New Tampa Neighborhood News, Volume 34, Issue 3, February 3, 2026

Wharton’s Christi Atkinson Is Hillsborough’s Teacher Of The Year!

By Gary Nager

When you’re among more than 200 nominees for an award like “Teacher of the Year” — which alone is a wonderful accomplishment — it’s a truly incredible honor to be selected as one of only five finalists for that award.

But, to be chosen as the 2026 “Teacher of the Year” for Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) and be eligible for the same honor for the entire State of Florida, well, that has to be overwhelming.

When her name was announced as this year’s winner, it was obvious that Wharton High Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) chemistry teacher and school Science Dept. head Christi Atkinson was stunned. Not only were the other four finalists at this year’s “Excellence in Education” awards ceremony — held a(on Jan. 22) gain at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Tampa — equally qualified to win the award, the stories told by each finalist’s student escort could bring anyone to tears.

Christi, who was escorted by Wharton senior Lauren Galfond, has all the credentials — B.S. degree in Marine Biology from Texas A&M University at Galveston, M.Ed. degree in Physical Education from the University of Houston, a HCPS teacher for

“INFLUENCER,” EH?

14 years, the last nine at Wharton, where she has been the Science Dept. head the last four years. She is a member of the Florida Marine Science Educators Assn., a sponsor of the Science National Honor Society and has trained with the Florida Aquarium, the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and renowned marine wildlife artist Guy Harvey . And, she has financed field trips for her students — the Southwest Florida Water

Our editor tries to define what an “influencer” is & figure out if he qualifies as one. See page 3

throws his hat into the ring for a countywide County Commission seat.

See page 4

Management District, the Hillsborough Education Foundation, Guy Harvey and Target.

But, do her qualifications (including being Wharton’s nominee for the second year in a row) make Christi more deserving of this year’s honors than this year’s other four finalists — Davidsen Middle math teacher Melissa DeGusipe, Westchase Elementary third grade teacher Francesca Doran, Hill Middle math teacher Tracy Moore or Kenly

WESLEY CHAPEL 2026

Check out (almost) everything coming to New Tampa’s northern neighbor this year. See pages 6-13

Elementary Kindergarten teacher Rochelle Phillips?

Certainly the entire school population at Wharton, as Lauren so aptly put it during her introduction, believed Christi deserved to win:

“Science has never been my strongest subject, but I found success in Ms. Atkinson’s class. Her teaching style is engaging, supportive and effective. She builds genuine relationships, which makes her

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So, What Actually Qualifies Someone To Be An ‘Influencer?’

An Editorial by GARY NAGER

Before this past year, the only people I had ever heard of who were referred to as “influencers” were national and worldwide celebrities.

But, as the months went by in 2025, it seemed that half the people I met whenever Jannah, Charmaine and I would visit a new restaurant for the first time were either calling themselves or, more often, being referred to by the owners of those restaurants as “influencers.” Several were actually invited to be there to help the restaurants announce their respective openings, while yours truly had to drive by the places months before they were set to open, write about them multiple times and follow up still more times in order to attend their soft openings, “Friends & family” pre-openings or the actual openings of the places.

When I’ve asked some of these restaurant owners why they invited some of these influencers — many of whom I’ve had really nice chats with at these events; some of whom have even told me they’re “fans” of mine, the Neighborhood News or both — at least three or four restaurant owners have told me, “We always try to invite local influencers to help get the word out for us.” O.K.

Hey, I know I’m old school, but I can see now why so many young people are iPhonerecording every moment of their lives in an effort to become influencers. But, since I didn’t have any idea how many of them actually qualify for the title — or what criteria actually makes them able to qualify for it — I decided to do a little Google/ AI searching to try to find out what those criteria are and whether or not I and the Neighborhood News already meet those qualifications.

Here’s what I found:

Key Characteristics of an Influencer:

Authority/Expertise: They are seen as knowledgeable or an expert in a specific field. √

Audience & Reach: They have a dedicated following on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc. (OK, not so much, at least not yet)

Trust & Authenticity: Followers trust their recommendations & value their perspective. √

Niche Focus: They typically focus on a particular interest area (e.g.,New Tampa?) √

Content Creation: They consistently produce engaging, entertaining/informative content. √

Engagement: They actively interact with their community, building relationships. √

Impact: Their endorsements or opinions can sway followers’ behaviors and buying choices, making them valuable partners for brands. √

Types of Influencers by Follower Count:

Nano Influencers – 1k-10k followers. Nano influencers have a following ranging from 1,000-10,000 followers and are considered to be mid-tier influencers. Influencers in this category can earn anywhere from $50 to $250 per sponsored post. (Ummm, no!)

Micro Influencers – 10k-100k followers. Micro influencers are defined as having between 10k-100k followers. Despite having a larger following than nano influencers, they still manage to maintain a similar “relatability” or “authenticity” factor. Which, in turn, means they still have high engagement rates. Often,

influencer (noun)

1. A person or thing that influences another. “He was a champion of the arts and a huge influencer of taste.”

2. A person who has become well known through regular social media posts and is able to promote a product or service by recommending or using it online.

Source: Oxford Language

micro influencers fall into a particular niche or influencer category that can be specific to a particular location, job, or hobby. √

Most of the local influencers I’ve looked up fall into one of these first two categories. The difference between them and us is that they have

more followers on TikTok or Instagram (IG) than we do, although our Facebook numbers (17,000+ followers) would put us in the “Micro” category — if Facebook even “counts.” We only started attempting to increase our Instagram following about four months ago, and we’ve increased our number of IG followers from about 100 at that time to more than 700 today

At any rate, I’m proud that we had nearly 3 million views of our 350 Facebook posts in 2025, led by our top-10 posts of the year in this chart.

And that doesn’t include the number of you who still read — and dare I say, are “influenced” by us the old-fashioned way — by holding our publications in your hands and reading them.

You’re still the main reason so many advertisers are willing to spend money with us in a supposedly dead medium — so, thank you!

OUR

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Dr. Neil Manimala Is Running For Hillsborough County Commissioner

By Gary Nager

Over the past few months, we’ve introduced you to a couple of candidates who hope to replace District 7 Tampa City Council member Luis Viera in 2027.

There is an important mid-term election coming up later this year, however, so when Luis introduced me to local urologist Dr. Neil Manimala at a recent event in New Tampa and told me that Neil was running for the countywide District 5 Hillsborough County Commission seat currently occupied by Republican incumbent Donna Cameron Cepeda, I knew I wanted to talk to Neil about what made a successful doctor decide that he wanted to serve the public in a completely different way.

A lot of politicians will say that they’re running “for the right reasons,” but if you spent 90 minutes with Neil, the way I did a couple of weeks ago, you’d believe the way I do that his heart is 100% in the right place and that he genuinely plans to serve all constituents on both sides of the aisle in Hillsborough County.

First, A Little Background

Now 35 years old, Neil was raised in Valrico, even though his parents were both from Kerala in southern India and emigrated to the U.S. in the 1980s. His parents raised Neil and his younger brother Nevin Catholic and he graduated from the King High International Baccalaureate program before attending USF.

He met his wife Rachel, a traveling registered nurse, online when she had just moved back to the area from Orlando. Rachel’s parents live in Easton Park in New Tampa, so Neil has spent a lot of time in our area and knows it well. The Manimalas recently welcomed their first child, their daughter Mariam, into the world.

Neil says that when he first went to USF, he was thinking about becoming an engineer. “I have a lot of respect for the computationally gifted folks, like my brother, who lives for statistics,” he told me, “but I realized that just wasn’t for me.”

He also thought about going into research. “I did a bunch of work at Moffitt and my mentor at the time was an M.D./Ph.D.,” Neil said, “but when I shadowed him seeing patients, the first patient we saw, about 20 years ago, was a guy who had lung cancer and, unfortunately, it was terminal. He had been under treatment by my mentor for about two years and it was during that visit that my mentor told him there was nothing

more they could do, that they had exhausted all of the treatment options available at that time. The patient and his wife were in tears, but you could tell during that encounter that, despite the terrible news, they were glad that it was my mentor who delivered it — that even though the chance of a cure was shot, there was still dignity to be had. That’s when I realized that I wasn’t meant to be doing research behind a bench. I wanted to have that human-to-human interaction.”

He said he realized pretty early on that, “Even though you’re seeing some people during some of the darkest days of their lives — whether being told they have cancer or that their child had passed away — you also get to see people having some of the brightest days of their lives, hearing that their cancer is cured or that they can have kids again. That’s a huge gift.”

Neil says that his first taste of “politics” was in student government while in medical school in USF. “I was in one of the last cohorts in med school at the main Tampa campus before we moved to Water St. downtown, and my student government group was very instrumental, from the student perspective, in shaping that campus.”

Neil also did his residency with USF, but he was still in med school when he met Dr. Steven Specter (who isn’t an M.D., but has a Ph.D. in virology), who became another one of Neil’s mentors.

“I remember student government was advocating for more student parking spots at the med school and I said, ‘Dr. Specter, I’m just sick and tired of politics.’ And, he told me ‘Neil, as long as you have two or three people sitting in a room, you’re going to have politics. You have to find a way to navigate the politics to help the people who matter most to you.” And, for me, that’s the people of Hillsborough County.”

Hillsborough Health Care Plan

Neil also told me that one of the things that he plans to continue fighting for, that he first learned about while in residency, is the Hillsborough County Health Care Plan (HCHCP) through USF, which was originally funded by a half-cent ad valorem property tax but is now primarily funded by a sales tax.

But, with state lawmakers discussing rolling back property taxes this year, there is growing concern about the long-term stability of HCHCP, even though it isn’t still funded by property taxes.

“There are people ‘on the margins’ in this county who would never have access to top-of-theline specialty physician care without that plan,” Neil said. “I currently serve on the Board overseeing that plan, which is how I first got into working with the county government. But, [HCHCP] has won awards nationwide for how it’s been taking care of people, and conservative estimates say that, for every dollar put into it, [the plan] brings back a return of $1.50 for all taxpayers. So, one of my priorities, if elected, will be to ensure it continues to be funded.”

Neil also is a supporter of improving public transportation. He told me that, “HART is the most underfunded public transportation agency in any major city. That’s an embarrassment. I hope to be able to work to build it out, rather than cut more routes, so that we are able to have some sort of regional bus rapid transit system.” He added that he remembers when then-Gov. Rick Scott turned down $2.4 billion in Federal funds for a high-speed rail connection between Tampa and Orlando.

“But, we need that kind of connection now, Neil said. “Just adding lanes to roadways creates what’s called ‘induced demand’ to build more homes and fill those lanes. Lane expansion should

just be one tool in the toolbox, not the only tool.”

He also believes that if the goal is to get vehicles off our roadways, “Why don’t we use our waterways? There was a plan that would have created a ferry to connect East County with MacDill Air Force Base, which would take 2,000 cars off the road every day. But, it got axed because some people on the County Commission disagreed ideologically with the people who proposed the plan.”

He also said that, despite the partisan wave dominating state government, he hopes to, “build something sustainable where every citizen of this county sees that there’s something worth paying attention to on a local level. Let’s take care of all of our people and leave the partisan politics to Washington and Tallahassee.”

Before deciding to run for elected office himself, Neil helped a couple of candidates with their campaigns, including New Tampa resident and 2024 County Commission candidate Patricia Alonzo, who lost her bid to unseat long-time District 2 incumbent Ken Hagan.“Patricia is a good person, but she was running against a local powerhouse and got into the race late,” Neil said. “I have a lot of respect for Ken and, when he first ran, he had a one-year-old at home, so there are some parallels between us.”

He added, however, “While there are downsides to being in power for two decades, there’s also something to be said about having institutional knowledge about your job.”

Neil also said that even though the County Commission is currently five Republicans to two Democrats, “there are current Republican commissioners, including Hagan, that I know I can work with to find common ground on important issues.” He also said that as a countywide candidate, he knows he has to appeal and answer to all 1.6 million people in the county, and he’s off to a great start — he doesn’t have a primary opponent and he’s secured endorsements from people like Dist. 14 U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, State House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell and Viera.

He’s also dominating the fund-raising side of his race, having raised more than $121,000 so far, compared with just $6,000 raised by Cepeda’s campaign. But, when Cepeda beat Mariella Smith for the Dist. 5 seat in 2022, Smith also out-raised Cepeda by a wide margin.

“I know money isn’t enough to win,” he said. “I also am getting out there to talk to people. I’m running to serve all of you.”

To find out more about Neil Manimala or donate to his campaign, visit NeilManimala.com.

students feel seen, supported and capable. As I prepare to graduate and pursue a career in education, I’m inspired by Ms. Atkinson. She doesn’t just teach science, she teaches confidence and community and inspires joy in her students every day. And, that is why I believe she truly embodies everything a Teacher of the Year should be. I hope I will have the same impact on my own students.”

Like the top-level educator she is, Christi was prepared, despite her obvious shock at being named this year’s winner:

“Thank you so much for this incredible honor of being the Teacher of the Year for Hillsborough Public Schools. Ever since I was nominated for Wharton, I found myself reflecting on all of the people who have shaped me, supported me and lifted me up along the way. And honestly, how do you thank all of them?

“First, my wonderful family — my husband Dave and my twin boys, Cristopher and Mikel. Thank you for your patience through the late nights of grading and lesson planning.”

Christi went on to thank all of other fellow Wharton science teachers. “I am so grateful to work alongside you. You are such dedicated, creative and caring educators. It’s an honor to represent you tonight. Your collaboration, your passion and your commitment to our students inspire me every single day.

“I also often think about the students who take a moment to say thank you. Those simple, heartfelt words remind us why we do this — that feeling of knowing you’ve made a

difference in a child’s life is truly priceless.

“Thank you, Lauren, for being my escort tonight. You are a wonderful representative of the students who go out of their way and show us the impact that we sometimes don’t even realize that we make, from the bottom of my heart.

“Thank you to the District, the entire committee, and the sponsors of tonight’s ceremony. I am deeply honored and incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported me on this journey.

“I accept this honor on behalf of every teacher who works tirelessly for our students. Teaching matters. Let’s keep investing in our students, because together we change lives.”

And, although New Tampa’s schools didn’t have any other finalists this year, last year’s New Tampa winners — Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Antonyia McCray of Freedom High and Instructional Support Employee of the Year Bonnie Walters of Tampa Palms Elementary — both got to introduce this year’s finalists in their respective categories.

Once again, an amazing night. Congrats, Christi. Let’s take home the State honor next!

Here’s (Almost) Everything Coming To Wesley Chapel In 2026!

New Hospital & Other Medical Facilities, YMCA, Widened Roadways & So Much More On The Way!

When I was at the University of Florida, I was stuck in construction traffic with my summer roommate, who looked at the 30-minute delay and stated proudly:

“Ahh, progress. I love it!”

I had no idea what he was talking about then, but I definitely do now.

As 2025 was ending, I mentioned to Jannah that what I should do is attempt to update all of the new buildings coming on line this year, all of the road projects that may or may not be completed and all of the new residential “stuff” that is expected to open in our area.

I enlisted the help of my outstanding researcher/correspondent Joel Provenzano, but even with Joel’s help, I realized that there was no way I was going to be able to provide updates on all of those projects — but I was still determined to tell you about as many of them as possible in this issue.

I am quite aware, however, that not everyone who reads this publication and/or our online posts is as enamored with progress as my old college roommate was — or as I am now.

Yes, Wesley Chapel is already crowded. The traffic already stinks and is likely to get worse before it gets better — if it ever will. The road projects (Wesley Chapel Blvd. between the S.R. 54/56 junction and Exit 279 off I-75) and Old Pasco Rd. — both of which have made significant progress but won’t be finished anytime soon (most likely not even this year) will likely be overrun with additional traffic as soon as they open. And, where will all of the people who keep heading our way live? How much more packed will our malls and restaurants be and how much more impatient can our drivers possibly become when all of this new “stuff” opens?

Ahh, progress. I love it —

even if not everyone who reads all of these updates agrees with me.

At any rate, on pages 8-13 of this issue, you’ll find more updates than I personally have ever done or seen in any single publication. But, as I said earlier in this story, I

also know that I have not covered everything that’s still coming (and immediately adjacent) to Wesley Chapel in 2026, so feel free to let me know what I’ve left out.

I also want to thank the amazing Charmaine George for all of the drone photos

and most of the other pictures in this feature. We drove around the area for many days and I still kept coming up with more places we forgot. At any rate, feel free to let me know what you think. — GN

Wesley Chapel 2026 — Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health Wiregrass Ranch Hospital

Hospital That Will One Day Be The Largest In Wesley Chapel Gets Ready To Open Apr. 21 With A Hiring Event

With everything that’s coming to Wesley Chapel this year, perhaps the biggest addition is the Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health Wiregrass Ranch Hospital (right), which has tabbed Tuesday, April 21, as its scheduled opening date.

The new hospital — the third in Wesley Chapel (AdventHealth WC and BayCare WC are the others) will open with 102 beds, with room to expand to 300 beds in the future, which would make it Wesley Chapel’s largest.

In anticipation of the hospital’s opening, Pasco Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, located less than a half-mile away from the facility, hosted a hiring event which attracted hundreds of potential employees — everyone from nurses and nursing support professionals to allied health and support staffers.

We also got to meet many of the hospital’s team leaders, including (l.-r. in the photo below right) talent acquisition manager Richard Pelaia, chief nursing officer and assistant vice president Susan Dolezal, chief financial officer and assistant VP Tanya Knepp, director of human resources Jennifer Alexander and Richard Matte, the assistant VP of business development & non-clinical operations.

Charmaine also got drone photos of the cleared land for the two large medical office buildings to be built on the hospital’s campus (right), which should begin going vertical soon. Wiregrass Ranch Also Is Adding...

But, while the hospital will be the single largest addition to open in Wiregrass Ranch this year, there are multiple other projects that are expected to be completed and open in the 5,000-acre property owned by the Porter Family Trust.

We told you about the 46,000-sq.-ft. Wiregrass Medical Plaza (bottom left photo) being developed by Flagship Healthcare Properties (in conjunction with the Porters’ Locust

Wiregrass Medical Plaza

Branch Development) last issue, which will have Florida E.N.T. as its anchor tenant.

What we didn’t know about at that time, is the two-story, 50-bed in-patient injury rehabilitation facility that will be called Encompass Health Rehab Hospital being constructed by Brasfield & Gorrie (below), across from the Wiregrass Medical Plaza, closer to S.R. 56. Both of these buildings are separate from the Orlando Health hospital’s medical buildings.

We also told you back in October about the Arcadia at Wiregrass Ranch apartments, the 320-unit luxury rental community now under construction behind the planned Publix near the intersection of S.R. 54 and Wiregrass Ranch Blvd., across from Walmart. As you can see in the photo bottom right, those apartments have now gone vertical, too.

Much closer to completion, however, is the 50,000-sq.ft. Post Acute Medical (PAM) Rehabilitation Hospital (top photo on next page) directly to the north of the Amberlin apartments on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. We first told you about PAM Rehab in March of 2024 and although the building is looking pretty close to being completed, we were not yet able to find out a planned opening date for it — but we’ll keep you posted.

Also not too far from being completed is the Ace Medical Plaza, a 15,000-sq.-ft. medical office building located between the entrance to Amberlin and BBD, across from Eagleston Blvd.

Also Coming In 2026 To Wiregrass Ranch: Arcadia Wiregrass Apartments

Encompass Health Rehab Hospital

What we sadly don’t have yet is the information pretty much everyone really wants — the name(s) of the upscale restaurant(s) that will be built next to Cooper’s Hawk and when the selection of the contractor and the construction of Legacy at Wiregrass Ranch, the community’s “downtown hub,” will begin. Hopefully, we’ll have that information by sometime later this year, but we’re pretty sure that those highly-anticipated developments will not be completed by the end of 2026. — GN Do You Have Questions About Medicare? I’ve Got Answers!

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Wesley Chapel 2026 — Mary W. Sierra YMCA & Wesley Chapel Seven Oaks Library

As you can see in the top photo on this page, the 49,319-sq.-ft. building that will one day be home to the Mary W. Sierra Family YMCA in Seven Oaks (just south of BayCare Wesley Chapel Hospital, at the intersection of Bruce B. Downs Blvd. & Eagleston Blvd.) is getting pretty close to completion.

As you also can see, however, the additional 36,000-sq.-ft. outdoor aquatic center, although clearly outlined in the photo, is nowhere near as close to being done. As we reported back in June 0f 2025, the $35-million YMCA’s aquatic center will be home to three pools — a covered 25-yard, 8-lane, 4,465-sq.ft. competition pool, a 1,229 -sq.-ft. therapy pool, and a 2,625-sq.-ft. “main pool” with interactive water features and slide structure, pool equipment area and pool deck with shade coverings.

And of course, there are plenty of features and activities planned for inside the YMCA that will still take time once the building, aquatic center and parking areas have been finalized, so the YMCA that is being named for the wife of Bob Sierra, who already has a local YMCA named for him (the Bob Sierra YMCA in Northdale) is likely right on time to open, as planned, sometime this summer.

Meanwhile, back in September of 2023, we first told you about the planned Wesley Chapel Seven Oaks Library, a 13,000-sq.-ft., $11-million library that we were originally told could be completed by as

early as sometime before the end of 2025.

Well, although that didn’t happen, the new library is pretty close to being completed and ready to open. In fact, at our press time, the official website PascoLibraries.org said, “The final stages of the library are underway! The library is now furnished with new bookshelves — soon to be filled with lots of books, DVDs, games, audiobooks and more. Stay tuned on our social media for an official opening date soon.”

Hopefully, we’ll find out more about the library’s planned “makerspaces” soon, too.

District 2 Pasco County Commissioner Seth Weightman said that the staffing costs for the new library located on Mystic Oak Blvd. are in the 2026 budget, so he agreed that the opening date should be announced “soon.” Comm. Weightman said he would try to provide me with an opening date before we went to press with this issue, but at our press time, had not yet gotten back to me.

No Update On Sam’s Club Gas Pumps

Speaking of Seven Oaks, one of the updates we were hoping to have for this issue was news about the possible expansion and reconfiguration of the often-impossible-tonavigate fuel station at the front of the Sam’s Club on S.R. 56 that we first told you about back in 2023.

But, as we said back in Aug. 2025, it still appears that the gas pump expansion is (unfortunately) off the table for now. — GN

Seven Oaks Mixed-Use Apartment Project Moves Closer To Reality Next To Sam’s Club

By Joel Provenzano Neighborhood News Correspondent

More than three years after it was first reported that a developer had finally secured approval for the long-discussed Seven Oaks mixed-use apartment project just north of S.R. 56 and east of Ancient Oaks Blvd., new details indicate that construction on the long-vacant land next to the Wesley Chapel Sam’s Club could begin at any time.

The mixed-use development, currently referred to in Pasco County documents as “Seven Oaks Parcel S-19 Multifamily,” is planned for the still-empty lot immediately adjacent to the Sam’s Club parking lot (see map)

While the project does not yet have an official marketing name, its scope and design are now firmly in place.

According to recently submitted plans, the developer applied for a site development placard in November 2025, signaling that the project has cleared most major hurdles and is eligible to move forward.

Final construction plans were submitted to the county at the beginning of 2026, another key milestone that positions the project for an imminent groundbreaking.

The Seven Oaks Parcel S-19 project will span approximately 10.6 acres and feature a blend of residential and commercial space designed to complement the rapidly developing S.R. 56 corridor.

Plans call for two four-story buildings containing a total of 320 apartments — 188 one-bedroom/studio, 113 two-bedroom and 19 three-bedroom apartments. Similar to The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel project, the apartments will all sit above ground-floor commercial space, creating a walkable, truly mixed-use environment.

The commercial component will include approximately nine flexible retail or office ground-floor suites, located on the north side of Building 2A (see site map), totaling 26,099 square feet. These spaces are expected to attract a mix of small shops, professional services or (hopefully, at least from our standpoint) dining options that will cater to both residents and nearby shoppers.

A number of amenities are a major part of the project’s design. A central swimming pool will be located in the middle of Building 1, providing a shared outdoor space for all residents. Building 2A will include a four-story parking garage, helping to manage traffic and reduce surface parking.

In total, the site will provide 610 parking spaces, exceeding minimum requirements to accommodate residents, visitors and commercial tenants alike.

The land has remained vacant for years, despite its prime location — just steps from Sam’s Club and minutes from I-75.

When the Neighborhood News first reported on the project in Nov. 2022 in an

article entitled “Developer Finally Gets Approval for Seven Oaks Project,” many residents expressed cautious optimism that the property would finally be put to use after it first met with significant pushback — and the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners had placed a moratorium on new apartments in the Wesley Chapel area.

Now, with permits for the project advancing and construction authorization in place, that optimism appears to be increasingly justified.

While no official groundbreaking date has yet been announced, county records suggest construction could begin at any time, now that the site development placard has been requested.

Seven Oaks Parcel S-19 Multifamily, located between Sam’s Club and S.R. 56, east of Ancient Oaks Blvd., may finally be ready to move forward with a mixed-use residential/commercial project. (Map source: Pasco County, modified by NN)

Once under way, this mixed-use project is expected to bring new housing options, additional commercial services and increased activity to one of Wesley Chapel’s already-busy central intersections.

And, as growth along S.R. 56 continues, the Seven Oaks Parcel S-19 development represents another significant step in

the area’s transformation from suburban crossroads to a denser, more urban-style commercial and residential hub.

Residents can expect to see additional updates in these pages as construction begins and leases for the commercial tenants are announced.

Wesley Chapel 2026 — The Hub At Lexington Restaurants & More To Begin Opening Soon!

Bonchon Korean & Hummus Republic Added To The Hub At Lexington Lineup; Grand Opening Event To Be Announced

Have you driven by The Hub at Lexington recently? If it looks like it’s ready to open, your eyes are not deceiving you. But, before you think you’ve already missed something, co-developers Courtney Bissett-Hayes of Center Connect Development and her brother Paul Bissett say that now that the buildings themselves have been completed and turned over to the tenants, it will be several weeks before the first businesses start turning on their lights to several months for all of the previously announced restaurants — and two new ones recently added to the lineup — to be fully open.

“The first businesses could start opening this quarter,” Bissett-Hayes told me a week or so before my deadline for this issue. “And we are planning a big Grand Opening event for a few months from now, but we will definitely keep you posted about the date for that event.”

The two new eateries are both growing national chains that have existing locations not too far from us.

The first is Hummus Republic, a counter-serve Mediterranean eatery offering customizable bowls, pita bread and wrap sandwiches that has an existing location at 7021 E. Fletcher Ave. (between USF and I-75).

Hummus Republic, which has more than 60 locations in 15 states, offers bases like rice, couscous and warm garbanzo beans, plus a variety of hummus flavors and other spreads, five different proteins (including falafel, chicken or mushroom shawarma, gyro meat and lemon chicken), more than a dozen toppings (from beets to kalamata olives) and six different dressings — and you get to choose all of your favorites.

The other newcomer is Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken, which has a nearby location at 24814 S.R. 54 in Lutz among its nearly 150 U.S. and nearly 500 worldwide locations.

In addition to crunchy Korean drumsticks, wings and boneless options (below) with five different sauces (from Korean BBQ to sweet & spicy Yangnyeom sauce), Bonchon offers starters like pork, veggie, shrimp and even octopus (really!) dumplings, plus Bao buns, Korean tacos and edamame, main dishes like udon noodle soup, bibimbap bowls, bulgogi, chicken katsu and more.

The Hub at Lexington (below)

For info, visit TheHummusRepublic.com.

For more info, visit Bonchon.com.

And, don’t forget all of the other eateries coming to The Hub we previously announced:

• La Creacion Bistro, the sister restaurant to La Creacion Express in the KRATEs, which will be serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with a completely different menu than what is served at the container park.

• Brew Bar Self Pour, which will share a space with Urban Crunch Creamery Café

The Brew Bar/Urban Crunch combo will offer self-pour beer and wine, similar to what the Brew Bar offers at the KRATEs, plus ice cream, açai, coffee and perhaps most important of all, frozen drinks like daiquiris & more.

• The Landing Bar & Grill, which is where you’ll watch all of your favorite sports.

• The Monk’s Indian Fusion Cuisine, a “Desi-Chinese” eatery combining the different flavors of India and China in one location

• Saigon Pho Wesley Chapel, which has a location called Banh Mi & Boba at The Hub at Bexley. Like Banh Mi, Saigon Pho also will feature beloved Vietnamese fare, including pho noodle soups, grilled plates, banh mi sandwiches and more.

• Farmer’s Milk, which is a café and bakery with a sister location in Hollywood, FL.

• Cinnaholic Gourmet Cinnamon Rolls

• Island Grill Caribbean fusion restaurant

The other non-food businesses previously announced as coming to The Hub are :

• The Clubhouse golf simulator

• Headlines Barber Shop

• Suncoast Charging (for electric vehicles)

• Lexington Nail Lab, which is the only Hub business that had a sign on it as we went to press with this issue.

Of course, we will keep you posted about all of the openings as they happen, in these pages and on our Facebook & Instagram pages! — GN

Wesley Chapel 2026 — Saddlebrook, Fire Station #2, Pinecrest Academy H.S. &

If you were thinking there couldn’t possibly be more “stuff” coming to Wesley Chapel this year (or at least by early 2027), think again.

Among the projects that are well underway but that we don’t have any kind of timelines for include:

• The completion of Mast Capital’s $92 million improvements to Saddlebrook Resort (right). We showed you the improvements that have already been completed in our last couple of issues, but there is still plenty more to come.

Since the Brew coffee shop and Rare 1981 restaurant opened, the Palm House Grill out by the resort’s revamped Superpool also recently opened. We’ll show you pictures of the Palm House’s food and beverages next issue. We also were told that all 27 holes of Saddlebrook’s golf courses also are open.

Still to come this year? The Sports Tavern off the resort’s lobby and the Saddlebrook National private club for members only. We’ll update you about all of these improvements in future issues.

Here & There, This & That...

(Photos below)

Avalon Park — In addition to Phase 2 of Avalon Park’s downtown expected to begin building, Avalon Park Blvd., connecting the community’s single-family subdivisions with the downtown area, could be completed any day now and may even be open as you’re receiving this issue.

In addition, although the existing buildings at the Pinecrest Academy charter school are already

serving kids in grades K-11, the separate, new Pinecrest Academy High School will open to grades 9-12 for the 2026-27 year, which will allow kids in Pinecrest Academy’s middle school (Grades 6-8) to have their own building.

Pasco Fire Rescue Station No. 2 — The much-needed new fire station on S.R. 54, less than a mile east of the new AdventHealth

Pointe Emergency Room, should be

New Walmart — Located southwest of the intersection of Morris Bridge Rd. and S.R. 56, Wesley Chapel’s second Walmart store hasn’t broken ground yet, so it’s possible that it may not be completed by the end of 2026, but it should at least begin building this year.

Two Rivers Updates — Even though Two Rivers is all technically located in Zephyrhills (with a portion in Thonotosassa south of the Pasco-Hillsborough county line), the private club to be called The Landing at Two Rivers is well under way and could be completed before the end of 2026. We have no further updates on the planned Peak Surf Park in Two Rivers, but will try to update that story in an upcoming issue. — GN

Upcoming Events — ‘Relational Symposium,’ Job Help For Teens, ‘Tie The Knot’ & More!

Now through Thursday, February 12. Applications are being accepted for the 43rd annual “Spotlight on Talent Competition.” This competition is for children through 12th grade and is a chance for students to compete in the performing arts for cash prizes. The Preliminary Competition will be held Saturday, February 28, and the Finals will be held on Saturday March 28, both at the Pasco Hernando State College Instructional Performing Arts Center (IPAC; 8657 Old Pasco Rd., Wesley Chapel). Application fees: Solo-$50; Group-$50 for 1st participant, $10 for each additional person up to $100 max. For more info, or to apply online, visit HeritageArts.org/spotlight-on-talent or call (352) 424-0135.

Friday, February 6, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. –North Tampa Bay Chamber Leading Ladies Network. At USF Credit Union (20610 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.). This meeting aims to empower and support women in various fields. This month’s speaker is Robyn Ostrem, CEO of Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. For more info, call (813) 994-8534 or visit Business. NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Friday, February 6, 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.

– Pavlo in Concert. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). A night of Spanish, Flamenco and Mediterranean guitar! Pavlo returns home for a very special concert with his full band and special guests. Tickets cost $50. For more info and to purchase tickets, visit itsmyseat.com/events/700882.html

More than 150 couples were married by Hillsborough County Clerk Victor Crist at the 2025 “Tie the Knot” event on Valentine’s Day in downtown Tampa.

Saturday, February 7, open-close - Fresh Monkee Grand Launch Event. At Fresh Monkee (6417 E. County Line Rd., Ste. 101). Fresh, healthy, & customizable protein shakes. There will be a “Golden Straw Giveaway,” in-store prize wheel and 50% off all shakes all day. For more info, visit FreshMonkee.com/location/wesleychapel-fl or see the ad on pg. 41.

Sunday, February 8, 2 p.m.-5 p.m. - Connection Lab Presents: Relational Symposium 2026. At the Hilton Garden Inn (26640 Silver Maple Pkwy.). With world-renowned psychologist, therapist and counselor titled: “What Was God Thinking?,” this symposium is for everyone. Lunch with be provided and there will be swag bags and raffle giveaways. Free to attend, but you must register. For more info, call (470) 2834245, email info.relationshipgonewild@gmail. com or see the ad below. Or, to register, visit

relationshipgonewild.com/ events-1/what-was-godthinking.

Sunday, February 8, 3 p.m.–5 p.m. – New Tampa Unplugged: Cypress Creek Jazz Band. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Experience the lively sounds of New Orleans-style jazz, uplifting spirituals in traditional jazz style, and classic gospel music with the Cypress Creek Jazz Band. Tickets 17.50 - $25 depending on seat selection. Select tickets are available for $10 through NTPAC’s Affordable Art commitment. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, to purchase tickets, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/events/new-tampaunplugged-cypress-creek-jazz-band.

Monday, February 9, 8 p.m.-10 p.m. –Broadway Open Mic Night. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Broadway Open Mic Nights are for everyone — whether you’re a seasoned performer, practicing for an audition, or just love to sing. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 8292760. Or to sign up, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/events/open-mic-feb.

Wednesday, February 11, 10:30 a.m.11:30 a.m. – Creative Arts Theatre Presents: Angry Lizard – An Experiment by Dr. Kramer

(TYA). At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). This funny and touching play by Chris Leyva explores Dr. Kramer’s experiments to teach emotions with dinosaurs, but the plan goes wildly off the rails. Best for ages 5 and up, Free to attend, but please register. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or to register, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/ events/angry-lizard-tya.

Thursday, February 12, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. –Job Help for Teens. At New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.). Bring your job seeking questions and our staff can help you get started with conducting a job search, formatting a resume, locating interview prep resources, and addressing other career-related needs. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 273-3652 or visit attend.hcplc.org/event/15055982

Friday, February 13 8 p.m.-11 p.m. –Tampa Bay Symphony: Strings of Fire, Echoes of Empire. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). The Tampa Bay Symphony consists of more than 80 musicians and has been described as “one of Tampa Bay’s hidden jewels.” Come and experience the excitement of live classical music. General Admission $25, student tickets are free with a student ID. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, to purchase tickets, visit TampaBaySymphonyInc. thundertix.com/events/248429

Saturday, February 14, 11 a.m. - Tie the Knot Valentine’s Day Wedding Event. At the Joe Chillura Courthouse Square (600 E.

Kennedy Blvd., Tampa). Hillsborough County Clerk (& New Tampa resident) Victor Crist’s office is hosting the fifth annual “Tie the Knot” community wedding ceremony. You must register by Wednesday, February 11 and already have obtained your marriage license. For more info, visit Hillsclerk.com and search “Tie the Knot,” or see the ad below.

Saturday, February 14, 8 p.m. & Sunday, February 15, 3 p.m. – Solo Spotlight Series: “Til Death Do Us Part… You First!” At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Celebrate Valentine’s Day weekend with humor. Directed by Chazz Palminteri, an Academy Award nominee and the author and star of the Broadway and movie hit “A Bronx Tale,” this multimedia theatrical show stars Peter Fogel in an award-winning performance that takes audiences on a journey through the ups and downs of love and marriage, reminding us all of the funny side of relationships. Tickets $15-$20 depending upon seat. Select tickets are available for $10 through NTPAC’s Affordable Art commitment. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, to purchase tickets, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/events/solospotlight-series-til-death-do-us-part-you-first

Sunday, February 15, 12 p.m.-2 p.m. –Fall in Love with Bay Paws. At Bay Paws Pet Resort (30234 Wiregrass School Rd., Wesley Chapel). Take a tour and have a BBQ lunch at this popular doggie daycare, boarding, and grooming facility – snap a Valentine’s selfie and see why pets (and people) love Bay Paws. Free to attend. For more info, email Marketing@ BayPaws.com

Tuesday, February 17, 8 p.m.– Taiko

Drums of Japan with Tampa Taiko. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Experience Asian culture and celebrations like Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year, and Matsuri Festivals with Tampa Taiko. Tickets $17.50-$25 depending on seat selection. Select tickets are available for $10 through NTPAC’s Affordable Art commitment. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, to purchase tickets, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/events/taiko-drumsof-japan-with-tampa-taiko.

Wednesday, February 18, 9 a.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Coffee Social. At Barberitos (7021 Fletcher Ave., Temple Terrace). This is a relaxed morning meet-up designed for casual networking and meaningful connections. There will be coffee and light refreshments. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534 or visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Friday, February 20, 11 a.m.– North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon Cutting. At Woodies Wash Shack (5618 Oakley Blvd.). Celebrate the grand opening of Woodies Wash Shack. Tour the new facility and celebrate with light refreshments and community fun. There will be free car washes, a vintage car show and merchandise giveaways. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534 or visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Saturday, February 21, 11 a.m.-noon & 3 p.m.-4 p.m. – Children’s Theater – Angry Lizard, an Experiment by Dr. Kramer. At New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.). Attend a children’s theater performance

that focuses on dramatic and imaginative play. Recommended for children 4 and up. Free to attend, but tickets will be available at the marked service point 30 minutes prior to the event on a first-come, first served basis. For more info, call (813) 273-3652 or visit attend.hcplc.org/ event/15461703

Saturday, February 21, 2:30 p.m. – Jon Lehrer Dance Company Master Class. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). The JLDC class integrates the approach and fluidity of modern dance, the excitement and energy of jazz dance, along with the laws of physics to create a highly physical, expressive, and engrossing style of movement that is best described as “Organically Athletic”. $20 to attend. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, to purchase tickets, visit JonLehrerDance.com/ ntpac-master-class.html

Saturday, February 21, 4:30 p.m. — 2nd Annual Sean Bartell Charity Bingo. At Cypress Creek High Cafeteria (8701 Old Pasco Rd.). Doors will open at 3 p.m. Bring your own dauber or you can purchase one for $2. With 20 rounds, 4 cards per game you’ll have 80 chances to win. Donation to play is $25 if you pre-purchase or $30 at the door. For more info, email SPBFoundation@hotmail.com. Or, to purchase bingo cards, visit Zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2nd-annual-sean-bartell-foundation-bingo.

Saturday, February 21, 8 p.m. & Sunday, February 22, 3 p.m. – Jon Lehrer Dance Company. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Experience four works never before seen at NTPAC including Foster, Jon’s heartfelt tribute to his younger brother, Michael Foster Lehrer, who passed away on Jan. 17, 2023, after a 6-year battle with ALS. Tickets $17.50-$25 depending on seat selection. Select tickets are available for $10 through NTPAC’s Affordable Art commitment. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, to purchase tickets, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/events/ jon-lehrer-dance-company.

Monday, February 23, 7 p.m. – New Tampa Democratic Club Monthly Meeting. At New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.). Guest speakers, 2026 Hillsborough County Commission & School Board and 2027 Tampa City Council candidates, Free to attend. For more info, visit NewTampaDemocrats.com or Facebook.com/NewTampaDemocrats or see the ad below.

Tuesday, February 24, 7 p.m.-10 p.m. –NTPAC Open House. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Come see all that New Tampa Performing Arts Center has to offer! Join us for a free, all access Open House featuring guided tours and staff on hand to answer your questions. Free to attend. For more information, call (813) 8292760 or visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/events/ open-house.

Wednesday, February 25, 8 p.m.-10 p.m. – Steinway Signature Series: Markus Gottschlich & Friends: A Global Jazz Journey. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Austrian-American Steinway Artist and internationally acclaimed pianist Markus Gottschlich makes his NTPAC debut with an evening that fuses jazz traditions from around the world. Tickets $17.50-$25 depending on seat selection. Select tickets are available for $10 through NTPAC’s Affordable Art commitment. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, to purchase tickets, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/events/gottschlich.

Thursday, February 26, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. – How to Self Publish Your Book. At New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.). In this dynamic and informative one-hour session, Dr. Jan Yager demystifies the process of self-publishing and empowers aspiring and experienced writers to take control of their publishing journey. Free to attend but please register. For more info, call (813) 273-3652 or visit attend. hcplc.org/event/15574381

New Tampa Democratic Club

Wesley Chapel’s Tesla Dealership Is Open, Bringing Sales & Service Closer To Home !

By Joel Provenzano Neighborhood News Correspondent

When the Wesley Chapel Tesla dealership and service center was first announced, it generated plenty of curiosity. But, when it actually opened, there were no balloons, banners, or hoopla. In fact, many local residents are just now realizing that the location has been open on Eagleston Blvd. in Seven Oaks, just east and south of the Wesley Chapel Blvd. exit (Exit 279)off I-75 (between I-75 and Blue Heron Senior Living), next to the new Verve apartments, since October of last year.

According to Tesla representatives, that low-key approach is intentional. There’s no need for fanfare — people will find the brand.

Unlike traditional car dealerships, Tesla locations are entirely corporate owned and operated. There’s no pressure sales model, no commission-driven tactics and no need to lure customers in with promotions.

Everything — from browsing inventory to purchasing a vehicle — is standardized and handled online through Tesla’s website or app. Staffers are on hand primarily to answer questions, guide customers through the digital buying process and offer test drives, including demonstrations of Full Self-Driving for those who are feeling adventurous.

That approach has resonated with local resident Michele Curtin, Broker/Owner of Shells Florida Realty in New Tampa, Michele says the Wesley Chapel location is a welcome addition. “The Tampa location was fine, but the traffic made it a hassle,” Michele says. “Having one so close is a big deal.”

Michele purchased her first Tesla, a Model Y, in 2021. She upgraded to a newer Model Y in June 2025 and says the improvements are noticeable. “Everything that was an issue with my earlier model has been fixed in the latest generation,” she says.

Just a few weeks ago, Michele and her husband Frank added a striking new vehicle to their collection — a Cyberbeast, Tesla’s top-ofthe-line Cybertruck. The couple test drove it at the Wesley Chapel location and decided to place their order on site with the help of sales representative Sohil Desai.

“Fantastic service,” Frank says. “It was a great experience.”

Shortly after delivery, the Cyberbeast

was completed quickly while he waited. For longer repairs, Tesla offers loaner vehicles.

Service is where the Wesley Chapel location truly stands out. Customers drive directly into a fully air-conditioned building, pulling up next to the service desks to hand over their vehicles — no heat, no rain and no parking lot shuffle.

Behind the scenes is a massive service and detailing area equipped with 24 lifts and space to accommodate roughly twice as many vehicles at once. Inside, a comfortable lounge helps waiting customers pass the time.

Why Tesla?

While Michele admits that Teslas may not match the luxury feel of brands like Lexus — which she was loyal to for years — she says the driving experience and technology more than make up for it. “It’s more utilitarian,” she says, “but the acceleration is unbeatable. It makes pulling into traffic effortless.”

She’s also a fan of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving feature, which she subscribes to for $99 a month. “I could buy it outright (for $8,000),” she says, “but I don’t keep vehicles that long.” For buyers who want to own the feature, Tesla also allows it to be rolled into their financing.

Even more surprising, it can be activated or

happen through the app, which she says has im proved significantly since 2021. “I go through the app for most everything,” she explains, not ing the live chat support and smoother service experience. She also has a Tesla wall charger at home. “It’s amazing,” she says. “I plug in at night, and no more gas stations.”

Like many new EV owners, Michele says she did experience a learning curve, especially on longer trips.

“At first,” she says, “I ignored the car when it told me where to stop for charging. I had plenty of charge, but it was planning ahead for me.”

After a few tense moments, she learned just how precise Tesla’s trip estimator is.

“It’s scary accurate,” she laughs, adding that she now trusts it completely.

For those considering a Tesla for the first time, the Wesley Chapel dealership offers Model 3s starting at around $36,000 and Model Ys starting near $40,000. The top-of-the-line Cyberbeast AWD sells for $117,235.

Financing options currently include interest rates as low as 0%-2% on select models. Lease terms also are available for 24-36 months.

Tesla prides itself on a straightforward, nopressure buying experience, a claim backed up by hundreds of customer reviews. Staffers don’t

“need” to sell anything, locals say — they’re there to answer your questions, encourage visitors to sit inside the vehicles, explore the technology and imagine what driving might look like in the future.

The Wesley Chapel Tesla dealership and service center is located at 4980 Eagleston Blvd. It is open Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Sat. & noon-6 p.m. on Sun. For more information, call (813) 953-4467 or visit Tesla.com.

Moffitt’s Speros Campus Celebrates Outpatient Center’s Grand Opening!

Even though it’s located at least 20 miles from any part of New Tampa, perhaps the biggest news story in Pasco County for 2026 is the opening of the sprawling new 775-acre Speros FL campus of the Moffitt Cancer Center — the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida — located on Wilton Way in Land O’Lakes.

The first building to open in this amazing innovation hub, where science, technology and patient care will converge in the fight against cancer, is the 120,000-sq.-ft. Moffitt Speros Outpatient Center, which was introduced to an invited crowd on Jan. 9 with a huge event attended by an estimated 500 people, including Florida Secretary of Agriculture Wilton Simpson, State Senator Danny Burgess, State Rep. Kevin Steele, all five Pasco County Commissioners and 84-year-old former Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives H. Lee Moffitt, the man who founded the nonprofit cancer center named for him.

The event included the following speakers:

•Dr. Patrick Hwu, the president & CEO of Moffitt, who noted that 2026 is the cancer center’s 40th anniversary year. Dr. Hwu also played the keyboards in the Speros band following the ribbon-cutting ceremony. He also noted that the next building to open in the Speros campus will be the Richard M. Schulze Proton Center, which will open in just a few months and will be home to one of only three proton radiation machines in Florida. That opening will be followed by the opening of the 100,000-sq.-ft. research center. Dr. Hwu also noted that the first patients will begin being treated at the outpatient center, “within a few weeks.”

•Dr. Josh Carpenter, the president of Speros who also is the VP & chief integration officer of Moffitt and who noted that Speros means “hope.” Dr. Carpenter thanked everyone who played a part — and those still playing a part — in the construction and opening of the many buildings coming to the Speros campus.

•Speros Board chair Marty Lanahan, the executive VP of First Horizon Bank, who introduced Moffitt Cancer Center’s Institute Board chair Tim Adams. Adams said that Lee Moffitt charged him with the task to cure cancer and sent him to Tallahassee in 2005 to talk to Simpson, who was then a State Senator who was going to be the president of the Florida Senate within three years. “Wilton told me that he’s had his eye on Moffitt for a long time,” Adams said, “but if we really want to cure cancer, you’re going to have to start thinking a lot bigger than a 20-acre campus in Tampa.”

• Commissioner Simpson, who said he knew Pasco had the land to “do something like this and that people could fly into Tampa International from all over the world and be here in 30 minutes to get treatment. I’m very proud of the tens of thousands of lives, starting now, that we’re going to be saving on an annual basis. How many grandparents will now get to see their grandchildren get older? How many children are going to be cured? How many moms and dads will see their kids get married

because of the work that Moffitt will be doing on this site?”

•H. Lee Moffitt himself, who said, “What a day! The reason we’re here is because of the hard work of every single person in this audience and I can not thank you enough for your dedication, zeal and vision to help us get to where we are today. I would like to thank and applaud the efforts of all of our friends that have worked for us since I started the cancer center 40 years ago and embraced our mission and contributed

to the prevention and cure of cancer. By golly, we are making a difference and I appreciate all of your efforts in this quest!”

• The final speaker was Debra Schulze, speaking on behalf of her father Richard M. “Dick” Schulze, the founder of Best Buy Co., the largest electronics store in the U.S. Dick Schulze was unable to attend the event himself, but his family’s foundation supported the Speros Center with a $15-million investment in the campus’ Proton Therapy Center, “which is more than

just advanced technology,” Debra Schulze said. “It is a place where skilled clinicians, dedicated researchers and hope-filled patients will come together in the pursuit of healing and progress. and staff. We are proud to stand alongside you and share in the excitement and the impact that

this Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Proton Therapy System Center will have on the future of cancer care.”

For more information about Moffitt’s Center (16370 Wilton Way, Land O’Lakes), visit Moffitt.org.

Atlas Performance, Remission Rheumatology & Primrose Wesley Chapel Cut Ribbons

Congratulations go out to three local members of the North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC) — las Performance Center, Remission Rheumatolo gy and the new Primrose School of Wesley Chapel — all of which recently cut ribbons with fellow NTBC members.

Atlas Performance (located at 3740 Windcrest Dr., Wesley Chapel), led by Doctor of Chiropractic Ryan Tropf (photo above), hosted its NTBC ribbon-cutting on Jan. 15.

Dr. Tropf explained that, “Through a holistic approach that integrates chiropractic care, fitness training, and advanced wellness therapies, we aim to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses the diverse needs and goals of our community. With a commitment to excellence, compassion and integrity, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of empowerment, education and transformation, helping our clients live healthier, happier lives.”

In addition to chiropractic adjustments, Atlas Performance offers compression, red light & cold plunge therapies, a sauna and a hyperbaric chamber to treat a variety of conditions, and also offers a full gym for both performance and rehab training — and more.

For more info, visit AtlasPerformanceCenter.com. or call (813) 710-1999.

Later that same day, tology, the office of Dr. Sehreen Mumtaz, who is double-Board-certified (in both Rheumatology and Internal Medicine) also hosted an NTBC ribbon-cutting event at her office in the Mango Space executive suite at 25200 Sawyer Francis Lane, Suite 123, in Lutz.

During her ribbon-cutting event (right), Dr. Mumtaz (top right photo) explained why she founded Remission Rheumatology:

“During my medical training and early career, I witnessed how patients with autoimmune and rheumatic diseases often experienced delays in diagnosis, disintegrated care and limited follow-up — too often with serious consequences for their quality of life. These patterns revealed a simple truth: individuals with complex, chronic illness deserve more time, clarity and continuity.

school to rigorous clinical training, exposed me to a wide range of complex pathology in underserved, high-acuity settings. These experiences sharpened my clinical insight and deepened my belief in the power of patient-centered care. I founded Remission Rheumatology to reimag ine what specialty care could look like: unhurried, collaborative, and deeply attuned to the whole person. Here, we focus not only on managing disease, but also on restoring

And finally, on Jan. 22, owners Rob and Deanne Fitzpatrick (holding scissors in top photo) hosted an NTBC ribbon-cutting event at their Primrose School of Wesley Chapel (26031 E. County Line Rd.). The Fitzpatricks also own the Primrose School in Tampa Palms.

The event, which included a diaper drive to benefit Primrose School partner West Lakes Early Learning Center in Orlando, also featured a blessing by Rob and Deanne’s son, Pastor Matt Fitzpatrick (with microphone in center photo) of New City Lutheran Church in Orlando, as well as tours (bottom photo) of the beautiful and spacious new learning center for kids from six weeks old through pre-Kindergarten.

The Primrose School of Wesley Chapel is expected to open its doors to its young students this month, and may even be open by the time this issue arrives in your mailbox. For more info, visit PrimroseSchools.com or call (813) 8458900. — GN, all photos by Charmaine George

4 Ever Young Anti Aging Solutions Cuts A North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon!

Congratulations go out to Marcus McCants (below) and his wife Kim (at right in bottom right photo), the owners of the new 4 Ever Young Anti Aging Solutions location at 19040 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., in the Publix-anchored New Tampa Center plaza.

Marcus, Kim and their staff celebrated the Grand Opening of their new med spa with a well-attended North Tampa Bay Chamber ribbon-cutting event (right) on Jan. 8, where Marcus explained why 4 Ever Young — which specializes in anti-aging products like Botox and Restylane, plus a variety of facials, hormone replacement and peptide therapies for weight loss, injury recovery and much more — literally has something for everyone.

“We are so proud to be able to bring 4 Ever Young to the Tampa Bay area,” Marcus said during the Grand Opening event.

“If you wake up during the night to go pee, if you have trouble sleeping, have low energy or low-T (testosterone), or you

just want to look and feel better and younger, we can help.”

The former long-time owner of multiple franchise food locations (including one on BBD in Wesley Chapel) says he was looking for a new challenge and that he was convinced to buy a 4 Ever Young franchise after being able to return to working out only two weeks after tearing his bicep muscle while weightlifting, thanks to peptide therapy at another 4 Ever Young location.

The New Tampa location is offering a variety of Grand Opening specials.

For more info, call (813) 5657740, visit 4EverYoungAntiAging.com or see the ad below. Tell Marcus and his professional medical team

369 EyeWear & Sunglass KRATE — The Best-Kept Secret In Wesley Chapel?

By Iris Vitelli Neighborhood News Correspondent

When Jim Lambrou originally opened Sunglass Krate at The KRATE at The Grove container park in September 2023, he envisioned a small, well-run shop that reflected everything he had learned over decades in the optical industry. He wanted shopping at Sunglass Krate to feel personal, approachable and different. What he did not anticipate was how quickly that idea would evolve.

Today, Sunglass Krate shares space, energy and identity with William Toledo’s 369 EyeWear, following a merger that officially took place in November 2024.

“What began as a simple expansion has quietly grown into what many of our customers now describe as one of Wesley Chapel’s bestkept secrets in eyewear,” Jim says.

While Sunglass Krate and 369 EyeWear each maintain their own branding, signage and website, the heart of the business now centers on the 369 concept — a straightforward, consumer-first approach built on value, transparen cy and access.

The idea itself is refreshingly simple. Customers can purchase three, six or nine pairs of glasses for a single flat price. There is no insurance involved and there’s never any pressure to upgrade. The pricing is clear: three pairs for $99, six for $189 and nine pairs for $269. Each “stack” includes one complimentary upgrade, such as tint or anti-reflective coating, with additional upgrades available at modest costs. For example, polycarbonate lenses can be added for as little as $10 more per pair.

“Insurance tells you how your practice has to be run,” Jim explains. “William and I decided we didn’t want that. We wanted to control the quality, the pricing and the experience.”

As a licensed optician, Jim is not a Doctor of Optometry, so he his clients are not his patients, but his credentials do allow him to fill prescriptions and ensure that customers receive eyewear that meets professional standards. That distinction plays an important role in the trust customers place in the business.

As Sunglass Krate was gaining traction, Jim found himself at a crossroads. The shop was doing well, and he began considering whether to sell it or bring in someone else to manage

daily operations. Around that time, he reconnected with William, someone he had known through the industry. Their initial conversations centered on the possibility of William purchasing Sunglass Krate.

William was no stranger to the optical world either. With more than 30 years of experience, he had built and operated optical businesses in multiple markets, including a long-standing presence in Puerto Rico and a store in Brooksville that opened in 1988. Rather than a straightforward sale, the conversations between the two evolved into a partnership.

In November 2024, Sunglass Krate and 369 EyeWear officially became one.

The physical space reflects that merger. One side of the store remains dedicated to sunglasses and the designer brands that helped establish Sunglass Krate’s reputation.

The other side introduces customers to the 369 concept and often stops them in their tracks. “Imagine getting three pairs of glasses for $99,” Jim says. “That’s usually where people stop and ask, ‘So $99? Then, how much for the frames?’”

For customers accustomed to paying hundreds of dollars for a single pair of glasses, the idea of walking out with three pairs for under $100 can feel almost unbelievable. That skepticism is something Jim and his team encounter daily, and it also is one of the things that makes the experience so memorable.

Jim says the pricing model works because of how the business operates behind the scenes. Frames are purchased in high volume, which helps keeps costs low. Even more important is that the company owns its own lens lab. By controlling production from start to finish, 369 EyeWear can dramatically reduce your cost without sacrificing quality.

“What customers don’t realize,” Jim says, “is that the true cost of producing a good pair of glasses is far lower than retail pricing suggests.”

That control gives the business flexibility. “We could charge more,” he adds. “We just choose not to. We want people to walk out with a really good pair of glasses — or three — at a really good price.”

Jim says that many customers walk in skeptical. “Three pairs for $99?,” they ask. “Six or nine for a set price? No insurance? No hidden fees? It sounds too good to be true.” Yet,

not long after completing their purchase, those same customers often return, bringing spouses, parents, neighbors and friends with them.

Referrals have become the strongest driver of the store’s growth. Word spreads quickly once people experience the 369 concept first-hand. Online reviews also play a significant role. Many new customers say they came in after seeing consistent five-star Google reviews (nearly 60 total combined) for both 369 EyeWear and Sunglass Krate.

Marivi Garcia, a satisfied customer, shared her experience online: “Today I received my son’s glasses; they’re so perfect. The people at this store truly go the extra mile with the customer service. They advised me very well on the options they had and were patient enough for my son to choose [his own] glasses.”

Inside the store, Jim is careful to stock frames for every budget. While 369 EyeWear focuses on affordability and everyday eyewear, Sunglass Krate continues to offer premium brands for customers who want designer options. Jim says that Maui Jim, Ray-Ban, and Pit Viper (photo, above) remain top sellers. And, even as the 369 side gains momentum, higher-end frames still have a loyal following.

“There’s something here for everyone,” Jim says. “Some people want the best deal. Others want a specific brand. We don’t force anyone into one lane.”

The store also continues to carry some of the unique products that helped Sunglass Krate stand out early on, including dog goggles and novelty eyewear. A newer high-end addition is

Zilli titanium eyeglass frames, a luxury line handmade in France. With specialty frames, customers simply pay the difference. Shoppers also are welcome to bring in their own frames, an option many are surprised to learn is available.

The location at the KRATEs provides steady foot traffic and a relaxed, approachable atmosphere. The business also participates in The Market Elaine, an event which features dozens of small businesses on the first Friday of each month from 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

And, additional growth is already underway. The Brooksville location remains active, and plans are in motion for a future store in Jacksonville. Jim says that online expansion also is a priority, with virtual try-on technology currently in development for the 369 EyeWear website. He adds that, eventually, the 369 and

Sunglass Krate sites will be linked, creating a seamless digital experience for customers.

Jim says he appreciates his daily conversations with customers who feel they have finally found an honest alternative — people who walk out believing they have discovered one of Wesley Chapel’s best-kept secrets.

369 EyeWear is located at 5827 Grand Oro Lane, #105. Mondays are reserved for private consultations by appointment. Regular store hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and 1 p.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday. Learn more at 369EyeWear.com and SunglassKrate.com, or follow @sunglasskrateFL on Facebook and Instagram. For more information or to set up an appointment, call (813)994-6700, email info@369eyewear.com or see the ad on page 31 of this issue.

UR Cabinets Wants To Help Transform Your Home Into Your Dream Home

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

Dale and Ashley Long are the husbandand-wife team who own UR Cabinets Central Florida, which is based in Plant City but serves the entire central part of the state, from west coast to east coast, and anywhere from Ocala in the north to Fort Myers in the south.

Both Dale and Ashley were born and raised in the Tampa Bay area. Ashley is from Plant City, but the pair bought their first home and spent eight years together in Land O’Lakes, where Dale grew up.

“Bruce B. Downs (Blvd.) is kind of the middle ground of where we’re both from,” explains Dale, so they want to be sure that New Tampa Neighborhood News readers know they can reach out to a local company for custom cabinets for any home remodeling job.

“[Our Plant City showroom is] only about 15 minutes from New Tampa,” says Dale. “It’s a quick hop on the interstate, and we believe it’s worth the drive to pay a visit to us.”

But, Ashley adds, it’s not always necessary to come to the UR Cabinets showroom.

“If people don’t know what they want, then yes, come look at our samples,” Ashley says. “We have several little kitchens where they can touch, feel and see the difference between the paints and the stains, the different lines and what we can do in each line to meet their needs. You have an opportunity to get educated here, and the more we educate you, the happier you’ll be at the end.”

On the other hand, if you already know

The husband-and-wife team of

home of your

what you’re looking for, UR Cabinets will come to your home to take measurements and help you choose the products that will make your vision come to life.

“If you know exactly what you’re envisioning, we can do that without you coming to the showroom,” Ashley explains, saying the only exception is that UR Cabinets won’t order cabinets for you unless you’ve seen them in person, so sometimes that quick trip is still necessary.

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“We’re able to modify some cabinets and bring a custom aspect into your kitchen without a custom price. We’re willing to go above and beyond to help our customers.”

Ashley adds, “We can customize, and still keep it affordable for you. We keep as much as we can [standard] to meet your budget, and only alter the things you really want, to provide the kitchen of your dreams on a budget.”

While kitchens are their most common build, UR Cabinets also provides cabinets for bathrooms, closets, garages, laundry rooms, butler pantries, and the currently trendy “sculleries” — those “wet areas” for prep food and washing dishes away from the main kitchen and out of the sight of your guests.

But, if you want truly custom cabinets, UR Cabinets can build completely custom options in a millwork shop or order from a custom line.

most budget-friendly options, up to completely customized cabinets made to replicate your favorite pin on Pinterest.

Most often, she says, UR Cabinets customers will choose a semi-custom option, where standard cabinets are used, but the company makes changes to create a two-tone kitchen, modify cabinets, or customize certain pieces. In fact, UR Cabinets has 30 different cabinet lines that are not available directly to the public.

Dale says that with the customization options available and the experience of the team,

Dale and Ashley often help families looking to remodel their homes, but UR Cabinets also is trusted by many local homebuilders to install all of the cabinets and countertops throughout new, custom-built homes. The team also can build to specification for commercial cabinets, or even from blueprints.

A Family Connection

Dale’s younger brother Jordan founded and still owns the original UR Cabinets, located on W.Kennedy Blvd. in South Tampa. While the brothers share the name and Jordan serves as a mentor to Dale, the companies are completely separate entities.

Both brothers started in the business with

their uncle, a cabinet installation contractor. Dale eventually became an industrial boilermaker, but continued to install cabinetry part time, until he started UR Cabinets Central Florida in 2019.

Ashley taught elementary school for 12 years, but joined her husband at UR Cabinets full time three years ago.

Dale and Ashley have been married since 2007. They have two daughters, one who is 18 and recently graduated from high school, and another who is 10 and attends school at First Baptist Brandon, where the family also goes to church.

While UR Cabinets was originally named for Urban Resto, and was Jordan’s original business building urban furniture, Ashley says she sees UR as an abbreviation for “your” and the perfect name for what they do, using the tag line “Your Cabinets, Our Expertise.”

“Our job is to make ‘ur’ dream kitchen or

‘ur’ dream closet,” Ashley says, “and to make ‘ur’ experience phenomenal.”

The UR Cabinets team includes: Rich, a full-time designer who works in the showroom and accompanies Dale on in-home consultations. Malai, who is the office manager, who handles scheduling, deliveries, invoicing and who keeps customers in the loop during the entire process. And, Caressa works in the showroom and answers the phones.

The company also employs one full-time installer. But, when needed, Dale also can call on a team of subcontractors he trusts — people he has personally vetted and holds accountable to his high standards.

Ashley says the company has a small-town vibe and last year won the Plant City Chamber of Commerce (PCCC)’s award for Best Customer Service. This year, UR Cabinets is nominated

for PCCC’s Emerging Leader and Business of the Year awards.

“We put customer service first,” Dale says. “We always take the time to make the small things matter. We listen to our customers and do all we can to bring their vision to life.”

He says once people get to know UR Cabinets, they often continue to hire the company for future jobs and refer friends and family.

“We have one family we’ve done five kitchens for,” Dale says. “Every time they move, we do their new kitchen.”

Stephanie Varnum’s mom lost her husband of 56 years and, after a lot of thoughtful consideration, finally decided to downsize, selling the home her husband had lovingly made perfect for them. Stephanie turned to UR Cabinets to help her mom feel at home at a new, much smaller home.

Stephanie raves that not only did Dale

and Ashley come to the new home for a consultation, they also spent time at the family home.

“Mom wanted them to see what they had, and what my dad had provided,” Stephanie says. “They were so kind and patient and went through every room. She wanted to show them all the bathrooms, the laundry room, the kitchen, what she liked about them, and what she would want at the new home.”

Stephanie says Dale and Ashley then made suggestions for the new home based on the existing home, and Pinterest pictures. “They drew up plans, then made a few tweaks,” Stephanie explains. “Dale is very creative and was wonderful in making changes and adding his own ideas. They came up with the perfect kitchen and bathroom. It’s really beautiful.”

Stephanie said it was challenging for her mom to make decisions without her dad for the first time. “[Dale and Ashley] were so tender with her and sensitive to her loss,” she explains. She appreciated that communication with the team was great, with someone always available to answer the phone, phone calls returned quickly and emails and texts also used.

“They were very personal,” Stephanie says. “We have a remodel coming up in the next year or two and we’ll definitely be using them again.”

UR Cabinets Central Florida is located at 104 W. Reynolds St., Suite 4, in Plant City. It’s open Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and by appointment only on weekends. For more info, call (813) 785-1033, visit URCabinetsCFL. com, or see the ad on page 34.

Murtha & Flischel CPAs Can Get You & Your Business Ready For Tax Season

By Joey Stanziani Neighborhood News Correspondent

With the inevitable, annual tax season arriving now, the firm of Murtha & Flischel Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) is already focused on preparation, staffing and proactive planning to help individuals and businesses avoid last-minute surprises.

Based in the Seven Oaks Professional Park off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel, with a second office in Zephyrhills, Murtha & Flischel was founded by Thomas Murtha and his son, Patrick Murtha, with partner Kyle Flischel joining in 2014. These days, Tom focuses on mentoring and training newer accountants, while Patrick and Kyle handle the majority of the firm’s dayto-day management and client operations.

Heading into this tax season, Murtha & Flischel is employing 14 full-time staff members, including the three partners, and plans to bring on seasonal employees to meet high administrative demands. Since featuring Murtha & Flischel in these pages last year, the firm has added three additional junior accounting staff members.

Patrick says the firm hires ahead of tax season to ensure company flow during its busiest months. “Our strategy historically has been to hire more staff before our current staff is at capacity,” Patrick says. “It ensures that the client experience remains superior, which is our number one priority.”

Several seasoned team members play critical roles in maintaining Murtha & Flischel’s high-quality practices. Kaitlyn Kociba, who started as an intern while attending Central

Michigan University, is the senior tax and accounting manager who oversees four junior accounting staff members.

Kaitlyn Little, who also started as an intern while attending St. Leo’s University near Dade City, is the firm’s Zephyrhills senior tax specialist who handles clients in both Zephyrhills and several in Wesley Chapel.

Lourdes (“Lou”) Alers serves as Murtha & Flischel’s office director. She manages administrative operations and oversees the administrative staff and has created internal practices that improve efficiency for clients throughout the year.

Murtha & Flischel currently is seeking seasonal employees for data entry and administrative support. Patrick says these roles offer great opportunities for college students to gain real-world experience and notes that many interns start with the firm this way go on to become full-time employees after graduation.

In addition to tax preparation, Murtha & Flischel CPAs offers advisory support for business owners through its Chief Financial Office (CFO) Retainer Program, which includes accounting/bookkeeping services, tax preparation, tax planning and corporate financial planning.

Patrick says that the program has become popular over the years, due to the firm’s wealth of resources available to its clients.

“We have dozens of business clients currently working with us via this CFO Retainer Program,” Patrick says. “Our clients love having our team of experts at their disposal for any and all financial and tax-related events and concerns throughout the year.”

The program’s success is one reason Murtha & Flischel continues to hire more junior accounting staff, to keep up with demand.

In a recent example of the CFO program in action, the firm identified a $40,000 overpayment on a construction materials invoice. After flagging the invoice and alerting the client, the client was able to recover the funds.

In addition to identifying invoice errors, the CFO program enables businesses to plan well in advance for potential tax obligations. Throughout the year, Murtha & Flischel works with clients to create strategies to minimize tax liability far in advance of tax deadlines.

‘Big Beautiful’ Tax Law Changes

This tax season, several tax law changes are affecting 2025 filings, many of which are attributed to President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” and Kyle says that many clients are contacting Murtha & Flischel’s partners for clarification on what has changed.

While Florida-specific tax rules remain largely unchanged, Federal tax updates can still affect Florida individual and corporate taxpayers, including the elimination of taxes on overtime

and tips, the expiration of the solar power tax credit, increased senior deductions, and higher state and local property-plus-sales tax deduction limits. Patrick says he and the other partners are working directly with clients to help them understand and adapt to these changes.

Murtha & Flischel delivers detailed explanations of tax law changes and updates through direct client communication, both in the firm’s newsletter and through business consulting with Patrick, Kyle and Tom.

Beyond tax filing, Murtha & Flischel offers exit planning and consulting services to clients who may wish to sell their businesses, whether soon or in the future. The firm assists in determining the business’ market value, identifying any weaknesses, and improving overall

optimization to ensure success in a future sale.

Expansion of a third Murtha & Flischel office remains a long-term consideration for the partners— whether through acquisition or organic growth. But for now, Patrick, Kyle and Tom are focused on serving their clients through this tax season before revisiting any expansion ideas.

With another tax season kicking off, Murtha & Flischel CPAs continues to position itself as a resource for the Wesley Chapel area, ready to assist clients with all of their tax needs.

The Wesley Chapel office of Murtha & Flischel CPAs is located at 2236 Ashley Oaks Cir., Suite 101. For more information, call (813)991-1120, visit TampaTaxFirm.com or see the ad on pg. 34. The firm also has a location at 5315 8th St., Zephyrhills.

Wesley Chapel Estate Planning Attorney Celebrates 100 5-Star Reviews & 2nd Location

Special to the Neighborhood News

Life changes — sometimes in wonderful ways, sometimes without warning. A new child, an unexpected illness and other major transitions can shift everything. While we adapt to life’s changes every day, many people avoid planning for one certainty we all share: What happens when we’re no longer here?

Who will protect our families?

What happens to our assets?

Will our wishes actually be carried out?

Estate planning isn’t an easy topic — but failing to plan can leave families overwhelmed, stressed and navigating legal complications during the most difficult moments of their lives.

That’s exactly what attorney Paul J. Monsanto seeks to help families avoid.

At The Law Office of Paul James Monsanto, P.A., Paul and his team emphasize clarity, protection and peace of mind. The firm focuses on wills, trusts, probate and comprehensive family planning and also assists with long-term care planning, special needs planning, asset protection and trust administration.

Avoiding an overcomplicated, one-sizefits-all approach, Paul believes that estate planning should be straightforward and built for real life. He believes this practical, com mon-sense approach to solving complex issues has fueled his firm’s reputation and growth.

Since opening its doors in 2021, Paul’s law office has reached 100 five-star reviews on Goo gle, a milestone that, he says, reflects consistent client satisfaction, trust and results.

Now with two locations — one off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel and the other on Gunn Hwy. in the Carrollwood area, attorney Paul J. Monsanto of the Law Office of Paul James Monsanto specializes in wills, trusts & all aspects of estate planning. (Photo provided by Paul J. Monsanto)

“Thanks to everyone who took the time to give us their feedback,” Paul says. “Positive word

way. Reviewers highlight the friendly, empathetic and responsive demeanor of Paul and his

estate plans to their specific needs rather than recommending unnecessary services.

“Many people assume they need a complicated plan because of something they read online or heard from a friend or a neighbor,” Paul explains. “For most families, that simply isn’t the case. Simplicity, when done correctly, is powerful. I believe providing simplicity and value is what is driving the growth of our law practice.”

Now With Two Locations

Part of that growth now includes a second location. With proud roots in North Tampa Bay — the law office will mark the five-year anniversary of its Wesley Chapel location this summer — the Law Office of Paul J. Monsanto has added a second location in Carrollwood to better serve that community.

“It’s a natural next step,” he says. “Like Wesley Chapel, Carrollwood is home to families, retirees and professionals seeking convenient access to quality estate planning

Gainesville, and earned his Juris Doctor (J.D., or law) degree from the Duke University School of Law in Durham, NC. He practiced as a litigation attorney for major banks and insurance companies in New York City before returning home to Tampa to serve individuals and families.

Paul’s diverse experience has shaped his understanding that no two families are alike.

“I’ve helped single individuals, large families, blended families, same-sex couples, unmarried domestic partners, people without children, people who are on their first marriage, second marriage, third marriage — you name it!,” Paul says. “Every situation is different and every plan should reflect that.”

The personal aspect of estate planning is what drew Paul to the practice area and why he plans to continue to practice estate law for years

to come. “After practicing commercial litigation for big banks and corporations, it’s been so refreshing to help everyday people,” he says. “Speaking to my clients and hearing about their lives and their families is my favorite part of the job.”

He adds, “The legal services industry has become so impersonal and disconnected, but dealing with a death, major illness or catastrophe is very personal. My staff is like family, and we bring that same personal touch to our clients. I hope that comes across.”

To schedule a consultation with attorney Paul J. Monsanto, call (813) 997-5290, visit PJMAttorneys.com or see the ad on pg. 44.

The Law Office of Paul James Monsanto, P.A., is located at 26852 Tanic Dr., Suite 102, Wesley Chapel. The new Carrollwood office is located at 3808 Gunn Hwy., Tampa.

A New Podcast Featuring Newsmakers In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel!

From Copies To Banners To Blueprints, Check Out Office Dynamics!

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

Phil Lentsch first opened his Office Dynamics in 1990 and has been serving customers in the New Tampa area looking for high-quality printed products ever since.

As he enters his 36th year in business, Phil says, “When you do business with us, you’re dealing with someone who has more experience. We offer personalized care, quick turnaround and competitive prices.”

Office Dynamics provides printing, scanning and shipping — including both color and black-&-white copies — plus a wide variety of products, from business cards, brochures, fliers, booklets, notepads, letterhead, menus, posters, labels and folders to vinyl banners and even blueprints.

The shop is located on E. Fowler Ave. in Temple Terrace, just west of I-75, where Phil moved Office Dynamics about 10 years ago. It’s a quick drive from Phil’s home in Tampa Palms.

But, if his neighbors in New Tampa prefer not to have to come to him, Phil says he and his team are equipped to handle pretty much any job remotely.

“I would say 50 percent of my customers never set foot in my office,” Phil says. “They send us the art and we ship their job to them.”

He says he delivers printed products practically anywhere, and that he can easily deliver a job to locations across the country.

His team includes three experienced graphic artists, each with more than 25 years in

the printing industry — with most of that experience at Office Dynamics.

“We can create artwork from scratch,” he says, “or we use take your artwork, if you have it.”

Before opening his store, Phil’s background was in marketing, including working for Circle K.When he left that job, he saw a need for a print store in the area, a business that would allow him to use his marketing skills in a business of his own, so he decided to open his own shop.

More than three decades later, he has some customers who have been with him since

the beginning, and others who are just now learning about the superior experience Office Dynamics offers.

Yes, Even Blueprints...Fast!

Office Dynamics specializes in blueprints, which not all print and copy shops provide. Phil says he serves contractors, roofing companies, engineers and others who work in construction to provide blueprints fast.

“We do a quick turnaround on blueprints,” Phil says. “Some of the competition

takes a couple of days, but we usually can get them done within an hour.”

Blueprints aren’t the only things he can make that quickly. In fact, he says, sometimes people come in for trade show products on the same day they need the items. And, as often as possible, his team also will print those jobs within the hour.

He says that posters can usually be printed same-day, while banners typically take two days. Office Dynamics can certainly accommodate large jobs, as well. “We just did a 45-foot by 6-foot banner for a car dealership,” Phil says. It’s not just the products that draw people into Office Dynamics, though. It’s also the people. Phil and his team genuinely want to help all of their customers get exactly what they want, even if they don’t always know exactly what that is or the best way to accomplish their goals.

“We have a personal relationship with our customers,” Phil says. “We get to know what they really need and make sure we always give them the best bang for their buck.”

Cheri Donohue is one customer who values that personal relationship.

Cheri is the retired executive director of the Temple Terrace Chamber of Commerce and a former member of the Temple Terrace City Council — and she says Office Dynamics is her go-to print shop.

“Everyone is in business to make their business successful,” Cheri says, “but Phil’s jobs come with an investment in your business to help you be successful.”

1,000 of something, Phil might suggest she start with 250 instead. Or, if she wants 50, he might tell her she’ll get a better price if she orders 100.

“The whole team is that way,” Cheri says. “They’ve all worked together for years and years, and what one says, the others back up and make it happen. They’re quite a team.”

She adds that, over the years, she has ordered everything from business programs and invitations to business cards, brochures, signs and banners. And, in all the time she’s ordered from Office Dynamics, she says, “They’ve never missed a deadline.”

And, she adds, they avoid mistakes. “They’ve always been great about making sure I’ve approved a final proof.”

not just ordering online and selling it to you as if they’ve done it themselves.”

Cheri says she appreciates that Office Dynamics partners with local vendors for anything they don’t produce in-house. “That’s another thing I really like about them,” she says, “they’re

Office Dynamics is located at 6720 E.Fowler Ave. It is open Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Customers can email their orders at orders@officedynamicstampa.com. Or, call (813) 980-3494. For more information, visit OfficeDynamicsTampa.com or see the ad on page 40.

Absolute Air Systems Is One Family’s Commitment To Customer Service

By Joey Stanziani Neighborhood News Correspondent

Absolute Air Systems, Inc., is a family-owned heating and air conditioning company that has been serving Central Florida for three decades. Founded by Steve DeRolf and Mike Thornton, who met while working together at a previous HVAC (heating, ventilation & air conditioning) company, they continue to operate the business alongside Steve’s wife Tammy and Steve and Tammy’s daughter Amber DeRolf. Amber oversees office operations and marketing, while Tammy manages office administration and employee coordination.

Absolute Air Systems is North American Technician Excellence (NATE)-certified and serves Wesley Chapel, New Tampa and most of Central Florida.

Steve says the company was created after he and Mike both saw way too many customers being charged for unnecessary full-system replacements and/or repairs by other HVAC companies.

“That’s why we started Absolute Air,” Steve says, “to help people save money and stop them from being taken advantage of.”

According to DeRolf, many HVAC companies rely on sales-driven business models that prioritize replacement over repair. He estimates that 80-90 percent of heating and air conditioning customers are oversold on parts or services, a practice he attributes to those companies employing salespeople rather than trained technicians.

“Most of them couldn’t service a unit if their life depended on it, because they aren’t service guys,” Steve says. “If your unit can be fixed for $300, [many of these other companies] would rather charge you $12,000 for a new system [you don’t need].”

Amber says that Absolute Air Systems’ pricing structure differs from other HVAC

companies because 1) the business is family operated and 2) each job is evaluated individually, rather than relying on flat sales pricing.

“My dad and I are the ones who run everything, so every price is made per job,” Amber says. “We take the time to understand what the job needs and how long it will take, and then we price it fairly.”

When determining whether a system should be repaired or replaced, Amber says the age of the unit and the severity of the issue are the primary factors.

“If the unit less than 10 years old, we always offer to repair it first,” Amber says. “If it’s more than 10 years old, what we offer depends on the issue it’s having.”

The Value Of Memberships

To help customers avoid emergency repairs, Absolute Air Systems offers an annual preventive maintenance membership.

The basic preventive maintenance normally costs $100 per year, but members receive $5 off the service the first year and $15 off the second year. Additional benefits include priority service, yearly maintenance reminders, a single annual payment with no additional monthly charges, 10 percent off service fees for additional repairs, and $250 off a full-system installation anytime during the membership period.

Maintenance under the membership can occur once or (usually) twice per year. Heating systems are typically checked shortly before colder weather kicks in — usually around October — while air conditioning systems are ideally inspected between January and March, before Florida’s scorching summer heat arrives.

Routine maintenance is especially important in Florida, where heating systems are rarely used and are too often left unchecked. When cold weather does arrive, a system that has not been maintained may fail due to problems that went unnoticed. It also is recommended to check air conditioning systems well before summer to reduce the likelihood of breakdowns during peak heat waves, to catch small issues early and to ensure your system’s drain lines are clean to prevent clogs that may cause system failures.

In addition to standard HVAC services, Absolute Air Systems installs UV lights to improve indoor air quality for homeowners with pets or allergies by reducing mold, bacteria, allergens and viruses. The company also installs and repairs so-called “smart thermostats” that

allow homeowners to turn their air on or off and monitor system performance remotely and to receive alerts if a unit experiences an issue while they are away. Absolute Air also services mini-split systems, which are ductless air conditioning units commonly used in studio-style apartments, garages and converted lanais.

The company also provides ductwork services, including inspections, repairs and replacement. Properly operating ductwork is important for HVAC system efficiency, as disconnected sections, holes and damaged ducts may cause systems to overwork or fail to cool.

Online customer reviews frequently praise Absolute Air’s professionalism, reliability, and pricing. The company has more than 70 Google reviews, with an overall rating of 4.8 stars out of 5, including 60+ 5-star reviews. In his recent five-star Google review, customer Craig V said:

“Steve is great!! He was on time, professional, and knowledgeable. Friendly, reliable, and his quote was significantly less than the others I got. Super happy with the work and the price — [I] highly recommend these guys for HVAC needs!”

For the DeRolf family, success in the HVAC industry is measured by customer satisfaction. “I just love the customer service aspect,” Steve says, “and how people are so grateful when they find out that we’ve saved them $5,000 or $10,000 or even more than that.”

Neighborhood News readers who mention this story or the ad on page 43 will receive $750 off a new AC system install.

For more information about Absolute Air Systems, call (813) 779-0101, visit GetColdAir.com or see the ad on page 43.

By Gary Nager

Photos by Charmaine George

The Grill at Morris Bridge, the amazing mom-and-pop restaurant owned and operated by Massachusetts native Frank Gouveia, has been my Favorite (or, at least, #2 Favorite) restaurant in New Tampa pretty much since the day it opened a little more than four years ago (in Dec. 2021).

But, the addition last year of Executive Chef Mike Touranjoe has made it even harder for me to really stray from The Grill as my #1 choice. After all, I’m the kind of guy who loves it when an upscale restaurant offers ever-changing specials to go with a standard menu of great steaks and fresh fish and Chef Mike is the kind of guy who readily admits that he gets a little bored making the same dishes over and over.

“Once I’ve been there, done that, it’s time to move on,” he says. “I always want to experiment with new menu items.”

Are we not a culinary match made in heaven? You don’t know the half of it yet.

Among the ongoing events Frank — who previously worked in the wine distribution business — and Chef Mike have collaborated on have been The Grill’s frequent wine dinners.

Frank brings in his friends who supply his restaurant with the top assortment of outstanding wines in New Tampa and Chef Mike pairs each

selection with a perfectly complementary dish in a four-course gourmet meal. The most recent such event, on Jan. 21, was the Italian wine dinner featuring Vineyard Brands wines from a variety of Italian wine regions. Jannah and I were kicking ourselves for missing the Massolino Barbaresco paired with beef bourguignon and

root vegetables — and the other three equally amazing-sounding course pairings. The Grill has even recently hosted a Bourbon-pairing dinner.

“I appreciate that Frank allows me to get really creative with the pairings,” says Chef Mike. “A lot of the dishes I create for these dinners end up on the menu — at least for a while.”

In other words, from some of mine and Jannah’s favorite steaks and fish entrées to unique pasta dishes, the best local wine list and amazing craft cocktails — not to mention the locally famous South Shore bar pizza — there are just so many reasons why The Grill at Morris Bridge is still my #1 Favorite Restaurant in New Tampa.

Neighborhood News Editor Gary Nager’s 2025 Favorite Restaurants In New Tampa

1.The Grill at Morris Bridge

10920 Cross Creek Blvd., Cross Creek Commons (813)388-5353 • TheGrillatMorrisBridge.com; or see the ad below

3.Lima Peruvian Cuisine

19062 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., New Tampa Center (813)304-0205 • LimaTampa.com

As described on the previous page, there are plenty of reasons why The Grill at Morris Bridge is my #1 Favorite Restaurant in New Tampa. The pan-seared Florida grouper (right) is just one of many entrée favorites, and Jannah says no one makes a better sparkling French Martini (left) than The Grill. I also love The Grill’s grilled Caesar salad, 8-oz.

filet mignon, 14-oz. NY strip, braised beef short ribs and Italian faves like the meatball appetizer and baked rigatoni. All so good!

2. Stonewood Grill & Tavern

17050 Palm Pointe Dr., Shoppes at The Pointe, Tampa Palms (813)978-0388 • StonewoodGrill.com

It’s sad that only one of these two restaurants can be #1 with yours truly, because there are few things Jannah and I love more than hanging at the #1 bar scene in New Tampa (she says very few places make a comparable Cosmo) and enjoying

I’m still stunned every time long-time locals tell me they’ve never eaten at — or even heard of — Lima. Owner/chef Oscar Escudero offers amazing takes on what much more respected experts than I am call the world’s top-rated Latin cuisine — Peruvian food. Lima has the best ceviché de pescado (fish) in town (right), the best Chinese-influenced lo mein-style tallarin saltado de pollo (sautéed noodles with chicken, tomatoes and onions in a soy-based sauce) & features its locally famous Peruvian rotisserie chicken & much more.

4.Las Palmas Latin Grill

6431 E. County Line Rd., #104 (813)991-5500 • LasPalmasLatinGrill.com

Yes, owner/chef Ramses Garcia does have award-winning Cuban sandwiches, but the reason I rate his place so highly is because of his amazing Cuban/Latin entrées — like the vaca frita (crispy shredded beef) shown here, as well as mojo-roasted pork, grilled pork chops, fried pork bites, palomilla (grilled or breaded) steak, chimichurri skirt steak, golden seared chicken fillet and pan-seared fish fillet. I love his house salad with homemade creamy herbal dressing, and beef and chicken empanadas, too.

Neighborhood News Editor Gary Nager’s 2025 Favorite Restaurants In New Tampa

5.Via Italia

8644 Hunters Village Rd., The Village at Hunter’s Lake (813)475-4857 • EatViaItalia.com

I’ve said it almost every year since it opened, but I still wish that Via Italia would add a fresh fish special and grilled steaks and chops to go with the restaurant’s incredible array of pastas — from the penne pesto Genovese shown here to great linguine alla vongole (clams) & cavatelli con salsiccia & broccoli rabe and so many more that Jannah and I sometimes forget that Via Italia has great pizza, too.

6.Fat Rabbit Pub

16029 Tampa Palms Blvd. W., City Plaza at Tampa Palms (813)252-3004 • FatRabbitPub.com

When Jannah and I are in New Tampa and we’re looking for American comfort food, the first place that comes to mind is Fat Rabbit. Forget about the craft cocktails and beer selection (if you can), and go to Fat Rabbit for some of the best wings (photo) with a large variety of available sauces (we get the sauces on the side), great burgers, the best tater tots and now, some outstanding bowls I’ve yet to try but can’t wait to sample — especially the new fresh catch bowl served on a custom-created recipe of accompanying ingredients. Thank you!

7.Frammi American Grille & Italian Food

17631 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. W., North Palms Village (813)523-5075 • Frammi.com

I think the reason that more of our readers don’t put Frammi in their top-10 restaurants in New Tampa is because they don’t realize that, in addition to the burgers and sandwiches that owner Luca Ammirati retained when he took over the former Oakley’s Grille, he has created a much more impressive menu of Italian pasta favorites, from the perfect linguine alla vongole shown here to a slightly spicy rigatoni amatriciana, the spicier arrabbiata, rigatoni with either a 100% beef or Italian sausage ragu, a legit penne alla pesto and many more. Just go try Frammi already!

8.Johnny C’s Italian Eatery

10970 Cross Creek Blvd.

(813)278-8020 • JohnnysItalianEatery.com; see ad on pg. 39

Owner/chef Erik Ravenna’s “eatery” is a tribute to Italian comfort food — Italian meatballs, Momma’s lasagna, garlic knots, penne vodka, chicken Marsala and the chicken parmigiana show here — and also boasts the largest selection of shrimp and other seafood dishes (that I, sadly, can’t eat) in New Tampa. Jannah, photographer Charmaine George & I also love Johnny C’s NY-style pizzas, but our surprise favorite is the crispy cauliflower crust pizza. Mangia!

9.Kobé Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse

17641 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., North Palms Village (813)680-5800 • KobeSteakhouse.com

With all of the great Asian cuisine options in New Tampa & Wesley Chapel, I’ll admit that Jannah and I don’t visit Kobé as often as we might because we tend to overeat every time we do go. We usually share a California roll & a filet mignon & teriyaki chicken teppanyaki combo (photo), which comes with Japanese clear onion soup, a crisp, green salad and seasonal mixed veggies (so far, so good), but also both grilled lo mein-style noodles and fried rice — and we just can’t say no to either of them!

10.Liang’s Bistro Asian Cuisine

17515 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., North Palms Village (813)978-1225 • LiangsBistro.com

It was hard for me to choose a #10 New Tampa favorite — not because I don’t personally love Liang’s true NY-style BBQ spareribs and egg rolls, plus the sizzling Shanghai-style steak shown here or the sautéed green beans (medium-spicy) that we often bring to parties as a surprise side dish everyone raves about. We do. The problem is that 9 of the next 15 Favorites on my list on the next page also are Asian restaurants — from three really great sushi places to Thai, Vietnamese, Indian & even a Nepalese option. It’s so hard to choose!

Gary’s 2025 Top-25 Favorite New Tampa Restaurants Gary’s 2025 Top-25 Favorite Wesley Chapel Restaurants

1. Grill at Morris Bridge (top photo)

2.Stonewood Grill & Tavern (middle)

3.Lima Peruvian Cuisine (bottom)

4.Las Palmas Latin Grill

5.Via Italia

6.Fat Rabbit Pub

7.Frammi American& Italian

8.Johnny C’s Italian Eatery

9.Kobe Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse

10.Liang’s Bistro Asian Cuisine

11.Sushi Café

12.Cali Tampa Palms

13.Box of Cubans

14.Sushi Time

15.Bayscape Bistro

16.Ha Long Bay

17.Rain Bistro

18.Taste of NY Pizza

19.Palm Thai

20. Peabody’s Restaurant, Bar & Billiards

21.Thai Lanna

22.Gorkhali Kitchen

23.EggTown Breakfast & Lunch

24.Nawabi Hyderabad House

25.Sushi Masa

1.Rare 1981 (top photo)

2.Zukku-San (middle)

3.Tallo Restaurant (bottom)

4.Falabella Family Bistro

5.Pisco Express

6.Azteca D’Oro

7.Arroy Thai

8.Señor Tequila

9.Grillsmith

10.Noble Crust

11.Inchin’s Bamboo Garden

12.Yamato Japanese Restaurant

13.NY NY Pizza

14.Amici Pizza

15.Food + Beer

16.Umu Japanese & Thai

17.Blush Wine Room

18.Bonsai Sushi

19.Roong Aroon Thai Café

20.PeppaJak

21.Fratelli’s Pizza & Café

22.900º Woodfired Pizza

23.Los Vallartas

24. 365 Woodfired & NY Pizza

25.Rudraksh Indian Cuisine

Señor Tequila Keeps Upgrading Its Authentic Mexican Menu!

By Gary Nager

If it’s been a while since you last ate at Señor Tequila, located on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., in the Shoppes at New Tampa of Wesley Chapel plaza just south of S.R. 56, I suggest you try it again.

When I told assistant manager Samantha Lopez that Jannah and I noticed a definite increase in quality the last couple of times we ate at Señor Tequila, Samantha said, “The owner, Alvaro Mellado, brought in a new general manager, Norma Mellado (yes, they’re related) and a new chef and they have been working on the quality.”

It shows. Although I’ve never eaten at any of the other Señor Tequila locations (in Westchase, on N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Carrollwood and in Winter Springs), I have been sampling the Wesley Chapel location since it first opened in 2021 and everything — from existing items like the sizzling chicken fajitas (top photo) and molcajete (bottom right) to new menu additions, like the esquites (spicy, creamy, “street” corn off the cob, right), tostones Mexicanos (below), birria tacos (top photo on next page) and the Señor Tequila’s Favorite skirt steak (middle photo on next page) — are all quality.

Samantha says the fajitas are still Señor Tequila’s top-sellers. Jannah and I often do a steak and chicken Fajitas Mexicanas combo (there’s also a Texas Fajitas combo

with beef, chicken and shrimp), but since we were sampling some other beef dishes, we opted for all chicken this time. The chicken came out tasty and tender and the sizzling onions, bell peppers and tomatoes were all spot-on.

Samantha says she prefers the new esquites to the restaurant’s still-available street corn on the cob — and we agreed the large order of it was delicious, with mayo, cotija cheese, lime, tajin and cilantro.

Although I can’t eat shrimp, Charmaine said the tostones with ceviche-style shrimp, topped with pico de gallo, queso fresco, homemade chipotle sauce and guacamole may have been her favorite dish of the day.

And, although we all found the molcajete — another popular sizzling dish served in a lava rock bowl “heaped with beef strips, chicken, pork, chorizo sausage and shrimp (which we had them serve on the side for Charmaine) and topped with cheese, grilled cactus, avocado, peppers and onions — was too many different flavors in one dish for our taste, Samantha says that traditional Mexican lovers say it’s among their favorites. Like the fajitas, the molcajete is served with rice, refried beans, lettuce, guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream and flour tortillas — so it’s more than a meal just by itself.

homemade corn tortillas shells and served with a savory beef broth consommé.

Jannah’s favorite new dish was the trio of birria tacos, which feature tender shredded beef, onions and cilantro in obviously

Charmaine and I both preferred the Señor Tequila’s Favorite steak, which also was extremely tender and topped with a zesty housemade chimichurri sauce and served with a side of perfectly grilled mixed veggies and Mexican rice.

So good!

And of course, Señor Tequila also has a popular queso dip, a sampler appetizer with beef nachos, chicken quesadilla, chicken flautas and stuffed jalapeños, plus favorites like bur ritos, chimichangas, chiles rellenos and enchiladas, as well as steak Monterrey (served with a poblano pepper stuffed with shrimp, peppers, onions and mushroom, topped with a creamy habanero pesto sauce), chicken & steak brochetas and much more.

What About Beverages?

If you check out the ad on page 2

of this issue, you’ll see that

offers a number of different drink specials, including Margarita Tuesday, when regular 16-oz. house margaritas cost only $5,

of frozen lime margarita topped with a layer of homemade sangria) for only $9. There’s also a great Happy Hour every Monday-Friday, 3 p.m.-6 p.m., with draft beers, house wines and house margaritas all 2-for-1.

In the photo below, the 16-oz. house margarita is on the left, the 28-oz. sangrita is in the middle and the rosarita, with Three Olives rosé vodka, instead of tequila) is on the right. Jannah also sampled a “skinny” margarita, which may have been her favorite of all the drinks.

Señor Tequila also has a huge assortment of upscale tequilas, mezcals, Mexican and domestic beers on draught and in bottles, and a gorgeous, full premium liquor bar.

And yes, there’s also a $10.99 kids menu, with everything from one cheese quesadilla, taco, burrito or enchilada (with rice or rice and beans), or chicken fingers or a cheeseburger (with French fries). All kids’

menu items also include a soft drink.

Señor Tequila is located at 1640 Bruce B.Downs Blvd. It is open Mon.-Thur., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., 11 a.m.-11 p.m. on Fri. & Sat. & 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on Sun. For more info, call (813) 428-5411, visit TheSenorTequila. com or see the ad on page 2.

Haraz Coffee House Opens On BBD To Large Crowds!

Jannah, Charmaine and I arrived at the new Haraz Coffee House at 1722 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in the Shoppes at New Tampa of Wesley Chapel plaza (south of S.R. 56) at about 11 a.m. on the day it held its “soft opening” — Jan. 8 — and the place had been packed since before the spacious and beautiful (photo, right) new coffee and dessert place opened its doors.

Abed (at the register in the photo below), the local franchisee of this growing chain (now up to more than 30 locations in 13 states, but this is the first in the Tampa Bay area), and his hard-working crew took proper care of the steady stream of customers and, considering the crowd, our wait really wasn’t very long.

Haraz, which was founded by Hamzah Nasser, is “on a mission to share the rich heritage of Yemeni coffee with the world. As we expand across the U.S., we’re committed to creating unfor gettable coffee experiences that connect communities and celebrate culture.”

And, based on our first visit, I’d have to say that Haraz is right on track to do just that.

I, of course, had to start with a French press regular coffee, which was strong, but without the bitterness of some coffee chains. Jannah enjoyed a delicious caramel frappe and Charmaine sampled the unique lavender matcha tea (far right). She doesn’t drink coffee, poor thing. And yes, Haraz serves authentic Turkish coffee, too.

But, all three of us were even more impressed with the delicious variety of dessert items and baked goods. The butter croissants are small, but taste pretty authentic and we all decided to try the cheese “bee bite,” a Yemeni pastry (above) filled with cream cheese, toasted and drizzled with organic honey. Definitely unique.

Among the desserts we “forced” ourselves

to try was my favorite — a chocolate raspberry pyramid, filled with chocolate mousse, covered in dark chocolate and topped with a fresh raspberry. Charmaine and Jannah both preferred the biscoff-covered “mosaic,” a triangular slice (also above) of dense, no-bake cake also available in raspberry

more. Haraz is a hit! We’ll definitely be back! For more info, call (813) 948-0807

visit HarazCoffeeHouse.com — and please tell Abed & his staff we sent you! — GN

COMPTON

The small strip plaza on S.R. 54 in Lutz, less than a mile west of the Tampa Premium Out lets, continues to see a lot of activity, as Fazoli’s (24791 S.R. 54; photo, right), the first tenant to open in the plaza 18 months ago, also became the first to close after shutting its doors last month.

Owner Carlos Saenz attached a note to the door that says “After 18 unforgettable months, our Fazoli’s family is saying goodbye to this loca tion.” Fazoli’s received a share of the $1 million in post-hurricane grants from the Glazer Family Small Business Fund less than a year ago, but apparently, that was not enough to help save the restaurant, which shared the plaza with Los Cha pos Tacos and Lightning Orthodontics

Although we have no word yet on what might replace Fazoli’s, construction is nearly com plete on the adjacent Greenlane Salads & Wraps (photo below), the healthy drive-thru restaurant of which former Tampa Bay Bucs and New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (far right photo above) is a partner and co-founder.

This will be the fifth Tampa Bay area location of Greenlane — including one on S.R. 54 in Lutz, about 6.5 miles west of the new location, and another in South Tampa. The restaurant’s website says that Greenlane is “Fast. Filling. Fresh.,” and that, “We have sought to prove that quick, convenient, affordable meals can be more than a burger and fries.”

Greenlane’s menu features a variety of fresh salads and wraps, including the newest addition, called simply “The Gronk” (with roasted broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, green

onions and cheddar jack cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce, paired with a house-made Greenlane Goddess dressing, although there are ten other dressings from which to choose). There also are eight other salads (all of which also can be made as wraps with a spinach tortilla), from Creamy Caesar and Classic Cobb to Mexicali, Tuscan Sun and the new Winter Maple salad. Although no firm opening date has yet been set for the new

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