Home Gadgets At The Shops At Wiregrass For Unique & Useful Home Products! 

Radjes Badal (below left), (L.-r.) Rajiv Badal and Ayush Gandhi invite you to check out all of the unique kitchen and home items at the new Home Gadgets store on Paseo Dr. in The Shops at Wiregrass. (Photos by Charmaine George & Gary Nager) 

With the holiday season just around the corner, where can you find the perfect gift for someone who loves to cook? Go check out the new Home Gadgets store, located next to Talbots in The Shops at Wiregrass, which offers a variety of cool and unique items for your home. 

In 2004, Rajiv Badal’s parents, Radjes and Vidia Badal, opened a store in Ocala which originally sold “As Seen on TV” products. Over time, the store began to grow and the Badals added an array of household items, with a special focus on kitchen gadgets. That store became a well-loved and successful business that continues to thrive today and is still run by Rajiv’s parents. Although they stay busy with their own store, Radjes and Vidia now visit Rajiv’s Wiregrass location a few times a week to lend a hand and bring in new merchandise. 

Rajiv has fond memories of growing up in Ocala, where he worked alongside his parents and learned the ins and outs of running a business. He wasn’t just a helper; he was soaking up every bit of knowledge about everything from inventory to customer service. While pursuing his own career as an optometrist — he met his wife, Esha Gandhi, who also is an optometrist, at the Nova Southeastern University School of Optometry — Rajiv says he never lost his passion for the family business. 

After getting married, Rajiv and Esha moved to the Tampa area to be closer to her family. The move was exciting, but to Rajiv, it also felt like leaving behind a piece of his family’s legacy. Even though he loves his job as an optometrist, Rajiv wanted to bring part of his family’s business to the new community he now calls home. So, last March, with the help of his parents, he opened the Wesley Chapel Home Gadgets store. 

“I really enjoy working at the store,” says Rajiv. “Sometimes, I come straight from work in my scrubs and help out.” 

It’s clear that Home Gadgets is a family affair, with Rajiv’s cousin, Ayush Gandhi, serving as the main person working there. Ayush ensures that every customer gets the personal touch that has made their store in Ocala so successful. 

So, what sets Home Gadgets apart from Bed, Bath & Beyond or even Amazon? According to Rajiv, it’s the combination of both common and unique items, all in one place. 

“You don’t have to wait for deliveries here,” he says. “We have a lot of things that you might not find in bigger stores.” This blend of convenience and new discoveries makes Home Gadgets stand out. 

Rajiv shared a story about a customer who was excited to find a whisk he’d been searching for everywhere — a unique 12” ball whisk, which has 10 little balls at the end of long stainless rods. This design is not only eye-catching but also extremely useful, reaching into the sharp corners of a pot where rounded whisks won’t quite fit. 

“A large percentage of the items we carry are made in the U.S., with some coming from Florida,” including Counter Art placemats, which are made in Ocala and Radjes says he has been stocking them at his Ocala store for 20 years. 

Rajiv is particularly proud of the store’s relationship with companies that support smaller, family-run businesses like his. 

“We work with some big companies like Nordic Ware, which makes the original bundt pans,” he explains. “These pans are durable, thick, and beautifully made. 

Among the unique items you’ll find under one roof at Home Gadgets are a ball whisk (above right), Lodge cast iron cookware (below right), Counter Art placemats (below left) & Nordic Ware bundt pans (above), to name just a few. 

Among Home Gadgets’ top-selling items are beautiful wood charcuterie/cutting boards shaped like different states. Other interesting items include copper tumblers, Microplane graters and Tervis stainless steel tumblers featuring popular sports team emblems. The store also stocks Corkcicle bottles and cigar glasses, which are rocks glasses with an indentation that allows cigar smokers to hold their glass and cigar with the same hand. 

“We’re always adding new things,” Rajiv says. “I have a bunch of items in the back that we haven’t even put out on display yet.” So, every time you visit Home Gadgets, you might find something new and interesting. 

In today’s world, where more people are looking for healthier cooking options, Rajiv is happy to offer items like cast iron pots and pans made in Tennessee by Lodge. Lodge can be found in other stores, but what makes Home Gadgets stand out is that the store doesn’t just stock one or two sizes — it features a wide variety of Lodge cookware, including a pizza pan and even a cast iron wok. 

Speaking of cast iron, Rajiv says that carbon steel pans are similar to cast iron but weigh a lot less. For people who love the benefits of cast iron but prefer something lighter, carbon steel is a fantastic alternative. 

“You have to treat it the same way as you treat cast iron after cooking, but it’s much easier to handle,” he explains. The carbon steel pans have wood handles that you can remove when you put the pan in the oven to treat. “Curing a cast iron pan or carbon steel,” he says, “has to be done in the oven or on the stovetop but it has to be a flame not electric.” 

Home Gadgets also has an online store, though Rajiv admits that it’s still something of a work in progress. Building a website that reflects the range of products the store offers takes time, and Rajiv says, “We have way more products in the store than we show on the website.” 

When you spend at least $75 online, your shipping is free. Or, if you prefer, you can order online and pick up your items at the store without paying any extra fees. This option makes it convenient for locals to shop online while avoiding shipping costs. 

To encourage customers to visit the store, Home Gadgets is offering a special promotion. Simply bring the store add below with you, and you’ll receive a free kitchen utensil with any purchase (one utensil per customer or family and the offer expires December 31.) 

Home Gadgets is located at 28250 Paseo Dr., Unit 180, in The Shops at Wiregrass. It is open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; 10 a.m.–9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m.–6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call (813) 388-9422, visit BuyHomeGadgets.com, @buyhomegadgets on Instagram, search “HomeGadgetsStore” on Facebook. 

Home Gadgets stocks Tervis tumblers with a variety of team logos. 

Excellence In Eye Care (Inside Costco) Can Save Your Eyesight Or Even Your Life!

(L.-r.) Optometric techs Alex Bush and Savannah Leder, Dr. David Scamard, Dr. Carson Woolwine and optometric techs Francesca Alata and Evangelina Rivero of Excellence in Eye Care, located inside the Costco next to the Tampa Premium Outlets combine outstanding customer service and the latest technology. (Photos by Charmaine George)

When you think of Costco, you think of saving money. When you think of Excellence in Eye Care inside the Costco store, you should also be thinking of saving — saving your eyesight that is!!

Located inside the Costco on S.R. 56, Dr. David Scamard, O.D., has been helping patients for more than 30 years. Since joining the Costco location in 2017, Dr. Scamard, a native Floridian, has continued his mission of providing high-quality eye care. He earned his Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern College of Optometry in Ft. Lauderdale in 1999. Initially drawn to the medical field, he says his time work- ing in an optometry office solidified his passion for optometry. “I knew this was my calling,” he shares, and his dedication has only grown over the years.

Dr. Scamard is joined by his associate, Carson Woolwine, O.D., who also graduated from Nova Southeastern College of Optometry and received his degree in 2016.

Together, these doctors handle everything from basic eye exams and treating conditions like pink eye to fitting patients for glasses and contact lenses. But, occasionally, their work goes beyond routine care.

A Life-Saving Testimonial

The Neighborhood News spoke with Rocio, one of Dr. Scamard’s patients. Three years ago, Rocio had recently moved to Wesley Chapel and needed a routine eye exam after not having one for two years. She booked an appointment with Dr. Scamard at Excellence in Eye Care. What seemed like a straightforward visit quickly became much more.

After completing Rocio’s exam, Dr. Scamard informed her that she needed to see a specialist immediately. He provided her with contact information and urged her to make an appointment as soon as possible. Rocio followed through, but the earliest appointment she could secure was a month away. The very next day, to Rocio’s surprise, she received a follow-up call from Dr. Scamard’s office, asking if she had made the appointment. She explained that she was scheduled for the following month. However, the office urged her to call back and request the first available slot.

“I did, and they got me in two weeks earlier,” Rocio recalls. She updated Dr. Scamard’s office, but then something unexpected happened. Dr. Scamard personally got on the phone. “He told me he had already made an appointment for me for the following day,” Rocio says. Surprised, she mentioned that she had to work, to which Dr. Scamard responded, “Give me your work number, and I’ll explain the situation to them.”

“I couldn’t believe an eye doctor would do that,” Rocio explains. She went to the appointment, where the specialist quickly sent her to the hospital. “I was diagnosed with meningitis. One of the nurses told me that if I hadn’t come in when I did, I would have died.”

Rocio credits Dr. Scamard’s insistence with saving her life. Reflecting on the experience, she remembers that her father had passed away when she was a teenager, and at the time of her illness, her daughter was the same age she had been.

“This could have been history repeating itself,” she says. “But thanks to Dr. Scamard, I’m here, enjoying my family, and they’re enjoying me.”

And, while Dr. Scamard may not have saved NeighborhoodNews editor Gary Nager’s life, he certainly helped save his eyesight. When Gary told Dr. Scamard that he was seeing spots before his eyes, Dr. Scamard ran a few tests and recognized that, in Gary’s case, those spots were a sign that Gary had a detached retina, so he immediately called retinal specialist and surgeon Dr. Alfred White at Retina Vitreous Associates in Wesley Chapel and got Dr. White to see Gary the same day. Dr. White performed retinal reattachment surgery on Gary’s left eye the next day.

“If left untreated, a detached retina can lead blindness in the affected eye,” Dr. Scamard says. “It needs to be taken care of quickly.”

Dr. Scamard also says that when Gary told the story in this publication of how Dr. Scamard diagnosed him — and then made sure Gary was seen as quickly as possible by Dr. White — a lot of people started coming in to Excellence in Eye Care to have the spots in their eyes checked.

“A number of things — even just not drinking enough water — can cause some people to see spots,” Dr. Dave says. “It’s not always a detached retina, but it is something you want to have checked as quickly as possible.”

About Costco Membership

Making an appointment at Excellence in Eye Care is simple. If you don’t have a Costco membership, just inform the greeter at the entrance that you have an eye appointment, and they’ll let you through. Dr. Scamard works directly with the Costco optical department, which can provide glasses or contact lenses based on your prescription.

In addition to Dr. Scamard and Dr. Woolwine, the office staff includes techs Evangelina, Savannah, Alex, and Francesca, all dedicated to providing a smooth and pleasant experience.

Embracing Technology
Dr. Scamard uses a lot of technology to diagnose eye problems and find the right prescription for you.

“Many of my patients come in for a quick exam,” says Dr. Scamard, “and when they’re told they need their eyes dilated, they often say they don’t have the time and will do it next time.”

Dilating the eyes allows optometrists to get a clearer view of the back of the eye, which is crucial for detecting conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. In Rocio’s case, significant inflammation at the back of her eye was detected during this process.

Dr. Scamard notes that he has even seen cases of diabetic retinopathy in patients who didn’t know they had diabetes.

When patients arrive, the staff uses a refractor, a machine that helps determine the correct lens type needed. “The information from the refractor is sent to a phoropter, which pre-populates the prescription numbers,” Dr. Scamard explains. The phoropter is the device used when you’re asked, “One or two? Two or three?” during an eye exam, helping to fine-tune the lens prescription.

For patients who can’t spare the time for dilation, Excellence in Eye Care offers a modern solution: the Optos machine. Optos retinal photography captures a detailed image of the inside of the eye without the need for dilation. “It allows us to show patients exactly what we see,” Dr. Scamard says. “We charge a minimal fee for this test, and it’s worth it for many patients who are short on time.”

When it comes to children, Dr. Scamard encourages parents to pay attention to early signs of vision issues. However, he recommends that all children get an eye exam early, even if no problems are noticeable.

To support this, both Dr. Scamard and Dr. Woolwine participate in the InfantSEE program, a public health initiative started by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Managed by the American Optometric Association (AOA), the program offers no-cost comprehensive eye assessments for infants aged 6 to 12 months, regardless of a family’s income or insurance status. This ensures that vision care becomes a vital part of infant wellness.

A Clear Vision For The Future

At Excellence in Eye Care, Dr. Scamard and his team are committed to more than just helping patients see clearly — they’re dedicated to their patients’ overall well-being. Whether it’s using cutting-edge technology to streamline care or going the extra mile to ensure someone gets life-saving treatment, the level of care you receive here is exceptional.

Having compassionate, dedicated doctors like Dr. Scamard and Dr. Woolwine, conveniently located inside Costco, means you have access to high-quality, personalized care that truly makes a difference.

So, next time you’re at Costco for those un-beatable savings, remember that one of the greatest deals inside might just be on your health — because at Excellence in Eye Care, they’re not just saving your eyesight, they could be saving your life.

Excellence in Eye Care doesn’t accept insurance, but will provide an itemized receipt to submit for reimbursement with vision insurance companies. Costco Optical does accept insurance for glasses, contact lenses and other eyewear products.

Excellence In Eye Care is located inside Costco at 2225 Grand Cypress Dr. in Lutz.The office is open Mon.,Wed. & Fri., 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; 1 p.m.–7 p.m. onTues. &Thur.; & 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on Sat. For more information call (813) 279-7038, or visit ExcellenceInEyeCare.net.

Pediatric Dentistry Of New Tampa Now Offers Aesthetic Spa Services For Adults! 

Dr. Marta Rivera of Pediatric Dentistry of New Tampa, located in the Tampa Palms Professional Center just off the Bruce B. Downs Blvd. exit of I-75, has made sure that the children of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel have had beautiful, happy smiles for more than two decades. (Photos by Charmaine George) 

Marta Rivera, D.M.D., has been one of the most trusted children’s dentists serving the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area for more than 20 years, but her Pediatric Dentistry of New Tampa — located in the Tampa Palms Professional Center — added The Aesthetics Beauty Lab just a few months ago to provide skincare services for the parents of her pediatric patients (and other adults). What made “Dr. Marta,” as her patients affectionately call her, decide to add these services for adults? First, let’s talk about this popular local pediatric dentist and the services she has been providing for the children of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel for two+ decades. Then, we’ll get into her new services for adults. 

Dr. Marta’s Journey 

Dr. Marta first opened her Pediatric Dentistry of New Tampa in Hunter’s Green in 2003 but moved to her current location on Primrose Lake Cir. in Tampa Palms in 2008. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, Dr. Marta moved to Puerto Rico at the age of 10, a place she loved growing up. However, she now considers Florida her true home, saying, “Florida, especially New Tampa, is my favorite place.” She also is fluent in Spanish, making her practice accessible to a diverse community. 

Dr. Marta graduated with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico in San Juan, where she later also earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree from the university’s School of Dental Medicine. Before moving to Florida in 1997, she ran her own dental practice in Puerto Rico. After passing the Florida Dental Board exams, she worked with other dentists before starting her own practice. 

“I’ve seen this area grow, and it’s been a pleasure to be here,” says Dr. Marta. Over the past 21 years, she has treated many patients, mostly children, but also a few adults. 

“Some of my patients who grew up coming to me don’t want to go anywhere else now that they’re adults,” she says with a smile. However, she adds that she is no longer accepting new adult patients. 

Embracing Innovation & Technology 

Dr. Marta’s office is designed with children in mind. “When I first started decorating my ‘house,’” she says with a laugh, explaining that she calls her office her house because she practically lives there, “I wanted the space to be fun and welcoming, like a second home. The practice is all about having an environment where kids feel comfortable and at ease.” 

Dr. Marta stresses the importance of starting dental care early. She takes a holistic approach to dentistry, promoting whole-body wellness. “Why think of dental, skin, and bone health as separate things?,” she asks, adding that she believes in a comprehensive approach to health, which includes proper nutrition for strong teeth and gums. 

In addition to dental care, Dr. Marta offers guidance on tooth-friendly diets and supplements that can support dental health, like Vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus. 

The office features lots of new technology, and Dr. Marta prides herself in having many devices not available at other pediatric (or even adult) dental offices. You can read about them all on her website under the “Technology” header. 

One of the most advanced treatments offered at Dr. Marta’s practice is ozone dentistry. Ozone, known by most people as the layer protecting the earth’s atmosphere, also can be used in dentistry to fight bacteria and promote healing. 

“Our bodies naturally produce ozone to fight off illnesses,” she explains. But, in dentistry, it’s used to kill the bacteria that cause cavities, without the need for invasive procedures. 

Dr. Marta explains, “The equipment is something that looks like a pen that I point at the affected area.” Ozone can save a tooth before it gets to the point of needing a root canal. 

“When a dentist cleans out a cavity,” she says, “no matter how well they clean it, there is always the possibility of some bacteria staying behind. Even the tiniest amount of bacteria can continue to grow and cause the patient to need a root canal. By using the ozone, all of the bacteria is killed before filling the cavity.” 

The ozone treatment can be as simple as pointing this pen-like wand at the tooth or, for more serious cases, the tooth can be covered and then the gas is released inside that cover. 

Ozone treatment also is effective in treating periodontal disease, preventing cavities and even promoting healing for cold sores and canker sores. It’s a pain-free, side-effect-free option that many patients appreciate. And, Dr. Marta is one of only a few hundred dentists in all of North America offering this treatment. 

Before the tooth can be treated with ozone, the dentist must clean out the cavity. There is conventional drilling but now, thanks to a company called Biolase, Dr. Marta uses a laser called the Waterlase MD. This laser replaces the drill, is less invasive and requires less anesthesia. 

Another service Dr. Marta can provide is early orthodontic treatment. Although she is not an orthodontist, because she was trained in her residency to do orthodontics, and was able to first provide it in her practice in Puerto Rico, she is able to provide orthodontic treatments at Pediatric Dentistry of New Tampa. She specializes in early interventions with Invisalign First. 

“Many kids benefit from early orthodontic treatment, and Invisalign is a great option for them,” she says. Invisalign First helps address issues like crowding, spacing, and narrow arches without the need for traditional braces. 

The office also has a machine called iTero Element, which kids love because it eliminates the goop used for impressions. It is a scanning system that can capture a detailed 3D model of teeth and gums. This procedure is ideal for crowns, bridges and, of course, Invisalign clear aligners and retainers. Dr. Marta has a video on her website under the “Technology” heading where you can see how the iTero Element works. 

She also specializes in assessing and then treating infants and children with tongue or lip ties with simple laser frenectomy procedures to remove or modify a frenulum (a small fold of tissue that limits movement in the mouth). These quick, minimally invasive treatments can help babies with reflux, poor latch, or colic issues, and children with speech delays or mouth breathing. 

“We offer same-day treatment for infants because a hungry baby needs help right away,” she explains. Parents often notice improvements immediately after the procedure. 

The Aesthetics Beauty Lab 

As we mentioned earlier, Dr. Marta isn’t only focused on children these days — as she now also offers aesthetic services for her patients’ parents (and other adults) at her new “Aesthetics Beauty Lab.” 

Using advanced technology from Alma and Reveal, her office now provides services like skin tightening, dark spot treatment, hair and tattoo removal, as well as Botox and fillers. 

Dr. Marta offers the parents of her young dental patients and other adults a variety of innovative skincare treatments at her Aesthetics Beauty Lab using the latest technology, like the Alma Opus Plasma machine (below left) and the Alma IQ skin analysis machine (above). 

“We want to take care of the kids, but parents need pampering too,” Dr. Marta says. 

“I’ve always enjoyed taking care of my skin and especially my face,” she adds. “For many years I have gone to an aesthetician and when the American Dental Association gave the ok to move into this area, I was very interested and excited. A lot of dentists are now doing Botox and fillers in their offices. It is part of the dental career evolution. Everything face- and neck-related is part of our expertise as dentists.” 

It took Dr. Marta close to a year to become certified in not only the procedures she offers, but also the equipment she uses. She now has earned certifications in Master Botulinum Toxin hands-on training and Master Dermal Filler hands-on training from the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. Three of the pieces of equipment she is trained on are the ‘Alma Harmony” and “Alma Opus Plasma,” as well as the “Denza RF System.” 

Dr. Marta says that the Opus Plasma is designed to address many skin conditions. It also helps to fight aging. Sessions last about 15 minutes, as tiny needles break the skin which stimulates healing to produce new collagen and elastin. 

Meanwhile, the Alma Harmony can be used to correct dark spots, skin photodamage and more. 

The Denza RF (RadioFrequency) System can be used in a similar way. It is a non-surgical skin rejuvenation and tightening process that uses monopolar and bipolar radiofrequencies with pulsing. It targets both superficial and deep layers of the skin, thereby stimulating collagen and elastin production. Denza also can be used for body contouring. 

At this time, Dr. Marta is the only one providing these aesthetic procedures in the office. She accepts adult patients ages 18 and over. 

“As I entered my 40s, after years of suffering through adult acne, hormonal imbalances, and inflammatory auto-immune diseases, my skin was showing its battle wounds. I tried chemical peels and facials, but needed a more sustainable regimen with longer-lasting results. Then, as the skin rejuvenation Gods would have it, Dr. Marta Rivera began offering aesthetic skincare services in her beautiful “Aesthetics Beauty Lab” suite. After a thorough skin analysis, Dr. Marta suggested the Opus Plasma laser for my overall skin condition and concerns. Just over a week ago, I experienced my first of three sessions with the Opus Plasma laser. It was fairly painless, and the down time was minimal. As a busy mother, and career woman, this is a complete game-changer. With the right before-&-after-care plan provided by Dr. Marta, I was able to resume all normal activities within 3-4 days. I am already seeing several positive results. My skin appearance is more uniform, and I have a fabulous glow to my face. Several areas of hyperpigmentation are lightened, and a scar on my cheek is not as prominent. I am thrilled to move forward with the Opus Plasma series, with Dr. Marta at the helm. She has certainly outdone herself and set the tone for a streamlined process to skin rejuvenation.” — C. Gonzales 

Pediatric Dentistry of New Tampa is located at 5326 Primrose Lake Cir. and is open Mon.- Thur., 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The office accepts many insurance plans, primarily PPOs. For more info or to schedule a visit, call (813) 374-0388 or visit TampaHappySmiles.com. 

Nations Roofing & Construction — A Legacy Of Excellence In Roofing Since 2006 

Jason & Ayleen Morphet, and their daughters Lily & Ellis of Nations Roofing & Construction — a nearly 20-year-old, family-owned business that can take care of any roofing needs you have for your home or business. (Photo above by Charmaine George; all other photos on these pages provided by Jason Morphet) 

It doesn’t have to be the middle of hurricane season for you to need to call Nations Roofing & Construction LLC, which has been a beacon of quality in Central Florida’s roofing industry since its inception in 2006. 

“We are not storm chasers,” says Jason Morphet, the founder of this family-owned-and-operated business that has become synonymous with top-tier roofing and construction services throughout our region. “We are a local company that provides roofing services to customers year ‘round. Much of our business comes from word of mouth and customer referrals and we are proud we have been able to establish and grow our business here in the communities where we live.” 

He adds, however, that, “After a storm, homeowners always want to be careful with companies that are knocking on their doors. Is this company licensed in Florida? Are they insured? Local? Will they be there for you after the work is completed? When doing any kind of roofing work, from a small repair to new installation, always look for a local company with the proper licenses and insurance.” 

In addition, he says, “We do work with homeowners who are in the insurance claim process or have already filed a claim and will work to assist them any way we can. Following a storm or damage to a roof, Nations Roofing & Construction can put tarps over damaged areas, remove downed trees on the roof, provide temporary patches and more.” 

Jason’s journey didn’t begin at a construction site. He was raised on a family farm outside of Gainesville, FL, where he learned the value of hard work from his grandfather. 

Jason gives a lot of credit for the success of Nations Roofing & Construction to his outstanding team of roofing professionals, as well as always having the heavy equipment needed to get the job done right 

“My grandfather taught me that no job is too small and no effort too great when it comes to doing things the right way,” he says, adding that these lessons shaped his approach to business, laying the foundation for Nations Roofing & Construction. Jason has built a company grounded in the principles of quality, customer satisfaction and a strong work ethic. 

Nations Roofing & Construction, with its team of dedicated employees, offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients. 

“We promise to provide a seamless and high-quality roof installation for our customers,” Jason says. The company’s attention to detail and use of premium materials guarantee that your roof that will be both durable and aesthetically pleasing. 

Jason explains that Nations Roofing & Construction has received the CertainTeed Certification — Master Craftsman Certified SELECT ShingleMaster. 

The SELECT designation means Nations Roofing & Construction can offer homeowners a 25-year labor and material warranty backed by the manufacturer. Having this certification gives Jason’s company the ability to provide extra warranty coverage from the manufacturer to the homeowner that other companies are not able to provide. 

“Roofing contractors bestowed with the CertainTeed Certified SELECT ShingleMaster Installer designation are among the top 1 percent of all roofers nationwide,” Jason says. 

A new shingle roof in Florida typically lasts 18-20 years, but Jason says, “The usual lifespan of a roof mainly depends on the workmanship of the installers and the materials used,” he says. “Roofs mostly fail before the end of their lifespans due to poor workmanship. Tile and metal roofs can last up to 40 years or longer provided that they are installed properly.” 

He adds that, “Nations Roofing & Construction employs 25-30 employees at any given time. We have a dedicated team of professionals, from our crews to our office staff. Many of our employees have been with the company for years. They have a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to their work. And of course, our team is fully licensed, giving clients peace of mind that their homes are in safe hands.” 

The company also does a lot of work for housing authorities in all of the surrounding counties and municipalities, as well as popular food & retail chains, etc. 

Other roofing services also are available from Nations Roofing & Construction, including a large service department that focuses on repairs, inspections, maintenance and warranties. 

Other Services, Too 

No matter how oddly shaped the roof of your home or business may be, Nations Roofing & Construction can give it a whole new look. 

But, roofing is just the beginning. Nations Roofing & Construction also offers a range of additional construction services. “Proper gutter installation,” Jason says, “is crucial for protecting a home’s foundation.” He adds that his team ensures that water is effectively channeled away from the structure, preventing potential damage. 

The company also specializes in soffit and fascia work, which plays a vital role in protecting the home or business. Jason explains, “In addition to protecting the roof, the soffit and fascia also enhance a home’s overall appearance.” 

Nations Roofing & Construction also provides quality siding for homes. And, for homes with chimneys that need attention, the company can rebuild and repair them, ensuring that they function safely and efficiently. 

And, in keeping with the growing trend towards renewable energy, Nations Roofing & Construction also is proud to offer solar panel installation services. 

“One thing that sets Nations Roofing & Construction apart is our personalized approach to each project,” Jason emphasizes. “We believe in building relationships with our clients, understanding their unique needs and providing tailored solutions.” He often visits job sites himself to ensure that the work meets the company’s high standards and to address any concerns his clients might have. 

Together with his wife, Ayleen, a teacher in Pasco County, and their two daughters, Lily and Ellis, Nations Roofing & Construction also is deeply involved in giving back to the community. The company sponsors and donates to Pasco County Schools, is a Gold Sponsor of the Wesley Chapel Rotary Club’s annual fund raiser supporting underserved children and families in the local community and provides yard signs for parents to celebrate their children’s “Student of the Month” awards and more. 

Whether due to storm damage or age, when your home needs a new roof, call Nations Roofing & Construction. 

Jason attributes the success of Nations Roofing & Construction to the company’s outstanding staffers that help keep the operation running. Headed up by office manager Kristie Eager, production coordinator Renee Jackson, head of residential sales Dan Rutherford, and head of the commercial roofing division Dan Bonebrake. 

“Not to mention the backbone of the company — the roofing foreman Dino, Diego, Alberto, Geo, Zeb, Aiden and Jimmy, who keep production moving on a daily basis,” Jason says. 

Nations Roofing & Construction has a 4.8- star out of 5 overall rating on Google, with many glowing 5-star reviews. Here is just one of those: 

“Nations Roofing and ALL of the personnel who worked on our new replacement roof were professional. It started with an informative and timely quote by Kristie. Communication was prevalent throughout the entire process. The work crew was very polite and attentive to the plants in and around our house. Everyone was on time as scheduled. Even though there is inflation in these times, we felt the value of paying for everything as specified reflected on the honesty and integrity of the company. There were no surprises! We are very satisfied with the new roof and the quality of the work. We highly recommend Nations Roofing.” — Joe C 

For more information or to inquire about their services, readers can contact Nations Roofing & Construction LLC at (813) 692-1555 or visit NationsRoofingCompany.com . Whether it’s a roofing job or a full-scale construction project, you can trust Nations Roofing & Construction to deliver excellence, integrity, and quality every time. 

Stitching Together A Unique Legacy — Meet Kathy Gillespie Of ‘Stitch Happens’ 

(Above) Kathy Gillespie of Stitch Happens can help you create unique Christmas stockings for your pets (right) and so much more. 
(All photos provided by Kathy Gillespie) 

Kathy Gillespie never imagined her life would take such a creative turn. She began her journey as a skilled seamstress, crafting parachutes with precision and care. Kathy explained that alongside her late husband, Rob Jones, she “co-owned Morpheus Technologies, a business that combined our passion for skydiving with the art of making parachutes.” Together, they built a life filled with adventure and hard work. “But, when Rob passed away,” Kathy says, “I found myself at a crossroads, uncertain about the future of the business.” 

As time went on, she began to feel the weight of her loss and the reality of aging. “I wasn’t sure,” she explains, “if I wanted to continue running Morpheus Technologies full time, especially since I knew I wouldn’t be jumping out of planes as often as before.” Little did she know that a new passion was just around the corner, waiting for her to take a different kind of leap. 

In 2011, the couple who owned the business that embroidered their parachutes had mentioned that they were thinking about retiring. The couple asked Kathy if she would be interested in purchasing the business. “This sparked many thoughts” Kathy says. “What if I took over the business and ventured into the world of embroidery?” It was a big decision, and it took her a year to think it through. But, in 2012, she decided to take the plunge and purchase the business. 

Kathy was now the proud owner of both Morpheus Technologies and a new company. 

“I wanted to give this new company a name that people would remember and smile,” she says. “I thought about it for a while and finally came up with the perfect name: ‘Stitch Happens.’” It is playful, catchy and a little bit cheeky, a perfect reflection of Kathy’s personality. 

Although Kathy still makes parachutes, Stitch Happens quickly became her focus. 

“The business offers more than just embroidery,” Kathy explains. “We also provide silk screening and a variety of other services.” She can make just about anything you can think of — shirts, hats, scrubs, personalized backpacks, pens, team uniforms, magnets, stickers and even dog collars. “If you can dream it, I can stitch it.” she says. 

Business Branding, Too 

One of Kathy’s favorite things about her work is helping companies promote their brands. “I especially enjoy working with the medical industry, creating custom scrubs for healthcare professionals,” she says. “Two of my clients are AdventHealth and Florida Medical Clinic.” 

When you see Kathy’s Jeep, you know some cool promotional items are being delivered. 

But, what really sets Stitch Happens apart from other companies is Kathy’s commitment to building personal relationships with customers. 

“I don’t just take orders,” Kathy says, “I collaborate with my clients, and help them refine their ideas and create the perfect design. My customers know they can count on me to be creative and add that special touch that makes their products stand out.” 

She recently created promotional items for Black Sheep Restaurant in Lutz, including shirts for the restaurant’s anniversary celebration. 

“Helping people grow their businesses through branding is something I find deeply rewarding,” she says “I love hearing back from them and knowing I was a part of their success story.” 

Building relationships with her customers is at the heart of Kathy’s business philosophy. She knows that even a small job can lead to bigger opportunities down the road. For example, she might start by creating a personalized item for a newborn baby and as the child grows, she continues to provide items like embroidered backpacks and school uniforms. 

“Over time, these small connections grow into lasting partnerships that I cherish,” she says. 

And, Kathy’s customers rave about her services, too, giving her a 4.8-out-of-5-star overall rating on Google. Here is just one of those raves: 

“We at Crown Insurance Group have been working with Kathy and Stitch Happens for over 5 years and she has yet to disappoint. The quality of her work and her attention to detail are second to none, but more importantly, Kathy brings a passion to her work and goes out of her way to ensure customer satisfaction. Stitch Happens has made polo shirts for the entire Crown Insurance Group team, dress shirts and ‘swag,’ including cups, koozies, magnets and table runners, just to name a few. Even when we have given her short timelines to work with, she delivers every time. We regularly receive compliments on everything that Stitch Happens has done for us. So much so, that we refer Stitch Happens constantly and everyone raves about Kathy and Stitch Happens. Thank you!” — Manuel Saldana, agency principal, Crown Insurance Group, Inc. 

Pet Products & More 

Pets are a big part of many people’s lives and Kathy knows just how to make them look special, too. “I offer custom embroidery for dog collars,” she says, “and I create unique designs that pet owners love.” Some collars have playful sayings like, “If you find me, call my Mom,” complete with a phone number, while others simply display the pet’s name.” Kathy enjoys helping her customers come up with just the right words to make their pet’s collars one-of-a-kind. 

While Stitch Happens does have a website — StitchHappensPromo.com — Kathy says it’s more for inspiration than for shopping. Her site doesn’t have a shopping cart because she prefers to work directly with her customers. The website is a place where people can browse for ideas and once they know what they want, they can reach out to her. 

Kathy & Stitch Happens can turn simple items like book bags & backpacks into personalized keepsakes. 

“I take pride in finding the best prices for my customers.” she says, adding that she often searches for local businesses to source products, avoiding extra shipping costs whenever possible. 

The holiday season is a busy time for Kathy, especially when it comes to Christmas stockings. 

“These personalized items are always in high demand,” she says. “I enjoy creating festive designs that bring joy to my customers.” She’s also worked on more sentimental projects, like embroidering messages on quilts for military families. “These quilts often feature squares with special memories or messages,” explains Kathy, “creating a beautiful and lasting tribute to loved ones.” 

Weddings are another occasion where Kathy’s talents shine — from embroidered bathrobes for the wedding party to personalized ties with messages for the groom — Kathy helps couples add a personal touch to their big day. She can even stitch wedding dates and names inside bridal dresses, creating a hidden keepsake that brides can cherish forever. And, the possibilities don’t stop there, as Kathy’s embroidery has graced everything from menus to initials on glassware, making each wedding truly unique. 

In addition to her work with Stitch Happens, Kathy also is an active member of the Main Street Zephyrhills group which organizes events and fund raisers. She has created logos for the group and enjoys giving back to her community. Kathy also has embroidered golf towels and created logos for golf tournaments that support underprivileged children. 

Kathy’s motto is “Making Stitch Happen Since 2012.” This sums up her journey perfectly, as she took a leap of faith by leaving behind the parachutes she once made to create something for an entirely new adventure. Kathy Gillespie has built a business that’s more than just a place to get something stitched. It’s a business where relationships are woven together one stitch at a time. 

For more information, call Kathy Gillespie of Stitch Happens at (813) 679-9355 or email her at StitchHappensKat@gmail.com.