Closer Look

Owning and managing a successful business requires a lot of time, energy, experience and knowledge. A key ingredient, however, is passion, and Eddie and Tamara Griffin are overflowing with it for their business, Mac Daddy Sales and Service in Land O’ Lakes.

The couple launched the business in 2000, equipping the shop with the latest in hydraulic lifts, ultra-sonic cleaners, and a staff certified to work on all major brands and types of small engines. As an authorized warranty repair shop for Honda, Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki, Dyson and other brands, they also service vacuum cleaners, generators, scooters and boat engines. Their motto is “If it has a motor, we can fix it!”

Eddie Griffin is a longtime resident of Land O’ Lakes who met his wife Tamara in Lutz. Speaking with great pride, she says her husband is a natural-born genius with engines. “He has an inner ear for mechanics,” she says. “His combination of hands-on experience and training allow him to solve any glitch that comes along. He’s dogmatic in neatness and quality, personally checking every repair before releasing it back to the customer.”

Tamara Griffin previously worked for USAA, where she learned to multitask, listen to customers, document service and submit claims. She is the friendly voice on the phone and the smiling face customers see when they visit the shop. Like her husband, she is committed to providing excellent service.

“Mac Daddy blends technology and mechanics in a way that makes our service unique,” she explains. “We take pictures of the equipment and make videos of the mechanic explaining the repairs needed. We then email these to our customers in advance with the estimate. Plus, all their old parts are returned to them when they pick up the repaired equipment. We want to be their service center for life, not just today.”

Besides servicing and repairing engines, Mac Daddy’s also sells new and refurbished mowers, air compressors, pressure washers, blowers, chain saws, and ATVs and golf carts. Brands they carry include Encore and Bad Boy mowers for both commercial and residential use, Honda and Simpson pressure washers, and Campbell Hausfeld air compressors.

“We stand behind every item we sell,” says Eddie Griffin. “That’s easy to do because we sell the best – like top of the line Zero Turns with welded framed and decks. Plus, we educate our customers on the proper maintenance they can do to avoid future performance issues. You won’t get that kind of support at a box store.”

The public is invited to attend Mac Daddy’s Cinco de Mayo Customer Appreciation Day on May 5 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. They’re located at 6630 Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, just north of S.R. 54.

6630 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O Lakes, FL 34638

(813) 406-7796 •"> 

Published 5/2/18

Growing up in New Jersey with five sisters, Luis Ortega discovered his love of hair styling at an early age. From simple braids to updos for prom, he was the go-to guy in his house for the latest look. Ignoring his passion, his first job out of high school was with Quest Diagnostics.

“I thought the medical field was a smart choice,” says Ortega. “I enjoyed that work, but when I turned 35, I knew something was missing.” Having moved to Tampa, he enrolled at Bene’s Career Academy, and earned a degree in cosmetology and barbering, clocking 1,500 hours of classroom and field work.

It wasn’t long before Ortega was making a name for himself in the hair industry. When an opportunity to partner with stylist Brian Villegas came along, the two decided to open Stilos Salon and Barber in Land O’ Lakes. With a combined 14 years of experience, the duo offers a wide range of services to make their clients look and feel their best.

“We love to pamper our guests with the details they want, including colors galore and special treatments,” says Ortega. “We value our client relationships and are dedicated to consistently providing high customer satisfaction by rendering excellent service, using only quality products, and furnishing an enjoyable, relaxed atmosphere at an acceptable price.”

To keep their skills current, they attend at least three national hair shows each year. Ortega says they’re very excited about the upcoming international trade show in Orlando. “Attending the Premiere Orlando event is the highlight of our year,” says Ortega. “We get to rub elbows with stylists from all over the world, like Sam Villa, the education artistic director for Redken. He’s one of the most inspirational teachers in the industry. We love that we can bring the latest techniques, products and trends back to our customers.”

What they love best, however, is seeing the smiles on their customers’ faces. “I enjoy taking people’s ideas and making them reality,” says Ortega. “The services and care we provide are very personal. We have a very loyal customer base, and it’s a joy to watch individuals evolve and to be a part of their personal transformation.”

Call Stilos Salon today to schedule an appointment for the best haircut of your life. It is conveniently located in Land O’ Lakes on U.S. 41 in the Wilderness Commons plaza, about four miles north of State Road 54.

7016 Land O’ Lakes Boulevard

813-428-6412

Published on 4/25/18

Robin Winter of Let’s Bee Organized remains true to her lifelong mission of helping others, by transforming homes and workspaces to achieve greater balance in one’s personal and professional lives.

Her 16 years experience in human resources draws many parallels to her work as a professional organizer at Let’s Bee Organized, a company she recently founded.

“Helping companies define and execute their best practices consistently enables them to become more efficient, which results in positive employee morale and increased profits. In the same manner, having a well-organized home that runs efficiently results in many positive benefits for the entire family,” said Robin.

One of Robin’s primary goals for her clients is to move them in a positive direction by turning their chaos into order.

“As a busy working mother of four, and a professional in business development and human capital management, I fully understand how challenging it is to keep everything and everyone moving in the right direction,” said Robin. “Getting organized and staying that way allows more time to do the things you enjoy, so you can live life to the fullest.”

Robin has the unique ability to find solutions that inspire and motivate individuals— at home and in the workplace — through the development of successful plans and processes.

“I find it very rewarding to help families become better organized, to give them more time to do things they love best, and more time for each other,” said Robin. “I approach every situation with enthusiasm, a positive outlook and a sense of humor.”

Robin has been a successful entrepreneur for more than 10 years. A Tampa Bay area native, she owned and operated a highly popular coffee shop in the Lutz area, and later founded a high-end furniture consignment boutique in Wesley Chapel.

These experiences gave Robin an in-depth understanding of strategic space planning and relocation tactics, as well as interior design and contract management.
Robin’s passion for helping others restore order to their homes and offices led her to establish Let’s Bee Organized, which primarily works with families and businesses in Hillsborough and Pasco counties.

“Let’s Bee Organized will transform your space for the better,” said Robin. “We help people understand that there are simply better ways to manage their stuff, as well as their time, in general. That way, the clutter won’t creep back into their life — after all, the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”

To learn how Let’s Bee Organized can make a difference in your life, call Robin today to schedule a consultation. 

813-693-1062 (office) •813-382-9502 (cell)

• LetsBeeOrganized.com

Originally Published : 4/18/18

In 1913, Hazel Mae Adams was born in Perry, Ohio, one of seven children. On January 18, she celebrated her 105^th birthday surrounded by friends and family at Rosecastle of Zephyrhills.

After high school, Hazel worked at the Salem China company from age 16 to 21 when she married the love of her life, Albert Bruckner, in 1934. They settled in Salem, Ohio, where their son, Ronald, was born in 1939.

Hazel and Albert were homebodies, taking only two vacations during their years together. Hazel always had a garden, and loved to can food and bake. She enjoyed crochet, embroidery and sewing.  Hazel and Albert were happily married for 68 years until he passed in 2002, at age 90.

Hazel decided to move to Zephyrhills in 2012 to be near her son Ronald, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. About a year ago, she and her family began the search for an assisted living community nearby, where Hazel would feel at home, and be able to make new friends and enjoy her golden years. When they toured Rosecastle, they knew they’d found the perfect place.

Rosecastle Marketing Director Jennifer Hancock, who organized Hazel’s birthday celebration, said having Hazel as part of their community is a delight.

“We love having Hazel here,” said Hancock. “We believe assisted living is about enjoying life without the worries that come with aging. Our residents are our family, and their concerns and comfort are our top priority.”

A highlight of the party was when Zephyrhills Mayor Gene Whitfield presented Hazel with a proclamation from the City. Hazel said the best part was being surrounded by family and friends.

“These milestone events are my favorite,” said Hancock. “Our motto is ‘It’s never too late to live happily ever after.’ Seeing the big smile on Hazel’s face all afternoon tells me that’s true.”

Rosecastle of Zephyrhills is located at 37411 Eiland Blvd., Zephyrhills. They offer assisted living and memory care options. For more information, call (813) 783-8100.

Published January 31, 2018

When asked what she most likes about managing Zephyrhills Under Par golf course, Aya Burkhart said it’s all about community.

“We’re here for the community. We really are like a family, and that family includes our golfers and their families,” said Burkhart. “Some people come just to talk, some to eat. And of course, to play golf.”

A glance out the clubhouse windows at the lush, rolling green sprinkled with tall oak trees makes it easy to understand the appeal. Golf carts go by as clubs swish and click. The whole scene is quintessentially Zephyrhills.

Burkhart is quick to say it’s not just about golf. Families bring their kids to learn the game, even as seasoned vets play through in leagues.

“We have something to offer for everyone, all year-long,” said Burkhart. “During the winter season, the golf leagues and tournaments are the big draw. In the summer, the club’s early hours and reduced greens fees are very popular.”

Burkhart’s words and smile are as warm as the smell of fresh-baked brownies wafting from the kitchen in the clubhouse. The casual café serves a variety of specialty sandwiches and dogs. Detroit Dogs, Steak House Dogs, Reuben Dogs. If dogs aren’t your thing, you can get a classic Reuben sandwich, or a Reuben Philly Cheesesteak, a classic burger or a dripping fresh patty melt. In the mood for something cold? Go with a freshly made chicken salad sandwich. Thirsty? There’s soda on tap and beer by the bucket. Dessert? Those brownies do smell amazing.“All of our food is made fresh. Handmade,” said Burkhart. As for the low pricing, she chalks it up to Under Par’s penchant for people. As long as the place is bustling with people to talk to, she feels like business is good. “People are our business.”

Zephyrhills Under Par is definitely a place for people. It’s a hub for the community that happens to have 18 holes, beer on tap, and great food at great prices.

Zephyrhills Under Par is located at 39248 B Ave., Zephyrhills, FL 33542, near the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport. The 18-hole course features 5,054 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 68. The course rating is 70.0, and it has a slope rating of 113. The golf course opened in 1978. They’re open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Call (813) 782-0714 for more information.

Published January 24, 2018

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Here’s one for you: A family walks into a restaurant. The mom wants an upscale seafood entrée and a glass of wine. The kids are thinking more along the lines of spaghetti, or maybe chicken tenders with a soda or chocolate milk. The dad, he just wants a country-fried steak with mashed potatoes.

The solution to this riddle is pretty simple: The family has obviously walked into Franky D’s Family Kitchen in Lutz, where there’s something for everyone.

Twin brothers Dan and Dennis Demarco saw the need for such a place in the community, and decided to tackle it head on. They come well-qualified, too. Dennis has degrees in culinary arts and nutrition from Johnson & Whales University. He and his wife, Mireya, are the ones making the magic happen in the kitchen. Dan and Shellie have the business and marketing end covered.

“So long as they stay out of my kitchen, I’ll do whatever Dan and Shellie ask,” Dennis says, half jokingly. “But seriously, we’re a family. We all work hard at what we do, and we want this to be a place where others can bring their family and friends and enjoy!”

Dennis also prides himself on having a kitchen with no microwave. “All our food is served fresh and cooked properly. No nukes!”

With an obvious sense of family pride, Dan adds that the name “Franky D’s” is a tribute to their father. “He’s truly a wonderful and hard-working man. And, our 50-seat, private meeting room honors our mother, Jackie Mae. Growing up, her kitchen was a place where all were welcome, and no one left hungry.”

Shellie likes to point out that the Jackie Mae room has a large screen TV, that can be used for PowerPoint or other video presentations. “Instead of holding yet another meeting in the ‘bored’ room, why not get your staff out of the office for a change?”

Franky D’s has recently begun serving breakfast as well, making it an ideal place to visit morning, noon or night. So whether it’s a simple burger, or a savory prime rib, there really is something for everyone at Franky D’s.

18450 N. US 41 • Lutz, FL 33549

813-591-6139 • Franky-Ds.com

Published January 17, 2018

It’s a story as old as healthcare. You get a nagging injury. Head over to the chiropractor for an adjustment. You feel better, and don’t return. That is, until the pain returns.

“Unfortunately, that’s really the wrong approach,” says Dr. Barnabas Bickerton, D.C. of The Joint chiropractic clinic in New Tampa Center. “Chiropractic is really about preventative care and correcting our bad body mechanics.”

No one understands this more than The Joint’s president of business operations, Alex Pierroutsakos. After a tragic car accident at the age of 23 left him without a right arm, and with severe nerve damage, he slowly came to understand the real benefits of chiropractic medicine.

At first there were a lot of surgeries, physical therapy and message therapy, but there was also a lot of pain. Fortunately he was able to avoid the pitfalls of opioids, but when the pain would get severe, he’d go in for an adjustment. Then pretty much ignore the urging of his chiropractor to schedule regular visits.

After many years of this revolving door approach he recognized that maybe chiropractic care is a lifestyle, like his doctor had insisted, instead of the quick fix he was using it as. “It finally dawned on me that because of my injuries my body is obviously out of alignment. It’s easy to see now how it’s improved my overall health and well-being,” he waxed reflectively.

Through manual manipulation of the spine chiropractic care works to restore and maintain proper communication from your brain to your body by relieving what chiropractors refer to as subluxation, or spinal misalignment. Restoring proper alignment can assist with relief of back and neck pain, migraines, joint discomfort, as well as sciatica and fibromyalgia.

Dr. Bickerton proudly added, “The Joint’s philosophy is a core value in the practice of chiropractic. I’m grateful to be working with them, specifically because the people I work closely with understand this approach and enthusiastically share my dedication to our purpose in the community.”

Whatever symptoms you may be experiencing, The Joint invites you to join the millions who have a found a pathway to wellness with chiropractic’s natural, drug-free approach to healthcare. You never need an appointment or referral to visit them. To find out more call or check out The Joint’s website.

813-995-7380 • thejoint.com

 19014 Bruce B. Downs. • Tampa, FL 33647

Published November 8, 2017