Michael Pultorak Challenges Randy Maggard For District 54 State House Seat

Michael Pultorak 

On Tuesday, August 18, local firefighter, Realtor and community activist Michael Pultorak will try to accomplish something few recent political candidates in Pasco County have been able to do — unseat a Republican incumbent. 

Pultorak is running for the Republican nomination against Florida House District 54 Representative Randy Maggard. 

He says he entered the race believing that his attempt to unseat Maggard would be an Open Primary, meaning that all voters in the District — regardless of party affiliation — would be eligible to cast a ballot to choose between the two Republican candidates because there was no Democrat or third-party candidate registered to run for the seat. 

But, on June 12, the last day to qualify to run, Paul Bybee, who also is a registered Republican and who does not live in Dist. 54, qualified as a write-in candidate for the November 3 General Election ballot. Bybee’s name will not appear on that ballot — there will only be a space to write in his name — but his last-minute qualifying as a write-in closed the August 18 Primary Election, so that only registered Republicans in Dist. 54 will be eligible to choose between the two-term incumbent Maggard and Pultorak, the political newcomer. 

And, with there being a very likely possibility (based on his history) that Bybee will drop out of the race once the results of the primary are known, that means that only Republicans will have ended up choosing the next Dist. 54 Rep. 

According to the Florida Division of Elections, as of July 10, Maggard’s campaign had raised $145,000, while Pultorak’s campaign had raised only $3,900 and Bybee has not reported raising any campaign funds for his write-in campaign for House Dist. 54 this year 

Bybee also ran as a write-in candidate for Pasco County Commission’s Dist. 4 in 2024 — but withdrew following the closed Republican primary that saw appointed incumbent Lisa Yeager elected to fill the last two years of the late Gary Bradford’s four-year term. 

The Neighborhood News sent both Pultorak and Maggard a series of questions and both responded by email for this story. We did not reach Bybee at the phone number listed on the Florida Division of Elections website, which did not list an email address for him. Bybee’s Facebook page makes no mention of his candidacy and only shows him campaigning for Republican Sheriff Chris Nocco’s campaign to replace retiring State Senator Ed Hooper and Republican candidate for State House Dist. 53 John Carroll. 

Pultorak has been endorsed by Defending Rural Florida, the Florida League of Republican Voters and the Florida Republican Liberty Caucus. 

Michael Pultorak 

Neighborhood News (NN): Tell me about your background — where you grew up, went to school, your work experience and your family. 

Michael Pultorak (MP): We get to pick where we make and call home, but we don’t get to pick where we were born. I was born and raised in Michigan, spending almost every day playing sports or in the outdoors, and learning to be a steward of the land. I moved to Florida to attend USF in 1996, fell in love with Wesley Chapel and decided to make this home. Most of your readers probably know me from real estate or coaching youth athletics. But, I became a firefighter well before graduating USF. This is my 30th year in the fire service and I am starting my 27th year with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and my 14th year as a Captain. With my wife Aimee being a St Leo alumna, we fell in love with the Wesley Chapel and San Antonio areas and decided this was the right place to raise our children. We have cattle, chickens, and pigs on our ranch. Our children Grace and Joshua have really connected us as coaches and mentors to the local community. 

NN: How did you become — whether intentionally or not — a community activist? 

MP: I appreciate that, but honestly, I don’t consider myself an activist. I am a USF alumnus from the Muma College of Business (GO BULLS!), a successful business owner and have been blessed investing in real estate. I have graduate degrees from Liberty University and the University of Phoenix. Activist? No. Problem solver? Yes. I just cannot accept the status quo that is not working, or merely hope things are going to get better. If we can make things better, let’s do it! Strong leaders fix big problems. That won’t always settle well with everyone, but it is the right thing to do. I took a pledge decades ago to build the bridge others behind you will travel. Sometimes to my own [detriment], I stand up to what is wrong or isn’t working. So many of the problems around us can be solved, it just takes good people willing to sacrifice to make things better for those that travel behind us. In turn, that means we are building a better place for our children to raise their children. 

NN: What made you decide to run for public office? 

MP: I never intended to run for office. But I have seen how Tallahassee is giving our tax dollars to developers to pave over Pasco pastures and turn them into parking lots. I realized that the new developments are not helping our current residents. The new developments and 4-story apartments are not utilized by our residents; they just keep moving more people into our community. The businesses that promise high-paying employment keep moving their own workforce in with them, so our residents keep getting overlooked, while the allure of additional tax revenue keeps getting them approved. The additional pressure has overwhelmed our infrastructure, and it is driving up the cost of living for all of our families. 

So, I started any way possible to hold developers accountable for the roads, parks and promises they made to the community. Looking around, we need a lot of change with our elected officials. The decisions being made at the local and state levels are not benefiting our current residents. So, if we have a problem, it is time to solve it. That means it is time to engage at the next level. These issues are mainly caused by state legislation, so that is where we must focus to create change and protect Pasco. 

NN: What made you choose the State House District 54 race? 

MP: Our incumbent has voted repeatedly to give tax incentives to the data centers we are working to prevent. That is not OK. He protected NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) between government officials and data center developers in this current session. That also is not OK. Since he has taken office, 31 pieces of pro-developer state legislation have been enacted, and he voted YES every time. That is not OK. 

He has been in office for 7 years, and all I see is Pasco County getting paved over and our cost of living skyrocketing. Our kids can’t afford to live and raise their children in our communities. That is a problem! If you see a problem, try to solve it and I am trying to solve the problem. That means it is time for a new voice to represent Pasco residents in Tallahassee. 

NN: What do you feel Rep. Maggard has or hasn’t been doing enough to help the people living in the district? 

MP: He has both done far too much and far too little. He has done far too much to incentivize developers to bring in data centers, apartments and new communities our residents cannot afford. At the same time, he has done far too little listening to his constituents who don’t want these things to happen to their community. 

NN: What do you think about Paul Bybee entering the race as a write-in candidate? Do you believe that his entry into the race was orchestrated by the Republican Executive Committee (REC) of Pasco? And if it was, if you’re also running as a Republican, why would the REC attempt to not allow anyone other than Republicans to vote in this primary? 

MP: Paul who? Oh, that guy. Well, there are a lot of games played in politics to keep power, and I would be speculating as to any details about his candidacy. But, when he is out campaigning, maybe he should start promoting himself for his race if he is a serious candidate. 

NN: If elected, what are your goals as far as what you would like to accomplish in your first term in the State Legislature? 

MP: First, I will prevent ANY legislation that looks anything like my opponent’s bill he tried to pass twice (2023, 2026) that would have removed local protections for our water and conservation areas. It is so crazy I can’t even make this stuff up. Second, data centers need to be up north in cooler climates that do not have a sensitive aquifer. We need a full state moratorium. Third, Senate Bill 102 that allows high-density apartments to be constructed on ANY property zoned commercial needs to be repealed so that we can grow employment instead of the population. Finally, House Bill 1080 from this 2026 session allowing developers to use outside consultants for rezoning must be repealed. The tax funding for home ownership programs needs to be reestablished because it is now being used for low-interest loans for developers to build apartments. That is all tied up currently in these bills I’ve identified. 

NN: What do you feel are the biggest needs for the people of District 54? 

MP: 1) Address the over-development of Pasco, which includes new residential, new commercial and data centers developments. 

2) Address the flood risks we have in Dade City and Zephyrhills from that development 

3) WE MUST TACKLE AFFORDABILITY. Our cost of living is driven by the cost of housing. Supply & demand says you keep moving in labor forces and they will add to the demand of available homes in the area. 

4) We need transparency out of Tallahassee! I am tired of finding out what new laws will be thrust on us on July 1 of each year. It is time we got someone up there that will provide accountability to the residents of Florida. 

5) STOP wasting our tax dollars! If the state and county would stop wasting our tax dollars, maybe our county budget and cost of living would stop going up every year. 

NN: Since you’ll also have to vote about many things that have little or nothing to do with District 54, what State House committees would you like to serve on and what do think are the biggest needs for the State of Florida? 

MP: The committees that interest me the most are the Budget Committee, Select Committee on Property Taxes and Health & Human Services. The biggest needs for Florida residents are to rein in spending, make sure property tax reform does not turn into a series of loopholes that punish the working class and create transparency so that we can all hold our representatives accountable for whom they are truly representing in Tallahassee. 

NN: Why should the people of District 54 vote for you? 

MP: We have some big problems locally that are going to need a leader with bigger solutions. I understand how the problems were legislatively created and I know how we can start solving them, but it must happen in Tallahassee. 

The interests of Pasco County residents drive my political aspirations and decision making. I have no interest in representing special interests. While my opponent has received 277 PAC (Political Action Committees) donations during his time as a State Rep., I have received none. While your utility bills were going up, he was taking donations from all of the providers. 

I will never accept campaign donations that are from public services dependent on politicians voting to raise your rates. State legislation prevented oversight of developers in our area and, not surprisingly, many residents feel they did not get the communities they were promised. 

It is time to get to work fixing these issues, but we need a change in the voice we are sending to represent us. Let’s send a message by changing the messenger in this Primary Election! 

Randy Maggard 
Randy Maggard

State House District 54 incumbent Randy Maggard is a lifetime Pasco County native who has been married to his wife Colleen for 41 years. The couple has three children and five grandchildren. 

Maggard is a member of San Antonio Community Church and also is the co-owner and vice president of Sonny’s Discount Appliances in Dade City. He is a past chair of the Pasco County Republican Party and serves in Republican leadership in the Florida House, including as Deputy Majority Leader since 2024. 

According to his website and campaign ad materials, Rep. Maggard has been endorsed by Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson, Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco, U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis, State Senator Danny Burgess, Pasco tax collector Mike Fasano, Pasco property appraiser Mike Wells and by the Florida Professional Firefighters, the Florida State Fraternal Order of Police and the Florida Chamber of Commerce. 

Although he didn’t elaborate on any of these items in our question-&-answer exchange below, his website says that he “passed major insurance reform that eliminated frivolous lawsuits that raise rates” and “sweeping property tax reform with Gov. DeSantis to bring relief to Pasco families, retirees and residents.” 

On illegal immigration, Rep. Maggard says he “stood with Pres. Trump and Gov. DeSantis to pass sweeping immigration reform. He will keep illegals off our streets and stand by the rule of law!” He opposes “woke ideologies” and “strongly supports law enforcement, the rule of law and increased penalties on individuals who harm law enforcement officers.” 

NN: What do you believe are your biggest accomplishments since first being elected to the Florida House? 

Randy Maggard (RM): I am really so proud of so many things we have done to promote conservative governance in Florida. We are proudly called the Free State of Florida for a reason! We have made Florida more business-friendly for entrepreneurs. We are cutting property taxes. We defended life and our constitutional rights. I am particularly proud of the work we achieved with autism reform to help support the families with autistic family members. 

NN: What are your main objectives, if re-elected, for the next four years? Is there any particular legislation that you’re sponsoring or that you support? 

RM: Should I be reelected, my priorities will be to ensure individual rights and free market affordability, safety, education and the protection of our natural resources. 

NN: What is your opinion of the Property Tax legislation headed to this year’s November ballot? What, in your opinion, can and should Pasco County do to guarantee that things like the Sheriff ’s Office, Fire Rescue/EMS and the School District don’t have to cut essential services and jobs if the legislation passes? 

RM: I supported the property tax amendment measure in the Legislature. Should it be adopted by the voters, the Legislature will need to pass an implementing bill where additional details will be worked [out]. I am confident that local municipalities will do the right thing and adjust their budgets to relieve the burden of taxes on our citizens. Government needs to set priorities and eliminate waste, fraud and abuse. 

NN: What are the biggest needs, as you see them, of your District? How do you plan to help the people of District 54 over your next four years in office? 

RM: If reelected, I will be serving my last two-year term. Cost of living for expenses such as property insurance, health care and autism support will be my main focus. 

NN: What is your opinion of hyperscale, large-scale and SMR (Small Modular Reactor) data centers? Should Florida allow any of them to come into our state? Can (and/or should) the State government implement a permanent ban on them? 

RM: I oppose AI data centers. Earlier this year, in conjunction with Governor DeSantis, the Legislature passed a bill to empower local governments and to protect consumers and our natural resources when it comes to AI data centers. I am proud of our bill, which is tough. Frankly, it is so tough that I doubt data centers will even want to come to Florida. 

NN: Have you publicly come out in support of any of the candidates for Florida’s next Governor? Do you plan to after the Primary Election? 

RM: I have personally and publicly endorsed Congressman Byron Donalds [for Governor]. I believe he has the best vision for our state, but I know and respect several other Republicans running. I urge all Republican voters to research the candidates and make their own decision, but agree that we must unite after the primary is over on August 18th to defeat the Democrat nominee. 

NN: What do you think of the Republican Executive Committee of Pasco County continuing to add registered Republican Write-In candidates to the ballot — including in your race — when the Write-In candidates 1) do not live in the districts in which they are running, 2) have literally no chance of being elected and 3) have no intention of still running once the “closed” Primary election ends? 

I know it’s technically not “illegal” for such candidates to be added to the Primary Election ballot , but is it ethical? And, can the State Legislature enact a new law preventing such candidates from being added to the Primary Ballot in the future and would you support such a measure? 

RM: I’m not aware of what the local parties may be doing regarding so called “Write-In” candidates. I personally believe in a primary system whereby only registered Republicans are choosing the Republican nominee. If the Democrats want to be a viable party outside of the big cities, they need to recruit and train candidates. 

NN: Is there anything else you would want me to include for your constituents in this story? 

RM: I’ve lived my entire life here in East Pasco County. I am a husband, father, grandfather and small businessman who knows what a special place it is that we call home. I am proud to say it’s a place where faith, family and freedom flourish. I do not take public service lightly and I would be honored to once again earn the trust and support of the voters in East Pasco County (District 54). 

Now Open At Former New Tampa Wendy’s — House Of Biryanis & Kebabs

People have been asking us for years — and posting questions online — about whether anything was ever coming to the former Wendy’s location at 19430 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. Until now, we didn’t have any answers. 

The replacement for Wendy’s is a local link in a small but growing chain of 35 halal Indian/South Asian restaurants called House of Biryanis & Kebabs (HBK) — and, three days after the restaurant’s ribbon-cutting event with Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera on July 6 (above right), photographer Charmaine George and I were treated to a number of delicious dishes by the restaurant’s five local franchise owners, led by Satya Meka (left in photo) and Karthik Achanta (right in same photo). And yes, we thoroughly enjoyed everything we sampled. 

The three appetizers we indulged in were the most uniquely garlicky Murgh Malai Kebabs (top photo),which were chunks of chicken served fajita-style on a sizzling dish, followed by a spicy Mongadu Gobi (cauliflower, bottom left). Next was an order of Onion Samosas (bottom right), which were different than most Indian samosas I’ve had before, as the tasty onions and potatoes were wrapped in a crisp, spanakopita-style, almost-cellophane-like crust and were not spicy at all. 

“We can vary the spice on any of our dishes,” Satya told us. “But, these authentic recipes use the same quality ingredients and taste the same at every HBK location (most of which are along the East Coast and in the Midwestern U.S., with one location in Manchester, England).” 

Of course, we had to try one of the restaurant’s signature biryanis — the HBK Special Chicken Biryani (right photo), which combines spicy, long-grain rice, a hard-cooked egg and a side of zesty, slightly sweet red curry chicken. 

Our friend Prahlad Madabushi, who introduced us to the owners and is a vegetarian himself, also had us sample a mild mixed-veggie curry that also was excellent. 

Our final sample (left photo) was HBK’s traditional, thick, creamy butter chicken, which we savored with three different varieties of naan flatbreads — butter, garlic and the spicy (but not too) “Bullet Naan” shown bottom right of the page. The naans were all pillowy soft, with a slightly crispy edge perfect for indulging in the butter chicken. I also loved the true Masala Chai tea and Charmaine and I both gave thumbs-up to the Thums Up soda (the Indian version of Coca-Cola now owned by Coke) and the house-made, creamy Mango Lassi. 

In other words, even with its supposedly limited “soft opening” menu, HBK has a lot to offer those looking for authentic (mostly South) Indian cuisine. There’s also lamb, goat, paneer (cheese) and other dishes we will definitely return to try sometime soon. 

For more information about House of Biryanis & Kebabs, visit HBKTampa.com or call (813) 388-6777.

Indoor Cross Creek Recreation Center & Revamped Playground Now Open!

Many New Tampa residents are aware that District 2 Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan (photo below) used to live in Cross Creek. Fewer people probably know, however, that Hagan grew up in Carrollwood — and he says both experiences helped him decide to fight for an indoor/ outdoor recreation facility in New Tampa — all of which is located in his district. 

“When I was in college,” Hagan says, “I spent my summers working in the same county park in Carrollwood I grew up playing in. Then, when I was raising my family in Cross Creek, I realized that we didn’t have any county park facilities. So, when I first became the County Commissioner for the New Tampa area (way back in 2002), I decided to try to get a large county park built here.” 

Hagan says the county had purchased land in K-Bar Ranch, “and my original plan was to partner with the City of Tampa on a big park there, but the city killed that. (Note- K-Bar is now getting a city park of its own.) So, I was able to take that money and use half of it to redo Branchton Park (on Morris Bridge Rd. south of Cross Creek Blvd.) and the other half to build this facility here.” 

Hagan and other county officials cut the ribbon on the $8.6-million Cross Creek Recreation Center at 19019 Bassett Creek Dr. (next to Pride Elementary) on June 29. 

In addition to completely revamping the 15-acre park’s outdoor playground and adding shade shelters, new basketball courts, a walking trail and benches, the project’s crown jewel is the 16,000-sq.-ft. rec center, which has a full-sized basketball gym, fitness (not yet stocked) and multipurpose rooms, classrooms and a public meeting space — and recreation supervisor Kim Gilchrist and assistant rec supervisor Alex Spacone (photo, left) say the summer camp program was full for this summer, but there will be programming for children and adults throughout the year for those with a “Wellness Access Pass-Cross Creek.” 

“There are a lot more programs still to come,” Hagan says. “I wish we had something like this when my kids were growing up here.” Me, too, Ken! 

For more info about the Cross Creek Rec Center, call (813) 744-5978 or visit FLHillsboroughweb.myvscloud.com. — GN; all photos by Charmaine George 

Happy 104th Birthday, Roy Caldwood…Happy 250th, U.S.A!

Local Dignitaries Fete WWII Vet & Buffalo Soldier Roy Caldwood At New Tampa’s Own Independence Day Celebration 

District 7 Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera (below left) organized a unique event to celebrate both the 250th birthday of the United States and the 104th birthday of New Tampa resident, World War II veteran and Buffalo Soldier Roy Caldwood (center in photo above) on June 30. Among the many dignitaries on hand for the event held at the New Tampa Recreation Center in Tampa Palms were Tampa Police Department Major Whitney McCormick (to Roy’s left) and Tampa Fire Rescue Chief Barbara Tripp. 

 District 7 Tampa City Council member (and New Tampa resident) Luis Viera (photo below) has had a lot of great ideas during his nearly ten years on City Council, but few have ever warmed the hearts of so many people at once as the event he organized on June 30. 

In order to honor the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Viera turned New Tampa’s 4th of July celebration into a joint event also honoring the 104th birthday of a true American hero — World War II combat veteran, Buffalo Soldier and New Tampa resident Roy Caldwood. 

Roy, his daughter Diane Royer and their family were on hand for the festivities, which included a sizable roster of dignitaries not only speaking glowingly about Roy but also, in many cases, offering him presents in celebration of his birthday. 

In other words, if you weren’t in the crowd of more than 150 people at the New Tampa Recreation Center in Tampa Palms that evening, you truly missed out on something special! 

Viera opened the festivities with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence before saying, “We’re here to celebrate our country’s 250th birthday and the 104th birthday of a decorated World War II veteran, a gentleman who won the Bronze Star in Italy, who was a member of the 92nd U.S. Army Regiment and a Buffalo Soldier, Roy Caldwood.” 

The packed house at the New Tampa Rec Center.

He then introduced the dignitaries on hand, including Maj. Whitney McCormick of the Tampa Police Dept., Chief Barbara Tripp of Tampa Fire Rescue, Hillsborough County Clerk of the Court & Comptroller (and New Tampa resident) Victor Crist, regional director Luis Laracuente of U.S. Sen. Rick Scott’s office, U.S. Army Brigadier General (Ret.) and New Tampa resident Remo Butler and Col. Jim Fletcher and Col. DJ Reyes of the Tampa chapters of two veterans’ organizations. He also thanked the City of Tampa’s Parks & Recreation Dept. for hosting the event inside the New Tampa Rec Center. 

Viera also introduced Roy’s daughter Diane Royer, his grandson Chris Royer and his cousins Frankie and Dorothy Newton and Patsy Milner. 

“As a country, it doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from, what God you worship or what your political affiliation you have, this is our country’s 250th birthday and we have to celebrate it,” Viera said. “And to me, there’s no greater symbol of something that brings us together as a country like Mr. Roy Caldwood. 

“He’s a gentleman who grew up in Harlem. He was born in 1922, at a time when people who were liberated as slaves were 60-70 years old. 

“He lived during the time of the Great Migration, when 6 million African Americans split the south to head up north. 

“He grew up during the Harlem Renaissance, when World War I veterans — including the Harlem Hell Fighters — had just returned home from combat and were in their 20s and 30s. 

Roy, his daughter Diane Royer and TFR Chief Barbara Tripp.

“This man has lived through our nation’s history and nobody is more worth of celebration than our friend Roy.” 

Viera then introduced Chief Tripp, who said, “I just want to thank you for everything you’ve done…for your bravery, resilience and being part of the Buffalo Soldiers. You took a lot and that’s why we’re all here today. You took care of people. I can’t thank you enough for being a hero to your family and to our country.” 

Among other gifts, Chief Tripp presented Roy with a plaque that said, “In recognition of U.S. Army PFC Roy Caldwood for his dedicated service as a combat medic in the U.S. Army 92nd Infantry Division, also known as the ‘Buffalo Soldiers’ during World War II. Your resilience & dedication to your country & community are a testament to your character & an inspiration to everyone. God bless.” 

Next up was Maj. McCormick, who said, “I looked up what the record age is and it’s 122, and I expect you to make that. Thank you for your service from the Tampa Police Dept. Dist. 2.” 

Hillsborough Clerk of the Court & New Tampa resident Victor Crist.

Next came Crist, who is not only the current Clerk of the Court, but who also served 18 years in the State Legislature, both House and Senate, as well as two terms on the County Commission and who founded the University Area Community Development Corp. 

Crist said, “Today’s a very special day and I’m honored to be here. Growing up in a military family, I truly appreciate the men and women who have sacrificed their lives on behalf of our country and our lifestyle, so we can be free. So often, people take for granted what we have here and don’t truly understand or appreciate the sacrifices that you and others like you have made. I want to sincerely thank you for all that you have done for us in this country, in this world and this community. I’m so proud to have you as a neighbor and a friend. And I look forward to another hundred-plus years.” 

Viera then took the time to introduce several people in the audience who are running for political offices, including County Commission candidate Aileen Rodriguez, Louie Aguila and Sara Peacock (who are running against each other for Circuit Court Judge) and New Tampa residents Morris Lopez and Alan Cohn, who will vie for Viera’s soon-to-be-vacated seat on City Council. Also speaking at the event was Dist. 5 City Council member Naya Young, who, like Chief Tripp and Crist before her, also mentioned that she’s seen videos of how impressive Roy’s dance skills are and how much she appreciated Viera’s invitation to attend. 

Then, Laracuente mentioned Roy’s penchant for doing pushups before reading a letter from his boss, Sen. Scott: 

“Dear Mr. Caldwood: Congratulations on your 104th birthday. You’re among a special segment of our population known as centenarians. That is a tremendous accomplishment. As Floridians, we feel a deep sense of appreciation for your leadership of our elder population. As Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, I am proud to represent Florida’s centenarian community. As a Navy veteran myself and the son of a World War II veteran, I know firsthand the sacrifices our veterans, military members and their families make to defend our freedom. Veterans of our Armed Forces truly represent the best of what it means to be an American and a Floridian. None of the opportunities and freedoms we have as Americans would be possible without the dedicated service of our brave heroes. Again, congratulations on your 104th birthday and thank you for your service & sacrifice on behalf of this great nation. You served honorably and bravely. And, after receiving the Bronze Star and being a Buffalo Soldier, you truly represent the best of what it means to be an American & a Floridian. May this be a special time of celebration and recalling family and friends and looking forward to many years. — Sincerely, Rick Scott, U.S. Senator” 

(l.-r.) Mylitta Butler, Gen Remo Butler, Roy & Diane. 

Next, Viera introduced Gen. Butler, who was commissioned in the U.S. Army in 1974, towards the end of the Vietnam era. 

“Gen. Butler served almost 30 years in the Army,” Viera said, “and became the first Black Special Forces officer to earn the rank of Brigadier General in American history. He served in Special Forces and Special Operations Command.” 

“It’s an honor to be here to celebrate Roy’s birthday,” Gen. Butler said. “I’m a history nut. 

Without Roy, there would not have been a Remo Butler. I stand on his shoulders. People don’t realize the impact of the Black soldier. The first person killed in the Revolutionary War was Crispus Attucks, a Black man. Many Black slaves fought in the Revolutionary War. They fought for their freedom, but after the war was over, they [were told], ‘You need to go back.’ 

“In the Civil War, they wouldn’t take Blacks in. Why? ‘Aww, they won’t fight. They can’t think fast. But they fought. I can’t tell you how many Medals of Honor were won by Black soldiers during the Civil War, but there were quite a few. 

“I wrote a paper [that looked into] the Army War College (AWC), one of the most prestigious schools the military has. [The AWC] did a 1930 study on Blacks in the military. You know what they said? The same thing — ‘Blacks won’t fight.’ This came from educated officers. 

“But let me tell you something. World War II came and things started getting dicey, so they said, ‘Let’s bring them in. And, the Harlem Hell Fighters have the longest continuous time fighting in any unit. 

“Roy and I sit around and chit-chat and he tells me stories from World War II and you know what’s changed? Not a lot. You still have people out there to this day who have preconceived notions of what Black people can and can’t do. 

“Like the late, great James Brown said, ‘Open the door and I’ll get it myself.’ Well, Roy, I want to thank you for opening the door for me. 

“It’s great to see all these people here to celebrate this veteran, 104 years old and he walks better than I do. He can do more pushups than I can, and I respect him for that. So Roy, happy birthday. I got your present. It’s liquid and I’ll bring it over to your house.” 

The next speaker was retired U.S. Army Col. Jim Fletcher, the former president of Tampa’s Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 787, who served almost 30 years in the Army, including in Vietnam, the Gulf War and numerous other conflicts. He also is a senior mentor of Hillsborough’s Veterans Treatment Court. 

“I am also honored to be here,” Col. Fletcher said. “And I’m most proud of all the veterans who are here. It speaks of what we mean to each other and what [you mean to us], Roy. And I love you for all that you are and all that you did. I was most impressed when I went through your bio and saw how, when you were in Italy, you reached out to the community [there]. 

“In Special Forces, we understand how important that is and what it means to be with those people and for them to realize that you were there on their behalf.” 

Col. Fletcher then took over the introduction of his fellow retired Army Col. DJ Reyes, who was appointed by Gov. DeSantis to be the Deputy Executive Director of the Florida Dept. of Veterans Affairs. “Col. Reyes is a Korean War veteran who served 33 years in the Army. He is the leader of the Florida Mentor Program in the 13th Judicial Circuit, the Veterans Treatment Court, a proud father of special needs children, a Lightning Community Hero and an inductee in the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame.” 

The Tampa Chapter of the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club salutes Roy.

Col. Reyes said to Roy, “Luis told me about your birthday celebration and I listened intently to the General’s remarks and one of the things that stood out. And, that is, there are a lot of people who have stood on your shoulders to get to where they are today. On behalf of the 1.4 million veterans who stand on your shoulders, I’d like to present you with a special coin from the Florida Dept. of Veterans Affairs.” 

A group from the Tampa Chapter of the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club then told Roy they were very proud to even be able to be called Buffalo Soldiers and that, “because of you, we are proud to wear our colors in representation of you.” The group then gave Roy the club’s cross-armed salute that ended with, “It’s all good!,” and joined Col. Fletcher and Col. Reyes in each giving Roy their own commemorative coin. 

Thoughts About Roy & Our Country 

Before introducing Roy’s daughter Diane, Luis gave the following thoughts from his heart: 

“When I think about our country being founded 250 years ago, we don’t think about the words of a 33-year-old attorney who wrote, ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,’ but at that time, it was all white men with property who were created equal. Generation by generation, more and more Americans will be included under that branch of equality, freedom, liberty and justice. That’s the American journey that started 250 years ago, that started with the aspirations of that Declaration. 

“Roy Caldwood’s life is a real reflection of that journey and where we are today as Americans, having been born about 100 years after Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died on the same day. 

“In 1943, Roy signed up for the U.S. Army. One day, he was reading Stars & Stripes about the 92nd Regiment and said ‘I want to be a Buffalo Soldier. I want to go into combat.’ 

“He would go to Italy, where he would earn the Bronze Star serving as an Army medic. He came under enemy fire numerous times and suffered injuries. He would give Last Rites to soldiers who were dying on the battlefield. 

“Then, in 1946, Roy would put down his arms and come home and get married for 77 years. He also became an assistant warden at Riker’s Island prison. 

“He had stood up for the values of his fellow Americans overseas against the Nazis and then, here at home against injustice and racism. A truly great American. Mr. Roy Caldwood.” 

His daughter Diane said, “This is all quite overwhelming and a moving outpouring of love for my Dad, whom I affectionately call ‘Poppi.’ He has a lot of other names, too — deal-breaker, rabble rouser, Harlem Cotton Club dancer — you name it, I think he’s done it. 

“I want to thank Councilman Viera. You are absolutely amazing. And, General Butler and his wife for coming out. From the time we first met you — thanks to Luis — we’ve bonded, like you’ve known Roy your whole life. Thank you so much for your friendship and who you are. 

“A little about my Dad. My husband and I moved him down here, kicking and screaming, from New York about five-and-a-half years ago. He was a die-hard New Yorker who said, ‘I’m not moving to Florida,’ but we finally convinced him. 

“His time here has created a whole new chapter of life for him and put a spotlight on his service because, prior to coming down here, I knew nothing of his life as a Buffalo Soldier. He kept it very quiet. It was only with moving and actually going through boxes of his things that I discovered a lot of pictures and memorabilia. 

And then…Tampa, you guys just opened your hearts and arms to him. You put him in the Gasparilla parade. You name it, he’s been in it. 

“But, one of the things I wanted to share is one of his axioms and sort of what he lives by. He says, ‘Whenever you see someone…anyone… you make sure you figure out how to reach out and help them, whether it’s something small or something big. Never turn your head or walk away.’ And, I have to say, that’s how he’s lived his life. He’s gotten into a lot of trouble doing it, but he’s always wants to help somebody. And I think that’s what gives him that momentum to keep him going forward. 

“It’s God that continues to bless him and when he does those things, God blesses him a hundred-fold. So, I just want to thank you all so much for coming out.” 

Viera then said, “Let’s have some cake!” 

1916 Irish Pub Opens In Former Beef O’Brady’s Location On WC Blvd.

Although it doesn’t look that different inside (above photo) from the Beef O’Brady’s that it has now replaced, the new 1916 Irish Pub we first told you about last issue is now open at 27315 Wesley Chapel Blvd. (at Old Pasco Rd.), in the Towne Centre at Wesley Chapel plaza that had long been home to Winn-Dixie. 

And yes, 1916 is an upgrade over Beef’s menu-wise, at least in one editor’s opinion. 

Owner Chuck Jamieson, who also owns 1916 Irish Pub locations in Brandon, Plant City and Lakeland, says that his goal was always to create an Irish pub with an upgraded menu — he also owns Second Plate Catering — and Jannah, photographer Charmaine George and I agree that he is already achieving that goal. 

To date, we’ve sampled three of 1916’s Irish favorites and we all gave them thumbs-up — the haddock fish & chips (right), the Rebel’s Reuben (tasty corned beef, sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese and house-made Thousand Island dressing; below left) and my favorite of the three, the Irish stew in a garlicky sourdough bread bowl (bottom right). The stew has marinated braised beef, slow-cooked in red wine, Guinness and house brand demi-glace, with celery, carrots and onions and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. And, the regular and parmesan fries and tater tots were all extra-crispy and were definitely addictive. 

But, perhaps our favorite dishes so far have been the bruschetta appetizer (below left, the melted mozzarella was a unique touch), the Irish Lamb Jam (a tasty take on a traditional gyro sandwich, bottom left) and the crisp-crusted meat lover’s flatbread (below right). 

1916 has a full-liquor bar and lots of beers on tap, plus different specials every day — from $6.99 burgers on Monday to Trivia and $6.99 wings on Wed. and $3 mimosas for Sat. & Sun. brunch — and Chuck says that, in addition to a Grand Opening celebration on Friday, June 24, 6 p.m., there will soon be live music and more. “We want to be your neighborhood hangout,” he says. “Come give us a try!” 

For more information, call (813) 991- 4747 or visit 1916IrishPub.com.