Hoadley Ave Junkyard Site of Animal Cruelty

ABC Action News had video of the fence mentioned below, and an interview with a nearby Port Tampa resident. I can't find the link now, and they may have taken it down permanently, but if I can find it I'll post an update. One thing development is bringing is closer scrutiny of what goes on behind the fences at these junk yards. This headline could also have been, Concerned Neighbors Try to Save Dogs' Lives, Report Abuser

Man Charged With Cruelty
By ELAINE SILVESTRINI The Tampa Tribune

Published: Apr 21, 2007

TAMPA - A 51-year-old city man, who displayed suspected dog skulls on his fence, has been charged with cruelty to animals for allegedly neglecting dogs he kept outside at his boat business.

Authorities were notified by a concerned citizen and responded to Richard Allan Hopkins' business at 7260 Hoadley Avenue, according to Marti Ryan, spokeswoman for Hillsborough County animal control. Ryan said three dogs - two adults and a puppy - had been neglected for some time and had injuries to their faces and paws that were infected and untreated. The animals were also infested with fleas and showed signs of heart worm, she said.

Hopkins had two full skulls and some more partial skulls on his fence. Ryan said investigator Renee Northrup is confident they are dog skulls.

Read the full story here

Traffic Light Coming to Interbay/Westshore/Commerce Intersection

As reported in the Tampa Tribune:

By MARK HOLAN The Tampa Tribune

Published: Apr 14, 2007

PORT TAMPA - The city will install a traffic signal at the busy intersection of West Shore and Interbay boulevards and Commerce Street.Residents say they have been asking for a flashing light or other ways to slow traffic at the bend for at least 10 years.Now they just have to wait one more year.

"We know the growth in this area is going to continue," transportation manager Roy LaMotte said Thursday after briefing the city council about the light. He said the design will include pedestrian crossing signals.

Read the rest of the article here.

IMHO Port Tampa residents need to stay informed about the design and construction. The last thing we need is to have the promised pedestrian signals delayed or cut because of budget issues.

Yappy Tails Expands, New Web Site Up

The folks at Yappy Tails Barkery have expanded beyond basic word of mouth advertising and a faint web presence to a full blown .com web site. Visit the new
Yappy Tails Barkery site and support a homegrown Port Tampa business. The Barkery can supply all of your dog treat needs and the new site links to dog portraiture, dog events, dog info, and doggone fun.

Paint Your Heart Out Tampa to Improve Port Tampa Home

Paint Your Heart Out Tampa Bay has selected a Port Tampa City Home to receive minor repairs, pressure washing and a fresh coat of paint. The all volunteer organization enables clubs, businesses and citizens to lend a helping hand to disadvantaged, elderly homeowners. Volunteering is rewarding in many ways,from being able to help others to the feeling of being part of a solution. The Tampa Bay Tigers, a local youth football team, wants to make a difference and plans to paint and build a wheelchair ramp for a Port Tampa City resident this month. Way to go, Tigers!
The scheduled paint day is Saturday, April 21st. If you would like to participate, please contact Cookie Robinson at 390-9766 for more information.

Hat tip to the Hibiscus Newsletter of the Port Tampa City Women's Club.