Editorial — My Take On The Election & Florida’s Amendments

by Gary Nager

As I do every presidential election season, I watch and pay close attention to all of the candidate debates before making my choice of who I’d like to see (and endorse here to) become the next U.S. President — and there’s no doubt that the three presidential debates between former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and President Barack Obama, as well as the vice-presidential jousting match between current V.P. Joe Biden and Congressman/candidate Paul Ryan have given me a lot of food for thought.Continue reading

Know What You’re Voting For In November: Florida’s Amendments Deciphered

By Matt Wiley

As the Tuesday, November 6, Presidential Election approaches, registered voters in New Tampa have a lot to decide. In addition to voting again for U.S. President, a U.S. Senator and several other major local offices, there also are, according to the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Office (HCSEO), eleven proposed amendments to Florida’s Constitution that also will be in front of our local voters when they enter the voting booth, and it really is important to know what checking “Yes” or “No” really means when it comes to these proposed Constitutional amendments.Continue reading

Four Years After Hazing Death, Kowiak Family Raises Awareness In D.C.

By Matt Wiley

It’s been four years since the sudden, tragic death of New Tampa resident Harrison Kowiak, but his family continues to fight to end “hazing,” which they know to be the cause of Harrison’s death — and the deaths of numerous other college students over the years. Harrison’s mother and sister recently brought their battle to Washington, D.C., to support legislation to help end hazing in fraternities nationwide, if possible.Continue reading

The New, Smokeless Peabody’s Unveils A Fresh New Menu!

By Gary Nager

You know the world has changed when Peabody’s Billiards & Games in Tampa Palms goes smokeless, but not only is the change not evidence of an impending apocalypse, owner Bryan Peabody says the move to a smoke-free environment has allowed him to greatly expand and improve Peabody’s menu.Continue reading