World of Westchase

05/30/2024

INTRODUCING WOW'S SUMMER DINING PASSPORT

WOW readers, we are trying something new this summer! Your June WOW will land tomorrow and in your shrink-wrapped delivery, you'll also find your very own Summer Dining Passport. Grab that Passport and hold onto it all summer long, because it is your ticket to great dining deals at 14 participating restaurants within Westchase. The Passport is good from June 1-Aug. 31, 2024. Collect a stamp at each participating restaurant and then turn the Passport in at the WCA Office on Parley Drive for your chance to win one of three amazing prizes courtesy of Busch Gardens and the Westchase Community Association. We're so excited to introduce this new initiative as a fun way to save while dining local! Learn more here: https://www.westchasewow.com/dining-passport/
*Please note, passports are available to homes that receive WOW magazine delivered to their door each month.

05/01/2024

YOUR MAY WOW LANDS TODAY!
May is a month devoted to both mental health awareness and moms, so this issue puts a focus on self-care. I turned to longtime WOW fitness writer and Westchase resident Shannon Thigpen to write our feature article and she also graciously agreed to be on our cover. Thank you to Heather Bossowski for capturing this amazing cover photo. We also have:
💐 A few fun ideas for Mother's Day Outings.

👨‍🦰 In the Westchase edition, we introduce you to the new CDD Field Manager, David Sylvanowicz.

⚽️ Danielle Hauser brings us the story o
f a local soccer player who is currently playing for the Rowdies and will be playing for Ohio State in the fall.

🎤 Phil Dean hit the streets to find out how residents take time out for themselves and found some great responses.

❤️‍🩹 We also understand Mother's Day can be a tough day for those who have experienced loss and we have a poignant article from Dr. Maria Aranda on coping with grief on Mother's Day.

And of course, we have your local government news, ideas for fun outings in Tampa Bay and beyond, school and club updates and photos from WOW's Spring Egg Hunt. Enjoy!

04/01/2024

YOUR APRIL WOW LANDS TODAY!
There are no fools, just a whole lot of fun in your April issue of the WOW, starting with our focus on the power pets play in our lives! Thank you to Brie Gorecki and family for posing for our cover and to Heather Bossowski for capturing an amazing shot! We also have:
❤️ A fond farewell to Doug Mays, who has served as the Westchase CDD Field Manager for the past 19 years. I had the honor of sitting down with Doug to learn about his journey to Westchase and his future plans. Thank you, Doug!
😺 A focus on the pros and cons of pet insurance.
🐶 Danielle Hauser brings us the story of a local dentist who is giving back to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
🧀 Lynn M. Gonzalez takes us inside Cheeseology, where you can make your own cheese 😋
🦋 Phil Dean takes us inside his butterfly garden.
Plus, we have the latest in local government, school and community news. We hope you enjoy this issue of the WOW!

02/01/2024

YOUR FEBRUARY WOW LANDS TODAY ❤️
WOW is swinging into summer with our February issue. Our Summer Camp special is here to help parents get a jumpstart on summer planning! We also have:
🏆 An interview with Bridges resident Sandy Kennedy, who recently earned the Lightning Community Hero Award.
❤️ 11 ideas for outdoor Valentine's Day outings you can enjoy throughout February.
🐱 Tips for safely sharing our community with the bobcats that live among us.
🖍 Our Kid Corner page, which offers a puzzle, recipe and fun fact for our youngest readers.
Plus, the latest in local government, school and community news. Happy Reading!

01/02/2024

YOUR JANUARY WOW LANDS TODAY!
It's our first issue of 2024 and we are kicking it off with a focus on fitness. We reached out to several local fitness experts for advice on making realistic changes that will stick. A special thank you to Linda Senkowicz and her aqua fit group for allowing us to crash a class to take photos and to James Broome for the shots.
You'll also find:
🖍 Our brand new Kid Corner page with a puzzle, recipe and fun fact just for our youngest readers with a chance to win a small cone or cup from Froyo Fresh!
👗 Danielle Hauser brings us a look at the history of Couture Boutique as they celebrate their 20th Anniversary!
🤔 Westchase Resident Brad Heagy offers a thoughtful piece on the creative energy that comes from boredom.
🖊 Lynn Gonzalez takes us inside a salt cave.
🎉 Plus, we have photos and updates on the Santa Parade, Thanksgiving Food Drive, Decorating Contest, local government news and so much more.
Happy Reading!

12/01/2023

YOUR DECEMBER WOW LANDS TODAY 🎉
Before we get into all that this issue has in store, we'd like to take a moment to introduce our new designer, Nicole Barolo! Nicole jumped in to help us with our November and December issues, and we are excited to announce she is here to stay. Welcome, Nicole!
Now, onto our Dec. issue:
🎅 In Westchase, we have all the details for this year's Santa Parade on Dec. 9
🛍 We also have a feature that puts the focus on shopping local.
❤️ We bring you heartfelt stories from our community, including a father who gave his daughter the gift of life through kidney donation and a local resident who is honoring her brother's memory through a charitable donation.
⛄️ We have a Holiday Fun Guide courtesy of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.
🎁 The Westchase Moms Group shares some meaningful holiday traditions.
🗞 Plus, we have the latest in local government news, school updates and more.
Happy Reading!

11/09/2023

If you live within a community governed by the Westchase Community Development District (CDD), now is the time for you to have a say in our community's long-range planning. Simply click this link to complete the Westchase CDD Long-Range Plan Survey: https://wowmagazine.survey.fm/cdd

11/01/2023

YOUR NOVEMBER WOW LANDS TODAY!
In this issue, we are putting the focus on WOW's 15th Annual Food Drive! We also worked with a few local financial experts to bring you our first financial special. Plus:

🦩 Writer/photographer Heather Bossowski tracked down one of Tampa's wayward flamingos and delivered some amazing photos.
✈️ Writer Danielle Hauser made the trek to Vegas to see U2 at the brand new Sphere and shares her experience.
❤️ Danielle also brings us the story of former teachers who are spreading joy and local food trucks who helped spread hope as part of Operation BBQ.

We also have the latest in local government news, updates from our schools and local organizations, the scoop on holiday markets and much more.
Also, we'd like to offer a special thank you to designer Nicole Barolo who stepped up on short notice to produce this issue. Happy reading!

10/02/2023

YOUR OCTOBER WOW LANDS TODAY!
And it is jam-packed. Here are just a few highlights:
🏃 We've got everything you need to know to take part in this year's Great West Chase on Oct. 28.
📚 In our School Special, we dive into what factors to consider when choosing a school for your child, as well as the options available.
🎃 We have ideas for fall fun galore thanks to our friends at Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine. Plus all of the October happenings right here in Westchase!
🗳Those who receive WOW classic will meet our three new WCA Board Members.
🍨 You'll meet the new owners of Froyo Fresh, learn how to take a Tiki Cruise down the Hillsborough River, get a glimpse at Silver Springs State park and so much more!

09/13/2023

WCA BOARD ELECTION COVERAGE
We bring you coverage of last night's WCA Election, which saw a field of nine vying for three open seats. That is an impressive showing and a testament to the call to service within our community. Congratulations to the newly elected WCA Board members: Terry Boyd, Eric (Rick) Goldstein and Michiel Oostenbrink.
The Board will hold an organizational meeting on Thursday to elect officials, and WOW will update our coverage following that meeting.

World of Westchase, the official magazine of the Westchase Community Association, serves an association of nearly 3,500 homes in Tampa, by providing local news and entertainment features.

09/01/2023

YOUR SEPTEMBER WOW LANDS TODAY!

And it is one many look forward to each year - our annual Athletes to Watch series. Writer Joey Johnston worked with school administrators and coaches to pull together a field of 7 athletes from each school who shine on and off the field (pool and court) and he tells their stories eloquently. James Broome's stellar photography puts faces to the names. This issue is a massive undertaking each year and I'm grateful to Joey and James for their efforts.

You'll also find our Senior Care Special which offers a wealth of resources for those planning care for their aging parents (or planning ahead for themselves). We thank the advertisers who made this special possible.

That's just the tip of the iceberg. Enjoy!

08/17/2023

Last week was a busy week in Westchase government. Both the CDD and WCA reviewed and passed their budgets for the coming year, in addition to their general meetings. We've broken the coverage out on our website. Thanks to WOW reporters Lynn Gonzalez and Sarah Temple for their coverage:

CDD Public Hearings/ Aug. meeting: https://www.westchasewow.com/august-cdd/
VM Budget Workshop/ Aug. meeting: https://www.westchasewow.com/vm-budget/
WCA August meeting: https://www.westchasewow.com/wca-august/
CDD and WCA Budget Breakdown: https://www.westchasewow.com/cdd-and-wca-budgets/

08/01/2023

Your August WOW lands today!
In this issue, we bring you the results of WOW's 25th Annual Dining Survey - with some repeat winners, some surprise upsets and a few new categories! Also in this issue:
❄️ We're taking a closer look at the ideal thermostat setting in these scorching hot months.
🚸 We caught up with Crossing Guard Tom Martin to learn a bit more about him and get some tips for heading back to school safely.
🍕 Remember Zerillo's? They are coming back in a new location and we've got the story.
🗳 If you live in Westchase and have thought about running for the WCA Board, now's your chance and we'll tell you how to submit your name.
Plus, so much more. Happy Reading!

07/03/2023

WCA Board Elections Are Coming!
One of the primary responsibilities for the Voting Member body is the election of the members of the WCA Board of Directors. This year there are three positions to be filled. The full rules for the election will be approved by the Voting Members but to be a candidate a resident must be an owner or spouse of an owner. They must also be in good standing with the WCA---no delinquent fees or fines.
The election will take place at the Annual Meeting at 6:30 p.m. on September 12 at the Swim and Tennis Center. Nominations can be made from the floor but in order to be a Declared Candidate and have their information in the September WOW they must declare by noon August 12 by submitting their name to the WCA Manager, Debbie Sainz at [email protected] .
For the WOW article, a bio should be submitted (not to exceed 250 words) along with a high-resolution picture. The bio should include any information the candidate feels would be helpful to the Voting Members including any prior volunteer work for the WCA.
If you have any questions, you can contact Jim Brinker as the Chair of the Nominating Committee at [email protected] , Dale Sells at [email protected] , Jack Maurer at [email protected] or Joanne Maurer at [email protected].

06/30/2023

Your July WOW lands today!
This month, we take a closer look at our Westchase Seniors group, which held its first meeting 23 years ago! Lewis and Rama Patterson are still at the helm and we sat down with them and some current members to learn more about the group's impact on our community. Special thanks to James Broome for this amazing cover! Also in this issue:
🇺🇸 Our first Pet Special, with tips on becoming a pet foster parent and resources for pet owners.
🇺🇸 Joey Johnston brings us the stories of the state wins for Alonso Flag Football and Sickles Baseball (a first for the Gryphons).
🇺🇸 Danielle Hauser sits down with Tennis Pro Alex Bogdanovic
🇺🇸 Heather Bossowski takes us on a trip to Alexander Springs in the Ocala National Forest
🇺🇸 Lynn M. Gonzalez uncovers her green thumb at Cactus Moon
🇺🇸 Phil Dean hit the streets to find out how residents handle scam calls
🇺🇸 And I had the honor of sharing a bit more about our beloved Kendra Drake, who we lost far too soon.
It's a jam-packed issue and we hope you enjoy it.

05/30/2023

COUNTRYWAY POOL CLOSURE - MAY 31, 2023
The WCA is having an electrician install new conduit on the pool pump at the Countryway pool. They will not be able to operate the pool while the pumps are off.
Repairs are scheduled for Wednesday, May 31. The Countryway Pool will be down for at least that entire day, and we will reopen as soon as possible.
For text or email updates, register for notifications using the WCA's new notification system. You can register at www.westchasewca.com.

05/02/2023

Your May WOW lands today and it features a very exciting initiative born right here in Westchase. The program is a partnership between the Westchase Rec Center and USF Athletics and the mission is to change the way we think about playing like a girl. We also have:
🌸 An inside look at the life of a pirate featuring the Westchase Freebooters.
🌸 A look at 2 businesses that are breathing new life into Citrus Park Town Center, including the soon to open Elev8 Fun.
🌸 Photos from WOW's Spring Egg Hunt
🌸 A new basketball camp formed by two rival schools for the love of the sport.
And so much more. We hope you enjoy this issue. Happy reading!

05/01/2023

Happy Monday, Westchase! For those looking for their copy of the May WOW, there has been a delay due to a technical issue with our printer. It will be delivered tomorrow (May 2). Thank you for your patience!

04/17/2023

Happy Monday, Westchase! At last week's meeting, WCA Board members discussed the new notification system that is now up and running on the WCA website and how best to handle the property management RFP. We thank Lynn Gonzalez for her coverage.

World of Westchase, the official magazine of the Westchase Community Association, serves an association of nearly 3,500 homes in Tampa, by providing local news and entertainment features.

04/14/2023

Much of this week's VM meeting was devoted to discussions surrounding the Exploratory Committee's findings. We thank Lynn Gonzalez for her thorough coverage.

World of Westchase, the official magazine of the Westchase Community Association, serves an association of nearly 3,500 homes in Tampa, by providing local news and entertainment features.

04/12/2023

WOW is working on our annual Westchase Resident Directory and there is still time to have your contact info listed. This directory is for homes within the WCA boundaries (find a complete list here --> https://westchasewca.com/residential-info/). If you've been listed in the Resident Directory before, there's no need to do anything. If you would like to have your name and contact info added, or if you need to update your existing information, please follow the link below to complete the form by April 20. Thank you!

World of Westchase, the official magazine of the Westchase Community Association, serves an association of nearly 3,500 homes in Tampa, by providing local news and entertainment features.

04/11/2023

At last week's CDD meeting the Board made progress on the Landscape RFP process and WPV Plaza renovation timeline, and received good news from the USDA. We thank Sarah Temple for her thorough coverage.

World of Westchase, the official magazine of the Westchase Community Association, serves an association of nearly 3,500 homes in Tampa, by providing local news and entertainment features.

04/09/2023

WOW staff would like to wish a Happy Easter to all who celebrate!

03/31/2023

YOUR APRIL WOW LANDS TODAY!
Just in time for the beginning of baseball season, our cover story features former MLB All-Star Steve Swisher who now calls nearby Mandolin Reserve home. You may also know his son, Nick Swisher, another former MLB All-Star. Thank you to the Swishers for inviting us into their home and to writer Joey Johnston and photographer James Broome for bringing their story to life.

This is also our Summer Camp Special and you'll find lots of ideas for great local camps.

That's just the tip of the iceberg: we have community updates, the latest school news and ideas for fun outings in Westchase and beyond.

Happy Reading!

(A quick note: on page 55, the USF Botanical Gardens Earth Day Celebration is listed as Saturday, April 21. That should read Friday, April 21.)

03/30/2023

AN EXCITING WEEKEND AHEAD IN WESTCHASE
Happy Thursday, Westchase! We're looking forward to two big events this weekend:
Friday Night Food Truck Rally: Head to the greenspace on Montague in WPV from 5:30-8 p.m. tomorrow night for WOW's final food truck rally of the season! We'll have DJ music by Rockatar Music Academy & Studios and the following food trucks: Got Lobstah?, Jersey Kabobs of Tampa Bay, Wakamole, Saucy Lady, Westchase BBQ, Jersey Dogs Food Truck, Engine 53 Pizza, Jersey Kabobs of Tampa Bay, Quattro Empanadas, Krepelicious, Glorious Pies Food Truck and Froyo Fresh.

Westchase Spring Egg Hunt: On Sunday, bring the kids to the Westchase Rec Center from 1-4 p.m. for an egg hunt, dodgeball, activities provided by our generous sponsors and pictures with the Easter Bunny! Click the link below to register for one of three egg hunts (1:15, 2:15 or 3:15 p.m.) through April 1 at midnight. Walk-in registration is also available.
We look forward to seeing our neighbors out and about this weekend!

Westchase community egg hunt brought to you by WOW magazine.

03/18/2023

WOW SUMMER CAMP EXPO MARCH 22
We are so excited to be hosting our first annual Summer Camp Expo this Wednesday, March 22 from 5-8 p.m. at the Westchase Rec Center. Check out this amazing list of camps! Plus Westchase BBQ, Saucy Lady and Sweet Ice will be on hand! We can't wait to see you all there!
- Mathnasium of Westchase
- British Swim School Tampa
- Wakesurf Tampa
- Smart Start Pre-Prep
- Westchase Swim & Tennis Center
- Kiddie Academy
- Tampa Loves Creating
- Bricks 4 Kidz
- Westchase Recreation Center
- Hillel Academy of Tampa Bay
- Dawson Dance Academy
- Vast Track & Field Cross Country
- Northwest Hillsborough Family YMCA
- Ovations Dance Academy of Tampa
- Rockatar
- The Dance Haus
- Vanessa’s Art Studio
- Westchase Basketball Camp
- Pure Art Tampa
- Taekwondo Westchase
- West Coast Morgans: The BEST Horse Camp

03/15/2023

Don't miss WOW's First Annual Summer Camp Expo on Wednesday, March 22 from 5-8 p.m. at the Westchase Rec Center! We have 22 camps signed up for all age levels and interests. This is a FREE community event - click below to learn more!

World of Westchase, the official magazine of the Westchase Community Association, serves an association of nearly 3,500 homes in Tampa, by providing local news and entertainment features.

03/09/2023

During Tuesday's Voting Members meeting, residents showed up to share their concerns over a bulk fiber optic contract and VMS ultimately voted to discontinue exploring the concept. As always, we thank Lynn Gonzalez for her thorough coverage of the meeting.

World of Westchase, the official magazine of the Westchase Community Association, serves an association of nearly 3,500 homes in Tampa, by providing local news and entertainment features.

03/06/2023

VM MEETING DATE CHANGE
Happy Monday, Westchase. Just a quick note on the March Voting Member meeting. Page 8 of the WOW lists the original meeting date of March 14, but the meeting was moved after the issue went to print to accommodate HCPS Spring Break. The meeting is now Tues., March 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Countryway Swim & Tennis Center.
Other meetings this week are:
Westchase CDD meeting March 7 at 4 p.m. at the Maureen B. Guazza Library
WCA Board meeting March 9 at 6 p.m. at the WCA office on Parley Drive.
Thank you!

03/01/2023

HAPPY MARCH, WESTCHASE!
Your March WOW lands today and we worked with local real estate experts to share the outlook for 2023. Inside, you'll also find:
🍀 Info on WOW's upcoming Summer Camp Expo on March 22
🍀 Updates on local government and community news
🍀 Ideas for local outings and weekend getaways
🍀 Photos from February's Courts for a Cause fundraiser
And so much more. Happy reading!