Guido Maniscalco's World

My grandmother will be turning 85 years old this year. If my grandfather were alive he would turn 92 years old this coming August. Their generation is quickly fading away. The entire World War II generation is slipping through our fingers each passing day. This is the same generation that remembers what Tampa used to be like. This is the same generation that grew up in Ybor City. Many of us consider this generation of folks to be old. I think of them as our treasure. They are our main living link to the past. The stories they tell are told in a way photographs and history books can not, because their stories are their own. They lived them. They were there.

I belong to several clubs and organizations throughout our city. The Sons of Italy, Ybor City Round Table, and Ybor City Lion’s Club are just a few whose meetings I enjoy attending on a regular basis. This year I will be turning 28 years old. Most of the members in these groups are over 70 and many over 80. These members have continued these club traditions since they were my age and younger. They became members because their fathers and mothers were members. Today, they are what continues to keep these clubs going. Where will they be in ten years? Many will have passed away and even more unable to be as active as before. Who will pass the torch to the new generation?

To be honest I just don’t see the same passion in my generation as I do in the older generation that is currently keeping these organizations active. Last year I overheard a man in his seventies ask the person sitting next to him, “Where are all the young Latins and Italians? What is gonna happen to Tampa years down the road?” He asked these questions with great concern. Who could blame him? He knew he wasn’t going to be around forever and he was really asking who the torch could be passed on to. Who can this older generation trust?

When this older generation passes what will happen to the Centro Asutriano on Nebraska Avenue and the Sons of Italy lodge on Lemon Street? These buildings can not fall into desrepair nor can these clubs cease to exist. It is up to our generation, the young folks like us, to tighten our belts and realize just how important these clubs are. We need to see an increase in membership and a newfound interest in these organizations. The Ybor City Lions Club has been meeting at the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City since 1951. The Sons of Italy goes back several generations. The Centro Asturiano building has stood proud since before World War II. The Italian Club on 7th avenue always draws a crowd, especially on Friday nights during their happy hour. Regardless, we need to motivate the younger generations to get involved and if they already are involved to step it up a few notches.

Most of these clubs will die if the younger generation is not motivated. Too much sacrifice and too much hard work has gone into all these organizations for them to simply one day just fade away. We need to maintain our living, breathing history for our future generations. We can not expect to tell them stories and show them old photos of what used to be. Remember your ancestors and those who immigrated to Tampa from Cuba, Spain, Germany, Italy, and so many other places. Their memories will live on only if we continue to preserve their memories. We need a newfound interest in clubs from Ybor City to West Tampa and beyond. We have the population we just need the motivation. Our parents and grandparents are depending on us to carry our Tampa traditions forward and to pass them on to the future generations. Let’s not let them down.

East Tampa is the lost community. Besides Ybor City, the cemetaries, and downtown Tampa it seems most people who do not live there ignore the area completely. Too many people forget how much of Tampa’s history began in the east part of town. The first home my grandfather ever purchased was in East Tampa. He put $100 down on a house on 48th st. and had a mortgage of $56 per month. Keep in mind this was in 1965.

Seminole Heights has had its revival and the neighborhood is bustling with folks and businesses. Hyde Park has received a tremendous boost of activity in the last decade. 22nd street in the College Hill area, the road that leads you directly into Ybor City, has had a major renovation in recent years yet little attention is paid to it. We  hear about the new Encore district over on Nebraska Ave. leading into downtown that is under construction and all the history connected with that area. The legendary Central Ave. which is seen in the movie “Black Like Me” is no longer there having been torn down decades ago to make way for the interstate and other projects. We hear about bits and pieces of East Tampa, the pieces they want you to hear about, but what about the neighborhoods in between?

Have you driven down 34th street, south of Lake, to East 24th avenue? Did you take the time to take a look at Columbus Drive, not Boliche Boulevard, but closer to the Ybor area? Has anyone noticed the beautiful, historical homes and buildings, many that lay empty? Tampa loves history. Tampa is passionate about its history. So why does it neglect certain parts of the city and certain parts of its history?

When you drive through East Tampa you will notice the lack of restaurants, movie theaters, big businesses, large car dealerships, and so much more. Where are the Home Depots, the Wal-Marts, the CVS and Walgreens pharmacies? Where is the multiscreen movie theater? Where is the Red Lobster, the Carrabbas, or even the Starbucks? People and corporations invested in Seminole Heights and Hyde Park and so many other Tampa neighborhoods. Why have they neglected East Tampa?

These are the questions that deserve the answers. If a city expects to grow, then a city should understand that every neighborhood and every person living in that neighborhood is important. People say New Tampa has a lot and South Tampa has everything. West Tampa is not too far behind. So why is East Tampa kept in last place? Why doesn’t the love for Ybor City and downtown reach out to the rest of the district. Are people scared to invest in new ideas or afraid to take risks? When people want something bad enough they are always willing to do what it takes to achieve that goal. Most of us do not understand the untapped potential of the eastern part of our great city.

I drive through Robles Park and College Hill and Grant Park and Jackson Heights and I see neighborhoods that are as equally attractive as in West Tampa from MacFarland Park to Seminole Heights. Many have the same brick streets as in West Tampa and many of the homes have the same look. When an area is neglected it soon becomes forgotten. This is what has happened in East Tampa.

An elderly gentleman who was born and raised in Ybor City once told me that many years ago everyone started moving out of the neighborhood to newer and better places, but fifty and sixty years later they started coming back and wondered what happened to the old neighborhood. The answer is clear and simple: Neglect is what happened to the old neighborhood and neglect is what happened to East Tampa. People forgot and now we are left with something more than a “diamond in the rough” because East Tampa is worth a tremendous amount more in the hearts of many. East Tampa needs a renaissance that is long overdue.

I brag about Tampa on a regular basis. I’ve had an enduring love affair with this city since as long as I can remember. Is it because we have a rich history, a beautiful and diverse community, and are the shining jewel of Florida? Or maybe it’s because we can boast about our Stanley Cup and Super Bowl victories? Or how about because we can tell the story of Ybor City, Central Avenue, President Kennedy’s visit in 1963, or even Elvis Presley eating at one of our local diners in the 1950’s? Did you know the movie “Hell Harbor” starring Lupe Velez was filmed here in 1930? I know you’ve been told we were once the cigar capital of the world. It’s true. Thousands of hard working folks spent lifetimes in our big brick cigar factories rolling cigars.

We have hosted Super Bowls, welcomed presidents, and in August will be hosting the Republican National Convention (the first time in Florida since the convention was in Miami years ago). Our port is one of the largest and one of the most successful in the state (actually it very well may be the largest and most successful in Florida). Our potential is limitless. Our greatness is very well understood.

Tampa is home to several nationally recognized schools. Our community speaks multiple languages. We have numerous successful long standing small businesses. Our international airport offers direct flights to England, Cuba, and soon to Switzerland. Actually, Tampa International Airport is the most convenient and most easily accessible airport I have ever been to. I know we are very proud of that as well.

I have mentioned that Tampa is one big family and I stand by the statement because it is the truth. There are so many families in this town that go back multiple generations and it is amazing to see how so many people here are connected. This brings us comfort because we know that we are always here for each other. It’s a Tampa thing and I am very proud of it.

Why would I want to live anywhere else? Who would want to leave this magical place? Each day I find myself discovering something new here. I meet new people and visit new places and am simply amazed at all the new beautiful things I find and learn.

Tampa was the site for the rocket launch to the moon in Jules Verne’s, “From Earth to the Moon”. Mick Jagger said he was “…Tampa bound” in the Rolling Stones song “Rip This Joint”. The movie “The Punisher” was filmed in Tampa with many well known landmarks. People all over the country know what “Gasparilla” is. The New York Yankees have their spring training here. The team owner even lived here until he passed away a few years ago.

Be sure to never underestimate the greatness of Tampa. In this brief blog I have given you a tiny glimpse as to how special our city is. For those who did not know many of these facts, now you know. For those of you who have been a part of Tampa all your lives I thank you for your contribution to this city. The sky is the limit and we will only continue to be great.

Cafe con leche is a staple of Tampa breakfast. When pancakes are just too filling and cereal gets boring, cafe con leche is the way to go. It is the breakfast of the Tampanian gods. When paired with hot, buttered Cuban toast, this classic Tampa breakfast surely satisfies even the most discriminating appetites.

Due to decades of increased demand this delicious meal is available in many Tampa locations. Friendships are created, politics discussed, and the time is passed over endless cups of cafe con leche. We gravitate to it like bees to honey. I know I’ve had my share through the years, but little do people know that as a kid I used to hate going to the coffee shops in West Tampa. They were too loud. People would discuss things that a kid would not typically be interested in, like politics and jokes kids would usually not understand. Then I grew up. Breakfast at the coffee shops have become part of my regular morning routine.

The West Tampa Sandwich Shop is almost walking distance from my place of business. Amarilly’s is just around the corner. Aguila Sandwich Shop is just a short drive away. And if you’re looking for a quiet place I recommend the Fourth of July Cafe. Each place makes you feel welcome. Actually, they feel as comfortable as being with family. Too bad I did not realize that as a kid. Now I know.

I remember my mom telling me about my grandfather, Guido Morana, and how he would prepare his coffee at home and bring it here to our store. Often times his friends would come by with their own “cafecito” and pass the mornings chatting away. Thirty years later I try to carry on that same tradition but with a new generation of friends. Long gone are my grandfather’s friends replaced today with political neophytes, old college friends, and folks from the neighborhood. We all share one common bond: we love Tampa. We all share one common appetite: a nice cup of cafe con leche.

And so people who have moved away and visit Tampa on occassion often dream about cafe con leche. I have seen natives fly in to Tampa International Airport and make their first stop at one of our coffee shops eager for their sip of delicious Tampa goodness. I don’t blame them – it’s just that good.

I took a quote from Sammy Davis, Jr. singing the song “Chicago” and changed “Chicago” in the lyrics to “Tampa”. I ended up with this: “You can keep Las Vegas…just give me Tampa. it’s my hometown”

I remember rowing down the Hillsborough River while on the rowing team in high school. The hidden beauty of a rarely seen side of Tampa came alive. Houses, buildings, and schools would peek from the passing trees and greenery. In the early morning my Tampa would awaken in the dawn.

For those who find Tampa to be boring I can only say one thing: they are not exploring the beauty of this city deeply enough. Our history is rich. Our culture is beautiful. We are a jewel of a city. Tampanians are more family than mere residents. Tampa is unique in itself.

Few cities can share stories as rich as those of Tampa. I have heard many of these stories from the previous generations. The greatness of Ybor City, our cigar industry, Henry Plant’s railroad, and Teddy Roosevelt are just a few. I admire this city’s greatness not just because I was born here, but because our history continues to come alive.

West Tampa is where my childhood was spent and it is where I have worked since I was a teenager. In my short life I have seen our city go through several changes and I have met many great people who have, sadly, passed away. I was a student at Jesuit High School briefly, but I later transferred to Tampa Catholic High where I ended up graduating from. My family planted the seeds of their business in West Tampa in 1974 and still continue to this day.

It’s funny how quickly you feel like you’ve traveled back into the past when the road you’re driving on goes from asphalt to brick. Some neighborhoods have never changed. Our history is living and breathing. From Ybor City to Hyde Park and from West Tampa to East Tampa the past comes alive.

I have sometimes heard about times when Tampa was “the next great city”. I have always thought we ARE that great city. We have been THAT great city for a long time. It is the reason I will never leave this town. I can travel all over the world, but nothing compares to the comfort of home.

Tampa is more than just a melting pot – it is a huge family. The feeling of family is what makes us so unique. This feeling is what so many other cities lack. Our feeling of family is something outsiders have never understood. Everyone seems to know everyone in Tampa. It’s either you know them or you’re probably related in some way. This is something us Tampa natives have come to realize and it is just one more reason why we stay and continue to live here.

I was born here. I grew up here. I work and I live here. I need nothing more. Tampa is where my heart is. Tampa is where my heart belongs

In a time burdened by economic woes, what motivates a man to seek public office? As difficult as the situation may be, a true leader is undeterred and the burning desire to serve constituents is not extinguished, regardless of what obstacles lie ahead. Lord Tweedsmuir once wrote, “Public life is the crown of a career and to young men it is the worthiest ambition. Politics is still the greatest and most honorable adventure.”

I understand the potential that is too often unseen – the above and beyond. I seek the answers to the problems at hand. A strong voice on the city council means a strong, sincere representation for the people that has been lacking for too many years. Nothing stands between me and serving our community.

A seat on the city council is a part time job with a full time commitment, but few elected officials grasp this basic concept. Tampa never sleeps; therefore committed public servants are absolutely essential. If we lose our focus, we jeopardize our future.

Serving on the city council is not a dream nor seeking a new profession, rather my desire to bring a refreshing perspective to local government. It is important to me, just as it is to many others, to assume a more proactive position in the community. It is important to be as hands on as possible, exploring every aspect of the city in order to allow us a better understanding of what is happening in its every day life. If we refuse to serve with wide open eyes and ears, how will we ever understand the issues at hand?

Whether passion or compassion, it is no secret how much I love Tampa. And with this love brings the determination to keep our city on the right track in the 21^st century. May we always be the frontrunner in this race of progress and a shining light of example for other cities in this country. We, as Tampanians, are entitled to the best, so why not reach out for it?

I am the youngest candidate in the entire race and by being a Tampa native who is born, raised, and educated here, I have a rich understanding of our culture, our community, the direction this city needs to go in and where you and I want this city to be.

It’s true, I don’t always hang out in West Tampa and Ybor City. You have probably bumped into me in the Hyde Park area. Since 2002, I have been an almost daily visitor of the Starbucks on South Howard. In the evenings, I take a walk down the street and either stop in at the Lime or Daily Eats. Many of you will remember that the Daily Eats location is the former Old Meeting House. My favorite ice cream flavor at Daily Eats? Nanner Pudding (I tried the french toast flavor last night and it wasn’t too bad). The Lime, which has great food, is the site of the former Primadonna’s Restaurant. If you continue down the street, you’ll see the new Mr. T’s location, which I have yet to try, and right around the corner is the Caliyogurt. When ice cream just won’t hit the spot, I’ll enjoy the frozen yogurt instead. My favorite toppings? Gummy bears, strawberries, and cheesecake bits. If I wanna get fancy, I stroll down just a little bit more and stop in at Bern’s. No, I don’t go in for dinner. I go right up to the Harry Waugh Dessert Room for macamadia nut sundae’s, banana’s foster, and all the other great items they offer. Kenny plays the piano.

You’re probably wondering what a West Tampa kid is doing down in South Tampa. Easy! I went to Christ the King school for a little bit then continued to St. John Greek Orthodox right there on Swann. I’ve been familiar with the area since 1989! For high school, I was at Jesuit for a year, then transferred to Tampa Catholic and graduated in 2002.

This morning, as I do every Saturday, I enjoyed cafe con leche and some Cuban bread at the West Tampa Sandwich Shop on N. Armenia Ave.

Linda Saul-Sena, who is running for a seat on the Hillsborough County Commission, as well as her campaign volunteers, also meet to enjoy breakfast on Saturday mornings.

This morning I had the pleasure of having my cafe con leche with my father, Giuseppe Maniscalco, as well as Joe and Dora Caltagirone. Mr. Caltagirone is the man every Tampa native must meet and talk with. In so many words, he is a living history book who loves to tell stories of Tampa from many years ago. Whether you want to talk about the old street car that use to run through the city or how Ybor City has changed throughout the years, Mr. Caltagirone always takes pleasure in telling his stories. He is a World War II veteran, and, although he is in his 80’s, he has the energy of a 25 year old. Close your eyes while talking to him and you’d think you were talking to someone 60 years younger!

What we need to realize is that people like Joe Caltagirone as well as those of his generation are extremely important to get to know. They hold the key to the past. They witnessed history first hand and can tell the stories to prove it. They understand the best, because they lived through it.

All in all, I always look forward to having breakfast at the West Tampa Sandwich Shop. My father, Giuseppe Maniscalco, is a regular who can be found drinking his cafe con leche and reading the Tampa Tribune every morning. He also writes La Pagina Italiana for La Gaceta newspaper. La Gaceta is America’s ONLY tri-lingual newspaper, with articles in English, Spanish, and Italian. It is also family owned……for 88 years now!

Tampa is full of rich history……..and to think that one time I had a friend of mine who recently moved here tell me, “Oh, yeah…Tampa is nothing but a big retirement community.”  It only took me a few hours of touring Tampa with her to make her realize she was totally wrong. Our city is a shining star in the state of Florida. Everyone should take a weekend and explore all the beautiful things Tampa has to offer.

So next time you drive south on Armenia Avenue, pay attention as you cross Tampa Bay Blvd, because on your right you’ll see a little place called the West Tampa Sandwich Shop. If you drive too fast, you might miss it, but keep in mind that this little jewel of West Tampa is a hub where so many people come to meet and have coffee every day. It’s in these little places where much of the magic happens.

Every Friday night from 6:30 to 8 PM, I like to spend time with friends at the Italian Club in Ybor City. For those of you who have never been, the Italian Club is located on 7th avenue in Ybor City (right across the street from Carmine’s Restaurant). They feature a buffet brought to you by Wayle of a Time Catering with all you can eat for only $10 and a cash bar! Besides the fact the Italian Club is one of Tampa’s most beautiful buildings with over 90+ years of history, the people there are absolutely wonderful. I am also a member of the Krewe of Italia, which is featured in all the major Gasparilla parades here in Tampa. If you haven’t stopped in yet, make sure to do so. Come by and meet me, as I am there every Friday evening.

Thank you for visiting my blogging site! Although many of
you have seen my Facebook profile, this is a new tool I would like to utilize so everyone can follow me as I campaign for the Tampa City Council District 1 seat. Although elections are in March 2011, we’ve already begun spreading the word all over Tampa!