Accent On Tampa Bay #213, Sept/October 2015 by Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Accent

On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 27, Issue 213 Sept/Oct, 2015 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Barbara McGovern Senior Sports Editor Peter Martino Graphic Designers Missy Lynn Contributors Michael Martino Marty Peters Deborah Quigley JoAnn Ryan Photographer Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Beau deCatta Cover Photo courtesy: Cirque Du Soleil PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

AM PUBLICATIONS savethemanatee.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

St. Petersburg, FL (727) 577-5500

e-mail AccentMagazine@aol.com

LOCAL FOCUS Celebrating 5 Years of HAUTE Accessories Week - Sept 1 - 6 www.hauteaccessoriesweek.com/

Haute Accessories Week is celebrating 5 years starting Tues, Sept 1, and leading up to the main event Haute Accessories Runway Show on Fri, Sept 4, at the Carrollwood Country Club. This event will include designers Ella Bing, Shola Designs, Chelsea Nicole’s Exclusive, Malchijah Hats, Tenique Tenique, UNICAS Fashion, Eric Green Collection, Wendy Foreman Designs and Erika Williner Designs. The week will feature an Opening Night Mixer, a Style Exhibit and a Fashion Party. Art and photography will also be an integral part of this year’s presentation. Proceeds from the events will be shared with local charity, Joshua’s House. 15th Annual Gulfport GECKOFEST Sat, Sept 5 www.Geckofest.com Each year, Gulfport celebrates the end of summer with its largest festival of the year, dedicated to the town’s unofficial mascot and favorite reptile. Geckofest has grown to become one of Tampa Bay’s most anticipated events of the season. Live music and vendors throughout the village are all part of the fun. Strolling and stationary street performers are now also a hallmark of the Geckofest tradition. Geckofest offers a fun-filled opportunity to explore Gulfport, a wonderful slice of “Old Florida” on one of its most colorful days of the year. The theme for this year’s Gecko events is “Gecko Gras.” Show off your costume or just your Gecko spirit by joining the traditional afternoon Geckofest Walking Parade, the “Zyde-Geck-O Second Line!” Bring 4

your parasols and wave your white hankies in the air led by the Gecko Queen and her Court. The parade leaves promptly at 6PM from Gulfport’s Historic Casino. Attendees are encouraged to develop costumes relating to Mardi Gras, or geckos, or a creative combination of the two. A costume contest immediately following the parade will offer an opportunity to win prizes for some of the day’s best ensembles for adults and for kids. Amid the thousands of festival-goers, hundreds of vendors and dozens of live musicians, expect to come face to face with acrobats, aerialists, break dancers, escape artists, magicians, jugglers, fire performers and more, creating an interactive circus atmosphere throughout the waterfront village. All festivities take place on Beach Boulevard in Gulfport from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Geckofest admission is gratis and the event is pet and family-friendly. Live music will entertain the Geckofest throngs all day long and the famous Geckofest street dance will close out the day with a party in the streets. Parking and Trolley rides for GeckoFest are complimentary. The Trolley offers visitors an opportunity to park in off-site locations for transportation to and from their vehicle and the festival site. The event takes place in the surrounding area of 3129 Beach, Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707. 727-3225217. SPLASH SUNDAYS AT THE EPICUREAN HOTEL thru Sept 6 www.epicureanhotel.com/ The Epicurean Hotel hosts Splash Sunday pool parties. Each week Splash sponsors will present a variety of rotating entertainment and activities ranging from poolside fashion shows and DJs to live music and craft cocktail specials. Special overnight Florida resident rates at the Epicurean Hotel that include admission to Splash Sunday are available. There are SPLASH VIP reserved areas available for up to 10 guests. Includes a select location bordering the swimming pool, along with comfortable seating, sun umbrellas, a personal outdoor cooling system by Portacool, dedicated service and a pitcher of the hotel’s Crafted Skyy “Cocktail of the Week.”

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The Great American Campout - thru Sept 7 www.nwf.org/Campout

the City of Tarpon Springs. The event features live music by Ellada, an exciting Greek musical group with three of the best Greek musicians in Florida. They will perform nisiotika, the lively traditional music of the Greek islands, as well as some old and new Greek favorites. Guy Harvey Outpost Hosts Lionfish Safari Tournament - Sept 12 - 13 www.GuysLionfishSafari.com

Camp for a cause and help wildlife stay wild. National Wildlife Federation’s popular nationwide event, the Great American Campout, is celebrating its 10th year of connecting people with the great outdoors so that they will form a deeper desire to protect wildlife and wild places. Nick Offerman, star of NBC’s Parks & Recreation series serves as Official Celebrity Spokesman. To participate, NWF asks people of all ages to make an online pledge to camp anywhere — from a forest to their own backyards — at least once this summer and provides all the information needed, including a directory of hosted Great American Campout locations, tips on what to bring, lists of campout activities and recipes, and more. Greek Dancing at The Night in the Islands Sept 12, Oct 3 www.spongedocks.net/night-in-the-islands.htm

Head on out to the world famous Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks for a night full of Greek dancing, outdoor dining and live music. The fun begins at 6pm with a free dance lesson. This event is presented by

Guy Harvey Outpost, along with Reef Monitoring, Inc. and the Fishing Rights Alliance, is hosting a Lionfish Safari in an effort to collect as many of the invasive fish as possible for research and educate the public on the threat the species poses to reef environments. Sept 12 - Lionfish Safari: All registered divers will depart from their place of choice to complete the mission of hunting and capturing as many lionfish as possible. Each registrant will receive a guide to surrounding reefs that contain lionfish, a tournament t-shirt, meal ticket and access to the weigh-in and Family Fun Day on Sept. 13. There will be cash prizes including largest and smallest lionfish and Guy Harvey raffle items and giveaways. All lionfish will be used for research and food tastings, and proceeds go to Reef Monitoring, a non-profit dedicated to organizing marine scientists and educators as a means of watching over natural and artificial reef systems. www.reefmonitoring.org. Sept 13 - Participants and their families will be encouraged to enjoy a day of family fun at Guy Harvey Outpost after the weigh-in between 11a.m. - 12:30 p.m. All fish will be weighed and measured by Reef Monitoring and then passed along to students for dissection and then to volunteers for food preparation. During this process, the group will explain the anatomy of these fish and why they are so harmful to other species in the Gulf waters. Then the lionfish fillets will be passed along to the chef station where they will be cooked and prepared for the tasting station. Other activities will include a beachside cookout, music, and drink specials. At 2:30 p.m. the tournament winners will be announced and prizes will be awarded. Open to the public. (727) 259-7404. 6000 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach.

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St. Petersburg City Theatre Celebrates 90 Years - Wed, Sept 16 www.Spcitytheatre.org

St. Petersburg City Theatre, the oldest continuously operating community theatre in Florida, founded in 1925, will celebrate its 90-year history of bringing live theatre and arts education to the community with an exhibit at the St. Petersburg Museum of History. Footlights, Spotlights, And Highlights, an opening night Gala, will be held at the Museum of History in our honor on Wed, Sept 16, 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Ticket Price includes entertainment, food, and an exclusive first look at the exhibit. Guests will also get to explore the entire Museum of History. 335 2nd Avenue Northeast, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. JOIN SUNKEN GARDENS FOR A DAY TRIP - Wed, Sept 16 www.stpete.org/sunken/

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is comprised of 24 major collections visually accessible from a 1 ½ mile paved w a l k w a y, including the state’s largest public display of bamboos and the largest herb garden in the Southeast. The Butterfly Rainforest is a 6400 square foot screened exhibit that features more than 1000 free-flying butterflies and birds from around the world along with an assortment of other animals including turtles and fish to experience firsthand. The lush landscape is planted in tropical trees and colorful flowering plants amid waterfalls and a walking path. Registration includes admission to both attractions, round trip transportation, Florida orange juice before boarding bus, snack on way back and driver’s tip. We will stop for lunch at Sonny’s BBQ (not included). Call 727-551-3102. Deadline for registration Is Sept 4.

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isit charming Tarpon Srings and take a trip to the Greek Islands without the air fare. At the Sponge Exchange you can enjoy a cold brew, great food, a handmade cigar, wonderful gifts, beautiful clothes and first class jewelry. If you can’t find what your looking for at the Sponge Exchange, you don’t need it!

www.thespongeexchange.com Five Fish • The Men’s Store • Five Fish Fresh Produce Joey’s Boutique • Sunshine Accessories Five Fish and Five Fish • Life is Good • Columbia Leather Duncan’s Ice Cream • Vegetable Ivory • Blu a Gift Boutique Suzies Summer Swimwear • Cottonseed Casual Wear Hala’s Boutique • Mary K’s Boutique • Sock Exchange Destinations • Funny Bones • Pelican Gifts • Leather Factory Blingin Buddha • Cottonseed Casual Wear • Carribongo Cotton Parch • The Candy Barrell • 40 Mama’s Reataurant Eurasian Landy II • The Sweet Spot • Eurasian Lady Anclote Brew • Katina’s Greek Market www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Plantation on Crystal River Hosts Inaugural Plantation Redfish ClassiC - Sat, Sept 19 www.PlantationonCrystalRiver.com Plantation on Crystal River has partnered with Sodium Fishing Gear, One Rake at A Time Foundation and others to host the inaugural Plantation Redfish Classic on Saturday, Sept. 19 at Plantation’s Adventure Center and Dive Shop. Events throughout the weekend include the Captain’s Dinner on Friday, Sept. 18 at 6 p.m. offering light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar, Plantation Redfish Classic from daylight to 5 p.m. and Awards Banquet at 7 p.m. on Sept. 19 – and while redfish is the primary quest, there will also be categories for trout and grouper. Prizes will include first, second and third place for largest redfish, trout and grouper ranging from $3,000 to $100. A portion of all proceeds will go to benefit the One Rake at a Time Foundation which cleans Lyngbya, a harmful blue-green algae, out of Kings Bay through the dedication and hard work of local volunteers. 800632-6262. St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer - Sat, Sept 26 www.stjude.org/walkrun This September, people in 58 cities nationwide will lace up their sneakers and take to the streets in support of kids and families battling childhood cancer by participating in the inaugural St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer. In Tampa, the St. Jude Walk/ Run to End Childhood Cancer will take place September 26. The route will begin at the Amalie Arena

and pass along Bayshore Blvd. Registration for the St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer is $10 for adults and children ages six and up. Participants

are encouraged to form teams and raise funds to help support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude, with incentives beginning at the $100 and $250 fundraising levels. To register and learn additional event details, visit stjude.org/walkrun The New Face of Women in FilM Tues, Sept 29 www.tampatheatre.org

Join Film Tampa Bay and Women in Film & Television (WIFT) Tampa/St. Pete for “The New Face of Women in Film,” an evening of networking and discussion at Tampa Theatre. The event is open to the public and invites participants to meet working women in the industry who will share tips on how to create a career in film and television. 4 pm. Tampa Theatre, 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 274-8981.

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Renaissance Vinoy Golf Club “FairwaysFore-FREEdom” - thru Nov 11 www.marriott.com/explore-and-plan/kids-golf. mi.

awareness zone. This year the event will be held at Northside Baptist Church, 6000 38th Avenue North Saint Petersburg, FL 33710. Admission to the event is free, and tickets will be available for purchase for food and games. Take the family and enjoy a great day. In observance of World Food Day, they will also be collecting canned and boxed food at the event, which will be donated to Northside Benevolence Ministries. ‘The Met: Live In HD’ Celebrates 10 Years www.FathomEvents.com

Created to celebrate the men and women of the military “Fairways-Fore-FREEdom” provides active, reserve and retired military personnel with discount golf through Veteran’s Day at 20 Marriott Golf courses throughout the US. Members of the armed forces who present a valid military ID card can take advantage of discounted twilight green fees/carts, while receiving a free replay certificate for another day. Tee times can be made up to three days in advance. Participating courses in Florida include: Grande Vista Golf Club, Orlando, ; Hawk’s Landing Golf Club, Orlando; Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Grande Lakes, Orlando; The Rookery at Marco, Naples, FL (hotel stay required); Renaissance Vinoy Golf Club, St. Petersburg (hotel stay required) 600 Snell Isle Blvd., St Petersburg; Ritz-Carlton Members Club, Sarasota. 12th Annual Pumpkin Palooza Family Fall Festival - Sat, Oct 3 www.gfwc-spjwc.org

The GFWC St. Petersburg Junior Woman’s Club will host our 12th Annual Pumpkin Palooza Family Fall Festival on Saturday, October 3, from 11am to 5pm. This event will offer a pumpkin patch. kids’ games, crafts, face & hair painting, inflatables, food & treats, arts & crafts vendors, live performances, opportunity drawing baskets, and a community 12

The Metropolitan Opera and Fathom Events are celebrating 10 years together with the new season of “The Met: Live in HD.” The series of 10 cinema transmissions begins Oct 3rd with Giuseppe Verdi’s “Il Trovatore” at 12:55 p.m. “The Met: Live in HD 2015–16 Season” will feature 10 live performances, including six new productions, and a special encore presentation of “The Magic Flute” – the first-ever Met HD broadcast from 2006. Each live transmission will take place on a Saturday, with pre-recorded encore presentations on the following Wednesday evening. In addition to the opera production, Fathom fans get to go behind the scenes with the Met’s stars. Singers serve as hosts for the HD series, conducting live interviews with cast and crew members as well as production teams. They introduce the behind-the-scenes features during intermission, giving the audience an unprecedented look at what goes into staging an opera at one of the world’s greatest houses. Coming up: OTELLO (Verdi), TANNHÄUSER (Wagner), LULU (Berg), THE MAGIC FLUTE SPECIAL ENCORE, LES PÊCHEURS DE PERLES (Bizet), TURANDOT (Puccini), MANON LESCAUT (Puccini), MADAMA BUTTERFLY (Puccini), ROBERTO DEVEREUX (Donizetti), ELEKTRA (R. Strauss). For times and theaters, please visit www.FathomEvents.com

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HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE & BOARDWALK

ocated on the waterfront at Johns Pass, this quaint turn-of-the-century fishing village is Pinellas Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s #1 tourist attraction. Over one hundred merchants inhabit the Village with unique retail shopping, a variety of restaurants, the local fishing fleet, dolphin watching and shelling tours, boat rentals, parasailing and jet skiing. Plenty of parking: There is metered on-street parking located conveniently throughout the Village, as well as a new state-of-the-art multi-level parking garage adjacent to Bubba Gumps and Hubbards Marina. The beach is a short stroll away. Conveniently located near St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Tampa, and just a short drive to the Orlando area. Open daily!

12901 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, Florida Located on the Gulf-to-Intercoastal pass between Madeira Beach and Treasure Island

(727) 394-0756 â&#x20AC;˘ johnspassvillage.net

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The Humane Society of Pinellas EVENTS www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org/ Annual Golden Paw Awards Dinner & Trivia Gala - Thurs, Oct 8 - The Humane Society of Pinellas Annual Golden Paw Awards Dinner & Trivia Gala will be held on Thursday, October 8th, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m at Sheraton Sand Key Resort, (1160 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater Beach). The proceeds from the Annual Golden Paw Awards Dinner benefit the operation of the Humane Society of Pinellas, the county’s largest no-kill animal shelter. Cruise-In for Critters Car & Bike Show - Sun, Oct 25 - The Cruise-In For Critters

pa will be transformed into a 1920s speakeasy for The Great Gatsby Party. This evening includes live music, games of chance, fabulous food, an open bar and a photo opportunity with a vintage 1929 Bentley. Put on your best 1920’s clothing and enjoy the party flapper-style. The Great Gatsby Party will be held from 7:30 pm – 11:30 pm. Proceeds will support the conservation and preservation of the Museum collection, as well as community programs.This party will rival Jay Gatsby’s parties in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel. Instead of a Long Island home, this evening will take place in the Tampa Bay Hotel dining room. The roaring twenties will come to life as you whisper the password and sneak though gangsters to enter the party. Ward Cook and the Blue Notes will set the tone for dancing and entertainment. Fortune tellers will be on hand and Black Jack and Roulette will be offered for those who feel lucky. 1920’s Menus from the Tampa Bay Hotel have been used to create food. For more information call 813-258-7302. 2015 Caring Fore Kids Golf Classic - Mon, Oct 12 www.oldsmarcares.org/golf.html

is a fundraising car and bike show from noon-4pm at Quaker Steak & Lube (10400 49th St., Clearwater, FL 33762). The day will consist of a cruise-in style car and bike show where guests will cast their votes for their favorite cars in traditional categories and some related to HSP and pets such as ‘looks most like a pet’, ‘best tail (trunk)’ and much more. In addition, enjoy raffles, door prize give-a-ways, live music, great food and a chance to win a Harley Davidson Softail Fatboy. Want to win a Harley? Enter to win by going online at HumaneSocietyofPinellas.org/Events/Cruise-in-for-Critters or by purchasing tickets at the Humane Society of Pinellas (3040 State Road 590, Clearwater). THE GREAT GATSBY PARTY at HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM - Sat, Oct 10 www.plantmuseum.com/

On Oct 10, Fletcher Lounge at The University of Tam-

The 2015 Caring Fore Kids Golf Classic will be a team scramble featuring a catered lunch, on course contests, fantastic team and individual prizes, including a chance to win a Cadillac 2-year lease. Golfers will be treated to a fabulous player gift package as well as experience great food and drinks along the course, including Wing House wings, Tito’s Vodka Bloody Mary Bar and GolfBeer Brewing Company featuring Freddie Jacobson, Keegan Bradley and Graeme McDowell brand beers. After golf, relax and browse unique auction items and enjoy dinner and spirits during the awards reception. This event raises money for the Oldsmar Cares Weekend Food 4 Kids program. Weekend Food 4 Kids provides elementary school age children that qualify for the free/ reduced lunch program with nutritious food over the weekend when they might otherwise go hungry.

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COOLSTUFF!

STM DUX

Complete Protection for the iPad www.stmbags.com/

he dux is a multi-generation iPad case combining a protective outer shell and screen cover for an all-inone rugged design. With a reinforced back panel and corners, the dux will protect any iPad from drops up to 4 feet. The dux is made with durable Polycarbonate materials that will repel the occasional spill or drip. It weighs under a pound making it light yet still durable. And, the dux is lined with microfiber to protect screens from scratches. In addition to safeguarding an iPad, the dux also makes it more convenient to use. The patented magnetic screen cover on the dux is a two-part design. The main part covers the screen and saves battery life by turning off the device when closed. Attached to the main screen cover is a magnetic flap that wraps around the side of the iPad for a more secure closure. The flap also functions to attach the screen cover magnetically to the back of the dux when using it as a stand in horizontal movie viewing mode, a flatter horizontal typing mode or vertical book reading mode to prevent it from slipping and falling. The back of the dux is completely clear plastic, allowing the owner to personalize his/her device by adding pictures of family, pets, or favorite vacation spots. The clear back also allows schools and business to be able to add a scanning barcode for tracking purposes. The dux is available in three colors, red, blue or black.

ZUNA DRIVE

www.zuna.com

Protective and Hands Free iPhone Case

una Drive is a high-quality, elegant protective case for the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 plus, and the iPhone 5/5s. It also turns the case into a safe, hands-free phone mounting device for use in vehicles. The Zuna Drive is focused on preventing distracted driving by allowing the end-user to display their phone in a car by hanging it on their air-conditioning vent. The design combines a sturdy, impact-absorbing phone case with a uniquely designed built-in mounting clip on the back. The unit secures the phone in place for navigation without a bulky mounting appliance that can block a driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s view. The design allows drivers to navigate via GPS, or easily accept a hands-free call, all the while keeping their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

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ECBC TRAVEL BAGS

W i t h T SA F r ie n dly Fast Pa ss S yst em www.ec-bc.com

here aren’t too many more annoying things that happen while traveling than the inevitable “unpacking” you have to do to go through airport security. You can make your travel life oh-so-much easier with ECBC Travel Bags. These TSA compliant bags come in different styles, one of which is sure to work for you. They carry laptop messenger bags, laptop backpacks, carry-on luggage, laptop/tablet sleeves, and more that are designed with the modern, gadget-bearing traveler in mind. AND, all ECBC rolling luggage comes with a portable power pack included, so travelers are always fully charged and stress-free. ECBC bags are the only bags with the TSA Friendly FastPass technology. This is a section of the luggage where all of the traveler’s electronic devices are stored and protected. At airport TSA checkpoints, the FastPass system zips open, lays flat and the whole thing simply passes through the conveyer belt. No need to unpack cords, devices and valuables into TSA bins. Please visit the ECBC website for more information. www.ec-bc.com

The ECBC TRIDENT is the perfect sized messenger bag that fits everything and is made of nearly indestructible materials. It has a high grade self-fastening strip to keep it closed without clipping. For easy access, a top zipper allows entry into the bag without opening the flap. This bag features the ECBC FastPass System. Add an ECBC Portable Power Pack, and never run out of juice again when you are on the go. Recharge your phone, tablet and other gadgets right in the bag.

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ECBC TRAVEL BAGS

W i t h T SA F r ie n d ly Fa st Pa ss S yst em

COOLSTUFF!

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COOLSTUFF!

www.napanywhere.net

NAP ANYWHERE

Portable Head Support Pillow

he NapAnywhere is a portable head-support pillow developed specifically by a physician for frequent travelers. This comfortable, portable device can be used effectively while traveling on planes, subways, trains, buses and cars as a passenger. Small and compact, it fits easily into your carry-

on, backpack, or purse. Most neck pillows on the market today is that they are just too big to make traveling with them convenient, not to mention that most provide inadequate support as well. The NapAnywhere is available in 3 colors: Crimson, Cream and Black, and three sizes, small, medium and large. It is stain-resistant, and can be wiped clean with either mild soapy water or a light solvent like rubbing alcohol.

EYN Smart Phone Case

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Holds Your Necessities And Protects Your Smart Phone

hen traveling, carrying a massive purse can literally be a pain in the neck. Eyn solves this issue with it’s convenience and style. The case is capable of holding cash, cards and more. EYN cases can fit on most smartphones including the iPhone 4/4S, iPhone 5/5S, iPhone 6 and 6 plus as well as the Samsung Galaxy S4 Android phone. The Eyn cases (which stands for “everything you need”) are 5” x 2 3/8 x 3/4, and services as an all-in-one storage piece for cash, credit cards, and keys. EYN has a built-in storage compartment that also serves as protection for your smart phone as well. Also included is a mirror inside, which doubles as a stand to rest your case while watching videos or playing applications with ease. Cases are available in many colors, and each includes a strap to go around your wrist while going out to functions or just going to the gym. Eyn can even be customized with initials and logos to fit all style preferences.

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OUTDOOR MARKETS & EVENTS

ST. PETERSBURG SATURDAY MORNING MARKET - Oct - May www.saturdaymorningmarket.com Located in Al Lang Stadium parking lot, Hours: 9 am - 2 pm. A wide variety fresh food, plants and crafts including: locally grown fresh produce and herbs. Wide selection of regular & organic fruits and vegetables; Prepared Foods such as BBQ Turkey, smoked seafood, pickled vegetables, gourmet cheeses, fruit smoothies; Plants, Flowers, Fresh Herbs; Hand-crafted House wares & Gifts.

GET DOWNTOWN FIRST FRIDAY ST. PETE www.firstfridaystpete.com At the heart of downtown St. Petersburg between 2nd and 3rd Street South, every First Friday of the month, Central Avenue is transformed into a Block Party between 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. Meet up with old and new friends and enjoy some of the best Jazz and oldies in the Tampa Bay area. There’s plenty of great food and fine dining in the area. Enjoy the free live music in a unique, convenient, and safe environment.

Fresh Market at Wiregrass - 1st & 3rd Sat of each month, year round (except Nov, Dec & Jan only on 1st Sat) www.TampaBayMarkets.com Held at the Shops at Wiregrass, open-air retail and entertainment destination located on the corner of State Road 56 and Bruce B. Downs Blvd in Wesley Chapel, FL. 80-100 vendors. Local food, crafts, live music. 10am - 3pm.

Corey AVE SunDay Market - Suns, Oct - May www.CoreyAve.com Corey Ave between Boca Ciega Ave and Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach. Local vendors sell a variety of locally produced and homemade produce, plants, take home foods, ready to eat lunch bites, hand crafts, eco-friendly and fair trade products and more. Enjoy a morning of live music, shopping, and breakfast, brunch or lunch at an area restaurants– 10am - 3pm.

Fresh Market at Hyde Park Village - 1st Sunday Of The Month Year Round www.hydeparkvillage.net/ Hours: 10am - 3pm. Vendors selling fresh, local, homemade, handcrafted and eco-friendly products. Conventional and hydroponic produce, homemade take home foods such as breads, pastries, gluten free items, pies, prepared entrees, sandwiches, ethnic specialties; handcrafts, eco friendly products & fair trade items. 742 South Village Circle, Tampa, FL 33604.

GULFPORT TUESDAY FRESH MARKET - All Year www.gulfportma.com Vendors offer a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, cheese, seafood, Florida beef, and desserts. Also hand-made items, jewelry, art work and more. Live music. 9am - 3pm, Oct - May; 9am - 2pm, June Sept.

NORTH TAMPA MARKET 2nd Saturday, Year Round www.tampabaymarkets.com Hours: 10am - 2pm. 100 vendors located at Carrollwood Cultural Center. Local, organic, hydroponic and conventional produce, florida plants, herbs, flowers, organic food/supplies, locally made jams, jellies, salsa, dips, seasonings, sauces and oils, hand crafts, live Music, bungee jumping bounce pad.

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Dunedin Downtown Market - Nov - June www.TampaBayMarkets.com Fri and Sat of each week during the months of Nov thru June, rain or shine, 9 AM to 2 PM. The market features vendors with an emphasis on local goods. Gourmet take-home foods, ready to eat lunch bites, produce - local and organic, plants, cheese, hand crafts, jewelry, artwork and live music. Pioneer Park in downtown Dunedin.

GANDY’S SAT MORNING Market - Nov - May info@gandymarket. com Mixed Farmers Market atmosphere with handcrafters, local farm produce, baked artisan breads, plants and more. No GMO’s. Market is mixed with arts, crafts, jewelry, home décor and more. live music. 4411 West Gandy Blvd., Tampa (between Westshore and Manhattan). 10am - 3pm.

YBOR CITY SATURDAY MARKET - Year Round www.TampaBayMarkets. com Oct-April, 9am - 3pm; May-Sept, 9am - 1pm. gourmet foods & sauces, fresh baked breads, prepared foods, herbs & plants, pet treats, honey, fine cigars, unique gifts, photography, artwork, jewelry, woodworking, bath & body products, candles & more. Free Parking, Free Admission, Pets Welcome.

SWEETWATER SUNDAY Market - Oct - May www.sweetwater-organic.org/ Sweetwater Farm Stand sells fruits and vegetables from organic farms. Vendors have environmentally-friendly and handcrafted products, farm-fresh eggs, raw milk, artisan breads, organic coffee, Florida-native plants, organic clothing, handmade arts and crafts, gardening books, body care products and more. Workshop Series, Live Music Series, Sunday Yoga. Off of Hanley Road and Comanche Avenue.

Madeira Beach WED Morning Market Weds, Oct thru July www.thebeachmarkets. com/ The Mid-Week Madeira Beach Morning Market is open Weds from 10am - 3pm. 60-80 vendors including growers, gourmet foodies, artists and crafters. Live music. Free, family and pet friendly. On Madeira Way between Gulf Boulevard and the Tom Stuart Causeway.

INDIAN SHORES SUNDAY MORN MKT - Weds, Oct thru July www.thebeachmarkets.com/ Vendors are local, h andson owners and operators. Organic produce, gourmet foods, artists and crafters. Open from 9am-1pm. 19305 Gulf Blvd by Indian Shores Town Hall Municipal center. Leashed pets welcome.

Downtown Clearwater Farmers Market - Weds, Year Round w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / CWFarmersMarket Farm fresh produce, delicious cheeses, fresh baked goods, beautiful cut flowers, plants, a variety of crafters and much more. Stay for lunch from one of the al a cart vendors. 9:00am – 02:00pm. Live music starting at 1 am. 500-600 blocks of Cleveland St, Clearwater. 727-461-7674 www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

BROADWAY SHOWS ONCE - Sept 22 - 27. Winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, ONCE is a truly original Broadway experience. Featuring an impressive ensemble of actor/musicians who play their own instruments onstage, ONCE tells the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs. As the chemistry between them grows, his music soars to powerful new heights but their unlikely connection turns out to be deeper and more complex than your everyday romance. A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder - Oct 20 - 25. A Gentlemen’s Guide tells the uproarious story of Monty Navarro, a distant heir to a family fortune who sets out to jump the line of succession by any means necessary. All the while, he’s got to juggle his mistress (she’s after more than just love), his fiancée (she’s his cousin but who’s keeping track?), and the constant threat of landing behind bars! Of course, it will all be worth it if he can slay his way to his inheritance and be done in time for tea. Newsies - Nov 10 - 15. They delivered the papers, until they made the headlines … direct from Broadway comes Newsies, the smash-hit, crowd-pleasing musical from Disney. Newsies has audiences and critics alike calling it “a musical worth singing about!” (The New York Times). Filled with one heart-pounding number after another, it’s a high-energy explosion of song and dance you just don’t want to miss. Kinky Boots - Dec 1 - 6. With songs by Grammy and Tony winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, this joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover, and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. KINKY BOOTS takes you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan. Charlie Price is struggling to live up to his father’s expectations and continue the family business of Price & Sons. With the factory’s future hanging in the balance, help arrives in the unlikely but spectacular form of Lola, a fabulous performer in need of some sturdy new stilettos. The Sound of Music - Dec 22 - 27. A brand new production of The Sound of Music, directed by Tony Awardwinning director Jack O’Brien. The beloved musical story of Maria and the Von Trapp Family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony, Grammy and Academy Award winning Best Score, including “My Favorite Things,” “DoRe-Mi,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “Edelweiss” and the title song. The hills are alive!

For more information, visit Straz Center, 813-229-7827. www.strazcenter.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

MORE STRAZ PERFORMANCES Hour Confessions Tampa Bay Theatre Festival at Jaeb - Sept 4

For 1 hour 15 minutes five men from different walks of life meet weekly to discuss the many issues of life and boy do they let loose. Join them as they take you on a nonstop, comical adventure that will have you laughing from beginning to end with their “no holds barred” approach as they tackle issues such as money, sex, dating, politics, and religion. No topic is off limits with these guys. What happens within this hour, stays within this hour. Well, it’s supposed to anyway. Written and directed by Rory Lawrence. www.tampabaytheatrefestival.com

Coen Brother’s Almost an Evening

at Shimberg Playhouse - Sept 11 – Oct 4

Most people know Ethan Coen as half of the awardwinning Coen Brothers who have written, directed, and produced films like Raising Arizona, Fargo, The Big Lebowski, O Brother, Where Art Thou?, and No Country For Old Men. Now Tampa Bay audiences will be treated to Ethan Coen’s first foray as a playwright, Almost an Evening, which played an extended sold-out engagement Off-Broadway in 2008-2009. The overall theme of these three satiric shorts by Oscar-winning screenwriter Ethan Coen, who is responsible for some of the most critically acclaimed pieces of popular culture of our time, is hell – both on earth and in the hereafter. The cast features Jordan Foote, Matthew Frankel, Melissa Granke, Landon Green, Jonelle Meyer, Spencer Meyers, Owen Robertson, and Molly Schoolmeester.

Christopher Titus, Born with a Defect at Ferguson Hall - Sept 12

Known as one of the best comics working today, Christopher Titus brings his all-new show to the Ferguson Hall. In “Born With a Defect,” his 7th 90-minute special, Titus takes the audience on a wild ride through his personal life, and proves why he isn’t qualified to be a father, and why childless couples win. Titus currently has six 90-minute specials running on Comedy Central, and is known for his television show, “Titus,” as welll as the host of History Channel’s “Pawnography.”

Martin Lawrence - Live Doin’ Time at Carol Morsani Hall - Sept 12

Lawrence performed as a stand-up comedian for a number of years before getting his big break as the host of HBO’s Def Comedy Jam. He then moved into film acting, appearing in hit movies such as Bad Boys and Big Momma’s House. In 1992, Lawrence launched his own sitcom for Fox, Martin. After Martin ended its run in 1997, Lawrence found ample work in comedy films. He often starred as the second lead opposite actors including Eddie Murphy, Danny DeVito, and Tim Robbins. Many of his films were blockbusters at the box office, including Nothing to Lose, Life, and Blue Streak.

One Man Breaking Bad – The Unauthorized Parody at Jaeb Theater - Sept 19

With more than a million hits on YouTube, and sell-out runs at comedy festivals in Melbourne and Edinburgh, LA actor Miles Allen smacks the senses with his supercharged, hilariously accurate renditions of all the iconic characters, including Walter White, Jesse, Saul, Skyler, Hank, Walt Junior, Mike and Gus Fring. Allen’s incredible impersonations break all five seasons down into one, exhilarating, and uproarious tour-de-force parody performance.

For more information, visit Straz Center, 813-229-7827. www.strazcenter.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

and religion along the way. Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Lynn Nottage, weaves a beautiful tale of vulnerability and strength, as Esther struggles between the path society has chosen or staying true to herself. www.americanstage.org/

2015-2016 SEASON

The season opens with INTIMATE APPAREL by the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Lynn Nottage, and explores the struggle between taking the path society has chosen or staying true to oneself. During the holidays, American Stage will present THE 39 STEPS, a comedic blend of Hitchcock masterpiece and spy novel delivered with fast paced hilarity. They kick-off the New Year with the– 9th installment in August Wilson’s Century Cycle, JITNEY, followed by the funny and heartwarming, 4000 MILES by Amy Herzog. In April of 2016, American Stage in the Park continues the outdoor tradition with Monty Python’s SPAMALOT, the Tony Award-winning musical. Summer of 2016 will see A TALE OF TWO CITIES, a one man comedic tour-de-force and the THE PITMEN PAINTERS, by the Tony Award-winning writer of Billy Elliot, Lee Hall. INTIMATE APPAREL - Sept 16 – Oct 11. New York,

THE 39 STEPS - Nov 18 – Dec 13. Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python, and you have The 39 Steps. Winner of two Tony and Drama Desk Awards and London’s Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, The 39 Steps is packed with laughs, thrills and over 150 unique characters (and only four actors.) The madness begins when ordinary Richard Hannay’s night at the theatre devolves into a dead woman in his lap. Hurled into a complex web of murder, espionage, and flirtatious encounters, Hannay careens from a one riotously hilarious moment to the next, to clear his name and find the true killer. Perfect for all ages. JITNEY - Jan 20 – Feb 21. Set against a backdrop of urban renewal in 1977 Pittsburgh, Jitney tells the story of a makeshift, unlicensed taxi dispatch business that has served the African-American community for years. Becker, the jitney station owner, navigates emotional conflicts as he prepares for his son to return home after serving a 20 year prison term for murder. Tensions erupt and unfulfilled desires are expressed inside the jitney station as Becker and the others struggle to find hope and connection despite the failures and disappointments of the past.

1905: Esther, a proud and shy African-American seamstress creates exquisite lingerie for both Fifth Avenue boudoirs and tenderloin bordellos. Yearning for a different life, Esther embarks on a journey to find love, discovering unexpected friendships that defy race, class 28

4000 MILES - March 16 – April 10. Called “The best play of 2012” by TIME magazine, this funny and heartwarming drama looks at how two outsiders find their way in the world today. After suffering a major loss, 21 year-old Leo arrives unannounced at his 91 year-old Grandmother Vera’s West Village apartment in the middle of the night, seeking a place to rest after his cross-country bicycle journey. Over a single month, these unlikely roommates infuriate, bewilder, and ultimately reach each other. This Pulitzer Prize finalist is a stirring reminder of what separates generations and what has the power to bring them together. Contains adult language and themes. American Stage - 163 3rd Street North , St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 727-823-7529.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

STUDIO@620

www.thestudioat620.org

TAKE ME HOME - Sept 11-12, 18-19

The Studio@620 presents the world premiere of “Take Me Home”, a uniquely told tale that transcends time and transplants race, written by St. Petersburg playwright Scavinold. What happens when spirits of past lives come to call in our modern world? Witness the blurring of lines between what is seen and what is known, and consider the roles that expectation, perspective, and judgement play in our understanding of each other. Go along on every-man’s unfinished journey home. 620 First Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 727-895-6620.

POWER STORIES

www.powerstories.com/

Advice I Would Give My Younger Self: Always Know Where Your Lunch Money Is - Sept 10 - 27

A one hour play with music about 3 women in different stages of their financial life. You will connect with others as you hear stories of women across the United States tell about their experience with MONEY. You’ll Laugh. You’ll Cry. You’ll Relate. You’ll Learn. Powerstories Theatre, 813-205-3451. 2105 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL 33606.

APRIL MACIE - Sept 24 - 27

Do you remember the girl in your high school who had a horrible rumor spread about her? It might have involved a football team, or a dog and some peanut butter or maybe processed meat. Well, that girl in Easton, PA was April Macie. So, where did she turn for comfort? April turned to promiscuity. Promiscuity and then comedy. With her irreverent brand of overtly sexual humor she attempts to break down troubling double-standards and lend her voice to women everywhere. April travels the world collecting stories and experiences, which she then translates into humorous, relatable tales in front of audiences worldwide. April has been to over 23 countries, 12 of those performing stand-up comedy for the troops, was a finalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing, has appeared on E! Entertainment, Fuel TV, HSN, Sirius and XM Radio, Bob & Tom, and Access Hollywood.

SideSplitters is located at 12938 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa. www.sidesplitterscomedy.com 30

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Tampa Bay Theatre Festival Sept 4 - 6

www.tampabaytheatrefestival.com The Tampa Bay Theatre Festival’s (TBTF) 2nd annual event will be held in Tampa on September 4-6. This year’s event will host an abundance of educational workshops led by some of the industries best acting instructors, like celebrity guest “Blacklist” star Harry Lenanix, free networking events, competitions, full length plays and an awards party. You don’t have to be an actor to take part in these activities, the event will offer many things that both actors and non-actors will be able to enjoy. To purchase tickets and see a full listing of workshops, competitions and full length plays visit www.tampabaytheatrefestival. com/ Activities will all take place at the Straz, Stage Works and Hillborough Community College (HCC) Ybor City Campus. Harry Lennix

MID FLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPITHEATRE Sat, Oct 3

This summer’s Funny Or Die presents The Oddball Comedy & Curiosity Festival 2015 starring Aziz Ansari with special guest star Amy Schumer stops at the MidFlorida Credit Union Ampitheatre, Sat, Oct 3. Aziz Ansari sold out two shows at Madison Square Garden on his most recent tour. Amy Schumer is the star and writer of the hit film, TRAINWRECK. Joining them on the Oddball stage are a rotating cast of nearly 20 additional performers who are household names to comedy fans, including Anthony Jeselnik, Ashley Barnhill, Bridget Everett, Dave Attell, Jay Pharoah, Jeff Ross, Jim Norton, John Mulaney, Michael Che, Nick Kroll, Nick Thune, Nikki Glaser, Rachel Feinstein, Rory Scovel, Sebastian Maniscalco, Tim Minchin, T.J. Miller, and Todd Barry. 32

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

LARGO CULTURAL CENTER The Boys Next Door www.largo.com/ “The Boys Next Door” is a benefit performance to support Theatre Exceptional, an organization that uses the performing arts to raise awareness, erase stigma, provide education and performance opportunities for adults with disabilities. Through professional productions performed annually with a blended cast of abled and disabled actors, it produces works that highlight all different forms of disability. This Tom Griffin classic drama/comedy is a story that revolves around the lives of four mentally disabled men who share a home, where “little things” become momentous, with moments of humor and poignancy. With touching effectiveness, “the boys” remind us that those with mental and physical disabilities like the rest of us, want only to love, laugh and find meaning and purpose in their lives. 727-587-6793. Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr, Largo, FL 33771.

JIMMY FERRARO’S STUDIO THEATRE www.ferrarostudiotheatre.com/

Studio Songbook - Sept 11-13

A nostalgic musical journey from the 1920s through today, Songbook celebrates the tunes that became our

CRIMES OF THE HEART - Sept 11 - 27 St. Petersburg City Theatre begins its 91st Mainstage Season, presented by Raymond James, with

favorite hits. The acclaimed musical repertory group Cover To Cover will have your toes tapping as you enjoy the fond memories of the music of your life.

The Last Of The Red Hot Lovers Sept 25 - Oct 18

By Neil Simon. This irresistible comedy follows the story of Barney Cashman, a middle-aged, married, overworked and overweight seafood restaurateur, who is deep in the throes of a mounting midlife crisis. Bored with a humdrum existence and desperate for passion and adventure, he musters the courage to join the sexual revolution before it’s too late. 5732 Main Street, New Port Richey, FL 34652. 727-409-0293 Pulitzer-Prize winning CRIMES OF THE HEART, written by Beth Henley. Preview on September 17. Opening night is September 18 , 2015 and the production runs through September 27, 2015. There is a talk-back planned on September 20 following the performance. Directed by Jim Russell, CRIMES OF THE HEART is a warm-hearted, irreverent, and brilliantly imaginative, examination of the the plight of three young Mississippi sisters betrayed by their passions. Thursday, Friday & Saturday evenings at 8pm; Sunday matinees at 2pm. Lobby will open 1 hour prior to the show, with doors to the audience chamber opening 30 minutes prior to the show. Coming Up: DRACULA - Oct - Nov 1 THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER - Dec 4 - 20 2010 Tony Award Winner MEMPHIS - Jan 22 Feb 7, 2016 Agatha Christie BLACK COFFEE - March 4 - 20 LITTLE WOMEN - April 15 - May 1 PRELUDE TO A KISS - June 3 - 19 St. Petrsburgw City Theatre, 4025 31st St So,, St. Petersburg FL 33712; 727-866-1973. www.spcitytheatre.org

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Carrollwood Cultural Center www.carrollwoodcenter.org/

Steven Lolli - Fri, Sept 18

The ensemble is led by director and actor Toby Manion, and includes Barbara Anthony, Deb Birchler, Stephen Bell, and newcomers Grey Coleman and Max Carlie. A tribute from Ken Ludwig (“Lend Me A Tenor”, “Moon Over Buffalo”) to the great English farces of the 1930s and 1940s, “The Fox On the Fairway” takes audiences on a hilarious romp which pulls the rug out from underneath the stuffy denizens of a private country club. Filled with mistaken identities, slamming doors, and over-the-top romantic shenanigans, it’s a furiously paced com-

edy that recalls the Marx Brothers’ classics. A charmingly madcap adventure about love, life, and man’s eternal love affair with... golf. (727) 446 5898. 13355 49th Street N., Clearwater, Florida 33762.

Comedian Steven Lolli, listed by Shareranks.com as one of the 50 greatest stand-up comedians of all-time, will perform at the Carrollwood Cultural Center on Friday, September 18 at 8 p.m. Lolli began earning his underground status as the only white, Jewish comedian in black comedy clubs in south LA in early 2002. He ventured to a different side of town and became an irregular act in front of an unlikely audience, gaining him cult status in LA. When he is not writing and directing, Lolli is busy headlining the “High Class Poverty” comedy tour at Performing Arts Centers and Colleges nationwide. His bold and unapologetic comedy will appeal to fans of Louis CK, George Carlin and Chris Rock. (Includes adult themes and language.) 4537 Lowell Rd, Tampa, FL, (813) 922-8167.

Early Bird Dinner Theatre

The Fox on the Fairway Sept 5 - Oct 25

www.earlybirddinnertheatre. com The Early Bird Dinner Theatre opens its 2015-16 season with a comedy, “The Fox on the Fairway.” www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

s t r e c n o Hot C

AMALIE ARENA www.amaliearena.com

Ed Sheeran

with special guests Christina Perri and Jamie Lawson

Thurs, Sept 10

d Sheeran is still riding high with the chart-topping success of his single “Thinking Out Loud,” which has earned Sheeran the highest charting of his career at multiple formats. Blending soulful vocals with organic folk introspection and irresistible hip-hop hooks, Ed Sheeran is a genuine global phenomenon. The 24-year-old British singer-songwriter’s honest songwriting and incredible live show also connected with millions through the small screen with countless high profile television appearances including the 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards, the closing ceremonies of the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, and as the youngest performer among the star-studded lineup on CBS’ special “The Beatles: The Night That Changed America – A GRAMMY Salute.”

Sat, Sept 19

leven of the biggest Freestyle music legends of the 1980s will take the stage Saturday, September 19, at Amalie Arena at 7:30 PM. In what will be one of the biggest concerts of the year, Tampa audiences and Freestyle fans will be on their feet to see their favorite artists perform the biggest rhythmic radio dance hits that emanated in the late 80s out of Miami and spread like wild fire on radio throughout the country…and such songs are still in major rotation today.

www.amaliearena.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

AMALIE ARENA www.amaliearena.com

Thurs, Sept 24

usic icon, multiple GRAMMY Award-winner and multi-platinum selling artist Janet Jackson brings her Unbreakable World Tour to the Amalie Arena in support of her album due out this Fall. Janet Jackson is one of the most influential entertainers of the modern era. Her music has won her 6 GRAMMY Awards, 2 Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, a nomination for an Academy Award along with dozens of American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, BET Awards and Billboard Music Awards. She has received accolades as an actor as well, including the NAACP Best Supporting Actor award. Janet is a published author, choreographer, dancer, businessperson, philanthropist and one of biggest-selling artists in popular music history. With sales of over 160 million records worldwide, Janet Jackson stands as one of the best-selling artists of all time with a string of hits that have left an indelible impression on pop culture.

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES tampabay.rays.mlb.com/ The 2015 Rays Summer Concert Series begin shortly after select homes games conclude and are free with the purchase of that game’s ticket. Enjoy the sounds of the game and music with friends and family at Tropicana Field. STEVE AOKI - Sat, Oct 3 vs. Blue Jays at 6:10 p.m. Known for energetic live shows, Steve Aoki is a DJ, record producer and philanthropist. The Grammy Award-nominated, goldselling artist and producer has collaborated with & remixed many artists and bands, including Linkin Park, Drake, will.i.am, Tiesto, Diplo, Travis Barker, Afrojack, Fall Out Boy, The Killers, Iggy Azalea, Refused, All American Rejects, Rivers Cuomo and Snoop Lion. In 2014, Aoki released the first part of his two-part album Neon Future I. His new album, Neon Future II, features singles: “Darker Than Blood” with Linkin Park and “I Love It When You Cry” with Moxie.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Which Florida Orchestra concerts fit you? A guide

ife today is all about customization. You want it your way. Buying a Florida Orchestra subscription is no different. If you want to take advantage of the orchestra’s flexible Compose Your Own series of at least three concerts for $25 each (see details below), here is a guide to make it easy. Hurry before the season starts Oct. 2. Hello Maestro: Get to know the orchestra’s dynamic new conductor Michael Francis by choosing any of the 10 concerts he is conducting in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater. Pick from Beethoven to Rachmaninoff (see floridaorchestra. org for schedule) and you’ll also get an intimate pre-concert conversation with the maestro in the concert hall one hour before the performance. And don’t forget his A Night at the Oscars opening night Pops concert, too. Mom made you take piano lessons: So you might as well make the most of it. Consider these concerts with piano soloists: Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 (Valentina Lisitsa; Oct. 2-4); Mozart & More! (Gilles Vonsattel; Jan. 2224); Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 (Shai Wosner; Feb. 19-20); and Ravel & Brahms (Javier Perianes; Feb. 26-28). Shai Wosner

Michael Francis

Greatest hits: For all the music you know and love – and sing in the shower -- try movie music at A Night at the Oscars (Oct. 9-11), spend Halloween on Broadway (Oct. 30-Nov. 1), fly away with a Sinatra celebration (Nov. 20-22) and wrap yourself in your favorite yuletide tunes with Holiday Pops (Dec. 11-13).

How to Compose Your Own series: Premium seats – regularly $30 and $45 – are only $25 each when you buy three or more concerts. Choose from 23 classical and pops programs at ComposeYourOwn.com. (Service charges apply.) Get single tickets at floridaorchestra.org or 727.892.3337 and 1.800.662.7286. The orchestra regularly performs at the Straz Center in Tampa, Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg, and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

photos are by Marco Borggreve

See our local stars shine: The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay is center stage for Handel’s Messiah (Dec. 4-6) and The Bells & Pictures at an Exhibition (Nov. 6-8). The orchestra’s own concertmaster Jeffrey Multer is the featured soloist for Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 3 (part of The Firebird Suite program April 15-17), and Principal English Horn Jeffrey Stephenson solos on MacMillan’s The World’s Ransoming (part of the German Requiem program March 12-13).

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

Dave Matthews Band Wed, July 29

The band is known for their annual summerlong tours featuring lengthy Thurs, improvisational Septren24 ditions of their songs. They are also known for Seconds Summer are Luke Hemmings playing the of songs differently each time. On (lead the vocals, guitar), Michael Clifford (guitar, vocals), 2015 Summer Tour, the band will play two sets Calum guitar, acoustic vocals), and and featurAshton at eachHood show,(bass one being Irwin (drums, vocals). The group were originally ing different onstage lineups, and the traditional YouTube celebrities DMB electric set. and gained a following while touring with One Direction. The group’s self-titled debut studio album peaked #1 in 11 countries, which was followed by a live album titled LIVESOS. They’re due to release their second album Sounds Good Feels Good worldwide in October.

Sun, Sept 13

he Van Halen 2015 Tour is in support of a new live album, Tokyo Dome Live in Concert recorded during the band’s previous tour. Tokyo Dome Live in Concert includes 23 songs spanning all seven of the band’s albums with Roth. Special guest Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band will support all dates along the tour.

Tues, Sept 15

D E rs L o t c E do

C f o e N c vi d A a C Under

9/13

Kelly Clarkson’s “Piece By Piece Tour,” in support of her new album, Piece By Piece will perfomr at the MidFlorida Credit Union Ampitheatre. America’s sweetheart, the original American Idol, will be joined by Pentatonix, who won The Sing-Off a cappella competition in 2011, bloggerloved Eric Hutchinson and Indie Music Channel darling Abi Ann.

www.midfloridacreditunionamphitheatre.org/ 40

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MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

Fri, Oct 2 Brad Paisley’s The Crushin’ It World Tour is winding its way around North America and making a stop at the Ampitheatre. Justin Moore and newcomer Mickey Guyton serve as Paisley’s support acts for the road trek. The tour takes its name from Paisley’s current single, ‘Crushin’ It,’ from his chart-topping 2014 album ‘Moonshine in the Trunk.’ He also spent time at No. 1 with ‘Perfect Storm‘ from the same project.

Fri, Sept 18

uke Bryan’s Kick the Dust Up Tour will have Dustin Lynch and Randy Houser kick off the shows. “The ability to go into a city and stay two nights is something I could have only ever dreamed of,” Bryan says. “To be able to roll your world, your tour bus, in and set up a fun little backstage area — it’s amazing we’re in this spot. I can’t thank fans enough.” www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Tasty Food and Drinks! Epicurean Hotel Hosts “Epic Chef Showdown” - Sept 14

www.EpicChefTampaBay.com The Epicurean Hotel is hosting the first-ever Epic

Chef Showdown to benefit Feeding America Tampa Bay, the area’s largest food rescue and distribution organization. The Epic Chef Showdown is a seven-week competition pitting eight of the Tampa Bay area’s top restaurants against each other in a friendly cooking competition judged by a panel of local and national ce-

lebrities. Each week, beginning Monday, July 27, two competing chefs will receive a mystery box of ingredients not commonly prepared together, and will be challenged to create two unique dishes under the pressure of the clock. When time is up, each dish will be judged and one restaurant will be eliminated, with the winner moving on to the next round. Other competition dates are August 3, 10 and 17 (first round), August 24 and 31 (semi-finals) and September 14 (finale). All Epic Chef Showdown events will be held in the Epicurean Theatre from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Participating local restaurants include Cena, Fodder and Shine, Mise en Place, Parkshore Grill, Pearl in the Grove, The Refinery, Rooster & The Till and Z Grille. Each week, the event will be hosted by Benjamin Coutts, area manager for Augustan Wine Imports and Premier Beverage Company. For the September 14 finale, Coutts will be joined by celebrity cohost Emily Ellyn, the “Retro Rad Chef” from Food Network. A limited number of tickets to the public are available for a fee, which includes a four-course menu with wine pairings, inspired by the participating restaurants and Élevage.

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NAPOLEON WINEAMITE: Tampa Theatre’s 14th Annual WINEFEST Sept 14 www.TampaTheatre.org/WineFest

Bust out your sweet dance moves and have a “killer time” with Napoleon, Pedro, Kip and Lafawnduh at Tampa Theatre’s 14th annual WineFest, Napoleon Wineamite. This year’s event features snacks and samples from local restaurants, sips from the finest wineries, an evening of top-rated wines and a “Movie Under the Stars” screening of Napoleon Dynamite. The annual WineFest is Tampa Theatre’s biggest fundraising event of the year, benefitting the movie palace’s artistic and educational programs as well as its ongoing

preservation and restoration. WineFest kicks off Thursday, Sept. 10 with a special showing of Napoleon Dynamite. Guests are welcome to sit in the balcony or bring blankets and lawn chairs to spread out on the stage deck. On Friday, Sept. 11, a Wine Tasting “Eat the Food” from several of Tampa’s most famous independent restaurants. Guests will have the opportunity to sample dozens of boutique wines and bid on premium silent auction items. On Saturday, Sept. 12, the Theatre’s stage will be expanded for the elegant Wine Pairing at 6:30 p.m. The multi-course menu, created and catered by Mise En Place chef Marty Blitz, will feature delectable small plates expertly paired with wines specific to each dish. The Wine Brunch mixes breakfast fare catered by SONO Café and Mise en Place with mimosas, bellinis and a selection of light wines at 11:30 a.m.Sunday, Sept. 13. WineFest wraps up on Thursday, Sept. 17, with the opportunity for a select number of wine enthusiasts to enjoy a 95 pt+ Wine Experience, Tickets available at the Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin Street, www.TampaTheatre.org/WineFest/

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Tasty Food and Drinks! Wine Tasting to Benefit HUMANE SOCIETY OF PINELLAS - Thurs, Sept 17 www.finewineandesotericspirits.com

Pavilion hosts a Brews & Bites Food Truck Rally. A rolling celebration of food and fun, Brews & Bites will feature a fleet of area food trucks, and live entertainment from local musicians at the venue’s unique 360-degree waterfront bar, from 6 to 11 pm. Sail Pavilion is located on Tampa’s busy RiverWalk, adjacent to the Tampa Convention Center, 333 S. Franklin St, Tampa. 813-373-1193.

HOMETOWN BREAKFAST BATTLE www.ThomasBreakfastBattle.com

To benefit the Humane Society Of Pinellas, the largest No-Kill shelter in Pinellas County that relies solely on donated support, Fine Wine & Spirits Warehouse will host a wine tasting at the home of Mike Kwasin, 3613 S. Beach Drive, Tampa, on Thursday, September 17th from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. They will feature over 40 wines including Dominus 2008 (99 pts Robert Parker), Newton, Franciscan and Mount Veeder. Also featuring cheeses from Cabot Vermont Dairies and assorted breads. Suggested donations will be $25 per person, $40 per couple. If you will be unable to attend but would like to order at the event prices, please call for the wine list. Orders must be received within 48 hours of the event. For more information Call (813) 837-8941.

“Brews & Bites” Brings Food Trucks and Live Music to THE Sail - 2nd Fri of the Month www.tampaconventioncenter.com

135 chefs. 135 cities. It’s the largest national chef competition of its kind, and Chef Andy King from Datz in Tampa hopes to drum up local support with his Savory Breakfast Bread Pudding. Our area also boasts Chef Mark Woodruff from Made Restaurant in Sarasota who hopes to snag that local vote with his recipe for a Brisket Benedict. It’s all part of the Hometown Breakfast Battle – a national chef recipe competition featuring 135 chefs from across the country who will battle it out to create America’s best breakfast in honor of the 135th Anniversary of the Thomas’ brand. Each chef will utilize Thomas’ English Muffins and Bagels to showcase how easy it is to add some local flair and approachability to breakfast – a meal that has surged in popularity and creativity in recent years. And, beginning on September 14, local fans will have just two weeks to vote online at ThomasBreakfastBattle.com to ensure their favorite chef makes it into the next round of competition that narrows the pool from 135 to the top 16.

St. Pete Wine & Food Fest - Sept 24 - 27

On the second Friday of every month, the Sail 44

www.stpetewineandfoodfest.com/ Celebrate all things food and wine over four days in downtown St. Pete from September 24 to 27. Enjoy a wine pairings dinner at The Birchwood on Tuesday. Then go to North Straub Park for a craft beer night on Wednesday and two days of grand tastings featuring wine from around the world and fare from Tampa Bay’s best restaurants and chefs as well as food seminars throughout the afternoon. A ticket to the Grand Tasting

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Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg Food + Art Cookbook

event gives you an all-inclusive experience to sample over 100 fine wines, delicious gourmet creations from Tampa Bay’s best restaurants, and live cooking demonstrations from local and world-renowned chefs.

Marchand’s Bar & Grill EVENTS Sept 25 & 26 www.vinoyrenaissanceresort.com

www.fine-arts.org/about/store/ In observance of its 50th anniversary, the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg (MFA) and the Margaret Acheson Stuart Society plan to publish Food + Art: Cooking around Tampa Bay with the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, FL. This milestone keepsake cookbook, available in Fall 2015, features recipes from Stuart Society members, MFA staff, docents, artists, collectors, cultural and civic leaders, as well as chefs and others in the Tampa Bay community. Food + Art is a collection of 120 recipes, ranging from splashy party dishes to vegetarian main dishes to simple weeknight dinners, with chapters that include: Starters, Drinks, Brunch, Soups, Pastas, Salads, Pizza, Meats, Seafood, Vegetables and Sweets. The beautiful book will also highlight selected works from its collections.

The Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club in St. Petersburg, Fla. invites guests looking for a flare of fusion in their dining experience to jam out to nationally known bluegrass band, Wood & Wire at the awardwinning Marchand’s Bar & Grill, on Friday, Sept. 25 or Saturday, Sept. 26 for a Bourbon and Bluegrass dining event. The restaurant will be serving up delicious southern food, full of tantalizing aromas combined with bourbon flights including the resort’s 9 Year Aged Barrel Reserved George Dickel whiskey. Following dinner and music, guests are encouraged to gather and relax under the stars in our private cabanas complete with comforting fire-pits, while listening to the soothing Tampa Bay waters. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Tasty Food and Drinks! 26th Annual Taste of Clearwater Oct 1

3rd Annual Tarpon Springs Oktoberfest - Oct 17 - 18 www.FloridaOktoberfest.com

www.clearwaterflorida.org/events

The 26th Annual A Taste Of Clearwater will be an evening of food, drinks and entertainment. This is a community-wide event featuring restaurants showcasing their cuisine. Try different menu items and discover new culinary creations while sharing the evening with colleagues and friends.

Tampa Bay’s Vintage Beverages Tailgate Taste Fest - Oct 3

www.TailgateTasteFest.com On Saturday, October 3, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission (TBSC), the Event Development Institute (EDI), Pepin Distributing and new title sponsor, Vintage Beverages, will showcase many of Tampa Bay’s top tier tailgating food options at the second annual Tampa Bay’s Vintage Beverages Tailgate Taste Fest. Hosted at Curtis Hixon Park, festivities will begin at 3 p.m. and continue through 9 p.m. Taking place during the heart of the college football season, Tailgate Taste Fest will entertain guests with live, in-game action, live music and several of the best sliders, chicken, barbecue and small plate food options in Tampa. Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602.

The Tarpon Springs Merchant’s Association will host the 3rd Annual Oktoberfest celebration on Friday, October 16th (6pm to 11pm), Saturday the 17th (10am to 11pm) and Sunday, October 18th (10am to 6pm). The event opens with a sneak peek featuring the tapping of the first keg by Mayor, David Archie. A German Biergarten Tent will be surrounded by German and American food and beverage vendors, continuous live German Oompah/contemporary music, dancing and games. Arts and crafts vendors join the festival on Saturday and Sunday. Bay Area celebrities will make regular toasts throughout the festival and visitors are encouraged to join in the games and contests that include best German costume, beer stein hoisting, best chicken dance, best beard contest and more. The festival will take place in downtown Tarpon Springs on Orange Street between Safford Avenue (Pinellas Bike Trail) and Alternate 19 - admission is complimentary. The event is sponsored by the Tarpon Springs Merchants Association and Warsteiner Brewery. 727-946-5610.

34th Annual John’s Pass Seafood Festival - Oct 23 - 25 www.facebook.com/JohnsPassSeafoodFestival

Start with a smorgasbord of seafood, Toss with a generous helping of friendly competition, and finish it off with a heaping of Live Music and Entertainment.

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That’s the recipe for this year’s 34th Annual Johns Pass Seafood Festival. Each year the event, hosted by The John’s Pass Village Association, has offered festivities for the whole family and looks to provide visitors with a weekend full of taste bud teasing, sight pleasing and ear vibrating diversion. With some BIG additions, this year looks to top all others. This two and one-half day outdoor festival features continuous musical entertainment, an art and craft show and more local seafood vendors than ever before to tempt your taste buds. The first grouper sandwiches (and over 100 other seafood options) begin serving at 3pm on Friday October 23rd. Friday evening, things heat up with Tampa Bay’s Largest Halloween Block Party and Costume Contest for Adults. From 7pm until 11pm, over $1000 in cash and prizes will be doled out. Food Vendors, Beer Truck and Full Bar run all night as well. The event takes place at Historic John’s Pass Village, 12902 Village Blvd. located in Madeira Beach, FL. Admission to the event is complimentary.

Suenos de Dali - Oct 24

www.thedali.org/event/suenos-de-dali/ Consider for a moment the mystery and enigmatic atmosphere of an enchanted forest. Just the word “enchanted” practically says it all. It’s a place of bewitching

delight and hypnotizing whimsy. Of things unusual and ordinarily unseen. Of lush landscape, towering canopies and surreal experiences built by pure imagination and a fair share of magic. Inspired by Dali’s now legendary 1941 fete dubbed “A Surrealistic Night in an Enchanted Forest,” the 2015 Suenos de Dali invites guests to dine and make merry in a setting of wondrously surreal enchantment. Lavish and bizarre costumes. Decor that boldly brings the outside in. Dazzling dishes and curious cocktails served under the stars. This year’s soiree will begin the journey to The Dali’s next visionary exhibition, “Dali and Disney: Architects of the Imagination,” by exploring how creativity can construct environments that alter our perceptions of the world.

New Belgium Brewing’s Clips Beer & Film Tour - Oct 29

www.newbelgium.com/Events/clips-beer-and-film.aspx New Belgium Brewing is taking its 2015 Clips Beer & Film Tour to twenty cities coast-to-coast. The beer-toting, film-traveling, nonprofit-benefitting show is a free event, with all proceeds from beer sales going to local nonprofits. Clips offers a venue where guests can try New Belgium’s more esoteric beer offerings, pairing them with inspiring short films created by New Belgium fans. Up to 16 beer varieties will be on tap, including some of the more hard-tocome-by beers from the Lips of Faith sereis, as well as brewery classics. New Belgium beers will be served up by local beneficiary volunteers, there’s plenty of fun to be had once the sun sets and the films start rolling. Food from local vendors will also be available. New Belgium also teams up with a local sustainability partner at each stop and has diverted at least 85 percent of event waste from landfills over the past five years. New Belgium selected 20 short films from submissions to feature during the tour. 2015 Clips Beer & Film Tour will roll through Tampa, FL October 29, at Curtis Hixon Park.

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COOLSTUFF! M

! n e h c t i K e In Th

MAGIC OPENER

Open Any Beverage Top www.magicopener.com

agic Opener easy open bottle opener is the simplest, most convenient way to open any beverage top, anywhere. With magic Opener easy bottle opener, struggling to open stubborn caps is a thing of the past. Magic Opener is the only tool you’ll need to tackle bottle tops, aluminum pull tabs and metal caps; making it the perfect companion for camping, boating, beach barbeques and more. Ergonomically shaped, magic Opener provides relief from painful straining and joint pain for those suffering from limited hand strength or arthritis. The Magic Opener Extreme combines all the benefits of the original magic Opener with the added benefit of a pet food opening function in a 4-in-1 tool.

MELITTA

New Single-Serve Coffee Capsules

www.melitta.com/

elitta USA now has single-serve coffee capsules which are compatible with all Keurig-style machines, including the Keurig 2.0 brewer. Melitta’s full-bodied, flavorful single-serve capsules are designed to deliver a heightened sensory experience, reminiscent of the drip brewing process. Consumers can actually see and smell their coffee – 100% premium, high-grown Arabica beans, batch-roasted and ground extra fine – from the moment they remove the cup from its individually sealed freshness pack. The unique capsule design is made with a filter, which allows water to fully saturate the grinds for a bolder, richer cup of coffee. Designed with the environment in mind, Melitta’s single-serve coffees are also eco-friendly and 100% recyclable. Melitta’s Café de Europa Single Serve Gourmet Coffee is available in Classique (medium roast), Vienna Roast (dark roast), Blanc et Noir (a blend of light and dark roasts), Espresso Toscana (extra dark roast) and tClassique Decaf (a smooth, balanced, naturally decaffeinated roast).

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HOT STRAW Reusable Straw for Hot Coffee www.hotstraw.com

ot Straw is the only straw that is safe for hot liquids. It is made of a sturdy BPA Free, FDA Approved plastic that can sustain the heat of a cup of coffee or tea preventing potentially harmful chemicals from leaching into the beverage. Hot Straw’s shape fits into the opening of a coffee cup lid, making it a spill stopper that you can drink from and it is sustainable, reusable and dishwasher safe. It will last for thousands of uses, and is made with a recyclable material. The dualhole designed allows you to sip hot liquids safely, and protects teeth from coffee/tea stains. The inspiration for Hot Straw came from helping Parkinson’s patients enjoy a healthy & spill free morning coffee. 5% of all profits are donated back to Parkinson’s Reaserch.

ZIPZ Single Serve Wine

www.zipzwine.com/

Ever find yourself at a ball game, barbecue or poolside where the only beverage options are varieties of beer? Thanks to Zipz, you can now enjoy a glass of premium wine anywhere. Zipz is single serving of 100% premium, California wine in four varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot and Pinot Grigio. The Zipz glass is made from high-quality, PET plastic that looks and feels like traditional glassware, but is safe for use outdoors, at events and on the go. Each glass is covered in a patented Clean Wrap to keep the wine fresh and the glass clean from handling, and is 100% recyclable. Enjoying a glass of Zipz is easy: (1) Unzip the wrap; (2) Twist off the lid; (3) Peel off the seal and enjoy.

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he 20th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival promises a tasting celebration of epic proportion Sept. 25-Nov. 16, with more global marketplaces than ever and a first-time culinary collaboration with ABC’s Emmy-Award winning lifestyle series “The Chew.”

For the first time in the festival’s 20-year history, guests can sip and sample at marketplace experiences — now numbering more than 30 – in the park’s new Future World tasting areas. Festival guests also can see “The Chew” tape five shows before an Epcot audience Oct. 7-9 to air Oct. 12-16. Disney chefs and festival programmers are whipping up a feast of surprises to celebrate the 20th annual festival in style. New wine tastings, lively parties and other culinary experiences built around the 20year milestone will unite loyal festival fans and firsttimers. During the 53-day festival, presented by Chase and recognized by the Travel Channel as one of America’s top food festivals, Epcot will brim with epicurean discoveries: The new Artistry of Wine & Cheese area will feature the Cheese Studio and Wine Studio market-

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Celebrates 20 Delicious Years places where premium wines will be available on tap and cheeses will be served on an “artist’s palette” as part of a wine-and-cheese pairing. At the new Next Eats area near the Epcot Character Spot, Sustainable Chew Marketplace will offer guests a taste of delicious dishes inspired by “The Chew” cohosts. At Chew Lab, food science meets the hottest culinary tech trends with dishes like the Liquid Nitro Chocolate Almond Truffle with Warm Whiskey Caramel.

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New marketplace dishes like the Grilled Sweet and Spicy Bush Berry Shrimp (Australia), Pepper Bacon Mac ‘N Cheese (Farm Fresh) and Seared Venison Loin with Wild Mushroom Marsala Sauce (New Zealand) will tempt taste buds. The Dominican Republic Marketplace will return with fresh flair and an all-new menu with dishes that include Pescado con Coco – seared grouper, pigeon peas with rice and coconut sauce. With a 20thyear nod to guests’ favorite dining traditions, Disney chefs will bring back popular marketplace dishes like the New England Lobster Roll (Hops & Barley) and classic favorites like the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup. Two 20th-year celebratory wines were created just for this fall’s festival: a Napa Valley Festival Chardonnay and a Paso Robles Festival Cabernet Sauvignon. Guests can taste both wines at the Chew Lab marketplace or buy a bottle at the Festival Center Wine Shop. A Tasting Sampler package gives guests the chance to try a variety of marketplace sips and nibbles, enjoy priority seating at an Eat to the Beat concert and receive a limitedrelease 20th-year festival pin. The Premium Package, available Monday-through-Thursday, includes a festival-themed Magic Band, access to exclusive marketplace areas, a culinary demo or beverage seminar, an IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party and other perks. New premium events, including the “Rockin’ Burger

Block Party” will offer a variety of tasting opportunities. The iconic Party for the Senses grand tasting will sizzle with on-stage cooking and beverage stations plus live entertainment each Saturday in October culminating in the first-ever Oct. 31 “Yelloween Masquerade” party. Remy, the diminutive but determined star of Disney’s “Ratatouille,” will cook up family fun with Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak scavenger hunt. Nightly Eat to the Beat concerts kick off Sept. 25-27 with singer-songwriter David Cook. Four new acts in the concert series lineup – Tiffany, Everclear, Maxi Priest and Chaka Khan – will belt out chart-topping tunes. Other popular acts, including Wilson Phillips, Smash Mouth, The Pointer Sisters, Jo Dee Messina, Boyz II Men and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, will return to rock the America Gardens Theatre stage. More than 250 chefs, including Disney chefs, and culinary stars from across the country will help celebrate the festival’s 20th Cat Cora, Robert Irvine, Jamie Deen, Rock Harper, Buddy Valastro and other top chefs will share their culinary know-how. Renowned chef and cookbook author John Ash, who participated in the inaugural festival in 1996, will return to celebrate the 20th year. At the Chase Lounge at American Adventure, anyone with a Chase debit or credit card will find complimentary refreshments and interactive fun. In Future World, the Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog returns for a fourth year to celebrate the cranberry’s rich agricultural heritage.

For more information, call 407-934-7639. Check online at www.DisneyWorld.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

ARTIST POINT in Walt Disney Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

WILDERNESS LODGE Photos and Story by Melissa Wolcott Martino

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A Taste of The Pacific Northwest In Florida

e all love Florida. But let’s face it, we would like to experience the feel and taste of the Pacific Northwest once in a while — especially during a long, hot summer. Easy to do. Head over to Walt Disney World’s Wilderness Lodge to the Artist Point Restaurant for a memorable dining experience. I know I’ve said this ad nauseum, but Disney World has some of the finest restaurants around — worth a drive, even if you don’t want to visit one of the theme parks. Artist Point is one of them. When you arrive at Wilderness Lodge, first take a stroll around the beautiful property for the full northwest effect — waterfalls, boulders, and tall pine trees. Even though there are no mountains, you still have the feeling they are around you. Artist’s Point is situated so that you have spectacular floor-to-ceiling glass window views. Art inspired by Thomas Moran and Albert Bierstadt adorn the walls, wood beams and deco fixtures complete the picture. We had the occasion to dine there recently and enjoyed a truly wonderful meal. Disney’s upscale restaurants have some of the finest chefs and sommeliers you will find anywhere. Chef Michael Gonsalves is at the helm at Artist Point, and brings his special flare to the menu, with a nod to northwestern culinary fare, such as Copper River Salmon (when it’s in season, of course.) Chef’s menu ingredients are always fresh and seasonal. In keeping with the Pacific Northwest theme, all wines are from Oregon and Washington, and are quite delightful. Sommelier Alvin Burrill is very affable and knowledgeable, and expertly pairs wines with each course.

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y husband and I began our culinary journey with some shared appetizers. The salads were all quite different and had beautifully blended flavors. Heirloom Tomatoes were served with a lovely house-made ricotta, olive oil, vinegar, sea salt and upland cress. The Field Asparagus Salad was made with Berkshire prosciutto, sherry-mustard vinaigrette, frisée, cured egg yolk and sprinkled with colorful alliums. Land Greens Salad consisted of peaches, sunflower seed granola, sheep’s milk cheese, and ice wine vinaigrette. Especially tasty was the Dashi Braised Short Rib, served with Kombu turnip pickles, winter radish, and wild greens. Our suggested wine was a Cadaretta Sauvignon Blanc from Washington. Our entrées were some of the favorites of the house, with a Grilled Filet Mignon and a Copper River King Salmon. The melt-in-your-mouth filet arrived with a delicious gratin potato, jumbo asparagus, roasted garlic and beef butter. Wine choice for the beef was an Andrew Will Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington. The perfectly prepared salmon was served with local potatoes, frisée, baby fennel, Florida citrus, olive tapenade, and verjus. The choice wine for fish was a Sokol Blosser Pinor Noir, from Oregon. Desserts were definitely divine! We thoroughly enjoyed the killer Dark Chocolate Crémeux, with Matcha (green tea), gooseberry curd, hibiscus meringue, and sorrel. The Strawberry Chévre Cheesecake was smooth as silk, with wild berries, whipped panna cotta, Marcona almonds, and a few blooms for even more color. Our favorite wine of the night is usually the dessert wine, and this night was no exception, with a delicious Chateau Ste. Michelle & Dr. Loosen “Eroica” Single Berry Select, from Washington. Mmmm. After dinner, I suggest you find a comfy chair in the amazing Wilderness Lodge lobby and enjoy the roaring fireplace before you head home. When you go, as with most of Disney’s finer restaurants, plan to make reservations way ahead of time so you won’t be disappointed. (407) WDW-DINE. The Wilderness Lodge is a Magic Kingdom area resorts. For more information, please visit www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/wilderness

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ORLANDO HAPPENINGS www.visitOrlando.com

Merlin Entertainments Honors First Responders with Free Admission and Special Discounts - All of September www.OfficialOrlandoEye.com

Merlin Entertainments has special discounts and offers for police officers, firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel for all four of its

Central Florida attractions, which include Legoland Florida Resort, the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Orlando and Sea Life Orlando Aquarium. For the entire month of September, first responders can receive a complimentary single day admission ticket to Legoland Florida theme park. They can also receive a 50 percent discount on admission to the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Orlando and Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, located at the I-Drive 360 entertainment complex on International Drive. The discount program is only valid for police officers, fire fighters, and EMS employees working in the United States. Active and retired personnel with identification are also eligible. Eligible personnel should present their employee ID or professional organization membership card to LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s ticket window to redeem their complimentary single day admission ticket, or the admissions desk at the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Orlando or SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, on the day they plan to visit to redeem the discount on their admission ticket. For more information, visit florida.LEGOLAND.com or OfficialOrlandoEye.com.

www.seaworldparks.com/

October 3 - 31

oin SeaWorld Orlando select weekends in October for silly spooky fun at SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular. Children and adults alike will be immersed in an underwater “fantasea” filled with trick-or-treating, dancing sea creatures and pumpkin fish, where kids can also create sea-themed arts and crafts. SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular takes place from 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. weekends in October (3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24-25, and 31) and is included with park admission. Costumes are not required, but are encouraged. Trick or Treat - Kids can follow the special Halloween Spooktacular pathways through many different stations filled with a wide array of sweets and treats as sea creatures greet and mingle with guests. Penelope’s Party Zone - Penelope’s Party Zone comes to life when families dance and play along to the spooky sound waves broadcasted by a live DJ, listen to spooky stories and enjoy fun activities. Spooktacular Dance Party - Children join Princess Penelope and her under-the-sea friends in linedancing favorites as clouds of bubbles fill the air. At the Village Square one hour before park closing. Sesame Street’s Countdown to Halloween - The Count, Elmo and a cast of Sesame Street characters take the stage at the Seaport Theater for this frightfully fun Halloween musical. 56

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VISIT ORLANDO’S MAGICAL DINING CELEBRATES 10th ANNIVERSARY Continuing thru Sept. 30 www.visitorlando.com/magicaldining/restaurants/

ore than 70 restaurants will feature three-course meals for $33 this September. In celebration of the 10th anniversary of Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining, Central Florida’s official tourism association has lined up more newly-opened fine dining restaurants than ever before. Running through Sept. 30, guests can select from over 70 participating restaurants, including seven recently-opened venues, to enjoy three-course dinners for $33. Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining showcases much of the culinary landscape that has brought Orlando national acclaim in the past year. There is no better time for Foodies to enjoy Orlando, named one of 10 Best Wine Travel Destinations for 2015 by Wine Enthusiast magazine, as well as one of The New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in the world in 2015. In a year that’s brought major new dining and entertainment venues to Orlando, several recently-opened restaurants are part of this year’s line-up: Txokos Basque Kitchen at East End Market, a

neighborhood market and food hub, takes inspiration from the cuisine of Northern Spain. Ravello at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort focuses on authentic Italian recipes. Southern classics get a contemporary spin at Soco in Thornton Park. American Q at the B Resort brings together barbeque styles from theCarolinas, Kansas City and Latin America. More information on these new additions, along with a full list of all participating restaurants, is available at OrlandoMagicalDining.com Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining will benefit ELEVATE Orlando in 2015, with $1 from every meal donated to the local charity. ELEVATE Orlando meets the complex needs of urban youth by providing both character education and life skills training to help to move students from poverty to self-sufficiency. Last year, Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining raised a record $111,604 for the Foundation for Foster Children.

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ORLANDO HAPPENINGS Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Invites Guests to ‘Fly With An Astronaut’ - Sept 4 - 7

Reservations: 855-456-6597 Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is offering a special, limited-time, limited-capacity program called “Fly With An Astronaut” in which guests can spend a thrilling half day experiencing the highlights of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, including a ‘flight’ on Shuttle Launch Experience, with a veteran NASA space shuttle astronaut. The program includes admission to the visitor complex as well as a morning of tours and activities guided by an astronaut. The Fly With An Astronaut experience includes a catered buffet lunch at the Apollo/Saturn V Center; a panoramic photo stop at the Launch Complex (LC) 39 Observation Gantry, which is otherwise not accessible to guests; an autographed photo of the guest with the astronaut hero; and a retail gift.

Emotions Dance Company Returns with “The Shift” - Sept 25 - 27

www.emotionsdance.org/ Emotions Dance Company, a professional contemporary dance company that focuses on social and environmental awareness through the art of dance, presents its third annual installment of “ The Shift.” The Company is teaming up with Contemporary, Modern, and Improvisational Dance to allow audiences the chance to experience new, experimental, and inprogress works—all under one roof. The performances are scheduled for Friday September 25, 2015 at 8pm,

Saturday September 26, 2015 at 8pm, and Sunday September 27, 2015 at 2pm. All performances will be at the Mandell Theatre, located at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center (812 E. Rollins St. Orlando).

Here Comes The Sun: Beatlemania Hits Madame Tussauds Orlando www.madametussauds.com/orlando

Good Day Sunshine. John, Paul, Ringo and George continue the British Invasion at Madame Tussauds Orlando. The figures of the Fab Four are set in a pose that pays tribute to the 1969 Abbey Road album cover, which captured all four members walking across a crosswalk outside of Abbey Road Studios. The image is arguably one of the most recognizable in music history. To recreate these new figures, Madame Tussauds artists utilized measurements taken from previous sittings with the band, as well as image research from the Abbey Road album photo shoot to style each figure. All four members met with studio artists in 1964 to take measurements for the creation of their original wax figures. Beatles fans can Come Together, say Hello Goodbye and take the selfie of their dreams as they take part of one of the most famous Beatles images of all time. The figures will be on display for a limited time only.

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ORLANDO FALL HOME & GARDEN SHOW - Sept 11 - 13 www.orlandohomeandgardenshow.com Orlando Fall Home and Garden Show is featuring several well-known TV and radio personalities, including Jeff Lewis, star of Bravo’s hit TV show “Flipping Out,” Anne Rue, local designer and fan favorite from HGTV’s “Design Star” and Tom MacCubbin, from the syndicated radio show “Better Lawns & Gardens.”

The show, which is coming to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando Sept. 1113, features notable local home and garden experts, kitchen and bathroom contractors, interior designers, and much more. In addition, local Central Florida companies will exhibit everything from front entrance décor to backyard landscapes. Star of Bravo’s hit TV show Flipping Out and a top interior designer Appearing on Saturday only, Jeff Lewis has earned the title of America’s most wellknown house flipper. Lewis has created a brand of properties that are in harmony with and are exemplified by the exterior and interior living spaces. When it comes to renovation, Lewis believes in finding the true integrity of the house, then breathing life back into the space in a way that will connect with a certain type of buyer. Jeff will speak at noon and 3 p.m. on the Celebrity stage; attendees are invited to learn from his 20+ years of experience and participate in what will surely be a lively question & answer session. Viewers of HGTV’s Design Star will recognize Anne Rue at first glance as the “red head” fan favorite of

2050 Daytona Beach: Halloween, eSports, Comic-Con, Celebrities, Cosplay, Shopping, Parties, Concerts, Kids Activities - Oct 30 - Nov 1

www.2050events.com 2050 Daytona Beach is a new kind of convention experience bringing three days of entertainment for all ages to the heart of the Daytona Beach resort community this Halloween weekend, Oct 30th - Nov 1st. Attractions include an eSports tournament with a $15,000 prize pool, large vendors area, classic movie screenings, multiple costume contests, VIP parties, concerts and several interesting panels and workshops throughout the weekend. Kids age 12 and under (admitted free) enjoy their own mini-expo with a variety of fun activities and experiences tailored just for them. 2050 Daytona Beach has invited more than 40 celebrity guests representing iconic movies like Star Wars, Thor, The Terminator as well as popular television shows like Bitten, Z Nation, Battlestar Galactica, Star Trek, Hemlock Grove, Dominion, Game of Thrones, Farscape and Kim Possible.

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Season 8. Rue is an accomplished celebrity interior designer based in Central Florida. For over 17 years Rue has designed timeless interior scenes for both commercial and residential clients, working with everyone from professional athletes to the Travel Channel’s Hotel Impossible. Anne is playful, affable and down to earth; her passion for interior design is immediately apparent from her extensive portfolio of work. In addition to her national recognition, her designs have also been featured in her hometown publications such as Orlando Sentinel, Playground Magazine, Orlando Magazine, Orange Appeal Magazine and televised on Fox News. Appearing 1:30 p.m. Saturday on the Celebrity Stage, Anne Rue will share a behind the scenes look at fan favorite reality shows and offer some quick and easy design tips to bring home. Gardeners in Florida know Tom MacCubbin through his radio, television, and newspaper contributions. A retired extension environmental horticulturist with the University of Florida in Orange County, MacCubbin has degrees in Horticulture from the University of Maryland and advanced training from the University of Florida. New this year is the “Ugly Kitchen” make-over from Affordable Granite Concepts. Attendees are invited to visit the Affordable Granite Concepts booth and bring a photo of their current kitchen and enter to win a $15,000 kitchen makeover (rules at the booth). The

SODO HOME Design Center returns with a dramatic exhibit displaying an array of wood, carpet, tile, stone and custom area rugs. Other show highlights include: Florida-Friendly Landscaping Seminars, Plant Sale by South Seminole Nursery, Flu Shots by Walgreens, Art, Gift, Gourmet & Wine Tastings Area Kids Zone: Free 4” x 6” Fall Photo for Children 12 & Under by Michele Justice Photography, Interactive Kids Sports Courts, Silly Willy Balloon Animals & Face Painting, Astro Skate Ice Skating Simulation, Living Flowers by Craig Janice Performing Arts Pet Zone: Birds of Prey by Wild About Birds, Seminars by Critter Encounters, Pet Adoptions by Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, Dog Training Seminar. Gardening Seminars by the Orange County Master Gardeners. • Florida-Friendly Landscaping “Why We Should Do It” • Basics of Vegetable Gardening • Flavorful Foods from the Garden • FarmDaddy Self Watering Garden Container

www.universalorlando.com/Events/

he legendary Jack the Clown makes his triumphant (and twisted) return to present the biggest and scariest Halloween Horror Nights ever, select nights from September 18th through November 1st. Now in its 25th year at Universal Orlando Resort, the nation’s premier Halloween event puts you right into some of the most pulse-pounding moments in horror history. Follow the sounds of Jack’s maniacal laughter and enter his carnival where you can explore 9 terrifying haunted houses, 5 scare zones, 2 outrageous live shows, plus many of the park’s most exciting rides and attractions. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

History Came Alive in St. Augustine For Their 450th Anniversary Sept 8, 1565 - 2015

By Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino Photos by Melissa

450th landing reenactment

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on Pedro Menéndez de Avilés (founder of St. Augustine) and all the other reenactors have stowed their costumes away for another day, the stages have been broken down, and parks cleaned up to signal the end of St. Augustine’s spectacular 450th Anniversary party which lasted for 5 days — well, weeks really, when you consider events leading up to the big long weekend.

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Emmylou Harris performs in a free concert.

Everyone shared in the 450th Anniversary cake(s).

Ensemble Espa単ol at the St. Augustine Ampitheatre 64

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n September 8, 1565, Pedro Menéndez stepped off his boat onto this spot in la Florida (which had been discovered in 1513 by Ponce de León in his search for the Fountain of Youth.) He brought hundreds of colonists with him — Spanish, Africans and others — and merged with the native Timucuan Indians. Of course, a lot of upheaval, territorial wars, pirate sacking, and illness ensued through those early years, but this area would go on to become the oldest permanent American settlement we still call St. Augustine. Several local families can actually trace their lineage directly back to those early settlers. The 450th celebration included concerts, exhibits, reenactments, tours and a host of events. We were there for three jam-packed days and barely scratched the surface of what there was to see and do. The rain gods held off for most of the outdoor events to the relief of event goers. We managed to catch a delightful concert by Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell on Saturday night, and missed seeing Aaron Neville the night before. Unrivaled fireworks finished off the night. Another show, which was mesmerizing, was the Fiesta 450 on Sunday. It was performed by the Ensemble Español at the St. Augustine Ampitheatre, and featured all styles of authentic Spanish dance, culminating in a breathtaking performance of Ravel’s Boléro. We could have parked ourselves in front of the Gazebo in the Plaza de la Constitución for days, where non-stop entertainment took place on the stage — music, dance and historical stories. On Monday the 450th Proclamation was read and a big cake was cut and shared by all the festival goers. Actually there were many large cakes offered in all different flavors to accommodate the huge crowds, and surprisingly, they were really tasty! Elsewhere throughout the town bands played every day in various venues inside and out — too numerous to mention. All the events during the celebration, with the exception of the Ensemble Español performance, were free to the public!

Crowds settle in for gazebo concerts.

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aving visited St. Augustine before, we managed to squeeze in a few attractions that we had not seen in the past, and a few favorites we wanted to return to. The St. Augustine Lighthouse is very distinctive with its black and white striped tower and red beacon housing, and a museum of artifacts recovered in the area seas is on the property. Nightly ghost tours are very popular there. I attempted the 219 steps to the top, but chickened out after the first landing. The open-work wrought iron stairs got me. The most iconic landmark is probably the Castillo de San Marcos, which is the oldest masonry fort in the U.S., dating back to 1672. Nearby is the Colonial Quarter, a fascinating look at life back in the day with working craftsmen. There are several restaurants in the complex that serve tasty food prepared as it was many years ago in keeping with the theme. We hadn’t been to the small Spanish Military Hospital Museum in the Old City before, and found it appallingly fascinating. A docent takes you through the ways of doctoring in the Colonial Spanish days — and it ain’t pretty. However, it’s quite interesting how little the procedures have changed other than snappier looking medical instruments and (thank God) anesthesia. The Lightner Museum (the former 1887 elegant Alcazar Hotel) is one of our favorite attractions in the city, with the eclectic but very interesting collection of wealthy publisher Otto C. Lightner (1946) from ancient artifacts to gorgeous art nouveau glass and a lot in between.

Castillo de San Marcos

Costumed characters at the Colonial Quarter. Spanish Military Hospital sugical tools.

A section of the gorgeous Lightner Museum

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The iconic St. Augustine Lighthouse

219 steps to the top.

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The landing reenactment.

The Fountain of Youth display of the meeting of the Spanish and Timucuan Indians. 68

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hen in St. Augustine, a visit to the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is a must. Through dogged ongoing archaeological findings, we know that the first settlement was located at the present day Fountain of Youth Park, where folks can still go to drink from those famous waters while learning of the history of the area and seeing the digs. We drank the water and are still waiting for some positive results. Right next to the Fountain of Youth Park is the Mission Nombre de Dios, which is where the original landing took place, and an interesting museum is part of the present day shrine. It was here that Menéndez knelt to kiss a wooden cross presented to him by Father Francisco López de Mendoza Grajales, chaplain of his expedition. Now, in 2015, on the morning of Sept 8 (timed down to the hour of the original landing) Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés stepped off the boat and was greeted by a priest, dignitaries and Native Americans — all in period costume. From there, the very impressive procession of the re-enactors and spectators walked the streets to the Cathedral Basilica for a Commemorative Mass highlighted by the presence of Boston Archbishop Séan Patrick O’Malley and the attendance of 19 bishops from around the country. A relic — a finger of St. Augustine’s — was loaned by the Vatican for the occasion, and will remain in St. Augustine for a while. At the Mission we met a descendent of Pedro Menendez — Mark Menendez — who was in full costume as his ancestor, and standing in front of a beautiful portrait of Pedro that he had painted. He is quite interesting and a man of many talents.

Reenactors at the Mission.

Mark Menendez stands in front of his painting of his ancestor, Pedro Menendez at the Mission.

Mission Nombre de Dios www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

t. Augustine has a very diverse offering of accommodations, from charming B&Bs in the historic area to modern hotels on the outskirts. We stayed at Jaybird’s Inn, which was just minutes from most of the attractions. Jaybird’s is a great choice, as it offers a full free continental breakfast off the lobby, and has a good full restaurant right on premises. Guestrooms are well lit with comfortable beds, in-room coffeemakers and refrigerators. A fitness room, pool, and bicycles for rent are a plus. Bikes are encouraged in St. Augustine to cut down on traffic, and it’s easier to get around. You can also jump on the Red Train tour next door to the Inn, which is a good way to see the Old City. Delicious non-chain dining options abound in St. Augustine with different ethnic offerings. One memorable dinner we enjoyed was at the Raintree Restaurant which is in an old restored 1879 Victorian home. Their cuisine blends Mediterranean, American, pasta, steak and seafood, and is beautifully prepared. Our choices of a Jumbo Shrimp & Lobster Pasta tossed in a creamy Champagne Butter Sauce, and a Bleu cheese Crusted Filet Mignon were grand. St. Augustine’s big celebratory bash may be over for this year, but events are always happening, and with the nearby beaches, championship golf courses, and all that history, it is a place you can visit again and again and never get bored.

Jumbo Shrimp & Lobster Pasta tossed in a creamy Champagne Butter Sauce

Jaybird’s Inn

Aviles Street, oldest street in the USA. 70

The Raintree Restaurant in 1879 restored Victorian home. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

El Galeón, a replica of a ship that traveled the coasts of Florida 500 years ago, cruised into Matanzas Bay for the 450th.

IF YOU GO…

St Augustine Visitors Bureau - www.floridashistoriccoast.com/ Castillo de San Marcos - www.nps.gov/casa Colonial corner - www.colonialquarter.com/ Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park - www.fountainofyouthflorida.com/ Jaybird’s Inn – www.jaybirdsinn.com/ Lightner Museum - www.lightnermuseum.org/ Mission Nombre de Dios - www.missionandshrine.org/ Raintree Restaurant – www.raintreerestaurant.com/ Spanish Military Hospital Museum - spanishmilitaryhospitalmuseum.com/ St. Augustine Ampitheatre - www.staugamphitheatre.com/ St. Augustine Lighthouse - www.staugustinelighthouse.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Gaming Scene Las Vegas Lagasse’s Stadium at the Palazzo, Newest Broadcast Studio on the Las Vegas Strip www.emerilsrestaurants.com/lagasses-stadium

The Palazzo Broadcast Studio is home to both Yahoo Sports Radio’s Sports X Radio featuring Ken Thomson, weeknights from 7 PM to 10 PM PT and Ballin’ Live featuring former NBA sharp shooter Tracy Murray and basketball analysts Van Coleman and Brett Grant on Tuesday nights from 5 PM to 7 PM PT.

stage to tantalize American audiences for the first time. Aussie Hunks perform a 75-minute male revue show seven nights a week in the Showroom at the D Las Vegas. Having collectively performed in Australia for more than eight years as “Hunk Mania Australia,” this new wave of seductive entertainment is highly explosive, complete with professionally trained world-class dancers and stage performers specializing in break dance, street dance, hip-hop, locking, popping and even illuminated-tron routines. BRAD GARRETT’S Maximum Hope Foundation Charity POKER TOURNAMENT at MGM GRAND Sept 19 www.maximumhopefoundation.org/raising-hope. aspx

“Aussie Hunks” at the D Las Vegas www.thed.com/

The hip-hop show features eight of Australia’s hottest, classically trained male dancers as they take the

MGM Grand Hotel & Casino will host Brad Garrett’s annual Maximum Hope Foundation Charity Poker Tournament Sat, Sept 19. The tournament will offer participants the opportunity to play alongside Garrett, other celebrities as well as professional poker players. All proceeds from the event will go to the Maximum Hope Foundation. The poker tournament is a No-Limit Hold’em event requiring an entry fee. The Maximum Hope Foundation is a non-profit organization offering practical aid to families with a child under the age of 18, diagnosed with a life-limiting illness.

Raiding the Rock Vault at The Tropicana 72

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Cont on next page

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www.caesars.com

Las Vegas cont Pitbull to Headline ‘Time of Our Lives,’ at Planet Hollywood - Sept 23 - Oct 7 www.caesars.com

Global music superstar, Pitbull will perform at The AXIS at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino with a unique Vegas show, “Time of Our Lives.” Pitbull’s career sales have exceeded five million albums and 60 million singles worldwide, including his current album, Globalization.

One of tennis’ most star-studded charity events is coming to Las Vegas for the first time this fall, courtesy of Sir Elton John and Billie Jean King. Four former world No. 1s - Andre Agassi, Stefanie Graf, Martina Navratilova and Andy Roddick - will headline Mylan World TeamTennis (WTT) Smash Hits on Monday, October 12 at Caesars Palace. This year’s annual event will benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) and Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN).

Agassi, Graf, Navratilova and Roddick to Headline Mylan World TeamTennis Smash hits at Caesars Palace - Oct 12

Madonna’s ‘Rebel Heart’ Tour Comes to the MGM Grand Garden Arena - Oct 24 www.mgmgrand.com

www.venetian.com/

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Madonna returns to the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, Oct. 24 for another legendary performance. Madonna continues to be one of the most successful

Dear Mark: I agree with just about everything you with Mark Pilarski write, especially making bets that www.markpilarski.com/ have less than a 2% casino advantage. That said, I would not by any stretch call myself a successful gambler. It seems I am like every other want-to-be winner, just trying to grind it out. Is there something in the equation I am missing? Jimmy P.

DEAL ME IN

Even for the canny blackjack, craps, baccarat or video poker player, grinding it out against the house is the best any gamester can hope for. Yes, Jimmy, two thumbs up for playing the best bets. However, the one thing, which you are still up against, is when the “low house edge” commingles with the “speed of the game.” In gamblese, it is called “incremental game speed.” What that means is the more often you are exposed to the built-in house edge, even with games or bets with only a 2% or less casino advantage, your bankroll can be cannibalized when decisions come at a lickety-split pace. The ideal game for the casino is one with a high house edge played at high speed. An example would be the onearmed bandit. For the player, the perfect game would be one that has a low house edge played at a turtle’s crawl. Smart video poker played at a leisurely pace, on the bestof-the-best paytables, would be a good example. When it comes to slot machines, most players will play approximately ten decisions per minute, or 600 decisions

touring artists in history – her shows are legendary. The “Rebel Heart” tour follows the March release of Madonna’s Rebel Heart album on Interscope Records.

per hour. Some of those machines, Jimmy, can have up to an 18% house edge. Consequently, on a penny machine at $3 a spin, multiplied by 600 decisions per hour, and the house possibly holding an 18% edge on your play, you can expect to lose, theoretically, $324 every sixty minutes. No grinding it out here, Jimmy. More like a good old-fashioned whooping. Now let’s take a look at a $25 minimum blackjack table, with five players, and each player averaging about 70 dealer-shuffled hands per hour. Here, each player would be placing $1,750 per hour at risk, approximately the same amount as our penny slot player. If the dealer is squared off against the average player, the house edge could be as high as 5%. The dealer will pilfer their wallet for as much as $87.5 per hour. Against the strong basic strategy player where the house would have a measly .05% edge, their expected hourly loss drops significantly to $8.75. Present an automatic shuffler into the equation, with players now averaging 90 hands per hour, the keen player’s expected hourly loss escalates dramatically from $8.75 to $11.25. Even with perfect play, Jimmy, the competitive player is still grinding it out against the casino. When I write and recommend which games or wagers are the crème de la crème, those are bets with the lowest house edge. Nevertheless, gamblers must balance that against the speed of the game. Ignore speed, Jimmy, at your peril. I recommend slowing down your play when possible. What’s the hurry? Chop-chop play can send you home empty-handed.

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Gaming Scene cont Biloxi

What’s happening at the Beau Rivage www.beaurivage.com

Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Beau Rivage 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. PetersburgClearwater Airport. Golfers will definitely want to experience Fallen Oak, Beau Rivage’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with it’s dramatic elevations and beautiful magnolia trees, ponds, streams and wetlands. The newly-remolded course is player-friendly and more strategic. With some bunkers removed, the remaining bunkers have been rebuilt creating a much more strategic course. In addition, 15 of the hallmark live oak trees 76

were repositioned to add to the Fallen Oak experience. 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. The popular Terrace Cafe Terrace Café offers a delicious new twist on café dining. A new menu celebrates classic southern favorites, fresh and healthy alternatives, and a number of savory specialties to satisfy every appetite. Reservations for air-inclusive travel packages may be made by calling 877-462-2328. www.beaurivage.com Special Events Military Monday Nights - Active duty military with valid photo ID receive a 20% discount on food and military drink specials. Cruisin’ The Coast 2015 - October 4-11. The 19th Annual Cruisin’ The Coast features all your favorite activities like cruise-ins, headline bands & oldies entertainment, a swap meet, the CTC/Vicari Auto Auction and much more. Cruisin’ the Coast Sock Hop featuring Sonny Turner former lead singer of The Platters October 7 – doors open 5pm. Meet & Greet with CRISTY LEE - Oct 4. Host of ALL GIRLS GARAGE on Discovery Channel’s Velocity Network, 6PM–8PM in the Hotel Atrium. Meet & Greet with COURTNEY HANSEN host of PowerNation on Spike TV, NBC Sports & CBS Sports Oct 7, 6PM–8PM. UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT Larry the Cable Guy - Sept 11 Trace Adkins Sept 18 Vince Gill - Sept 25 Rick Springfield - Oct 2 The Beach Boys - Oct 9 - 10 STYX - Oct 16 LeAnn Rimes - Oct 23

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Looking Good EDIMI TIGHTENING REJUVENATOR Regain Skin Elasticity

dimi is known for bringing advanced skin care and expertise to consumers through luxury spas and salons worldwide. Edimi scientists have developed products with formulas combining well-being and technology for a positive transformation effect on body and mind, using innovative collections featuring herbs, botanical actives and certified organics.

For the millions of people having “botulism” injected in the name of a youthful, wrinkle-less Skin, there IS another way. Edimi’s Tightening Rejuvenator is a smooth gel from France that will help your skin to feel young again. For sagging Skin, wrinkles, lines around eyes and mouth, turkey neck, and loss of elasticity, all you have to do is after c l e a n s i n g , apply the cream liberally to your face and neck. Gently smooth into your skin. No moisturizer is required. Use morning and night. A partial list of product ingredients includes: Hyaluronic Acid, three different Peptides, Evening Primrose Oil, Hydrolyzed Elastin, Yeast Extract, Algae Extract, Wheat germ, and Aloe Vera www.Edimi.com Gel.

FINDERS KEY PURSE Key Keeping Purse Accessory

n easy keys find every time — no more digging around in your purse. With the Finders Key Purse, all you do is attach the clasp to your key ring and hook it onto your purse with the charm side facing out. a lot of different cute and fun designs are available — one of which is sure to fit your personality.

www.finderskeypurse.com

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Looking Good

KISS MY FACE K

Sun Care Products

iss My Face offers wildly effective sun care products with a range of options that effectively block harmful UV rays with the use of Antioxidant Defenders, which include Vitamin C and E, Green Tea, Goji Berry Extract, Olive Oil, Shea Butter and Aloe. Their Air Powered sprays effortlessly delivers sunscreen without the use of chemical propellants. These are ideal for those hard to reach areas, such as behind the legs. Tattoo Shade is a formula designed to keep tattoos looking sharp with its protective skin shield. Kiss My Face Sensitive Side SPF 30 has 3 in 1 non-irritatring protection for sensitive skin with three times the hydrating protection. Kiss My Face sun care products utilize natural mineral sun blocking agents, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide and effective sunscreens to provide full broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. The Kiss My Face sun range is entirely free of parabens, oxybenzone and artificial fragrances.

www.kissmyface.com/

ÉYAA Undergarment with Heating Pad www.eyaahelps.com

yaa revolutionizes how women have dealt with cramps and abdominal pains for decades, naturally. By fusing a light, comfortable undergarment with an internal pouch for its removable long lasting heating pad, Eyaa provides unlimited natural, safe heat relief, hands free. The garment is high waist, mid thigh style, and fully activates in seconds. The wearer will feel instant therapeutic heat relief as soon as its applied. The garment can be reversed to treat lower back pains. The application is non-toxic, and has long lasting hot/cold therapy. It will reach up to 129°F (54°C) and has unlimited usage. Colors available are Nude and black. For teens, colors are bubblegum pink and purple.

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ArtLines Images of the Floating World and Beyond: Japanese Woodblock Prints - thru Sept 13

This echibit extends from the late eighteenth century to an example from the twenty-first. Ukiyo-e, or “images of the Floating World,” depict hedonistic pleasures in ancient Japan— the world of geishas, kabuki actors, and sumo wrestlers. Woodblock prints of the eighteenth to nineteenth centuries by such celebrated artists as Utamaro, Hokusai, Hiroshige, and Yoshitoshi set the stage. Of special note is a portfolio, The Modern Japanese Print (1962), compiled by the legendary writer James Michener, who lived in Asia for many years. It contains 10 prints along with text by Mr. Michener, who championed contemporary Japanese works, as well as twentieth-century American art. This exhibition takes visitors on an artistic and cultural journey through the centuries, spotlights www.fine-arts.org

individual works of extraordinary merit, and reveals one of the strengths of the MFA collection.

Five Decades of Photography thru Oct 4

Approximately 200 images are featured in Five Decades of Photography, featuring The Dandrew-Drapkin Collection. The photographers represented read like a “Who’s Who” in the art form: Henry Fox Talbot, Édouard Baldus, Alvin Langdon Coburn, Julia Margaret Cameron, Margaret Bourke-White, Berenice Abbott, Alfred Stieglitz, Edward Weston, Edward Steichen, Brassaï, Lewis Hine, Walker Evans, Henri Cartier-Bresson, André Kértesz, Dorothea Lange, Ansel Adams, Minor White, Ilse Bing, Paul Strand, Aaron Siskind, Robert Frank, Ruth Bernhard, Manuel Álvarez Bravo, Clarence John Laughlin, Richard Avedon, Jerry Uelsmann, Diane Arbus, Garry Winogrand, Robert Mapplethorpe, and Kenro Izu. The list could go on and on. The images extend from the formative days of the medium in the mid-nineteenth century to the early twenty-first. They encompass fine art, photojournalism, portraits, breathtaking landscapes, and recent experimentation.

MFA, 255 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727896-2667. 82

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TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART

The American Spirit: Painting and Sculpture from the Santa Barbara Museum of Art - thru Sept 6 www.tampamuseum.org

Between the 1830s and the end of the First World War, American art came into its own. From the majestic Hudson River School paintings of Thomas Cole, John Kensett, and Albert Bierstadt to the gritty urban realism of Robert Henri and John Sloan, this presentation draws on the rich holdings of American paintings and sculptures in the collection of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. This selection of more than 50 paintings and eight sculptures highlights the maturation of a distinctly American idiom, one informed by international currents and engaged with capturing the fluxes of modern life. Masterpieces of landscape, genre, still-life, and portraiture, punctuated by a selection of sculptures, trace an evolution in style from an art driven by the mandates of westward expansion to one animated by experimentation. In both idealized and naturalistically rendered landscapes, in scenes of everyday life, or meticulously detailed images of everyday objects, the presentation also narrates an important chapter in American cultural history that witnessed the Civil War and its aftermath, the expansion of national boundaries and the closing of the western frontier, and the transformations wrought by the emergence of new technologies at the dawn of the 20th century. TMA - 120 Gasparilla Plaza (Polk Street) Tampa, FL 33602.

THE DALI MUSEUM Escher at the Dali

thru Jan 3 www.thedali.org This special exhibition highlights M.C. Escher, a renowned artist, whose visual illusions puzzle and delight audiences worldwide, and is best known for his “impossible constructions” and use of tessellation. The robust exhibit features 135 works covering Escher’s entire artistic career, including an array of his most recogniz-

able works such as “Drawing Hands,” “Reptiles” and “Waterfall” alongside rarely exhibited early drawings of family members, panoramas of exotic landscapes and historic architecture of Italy and Spain, original preparatory sketches, mezzotints and more. “Escher at the Dali” features prints, drawings, a sculpture, wood blocks, a lithograph stone and posters drawn by the artist to explain his printing techniques. The exhibit delves into his exploration of infinity through tessellation, in which shapes fit together perfectly without overlapping, including an enormous woodcut “Metamorphosis” (1939-40) which spans 13-1/2 feet. 1 Dali Blvd, St Petersburg, FL 33701. (727) 8233767

Florida CraftArt Uncommon Couture

thru Oct 24 www.floridacraftart.org “Uncommon Couture” crosses the boundary between Art and Fashion for St. Pete Art and Fashion Week. Fashion Designer Lina Teixeira loves turning the everyday mundane in to beautiful forms of Wearable ART and is quickly establishing a reputation as an innovative designer. Her showcase garments in the exhibition tell the story of one of King Henry’s many doomed wives and her lady in waiting, all created in surprisingly beautiful recycled materials. Her ready to wear collection fuses wearable garments with recycled materials and her ICONIC Collection features hand painted oneof-a-kind corsets. Also included in the exhibition are fabulous accessories from funky shoes, rubber & metal brooches, vinyl record purses and colorful recycled tin bracelets to sophisticated lapidary jewelry. 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701; 727 821-7391.

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ArtLines cont

Art Your Engines! - Sat, Sept 26 www.CarmadaFL.com

SPF 15 Features Music and Dance Performances and Fine Arts www.stpetefest.org/

Since 1896, St. Petersburg residents have celebrated their City with parades and events which feature music, dancing, performance art and fine art. Today, they still do. Since the 1950s, the Suncoasters of St. Petersburg, the official ambassadors of St. Petersburg, have produced community events that celebrate the arts and help raise funds for middle school and high school students of the arts. The 2015 St. Petersburg Festival showcases local artists, the city’s creative cultural community and the businesses and community leaders who make St. Petersburg an international arts destination. While some events require a separate ticket, most events are free and open to the public. From September 1 – 12, SHINE will transform the streets of St. Petersburg into a curated, open-air museum showcasing 10+ large-scale murals by internationally renowned and local artists with additional art exhibits and events throughout the city. St. Petersburg’s notable art residents have helped create a blossoming street art movement throughout the city — from the 600 Block to the Warehouse Arts District and countless walls in between. www.shineonstpete.com Watch talented commissioned artists bring amazing chalk drawings to life with the TBBCA Chalk Walk on Sept 26 from 9-5, and Sun, Sept 27 from 10-5 in South Straub Park in downtown St. Petersburg. Art transforms the street in this community celebration that is a true conversation between artist and the public. Chalk art is a performance art, where the process of creating the work may be even more important than the finished piece. The public gets a rare glimpse into the way art is produced in all stages of progress, and the artist gains in the conversation, perhaps being inspired by new perspectives. 84

The Bay area Art Car movement returns to St. Petersburg when Carmada rolls back into the Plaza at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts, between the Dali Museum and Mahaffey Theater, for a very special Arts Alive Day. Carmada 2015 will feature more than a dozen custom art cars on display, live vehicle painting, free family craft projects from the NOMAD Art Bus, DJ Blenda, food trucks, a special edition of the St. Pete Indie Market, and more. Carmada creates opportunities for local artists, brings mobile arts programming to Pinellas County, and spreads awareness of the State of the Arts license plate. Funds raised through sales of this plate, available at Pinellas County Tax Collectors Offices, go directly to support the activities of local arts agencies throughout Florida—including Creative Pinellas and the Arts Council of Hillsborough County.

Gulfport Art Walk Sept 4 & 19, Oct 2 & 17, Nov 6 & 21, Dec 4 & 19 www.gulfportma.com/

The Gulfport Art Walk event features new artists every first Friday and third Saturday each month and includes several different sculpture and paint mediums, jewelry, photography, folk art, upcycled items, handmade/designed clothing and accessories, body products, authors, entertainers and more. For your musical enjoyment, live musicians appear at several venues throughout the waterfront district during Art Walks from 6-10 PM, year round. 727-322-5217.

DUNEDIN FINE ART CENTER www.dfac.org/

DFAC’s Galleries GO WILD for Fall 2014 Exhibitions

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Carlton Ward Jr: Florida WILD - Sept 11 - Dec 3. Highlights works by this conservation photographer and eighth-generation Floridian based in Tampa. With training in ecology and photojournalism, his current purpose is to protect Florida’s nature and culture through art. He founded Florida Wildlife Corridor in 2010, bringing new attention to a statewide vision to keep Florida wild. Beauty & the Beasts - Sept 11 - Dec 3. This exhibition of artists working in a variety of media explores the beauty and beastliness in all creatures. Call of the WILD - Sept 11 - Oct 18. This allmedia juried exhibition is the result of a community call to artists on the unbridled theme of all that is WILD. 2nd Photography Exhibit - Sept 11 - Oct 18. In the Douglas-Whitley Gallery. Linda Adele Goodine: Beeline Highway. The photographer presents images from her 30 year career as creator, educator and mentor. WILD THINGS: LIVE at DFAC - Sept 12 - Oct 23. the David L. Mason Children’s ART Museum real and fantastical creatures/animals come alive with your imagination. 727-298-DFAC. The Dunedin Fine Art Center - 1143 Michigan Blvd. Dunedin, FL 34698.

dialog that we all create for ourselves. 727-895-6620. 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701

Clearwater’s Art in the Park Sept 19 www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/

Clearwater’s Art in the Park is set for Saturday, Sept. 19, as part of the city’s Centennial celebration. It will bring local artists together from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to display a wide variety of arts and crafts in Clearwater’s Station Square Park, 612 Cleveland St. Artisan foods will be available throughout the day, along with live musical performances at Station Square Park. Cleveland Street District restaurants will be open and will offer Art in the Park Specials. Local artists will have a wide variety of locally created arts and crafts. Refreshments, wine tastings and prize drawings are planned at the Clearwater Center for the Arts, 621 Cleveland Street.

Studio@620 Bound & Release - Sept 4 - Oct 2 www.studio620.org

The Studio@620 presents “Bound and Release”, a collaborative art exhibition from Laura James and Saori Murphy. Artists Laura James and Saori Murphy come together to create an interpretive view of interpersonal boundaries and their resolve in its release. Through the use of mixed media, Laura and Saori create a tapestry of visual responses to their own obstructed lens. These windows, reflections, and applications all become part of the fragile and interwoven www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

by Dr. Lori Verderame

Dumpster or No Dumpster: Back to School Edition

umpster or No Dumpster™ is now a familiar game that many play during my TV appearances, at my antiques appraisal events, and via social media on www.Facebook. com/DoctorLori. After developing the game, I play it with folks as a fun way to help guide them through the process of figuring out what to trash and what’s worth cash! When faced with the decision about which items to pitch from a pile of school stuff, which items would you toss? Get ready to choose. Which would you dumpster? 1. A Munsters TV show lunchbox, circa 1970s 2. A classroom set of instructional cursive writing panels, circa 1960s 3. A macaroni picture frame, circa 1980s 4. Pokemon trading cards, circa 1990-2000s 5. A United States history textbook, circa 1965 Some people don’t realize how much money they are tossing out while cleaning out an attic, basement, storage unit, or vacant home. When you clean out a house and you come across old items that you don’t know about and don’t know their worth, remember they could have significant monetary value. Using the five back to school items above, I will guide you as to how to identify the valuables. 1. Lunchboxes have been collectible for decades. Since the early 1930s, the lunchtime carryall has been a highly recognizable collectible. In the 1950s when cartoon characters, celebrities, and athletes appeared on lunchboxes, they became traded, collectible, and widely desirable. The Munsters TV show lunchbox from the 1970s featuring characters Herman, Lily, and Eddie is a keeper. Value: $175-$250 Ok, so that was an easy one. What about the other back to school items? Do they make the dumpster or not? Remember you only have to decide the fate of five items. Get an in-home appraisal first when you are going through a whole houseful of stuff. Many people call on me for help. Ok, let’s continue. You are cleaning out your Aunt Christine’s house and she was an elementary school teacher… Do these items get relegated to the dumpster? 2. Instructional cursive writing panels were once posted above chalkboards in American classrooms. These teaching aids helped children learn to write in cursive letters. Some of you may remember them, but there is a generation of millennials who were never taught cursive writing. With the in-

troduction of personal computers, teaching cursive writing became a thing of the past. Unlike other valuable classroom items, these cardboard alphabet letter forms can go to the dumpster. They aren’t worth much! 3. You have to keep the macaroni picture frame because a child in your life made it with love. You can store it for the long term in a plastic storage bag within a plastic tub to prevent insects from chewing it up in your storage area. Value: Sentimental and priceless! 4. Pokemon trading cards, circa 1999-2000s. Some are valuable today and some are perpetuating a longstanding myth. Here is the real deal: There are some Pokemon cards like the holographic version of Charizard from the first edition printed in 1999 that bring big bucks from collectors. This card in excellent condition can command several hundreds to a few thousand dollars. Most Pokemon cards are worth $5 to $50 each. But, another Pokemon card that gets a lot of press is the famous Pikachu Illustrator card. And, this is important… this card was purportedly never released in English and never sold. It was a contest prize in Japan. It is believe that fewer than 5 such cards exist worldwide and some say that each Pikachu Illustrator card is worth $20,000. In my expert opinion, I don’t think that card is worth $20,000 because no comparable card has ever been sold. If another card like it hasn’t sold for $20,000 then the illusive Pikachu Illustrator card isn’t worth $20,000. Don’t buy the hype. If you find good condition Pokemon cards, make sure they don’t end up in the dumpster. Lastly, do you pitch the old United States history textbook full of out of date information? 5. Like outdated encyclopedias, old history textbooks aren’t worth that much to collectors unless they are special editions, series, etc. Most are best used for DIY or interior design projects, scrapbooking, etc. For instance, I’ve seen DIY bookcases made out of a wooden frame and glued together old textbooks and DIY table base of vintage books with a glass top, too. Some people use the colorful, outdated and cheaply printed maps from these books for a decorative wall display with a vintage look. Keep playing Dumpster or No Dumpster™ to discover which items are worth holding on to long term. Welcome Back to School. Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and former museum director, Dr. Lori hosts antiques and collectibles appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel. Visit www.DrLoriV.com/Events, www. Facebook.com/DoctorLori or call (888) 431-1010.

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Bucs Bits Davin Joseph

Davin’s Dream Team

avin Joseph isn’t just an impactful offensive guard on the field but is an even more prominent individual in the community. As a former Buc and nine year NFL veteran, Davin understands the hard work and commitment required to be successful not only as a professional athlete but also as a philanthropist and role model off the field. Growing up in Hallandale, FL, Davin attended Hallandale High School and not only did he shatter school records as a four year starter playing on both sides of the ball on the field, but he also took his athletic excellence to the mat earning himself the title of wrestling state champion. He received football All State honors in contingence with being awarded the Broward County Defensive Award. With an impressive high school resume, Davin was highly recruited out of high school and eventually signed his letter of intent to the University of Oklahoma where he immediately started turning heads and was selected in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Davin’s rookie year in the NFL was anything but quiet. He started 12 out of 13 games and earned a full time starting role his second year. With his football career on the rise, Davin was named to the Pro Bowl in 2008. Although he resigned from the Buccaneers in 2011, as a Buccaneer veteran, Davin felt that the team, organization and community were his family. He wanted to give back in a way that re88

ally touched people. He decided to ask coaches and school administrators in the Tampa region, what their needs were. Expecting answers that revolved around equipment, monetary donations, and uniforms, Davin was surprised when a lot of schools said their athletes weren’t get the proper nutrition, so he started his own foundation in 2011 in order to do more for the community. Davin’s Dream Team is a nonprofit organization that aims to lower child hunger through his student athlete programs. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of opportunities available to our youth by strengthening athletic and performing art programs in public schools. He has completed the following projects: 2012 Donated PowerAde to entire Athletic Department at Hallandale High School, 2012 Davin Joseph Weight Room at Blake High School (Tampa, FL), 2013 Davin Joseph Weight Room at Middleton High School (Tampa, FL) and 2013 Purchased new uniforms for Athletic Department at Hallandale High School. Just as his Pro Bowl honors speak for his play on the field, the awards Davin has earned in the community speak to the dedication, commitment, and involvement he has to his foundation. As an eloquent speaker with an animated personality, his foundation’s success is certainly run by a true advocate of the cause and has earned national achievements. Due to his calm and charismatic character, Davin has been a media favorite for ev-

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ery team he has played on as well as a go to in their community events. Davin has worked with companies, brands, and networks including CBS, No Kids Hungry, Pop Chips, Taste of the NFL, Feeding America Tampa Bay and more. Davin’s Dream Team has delivered over 12,000 pre-game meals and snacks, directed over 500 kids to get free sports physicals, dispensed over $12,000 in funding for scholarships, distributed over 600 Thanksgiving Day turkeys and meals to families in need, and donated over $120,000 in high school athletic and performing arts programs. They also help with other foundation and charitable events in the area and actually just partnered with Samaritan’s Feet for their two-location for the Shoes of Hope program that gives

shoes to those less unfortunate and in other situations, wouldn’t know when their next pair would be. Davin is a full time farther to his two sons. In his off time, he enjoys the little things with his family such as going to the

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movies, taking his boys to the arcade, and just spending family time together. For more information about Davin”s Dream Team, please visit www.DavinsDreamTeam.org

DVD VIEWS

All DVDs listed are available at AMAZON.COM

Spike Island

Drama. Actors: Emilia Clarke, Lesley Manville, Rob JamesCollier Director: Mat Whitecross A heartfelt coming-of-age story about a wannabe rock band in Manchester who hatch a plan to hand-deliver their demo tape to their idols, The Stone Roses, at the band’s impending gig at Spike Island. But when their tickets fail to materialize, the gang embarks on a road trip to the concert and is forced to take extreme measures to sneak their way in. Along the way, friendships are tested and their futures are shaped -- together or apart. Features music of The Stone Roses.

LEGO STAR WARS: The New Yoda Chronicles

Children/Family. Disney Animated. After headstrong Luke nearly delivers the good guys into Palpatine’s clutches, Master Yoda and the ghost of Obi-Wan Kenobi unearth the Holocrons -- last remnants of the secrets of the Jedi -- to further Luke’s training. But Darth Vader also seeks the Holocrons, and he’ll stop at nothing to get to them first. Meanwhile, courageous

superclone Jek-14 comes out of retirement to help bolster the Rebels.

IT FOLLOWS

Horror. Actors: Jake Weary, Maika Monroe, Keir Gilchrist. Director: David Robert Mitchell For 19-year-old Jay, fall should be about school, boys and weekends out at the lake. But after a seemingly innocent sexual encounter, she finds herself plagued by strange visions and the inescapable sense that someone, or something, is following her. Jay and her teenage friends must now find a way to escape the horrors that seem to be only a few steps behind in this chiller.

Once Upon a Sign: THE MAGIC MIRROR Children/Family. Once Upon a Sign is a series of classic children’s stories re-created with modern themes and performed entirely in American Sign Language. Delight all over again in timeless stories with new twists. Get excited for Fun Signs, a recap of key signs from the stories. Join in the fun by signing along, perfect for kids learning ASL.

Woman in Gold

Drama Actors: Ryan Reynolds, Helen Mirren, Max Irons, Director: Simon Curtis Woman In Gold is the true story of one woman’s journey to reclaim her heritage and seek justice for what happened to her family. Sixty years after she fled Vienna during World War II, an elderly Jewish woman, Maria Altmann, starts her journey to retrieve family possessions seized by the Nazis, among them Klimt’s famous painting Portrait of Adele BlochBauer I. Together with her inexperienced but plucky young lawyer Randy Schoenberg, she embarks upon a major battle which takes them all the way to the heart of the Austrian establishment and the U.S. Supreme Court, and forces her to confront difficult truths about the past along the way.

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aLEXANDER and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Comedy. Actors: Steve Carell, Jennifer Garner; Director: Miguel Arteta Disney’s heartwarming comedy will have the entire family laughing out loud. It follows the exploits of Alexander as he experiences the most terrible and horrible day of his young life and wonders if bad things only happen to him. But he discovers he’s not alone when his dad, mom and family live through their own terrible -- and hilarious -- day.

DROWNSMAN

Horror. Actors: Caroline Palmer, Clare Bastable; Director: Chad Archibald

McFARLAND USA

After almost drowning in a lake accident, Madison develops an abnormal fear of water. Her friends attempt an intervention. But, instead of curbing her fear, they unknowingly unleash something far worse: The vision of a serial killer turned supernatural psychopath — The Drownsman — who begins to stalk the women one by one, dragging them into a lair from which there is no escape.

Drama. Actors: Kevin Costner, Rafael Martinez, Johnny Ortiz In the tradition of Disney sports movies comes McFarland, USA, a story of underdogs triumphing over tremendous obstacles. This heartwarming drama follows novice runners who strive to build a cross-country team under Coach Jim White in their predominantly Latino high school. Everyone has a lot to learn about each other, but when Coach realizes the boys’ exceptional running ability, things change. Beyond their talent, it’s the power of family, commitment to each other and work ethic that transform them into champions.

www.Netflix.com

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Discover the Beauty

ig Cat Rescue is the largest accredited sanctuary in the world dedicated entirely to abused and abandoned big cats. It is home to over 100 lions, tigers, bobcats, cougars and other species most of whom have been abandoned, abused, orphaned, saved from being turned into fur coats, or retired from performing acts. The sanctuary began rescuing exotic cats in 1992. BCR has 14 species of cats, many of whom are threatened, endangered or extinct now in the wild. Their dual mission is to provide the best home they can for the cats in their care and educate the public about the plight of these majestic animals, both in captivity and in the wild, to end abuse and avoid extinction. BCR has built enclosures in a natural habitat with foliage and shelter on 55 acres in the Citrus Park area of north Tampa. They provide the best nutritional and medical care possible, and have conditioning and enrichment programs to provide the cats physical and psychological well being. The sanctuary is primarily supported by donation. BCR, 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. For tour times and reservations, call 813-920-4130, or visit www. 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. Meditation in the Gardens Wednesdays at 12:30pm. Emily Rivera will guide participants into cultivating mindfulness in their own lives. You will be guided in a journey of self-awareness into your own consciousness. Cost: $15, includes admission to Gardens. The intention of this class is to help individuals awaken to the unique beauty and possibilities of each present moment. Numerous studies have shown that meditation is good for you and can promote self-healing, inner power and harmony, relief from stress and/or pain, and more. www.theangelcoach.com Sunken Gardens is at 1825 4th Street N, St. Petersburg, 727-551-3102; 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 walk through a butterfly encounter. • Experience a guided tour, special event or workshop. $8 Adults; $5 seniors 55 & up; $4 ages 2 - 11 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100 92

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www.stpete.org

www.bigcatrescue.org

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The “I Wanna Go There!” Travel Page

Brown County State Park www.browncountystatepark.com Brown County State Park occupies 15,776 acres—making it one of the larger state parks in the United States. It is Indiana’s most visited state park The park opened in 1929 and is known for its scenic views of the hills of southern Indiana. It is the home of a wide variety of trees that attract visitors each year when the vegetation transforms to its autumn colors. The park also contains many trees that flower in the springtime. Visitors will find a rustic atmosphere, with cabins and campsites available. The park has trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. It has two lakes for fishing that complement the surrounding forests and provide a water source for the local wildlife. The area’s beauty attracts artists and photographers worldwide.