Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine #162

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ome visit one of the area’s favorite places to shop, sightsee or just relax! Explore the fun at The Pier Aquarium and let their fish entertain you! Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at specialty shops, boutiques and galleries. Delight in our sit-down waterfront restaurants and the Dockside Eatery food court.

Experience dolphin sightseeing tours, charter a sailboat, captain your own electric boat, pedal your way around downtown on a surrey bike, fish and feed the pelicans. Over 500 events annually.

See you at The Pier!

Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Sales Barbara McGovern Vicki Kolb Senior Sports Editor Peter Martino Contributors Sylvie Damien Nancy Evans Marty Peters Deborah Quigley Roland Stone Photographers Melissa Wolcott Proofreader Charlie deCatta

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Cover Photo Credit: Courtesy of Artists’ Management PUBLISHED BY

P.O. Box 20044 St. Petersburg, FL 33742 (727) 577-5500 e-mail - AccentMagazine@aol.com Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine™ is published bimonthly by AM Publications, Inc. Material submitted becomes the property of AM Publications, Inc. All material herein, including ads and artwork is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. © Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine.™

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FLORIDA CLASSIC CLUSTERS DOG SHOW Jan 13-17, and 19-23 The Clearwater Kennel Club, Inverness Florida Kennel Club, Manatee Kennel Club, Pasco Florida Kennel Club, and the Tampa Bay Kennel Club, host “Florida Classic Clusters,” featuring ten American Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Shows, Conformation, Junior Showmanship, Obedience Trials, Rally Trials and free tours to learn all about AKC dog shows. Visitors can go behind the scenes and learn how a dog is judged, meet dog handlers and more.

People from all over the world come to compete. There were approximately 18,000 entries last year. Florida Classic Clusters hosts the largest dog show in the state, and has been named one of the top 20 events in the Southeast U.S. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to various charitable organizations. Pet rescues will be on hand showcasing adoptable pets, and vendors will be on hand to sell everything from pet jewelry and toys, to dog food and treats. A food court will be serving food and beverages. There will be a Doggie fun Zone — an obstacle course for your dog.

Special Dates: Jan 17th is “KIDS DAY.” The first 100 children (ages 15 and under) who take the free AKC show tour will receive a free baseball cap.

Jan 20th is “SENIOR DAY.” Seniors at least 60 years old will receive free parking, when mentioned at the parking gate.

The event runs 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Florida Classic Park, 5360 Lockhart Road, Brooksville, FL 34602.

Parking $5, Admission Free - Bring a lawn chair. www.floridaclassicpark.com

FUN FASHION SHOW AND LUNCHEON - Jan 15 A charity event is taking place at Innisbrook Golf & Spa Resort at 11:00 a.m. in conjunction with Stein Mart.

It is a fashion show and luncheon with a variety of local boutique vendors. The tickets are $40 and proceeds benefit the Innisbrook Associate Scholarship Fund. 727-942-5275 or 727-942-5526.

TAMPA BAY HOME SHOW - Jan 21-23 Meet the area’s top home improvement experts at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg. This event will feature over 500 exhibits relating to Florida homes and home improvement. Looking for kitchen cabinets, landscaping, spas/pools, home entertainment systems, remodeling or window experts? You can find all of that and more.

Stroll through the aisles and find hundreds of project ideas and

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solutions. See the latest in carpet and tile, air conditioning systems, pest control, fencing or storage solutions….

From home security to storm protection to greener living.

The Tampa Bay Home Show will also include a seminar series, featuring a lineup of entertainment, local experts and do-it-yourself ideas for your home, on both Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy a presentation and find the products you need for your dream project, all in one convenient location.

For the first time, the January event will feature The Home Depot’s Kids’ Workshops on Saturday from 11 am – 2 pm. These workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Every child will receive the project kit including their newly constructed final product, plus a kid-size orange apron and an accomplishment pin. Individual booths will feature local and national name brands, new products, demonstrations, giveaways, advice and trade secrets.

Hours: Fri 10am – 6pm, Sat 10am – 7pm, Sun 10am – 5pm. Location: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, FL. Admission Is FREE, Parking is FREE. www.tampabayhomeshows.com.

CELEBRATE THE QUILT - Jan 28-29 The Largo Cracker Quilters is hosting a biennial quilt show on their 30th anniversary year - Celebrate the Quilt - Explore the Art VI, from 10AM to 4PM each day. Featuring 200+ quilts, some are judged, demonstrations, boutique, vendors, charity quilt drawing, appraisals, and a food cafe. Programs include Brenda Grampsas - Quilt appraiser, Marian Smith Quilt historian, and Alice Means - Quilt Artist. All are noted teachers and masters of the art of quilting.

Location: St. Paul United Methodist Church, Christian Life Enrichment Center, 1199 Highland Avenue, NE, Largo FL 33770; $6.00, handicap accessible, free parking. www.largocrackerquilters.org

A NIGHT ON BROADWAY - Jan 29 Follow the search lights to the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art’s 2011 fundraising event A Night on Broadway, Jan 29, from 7 – 11:00 p.m. in the museum and the cost is $100 per person. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Broadway and fine wine, soft-drinks, heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts throughout the evening. Guests are encouraged to dress up as their favorite Broadway characters or cocktail attire is appropriate. There will be a silent auction and a 50/50 opportunity as well as a “vote for your favorite Broadway character competition,” all to benefit the educational programs for all ages.

For reservations contact Membership Coordinator Michele Schneidenbach: (727) 712-5222. The LeepaRattner Museum of Art is located just west of U.S. Highway 19 at 600 Klosterman Road, on the Tarpon Springs Campus of St. Petersburg College. www.spcollege.edu/central/museum/

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FARM FESTIVAL AND 21st ANNUAL QUILT SHOW - Feb 5-6 It may be chilly outside but the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village plans to warm things up this winter with the 21st annual Farm Festival and Quilt Show, February 5th and February 6th, 9 am to 4 pm both days.

Highlights of the Quilt show include the Hoffman Challenge Traveling Quilt Collection of dolls, quilts and clothes as well as displays of hand crafted story quilts from local quilters. (If you have a quilt that has been passed down in your family and has a story to tell, the Pioneer Florida Museum invites you to display your unique masterpiece. Call the museum for details.)

On Saturday at 10am, the 8th annual Draft Horse Competition will be presented by the Southern Draft Horse Association. If you prefer

wheels to hoofs, go to see the antique John Deere tractors and buggies. Both days, museum volunteers will be grinding cane and making pure sugar cane syrup one final time of the season. Traditional crafters will be demonstrating their skills of weaving, spinning, and pine straw baskets with various art and crafters having their wares for sale. $8 for adults, $4 for children. Free parking.

The museum is located one mile north of downtown Dade City, off of US 301. www.pioneerfloridamuseum.org http://www.largocrackerquilters.org

SPARKLING CLEARWATER DEPRESSION GLASS, CHINA & POTTERY SHOW & SALE - Jan 22-23 The show and sale will feature national dealers offering Americanmade art glass, carnival glass, depression glass, elegant glass, pattern glass, china, pottery, dinnerware and kitchenware from the 1880s, the Depression Era and the 1940s, 50s and 60s to the present. Highlights include the most up to date antique and collectible reference books for sale, free glass identification, and free parking.

There is a snack bar on site that serves breakfast, lunch and snacks.

A thousand dollars worth of door prizes will be given away. The show is at the Honeywell Minnreg Bldg, 6340 126th Ave., Largo. Admission is $5 for both days. Sat, 11 am-7 pm; Sun 11 am- 4 pm. www.clearwaterdepressionglassclub.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.tampablackheritage.org/

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Jan 13 - FINANCIAL SEMINAR - “Your Business is Your Credit, and Your Credit is Your Business: Tips to Build and Maintain Your Businesses Credit”, Tampa; Heritage Movie Night - Held at the Legendary Tampa Theatre, this Signature Event features a Heritage movie and panel discussion that highlights historical moments in time and applying them to how our world is shaped today. Tampa Jan 14 - HERITAGE GALA - The Heritage Gala is a chic, semi-formal soiree that includes a cocktail reception, live entertainment and more. This affair also acknowledges and presents our sponsors to the community. This year’s main event will be held at the illustrious Tampa Bay History Center, Tampa; Plant City MLK Step & Dance Competition Get Your Dance On at the Plant City Step & Dance Competition. Plant City Jan 15 - HERITAGE 5K WALK FOR CANCER - Start your Saturday by participating in the TBBHF’s 5K fitness walk or run through downtown Tampa. The Festival’s Board Members will be there to walk with the community. Tampa; Heritage Street Festival - Old School Saturday - Kicking off a week-long series of activities, the Street Festival features a stage of local and national entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts, as well as unique “Villages,” Presenting the legendary Jeffrey Osborne - From his humble beginnings as a drummer in Providence, Rhode Island to his rise to R&B stardom, Jeffrey Osborne has made his mark on contemporary music. Tampa.

Jan 16 - PLANT CITY MLK LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST with Kiera Perkins, Miss Tampa Teen USA, and Ms. Karen Mincey, CIO/VP of Information Technology, TECO. Plant City; Heritage Street Festival - Gospel/Jazz Sunday - Celebrate the Festival’s 11th Annual Signature Two-Day Street Festival with Gospel/Jazz Sunday with Electric Violinist Ken Ford. Ken develops his performances into dynamic and electrifying experiences and leaves his fans in awe of the funky, unique sounds of the electric violin.

Tampa; 26th Anniversary of the MLK Drum Major for Justice Battle of the Bands & Extravaganza - Don’t miss this sizzlin’ hot event as Hillsborough County schools march, shake it, and compete for the title. St. Petersburg.

Jan 17 - TOBA 30TH ANNUAL DR. MLK LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST - TOBA hosts their annual Dr.

Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Breakfast at the downtown Hyatt Regency. Tampa; 25th Anniversary of the National MLK, Jr. Parade - Parade Route: Near Dr. MLK Jr. Street and 3rd Avenue South; Turns east and ends near Vinoy Park. St. Petersburg; 21st Annual MLK Day Parade - Tampa - Parade Route: Begins on 15th Street and MLK Boulevard and ends at Middleton High School. Tampa.

Jan 18 - HERITAGE LIVING HISTORY ART EXHIBIT The Adrian Pickett Experience is an exhibition of recent works in the challenging medium of charcoal created by the emerging Jacksonville-based artist. Tampa.

Jan 19 - HERITAGE LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON WITH DOROTHY GILLIAM, the Award-winning journalist and author, Tampa; Gospel Explosion - a spirit-filled event featuring three-time Grammy Award nominee Dottie Peoples, Tampa; Young People’s Poetry Showcase - It’s all about the young people and listening when our future speaks. Be in the audience to encourage them to STAND UP and SAY IT! Tampa.

Jan 20 - GENEALOGY BROWN BAG LUNCHEON Examining the DNA process as it applies to family history research. DNA has been proven to be able to trace one’s family heritage to Africa and other parts of the world. Tampa; USF University Lecture Series - Martin Luther King III. The oldest son of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and powerful civil rights speaker, Martin Luther King III has taken the torch lit by his father and continued the quest for equality and justice for all people. Tampa.

Jan 21 - SHOCKWAVE - Shockwave is a powerful, provocative message combined with a spine tingling, emotional atmosphere full of laughter, tears and thoughtful silence. This is an electrifying experience featuring poets Taalam Acey, The Rising Phoenix, Dichotomy, J.G. The Jugganaut, Real Shtz, Autumn Blaze, and Jason Alexander.

Tampa.

Jan 22 - TAMPA HISTORY TOUR - With three floors of exhibition space, the Tampa Bay History Center focuses on 12,000 years of Florida’s history. The History Center’s hands-on, kid-friendly activities together with cutting-edge interactive exhibits and theaters provide a unique educational experience. Tampa; Girlfriend Camp - An event dedicated to women, fun and movement, Girlfriend Camp is all about connecting mind, body, life, and other women just like you. Tampa.

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D A V ID A . S T R A Z , J R .

CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS SHOWS

FORBIDDEN BROADWAY: GREATEST HITS: Vol. 1 - thru Feb 20

Don’t miss the show Kathie Lee Gifford refers to as “the Saturday Night Live of Broadway.” Forbidden Broadway is the longest-running musical revue in the world and “the funniest show in New York” (New Yorker Magazine). A favorite of all Broadway lovers, Tampa’s Forbidden Broadway cabaret revue sharply spoofs show tunes, characters and plots of contemporary and current Broadway musicals, and it will have you rolling in the aisles. The original version of the revue opened in New York in 1982 and ran for more than 2,300 performances. Forbidden Broadway continues to be reincarnated and modernized to include parodies of newer shows and hysterical incarnations including Forbidden Broadway Goes to Rehab, Forbidden Hollywood and Forbidden Broadway: Special Victims Unit.

WONDERLAND THE MUSICAL - Jan 4-16

Wonderland is a story about a new Alice who has lost her joy in life. Estranged from her husband, alienated from her daughter and in danger of losing her career, Alice finds herself in Wonderland where she encounters strange though familiar characters that help her rediscover the wonder in her life.

Tale as old as time, true as it can be. Disney’s Beauty And The Beast, the smash hit Broadway musical, is based on the Academy Awardwinning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of more than 35 million people worldwide. Disneyís BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’S Tampa engagement†filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including ìBe Our Guestî and the beloved title song.

Experience the romance and enchantment of Disneyís BEAUTY AND THE BEAST!

Thrilling audiences worldwide and winning 10 2009 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Billy Elliot the Musical (“The best show you will ever see”— New York Post) is coming to Tampa.

Billy Elliot is a joyous celebration of one young boyís triumph against the odds.

Called ìthe most inspiring show I’ve seen in yearsî by Ben Brantley of The New York Times, the story follows Billyís journey as he stumbles out of the boxing ring, into a ballet class and discovers his dream to dance.

Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 813-229-7827, www.tbpac.org.

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O G A CHIC

St. Petersburg Little Theatre is about to “Give it the Old Razzle Dazzle” Jan 21 - Feb 6. James Grenelle directs a sizzling cast for this sexy musical about murder, celebrity and “All That Jazz”. Based on the real life events reported on by Maurine Dallas Watkins about two murderesses in 1924 who are acquitted; the story is a satire on corruption, criminal justice and the concept of the “celebrity criminal”.

This SPLT production is costumed and choreographed in the in the unmistakable style of Bob Fosse and will transport you to the roaring 20’s, with flappers, bootleg whisky and business - Chicago style.

One of the longest running revivals on Broadway, a show that triumphed in the West End in London and winner of 6 Tony Awards Chicago is first class entertainment. The cast has local favorites Latoya McCormick and Chanda Ford (Smokey Joes Café) and Lauren Clark (Gypsy) taking center stage as Mama Morton, Velma Kelly and Roxy Hart. Billy Flynn is played by Craig Ruska (Anything Goes).

The St. Petersburg Little Theater is located at 4025 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712; 727-866-1973, www.splt.org

Florida’s Most Exciting Theatrical & Dining Experience!

Up Coming

Mon.-Thur. 9am-7pm Fri.-Sat. 9am-8pm Sun. 10am-3pm Jan 7 - Feb 27 Dinner & Show-$48.00 + Tax • Show Only-$36.95+Tax

www.showpalace.net www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Mar 4 - Apr 2 4

Venue Ensemble Theatre LOOKING - Feb 3-20 Looking, a hilarious comedy about middle-aged singles searching for and finding love, stars Janice Creneti, Cory McBride, Dennis Reid, and Rafi Rodriguez.

The production is directed by Michael DuMouchel. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday performances are at 8 pm and Sunday at 3 pm. First Thursdays are ‘pay what you can’.

Neighborly Care Network (Meals on Wheels) is the designated benefit organization for this production. Venue Ensemble Theatre donates a portion of the proceeds from every ticket sold to the benefit organization.

Venue Theatre and Actors Studio is located in the Hudson Furniture Plaza at 9125 US 19 N (intersection of Mainlands Blvd and US 19), Pinellas Park, FL 33782. For more information, visit www.VenueActorStudio.org

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HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING - Jan 7-Feb 27 Power, sex, ambition, greed... it’s just another day at the office. In the grand tradition of The Producers and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum comes one of the most delightfully irreverent musicals of all time. A satire of big business and all it holds sacred, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying follows the rise of J. Pierrepont Finch, who uses a little handbook to climb the corporate ladder from lowly window washer to high-powered executive, tackling such familiar but potent dangers as the aggressively compliant company man, the boss’ whiny, nepotistic nephew, the office party, backstabbing co-workers, caffeine addiction and, of course, true love. With music by the composer of Guys and Dolls comes a score filled with classics “I Believe in You,” “Been a Long Day,” “Rosemary,” “The Company Way” and the rousing show stopper “Brotherhood of Man.” Show Palace, 16128 U.S. 19 N., Hudson. 1-888-655-7469, www.showpalace.net

DIVA NATION...Where Music, Laughter and Girlfriends Reign - Jan 22

It’s not just a musical revue, it’s a state of mind. The Four Babes are returning to the Largo Cultural Center at 8pm, with their hilarious comedy routine Diva Nation. These multi-talented musicians sing in sophisticated girl-group harmonies, of magical places where chocolate is a vegetable, wine is in the food pyramid and shopping for shoes is medicinal.

SPENCER’S THEATRE OF ILLUSION - Jan 21

See some never-before-seen illusions at 8pm. For more than a decade, Kevin and Cindy Spencer have dazzled the world with their engaging personalities, entertaining stage magic and breath-taking illusions making them one of the most recognized performance teams in the industry. They are the only artists in history to be named Performing Arts Entertainers of the Year for a record-breaking six consecutive years and have been named America’s Best Entertainers. The Spencers have been described as “Modern Day Houdinis” by the critics. The duo presents a big, high-tech stage show that combines drama, comedy, romance and suspense with elaborate stage illusions.

SUPER SCIENTIFIC CIRCUS - Feb 4-5. A The Super Scientific Circus starring Mr. Fish and Trent the Mime, proves that science can be fun and funny.

THE LOWE FAMILY - Feb 14. Versatile on many instruments, the Lowe Family offers an amazing blend of show-stopping classical, Broadway, Irish, Jazz, bluegrass, old-time favorites, spectacular dance, gospel and more.

The Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr., Largo, 727-5876793 www.largoarts.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

MOVING CURRENT dance collective An Evening Of Modern & Aerial Dance With Guest Artist Lynne Wimmer Moving Current Directors Erin Cardinal, Cynthia Hennessy and Kristin O’Neal welcome the work of esteemed professor of modern dance & choreography, director and film maker, Lynne Wimmer on Friday & Saturday, January 14 & 15, at 8:00 pm, Sunday, January 16, at 2:00 pm, at the University of South Florida theater 2, Tampa Campus. There will be a “Stage Warmer” performance 15 min before curtain, and a Q&A after the performance.

For 27 years, Lynne Wimmer was a professor of modern dance in the Department of Theater and Dance at the University of South Florida. A Julliard School graduate, an accomplished professional modern dancer, an internationally known choreographer and a talented film maker, Ms. Wimmer will be honored by the Moving Current community, presenting two of her works on the January program.

Her first and more recent work, “Styrofoam Olympics” was inspired by observing a physical therapist working with a patient who was recovering from a foot injury.

The task was to pick up a series of cups off the floor while standing on one foot. From that observation, the

PATSY CLINE, AND DON’T YOU FORGET IT! featuring Samantha Brown - January 7-16.

A hillbilly cabaret with OOmmph!

Samantha McKinnon Brown pays tribute to one of her favorite girl singers, a music legend who had a ground-breaking style, that was all her own. Join us for a time of stories and songs paying tribute to Patsy Cline’s rags-toñriches journey that was cut far too short. A celebration of the style, sensuality, humor, and, above all, determination of this famed “crossover artist,” this cabaret features such hits as, “Stop the World,” “Faded Love,” “Crazy,” “A Poor Man’s Roses,” “Gotta Lot of Rhythm in My Soul,” and, of course, “Walkin’ After Midnight.”

A BOBBY SHORT CELEBRATION Starring Paul Wilborn and Blue Roses with Frank Bowman and Miss Eugenie Bondurant - Jan 14 - 16. facebook.com/americanstage The hit cabaret show from last fall show returns with more Bobby Short favorites, more great stories and sur-

piece has taken the idea of using Styrofoam cups to an entirely new level. Dancers roll, dive and turn upside down with cups in hand, foot and mouth. Her second work to be presented was originally choreographed in 1992.

While aerial dance may be a common occurrence in the dance world today, Ms. Wimmer had already taken her choreography into the air 19 years ago. Her work, “Flesh of my Flesh” uses hammocks hung by a single point above, allowing the dancers to hang, spin and swing.

MC Directors will also present new works in January. Kristin O’Neal offers a delightful duet danced by Brooke Bradley and Shelly Bourgeois.

Erin Cardinal dives into the world of chocolate and the curious love women have for the delicious confection, making a satirical parallel to the revolution of human relationships. Cindy Hennessy offers a highly physical new work created for a trio of dancers featuring Moving Current newcomer Travis Mesman (Momix, Koresh Dance Company) with dancers Abraham Jarrell & Brooke Bradley that plays with the idea of repetition.

More Info: 81-974-2323; www.movingcurrent.com

prises. You’ll hear Bobby’s favorite songs by Cole Porter, Gershwin, Rodgers and Hart, Johnny Mercer and more, plus some of Bobby’s blues and novelty numbers. The show features Paul Wilborn on piano and vocals, Frank Bowman on sax and clarinet, and the vocals of Miss Eugenie Bondurant.

MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM - Jan 21 - Feb 13.

It’s Chicago, 1927, and a group of black musicians gather in a rundown recording studio to make one of the earliest blues recordings. While the white agent and studio boss wait angrily for blues star Ma Rainey to show up, the four musicians in her band practice, bicker, tell stories and dream. In his first play to reach New York, August Wilson issues an unforgettable challenge to America. Mature subject matter and language. www.americanstage.org

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S T R E C N O C T O H ST. PETE TIMES FORUM Legendary musician and performer Barry Manilow performs a symphony concert backed by The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra of Punta Gorda, Florida on January 21. With worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Barry Manilow is ranked as the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time, according to R&R (Radio & Records); with no less than 25 consecutive top 40 hits to his credit between 1975 and 1983, on the Billboard Hot 100. Manilow has worked on over 40 albums over the course of his career as a singer, songwriter, arranger and producer. He recently released “The Greatest Love Songs of All Time,” a new album chronicling the most touching love songs ever written.

George Strait along with Reba and Lee Ann Womack will bring their tour to the St. Pete Times Forum on Jan 29 starting at 7:30PM. With a career spanning more than 30 years, George Strait has the most number one singles of any artist in history including Elvis. Strait’s CD Twang debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and the Top Country Albums chart. His current single is “The Breath You Take.”

Named the Academy of Country Music’s Artist of the Decade last year, George Strait was nominated for this year’s ACM Entertainer of the Year for the 12th time and Top Male Vocalist for the 20th time, bringing his all-time record to 81 ACM nominations.

One of the most successful female recording artists in history, Reba has sold over 55 million albums worldwide, earned 33 #1 singles and was recently recognized as the biggest female hit-maker in country music history by Billboard, “Mediabase” and “Country Aircheck.” She is the winner of 15 American Music Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, nine People’s Choice Awards, seven Country Music Awards and two GRAMMY Awards. Reba was a 2010 CMA Nominee for “Female Vocalist of the Year.” She is also an acclaimed film, TV and Broadway actress Lee Ann Womack has sold over six million albums, won two GRAMMY Awards and numerous other milestone awards. Womack’s current album Call Me Crazy has garnered critical acclaim from Rolling Stone, USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, Billboard and The New York Times, to name a few. She was nominated for Top Female Vocalist at the ACM Awards in 2009, and she was nominated for “Musical Event of the Year” with George Strait for “Everything But Quits” at the 2009 CMA Awards.

Ozzy Osbourne, along with his longtime friend and musical collaborator, Slash (who will open the concert) will perform at the St. Pete Times Forum on February 18. Osbourne recently completed a run of overseas festival appearances and headlining performances, including his first ever concert in Israel - an OZZFest show in Tel Aviv. Ozzy has released an expanded two-CD version of the Scream album.

For more information, please visit www.sptimesforum.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA The Florida Orchestra (TFO) will perform The Music of Queen: A Rock Symphony on Friday, January 21, at 8 p.m. at Mahaffey Theater.

complimentary coffee and Krispy Kreme doughnuts prior to the concert, and the conductor provides animated commentary about the music throughout the performance. This concert is Thursday, February 10, at 11 am, at the Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg.

On the cusp of Valentine’s Day, the next Raymond James Pops concert, “The Great A m e r i c a n Songbook,” promises to get you in the mood with eve-

rybody’s favorite ballads and romantic songs by Johnny Mercer, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Richard Rodgers, Irving Berlin and more. The featured vocalists are Broadway stars with Florida connections: Teri Dale Hansen is a graduate of Florida State University, and Norm Lewis hails from Eatonville, Florida.

Among the songs on the program are “The Man I Love”, “Begin The Beguine”, “S’ Wonderful,” “Some Enchanted Evening”, “Over the Rainbow”, “My Funny Valentine”, “Shall We Dance?”, and many more.

Andrew Lane conducts these concerts on February 11 and 12 in Tampa and St. Petersburg.

For tickets or information, visit www.floridaorchestra.org or call 727.892.3337

Following The Florida Orchestra’s recent tribute concerts to the music of Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin, arranger and conductor Brent Havens returns to lead The Florida Orchestra in a symphonic salute to the music of Queen. A note-perfect cast of seasoned rock artists joins the orchestra with Vegas veteran Brody Dolyniuk taking on the famed Freddie Mercury vocals from the albums Classic Queen, A Night at the Opera, Sheer Heart Attack, Jazz, News of the World, A Kind of Magic, The Works and many more.

The Music of Queen was arranged for orchestra and rock band by Brent Havens, who has also produced individual symphonic rock shows of the music of Led Zeppelin, Michael Jackson, The Eagles, The Doors and Pink Floyd.

Brody Dolyniuk remembers mimicking voices even as a child, listening to old records and tapes. He is a gifted, self-taught musician, capable of playing several instruments, with a particular knack for capturing the voices and mannerisms of classic characters from music, TV, and movies.

Alastair Willis conducts The Florida Orchestra in a program showcasing the various sections of the orchestra. The music includes Benjamin Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra and selections from Kurt Weill’s Three Penny Opera Suite, along with music by Ralph Vaughan Williams, Aaron Copland and Richard Strauss. Attendees enjoy

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i

HOT CONCERTS con’t LARGO CULTURAL CENTER

THE CLASSICS IV - Jan 16. One of the most popular and influential groups from the 60’s and 70’s, The Classics IV will play at the Largo Cultural Center at 2pm. The band had 13 consecutive chart singles to their credit. Gold records include “Spooky,” “Stormy,” “Traces of Love” and “Everyday With You Girl.” In 1993, The Classics IV were honored for their musical achievements by the State of Georgia and were inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.

LET’S HANG ON! - Jan 23. America’s premier tribute show to The Jersey Boys and Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons will be presented at 2pm. Pay Tribute to 60’s icons in this high energy production. Let’s Hang On! features four guys, two gals and a swinging band, who sing and dance their way through some of the best songs of all time including: Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk like a Man, Sherry, My Eyes Adored You and many more.

AN EVENING WITH SINATRA - Jan 24 at 2 & 7pm. Dale Williams with a three piece orchestra recreates all the Sinatra classic big band tunes and ballads with the uncanny ability to channel “Old Blue Eyes” charm, with such hits as Fly Me to the Moon, New York, New York and My Way. “PATSY CLINE” THE CONCERT starring CJ HARDING Jan 26 at 2 & 7pm. Your eyes and ears will deceive you the moment CJ Harding takes the stage with her soulful recreation of Patsy Cline. Hits include: Crazy, Sweet Dreams, I Fall To Pieces, Walkin After Midnight and Just A Closer W a l k W i t h Thee.

JANE MONHEIT - Jan 29 at 8pm. Jane Monheit, now firmly established as one of the post-millennial jazz world’s foremost vocalists. Monheit has been a featured performer in the nationally televised Christmas at the White House and has appeared on numerous television shows including Lettermen, The View, and The Today Show.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN MEMORIES: A John Denver Tribute featuring Ron Rich - Feb 13 at 2pm. Ron Rich and his five piece band are known as the top John Denver tribute in the U.S. This show will be filled with songs and laughs performed in the spirit of John Denver. Hits include: Rocky Mountain High, Leaving on a Jet Plane, Take Me Home Country Roads, Sunshine on My Shoulders and more!

KEIKO MATSUI - Feb 18 at 8pm. Keiko Matsui is an icon of contemporary jazz and one of the most recognized artists in the genre. She has held the number one spot on Billboards Contemporary Jazz Charts and has sold over 1.2 million CDs in the U.S. alone. Her elegant piano melodies and gentle jazz grooves have enormous appeal and never disappoint her loyal fanbase which she has cultivated with over a dozen albums and stunning live shows.

For more information on shows, visit www.largoarts.com.

RITZ YBOR Indigo Girls Amy Ray and Emily Saliers are hitting the road again this February, with a special at Ritz Ybor, Thursday, February 10th at 9 PM. Through a career spanning two decades and countless concerts and tours, the Girls’ commitment to excellence and to their fans – now spanning generations, genders and nationalities – remains as strong as ever. On the heels of the release of their first-ever holiday album, Holly Happy Days and the recent release of a new live album, Staring Down The Brilliant Dream the duo prove - tour after tour - that every show is special and every audience deserves their best.

For more information, visit www.ritzybor.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.FLORIDAORCHESTRA.ORG

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MUSIC TRAX Accent Spotlights . . .

POP PAIGE BRYAN’s debut album, IMPERFECT ME was inspired by life, love, faith and heartbreak, and stays true to the R&B music that influenced her growing up as the daughter of comedian Sinbad, and his involvement with the Soul Music Festival.

The album is a collective pallet of urban, pop, and R&B, with an eclectic mix of both up and down tempo gems. www.justpaige.com

ROCK/METAL

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spiring to nothing more than a good, old-fashioned rock & roll party, Official Hot Mess won considerable media attention and a cult following after scoring their first record deal before even graduating high school. O.H.M seems unstoppable as they keep evoking people’s amazement since the fantastic outcome of their debut album, which went to the top of the charts throughout Asia and Australia. “With their four-piece male band in tow, this dynamic duo is circumnavigating the music world with a young and sassy vibe, and some very catchy songs.”

The frontwomen of Official Hot Mess are the daughters of 80s famed actress, Judy Landers, of the Landers Sisters and MLB pitcher, Tom Niedenfuer.

Kristy and Lindsey are two fun loving sisters aspiring to make the music they love, and enjoy the crazy ride together; yet they also strive to create their own musical identity for other artists in years to come to follow. Their hometown is Sarasota, FL. The pop/rock band delivers captivating melodies, enchanting harmonies, and controversial lyrics… “Think The Bangles or Blondie with a little dose of Sarah Silverman-style sarcasm and you’ve got Official Hot Mess”… which lead to their current, original music being featured on MTV’s “The Hills”, “The City”, “My Super Sweet 16”, “The Jersey Shore”, “The Real World”, “Keeping Up With The Kardashians” and multiple Nickelodeon shows, to name a few. “Their clever lyrical twists and dance-fused melodies have given them a well-deserved edge over many of their pop/rock contemporaries.”

Their music video for their song “Welcome 2 LA” reached the #2 spot on MTV and their new music video for their song “Money Makes the Girl$ Go Round” will be premiering early this year.

For more information, visit www.officialhotmessmusic.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Through the years, MARCO MENDOZA has played bass in legendary bands such as Blue Murder, Thin Lizzy, Ted Nugent and Whitesnake. On his new solo album, CASA MENDOZA, you will find some new Mendoza originals along with a few covers.

Great melodic rock/hard rock with a sunny Latin flavor to it. The musicianship is top notch. Songs like Suzy Q, You, Circle of Life, Betty Joe or Get Ready all are ready to infect the masses with their commercial sound. www.marcomendoza.com ANGELS OF BABYLON is a new amalgamation of epic sound featuring former MANOWAR drummer Rhino, Arizona-based power metal vocalist David Fefolt, guitarist Ethan Brosh and MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson. Their debut album, KINGDOM OF EVIL, forges ahead with the sounds of classic metal, while bringing fusion of new

technique and prowess. The band is a new force to be reckoned with. www.burnhillunion.com

JAZZ DAVID BECKER introduces a new CD, BATAVIA in conjunction with the 65th Anniversary of the Atomic bombings in Japan. For more than two decades guitarist, composer and producer Becker has continued to define himself as one of the best and most unique voices in contemporary jazz guitar by combining diverse influences and a passion for the new and different. He has the ability to play in the present while always keeping an eye on the past and future. He has led the DAVID BECKER TRIBUNE to a worldwide audience by performing in more than 17 countries. www.davidbeckertribune.com HAVE YOU EVER BEEN explores and celebrates the legacy of guitar rock icon Jimi Hendrix in grand TURTLE ISLAND QUARTET style. In the late 1960s, Jimi Hendrix redefined the potential of not only the guitar but the entire genre of rock. Turtle Island Quartet - led by founding violinist David Balakrishnan, has reexamined and reconstructed conventional genres of music and sought new permutations of style, technique and composition.

The quartet reinterprets the music of a pivotal figures in music by injecting it with their own signature rhythmic innovations and multicultural influences. www.turtleislandquartet.com

NEW AGE DAVID MAUK presents his unique blend of Ambient, Electronica, and New Age music in his new combo CD+ DVD, GROUND SWELL, with songs and music videos inspired by the art of 20th Century American Artist, Edward Hopper. “Summertime” accompanies footage from Coney Island presenting a nostalgic look at the amusement park experience.

“New York Movie” reveals an intimate video portrait of movie icon Marilyn Monroe, “Dawn in Pennslyvania” explores the struggles of Pittsburgh workers and families during the Great Depression, “Chop Suey” shows the whimsical side of newsreels from the period and “Queensboro Bridge” captures the building of the Bay Bridge in San Francisco and Oakland. www.davidmauk.com

WORLD A pairing of bold variations on Bach’s keyboard Invention #1 with folkloric Afro-Caribbean percussion vignettes.

Pianist, composer, and bandleader GREG BURK has deep credentials in mainstream and avant-garde jazz, including a five-year tenure in the Either/ Orchestra.

Percussionist VICENTE LEBRON is a 40year mainstay of the Boston Latin and jazz scenes, and a core member of the Either/ Orchestra. UNDUALITY is a particularly charming and surprising riff on one of the most famous pieces in Western music. www.accuraterecords.com The cinematic, charm of what PICKPOCKET’s founder Rick www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Corrigan calls “café music” moves from the pensive, bittersweet MEMORY, the group’s latest album, to rousing and playful dance numbers swaying in odd meters. The quintet promises an intimacy and immediacy that borrows gleefully from Balkan boogies, Arabic ornaments, wry French musette, and just about anything else they can get their hands on. www.pickpocketensemble.com BEAUTY AND FIRE is an innovative excursion in Flamenco guitar fused with smooth jazz and world music flavorings - deeply soulful, softly passionate, with uplifting melodies that will take you on romantic or exotic adventure across the world and beyond. TOMAS MICHAUD is a master guitarist, composer and producer who has created a seductive, enchanting, heartwarming New World Instrumental - perfect for intimate moments, yoga, driving, massage, dinner parties.

Earthy Sufi chants meet compelling percussion from the Middle East and contemporary instrumentation, setting the groove on the unique fusion album, NAGORE SESSIONS. Musicians from many different nationalities and faiths join to share their music cultures with each other and audiences around the world. Sufi singers Abdul Ghani, Ajah Maideen and Saburmaideen Babha Sabeer from the Nagore Dargah front a select lineup of well-known guest artists, including Zohar Fresco on Middle Eastern percussions, horns from the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, sarangi by Murad Ali Khan, Rhodes and programming by Patrick Sebag and more. www.earthsync.com

Tasty Food and Drinks!

The Fourth Annual Forks & Corks Food & Wine Festival January 28-31, 2011

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orks & Corks Food & Wine Festival, a four-day festival presented by The Sarasota-Manatee Originals, unites food, wine and beer enthusiasts with preeminent regional chefs and celebrated vintners from around the world. The four-day culinary festival features winemaker events at area restaurants (January 28, 29 and 30); interactive food and wine seminars (January 29); The Grand Tasting in The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art Courtyard (January 30); and a trade event for area restaurants, retailers, and hotels (January 31).

The Festival at a Glance Friday, January 28; Saturday, January 29; and Sunday, January 30: • WINEMAKER EVENTS at participating SarasotaManatee Originals member restaurants. Offerings include wine tastings and elegant multi-course dinners, each hosted by the restaurant’s featured winemaker. Visit www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks for up-to-date information.

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a.m.-2:30 p.m.). A four-course lunch catered by Originals members, Andrea’s, Euphemia Haye, Ophelia’s on the Bay, and Michael’s On East, is included. More info and tickets: www.freshoriginals.com/ forksandcorks.

Saturday, January 29; 9:30 a.m.2:30 p.m.: • FORKS & CORKS UNIVERSITY: Two interactive seminars led by recognized wine experts from around the world: A Passion for Pinot Noir at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Ave. S., Sarasota; $50 (9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.); Rhône Inspirations and Bordeaux Magic at Michael’s Wine Cellar, 1283 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $95 (9:30

Sunday, January 30; noon-4 p.m.: • The Grand Tasting at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art Courtyard. An afternoon made for

Visit Accent’s

Dining Guide on the Web with

MenuVue and

VideoVue! AccentOnTampaBay.com

foodies! Partake of the signature dishes of Originals member restaurants and the best wines from acclaimed guest wineries. Tickets are $50 if purchased online (www.freshoriginals.com/ forksandcorks) and $60 at the door.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota.

For more information about the fourth annual Forks & Corks Food & Wine Festival, call 941-955-3663, or visit www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks

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CELSIUS The Ultimate Fitness Partner

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elsius is the ultimate fitness partner.

Check out their spokesperson, Mario Lopez—he of the 6 pack abs. OK, so maybe Celsius isn’t solely responsible for that, but it seems to be the choice of people like him who are into a healthy lifestyle and fitness.

Celsius is a great tasting (underscore Great Tasting!) preexercise fitness drink that is advertised to burn calories, reduce body fat, energize metabolism, and provide lasting energy. It contains no sugar, no high fructose corn syrup, no

aspartame, no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and is very low in sodium. Celsius is powered by a proprietary blend of ingredients, MetaPlus, which includes Green Tea with EGCG, Ginger, Caffeine, Calcium, Chromium, B Vitamins and Vitamin C. Celsius comes in a variety of flavors and many ways to enjoy it, such as their sparkling flavors for a little fizz. Orange has a freshsqueezed taste of blood oranges, they’re less acidic for a sweeter, kissed-by-a-berry flavor. Wild Berry is a refreshing flavorful medley of cranberry and raspberry with a touch of cherry flavor. Cola is light, refreshing, and invigorating. Ginger Ale is soothing and peppy at the same time with the citrusy kick of oldfashioned ginger ale.

Each Celsius is delicately balanced with a touch of soothing ginger plus all of the great health benefits.

Their non-carbonated green teas are very refreshing and come in several flavors: Raspberry Acai - A blended natural flavor of fresh-picked raspberries and acai berries; Peach Mango - A mélange of tropical flavors.

There are also two non-Carbonated Celsius flavors: Lemon Iced Tea - like

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home brewed ice tea with a lemon twist; Strawberry Kiwi - A light, fruity flavor, the perfect pre-exercise drink.

Their newest product is the Celsius Apple Orchard Blend, a non carbonated thirst quenching, crisp apple and pear blend, sweetened all naturally with stevia.

If you’re on the move, try Celsius On-the-Go Powder Sticks. These are easy to mix with water or your favorite non-carbonated beverage, and perfect for anyone who is on the go. Celsius sticks fit easily into gym bags or even a pocket, and are great for traveling.

The Celsius Calypso Punch, 2.5 oz Shot is way more than just energy.

The tropical fruit flavored pre-exercise shot provides the same flavor profile and clinically validated benefits as the Celsius supplement drinks. It has been clinically shown to enhance the benefits of exercise, by raising metabolism, burning calories, reducing fat, improving endurance, as well as providing lasting energy — and a convenient way to get the benefits of Celsius while you are onthe-go.

For more information, visit www.celsius.com.

Sharing Valentines Day Love

by Jenny Harper

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love that we have a day designed to celebrate love. And I enjoy finding creative ways to show the people in my life how much I care about them. This year, I’m sharing some ideas from the kitchen and from the heart so that you can put some extra L-O-V-E into your Valentine’s Day. CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE HEARTS Prep: 20 minutes • Baking: 18 minutes (Makes about 18 hearts with 2 1/2- to 3inch heart cutter) 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened 3/4 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup packed brown sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 large eggs 2 cups (12-ounce package) Nestle Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels 1 cup chopped nuts Metal or heat-safe heart cookie cutter(s) of desired size(s), 1 inch in height Various icings, sprinkles, NestlÈ Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mini Morsels PREHEAT oven to 375° F. Line 15 x 10-inch jelly-roll pan with foil; lightly grease.

COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture.

Stir in morsels and nuts. Spread dough into prepared pan.

BAKE for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Lift from pan with foil handles to cutting board. Cut out hearts with cookie cutter(s). Remove hearts while peeling away foil.

DECORATE as desired.

CHOCOLATE RASPBERRY MOUSSE PIE Prep: 15 minutes • Cooking: 5 minutes Refrigerating: 2 1/2 hours • Yield: 8 servings 1 can (12 fluid ounces) NestlÈ Carnation Evaporated Milk 2 large egg yolks 2 cups (12-ounce package) NestlÈ Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels 1 container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided

ENERGY GUMMIE Great taste, vitamins and natural energy

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hese are NOT your kiddie gummi Bears. These delicious Energy Gummie Bears are made with Guarana Extract (natural caffeine) with Vitamins B12, B6 & C, Q-10. Only 60 calories and no trans fat and low in sugar. They are long lasting, have a great flavor and give you an energy boost.

Loud Truck Gummies are produced using some of the best natural ingredients available, including Brazilian Guarana. This native of the Amazon is made from a gum containing the active ingredient, tannin.

This astringent agent acts to stimulate your energy, much like caffeine, and is completely safe. Natives of

1 container (6 ounces) or 1 1/3 cups fresh raspberries, divided 1 prepared 9-inch (6 ounces) chocolate crumb crust WHISK together evaporated milk and egg yolks in medium saucepan.

HEAT over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is very hot and thickens slightly; do not boil. Remove from heat; stir in morsels until completely melted and mixture is smooth. Pour into large bowl. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until cool. Gently stir in 2 cups whipped topping.

REFRIGERATE for 2 hours until thickened. Sprinkle 1 cup raspberries over crust. Spoon chilled chocolate mousse over raspberries. Dollop remaining 1 cup whipped topping on center of pie; top with remaining raspberries.

For more Valentine recipes you can share, visit www.verybestbaking.com.

Jenny Harper is Consumer Test Kitchen Project Manager for the Nestle Test Kitchens and VeryBestBaking.com.

Brazil crush the Guarana seeds and have made an energetic treat from them for centuries. Loud Truck contains Brazilian Grarana because of its natural properties. Natural energy is better for you, and you experience no crash, like you do with other products.

Physical and mental alertness are also energized in Loud Truck Gummies with theophylline and theobromine, the same substances found in cocoa, which are also present in Guarana. An additional benefit is weight loss, achievable using these agents, which serve to increase metabolism and reduce appetite.

With Guarana, you may also experience increased alertness and improved athletic performance. It can also help with some forms of headache, especially after ingesting alcohol.

For more information, visit www.loudtruckgummi.com.

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here is NO good pizza in Florida.”

That has been my mantra ever since I moved here 30 years ago. OK, so I’m a New York Pizza-Elitist Snob. On just about every street corner in NYC you can find pretty good to fabulous pizza. In Florida, we have been brain— or stomach—washed to think all the chains we rely on is real pizza. Is the problem the water as some say? Is it the humidity?

The ovens? I have succumbed too, to thinking “hey, this isn’t bad,” wondering if my memory has taken on an unrealistically distorted view of my pizza of yore.

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am thrilled to announce that REAL PIZZA has arrived in Florida! It can be found at the new Via Napoli restaurant in the Italy pavilion in Epcot Center at Disney World. This charming restaurant specializes in traditional Neapolitan pizzas — bianca, quattro stagioni, piccante, ortolano and margherita, created under the talented eye of famed executive chef Charlie Restivo (former Head Pizzaiolo at Naples 45 in NYC.)

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nowing the problems Florida seems to have with pizza (many have tried and failed) Restivo isn’t taking any chances. He knows that water is key, so Via Napoli actually imports water from up north that is similar to the water of Naples, Italy. Caputo flour and the type of yeast used make the perfect low-gluten dough. The pies are made using San Marzano tomatoes, Caputo flour, handmade fresh mozzarella, Parma Cotto, and crumbled sausage. Then there are the very unique wood-burning ovens — three of them. The kitchen is open viewing to the patrons and the ovens are an added attraction your dining experience. They are named after the three active volcanoes in Italy – Mount Etna, Mount Vesuvius and Stromboli. Each oven has a different (defiant!) face representing a mythological god, and the god’s mouth is the flaming oven opening. Our group enjoyed watching pizza being created and cooked (at 800° for two minutes) in “Stromboli” while sipping the best Sangria I’ve ever had — a perfect blend of Italian wine and fresh fruit. We also tried their nonalcoholic Strawberry Fruit Cooler, which was deliciously refreshing.

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ia Napoli is a stand-alone building next to the Tutto Italia Ristorante. The architecture is an attractive mix of Italian styles. Inside, the atmosphere is friendly with cheerful, bustling waiters. They have different size tables with interior and exterior seating, including a long table in the center of the restaurant to accommodate a large group. High ceilings and plenty of windows create a warm ambiance.

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ia Napoli is not just about pizza, they have a menu selection including appetizers, salads, pastas, desserts, and a special children’s menu as well. We ordered several dishes for tasting among the group, and everything was pretty outstanding. The Arancini (fried risotto Balls filled with mozzarella and meat ragu) is certain to become a signature appetizer at Via Napoli. A must for table sharing is the Fritto Misto, an assortment of fried seasonal

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vegetables, fish, and cheese, served with a Pomodoro piccante sauce. For pasta, we chose their tasty Candele — candle-stick pasta, with sausage ragu, polpettine, mozzarella and ricotta. A most elegant dish was the Tortino di Melanzane, which is eggplant prepared with tomato sauce, parmesan and mozzarella and served with spaghetti torta. The eggplant was sliced very thin and cooked to perfection. My husband, who usually eschews eggplant, went back for seconds. hen came the “evento altamente anticipato” — the pizza! The pizza sizes come in individual, large, and “1/2 meter” for sharing. We picked out a 1/2 meter Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, basil) which had a very thin crispy crust and just about the best pizza cheese I’ve ever had.

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ut wait, there’s more. It’s hard to believe we left any room for dessert, but somehow we did. We sampled two of the dessert offerings. The Coppa di Brutti Ma Buoni (translation: “ugly but good”) is a misnomer. It isn’t the least bit ugly, and it is better than good. It’s an amarena cherry and vanilla gelato sundae with real whipped cream. Our second dessert was the Zeppole de Caterina, which is ricotta cheese fritters served with whipped cream and chocolate sauce. The fritters are wonderfully light and moist, with a thin yet crispy crust. We topped our dessert off with a perfectly blended cappuccino.

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guess my aging brain was not distorted after all — I DO know good pizza when I find it — and it’s at Via Napoli. Dare I say it’s probably even better than NYC’s? c

For more information on Via Napoli please visit www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/via-napoli/

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ART LINES Magnificent Miniatures 36th Annual International Miniature Art Society Exhibition

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he Miniature Art Society of Florida returns with an exhibit at the Dunedin Fine Art Center, from January 9 -30. There you will be treated to a spectacular display of miniatures - not only paintings but scrimshaw, fired porcelain, and sculpture - including works created by some of the world’s finest miniature artists. With few exceptions, all of the art is for sale.

Over 800 works of art will be shown, in addition to the society’s permanent collection of more than 100 miniatures. The artwork is well lighted and magnifying glasses are available for the complete enjoyment of the small treasures. Most of the artists create under magnification, using a variety of mediums and methods and the tiniest of brushes for paintings. Entries from 35 states and 9 countries provide a wonderful diversity of subject matter and framing techniques. Of the many works of art submitted for entry in the show, a jury of award-winning miniaturists has carefully selected only the very finest for display.

by Jane Mihalik 2” X 2 3/4” 1st Place, Oils

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. Francis Sellers, this year’s judge is a consistent award winning miniature artist in international miniature. While viewing the works, he said, “Every miniature work seems to capture a bit of the artist’s soul and judging these tiny giants is extremely difficult. When you realize that every one of these works of art required a far greater mental and physical discipline than most larger works, it becomes more amazing.”

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n addition to the works on display, starting Monday January 10 through the end of the show, artists from England, Canada and many US states including Florida will be on hand to demonstrate and discuss their techniques. Come be amazed by the detail of work measuring only inches in size.

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merica’s “golden age” of the portrait miniature (about 17401850) came to an abrupt halt with the advent of photography in the mid 1800s. But the love of creating art ‘in little’ did not die. There was a resurgence of interest in the early 20th century - The Revival Period - and we are carrying on in that tradition. We want to assure that original art in small scale, with great emphasis on detail, maintains a respected stature in the Fine Arts. A testimony to the interest today was the Fourth Exhibition of World Art in Miniature at the Smithsonian, Washington DC in June 2004, with fourteen miniature societies around the world being represented, including the Miniature Art Society of Florida.

Painting is shown at actual size

The Dunedin Fine Art Center is located at 1143 Michigan Blvd, Dunedin, FL .

Hours: Mon.-Fri.: 10 AM-5 PM; Sat.: 10 AM-2 PM; Sun.: 1-4 PM. Admission $6.00 Adults, $5.00 Seniors (65+), $4 Youth (6-18), DFAC and MASF members and children under 5 are free. www.dfac.org.

For more information on MASF, visit www.miniature-art.com.

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ig Cat Rescue is the world’s largest sanctuary for big cats who have been abused, abandoned, retired from performing acts, or saved from being slaughtered for fur coats.

The sanctuary houses tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, bobcats, lynx, ocelots, servals, caracals and others — a total of 16 of the 35 species of wild cat, many of whom are threatened, endangered, or now extinct in the wild.

At this home for rare and exotic cats, The narrow mission of Big Cat Rescue is to provide the best permanent home they can for these cats.

The broader mission of the sanctuary is to reduce the number of cats that suffer the fate of abandonment and/or abuse and to encourage preservation of habitat and wildlife. People are urged to behave in a way that will support these goals by teaching people about the plight of the cats, both in the wild and in captivity.

This is accomplished through guided tours, educational programs for young people, and by maintaining a website that is a great resource for information about exotic cats.

Big Cat Rescue has built enclosures in a very natural habitat with foliage and shelter on a 45 acre site, and provides the best nutritional and medical care possible.

They have conditioning and enrichment programs to provide for the cats physical and psychological well being.

The sanctuary is supported entirely by donation.

Big Cat Rescue is located at 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. Call 813-920-4130 for more information, or visit BigCatRescue.org.

unken Gardens is a botanical paradise in the midst of a bustling city. As St. Petersburg’s oldest living museum, this 100 year old garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region.

Unwind as you stroll through meandering paths, lush with exotic plants from around the world. Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful demonstration gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers.

Sunken Gardens provides garden tours, horticultural programs, special events, field trips, weddings, private and corporate rentals.

If you enjoy Yoga, Pilates, or want to try Hoop Dancing, why not go to Sunken Gardens and exercise in a botanical, tropical paradise.

Every Tues. and Thurs.

Breathe in and relax.

Every Tuesday and Thursday at 9:15 a.m.

This class will help you build long, lean muscles and is perfect for women of all ages and fitness levels. It’s a 50 minute group personal training session with individualized attention. This format utilizes The Muscle Bar, a weighted bar and resistance tube combo that delivers faster results than just weights or resistance tubes. www.strollerfitstpete.blogspot.com HOOP DANCING - Tuesday 10am - 11am, Wednesday 9am - 10am.

IAN HOLISTIC WORKOUT - Monday and Wednesday, Noon - 1pm.

CHUTE CHI GONG - Friday, 10am - Noon

Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 4th Street N., St. Petersburg; 727-551-3100; www.stpete.org/sunken

A Botanical Experience Awaits You...

• Discover the beauty of a 100 year old botanical paradise.

• Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers and the walk through butterfly encounter.

• Experience a guided tour, special event or workshop. $8 Adults; adults; $6 seniors 55 & up; $4 ages 2 3 to 11 $8 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100

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www.stpete.org

Bok Tower Gardens offers visitors Florida’s most abundant opportunities for aesthetic, cultural and personal enrichment. The lush landscapes of the gardens, the majesty and music of the Singing Tower with its 60-bell carillon and the splendor of create an experience that inspires all who visit.

www.boktowergardens.org

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Janet King’s watercolors capture the essence of Pinewood Estate, one of the finest examples of Mediterranean-style architecture. The awardwinning Sebring artist and instructor is inspired by the mood created by the light when painting plein air, and enjoys the spontaneity of watercolor. She is a member of the prestigious Florida Watercolor Society.

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BIRTHDAY CARILLON CONCERTS Jan 17. Featuring music of hope, inspiration and peace honoring Dr. King; humanitarian and civil rights activist who, like Gardensí founder Edward Bok, championed the cause of unity among all people. Concerts at 1 & 3 p.m. Free with admission.

MOONLIGHT CARILLON CONCERT - Jan 18, Feb 17, Mar 18, Apr 15. Experience Bok Tower Gardens in a different light during the 2011 Moonlight Carillon Concert series. Itís a unique opportunity to visit the Gardens after normal operating hours for half-price admission and have a light dinner at the Blue Palmetto Cafe which will remain open until the hour-long concert begins.

PINEWOOD CONCERT SERIES: DUO TURGEON,PIANO - Jan 23.

Hailed by critics as one of the most exciting piano duos of our time, Drs. Edward Turgeon and Ann Louise-Turgeon play four hands on one piano.

Duo Turgeon has made many recordings, television appearances and international performances.

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BIRTHDAY CARILLON CONCERTS Jan 17. Featuring music of hope, inspiration and peace honoring Dr. King; humanitarian and civil rights activist who, like Gardensí founder Edward Bok, championed the cause of unity among all people. Concerts at 1 & 3 p.m. Free with admission.

DISCOVERING BEAUTY IN GARDENS AND WILD PLACES: Digital Photography Exhibit Feb 5-Mar 31. Allen Rokach is internationally known for photographing flowers, gardens and landscapes. He has served as senior photographer for Southern Living magazine and director of photography at the New York Botanical Garden.

A digital photo workshop and lecture with Allen will be held February 25 -27.

A ROMANTIC VALENTINE EVENING OF VIENNESE MUSIC & DINING AT PINEWOOD ESTATE - Feb 14. Reflecting the romance of an era long past, the 1930s Mediterranean-style Pinewood Estate will be transformed into an evening of elegance and grandeur. Strolling “Viennese” musicians bring to life the waltzes of Johan Strauss, Franz Lehar and others. Welcome reception in the garden before dinner (weather permitting).

VICTORIA DE LISSOVOY JAZZ QUINTET Feb 19. Victoria de Lissovoy returns with Doug Mathews, bass; David MacKenzie, saxophone; Paul Butcher, trumpet & flugelhorn and Ian Goodman on drums. An evening of warm jazz atmosphere with a variety of styles and renditions and many great standards by these popular Central Florida jazz musicians will delight audiences.

Visit www.boktowergardens.org for more information. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

What’s Coming Up...

LAUNCH OF DISNEY DREAM - A first-of-its kind water coaster that sends guests racing above the upper decks of the ship. An animated turtle that engages children in conversation about life in the ocean. A sophisticated lounge where the sun sets over the skyline of a different world-famous city each night. The Disney Dream, newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, will bring to life these innovations and more, offering a cruise experience from stem to stern that caters to preferences of the whole family. The Disney Dream, slated to set sail on Jan. 26 from Port Canaveral, FL, will have three-to-fivenight Bahamian itineraries. The ship has a capacity of 4,000 passengers.

NEW HORIZONS FOR DISNEY CRUISE LINE (beginning January 2011) – The Disney Wonder cruise ship will “go west” in early 2011. New West Coast itineraries for Disney Cruise Line will include, for the first time, Alaska cruises sailing from Vancouver. The Alaska cruises will combine the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled guest experience provided by Disney Cruise Line. The Disney Wonder also is scheduled for cruises out of the Port of Los Angeles to the Mexican Riviera, before and after the summer Alaska cruises. Call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500; www.disneycruise.com.

AN AFRICAN TREK … IN FLORIDA (beginning January 2011) – A ravine of menacing-looking crocs, pools of hippos, bushwalks along untracked terrain and other thrills await guests on Wild Africa Trek, a unique wildlife experience launching Jan. 16 into the deepest, most-remote reaches of Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. The three-hour, expert-led adventure will immerse small groups in an “up-close-and-personal” experience with African wildlife species that make their home in Pangani Forest as well as other areas of the park’s Harambe Wildlife Reserve. 407-939-8687.

EGYPTIAN WONDERS AHEAD FOR ADVENTURES BY DISNEY (beginning April 2011) – Adventures by Disney guests will step off of planes, cruise ships and camels into living chapters of history during seven- and nine-night Egypt itineraries. The pyramids and Great Sphinx in Giza, a Nile River cruise and days and nights in Cairo are all part of the experience.

Adventures by Disney will offer 25 itineraries, six to 13 days in duration, on six continents – experiences unique in the luxury tour market for their attention to the family in every aspect of the adventure. www.adventuresbydisney.com.

NEW STAR TOURS ADVENTURE OUT OF THIS WORLD (2011) – Bridging that “long time ago” between the two Star Wars trilogies, new Star Tours adventures debuting in 2011 will take voyagers at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida and Disneyland Park in California – for the first time – to Coruscant and other destinations in the Stars Wars galaxy. The power of the Force and the magic of Disney will combine with the breathtaking immersion of 3-D – for the first time.

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DISNEY VACATION CLUB SAYS ‘ALOHA’ (scheduled to open Aug. 29, 2011) – Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, Hawaii that includes traditional hotel rooms and Disney Vacation Club villas, is being built on 21 acres of oceanfront property in Ko Olina, approximately 30 minutes from Waikiki. Aulani draws its inspiration from the traditions and heritage of the people of Hawaii. Walt Disney Imagineers, with the help of local architects, artisans and historians, are weaving Hawaiian stories into the buildings, interiors, art and gardens of the resort. Upon completion, Aulani will include 359 traditional hotel rooms and 481 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club villas with views of the ocean, mountains and the lush grounds. www.disneyaulani.com.

UNDER THE SEA - Coming attraction gives new meaning to “immersive experience” (2011) – With the premiere of The Little Mermaid - Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, Disney California Adventure will take guests “under the sea” to experience magnificent scenes and magical songs from the popular motion picture. The attraction represents the next big milestone in the ongoing expansion of the park.

WILD 4 DISNEY PASS - Floridians can make memories at Walt Disney World Resort for less than $30 per day in 2011. Now through May 26, instate residents can get four days’ admission to any of the four Walt Disney World Resort theme parks for $119. Not only does that spell big savings but residents save during times when the parks are less crowded and there are more ways than ever to enjoy the magic. To purchase or for more information: disneyworld.com/ wild.

For information on new attractions and vacations at Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com, call 866/60-DISNEY.

Orlando Happenings ZORA NEALE HURSTON FESTIVAL - Jan 22-30. The annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival highlights the life and works of one of America’s most celebrated collectors and interpreters of Southern rural African-American culture through theatrical performances, educational programs and an outdoor art festival. The nine-day extravaganza takes place in various locations throughout Orlando and Eatonville, the nation’s oldest incorporated African-American municipality.

Highlights of this year’s festival include “The Art of Haiti” exhibition at the Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts and an Eatonville Seminar featuring a “Zora’s Cosmos Tour” and lunch in Eatonville.

“Female Voices from Florida Women” will be presented by the Florida Historical Society highlighting the contributions of celebrated Florida women including Ms. Hurston, environmentalist Marjorie Stoneham Douglas, and educator Mary McLeod Bethune among others.

Ms. Hurston’s continuing influence will be explored in two

Zora Neale Hurston

Humanities panels, “Reclaiming our (S)hero: The Anthropological Contributions of Zora Neale Hurston” and “Work, Cry, Pray and Sweat: The Influence of Zora Neale Hurston’s Life and Work on Current Women’s Issues,” featuring noted experts.

Favorite festival events also return with the Outdoor Festival of the Arts, the HATitude Brunch and the Awards Gala. This year, they will be joined by “Remembering Haiti – An Evening Celebrating the People and Culture of Haiti.” www.zoranealehurstonfestival.com THE FESTIVAL OF ORCHESTRAS presents the Toronto Symphony Orchestra Jan. 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Northland Performing Arts Center – Northland Church. Led by conductor Peter Oundjian, the program includes violinist James Ehnes performing classics of Barber and Tchaikovsky.

Tickets range from $15-$80 and can be purchased by calling the box office. festivaloforchestras.org; 407-5390245 CORNELL FINE ARTS MUSEUM AT ROLLINS COLLEGE announced the opening of three new exhibitions for the spring season, Jan 15 – Mar 27: “The Edge of Vision: Abstraction in Contemporary Photography,” “Piety & Magnificence: Themes in Italian Art, 1350-1700” and “REMIX 2.” “The Edge of Vision” showcases the work of 19 contemporary photographers who base their practice in form of abstraction. Some of Cornell’s most treasured masterpieces will be on display in the “Piety & Magnificence” exhibit, featuring a selection of works ranging from the Italian Renaissance up to the mid-18th century. “Remix 2” includes photography and works of art by several artists. www.Cfam.rollins.edu; 407-6462526.

MONSTER JAM returns to Orlando Jan 29 at 7 p.m. at the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. The annual motor sports spectacle features 1,500-horsepower, 10,000-pound monster trucks www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

competing in side-by-side racing and freestyle competition. www.Monsterjam.com; 813-672-1839.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER announced that it will transform NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex into a place where visitors can engage with the people and machines of space exploration. The marquee element of the renovation is a $100 million exhibit displaying one of three remaining flown space shuttle orbiters. The transformation is estimated to take 10 years and will include 10 interactive-themed areas, plus new and enhanced visitor amenities. kennedyspacecenter.com; 866737-5235.

FUN SPOT ACTION PARK, located off International Drive, announced its plans for an expansion. The 13-yearold, 5-acre park purchased an adjacent 10 acres to triple its size. The expanded park will include more tracks, rides and a smaller version of the SkyCoaster thrill ride located at the Kissimmee park location, Fun Spot USA. The Kissimmee location is also expanding its park with a new Soaring Eagle Ride, birthday/meeting room and its first rollercoaster, a Wild Mouse ride, opening in March.

FunSpotAttractions.com; 407-3633867.

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Vince Vaughn and Kevin James headline an all-star comedy from

Oscar winner Nicolas Cage (“National Treasure,” “Ghost Rider”) and Ron Perlman (“Hellboy,” “Hellboy II: The Golden Army,” “Sons of Anarchy”) star in this supernatural action adventure about a heroic Crusader and his closest friend who return home after decades of fierce fighting, only to find their world destroyed by the Plague. The church elders, convinced that a girl accused

of being a witch is responsible for the devastation, command the two to transport the strange girl to a remote monastery where monks will perform an ancient ritual to rid the land of her curse. They embark on a harrowing, action-filled journey that will test their strength and courage as they discover the girl’s dark secret and find themselves battling a terrifyingly powerful force that will determine the fate of the world.

director Ron Howard and producer Brian Grazer about a man who finds out that what you don’t say to a friend is just as important as what you do.

Jennifer Connelly, Winona Ryder, Channing Tatum and Queen Latifah join them in The Dilemma, a story of how far you can bend a brotherly bond before it snaps. Since college, confirmed bachelor Ronny (Vaughn) and happily married Nick (James) have been through thick and thin.

Now partners in an auto design firm, the two pals are vying to land a dream project that would launch their company. With Ronny’s girlfriend, Beth (Connelly), and Nick’s wife, Geneva (Ryder), by their sides, they’re unbeatable. But Ronny’s world is turned upside down when he inadvertently sees Geneva out with another man and makes it his mission to get answers. As the amateur investigation dissolves his world into comic mayhem, he learns that Nick has a few secrets of his own. Now, with the clock ticking and pressure mounting on the biggest presentation of their careers, Ronny must decide how and when he will reveal the truth to his best friend. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Britt Reid (Seth Rogen) is the son of LA’s most prominent and respected media magnate and perfectly happy to maintain a directionless existence on the party scene – until his father (Tom Wilkinson) mysteriously dies, leaving Britt his vast media empire. Striking an unlikely friendship with one of his father’s more industrious and inventive employees, Kato (Jay Chou), they see their chance to do something meaningful for the first time in their lives: fight crime. But in order to do this, they decide to become criminals themselves – protecting the law by breaking it, Britt becomes the vigilante The Green Hornet as he and Kato hit the streets. Using all his ingenuity and skill, Kato builds the ultimate in advanced retro weaponry, The Black Beauty, an indestructible car equal parts firepower and horsepower.

Rolling in a mobile fortress on wheels and striking the bad guys with Kato’s clever gadgets, The Green Hornet and Kato quickly start making a name for themselves, and with the help of Britt’s new secretary, Lenore Case (Cameron Diaz), they begin hunting

down the man who controls LA’s gritty underworld: Benjamin Chudnofsky (Christoph Waltz). But Chudnofsky has plans of his own: to swat down The Green Hornet once and for all.

Bobby Walker (Ben Affleck) is living the American dream: great job, beautiful family, shiny Porsche in the garage. When corporate downsizing leaves him and co-workers Phil Woodward (Chris Cooper) and Gene McClary (Tommy Lee Jones) jobless, the three men are forced to re-define

ing. In order to protect their friendship, they make a pact to keep their relationship strictly “no strings attached.” “No strings” means no jealousy, no expectations, no fighting, no flowers, no baby voices. It means they can do whatever they want, whenever they want, in whatever public place they want, as long as they don’t fall in love. The question becomes- who’s going to fall first? And can their friendship survive?

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their lives as men, husbands, and fathers. Bobby soon finds himself enduring enthusiastic life coaching, a job building houses for his brother-inlaw (Kevin Costner) which does not play to his executive skill set, and perhaps the realization that there is more to life than chasing the bigger, better deal. With humor, pathos, and keen observation, writer-director John Wells introduces us to the new realities of American life.

In this comedy, Emma (Natalie Portman) and Adam (Ashton Kutcher) are life-long friends who almost ruin everything by having sex one morn-

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MOVIES (con’t)

“The Way Back” is the fact-based story of the escape of soldiers from a Siberian gulag in 1940. It is based on

several sources, most notably the Slavomir Rawicz book “The Long Walk: The True Story of a Trek to Freedom.” The book is Rawicz’s account of being captured by the Red Army in 1939 and his journey to freedom with other inmates. The group crossed the Siberian arctic, the Gobi desert and the Himalayas, finally settling in Tibet and India.

Arthur Bishop (Jason Statham) is a ‘mechanic’ - an elite assassin with a strict code and unique talent for cleanly eliminating targets. It’s a job that requires professional perfection and total detachment, and Bishop is the best in the business. But when his mentor and close friend Harry (Donald Sutherland) is murdered, Bishop is

anything but detached. His next assignment is self-imposed - he wants those responsible dead. His mission grows complicated when Harry’s son Steve (Ben Foster) approaches him with the same vengeful goal and a determination to learn Bishop’s trade.

Bishop has always acted alone but he can’t turn his back on Harry’s son. A methodical hit man takes an impulsive student deep into his world and a deadly partnership is born. But while in pursuit of their ultimate mark, deceptions threaten to surface and those hired to fix problems become problems themselves.

A psychological thriller about a deranged college freshman (Leighton

Meester) who becomes obsessed with her new roommate (Minka Kelly).

Inspired by true events, “The Rite” follows skeptical seminary student Michael Kovak (Colin O’Donoghue), who reluctantly attends exorcism school at the Vatican. While he’s in Rome, Michael meets an unorthodox priest, Father Lucas (Anthony Hopkins), who introduces him to the darker side of his faith, uncovering the devil’s reach even to one of the holiest places on Earth. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

The 3D action-thriller “Sanctum,” from executive producer James Cameron, follows a team of underwater cave divers on a treacherous expedition to the largest, most beautiful and least accessible cave system on Earth. When a tropical storm forces them deep into the caverns, they must fight raging water, deadly terrain and creeping panic as they search for an unknown escape route to the sea.

Master diver Frank McGuire (Richard Roxburgh) has explored the South Pacific’s Esa-ala Caves for months.

But when his exit is cut off in a flash flood, Frank’s team--including 17-yearold son Josh (Rhys Wakefield) and financier Carl Hurley (Ioan Gruffudd)-are forced to radically alter plans. With dwindling supplies, the crew must navigate an underwater labyrinth to make it out. Soon, they are confronted with the unavoidable question: Can they survive, or will they be trapped forever? Shot on location off the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, “Sanctum” employs 3D photography techniques Cameron developed to lens “Avatar.”

Jan 6-23 - Gulfport Community Players Present “Noises Off,” Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S. Perhaps the funniest farce ever written, this is a play within a play, with a LOT of physical action mixed in with unending comedy. 727-322-0316.

Jan 15 - Third Saturday Art Walk, Beach Blvd. (Waterfront District), 6-10PM. Dining out is one the most popular activities during Art Walk. Over a dozen choices within walking distance in the Village range from burgers and beer to fine dining with cocktails and wine. 727-322-5217. FREE. Jan 18 – Feb 22 - Playwriting Workshop, Gulfport Arts Center, 2726 54th St. S. (next to dog parks), 6:30-8PM. Back by popular demand, workshop is led by local playwright Tinamarie Hansen. $75. Students will learn elements of playwriting and be guided through the process of creating a one-act play. 727-374331.

Jan 24-25 - Annual Health & Beauty Fair, Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S., 9AM-NOON. 727-893-1231. FREE. Jan 28 - Annual Entertainment Fair, Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S., 11:30AM - . Entertainment, door prizes, drawings, $3 lunch, followed by Gibbs High School Choral group performance at next door Hickman Theater at 1PM. Free refreshments following performance. 727-893-1231. FREE.

Serving: Gulfport Senior Center; Gulfport Casino; Gulfport Waterfront District; Stetson Univ. College of Law; Pasadena Shopping Center Palms of Pasadena Hospital; St. Pete Beach

Feb 4 - ArtCruise, departing Gulfport Casino pier, 5500 Shore Blvd. S., boarding 6:30PM, Cruise provides sunset views of Gulfport and Boca Ciega Bay. Live music, cash only bar. 727-360-7411.

Beach Blvd., 9 a.m.–2 p.m. - Get fresh every Tuesday! Veggies, fruit, bread, cheese, seafood, nuts, herbs, plants, art and crafts, live music & much more. Beach Blvd. below 29th Ave. South. FREE. For information on many other Gulfport events, go to www.gulfportma.com.

The Apothecary Homeopathic Products & Remedies Traditional Pharmacy Compounding Specialists

2832 Beach Blvd. So. Gulfport, FL 33707

www.SeaBreezeManor.com

727-327-4200 www.lafogataonline.com

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TRAVELOGUE

Story and Photos by Melissa Wolcott and Al Martino

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isiting the Washington area environs is a wonderful experience with being able to relive so much of our nation’s early history which is preserved for all time.

Getting there from Florida is another story. Driving the I95 north/south corridor is scenic in a few spots, but mostly a tedious and tiring ride. By the time you drive there, you just want to sleep for a few days — precious time you may not have.

Flying is good, but then you have to deal with the airport hassles and renting a car — which is pretty pricey around Washington.

The bus is, well, the bus.

After pondering this dilemma, we decided we would try another alternative — Amtrak’s Auto Train. It turned out to be a wise decision and a really fun time. next morning, we woke up in Lorton, had a nice continental breakfast in the dining car, and were refreshed and ready for sightseeing. lthough Amtrak has 500 stops in 48 states, the Sanford/Lorton route is the only Auto Train in the country. It has been mostly popular with snowbirds, who bring their cars south for the winter months and return north n the spring, but many families are discovering that it brings another dimension to their vacation plans, and kids espe-

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Photo courtesy of Amtrak

he Amtrak Auto Train is nonstop from Sanford, FL (north of Orlando) to Lorton, VA (near Washington, DC).

We left in the afternoon, and woke up the next morning at our destination. In the meantime, the cars were loaded onto the train while we enjoyed a little “happy hour” in the lounge car. We watched the sun set over interesting rural Florida scenery, while enjoying a nice dinner in the dining car. After dinner, we watched a movie that was being shown in the lounge car before retiring for the night. The

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on Tampa Bay

Auto Train dining car.

cially love the experience. The Auto Train handles around 100,000 autos annually, and you might be surprised, as we were, that they take all manner of vehicles including SUVs, motorcycles, boats (up to 24 feet), U-Haul trailers, and Hummers. They can carry 300 autos per train, and 600 passengers in coach. It is the largest passenger train in the world. Although the train is rated for 125 mph, it only goes 70 mph for these trips. Not surprising is that fact that passenger numbers have increased yearly starting with 9/11.

You can choose different levels of comfort for your journey, such as coach seats, Roomettes (share a bathroom with others), sleepers (bedOff-loading a car from the Auto Train. room with bathroom and shower), family rooms, and larger bedrooms the width of the train. All meals are included with the trip, no matter which passage you choose. The Auto Train is the only train in U.S. that has a smoking section, but it has a good filtration system, so you don’t smell anything outside that section. You cannot ride the Auto Train if you don’t have a vehicle with you, and you don’t have access to your car once the train is in motion. hen we arrived at Lorton, we disembarked at a sleek new train station with a gift and coffee shop. We were then on our way to Alexandria, which is only a 20 minute

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1724 Home now the Visitor’s Center.

ride from the station. We started out at the Visitor’s Center, located in the oldest house in Alexandria (1724) and picked up some literature. In his late teenage years as a surveyor, George Washington laid out the city of Alexandria, so a Colonial Walking tour seemed in order. The town was originally inhabited mostly by farmers and sea captains.

Walking down King Street, we were pleased to note that even though there were a few fast food shops, they blended in with the colonial theme, so you only knew what it was by a small hanging flag with a simple logo. Many of the buildings are original to the time and have been turned into galleries and restaurants. The town’s Farmer’s Market is the longest continually running in the country, and Washington himself used to sell produce from his farm there. Prince Street (“Sea Captain’s Row”) is the only original cobblestone street left from colonial times, and is utterly charming. There Fast food restaurants blend has been a slight increase in into Alexandria’s colonial home values since the colonial theme. times, as the average homes are now worth between $2-3M in the old town section.

Even a home in the section that was once considered low income housing is worth about $900,000.

One interesting home still standing is the 1753 Carlyle House (from a prominent colonial family). Apparently, Mrs. Carlyle didn’t want the house to be haunted, so it was rumored she had a dead cat mummified, placed in a little coffin, and buried in a wall. When the house was restored in 1976, they discovered the dead cat in a wall near the front door. It is also reputed that the battle cry “No taxation without representation” began in the living room of this house.

Speaking of haunting (a colonial problem?) Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is reputed to have a resident ghost that appears in the upper left window. The tavern/hotel was often visited by the first three presidents, and has been restored and furnished to it’s The Carlyle House 18th century appearance.

A delightful restaurant is established in an old sea captain’s warehouse, called Union Street Public House. Charming gas lamps flicker against the old bricks, and decor combines the 18th and 19th century feel. We had some unique food combinations that were very tasty. The “Surf n’ Turf Club” was a triple decker sandwich with sliced sirloin, spiced shrimp, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and Remoulade Sauce. The “My Bar, My Rules” Steak was grilled filet mignon, sautéed onions, melted cheddar on an English muffin.

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The Innis House still stands on the site of the battle, riddled with bullet holes.

Serene Sunken Road was once the scene of tragic battles during the Civil War.

e drove over to Fredericksburg and checked in to the Hilton Garden Inn, which is in a developing area of hotels, shops, and a museum. The Hilton has a 24 hour business center, indoor pool and hot tub, and the rooms have microwaves, refrigerators and free internet access.

The complimentary breakfast is deluxe continental, with bacon, eggs, waffles, fruit and cereal.

Fredericksburg was the site of some major battles in the Civil War, and also where George Washington spent his boyhood. There are 40 blocks of a national historic dis-

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Historian Greg Metz describes the battle on Sunken Road.

trict with shops, homes and museums in the area. The 1862 battle is known as “Lee’s most one-sided victory”, and is focused on Sunken Road and the Stone Wall at Marye’s Heights. On site, Historian Greg Metz colorfully took us through the battle pointing out significant points of interest.

A most interesting stop we made was at the Rising Sun Tavern, built by George Washington’s youngest brother in 1760 as his private residence. It became a tavern in 1792 until 1827 when it was turned back into a private residence.

It remained with that family Rising Sun Tavern was once the for 150 years. residence of George Washington’s Restorations were made younger brother to turn it back to it’s tavern days, and it is now a fascinating glimpse into what life was like for travelers in colonial times. We learned that: Upper classes came in through the front door, lower classes in the back; There was one dining room for the men, and one for the ladies; Five men—strangers no less—slept in one bed, sitting up; A “necessary chair” was delivered to ladies on request; Checkout time was 4:00 AM, and at 3:00 AM, ladies were gotten up, dressed and sent off with a picnic basket for the day; cost per night was 1 1/2 shillings (25¢), and consider that $200 per year was the average income for upper class. The tavern used indentured servants who worked for 4 years, and were then free to go their way.

Most were young women age 15-25 who came to this country to find husbands. The tavern owner paid $10 per head for passage for the servants, mostly from the British Isles. It was considered the best hotel for 50 miles around.

Fifty miles equals 14-15 hours in a carriage. It all makes you kind of Docent on the Rising Sun Tavern tour. glad to be traveling in the 21st century.

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Photo courtesy of Half Moon Bay Brewing Co.

currently on display, which will expand to 220 as they add on. Twenty-five of the aircraft are one-of-a-kind left in the world. nother twenty mile ride and we were back at the Lorton Station for our relaxing trip on the Auto Train back home. The sleeper provides comfortable private seating by day, and in the evening an attendant converts the seat into a bed, with an upper bed folding down from the wall. It took a clever bit of engineering to get a toilet, sink, shower and two beds into the compact area.

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olks traveling from Florida without a car use the services of Amtrak’s Silver Meteor or Silver Star. Amtrak even has a guest rewards program (similar to frequent flyers). They also have vacation packages available with rail/ cruise and rail/fly, and work closely with travel agents. Rail passes are available, and a Florida rail pass gives you one year of unlimited travel for Florida residents. There are also attraction discounts for rail riders.

F Gari Melchers home and studio.

mpressionist artist Gari Melchers Home and Studio is located in Fredericksburg, and is a wonderful 18th century estate named Belmont, which houses the largest collection of his works in the world. Melchers purchased the house in 1916, and painted there until he died in 1932. All furnishings and artwork are original to the Melters family.

The grounds are beautiful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around.

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oving up in time, a visit to the area would not be complete without a trip to the Udvar Hazy Museum, which is near the Washington Dulles International Airport. The incredible museum houses thousands of the Smithsonian’s aviation and space artifacts, the centerpiece being the space shuttle Enterprise. Among the aircraft on display are the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird (the fastest jet in the world) the Boeing Dash 80 (prototype of the 707) and the B-29 Enola Gay. The hangar museum has 750,000 square feet of space, is 3 football fields long, and measures 103 feet from floor to ceiling. One hundred twenty eight aircraft are

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hen you’re thinking about heading north with your car — especially with the family in tow — consider the advantages of taking the Auto Train, and become an “easy rider.” You’ll never hear the words “Are we there yet?”

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If You Go...

AMTRAK - 1-800-USA-RAIL; www.Amtrak.com BELMONT - www.GariMelchers.org CARLYLE HOUSE - 703-549-2997 GADSBY’S TAVERN MUSEUM - www.gadsbystavern.org HILTON GARDEN INN, Fredericksburg www.hiltongardeninn1.hilton.com OLD TOWN EXPERIENCE WALKING TOUR, Alexandria 703-836-0694 RISING SUN TAVERN - www.apva.org/risingsuntavern UDVAR HAZY MUSEUM - www.nasm.si.edu/udvarhazy UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE www.unionstreetpublichouse.com

Udvar Hazy Museum

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here is a fabulous work of art by American conceptual artist, John Baldessari onboard the Celebrity Solstice cruise ship. One of many featured works of art installed

Sherman and Renee hailed from Boca Raton, FL and they were a very happy couple even before I told them about the value of the huge (yes, huge!) diamond ring on Renee’s hand. They were a match made in heaven with Renee’s award-winning smile and Sherman’s characteristic unlit cigar. They attended every one of my antiques appraisal shows throughout the 7-day cruise and they were a pair that could teach all of us a little bit about enjoying life. Married nearly 63 years, Renee and Sherman shared a lot of memories. I added to the lot with the information that her ring was appraised at a value of $60,000. Now, that’s living the good life.

Sherry from Arkansas wore her ring proudly at my antiques appraisal event on Celebrity Solstice.

onboard the luxury ship, the Baldessari piece depicts two figures at Stonehenge where the solstice is an important element of this ancient, mysterious site. The Celebrity art collection is outstanding and it is a wonderful backdrop for my popular art and antiques appraisal shows that I regularly present in partnership with Celebrity cruises.

I met Lila and Keith who hailed from Idaho City, ID. Keith said he loved flea markets and reported to the audience that you can find some good stuff if you look really hard and take your time at the flea market. His wife Lila rolled her eyes and said that he wastes money on junk at those flea markets. Well, Lila had to eat her words when Keith showed me the two strands of pearls that he had bought for $25 at a flea market. Lila thought the necklaces were just junk but, in fact, they were both the real thing. Lila kissed Keith when she heard that his flea market necklaces of cultured pearls with 14 karat gold clasps were worth a total value of $1,500.

A guest named Sherry from Arkansas, who was traveling with her adult son, asked me to appraise her diamond and Burmese ruby ring that her husband bought for her months before he passed away. She said she didn’t care

During my recent Caribbean cruise on Solstice, I evaluated guests’ art, antiques, and collectibles. Some brought their coveted family heirlooms onboard, some asked me about family heirlooms and yard sale finds, and some brought photographs of those items that were too big or too fragile to make the trip.

From English bisque-ware to sterling silver snuff boxes, cruise guests from all over the world learned about the art and antiques market, got the inside track about what to select when souvenir shopping, and had lots of fun getting appraisals of their personal objects.

I met some lovely people who were enjoying a vacation in fabulous ports of call. For instance, www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

how much it was worth because it was a gift from her husband, but the best gift she ever got from her husband was her son. When I told her that her ring was worth $10,000, Sherry told me she’d pay that much money any day just to have a dance with her son on the cruise. Sherry, with her son on her arm and a little ‘bling’ on her finger, sure had something nice to wear on formal night!

Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events nationwide and antiques themed cruises. As seen on The Tonight Show, watch Dr. Lori on the national TV morning show, Daytime on NBC WFLA 8 at 10 AM. For a schedule of Dr. Lori’s events and cruises, visit DrLoriV.com, Facebook.com/DoctorLori, or (888) 431-1010.

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Lookin’ Good . . .

Necklace Necessities Solving Fashion Dilemmas One Necklace at a Time

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hen faced with a chain that is too short and tight, don’t throw it out. With the Necklace Necessities Ensemble the accessory prone can take their necklace chains to new lengths.

The ensemble includes a trio of necklace extenders—one adjustable silvertone extender, one adjustable goldtone extender (both of which extend from 3.5-6 inches), and one nonadjustable 4-inch “faux” pearl extender. It also comes with a 12 piece trial package of Necessities Secure Strips and comes in a fun purse package that makes it the perfect gift.

The Necessities Secure Strips are an innovative solution to those pesky necklace clasps that always want to be the center of attention at the front of one’s outfit. Secure Strips are small, clear, hypoallergenic adhesives that secure the necklace extenders and clasps in place at the back of the neck. Wearers won’t even notice they’ve got the adhesive on.

Necklace Necessities also have created a signature line of necklaces as well.

For more information, visit www.necklacenecessities.com

Violet Love Designer Headbands

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f you love headbands (because they are definitely cool!) but hate the headaches that follow after you’ve been wearing them awhile, you have to check out the headbands created by Rebecca Michaels for Violet Love. They come in a variety of fashion forward prints (plain colors too) and are made of a luxuriously soft brushed poly/lycra fabric. The headband is cleverly designed to be worn opened wide, folded under or scrunched and very narrow without any bulk. It continues to grow in popularity because of its superior wicking, its ability to stay put, and headache-free comfort.

Rebecca has grown her Violet Love line to include legwear, loungewear and scarves. Violet Love’s popular tagline is “Love me, wear me, don’t dare to share me”.

For more information, visit www.violetloveheadbands.com

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LUSH Says Joy!

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ick up one of Lush’s adorable tins for the bath lover in your life and you’ll be guaranteed a giggle and perhaps even a little happy dance. This gorgeous tin is packed full of nine totally different Bath Bombs - each with it’s own distinctive personality!

For example, experience Big Blue (drop a Big Blue in your tub and bring a private ocean to your bathroom); Butterball (gorgeous vanilla musk bomb lulls your skin into soft submission); Avobath (zingy lemongrass adds pep and fresh avocado for happy skin) and 6 more great soaks.

Lush’s products are wrapped by hand with recyclable and reusable paper and biodegradable fill for the holidays and always.

For more information, visit www.lushusa.com

Find The Fountain of Youth with FROWNIES

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very woman wants Beautiful Eyes and Frownies has just the package. Frownies introduces a new eye gel used to stop the signs of aging on the under eye and eye lid area made of all natural cactus collagen and bear berry. You can revive your skin cells with immune boosting, DNA protecting products that bring back youthful skin tone. With one 30 minute treatment 100% of women testing Frownies eye gels saw a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and dark circles. The Eye Gels promote beauty by boosting micro-circulation and fighting free radical damage. The immune building properties help protect the DNA and firm skin, reduce fine lines and normalize skin coloration. Frownies have become a celebrity favorite due to their natural ingredients and effective results.

Frownies products are made with natural ingredients that are safe and protect and support your skin. Their proprietary ingredient blend includes aloe, oats, cactus collagen, bear berries, lavender and rose essential oils, combined with antioxidant vitamins, and plantbased ingredients. Frownies products do not contain known carcinogens, pollutants or petroleum products that mimic estrogen and cause hormonal imbalances.

Visit www.frownies.com for more information.

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Thunderbird Refueling Mission at MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida Story and phtos by Hank and Yvonne-Evette Charneskey

n Monday morning, October 25th, we got up at truly what seemed like O’Dark Thirty and drove from Clearwater to MacDill AFB in Tampa. We arrived at at 7:30 AM and began the adventure of a lifetime. . .

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fter check-in and orientation, we climbed aboard a bus and were shuttled to the KC135 that was to be our home for the next three hours.

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On our way to connecting with the Thunderbirds, we flew over the BP oil spill (nothing to see but blue water there now, thank goodness). At about 11:30 AM, we arrived at some unknown point over Louisiana where we hooked up with the Thunderbirds for a mid-air refueling mission.

To get a sense of how this might work if you were on land, compare this to being on the freeway, pulling up to back of a fuel truck where a boom is extended to your fuel tank. Once finished, you’re on you way to your destination.

The difference is, in the KC-135, we were traveling 400+ miles per hour at 34,000 feet. The 3-person crew made it seem effortless (I was definitely impressed).

I kept wondering why we had to fly to Louisiana, when it dawned on me, we needed lots of air time to refuel 6 planes...400 mph goes by pretty quickly — three states worth to be exact.

After returning to Tampa, we filmed the crew and made a few more photos. A van picked us all up and we cruised back to the parking lot to load our equipment and we headed home.

The words that come to mind to describe the experience for us lends new meaning to the phrase, “Oh My Goodness, isn’t this amazing?”

We were certainly on cloud nine.

Over and Out, VonHenry Media Productions, Clearwater, FL.

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Tarpon Springs Events GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS - Jan 14. The Golden Dragon Acrobats represent the best of a time honored tradition that began more than twenty-five centuries ago. The Golden Dragons combine awardwinning acrobatics, traditional dance, spectacular costumes, ancient and contemporary music and theatrical techniques to present a show of breathtaking skill and spellbinding beauty. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center.

ROUNDING THIRD - Jan 21-23, 28-30. What does it mean to be a success? Is winning the only thing that matters, or is it how you play the game? For Michael and Don, two coaches of the same Little League baseball team, their answers are clear – and completely opposite. Richard Dresser’s Rounding Third is a hilarious look at how our culture is teaching our kids— and our parents— to deal with competition and success. Tarpon Springs Cultural Center SECOND ANNUAL MANATEE CELEBRATION DAY Jan 22. A full day of activities about the conservation and

protection of Florida’s favorite marine mammal will take place in the Heritage Museum and surrounding Craig Park, the winter home of a large number of manatees in Spring Bayou. Admission is free. 727-937-0686. at the Heritage Museum. George Soffos is considered by many to be the best bouzouki player born outside of Greece. His repertoire includes folk genres such as rembetika and nisiotika, as well as popular and classical Greek works. Since he was 16, he has entertained audiences in Greek night clubs and other venues throughout the world and accompanied many top vocalists from Greece. Free.

JOSEPH SCHWARTZ, CONCERT PIANIST - Jan 29.

Concert pianist Joseph Schwartz performs a classical program entitled “Humor and Romance in Music” featuring Beethoven’s Eroica Variations, Chopin Second Ballade and works by Schumann, Chopin and others. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center For more information, 727-942-5605, www.tarponarts.org

stay@laketarponresort.com

JDAVID.PHOTOREFLECT.COM

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Visit Historic Tarpon Springs

12 W Orange St., Tarpon Springs FL 34689

the original Creations™ The *COTTON* Lady D.I.Y Products

Rita Stetson • Creator/Designer

U. U. Church

Auto. Home.

Business amd Life 24 Hour Service

of Tarpon Springs “The Uncommon Denomination”

Services Sundays 10:30 AM

Home of the Geo. Inness Jr. Paintings

230 Grand Blvd., Tarpon Springs, Fl. 34689 727-937-4682 www.uutarpon.org

Peter G. Gillis Agency, Inc Owner Allstate Insurance Company 536 Tarpon Ave. Ste. 1B Tarpon Springs. FL 34689 Phone 727-942-7400 Toll Free 888-942-7400 Email petergillis@allstate.com

Great Food

TIMOTHY J. MURPHY

RAMONA L. SKINNER

Tarpon Discount Drugs

ANTIQUES GALLERY Specializing in 19th Century Decorative Arts 212 E. Tarpon Ave. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 mcantiques@aol.com

Open every day 10am - 6pm phone: 727-939-9399 cell: 886-864-2906

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Family Fun

Cool NEW Stuff Unique and Whimsical Ideas from

BAILEY DOESN’T BARK

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ailey Doesn’t Bark offers unique products for those who love originality, thought and whimsy. Designer, Re Jin Lee, creates handmade, simply unique, witty designs to be used in everyday life. Bailey Doesn’t Bark has handmade tableware, home accents, jewelry and locally produced paper goods, with hand selected gourmet edibles.

All Bailey Doesn’t Bark products are made in the U.S. by founder Re Jin Lee, or an independent and/or ecofriendly partner and are packaged in-house using recycled, reusable or biodegradable materials.

All products, including the Four Seasons Cups pictured here, are available at www.baileydoesntbark.com.

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GOODLIGHT Clean Air Candles

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ith the trend in healthy eating grabbing so much attention, we’re overlooking something just as important: healthy breathing. That’s why GoodLight’s founders Jon and David began making palm wax candles: to provide a healthier alternative to the paraffin candles that pollute restaurants everywhere.

Whenever you sit down to a candlelit dinner, whether it’s at home or out, benzene and toluene are being served as toxic side dishes. Studies have linked these chemicals and others found in paraffin candle fumes to cancer and birth defects. GoodLight’s palm wax, on the other hand, emits no toxins. Refined from palm fruit, a non-GMO rapidly renewable resource, palm wax burns clean without the nasty black soot common with other candles. GoodLight costs far less than any soy or beeswax candle.

Brighten your holiday gatherings with GoodLight and breathe easy. www.naturalcandles.com

FOR THE GAMERS...

STARCRAFT II: WINGS OF LIBERTY

by Blizzard Entertainment Platform: Windows Vista / XP, Mac OS X / Rated: Teen

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EARBUD YO-YO A Simple Solution to Tangled Earbuds

ontinue the epic saga of the Protoss, Terran, and Zerg.

These three distinct and powerful races will clash once again in the fast-paced real-time strategy sequel to the original, StarCraft. Legions of veteran, upgraded, and new unit types will do battle across the galaxy, as each faction struggles for survival.

Featuring a single-player campaign that picks up where StarCraft: Brood War left off, StarCraft II presents a cast of new heroes and familiar faces in a sci-fi story filled with adventure and intrigue. In addition, Blizzard offers online play through Battle.net with several enhancements and features to make StarCraft II even better. www.blizzard.com

WORLD OF WARCRAFT: CATACLYSM

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etting frustrated with the tangled mess you pull out of your pocket when you want to use your earbuds?

There’s a solution for that — the Earbud Yo-Yo. Now you can keep your earbuds organized all the time. Best of all, the Earbud Yo-Yo is so light it can stay attached to your earbuds all the time.

The Earbud Yo-Yo is an ear bud holder, organizer, and a fashionable ear bud accessory. The unique design can easily manage earbud cords for nearly every portable audio device you own.

And it’s easy to use. You just wrap the cord around it like a regular yo-yo. The unique gripper keeps the cord from unraveling.

You can customize the length of your earbuds easily. Simply unwrap your earbuds to your desired length, and the Earbud Yo-Yo will keep the remaining cord stored and out of your way. They come in a wide range of bright colors and designs.

Check them out at www.earbudyoyo.com

by Blizzard Entertainment Platform: Windows Vista / XP, Mac OS X Intel / Rated: Teen An ancient evil lies dormant within Deepholm, the domain of earth in the Elemental Plane. Hidden away in a secluded sanctuary, the corrupted Dragon Aspect Deathwing has waited, recovering from the wounds of his last battle against Azeroth and biding his time until he can reforge the world in molten fire. Soon, Deathwing the Destroyer will return to Azeroth, and his eruption from Deepholm will sunder the world, leaving a festering wound across the continents. As the Horde and Alliance race to the epicenter of the cataclysm, the kingdoms of Azeroth will witness seismic shifts in power, the kindling of a war of the elements, and the emergence of unlikely heroes who will rise up to protect their scarred and broken world from utter devastation.

Key Game Features include: two new playable races, level cap increased to 85, new high-level zones, unearth valuable artifacts and earn unique rewards, Explore Kalimdor and the Eastern Kingdoms like never before. www.blizzard.com

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GEAR TIE A New Twist On Organizing Your Gear

by Melissa Wolcott

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n unassuming little package of twist ties may be just the best thing you will discover today.

When I visited the Gear Tie website, they had me at “Gear Tie can be used as an iPhone stand.” This would be one of the less usual uses of this new take on the old twist tie, which comes in many colors and sizes — from 3” to 32”. Gear Ties are strong rubber ties with a wire running through that holds whatever shape you twist it into, and can be reused over and over again.

The rubber surface makes it safe from scratching any of your gear. The most obvious uses for the ties are bundling wires from small electronic gear up to large hoses. They can be used indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather.

Price ranges from $4.99 for a 4-pack of 3” ties to $6.99 for a 2-pack of 32” ties.

A visit to Gear Tie’s website will show you some other uses for the ties, but I’m sure you will quickly come up with some of your own. For more information and where to buy, visit www.geartie.com/

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hapeways makes it easy for anyone to create oneof-a-kind gifts including stainless steal cufflinks that will complete any suit, or an iPod Display Tray for the tech savvy enthusiast. Unique table ornaments including Napkin Ring Poems and personalized Glass Labels offer dinner guests a special memento to remember the event.

Shapeways has a large choice of unusual gifts, here a just a few: Napkin Ring Poems - Create unique table ornaments that you can personalize for any occasion or any guest, with any message using the Shapeways Ringpoem Creator. Ringpoems are most commonly used as napkin rings, but they can also be used to embellish a bottle of wine, flower bouquets and more.

Premium plastic is available in a variety of colors.

Glass Labels - Entertain with deliwww.wynnlasvegas.com cate Glass Labels while adding another

layer of decoration to your beautifully decorated table settings. Each charm features the option to be personalized with the names of all the guests, for seating at the dinner table. Premium plastic available in a variety of colors.

Lightpoem Candle Holders - Sculpt your own words into a unique candle holder with the Shapeways Lightpoem Creator. Light up the dinner table by capturing a meaningful poem or favorite holiday saying. Available in premium plastic in a variety of colors.

Time Keeper - A clock frozen in time, the Time Keeper commemorates a birth date, an anniversary, or any other significant moment in your life, in history, or the future. It will keep that time with perfect accuracy, forever.

You set the date and time.

You can also include a short message below the date.

Available in Stainless Steal, Gold Plated and Antique Bronze finishes.

For more information, and to order these special items, visit www.shapeways.com

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GAMING SCENE LAS VEGAS is an intimate 2,000-square-foot haven at Luxor Hotel and Casino for members and invited guests only. Reminiscent of the infamous street in London, Savile Row will cater to an eclectic group with a “made-to-measure” experience.

Specialized VIP services, a creative mixology program, reliable discretion and a seductive atmosphere will be the standard. At the time of opening, only 300 memberships will be distributed. A Savile Row membership will allow the privileged to call ahead and make an appointment, skip the line, enter through the private Parlor and give guest referrals. www.luxor.com

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Visitors to Fremont Street Experience can now soar along an 800-foot-long zip-line attraction with speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. The attraction starts on a platform east of the Fremont Street Experience canopy and ends in front of the Four Queens. There are plans to expand the flightline along the entire five-block length of the canopy. www.fremontstreetflightline.com CAESARS PALACE, IMPERIAL PALACE AND RIO ALL-SUITE HOTEL & CASINO INTRODUCE PETSTAY - Caesars Palace, Imperial Palace and Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino have introduced “PetStay Las Vegas,” the resorts’ new petfriendly hotel program. Each of the three resorts allows guests to check into their hotel rooms with their dogs and offers caninefriendly in-room amenities. The program includes a welcome packet that

BILOXI What’s Happening at the Beau Rivage Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the is a beautiful resort destination — very convenient for Tampa Bay area folks looking for either an exciting time, or a relaxing time, or both - the Beau has it all. With a partnership with Vision Airlines, the resort has an exclusive package that includes a round trip non-stop jet flight, ground transfers, and two nights in a luxurious guestroom — starting at only $199 per person (double occupancy). The flight takes only an hour and fifteen minutes and leaves from the St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airport. Right now the flights are once a day, and leave (and return) on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Golfers will defiFallen Oak nitely want to experience Fallen Oak, Beau Rivage’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with it’s dramatic elevation changes (unique for a Gulf Coast course) and beautiful magnolia trees, ponds, streams and

directs guests to outdoor relief areas, dog walking routes and specialty room service menus, a mat, food and water dishes, disposable waste bags and dog treats. Dogs must weigh 50 pounds or less and be present at the time of check-in. www.harrahs.com/petstaylasvegas LE RÊVE PRESENTS THE ULTIMATE SCUBA EXPERIENCE Wynn Las Vegas’ show is giving certified SCUBA divers the opportunity of a lifetime with the Diver’s Dream Package, allowing SCUBA diving during a live performance of Le Rêve. The Diver’s Dream Package includes a two-night stay at Wynn or Encore, VIP Indulgence tickets to Le Rêve, a private backstage tour, SDI Certified SCUBA training session with the Le Rêve diving team and the opportunity to dive during the live show. www.wynnlasvegas.com

wetlands. GOLF Magazine rated it one of the “Top 100 Courses You Can Play.”

A visit to the Beau’s spa and salon will show Epicurean treatments unique to the Gulf Coast, and a perfect place for a Girlfriend Getaway with their special “Pamper Parties.”

The dining opportunities at the Beau are wonderfully varied - from the simple Snacks Deli to the exceptional BR Prime (the Beau’s signature steak and seafood restaurant), and every thing in between. Guests have eleven restaurants to choose from, as well as several bars.

For entertainment, guests can look forward to seeing the likes of and in the next few months. Call 888566-7469, or visit www.beaurivage.com for act dates and times.

Reservations for the air-inclusive travel packages may be made by calling 877-462-2328.

Visit www.beaurivage.com for more information on the resort.

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All guestrooms are suites at The Palazzo.

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(which are already heads and tails in luxury above same price point rooms at other Vegas resorts, at a spacious 720 square feet.) The beautifully appointed suites have a sunken living room, large 130 sq. ft. marble bathroom with a Roman tub, 3 flat-screen TVs throughout, remote-control shades and curtains, a dining table, and a work desk. The bedroom area comes with either two queens or king beds that are super plush.

And that, dear readers, is their basic guestroom. They actually get more and more luxurious as you upgrade.

s if staying in their gorgeous guest– room suites wasn’t enough, the Palazzo in Las Vegas has upped the The Palazzo and it’s next door sister ante, and now offers a “Prestige” package, resort, The Venetian, have it locked with which, at $100 more per night, is too good to the best of everything — guestsuites, pass up. Does that sound a bit pricey to you? dining, spa, entertainment, shopping, and Here’s what you get for your extra $100: gaming. We’ve already mentioned the • Champagne upon check in at the private guestsuites, and dining at the resorts is Prestige level on the 23rd floor. superlative as well, with many and varied • Packing and unpacking service. choices. From the basic (the food court in • Personal concierge service.

Venetian’s Canal Shoppes) to the fine • Daily newspaper delivery to your suite. (celebrity chef restaurants) there is some• Complimentary cocktail reception in the thing for every budget and every mood.

12,000 sq. ft. Prestige Lounge.

Particular fine dining standouts are • Access to the Canyon Ranch SpaClub fitMario Batali’s Carnevino, Wolfgang ness center.

Puck’s CUT, and Thomas Keller’s • Admission to Azure, the Palazzo’s luxury Bouchon. pool.

Shopping within both resorts is pretty • Complimentary WiFi. • Complimentary local and Hot and cold hors d’oeuvres are served upscale, and you will find your most coveted 1-800 calls. in the Prestige Lounge. brands setting up shop • Business center with copyhere (think Barneys, ing, printing and internet availJimmy Choo, Piaget, ability.

Ferragamo, etc.)

• Plasma TVs throughout Some of the hottest the Prestige Lounge. shows in Las Vegas are • A deluxe continental at the Palazzo/Venetian breakfast in the Prestige lounge with the blockbuster • Afternoon teas and coffees “Jersey” Boys”, the in the Prestige lounge. quirky “Blue Man • Hot and cold hors d’oeuGroup”, and the best provres in the Prestige lounge. duction you’ve ever seen • Desserts and snacks in the of “The Phantom Of The Prestige lounge.

Opera” to name a few.

If you add all these perks Between the two casiup, they will certainly come nos (Palazzo & Venetian) you will find every well over $100, and you have the convenience table game imaginable and all the latest slot of not dealing with anything individually. So, machines. The two resorts are also offering a yes. Well worth it. new exclusive feature called “PocketCasino”, which enables you to keep gambling while you The guestrooms in the Prestige Package are drink, dance or dine. You can play Sports Book the same as the regular Palazzo guestrooms games, Extra Odds Baccarat, True Odds Prestige Lounge for relaxing and having a drink and a bite to eat.

Black Jack, Extra Odds Black Jack, DeepStack progressive video poker and many more on this handheld device you can pick up in the casinos.

(I’m not sure how you play blackjack or poker and dance at the same time, but that’s me.)

Palazzo’s Azure (only open Friday thru Sunday) is the ultimate in luxury www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

pools. It looks like the French Riviera, and feels almost overindulgent (if there’s such a thing.) Complimentary fresh fruit, frozen grapes, beverages, ice towels, Evian mistings and fine cuisine samplings are offered while you lounge on a daybed or in a cabana. Enjoy music and fashion shows, and tasty treats by Wolfgang Puck (like smoked salmon pizza with black caviar, or Maine lobster salad) along with cocktails and champagne before or after you relax with a 50-minute massage.

Ahhh.

Inviting Prestige lobby.

As you can see, you can stay at the Palazzo and actually never venture outside it’s complex for a complete resort vacation. And we have done it many times.

If you visit Palazzo’s website, you will see some fabulous vacation package offers. As of this writing, there is a Special Moment’s Package for $139 per night, which includes a luxury suite, view upgrade, $30 dining credit, $50 off 50 minute spa service, 30% off Blue Man Group tix, $50 PocketCasino gaming credit, and $25 slot credit per guest. If you add

Friendly concierge staff welcomes guests to the Prestige level.

that all up, the Palazzo is in the minus column.

Throw in the Prestige Package and you’re still way ahead of the game. But wait! There’s more! Join the Player’s Club (free) and enjoy gaming, and you will receive very generous offers for future visits (which can include free stays, dining credits, and slot/gaming free play). By the time you read this, that particular package may no longer be available, but there will be some other great offer in its place.

I do believe I just talked us into heading back to Vegas and the Palazzo real soon!

For more information visit www.palazzolasvegas.com

DVD Views COMEDY www.foxconnect.com/ Get ready to kick some serious past with the wildly inappropriate unrated version of Hot Tub Time Machine. The outrageous laughs bubble up when four friends share a crazy night of drinking in a ski resort hot tub, only to wake up with serious hangovers in 1986 - back when girls wore leg warmers, guys watched Red Dawn and Michael Jackson was black! Now, nice-guy Adam (John Cusack), party animal Lou (Rob Corddry), married man Nick (Craig Robinson) and mega-nerd Jacob (Clark Duke) must relive a wild night of sex, drugs and rock-n-roll and try to change their future - forever!

LOCKED DOWN www.lionsgatedvd.com Danny, a respected cop, is set up after an investigation goes wrong.

While lying low in his new jail cell, Danny is forced to get involved in the inmatesí underground cage-fighting circuit. With the help of Irving, a former mixed martial arts champion, Danny devises a scheme to bring justice and innocence to his familyís name, if he can get out of the cage alive. www.anchorbayentertainment.com When Jim’s (Steve Austin) teenage daughter is kidnapped, he’s forced to lead a band of ruthless killers into the wilderness to retrieve their share of a missing heist score.

In order to rescue his daughter, Jim must use his unique brand of survival skills to outsmart the kidnappers before it’s too late. Hunt To

Kill is an action packed adrenaline rush about a man operating on his most primal instincts to save the one thing he’s willing to die for - his daughter.

GARY UNMARRIED: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON www.GaryUnmarriedDVD.com Funnyman Jay Mohr (JERRY MAGUIRE, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE) delivers the laughs in the awardwinning (People’s Choice Award For Favorite New TV Comedy 2009) hit comedy Gary Unmarried: The Complete First Season. Newly single dad Gary Brooks (Mohr) is an uncomplicated guy trying to find his way in an increasingly complicated world. Gary’s doing the best he can to raise his two kids with ex-wife Allison (Paula Marshall), while just beginning to stick his toe back into the dating pool after fifteen years of marriage...just in time for Allison to drop a major bombshell on him.

Experience all twenty laugh-out-loud episodes in this 3-Disc Collection.

Packed with never-before-seen bonus features, including a behind-thescenes visit with Emmy Award-winning director James Burrows (CHEERS), GARY UNMARRIED: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON is the comedy hit about trying to start over while still holding on to the things that really matter.

PRIVATE PRACTICE: COMPLETE THIRD SEASON www.PrivatePractice-DVD.com Relive every moment of ABC’s hit drama Private Practice: The Complete Third Season. The challenges that Dr. Addison Montgomery (Kate Walsh) and her coworkers at the Oceanside Wellness Group face every day have bonded them into a tight knit family, but big changes may be just www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

around the corner. An all-star cast including Taye Diggs, Amy Brenneman, Audra MacDonald, Tim Daly, Paul Adelstein, KaDee Strickland, and Chris Lowell is tested at every turn by the moral and ethical dilemmas that accompany their clinicís unique medical cases. All 23 episodes of Season Three are in this 5-disc DVD collection, along with neverbefore-seen bonus features including bloopers, deleted scenes.

STARGATE UNIVERSE SG-U: 1.5 www.foxconnect.com/ The electrifying series starring Robert Carlyle returns, presenting a whole new set of challenges for the civilians and military personnel stranded in deep space aboard an aging spaceship. As Dr. Rush (Carlyle) races against time to locate a tracking devise hidden somewhere on the Destiny, he also begins to suspect that a mole for the Alliance has infiltrated the group. Confronting the constant demands of their ship, the crew must also face their personal demons time and again in this powerful adventure that also features Lou Diamond Phillips, Michael Shanks, Richard Dean Anderson and Julia Benson. www.video.movies.go.com When things get rough on Wisteria Lane, the Housewives band together like never before. Relive the passion, the laughter and the mystery of TV’s celebrated dramatic comedy on thie 5disc set. The neighborhood is jolted with the arrival of Angie Bolen (Drea De Matteo) and her family, and it soon becomes clear that they are hiding something. But what is their secret, and what are their true intentions? Meanwhile, a plane crash on Wisteria Lane causes everyone to reflect on their lilves and the choices that have made them who they are.

www.disneydvdmovies.com Join Mitchie (Demi Lovato), Shane, Nate, and Jason (Jonas Brothers), and some brand new campers across the lake for 2 times the music, 2 times the dance moves and 2 times the fun in Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam! Plus only this extended edition combo pack includes a behind-the-scenes introduction to the newest stars, music videos by camp rockers from around the world, “Rock-Along” where you take center stage and more.

www.barney.com Join Barney and his friends for some tail-wagging adventures, as they have a purr-fectly wonderful time with pets. Learn how to care for your favorite furry friends, from helpful guide dogs to stunning show dogs and all different kinds of cats. You’re sure to have a doggone good time with Baby Bop, BJ and everyone’s favorite fun-loving dinosaur, Barney.

RICHARD, CLIFF - RARE AND UNSEEN www.mvdb2b.com

In “Rare and Unseen”, the fourth title of this exclusive and all new DVD collection for fans, we take an inside look at the talented, charismatic, singer-songwriter and actor Cliff Richard - the man who dominated the British popular music scene in the late 1950s and early 1960s, before and during The Beatles’ first year in the charts. This brand new DVD release is a collection of rare footage featuring original rare film and videos of the singer, newsreels and photographs from private collections.

From his UK chart-topping successes to being a TV and film personality, Cliff Richard has certainly made his mark in the entertainment industry. He played, he recorded and conquered the planet for five decades - and he is the only artist to have had a number one single in the UK in five consecutive decades, doing so from the 1950s through to the 1990s. www.infinityentertainmentgroup.com She’s sold 120 million records; charted nine #1 songs; won 16 Grammy Awards; headlined three solo world tours; produced records; starred in seven feature films (Dreamgirls, Austin Powers in Goldmember); and launched her own fashion and fragrance lines. It’s hard to believe that Texas-born Beyonce Giselle Knowles took singing and dancing lessons as a child to overcome shyness. By seven, she was

TOP RENTALS CRASH THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON THE BUCKET LIST THE DEPARTED THE BLIND SIDE IRON MAN THE HURT LOCKER NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN GRAN TORINO THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS THE PROPOSAL SHERLOCK HOLMES BLOOD DIAMOND

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE CASINO ROYALE THE NOTEBOOK UP IN THE AIR INSIDE MAN LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE TWILIGHT THE DARK KNIGHT 3:10 TO YUMA CHANGLING BABEL INGLORIOUS BASTERDS

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winning competitions and, at 15, she formed Destiny’s Child with Kelly Rowland. After 14 years, Destiny’s Child called it quits, and Beyonce has achieved even more success as a solo artist. www.mvdb2b.com Take an inside look at the excitement, the thrills and the sheer talent of the man who made it as one of the world’s most successful solo artists after his departure from the Beatles in 1969: John Lennon. From his musical and songwriting input with the Beatles (especially his partnership with McCartney) to his astronomical solo career, Lennon has certainly had a major impact in the music world. This DVD release is a collection of original rare film and videos of the singer, newsreels and photographs from private collections.

www.infinity-entertainmentgroup.com

Soar over Europe and experience history and the countryside from an eagle’s perspective.

Utilizing cutting-edge, high-definition cameramount technology, this remarkable series provides a unique view of Europe and its history that will take your breath away. All Six episodes cover a range of exploration, from Britain’s castles (both ancient and modern) to Europe’s mystical sites and ruins and on a magical journey through Ireland, Italy and France.

Florida Author

Michael Lister

Florida Heat Wave In the introduction, Lister writes, “A place like no other ...Florida’s diversity is only matched by its diverse populace. And those that write about it — as this anthology will demonstrate.

This diversity lends itself to a rich, varied crime fiction tradition. From the pine-tree lined rural highways of North Florida through the tourist traps of Central Florida to the tropical, international environs of SOBE, Florida crime writers continually offer up stories of sunfaded noir, orange pulp served freshly squeezed.”

Florida Heat Wave is crime fiction at its best with a collection of short stories destined to stick in the memories of readers for years to come. Contributors include: Mary Anna Evans, James W. Hall, James O. Born, Alice Jackson, John Bond, Jim Pascoe, Raven McMillian, Alex Kava, Mark Raymond Falk, Tom Corcoran, John Lutz, Lisa Unger, Jonathan King, Michael Lister and Carolyn Haines.

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ichael Lister is a native Floridian, and grew up in North Florida near the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola River, in a small town world famous for tupelo honey.

A regional writer, his canvas is small towns (Thunder Beach), river swamps (Double Exposure), and massive prisons in rural areas (The Body And The Blood).

Captivated by story since childhood, Michael has a love for language and narrative inspired by the Southern storytelling tradition that captured his imagination and became such a source of meaning and inspiration, he pursued and received undergraduate and graduate degrees in theology with an emphasis on myth and narrative within religion.

In the early 90s, Lister became the youngest chaplain within the Florida Department of Corrections. For nearly a decade, he served as a contract, staff, then senior chaplain

at three different facilities in the Panhandle of Florida — a unique experience that led to his first novel, 1997’s critically acclaimed, Power In The Blood. It was the first in a series of popular and celebrated novels featuring excop turned prison chaplain, John Jordan. Subsequent books in the series include Blood Of The Lamb, Flesh And Blood, and The Body And The Blood.

Michael Lister won a Florida Book Award for his first literary novel, Double Exposure.

In addition to writing suspenseful literary crime novels, Lister writes historical thrillers, such as The Big Goodbye, and short stories, and now Florida Heat Wave, which he edited.

When he isn’t writing, he studies writing, film, religion, and philosophy, teaches college, operates a charity, and plays basketball. www.MichaelLister.com Florida Heat Wave was published by Tyrus Books; www.tyrusbooks.com; ISBN13: 978-1935562177

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NEW RELEASES THE MOST DANGEROUS ENEMY: AN ILLUSTRATED HISTORY OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

by Stephen Bungay ISBN-10: 0760339368 www.zenithpress.com Following its original publication in narrative form ten years ago, Stephen Bungay’s The Most Dangerous Enemy has been acclaimed as the definitive history of the Battle of Britain, a book whose authority and comprehensiveness far exceeded all previous accounts. Andrew Roberts, prominent military historian and author of Masters and Commanders: How Four Titans Won the War in the West, 1941-1945, said that The Most Dangerous Enemy is “the best singlevolume history to be published in over a decade.” To commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Battle, this classic work has been transformed into a new, large-format, fully illustrated edition. With over 150 photographs (including rare color photos), full color maps, and diagrams, and numerous sidebar features, it brings this dramatic story to life in a fresh and exciting way.

PATTON’S THIRD ARMY IN WORLD WAR II: AN ILLUSTRATED HISTORY

by Michael Green, and James D. Brown ISBN-10: 0760336911 www.zenithpress.com Patton was champing at the bit to lead the DDay invasion, but Eisenhower placed him in command of a decoy unit, the First U.S. Army Group. Nearly seven weeks after D-Day, Patton finally got his chance to take Third Army into battle. He began a tenmonth rampage across France, driving through Germany and into Nazioccupied Czechoslovakia and Austria.

Along the way Third Army forces entered the Battle of the Bulge, breaking the siege of Bastogne. It was a turning point in the war, and afterward the Third Army pushed eastward again. Patton’s Third Army in World War II covers Patton’s command of Third Army with a focus on the armor.

Archival photos along with frequent quotes complete the portrait of Patton as well as his men as they fight their way across the Third Reich.

GREAT BASTARDS OF HISTORY: TRUE AND RIVETING ACCOUNTS OF THE MOST FAMOUS ILLEGITIMATE CHILDREN WHO WENT ON TO ACHIEVE GREATNESS

by Jure Fiorillo ISBN-10: 1592334016 www.fairwindspress.com For much of history and across most of the world, being born out of wedlock—a love child, a bastard— was a serious impediment to s u c c e s s .

Illegitimate offspring were subject to neglect, abandonment, disinheritance, and social exclusion, and often found the usual routes to education, wealth, and status blocked. Great Bastards of History brings together the stories of fifteen remarkable and influential people who overcame the disadvantages of illegitimate birth to rise to positions of power. Among its subjects are powerful political players such as Alexander Hamilton, and cultural figureheads such as Leonardo da Vinci AC/DC: High-Voltage Rock ‘n’ Roll: The Ultimate Illustrated History

by Phil Sutcliffe ISBN-10: 0760338329 www.voyageurpress.com Formed in 1973 by brothers Angus and Malcolm Young, AC/DC has become one of the most popular rock ‘n’ roll bands in history. This massive new title follows the band from its roots in Sydney, Australia, to

its most recent releases and world tours. A special cover incorporating Angus on a spinning disc gives way to more than 400 illustrations include handbills, posters, backstage passes, and vinyl from around the globe, as well as rare candid and performance photography.

BITTER LEGACY A Matt Royal Mystery

by H. Terrell Griffin ISBN-10: 1933515961 www.oceanviewpub.com After a week away, Matt Royal’s ready to get back to the Longboat Key good life good fishing, good food, good beer, and more good fishing. But Matt comes back to bad news: while he was away, a sniper tried to kill one of his best friends. Even worse, now that Matt’s back, someone’s trying to kill him. With no clue who’s after him or why, Matt soon finds he’s at the center of a mystery involving a lawyer’s murder, a tourist left for dead, a ruthless biker gang, a reclusive billionaire with nothing to lose, and an ancient document that could bring ruin to some of the most entrenched financial interests in Florida.

The real way of the warrior is based on compassion, wisdom, fearlessness, and love of natureóas the inspirational teachings in this collection show.

The selections are drawn from the talks and writings of Morihei Ueshiba, founder of the popular Japanese martial art of aikido, a mindbody discipline that offers a nonviolent way to victory in the face of conflict.

This lovely hardcover edition features examples of Ueshibaís calligraphy and includes a reading of the text on one audio CD.

Tatutina’s Wooden Treat Box for Doggies

OK

so maybe the dog won’t care what his treats are housed in, but we care! Tatutina Dog Treat Boxes are fun, and come in 3 colorful designs. The boxes are made of durable wood, painted in bright colors (all non-toxic paints) so they are great for the whole family, including the furry one. An easy lid comes right off, making it easy for anyone to grab a treat and go. Dimension on the outside is 7” x 4.5” x 9”.

Tatutina products are designed by a mother-daughter company located in Massachusetts who’s mission is to create unique products that reflect a happy and fun lifestyle. Everything they create is inspired by their family, homes and original art.

All Tatutina products are painted with non-toxic, lead free paints. www.Tatutina.com

Dog is Good’s Exclusive Dog-Only Water Bottle

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og is Good focuses on clever designs and a wide range of products at affordable prices. The DIG core line includes many simple, casual style fashion as well as creative dog products. The Dog Water Bottle offers pets refreshing water during fun outdoor activities. It’s BPA-free, made of stainless steel, and holds up to 24 ounces of water. The bottle is convenient and perfect for traveling.

Dog is Good was launched by Gila Kurtz, a professional dog trainer, and J. Nichole Smith, a professional pet photographer/designer, both of whom wanted a stylish way to capture and share “Dogvergnügen.” Dogvergnügen is defined as “The unique joy you feel in the presence of Dog.” DIG founders created the word and definition to give a name to the happiness we feel when we’re with our dog. www.dogisgood.com

W

oodrow Wear founder Lorraine Walston created Power Paws when her 14 year old dog developed canine hip dysplasia and canine arthritis and had difficulty standing and walking on hardwood and tile floors. Power Paws are a traction solution designed to help with both grip and mobility. Power Paws make movement easier, increasing your pet’s quality of life. They are also a fun, fashion accessory, a solution to preventing nail marks on hardwood floors, and a solution for protecting wounds and foot injuries.

They also protect paws from snow, ice and salt in the winter (can be sprayed with waterproof spray) and in summer, they protect from burns and extreme heat of pavement and beaches.

They come in a growing collection of designs and 8 different sizes.

For more information, visit www.woodrowwear.com

by Katie Tripp, Ph.D.

Director of Science & Conservation Save the Manatee Club In 2010, 767 manatees were documented to have died or been killed in Florida, with a significant number of deaths resulting from last winter’s prolonged cold temperatures.

These numbers are an all time high, shattering the previous record of 429 set in 2009.

Recently I watched a manatee barrel roll down the spring run at Blue Spring, on the St. Johns River, as the rising late morning temperatures and shining sun made it safer for manatees to venture into the cold river to feed. This week, at Three Sisters Spring, on Florida’s west coast, I observed manatees huddled in discretely marked sanctuaries, motionless for hours, resting and conserving energy beyond the reach of human visitors. Nearly every manatee I saw was scarred from previous boat collisions. The barrelrolling Blue Spring manatee had a

series of four propeller scars down the left side of his body, suggesting he may have been trying to roll away from the oncoming boat that struck him and left him permanently scarred. One of the manatees who swam so gracefully up the spring run at Three Sisters Spring to take advantage of the high afternoon tide to get even closer to the warm water boiling from the spring, had the appearance of a mermaid – her paddle-shaped tail had been mutilated into a forked shape, again by a boat collision.

I often think about what it was like to be a manatee in Florida 100 years ago – how much different life was for them – how much quieter it was. To say that they have had to undergo a steep learning curve to adapt to our ditching, diking, and draining of Florida, and the construction of megamarinas, seawalls, ports, and docks that have resulted from Florida’s growth, would be the understatement of the century.

Save the Manatee Club (SMC) is celebrating our 30th Anniversary in 2011. For these last 30 years, this organization has been “the voice of manatees.” While groups like SMC and federal and state agencies have taken great strides to protect manatees, all I could think about as I watched the barrel-rolling manatee and his counterpart with the mermaid tail in Crystal River, was how these manatees need our voices now more than ever to protect their warm water habitat from aquifer over-pumping and nutrient pollution; to safeguard seagrass beds from propeller scarring and oil spills; to educate boaters so that fewer manatees suffer from boat collisions that leave them mutilated or dead; and to teach all of Florida’s residents and visitors that our daily actions affect this species, even if we don’t directly cross paths. As we look ahead to the next 30 years, there’s no doubt that manatees will continue to need support from strong, caring voices to ensure their survival. We’ll be here for them. Will you?

Preserve Weedon Island sland Preserve

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’ve lived in the Riviera Bay area in St. Petersburg for 22 years, and am ashamed to say I never visited Weedon Island Preserve which is located right in my own neighborhood until recently. (I also lived in NY City for 35 years and never went to the top of the Empire State Building... still haven’t.) Anyway, I found I wasted many years not enjoying what the preserve has to offer.

Weedon Island Preserve is an ecologically important reserve with a highly

informative and beautifully designed interpretive Cultural and Natural History Center. Their musuem exhibit focuses on Florida Native American history and artifacts. In the preserve visitors can enjoy 4.54 miles of hiking and nature trails that

meander through mangrove forest and seagrass flats, where one can spot wading birds, manatee and various fish species.

Almost two miles of the trails are handicap accessible with boardwalk or concrete. Every Saturday guided Hikes of Weedon Island are conducted by volunteers. (Pre-registration is required at (727) 453-6506.) Guided canoe trips are

also offered through the Cultural Center.

The Weedon Island Preserve Center’s hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Government budget cuts are always threatening all the Pinellas preserves, so please take out some time soon to enjoy our natural wonders.

For more information on Weedon Island, visit www.weedonislandcenter.org For more Weedon Island photos, visit AccentOnTampaBay.com, click on Event Photo Gallery, click on Tampa Bay Attractions.

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