Absolute Air Systems Is One Family’s Commitment To Comfort & Integrity 

(L.-r.) Amber, Steve & Tammy DeRolf of Absolute Air Systems, with Hurricane (the Absolute Air team mascot). (Photos by Charmaine George) 

For more than 20 years, Absolute Air Systems, Inc., has been a trusted choice for heating and air conditioning services in Central Florida. Founded by the husband-&-wife team of Steve and Tammy DeRolf, along with co-founder Mike Thornton, the company is still family owned and operated. From the beginning, Absolute Air has been built on honesty, integrity and loyalty, with the goal of always providing exceptional service and fair pricing for every customer. 

The DeRolf family still plays a significant role in the daily operations of Absolute Air Systems. Tammy and Steve’s daughter Amber serves as the office manager and is often the first point of contact for customers. Having grown up in the industry, Amber brings invaluable knowledge and experience to the team. She handles everything from answering inquiries to scheduling appointments, and ensuring each customer receives the personalized attention they need. 

The family also includes Elaine, who resides in Palm Bay, and Steve Jr., who helps with the business when needed, despite having a career of his own. Mike Thornton also is still very much involved in the company’s day-to-day operations. 

Amber proudly emphasizes Absolute Air’s commitment to transparency and fair pricing. “There are a lot of great companies out there, but some will charge as much as they can,” she says. “But, we pride ourselves on having some of the lowest prices in the area. Our business is built on principles that have never changed.” 

Absolute Air offers a full range of services for both residential and commercial clients, including HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) system installations, emergency repairs, preventive maintenance, ultraviolet light (UV) installation, thermostat upgrades and ductless mini-split systems. 

The company is certified and licensed for residential and commercial projects, including new construction. Absolute Air’s experienced technicians ensure that all work complies with all codes and standards, whether it’s a small repair or a customized system for a newly built property. 

Among the company’s most popular services is the installation of ductless mini-split systems. These energy-efficient systems are ideal for homes without ductwork, older properties, room additions, small apartments and multi-family units. Mini-split systems provide both heating and cooling while offering precise temperature control. Unlike regular central air systems, the mini-split doesn’t rely on ducts to distribute the air and each of the units can be controlled individually. 

These systems work with two components. There is an outdoor compressor/ condenser and an indoor air handling unit. 

Energy Star-certified mini-split systems can use up to 60% less energy than traditional systems, making them a cost-effective option for many households. 

(Note – Customers mentioning this story or the ad below receive a $250 discount on a mini-split AC system installation.) 

Office manager Amber DeRolf isn’t an Absolute Air technician, but she is usually the first point of 
contact for most of the company’s customers. 

Another service Amber highly recommends is the installation of UV lights, which help eliminate mold, mildew, bacteria and viruses, improve indoor air quality and extend the life of an AC system. Amber explains that the UV light also will reduce odors and keep the unit running efficiently by preventing mold buildup. The light is usually placed near the evaporator coil inside the air handler, which is where most moisture and potential microbial growth occur. The UV light will sterilize the air as it passes through. 

“While there is an installation fee,” Amber says, “the only future expense is replacing the light, which depending upon the brand, may last 1-2 years.” 

Amber adds that regular routine maintenance is vital for extending the lifespan of any HVAC system. 

She also encourages customers to join the company’s maintenance membership program, which offers numerous benefits. Routine upkeep helps your system run more efficiently, reduces energy usage and lowers utility bills. Regular maintenance also ensures safety by verifying the system’s proper operation and minimizing the risk of malfunctions, which helps prevent costly breakdowns and repairs, offering customers peace of mind and long-term savings. Scheduling a maintenance appointment is made even easier with Absolute Air’s app, allowing customers to book appointments with just a few clicks. 

Customers Rave About Absolute Air! 

Kathy Gillespie, a satisfied Absolute Air customer, says, “This company is so awesome! Steve and his team have helped me keep my air conditioner going and have come out multiple times, no matter the day or time! Honest and professional! I highly recommend them!” 

Absolute Air Systems has earned its reputation for transparency and honesty. Its technicians are dedicated to presenting customers with all available options, whether a repair or replacement is needed. 

“If there’s a warranty on a part, we’ll tell you,” Amber says. “Some companies don’t, but we always will. We do everything in our power to get your unit running again at the best price possible.” 

The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in the glowing reviews it has received over the years. Customer Monica GuraHornyak writes, “Our family has been using Absolute Air for years for several properties. This past week they really pulled out all the stops to help an elderly client of mine who needed a new AC system. They arranged their schedule because of a time constraint (I’m selling the home for the client) and Miguel worked until everything was perfect. Best and most important of all, they did NOT try to oversell her a huge unit she did not need. Thank you guys, I’ll keep sending my clients to you for sure.” 

The reviews highlight the company’s commitment to treating customers like family. Absolute Air strives to ensure every customer feels valued and supported throughout their experience. “We’re not just a business; we’re a family,” Amber says. “We care about our customers and treat them the way we’d want to be treated.” 

For customers who do need a new AC system, Absolute Air offers a wide selection of top brands, including systems tailored for people with allergies or respiratory conditions. Financing options are available through GreenSky and RenewFinancial, making it easier for families to invest in their comfort. 

The DeRolf family’s dedication to community and customer care also extends to military families and veterans, who receive a 10% discount as a token of appreciation for their service. The discount can be redeemed through the company’s website, further emphasizing the company’s commitment to giving back. 

Beyond its services, Absolute Air Systems also is deeply rooted in the local community. The company participates in events and initiatives that benefit their neighbors, reinforcing its reputation as a company that truly cares. 

“Being part of this community means everything to us,” says Amber. “It’s where we live, work and raise our families.” 

Whether it’s routine maintenance, an emergency repair, or a new heating and cooling system, Absolute Air Systems is ready to help. The company’s skilled technicians, backed by decades of experience, ensure that every customer receives the highest level of service. 

To learn more about Absolute Air Systems, Inc. and the services the company provides, or to schedule an appointment, call (813) 779-0101, email info@getcoldair.com or visit GetColdAir.com. Or, see the ad below for Absolute Air’s $250 off a mini-split system offer for Neighborhood News readers. 

Ellie Mental Health Provides Compassionate Care For Children, Adults & Couples 

(L.-r.) Ellie Mental Health of Wesley Chapel clinical director Dina Hargrave and therapists Engy Eskander & Chailee Snyder (photo below).

The New Year, usually celebrated as a time of hopefulness following the joy of the holiday season, also can be especially challenging for those coping with the loss of loved ones, financial hardships and other personal struggles. The clinicians at Ellie Mental Health, located on S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel, recognize these unique emotional difficulties and provide accessible outpatient services to support individuals in emotional need during these times and beyond. The clinic encourages both therapists and clients to be their true selves throughout the therapeutic journey. 

“At Ellie Mental Health, the focus is on providing a comfortable, judgment-free environment where clients can be authentic and receive the care they need and deserve,” says clinical director Dina Hargrave. “We want both the clients and the therapists to feel they are in a safe space.” 

Ellie Mental Health is a franchise with more than 200 locations nationwide and 20 in Florida, including New Port Richey and Wesley Chapel. The Mendota Heights, MN-based company opened its first franchise in 2022. 

Dina is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in both Florida and Utah who has worked with children with significant behavioral concerns and their families for more than 10 years. She brings that experience to her role as the director and supervisor of the Wesley Chapel location of Ellie Mental Health. 

Originally from Georgia, Dina earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) degree and a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia in Athens. Her education continued at Utah State University, where she received advanced training as an Educational Specialist in Psychology (EdS). 

Having previously lived in Tampa, Dina feels a connection to the region and is passionate about making a difference here. 

“This opportunity was unique,” she explains. “I enjoy managing people and helping them grow to their full potential. It’s rewarding to see both the clinicians and clients thrive, so when this position became available, I quickly said ‘Yes.’” 

Ellie Mental Health offers a wide range of therapeutic counseling services to meet diverse mental health needs provided by two Registered Mental Health Counselor Interns (RMHCIs). An RMHCI is an individual who has completed requirements for becoming a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) but still needs to have supervised experience to meet the requirements for state licensure. 

Those requirements include a Master’s degree or higher in mental health counseling, a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised fieldwork and a minimum of 1,500 hours of face-to-face psychotherapy work under the supervision of a qualified LMHC with a minimum of 1,000 hours of that being direct supervision. 

RMHCIs must pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) and participate in continuing education. After fulfilling the internship requirements and passing the NCMHCE, an application for licensure as an LMHC in Florida can be submitted. 

At the Wesley Chapel office of Ellie Mental Health, RMHCI Rebekah “Chailee” Snyder received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida in Tampa and her Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Trauma Certificate from Antioch University. Chailee works with children as young as age two. She also works with adults. 

Fellow RMHCI Engy Eskander received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from USF Tampa and her M.A. degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. Engy focuses on clients ages 15 and older and she provides couples counseling, including services in Arabic. 

The Wesley Chapel office offers play therapy for children as young as age two, plus therapy for adolescents, adults, couples and families, including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). The clinicians also work with people with autism and those suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. 

Also offered are Psychoeducation and Psychological Testing for kids, gender-affirming care, as well as faith-based counseling, which is available upon request. Dina says she currently is working on hiring more therapists so the available services can be expanded. 

The Right Fit For Your Care 

“We don’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach,” Dina emphasizes. “If a therapist isn’t the right fit for a particular client or lacks the necessary specialty, we can easily connect them with someone else, which ensures personalized care.” 

She adds, “Wesley Chapel was a natural choice for the clinic’s location. The area’s rapid growth and the rising demand for mental health services made it an ideal spot. And so far, we’ve received positive feedback from the community. People are glad we are here because there aren’t many options like us in this area.” 

Dina also has been communicating with the Pasco County School District and says she looks forward to working with the District’s schools in the near future. She says she hopes to be able to offer services not only to the school children but their families as well. 

She also says that having flexible hours available for clients and therapists is a feature that makes this Ellie Mental Health office stand out. If the clinician is willing to work during the hours requested by the patient, Dina says those hours will be approved. Once the sessions start, if the clinician is not sure where the problem lies, a psychological test can be used to help provide clarity in diagnosing and treating complex issues. 

The team also ensures a secure and confidential environment for clients. “All communication is HIPAA-protected,” Dina explains, “and even during training, we don’t use real names to maintain confidentiality.” 

Even though Ellie Mental Health Wesley Chapel only opened in September, the clinic has already seen several success stories. Dina says one client made significant progress in just three sessions, while another, after six sessions, left with renewed hope despite having to relocate. 

“These are the moments that remind us why we do this work,” Dina says. 

Ellie Mental Health accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare, and Dina says, “We are working to finalize our Medicaid contract to better serve children and people with disabilities.” 

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, Dina says the clinic also offers online therapy services. This allows clients to receive care from the comfort of their homes, breaking down barriers such as transportation issues or time constraints. 

But, Ellie Mental Health is more than just a clinic — it’s a place of understanding and acceptance. With its commitment to authenticity, diversity and personalized care, Ellie Mental Health is not just helping individuals but transforming the way the community views mental health. 

Ellie Mental Health (30792 S.R. 54) is open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-6 p.m., with other hours available upon request. For more info or to schedule an appointment, visit EllieMentalHealth.com/locations/wesley-chapel-fl or call (813) 701-5250.

Dr. Teena Hughes Has Been Caring For Local Kids For More Than 30 Years! 

The staff at Teena Hughes, M.D., P.A., Pediatrics, located on E. Fletcher Ave., is led by Dr. Teena Hughes (front row, 3rd from left) and her son Dr. Roger Hughes (4th from left & next page). (Photos by Charmaine George)

For more than 30 years, Teena Hughes, M.D., has been a trusted pediatrician in Tampa, supporting generations of families in their healthcare journeys. Born in Clewiston, FL, she was raised in the Fort Lauderdale and Orlando areas. 

After earning her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the University of South Florida and completing her three-year pediatric residency at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, she spent several years gaining experience with a large healthcare group before deciding to open her own practice. Today, the Teena Hughes, M.D., P.A., Pediatrics office on E. Fletcher Ave. near N. 46th St., located only 20 minutes or so south of the Hillsborough County line near Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd.,, is well-known by local parents and their children. 

Dr. Teena’s eldest son, Roger Hughes, III, D.O., joined the practice in July 2021, but his route to pediatrics wasn’t immediate. After earning a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Microbiology from the University of Florida in Gainesville and completing his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree at the Bradenton, FL, campus of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, he pursued a three-year residency at Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, FL. 

Although he admits he initially was uncertain about focusing on pediatrics, Dr. Roger says everything changed during medical school. 

“I was always interested in medicine and knew I would be a physician, but didn’t really have an interest in pediatrics” he says, “until I experienced it. In medical school you have a chance to try different areas of medicine, and I immediately fell in love with pediatrics and knew this was the right path for me.” 

Just as Dr. Teena has brought her own second generation into the practice, she says, “Many of the patients I cared for as children are now bringing their own kids to me,” she says. “It’s heartwarming to see the next generation walk through my doors.” 

Dr. Roger adds that they have families coming from as far away as Riverview and Dade City. “They come for the personalized care they remember getting themselves,” Dr. Roger says, “and know their children will receive the same.” 

He also says that working alongside his mother has been both rewarding and practical. 

“It’s great having two doctors here,” he says. “We can cover for each other while keeping the small, family-friendly atmosphere our patients love.” Dr. Roger recalls one particularly touching moment: “A former patient said he enjoyed coming to the office when he was small and always anticipated going to the treasure chest — it was his favorite thing. Now, he’s bringing his own child here.” 

The office offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the needs of young patients and their families. From wellness checkups and sick visits to vaccinations and minor procedures like ear piercing and wart removal, Teena Hughes Pediatrics provides a level of care that is both extensive and convenient. 

For example, ear piercing recently has become a sought-after service, handled with a doctor’s precision. 

“One of my nurses,” Dr. Teena says, “had just come on board and asked about piercing. I told her we didn’t do it. But then, I became educated about the fact that many Hispanic families believe in piercing a child’s ears as early as they can. She told me we needed to start doing it and it has been a success. Parents trust us to do it because it’s safe and hygienic. We even get teenagers coming in for second piercings with their parents’ approval.” Please note that Dr. Teena will only pierce ears and you don’t have to be one of her patients to receive the service. 

Dr. Teena and Dr. Roger’s affiliation with AdventHealth Tampa (AHT) hospital ensures a seamless connection to hospital care. Each morning, either Dr. Teena or Dr. Roger visit newborns at AHT, offering parents peace of mind as they navigate the early days of parenthood. Both doctors feel comfortable with pediatric patients of all ages, from newborns through teens. 

Published Research, Too 

The practice also participates in clinical research studies, contributing to advancements in pediatric medicine. Recently, Dr. Teena co-authored a study on PCV20 (which stands for pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 20-valent), which protects against seven more strains of pneumococcus (or pneumonia) than PCV13. Published in the prestigious Pediatrics (the official peer-reviewed flagship journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics), this research underscores the practice’s commitment to improving children’s health. 

Families also can even participate in studies, such as those evaluating different types of baby formula. Participants receive formula free of charge and help researchers gather valuable insights by keeping journals of their experiences. 

“These studies provide an opportunity for parents to access additional resources while contributing to medical advancements,” Dr. Teena explains. “The products they are evaluating are usually products they already use.” 

The team includes three Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) — nurse practitioners Kelsey Overton, Adrienne Graham and Desiree Bonnet — who work closely with Dr. Teena and Dr. Roger to provide additional top-notch care. This cohesive team ensures that every family feels supported, no matter the need. 

Dr. Teena balances her professional life with her role as a mother and grandmother. With four children and one grandson, family is at the heart of everything she does. Her second son Casey currently is completing a post-graduate residency in Chicago and, while his future plans are undecided, Dr. Teena welcomes the possibility of him joining the practice and adding to her legacy. 

She also is proud of the relationships she’s built over the years. “Being a pediatrician is about more than just medicine,” she says. “It’s about trust, compassion, and being there for families during every stage of life.” 

The office also is highly accessible, with hours designed for busy families. Open Mon.- Fri., 8 a.m.-6 p.m., and 8 a.m.-noon on Sat., the practice offers same-day and next-day appointments, as well as walk-ins at 8 a.m. Patients can schedule appointments online through the practice’s website, which also provides a wealth of educational resources on topics like car seat safety, immunizations and traveling with children. 

Teena Hughes, M.D., P.A., Pediatrics is located at 4444 E Fletcher Ave., Suite C, and accepts most major health insurance plans. For appointments and more info, call (813) 903-0060 or visit TeenaHughesPediatrics.com.

A Champion For Your Business — Derek Usman Of The Usman Law Firm 

Attorney Derek Usman of the Usman Law Firm can handle any type of business or employment law case. (Photo provided by Derek Usman) 

With a location near where New Tampa meets Wesley Chapel on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd., attorney Derek Usman stands out as a dedicated advocate and litigator in the fields of employment law and business law. Derek moved to Wesley Chapel from Chicago in 2015 to be closer to family and began his journey with a small office on Bearss Ave. In 2018, he expanded to the office on BBD, and has quickly made his legal practice a respected name in the area. 

Derek’s journey as an attorney started after he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Business from Indiana University in Fort Wayne and his Juris Doctor (J.D., or Law) degree from the Northern Illinois University College of Law in DeKalb in 2001. His is licensed to practice law in both Florida and Illinois, as well as in federal courts, including the U.S. Tax Court, U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, and U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. This wide reach allows Derek to assist clients across jurisdictions with a deep knowledge of litigation and business law. 

Three years ago, Derek expanded his practice to an office in downtown Tampa. As to why, he says, “Many of my opposing counsels have offices downtown, and having an office there makes it easier for me to meet with them and negotiate. I also am closer to the courts.” 

Derek’s enthusiasm for the legal field goes beyond standard litigation. “I like the dynamics of this type of law,” he says. “You have to interact with opposing attorneys and judges a lot. The process (of business and employment law) is unique.” 

He explains that his clients often deal with complex issues, like defective products. Unlike more clear-cut cases, Derek’s work requires him to prove each element of every complaint — a task that demands analytical skills and a solid understanding of the law. 

“The difference between this type of law and other types is simple,” Derek explains. “For example, if there is an accident, everyone knows there was an accident, but with this type of law, I often have to prove that something actually happened.” 

Employment Law A Specialty 

One of the core areas Derek specializes in is employment law. His work in this field involves representing employees and businesses in disputes centered around agreements and contractual obligations. “This is again something that I have to prove happened,” he explains. 

One example is when an employee leaves a company and signs an agreement that might have language that misleads the employee. Derek highlights the importance of finding misleading language and ambiguities, using his legal skills to protect his clients’ rights. “It is my job to prove that it was misleading, to find those ambiguities, and I have been successful in doing this,” he says. 

“I highly recommend Mr. Usman, who ensured our process was transparent and thoroughly explained every detail, which was crucial for our non-locally based business with significant operations in Florida. We required someone trustworthy, a rarity nowadays, but I’m delighted to have found Derek Usman’s law firm, exemplifying integrity, honesty, genuineness and a strong work ethic. Mr. Usman demonstrates expertise and efficiently completes tasks, even with challenging parties. For that I am grateful and will continue to do business with Usman Law Firm.” — Alexandra Ciles, Flores Ciles Contractors, LLC 

Another area where Derek offers assistance is in fraud cases, including often-complex issues like mail and wire fraud. The stakes in these types of cases are often high, and clients depend upon Derek’s expertise to guide them through the legal process. “This area includes anyone who may have embezzled funds or has committed any type of fraud that includes money,” he explains. 

And, when these cases involve the use of the internet or wire transfers, they often have to be tried in a federal court, so you need an attorney who has the ability to do just that. His experience in these cases ensures that his clients receive knowledgeable support, whether their cases are settled out of court or go to trial. 

The Usman Law Firm charges clients by the hour, although in some cases, such as those going to court, he works on a contingency basis. This flexibility allows him to serve a wide range of clients, from individuals and small businesses to larger entities with significant legal needs. 

One of the distinguishing features of the firm is the personalized service Derek offers. 

“When you go to one of the ‘large’ law firms, you are never sure who will be working for you,” he explains. “If you ask for one of the partners, you should be ready to pay a very high hourly rate. However, with me, you get the one person who has all the experience.” 

At the larger firms, he adds, cases are often handed off to junior associates or teams. For Derek, being the primary point of contact means he can ensure each case receives the same high standard of dedication and expertise. 

“We were looking for great representation for our business and personal legal advice and I cannot express how much of a headache we had until we met Derek Usman. No other attorneys would call back or have time to listen and assist with our business needs. As our business attorney, Derek has been excellent, and I certainly recommend him to anyone. He knows exactly what our needs are, is very professional, intelligent and provides the best advice. Derek is very detailed and pays very good attention to our needs. My experiences with Usman Law have been and will continue to be stupendous through and through.” — Jose Ferrer, CEO, Mor-Stor Medical 

Although he operates a solo practice, Derek notes that he doesn’t work in isolation. He participates in bar associations and networks that allow him to connect with other attorneys and brainstorm when needed. 

Commitment to Community Service 

Outside of his legal work, Derek is deeply involved in community outreach. He is active with the Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church in Hyde Park and participates in the Rotary Club of Tampa. Through these organizations, Derek has engaged in a variety of service projects. “I have participated most recently in the Food Pantry,” he shares, highlighting his desire to make a difference both inside and outside the courtroom. 

For more info about Derek Usman and the Usman Law Firm call (813) 377-1197. You also can visit UsmanFirm.com or email derek@usmanfirm.com. His offices are located at 20701 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Suite 207, and 505 E. Jackson St., Ste. 305, in downtown Tampa. 

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.