the “looks” currently trending in home design. “People want the convenience, but they also want warmth and texture,” Mike says. “Now, they can have both.” As more Florida homeowners invest in lanais, patios and exterior entertaining spaces, Adriane says Budget Blinds has seen increased demand for outdoor living products. One of
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solutions designed to help you enjoy your outdoor spaces year-round. Although products and technology continue to evolve, the local Budget Blinds owners remain committed to delivering exceptional customer service. “We care about our reputation because we live and work in the same communities we serve,” Adriane says. “Every business makes mistakes occasionally, but we take pride in making things right if something happens. We keep our promises and take accountability.” That commitment continues long after installation day. Most of the products are backed by limited lifetime warranties, and Budget Blinds also offers an exclusive five-year, no-questionsasked accidental-damage warranty on many of its own products. (Above) Whether you want to install beautiful drapes (left) or blinds, the Budget Blinds of Greater Tampa instal“It’s really the service after the sale that lation team (below) will work hard to get the job done right! makes the difference,” Adriane notes. “If the company’s newer something happens, we’re here. We answer the offerings is Elevisphone, we stand behind our products and we ta outdoor shades, take care of our customers.” designed for durability. Another thing that sets Budget Blinds The shades help reduce apart is its staff. The company employs about heat and glare while still 25 people, including seven design consultants, preserving views and seven administrative staff members, and a can provide additional 10-person installation team. Every member of privacy and protection that team is a Budget Blinds employee, not an for furniture, kitchens independent contractor. and living spaces. “You always know who is coming to your In addition to home,” Adriane says. “Our customers work with shades, Budget Blinds our employees from the first phone call through of Greater Tampa offers installation and beyond.” awnings, draperies and She adds that much of the company’s other exterior shading business comes from repeat clients and referrals,
reflecting the strong relationships it has built throughout the region. Budget Blinds of Greater Tampa also has maintains a near-perfect 4.9-star overall Google rating on more than 1,200 reviews. Customer Megan B. said Budget Blinds was able to custom-make a single motorized roller shade for a large window after online retailers told her it couldn’t be done. She called the experience “excellent from start to finish” and praised the team’s expertise, efficient installation, and “high-quality product at a reasonable price.” The local franchise also supports local nonprofit organizations, such as Homes For Our Troops, and partners with local schools such as Academy at the Lakes, where the Wonderlins’ 13-year-old daughter Harper attends school. Harper also plays competitive volleyball with Florida Sports Coast Wiregrass Ranch. “Honestly, our life revolves around volleyball right now,” shares Adriane. The family also enjoys traveling together and recently returned from a trip to Alaska. That family-first mindset directly influences how the company operates. “When you choose our Budget Blinds franchise, you’re choosing a local family business,” says Mike. “But you’re also choosing expertise, quality and a commitment to doing the job right.” Budget Blinds of Greater Tampa is currently offering 25% off blinds, shades and shutters through September 30. For more info, call (813) 839-1400, visit the showroom at 1208 W. Fletcher Ave. Or, visit BudgetBlinds.com, find the franchise on Facebook or Instagram or see the ad on pg. 38.
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27
Spinner Law Firm — New Tampa & Wesley Chapel’s Local Injury Law Firm Since 2003 ‘No Fault?’ Not Necessarily!
By Traviyon Bigby
Neighborhood News Correspondent When life changes in an instant after an accident, finding the right legal representation can make all the difference. For more than two decades, Spinner Law Firm has been deeply rooted in helping individuals and families navigate some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Located in the Cypress Glen Professional Park off S.R. 56 (just east of I-75) in Wesley Chapel, the firm remains committed to providing experienced legal guidance with a personal touch. Founded in 2003, Spinner Law Firm was built on a simple but meaningful vision. As attorney Charles Spinner explains, “I founded Spinner Law Firm in Wesley Chapel with a clear purpose: to provide injured people with the experienced legal representation of a large firm while maintaining the personal attention and accessibility of a local practice.” Before founding the firm, Spinner spent years representing insurance companies in personal injury cases. That firsthand experience gave him valuable insight into how insurance carriers evaluate claims, challenge injuries, and work to minimize payouts. Rather than using that knowledge to defend insurance companies, he chose to put it to work for injured individuals and families, helping them pursue the compensation they deserve. Today, Spinner Law Firm focuses exclusively on personal injury and wrongful death
(Above, l.-r.) Litigation asst. Mary Margaret Caporali, legal assistant Savannah Meeks, senior pre-litigation asst. Kelly Fordyce, attorneys Charles Spinner & Anissa Morris & administrative assts. Olivia Spinner & Lilia Shafee. Office administrator Geisa Perez-Aponte is not pictured. (All photos by Charmaine George)
cases. Since joining the firm in 2011, Attorney Anissa Morris has played an integral role in that mission, bringing her own experience and dedication to advocating for injured individuals and their families. Together, the attorneys have recovered tens of millions of dollars on behalf of their clients, but they measure success by far more than financial results. “We treat our clients like family,” Spinner says. “We keep them informed throughout their cases, and take the time to understand the physical, emotional and
financial impact of their injuries.” Unlike many firms that divide their attention among multiple practice areas, Spinner Law Firm focuses solely on personal injury law. Spinner says that singular focus allows the team to stay ahead of the ever-changing legal landscape while developing strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. Every case is carefully prepared, and every client receives individualized attention, rather than being treated as just another file.
One of the firm’s priorities is helping clients understand Florida’s often misunderstood “no-fault” insurance laws. “Many people mistakenly believe that ‘nofault’ means no one can be held responsible after an accident,” Spinner says. “In reality, Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage simply provides limited payment for initial medical expenses regardless of who caused a crash.” He emphasizes that being injured by another driver’s negligence does not necessarily limit a person’s recovery to PIP benefits and that understanding those options is an important part of protecting an individual’s rights. “When another driver’s negligence causes serious injuries, the injured person may still pursue compensation for additional medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages,” Spinner says. “Our job is to build a case for our clients to recover the maximum possible compensation.” Recent changes in Florida’s personal injury laws have made the process even more challenging. According to Spinner, legal reforms have increasingly favored insurance companies by limiting certain medical evidence that can be presented at a trial. As a result, thorough preparation, strategic case development and experienced advocacy have become critical components of maximizing a client’s recovery. The firm’s dedication to preparation is evident in the way the team approaches every case.
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One memorable example involved a young man who suffered a shattered hip after a devastating T-bone collision on his way to work. Although the other driver insisted the accident was the client’s fault, the legal team believed their client’s account from the very beginning. Rather than accepting the insurance company’s version of those events, Spinner Law Firm launched an extensive investigation, securing surveillance footage from a nearby business, analyzing electronic data from both vehicles, and obtaining traffic signal timing records. By piecing together all available evidence, they proved that the other driver actually caused the crash, ultimately securing a favorable recovery for their client. Cases like these reflect the philosophy that has guided the firm for more than 20 years: listen first, investigate thoroughly, prepare meticulously, and never stop fighting for each client. “The most rewarding part of our work
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is helping people turn tragedy into justice,” Spinner says. “We prepare, we fight and we do not give up.” Getting started with Spinner Law Firm is very straightforward. As a prospective client, you’ll receive a free consultation where the team will evaluate your potential case, answer your questions and explain the legal process in plain language. Whether you prefer the convenience of electronic documents or an in-person meeting, the firm offers flexible options while remaining accessible throughout the entire case. From the initial consultation through the final resolution, you’ll receive consistent communication and personal support because, at Spinner Law Firm, no one is ever treated as just another case number.
Giving Back
The firm’s commitment extends well beyond the courtroom. As longtime members
of the Wesley Chapel community, the attorneys and staff believe giving back is part of their responsibility as local business owners. The firm actively supports local schools, including Wiregrass Ranch, Cypress Creek, Wesley Chapel and Wharton high schools, and sponsor youth athletic programs and organizations such as AdventHealth Center Ice. Living and working alongside the people they represent has created a level of accountability that many larger firms simply cannot replicate. “When your clients are also your neighbors, your children’s coaches, or families you see around town, the work becomes even more personal,” Spinner explains. “Our reputation is built one relationship and one case at a time.” That community connection is one reason many clients choose Spinner Law Firm over larger, high-volume practices. As Spinner explains, “Bigger is not always better. At many large, volume-based firms, you do not get to choose the lawyer assigned to your case, and your experience may depend heavily on that attorney’s experience, dedication and ability.” For anyone searching for legal representation after an accident, Spinner encourages taking the time to research carefully. Look beyond online recommendations or social media referrals and evaluate an attorney’s experience, trial history, client reviews and results. Choosing the right legal team is one of the most important decisions an injured person can make. After more than two decades of serving
Wesley Chapel, New Tampa and communities across Florida, Spinner Law Firm continues to prove that effective legal representation isn’t measured by the size of the office or the number of attorneys a firm employs. Instead, Spinner says, it’s built on trust, preparation, experience, and a genuine commitment to helping people rebuild their lives after tragedy. For those facing one of life’s most difficult moments, the Spinner Law Firm offers something every client deserves: experienced advocacy delivered with the personal care of a trusted neighbor. The Spinner Law Firm is located at 2418 Cypress Glen Dr. in Wesley Chapel. For more information, call (813) 991-5099, visit SpinnerLawFirm.com, or see the ad on page 43 of this issue.
New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
29
The Primary Care Of Wesley Chapel Continues To Provide Quality Care By Celeste McLaughlin
Neighborhood News Correspondent
At The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel, three providers offer a different type of primary medical care, where patients are known by name and not rushed through appointments. Located in the Cypress Bend Professional Park off Wesley Chapel Blvd., in Lutz, The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel is only about a mile north and west of the S.R. 56 exit off I-75. Nurse practitioners Cory Dowell, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, Scarlette Owens MSN, APRN, FNP-C, and Megan Dudley, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, along with five medical assistants and a receptionist, happily take care of patients ages 18 and older. The practice is privately owned, so the practitioners do not have a larger corporation they have to answer to, which allows them to spend the time they need with each patient. “We try to focus on preventive health and early intervention,” Scarlette says. “Our goal is to prevent or intervene early for better outcomes.” All three providers see new patients, with those new patients able to get a first appointment within a few weeks. Established patients are able to get same-day appointments for urgent matters, and Telehealth appointments are offered for each patient’s convenience. Cory, Scarlette and Megan have each received a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, earned credentials as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and earned Board certification as a family nurse practitioner
formation science to improve healthcare), disease prevention, chronic care management and health education. Cory serves as the practice’s lead clinician and practice manager, in addition to seeing patients. Scarlette received her MSN degree from The University of Tampa in 2002, after earning her BSN degree from the University of Phoenix in 2000. Scarlette has 30 years of professional experience and has been an Adjunct Professor/ Clinical Faculty at USF for nurse practitioner students since 2017. Megan earned her MSN degree from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN, in 2017, after receiving her Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree from Houghton College in Houghton, NY, and her Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree from Jackson State Community College in Jackson, TN, in 2010. “We’ve been really fortunate that we’ve had (L.-r.) Nurse practitioners Megan Dudley, Cory Dowell & Scarlette Owens of The Primary Care of Wesley patients who we knew from previous practices Chapel in Lutz (Photo provided by The Primary Care or other walks of life find us here,” says Megan, “but now we’re starting to see a lot of patients of Wesley Chapel) (FNP-C) by the American Association of Nurse from the local community, too. It’s such an upand-coming area, and so many patients moved Practitioners Certification Board. from out of town and are looking for a provider.” Cory joined the practice in 2025. She She adds that all three providers are comcompleted her Master of Science in Nursing mitted to a people-first approach, where they (MSN) degree from the University of South listen carefully to patients and always look for Florida (USF) in Tampa in 2014, after earning proactive ways to improve patients’ health. her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree “We’re excited to build something in the from the University of Florida in Gainesville in community where we live,” says Megan, who 2011. She has more than 10 years of primary lives in Wesley Chapel and has 13-year-old care experience with a diverse background in twins. “My kids go to school here, play sports health informatics (the use of computer and in-
30 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
here, and I’m on the PTA and the School Advisory Committee at their school.” Megan says that all three practitioners counsel patients to be sure to pay attention to their own work/life balance, and that she, Cory and Scarlette also try to take their own advice. “Work/life balance can be hard to achieve,” she says, “but we’re all working hard to make sure we’re serving our patients the best we can, while also being present for our families and community, as well.”
Available Services
The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel offers a wide range of services for its adult patients. These include annual wellness exams, sick visits, lab work, diagnostic testing, joint injections, chronic disease management and even allergy evaluations. Telehealth appointments are available for added convenience. The office also has other options to make healthcare easier for people. For example, established patients can choose to have their labs drawn while they’re at the practice during their regular appointments. “That surprises a lot of our newer patients,” Megan says. “We can draw their labs in the practice so they don’t have to go to an outside lab. We offer that for convenience, to streamline their time with us and respect their busy schedules.” She notes, however, that patients can choose to go to an outside lab if they want, but they don’t have to. All three practitioners understand women’s
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issues and are taking their knowledge and experience a step further, working to become certified with The Menopause Society. This is an extra certification that will allow patients to be confident their practitioners understand all of the health issues surrounding menopause. “When you work in healthcare, you do so because you care about people,” Megan says. “We try to treat our patients as we would want our families and loved ones to be cared for.” Cory agrees that the practice’s priority, in addition to great care, is good communication from every member of the team. “Every person who walks through the door is treated as a priority, whether it’s their first visit or their fifteenth,” says Cory. “We have patients who tell us, ‘I’ve never had a provider sit and really listen to me like this before,’ and while that’s heartbreaking, it’s also why we’re here — to do things differently.”
Palms Express Opening Soon
The newest perk for Primary Care of Wesley Chapel patients is an on-site pharmacy called Palms Express, which is expected to open this fall. Palms Express is a partnership with Palms Pharmacy in Tampa Palms, and will staff an on-site pharmacist to allow patients to leave the office with prescriptions already in hand. “People will be able to fill prescriptions and purchase vitamins, and we will keep supplements that the providers recommend in stock,” says Shahida Choudhry, Pharm.D., the owner of Palms Pharmacy. “But more than that, we also will offer clinical services such as medication counseling, lab reviews, answering questions about hormone replacement therapy, vitamins and supplements and offer immunizations.” Palms Express also will offer body scans using an InBody machine to measure muscle mass, percentage of body fat and the amount of water in the body. “A lot of people taking GLP-1s don’t realize they’re losing muscle,” says Dr. Choudhry, “so we can track their progress to help with that aspect.” Blood pressure and glucose monitoring, and other clinical measurements also will be available. Most prescriptions will be able to be filled before a patient leaves The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel, but anything that needs to be compounded or filled at Palms Pharmacy will be transferred back to Palms Express for pickup, usually by the next day. “We want to accommodate patients and offer ‘one-stop shopping’ as much as possible,” Scarlette says.
Recommendation From A Patient
Rachel Caine is a resident of Wesley Chapel who has been a patient of Scarlette’s since she moved to Tampa nine years ago. Rachel was one of the first patients when The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel opened more than two years ago. Her husband is a patient, too. “When we moved to Florida,” Rachel says, “he didn’t have a primary care physician until they opened this office.” She says he knew that if Rachel trusted them, he could, too, and they’ve both been very pleased with all three nurse practitioners and the entire staff at the office. “They are very welcoming,” Rachel says. “They listen, and they care about you. If I have any type of concern, I can go onto the portal and message them and they respond promptly. I’m not waiting days to hear back like you do in the bigger offices.” She says she recommends the practice to all of her friends. Many don’t live in Wesley Chapel, but says they will drive for good care. “I tell them, ‘You’re going to get great care, not just good care,’” she says. Rachel does have one caveat, though. “Please don’t take all the time slots because I still want to get in with them, too.” The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel accepts many major health insurance plans, and patients also can choose to self-pay. The Primary Care of Wesley Chapel is located at 2935 Pearson James Pl. It is open Mon.- Fri., 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For appointments or more information, call (813) 9914243, visit PrimaryCareWesleyChapel.com or see the ad on page 45.
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New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
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Enter Our 2026 Reader Dining Survey & Contest & To Win $200 In FREE Dining! So, this year’s Dining Survey & Contest is all new! On the next three pages are pictures & descriptions of all of the mom-&-pop and small (10 units total or less) chain restaurants in or near New Tampa (see location info below), with their addresses, phone numbers, websites and a picture of their exteriors and/or signage. All we’re asking you, as New Tampa residents, to do in this issue is name your FIVE (5) Favorite Restaurants located in New Tampa — all of zip code 33647, and Bruce B. Downs Blvd. between Tampa Palms & E. Bearss Ave, as well as on E. Bearss Ave. between Bruce B. Downs & Livingston Ave.) — on the entry form on pg. 35! Send us a correctly filled-out form and you’ll be entered into a random drawing to win up to $200 in FREE dining at the restaurant of your choice located ANYWHERE in the Tampa Bay area! Please do not include ANY restaurants located in zip codes 33543, 33544 or 33545 (Wesley Chapel) in this month’s Survey. You’ll get to vote for your five favorites in Wesley Chapel next issue. Here is what you need to know to enter this year’s Survey & Contest: (I hope) every brick-&-mortar restaurant that serves food and is located in & near New Tampa (NT) that is either a true mom & pop or part of a “chain” — whether regional or national — that has fewer than ten (10) total locations, is listed in alphabetical order on pages 33-35. Please note that although the restaurant list Independently owned by brothers Frank & James Gouveia, The at chain Morris doesn’tGrill include any eateries Bridge with 10 or locations in New Tampa, you can still write will feature an ever-changing menu created by Executivemore Chef Daniel Friley.
the names of your favorite chains in any or all of the five spaces on the entry form on page 35. But, whether you choose five places from the New Tampa list of more than 70 restaurants or five chains that don’t appear on the list or some combination thereof, in order to be considered to win any of this year’s five dining prizes, you must write the names of FIVE (5) NT-area restaurants in the five spaces on the entry form on pg. 35!
HERE ARE OUR OTHER RULES! 1) DO NOT write the name of your one favorite place in more than one Top-5 space. Only its first-place vote will count. 2) If the restaurant is on this list, we consider it to be in New Tampa. If you want to vote for a chain restaurant, please look up its zip code or location to see if it qualifies as a New Tampa restaurant. 3) In order for your votes to count and help your favorite restaurants, you must include your real first AND last name, the community you live in (K-Bar Ranch, West Meadows, etc.), your daytime phone number where I can reach you (which I will only do if your name is selected to win a prize) and your valid email address. 3) This year’s prizes are again FREE dining at any restaurant YOU choose anywhere in the Tampa Bay area, inclduing the Grand Prize of $200, as well as prizes of $100, $75, $50 & $25.
ew Tampa’s Upscale Casual New American Restaurant Is Open!
4) See the Entry Form on pg. 35 to find out how to have your votes counted & win prizes! Good Luck! — GN
Featuring a 250-bottle wine list with carefully selected bottles starting at $25 You’re Looking For Upscale, Yet Approachable Cuisine, while also featuring some iconic wineries from around Ifthe world, Come Meet Our New Executive Chef Zach! plus craft cocktails, a premium full-liquor bar and a curated beer list. The Grill is open for dinner seven nights a week end and for lunch Wednesday through Sunday, When You Sp ! re with New Tampa’s best $50 or Mo ; ly on n Saturday & Sunday Brunch! io rt Food po
$10 E AV
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. ention coupon ust have or m ly. on e per tabl rs. One coupon ith other offe
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We also offer indoor & outdoor seating, plus a bar menu with sandwiches & pizza for those looking for lighter fare!
20 Cross Creek Blvd. (next to Publix) • 813.388.5353 •
TheGrillatMorrisBridge.com •
The Grill at Morris Executive BridgeChef Zachery Thorpe
“Tarpon Springs” Bar Pizza
For everything from Endive Salad & Salmon Alfredo (above), to New Tampa’s Best Bar Pizza (left), Most Extensive Wine List & More, You Need To Visit The Grill!
Show this ad for 10% OFF lunch on Thur., Fri. or Sat., 12-3 pm! (Exp. 9/15/26)
10920 Cross Creek Blvd. (next to Publix) 813.388.5353 TheGrillatMorrisBridge.com
32 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
The Grill at Morris Bridge
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Presenting...The 2026 Neighborhood News Reader Dining Survey & Contest!
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN NEW TAMPA! HERE’S THE LIST OF MOM & POP & SMALL CHAIN RESTAURANTS LOCATED IN NEW TAMPA
Ambarsari Zaika Indian Cuisine — 10865 Cross Creek
Blvd., in Mobil gas station convenience store. (656) 239-2813 Linktr. ee/AmbariZaikaTampa Northern Indian/Punjabi cuisine featurinjg pure veg, Sattvic& Jain-friendly meals with bold, rotating menus
Bella Roma NY Pizza – 10970 Cross Creek Blvd., Ste. A. (813) 278-8020. BellaRomaNYPizza2.com Family-owned NY-style pizza & Italian specialties, also serving beer & wine.
Box of Cubans – 17512 Dona Mi-
chelle Dr. (813) 632-9021. BoxofCubans.com. Known for homestyle Cuban comfort food, gourmet pressed sandwiches and unique breakfast options.
Dosa Hut — 10942 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 886-4555. Garam China City – 16049 Tampa Palms Blvd DosaHut.com W. (813) 979-0406. ChinaCityTampa.com. Casual South Indian eatery Counter-serve, familiar Chinese fare, with featuring crispy dosas and other lunch deals & chef specials. breakfast staples, plus a vegan menu.
China One – 19024 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813) 443-6333. ChinaOne Tastycom. Casual Chinese take-out fare offering lunch specials & quick service.
Acropolis Greek Taverna
— 14947 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813)
971-1787. AcropolisTaverna.com/ newtampa Vibrant destination offering classic Greek & Mediterranean cuisine, plus full Burger 21 – 20304 Trout Creek Dr. alcohol & frequent live entertainment.. (813) 501-4910. Burger21.com. Small local craft counter-serve burger chain also featuring fries & shakes
China Wok – 6431 E. County Line Rd. (813) 994-9929. ChinaWokTampa. kickmenu.com Counter-style Chinese takeout place with traditional & creative dishes.
Cali – 17004 Palm
Al-Sham Palace — 19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. 813-907-8233, AlShamPalace.com Family-run Halal eatery dishing up Greek and Middle Eastern fare including kebabs and shawarma.
Baba Dough Pizza Bar — 2824 E. Bearss Ave. (813) 999-1814. BabaDough.com Classic NY–style pizza, prepared with care and baked to bring out bold flavor in every slice, with some Halal meat options, but also serving beer & wine.
Pointe Dr. (813) 975-1222. EatatCali.com. New Tampa’s original health-conscious bowl eatery, also serving pizzas & wraps, plus beer & wine. Open for brunch, lunch & dinner.
Cantina Real Mexican Restaurant – 10032 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 406-
4856. CantinaMexicanGrillandBar.com. Casual Mexican restaurant featuring traditional tacos, burritos & sizzling fajitas. Also serving beer, wine & wine-based cocktails.
Bayscape Bistro – 10630 Plantation
Bay Dr., inside Heritage Isles G&CC (813) 9943445, BayscapeFL.com. Casual public-welcome golf course eatery operated by culinary professionals. All-day breakfast, sandwiches, signature dinners, full-service bar & entertainment. Neighborhood News
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Coffee Latitudes Café & Roastery – 6431 E. County Line Rd, #110. (813) 575-8000. CoffeeLatitudes.com. Specialty coffee roaster also serving up delicious sandwiches, soups, pastries & more.
CROSS CREEK GOURMET (No signage available) Cross Creek Gourmet – 10052 Cross Creek Clvd. (inside Shell gas station) (813) 994-3998. CrossCreekGourmet.com. Traditional pressed Cuban sandwiches & rotating hot specialties.
Don Julio’s Mexican Restaurants – Two locations: 16023 Tampa Palms Cappy’s Pizzeria – 16019 Tampa Palms Blvd. W. (813) 512-8947. CappysTampaPalms.com Quaint pizza restaurant serving NY- and Chicago-style pizzas, plus salads, beer & wine.
Dummy Crabby Seafood & Wings — 15317 Amberly Dr.
(813) 447-4465. DummyCrabby3.com. Casual Cajun-style seafood place known for its seafood boils & generous combo deals
Eggtown Breakfast & Lunch — 17507 Preserve Walk
Ln. (813) 533-7271. EggTown. com. Growing local chain of casual breakfast & lunch places featuring homestyle cooking.
The Fat Rabbit Pub —
16029 Tampa Palms Blvd. W. (813) 252-3004. FatRabbitPub.com GA true full-liquor & craft beer neighborhood bar & grill with elevated food like unique rice bowls, fattened shrimp & more.
Fire Up Halal Grill —
10016 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 5911133 FireUpHalalGrill.com Blvd. W. (813) 644-7899 & 2802 E. Bearss Ave. New York-style Mediterranean eat(813) 898-2860. DonJuliosMexican.com. ery offering quality shawarma, falafel & Family-owned, award-winning Mexican res- other familiar Middle Eastern dishes for taurants serving traditional favorites & a unique dine-in or takeout, committed to 100% brunch menu. Full craft cocktail bar with upscale Zabiha Halal quality. tequilas & mezcals, specializing in margaritas See our ad on pg. 32. The list continues on pgs. 34-35!
New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
33
Presenting...The 2026 Neighborhood News Reader Dining Survey & Contest! MORE MOM & POP & SMALL CHAIN RESTAURANTS LOCATED IN NEW TAMPA Continued from page 33.
Fortune Kitchen USF —
2592 E Bearss Ave (813) 977-1688 FortuneKitchenFL.com Unique Asian fusion restaurant featuring Mala Chinese, Izakaya Japanese & sushi in a charming setting.
Frammi American Grille & Italian Food — 17631 Bruce
B. Downs Blvd., Ste E. (813) 523-5075 Frammi.com A unique culinary experience blending both Northern & Southern Italian traditions with American flavors. See story on pg. 36.
Hunter’s Green Country Club — 18101 Longwater Run Dr. (813)
973-1000. InvitedClubs.com/clubs/hunters-green-country-club Two restaurants — Fazio’s Grille casual dining featuring sandwiches, burgers, salads, wraps & more. Window on the Green offers delicious meals with stunning views of the golf course.
Hungry Crab Juicy Seafood
— 19601 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813)
388-2862. HungryJuicyCrabSeafood.com Seafood boils, juicy shrimp & sweet, easy-to-crack snow crab legs. Also offers allyou-can-eat options.
Ice Spice Café — 20304 Trout
Ha Long Bay — (Two locations)
Inside Lotte Plaza Market, 17605 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. & 20685 BBD Blvd. (813) 406-4917. HaLongBayNewTampa.com Serving typical Vietnamese dishes, including pho, banh mi sandwiches & rice plates, plus the more northern location also has a sushi bar. Both also serve boba teas.
Creek Dr., #101. (813) 591-1758. IceSpiceIndianStreetFoodCafe.shop Indian street cuisine with a fresh, vegetarian focus. Serves a range of flavorful dishes like chaat & samosa sandwiches, plus unique Indian ice creams & fruit shakes.
Walk Ln., #103. (813) 866-5297. JaysKitchen USA.com From rich & creamy gravies to smoky Tandoori delights, the menu includes vegetarian, vegan & non-vegetarian options.
Koizi Endless Hibachi & Sushi Eatery — 17012 Palm Pointe
Dr. (813) 971-1919. OrderKoiziEndlessHibachiandSushi.com Full-service Japanese venue offering allyou-can-eat sushi & teppanyaki in contemporary digs.
Little Greek Fresh Grill —
19022 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813) 972-0707. LittleGreekFreshGrill.com Counter-serve Greek chain eatery serving Halal meats & featuring a menu of salads, pita wraps, gyro platters & souvlaki.
Michi Ramen — 18025 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy. (813) 374-5320. MichiRamenFL.com Casual, trendy eatery serving ramen and other Japanese dishes, plus beer, wine & sake.
Minerva Indian Restaurant Koodles Korean Chinese Cuisine — Inside Lotte Plaza Market @ — 19050 Bruce B Downs Blvd. (813) 978-
17605 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. Korean version of Chinese noodles.
8586. MinervaTampa.com Indian breakfast, lunch & dinner focused on Halal and spicy dishes, plus a daily-
changing lunch buffet.
Award-winning Cuban sandwiches & specialties, plus pastries in a casual, upscale environment. Also serving beer & wine.
Mr. Dunderbak’s Restaurant & Brewery — 14929 Bruce B. Downs
Blvd. (813) 977-4104, Dunderbaks.com European-style beer garden delivering an extensive selection of beer plus authentic German eats, American sandwiches & more.
Liang’s Bistro Asian Cuisine — 17515 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813) Highwoods Preserve Pkwy., Ste 100. (813) 405-8740. KabobCafeandGrill.com Pakistani restaurant with meat curries, veg curries, kabobs, biryanis and some appetizers & desserts.
(813) 388-6777. HBKTampa.com Authentic Hyderabadi dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, traditional spices and a commitment to quality and great hospitality.
Bruce B. Downs Blvd. Korean BBQ dishes & boba drinks.
Las Palmas Latin Grill —
Kabob Café & Grill — 18101
House of Biryanis & Kebabs — 19430 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.
— Inside Lotte Plaza Market @ 17605
6431 E. County Line Rd., #104. (813) 991-5500. LasPalmasLatinGrill.com
Jay’s Kitchen — 17501 Preserve
Ho King — 18041 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy. (813) 866-1541. HoKingMenu.com Family-owned Chinese restaurant offering dine-in, takeout and delivery; serving traditional Chinese dishes.
Kiwa Korean BBQ & Food
Kay’s Kitchen — 12808 E.
Bearss Ave. (813) 893-0415. KaysKitchenChicken.com Perfectly seasoned fried chicken on the bone, including whole wings, catfish & other Chicago-style items, including pizza puffs.
978-1225. LiangsBistro.com Namaste Express — 17503 Serving fresh, made-to-order wok-fired Preserve Walk Ln., Ste B. (813) 866-1300. dishes, from General Tso’s chicken to Koreran Namastexp.com BBQ & more. Also serving beer & wine. Casual eatery for authentic dishes of South Indian cuisine, also offering vegan choices.
Lima Rotisserie Chicken & Peruvian Cuisine — 19062 Bruce B. Downs
New China King — 10940 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 982-2688. NewBlvd. (813) 304-0205. LimaTampa.com Comfortable restaurant known for Pe- ChinaKingTampa.com Chinese takeout eatery cooking ruvian Chinese fusion dishes such as chifa & lomo, plus seafood & rotisserie chicken. Also General Tso’s chicken, egg rolls & other comfort-food favorites such as fried rice. serving beer & wine.
34 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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Presenting...The 2026 Neighborhood News Reader Dining Survey & Contest! MORE MOM & POP & SMALL CHAIN RESTAURANTS LOCATED IN NEW TAMPA Tampa Palms Country Club — 5811 Tampa
Palms Blvd. (813) 972-1991. Invit(813) 284-7064. SlapBurgerUS.com Dr. (813) 252-3534. PalmThaiNewTamHandcrafted Halal hamburger patties and edclubs.com/clubs/tampa-palms-country-club pa.com Elements Restaurant is open for lunch & Small, casual, sit-down eatery serving fresh chicken sandwiches, plus loaded platters, Thai basics such as noodles & curries plus specialty lemonades and milkshakes. Every item dinner & features seasonal menus that blend local is crafted to satisfy and delight your taste buds. ingredients with modern flavors. lunch specials.cooking
Palm Thai — 17022 Palm Pointe
Pasta Flame — 10865 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 599-3310. PastaFlame.com Every dish is a celebration of Italian tradition & with all Halal meats, Pasta Flame is the area’s first Halal Italian restaurant.
Slapburger — 14915 BBD Blvd.
Stonewood Grill & Tavern —
17050 Palm Pointe Dr. (813) 978-0388. StonewoodGrill.com A Chef-Driven, scratch kitchen featuring hand cut steaks, locally sourced fresh seafood, signature cocktails.
Peabody’s — 15333 Amberly Dr.
(813) 972-1725, PeabodysTampa.com Expansive sports bar & restaurant offering billiards, games, multiple bars & casual dining.
Poké Island Plus Vietnamese Cuisine — 18636 Hunters Village Rd. (813) 866-7653. Facebook @ Poké Island Plus Fresh poké restaurant serving sushi burritos, rice plates, pho, noodle bowls & boba tea, plus fried rice.
PROVISIONS COFFEE & KITCHEN (No signage available) Provisions Coffee & Kitchen — 2816 E Bearss Ave. (813)
803-7787. ProvisionsCoffeeFL.com Locally owned coffee house serving breakfast items & pastries, including vegan options.
Subs-N-Such — 14603 Livingston Ave., Lutz. (813) 972-1784. Subs-n-such.com Sandwich shop featuring delicious subs, especially the Cubans, with fresh ingredients and soft, perfectly baked bread.
Sushi Avenue — 2826 E. Bearss Ave. (813) 977-8744. Sushi-Avenue.com Cozy Japanese restaurant specializing in fresh sushi, plus beer, sake & wine.
The Bean Bar Co. — 17018 Palm Pointe Dr. (813) 442-7699. BeanBarCo.com Relaxed coffee shop serving breakfast fare, as well as lattes, chai, espresso & other coffee drinks & teas.
The Grill at Morris Bridge — 10920 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 388-
17503-C Preserve Walk Ln. (813) 971-7000, TasteofNewYorkPizzeriamenu.com Counter service offering NY-style pizza, subs & entrees.
Taste of New York Pizzeria —
5353. TheGrillatMorrisBridge.com American restaurant for beef, seafood, fish (grouper, salmon), burgers, pizza, beer, wine & craft cocktails in a warm setting. See ad on pg. 32.
Thai Lanna — 10022 Cross Creek Blvd. (813) 991-0108. ThaiLannaTampa.com Thai curries & soups meet sushi rolls in a dark-wood setting.
Via Italia — 8644 Hunters Village Rd. (813) 475-4857. EatViaItalia.com Authentic Italian fare, including pizzas, pasta dishes & desserts, plus a full bar.
Thai Ruby — 15319 Amberly Dr. (813) 588-0570. ThaiRubyTampaFL.com Cozy Thai restaurant serving classic curries & noodle dishes, with lunch deals.
Zio’s NY Bagel & Deli —
19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (813) 3889498. ZiosNYBagels.com Family-run restaurant featuring a wide range of fresh-baked NY-style bagels
Our 2026 Neighborhood News Dining Survey & Contest! Here are my Five Favorite (Overall) Restaurants in NT (Only):
1)__________________________________________________________________________ 2)__________________________________________________________________________
Sushi Cafe — 18015 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy. (813) 977-7800. SushiCafeTampaFL.com Modern, unpretentious place serving classic sushi rolls & typical Japanese entrees such as hibachi; plus beer, wine & sake.
3)__________________________________________________________________________ 4)__________________________________________________________________________ 5) __________________________________________________________________________
Your First & Last Name________________________________________________ Community You Live In (Lake Forest, Hunter’s Green, etc.)_______________________ Your Daytime Phone Number___________________________________________
Sake House — 15311 Amberly Dr. (813) 977-3838. SakeHouseAmberly.com Low-key Japanese restaurant offering a substantial sushi menu, plus tempura, teriyaki & noodles. Neighborhood News
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Sushi Time — 6417 E. County Line Rd. #104. (813) 364-4545. SushiTimeTampaFL.com Neon-lit Japanese restaurant offering an extensive selection of fresh sushi, cooked fare & hibachi in a relaxed setting.
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New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
35
Frammi To Close August 22 & Reopen In Tampa Palms In November!
So, here’s a little bad news-wonderful news situation for you. First, the bad news: Luca and Erika Ammirati, the owners of Frammi — the authentic Italian & American restaurant previously known as Oakley’s Grille — are closing their location at 17631 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in North Palms Village as of Saturday, August 22. The amazing news is that Luca and Erika will reopen Frammi at 15363 Amberly Dr., in the Shoppes at Amberly plaza in Tampa Palms (hopefully) by sometime in November of this year. I met Luca at the new location just before we went to press with this issue and although the space between the Tampa City Ballet and the Tae Kwon Do studios in the plaza was still an empty shell, Luca was meeting with his engineers to finalize the plans for the new Frammi’s layout that same day, and he believes “It won’t take too long to get the new Frammi open,” he said. “And it’s a larger space, so we will have room for a bar and more tables.” That’s great news, as is the fact that the new Frammi will expand Luca’s already-extensive menu of authentic Italian favorites. “But, other than the burgers (below left), we will not be bringing the rest of the American menu from the old Oakley’s Grille with us,” he said. Please note that for the few days to a week of time between when you receive this issue and Aug. 22, the original Frammi (which the Ammiratis took over in 2018 and renamed in 2022) will still be open every day, serving both Luca’s authentic Southern and Erika’s equally legit Northern Italian specialties — as well as the fajita tacos, chicken sandwiches and more that made Oakley’s so popular. “And, I will still have chicken at the new location, so if you want a fried chicken sandwich, we can still help you.”
Cooking Lessons & Private Chef Service
In the 2-3 months’ time between Frammi’s closing and the new restaurant’s opening, Luca says he is offering both “Cooking Classes with the Chef” and “Private Chef Experiences.”
(Above) Chef Luca Ammirati and his wife Erika are closing Frammi, the authentic Italian & American restaurant on BBD Blvd. on Aug. 22, but are reopening it by sometime in Nov. in the Shoppes at Amberly plaza in Tampa Palms. In the meantime, Luca wants to teach you how to make delicious parmigiana di melanzana (eggplant parmigiana, below right) and semi-spicy, al dente rigatoni amatriciana (bottom right) like he does — without burning down your house! (All photos by Charmaine George) Jannah and I are already getting a group of ten people together to take lessons from Luca. For just $50 per person, each guest will learn how to make two different pasta dishes (but not how to make the fresh pasta) and Luca will provide all of the ingredients and pair each pasta with a different Italian wine, as part of a full meal. Please note that for the cooking class, since Frammi will be closed, you will have to provide the kitchen for Luca and that ten people is the magic number for that $50-per-person price. Want more? Luca also is now offering a two-hour “Private Chef Experience” for up to four people for just $200. It includes two hours of Luca’s time preparing and serving your food in your home, but the ingredients for your private meal will be charged separately. Either way, if you’ve ever had Luca’s pasta, Aztecadoro.com you know that both of these are well worth it! For more info or for reservations for the last day of the current Frammi (Aug. 22), call (813) 523-5075 or visit Frammi.com. For cooking lessons & private chef services, call Chef Luca’s cell at (813) 775-8279. — GN
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2000 Piazza Ave Unit 170, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 36 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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Two Fun Fund Raisers To Attend — ‘A Taste Of N’Awlins’ & ‘Aces & AI’ Speaking of great chefs, while my longtime friend Elliot Cazes, M.D., may not be a chef in a restaurant (at least not yet), he certainly could be — at least in one editor’s humble opinion. After Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in 2005, Elliot (a noted local OB/GYN doctor and lecturer) and I hosted a benefit to raise money to send to the victims of that brutal Category 3 (by the time it hit Louisiana) storm. I had so much fun watching Elliot create his famous chicken & andouille sausage gumbo and other N’Awlins cuisine items that I told him then, “You know you could do this for a living.” Fast forward 21 years. “Chef Elliot” is still working as a doctor, but he and his wife Pam also have been helping a wonderful organization called the “Faces of Courage Foundation,” a New Tampa-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting cancer patients and survivors. According to FacesofCourage.org, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by New Tampa resident Peggie D. Sherry in Jan. 2004, “provides day outings, educational workshops and medically supervised overnight camps for women, children and families touched by all types of cancer and blood disorders — all at no cost.” The organization’s motto is “No one faces cancer alone.” This year’s Women’s Cancer Camp, a weekend retreat sponsored by Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeff Vinik’s Vinik Family Foundation, will be held Sept. 18-20, at Rotary’s Camp Florida in Brandon. But, Elliot, who has been cooking for this incredible organization’s camps for 20 years, says that, following the passing of another major sponsor, more money is needed for this year’s camps.
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(Above) Dr./Chef Elliot Cazes will again be in the kitchen cooking up an amazing New Orleans-style feast at the “A Taste of N’Awlins” fund raiser to benefit Faces of Courage on Sunday, August 23, at the Arbor Green clubhouse. In the right photo, Chef Elliot shares a laugh with student volunteer Caroline Perry at a previous event. sary or being accepted for this event. Everyone To that end, he and Pam are hosting “A is invited — you do not have to be an Arbor Taste of N’Awlins” dining event on Sunday, August 23, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., at the Arbor Greene Greene resident to attend! Community Center (18000 Arbor Greene Dr.). “We’ll be serving my chicken and andouille Aces & AI Charity Poker Night One day after your N’Awlins feast, even gumbo (yum!), red beans & rice (double yum!) though there’s a world of online gambling sites, and assorted po-boy sandwiches (triple yum!),” Elliot says. “You can eat it there in the clubhouse if you still enjoy playing poker against other real men and women in a fun setting — with or take it to go.” Please note that, the food will be cash-only a chance to win great prizes while helping a — for only $20 per meal — although additional wonderful cause — you should consider joining the Neighborhood News crew and North Tampa donations will be accepted in cash or by check. Bay Chamber members at Shark AI Solutions’ “It’ll be good food for a great cause and a great (formerly Shark Branding Solutions) “Aces & community,” Elliot says. “We hope to see you AI” Charity Poker & Casino Night. there on the 23rd!” This fun and exciting event will be held For more info, visit FacesofCourage.org or see the ad below, but reservations are not neces- on Monday, August 24, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m., at
TrebleMakers Sports Bar & Dueling Pianos (6034 Wesley Grove Blvd., The Grove at Wesley Chapel). It will be an unforgettable evening of blackjack, poker, roulette & craps and giving back to another outstanding local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization — the Robert Noa Foundation. According to RobertNoaFoundation.com, this motocross-focused charity “Pays it Forward to the Next Generation” of riders: “We believe the lessons learned at the track carry far beyond the finish line. Robert’s life embodied dedication, humility and the pure joy of riding — and his spirit continues to inspire everyone who throws a leg over a bike. “Our mission is to honor Robert’s legacy through scholarships, mentorship and community programs. We’re not just supporting young athletes, we’re fostering a culture of perseverance, sportsmanship and heart.” Your $40 admission price (plus $4.52 processing fee) includes: a delicious TrebleMakers dinner buffet, $25 in play chips (with opportunities to re-buy), professional casino tables with experienced dealers & opportunities to both network with local businesses and win some great prizes! There also will be pro motocross riders and beautiful motocross bikes on display for photo opportunities. And, here’s more exciting news, the new “Chapel After Dark” Podcast also will be filming its first-ever episode during the event! Pre-registration is required. For more info or to purchase tickets, see the ad below or visit Eventbrite.com/e/aces-ai-charity-poker-andcasino-night-tickets-1996503011251. — GN
New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
37
Buddy Brew Is Now Open Inside The New Tampa Sprouts Farmers Market!
The question on most everyone’s mind when local, growing coffee chain Buddy Brew opened on July 29 inside the New Tampa Sprouts Farmers Market in the Village at Hunter’s Lake plaza off Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. was, “How in the world did Starbucks — located less than 200 feet from Sprouts — allow another coffee place to open in the same plaza?” The answer, according to Buddy Brew founders Dave and Susan Ward, who were on hand for the opening of Buddy Brew’s third location inside a Sprouts, was that Starbucks couldn’t actually prevent it because the new Buddy Brew is located inside the market. “All they could tell us,” Dave Ward said, “was that we couldn’t have any signage on the outside of the store. We were thrilled to open in the same plaza because we know that when Starbucks gets busy, some of those people who have never tried us before are going to come in. And, we believe that once they do try us, they might not be so quick to go back to Starbucks.” Today, Buddy Brew has eight standalone stores throughout the Tampa Bay area and in Sarasota, and will soon have ten full-service kiosks inside Sprouts locations. “It’s a great partnership for us,” Dave said. Buddy Brew’s coffee also is sold in bags in more than 1,000 supermarkets, including Publix, Whole Food and The Fresh Market. The Wards, who first met on Clearwater Beach (where Susan is originally from) and bonded over their mutual love of coffee, is a true “specialty coffee” brand, roasting some of the best “sustainably and ethically sourced” beans from all over the world in South Tampa, where the entrepreneurial couple also lives. “We’re really excited to be open here in New Tampa,” Susan said at the Grand Opening event.
(Above left) The new Buddy Brew inside the New Tampa Sprouts Farmers Market serves both hot and cold coffee and other specialty drinks. and baked goods (below left). (Above, l.-r.) Buddy Brew founders Dave & Susan Ward, with Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera, at the Buddy Brew Grand Opening & ribbon-cutting (below), which attracted a large crowd (bottom left). (All photos by Charmaine George)
“We believe this will be our busiest location inside a Sprouts store.” District 7 Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera, who said he will likely be a frequent customer, “since I live across the street, in Hunter’s Green,” was one of close to 100 people on hand to welcome the Wards and Buddy Brew to New Tampa. For more information about Buddy Brew at the New Tampa Sprouts (8620 Hunters Village Rd.), visit BuddyBrew.com. — GN
38 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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New Tampa Nibbles — Remington’s, Hummingbird, Ha Long Bay & Amo Samis Even though Wesley Chapel continues to get most of the big dining news headlines locally, the New Tampa area continues to have its share of restaurant comings and goings, too. Here are some of the more recent updates in & adjacent to New Tampa: • Remington’s Steak & Seafood (right)in the Palms Connection plaza (just west of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., at 2836 E. Bearss Ave.) has closed after only about a year in business. Owner Mark Birkin says he has been actively seeking someone who wants to partner up and put a country bar in Remington’s place. “I’m looking for someone who wants to be an active owner-operator,” Birkin says, although he added that he would consider concepts other than a country bar for the nearly 10,000-sq.ft. space — the 6,562 sq. ft. restaurant and 3,000-sq.-ft. covered outdoor patio. If interested, email RemingtonsSAS@gmail.com. • The Hummingbird Jerk House (center photo above), which is located next to Frammi American Grille & Italian Food (see story on pg. 36) at 17631 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in North Palms Village, has been closed for at least a couple of months. Owner Patrick Murrell says Hummingbird — which opened in 2019 — closed because he trying to find the right chef willing to learn his recipes so he didn’t always have to be the one cooking. Hummingbird was the only sit-down Jamaican eatery in New Tampa; there are, however, a couple of Jamaican food trucks that are usually situated in our area, including the popular Jamaican On The Go in the LA Fit-
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ness (and now, Aldi)-anchored plaza at 6411 E. County Line Rd., west of BBD. • Meanwhile, the popular, family-owned Vietnamese/Asian fusion restaurant Ha Long Bay Pho • Poke • Boba, which has been located at 20685 BBD (just south of County Line Rd.) since 2022, has added a new location — inside the Lotte Plaza Market, which has seen a lot of changes to its lineup of Asian Food Court eateries since it first opened back in 2023. Although we weren’t been able to reach the owners of the original New Tampa location — Nhan Nguyen and her husband Hai Chu — for comment before we went to press with this issue, the newer Ha Long Bay Kitchen (top right) actually opened inside Lotte almost exactly a year ago. The Lotte location doesn’t have a sushi bar, but it does offer Ha Long Bay’s popular pho, banh mi sandwiches, fried appetizers like egg rolls
and wontons, fresh summer rolls and more. The other restaurants currently inside Lotte include bb.q chicken (which has been inside the Asian market since it first opened), Koodles Korean Chinese Cuisine, Sushi Haru, Kiwa Korean BBQ & Food and DaBang Boba & Dessert. • The sign that it is “Opening Soon” has been up for several months at Amo Sami’s Shawarma (right) at the former location of Five Guys Burgers & Fries at 6431 E. County Line Rd., #114, but it finally seems that there is real progress being made on the construction of this fast-growing authentic Middle Eastern chain that started in the Metro Detroit area and now has more than 100 locations across 14 states. It is famous for its crispy “Sami-Style” pressed pita wraps and more For more info, visit AmoSamis.com. — GN
New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
39
Wright’s Gourmet House & Forbici Modern Italian Coming To Wiregrass?
After the Tampa Bay Business Journal (TBBJ) posted a story on July 20, the Neighborhood News was able to confirm that South Tampa favorite Wright’s Gourmet House is indeed coming to Wiregrass Ranch, in the open space on the north side of S.R. 56 (west of Lajuana Blvd.) between Culver’s and Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant. Property owner/Wiregrass Ranch developer JD Porter says that, “At this time, Wright’s is the only other restaurant” going in that space, but he also added that, “The pad the Wright’s people are buying is really big, so I’m sure it’s big enough for another concept as well.” Porter would neither confirm nor deny, however, what was reported online in the TBBJ on June 25, which quoted Jeff Gigante of Next
Level Brands, the owner of Forbici Modern Italian — which has extremely popular
locations in Hyde Park Village and downtown St. Petersburg — as saying that the third location of Forbici is coming to “near Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel.” Despite some subsequent claims online that Forbici will be located in the planned Fresh Market plaza on the south side of 56, across from Cooper’s Hawk, Porter says only that several announcements will be made over the next couple of weeks, and that, “All of them are pretty exciting.”
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For those who have never visited the original Wright’s Gourmet House, it has been a beloved Tampa mainstay, located at 1200 S. Dale Mabry Hwy. in South Tampa, since 1963. According to WrightsGourmet. com, Wright’s, which was founded by Marjorie and Pete Wright, was sold to the couple’s grandson, Jeff Mount, in 1981. In 2024, it was sold to the Caspers Company, another family-owned business that also operates the Oxford Exchange, Predalina, Mad Dogs & Englishmen and several other Tampa favorites. Wright’s also operates a satellite café inside Tampa General Hospital. The TBBJ story mentioned that the Caspers Company also is planning a Brandon location of Wright’s, which offers hand-crafted sandwiches (above far left), soups, salads, breakfast items and baked goods, specializing in delicious cakes, including wedding cakes (above near left). Jannah and I have stopped in at the South Tampa location a few times together over the years and not only is the food great, the vibe is definitely electric, especially at lunch time, when it seems everyone who works in South Tampa (as well as many folks from much further away) seem to know how the ordering and pick-up systems work. I have no doubt that Wright’s will be a tremendous addition to the Wiregrass Ranch area of Wesley Chapel. For more information, visit Wright’sGourmet.com or call (813) 253-3838.
About Forbici Modern Italian
Forbici has been open at 1633 W. Snow Ave. in South Tampa’s Hyde Park Village since 2019 and quickly became a favorite of the fashionable Hyde Park crowd for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Jannah and I have never eaten there, but we did stop in for a drink at the Forbici at 183 2nd
40 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
Ave. N. in downtown St. Pete (which opened in 2024), on our recent weekend visit, which was after I had seen the TBBJ story. The place was packed with well-dressed people young and old and even though we had already eaten dinner at another excellent place before we got there, when I saw an order of Forbici’s “Roy & Betty’s Linguine alle Vongole” (clams; top photo), one of my favorite Italian dishes to try everywhere, I promised Jannah that we would be back to try either (or both) of the current locations. The newer St. Pete Forbici is absolutely gorgeous inside and it was packed and kind of noisy on Saturday night at 9 or so, but no one sitting at the bar, all of whom were eating different dishes off the great menu, seemed to mind — and the food has to be the reason why. The menu is packed with oh so many of mine and Jannah’s favorite Italian dishes, with a focus on Roman-style pizzas and pastas. The traditional meatballs appetizer, the square Margherita and salsicca square pizzas (the latter with sausage, broccoli rabe, Calabrian chili and mozzarella, above), the cacio e pepe, penne pesto, rigatoni alla vodka and veal or chicken parmigiana all will be must-try items for us. There’s even a redfish picatta and a prime NY strip steak on the menu. Hopefully, Porter will continue to bring more excellent non-chain dining options to our area — as he’s promised — but these are both home runs to get the party started! For more information, visit EatForbici. com or call (813) 251-8001 for the Tampa location or (727) 661-1770 for St. Pete. — GN Neighborhood News
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Triamo — Authentic Brazilian Food In WC
The KRATE at The Grove container park in Wesley Chapel continues to add unique restaurants with a variety of cuisines from around the world. The latest to open at the KRATEs is the authentic Brazilian eatery called Triamo, which has finally opened (at 5804 Grand Oro Ln., Suite 104, next to Café Zorba). And, although it is definitely not a Brazilian steakhouse, Triamo does feature some delicious examples of Brazilian cuisine, including Cuscuz (savory steamed cornmeal cake), Tapioca (a sweet or savory stuffed flatbread that looks like a taco but is definitely different) and Salgados — crispy fried finger foods, including truly scrumptious cheese-filled pastel (the rectangular items in the upper left of the photo above right) and the also-yummy chicken-stuffed, teardrop-shaped Coxinhas (lower items in same picture). Lili, one of the owners (at left in top photo), also is proud to offer the national dish of Brazil — Feijoada (right; a savory black bean stew with pork and beef). Our new friend Michael, who visited Triamo the same day we were taking pictures there, told us he is from Brazil, and that, “Feijoada is the real deal. Very authentic — and that looks just like when I’ve had it in Brazil.” Triamo also features tasty crepes, gelato, a variety of pastries, cakes and coffee drinks, including the extra-dense (but so creamy), Brazilian-style flan and yummy café com leite (coffee with milk) shown here. There’s no doubt that Triamo is nothing like any other restaurant in New Tampa or Wesley Chapel. Please go give it a try and tell Lili and Julia (right in same top photo) that
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Gary at the Neighborhood News sent you! For more info, call (813) 465-2425 or visit triamotampa on Instagram. — GN; photos by Charmaine George & GN
New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
41
Hilton Garden Inn Celebrates ‘Christmas In July’ With Food, Santa & Fun! Congratulations to Lisa Moore (to Santa’s left), Bradley Sandler and everyone at the Hilton Garden Inn Tampa-Wesley Chapel (26640 Silver Maple Pkwy., off S.R. 56), for hosting a super-successful (and FREE!) “Christmas in July” event. “The whole idea was to let the community know that we have great rooms where we can host your next business or family holiday party,” Moore said during the event, “and a large catering menu with a wide selection of delicious food that we make in-house and everything else you need to make your party special.” The Christmas in July event had Santa Claus himself, DJ music, a premium liquor bar, lots of great raffles prizes, a charcuterie table (below), fresh fruit and hot appetizers like mini egg rolls and crab cakes, meatballs and more. To book your next party, call Moore at (813) 591-6930 or email her at lisamoore2@ hilton.com. Or, call Sandler at (813) 591-6907 or email him at bradley.sandler@hilton.com. — GN, all photos by Charmaine George
42 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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Hyatt Place Hotel Also Gets Into The Christmas Spirit With Its ‘Jingle Mingle’ We also give kudos to (l.-r. in photo below) assistant GM Brian Jackman, director of sales Lorna Petchey and GM Gerald Mandosia of the Hyatt Place Hotel Tampa-Wesley Chapel (26000 Sierra Center Blvd., Lutz) for its impressive (also FREE) “Jingle Mingle,” which featured amazing samples of foods you can get from the hotel’s in-house catering department — like pomegranate-glazed, mint chimichurri lamb chops (right), extra large shrimp cocktail (below center), mini-beef Wellingtons and mini-crab cakes, a S’mores station — plus holiday-themed cocktails (The Grinch, Mrs. Claus Punch & more), a DJ and both Santa and Mrs. Claus (far right) in the hotel’s beautiful Sierra Conference Center ballroom that you can — and should — reserve for your upcoming holiday party. For more info, call Lorna Petchey at (813) 803-5600. — GN; photos by Charmaine George
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New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
43
Bhimavaram Ruchulu Indian Cuisines Opens In Former Rice N’ Beans Express Spot! Like many of you, I have been waiting to see what restaurant was going to replace the former Rice N’ Beans Express located at 24726 S.R. 54 in Lutz for some time. Well, the wait is over, as owner Kumaravel (he goes by Kumar) Chinnthambi opened his second location of Bhimavaram Ruchulu (BR) Indian Cuisine in late July at that location and photographer Charmaine George and I have found it be excellent, following our first visit. Kumar, who is from the southern part of India, opened his original location of BR at 10938 N. 56th St. in Temple Terrace more than a year ago, and has now brought his sizable menu of (mostly) southern Indian cuisine to a beautifully redecorated restaurant closer to Wesley Chapel. Charmaine and I started our meal with two appetizers, the very spicy (Kumar admits that most of his food is on the spicier side, which pretty much what South Indian cuisine is mostly known for ) Gobi 65 (Hyd, or Hyderabad style) fried cauliflower (top photo below), and the only semi-spicy (but also semi-sweet) Chicken Manchurian (right), which is coated in a thick, ginger-garlic soy gravy that we agreed was truly delicious. The chicken stayed nice and crisp, too. We followed that up with the dish we both agreed was our favorite of the day, the creamy and delicious Paneer (Indian cheese) Tikka Masala (far right), which had only a hint of spice. We also tried both the Chili Garlic (below right) and Garlic Naan bread and we agreed that we preferred the only medium-spicy Chili Garlic version, especially dipped in the tomato-rich Tikka Masala sauce. And, of course, we had to try the not-overly-spicy BR Special Boneless Chicken Biryani (below right), which has most of the tasty shreds of chicken hidden near the bottom of the bowl. We didn’t try any of BR’s Tandoor oven specialties (like the Tandoor whole white fish; bottom), but Kumar says BR Indian Cuisines is known for its freshly ground authentic South Indian spices and traditional recipes. “We proudly prepare a wide variety of authentic vegetarian and non-vegetarian South Indian dishes using fresh ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques. We also specialize in catering for large parties, family gatherings, corporate events, weddings and other special occasions” All I can tell you is that the food is delicious, the place is really pretty inside and we will be back! For more info about Bhimavaram Ruchulu in Lutz, call (813) 388-5972. For the Temple Terrace BR, call (813) 280-9698. Or, visit BRIndianCuisines.com. — GN; all photos (except the whole fish) by Charmaine George
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44 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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Go Check Out The New Hummus Republic In The Hub At Lexington! If you like both Mediterranean cuisine and crafting your own Chipotle-style bowls and wraps, you now have two options in the Wesley Chapel area. We told you online a few weeks ago that the first of two Wesley Chapel-area CAVA locations had opened in the former location of MOD Pizza on the south side of S.R. 56, but the new Hummus Republic also is now open at 26962 Halter Loop (off Wesley Chapel Blvd.), in the still-developing The Hub at Lexington plaza. The Neighborhood News crew has now sampled nearly the entire menu at Hummus Republic, a California-based company founded in 2012 by Nir Giat which features tasty bowls, pita and wrap sandwiches, spicy crispy chicken and veggie “burgers” and more. There literally are so many base, protein, veggie and topping options that you never have to have the same meal twice! Owners Annu (at left in top photo, with shift lead Milaika Perez) and her husband Ashish (Ash) Kumar opened their Hummus Republic franchise (now one of 50+ locations in 17 states) on July 20 and Jannah, photographer Charmaine George and I have already dined there three times. Jannah’s favorites are the bowls (right). She has gotten a mix of the available bases both times, including kale, spinach and a “Farmers Mix” of different leafy veggies. You also can choose Mediterranean couscous, warm garbanzo beans (aka chick peas) and my favorite base, tasty yellow rice, to start off any bowl or sandwich. Jannah also has tried both the lemon chicken and crispy chicken for her bowls, although you also can choose chicken shawarma or beef & lamb gyro meat, falafel (ground, fried spiced chickpeas), shitake mushroom shawarma or a “Street Mix” of fried onions, olives and jalapeños as your protein. You can choose up to two of these proteins for your bowl, pita or wrap, but I suggest getting one at a time because the portions of proteins aren’t particularly large. You can even add up to three different types of hummus and other spreads and I will say that I have enjoyed the traditional and roasted eggplant hummus options the most, but there’s also harissa (which adds fiery and smoky chili paste to the traditional blend of mashed chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice and olive
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oil) and Kalamata olive hummus and a “Zesty Feta” spread that Annu says has been most of her early customers’ favorite, even though it costs $1.25 extra to add it to your creation. There are 16 available toppings and you can add an unlimited number of them. These include chopped tomatoes, cucumbers and red onion toppings, as well as red or white cabbage, beets, corn, hot cherry peppers, artichoke hearts, fried eggplant, fried jalapeños and Jannah’s favorites — the crumbled feta and unique chickpea croutons. (Note-Some of these do come with a $0.50 upcharge). You also can add a side of two dolmades (grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs & spices) for $1 more. There also are six different dressings and you can add any two of them without an upcharge. My favorites so far are the creamy tzatziki and garlic jalapeño tahini, but there also are two different hot sauces, plus traditional tahini and a lemon & olive oil sauce.
I have tried both a pita (below right) and a wrap and I am definitely partial to the beef & lamb gyro meat, although I did also enjoy the delicately spiced chicken shawarma. Charmaine’s favorite so far has been the chicken burger (above far right), which comes with sliced tomatoes, white cabbage, Street Mix, tahini and Moroccan hot sauce. There’s also a Greek (beef & lamb gyro) sandwich and the “Earth Burger,” which is made with a crispy falafel patty. All of these sandwiches are served with your choice of waffle-style sweet potato fries or Jannah’s favorite — the pita chips. Hummus Republic also has specials like pita nachos, pita chips & hummus and “street style” sweet potato fries, as well as a side of up to five hummuses and spreads. Beverages include a chocolatey tahini shake blended with vanilla ice cream and almond milk, plus a variety of lemonade flavors, including pomegranate, ginger turmeric and strawberry lychee and more. To place an order or for more info, visit TheHummusRepublic. com or call (813) 3882998 and please tell Annu and her friendly crew that Gary from the Neighborhood News sent you! — GN, all photos by Charmaine George New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
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___ REAL ESTATE & OFFICE___ __ Here Are Our Classified Ad Rates: New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Classifieds Leyla Alkanat, REALTOR®, Century 21. (All Classified ads run in both New Tampa & HOME IMPROVEMENT
JUNK HAULING SERVICE! We handle all types of furniture removal: bdrm sets, chairs, mattresses & box springs, hot water heaters, hot tubs, take apart & remove, constrctn. material, remove carpet, estate, eviction, yard, garage & attic clean-outs, ofc, home & factory. Comm’l/ res’l. GorillaJunkremovalExperts.com. For appts, call/text Nigel @ 888-346-5865. WESLEY CHAPEL PRESSURE WASHING, LLC. Over 20 years of experience. Driveways • Sidewalks • Soft Wash • Homes • Enclosures • Roofs • Fences • Patios • Lanais • Paver Sealing. Experience the difference that only a professional can deliver. Call 813.433.6015 or visit WesleyChapelPressureWashing.com. FLOORING- Luxury Vinyl Plank Installed! Buy anywhere, we will install it!. $1.69/sq. ft. (over 300 sq.ft.). Regular-size bedroom - $399, We will haul away carpet/tack strip & move major furniture pieces. Repairs, too! Call for free estimate 813-417-7689. Let’s save some $! BATHROOM & KITCHEN REMODELING. Top-quality, prof’l, licensed, & insured contractors. Family owned & operated for over 30 years. We take the hassle out of remodeling. Call Ken of Hangliter Residential for an estimate. 813-460-4548.
___CLEANING SERVICES __ AFFORDABLE & PROF’L CLEANING SVCS. We offer resid’l & comm’l cleaning, including basic, deep & move-in/out. Choose from one-time, weekly, biweekly or monthly. Detailed, dependable service at affordable prices, 15 years of exp. & many references. Your home deserves to shine! Call or text Mila for a FREE estimate: (813) 516-3554. CLEANSWEEP CLEANING CO, LLC. Fully licensed/bonded, 8 years exp, satisfaction guarantd. Prof’l staff. On-time. We can bring our own products or use yours, if you prefer. Christian-based, family-owned company that lives in New Tampa, serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Call (813) 340-0908 for a no-obligation free quote. Ask for John. PATY CLEANING SERVICE. Comm’l or resid’l cleaning service. We have our own supplies & 10 years of experience. Free estimates. Call 813 790-8715 or email paty8624@proton.me.
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TREES - Delivered and planted. Wholesale pricing. All varieties. Residential & commercial. Call Chuck for pricing & availability @ 503-866-3813. Tree Promotions.
MISCELLANEOUS
JUNIE B’S PUPPY PARLOR: Mobile dog grooming serving the Wesley Chapel, New Tampa, Dade City, San AntoniO & Zephyrhills areas! Providing one-on-one, cage-free care for your pet. We cater to their grooming needs with the convenience of bringing our pet salon to your door! Call/text Rylie at 813-546-1057! HUGHES SCHOOL OF MUSIC is now accepting new students! Study Saxophone, Piano, Music Production, Composition or Theory w/a Master of Music. Zoom sessions also avail.! Contact us at 813-748-3216. _COMPUTER SERVICES
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Professional Tech support in your home or small business. A+ Certified Comp. Tech w/30 years of experience. Maintenance& Repairs. Upgrades & Tutoring. More Affordable than large chains. Friendly, personalized svc. Technical jargon explained in simple terms. Remote Assistance & refs. avail. For appointments & more info, call Brian at (813) 957-8342. DO YOU HATE YOUR COMPUTER?!? WE CAN HELP YOU! Troubleshooting, Installation, Networking & Virus Removal. WE COME TO YOU! Residences & Businesses, more than 25-Years Experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank at 813-973-4507, visit WSICA.COM or email Wsica@wsica.com.
Ready to Make a Move? Whether you’re a 1st-time buyer or seasoned investor, I make the process seamless & successful w/expert market knowledge, personalized svc & negotiating skills, I’ll help you achieve your real estate goals. Let’s find the perfect property for you! Hablo Español! Email LeylaAlkanat@c21be3.com
Steven Kessel, REALTOR® w/Future Home Realty, Inc., has created just for you, the most advanced, up-to-date, user-friendly propty search engine for homes for sale in the Tampa Bay & Central Fla area — & it’s FREE to use & enjoy. BuyYourDreamHome.com.
__ TRANSPORTATION
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ELITE RIDES. Private rides in a sanitized 2026 Tesla, plus concierge services. Airport, medical appointments, etc. Courteous, reliable, professional. New Tampa to Tampa Int’l Airport - $50. Cory Lake Isles resident. For more info, call or text 813.765.2037.
Wesley Chapel & can not be longer than 60 words, with no photos or graphics) 7 issues (3 months) — $150 13 issues (6 months) — $250 26 issues (One Year) — $400
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� The ONLY Publication Directly Mailed to / I 1 w---•a..r ...............,"'.� 30,000* Homes & 80,000 people in Zip Code 33647!
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46 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net • For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575
47
48 For Advertising Information, Call 813-910-2575 • New Tampa Neighborhood News • Volume 34, Issue 17 • August 18, 2026 • NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net
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