Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Heights Heighlights Side Bar - Jan/Feb 2009
If you’ve lived in Tampa for any length of time, you’ve likely had yourself a Deviled Crab. But did you know that it was invented in Ybor City?
During the Great Depression, Ybor residents sensibly fed themselves with meals made of ingredients that were cheap and readily available. At the time, two of the easiest to come by were the not-so-great pieces of crab and leftover, stale Cuban bread. When the two were mixed together and deep fried, the Deviled Crab was born.
Although the Ybor original started off more like a small croquette, it began to grow plump as the era’s continued economic despair spurred families to waste nothing and to stretch any food scraps to feed as many mouths as possible.
Street vendors eventually started selling the deviled crab throughout Tampa; some using wooden boxes strapped to bicycles to hold and transport their wares.
The Depression faded, but the area’s taste for the Deviled Crab did not. If you haven’t tried one yet, it can be sampled very inexpensively at most Cuban and Spanish restaurants throughout Tampa.
Note: “Deviled Crabs” share no similarities with other deviled foods, such as Deviled Eggs. That makes the term an English misnomer. The Spanish name, Croqueta de Jaiba, if far more accurate. It simply translates to "Crab Croquette."
Make Your Own!
The following is just one, sure to be disputed, way to make your own Deviled Crab.
Deviled Crab Cakes: 4 Servings
Ingredients
• 1 lb Crabmeat
• 2 tb Green onion; chopped
• Butter
• 2 tb Prepared mustard
• 2 tb Flour
• 1 ts Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 c Light cream
• 1/8 ts Hot pepper sauce
• 1/2 c Soft fresh bread crumbs
• 1/2 ts Salt
• 1/4 c Green pepper; minced
• 1 c Fine, dry Cuban Bread crumbs
Instructions
Leave crabmeat in large lumps. Melt 1 tbsp butter; stir in flour. Gradually stir in cream. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and thick. Remove from heat. Add Cuban Bread crumbs, green pepper, onion, and seasonings. Add crabmeat and mix lightly. Place dry bread crumbs in a shallow dish. Put a large spoonful of crab mixture on the crumbs, sprinkle dry crumbs on top, and shape into a cake. Do not pack. Repeat, making 8 cakes in all. Heat 2 tbsps butter in a large heavy skillet, and sauté cakes lightly, adding more butter as needed.
Read More at www.NewHeightsMag.com.
Food & Drink – Jan/Feb 2009
By Jacklyn Walling
For the Starbuck-types in the world, drinking a morning coffee is often no more than a means to help get their day started – a cup of indulgence that’s part of an a.m. routine.
But for the patrons of the Urban Corridor’s many Cuban and Spanish cafes, the roasted brew means quite a bit more. It’s a breakfast staple accompanied with spirited conversation and reflections of days gone by.
As for their brew of choice … it’s as exotic as any Italian latte or cappuccino, just served in a small cup, instead of a big corporate box. Of course I refer to the city’s best-selling beverage: Café con Leche.
Café con Leche, which translates to "coffee with milk" in Spanish, is just what it sounds like: strong coffee mixed with scalded milk in approximately a one to one ratio. (Sugar is added according to taste.) As for which brand of coffee Tampans’ like best, it varies per drinker; but Ybor City’s Naviera Coffee and Miami’s Café Bustelo are common favorites.
At the famous La Teresita Restaurant in West Tampa, I sat with Raoul Zayas, a Tampa native and area high school teacher, as we both sipped our own cups of the coffee/milk combo. As we chatted about the beverage, his eyes started to glisten as he brought up memories of times he had shared with his parents, grandparents and brothers.
“My brothers and I would dunk our Cuban toast in it for breakfast,” Zayas said of a Café con Leche-dip ritual that’s persevered through generations. “And our parents would always wonder why we were all so jacked up every morning.”
Despite getting “jacked” by the caffeine concoction, the Zayas family considers it a comforting beverage. For example, when Raoul’s brother recently called him to report a bad day, Raoul’s prescription was one pair of warm socks for the feet, and one cup of hot Café con Leche for the stomach … “just like our grandmother used to tell us.”
Drinking Café con Leche is also a time to talk politics amongst friends. A good place to see (or better yet, “hear”) this high volume exchange of ideas in action is West Tampa’s El Gallo de Oro (The Golden Rooster), a Cuban mom and pop restaurant that’s been serving up Cuban joe for more than 25 years.
Owner (aka “king of the coop”), Gustavo Orama, told me that he sees the same people every day he opens the store. One by one they file in, place their same order, find their same seat and begin to debate their political viewpoints. (Long-time patrons need not worry about ordering … Orama has their orders memorized.)
Orama enjoys the sameness. “For me, it’s all I know. It’s about gathering every day for our cup of coffee. Café con Leche brings friends together.”
Whether you take your Café con Leche with a spoonful of sweet family memories or prefer it with straight political talk, it’s easy to tell in either case that Tampa’s drink of choice is not your average joe. We invite you to sound out about your Café con Leche preferences and memories by visiting the New Heights blog: newheightsmag.blogspot.com.
Try A Cup!
[wt] El Gallo De Oro
4007 Fiesta Plz.
(813) 873-8008
[wt] La Teresita Restaurant
3246 W. Columbus Dr.
(813) 879-4909
www.lateresitarestaurant.com
[yb] La Tropicana Café
1822 E. 7th Ave.
(813) 247-4040
Try Something Else!
[dt] Cafe Hey
1540 N. Franklin Ave.
(813) 221-5150
www.myspace.com/cafehey
[dt] Indigo Coffee
514 N. Franklin St., Ste. 102
(813) 849-2233
www.drinkindigo.com
Read More at www.NewHeightsMag.com.
Food & Drink – Jan/Feb 2009
By Michelle Baker
I was in need of Water (the Japanese-inspired sushi restaurant) as I stepped into 1015 S. Howard Ave, but what I saw seemed more like a mirage. There was a Water sign on the outside of the building. There were Water signs on the inside of the building. And the Water logo was on all the menus. So why was I in standing in Ciccio & Tony’s Italian Restaurant?
Upon being seated, I asked my waiter what was up. He informed me that the owners of C&T (Jeff Gigante, James Lanza and Luis Flores) and Water are one in the same. And although the Hyde Park C&T has been a local favorite since opening in 1996, when Water opened in 2005, it failed to garner as much attention. The solution? Combine the two into one ultimate nosh spot.
Realizing that I had indeed found my destination, I (always being the optimist) prepared myself for a bad meal. I mean, this was the flagship of SoHo chains … and a chain-gang-girl I am not. Yeah, I know I sound snobby. But having an executive chef husband at home ,who uses our kitchen to churn out made-from-scratch Foie Gras, Truffles and other gastronomical delights, has made me a little spoiled.
My level of enthusiasm took another dive when I saw the sheer size of the menu. If you’re a food geek like me, you’ve certainly heard Kitchen Nightmares’ Chef Gordon Ramsey scream at meek and bewildered restaurant owners who create menus longer than five pages. Well, Ramsey would blow a gasket if he saw the eight-pager (not counting the night’s special menu) that I was holding. Why? Because typically, a restaurant that offers too many selections is unable to properly maintain their quality. Key word, “typically.”
It took me a good 10 minutes to decide on an appetizer, which wasn’t a bad thing because my server’s attention had been diverted elsewhere. When he returned, I placed my order for the special, Tempura Edamame ($5.50), only to be told it was sold out. I was forced to switch to my back-up plan, Water Guacamole ($7.50) and the Tuna Poki Water Bowl ($8.50).
With an uncanny timing, as my waiter walked away from my table the restaurant’s lights dimmed and I could hear a low, relaxing soundtrack with a club-bump vibe circulating through the room.
The glass of wine I ordered ($6-$7) came out first, accompanied by some delicious Parmesan Focaccia Bread and a dip of Balsamic Vinegar and Herb Oil. Both were followed quickly by half of my first course: the Water Guacamole.
Served with light and crispy circular Fried Wonton Chips (fanned in a heaping bowl of green goodness), the guac was easily big enough to be a meal on its own. My first bite punched my tongue with an odd citrus flavor, which almost certainly was Yuzu (a Japanese fruit). The follow up swing landed with another note of acid, possibly rice wine vinegar. Then the knock out blow came in the form of a tad bit of heat; possibly Sriracha chili paste, combined with little tomato and shallot. It was refreshing, perfectly creamy and packed with a powerhouse of flavors I would’ve never thought to pair with guacamole.
It was so good that I had to stop myself short of licking the bottom of the bowl. And as strange as the dish may sound, it actually makes a lot of sense when you remember that Avocado is commonly served on sushi … So why not make guacamole?
As I diverted my attention to the Tuna Poki Water Bowl that had arrived nearly unnoticed during my bout with the chips, I saw it was a simple bowl of Sticky Rice, Julienned Jicama (a cross between an apple and a potato), marinated and cubed (raw) Tuna, black Sesame Seeds and a little Cilantro garnish.
Upon tasting it, I didn’t get the same 1-2-3 punch to the kisser as I did from its predecessor, but had I tried it first, it may have been a different story. But in any case, the Water Bowl was exactly as it should have been. The Tuna was very fresh, firm and well marinated with various Asian staples, including ponzu, soy and rice wine vinegar. The sticky rice had that familiar nutty note; and as for the jicama, it pairs well with any form of raw tuna. Despite placing second to the guac, the dish was good … really good.
Choosing my entrées for the night came a little easier than my 10-minute mull over the appetizer menu. They were to be a Spicy Diablo Clear Roll ($12) and a Volcano Nori Roll ($12).
I had to try the Clear Roll, as Water has developed a reputation for them (in part by using rice paper instead of the Nori (seaweed paper) wrapping of traditional sushi). To that point, my initial thought was, “big deal, it’s a spring roll.” But the experience I was in the midst of had changed my mindset to one of a percolating anticipation.
As for why I chose the Volcano roll, there’s a simple answer: it’s one of my favorite of the cooked sushi rolls. It’s usually spicy, creamy and flavorful. Water’s menu indicated that their version included a warm seafood dip; a twist that I thought was intriguing. Well, maybe “intriguing” is the wrong word; perhaps “repulsive” was better suited. But I had to do it. Water had already won me over twice.
My server – who had gone from ok, to good, to fantastic – brought the rolls to me on a small, beautiful platter. The Diablo was presented as a tail-like arch, sliced eight very large pieces. Meanwhile, the eight-pieced Volcano was equally robust and mounted in an artful explosion of seafood dip. Both sat on a plate drizzled delicately with Sriracha aioli and a kabayaki glaze (a sweet soy sauce reduction).
I first dove into the Diablo Clear Roll, which seemed to be missing something. It was surrounded by sticky rice, but I couldn’t find a trace of rice paper. It didn’t matter to me. Once again, the tuna was fresh and firm; tightly wrapped with diakon sprouts (a Japanese radish) and just enough tempura fried onions for a perfect contrast of soft and crunchy. As if this weren’t enough, the entire roll was laced with the fire red jewels of sushi, tobikko (flying fish row). The Sriracha aioli added a slightly spicier depth, which rounded out the roll. It was also nutty, creamy, crunchy, salty and a little sweet. Sushi lovers take note; the Diablo may be the perfect spicy tuna roll.
After the Diablo making for a perfect 3-0 start, I no longer had reservations about smearing a huge piece of Volcano Roll with the previously reviled seafood dip. With a bite, it was bliss … a taste explosion of crab, cucumber, avocado, scallions, cream cheese, crispy tempura onions, wonton flakes, kabayaki glaze and Sriracha aioli (which had been drizzled on the roll), as well as the dip’s delicate, creamy mixture of cooked fish and crab. It was sensational. No, make that sin-sational!
Since I was on a roll (ugh – puns!), I reluctantly ordered more food. “Reluctantly,” because my stomach was beyond the point of full. I knew I didn’t want to continue the gluttony, but neither did I want to stop it. I gave in … but only after being subjected to a parade of temptations floating by me on the way to apparently not-so-full diners: pasta bowls ($11.75-$14.95), pizzas ($4.95-$10.75), unique salads ($5.50-$6.95), stir-frys ($9.25-$13.95), lettuce wraps ($9.95-$12.95) and more.
It was the Brazilian California Bowl (all bowls $9.45) that was my ultimate downfall. Although it came from the Ciccio & Tony’s side of the house, I just had to know how it looked, smelled and tasted.
It was served in a gigantic, beautiful bowl and I could smell a slight waft of cumin and scallion omitted from the steam that came out of it. Peering inside revealed blackened chopped chicken, black beans, avocado, corn, sour cream, cheddar cheese and crispy lettuce; all lying atop a bed of steamed yellow rice.
The chicken was seasoned very well with a little heat behind it; while the accoutrement of South Western-styled vegetables was cooked just right (not under, not over). Topping off the bowl was a Mexican-style guacamole (just as flavorful as its Asian-inspired cousin), a fresh chucky pico de gallo (or salsa, as they called it) and sour cream. I’d never believe it was indigenous to Brazil … but who cares?
If you can’t tell by now, my life pretty much revolves around food. I own a personal chef and catering company with my husband. I’m a weekly food writer for the Tampa Tribune. And I’m a food stylist and a highly-read food blogger. It’s for these reasons that I am often asked by Tampa newcomers where my favorite places are to eat. Inevitably, I often choke up a small Mom and Pop in one of my favorite, non-hot-spot neighborhoods. This is because I’ve never believed a hot spot could live up to its name.
I am both regretful and happy to say that I’ve been wrong. I now stand humbled by Water/Ciccio & Tony’s. It’s not a mirage. The restaurants’ impeccably high quality of food, atmosphere and service come together to form the perfect place for any date night, family function, business lunch or simple hangout.
Water Unique Sushi Restaurant
(part of Ciccio & Tony’s)
1015 S. Howard Ave.
(813) 251-8406
www.CiccioAndTonys.com
Rating: 4 ½ HP Stickers
Read More at www.NewHeightsMag.com
Green & Earth – Jan/Feb 2009
By Charles Haynie
Tampa’s Urban Corridor (UC) is awash with beautiful houses that were constructed nearly 100 years ago. Back then, the days before home insulation and air conditioning were exceptions – not norms – these Bungalows, Arts & Crafts and Victorians were designed and built to maximize natural ventilation to help regulate the temperatures of their living spaces. The concept was as common sense then, as it is outdated today.
While nearly every UC home now has some form of A/C installed (be it a window unit or central heat & air), the same is not true when it comes to insulation. The reason for this is unclear, but with the green movement (and the cost of electricity) on the rise in Tampa, many UC homeowners are discovering the value and benefits of insulating their houses’ walls, attics and even floors.
According to Warm Magazine, installing insulation in an average-sized home can save a family up to 40 percent on their cooling & heating costs. Or to put it another way, a non-insulated home loses its owners about 40 cents out of every dollar they spend to keep room temperatures comfortable. Based on these figures, within five years of insulation installation, the family will recoup their spend.
If you are planning on using the area’s cooler winter months to tackle a hot attic insulation project, you’re likely to see some surprising, new products when you pick out supplies. This is because insulation doesn’t just come in pink anymore ... it now comes in green.
Standard Insulations
Perhaps the two simplest and most economical types of insulation are rolls of fiberglass (aka itchy, pink stuff) and air-blown cellulose.
Fiberglass: Itchy, pink stuff that’s very effective and hard to beat for its price (about $.07 an inch). It covers well in homes that have fairly open attics and is installed simply by unrolling each batt (i.e., roll) between the beams of the ceiling, walls and floor.
Cellulose: Shredded recycled material (e.g., newsprint) that’s manually air-blown into the nooks, crannies and open spaces via a special machine (that can be rented at many major hardware stores). Cellulose is priced the same as fiberglass – but unlike the pink stuff, it tends to matte down over the years and can lose some of its effectiveness.
Extreme-Green Insulations
There are many extreme-green insulation options gaining popularity, with two garnering particular attention for their eco-friendliness. The first is made from what you eat; the other from what you wear.
BioBased® Insulation: Made from soybeans, this spray foam is very effective at insulating open and obstructed spaces. The foam fills gaps and also acts like a noise barrier (helpful when living near busy city streets). It comes in a variety of densities and – depending on the one you choose – a relatively thin coat may provide more insulation effectiveness than the bulky, standard alternatives. It’s important to note that BioBased Insulation is not a DIY project, but a quick Google search will reveal many local companies that provide the product and service.
Recycled Denim Insulation: If there’s such a thing as “flashy celebrity” when it comes to today’s insulation market, it’d have to be cotton insulation made from recycled denim blue jeans. It and its green aspects have gotten a lot of attention from the press and the Hollywood elite. (It can be found in the homes of many movie and television stars, such as Ed Begley, Jr. (Pineapple Express) and Adrian Grenier (HBO’s Entourage).
There are a few brands of denim insulation (UltraTouch is one), but each is basically the same. They all come in cushy blue rolls that can be easily installed by most DIY-ers. (Rolled out like fiberglass, minus the itching.) It also provides similar, per-inch insulation effectiveness as the pink stuff.
As it seems to be with most products that are better for the environment, denim and soybean-based insulation are a little pricier (15-20+ percent) than the standard options. This means you may undergo a little more pain in the pocket for the initial purchase and install. But, if you find these green choices a little out of your budget, it’s important to remember that – based on its virtue of saving energy – any insulation is green insulation … and far better than none at all.
About the Author
Charles Haynie is a mechanical engineer and eco-friendly furniture builder. He is always happy to discuss sustainable design at Tampa Street Market (www.TampaStreetMarket.com), a green furniture and retail shop he owns and runs with his wife, Amy.
More Home Suggestions
[sh] Bali Bay Trading Co
4218 N. Florida Ave.
(813) 238-3295
www.balibaystores.com
[sh] Sherry’s YesterDaze
Vintage Clothing & antiques
5207 N. Florida Ave.
(813) 231-2020
www.yesterdazevintage.com
[uc] Sun-Biz Solar Solutions
6208 Bayshore Blvd.
(813) 837-4219
henry@sunbiz-solar.com
[ww] Vivant House
909 W. Hillsborough Ave.
(813) 232-0491
Read More at: www.New HeightsMag.com
Arts & Events – Jan/Feb 2009
The Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, one of the top-rated outdoor fine arts and crafts shows in the country, returns to downtown Tampa March 7–8, 2009 for a weekend filled with outstanding art, visiting artists and free entertainment.
Considered one of Florida’s premier cultural events, the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts ranks among the leading juried festivals nationwide that feature both fine arts and crafts. Each year, a select number of accomplished artists and rising stars from around the globe are chosen to participate in the show and vie for cash awards upward to $15,000.
Throughout its 39-year history, the Gasparilla Festival has attracted outstanding artists who have amassed numerous awards and honors throughout their careers and who now have works included in permanent collections of major museums.
In 2008, the Gasparilla Festival broke into the ranks of the Top 25 U.S events of its kind, according to the leading arts source, Sunshine Artist, “America’s Premier Art and Craft Show Magazine.”
When the festival returns to the Urban Corridor in 2009, nearly 300 national and international award-winning, acclaimed artists (typically chosen from more than 1,000 applicants) will be exhibiting their original works throughout downtown’s Lykes Gaslight Square Park and along Franklin Street. The works will include ceramics, digitals, drawings, fibers, glass, jewelry, mixed media, paintings, photography, printmaking, sculptures, watercolors and woods. Food and drink vendors will also be onsite, as will live musical entertainment.
The festival is free and open to the public, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday (March 6-7, 2009).
Where It’s At.
[dt] Gasparilla Festival of the Arts
Lykes Gaslight Square Park & Franklin Street
(813) 876-1747
www.gasparilla-arts.com
Where Is More?
[cd] Florida Aquarium
701 Channelside Dr.
(813) 273-4000
www.flaquarium.org
Try Something New!
Visit these UC neighborhood-focused websites for a complete up-to-date list of local event locations, dates and times.
READ MORE AT: www.NewHeightsMag.com
News & Rumors – Jan/Feb 2009
Achtung, Baby! Two partners are currently scouting downtown Tampa for a location to open an “authentic” German restaurant.
Worth a LOOK!: artLOUD! Sculpture, a display of more than 15 outdoor, kinetic sculptures, was unveiled on January 23 in downtown Tampa. The displayed art are the winning pieces in a contest for local artists that was sponsored by Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Tampa Bay, the City of Tampa and other local businesses and organizations (see full list on bottom of page 30). The sculptures can be found on Franklin and Tampa Streets and Florida Avenue.
Want A Recount? StoryCorps, a team of people who record history as told by average Americans, visited Ybor City in December and January. Local residents recounted hours of memories about the Urban Corridor and the recorded footage will be sent to Library of Congress, broadcasted by National Public Radio and Tampa’s WMNF 88.5FM, and available for your review at the Ybor City State Museum. For more info, call the museum at (813) 247-1434 or visit www.storycorps.net.
Down To Earth. There is a large, organic urban garden planned for the VM Ybor area. We know the details, but have been asked not to print them yet. But if you want more info, please email us: editor@NewHeightsMag.com
Hold That Order. Although originally planned to happen by February 1, the neighborhood’s restaurant boom is postponed until spring. The reasons for the delay are varied, but none are unusual for remodeling or new construction projects. The six pending restaurants are: Richy’s Themes Sports Lounge, Ella’s, Sangria’s Spanish Tapas Bar & Restaurant, LeRoy’s Gastro Pub,
Myoumi Sushi Bar and The Independent.
Bus Stop. Diana Kennedy, author of 12 cookbooks and known as the Julia Childs of Mexican food, will hold a book signing Feb. 14, 5:30pm at El Taconazo (aka Taco Bus) and Feb. 15, 2pm at Hyde Park’s Inkwood Books. She will also host a cooking class at Taco Bus on Feb. 14 at 5:30pm. For more information, email dianakennedytampa@me.com.
Pop the Cork! Early January, wine industry veteran, Dave Kendall, and MacDinton’s Irish Pub owner, Barry O’Connor, opened Cork at 406 S. Howard Ave. It offers many wines by the bottle (prices vary) and 18 by the glass ($7- $14). Beer is also served, as is Italian- style tapas. (813) 251-4433 | www.corktampa.com
Preservatives Added. A new blog was recently launched that focuses on the preservation of historic structures and neighborhoods in Tampa. You can visit it at http://tampapreservation.blogspot.com.
READ MORE AT: www.NewHeightsMag.com
Sunday, November 23, 2008
New Heights | mid-Nov '08/mid-Jan '09

2009 Guide to the Urban Corridor
Mid-Nov '08/Mid-Jan '09 • Vol. 1, Edt. 6
See this newsletter online at: www.newheightsmag.com/newsletter
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NEIGHBORHOOD SECRETS
In this SPECIAL EDITION, New Heights uncovers your neighborhood's secrets - its many, one-of-a-kind retail shops, restaurants and art venues that you've been missing out on. (Complete with news and rumors of what's to come in '09!)
We then answer the question, "What is the Urban Corridor?", and take a look back at NH's first year accomplishments.
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FOOD & DRINK
They're fresh, they're convenient and they're close. Join NH as we check out the UC's truly "Super" Markets.
Afterwards, enjoy a new dining experience while feeding your local economy; when you try one of the many independent restaurants listed in our Buyer's Guide.
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ARTS & EVENTS
Internationally known gallerist, Erika Schneider of Tampa Heights' Bleu Acier, examines Tampa’s Art Scene.
Then NH shows you how to explore the local art community and find out what's happening in your neighborhood.
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UC BUYER'S GUIDE
Prepare to get your (local) shop on with this issue of NH - just in time for the holidays and the New Year. You'll discover over a hundred reasons why not to make the trip to the giant malls and "-marts" of the suburbs.
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NEWS & RUMORS
Is it Real or Rumor? From the Newsline to the Grapevine, New Heights goes myth-busting to bring you the latest scoop!
In this Issue: NH lists more than 60 rumors and news clips about what's happening near you.
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Newsletter sponsored by:* Rover Done Over Mobile Pet Grooming * Grafx Design * SunBiz Solar * Greener Pixels Print Media Design
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Urban Corridor = Seminole Heights, Downtown Tampa, Hyde Park, Channel District, West Tampa, Riverside Heights, Ybor City, Ybor Heights, Davis Islands, Tampa Heights, The Heights, VM Ybor & surrounding areas.
Friday, October 17, 2008
UC Buyer's Guide: List your Business FREE
To qualify for your no-cost listing, your business must be in or service the Urban Corridor and you must provide the following information:
Business Name:
Business Address:
Business Phone:
Business Website:
Business Email:
Act now and receive a Premium Listing in the Nov 2008/Jan 2009 issue (special edition 60,000 circulation) for only $50! Add a small logo for just another $50!
Your Premium Listing will include your business listed in bold font, along with up to thirty-five (35) words describing your business.
Example Basic Listing:
XYZ Restaurant & Bar * 12 N. Florida Ave. * (813) 555-1212 * www.xyzrest.com
Example Premium Listing:
XYZ Restaurant & Bar * 12 N. Florida Ave.
(813) 555-1212 * http://www.xyzrest.com/
The food is inspired by Southern and Native American recipes and is served in generous portions. XYZ believes natural is best and all ingredients are fresh and meals are made to order. Try the meatloaf ... it’s Best of the Bay!
Sign up for your Basic or Premium Business Listing today by emailing your business’ information along with your contact information to: ads@newheightsmag.com
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
New Heights | mid-Sept/mid-Nov 2008

This has been out since late September, so I apologize for the late posting.
Can't see this newsletter? Visit: www.NewHeightsMag.com/newsletter/index.html
New Heights Magazine: Mid-Sept/Mid-Nov 2008
Highlighting Tampa Historic Urban Corridor:
Seminole Heights, Downtown, Ybor, West Tampa, Tampa Heights, Riverside Heights, Davis Islands, Hyde Park & Surrounding Areas
---------------- FEATURED STORIES ------------------
Connecting the Corridor: We find out the fastest way to get around the UC ... without a car!Four mean machines - a bus, streetcar, cab and electric shuttle -race against time and each other to claim the UC's title as 2008's Top Transit ...
-------------- http://www.newheightsmag.com/ ----------------
Food & Drink: Five contenders sat in different corners of the UC, picked asunknowing finalists in New Heights' mission to discover whose Chinese Take-Out reigns supreme. And the winner is ???
Then our humorous sommelier, Mark Lasky, offers advice on great, affordable wines from lesser known regions ...
-------------- http://www.newheightsmag.com/ ----------------
Health & Beauty: Nothing says "I've had a great summer!" like snarling split ends and bleached out locks. Just in time for Fall, find out which conditioner is the cure for your frazzled hair ...
Then learn "Where the Mind Goes," according to Eastern medicine;and how a vast majority of our health problems (including depression) may originate from our mental selves ...
-------------- http://www.newheightsmag.com/ ----------------
Home & Family: Where are the bodies buried? Meet the soldiers, socialites, saints and sinners that lay at rest (or maybe not!) in the UC's eerie, historic graveyards ...
Then, NH's Licensed School Psychologist, Dr. Abby, explores why consistency is the key for parents who want their children to feel safe and happy at home ...
-------------- http://www.newheightsmag.com/ ----------------
Arts & Events: Hillsborough High & Seminole Heights Documentaries (Oct. 4); Tampa Bay International Auto Show; TBPAC's 2008-2009 Bestof Broadway Season; Cigars & Stars IV; and more!
Also: Event Listings, "Transit Race," tombstones, UC Fly Over & scenes of NH's past ...
-------------- http://www.newheightsmag.com/ ----------------
News & Rumors: Is it Real or Rumor? From the Newsline to the Grapevine, New Heights goes myth-busting to bring you the latest scoop!
This issue: New Heights Lands a Whaleys (almost); Starbuck's Closing; Five Guys Burgers and Thai; and more!
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
Join Us for a Celebration as New Heights turns 1!

A Celebration & Networking Event
See your offical inviation here: New Heights Birthday Celebration
When: Oct. 2, 2008, 6-8pm (Thursday)
Where: Gaspar's Grotto - Map
Amongst our staff and your fellow readers, you'll sample complimentary fare from Gaspar's new Set Sail menu (created by Jeannie Pierola, the famous former
Most importantly, you'll meet
Please mark Thursday, October 2, 6-8pm on your calendar and join us to celebrate our one-year birthday and
No RSVP required, but we'd love to know you're coming so we can be sure to look out for you. Feel free to email us at editor@NewHeightsMag.com.
Monday, July 28, 2008
New Heights | mid-July/mid-Sept 2008

CLICK to see our full eNewsletter.
Heights Heightlights
lUCky dogs - Dog-friendly Urban Corridor
New Heights takes you on a tour of the UC's shade covered sidewalks, its dog-loving restaurants and retail shops, and its dogparks to prove the UC area may be Tampa's dog-friendliest.
Plus: Photos & Results of our UC's Cutest Dog/Owner Contest!
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Food & Drink
Our expert food critic gives downtown's Fly Bar & Restaurant a second look and discovers that small plates can satisfy big appetites (even at small prices, if your timing is right!).
Then, white or red? NH's critically acclaimed sommeliers recommend both can be enjoyed when sipping this summer.
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Health & Beauty
Summer is Bridal Season. So for those of you who plan on soon saying "I do," we're providing a Beauty To-do Checklist to help your day be as grand as possible.
Meanwhile, NH's health columnist explains how acupuncture and herbs can be an effective treatment for asthma.
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Home & Family
See why mixing grandma's favorite chair with a modern, colorful, plastic side table is a chic look that's catching on in the UC.
Then, NH's very own Licensed School Psychologist, Dr. Abby, explores how a little "Consideration" can greatly enhance your parent/child bond.
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Arts & Events
Hundreds of thousands have visited TBPAC to see big stars; but New Heights takes you to the theatre's newest constellation, which isforming in its Patel Performing Arts Conservatory.
Also: Event Listings & Photos of Historic Fires, Flugtag, Porch Parties & more.
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News & Rumors
Is it Real or Rumor? From the Newsline to the Grapevine, New Heights goes myth-busting to bring you the latest scoop!
This issue: Sangrias Update, Sem-Hi the new SoHo?, Free UC Taxi, B&B for SH, NoHo goes PM and more.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
New Heights Call for Articles: Aug. 3, 2008
Basic Article word count: 500-600
Heights Heightlights or Feature Article word count: 1,000-2,000
Article Guidelines:
1. Topic(s) must be relevant to Tampa; specifically one or (preferably) more of Tampa’s historic Urban Corridor neighborhoods.
2. Must fit in one of the magazine’s main sections: Health & Beauty, Home & Family, Food & Drink, News & Rumors or Arts & Events. Broad topic feature stories for the Heights Heighlight section are also requested.
3. Include quote(s) from Urban Corridor resident(s). One (1) minimum, but aim for 2-4.
4. Include supporting high-resolution photos, illustrations, maps and/or graphs. (See below for image guidelines.)
5. When possible, identify (within the article) sources of statistics and facts.
6. List contact information for the writer, quoted participants and photographer/artist.
7. Include a short bio of the author, describing his/her experience with the topic. Also provide a photo of the author, when available. (See below for image guidelines.)
Other Suggestions:
* READ PAST ARTICLES
* Send a proposed outline, before getting to involved in the piece (for direction/tips), to editor@NewHeightsMag.com.
* Use a clear, friendly and non-technical style.
* Avoid jargon and explain acronyms on first reference.
* Divide the article into shorter "chapters" for easier reading.
* Include the importance or timeliness of the topic (somewhere in the article’s opening paragraphs).
* Emphasize the positives of the article’s people, places, things and/or events. Be thorough and descriptive.
* Include any relevant information you’d like to have accompany your article.
Photo/Image Guidelines:
* Submit each image separately, with a brief text caption that explains what the reader is seeing. * Supporting Graphics (charts, graphs, maps, etc.): Send in high-resolution pdf or jpg format.
* Photographs: Submit as pdf or jpg files no larger than 500x300 pixels. Resolution must be 300 dpi of higher.
* All images must be accompanied by artist’s name and contact information (phone and/or email).
Permissions:
Accuracy and proper attribution of sources are essential. Authors are responsible for fact-checking articles prior to submission, noting all sources and obtaining written permission to use any copyrighted material.
Please do NOT submit articles that have either been previously published or that are scheduled to be published in any city of Tampa serving publication.
For more information about submitting articles, contact Jay McGee at (813) 389-8116 or editor@NewHeightsMag.com. For advertising information contact ads@NewHeightsMag.com.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
New Heights | mid-May/mid-July 2008 issue

Heights Heighlight
Declaration of Independents -- The Big City's Small Businesses
What do you get when you mix new high-rise condos with historic urban housing; then line the streets with one-of-a-kind boutiques, shops, galleries and restaurants? For Tampa, it may be a formula for revitalizing its once dilapidated downtown district ...
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Contest & Survey
* Contest: Custest Dog/Owner
* Survey: Your Dog-friendly UC Faves
Send us a snapshot and You & Your Pooch can be on the next coverpage of New Heights. More prizes also to be won, including $100 spa/salon certificate and a "Pooch Pampering Pack" ...
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News & Rumors
* From the Headlines
* Through the Grapevine
There's lots of news and rumors floating around the UC neighborhoods. New Heights goes mythbusting to bring you the scoop ...
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Home & Family
* Old School Renovations
* Connect with your Child
First, take a before-and-after look inside 80-year-old Hillsborough High's recently completed renovations; then learn how you might be able to better connect with your child(ren) ...
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Food & Drink
* Big John's Alabama BBQ
* An Rx for Wine Headaches
NH's food critic, Michelle Baker, goes to Hog Heaven at Big John's Alabama BBQ. Meanwhile, NH's staff sommelier, Mark Lasky, suggests how to avoid the dreaded wine headache ...
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Health & Beauty
* Nail Care for Sandal Season
* Herbal Remedies
Learn why it takes more than polish to ensure your feet will look great all summer. Then find out why thousand-year-old herbal remedies may be the best medicine for your overall health ...
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Arts & Events
* Latin Artist: Guillermo Portieles
* Scene in the UC: NH's Picture Gallery
Introducing the works of Latin artist, Guillermo Portieles. Plus, see if New Heights caught you or your UC event on film ...
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UC Business Directory
Do you want more local retail businesses? Then shop more at local retail businesses! Find out what kind of businesses are located near you by visiting this directory of UC businesses.
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Subscribe to New Heights Online
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New Heights Magazine, LLC (813) 389-8116 editor@NewHeightsMag.com
Tampa, FL 33603 www.NewHeightsMag.com
Monday, April 07, 2008
Urban Corridor Gossip
We'll run validated submissions in the hardcopy and online version of the next issue of New Heights.
In case you missed the last issue's rumors:
Acropolis Taverna to open in Seminole Heights
Plausible: Costa Waez, owner of Acropolis, reported to New Heights in February that he was actively looking at locations in Seminole Heights. If he finds the right place at the right price, he will open an Acropolis in the neighborhood.
Bank to open in Seminole Heights
Plausible: New Heights’ was contacted by a person scouting locations to open a large bank in the neighborhood. A separate report indicates a bank may move into 105 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in 2009.
Beef O’Brady’s to open in Seminole Heights
Plausible: Although New Heights’ sources have verified a franchisee has considered several locations in the neighborhood, whether one has been secured is unknown.
Bungalow Bistro to add Full Bar
Plausible: The popular new restaurant will soon go before Tampa City Council for approval to sell beer, wine and liquor. If all goes as expected, the beer and wine should be on the menu by the end of May.
Coonfare’s changes Ownership
True: Coonfare’s (502 N. Tampa St.) has switched ownership and now operates under the name Arena Sports Café.
Front Porch to host Live Music
Plausible: The Seminole Heights landmark is currently building an outside bar. Upon city approval of the addition, the owners plan to host live music three nights a week.
L’Eden to add Downtown Location
Plausible: Chef Gerard Jamgotchian has confirmed his restaurant (500 N. Tampa St.) is looking for an additional and larger location downtown, but a storefront has yet to be secured.
Merino’s Deli Moving
Plausible: The fairly new restaurant, located at 6428 N. Florida Ave., is considering moving to another Seminole Heights location – closer to Hillsborough Ave.
Mr. Empanada to add more Stores
True: The West Tampa-based company now has five restaurants in Tampa Bay and will soon open storefronts in Brandon and near USF.
New Grocery Store for VM Ybor
False: A circa 1908 brick building was moved from 2506 N. 12th St. to 1001 E. Columbus Dr. The wide spread rumor that it would become a grocery store is probably rooted in (and confused with) the fact that it used to be the El Progresso de Ybor Grocery. The building is for sale by the city and its use will be up to the purchaser.
New Heights now in Storefront Location
True: New Heights Magazine has moved into a storefront where three UC neighborhoods (Seminole, Riverside and Tampa Heights) converge: 3901 N. Boulevard. It neighbors with Grunt Marketing and Spencer Financial.
Sangria’s Seminole Heights [You Fill in the Blank]
Unverified: Although Sangria’s Seminole Heights location has been approved by the city, none of the information New Heights has heard about the 512 E. Hillsborough Ave. location has been verified. Rumors include: April 2008 opening, adding a story, razing and re-building the property, opening an adjacent tanning salon and more. Victor, please call us: (813) 389-8116.
Seminole Hard Rock offering free UC Shuttle
True: The hotel and casino runs a free shuttle to and from select downtown hotels.
Stephanno’s Pizzeria to open New Location
Plausible: The Seminole Heights (mostly) to-go restaurant is considering an additional location near the Tampa Heights/Seminole Heights border.
Tampa Bay Brewing Company to add Locations
True: The favorite Ybor City haunt has plans to open 3-4 more locations around Tampa.
UPS Store to open in Seminole Heights
True: If all goes as planned, the location at 5100 N. Florida Ave. will soon house a UPS Store and possibly a few other retail shops, such as a grocery store or bank.
UT Track/Soccer Field being Renovated
True: The University of Tampa’s track and soccer field was closed for renovations in January. The track is scheduled to open April 11; the field August 1.
Vietnamese Restaurant to open Downtown
True: Bamboozle Cafe will open soon at 516 N. Tampa St.
Friday, March 28, 2008
mid-March/mid-May 2008 issue - In Stands Now!
Heights HeighlightGene Howes is becoming known as the Sherlock Holmes of the Urban Corridor (UC). He's a detective using the lens of a camera - instead of a magnifying glass - to search for clues about the history of Tampa's earliest communities ...
News & Rumors
* From the Headlines
* Through the Grapevine
There's lots of news and rumors floating around the UC Neighborhoods. New Heights goes mythbusting to bring you the scoop ...
Health & Beauty
* Spring Fashions
* Sciatica's Backstory
Learn how to create a bold new look for the Spring Season; then how to help keep sciatica from being such a pain in the back ...
Home & Family
* Heights Home Tour
* Parenting Matters with Dr. Abby Hill
Start with a casual stroll through the homes built during the last century. Then take a look at how "Parenting Matters" in your own home.
Food & Drink
* West Tampa Sandwich Shop
* Malio's Musings: Wines of the Andes
NH's food critic, Michelle Baker, casts her vote on the West Tampa Sandwich Shop. While Malio's Musings takes you on a tasteful Andes tour ...
* Tampa's Contagious Art
* Picture Gallery: Scenes in the UC
Are in Tampa's Urban Corridor is getting noticed by more than just enthusiasts. Plus, see if New Heights caught you or your UC event on film ...
Monday, March 10, 2008
Business Directory - List yours FREE!
Business Name:
Business Address*:
Business Phone:
Business Website:
Business Email:
*If you have a home-based business and do not want people to show up at your location, we will not list your address.
Act now and receive a Premium Listing in the mid-May/mid-July 2008 issue for only $50. Save by locking in a year's worth (6 issues) for only $285!
Your Premium Listing will include your business listed in bold font, along with up to forty (40) words describing your business.
Example Basic Listing:
XYZ Restaurant & Bar * 12 N. Florida Ave. * (813) 555-1212 * www.xyzrest.com
Example Premium Listing:
XYZ Restaurant & Bar * 12 N. Florida Ave.
(813) 555-1212 * www.xyzrest.com
The food is inspired by Southern and Native American recipes and is served in generous portions. XYZ believes natural is best and all ingredients are fresh and meals are made to order. Try the meatloaf ... it’s Best of the Bay!
Sign up for your Basic or Premium Business Listing today by emailing your business’ information along with your contact information to: ads@newheightsmag.com
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
New Heights Call for Articles: April 1, 2008
Reoccurring Article Word Count: 600-1,200
Heights Heightlight Word Count: 1,200-2,000
Article Guidelines:
1. Topic(s) must be relevant to Tampa; specifically one or (preferably) more of Tampa’s historic Urban Corridor neighborhoods.
2. Must fit in one of the magazine’s main sections: Health & Beauty, Home & Real Estate, Food & Drink, Arts & Events. Broad topic feature stories for the Heights Heighlight section are also requested.
3. Include quote(s) from Urban Corridor resident(s). One (1) minimum, but aim for 2-4.
4. Include supporting high-resolution photos, illustrations, maps and/or graphs. (See below for image guidelines.)
5. When possible, identify (within the article) sources of statistics and facts.
6. List contact information for the writer, quoted participants and photographer/artist.
7. Include a short bio of the author, describing his/her experience with the topic. Also provide a photo of the author, when available. (See below for image guidelines.)
Other Suggestions:
* Use a clear, friendly and non-technical style.
* Avoid jargon and explain acronyms on first reference.
* Divide the article into shorter "chapters" for easier reading.
* Include the importance or timeliness of the topic (somewhere in the article’s opening paragraphs).
* Emphasize the positives of the article’s people, places, things and/or events. Be thorough and descriptive.
* Include any relevant information you’d like to have accompany your article.
Photo/Image Guidelines:
* Submit each image separately, with a brief text caption that explains what the reader is seeing.
* Supporting Graphics (charts, graphs, maps, etc.): Send in high-resolution pdf or jpg format.
* Photographs: Submit as pdf or jpg files no larger than 500x300 pixels. Resolution must be 300 dpi of higher.
* All images must be accompanied by artist’s name and contact information (phone and/or email).
Permissions:
Accuracy and proper attribution of sources are essential. Authors are responsible for fact-checking articles prior to submission, noting all sources and obtaining written permission to use any copyrighted material.
Please do NOT submit articles that have either been previously published or that are scheduled to be published in any city of Tampa serving publication.
For more information about submitting articles, contact Jay McGee at (813) 389-8116 or editor@NewHeightsMag.com. For advertising information contact ads@NewHeightsMag.com.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
New magazine dedicated to Tampa's Urban Corridor
By: Jennifer Howe
Tampa, Florida - The Tampa Heights neighborhood was established back in the 1880's and sits just north of downtown. It is experiencing a re-development now as the city's newest, oldest suburb.
Gene Howes is a documentary filmmaker who has spent a lot of time walking these streets, photographing the unique architecture.
"I love this area,” said Howes. “I love the diversity of it. I love the history of it, and so it's fantastic to be a part of what's going on."
He's now contributing to a new magazine dedicated to the people of Tampa, Seminole and Riverside Heights.
We met the editor of "New Heights Magazine” at the old Tampa Fire House #5. Jay McGee started the magazine after realizing how many stories could be told about the neighborhoods and what they've accomplished.
Jay said, "What I could do was kind of act as a facilitator for all these neighborhoods by creating a magazine that talks about, not necessarily what we all need, but what we all have."
He wants to write about history to preserve it. The old fire house, for example, is about to get a face lift. A Tampa man is turning it into an art gallery.
"We have this future vision of what we'd like it to be, but we don't want to get rid of the past," said Jay McGee.
He has drawn on the memories of the people who live here. They are the authors and photographers who have filled the pages of new heights with stories.
People like Gene Howes who finds beauty in these old streets.
"It just needs to be noticed, and I think that's what the magazine will do," said Gene.
Monday, February 11, 2008
See yourself in Pictures
Do you have pictures of it that you'd like to share?
If so, please email them to Jay McGee, editor@NewHeightsMag.com along with the event's name, location and date -- as well as the names of the main people in the photos -- and I'll do my best to publish them in an upcoming issue of New Heights!
If you have questions, please call Jay at (813) 389-8116.
Friday, February 08, 2008
Office Space Available???
We are looking for a low, "friendly" monthly agreement, with enough workroom to house 2-3 desks. A highly-visible, high-traffic address is a plus, but not mandatory.
If you know of a space -- or would like to sublet an office at one of the locations we're currently considering -- please contact Jay McGee, editor, New Heights Magazine, at (813) 389-8116 or editor@NewHeightsMag.com.
As always, thanks for helping us support Tampa's Urban Corridor nieghborhoods.
