Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News, Volume 34, Issue 8, April 14, 2026

Have You Heard About Everything New Coming To Wiregrass Ranch?

By Gary Nager

Whenever Wiregrass Ranch developer JD Porter is scheduled to speak anywhere in our area, it’s clear that everyone wants to hear what he has to say. So, the room was sold out and packed, as always, for the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s most recent Economic Development Briefing at the Fairfield Inn & Suites hotel in Wiregrass Ranch on Mar. 26, when Porter and his development right hand man Scott Sheridan, the chief operating officer of Locust Branch, LLC, were scheduled to be the featured speakers.

But, while Porter himself ended up not being able to attend, Sheridan handled the speaking engagement by himself with his usual aplomb, giving an hour’s worth of well-prepared updates on everything those in attendance really wanted to know.

Well, sort of, at least. Did we find out when the Legacy at Wiregrass Ranch downtown was going to begin building, and who was going to be building it or what restaurants and businesses were planned for it? No.

Did we find out what restaurant is coming to the prime space next to Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant along S.R. 56? Also no.

Did we find out if there is a Trader Joe’s (which I, for one, do not understand the fervor about) coming to Wiregrass Ranch? Oh hell no!

Even without those most-importantto-most tidbits, Sheridan did provide a lot of updates, some of which had not been seen in print or online before.

But, what we can report is that, despite what some detractors may think, Wiregrass Ranch is

proceeding as it has since Porter & Sheridan first began the process — carefully, responsibly...and according to plan.

Wow! The Overwhelming Response To My Call For Freelance Writers!

An Editorial by GARY NAGER

Many times over the past 32 years, I have put out a call for additional writers, but never have I had a response like I did to last issue’s editorial and ad asking for additional freelancers to apply. The response was so overwhelming that even though I had originally planned to also run the same editorial and ad in the March 31 New Tampa issue, I decided to just try to work with as many of the new applicants as possible.

Even that best-laid plan didn’t work out exactly as I had planned, however, because I chose six of the first 25 or so people who applied to assign stories to write for the issue you are now holding in your hand.

But, the resumes and writing samples just kept on coming. As of today, I believe that even though I stopped counting at right around 40 people, at least 45 of you — all either from Wesley Chapel or from the online post I made back on March 15 — have now applied to write for us. And, that’s just amazing because anytime I have put out a similar call for help in years past, I got no more than a handful of folks, most of whom were interested in writing but had no actual experience.

But, this time? I got a couple of experienced journalists, a few people working in public relations or marketing, some housewives, a couple of retirees and just such an eclectic mix of folks that even though I had a New Tampa deadline to complete before I could actually assign anything to anyone, I so thoroughly enjoyed reading the samples people sent — and responding by email to (I hope) every one of the applicants — that I almost missed my deadline.

If you look at our masthead in the yellow box on this page, you’ll see a total of eight correspondents. That is by far the most freelance writers I’ve ever had submitting a story that I had assigned them for one issue.

Here are the people I selected:

• Legal transcriptionist Jesika Knight

• Land O’Lakes High teacher Jordan King

• Spectrum News assoc. producer

S.P. Gordy

• Senior contracts administrator

Mary Durbin

• Remote senior accounts manager

Joshua Gabel

• Newsmatics staff writer/editor

Issac Morgan

Your will find the byline of each one of these folks on one story each in this issue and there are at least five or six more who will likely be given a chance in our next issue — and at least a dozen more who might have had a chance to receive an assignment if these other folks weren’t so strong.

And of course, at the top of the list of correspondents on our masthead are public relations specialist Celeste McLaughlin — my longest-tenured and most dependable freelancer ever who is a great interviewer and can write masterfully on any subject — and Realtor® and long-time engineer Joel Provenzano, who has been writing for us for a couple of years now and just keeps getting better. Joel has become an outstanding asset who more often than not these

days comes up with his own story ideas — like last issue’s amazing article about traffic control devices and this issue’s intriguing piece about Heartland Dental, the “dental support company” that is building two offices in our area and is revolutionizing the dental industry — even though some dentists hate it.

My whole reason for last issue’s call for more writers is due to several very important facts:

1) So many of you continue to read this publication and respond to the ads and stories in it that more local businesses than ever — many of whom also are self-professed Neighborhood News readers — are clamoring to spend their money with us.

2) My amazing wife and sales and marketing director Jannah Nager continues to be able to sell ads to the vast majority of those businesses.

3) Our beloved photographer. videographer and multi-media specialist Charmaine George keeps taking

great pictures and is becoming even more essential to growing our online and social media presence.

Speaking of online and social media “stuff,” Jannah, Charmaine and I are working with a local social media specialist to help us monetize the incredible response we receive to so many of our Facebook and Instagram posts and the stories that appear on our NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net website. Stay tuned for more details on all of that.

And, speaking of our website, did you know that you can read every issue of the New Tampa and Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News since 2009 on our website? All you have to do is scroll to the bottom of our home page and click on the icon of an old issue (right) and you’ll be taken to our ISSUU site, so you can read us even when you’re out of town for an extended time.

It’s nice to have a backup plan, but it’s clear to me that in our case, print is most definitely not dead!

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News

27251

Advertising & Editorial E-mail:

Ads@NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Publisher & Editor

Gary Nager

Correspondents

Celeste McLaughlin • Joel Provenzano

Mary Durbin • Joshua Gabel • S.P. Gordy

Jordan King • Jesika Knight • Issac Morgan

Editorial Research by Joel Provenzano

Ad Sales & Marketing Director

Jannah Nager

Video Producer/Multimedia Specialist

Charmaine George

Graphic Designers

Georgia Carmichael • Valerie Wegener

Nothing that appears in Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion.

The deadline for outside editorial submissions & final advertisements for Volume 34, Issue 10, of Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is Tuesday, April 29.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials.

Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, nor for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers.

© 2026

JM2 Communications, Inc.

‘Wiregrass Ranch’

Continued from page 1

The event started with an introduction by NTBC president and CEO Hope Kennedy, who first introduced Fairfield Inn & Suites partner Rumit Nana of Maverick Hotels, who talked about the history of how his group was originally looking to build on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., but ended up building in Wiregrass after Kennedy showed him around the area.

Nana was followed by District 2 Pasco County Commissioner Seth Weightman, who said his young kids are “sixth generation in Pasco County” and talked about BBD being “the road to nowhere” and how it’s now “the road to somewhere, with mega mega medical facilities. Who’d have thought it?”

Comm. Weightman also said that before Covid, Pasco County’s average age was 67, “and we were 67th in age of all 67 counties in Florida.” But, since Covid, only six or seven years later, the average age of a Pasco resident is now between 43-47 years old. We’ve grown younger by 20 years over the last handful of years. Pasco is now the number destination for in-migrating families in the entire country.”

He added that with Pasco now being “Florida’s Sports Coast” and all the young families moving here, especially in this part of the county, “we had to ask, ‘What is our future going to be?’ And, a big part of that future is the vision of the Porter family in Wiregrass Ranch.”

Weightman also said that, “Out of all of the projects in Pasco County, Wiregrass Ranch is truly special because the family is still in-

volved. It hasn’t been sold off to a hedge firm or investment firm. You have the family right here managing the day-to-day project. They’re still in the area, they haven’t moved. Because of them, there is a S.R. 56. They got ahead of the government by putting their own capital up front, and without them, Pasco County and Wesley Chapel would not be where [they are] today.”

Sheridan applauded the fact that Comm. Weightman is engaged with his district. “He’s a confidant, he’s an ally. The county does move a little slow at times, but it’s great to know we can always call Seth, who really is an asset and a great partner for us.”

No JD? No Problem

Even Sheridan seemed surprised that JD Porter didn’t end up making it to the briefing, “but I’ve been involved with Wiregrass Ranch since 2001, first as a landscape architect (with King Engineering, working on the Wiregrass Ranch project).” But, he became Porter’s development partner and COO of Locust Branch in 2016, when he first came to work for the Porters full-time and has been overseeing the land development of the 5,142-acre Wiregrass Ranch Development of Regional Impact ever since.

“We did build S.R. 56 to Meadow Pointe Blvd.,” Sheridan said “We pretty much built all of the master roadway structure in the community — Wiregrass Ranch Blvd., Chancey Rd, etc.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with the Porter family since 2001,” he said, “as a landscape architect, then as a planner and consultant, and worked on the project to take it through its full zoning and DRI process.”

Sheridan also said that he and the Porters

are “about halfway through the project and probably have another ten years or so as a ‘development window’ ahead of us. Some things I can get into detail about, other things I can only speak about in generalities.”

He started with Wiregrass Ranch’s master plan (bottom left), saying that at build-out, the 5,142 acres will be home to 25,000-28,000 people — with only 7,000-8,000 living there now.

“We’re approved for up to 10,500 units, but we’ll probably end up developing 8,000-8,500 or so, but that number’s still evolving a little bit.”

He also noted that the DRI is approved for, “3 million square feet of retail, 6 million sq. ft. of office, 1,000 hospital beds, 1,000 hotel rooms and we’re approved for 1million square feet of light industrial, but that likely will never get developed.”

Sheridan added that, “Pretty much everything you see on the ground today has been developed in about the last ten years. The first residents here were in the Estancia community, who moved in around 2012-13.”

He also mentioned the recent infrastructure, additions, “some of which have been in partnership with the county, including Wiregrass Ranch Blvd. Phase 4, which has extended it to S.R. 54. [We’ve also built] Chancey Rd. going east of Wiregrass Ranch Blvd., and all of that infrastructure is now complete.”

Other updates about recent additions to the community include that the Primrose School daycare is now in place, the Esplanade community will sell out this year and the successful 55+ Amberlin Apartments have been completed. “Yes, our county is getting younger, but the population nationally is aging,” Sheridan said, “so addressing some of that 55+ element is important, too.”

Also, Phase 2 of the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus, which also has a new logo, “has been completed now and is in the back stretches. Sports Facilities Companies (SFC) took over that facility about six months or so ago and that transition has gone very well. I believe they are sold out through 2026 and maybe 2027 and several hundred thousand people a year go through that facility.”

Sheridan also said that the parking study SFC promised the county it would complete to add more parking at the Sports Campus, “has now been completed and they are now actively exploring opportunities. We’re waiting for an update on that ourselves.”

New Residential

He also provided an update about all of the new residential developments that have recently been, or are being added, to Wiregrass Ranch,

including the recently completed and fully sold out Townes at Arbors (see story on pg. 8).

“Plus, Arcadia Apartments is a 340-unit apartment project that’s going vertical now at the north end of Wiregrass Ranch Blvd. Those apartments start being occupied later this year.”

Also in development is Persimmon Place, “another phase of the Persimmon Park community, where David Weekley Homes is doing a mix of single-family and townhomes.”

Also getting ready to build is Resort Lifetyle Communities, which will build a 130unit apartment-style (similar to Amberlin) 55+ retirement community, “at the northeast corner of Wiregrass Ranch Blvd., at Chancey Rd,” Sheridan said.

He also mentioned (see graphic above) The Vines townhomes (see story on page 8), as well as 110 new single-family ICI homes (which also built homes in the Persimmon Park neighborhood) in Serenity (Parcel S4 on the map). “That’s the first phase on the south side of Chancey Blvd.,” Sheridan said.

Then, there’s what’s being called “Parcel B,” another extension of that community. “We have now permitted a connection from where Chancey ends. You’ll be able to turn south and connect to S.R. 56,” he added. “There will be 170 new homes in Parcel B that will break ground later this year, as will some of that infrastructure off S.R. 56, as well.”

So Many Medical Facilities!

Even though the originally announced opening of the Florid Medical Clinic Orlando Health Wiregrass Ranch Hospital (Orlando Health for short) has now been delayed beyond its previously announced opening later this month, Sheridan said, “We now have five hospitals in Wiregrass Ranch. We never thought we’d get anywhere near the 1,000 hospital beds we’re approved for, but the majority of those now are either sold or committed.”

He added, “Health care has been a major development for us. Both Orlando Health and AdventHealth have been world-class partners, and that industry and investment is continuing to grow at a pretty significant pace. Just within Wiregrass Ranch alone, there’s more than $750 million being invested in health care.”

Sheridan also noted that, in addition to the new hospital, Orlando Health also is in the process of building two medical office buildings of two or three stories, totalling 150,000 sq.-ft. “Those will be operational here shortly after the hospital opens,” he said “That will change the look of Wiregrass Ranch Blvd. a lot.”

He also mentioned all of the other medical offices and facilities that will soon be added to Wiregrass Ranch, including:

• Encompass Rehab Hospital — 50-bed first phase that ultimately will go to 80 beds, on the south side of Strickland Blvd., to the west of Orlando Health

• Flagship Health Medical Office — previously reported (by NN) 46,000-sq.-ft. medical office building

• Bruce B. Downs Medical Office (in front of Amberlin Apartments) — “About half of that building is committed,” Sheridan said, “but it is not an AdventHealth medical building, as some people have believed.”

• Post Acute Medical (PAM) Rehab Hospital — another 50-bed physical rehab facility

• New Florida Medical Clinic/Orlando Health medical office building — in front of PAM, with access from a new extension of Bella Corso Blvd., which lines up with Stockton Dr., opposite BayCare Hospital and the new YMCA.

“So, as you can see,” Sheridan said, “this area is becoming another smaller health care hub for us (graphic above). And, we have several other conversations happening with other health care users on Bruce B. Downs in this area.”

Exciting New Retail & Mixed-Use

Towards the end of his presentation, Sheridan did finally get into at least some new information about what, it seemed, at least, most people in attendance wanted to hear about — all of the new retail coming to Wiregrass Ranch, as

See “Wiregrass Ranch” on page 6!

‘Wiregrass Ranch’

Continued from page 5

well as an update on the Legacy at Wiregrass Ranch Town Center.

• Fresh Market Retail Center — Sheridan didn’t realize that he actually was breaking new news when he mentioned the Fresh Market Retail Center (see below), featuring a Fresh Market-branded “green” grocery store as its anchor, “at the southwest corner of SR. 56 and Wiregrass Ranch Blvd./Mansfield Blvd. That will be in conjunction with about 100,000 square feet of retail between the grocery store and all of the other spaces [in the plaza] and outparcels.”

• Restaurants Near Cooper’s Hawk?— “We are in some active communications with some high-end restaurants to help round out that S.R. 56 frontage between Cooper’s Hawk and Culver’s, as well as another restaurant pad on the southeast quadrant of S.R. 56 and Wiregrass Ranch Blvd., diagonally across from Orlando Health.”

And, in addition to that retail and restaurants, “we’ve got an apartment project that will be integrated into that, and a possible hotel, to really get a mixed-use, walkable component to that portion of the project.”

Later during the discussion, Sheridan also mentioned that Wiregrass Ranch, “is in discussions with quite a few national restaurants, but also some South Tampa-quality, higher-end restaurants,” although he didn’t specify where any of those restaurants will be located.

• “Parcel C5” — Sheridan then moved on to discuss Parcel C5, the location just east of The Shops at Wiregrass mall that people have been

asking about for years, since it had been cleared for such a long time for what seemed like imminent development. “We’re looking for a similar walkable community for C5,” Sheridan said, “also with some retail, potential hotel and a multi-family component. We anticipate that there will be several more hotels in Wiregrass Ranch.”

• New Publix — One of the items on the slide below that Sheridan described is the new Publix supermarket that “is in final permitting now” on Wiregrass Ranch Blvd., just south of S.R. 54.” People in attendance at the briefing were confused (as have people reading our original post online about the briefing) thinking that the new Publix was going in on or near S.R. 56, or even in the Fresh Market Retail Center, because it was included on the same slide. Please note that this new Publix is not going in on S.R. 56 in Wiregrass Ranch (nor is this the new Publix that is planned for S.R. 56 in the Two Rivers development located east of Morris Bridge Rd.), “We’ll be breaking ground in the next few months on that Publix center,” Sheridan said.

• New Coffee Shop & V Pizza — Sheridan also mentioned that coming to south of S.R. 56 (near Hueland Pond Blvd., is a new coffee shop, which we previously announced as a Ziggi’s drive-through coffee

He also said that there will be a new veterinarian office, which is in permitting now on S.R. 56, “as well as a unique pizza restaurant coming from Jacksonville called V Pizza. “They’ve got around ten locations in Florida (between Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Gainesville and Orlando; plus two in North Carolina) that is really run like a family operation,” he said. “All handmade, highend and it will be a large facility — 5,000-6,000

sq. ft., with a tremendous outdoor space. They really want to be an important fabric of the community. They came to us and said, ‘We love what you’re doing. Can you find us the right spot?’”

Sheridan also noted that quite a few potential businesses have been saying, “‘I want to be on S.R. 56. I gotta have great visibility,’ but V Pizza said they wanted the ‘right’ location. They’re in permitting now off of Mansfield Blvd., near the schools. I’m excited about that one.”

• Trader Joe’s? — “Yes, we are in touch with all of the grocers,” he said. “Some more than others. We just want to make sure that all of our partners here are going to be successful. Will we get all of them? No, but that’s OK. Yes, we have had conversations with Trader Joe’s, but part of the challenge here, and this applies to Legacy as well, is it’s just taking time for national brands to take notice. But now, with partners like Rumit, Cooper’s Hawk and Culver’s, S.R. 56 is starting to build momentum, but it’ may still take time for some national brands to see that S.R. 56 is where they want to be.” He mentioned that with Cooper’s Hawk and Culver’s both being at or near the top in terms of revenue among their entire chains, “We know more [big names] are coming soon.”

• “Downtown Wesley Chapel” — “Of course, we believe that Legacy at Wiregrass Ranch will be ‘Downtown Wesley Chapel,” Sheridan said, “with 150,000 sq. ft. of food, beverage and entertainment, and about 150,000 sq. ft. of office, a flagship hotel we think will be part of that project as well, plus 900 or so multi-family units, all with structured parking and all completely walkable, pedestrian-oriented. And, it will all happen on about 30 acres. So, this is a very urban form. We are pushing the market a little

bit by bringing this type of vertical development into Wesley Chapel, but it has been done around the country.”

He added that Wiregrass Ranch is still in discussions “with some development partners on this. Yes, we are building a small city, and this is a lot of our focus, time and energy right now. It’s taking some time and effort to get there, but this ultimately will be Downtown Wesley Chapel.”

Sheridan also mentioned that Pasco County is not only aware of Legacy, “they’re also our partner to help bring this to fruition with some infrastructure investment. That’s critical to getting a project like this — which is several hundred million dollars — off the ground.”

He then showed a “fly-through” video with renderings of all of the elements in Legacy. “There’s an office tower, hotel with conference facilities, an access trail across the wetlands, and residential, plus entertainment venues. In addition to the parking structure, there is walkable, parallel parking, not massive fields of parking.”

Sheridan also noted that if the first 30-acre phase of Legacy is as successful as they hope, “there is a corresponding 25 acres or so north of that it could expand into.” He added that there should be a development partner in place on Legacy “within the next six months or so.”

• But Wait, There’s More! — Sheridan did also note that as far as community services are concerned, Wiregrass Ranch is committed to providing locations for fire/EMS facilities, and also is in discussions with the School Board to see if they need any of the school sites noted on the map on pg. 4. “We’ve also talked with charter and private school operators,” he said.

Of course, we’ll keep you posted!

Wiregrass Ranch Adding More Residential, Too; Begins Building The Vines

By Joel Provenzano Neighborhood News Correspondent

A new townhome community is beginning to take shape in the Wiregrass Ranch Development of Regional Impact (DRI); see story on pg. 1), as Lennar Homes moves forward with its construction on “The Vines at Wiregrass.”

Located along the northern end of Wiregrass Ranch Blvd. (south of C.R. 54, aka Wesley Chapel Blvd.), crews have recently started clearing the site and installing drainage infrastructure (photo) — early signs that vertical construction may not be far behind.

The project adds to the steady wave of new residential development continuing across Wesley Chapel’s rapidly growing Wiregrass Ranch corridor.

The new community comes roughly a year after Lennar debuted The Townes at Arbors at Wiregrass, a luxury townhome neighborhood, with only 43-44 attached townhomes, located about two miles to the south of The Vines on Chancey Rd.

That development introduced larger, three-story townhomes, all well exceeding 2,000 square feet (and selling for $370,000-$596,000, depending upon size and location), setting a precedent for more spacious attached housing options in the Wesley Chapel area.

“The Vines at Wiregrass” will sit just south of the Arcadia Apartments, which are currently in their vertical construction phase, south of a new Publix supermarket also beginning construction — all directly across Wiregrass Ranch Blvd. from Wesley Chapel’s Walmart Supercenter.

The Vines’ location also places it immediately south of the planned Bruce B. Downs Bypass Road (see map), a future

connector that will link Bruce B. Downs Blvd. with C.R. 54 near Saddlebrook Resort — an infrastructure project expected to further improve regional traffic flow.

According to documents from Pasco County, the community name The Vines was officially finalized early this year. Plans call for a 15-acre gated neighborhood also featuring approximately 100 townhomes, along with a resident pool.

While Lennar has not yet released specific floor plans or model details, the site plans do provide some early clues. Each unit shows a two-car garage, suggesting that the homes will likely fall on the larger side — potentially again around or above 2,000 sq. ft., based on preliminary layout dimensions.

As development activity continues across Wiregrass Ranch, The Vines at Wiregrass represents another step in the area’s evolution, offering new housing options in one of Wesley Chapel’s most active growth corridors.

• Independent Broker & Medicare Expert since 2008

• Variety of companies & solutions for Medigap, Medicare Advantage & Part D

• Free, convenient phone appointments

For more info, call or email Pamela Turner 888-520-8683 or Pam@decodingmedicare.com Or visit DecodingMedicare.com

Also, scan the QR code for a link to a free .pdf-format Medicare workbook!

Pasco Commissioners Unanimously Approve Stronger Tree Ordinance Rules

By Joshua Gabel Neighborhood News Correspondent

The Pasco County Board of County Commissioners (BOC) is casting some “shade” on developers’ ability to remove trees from their respective properties, after approving changes to the county’s tree ordinance at the BOC’s Mar. 24 meeting.

By a vote of 5-0, commissioners agreed to update the ordinance to shore up protections for Pasco’s “Heritage” trees — defined as live oaks 34 inches or larger in diameter or Southern magnolias 24 inches or larger — introducing new standards for tree canopy preservation and increasing both the fees for removal, as well as the credits for protection, of these trees.

Under these new standards, developers would be required to preserve 20 percent of the existing tree canopy of their developments, or the uppermost layer of trees whose branches and leaves cover the ground when viewed from above. For upland trees, these are measured by the total number of inches of upland trees that measure 10 inches in diameter at breast height (known as DBH).

DBH is a standard measurement to determine the diameter of a tree trunk, typically taken at an average adult’s chest height, which is roughly about 4.5 feet. Wetland trees are protected separately under state and local laws and require different levels of permits and regulatory consideration.

The new ordinance also requires that

tree removal be submitted as part of a developer’s overall development plan.

When developers build out a new subdivision or apartment complex, they must pay a fee and either replace the trees or the fee goes into the Tree Mitigation Fund (TMF), which is funded by developers to allow the county to pay for a variety of tree canopy projects and is maintained separate from the county’s general revenue.

Under this new ordinance, for each tree removed, developers will pay $75 per inch DBH (up from $50) for most trees, while the cost goes up to $150 per inch DBH for Heritage trees. When a developer preserves trees, it can receive a credit of $150 per inch for every non-Heritage tree 10 inches in diameter or larger they preserve, while they will receive a credit of $300 per inch for every Heritage tree preserved.

A cap also was established for the maximum contribution to the tree mitigation fund equal to $10,000 per upland developable acre, along with a cap exemption for Heritage trees — and exemption that was advocated by District 2 Commissioner and Board vice chair Seth Weightman in order to incentivize their protection.

During the meeting, Commissioner Weightman said that this was a “consequential vote.” And, in a statement since that meeting to Neighborhood News, he said that the proposed ordinance will keep forward momentum for the preservation of Pasco’s Heritage trees for future generations while

improving the overall tree canopy throughout the county.

“You can’t mitigate the destruction of Heritage trees,” Comm. Weightman said. “With this vote, we’re truly looking out for the health of our environment, our communities and future generations. I’m hopeful this will inspire developers to incorporate our Heritage trees into the design of our [Pasco’s] communities.”

According to the county staff, there currently is roughly $12.7 million in Pasco’s TMF. Funds can be pulled by the county from the TMF to pay for approved projects that increase Pasco’s tree canopy on county-owned properties, along with redevelopment of designated areas of the county through the Economic Growth Landscaping Program, which helps both homeowners and those affordable housing projects serving residents earning 80% of area median income or below, as well as any School Board beautification projects on campuses across the county.

Although the commission was supportive of the ordinance changes, some raised concerns that agricultural land owners looking to sell might be incentivized to clear cut their land before transferring the property to a developer, in order for the developer to avoid paying into the TMF once they acquire the property.

“If you have a heavily wooded site and you want to sell it, the developer who wants to buy it is going to say ‘clear it first

and then I’ll buy it,’” stated Dist. 3 Comm. Kathryn Starkey, “I am happy to protect ag all day long. I’m not happy to take ag and let them (developers) skirt around this tree protection ordinance.”

Concerns About HB 399

Comm. Weightman also raised numerous concerns about House Bill 399 (which was passed during the 2026 State Legislative session and recently signed into law by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis) during the BOC meeting and echoed those concerns to the Neighborhood News about its impact for county planning, but also said that the county’s new tree ordinance can serve as a buffer to development.

“What the tree ordinance does,” says Comm. Weightman, “is that it’s a quality control mechanism for the environment, for neighbors and for projects So [developers] are gonna have to run a pro forma to see, based on $10,000 per upland developable acre plus the additional cost for Heritage trees, if them just coming in and blitzkrieging a site under the new House Bill 399 rules pencils out for them.”

House Bill 399 (see text of the bill on this page) immediately went into effect. Supporters of the new law say it will help with the housing and affordability crisis impacting the state but opponents say it’s another attempt to erode home rule and could make it harder for local governments

HB 399: Land Use and Development Regulations

GENERAL BILL by State Affairs Committee ; Housing, Agriculture & Tourism Subcommittee ; Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee ; Borrero Land Use and Development Regulations;

Requires amount of application fees associated with development permits or orders to reasonably relate to certain costs; requires public schools interlocal agreements to address reasonable access to certain public easements & public rights-of-way; requires local governments to administratively approve applications for minor special exceptions or variances submitted by large destination resorts that meet certain requirements ; requires local government comprehensive plans & land development regulations to include factors for assessing compatibility of certain residential uses; requires land development regulations to incorporate measures for mitigating or minimizing potential incompatibility; prohibits residential manufactured buildings from being denied a building permit for placement on certain lots; requires housing units located on a mobile home lot to be taxed in a specified manner and be subject to payments to a specified fund; requires off-site constructed residential dwellings to be permitted as of right in certain zoning districts; requires local government regulations to be reasonable and uniformly enforced.

Effective Date: Except as otherwise expressly provided in this act, this act shall take effect upon becoming a law.

to deny projects they deem incompatible.

The law requires local governments to tie development fees to the actual cost of project review, while also adopting more objective standards for compatibility within the existing neighborhoods and the surrounding area. It also requires cities and counties to provide reasoning for why a project is denied.

“It erodes the ability for local planning commissioners to have a say,” Comm. Weightman adds. “It’s another golden ticket for development. The fact that local governments can’t choose incompatibility to deny a project is absurd.”

Some Pasco County residents appearing at the Mar. 24 BOC meeting also raised

some concerns about the impact that socalled state preemption laws might have on the tree ordinance and others wanted to see the canopy preservation percentage further increased.

“Due to the fact that the state preemption exemptions weaken the 20% canopy preservation standards, we need to increase that to 30 percent,” said Julia Bartunek of New Port Richey during public comment.

However, many residents were supportive of the changes and were thankful that the county was at least attempting to tackle this issue. “I just want to thank you all for even the idea of a tree ordinance, I really praise you all for that,” said Linda Blake, also of New Port Richey.

General Dentists

Updates On Avalon Park Blvd. & Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel Phase 2

By Issac Morgan Neighborhood News Correspondent

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel (WC), a new pedestrian-friendly road runs through the growing community, connecting it from nearby residential areas to where apartments, townhomes and new businesses are under construction.

Avalon Park Blvd. (see aerial photo below and map, right), located off S.R. 54 near Friendly Way, recently opened to drivers and pedestrians.

The roughly 1-mile road cost about $7 million to build, according to president and CEO Beat Kähli of Avalon Park Group, the real estate development company behind the project.

Kähli says that helping residents easily navigate to the businesses and schools in Avalon Park WC was a primary purpose of the Avalon Park Blvd. road project.

“It is critical because it connects all of the residential homes,” Kähli says. “If you build a town…connectivity is very important.”

The extension road runs alongside the developing downtown district, where the first phase of restaurants and retail spaces are already located beneath The Flats apartments. There also is an amphitheater beginning construction at one end of the Downtown Avalon Park WC’s Town Park, where live music performances and other events will eventually be held. Avalon Park Blvd. extends from S.R. 54 through the community, all the way to River Glen Blvd. in Hawthorne Village.

But, the road is just the latest piece of a larger effort to develop Phase 2 of Downtown Avalon Park WC.

Although Kähli did not provide addi-

tional specific details about the businesses coming to Phase 2, he says a grocery store, a hotel and more than 150 townhomes are expected in the downtown area. Phase 2 also will include two mixed-use buildings (similar to The Flats), with 50,000 square feet of commercial, office and retail space. “We have a waiting list of possible tenants,” Kähli says.

Also currently under construction near (but not in) the downtown district are Hamlet Cottage Homes, a Dunkin’ restaurant and Pinecrest High School (there currently are high school students being taught at the original Pinecrest Academy K-8 school).

As for the broader, 1,600-acre Avalon Park WC area, Kähli says that nearly two dozen phases are planned over the next several years. He adds that the additional phases will include more schools, a day care center, an age 55plus community and at least 10 new restaurants.

The community is designed around a “live, learn, work and play” model, with interconnected neighborhoods and treelined streets that give Avalon Park WC a small-town, yet modern, feel.

The design encourages residents to stay within the community for their daily needs, from errands to entertainment.

The downtown area already is serving as s a central hub for events — including “Absolutely Avalon,” “Avalon Aglow” and the Wesley Chapel area’s longest running opento-the-public 4th of July fireworks display. As reported in the Neighborhood News, The Flats apartment complex and the first businesses in the downtown district opened nearly two years ago (in Sept. 2024).

A Tiny Bit Of History

Avalon Park Group has a history of launching multiple communities, including its flagship development in Orlando.

“We bought 1,800 acres in 1988,” Kähli says, “but we waited until the 2000s to start construction, We branded that community (which will have around 20,000 total residents at build-out) as [the first] Avalon Park.”

“We continue to believe that people should live where they can eat, be entertained, work and play,” Kähli says.

For more info about Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, see the ad on pg. 20 or visit AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com.

Medicine of Tampa

Cypress Creek High’s Conservatory Of The Arts Presents ‘Mamma

By Mary Durbin Neighborhood News Correspondent

“Mama Mia!,” the hit Broadway and movie musical based on the songs of the Swedish rock group ABBA, is the next production in the repertoire of the Cypress Creek High Conservatory of the Arts. According to Warren Underwood, the school’s director of theatre studies, roughly 50 students will be performing in the show (Apr. 29May 1), with many theater parents volunteering to help build sets and make costumes to complete the Mediterranean setting for the musical.

While other schools in Pasco County also have Fine Arts programs, Cypress Creek High is the only high school to house such an Arts Conservatory. Within the Conservatory itself, there are programs for Theatre, Orchestra, Guitar, Band, Dance, Journalism, Photography/Digital Arts and three different art collectives — which consist of 2-D Art & Drawing, 3-D Art, and Ceramics.

Students who do not live within Cypress Creek High’s zoned boundaries can still apply to be accepted into the Fine Arts programs in art, dance, music and theatre as part of Pasco County’s School Choice Initiative. In addition to the Conservatory, Cypress Creek also offers three other programs: Engineering, a Business Academy and Criminal Justice.

Underwood has been working at Cypress Creek for five years, having previously performed as a dancer at Walt DisneyWorld for close to 20 years. He explains, “I have always wanted to teach in general since I was a kid, but I knew that in

order for me to teach, I needed to teach something I loved and had experience in — and theater is always something I’ve liked.”

He also speaks enthusiastically about the theatre program and the Cypress Creek community’s support. According to Underwood Cypress Creek is the first high school in Pasco County to produce more than two musicals per academic year: He also wants everyone to know that the success of the school’s theatre program isn’t just due to him. He says, “If I didn’t have my students and my parents, we would not be where we are today.”

Heather Garcia, one of those theatre parents, whose daughter Hailey plays the lead role of Donna in “Mamma Mia!,” has nothing but praise for Underwood and the program, saying, “Enrolling in the Conservatory of the Arts program at Cypress Creek High is the best decision my daughter made for herself during high school. She has been able to grow as a performer by taking classes like Dance Technique, Acting and Musical Theatre. She has found friends with common interests and goals. Every day she goes to school and does something she loves, with friends that she loves!”

While in the theatre program, students still also have to complete academic coursework but have opportunities to participate in the nine productions that the Conservatory stages each academic school year. Productions include two Broadway musicals, a Broadway Revue, as well as one-act plays and Shakespearean classics. For example, earlier this school year, the students have performed both “MacBeth” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

In addition to acting opportunities, students in the Arts Conservatory also can fill important

production roles. Cypress Creek senior Emma Jackson is co-directing “Mamma Mia! “ with Underwood. Emma says that she has done everything as part of the school’s productions, but has found that, “I like to direct; which I decided my sophomore year. That was the first year I ever directed a show. I started with “Romeo and Juliet,” which we did in the courtyard, and I decided that directing was it for me.”

More About The Conservatory

After graduation, many of the students in the theatre program continue their studies in the entertainment field at the college level.

For example, Emma will be starting her major in Film & Media Production at the Uni-

versity of South Florida (USF) this fall, where she hopes to be able to use the directorial skills she has learned at Cypress Creek High.

On the other hand, fellow senior Preston Campbell, who plays the character of Sam Carmichael in “Mamma Mia!,” also will be attending USF; however, Sam says his course of study will be in cybersecurity. But, even though his major at USF will not focus on the theatre or the arts, Preston says: “I will miss this a lot. I have been working with him (Underwood) for five years.” Preston also attended Cypress Creek Middle School, which has its own Fine Arts “feeder” program in theatre and dance.

Underwood says that he also gets involved with choreography for the middle school pro-

ductions and therefore meets students who may become interested in enrolling in the theatre program at Cypress Creek High. He says that is how he got to know Preston.

Festival Of The Arts (April 25)

In addition to the theater productions, Cypress Creek High also hosts an annual “Festival of the Arts,” which showcases each of the different cultural programs at the Conservatory of the Arts. The Festival, which will be held this year on Saturday, April 25, in the school’s gym and café, 4 p.m.-7 p.m., highlights multimedia 2D & 3D artwork, dance, color guard and music. This year, the Festival also will include art exhibits from students from Cypress Creek Mid-

dle School, as well as from elementary schools in Pasco County. The Festival is open to the public and prospective Conservatory students and their families are encouraged to attend.

The Cypress Creek Conservatory of the Arts will present three performances of “Mamma Mia!” at the Pasco Hernando State College (PHSC) Instructional Performing Arts Center (IPAC), located in front of Cypress Creek High at 8657 Old Pasco Rd. The performances will be held on Wednesday, April 29, Thursday, April 30, & Friday, May 1 – with curtain for all three performances at 6:30 p.m. All performances are open to the public and tickets cost $15, plus a $1.75 service fee per ticket. For tickets, visit GoFan.co/app/school/FL68236

Upcoming Events — 5K Runs, Sporting Clays, ‘Dance Your Dream,’

Sunday, April 12, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. – Cassidy Otto “Stomp Out Cancer 5K” & “Journey Around the World Festival.” At the Shops at Wiregrass (28211 Paseo Dr.). Lace up and run or stop by afterward to enjoy the festival and show your support for a great cause. Post-run there will be live music, a fashion show, International Food, a silent auction and more. 5K-$40, 5K-Virtual-$40, Kids Fun Run (7 & under)-$15. For more info or to sign up, visit runsignup.com/Race/FL/WesleyChapel/CassidyOttoStompOutCancer

Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

– New Tampa Piano and Pedagogy Academy’s All-Faculty Chamber Music Recital. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Join New Tampa Piano and Pedagogy Academy’s piano faculty and guest musicians for an inspiring evening of chamber music. This event is free and open to the public. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, visit NewTampaArtsCenter. org/events/ntpiano-pedagogy-academy-recital.

Wednesday, April 15, 9 a.m.-noon – Law Enforcement Torch Run. At Tampa Premium Outlets (2300 Grand Cypress Dr.) The Pasco County Law Enforcement Torch run benefiting Special Olympics Florida starts near the lagoon. This inspiring event honors the athletes and officers who carry the Flame of Hope in their support. Enjoy a morning of games, giveaways, a live DJ and fun surprises for all ages. Free to attend. For more info, visit Premiumoutlets.com/tampa// stream/torch-run-for-special-olympics-6277592

Wednesday, April 15, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

– North Tampa Bay Chamber Coffee Social.

At Emorys Rock Realty at Signature Work Space (28210 Paseo Dr. Ste. 190). A relaxed morning designed for casual networking and meaningful connections. Join fellow chamber members for coffee, light refreshments and great conversations – with no agenda. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534. Or, visit Business. NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Wednesday, April 15, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. –April Kidquest: “Mr. Tommy & Gigi’s Musical Entertainment & Gardening Fun.” At The Shops at Wiregrass (28211 Paseo Dr., Center Court). Dig into a morning of music, movement, and hands-on gardening fun. Free to attend. For more info, visit TheShopsAtWiregrass.com/ event/38211-april-kidquest

Wednesday, April 15, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. & noon-1 p.m. – Creative Arts Theatre Presents: “The Feisty Flamingos.” At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters

Village Rd.). This show is presented as part of New Tampa Performing Arts Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) program. In this play by Nicholas Perez-Hoop, a misfit baseball team in hot pink uniforms must learn teamwork, fast — before their last game becomes their final strikeout. Best for ages 5 and up. Tickets are free but you must register in advance. For more info and to register, email David Estevez at EstevezD@HCFL.gov.

Wednesday, April 15, 6 p.m. – Central Pasco Democratic Club Meeting. At Meadow Pointe I Clubhouse (28245 County Line Rd.) and on Zoom. Topic will be winning back Congress. All friends of the Democratic Party are invited. Come early to socialize. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 453-1663 or email CentralPascoDemocraticClub@gmail.com.

Friday, April 17, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. - “Clays for Cardiac Care.” At Tampa Bay Sporting Clays (10514 Ehren Cutoff, Land O’ Lakes). Take aim

for a great cause and help raise vital funds for advanced cardiac care at AdventHealth’s Pasco County hospitals. $1,000 for a team (includes 4 shooters, ammo, lunch and cart). For more info or to register, visit give-wfl.adventhealth.com/ event/clays-for-cardiac-care/e758627/register/ new/select-tickets.

Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. –“Single & Thriving Conference.” At Carmel Friendship Church (30081 Wells Rd.). If you’ve ever been asked why you’re single, register for the 2026 Single & Thriving Conference for encouragement, connection, and practical insight from dynamic speakers on living single life with purpose. Registration starts at 8 a.m. Light refreshments will be served. $40 to attend. For more info, email info@cfriendship.org. Or, to register online visit cfriendship.or/event-list.

Saturday, April 18, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. - Art Exhibition “Retrospective & Prospective.” At Compton Park Palms Room (16101 Compton Dr., Tampa Palms). This art exhibition will showcase the work of Pam Patton. It will be a display of a diverse collection of paintings that vary in subject, size, style, and media. Pam will also introduce artwork by two of her teenage granddaughters. Free to attend. For more info, email PamPatton123@gmail.com

Saturday, April 18, 5 p.m.-8 p.m. –“Dance Your Dream 2026 – A Night at the Circus.” At Wesley Chapel District Park (7727 Boyette Rd.). This will be an unforgettable evening (see photo on previous page) with circus-themed fun, where individuals who are 14+

in age and living with a disability are honored. Free to attend but you must register. For more info and to register, visit HopeGetsJobs.org/ news-events/dance-your-dream/dance-yourdream-2026.html.

Sunday, April 19 3 p.m.-6 p.m. – “Moonflower: The Spirit of Santana.” At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). “Moonflower” is a tribute to the music of Santana performed by five musicians whose love for Santana and the music comes first. “Moonflower” produces the sound, feelings, and excitement of the great music of Santana. Tickets $20$27.50 depending on seat selection. Select tickets are available for $10 through NTPAC’s Affordable Art commitment. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/ events/moonflower-the-spirit-of-santana.

Monday, April 20, 6:30 p.m. – East Pasco Democratic Club Meeting. At the Genesis Center (38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills) and on Zoom. Candidate Stephanie Vazquez will speak on using the 5-Call Messenger App to contact Congress. All friends of the Democratic Party are welcome. Refreshments are provided. Free to attend. For more info, email EastPascoDems@gmail.com.

Thursday, April 23, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon Cutting. At Hale Law (6408 E. Fowler, Tampa). Join the chamber as they help to officially open the new Tampa location of Hale Law. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534 or visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Friday, April 24, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Final Friday. At Noble Crust (28330 Paseo Dr,). Connect, engage and network with chamber members in a relaxed environment. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 994-8534 or visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Friday, April 24, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. – Charity Casino Night Benefiting Gulfside Hospice. At Shanna & Bryan Glazer JCC (522 N Howard Ave., Tampa). Enjoy a night filled with casino games, adult beverages, delicious food, photo booth & casino-style entertainment. Proceeds help provide hospice care to local patients. Cocktail attire. Tickets $125, ages 21+ only. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more info, call (727) 8455707 or visit CharityCasinoNight.org.

Saturday, April 25, 8 p.m.-11 p.m. –New Tampa Jazz Nights: Jazz Guitarist Dave Stryker. At New Tampa Performing Arts Center

(8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Tampa Jazz Club presents acclaimed guitarist Dave Stryker, along with retired University of South Florida Director of Jazz Studies Jack Wilkins on tenor saxophone. Known for his distinctive sound, Stryker is among the most prolific artists in jazz. He’s recorded nearly 40 albums, with the last seven going to #1 on the JazzWeek Radio chart, and has recently toured with his trio as the opening act for Steely Dan. Tickets $10-35 depending on seat selection. For more info and to purchase tickets, visit mytbtickets.com/events/davestryker-4-25-2026.

Monday, April 27, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

– New Tampa Democratic Club Monthly Meeting. At New Tampa Regional Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.). Guests will be New Tampa City Council candidates, Alan Cohn, Morris Lopez, Gene Siudut and Candice Cowen. Social time begins at 6:30pm and the business meeting begins at 7:00pm. Free to attend. For more info, visit NewTampaDeomocrats.com or Facebook.com/NewTampaDemocrats. RSVP & Register at mobilize.us/hillsboroughcountydec/event/818434

Wednesday, April 29, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. –North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbon Cutting. At PNC Bank (18811 S.R. 54, Lutz). Join chamber members for the Grand Opening of PNC’s new Sunlake location. Enjoy complimentary refreshment and pastries and meet the new team. Free to attend, but please RSVP. For more info or to RSVP, call (813) 953-4491 or email Donald.Anderson267@pnc.com

Friday, May 1, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. – North Tampa Bay Chamber Leading Ladies Network. At USF Credit Union (20610 Bruce B. Downs, Conference Room). A Mother’s Day floral experience featuring Nancy Mavor and Courtney Clark of Ostara Floral, a family-owned florist. They will guide attendees through a hands-on workshop to create mini floral arrangements. $15 to attend. Online registration is required. For more info or to register, call (813) 994-8534 or visit Business.NorthTampaBayChamber.com/events.

Friday, May 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. & Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. - Friends of the New Tampa Library Book Sale. At the New Tampa Library (10001 Cross Creek Blvd.). Most books are $.50. All proceeds support the library’s Summer Reading programs for children & events and classes for all ages. Free to attend. For more info, email ntr@foltampa.org or see the ad below.

Saturday, May 2, 8 p.m.-10 p.m. &

Sunday, May 3, 3 p.m.-5 p.m. – Solo Spotlight Series: Tampa Repertory Theatre Presents “Every Brilliant Thing.” At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). In this special Solo Spotlight Series event, Tampa Repertory Theatre brings “Every Brilliant Thing” to the NTPAC stage. Award-winning actor Ned Averill-Snell reprises his celebrated performance in this play about depression and how far we’ll go for those we love. Tickets $20-$27.50 depending upon seat selection. Select tickets are available for $10 through NTPAC’s Affordable Art commitment. For more info, call (813) 829-2760. Or, to purchase tickets visit NewTampaArtsCenter. org/events/solo-spotlight-series-tampa-repertory-theatre-presents-every-brilliant-thing

Monday, May 4, 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. Live piano accompaniment by David Estevez. Bring your own sheet music. Free to attend. For more info, call (813) 829-2760 or visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org/ events/open-mic-oct-ae8wd-y7kad

Friday, May 8, 8 p.m-10 p.m. – Tampa Bay Symphony: “Fate and Fantasies.” At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). The Tampa Bay Symphony consists of over 80 musicians and has been described as “one of Tampa Bay’s hidden jewels.” Come and experience the excitement of live classical music. Tickets $25, tickets are free for youth 18 and under and college students with valid ID. For more info call (813) 829-2760. Or to purchase tickets, visit TampaBaySymphonyinc.thundertix.com/events/248432#

Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m. - 5K Run & Walk for a Better Pasco to support Stephanie Vazquez for Pasco County Commission District 2. At Wesley Chapel District Park (7727 Boyette Road). This 5K is a community fundraiser to help elect Stephanie Vazquez to the Pasco County Commission. Registration and check-in start at 9 a.m. Adults 18+ $35, youth under 18 are free but must register. For more info and to register, visit StephanieVazquez.com/walk-athon-5k on see the ad on pg. 16.

Sunday, May 10, 11 a.m.-1:45 p.m.Mother’s Day Buffet. At Hyatt Place Tampa/ Wesley Chapel (26000 Sierra Center Blvd.). There will be live music, a festive buffet, and non-alcoholic beverages are included. There will

be full cash bar. Tickets $75 adults, $30 ages 4-12 and under 3 are free. For more info and to reserve your spot, call (813) 803-5600 or see the ad on pg. 49 to see the full menu.

Sunday, May 10 3 p.m.-5 p.m. – Spheres Bubble Show Presents: “Orbs.” At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). As seen on America’s Got Talent, Spheres Bubble Show’s comedic and mysterious fusion of art, science, and magic returns to NTPAC after wowing a sold-out crowd last season. Tickets $20-$27.50 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/spheres-bubble-show-presents-orbs

Thursday, May 14, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. – Kuumba Dancers & Drummers (TYA). At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Through mesmerizing rhythms and joyous movements, the Kuumba Dancers & Drummers take young audiences on a journey to the beautiful continent on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. Free to attend, but please register for tickets in advance. For more info or to reserve individual tickets or group tickets, please contact David Estevez at EstevezD@HCFL.gov.

Friday, May 15, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. – Alzheimer’s Caregiver C.A.R.E.S. Workshop. At Embassy Suites-USF (3705 Spectrum Dr., Tampa). This is an informative workshop presented by USF Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Center & Research Institute is for caregivers. Critical Answers, Resources, Education & Support (C.A.R.E.S.) will be presented. $25 per person and includes breakfast, lunch & resources. For more info, call Rose (813) 396-0849 or see the ad on pg. 16. Or to register, visit shop.usf.edu.

Saturday, May 16, 4 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., Sunday, May 17, 4 p.m. & Monday, May 18, 9 a.m. & 11 a.m. (Special Outreach Performances for schools and groups) – Tampa City Ballet Presents: “Sleeping Beauty.” At New Tampa Performing Arts Center (8550 Hunters Village Rd.). Sleeping Beauty is a breathtaking celebration of classical ballet that sweeps audiences into a world of enchantment and grandeur. Tickets $45 - $90 depending on seat selection. Tickets for Monday’s Outreach Performances $20. For more info call (813) 558-0800. Or, to purchase tickets, visit TampaCityBallet.org or scan the QR code in the ad on pg. 15.

Dentistry Deja Vu? Telling A $6 Billion Tale Of Two Identical New Heartland Dental Offices

By Joel Provenzano Neighborhood News Correspondent

What we first thought was just another routine addition to Wesley Chapel’s growing commercial landscape has turned into something far more intriguing.

While reporting our last cover story — “Olive Garden & Seasons 52 Coming to WC Blvd at Gateway Blvd!”—we briefly noted a standalone dental office planned for the same development, although we didn’t honestly know the office’s name at that time, but now know that it is Heartland Dental. Whatever it was to be called, the dental office barely registered with us.

Until we saw it again. A second, nearly identical building — same size, same name — quietly rising on the south side of County Line Rd., and west of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., in the LA Fitness/Aldi plaza in New Tampa. No signage yet, just a shell. But the plans we saw online confirmed that it is another Heartland Dental.

Two brand-new, 4,260-square-foot dental offices, each large enough for up to 12 exam rooms. Same operator. Same footprint. Same timing. That’s when curiosity turned into a deeper investigation.

Copy-&-Paste Dentistry?

At first glance, two identical dental offices might seem unusual — but in today’s Wesley Chapel (even though this location is technically in New Tampa), and world, honestly, maybe it shouldn’t be.

Multiple locations of the same brand popping up in a concentrated area can actually be a lagging indicator of that area’s economic strength. In simple terms: chains don’t plant roots unless the data says the area is “ready.”

And, while New Tampa has already “arrived,” Wesley Chapel is clearly arriving.

But, the dentistry scene? That’s always felt different. More local. More personal. Less… corporate. Hmmm.

The Quiet Giant: Heartland Dental

Heartland Dental isn’t just another dental company — it’s apparently the largest “dental support organization” in the U.S.

Founded in 1997 in Effingham, IL, Heartland Dental operates in 39 states and Washington, D.C., and supports 1,900+ offices and 3,000+ dentists.

Rather than owning these practices outright in the traditional sense, Heartland usually operates behind the scenes — handling administration, staffing, billing, supplies and logistics — while the dentists the company serves retain clinical control. Think of it as a hybrid model where dentists focus on patients and Heartland handles everything else. But that’s just scratching the surface.

The Billionaire Dentist Behind It

At the center of this operation is Rick

(Above) An improved version of the map of the Gateway Plaza Retail Center that appeared on last issue’s cover, still showing Olive Garden (OG) and Seasons 52 (S52), but also adding the Heartland Dental (HD) office, (Two maps provided by Pasco County were modified into one map by NN). (Below) A recent photo of the construction of the Gateway Plaza Retail Center. (Photo by Joel Provenzano)

Workman, D.M.D. (photo below), the founder and executive chairman of Heartland Dental — and, according to a recent Forbes magazine feature, the architect of a $6-billion empire.

The March 26, 2026, article — entitled “Meet The Billionaire Dentist That Other Docs Want To Punch In The Teeth”

— paints a picture of a controversial but undeniably effective industry “disruptor.”

Dr. Workman, who lives in the Orlando area, is an avid rare car collector, AND part owner of the Tampa Bay Rays.

He built Heartland Dental on a simple but powerful idea:

Let dentists be dentists — and treat everything else like a scalable business. And scale it, he has.

Controlling Every Aspect

Here’s where things get especially interesting — and relevant to Wesley Chapel.

Workman didn’t stop at managing dental practices. Early on, he created a separate real estate arm: WMG Development.

WMG has developed $1.4 billion in real estate across 30+ states. The firm buys land, builds the buildings, and leases them to Heartland-supported practices.

Sound familiar? That’s because we realized through a simple search that WMG is the site developer and land owner behind the upcoming Gateway Plaza Retail Center project, which includes the future Heartland Dental office, Olive Garden and

Seasons 52, all under a shell entity called Shoppes at Gateway, LLC. And,no big surprise here, WMG also is the developer of the upcoming New Tampa Heartland Dental location. That site’s land is owned by Southeast QSR, but the development ties back to the same network.

In other words, this isn’t just expansion. It’s sheer vertical integration.

“The Founder” Playbook

If this model feels familiar, it should.

Anyone who’s seen the movie “The Founder” (which is great, by the way) — the story of McDonald’s rise — knows that the global chain’s real money wasn’t really made in hamburgers. It actually was all about the real estate.

Heartland is applying a similar strategy in its dental operations by controlling the real estate, standardizing the business’ operations and scaling rapidly.

For an industry once dominated by small, independent practices — some even in home-based offices — this approach has been nothing short of revolutionary, and it was all Dr. Workman’s idea.

Raising Eyebrows

Not everyone is celebrating, however. According to the Forbes article, Heartland’s structured systems include standardized clinical protocols, performance tracking across patient diagnostics and revenue-based compensation models.

Heartland dentists typically earn a base salary, and begin earning about 25% of revenue after hitting certain production thresholds. The good news is that they average around $318,000 annually (vs. the dental industry average of about $208,000).

To supporters, this is efficiency and opportunity. To critics, of which there are apparently many, it raises important questions: Does standardization influence treatment decisions and can corporate metrics coexist with personalized care?

The debate is ongoing — and some dentists in our area are already part of it, similarly to what’s happened with other with other medical groups.

Already Here & Growing Fast!

Heartland Dental already has a presence nearby through supported practices like Watergrass Dental Care (on Curley Rd.), Dental Care at Quail Hollow and

others. But these two upcoming locations definitely seem to be different.

The “Heartland Dental” name apparently will appear directly on both of these new buildings. If that’s indeed what ends up happening, it could signal a shift toward more visible branding for Workman’s expanding company.

In other words, this might mark a notable evolution in Heartland’s strategy.

What This Means For Wesley Chapel & New Tampa

So, here’s the big question: Is our area truly ready for corporate dentistry at scale?

On the one hand, we have strong population growth, rising household incomes and increasing national brand presence, where all signs point to “yes.”

On the other hand, this could lead to higher base commercial rents, more competition and greater pressure on independent dental providers. Chains like Heartland could benefit from economies of scale, access to capital (including backing from firms like KKR, née Kohlberg, Kravis & Roberts) and control over both operations and real estate

For smaller, single-location dentists, that can be a tough playing field to navigate.

Disruption, Or Just the Next Phase?

In fact, it may simply reflect the next phase of growth for the Wesley Chapel area as a whole. The arrival of chains — whether in dining, retail, or now healthcare — does often signal maturity of a market. But, it also changes the landscape. The question isn’t whether Heartland Dental will succeed here. The real question is will, or how will, the local dental ecosystem adapt?

Because what’s being built isn’t just two dental offices. It’s a new model — one that could reshape how dentistry is delivered in our community for years to come.

New Wesley Chapel Black Chamber Cuts A Ribbon & Steps Into The Spotlight

*Editor’s note — The first news report released online following the Mar. 26 ribbon-cutting event for the new Wesley Chapel Black Chamber of Commerce (WCBCC), by Spectrum Bay News 9 on Mar. 29, was met by hundreds of resident comments, both in support of and decrying the decision to identify the new Chamber as the “Black Chamber.”

Before you read the following story, however, please recognize that this reporter has asked the same questions many of you who read it may be asking (see pg. 22). But, while several questions were asked, the responses we received to them from WCBCC president & CEO Darlene Hill didn’t actually answer them.

Even so, this is still simply a news story, not an editorial or commentary. — GN

Former North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC) office administrator Darlene Hill and the Board of Directors of the new Wesley Chapel Black Chamber of Commerce (WCBCC) represent the newest entry among several chambers already serving Pasco County. So, what sets the WCBCC apart from the Greater Pasco and East Pasco Chambers and the NTBC?

In an emailed statement to the Neighborhood News, Hill said, “The Wesley Chapel Black Chamber of Commerce’s name reflects purpose, not exclusion. Historically, Black-owned businesses have faced unique barriers when it comes to access, visibility, and resources.

“The Wesley Chapel Black Chamber of Commerce was created to intentionally support and uplift those businesses while still welcoming

and serving anyone who needs guidance, connection, and growth. Our mission is rooted in inclusion through intention, not division.

“This Chamber is open to everyone. If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or professional looking for support, resources, and community, you belong here.

“While we are intentional about supporting Black and minority-owned businesses, our doors are open to anyone who aligns with our mission of growth, collaboration, and economic empowerment. We are not prioritizing one group over another; we are prioritizing impact. Our focus is on making sure underserved businesses have access to the same tools, education, and opportunities needed to succeed. That doesn’t mean others are excluded; it simply means we are

being intentional about where support is often needed most, while still creating a collaborative environment for everyone.

“At the heart of this Chamber is unity through empowerment. We are creating space where support is intentional, access is real, and opportunity is shared with anyone who is ready to grow.”

The WCBCC’s Ribbon-Cutting Event

In addition to all but one of its Board members, at least 50-60 people came out to support the new Chamber on Mar. 26, when the WCBCC cut its own ribbon in front of the Signature Workspace, where its office is located at The Shops at Wiregrass.

Following an hour or so of networking, Board member Christopher Dobard kicked off

the event by introducing the Chamber’s purpose.

“As the Board, we want to thank everyone for showing up and celebrating with us,” Dobard said. “Today is the beginning of something very meaningful for our businesses. When this came as a thought to our founding members (Hill and Board vice-chair Chad Cooper, MBA), Darlene said ‘I really want to start something that actually moves our community together...that [helps] entrepreneurs, business owners and those who are aspiring to grow their businesses...bring them together and start a community where we can grow and pull each other through.”

Cooper, who was up next on the mic, then explained the vision behind the new Chamber:

“It’s to create a place where entrepreneurs,

from page 20

professionals and business owners can connect, grow and thrive together with access to tangible, hands-on resources and tools they can use to not only turn vision into action but turn action into sustainable results,” Cooper said before introducing the inaugural WCBCC Board of Directors (right).

He added, “About 12 months ago, Darlene and I started having conversations, and there became a buzz in the community. People started hearing about what we were doing and there was a small group of volunteers who heard about [it] and started helping us in our brainstorming sessions, and started helping lay the foundation to get us to this point today.”

He then introduced Board chair TaJuan DeVore, who first thanked Pasco County Dist. 2 commissioner Seth Weightman and his opponent in the upcoming Nov. 2026 midterm election, long-time Wesley Chapel resident Stephanie Vazquez for being on-hand. DeVore then said that the new chamber, “represents an investment in the future of our local business community.”

She then introduced Hill, whom she called “not only an advocate for our community, but who also is the CEO of The Leyda Group, a human resources firm that focuses on ‘people operations’ and HR strategies to help grow small businesses. With more than a decade of corporate HR experience, she has built a reputation for helping businesses grow. Throughout her career, Darlene has been deeply committed to community engagement and business development. She works closely with local leaders, chambers and business organizations to create opportunities for collabora-

tion, education and economic development. Darlene’s vision is to build a dynamic business community where Black- and minority-owned businesses are supported, connected and conditioned to thrive.”

Hill first mentioned that Dist. 3 Pasco School Board candidate Dr. Kirk Phillips also was in the audience. She then thanked Vanzelle Nibbs, the co-owner of Craving Donuts, and others “who have been here from the beginning.”

WC Black Chamber Board Of Directors

• Chad D. Cooper, MBA — Financial Planner, Gateway Financial Advisors, LLC

• TaJuan DeVore — Chief Operating Officer, DeVore & Company

• Christopher Dobard — Market Leader, Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU)

• Rolanda S. McDuffie — Cert. Public Accountant

• Ryan Pusins, MBA — Consultant, EOS Worldwide

• Avgvstvs King — Realtor, Avgvstvs Real Estate Grp.

• Lorna Petchey — Director of Sales, Hyatt Place Hotel Tampa/Wesley Chapel

• Christopher King — Founder & CEO, The Gentlemen’s Course, Inc., & Supervisory Committee Member, GTE Financial

She added, “The creation of the Wesley Chapel Black Chamber of Commerce was driven by a very simple idea — businesses grow stronger when they’re connected, supported and given access to the resources they need to succeed.

• Darlene Hill — Co-Founder, Pres./CEO, WCBCC

“Entrepreneurship is not easy. Starting a business is one thing, but growing that business is another. Our goal with this chamber is to help create opportunities for education, collaboration, mentorship and meaningful connection.”

Hill also expressed her gratitude to Signature Workspace for providing the co-working space for the new chamber’s headquarters.

“Today is just the beginning,” she added. “We are just getting started. We look forward to working alongside all of you to strengthen businesses, build partnerships and contribute to the continued growth of this community.”

Hill also noted that she has been a resident of Wesley Chapel for 15 years and she has seen how it has grown. “This is a great opportunity to work

DENTISTRY

IS

OUR PROFESSION.

PEOPLE ARE OUR PASSION.

Enjoy professional & high-quality dental care in a private, locally owned office, where your needs & comfort are our top priorities.

• Comprehensive general dentistry for patients of all ages — from children to adults

• Preventive, restorative, implant restorations & cosmetic dental care in a comfortable, modern setting

• Specialized expertise in treating sleep apnea and sleep-disordered breathing

• Custom oral appliance therapy as a non-CPAP alternative for mild to moderate sleep apnea

• Gentle, child-friendly approach to pediatric airway & sleep concerns

• Personalized treatment plans focused on long-term oral health & overall wellness

• Commitment to patient education, comfort & advanced dental technology

Meet Dr. Lee A. Daniels, who has served Wesley Chapel for more than 20 years in Seven Oaks.

For info, email: Info@SevenOaksDental.com or call: 813-907-7313

Hours: Mon., 8am-5pm; Tues., 7am-3pm; Wed., 8am-5pm; Thur., 7am-3pm; Fri., 7am-1pm

with businesses large and small, other chambers and organizations. We are here to serve you.”

Unanswered Questions

Below are some of the questions the Neighborhood News emailed to the WCBCC a week before this issue went to press that were not answered by our press time:

1) Is “Black Chamber” a good name for an organization that says it stands for inclusion?

2) What was it about the NTBC and/or any of the other established chambers already serving Pasco County that excluded or did not also serve the needs of Black- and minority-owned businesses?

3) If Hill started working on forming the WCBCC 12 months ago, wasn’t she still em-

ployed by the NTBC at that time and wouldn’t that be considered a conflict of interest?

4) What resources, programs, marketing and events will the WCBCC be offering to its members, since yours truly is now a member?

For more info about the WCBCC (28210 Paseo Dr. #190), visit WCBCC.org.

Verve Apartments, Pure Vida & Chase Bank Epperson Cut

Wow, have the last 30+ days ever been busy for the North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC)’s giant scissors!

Verve Luxury Apartments

On Mar. 24, the new Verve Luxury Apartments, located at 27745 Chestnut Lk. Blvd., next to the new Wesley Chapel Tesla dealership, hosted a packed ribbon cutting (photo, right) to show off the beautiful new apartment complex and its amenities.

Managed by The Collier Companies, the 360-unit complex, which is visible from I-75 just south of the S.R. 54 exit #279, Verve features a zero-entry saltwater pool (photo below right), a large fitness center with interactive spin bikes, a professional pickleball court, gorgeous clubhouse with an executive conference room, a co-working lounge, hospitality kitchen, golf and multi-sport simulator, a podcast recording room, billiard table, skee ball, a pet spa, two dog parks and much more. Oh, and the apartments are beautiful, too.

For more info about Verve, call (813) 210-8673 or visit VerveWesleyChapel.com.

PureVida Primary Care & Wellness

On Mar. 26, PureVida Primary Care & Wellness, the office of Board-certified internal medicine physician Said Awad, M.D. (holding scissors in the photo below), held its ribbon-cutting event at its location at 2404 Creel Ln., Suite 102, in the Cypress Glen Professional Park just north of S.R. 56.

Dr. Awad, who also has worked as a hospi-

North Tampa Bay Chamber Ribbons

talist, offers membership-based direct primary care, but his wife and nurse practitioner Yusra Awad, APRN, FNP-BC (also holding scissors in the same picture) also offers medspa and wellness and recovery treatments in the same beautiful office.

Among the medspa treatments offered at PureVida are microneedling with Skinpen, chemical peels, neuromodulators, facial and lip fillers, PDO threads (for face and scalp collagen boosting), medical grade skincare and both PRP (platelet-rich plasma) skin treatments and microneedling with PRP.

As far as the wellness services offered at PureVida, they include IV vitamin, mineral and hydration therapies, medical weight loss pro-

grams and testosterone replacement therapy.

For more information about PureVida Primary Care & Wellness, call (813) 771-6048 or visit PureVidaMed.com.

Chase Bank Epperson

Then, on Apr. 1, Wesley Chapel’s newest Chase Bank branch, located at 32106 Pioneering Pl., in the same parking lot as the Publix supermarket in Epperson, hosted its NTBC ribbon cutting, as branch manager Yenisel Gonzalez (right) introduced her wonderful team and the many residential and business banking and loan services, plus investment services by J.P. Morgan, available from Chase, the world’s largest bank by market capitalization.

For more info, call (813) 261-8540 or visit Chase.com.

For still more recent NTBC events, turn to page 26!

More NTBC Events — Optimum Health & Wellness, Ginger Health & AdventHealth WC

As if the previous pages weren’t enough, on this page are still more NTBC events to show you from Mar. 12 and Mar. 18.

Ginger Health

On Mar. 12, Ginger Health, the office of Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Ginger Le (at right in near photo), located at 27553 Cashford Cir., Suite 102, in the Summergate Professional Park in Wesley Chapel, held a very cool NTBC Open House event, with demonstrations of an Emsella Chair (below left; sitting in it is like doing thousands of kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floors of both men and women), a Sensory Chair (not pictured) to help regulate your nervous system), Shockwave Therapy (below center; a non-invasive device using high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing), massage and traditional PT exercises to an appreciative crowd of attendees.

We gave bonus points to Dr. Le for serving delicious pasta and sandwiches (bottom left) from Pasta di Guy (4839 BBD Blvd. in Wesley Chapel), plus large shrimp, cold cuts and more.

For more info about Ginger Health, which also has a Temple Terrace location, call (813) 631-9700 or visit GingerHealth.com.

Optimum Health & Wellness

Later that same day, Optimum Health & Wellness (23031 Tabak Ln.), the office of psychiatric nurse practitioner Heather Hughes, MSN, ARNP (in pale blue in both upper far right photos), held its NTBC ribbon-cutting event to introduce the spacious new office located less than a mile from of the intersection of Collier Pkwy. and S.R. 54 in Land O’Lakes.

“At Optimum Health & Wellness,” Heather said, “we believe true healing means caring for the whole self, not just treating isolated symptoms. Your journey may include nutrition, lifestyle support and integrative practices that bring mind and body back into alignment.”

Optimum Health & Wellness also offers “Insight through Testing,” because, as Heather said, “We know that mental health is deeply

connected to what is happening within the body. Functional lab testing helps uncover nutrient, hormone and inflammation imbalances that may be influencing how you feel.”

For more info, call (813) 856-1515 or visit OptimumHealthandWellness.org.

AdventHealth Wesley Chapel

Coffee Social

Then, on Mar. 18, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel (AHWC) hosted the NTBC’s monthly Coffee Social, which moves around to different member venues every month.

The coffee event was supposed to be held outside, in the hospital’s beautiful

The Social was instead moved into a packed employee lounge and conference room inside the hospital, but none of the 60-70 people in attendance really seemed to mind avoiding the cold.

The hospital’s chief operating officer Zachary Crane (below, front) thanked everyone for coming and the rest of the time was spent mingling, networking and enjoying the free coffee, mini-quiches and pastries.

The NTBC’s Coffee Socials are networking opportunities only, with no set agenda or program, and you don’t have to be a Chamber member to attend.

For more information about AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, visit AdventHealth. com. For more info about the North Tampa Bay Chamber and its events, call (813) 9948534, visit NorthTampaBayChamber.org, or see the Events Calendar on pg. 16. — GN, all photos on these pags\e by Charmaine George

Danny Ruiz Of Mikasa Home Loans Can Help Before You Start Home Shopping

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

When Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico in 2017, Danny Ruiz and his wife Michelle had just had a new baby.

Both were in the mortgage industry, and they decided to move to Florida to build their family away from the island — which would take years to recover.

The move gave the family new opportunities, and several years later, Danny decided it was time to launch Mikasa Home Loans.

“I started my company at the beginning of 2024,” Danny explains. “I’ve been in the industry for 22 years, working for different financial institutions. With all the knowledge and understanding of the business I’ve gained, I felt prepared to go out on my own.”

Danny, who is licensed as a mortgage broker in Florida, says he is able help people obtain a home loan for a new home purchase or refinance in any part of the state.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Business Administration from the University of Puerto Rico in Bayamon in 2004, and a Master’s degree in Finance from the same institution in 2010.

With Spanish as his first language and a significant social media following in Spanish, many clients who call him are Spanish speakers. Of course, he also is happy to help clients in English.

Danny says he likes being on social media where, “I go straight to the consumer. Most people who do business with me find me on social media.”

He says on Tik Tok or Instagram, people can learn about the home loan process and learn to trust him, so they’re confident about their decision to work with him when they purchase or refinance their home.

Danny and Michelle live in Epperson with their daughter, Micaela, who is now nine, and their two dogs.

He says his main motivation for leaving the more traditional financial institutions to start Mikasa Home Loans is that, as a broker who can work with many different lenders, he can help more people.

“When I worked for an institution, the client was limited to the programs, products or requirements of that one specific lender,” Danny explains. “Most institutions have their own niche, and if you don’t fit into that niche, then you are

not going to close with that bank. But there are other programs and lenders that would like your business.”

He helps homebuyers find those other lenders for the best available mortgage for them.

“As a mortgage broker, now I have hundreds of flexible options,” Danny says. “If you are not a client with perfect credit, I still have very good options for you, with other lenders who have an expertise in serving that type of client.”

And, he says, if people can’t qualify for a home loan immediately, he can guide and prepare them to be able to qualify for a loan as soon as possible in the near future, with what he calls “hints or hacks” to improve their credit score.

Danny says he specializes in helping veterans and active military personnel get loans from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

“VA loans have unique guidelines that help veterans purchase a house,” Danny says, “We have a lot of people who have been in the military who qualify for this benefit, but they don’t know it.”

He says they may not realize the significant benefit of a VA loan, which can be obtained with

a lower credit score than a conventional loan, or they just don’t think about the fact that they have the option to buy a house.

He hopes that any veterans or members of the military would give him a call so he would have the opportunity to explain the VA loan and

what options are available to them.

And, he says, whether or not you would qualify for a VA loan, the best time to call him is before you start house shopping.

“When people understand their budget up front,” he explains, “it’s much easier to have a smooth transaction, rather than falling in love with a house and then finding out if they qualify.”

He says people make much more levelheaded decisions when they know their budget and loan options in advance, and then go and find properties based on that budget.

“Being emotionally attached and then trying to figure out if you can make that payment or not is an uncomfortable place to be,” he explains, for his clients and for him.

He says when a client has already fallen in love with a home — maybe their kids have already picked out their bedroom — it’s very hard on them emotionally.

“But, when the person has the numbers in writing and we have discussed it over and over,” he says, “then they already have an idea of how much they will be paying, and it’s much better.”

He says most people who buy a house regret that they didn’t look for more home loan options because, emotionally, they wanted to move quickly. “This is so new for someone who has never done a mortgage before,” he says. “It’s a lot of numbers and a lot of money.”

He says it’s better to do all that research up front, so you’re more comfortable making such a big decision.

In addition to VA loans, Danny also has

access to down payment assistance for firsttime homebuyers, and also can help you with conventional loans, FHA (Federal Housing Authority) mortgages and loans for investors.

Francis Lugo first met Danny in Puerto Rico 10 years ago. He applied for a loan with Danny, but the institution Danny worked with back then didn’t offer the best rate, so he closed the loan with a different company.

But, Danny kept in touch. He thanked Francis for trying to work with him, and fol lowed up with him over the years.

When Francis moved to Florida and decided to purchase a house, he immediately called Danny.

“Because of the experience I had previ ously,” Francis says, “I wanted to see what he could offer. Fortunately, this time it did work out. He got me the best deal I could get.”

In fact, Francis says, his real estate agent was pushing him to use a different lender — one the agent knew well — but that lender wasn’t offering Francis the best option.

“At first, my Realtor was a little concerned, but once he started seeing how Danny worked, that quickly changed,” Francis says.

He says Danny was quick to send documents and reply to requests for information, and the agent was impressed.

“Danny guided me through the whole process,” Francis says. “He helped me to understand what I needed, where I was at, and my purchasing power.”

He says that every time he saw a house he liked, he reached out to Danny, who would run the numbers and give him an estimate.

“He was super helpful, and very detail- ori-

ented every step of the way,” Francis says. “He’s trustworthy, great to work with, and I would recommend him to anyone.”

Francis isn’t the only one who feels this way. Mikasa Home Loans has more than 100 reviews on Google, and every one of them is a 5-star (out of five) rating.

For more information about Mikasa Home Loans, call Danny Ruiz at (813) 476-5581, follow him on Tik Tok or Instagram: @DannyRuizHomeLoans, or see the ad on page 40.

Confused About When You Can Retire — And

If Your Money Will Last?

Fields Insurance Is Dave Ramsey-Certified To Insure Home, Auto & More

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

It’s been two years since Michael Fields and his wife Nancy moved out of Tennessee and came to Wesley Chapel, following their only daughter, Bethany, who landed a job in Tampa after graduating from Ole Miss University in University, MS.

Michael continues to manage five insurance agencies in Tennessee and also purchased a Bran don-based agency in 2021, moving it closer to their home in the Grand Hampton community, in the Medallion Corporate Park, just north of S.R. 56 and east of I-75 in Wesley Chapel.

Fields Insurance — whether in Wesley Chapel or back in Tennessee — provides personal and commercial property and casualty insurance.

That’s primarily auto, home, personal umbrella, flood, boat, RV and motorcycle insurance.

“We want to be your agency of choice,” Michael says. “We can provide the coverage that you need, and work with you to help make your policy fit within your budget.”

Michael says the top auto insurance carriers Fields Insurance works with are Progressive, Travelers, GEICO, Allstate, National General, Safeco and Nationwide. Top home carriers include Florida Peninsula, Edison, Ovation, American Integrity, Cabrillo Coastal, Tower Hill, Slide, Universal P&C, Manatee and Mangrove.

Fields Insurance also offers commercial insurance policies, so you can be sure your business is covered, too — providing coverage through Liberty Mutual, Nationwide and other commercial insurance carriers.

“Insurance is most important when it’s needed,” Michael says, “and I want to make sure that coverage is provided at the time of any loss.”

A ‘Ramsey-Trusted Pro’

Michael has been working in the insurance industry since 1999.

He started as an associate agent with Nationwide Insurance, eventually completing a three-year training program as a “replacement agency executive,” and becoming a primary agent in 2014. Nationwide then transitioned all of its agents to sell as independent agents — able to work with many different companies — back in 2017.

While Michael says he may not always offer you the cheapest insurance out there, he notes that it’s more important that he advises you about how to be protected from something unexpected.

Michael and Nancy recently celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary, and work together in the Wesley Chapel office. Nancy retired from her career as a schoolteacher after 33 years. She has earned certification as a Customer Service Representative (CSR) through the Florida Department of Financial Services, which allows her to provide insurance quotes and discuss the different coverages with clients.

Nancy says that being licensed has helped her to better serve Fields Insurance’s customers and was a big help in her learning the industry.

In addition to Michael, the firm includes six additional licensed agents, based in both Florida and Tennessee. Besides Nancy, the firm has three customer service reps in Tennessee.

The couple has two dogs, Maxwell and Charley, who join them in the office on Thursdays. They say people — from their delivery drivers to others in their corporate park — look forward to seeing the friendly pups.

Fields Insurance is recognized as a “Ramsey-Trusted Pro” through Ramsey Solutions, founded by author and radio host Dave Ramsey, who offers financial advice. People who turn to Ramsey for advice and want to be connected with a trusted partner in our area are directed to Fields Insurance.

“It puts us in a category that says we are an agency of integrity,” says Michael. “It means that we are vetted to meet a high service standard and act in your best interest.”

While he has been a Ramsey-Trusted Pro in the Tampa Bay area since moving here two years ago, Michael now serves many additional counties through the program. He is licensed to sell insurance throughout the entire state of Florida, so you don’t have to live in the Wesley Chapel or New Tampa area to work with him.

He says he invites those who are insurance price shopping or who have questions about insurance to give him a call anytime: “At least give us the chance to quote your risk, and see if we can compete with your current rate and coverage.”

While Nancy and Michael say most people prefer to communicate via phone, text or email, they also are happy to meet clients in the office if they prefer to meet face-to-face.

Nancy adds that they have enjoyed getting to know their clients over the last couple of years as they have settled in the area.

“It’s so nice to recognize people and get to know who they are,” she says.

She and Michael love serving the communities of Wesley Chapel and New Tampa, especially

The couple attends church at New Walk in Zephyrhills, where Michael is on the worship team and Nancy is on the greeting team.

“We have lots of opportunities to spend time with our daughter,” Michael says. “We go to a lot of restaurants with her, and we love being able to hop in the car and go to the beach.”

Chas Fleury provided a recent 5-star Google review — one of nearly 100 in Fields Insurance’s overall 4.9-star (out of 5) rating on Google. — to share his great experience with the company.

“I really appreciated how thorough and honest [Michael] was,” says Chas. “I got quick replies even over the weekend which was super helpful. He made something that could be stressful, smooth and approachable. Nancy was also very kind in my communication with her, very helpful and on top of things! I highly

Don’t Sweat It! Aire Serv Of Wesley Chapel Has Your AC & Heating Covered!

By Jordan King Neighborhood News Correspondent

As we all know well, the summer months in Florida can be brutal, so a working air conditioning system isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. Finding a reliable and friendly HVAC company can make all the difference at this time of year — and Aire Serv of Wesley Chapel helps keep families cool and comfortable, while also providing top-tier customer service.

Aire Serv of Wesley Chapel is a locally operated company serving both commercial and residential customers with heating and cooling system repair, maintenance and installation, offering energy-efficient options. With Florida’s heat playing a constant role in our daily lives, the company is committed to providing dependable service for the local community whenever the need arises.

“The most common thing we hear is that people haven’t found an air conditioning company they really like,” says Matt Gerlinger, the owner of Aire Serv of Wesley Chapel. “If we do this well, we can kind of end that conversation.” He adds that customer service plays a major role in that mission, noting that many technical professionals are not formally trained in communication with homeowners. “Many companies nowadays have switched to AI call centers. When you call us, my wife April picks up the phone.”

Aire Serv of Wesley Chapel is a family-run branch of the Neighborly franchise, which specializes in a variety of home services. Matt works alongside April, who also serves as the company’s office manager. While he handles customer inter-

actions, technicians, and day-to-day operations in the field, April manages everything behind the scenes — from answering calls and scheduling appointments to handling marketing and bookkeeping. However, Matt says the service would be nothing if not for his highly skilled and licensed technicians, installers and other employees.

Originally from Charleston, SC, Matt and his family have deep roots in the Southeast. Over the years, they moved frequently, as Matt advanced through management roles with Publix, gaining experience in a variety of communities along the way.

About nine years ago, Matt and April settled in the New Tampa area, which they are proud to

call home. They are raising three children and are enjoying everything the community has to offer. As a family, they share a strong love for baseball and music, often spending their free time attending games and school band concerts.

Unlike some HVAC companies which also offer plumbing and other services, Aire Serv of Wesley Chapel focuses exclusively on residential and commercial heating and air conditioning, allowing the team to specialize in these essential services. Aire Serv offers AC and heating repairs, full system replacements, new installations and regular maintenance. Matt emphasizes that the company’s first goal is always to fix the problem and not just

not immediately sell a new system. When repairs make sense financially, Aire Serv will recommend them. When a system is old and repairs are no longer practical, homeowners are given clear, honest options. The company also offers indoor air quality improvements, such as UV lighting and upgraded filtration systems, which can help reduce allergens, pet dander and airborne viruses.

One local customer, Bhushan M., described their experience as “outstanding from start to finish,” noting that when their air conditioner broke down, “Aire Serv responded quickly and had a new system installed within days. From the first call to the moment my home was filled with ice-cold air, the experience was outstanding,” the review said, while also praising the team’s professionalism and attention to detail. This young company currently holds an overall 5-star (out of 5) rating across 13 Google reviews.

Currently, Aire Serv of Wesley Chapel is offering $500 off a new high-efficiency air conditioning system, an option Gerlinger says can make a real difference for Florida homeowners. Air conditioners here often run more than 20 hours a day, every day, to manage both temperature and humidity, making them the single largest energy consumer in today’s homes. High-efficiency systems use less electricity and can significantly reduce monthly energy costs over time.

And, Aire Serv provides free estimates to help homeowners understand their options. The company plans to other deals in the future with the focus remaining on trust, transparency and long-term comfort rather than pressure to buy.

With everyone’s air conditioning running pretty much year-round, a broken AC system can quickly turn into a major source of stress. Aire Serv of Wesley Chapel aims to take that worry off homeowners’ shoulders by treating HVAC service as more than just a technical job but as a customer service experience. By staying local, keeping communication personal, and helping homeown ers make informed decisions about some of the biggest investments in their homes, the company is working to change the way people feel about calling an AC company.

For Wesley Chapel residents looking for depend able service from people who genuinely care about their comfort, Aire Serv offers something many homeowners say they’ve been missing — a company they can trust.

For more info, call (813) 419-0076, see the ad on pg. 39 or visit AireServ.com/wesley-chapel.

PROVIDED IN OUR OFFICE:

•Wellness Dentistry for kids and teens

•Holistic nutritional counseling for teeth and gums

•Ozone therapy for oral care

•Recommendation of non-toxic materials

•Sedation dentistry (nitrous oxide) and Sedation

•Invisalign First for children & Invisalign Teen

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

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

•Relaxed environment, so your children can enjoy their visit

or questions, email

Hangliter Residential — Your Family-Owned Neighborhood General Contractor

By S.P. Gordy

Neighborhood News Correspondent

Home remodeling is a big investment, requiring a commitment to get the job done. It is not a decision homeowners take lightly, and hiring the right contractor is a major part of the process. Costs are increasing for everything these days; which is something Ken and Jordan Hangliter take into consideration when they are hired to do remodeling and restoration work on homes around the Wesley Chapel area.

Ken and Jordan run Hangliter Residential, LLC. They are bonded and insured, Floridalicensed general contractors. The father-son team has more than 25 years of experience. They specialize in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, plus flooring replacements. Ken says they also do a lot of water damage repair and roofing work, but bathroom remodeling is really where they are the busiest. “Most customers want to remodel their entire bathroom, not just one part of it,” Ken says. Aside from those specialties, Ken explains that when it comes to home restorations or repairs, they can do just about anything and if you have a special request, just ask and they can give you an estimate.

Hangliter Residential is a family-owned business and is centered around a “grass roots, one-on-one” approach to customer service, Ken says. In fact, he adds, many customers become friends after the work is finished.

Ken and his son Jordan perform all of the labor themselves. Ken explains that he and Jordan come out to every job together but will sometimes

bring in plumbers and electricians for specialized jobs. All of the contractors they work with “are certified,” Ken says. When hiring the Hangliters for a job, they offer a service that allows customers to tell them what materials they need and Ken and Jordan will then pick up the items for the customer.

“We don’t upcharge for that all,” Ken says. In addition, if there are any leftover materials that the customer wants to get rid of after the job has been completed, the Hangliters will even “pick it up and take it away,” Ken explains.

Wesley Chapel has exploded in growth since Ken came down from Maryland nearly ten years ago. He says that the increased traffic congestion can be tough, but overall, he welcomes the growth, saying that “more people equal more work.” With this in mind, Ken explains that even though there are so many new homes being built around the Wesley Chapel area, “eventually they age-out and you gotta get work done.” In addition, he says “the thousands of homes that are already here are keeping me and Jordan very busy.”

Rising Above The Competition

Ken emphasizes that one of the core things that set his company apart from the competition is that he is “honest, and the customers love that.”

Ken’s decades of experience have not only provided him with well-qualified skills to do a wide variety of jobs; he also prides himself on a customer-first mindset. If you book a job with Hangliter Residential, Ken guarantees that they will “always be polite and arrive on time.” The company takes on one job at a time, so Ken and Jordan can focus on just that job. They make sure the customer is happy before they move on to another job.

“If you come up on the schedule, we will get your job done,” Ken explains.

Proof of this is in the company’s Google reviews, with an overall 4.9-stars (out of 5) In fact, 12 of the 13 reviews are 5 stars. The only one that isn’t is still 4 stars. This is no easy feat in the current trust-based economy where online reviews can drive a company’s success. The bottom line is that Ken and Jordan’s customer-centered approach, along with quality workmanship, is what brings satisfaction to those people hiring Hangliter Residential for home remodeling or repair jobs.

For example, take this five-star review from Lydia D., who says she rehired Ken to do another job after he had remodeled three of her bathrooms. “Ken communicates clearly, is very receptive to our input and is meticulous and thorough,” the review says. Another five-star review from Tia M.says, “Ken is extremely trustworthy and very efficient, we had absolutely no worries.” Trust is a major factor when you’re trying to

find the right contractor, and Hangliter Residential’s reputation for quality work and honesty are both important factors that Ken says you should definitely consider the next time you need any kind of home remodeling.

“I would like to thank all the customers who have come to Hangliter Residential for their remodeling and repair solutions,” he says proudly.

Ken has three sons and a daughter. Aside from helping with the physical labor, Jordan also handles marketing and assists with in-person

estimates. Ken’s son Jarrett and daughter Stephanie also come out to help Ken and Jordan with some of the labor. A family business at its core, there is also a Hangliter Residential in Ohio. Another one of Ken’s sons, also named Ken, is running that business, but still sets aside time to help here in Florida whenever he comes down to visit.

Hangliter Residential, LLC, is open every day, Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., and 8 a.m.-

3 p.m. on weekends. To schedule a free estimate, call (813) 460-4548 or see the ad on pg. 55.

Michael Rudin Of Semper Fi Veteran Coaching Will Get You Your Benefits!

By Gary Nager

If you’re a military veteran — or you know a vet — who isn’t receiving all of the benefits you (or they) deserve, retired U.S. Marine Michael Rudin of Semper Fi Veteran Coaching is confident he can help you.

Semper Fi, which Mike formed less than a year ago, is under the auspices of Just 4 Veterans Enterprises, which was created to provide coach ing services tailored to the needs and circum stances of veterans, with the aim to increase their Veterans Administration (VA) ratings (see below for more info).

“I was recruited by a friend with Just 4 Veterans, who told me this is a full-time job, but I already was working full-time for Citibank in leadership development,” Mike says. “My hope is to be successful enough with Semper Fi to be able to do this full time instead. And, I honestly think I’ll get there soon, maybe even by the end of this year.”

provides him with maximum tax-free compensation and medical protection and ensures he receives additional benefits for his family.

into a calling, and he went on to spend more than 16 years as a mentor to young men and women, shaping futures and changing lives.

Mike considers all military veterans to be his brothers and sisters and he just wants to ensure that, especially when you are left with any kind of physical or even mental disability — from amputations to PTSD and everything in between — that you receive all of the benefits you deserve.

“It’s definitely a passion of mine to help my brothers and sisters who have been turned down for veterans’ benefits,” Mike says. “I don’t do this for the money. If you served our country, you need to receive what you deserve and my job is to know the ins and outs of the system to get you those benefits. It’s a rewarding career.”

Helping Alan

During our interview, Mike called two appreciative military vets he has helped, so they could tell me not only what he did to help them, but also about the work he did and his character.

“Back injuries don’t improve over time,” Mike told him. “So, I combed through all of Alan’s medical records and got statements from him and his girlfriend to show how his injuries were affecting his job and his life. I looked at his prescriptions and the records of all his doctor visits and we put in for an increase and we got him from 90% to 100%, so now he’s at the max — and he’ll have his benefits for the rest of his life.”

Mike noted, however, that some people think that unless you’ve lost a limb, you’re not really disabled. “But, when you have anxiety and you’re on medications, that can affect your sleep,” Mike says. “When you have a back injury and have to sit for your job, your legs can go numb. That’s why you have to know how to present these things to get those benefits. Is everyone 100% disabled? Definitely not, but a lot of vets need an advocate to plead their case on their behalf.”

After retiring from the Marines after 20 years of dedicated service and moving to Florida in 2022, Mike is now living in Wesley Chapel with his wife Camila and their two sons, both of whom attend Kirkland Ranch Academy.

He retired as a Master Gunnery Sergeant with a 100% P&T (Permanent & Total) VA disability rating — meaning that he is 100% disabled and that his condition is not expected to improve (see chart on next page). This guarantees that he will no longer have to be re-evaluated medically,

Raised in New Jersey, Mike was in his senior year of high school during 9/11 and immediately enlisted in the Marines when he turned 18 in 2002. He spent the early portion of his career in logistics as a maintenance management specialist, where he developed a strong foundation in leadership and service. Later, he was selected for recruiting duty — a role that aligned perfectly with his passion for helping others.

What began as a special assignment turned

The first was a former Army vet named Alan, who had been referred to Mike through a friend Mike had previously helped who had been stuck at a certain rating, “and I said, ‘Well, I’m stuck, too, so maybe he could help me.’”

Alan, who suffered from head and back injuries, anxiety and depression, told me that he was “stuck at the same rating for like 15 years.”

But, Mike said he documented everything about Alan’s case, which showed that his injuries were actually getting worse.

Alan also told me that not only did Mike call him “‘brother,’ like most Marines do, he actually treated me like a brother and he was very professional. Even though I was trying to get this increase for 15 years, I felt confident after my first 30-minute discussion with Mike that he was going to help me. He said ‘All you have to do is sign the contract’ and I didn’t hesitate at all. And he did get it done, in about 3-1/2 months.”

Helping Kenya

The second vet we spoke with during my

interview with Mike was Kenya, who also was in the Army for ten years and got called up as a Reservist to serve in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. She was severely burned after she was covered with hot grease during her service and also suffered a back injury. In addition, she had extreme PTSD because of ongoing sexual harassment.

Even so, Kenya had been denied for benefits three times and was at a 0% disability rating. Not only did a previous company not help her, “They told me I had gotten paid when I hadn’t received $1 and were demanding that I pay them,” Kenya said. “I was referred to Mike and he not only took care of that problem for me, he got me from 0% up to a 70% rating, by giving me a different strategy to go about getting it — and in less than a month-and-a-half total. It was so fast and easy that I couldn’t even believe it.”

Mike noted, “When you know what you have to show in order to get the benefits, it really is a much faster, smoother process.”

Kenya added, “I think I got approved like ten days after I submitted all of the paperwork. People were telling me, ‘That’s impossible,’ but it so frickin’ true. I’m still in shock.”

How Mike Gets Paid

No matter how much he wants to help and how great his results are, Mike still has to get paid for doing what he does. Here’s how it works:

• The veteran pays nothing up front and if Mike doesn’t get their disability rating improved or get the vet their the back pay they deserve, they still pay nothing.

Key VA Disability Rating Levels

0% Rating (Non-Compensable): Recognizes a service-connected condition that does not cause severe impairment, often qualifying veterans for healthcare and other benefits.

10%-40% Rating: Compensable ratings for mild to moderate disabilities that cause some, but not total, impairment in work or daily life.

50%-60% Rating: Considered severe, these levels allow for additional compensation for dependents and may qualify for special benefits like Individual Unemployability if the veteran cannot work.

70% - 90% Rating: Indicates very severe, high-level impairment that significantly restricts daily life.

100% Rating (Total Disability): Awarded when service-connected conditions completely hinder the ability to work.

Source: Warrior Allegiance

•If Mike is successful in getting the veteran additional disability compensation, they pay a five-times multiple (four times multiple in Florida; different states have different limits) of the difference per month between what they were getting before and what they will receive after working with Mike. This can be a one-time payment or it can be spread into monthly payments for 10 months.

Both Alan and Kenya agree that Mike’s efforts are worth every penny of that amount.

For a free consultation with Mike Rudin and Semper Fi Veteran Coaching, call or text (609)244-0437. For more info, see the ad on pg. 42 or visit Just4Veterans.com.

Dr. Nicole Mitchell: Innovative Tech + Years Of Experience = Outstanding Care

By Celeste McLaughlin Neighborhood News Correspondent

It was two decades ago when general and cosmetic dentist Nicole Mitchell, DMD, began practicing in New Tampa.

As dentistry has changed over those 20 years, Dr. Mitchell has been able to stay on the cutting edge, incorporating new technologies into her office, which is located in the Pebble Creek Collection on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., only a mile or so south of the Pasco County line.

She also has retained private ownership of her practice, even as dental corporations continue to offer to buy it — as they have dozens of dental practices throughout the Tampa Bay area.

“[It happens] every week,” she laughs, but she doesn’t accept any of their offers. “I put my patients first, and the business second. I [wouldn’t be able to say] that if someone else were to take over ownership of my practice.”

While her married name is Nicole Mitchell-Toth, and her business’ name is Blue Water Dental, patients refer to her as Dr. Mitchell, and you can find her on the web at NicoleMitchellDMD.com.

in their earliest stages,” Dr. Mitchell explains.

screening to those at a higher risk.

Dr. Mitchell graduated from the University of South Florida in Tampa, where she earned her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Chemistry. She then earned her Doctor of Medical Dentistry (D.M.D.) degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in Gainesville.

After graduation, Dr. Mitchell served in the United States Army, where she was stationed at Ft. Benning, GA, and completed her residency in AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentistry), as well as the “Spear Curriculum” in advanced comprehensive dentistry. She earned the rank of Major before leaving the Army.

She opened her first private practice office in 2006 at The Walk at Highwoods Preserve, before moving to her current location in 2020.

This year marks not only the 20th anniversary of Dr. Mitchell’s practice in New Tampa, but also 10 years since her two maltese-shih tzu pups Max and Mandy joined the office staff. They were named after the maxillary and mandibular jaws, and she says they are trained to provide comfort to her patients.

Dr. Mitchell says patient education is key to her practice. She uses modern tools to ensure patients understand how to best care for their teeth.

“We’re using AI to help us diagnose cavities

At that point, she can use medicine to treat cavities without fillings. She also often recommends an oral disinfectant to reduce bacteria in the mouth to help prevent tooth decay.

“With fluoride being removed from the water over the past year,” she says, “we’ve already noticed an increase in cavities in our patients. Prevention is now more important than ever.”

She explains that fluoride in our water provided an extra layer of protection against cavities, but it has been removed throughout the state of Florida since July 2025. “The best thing people can do to prevent cavities is reduce the amount of sugar in their diets,” she says. “That’s the biggest factor in cavity formation.”

In addition, she offers her patients the option of purchasing prescription fluoride toothpaste, using over-the-counter fluoride mouth rinses and having a fluoride treatment during their dental cleaning appointments.

She says an annual checkup is the best prevention to catch problems early. When patients see her for their annual checkups, that’s when they get a personalized recommendation for cleanings, fluoride, or other treatments.

Dr. Mitchell and all of the hygienists in her office are trained to provide an in-depth oral cancer screening, as well. They ask questions to determine risk factors and recommend the

“We look through autofluorescence lenses to highlight precancerous areas that normal eyesight could miss,” Dr. Mitchell says. “Prevention and early detection are key.”

In addition, her office provides same-day crowns so that patients only have to come in for one appointment if they need a crown.

“We’ve invested substantially in technology to be able to do that in-house,” she says. “I believe it provides an amazing quality in both product and service to the patient. The crowns last amazingly well, and the convenience of not having to return for a second visit is definitely a crowd pleaser. With everyone’s busy lives and schedules, the patients really appreciate it.”

The technology to create crowns in-office means those patients don’t need a temporary crown, don’t need additional numbing at a separate appointment and don’t have to wait weeks for an outside lab to make the crown. Traditional impressions are not needed, thanks to the office’s high-resolution iTero 3D scanner, which creates an accurate, digital model of the mouth. The crown is then designed and produced in the office, with high-precision results.

In addition to crowns, the practice offers a number of cosmetic procedures, including veneers and teeth whitening, and also offers implant dentistry. Sedation options are avail-

able, and some InvisalignTM aligner options for straightening teeth are available, too.

“We get a lot of comments from people who haven’t been to the dentist for a long time,” says business manager Kayli Perrine. “They’re really nervous or they feel ashamed, but they say they feel really comfortable here.”

Dr. Mitchell says that’s intentional.

“We’re always glad when patients come in, even if it’s been a while. We’ll see where they’re at, and give them options for moving forward.”

Jessica Abraham is a Wesley Chapel resident who has been seeing Dr. Mitchell for the past six years. “They make you so comfortable from the time you walk in until the time you leave,” Jessica says.

She recently had to have a crown, and was thrilled with the same-day option at Dr. Mitchell’s office. “I was nervous because this was my first crown, but they eased my anxiety,” Jessica says. “They told me everything they were going to do before they did it.”

While she was waiting for her crown to be made, she felt cared for, with kind touches, such as a blanket being offered to her.

“I know I can trust Dr. Mitchell,” Jessica says. “I trust her expertise, and also that she’s not going to suggest things I don’t need to get more money out of me.”

In fact, Jessica adds, she asked for an expen-

sive teeth-whitening option, and Dr. Mitchell told her she didn’t need that option, offering a treatment that costs about half as much.

“She’s great,” Jessica says.

Giving back to the community also is important to Dr. Mitchell. In addition to serving those in need through a nonprofit organization called Mission Smiles, she hosted an event last year called “Grateful Smiles for Veterans,” provid ing a cleaning, filling or extraction to local vets at no charge. This year’s event is scheduled for Friday, July 31

Dr. Nicole Mitchell’s office is located at 19651 BBD Blvd., Suite A-1, and is open Mon.- Thur., 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., and Fridays by appointment only. For more info or to make an appointment, call (813) 957-5887, visit Ni coleMitchellDMD.com, or see the ad on pg.

You Can Always Choose Taylor Gardner Gardners & Exteriors With Confidence

By Jesika Knight Neighborhood News Correspondent

Taylor Gardner Gutters is a trusted gutter installation and repair business for residential and commercial buildings, serving the communities of Wesley Chapel, New Tampa, and surrounding areas. Taylor is not only an expert in his field, but also a U.S. Marine Corps. veteran, a person of faith and a family man. He has owned, operated and renamed the original Gardner Gutters since his father, Ed, who founded the company in 1999, passed away in 2020 after a long battle with cancer.

It doesn’t seem to matter where Taylor physically locates his ever-growing business, as he recently celebrated his one-year anniversary at its newest location on U.S. Hwy. 301 in Dade City. Taylor says he is extremely grateful for the way the Dade City community also has welcomed his team with open arms, after he relocated the business from Land O’Lakes Blvd. in Land O’Lakes.

“Dade City has definitely accepted us,” Taylor says. “Yes, there have been some struggles with the economy and a lot of uncertainty, but we owe a lot to our neighbors.”

Taylor Gardner Gutters offers a variety of home and business solutions. In addition to installation, repair and cleaning of gutters, it also provides soffit and fascia installation, as well as patio screen repair. More recently, as an added value, the company has begun incorporating underground drains in its work.

First, a thorough evaluation will be done of your property. Then, one of Taylor’s professional

installers will trench a pathway that allows for the most efficient water flow off your roof and away from your home. Finally, durable pipes are installed underground and then, the tech will fully restore your yard and landscaping. Taylor says this is a game-changer for protecting against water damage. These high-performance underground drainage pipes can much more effectively reroute rain water away from your home and its foundation than a standard above-ground solution can.

Knowing that many people are trying to find ways to reduce spending these days, Taylor realizes even more now just how blessed he continues to be — and he’s even more appreciative for it. He

says he has watched businesses in his field slow down as the cost of everything has increased. He has even seen some companies struggle to the point of having to close down. Thankfully, that has not been the case for his Taylor Gardner Gutters. He says that being a man of faith is what keeps hope alive in his business.

“My favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11,” Taylor says, citing: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper and not harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.’” He adds, “And, I fully believe that God is in control.”

Not only does his Christian faith keep Tay-

lor’s hope intact for the future of his company, it also deeply impacts the way in which he conducts his business. Taylor says, “Because of the way my Dad raised me and because of my faith, we simply don’t cut corners.”

Taylor Gardner Gutters has an overall 5-star (out of 5) rating on Yelp and a 4.8-star rating on Google, with well over 200 reviews. It also has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Honesty, integrity and high quality are central to the way Taylor’s company does business.

In one 5-star rating, a happy customer identified as “L.A.D.” from Lutz, shared, “As a veteran, I’m always eager to support my fellow veterans when possible. The guys came today at the agreed upon time, did an outstanding job installing gutters in a very challenging area, then cleaned up and left with no trace they were ever here. Spot on pricing checked all the boxes for me.”

If faith is number one, then family is clearly a close second for Taylor. His grandfather, dad, uncle and older brother were all there from the outset, working hard to support the community.

Today, Taylor’s two younger brothers, Josh and Sam, still show up every summer and on the occasional weekend to provide assistance. His wife Jordan also is the company’s marketing director. Even Taylor’s 7-year-old son Jake loves checking things out at the shop and learning all about the gutter business from his Dad.

Then, of course, there are employees that have become like family, like Mike Cascio, the company’s operations manager. Mike is the company’s longest-tenured employee. Not only

does he handle operations and quality control, he is Taylor’s right-hand man in all aspects. For example, even though apprentices work under a lead installer for two entire years at Taylor Gardner Gutters before getting to work independently, Mike still comes through at the end of each job to double-check all of the work that’s done — not because of a lack of confidence in the employee’s work, but to ensure that the company always provides the very best quality for its customers.

Get ‘Em Checked Before The Storms!

Taylor says that gutter installation and repair is a key to getting through the annual hurricane season in Florida, which begins on June 1 of each year. Even so, he has found that this period before the rains pick up somehow tends to be a slower time for his business.

For this reason, Taylor offers a little advice:

he says. “Once the rain starts picking up and the storms start rolling in, prices will increase along with demand.”

Neighborhood News readers are not only be able to enjoy the lowest prices of the season right now, but also have access to a discount. services provided between now and June 1 will be offered at a 10% discount to anyone who mentions they saw Taylor’s ad on pg. 50 or this story in the Neighborhood News.

Taylor Gardner Gutters is located at 10301 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Dade City and serves home and business owners in Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando, Polk and Citrus counties.

For more info, visit TaylorGardnerGutters. com, call (813) 515-0844 or see the ad on pg. 50 of this issue.

Florida Avenue Brewing Company — So Much More Than Just A Great Local Brewery!

By Gary Nager

I remember being so pumped when Florida Avenue Brewing Company first opened its second location (the original is still in Seminole Heights) in the former location of Sports + Field on S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel near the end of 2020, as the Covid-19 pandemic was winding down. The on-site brewery (more on that below) wouldn’t be operational for almost another year, but it was exciting to me that Florida Ave. was a big, non-chain real restaurant with an elevated, better-than-sportsbar menu that included items that became instant favorites of mine — such as Chinese sticky ribs and Korean-style bibimbap bowls, to name just two.

But, the restaurant was just really finding its way at that time and has since been through, “I believe, five executive chefs since then,” says general manager Monroe Brown (left in top photo), who was a server and mostly bartender at the location when it first opened. “But, we’re really happy with the most recent version of the menu and our current executive chef — Baxter McManamy.” (right in the same photo)

I’ll have to second that, even though both of those early favorite dishes of mine are no longer offered. And, despite having been with Florida Ave. for about a year now, Baxter isn’t taking credit for most of the new menu items, although he will say that he’s tweaked some of the recipes and given his sous chefs an opportunity to present new ideas to make the menu better, too.

of loaded hand-cut fries. Every burger on the menu also is made to pair with one of Florida Ave.’s beers, including the burger I mentioned, which the menu says should be paired with a Flipa American IPA, but that’s really up to you.

All I can tell you is that the new formula is working. Jannah and I honestly avoided Florida Ave. the last couple of years because it seemed like it was turning into just another sports pub, but....

Check It Out Now!

If you check out the food pictures on these pages, I think it’s pretty clear that Baxter, Monroe, the Derby family — Anthony, Amanda and their mom, Toni — and Florida Ave. are definitely back on the right track food-wise.

In the top photo on this page, Monroe is holding a super-tasty new Rice & Bean Bowl, with adobo rice, “Rollin’ Derby” black beans, avocado and pickled red onions with “bistro steak,” Baxter says. “It’s a little tougher than filet mignon, but has a flavor similar to NY strip.”

Speaking of Baxter, he’s holding a tasty double-patty Florida Ave. Smash Burger, with sautéed onions, bacon, American cheese and roasted jalapeño aioli on a brioche bun and a side

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, perhaps try my favorite new menu item that photographer Charmaine George and I sampled on our most recent visit — the Gulf Coast mahi Fish ‘N’ Chips (right). I’ve never seen any restaurant use mahi for fish & chips, but it was beer-battered (“We beer-batter a lot of our dishes,” Baxter said. “Why wouldn’t we?”), super-crisp and snow-white inside. Oh, and it was frickin’ delicious, too. It didn’t even need the house-made tartar sauce served with it.

Speaking of fresh, before we move on, Monroe and Baxter invited me into Florida Ave.’s super-clean kitchen and showed me that while there are two huge, walk-in refrigerators in there, the freezer is about the size of one of the little ones you’d find in your neighbor’s garage.

“We just really don’t freeze anything here,” Baxter said. “We make most everything fresh.”

Another one of my new favorite options is the General Tso’s cauliflower (right). It’s served

crispy outside, tender inside and the Gen eral Tso’s sauce is sweet and a little spicy. I probably will order the spicy aioli on the side next time, just to keep the cauliflower at its peak crispness.

Another new favorite of mine is the new French onion dip handheld (just to the right of the cauliflower). It features shaved ribeye, mozzarella and provolone, with a zesty horseradish cream on a toasted Amoroso roll. But, the big difference is the French onion broth that really gives this

particular French dip a flavor all its own.

That same delicious onion flavor is encased in Florida Ave.’s tasty crock of French onion soup (below), which properly covers the broth and toasted bread with a combo of melted mozzarella and provolone cheese, which almost mimics the more traditional taste of French gruyere.

preferred the Luminescence Hazy IPA.

Another recent addition is the Seasonal Grazing Board (above). For March, this selection of artisanal bites included Irish-style sausage, pretzel bites, kalamata olives, two kinds of cheese, red onions and a chunky tomato chutney. The seasonal board is made to pair with

And, although I’m not a big salmon eater and can’t eat shrimp, Charmaine raved about both the BLT salad (above) — with chopped romaine hearts, candied bacon, blue cheese crumbles, heirloom cherry tomatoes, chives, ranch dressing and balsamic glaze — which she had topped with blackened salmon that she said was flaky and delicately spiced; and the grilled Coastal Lime Shrimp tacos (above right). She loved the tequila lime aioli slaw and the fresh pico de gallo on top of the tacos, too.

Even though we didn’t have room for dessert, we both still made room because the two house-made Florida Ave. desserts we sampled were both just so good!

Charmaine’s favorite was the warm coconut cake (bottom left), which swims in a pool of delicious rum sauce and is topped with grilled pineapple and whipped cream. Decadent.

But, my new favorite dessert is the Basque (Spanish-style) cheesecake (bottom right). The menu calls it “irresistible” and that’s pretty spoton. The tender crust has a delicious char, but the

cheesecake itself is as creamy as a true NY-style, but not as dense, and as light and airy as an Italian-style ricotta-based cheesecake, but with a better texture and flavor. It didn’t need the fresh berry coulis, but the end result was spectacular!

But, What If We Want To Drink?

I’m so glad you asked. Jannah and I always sit in the comfy high-top bar chairs at Florida Ave., which has a big advantage over most other breweries in that it has a full, premium liquor bar, not just beer and wine. So, even though neither of us are partial to the interesting selection of Craft Cocktails on the menu (she would get the “That’s My Jam,” with Tito’s vodka and a tropical syrup flavor, but would substitute club soda for the Regatta ginger beer it comes with), she has had excellent Cosmos at the bar and my Jameson on the rocks is always perfect. However, you Old Fashioned lovers will probably flip for the variety of “Cask Crafted” Old Fashioneds.

Florida Ave. also recently added a “Taproom Brunch” every Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., with items like warm French toast bites, avocado toast, a breakfast flatbread (with sausage, bacon, scrambled eggs, pico de gallo, borracha salsa and shredded mozzarella, topped with micro cilantro) and more. The brunch menu also includes bottomless mimosas and “bromosas” (OJ with your choice of Florida Ave.’s Dead Parrot, Luminescence Hazy IPA or You’re My Boy Blue). There’s even a mimosa flight served with four different kinds of juice.

For lunch every weekday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Florida Ave. offers a “Pint & Plate” lunch, with your choice of soup or salad, paired with one of five different main courses (a flatbread, smash burger, tacos, a chicken Caesar wrap or a chicken parm or Milanese Brew Pub Sub) and one free draft beer, or soft drinks or coffee, for just $15.

For “Hoppy Hour” (Mon.-Fri., 3 p.m.-6 p.m. and all night on Wed., from 3 p.m.-close), Florida Ave. offers its year-round draft beers for $5.25, specialty rotating draft beers from $6.25, sparkling, white or red house wines for just $6 and well & specialty cocktails for $7. There’s also a variety of Hoppy Hour “bites” for $5 (for cheese curds, loaded fries, crispy cauliflower & more), for $7 (for flatbreads or chicken wings) or for $9 (for tacos or Nashville chicken sliders).

And, of course, Florida Ave. also has a great fenced-in open area out back, with its own bar and table service, as well as arcade games inside for the kids, plus private indoor areas for catered meetings and events.

Now, let me see...what I am forgetting?

Of course...BEER! Not only is the Wesley Chapel Florida Ave. one of the largest independent breweries in Florida, which provides cans of its now-famous brews, ciders and seltzers to other bars, it offers a huge variety of its rotating, house-brewed beverages to its happy customers.

But, don’t take my word for it. Florida Ave. has more than 1,200 5-star reviews on Google, including Sabine M., who wrote, “This has to be one of the best breweries in the area. Every beer is delicious....They have amazing lunch deals...really cool space. A great place to meet up with friends.”

And, every Saturday, you can even bring your group on a tour of the brewery for just $12 per person, which includes a beer and a souvenir pint glass. You must be 21 for the tours, all sales are final and they should be booked in advance.

As Monroe says, “If it’s been a while, come give us another try!.”

Florida Ave. Brewing Co. is located at 2029 Arrowgrass Dr. For more info, call or send a message to (813) 452-6333, visit FloridaAveBrewing.com or see the ad on pg. 48 for a FREE “Fourcaster” Appetizer Sampler!

Rudraksh Indian Cuisine Celebrates 1 Year Of ‘Wow!’ &

By Gary Nager

Those who know me and the restaurants I love the most know that I am no connoisseur of Indian food, although, as I told Rudraksh Indian Cuisine co-owners Manashi Boruah and Amit Ghorpade, either my taste buds have matured or Rudraksh is serving some of the best Indian food I’ve ever had.

Or, so it seems, a little of both. Rudraksh, located in Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, is celebrating its one-year anniversary shortly after this issue reaches your mailbox (see below) and recently added what is definitely the tastiest Indian buffet that photographer Charmaine George and I have ever had the pleasure of visiting.

Manashi (who is married to Pranjal Das) and Amit were friends for years and worked in restaurants together in Orlando before both moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened their original Indian restaurant together — Rasoi Indian Cuisine on 8th Ave. in Ybor City — in 2017.

When Downtown Avalon Park began leasing spaces a few years ago, the talented restaurateurs became the first restaurant tenant to sign a lease and they have brought the same high-quality, delicious, mainly Northern Indian cuisine to Wesley Chapel.

“People always talk about the ‘Wow!’ factor at restaurants,” Manashi says. “Although a lot of people seem to like how pretty we made Rudraksh, the most important thing to us is that our food is what gives our restaurant its ‘Wow!’ factor.”

Manashi also says that Rudraksh’s emphasis on always-fresh northern Indian cuisine, which is gen erally less spicy that southern Indian food, also helps it attract a somewhat more upscale mix of people whose ancestors are both from India and the U.S.

“The seasoning and flavor of every dish is definitely important,” she says, “but we don’t have to make it too spicy to make it flavorful.” She adds that, “When you come in to try our regular menu, we can always adjust the spice level for you.”

Checking Out The Buffet

Speaking of that regular menu, I have told you about many of my favorite dishes at Rudraksh in my previous stories about it — from the lehsoni gobi (crispy cauliflower with garlic sauce) appetizer to Tandoori lamb chops — but on this most recent visit, Charmaine and I were there specifically to give Rudraksh’s new weekend brunch buffet a try.

Adds A Weekend

The first things you notice immediately are the beautiful chafing dishes and the much more limited number of dishes than at many Indian buf fets. I, for one, don’t need two dozen or more dishes at a buffet. I like to try small samples of most or all of the dishes I’m not allergic to (meaning anything but shellfish) and then go back and do slightly larger servings of the dishes I liked best. And, even though Charmaine and I definitely have widely different taste in food, we both agreed that every dish on this page was among our new or existing favorites at Rudraksh. Manashi says the buffet selection is “dif ferent every weekend and what we serve on Saturday may not be the same as what we serve on Sunday.”

Let me walk you through everything we enjoyed the most. We started with the butter naan, which was pillowy soft, but with nicely crisped edges. We each had a crispy vegetable samosa, which (as Manashi said) wasn’t overly spicy, as some are.

Our first surprise new favorite was the papri

chat, an Indian street food with cracker-like crisp bread, topped with onions and chickpeas in a creamy yogurt and a chutney made with cilanto and tamarind. We also both really enjoyed our first sample of the slightly spicier saag aloo, with potatoes sautéed with spinach, cream and spices. It was great over the long-grain white basmati rice.

Our next new favorite was the navratna korma, which is a super-creamy dish with a tasty mix of vegetables (the broccoli pieces were particularly great) in an onion sauce and raisins. We also both loved the pickle, tomato and onion achari paneer (Indian cheese), which was mild enough to offset the spicy kick of the chicken biryani rice dish.

We both also agreed that the creamy coconut sauce on the fish (tilapia) chetinad (which is more of a southern Indian dish) wasn’t overly spicy and was again very complimentary with the biryani.

The dish that surprised Charmaine the most was the Tandoori chicken (drumsticks and thighs) because, she said, “Tandoor is usually too spicy for me, but this is amazing!” If she was looking for an argument, she wasn’t going to get one from me. We definitely both went back for seconds on all of these favorites. I didn’t even mention the daal makhani (a tasty three-lentil dish cooked over a slow fire with a blend of mild spices and flavored with butter) or the ever-popular chicken tikka Masala.

In other words, Rudraksh’s weekend brunch buffet is well worth its $24.99 price tag for adults ($14.99 for kids), especially with the coupon in the ad on pg. 52, which gives you $3 off a second adult buffet when you buy the first at the regular price.

And of course, Rudraksh still has that premium full liquor bar, although my buffet went amazingly well with an ice cold Taj Mahal beer. And yes, the restaurant serves the always popular mango lassi drink, as well as Masala chai tea.

Happy First Anniversary!

On Saturday, April 19, Rudraksh will celebrate its first anniversary with a great special event.

From 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., the restaurant will still have its weekend buffet, with multiple different items than what Charmaine and I sampled.

But, Rudraksh also will offer Happy Hour drinks all day that day and, from 4 p.m.-9:30 p.m., will offer 20% off your entire bill as a thank you to the Wesley Chapel community. Please note that reservations are definitely required to attend the anniversary celebration, so call the restaurant to reserve your space now!

Rudraksh Indian Cuisine is located at 4424 Friendly Way, #115. It is open every day for dinner and for weekend brunch. For reservations & more info, call (813) 355-3914, see the ad on pg. 52 or visit RudrakshIndianCuisine.com.

Bean Bar Co. Opens At AdventHealth WC

If you love The Bean Bar Co., located in The Shoppes at The Pointe plaza in Tampa Palms, and you also love working out, we have some great news for you!

The Bean Bar Co. has now opened its newest location in the first floor lobby inside the Wellness Plaza at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, with all of your favorite coffee, espresso and tea drinks, plus breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast and more! And, you don’t have to be a member at the Well ness Plaza to enjoy this open-to-the-public Bean Bar location! Also new inside the Wellness Plaza is a second Wesley Chapel location (the other is in The Shops at Wiregrass) of 3 Natives juice & smoothie bar.

Whataburger Is Set To Open April 16!

At our press time, the Whataburger at 25340 Sierra Center Blvd. (in the former Aussie Grill location) was officially plnning to open on Thursday, April 16, a.m. — and the place certain ly looked ready to open, as its employees were being trained during my recent visit. Oh, and there also was a delicious aroma or burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, tacos and more wafting inside the place.

It’s been at least a dozen years since I last had a Wha taburger, but I am definitely looking forward to trying it again! For more info, visit Whataburger.com.

For more info about The Bean Bar Co., visit BeanBarCo.com. For 3 Natives, visit 3Natives.com. — GN, photos by Charmaine George

First Real Signs Of Cava!

The signage (photo) is now up outside of the Wesley Chapel/Lutz area’s first of two restaurants — in the former Mod Pizza loca tion at 2227 Sun Vista Dr., next to Clarkson Eyecare (on the south side of S.R. 56).

The fast-expanding Mediterranean-style bowl and pita sandwich chain, now with more than 460 locations, also is planning to open in the Whole Foods-anchored plaza on Bruce B. Downs Blvd., but that location may not open for a year or so.

For more info, visit Cava.com. — GN

Rain Bistro Is Now (Yummy) Fortune Kitchen

I will admit that I was a little sad when I saw that Rain Bistro, the Chinese-focused Asian fusion restaurant located at 2592 E. Bearss Ave. (next to Checkers at Livingston Ave.) in Tampa, had closed a couple of months ago.

The good news, however, is that the brand new Japanese-focused fusion restaurant called Fortune Kitchen has opened in its place.

And OMG, is it ever yummy! Photographer Charmaine George & I visited Fortune Kitchen, owned by the same group that also owns the authentic Chinese restaurant called Beijing House (located at 1441 E. Fletcher Ave.), and literally everything we had on that first sampling was from very good to truly outstanding.

Let’s start with the sushi. Charmaine and I shared a Sushi Lunch Combo (for $16.95) where we got to pick from a variety of rolls and the California, spicy salmon crunch and spicy tuna crunch rolls were all excellent (bottom right). The problem was that we actually had ordered a regular tuna roll with that trio, but the owner on site — a truly nice guy named Wes — let us keep the spicy crunch tuna and still brought us a regular tekka maki (below left), which ended up being our favorite of the sushi. You definitely could taste how fresh it was.

We also really loved Fortune Kitchen’s extra crispy veggie spring rolls (bottom right) and although we also liked the flavor of the crisp chicken karaage, the pieces were a little too chicken nugget-y for our taste. The spicy mayo dipping sauce was definitely helpful.

But, Charmaine and I agreed that our fa vorite thing we tried was the Bento Lunch Box (above right), featuring a nice-sized serving of what Fortune Kitchen calls “Flaming Mala Chicken,” a Sichuan-influenced wok-fired chicken dish with a super-flavorful sauce made of an amazing blend of unique spices. The dish is sautéed with green and red peppers, onions

and mushrooms. Wes says that when you order a full-size order of a Flaming Mala dish (for just $19.95), it actually does come steaming on a fajita-style hot plate — but it’s probably better than just about any chicken fajita dish I’ve ever had. Seriously. It’s also available with beef, shrimp or tofu. Whichever protein you get it with, just get it!

We also ordered our Bento Box with a side of golden soy fried rice, which also was spot-on, and we upgraded our $12.95 box with three tasty pan-fried chicken gyoza dumplings (for just $3.50 additional).

Even though that was a lot of food for the two of us (even with me bringing some home to Jannah), Charmaine and I both regretted not ordering the trio of yakitori skewers (below) that someone else was did get. They looked and smelled amazing!

There’s no doubt that Jan nah, Charmaine and I will be visiting Fortune Kitchen again very soon! Like tomorrow?

For more info, call (813)977-1688 or visit For tuneKitchenFL.com.

5/31/26

TGI Fridays To Become Ugly Dumpling

anything, is expected to finally replace the long-vacant TGI Fridays on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in front of The Walk at Highwoods Preserve in New Tampa, a new sign went up a few weeks ago announcing that Fridays will become a new link in a small New Jersey-based soup dumpling and Asian fusion restaurant chain called The Ugly Dumpling

Now with 21 locations in nine northeastern states, the New Tampa location of the Ugly Dumpling will be the first in Florida. A company spokesperson says, “When we created Ugly Dumpling, we wanted to tap into the historical Shanghai street food movement but do so in a way that caters to the modern palette. Our menu respects Shanghai’s centuries-old cooking techniques while cultivating an exciting experience for today’s restaurant goer.”

Translation: Expect a large variety of

edamame and BBQ pork buns, plus wok-sauteed entrées like Mongolian beef and kung pao shrimp or chicken, a variety of noodle and fried rice dishes, bubble teas and much more.

For the Ugly Dumpling’s full menu & more info, visit UglyDumpling.us. — GN

Naz’s Halal To Open In Former Hangry Joe’s Location On WC Blvd.

When we first told you last October that the Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken & Wings at 27835 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Unit 102 (next to the Brooklyn Water Bagel Co.), had closed, we also mentioned that the second hot chicken restaurant at that location (King of the Coop was the first, of course) was going to be replaced by an “exciting Halal Concept.” We now know that the new eatery will be Naz’s Halal — which started as a food truck in Queens, NY, in 2009, and today has an existing location at 1815 E. Fowler Ave., as well as 60 total locations in 13 states.

The Naz’s Halal menu includes popular Mediterranean sandwiches and bowls — including chicken, lamb, beef, fish and combos (like in the photo below), plus falafels and other veggie dishes. On our first visit to the Tampa location, we tried Naz’s hot wings, which are battered and deep fried to super crisp with a notoverly-spicy sauce. I also sampled a lamb gyro with fries.

Wesley Chapel location owner Kartik Patel says the concept is “Good food done fast, but not fast food.” Patel says he hopes to have the Wesley Chapel location of Naz’s Halal open by sometime next month or May of this year, at the latest. For more information — or to order from the Naz’s Halal on E. Fowler Ave. in Tampa — visit NazsHalal.com. — GN

Five Guys On County Line Rd. Has Closed Jay’s Kitchen Indian Cuisine

If you’re looking for authentic — and I mean really authentic — (mostly) South India-style Indian cuisine, do what it’s clear many peo ple of Indian descent already seem to know — give Jay’s Kitchen, located in the short-lived former location of Sorimmara at 17501 Preserve Walk Ln., Suite #103, in the Highwoods Preserve area just north of the Bruce B.Downs Blvd. exit off I-75 (next to Smoothie King).

Open for less than two months, Jay’s Kitchen offers a lunch buffet on Saturdays and Sundays, for $21.99 per adult and $15.99 for children under age 12. I’ll admit that on my first visit, I honestly didn’t recognize the names of most of the dishes being served during the buffet. Yes, Jay’s Kitchen serves its own version of the hakka noodles (below) I enjoy at most Indian restaurants, but pretty much everything else I sampled was a mys terious, mostly spicy adventure, from the veg Manchuria and stuffed mirch bajji (both fried veggie dishes) shown above to perugu vada, kaju panasakaya and kakaraya ullikaram.

From 3 to 6 pm Monday through Friday • 2-for-1 draft beer, wine & margaritas

N ew T ampa & w esley C hapel Classifieds

HOME IMPROVEMENT

JUNK HAULING SERVICE! We handle all types of furniture removal: bdrm sets, chairs, mattresses & box springs, hot water heaters, hot tubs, take apart & remove, constrctn. material, remove carpet, estate, eviction, yard, garage & attic clean-outs, ofc, home & factory. Comm’l/ res’l. GorillaJunkremovalExperts.com. For appts, call/text Nigel @ 888-346-5865.

JOE’S GLASS SHOP. Glass. Mirrors,Table Tops, Impact Glass. Laminate Glass & more! We also offer Patio Door, Window & Screen Repairs. CALL TODAY! 1-(800) 333-7326.

DRY WALL SPECIALIST. Not a handyman. Affordable, Quality Work repairing water damage, ceilings & walls, re-texturing, popcorn removal, room addt’ns, cracks, holes, plaster & stucco repair. 30+ years of exp. WC resident. State Certified. Call Ron for a free estimate: 813-7845999. Lic. #SCC131149699

FLOORING- Luxury Vinyl Plank Installed! Buy anywhere, we will install it!. $1.69/sq. ft. (over 300 sq.ft.). Regular-size bedroom - $399, We will haul away carpet/tack strip & move major furniture pieces. Call for free estimate 813-417-7689. Let’s save some money!

BATHROOM & KITCHEN REMODELING. Top quality, professional, licensed, & insured contractors. Family owned & operated for over 30 years. We take the hassle out of remodeling. Call Ken of Hangliter Residential for an estimate. 813-460-4548 or see our display ad on the next page for additional info.

____HELP WANTED __ _ PARALEGAL WANTED. Covenant Law Firm is seeking a skilled, detail-oriented paralegal to join our busy Tampa practice. Experienced caseload support & strong organizational skills essential. New Tampa/Wesley Chapel-area applicants preferred. Call or text (813) 258 1133, email herb@covenantlawtampa.com or visit CovenantLawTampa.com.

IF YOUR LONG-RUNNING CLASSIFIED AD IS MISSING FROM THIS PAGE, email us at ads@ntneighborhoodnews. com or visit NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net.

MISCELLANEOUS

NEED HELP FILING YOUR TAXES? Accurate, stress-free virtual tax filing for professionals & business owners. Secure portal, transparent pricing & expert support. Visit www.ckttaxpros.com

HEALTHIER CHOICES: “Deliciously Simple!” ‘Seed-ate’ your senses w/nutritionally dense treats made w/back-to-basic ingredients. Satisfying goodness in every bite, perfect for clean-eating snack lovers. Gluten, wheat & oat free. Naturally sweetened w/dates, packed w/wholesome seeds & no added sugar. Call Seed8me New Tampa @ 813-293-9209.

GREAT WATER ISN’T A LUXURY, IT’S A DAILY ESSENTIAL. From the water you drink to the water you shower in, quality matters. Our purification systems help protect your family’s health, improve your skin and hair, and extend the life of your appliances. Discover what pure water really feels like. Call (813) 692-6057 or VISIT naturaltapwater.com.

HUGHES SCHOOL OF MUSIC is now accepting new students! Study Saxophone, Piano, Music Production, Composition or Theory w/a Master of Music. Zoom sessions also avail.! Contact us at 813-748-3216.

___TREE SERVICES ___ FITZPATRICK’s TREE SERVICE, INC. 27

yrs of Prof. Svc. Licensed & Insured. Free Estimates. Tree Trimming & Tree Removal. Dead-Wood Removal. Tractor Work. Affordable Rates. 24-Hour Emergency Storm Service. Free Mulch. Call 813-495-9541 or 813-788-TREE.

Here Are Our Classified Ad Rates: (All Classified ads run in both New Tampa & Wesley Chapel & can not be longer than 60 words, with no photos or graphics)

7 issues (3 months) — $150

13 issues (6 months) — $250

26 issues (One Year) — $400

To order a Classified ad, visit NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net Click on “ADVERTISING” at the top of the home page and follow the prompt to “Classified Listings” to compose, order & pay for your ad. Please note that we will no longer accept Classified ads over the phone.

___CLEANING SERVICES CLEANSWEEP CLEANING CO, LLC. Fully licensed/bonded, 8 years exp, satisfaction guarantd. Prof’l staff. On-time. We can bring our own products or use yours, if you prefer. Christian-based, family-owned company that lives in New Tampa, serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Call (813) 340-0908 for a no-obligation free quote. Ask for John. PATY CLEANING SERVICE. Comm’l or resid’l cleaning service. We have our own supplies & 10 years of experience. Free estimates. Call 813 790-8715 or email paty8624@proton.me.

DUARTE CLEANING SERVICES, LLC has 10+ years of exp. in Tampa Bay! We specialize in move-in/out, deep/regular svcs, post-construction, home, apt & comm’l cleaning. Our prof’l team delivers reliable, spotless results every time! First-time clients get 10% off 1st svc. Call (813) 836-3974 or visit DuarteCleaningServices.com for free estimate.

__ TRANSPORTATION _

ELITE RIDES. Private rides in a sanitized 2026 Tesla, plus concierge services. Airport, medical appointments, etc. Courteous, reliable, professional. New Tampa to Tampa Int’l Airport - $50. Cory Lake Isles resident. For more info, call or text 813.765.2037.

AVAILABLE! Pebble Creek Collection plaza space for lease, approx. 500 sq.ft. Perfect for someone in Health/ Wellness/Cosmetology. Contact Deborah at SunMed - Your CBD Store of New Tampa (19651 Bruce B Downs) @ 813-994-0599. Steven Kessel, REALTOR® w/Future Home Realty, Inc., has created just for you, the most advanced, up-to-date, user-friendly propty search engine for homes for sale in the Tampa Bay & Central Fla area — & it’s FREE to use & enjoy. BuyYourDreamHome.com.

COMPUTER SERVICES ____

Prof’l Tech support in your home or small business. A+ Certified Computer Tech with 30 years experience. Maintenance and Repairs. Upgrades and Tutoring. More Affordable than large chains. Friendly, personal service. Technical Jargon explained in simple terms. Remote Assistance and references available. Call Brian at (813) 957-8342.

DO YOU HATE YOUR COMPUTER?!? WE CAN HELP YOU! Troubleshooting, Installation, Networking & Virus Removal. WE COME TO YOU! Residences & Businesses, more than 25-Years Experience. Contact Jeffrey Blank at 813-973-4507, visit WSICA.COM or email Wsica@wsica.com.

NEED TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD?

Our Classified Ads Are Still The Least Expensive Way To Reach 180,000+ People In New Tampa & Wesley Chapel! Visit NeighborhoodNewsOnline.net to order/renew yours today!