In what will provide a signficant bridge in connecting the business community of South Howard, Bern's plans to begin construction of a parking garage on the site immediately west of their landmark Steakhouse in May of this year. As you walk south on Howard, you have to notice the darkness that settles in around the Expressway. With "For Sale" Signs on the building where Maria's Auto Detailing and Robin's Barber Shop, this additional small step of redevelopment will probably add to that connection.

Additionally, plans call for Bern's to construct a boutique, three floor hotel with between 55-75 rooms that will include a spa and pool. A restaurant will be part of the hotel that will be a different concept from Bern's and SideBern's, but details are still away off. Construction should start on the hotel before the end of 2006 depending on how the parking garage progresses.

Since Bern Laxer's death, the Bern's reputation of quality has not tarnished in the least from David and Chrissi Laxer's tenure.

While there are some great restaurants in the SOHO area and in the City of Tampa, BERN'S Steakhouse is clearly one of the most deservedly famous in the entire U.S.

Admittedly, it was annoying to have the roads blocked off by the President's security team while making my trip home from work.

And yes, I am sure that these additions, just like the condo projects, other restaurants, and townhomes that are on the way to our neighborhood will add more congestion to SOHO.

But to live in a neighborhood where I can visit the same restaurant where the President and the Rolling Stones come to dine is all right with me.