Gregory Kielma • October 31, 2023
DeSoto Square Mall: The Bradenton, FL Mall That Time Forgot…Maybe? NAW!!!!
DeSoto Square Mall: The Bradenton, FL Mall That Time Forgot…Maybe?
Author Spencer Walsh
October 29, 2023
The Birth of DeSoto Square Mall: A New Dawn in Bradenton
In 1973, people sought exciting places to spend their hard-earned money. That’s when DeSoto Square Mall burst onto the scene in Bradenton, FL, thanks to the ingenuity of the Edward J. DeBartolo Corporation.
Initially, the mall was slated to go by Bradenton Mall. However, city officials had reservations about that name since the mall wasn’t actually within the city limits.
So, the company pivoted and rechristened it as DeSoto Square Mall. A savvy move that not only resolved the geographical issue but also added a dash of sophistication, don’t you think?
The name change from Bradenton Mall to DeSoto Square Mall was a strategic move to give the mall a unique identity.
The mall opened with anchor stores like JCPenney, Sears, and Maas Brothers. These were the big players back in the day.
Imagine walking into the mall and being greeted by the smell of fresh popcorn and the sound of laughter. It was the place to be, and it felt like a new world had opened up in Bradenton.
Moving on, the mall wasn’t just a shopping center; it was a social hub. Teenagers would hang out at the arcade while adults found solace in the various boutiques and department stores. It was a win-win for everyone.
Additionally, the mall’s strategic location at 303 301 Boulevard West made it easily accessible. You could hop off the freeway, shop, and return to the road quickly. Convenience was the name of the game.
In contrast to today’s digital age, the mall was a testament to the era of physical retail. It was a time when people enjoyed going out to shop. Ah, those were the days!
The Golden Years and Celebrity Visits: When DeSoto Square Mall Was the Star
Fast forward a few years, and the mall was thriving. It was the late ’70s, and DeSoto Square Mall was the place to be.
Even Ronald Reagan couldn’t resist its charm. That’s right, the future President of the United States visited the mall in 1976. Talk about star power!
Now, let’s talk about expansion. In 1978, the mall decided it was time to grow. The Suncoast Motel was demolished to make way for additional parking facilities. Because when you’re popular, you need room for all your fans, right?
In the years that followed, the mall continued to be a bustling hub of activity. Families would spend their weekends exploring the stores, dining at the food court, and participating in seasonal events. It was a wondrous time, and the mall was at the center of it all.
So, why was DeSoto Square Mall so special? It wasn’t just the stores or the food court; it was the experience.
The mall had a way of making you feel like you were part of something bigger. It was a community gathering spot, a place where memories were made.
DeSoto Square Mall was more than a shopping center; it was a cornerstone of the community.
Changes in Retail Landscape: The Winds of Change at DeSoto Square Mall
The ’80s and ’90s brought new challenges and opportunities for DeSoto Square Mall. New stores like Belk-Lindsey in 1979 and Burdines in 1991 debuted, adding to the mall’s allure. But that’s not all.
The late ’80s saw talks about adding a food court. Finally, in April 1997, the Port O’Call food court opened its doors.
Moving on, the new millennium brought its own set of changes. Old Navy joined the mall in 2000, and Burdines rebranded to Macy’s in 2004. The mall was adapting, evolving, and doing its best to keep up with the times.
If you were looking for things to do in Bradenton, Florida, the mall was still a top choice. It was a one-stop shop for all your needs. From shopping and dining to entertainment, DeSoto Square Mall had it all.
In contrast, the retail landscape was changing rapidly. Online shopping was becoming more popular, and malls nationwide felt the heat. DeSoto Square Mall was no exception.
It was a challenging time, but the mall soldiered on, adapting and evolving to meet the needs of a new generation.
The Impact of Economic Downturns: When the Tide Turned for DeSoto Square Mall
Ah, the Great Recession of 2008. It was a tough time for many, and DeSoto Square Mall was no exception. In 2009, several stores closed (Dillard’s, Old Navy, Waldenbooks, and Foot Locker), leaving empty spaces and a sense of loss.
But wait, there’s a silver lining! The space formerly occupied by Old Navy transformed into Saturn 5, a family entertainment center, in 2010. Talk about making lemonade out of lemons!
The transformation of Old Navy’s space into Saturn 5 was a creative way to utilize vacant retail space.
Moving on, the mall faced another challenge in May 2012 when Simon Property Group announced plans to sell it. The mall was changing hands, and uncertainty loomed large.
But as they say, when one door closes, another opens. Mason Asset Management swooped in and acquired the property in November 2012 for a cool $25 million.
In a series of blows to DeSoto Square Mall, Macy’s shuttered its doors in July 2014 to move to the Mall at University Town Center, followed by the theater’s closure a month later.
Sears Holdings spun off 235 properties, including its DeSoto Square Mall location, into a separate entity called Seritage Growth Properties in 2015 but closed in October 2018.
Additionally, the new owners had plans to revitalize the mall, but the financial struggles were far from over. In contrast to its golden years, the mall was a shadow of its former self. Yet, it held a certain nostalgic charm for those who remembered its heyday. It was a bittersweet reminder of times gone by.
Ownership Changes and Financial Struggles: The Rollercoaster Ride of DeSoto Square Mall
Ah, the world of business is never straightforward, is it? DeSoto Square Mall experienced its fair share of ups and downs regarding ownership.
Mason Asset Management took the reins in November 2012, shelling out $25 million for the property. You’d think with new ownership, the mall would get a fresh start, right? Well, not exactly.
New ownership doesn’t always mean a fresh start; sometimes, it’s just a change of hands in an ongoing struggle.
The mall was already grappling with financial issues, and Mason Asset Management had a tough road ahead. They had plans, they had visions, but what they didn’t have was a magic wand.
Additionally, let’s talk about bankruptcy. In a twist worthy of a daytime drama, Romspen US Master Mortgage LP finally took over the property through an online bankruptcy auction in October 2021.
Why? DeSoto Owners LLC couldn’t keep up with a loan ballooning to $21 million. Adding another layer to this intricate tale, Meyer Lebovitz, owner of DeSoto Owners LLC, had initially bought the property from Mason Asset in April 2017 for a staggering $25,500,000.
If you find it hard to keep up, you’re in good company. The ownership saga of the mall is as tangled as any TV melodrama.
The mall’s complex ownership history is a testament to its financial struggles and the challenges of retail in the modern age.
In contrast to the mall’s early years, when it was a bustling hub of activity, these ownership changes and financial struggles painted a picture of instability.
Moving on, despite the financial hurdles, the mall trudged along. It was like a fighter refusing to throw in the towel. But as we all know, every story has an ending, and DeSoto Square Mall was no exception.
The Final Chapter and Closure: The Sun Sets on DeSoto Square Mall
Fast forward to April 29, 2021, and the inevitable happened. DeSoto Square Mall closed its doors, leaving behind only four operating stores. It was the end of an era, and the mall that had once been a bustling hub of activity was now silent.
The closure of DeSoto Square Mall was not just the end of a shopping center, but the end of a community landmark.
DeSoto Owners LLC, the company that owned the mall, made attempts to restructure its finances. However, the mall had reached a point of no return. It was time to say goodbye.
So, what was it like on that final day? Imagine walking through the empty corridors, past closed stores and vacant spaces. It was like walking through a ghost town, a place frozen in time. Yet, the memories remained, etched in the walls and the hearts of those who had spent their days there.
Moving on, the mall’s closure left a void in the community. It was more than a place to shop; it was a place where friendships were made, where families came together, and where memories were created. And now, it was gone.
What Lies Ahead for DeSoto Square Mall: A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes?
But don’t lose hope just yet! CRJ Bradenton LLC purchased the DeSoto Square Mall property for $25.7 million in May 2022 and has big plans for its future.
Imagine luxury apartments, mixed-use spaces, and a whole new vibe. The property is set to be redeveloped into smaller 8 or 10-acre parcels, adding a fresh lease of life to the 58-acre area.
Additionally, the new owners have been working on a master plan to transform the property into an exciting mixed-use village. They’re even addressing some historic stormwater challenges in partnership with the county. So, it’s not just about buildings; it’s about creating a sustainable future.
In contrast to its past struggles, the future looks promising for the DeSoto Square Mall property. The first phase of redevelopment includes 300 residential units. So, if you’re wondering what’s next for this iconic landmark, let’s say it’s gearing up for a second act.
Marijuana and Firearms: A Responsible Perspective By Gregg Kielma 01/31/2026 As a firearms instructor, my priority is always the same: safety, legality, and sound judgment. That means having honest conversations about topics that affect responsible gun ownership—even when those topics are uncomfortable or misunderstood. One of the biggest areas of confusion today is the relationship between marijuana use and firearms. Whether someone uses marijuana recreationally or medicinally, the reality is simple: you cannot mix impaired judgment with a firearm. A firearm demands clarity, awareness, and the ability to make life‑altering decisions in fractions of a second. Anything that dulls reaction time, alters perception, or affects decision‑making undermines the core principles of responsible gun ownership. Beyond safety, there’s the legal side. Even in states where marijuana is legal, federal law still classifies it as a controlled substance. That means marijuana users—regardless of state law—can face serious federal consequences if they possess or attempt to purchase a firearm. Many gun owners don’t realize that answering “yes” to marijuana use on a federal background check disqualifies them, and answering “no” when they do use it is a federal crime. These are not small technicalities; they’re issues that can cost someone their rights, their record, and their future. From my perspective, responsible ownership means understanding the law, respecting the law, and making choices that protect yourself and those around you. If someone chooses to use marijuana, that’s their decision—but they must also understand how that decision affects their ability to legally and safely own or handle a firearm. Kielma's Parting Shot Firearms and impaired judgment simply do not mix. My goal is to help every student make informed, responsible decisions that keep them safe, keep them legal, and keep them in control.
Nashua Woman Pleads Guilty to Straw Purchasing a Firearm Later Recovered at a Crime Scene CONCORD – A Nashua woman pleaded guilty today in federal court to making a false statement to acquire a firearm for another person, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Tanya Hunter, 40, pleaded guilty to making a false statement in connection with acquiring a firearm. According to the charging documents and statements made in court, on December 20, 2023, Hunter purchased the gun from a federally licensed firearms dealer in Hudson, New Hampshire, for a Massachusetts man. Hunter lied on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) form for the purchase when she said she was the actual buyer or transferee of the firearm. The firearm was later recovered from a crime scene in Massachusetts. The charges carry a possible sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The Court scheduled sentencing in this matter for May 11, 2026. The investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Howard is prosecuting the case. Updated January 29, 2026
FRT Update 01/31/2026 In a move that has stunned many in the firearms community, the United States government, through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), filed a rare “Statement of Interest” on January 26, 2026, in a private patent infringement lawsuit in the Eastern District of Tennessee. The case pits ABC IP, LLC and Rare Breed Triggers, Inc. against Timothy Hoffman, an individual inventor, and his small Tennessee-based company, Hoffman Tactical LLC. Rather than remaining neutral in what is ostensibly a civil dispute over intellectual property, the Department of Justice chose to weigh in heavily on the side of the plaintiffs, urging the court to consider the “public interest” as strongly favoring a preliminary injunction against Hoffman. At the heart of the dispute are forced reset triggers (FRTs). These devices allow semi-automatic firearms to achieve a faster cyclic rate by mechanically resetting the trigger after each shot. Rare Breed Triggers holds several patents on its version of this technology, and it alleges that Hoffman infringed those patents by designing and publicly sharing 3D-printable files for a similar “super safety” trigger design. Hoffman, like many innovators in the 3D-printing and home-gun-building community, openly released his files, enabling hobbyists to experiment and manufacture their own parts. What makes this case extraordinary is the federal government’s intervention. The ATF’s filing explicitly states that it has a “strong interest… in discouraging unregulated manufacture of forced reset triggers.” It argues that enjoining Hoffman would advance public safety and support the agency’s broader efforts to limit the proliferation of FRTs. Remarkably, the government cites a May 2025 settlement agreement it reached with Rare Breed, after years of aggressive enforcement actions against the company, as justification for now backing Rare Breed’s private patent enforcement crusade. This settlement is worth examining closely. After the Supreme Court’s 2024 decision in Garland v. Cargill struck down the ATF’s bump-stock rule, the agency’s legal position on other rapid-fire devices like FRTs became precarious. Facing multiple adverse court rulings, the ATF chose to settle its civil enforcement actions against Rare Breed. In exchange for dropping the lawsuits, Rare Breed agreed not to design FRTs for handguns and crucially to “take all reasonable efforts to enforce its patents and seek injunctions” against anyone else making or distributing FRTs. In essence, the government outsourced part of its regulatory agenda to a private company, turning a former enforcement target into an ally. Now, when a small inventor like Timothy Hoffman independently develops and shares a competing design, the federal government steps in, not to prosecute him criminally, but to lend its considerable weight to a corporate plaintiff seeking to shut him down. This move is a profoundly troubling development for several reasons.
Before Prices Shift: An Important Update The inevitable is upon us, as price increases plan to take effect on April 1, 2026. These changes will apply to a wide variety of ammunition types, from rifle ammo to shot shells. Largely due to the volatile nature of raw materials utilized in ammo production, such as copper, lead, and zinc; manufacturers have emphasized this price adjustment is simply unavoidable. Here’s the breakdown: • No sole manufacturer will be affected, multiple brands will show adjusted pricing • Increases are predicted to fall in the low to mid-single digit range • Orders shipped on or after April 1 may reflect new pricing This means you may not have all that long before the current prices you see on shelves today, disappear. So, take action now. For more information, click here to read the full article.
VR Firearms Training at Tactical K Training and Firearms: How ACE and Meta Are Enhancing My Students’ Skills By Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms As an instructor who has spent years teaching responsible firearm handling in real world environments, I never adopt new technology just because it’s trendy. It must add value, reinforce safety, and genuinely improve a student’s ability to make good decisions under stress. That’s why VR training with ACE and the Meta platform has earned a place in my program — not as a replacement for live fire instruction, but as a powerful tool that strengthens everything we do on the range. A Safe Way to Build Confidence Before Live Fire One of the biggest advantages of VR is the ability to introduce new shooters to firearms concepts without the pressure of recoil, noise, or the anxiety that sometimes comes with handling a real weapon for the first time. Inside the ACE training environment, students can practice stance, grip, sight alignment, and movement in a calm, controlled setting. For many beginners, this reduces the learning curve dramatically. By the time they step onto my outdoor range, they already understand the fundamentals and feel more prepared. Realistic Scenarios Without Real World Risk ACE’s scenario-based modules allow me to expose students to decision making situations that would be impossible — or unsafe — to recreate in person. They can practice threat identification, situational awareness, and de escalation in a virtual environment that feels immersive but carries zero physical risk. This aligns perfectly with my teaching philosophy: avoidance first, escape if possible, and defense only as a last resort. VR gives students a chance to experience those judgment calls in a way that’s both educational and emotionally manageable. Repetition Without Fatigue In VR, students can repeat drills endlessly without burning through ammunition or dealing with physical fatigue. That means more reps, more consistency, and more opportunities to correct mistakes early. Whether it’s drawing from concealment, moving to cover, or practicing reloads, VR allows for focused, efficient skill building that complements the hands-on work we do with real firearms. A Bridge Between Technology and Practical Training I’ve found that VR doesn’t replace the range — it enhances it. Students who train with ACE and Meta tend to arrive more confident, more aware, and more mentally prepared. When they transition to live fire, they absorb instruction faster and make fewer fundamental errors. For experienced shooters, VR offers a way to sharpen decision making and refine tactics without the limitations of physical space. For beginners, it provides a gentle introduction that builds comfort and competence. The Future of Responsible Firearms Education As technology evolves, so does the way we teach. VR training with ACE and Meta has become a valuable part of my curriculum because it supports the same goals I’ve always had, safety, confidence, and responsible firearm ownership. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Combined with ACE and Meta, it’s not about replacing traditional training — it’s about giving students every possible advantage to learn the right way, at the right pace, in the right environment. Gregg Kielma
Instructor Rick S and Student Training in My Pasture: A Look at Your Outdoor Range: Tactical K Training and Firearms Gregg Kielma Set in the quiet openness of a Florida farm pasture, your outdoor shooting range offers something that’s getting harder to find these days — a private, peaceful, and purpose-built space where students can learn without pressure or distraction. The setting isn’t just scenic, cows and all, it plays a real role in the quality of training we deliver at Tactical K Training and Firearms. A Natural, Comfortable Environment The wide-open pasture creates a calm backdrop for learning. Fresh air, open sky, and the natural spacing of the land help students feel at ease, especially those who may be nervous or new to firearms. The rural setting also keeps noise low and distractions minimal, allowing shooters to focus on fundamentals and safety. Designed for Practical, Real World Training My range layout takes advantage of the pasture’s natural contours, giving you safe shooting lanes, solid backstops, and plenty of room for controlled drills. Whether teaching basic marksmanship, firearm handling, or scenario based skills, the space supports the kind of practical, real world training that responsible gun owners appreciate. Safety as the Foundation Even in a relaxed farm setting, my range maintains the same disciplined safety standards we are known for. Clear boundaries, structured instruction, and your emphasis on avoidance, escape, and defense ensure that every student understands not just how to shoot, but how to do so responsibly. A Personal, One on One Experience Unlike crowded public ranges, my pasture range offers privacy and personal attention. Students can ask questions freely, take their time, and build confidence at a pace that fits them. The farm setting reinforces that sense of comfort — it feels like learning with a trusted instructor like Gregg Kielma or Rick S, not performing in front of strangers. More Than a Range — A Place to Grow My outdoor pasture range isn’t just a place to fire rounds. It’s a place where people gain skills, confidence, and a deeper respect for safe firearm ownership. The combination of professional instruction and a peaceful rural setting creates an experience that sticks with students long after they leave. Gregg Kielma
“The Empty Lane” — A Short Thought From My Perspective Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms 1/24/2026 I unlocked the range just after sunrise today, Saturday January 24th 7:15 AM got it cleaned up and started to set up the lanes. The Florida air still cool enough to feel great. Mornings like that always remind me why I started Tactical K Training and Firearms in the first place—quiet, focused, full of potential. But as I walked past the shooting lanes, I noticed the same thing I’d been seeing for years. Most of them were empty at 10AM when I opened. People sign up, no show, or called to cancel, for so many reasons the list goes on and on. People buy firearms with the best intentions. They tell themselves they’ll train, they’ll practice, they’ll stay sharp. But life has a way of getting loud, and training is one of the first things that slips into the background. I remember a student Sam. Good guy, responsible, eager. After his first class he promised he’d be back every month. “I want to be confident,” he said. “I want to protect my family.” Months passed. No Sam. When he finally returned, he looked frustrated. “Gregg, I don’t know what happened. I meant to practice. I really did.” I hear that more than anything else. Just no time in his busy schedule. The reasons are as long as route 66 People don’t fail to train because they’re lazy. They fail because training requires commitment. It forces you to confront what you don’t know, what you can’t do yet, and what you’re afraid you might get wrong. It’s easier to believe that owning a firearm is enough. It’s easier to assume you’ll rise to the occasion when the moment comes. But the truth—the one most folks avoid—is that you don’t rise to the occasion. You fall to your level of training. As I stood there in waiting at one of the lanes, I thought about how many people carry a tool they’ve never truly learned to use. Not out of neglect, but out of fear, pride, or the belief that “I’ll get to it eventually.” That’s why I keep showing up. That’s why I keep unlocking the range at sunrise. BECAUSE I CARE. For Sam one day, someone like him will walk back in, ready to start again. And when they do, I’ll be there to remind them: Training isn’t about perfection. It’s about responsibility. And all the lanes will be waiting. Gregg Kielma
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Why Monitoring Your Blood Pressure Matters By Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms 01/20/2026 As an ERT Captain and certified instructor, I provide blood pressure checks, if wanted, during all my classes I offer. This has helped us detect clients with potentially serious heart issues they were unaware of. While not a physician, I can identify critical warning signs requiring further attention. High blood pressure is often called the “silent threat” for a reason—it rarely shows symptoms, yet it can quietly damage your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and brain over time. Regular monitoring is one of the simplest and most effective steps people can take to protect their long-term health. Checking your blood pressure at home gives you real time insight into how your body responds to daily stress, diet, sleep, and activity. It helps you catch changes early, long before they turn into serious medical problems. For many people, home monitoring also provides more accurate readings than occasional doctor visits, since it removes the stress and pressure of the clinical environment. Consistent tracking empowers you to make informed decisions about your lifestyle and health. It allows you to share accurate data with your healthcare provider, helping them tailor treatment, adjust medications, or recommend preventive steps. In short, monitoring your blood pressure isn’t just a habit—it’s a form of self-protection and early detection that can truly save lives. Thank you for taking the time to read this and help save your life or others. If you have any questions, please let know. Gregg Kielma
Why Some Virginia Lawmakers Push for Strict Gun Laws and Bans By Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms 01-19-2026 Debates over firearm legislation in Virginia have intensified in recent years, with several lawmakers proposing sweeping restrictions on gun ownership, magazine capacity, and permitting requirements. While these proposals are controversial and often opposed by responsible gun owners, it’s important to understand the motivations driving them. Knowing the “why” behind these efforts helps gun owners stay informed, engaged, and prepared to advocate for their rights. 1. Rising Concerns About Public Safety and Gun Violence Many Virginia legislators argue that stricter gun laws are necessary to address concerns about public safety. Bills such as SB1109, introduced in 2025, aim to tighten handgun purchase regulations and expand background checks, reflecting a belief that limiting access will reduce misuse. Supporters claim these measures are intended to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of individuals who may pose a risk. 2. A Push for More Comprehensive Vetting Several proposals focus on expanding the vetting process for firearm permits. These include: • Mandatory fingerprinting • More extensive background checks • Reviews of criminal history and mental health records These measures are framed as efforts to ensure only “qualified” individuals can obtain permits. While many responsible gun owners already exceed these standards through training and safe practices, lawmakers argue that uniform statewide requirements are necessary. 3. Influence of Gun Control Advocacy Groups Organizations that support firearm restrictions have become increasingly active in Virginia. Groups promoting “evidence based” gun violence prevention policies advocate for licensing systems, storage mandates, and magazine bans as ways to reduce crime and accidental shootings. Their messaging often influences legislative priorities, especially in districts where voters favor tighter regulations. 4. Political Shifts in Key Regions Urban and suburban areas of Virginia — particularly Northern Virginia — have grown rapidly and tend to elect representatives who support stricter gun laws. These lawmakers often cite constituent pressure to pass bans on certain firearms or accessories, such as the proposed magazine ban highlighted in recent legislative discussions. 5. A Belief That Restrictions Will Reduce Crime Some legislators believe that limiting access to certain firearms or magazines will reduce violent crime. For example, proposals to raise penalties for violent offenders using firearms are framed as crime reduction strategies. While critics argue that these laws target lawful gun owners instead of criminals, supporters maintain that restrictions are part of a broader public safety strategy. Kielma’s Parting Shot Virginia’s push for strict gun laws is driven by a combination of political pressure, advocacy influence, public safety concerns, and shifting demographics. Whether or not these laws are effective is a separate debate — but understanding the motivations behind them helps responsible gun owners stay informed and engaged. Gregg Kielma
