Accent On Tampa Bay #224, August/Sept 2016 by Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Accent

On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 28, Issue 224 August / Sept, 2016 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Barbara McGovern Graphic Designers Missy Lynn Contributors Sylvie Damien Vicki Kolb Sandy Lee Michael Martino Barbara McGovern Marty Peters Deborah Quigley JoAnn Ryan Photographer Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Beau deCatta Cover Photo courtesy of: Dixie Chicks Mgmt. PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

AM PUBLICATIONS savethemanatee.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

St. Petersburg, FL (727) 577-5500

e-mail AccentMagazine@aol.com

LOCAL FOCUS AUGUST

Thru Aug 25

The Beach Tampa by Snarkitecture AT AMALIE ARENA.

Compiled by Vicki Kolb

sense of wonder and anticipation, while also recalling a boardwalk beach arcade. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to go for a “swim”, enjoy the view from the water’s edge or stroll along the pier. The shoreline will be a site of relaxation and activity, complete with a monochromatic beach hut, beach chairs, umbrellas and other beach activities for visitors. The 75-foot wide shoreline opens up to a sea of balls enclosed within mirrored walls that will create an infinite reflected expanse. www.thebeachtampa.com out loot. Prizes will be given to best dressed dude, dudette and dog. It doesn’t cost any bread for cool cats of all ages to attend and the event will take place rain or shine, man. 224 E. Tarpon Ave, Downtown Tarpon Springs, FL 34689.

Aug 29

The Beach Tampa is a 15,000 square foot immersive environment featuring an “ocean” of 1.2 million recyclable and antimicrobial white balls, open to the public at no cost. The Beach will be staged in an enclosure made of construction materials including scaffolding, wall panels, and perforated mesh, creating a

Epicurean Hotel Hosts “Epic Chef Showdown”. The Epicurean Hotel is hosting the second Epic Chef Showdown to benefit Feeding Tampa Bay. The Epic Chef Showdown is a several 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 celebrities. Each week, 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. All Epic Chef Showdown events will be held in the Epicurean Theatre from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. www. EpicChefTampaBay.com

Sat Aug 27

Eighth Annual Gecko Ball at The Gulfport Casino. The Ball will be celebrated with a theme of “20,000 Geckos Under the Sea!” The party will be a celebration of all things under, on and near the sea, as well as the classic 1954 film and the 1870 Jules Verne adventure novel. Décor and scenery will transport ballgoers into a vivid, colorful underwater tableau. Expect to experience over-the-top revelry and costumes, including sea creatures real and imagined, as well as a cast and crew of other salty characters. Ball-goers are encouraged to develop costumes relating to the film or book, to the sea, or to geckos, or any creative combination. The event includes over the top décor, full cash bar, geckotinis and other cocktail specials, passed hors d’oeuvre and tapas. Live music by Big Night Out will fill the dance floor this year with the 4

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sounds of the islands, tropics, Latin, R & B and more. Hundreds of silent auction items will be up for bids, and the annual live auction of artist-created geckos will once again be a highlight of the evening. GeckoFest.com Toy Train, Collectible & Hobby Show/ Sale. Vendors will be on hand selling various model trains, hobbies collectibles, and diecast cars, and , antiques, much more. There will be a running train layout. Thomas the Tank Engine video will be playing for kids to enjoy. 9am – 2pm Lopez Hall, 7177 58th Street N, Pinellas Park, FL 33781. 727-244-1341. www.regalrailways.com

Wed Aug 31

BEER & BOW TIES. Fundraiser for the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. Features craft beers, silent auc-

tion, games and full liquor bar. Coppertail Brewing Co, Ybor City. (813)421-4153. www.beerandbowtiestampabay.com

SEPTEMBER Throughout September - St. Petersburg Festival 16. Various times and locations, most events are free though some events will require paid tickets. Throughout the city of St. Petersburg. Month long celebration of the arts and creative spirit of St. Petersburg. www.stpetefest.org

Sept 1 - 4

4th Annual Good Burger Awards. 6 - 9 pm. Pre-sale $10. Jannus Live, 200 1st Ave. N, St. Continued

Sat, Sept 3

16th Annual Gulfport Geckofest

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. 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. The theme for this year’s Gecko events is “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” 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. There is no admission fee for the pet and family friendly event, and complimentary parking is available with gratis trolley rides to and from off-site parking areas. 3101 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707. 727-322-5217. For more information, visit www.Geckofest.com

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Petersburg. A Good ‘Burger is a business, organization, or individual in greater St. Pete making a positive impact in our community. Brought to you by St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce. Online voting is open through August 12 at www.stpete.com

Sept 2 - 3

21st Annual Celebrate Oldsmar. Join the City of Oldsmar for Celebrate Oldsmar! This annual Labor Day weekend event takes place along the waterfront of Tampa Bay at R.E. Olds Park, located at 107 Shore Drive West, Oldsmar. 2016 is a special year, as the City celebrates the Centennial of its founding in 1916 by Ransom Eli Olds – the founder of Oldsmobile and REO automobiles. Friday, September 2 from 6:00-10:00 p.m. kicks the weekend off with musical guest Radio Crime with a fireworks display to end the evening. Be sure to check out the Oldsmar Centennial Booth – featuring an opportunity to put one FREE item into the official Centennial Time Capsule! Saturday, September 3 features the Oldsmar Centennial Parade, hosted by the Upper Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. This community parade will be bigger and better than ever! All entries are welcomed to participate by calling 813-855-4233. Parade registration deadline is August 25th. Admission and parking are FREE. Food, drink, ride tickets and Centennial souvenirs will be available for purchase.

Fri Sept 9

POINT OF LIGHT LUNCHEON. 12 noon-1:30. Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park, 727-581-4628. The Lighthouse of Pinellas’ 10th annual luncheon, honoring Dr. Louis Michaelos and Dr. Ronald Tucker. www.lighthouseofpinellas.org/archives/587 SUNCOAST VOICES FOR CHILDREN GALA. Automobile Museum, Pinellas Park, 727-458-1533. Fundraiser for this organization that provides physical, psycholigical, educational and social needs of abused, abandoned and neglected children in Pinellas and Pasco Counties.

Sat Sept 10

GLITTER QUEENS ROYAL BALL. Benefits Angels Against Abuse. Cabaret dinner party Parisianstyle. Cocktail dress, in pink or black. 7 pm. St. Petersburg Yacht Club, 11 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-644-8910. www.stpeteglitterqueens.org

CARROLLWOOD BLUES & BBQ. The first annual Carrollwood Blues & BBQ. Bands scheduled to perform include: George Pennington, No Money Down, and Troy Youngblood and the Soulfish. BBQ vendors will include: Sarge’s Smokehouse, Whaley’s Blazin’ BBQ and Holy Hog Barbeque. Admission: FREE. 4-7 p.m. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa 13th Annual BUTTERFLY BALL. “Under the Tuscan Moon” party to benefit Alpha House of Pinellas. Dinner, auction, dance to The Black Honkeys. 6 pm. The Club at Treasure Island. 727-518-5142. www.alphahousepinellas.org TAMPA THEATRE TO HOST ‘WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY’ FREE. Due to the heartbreaking passing of Gene Wilder, Tampa Theatre invites friends and fans to join in for a free Community Movie screening of his 1971 film. A true film legend, he elevates every scene and every movie he’s in, and the world is a little less cheerful without him in it. To celebrate his life and one of his most memorable roles, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. Doors will open at 1:00 p.m. for the 2:00 p.m. screening. No tickets are required, but patrons are encouraged to arrive early as seating is limited.

Sept 10 - 11

Annual FWCOS Orchid Sale. 10 am - 5 pm Saturday, 10 am - 5 pm Sunday. Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center, 4951 78th Ave N, Pinellas Park. Come shop thousands of orchids and learn about orchida while sipping wine. www.fwcos.org Guy Harvey Outpost Hosts Lionfish Safari Tournament Continued

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LOCAL FOCUS

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Guy Harvey Outpost 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 10 - 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. 10:30 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 p.m. Deadline to register is Fri., Sept 9. All lionfish will be used for research and food tastings, and proceeds go to Reef Monitoring, a non-profit dedicated to watching over reef systems. www.reefmonitoring.org. Sept 11 - Participants and their families will be encouraged to enjoy a day of family fun at Guy Harvey Outpost after the weigh-in between 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 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 - free. 6000 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach. (727) 259.7404. www. GuysLionfishSafari.com

Sept 10, 24, Oct 8, 22

Belle of the Ball to Give Free Homecoming Dresses and Accessories to In-

Need High School Girls. From 10am to 2pm, at 1210 Holt Avenue, Clearwater. The charity welcomes all financially needy girls, regardless of where they live. Dresses are available to all in-need, low-income high school girls only. The honor system is respected. No referral letter is necessary. No appointment needed. A $1 to $5 donation is requested but not required. www.belleoftheballproject.com

Sun, Sept 11

PATRIOT DAY MEMORIAL DINNER HONORING 15th ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11. Meet and Greet withheroes and Pentgon Guest Speaker, RADM Edward Masso, USN. Proceeds benefit Paws for Patriots, Special Operations Warrior Foundation, Gold Shield Continued

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petergillisinsurance.com

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Foundation. 4:00 - 6:30. Historic Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. www.RememberHonorSupport.org

Sept 12 - 17

St. Pete Art & Fashion Week.

Studios, 2338 Emerson Ave South, St.Petersburg. Official VIP Party of SPAFW, cocktails, live art, meeting and greet with designers and models. Wed, Sept. 14, Making of the Runway. Watch this year’s fashion show runway be created by local artists Featuring a special fashion presentation. 6pm9pm. The Ale & Witch, 111 2nd Ave NE St.Petersburg. Free. Thurs, Sept.15. BLOOM. Local art and fashion designers come together to present this live photo shoot experience with a Wildflower theme. 7pm11pm. Platformz, 179 1st Ave N, St.Petersburg. Fri, Sept. 16. Art Inspired 6th Annual Art Night, featuring local artists and live art demonstrations. 7pm-10pm. BBD Life Studio, 465 Central Ave, St.Petersburg. Sat, Sept. 17, Runway Fashion Show. The main event & runway fashion show featuring 8 Florida designers, select artists, cocktails and hors d’ ouvres. 6pm-10pm. One Progress Plaza, 200 Central Ave, St.Petersburg. www.stpeteartandfashionweek.com

Tues, Sept 13

Mon, Sept. 12, VIP Soiree. 7pm-10pm. The Raw

GARDEN CLUB NEW YEAR PARTY. 1 pm. The

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LOCAL FOCUS

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Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Dr., St. Petersburg. Party to celebrate a new year of activities, lectures and learning. Open to the public. www. gardenclubstpetersburg.com

Sept 16 - 18

COOKING LIGHT & HEALTH FIT FOODIE RACE WEEKEND. The Cooking Light and Health Fit Foodie Race Weekend brings three days of food, fitness and fun to Tampa. Race registration is now open for the 5K and 15K run/walk and John Hancock Vitality Village post-race celebration held at Cotanchobee Park on Sept 17. The weekend includes Party with a Purpose on Friday night, and Saturday morning race concluding at the John Hancock Vitality Village, a post-race celebration chock-full of food and beverage samples, culinary demonstrations from Cooking Light personalities, and mini fitness classes led by acclaimed professionals. The weekend concludes on Sunday with a calorie-torching Sweat Session complete with a refresh station to refuel and replenish following. Cotanchobee Park, 601 Old Water St, Tampa, FL 33602. For more information, call 619-312-1212 or visit www.fitfoodierun.com

EARTHDANCE FLORIDA. Join in for a full weekend of live music, live artists and installations, yoga and healing workshops, sacred spaces, movement and flow workshops, sacred fire and drum circle, earth skills workshops, Saturday family friendly day, pool parties, Global Prayer for Peace and so much more. Maddox Ranch, Lakeland. www.earthdanceflorida.org

Sat, Sept 17

Our Town: A Moving Dance Tour of St. Pete. A project of the St. Pete Dance Alliance and Dance Linkages. Our Town is a curated series of original, short, site-specific dance performances that occur in and near multiple historic and iconic locations throughout downtown St. Pete. The audience travels from piece to piece, on a guided, walking tour that begins at the Shuffleboard Courts and moves to the outside the Mirror Lake Library, Face the Jury, the open-air Post Office, Cycle Brewing and ending in the Mural Alley along 6th and 7th Streets. 6 pm. Free. www.spfestival.com/

Sept 16 - 18

TAMPA THEATRE WineFest 2016. WineFest 2016 will kick off the Theatre’s 90th birthday celebration with ‘Caskablanca,’ Friday-Sunday, Sept. 16-18. The three-day event will feature a tasting opportunity to sample dozens of boutique wines and bid on premium silent auction items while local eateries serve up their favorite fare, an exclusive, multi-course pairing dinner by Mise En Place on the Theatre’s historic stage, and a very special screening of the 1942 Bogart/Bergman classic. Tickets and details for both events at www.TampaTheatre.org

Fashions with Flair Runway for Charity. Fashion with Flair Silent Auction & Fashion Show benefits local children’s charities and Winter Wonderland, the annual magical downtown Holiday Family Festival and toy and food drive. From 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, the auditorium of the Fort Harrison Hotel will transform into a show featuring fashions from area boutiques. Models are a “Who’s Who” of Tampa Bay. The event provides a gourmet luncheon and a silent auction with items donated by local businesses. www. clearwatercommunityvolunteers.org Plantation on Crystal River Hosts 2nd Annual Plantation Redfish Classic - A portion of the proceeds will go to Wounded Warrior Anglers of America. Tournament participants and their families can get 15% off best available room rates. Hotel guests can take advantage of the lagoon-style pool, complimentary lawn games and can even dock their boat on the 1,600 feet of seawall for easy launching the morning of the event. Events throughout the weekend include the Captain’s Dinner on Friday,

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Sept. 16 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. 17 – and while redfish is the primary quest, there will also be categories for trout and grouper. 800-632-6262. www.PlantationonCrystalRiver.com Tampa Bay CureSearch Walk. Help raise money for pediatric cancer research while walking 1.5 - 2 miles course. Check in 9 am, opening ceremony and walk 10 am. Walter Fuller Park, 7891 26th Ave. N, St. Petersburg. www.curesearchevents.org

Sun, Sept 18

Savor the Bay. Evening of culinary excelence, fine wines and support for our bays with proceeds benefiting Tampa Bay Watch. Loews Don CeSar, Maritana Grille, Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. www.tam-

pabaywatch.org

Wed, Sept 21

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION at MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS. Features samples and a drink by Chef Matthew Rainey. Live music by Joe Braccio. 6 pm. 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg. 727-8962667. www.mfastpete.org

Fri, Sept 23

Fourth Friday Tampa. Fourth Friday showcases Downtown Tampa’s rich arts, culture, and entertainment scene. Downtown cultural venues will offer extended hours, complimentary or special admission, and/or special programming. Food and drink specials are throughout downtown including the Sip N Stroll along the Riverwalk. Grab your FREE Fourth Friday wristbands for access to special offers at parContinued

HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE & BOARDWALK

ocated on the waterfront at Johns Pass, this quaint turn-of-the-century fishing village is Pinellas County’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 • johnspassvillage.net

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ticipating restaurants and up to two complimentary trips between venues on the Pirate Water Taxi. www. fourthfridaytampa.com/ Humane Society the golden paw gala. Each year, The Humane Society of Pinellas celebrates the generosity of their supporters and the connection with our community through their annual gala, the Golden Paw Dinner & Awards. Honoring volunteers, community animal welfare supporters and their mission, the Golden Paw Dinner is an amazing opportunity to network with other animal lovers, sup-

port HSP and take advantage of the silent and live auction events and entertainment. Go dressed to impress and ready for an upscale evening - all benefiting homeless pets. 6-9pm. Sheraton Sand Key. www. humanesocietyofpinellas.org/

Sept 23 - 24

Watermark Show and Open House. Tampa Bay Watch open house with food trucks, activities, music and donation bar on Friday. Photography exhibition remains on view through Saturday. Help keep our bays beautiful by supporting Tampa Bay Watch. Friday 5 - 9 pm. Saturday 10 am - 2 pm. Continued

THE 25th ANNUAL GOURMET FEASTIVAL Will Tempt The Tastebuds Of Tampa Bay Foodies

Thursday, Sept. 15

Yummy, Yummy, Yummy! This fabulous food fest will be held at the A La Carte Event Pavilion, located at 4050 Dana Shores Dr, Tampa, FL 33634 and starts at 5 p.m. for VIP ticket holders and 6 p.m. for general admission ticket holders. The event ends at 8:30 p.m. Gourmet Feastival is presented by ComDesign. The VIP room this year will be sponsored by the Seminole Hark Rock Hotel and Casino. Other sponsors for the event are: by Publix, TECO Energy, USAmeriBank, 10 News Tampa Bay and The Tampa Bay Times. Now in theirr 25th year, the Feastival will be welcoming 40 restaurants this year including perennial Feastival favorites and a host of new eateries as well. Together, they are offering a scrumptious assortment of libations and tastings. As you mingle, munch and listen to the music provided by Southern Train Band, you will be supporting an important cause. The tastings are complemented by a silent auction where you are sure to find a unique item. Funds raised at the annual event support The Helen Gordon Davis Centre for Women. The Centre for Women is a nonprofit organization offering a diverse array of programs to help women in the Tampa Bay region to succeed both personally and professionally. Tickets for the Gourmet Feastival may be purchased online at www.thecentre.org or at The Helen Gordon Davis Centre for Women, 305 South Hyde Park Avenue in Tampa; or order by phone, 813-251-8437 ext 225. VIP tickets are $75 ($100 the day of the event), and general admission tickets are $25 ($50 the day of the event).

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Tampa Bay Watch, 3000 Bayway, Tierre Verde. www. tampabaywatch.org

Sat, Sept 24

Central Avenue Solstice.

Sept 23 - 25

THE TAMPA BAY BOAT SHOW at TROPICANA FIELD. The Tampa Bay Boat show offers a great way to see and compare all available makes and models in one location. Pontoons, Cruisers, Center Consoles, Inflatables, Jet Skis, exhibits and more. Plus, the Florida Fishing School Seminars Series on Sat & Sun. After you have found your dream boat explore the many exhibits of the clothing, electronics, sunglasses, accessories and more. Admission is free.

Visitors can explore a vast array of activities all along Central Avenue, while the sun journeys from east to west directly overhead. It is a full-day celebration of art, culture, music, food, and shopping. Festivities begin on the east end at 7:20 am with Sunrise Yoga at South Straub Park, and finish on the west end with St. Petersburg PreservationÂ´s Movies in the Park at Sunset Park on Boca Ciega Bay. In between, the Avenue will be filled with other special activities Continued

DUE TO WEATHER, CELEBRATE OLDSMAR FRIDAY EVENTS ARE MOVED TO SUNDAY. SATURDAY REMAINS THE SAME.

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so that participants can enjoy them at their own pace. There will be a Follow the Sun Walk, a Bay to Gulf Bike Ride, Sunny Side Up Breakfast specials, live performances at each of the event´s five Main Stages, and a host of Art Demonstrations along the route. All outdoor activities are free, as are trolley rides throughout the day. www.centralavenuesolstice.com

Sept 24 - Oct 1

Havanah Culinary Exchange.

and Cuba. The first Havana Culinary Exchange brings together leading chefs, Sommeliers, Mixologists and Wineries from United States and Cuba to celebrate and advance public knowledge of and appreciation for great food and wine event The Festival provides a diverse range of interactive and educational epicurean experience while showcasing the area’s unique and rich culture, history and traditions interacting with the Cuban society. www.globaleventsincentives.com/ havanaculinaryexchange

Sun, Sept 25

WANDERLUST 108. The world’s only “Mindful” Triathlon comes to Tampa. Wanderlust’s reimagined triathlon consists of a five-kilometer run (or walk), a large-scale 90-minute yoga class and a guided meditation led by top teachers. Mindful triathletes will also enjoy musical performances from live bands and DJs, acroyoga, slacklining, hooping, local craft vendors and other surprises throughout the day. http:// wanderlust.com/108-events/tampa-fl/

Sept 30-Oct 2

Various locations through Tampa Bay join together to highlight the culinary offerings of the United States

Super Boat National Championship & Seafood Festival. The Bright House Clearwater Super Boat National Championship & Seafood Festival will welcome visi-

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tors to three full days of family fun activities and some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest and largest powerboats. The championship features a 2.5-mile race course located just off Clearwaterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beaches. Spectators can view the action from the beach, Pier 60, various VIP viewing parties or from a boat viewing area in the middle of the track. www.clearwatersuperboat.com

Sept 30-Oct 8

Tampa Bay International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. Various locations throughout Pinellas County. Various price points. Internationally acclaimed film festival celebrates and empowers diversity through entertainment. www.tbiglff.com

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ESCAPE ST. PETE

Think you can do it?

experiments, but before you can turn him over to the authorities, he locks you in his lab in order to make his getaway. You have one hour to decipher clues and solve puzzles in order to find out where he is going and to get proof of his criminal activities to the FBI before he can leave the country. When we heard about the new Escape Room in downtown St. Petersburg we decided to try our luck as a family. We originally thought we would be doing it together (there were eight of us.) When we arrived we realized we had to split up into two rooms, which are identical. Each room can hold up to six people, so we split up into four and four — boys vs girls. And the competition was on! This is not an easy task by any means, and the adrenaline flows. You immediately start gathering your clues, which can be found anywhere in the room, by taking things apart and searching high and low. Clues lead you to combination

By Melissa Wolcott Martino

f you are not familiar with the Escape Room concept, it is a live adventure game where players are locked in a room and have to use elements of the room to solve a series of puzzles and escape within an hour. The games are physical versions of “escape the room” video games. Right now, the Escape Room St. Pete’s theme is a Scientist’s Lab. (There are plans for future different themes to add to the quests.) The set up: You are assistants to the internationallyrenowned geneticist, Doctor A.B. Normal. During the performance of your normal daily duties, you discover that the evil doctor has been conducting illegal human cloning locks which lead you to more clues. As you put together your clues you finally solve the puzzle — maybe! There is that ticking clock to deal with. Both of our groups got out with minutes to spare. The boys only won by a minute or two, but still had the bragging rights. This adventure is great fun for families, co-workers or corporate team-building exercises. Escape St. Pete is located in downtown St. Petersburg at 1041 Central Avenue. Reservations are a must — no walk-ins. For more information call 727710-400, and to set up your reservation, visit www.EscapeStPete.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

GREY SALT

Chef Marc Murphy’s Mediterranean Restaurant Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

rey Salt’s Chef Marc Murphy brings his Italian/French roots to the forefront with his Mediterranean style menu. He chose the name of the restaurant to represent a feeling of tranquility. And, surprisingly, the restaurant is quite tranquil considering it is steps away from the Hard Rock’s busy casino. The softly lit interior is oddly reminiscent of a calming seaside place, even though there is no decor to suggest such. Pale blonde wood furniture and white circular banquettes with splashes of royal blue contribute to the vibe. A whole wall of bright yellow lemons in matching clear jars are also an eye catcher. The entrance to the restaurant has a lively bar with local craft beers, international wine selection, and drinks ranging from spiked lemonade up to bottle aged cocktails. Our visit with a group had us tasting a lovely sampling of Chef Marc’s menu. It is our pleasure to share some of this tasty fare with you. (Sorry, figuratively, not literally.) Appetizers were memorable, starting with the Grey Salt Charcuterie, with an array of cheese, salami, honey comb, almonds and mostarda. The Prince Edward Island Mussels in white wine were sublime, and the Meatballs in a spicy ragout had just the right amount of zing. We tried both the Caesar and Heirloom Tomato Salads, and while both were definitely fresh and lovely, the tomato salad stood out with the pairing of juicy colorful tomatoes and mozzarella cheese stuffed with cream. Amazingly flavorful. All of the dishes were artfully prepared to look (almost) as good as they tasted. Our entrees were no exception. Sea Scallops were cooked perfectly and served with charred corn and pistou sauce. Grouper was fished locally so very fresh, and served with tomato and couscous. Filet Mignon au Poivre was as tender and flavorful

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Chef Marc Murphy photo courtesy of Grey Salt

as can be, and was served with asparagus and spring onion. Ah, dessert. Out came the Cannoli Trio and the Nutella Profiteroles. Both were just too devine and left a lasting impression. If you happen to be in the Hard Rock Casino, by all means do check Grey Salt out. If you don’t happen to be there, make it a point to make a special trip over. You won’t be sorry. Coming up at Grey Salt: Chef Marc Murphy will host the first “Tampa No Kid Hungry Dinner” on Wednesday, October 5. The dinner will be an exclusive multi-course event to benefit No Kid Hungry‘s work to end childhood hunger in America. It will feature local guest chefs Greg Baker (The Refinery | Fodder & Shine), Michael Buttacavoli (Cena), Courtney Orwig (Haven) and William Gideon (Seminole Hard Rock Tampa). The dinner will be preceded by a cocktail reception and will feature a live auction in which guests can bid on a variety of luxury culinary and travel items. All proceeds from the event support No Kid Hungry’s work to end childhood hunger across the country. To purchase tickets, please visit www.NoKidHungry. org/Tampa Grey Salt in Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, 5223 N. Orient Road, Tampa, FL 22610. For more information please call (813) 627-8100, or visit www.greysalt-restaurant.com/

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COOLSTUFF! www.etymotic.com/

ELECTRONICS

ETYMOTIC

mk5 Isolator Earphones

tymotic’s mk5 earphones are the newest addition to their high-fidelity Isolator earphone series. They feature Etymotic’s known sound quality and high noise isolation, and are a great choice for today’s active lifestyles. These low-profile, in-ear earphones fit comfortably with hats and helmets. The mk matches the ear’s response for natural sound reproduction over a broad frequency range, and promote hearing safety. Their sound-blocking capabilities reduce the impulse to turn up the volume in order to drown out unwanted noise from the outside world. Quiet passages and soft dynamics come through clearly, and loud passages don’t hammer your eardrums. $59.00

DVD

The Golden Age of Musicals

www.amazon.com

he Golden Age of Musicals features 17 fabulous films from the genre’s peak era, spanning two decades from 1937 to 1957, in a 5-disc DVD collector’s set from Film Chest Media Group. The musical film genre was a natural development of the stage musical after the emergence of sound film technology. The multiple camera angle shots and the use of lavish background scenery and locations that would be impractical in a theater, is what marginally differentiated film from stage musicals of the era. The taste in musicals increased dramatically in the mid 1930s when director Busby Berkeley began to enhance the traditional dance number in his unique style that typically begin on a stage, but gradually transcended the limitations of theatrical space. The package contains over 25 hours of song, dance, and comedy with everything from slapstick to romance and over-the-top opulence, including Fred Astaire in Second Chorus, Danny Kaye in The Inspector General, Bing Crosby and Bob Hope in Road to Bali, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis in At War with the Army, and Judy Garland in Till the Clouds Roll By.

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MIKE JONES TRIO Roaring

www.amazon.com

ike Jones’ second trio release for Capri is a swinging recasting of standards popular in the 1920’s, thus the title ‘Roaring’. Jones teams up with the marvelous rhythm team of Katie Thiroux on bass and Matt Witek on drums for this delightful excursion. David Silverman of Simpsons fame rendered the John Held Jr. influenced cover and renowned fiction writer Neal Gaiman penned the liner notes. Many may have heard Mike Jones play in Las Vegas with Penn and Teller at the Rio as he has been their pianist and music director for the last 15 years. Hear old favs, such as “Yes Sir, That’s My Baby,” “Home,” “Me And My Shadow,” “What’ll I Do,” and “Am I Blue.”

BOOK ETERNAL TROUBADOR the Improbable Life of

TINY TIM

by Justin Martell with Alanna Wray McDonald www.amazon.com

s Bing Crosby once put it, Tiny Tim represents ‘one of the most phenomenal success stories in show business’. In 1968, after years of playing dive bars and lesbian cabarets on the Greenwich Village scene, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Bob Dylan and Lenny Bruce, the forty-something falsetto-voiced, ukulele-playing Tiny Tim landed a recording contract with Sinatra’s Reprise label and an appearance on NBC’s Laugh-In. The resulting album, God Bless Tiny Tim, and its single, “Tip-toe Thru’ The Tulips With Me”, catapulted him to the highest levels of fame. Soon, Tiny was playing to huge audiences in the USA and Europe, while his marriage to the seventeen-year-old ‘Miss’ Vicki was broadcast on The Tonight Show in front of an audience of fifty million. Before long, however, his star began to fade. Miss Vicki left him, his earnings evaporated, and the mainstream turned its back on him. He would spend the rest of his life trying to revive his career, with many of those attempts taking a turn toward the absurd. But while he is often characterized as an oddball curio, Tiny Tim was a master interpreter and student of early American popular song, and his story is one of Shakespearean tragedy framed around a bizarre yet loveable public persona. Here, drawing on dozens of new interviews, never-before-seen diaries, and years of original research, author Justin Martell brings that story to life with the first serious biography of one of the most fascinating yet misunderstood figures in popular music.

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LANCE Daypack

www.ecbc.com

Comfortable and Compact Backpack for the Business Traveler by Melissa Wolcott Martino

his product had me at the belt. A very unique addition to an already well-thought out backpack (or daypack as it is known.) Lets face it, there are plenty of backpacks and business carryalls to choose from, so why not choose one that has everything and is actually comfortable? I found it all with the LANCE DAYPACK, from ecbc. When you load it up with all your articles and strap it on, the belt immediately takes the weight off your shoulders and evenly distributes it to your hips. Ahhh. When you’re not using it, the belt tucks behind the pack’s frame. The adjustable shoulder straps are also nicely padded for comfort. I honestly can’t think of any feature I wish this pack had, since it’s already there. It’s nice looking (comes in black or grey), it’s quality made of Ballistic Nylon, sturdy, compact, and water-resistant. The zippers are water-sealing as well. Travelers will especially like the checkpoint-friendly aspect where you don’t have to “unpack” at TSA. Just unzip the padded top and lay it flat to reveal your laptop and electronics, and send it on through the conveyor belt. Do you like to be organized? The Lance has pockets and compartments galore—19 in all. It will hold a laptop up to 17”, and has a removable padded insert for a smaller device. It has a convenient handy phone pocket, quick access ticket pocket, and a zippered water bottle holder. All this is and it only weighs 3.4 pounds before you load it up. The Lance measures 19.4” x 12.13” x 9.23” and has a retail price of $149.99. For more information, please visit the website at www.ec-bc.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

THEATER & MUSIC Amalie Arena 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa 813.301.6500. www.amaliearena.com SEPTEMBER 11 - BadBoy Tour - Family Reunion 14 – Kanye West American Stage 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg 727.823.7529. www.americanstage.org/ SEPT 7 - OCT 2 - Good People. Welcome to Southie, a Boston neighborhood where a night on the town means a few rounds of bingo, where this month’s paycheck covers last month’s bills, and where Margie Walsh has just been let go from yet another job. Facing eviction and scrambling to catch a break, Margie thinks an old fling who’s made it out of Southie might be her ticket to a fresh new start. But is this apparently self-made man secure enough to face his humble beginnings? Margie is about to risk what

little she has left to find out. With his signature humorous glow, Lindsay-Abaire explores the struggles, shifting loyalties and unshakeable hopes that come with having next to nothing in America.

Capitol Theatre 405 Cleveland Street, Clearwater (con’t on next page)

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t

Gregg Allman.

727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com/Venues SEPTEMBER 7 – Donovan 12 – Jake Shimabukuro 15 – Gary Gulman 21 – Keb’ Mo’ Band

Coconuts Comedy Club 5501 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach 727.360.5653. www.coconutscomedyclubs.com Open Mike on Tuesdays Shows: Wed - Sat, 9pm September Thru 3 - BC Murphy 21 - 24 - Mike McCarthy

Carrollwood Cultural Center 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa SeptEMBER 17 - MAGICAL MUSIC. at 7:30 p.m. Disney-lovers, families, and children are invited as the Carrollwood Community Chorus, presents a collection of Disney musical favorites, bringing to life sea creatures to sleeping beauties. Sprinkle a little pixie dust on your September and see this delightful concert. 20-21 - MYSTERIOUS MONA LISA. No-one knows, for certain, the identity of the mysterious smiling woman in the world’s most famous painting, but an art student is about to find some clues as she travels back in time. This original play explores the art, science and music of the original “Renaissance Man”, Leonardo Da Vinci.

THE Coliseum 535 4th Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727.892.5715. www.stpete.org/coliseum Tea dances run October through May SEPT 23 - THE PURPLE EXPERIENCE.

Carrollwood Players Theatre 4335 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 813.265.4000. www.carrollwoodplayers.org/ SEPT 2 - 24. THE ADDAMS FAMILY. Those kooky, ooky Addamses are at it again, this time in musical form. In this episode, Wednesday has fallen in love with the opposite of everything her parents want for her: a sweet young man from a respectable family. Needless to say, Gomez and Morticia, Wednesday’s parents, have never met the boy, and when Wednesday confides in her father, she begs that he keep it a secret from Morticia. What will happen when Wednesday’s paramour and his parents come to dinner? THE 37th Clearwater Jazz Holiday www.clearwaterjazz.com OCTOBER 13 - 16. The Clearwater Jazz Holiday is a four-day and four-night, live music festival, the third week of every October. The music festival draws tens of thousands of visitors each year to Coachman Park in Clearwater, against the backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico. The festival features a combination of legendary and relevant musical artists and a gathering of a diverse fan base. Some of this year’s artists include: The Commodores, Kool & The Gang, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, The Mavericks, Daryl Hall, Houndmouth, The Lone Bellow, And 32

Celebrate the unique and talented life and music of Prince with this special tribute concert. The Purple Xperience, a five-piece tribute band hailing from Minneapolis, brings the memories of Prince and The Revolution to audiences of all generations. Led by Matt Fink, a member of Prince and The Revolution from 1978 to 1991. Backed by the best session players in the Twin Cities, Matt Fink and Marshall Charloff have produced an authentic re-creation of Prince and The Revolution, leaving no attendee disappointed. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased at www.chilloungenight.com Eckerd College OPERA 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg Miller Auditorium. 727.864.7600. www.eckerd.edu/metopera The Met in HD Series. Live high-definition broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t Eight O’clock Theatre 105 Central Park Drive, Largo 727.587.6793, www.eightoclocktheatre.com Nov 4-13. HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING.

ness means big laughs in this delightfully clever lampoon of life on the corporate ladder. HOW TO SUCCEED... follows the rise of J. Pierrepont Finch, who uses a little handbook to climb the corporate ladder from lowly window washer to high-powered executive, An irreverent and tuneful romp, jampacked with sly, swift, and sharp jabs to the funny bone. Florida Orchestra 727.662.7286. www.floridaorchestra.org See venues for dates – Mahaffey Theater, Ruth Eckerd Hall & David Straz Performing Arts Center October 7 – 9 – Cirque du Symphonie 14 – The Music of Genesis

Power, sex, ambition, greed... it’s just another day at the office in this classic musical satire. Big busi-

Florida Suncoast Opera Guild www.FLsuncoastoperaguild.org AUGUST 28 - 3 PM Anthology of an Opera Star with Sherrill Milnes -Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. (con’t on next page)

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPITHEATRE

Fri, Sept 9

ix-time CMA and ACM Female Vocalist of the Year Miranda Lambert will light up MidFlorida Credit Union Ampitheatre stage with her “Keeper of the Flame Tour.” Joining Lambert will be special guests Kip Moore and Brothers Osborne. Her 20-song set spans her biggest hits and a few surprise covers. In July, Lambert released “Vice” to country radio and digital outlets. It’s the first song released since Lambert’s 2014 album, Platinum.

Kip Moore’s debut album, Up All Night, was the best-selling debut album by a male in 2012-13. Wild Ones was released in 2015. Brothers T.J. and John Osborne are EMI Nashville artists with three singles and one studio album.

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4802 US Hwy 301 North, Tampa, FL 33610 www.livenation.com/ 35

FOOTLIGHTS con’t Freefall Theatre Company 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727.498.5205. www. freefalltheatre.com Thru SEPT 4 – Pirates of Penzance October 8 – November 6 – Assasins Glenridge Performing Arts Center 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota 941.552.5325 www.gpactix.com OCT 16 - Late Night Catechism. 2pm AND 6pm. Late Nite Catechism is an uproarious piece of interactive theater that takes audience members back - sometimes nostalgically, sometimes fearfully - to the children they once were. The irrepressible Sister teaches an adult catechism class to a roomful of “students” (the audience). Over the course of the play, Sister goes from benevolent instructor, rewarding the “students” for correct answers with glow-in-the-dark rosaries and laminated saint cards, to authoritative drill sergeant. These abrupt mood swings are bound to strike a resonant chord with everyone who survived the ups and downs of going to school with an omniscient authoritarian at the helm. JANNUS LIVE 200 1st Ave. North, Saint Petersburg, Florida 33701. www.jannuslive.com/29 SEPTEMBER 2 - Judas Maiden/Blackout 11 - Flume 23 - New Orleans Suspects

New Orleans Suspects brings together some of the best, most highly respected players in New Orleans including: “Mean” Willie Green on drums (Neville Bros.); Jeff Watkins on saxophone (James Brown Band, Joss Stone Band); Jake Eckert on guitar/vocals (Dirty Dozen Brass Band); CR Gruver on keyboards and vocals (Polytoxic, Outformation); and Charlie Wooton (formerly of Royal Southern Brotherhood) on bass. New Orleans Suspects will release their third album, Kaleidoscoped, on September 16. 36

Sept 24 - Govt Mule with Blackberry Smoke OCT 28 - VNV Nation JOBSITE THEATER Shimberg Playhouse, Straz Center for the Performing Arts. 1010 N. W.c. Macinnes Place, Tampa . 813229-7827. www.strazcenter.org

SEPT 9 - OCT 2 (Thurs-Sat). The Underpants is a wild satire, adapted from the classic German play Die Hose, where we find Louise and Theo Maskes’ conservative existence completely shattered when Louise’s bloomers fall down in public during a parade. Though she pulls them up quickly, he is sure the incident will cost him his job as a government clerk. Louise’s momentary display doesn’t result in a vicious public scandal but it does attract the attention of two creepy infatuated men, each of whom now want to rent the spare room in the Maskes’ home. Oblivious of their amorous objectives, Theo splits the room between them, happy to collect rent from both the foppish poet and the whiny hypochondriac. Bursting with Steve Martin’s signature zaniness, wordplay, and whimsy, The Underpants is a farcical burlesque set in a nostalgic time-goneby that sends-up bourgeois snobbery and conformity and also hits on issues of fame, feminism, and the nature of respectability. Largo Cultural Center 105 Central Park Dr, Largo 727.587.6793. www.largoarts.com SEPTEMBER 8 - 10 - Wizard of Oz. The Wizard of Oz 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. 16 - An Evening With Terry Bozzio October

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4 - The Comedy Time Tunnel 8 - Yesterday – A Beatles Tribute 9 Johnny Peers and The Muttville Comix – A Comedy Dog Show 15 – School House Rocks 22 - Zebra / Dog Loves Books M.A.D. Theatre of Tampa (Music Acting Dance Theatre of Tampa) 813.386.6173 www.madtheatre.com SEPTEMBER 8 - 18 - Spring Awakening Mahaffey Theater 400 1St St. S, Bayfront Center St. Petersburg, 727.892.5767. www.themahaffeytheater.com

September 1 – Jill Scott. Jill will be performing songs from her Billboard #1 charting album, Woman, which includes the hit single “Fools Gold”. Rolling Stone praised WOMAN proclaiming that Jill “has never sounded as authoritative as she does on her fifth album”. Jill has described the sound of her recent album as “classic Philly soul meets country rhythm served with captivated storytelling.” 13 – Brian Wilson MARLY MUSIC SERIES at THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, ST. PETERSBURG www.mfastpete.org/rsvp/ Escape the heat with cool summer concerts in the intimate, elegant Marly Room. 2 p.m. on these Sundays: (con’t on next page)

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPITHEATRE

HEART, JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS, CHEAP TRICK

ome of rock’s most iconic bands, Heart, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, and Cheap Trick will make a stop at the MdiFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Ann and Nancy Wilson first showed the world that women can rock when their band, H e a r t ,

Thurs, Sept 22

stormed the charts in the ‘70’s with hits like “Crazy on You,” “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” “Straight On,” and so many more. Not only did the Wilson sisters lead the band, they wrote the songs and played the instruments too. Heart continued topping the charts through the ‘80’s and ‘90’s with huge hits, selling more than 35 million albums. As the leader of the hard-rocking Blackhearts, Joan Jett’s had 8 platinum and gold albums and 9 Top 40 singles, including the classics “Bad Reputation,” “I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll,” “I Hate Myself For Loving You,” and “Crimson and Clover.” Jett and the Blackhearts released their latest record, “Unvarnished,” last year. Cheap Trick had perfected an extremely individual yet classic rock and roll band sound by the time it released its first album in 1977. Cheap Trick’s records and concerts display a singular musical c o n - sistency over almost 40 years.

4802 US Hwy 301 North, Tampa, Florida 33610 • www.livenation.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

FOOTLIGHTS con’t Midflorida Credit Union Amphitheater - Florida State Fairgrounds 4802 Us Hwy 301 N, Tampa, 813.740.2446. www.ticketmaster.com SEPTEMBER 9 - Miranda Lambert, Kip Moore & Brothers Osborne 18 – Zac Brown Band 22 - Heart, Joan Jett & The BlackHearts, Cheap Trick 23 - Toby Keith ORPHEUM 1915 E. 7th Ave., Tampa The Palladium 253 5Th Ave N, St. Petersburg 727.822.3590. www.mypalladium.org September 10 – The Only Daddys 13 – Helio Jazz Orchestra 16 – ALEX Harris 23 – Show Biz Kids

POWER STORIES THEATRE 2015 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa FL 33606. 813-2532000. www.powerstories.com SEPTEMBER 10 - 27 - Advice I Would Give My Younger Self: Always Know Where Your Lunch Money Is.

Ruth Eckerd Hall 1111 N. Mcmullen Booth Rd, Clearwater . 727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com

Carl LaBove

Thu, Sep. 29 - Sun, Oct. 2 If the mark of a great entertainer is the ability to continually reinvent, create and astonish an audience, then Carl LaBove has undoubtedly made his mark. An original founding member of “The Outlaws of Comedy”, His powerful approach to stand up comedy has been filling theaters and clubs for over 30 years. At age nineteen LaBove discovered stand up comedy with Sam Kinison. Together the two founded a Rock & Roll Comedy concept that would sell out theaters across the country for 5 straight years. A founding member of “The Outlaws” in the late 80’s, and early 90’s, Carl established himself as an unparalleled comedic force. Carl continues to sellout venues and amaze audiences from coast to coast. With credits that include The Tonight

Show, HBO, Showtime, two comedy CD’s, a concert DVD for Journey Records and much more. There is no end in sight for Carl.

SideSplitters is located at 12938 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa. www.sidesplitterscomedy.com 38

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t September 14 – Leon Bridges 17 – Legends of Rock 21 – II Divo – Amor & Pasion A Simple Theater The Biniger Theater, Eckerd College. 4200 54Th Avenue S, St. Petersburg. 727.864.7811 www.asimpletheatre.org SEPT - 21 – A Very Brady Fundraiser St. Petersburg City Theatre Located Just Off I-275 At 4025 31St. St. South, St. Petersburg, 33712. Box Office:tickets / Information 727-866-1973. www.spcitytheatre.org Stageworks Theater 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., West Bldg., #151, Tampa, 813.374.2416. www.stageworkstheatre.org September 4 – The Speak! Tank

State Theatre 687 Central Ave., St Petersburg, FL. (727) 895-3045 www.statetheatreconcerts.com/ THE STUDIO @620 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701. 27-8956620. www.studio620.org SEPT 16 - Opera Sampler. Inaugural concert featuring music by living composers. With approximately an hour of new music for voice and piano, the audience will experience a buffet of sounds ranging from the avant garde to the melodically sublime. Come sample some of the best that living composers have to offer the field of opera! The evening will feature performances by: Katherine Stenzel, soprano, Thea Lobo, mezzo, and Eunmi Ko, music director and piano. Straz Center 1010 N. W.c. Macinnes Place, Tampa . 813.229.Star. www.strazcenter.org September 7 – October 2 – The Underpants 23 – 25 – The Illusionists (cont’d on next page)

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPITHEATRE

Thurs, Sept 22

oby Keith has released seventeen studio albums, two Christmas albums, and four compilation albums. He has also charted sixty-one singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including twenty number one hits and twenty-one additional top 10 hits. His longest-lasting number one hits are “Beer for My Horses” (a 2003 duet with Willie Nelson) and “As Good as I Once Was” (2005), at six weeks each. He has sold more than 40 million albums worldwide. Toby will be bringing his song catalog to the stage at the MidFlorida Credit Union Ampitheatre along with songs from his new album 35 MPH Town in his Interstates & Tailgates Tour.

4802 US Hwy 301 North, Tampa, FL 33610 • www.livenation.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t 29 – Wait, Wait – Don’t Tell Me Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Society 727.596.7142 www.sdjs.org September 18 – Outreach Concert – Florida Boyz October 16 – Dave Tatrow & His Allstars TAMPA IMPROV 1600 E 8th Ave. Suite C-112, Tampa, FL 33605. 813864-4000. www.improvtampa.com/ TAMPA THEATRE 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. www.TampaTheatre.org SEPT 22 - THE PURPLE XPERIENCE - A special Prince tribute concert, The Purple Xperience, coming live to Tampa Theatre’s historic stage at 8:00pm Celebrating the unique and talented life and music of Prince, The Purple Xperience brings the memories of Prince and The Revolution to audiences of all generations. The five-piece tribute band hails from Minneapolis and is led by Matt Fink (aka “Doctor Fink”), a member of Prince and The Revolution from 1978 to 1991. Backed by the best session

players in the Twin Cities, Matt Fink and Marshall Charloff have undoubtedly produced the most authentic re-creation of Prince and The Revolution in the world. Oct 27 - the Trailer Park Boys. Ricky, Julian and Bubbles are back and they’re “STILL DRUNK, HIGH and UNEMPLOYED!” Having answered to the law in the “Community Service Variety Show;” preaching the dangers of substance abuse to avoid jail time, the crew are now on the road without parole officers. Spend an evening with the boys as Bubbles tries to create a new career for himself in the movie industry, Julian puts his latest money-making scams into action and Ricky has an idea that can ‘change the world!’

(cont’d on next page)

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPITHEATRE Mon, Aug 15 Joining Def Leppard on their mighty summer outing are REO Speedwagon and Tesla. Def Leppard’s influential career includes numerous hit singles and groundbreaking multi-platinum release’s—including two of the best-selling albums of all time, Pyromania and Hysteria. Said Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliott: “I’m really looking forward to getting back out there and playing some great music with some great people for some of the most appreciative audiences in the world. It really is always a pleasure.” Kevin Cronin of Reo Speedwagon said: “We played some shows with Def Leppard in 2008 and it was an amazing musical marriage, a melodic rock extravaganza. We are ready to restart that fire.” www.livenation.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t Urbanite Theatre 1487 Second Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. 941-3211397. www.urbanitetheatre.com/ Thru SEPT 18 - BREADCRUMBS by Jennifer Haley. A reclusive fiction writer diagnosed with dementia must depend upon a troubled young caretaker to complete her autobiography. In a symbiotic battle of wills, they delve into the dark woods of the past, unearthing a tragedy that shatters their notions of language, loneliness and essential self. Contains brief adult language, suitable for most ages. Van Wezel 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.953.3368. www.vanwezel.org September 11 – Brian Wilson 23 – Dr. Dave Band

West Coast Players 21905 Us 19 N. Clearwater 727.437.2363. www.wcplayers.org August thru 28 - The Mystery of Irma Vep. The Mystery of Irma Vep is directed by Matthew Michael Schiel and stars David Russell and Ryan Sturm as the two actors who play every single role in this multi-character production. A definitive spoof of Gothic melodramas, this production is a quick change marathon for all involved. A sympathetic werewolf, a vampire, and an Egyptian princess brought to life when her tomb is opened make this a comedy that has everything. September 23 – OCT 9 – The Beauty Queen of Leenane delve into the dark woods of the past, unearthing a tragedy that shatters their notions of language, loneliness and essential self. Contains brief adult language, suitable for most ages.

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPITHEATRE Fri, August 19

ince their first album, the music of the Dixie Chicks has stirred emotions in fans across the world making them one of the biggest and most influential bands of our time. The Dixie Chicks are one of a mere handful of acts with multiple albums achieving “diamond” status - both WIDE OPEN SPACES (1998) and FLY (1999) hit that stratospheric landmark - and over the years have sold over 30 million albums worldwide and won thirteen Grammy Awards. Their on-stage reputation has helped them sell over $100 million worth of concert tickets while outspoken songs like “Goodbye Earl” and “Not Ready To Make Nice” made it clear that this power trio played by nobody’s rules. www.livenation.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Beethoven’s 9th is Season Opener

alled “riveting” and “impossible not to watch,” Music Director Michael Francis has been an instant hit in his first year with The Florida Orchestra. This fall, he will lead the orchestra’s premier Tampa Bay Times Masterworks series, conducting nine of 14 concerts. This is what the orchestra is all about: classical masterpieces you love, performed with passion. And don’t forget free Classical Kids tickets for ages 5-18. Here are five can’t-miss Masterworks concerts for the 2016/17 season: Opening Night: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 (Sept. 30-Oct. 2): Michael Francis opens his second season in grand style, with Beethoven’s towering symphony and its glorious “Ode to Joy,” featuring the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. With a Sunday matinee!

Milos

Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony (Nov. 4-6): Francis conducts perhaps Mozart’s greatest – and final -- symphony, Symphony No. 41, “Jupiter.” Also: brilliant young violinist Benjamin Beilman on Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 1. Songs of the Sea: Britten, Elgar & Debussy (Nov. 11-13): Feel the ebb and flow of the sea, with Britten’s Four Sea Interludes, Elgar’s Sea Pictures and Debussy’s La Mer. Then dive into the TFO premiere of Jake Heggie’s The Work at Hand, based on deeply moving poetry by a woman battling cancer. Michael Francis conducts. The Dalí Experience Featuring Milos (March 3-5): A concert devoted to music that inspired one of the greatest artists of the 20th century, Salvador Dalí, featuring images of Dalí’s paintings, dancers and superstar classical guitarist Milos, all under the baton Michael Francis of Michael Francis. Works include Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde: Prelude and Liebestod; Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez; Falla’s The Three Cornered Hat ballet; and Ravel’s La Valse. Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 (April 8-9): Van Cliburn competition winner Vadym Kholodenko makes his TFO debut performing one of the most famous piano works in the world, Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. Also: Dvorak’s Symphony No. 6. Nicholas Carter is guest conductor. The Florida Orchestra: Series subscriptions are on sale now. Single tickets, which start at just $15, are available Aug. 8. Get tickets at www.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

TRAVELOGUE

Westgate River Ranch Not your Grandfatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Camping

by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

amping, horseback riding, buffalo grazing. Do you have to go all the way to Montana to experience this? Wyoming? Nope. Just a few hours drive from Tampa, smack dab in the middle of Florida, is the Westgate River Ranch, the largest dude ranch East of the Mississippi, and a real Florida hidden gem.

Photos by Melissa unless otherwise indicated 48

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he property went through different incarnations through the years, and became the Westgate River Ranch in 2002. It encompasses 1,700 acres surrounded by around 400,000 acres of protected wetlands and is next to the Kissimmee River. The land WRR sits on was once where the Seminole Indians lived, and early settlers known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Crackersâ&#x20AC;? herded their cattle. Some descendants of the original cattle brought here by Spanish Conquistadors in the 16th century can still be found in the area. The great wild, wide open landscape also showcases horses, buffalo, wild turkeys, feral hogs, deer, bald eagles and many more interesting forms of wildlife, both land bound and winged.

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Westgate River Ranch conâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

e have never seen such a wide range of accommodations as are available at WRR. Tenting comes in all forms, from pitching a pup tent (raw camping) all the way up to a tricked-out teepee (glamping.) Also on site are lodge guest rooms, cabins and cottages for the less adventurous. Cabins have buffalo grazing just yards from your porch. How western can you get? If you prefer to travel with your own accommodations, there are RV sites set up as well. There is even an aviation center with a runway for small planes to land and homes with hangars attached for rent.

Photo courtesy of Westgate Ranch 50

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Photo courtesy of Westgate Ranch

pparently we fell into the less adventurous category since we chose to check in to the lodge. The cowboy motif is full-on at WRR, so you are completely immersed in the western theme. We also checked out the other accommodations and they, too, were all plushly rustic, have comfy beds, and modern amenities.

Photo courtesy

of Westgate R

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anch

Westgate River Ranch con’t

T Photo courtesy of Westgate Ran

he coolest experience of all, however, has to be staying in the Luxe Teepees (glamping to the nth degree.) Filled with upscale amenities, they can sleep up to four people. They come with a stone fireplace, leather chairs, clawfoot bathtub with shower, private bathroom, mini fridge, microwave, couch, 51” Flat screen TV, electrical outlet, many more features — and, VERY IMPORTANT, a portable air conditioning and heating unit! If that wasn’t enough, concierge service is included as well.

Photo courtesy of Westgate Ranch 52

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Photo courtesy of Westgate Ranch

t WRR, you will see a lot of guests dressed in western wear, and pretty much everyone wears a cowboy hat. No need to try to find one before you arrive at the ranch, as thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a store on property that sells tons of cowboy hats in all shapes and sizes, along with western clothing.

Photo courtesy of Westgate Ranch www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Westgate River Ranch con’t

RR has every summer outdoor activity you can think of all year long — archery, skeet and trap shooting, horseback riding, golf and miniature golf, hiking, swimming pool, a rock climbing wall, zip line, a mechanical bull, and bungee jumping — and even an authentic cattle drive. Friendly WRR farm animals love to be petted and fed by kids. An on-site marina offers boat rentals, fishing, and airboat and swamp buggy rides. Helicopter rides can be scheduled for groups. All that should keep you busy for a while. One popular attraction at the ranch that brings folks in from the surrounding area is the Saturday Night Rodeo, the longest-running championship rodeo in the USA, where you can see exciting trick riding, bull riding, calf roping and barrel racing.

Photo courtesy of Westgate Ran

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ou may think dining is an afterthought for WRR, but that is definitely not the case. Some very tasty cookouts take place, along with Western style cooking at the Smokehouse Grill, and food and drink available at the River Ranch Saloon served up with some live entertainment on the weekends. Guests can grocery shop at the General Store or grab â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n go some deli food stuffs to eat in or take back to your room. A fun Dinner Hayride includes a cookout buffet and a ride through some WRR wildlife. What a creative site for weddings. WRR has a lovely little white chapel on property, and the wedding party can make their way to their indoor or outdoor reception in a horse drawn carriage. Some folks actually get married right on horseback! We speak of this being a great family vacation spot, which it definitely is, but it can also be quite romantic in your own cozy tent under the stars, sitting by your campfire, and enjoying some of the many amenities the ranch has to offer. Companies also love it for meetings and team building exercises. A vacation at the Westgate River Ranch is one the kids will talk about for years. Leave the screens at home and experience the outdoors for a healthy dose of fun.

For more information: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo 3200 River Ranch Boulevard, River Ranch, FL 33867 Resort: 863-692-1321 Booking: 888-779-4104 www.westgateresorts.com Photo courtesy of www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Westgate Ranch

ATTR ACTI ONS & M U S E U M S E V E N TS TAMPA B AY A RE A BUSCH GARDENS HOWL-O-SCREAM 2016 Sept 23 - Oct 30 10165 N McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, (888) 800-5447. www.buschgardens.com

storyline starring a disturbing cast of demon dolls. Howl-O-Scream 2016 returns with seven haunted houses, two of which are new and creeper than ever. Howl-O-Scream 2016 is a separate-ticketed night event. No costumes are allowed. Check out HowlOScream.com for the latest terrifying details, or call 1-888-800-5447 for more information.

Mr. Karver put his heart and soul into his dolls. After the authorities came to close him down, Karver locked himself in his “Hall Of Dolls” and burned it to the ground. Now, the dummies are back and they insist the show must go on. It’s the Evil Encore everyone is dying to see. This fall, for 21 select nights, no soul is safe from the Evil Encore at Howl-O-Scream 2016. Tampa Bay’s premier Halloween event returns with tormenting surprises and unexpected frights around every corner, two brand-new haunted houses and a bone-chilling

St. Petersburg Museum of History 335 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg. 727.894.1052 www.spmoh.org Schrader’s Little Cooperstown is made up of more than 4,800 baseballs, documents, story boards and video screens – connects America’s national pastime with historical events from the region and around the world. Legendary Landscapes by Highwaymen. Thru September 30 – Experience Cuba – Clyde Butcher Exhibition September 8 – Happy Hour w/ Historian SUNKEN GARDENS 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. (727) 551-3102. www.sunkengardens.org/ Sunken 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. PROGRAMS Sept 10, 10:30–11:30 a.m. “Air Plants and Tercontinued

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; $6 seniors 62+; $4 ages 2 - 11 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100 56

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rariums” Owners of the Air Plant Design Studio share their tips on ways to grow and show off these popular plants both indoors and out. Unusual air plants, terrarium materials. Free with Gardens admission or membership. Sept 17, 10:30-11:30 a.m. “Fall Veggie Gardening in Florida” Beat Florida’s sandy soil, bugs, and more to grow the vegetable garden you’ve always wanted. Glean sustainable tips from owner of The Urban Harvest farm, Elise Pickett. Potting materials, organic heirloom seeds, veggie starter plants, and vermicompost fertilizer available for sale after the program. Free with Gardens admission or membership. OCT 1, 10:30-11:30 a.m. “Wicked Plants and Creepy Crawlies” Encounter carnivorous, spooky, and appalling plants on a scavenger hunt through the garden. Pre-registration required. Recommended for ages 4+. OCT 8, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. “Sensational Succulents” Learn to grow these popular plants from soil requirements to water needs of succulent bromeliads, epiphytic cacti, pachypodiums, agave and others. Free with Gardens admission or membership. OCT 13 - Day Trip to Gainsville. Visit historic and

exciting botanical sites in and around Gainesville, FL. From the historic home, garden, and citrus grove of one of Florida’s famed authors to interactive exhibits highlighting dangerous plants, frolicking butterflies, and more. Registration by Oct 3. 727-551- 3102 to reserve your space. OCT 15, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. “Raising Urban Chickens” From coops and feed to behavior and egg production, this class is something to crow about. Free with Gardens admission or membership. Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 Fourth Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. For more information call 727.551.3102.

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TAMPA THEATRE 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2748981. www.tampatheatre.org/ A restored classic theatre showing modern independent and classic films. Pre-show Wurlitzer organ concerts.

Armed Forces MILITARY Museum 2050 34th Way N., Largo 727.539.8371. www. armedforcesmuseum.com The Armed Forces History Museum is dedicated to preserving military history and providing education to the public of the many sacrifices made to protect our freedom. Museum features full-size recreations of scenes from military history & WWII armored vehicle rides. September 18 – Build a Model Camp

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg 727.893.7326. www.stpeteparksrec.org/boyd-hill. Tram Tours Saturdays, Guided Tours, Classes. Brooker Creek Preserve 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 453.6800. www.brookercreekpreserve.org

727.

CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767. (727) 441-1790. www.seewinter.com Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays, nurse sharks and more. Winter the dolphin’s story of survival, after the injury that caused her to lose her tail, has impacted millions of people around the world. A major motion picture, Dolphin Tale, highlighted her life story in 2011. The sequel, Dolphin Tale 2, features the story of Hope, a young resident dolphin. continued

ig Cat Rescue is the world’s largest accredited sanctuary devoted to big cats. The nonprofit sanctuary is home to more than 70 lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, servals, caracals, and various other exotic cats. 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. The facility offers a variety of guided educational tours at 14 set times during the week. Be aware that most tours are not open to children ages 9 and under. All ages tours are held Saturdays at 12 pm. They also offer private tours, field trips, birthday parties, and other events. BCR, 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. For tour times and reservations, call 888-316-5875, or visit www.BigCatRescue.org

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CRACKER COUNTRY Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 US-301, Tampa, FL 33610. (813) 627-4225. www.crackercountry.org/ Cracker Country, a rural Florida living history museum, was established in 1978 by Mr. and Mrs. Doyle Carlton, Jr. so future generations might better understand and appreciate Florida’s rural heritage.

Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum 2240 9th Ave.S, St. Petersburg. www.woodsonmuseum.org

One of the world’s best beaches. Guided Nature Walks – Sat & Sun.

GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 443-3861. www.glazermuseum.org/ During each SMALLab experience, museum guests can work together to solve puzzles, create stories and character plots, learn about the world, and paint digital masterpieces. GREAT EXPLORATIONS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 1925 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. (727) 8218992. www.greatex.org/

FLORIDA AQUARIUM 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2734000. www.flaquarium.org Explore and learn about marine life at The Florida Aquarium. For all ages. Exhibits, Journey to Madagascar, Wetlands Trai, Bays and Beaches, Coral. Florida Botanical Gardens 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo , 727.582.2100. www. flbg.org Free. Friendly dogs welcome on leash. Closed weekends & County Holidays. FLORIDA HOLOCAUST MUSEUM 55 5th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. (727) 8200100. www.flholocaustmuseum.org Thru September 25 – Helen Suzman Exhibition Thru October 2 – Reflections on Man’s Fate Exhibition Thru January 2 – Women of Ravensbruck Exhibition Fort De Soto Park Tierre Verde. 727.552.1862. www.pinellascounty. org/park/05_Ft_DeSoto.htm 60

Science and humanities exhibits allow visitors to touch, move and actually become part of several pieces. First Sunday of month open special hours for special needs families. August Thru 26 – Totally Tots Gulf Beaches Historical Museum 115 10th Ave, St Pete Beach 727-552-1610. www. gulfbeachesmuseum.com Only museum dedicated to the preservation of history of the local barrier island. Preserving island history for tomorrow’s generation.

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Gulfport History Museum 5301 28th Ave. S, Gulfport. 727-327-0505. www. gulfporthistoricalsociety.org Free Admission HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM 401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606. (813) 2541891. www.ut.edu/plantmuseum The Henry B. Plant Museum, located in the south wing of the original Tampa Bay Hotel, features original opulent furnishings and artifacts from the hotel collected by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Plant. Educational exhibits and events of the late Victorian period, the beginning of Florida’s tourist industry, and the early years of the City of Tampa. THRU DEC 23 - DOGS IN ART. This exhibit brings together paintings, sculptures, textiles, decorative arts and more from the late 19th and early 20th centuries featuring man’s best friend. This fascinating exhibit showcases sporting dogs, working dogs, dogs at play, pets, and in domestic settings.

LOWRY PARK ZOO 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. 813) 935-8552. www.lowryparkzoo.org Lowry Park Zoo, a globally recognized accredited zoological society in Tampa. The 56-acre zoo offers rides, animals and fun. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, 941.366.5731. www. selby.org Mote Aquarium 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, 941.388.4441. www.mote.org Science, Education, Aquarium AugusT 15 – 20 – Shark Days 20 – Fins and Fun Family Festival September 3,10,17,24 - $6 Fridays 10 – Electrify the Island MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY (MOSI) 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617. (813) 9876000. www.mosi.org

FIRST FRIDAY (thru Nov) The Museum will be open with free admission from 5 – 7 pm. Visitors are encouraged to explore thenation’s only Victorian railroad resort hotel museum, enjoy live music on the veranda, and share a treat with friends at a tastings table. Heritage Village 11909 125th St N, Largo. 727.582.2123. www.pinellascounty.org/Heritage Free 21-acre living history museum. New exhibit Boathouse display. Sundays – Speaking of History. October 22 – Country Jubilee

Gaze skyward - Saunders Planetarium. IMAX Dome Theatre. Over 450 Hands-On Activities. Zip Line. To make fun and learning even more open to all continued

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families in Tampa Bay, MOSI is teaming up with Behavioral Consulting of Tampa Bay, the provider of Autism Spectrum Disorder analysis and care. The collaboration will lead to more vital science and math education for a wider range of students in Tampa Bay, more fulfilling time together for families that include children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Dinosaurs in Motion – Limited Engagement Thru September 5 – Blue Star Safety Harbor MUSEUM 329 Bayshore Boulevard South, Safety Harbor. 727724-1562. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/573/MuseumCultural-Center Ghost Tour - Every Sat at 7:30 p.m. History Tours begin at 10 a.m. 727-687-8785 for reservations. South Florida Museum 201 10th Street West, Bradenton FL 34205. (941) 746-4131. http://www.southfloridamuseum.org/ St. Petersburg Preservation Walking Tours Central Ave. & 2nd St, St. Petersburg (Oct. - Apr.) 727.824.7802. www.stpetepreservation.org National Register listed downtown. Free for members. Suggested donation non-members. Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary 18328 Gulf Blvd, Indian Shores. 727.391.6211. www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Seabird-Sanctuary-114523011916137/ Largest non-profit wild bird hospital sanctuary . FREE. Donations accepted. Tours.

TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER 801 Old Water St, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2280097. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org/ Exhibits include coverage of the Tampa Bay area’s first native inhabitants, Spanish conquistadors, and historical figures who shaped the area’s history, as well as a reproduction of a 1920s cigar store.

Through August 28 - Replacing Fort Brooke September 3 – January 8,2017 – Preserving Eden Clyde Butcher Exhibition 21 – OLLI Course – Modern Florida Weedon Island Preserve 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. 727.453.6500, www.weedonislandpreserve.org September 9 – Master Gardener Help Desk 16 – Volunteer Archaeology Lab 17 – Photography Hike 17 – Archaeologists – Stars 24 – Paddle the Preserve Cleanup 24 – Wetland Flowers WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS www.weekiwachee.com/ A natural tourist attraction where underwater performances by “mermaids”, women wearing fish tails as well as other fanciful outfits, can be viewed in an aquarium-like setting in the spring of the Weeki Wachee River. A waterpark, Buccaneer Bay, and boat rides are also part of the attraction.

Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 3301 Gateway Centre, Pinellas Park. 727.579.8226, www.tbauto.org Unique collection of vintage cars and vehicles. Cousteau Society Artifacts on exhibit. 64

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Summer at the World

n incredible lineup of new attractions and experiences are open to guests this summer with magic across all four Walt Disney World theme parks, Disney Springs and beyond. Nighttime experiences awaken at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with stunning animation on the Tree of Life, after dark adventures on favorite attractions such as Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest, Kali River Rapids and more, as well as festive nighttime entertainment across the park. Disney’s live-action film The Jungle Book provides inspiration for a nighttime show, “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic,” that comes to life on Discovery River. Guests can experience the enhanced Soarin’ Around the World attraction at Epcot; the star-studded stage show “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” at Magic Kingdom Park; and the “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The “Frozen Ever After” attraction and Royal Sommerhus, where Anna and Elsa will greet guests in authentically Norwegian-inspired settings, is open to guests at Epcot.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom has new day-into-nighttime experiences that celebrate the magic of nature. The park’s iconic Tree of Life awakens each night amid a celebration of Discovery Island music and dance. Through stunning visuals, animal spirits appear and enchanted fireflies reveal stories of wonder as the tree morphs to showcase the magic of nature. Kilimanjaro Safaris transitions to a new nighttime

adventure in the extended orange glow of a setting sun. For the first time, hyenas and African wild dogs join the safari trail creature feature. Discovery River becomes the stage for music and pageantry in a limited-engagement show inspired by Disney’s live-action film The Jungle Book. “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” is a live show filled with music and special effects that celebrates the new film and the classic songs, now infused with an Indian influence.

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discovery river show

Hungry adventurers can have lunch or dinner at the new Tiffins signature restaurant on Discovery Island. Guests seated in the restausoarin’ AROUND rant’s travel-themed dining rooms or on the THE WORLD waterfront patio can sip libations and savor dishes featuring African, Asian and South American flavors. Across the park, guests can experience wondrous new nighttime experiences and entertainment celebrating marvels in nature and enjoy long-time favorites such as Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, Kali River Rapids and more – in a whole new light.

guests in the new Royal Sommerhus, modeled after a traditional Norwegian cabin. In Future World, guests celebrate the U.S. debut of the expanded Soarin’ Around the World attraction at The Land Pavilion. Now with a third Epcot theater, plus new digital screens and projection systems, the enhanced attraction takes guests on a “flight” above spectacular global landscapes and man-made wonders. Guests can now find new additions at “Turtle Talk with Crush” with characters from Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory”. When Crush the sea turtle swims up to the “Human Tank” at Epcot, he’ll be joined by Dory and some of her new friends that guests will get

Epcot

Anna, Elsa and their “Frozen” friends welcome guests aboard the new Frozen Ever After boat ride in a “Frozen” world at the Norway Pavilion. Passengers on their way to Arendelle’s Winter in Summer Celebration for Queen Elsa visit the ice palace and hear film tunes. Also at the Norway Pavilion, Anna and Elsa greet FINDING DORY

to know better with the new “Finding Dory” movie.

Magic Kingdom

For the first time, Tiana of “Princess and the Frog,” and Rapunzel of “Tangled,” co-star with Anna and Elsa of “Frozen,” and a host of favorite Disney characters in the new Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire. Performed on the grand stage, the tale of friendship presents Mickey Mouse and his troupe – Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck and Goofy – who invite 10 new friends from different animated worlds to join the celebration. This show combines grand dance, fireworks and stunts with memorable music, an original song and special effects. Disney Parks will welcome Elena of Avalor, continued

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Disney Summer Continued

STAR WARS: A GALACTIC SPECTACULAR

Disney’s first princess inspired by diverse Latin cultures. Elena of Avalor will appear at Walt Disney World Resort later this summer and at Disneyland Resort in the fall, following her television debut in a new animated series this summer on Disney Channel. Next door to the legendary Jungle Cruise, guests

film series. The live stage show “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away” celebrates iconic moments from the Star Wars saga with live vignettes featuring popular characters such as BB-8, Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and Darth Maul. First Order Stormtroopers led by Captain Phasma march from Star Wars Launch Bay to the park’s Center Stage, adding menace to the entertainment. Star Wars Launch Bay showcases large-scale artifacts and encounters with characters including Kylo Ren. The re-imagined Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple experience also features new characters. And at Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, guests buckle up for an enhanced high-speed journey with new Star Wars: The Force Awakens characters and a visit to Jakku.

STAR WARS: A GALAXY FAR, FAR AWAY

ELENA OF AVALOR

can enjoy the bold flavors of “World Famous Jungle Cuisine” served by the wisecracking crew of the new Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen. It’s the first Disney full-service restaurant themed after a specific park attraction.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

The next generation of Star Wars-themed fireworks shows, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular,” has new themed fireworks, lasers, special effects and video projections of iconic characters and scenes from the complete saga, all set to the unforgettable score of the

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Disney Springs and Water Parks

As Disney Springs continues to expand and diversify its dining, shopping and entertainment, more tenants are coming onboard, including Anthropologie, Under Armour, kate spade new york, Sephora and

ambience of a sleek lounge; Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, a modern-day “pizza joint” with artisanal pies; and the reimagined, Planet Hollywood Observatory with new outdoor terrace and live entertainment. At Cirque du Soleil’s “La Nouba,” the new B-Boys hip-hop, breakdancing threesome showcases a rare mix of rhythm, strength and “how-did-they-do-that?” moves. The masterful Aerial Bamboo act joins recent additions of madcap clowns and a breathtaking rolla bolla juggling act.

DISNEY SPRINGS EXPANSION Lucky Brand, among others. Other new shops opening in 2016 include Zara, Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, UNIQLO and PANDORA. Disney Springs is shaping up to be a culinary dream. With its chic style and Pan-Asian flavors, Morimoto Asia offers just a taste of what’s to come as more new eateries are gearing up to open in the coming year, including Tablas Frontera by Chef Rick Bayless; Homecoming – Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar by Chef Art Smith; STK Orlando, a modern steakhouse with the

B-BOYS IN LA NOUBA At Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, Olaf from Disney’s animated hit “Frozen,” will be living his “In Summer” dream as he and Kristoff host The “Frozen Games” of friendly, fun competitions that run through Aug. 21. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park castaways can splash down on a sandy summer beach with a cold ale and savory snack after a wild slide on Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster.

MORIMOTO ASIA RESTAURANT

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

Brunch e c n a g e l E l a u s a C D

at Disney World Resorts

on’t plan on heading over to one of Disney’s theme parks early on Sunday, instead make plans to experience one of their amazing brunches at Narcoossee’s (Grand Floridian Resort) or the California Grill (The Contemporary Resort.) This is a relatively new offering at both of these upscale restaurants, and both have tantalizing menus.

Narcoossee’s

If you’ve never been to Narcoosee’s, it’s in a stand alone building near the pool area of the Grand Floridian Resort, and overlooks the beautiful Seven Seas Lagoon. Their regular cuisine features American and Seafood selections, and the Brunch offerings are deliciously creative. For starters, Narcoossee’s Signature Bloody Mary would be the way to go, or a Prosecco or Mimosa is also in order. Some appetizers we sampled were the flavorful Shrimp and Grits with Cherrywood Bacon, and an exceptional Artisanal Cheese Selection with cheese tastes from around the world. So many entrées, our group ordered different ones and shared. We thoroughly enjoyed such delights as Lobster-Egg Benedict, with butter-poached Maine lobster, soft-poached eggs, and hollandaise on a toasted English Muffin; Steak and Eggs with a Black Angus hangar steak, eggs, toast and herb-parmesan fries with truffle aioli; and Chicken and Waffles with crispy-fried boneless breast and thigh, pickles, tabasco-maple honey and sumac-thyme butter. French toast can be bland, but not here. It is made with caramelized apples and bananas with whipped mascarpone cream. Can’t say no to dessert, and couldn’t say no to Narcoossee’s Valencia Orange Bar, a Triple chocolate Cake, and Lemon Blueberry Timbale. All lovely. Narcoossee’s Brunch Hours 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Sundays. Cost $69, $41 ages 3 to 9, Includes one prosecco, mimosa, or Bloody Mary (smoothie for children); house-made pastries, appetizer, entrée, dessert, Classic brunch dishes.

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California Grill

California Grill sits high atop the Contemporary Resort and has a spectacular view of the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and beyond. (If you haven’t been there at night, this is the very best view of fireworks you will find.) Universally highly rated by food critics, the CA Grill delivers the goods with their brunch offerings. They have a gorgeous bounty of self-serve food as well as a made to order menu. Brunch drink offerings are plentiful, with many cocktail choices. Brunch is enjoyed with the accompaniment of pleasant live music. The self-serve display has an interesting charcuterie which includes such items as Orange-Honey Ham, Bison, and Pork Belly Rillettes. Fresh salads such as Kale and Apple with cranberries and almonds, Iceberg Wedge with tomato and bacon, Fregola with crispy sautéed vegetables are just a few of the choices. There’s sushi, sushi, sushi and more of it—beautiful to look at and luscious to eat. A few entrées on the served table-side menu that we sampled—and loved—were the Poached Lobster Benedict with honey ham, hollandaise, and potato mash, and the Grilled Flat Iron Steak with poached eggs, chimichurri, onion and potatoes. Desserts were various yummy cookies including macaroons and chocolate truffles. California Grill Brunch Hours - 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays. Cost: $80; $48 ages 3-11, includes valet parking, one welcome drink, pasties, buffet, one entrée from the a la carte menu, desserts and drinks such as coffee, tea, juices and sodas, signature dishes such as Poached Lobster Benedict.

When you’re planning your Disney World visit, make sure you pencil in Sunday Brunch at one of these memorable restaurants as a special treat to yourselves and your family. Even though this may sound geared towards adults (it is) this is Disney, so children are always welcome and will find food and drink items aimed at their palate as well. For reservations for all Disney restaurants, please call 407-WDW-DINE, and for further information on all, please visit DisneyWorld.com/dine

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ATTRACTIONS continued Orlando Area Orlando’s Magical Dining Month Aug 29 Oct 2 www.visitorlando.com/magicaldining/ Celebrate Orlando’s amazing culinary scene during Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month. Beginning August 29 during a special preview week, and continuing through October 2, select Orlando restaurants will offer prix fixe dinners for just $33. Indulge in imaginative appetizers, entrees and desserts. One dollar from each meal will be donated to The Russell Home for atypical children. The Southern Women’s Show - Sept 15-18 Orange County Convention Center. www.southernshows.com/wor The Southern Women’s Show returns to the Orlando area with over 450 exhibits. The show is recognized as a premier event for women in Central Florida. The show features everything from fashion and accessories to health and fitness, home décor, family lifestyle and all that’s important to women. This shopping extravaganza will be jampacked with cool jewelry and handbags, make-up tips and tricks, delicious gourmet treats and more. Besides the incredible shopping, guests can enjoy runway fashion shows, cooking classes and informed speakers. Special Features: Keegan Allen from Pretty Little Liars appears on Saturday. Taste of Home Cooking Schools – Thurs and Fri, Sept 15 - 16 at 11am on the Cooking Stage. Seating is limited.

Whitney Way Thore from TLC’s My Big Fat Fabulous Life appears on Sunday and will promote her No Body Shame Campaign. Walgreens Pavilion offering samples and coupons; plus free flu shots. Girls Night Out on Fri night with $4 admission after 4 pm. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine (with coupon) and cupcakes from Anna Cakes (while supplies last.) Teacher Appreciation Day on Sat with special discounts for teachers Mother Daughter Day on Sun with hourly prizes, mother daughter cupcake decorating, a braid bar and hula-hoop contest. Meet the Snow Sisters from Frozen on Sunday. Central Florida Firefighters heat up the Fashion and Entertainment Stage each day for charity. Hourly entertainment including fashion shows, cooking programs and educational workshops on the three stages. CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS 3755 NW Hwy 17-92, Sanford, FL 32771. www.centralfloridazoo.org/ See over 500 animals representing 205 species. Take to the sky and enjoy an aerial adventure course, ZOOm Air Adventure Park or bring your flip-flops and swimsuit to cool-off in the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground. See domestic animals in the Children’s Zoo, or see the Southeast’s largest collection of venomous snakes and non-venomous reptiles in the Herpetarium. CIRQUE DU SOLEIL - LA NOUBA Disney Springs. www.cirquedusoleil.com/lanouba Enter the Attic of Make-Believe. A door opens

SOUTHERN WOMEN’S SHOW

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and two worlds collide. The mundane meets the marvelous. Dreams and nightmares intertwine. La Nouba is an unforgettable journey into a world both threatening and exhilarating, frightening and familiar, calling on individual and collective memory, to uncover passions thought to be lost long ago. DINOSAUR WORLD 5145 Harvey Tew Rd, Plant City, FL 33565. (813) 717-9865. www.dinosaurworld.com/florida/ Dinosaur World features over 150 life-size dinosaur sculptures in over 20 acres. Fossil dig, Dino Gem Excavation, Geode Cracker and more. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 445 South Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801. www.drphillipscenter. org/ ESPN WIDE WORLD OF S P O R T S COMPLEX 700 South Victory Way, Orlando, FL 34747. (407) 5415600. www.espnwwos.com/ For pro and amateur athletes, coaches and fans, featuring over 170 events.

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GATORLAND 14501 S Orange Blossom Tr, Orlando, FL 32837. (407) 855-5496. www.gatorland.com/ A 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve located along South Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando showcasing thousands of alligators and crocodiles including four extremely rare leucistic “white” alligators. The freeflight aviary, petting zoo, one of a kind animal shows, natural alligator breeding marsh, and the “thrilling” Screamin’ Gator Zip Line. THE HOLY LAND EXPERIENCE 4655 Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL 32811. (407) 8722272. www.holylandexperience.com Christian theme park. HLE conducts weekly church services and bible studies for the general public. KISSIMMEE AIR MUSEUM - WARBIRD ADVENTURES 233 N Hoagland Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34741. (407) 870-7366. www.warbirdadventures.com/air_museum The Kissimmee Air Museum is located at the Kissimmee Gateway Airport in Kissimmee, FL. It houses vintage aircraft from World War II to the Vietnam War including an outdoor showroom. LEGOLAND www.MerlinEntertainments.biz Imagination Zone - newly re-imagined. LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS - The Book of Creativity action-packed film starring the new LEGO heroes. Build-A-Boat - nautical new attraction at LEGOLAND Water Park. LEU GARDENS 1920 N. Forest Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32803. 407.246.2620. www.leugardens.org annual fall Jazz’n Blues Concert - Sat, Oct 15 - 7:00 - 10:00 pm. Tampa’s very own bluesy Betty Fox Band, Orlando’s jazzy Robert Harris Group and Cocoa’s blues group the Matt Sams Band. The 3 bands will perform in 3 different locations in the botanical gardens. Pack a dinner picnic basket full of your favorite foods and drink, alcohol is permitted. Seating is recommended, either chairs or blanket - this is an outdoor concert event. Sugarbuzz Dezert Company will be selling delectable desserts and locally roasted coffee. Free offsite parking and shuttles available. MADAME TUSSAUDS 8401 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866630-8315. www2.madametussauds.com/orlando/en/ Madame Tussauds Orlando has announced the arrival of Scarlett Johansson and Zac Efron for a limited

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time only - in the attraction’s A-List Party Room. Millions of people have flocked through the doors of Madame Tussauds since they first opened over 200 years ago and it remains just as popular as it ever was. Pose for the paparazzi’s on the red carpet with today’s biggest celebrities.

SEAWORLD / DISCOVERY COVE 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821. (888) 8005447. www.seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-orlando/ MAKO Hypercoaster now open. Mako is a brand new 200-foot-tall rollercoaster. It is Orlando’s tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster, reaching speeds of 73 mph as it races along nearly one mile of steel track.

OLD TOWN 5770 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746. (407) 396-4888. www.myoldtownusa.com/ Old Town is an amusement park with rides and outdoor shopping mall. Wednesday night is the Little Darlins’ Street Party while a cruise of classic cars are the free entertainment every Saturday night. A rock and roll band (specializing in tunes from the 1950s and the 1960s) plays prior to the classic car cruise. ORLANDO EYE 8401 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866228-6438. www.officialorlandoeye.com The Orlando Eye is one of the newest attractions in Orlando and the largest observation Ferris Wheel on the East Coast. ORLANDO SEALIFE AQUARIUM 8449 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866622-0607. www.visitsealife.com/orlando/ Sea Life Orlando will transport you into a magical underwater world filled with a dazzling array of amazing creatures. From face-to-face encounters with sharks, to a hands-on touchpool experience, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy at the newest aquarium in Orlando. Pirate’s Dinner Adventure 6400 Carrier Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. (407) 2065100. www.piratesdinneradventure.com/ Set aboard an authentically replicated 18th-century Spanish galleon measuring 46 feet long, 18 feet wide with 40-foot masts, the ship is anchored in a 300,000-gallon indoor lagoon with night sky lighting. Surrounding the lagoon is a six-sided showroom of six additional ships where the audience is seated. Voyagers on each of the six ships have their own pirate mascot whom they cheer on as the adventure unfolds with a cast a dozen actors, singers and stunt performers engaging in action-packed exploits, accompanied by cannon blasts, pyrotechnics and plenty of laughs. In addition, more than 150 guests have the chance to play an actual role in each show as the evil Captain Sebastian the Black leads his crews of renegades on a swashbuckling adventure before your very eyes.

SeaVenture at discovery cove is an innovative “underwater walking tour” through an oceanic world teeming with marine life. Guests wear a dive helmet to feel at home under the sea, and SCUBA certification is not required. During their underwater excursion, guests come eye-to-eye with sharks; touch unique animals, fish and velvety rays; and are surrounded by schools of feeding fish – all with the massive open reef as the backdrop. UNIVERSAL STUDIOS / ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE / WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER www.universalorlando.com/ Skull Island: Reign of Kong honors one of the most monumental figures in movie history, King Kong. Guests at Universal’s Islands of Adventure can explore ancient temple structures while encountering hostile natives and fending off unspeakable terrors.

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FL EAST COAST DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, Fl32114. 800-748-7467. www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com

SAT, SEPT 10 – Put saving lives in the fast lane at Annual Drive to Donate blood drive at Daytona International Speedway. Race in to the DAYTONA 500 Club from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Donors will receive a voucher for a general admission ticket to the 2017 Subway Firecracker 250 and a special edition T-shirt. You’ll also be eligible for a chance to win two DAYTONA 500 Club ticket packages for the DAYTONA 500 or the Coke Zero 400 if One Blood meets their goals. OCT 13 - 16 - FALL CYCLE SCENE. Experience the excitement as the roar of motorcycles takes over Daytona International Speedway. Visiting motorcycle enthusiasts will enjoy a host of activities both on and off the track including free demo rides, live entertainment, vendor displays, motorcycle racing and much more

is on the Hunt for Heroes. Public can submit videos through August 29 for possible inclusion in the new attraction.

The way heroes are defined in the 21st Century is a focus of the new Heroes & Legends featuring the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame attraction, scheduled to open at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on November 11. In an initiative designed to more fully engage the visitor in their experience, the public is being asked to submit a video about a hero that has inspired them. Select video submissions will be featured alongside NASA’s most famous astronauts and celebrity ambassadors. Video submissions need to answer three questions: Who is your hero, how did they inspire you, and what makes a hero? Once complete, videos can be posted on one of three social media platforms, including Twitter, Instagram or Facebook, using the hashtag #KSCHero. Upload the video to http://bit.ly/1ObQR41. Deadline for entry is August 29, 2016.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER Cape Canaveral, FL 32899. www.kennedyspacecenter.com Kennedy Space Center is the official site for Kennedy Space Center. Visit NASA’s launch complex, astronaut hall of fame, or see a rocket launch all just an hour from Orlando. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

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Events

The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel

3rd Annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest - Sept. 23- Oct. 2

The free festival returns for 10 consecutive days on the barrier islands with a range of star-studded performers. Historic downtown Fort Myers will also feature mid-week performances. For performers and more info, visit www.islandhopperfest.com.

31th Annual Oktoberfest, Cape Coral October German-American Club

This huge celebration includes German culture, food, music and dancing. Highlights include authentic live entertainment with large musical groups from Germany. There is also a carnival area for kids. www.capecoraloktoberfest.com

27th Annual J.N. “Ding” Darling Days, Sanibel Island Oct. 16-22

The event honors National Wildlife Refuge Week and celebrates the 140th birthday of the refuge’s namesake. Family Fun Day kicks off the weeklong birding and ecofestival with free activities, including narrated refuge tram tours, live wildlife presentations, kids nature crafts, a touch tank, a butterfly house, and archery lessons. The Duck Stamp Artist presentation headlines Conservation Art Day and also includes cartooning, a photography tram tour, nature art activities, and free art supplies. Festival-goers can join free biking and birding tours; take advantage of discounted tram, kayaking, and nature boat excursions; and sit in on free talks at the refuge and Tarpon Bay Explorers. www.dingdarlingdays.com

11th Annual Fort Myers Beach Pirate Fest, Fort Myers Beach - Oct. 7-9

ling fun at this jam-packed weekend pirate fest. This family event includes a scavenger hunt, pub quest, sea battles, Blackbeard kid’s show and so much more. www.fortmyersbeach.org/fort-myers-beach-piratefestival-events/

34th Annual Taste of the Town, Fort Myers - November

Join the Junior League of Fort Myers for a great day of food, music and kids entertainment for the 34th Annual Taste of the Town. All proceeds from this event go to support the Junior League of Fort Myers and its projects. www.jlfm.org/?nd=taste

Cape Coral CoCoNut Festival, Cape Coral - November

Sun Splash Family Water Park The Cape Coral CoCoNut Festival celebrates Cape Coral’s reputation for coconuts, multi-cultural food, boating, fishing and wildlife. The festival will feature a national musical act, gymnastic entertainment, carnival rides, water-ski shows, tropical food, contests, coconut crafts, fireworks. www.cocofest.com/

11th Annual Sanibel Island Writers Conference - November 3-6

BIG Arts and the Sanibel Island Public Library This intimate writers’ conference draws acclaimed authors and songwriters, award-winning poets and screenplay writers. The talented group holds small workshops for all levels of aspiring writers who want to follow in their creative footsteps. Participants also enjoy nightly readings and concerts, which are open to the public. The conference welcomes any writer who wants to create new work or refine a project in progress. For details and reservations, 239-590-7421. visit www.fgcu.edu/siwc/

Head to Fort Myers Beach for some swash-buck-

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Festivals Bring Hundreds of Events to St. Augustine, FL

n Florida’s Historic Coast, August and September are the best time to savor summer. Sounds of Summer, an inaugural festival in St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach delivers plenty of fun and entertainment. There are more than 100 things to do during Sounds of Summer, with Sing Out Loud as the feature event. The Sing Out Loud Festival is a celebration of music featuring free concerts by Brandi Carlile, The Indigo Girls, Booker T. Jones, The Travelin’ McCourys and more than 130 additional local and national acts, 150 hours of music, spanning three weekends August 26 through September 11. The concert locations include downtown St. Augustine, St Augustine Beach, St. Augustine Amphitheatre, Ponte Vedra Beach and more. Get the complete schedule and information at www.singoutloudfestival.com This festival is an all-inclusive celebration which encompasses as many musical genres as possible, from the guy with a laptop kicking out crazy electronic music to the five-piece Americana jam session. The celebration of music is free. The inaugural Sing Out Loud is a festival of music combined with art, culture and heritage activities. Along with Sing Out Loud, more than 100 arts, culture and entertainment events are scheduled. Highlights include: Castillo Centennial celebrations; film and performing art productions such as the Broadway classic Godspell; the free Black Heritage and Civil Rights Walking Tour; St. Augustine’s Founding Day heritage event and the Lincolnville Festival; culinary events including the Spanish Wine Festival; sporting events such as The Feel the Love 5K and the World Golf Hall of Fame’s Road to Rio. There are also lifestyle events such as St. Augustine Fashion Week and the Florida Heritage Book Festival. www.soundsofsummerevents.com www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com

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COOL KidStuff www.bewarebandits.com/

Peaceable Kingdom Snug As A Bug In A Rug www.peaceablekingdom.com/

P Medical Alert Wristbands

eware Bandits are simple but effective medical alert wristbands for children with allergies and health issues that children like to wear. These bracelets sport characters that correspond to the child’s allergy or condition to help to easily identify his/her medical challenge. They also a reminder for friends, family, and guardians to keep an eye out for harmful allergic reactions and health issues that a child might have. Some of the medical alerts are for: insect stings, peanuts, eggs, wheat /gluten, shellfish, asthma, Diabetes, Penicillin and more.

eaceable Kingdom makes Preschool Skills Builder games, where everyday tasks — like cutting with safety scissors or recognizing left from right -- are mastered in a cooperative game. Snug As A bug In A Rug is a perfect game for age 3 - 6 to learn colors, numbers, shapes, counting, visual discrimination, taking turns, rolling a die, spinning a spinner, and working cooperatively. To play: Get all the little bugs under the rug before the 3 stink bugs stink up the place. Spin the spinner and find a matching bug. Then slip it under the rug. Take turns spinning and matching and try to get all the bugs under the rug.

Dragonwing Girlgear www.dragonwinggirl.com

ragonwing girlgear wants to empower girls to play their best without worrying about their changing figure or body image through age-appropriate sports attire and underwear including bras, camies, compression shorts and accessories. They are all designed specifically to fit a girl’s figure and to meet the technical demand of the sports she plays. Girls love the fit, appealing design and technical performance presented in a fun, empowering style of sportswear. Dragonwing girlgear was developed by a soccer mom who wanted to help her daughter find a supportive but comfortable line of underwear and help her feel confident.

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ArtLines Events The SHINE St. Petersburg Mural Festival SEPT 1 - 10

Downtown St. Petersburg. shineonstpete.com The SHINE St. Petersburg Mural Festival returns for its second year, showcasing colorful and inspiring public murals by a diverse group of artists from around the world. The festival, which received widespread media accolades in its first year, is a non-profit public art project built in partnership between local artists and community members. SHINE illuminates the power of art in public spaces by revitalizing areas, inspiring dialogue, and uniting the St. Petersburg community. The 2015 festival brought more than 15 new murals to downtown St. Petersburg, created by renowned visiting artists such as Hoxxoh (Miami, FL), 123Klan (Montreal, Canada), and Erik Jones (Brooklyn, NY), as well as local talents including Ya Laâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ford, Carrie Jadus, and Chad Mize. Another exciting new twist this year brings art off the walls and onto the streets, literally, with the Painted Intersection Project. Led by local artist Cecelia Lueza, with help from community volunteers, the project will transform the intersection at Central Ave and 5th Street in downtown St. Petersburg into a dynamic artwork created using traffic paint. PALM HARBOR New Craft Festival - SEPT 10 11 Florida Avenue in Palm Harbor, FL, www.artfestival. com Florida Avenue in Palm Harbor will be transformed into an outdoor craft showcasing the work of 100 of the finest artists and skilled crafters in the country. Admission is free and open to the public. There will be a full spectrum of craft media including photography, pottery, leather items, functional art, stained glass and much more. Craft enthusiasts will be delighted with the eclec84

tic exhibits and shoppers will have a myriad of affordable gift items to choose from. The prices will be set to suit all budgets and will range from as little as $3 to $3,000. Chihuly Collection: A Homecoming - FRI, OCT 14 Central Arts District, St. Petersburg, 727-822-7872. MoreanArtsCenter.org 7-10 pm. The Morean Arts Center will celebrate the homecoming of the Chihuly Collection. Enjoy viewing the collection for the first time in its new location. Experience the new outdoor garden as well as all of the offerings at the Morean Arts Center located across the street. Block Party - Sat, Oct 15 Ribbon cutting 9:30am, coors open 10 am- 7 pm. Enjoy the sites and sounds of the Central Arts District during the reopending of the Chihuly Collection with local eats along Central Avenue and a festive atmopsphere. Museum of Fine Arts 255 Beach Drive. NE, St. Petersburg, 727.894.4638. www.fine-arts.org Thru Oct 9 - SHANA MOULTONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S IMAGINATIVE VIDEOS AND SCULPTURE. Shana Moulton explores our obsession with self-help fads and wellness therapies, as well as consumer culture as a whole. She primarily uses video, with her alter ego Cynthia, who never speaks, as the protagonist. The MFA is featuring all nine installments of her Whispering Pines series, as well as other videos, sculpture, and an opera/performance piece.

thru NovEMBER 13 - From the Heart: Folk Art on Paper. work by Southern selftaught artists. From the Heart features exceptional examples by such gifted artists as Bill Traylor, Thornton Dial, Nellie Mae Rowe, Lonnie Holley,

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ArtLines continued Juanita Rogers, Purvis Young, and Dilmus Hall. Many works would look completely at home alongside those by twentiethcentury and contemporary masters with more formal training.

August thru November 13 - From the Heart - Folk Art Exhibition September 24 – Arts Alive Day 29 – Cinema at the MFA 30 – Mornings with the Maestro Dali Museum One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, 727.823.3767 www.thedali.org Thru Sept 6 - “Dali Revealed”: Candid Moments from the Artist’s Life - This special exhibition includes 48 archival photographs taken by French photographer Robert Descharnes, a close friend and confidant of Dali’s from 1950 through the end of his life in

1989. September 26 – November 27 – Ferran Adria: The Invention of Food Exhibition Tampa Museum of Art 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, 813.259.1720. www.tampamuseum.org Thru Sept 11 - Peter Max Exhibition. 50 Years of Cosmic Dreaming celebrates this 20th century pop culture icon with 90 works spanning fifty years. Max’s use of bold colors and uplifting images has captured and inspired the imaginations of the public from the early 1960s through the 2010s. Thru September 25 – Norma Kamali Exhibition September 24 – CITY – Fashion + Art

Fridays - Art on The House - 4 to 8pm. Saturday - Art Spot for Families Art Lofts Florida Craftsmen Galleries (2nd floor) 10 5th St. N, St. Petersburg. 727.504.8788. www.theartlofts.com Second Saturday Gallery Walk thru August 31 – Vertical Surfaces September 3, 4 – Crafty Fest 17 – Gatsby Gala ARTpool 2030 Central Ave., St PetersContinued.... 86

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burg, 727.324.3878. www.artpoolrules.com Sat, Sept 3 and Sun, Sept 4 - Crafty Fest 11 am - 5 pm. Free. All locally made, vintage and creative items for sale including Etsy artists. Sat, Sept 17 - Gatsby Gala. 8 pm - midnight. Art, music and fashion show highlighting the Great Gatsby era. Wear your best flappers. Carrollwood Cultural Center GALLERY 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. (813) 269-1310. www. carrollwoodcenter.org Thru August - Abigail Chase Miller features works from her tree, aquatic, abstract and photo-realism phases, along with a few animal portraits. Thru August - Artist Ameena Khan will showcase her exhibit, “Loud Print.” The exhibit seeks to shrink the divide and expand the narrative by communicating some of the most intimate thoughts and feelings of Muslim women.

Craftsman House 2955 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, 727.323.2787. www.craftsmanhousegallery.com Gallery-Cafe-Pottery Studio 2nd Saturday Gallery Walk Creative Clay Cultural Arts Center 88

1114 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727.825.0515 / www. Creativeclay.org 2nd Saturday Gallery Walk August Thru September 11 – Electric Eclectic Exhibition September 10 through November 16 – Good Folk Show Invitational Dunedin Fine Art Center 1143 Michigan Blvd. - Dunedin, 34698. 727.298.DFAC - www.dfac.org AUGUST 27 - Wearable ART twelve Fashion Show was one of the first in the area to showcase a growing contingent of artists working in fashion related ways. Emceeing this year’s soiree will be Paul Wilborn and Eugenie Bondurant (most recently – Tigris from The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2.)

Dunedin Wine and Art Walk - 2nd Fri of the Month Pioneer Park, Main Street and Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, 34698. www.2ndfridaydunedin.com/ Celebrate the second Friday of the month as down-

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town Dunedin merchants offer specials and discounts; browse the art exhibits, sip wine at tastings, enjoy food samplings, live entertainment and a drawing. Wristbands to get special offers from merchants and be eligible for prize drawing.

several venues throughout the waterfront district during Art Walks from 6-10 PM, year round.

Florida CraftArt Gallery 501 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, 727.821.7391. www.floridacraftart.org Second Saturday Artwalk AUGUST 26 – October 22 – Mind Matter Florida Museum of Photographic Arts 400 N. Ashley Drive, Cube 200, Tampa, FL 33602, 813-221-2222. www.fmopa.org Gulf Coast Artists Alliance 514 Skinner Blvd. Dunedin. 727.738.8010 www. gcaa-fl.org August 26 – Friday Flicks September 18 – Slam Jam 23 – Friday Flicks Gulfport 1st FRI and 3rd Sat Art WalkS 727-322-5217. Free. Beach Blvd., Gulfport. www. visitgulfporftlorida.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. Live musicians appear at

MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 900 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803. (407) 2464278. www.mennellomuseum.com/ Once the private home of Howard Phillips, son of local philanthropist Dr. P. Phillips. Changing exhibitions featuring American art of all genres and time periods, including original as well as traveling shows. Continued....

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Participating Tampa Bay area museums are: Florida Holocaust Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, and the Tampa Museum of Art. Present your B of A or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card along with a photo ID for free general admission.

MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 445 North Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789. 407645-5311. www.morsemuseum.org/ A collection of the work of Louis Comfort Tiffany as well as fine 19th and 20th century American decorative arts.

Pinellas Park Art Society Park Station Building, 5851 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park. 727.360.4406 www.pinellasart.com Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland, FL 33801, (863) 6887743 www.polkmuseumofart.org Thru SEPT 17 - A Sum of its Parts Sept 24 - Dec 3 - Lessons from the Shadows

MUSEUMS ON US - The First Full Weekend Of Each Month www.museums.bankofamerica.com Bank of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museums on Us offers free weekend access to Bank of America and Merrill Lynch credit and debit cardholders in Tampa and St. Petersburg. 90

Ringling Museum of Art 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, 941.359.5700. www.ringling.org Mondays FREE admissions all day Third Thurs - Ringling by the Bay Fri & Sat - Bayfront Garden Tours Sat - Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quest, Family Workshop Thru Sept 11 - Phantom Bodies Exhibition Thru Sept 25 - Naked Before the Lens Exhibition. Exposure: Naked before the Lens presents the many ways in which twentieth and twenty-first century photographers have presented the undressed human body in their work.

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Horst Photographs Fashion And Surrealism at the Dali Museum thru Sept 6

a Meliss erhaps the most iconic os by s t o h p d it n d a e r e c g fashion and surrealism e a Cover st photos se r photographer of the mid-20th century would Full Ho have to be Horst P. Horst, whose photos graced the covers of Vogue Magazine 94 times. Along the way he befriended the who’s who of the fashion world (i.e. Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli,) and also Salvador Dali, whom he would work and socialize with. Horst’s bold use of contrasting lighting set him apart from other photographers of his day, and his portraiture, nude studies, interiors and still life photography made him sought out by collectors. This extraordinary exhibit at the Dali Museum showcases 180 of Horst’s works throuhout his career, and features his relationship with Dali and Gala. The works are on loan from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, The Horst Estate, The Condé Nast Archive, Richard J. Horst, The Sir Elton John Photography Collection and other private collections. The Dalí Museum is located at One Dalí Boulevard, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. For more information about the exhibit and events surrounding it, call 727-823-3767 or visit TheDalí.org

Susanna Brown, Curator of Photographs at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) enlightens media at an exhibit preview. 92

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Horst directing fashion shoot with Lisa Fonssagrives, 1949. Photo by Roy Stevens Time & Life Pictures. Getty Images.

Summer Fashions, American Vogue cover, 15 May 1941 ½ Conde Nast, Horst Estate.

Peter Tush, Curator of Education at Dali Museum.

Corset by Detolle for Mainbocher, 1939 ½ Conde Nast, Horst Estate.

Horst’s male nudes on loan from the collection of Sir Elton John.

Some of Horst’s magnificent color work.

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by Dr. Lori Verderame

Decorating with Family Heirlooms

here is an overwhelming abundance of home make-over TV shows, and online blogs about redecorating, redesigning, and reconsidering the objects with which we live. Antiques and family heirlooms are front and center when it comes to innovative design. Here are some tips from my experience as a museum director and expert antiques appraiser that might prove fun and interesting.

Ironstone mixing bowl in foyer atop a repurposed chest.

Arrange Collections Architect Mies van der Rohe was onto something when he said, “Less is More.” Even large collections can look organized if they are arranged well. Put antique collections together by size, material, color, or texture. This method shows both a collection’s similarities and differences. Organization of a collection shows that you have given some thought into your collection and into its arrangement. The Front is Foremost When you enter any room in your home, there is one wall that is right in front of you or one wall that you focus on the most. This wall is the starting point for any design concept and in museums it is called the confrontation wall. Aptly named since it is the first wall that you confront. This wall shouts out for something important, big, colorful, bright, or sexy. This is a statement wall. Put your best object right there with pride. Family Friendly If you have an object that has been handed down in the family over the years, consider designing a room around it. If you have your grandmother’s Regina music box dating back to the early 1900s, feature it proudly where everyone can admire it. Is that antique parlor chair from the Victorian period or cut glass punch bowl looking for a new space to show its stuff? Take it out of the living room where it may get lost in the array of other furnishings and make it the featured antique object in a guest room, powder room, or foyer entryway.

Feature a single antique object with family significance like grandma’s 19th Century ironstone mixing bowl in a prominent area of your home. Use objects to let your family history shine. Talk about the origin of these special old pieces and let your history speak through heirloom objects throughout your home. For instance, I have my Father’s war medals proudly displayed in my home library along with World War II literature and military scrapbooks. Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the expert appraiser on the hit TV show, Auction Kings on Discovery channel and Fox Business Network’s Strange Inheritance. Visit www.DrLoriV.com or call (888) 431-1010.

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Gaming Scene Las Vegas T-MOBILE ARENA EVENTS www.t-mobilearena.com/ GEORGE STRAIT - Sept 9 - 10, Dec 2 - 3, Feb 17 - 18, George Strait is the King of Country Music having sold more than 68.5 million records and counting. With 33 different platinum or multi-platinum albums, he’s earned the second most certifications of any artist in any genre, following only Elvis Presley.

Vegas each year to connect, both with other practitioners and themselves. The event is held on a 180-acre nature retreat just outside of downtown Las Vegas and features 30 workshops and styles of yoga. There is also a merchant area for attendees to shop for fitness apparel and health snacks. Life is Beautiful Music and Art Festival - Sept 23 - 25 www.lifeisbeautiful.com Life is Beautiful Music and Art Festival goers will be introduced to more than 3 dozen of the world’s most celebrated music artists set to perform over the threeday weekend. This year’s artists include Mumford & Sons, J. Cole, Jane’s Addiction, The Lumineers, Major Lazer and more. CLINT HOLMES: Between The Lines - thru Jan 14 www.venetian.com

iHEARTRADIO MUSIC FESTIVAL - Sept 23 - 24. The iconic lineup will feature performances by U2, Sting, Drake, Britney Spears, Sam Hunt, twenty one pilots, Billy Idol, Florida Georgia Line, OneRepublic, Sia, Zedd, Tears for Fears, Ariana Grande, Pitbull and Usher. Vegas Gone Yoga! Festival - Sept 17 - 18 www.vegasgoneyoga.com/ Yogis and yoginis from around the region flock to

Clint Holmes: Between The Lines is a musical journey of contemporary hits, traditional standards, and

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Las Vegas cont Holmes’ own songs that connects with the audience. Featuring pianist Christian Tamburr, guitarist Pablo Gadda, saxophonist Rocco Barbato, percussionist Jakubu Griffin, bassist Dave Ostrem, singer Noybel Gorgoy, and keyboardist/vocalist Jamie Hosmer, Between the Lines promises a show as touching as it is lively. This sonic tour de force illustrates the intricate ties between artist, song, and inspiration for Holmes and the band. Tuesdays through Saturdays at 10 p.m. MGM GRAND CONCERTS: www.mgmgrand.com BLACK SABBATH: THE END - Sept. 17. Black Sabbath’s songs deal with social instability, political corruption, substance abuse and war. Releases such as Black Sabbath (1970), Paranoid (1970) and Master of Reality (1971) are looked upon as vanguards, records which influenced artists as varied as Iron Maiden, Metallica and Soundgarden. Ranked by MTV as the “Greatest Metal Band” of all time, they have sold over 70 million records worldwide.

HALL & OATES - Sept 23. With over 60 million albums sold, Daryl Hall & John Oates’ rich repertoire has garnered a total of 8 #1 hit singles along with dozens of hits throughout the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, including “Rich Girl,” “Kiss On My List,” “Maneater,” “Private Eyes,” and “She’s Gone.” DINING AT BELLAGIO: www.bellagio.com HARVEST BY ROY ELLAMAR SNACK WAGON 98

TAKEOVER AT BELLAGIO - Snack Wagon Takeover is a monthly culinary series that allows guests to get up-close-and-personal with their favorite chefs. The interactive event showcases executive chefs from MGM Resorts International resorts as they put their culinary spin on one of the signature wagons. The snack wagon is a cart on wheels that glides through the restaurant, stopping tableside so guests may select exclusive culinary bites from the guest chef’s restaurant. For Snack Wagon Takeover details, including surprise celebrity chef visits from Jean-Georges Vongerichten and more, guests are encouraged to visit Bellagio’s Facebook page. The remaining 2016 Snack Wagon Takeover line-up is: Aug 24 - Noodles Executive Chef Patrick Lee Sept - 14 Todd English’s Olives Executive Chef Brad Skougard

Oct 12 - Lago by Julian Serrano Executive Chef Nico Chessa Nov 9 - Bellagio Executive Pastry Chef Patrick Lassaque Dec 14 - Executive Chef Sean Griffin of Jean Georges Steakhouse at ARIA. Bellagio’s 2016 Executive Chef’s Culinary Classroom - Perfect your culinary finesse at An Executive Chef’s Culinary Classroom. Michael Burns and his team will take guests on a culinary journey while sharing tips and teaching essential techniques along the way. Retro: Thurs, Sept 8 - Assist in creating two decadent classics: Lobster Bisque and Beef Wellington. Thanksgiving Feast: Thurs, Nov 10 - The pros will share secrets to making this year’s holiday feast the best yet at this festive class. Tips to keeping meat juicy and flavorful are just some of the tricks of the trade that are sure to impress at any family gathering. Iconic Fremont Hotel and Casino Celebrates 60th Anniversary 2016 www.fremontcasino.com

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Downtown Las Vegas’ iconic Fremont Hotel and Casino recently celebrated 60 years in business, and will continue its diamond anniversary celebrations every Thursday throughout the summer with kiosk games, dining specials, Slot Dollar drawings and even a special commemorative gaming chip. Fremont’s history began on May 18, 1956, when it opened as one of the first high-rise hotels in Las Vegas. Boyd Gaming assumed control of the property in 1985 when the Company purchased the Fremont and its sister property, the Stardust. MANDALAY BAY - LOST ‘80S LIVE - Sept 10 www.mandalaybay.com/ Bands including A Flock of Seagulls, Wang Chung, Cutting Crew, Berlin, Nu Shooz, Tommy Tutone, Annabells’ Bow Wow Wow and Farrington and Mann the Original “When In Rome UK” will bring back the iconic sounds of the ‘80s for Lost ‘80s Live. Human Nature’S “Jukebox,” at The Venetian Las Vegas - thru Dec 30 www.venetian.com Human Nature’s brand new show “JUKEBOX,” is specially crafted for its home at The Venetian. Australia’s Human Nature has set the Strip on fire and kept sold-out audiences dazzled and dancing during their internationally celebrated “MOTOWN Show.” “JUKEBOX” includes Human Nature’s foursome backed by a dynamic six-piece band and world-class dancers, as

they celebrate a mix of pop classics with doo-wop, boy band with Bandstand, soul standards with Motown… and even some “Uptown Funk.” BAZ - STAR CROSSED LOVE at VENETIAN thru Dec 31. Set in a modern and intimate cabaret, BAZ - Star Crossed Love is a celebration, a mash-up of music, and moments from the greatest love stories imagined by famed director Baz Luhrmann. Inspired by Baz’s most romantic films, Romeo & Juliet, Moulin Rouge, and The Great Gatsby, the show will captivate with soul-stirring music and stunning performances from an ensemble cast of vocalists, actors, and dancers. The Palazzo Theatre. 866.641.7469. House of Blues www.houseofblues.com/lasvegas/ Billy Idol FOREVER - Sept 2 - 3, 7, 9 - 10; Oct 12, 14 - 15, 19, 21 - 22 Billy Idol: Forever features Idol at the top of his game, performing songs from throughout his extensive catalog, including “Rebel Yell,” “White Wedding,” “Dancing With Myself,” and many more. CARLOS SANTANA - Sept 14, 16 - 18, 21, 23 - 25; Nov 2, 4 - 6, 9, 11 - 13

Featuring marathon sets of their classic hits, Vegascaliber audiovisuals, and signature epic guitar solos by founder and namesake Carlos Santana, the band’s Continued....

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Las Vegas cont performances draw rave reviews. HEART - Oct 6 - 8 Heart consists of sisters Ann Wilson and Nancy Wilson. They rose to fame in the mid-1970s, since then selling over 35 million records worldwide. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. LIP SMACKING FOODIE TOURS www.vegasfoodietour.com/ Lip Smacking Foodie Tours was founded by local restaurant industry professionals. With connections and research combing through menus, blogs, editorials, and dining reviews, they’ve uncovered little-known gems and hideaways both on the Strip and off-thebeaten path. The tours introduce visitors and locals alike to the best signature dishes, unique preparations and exciting tastes in Las Vegas. Guides will lead a culinary walking tour to sample buzzed-about dishes. At the end of the tours, guests will leave with valuable tips and recommendations from the guides.

Virtual Tours via Robot at Mob Museum www.themobmuseum.org/ Your next tour of The Mob Museum could be via a robotic device you control from the comfort and privacy of your own home. “Moe-Bot,” a BeamPro telepresence robot will enable Museum guests to “visit” the Museum via their computer screen or mobile device and direct their experience almost as personally as if they were physically there. Introduced as a way to expand the Museum’s audience reach to include anyone who cannot visit the Museum in person, Moe-Bot will be used to enable visitors to participate in live, immersive, interactive, guided tours of the museum by a computer from virtually anywhere in the world. DETOURS Launches Eldorado Mine Tour www.detoursnv.com DETOURS of Nevada adds Techatticup Mine at Eldorado Canyon to their tours. Techatticup, one of the 100

oldest and richest gold mines in the United States, is located about 45 minutes southeast of Las Vegas. At the mine, a tour guide talks about the history of the mine and Eldorado Canyon at the General Store. Once inside the mine guests will be transported back in time to when mining was a way of life for Southern Nevada. Much of the original mining equipment can still be seen. Lionel Richie “All The Hits” at Planet Hollywood Lionel Richie has a Las Vegas headlining residency show, “Lionel Richie - All the Hits,” at Planet Hollywood Resort . The show will feature a set list of Lionel’s brightest and best anthems, including “All Night Long,” “Hello,” “Stuck on You,” “Say You, Say Me” and “Dancing on the Ceiling.” Puppet Up! - Uncensored’ at The Venetian www.venetian.com

“Puppet Up! - Uncensored” was created by Brian Henson and Patrick Bristow (“Ellen,” “Seinfeld,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”) The new unique experience expertly combines dynamic and spontaneous comedy and outrageous scripted story lines with the talent of Henson puppeteers. Hong Kong Cafe at The Palazzo Las Vegas www.palazzo.com The Hong Kong Café is serving lunch, dinner and late night dishes at The Palazzo. The restaurant is brought to life with a dynamic fusion of Asian cuisine and Western fare. Signature dishes include rice roll with XO sauce; Macau-style roasted pork belly; fried fish ball with curry; Chinese sausage and preserved pork belly over steamed white rice; pan-seared scallop with Szechuan pepper sauce; and Vietnamese King Seafood noodle soup; to name a few. In addition, the restaurant also features regional Chinese cuisine, drawing from Cantonese, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, Szechuan and other Asian cooking styles.

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DEAL ME IN with Mark Pilarski www.markpilarski.com/ Video blackjack paybacks are based on skill & rules Dear Mark: I like playing blackjack on the video machines at the casino because I can take my time. However, I don’t like losing all the time. Are my odds better at the table? Are the blackjack video machines just a random number generator programmed for say 90% payback or can they alter payout based on how the customer plays? Raylon R. All video blackjack machines, Raylon, use a random number generator (RNG) software algorithm to determine the game’s outcome. The RNG gives you a random shuffle, whereas your payback percentage is based on your overall play combined with the built-in BJ rules of that particular machine. Video blackjack is typically a one-deck game, and the deck is “shuffled” after each hand rather than playing to a virtual cut card, finishing the hand, and then reshuffling. The advantage of a video blackjack machine versus a live table game is the low minimum bankroll

requirement needed to play. Plenty of 25¢ video blackjack games exist on the casino floor, some that even pay the full amount for a blackjack. What could be affecting your “losing all the time,” Raylon, are video blackjack machines that do NOT pay you the true value of a blackjack (3 for 2). Most machines

pay even money on natural 21s. Because you can expect a blackjack every 21 hands in live play, the loss of that bonus will cost you an additional 2.3 percent. Considering that a live blackjack game has a house advantage of less than .5 percent to the knowledgeable player, this one rule change alone is quite costly. Also, some video blackjack machines round down on blackjack payoffs. If you do happen to find a machine that pays the bonus for a blackjack, make wagers in even amounts so you can get the maximum value of a blackjack (a payoff of $3 for every $2 wagered). Otherwise, Raylon, a dollar wagered will get you just a buck for your snap-

per. Always bet in two-unit increments. Here are a few final tips, Raylon, which should turn your losing ways around. Besides lacking the intimidation factor of a live game, video blackjack makes for an excellent practice session partner where you can work on basic strategy. Basic strategy is nothing more than how you play your hand against the dealer “up card.” Playing your hand correctly, and on a machine that full pays for a blackjack, you can bring the house advantage down to well under one percent. It is important to read and know all of the rules along with complementing playing strategies. For instance, I have seen a video blackjack game that stays on all 17’s, which, by the way, decreases the house advantage by .22%. This same machine allows you to double after the split, split up to three hands, and even allows you to surrender (usually on single deck game) half the bet after your first two cards. These are better playing conditions than most table blackjack games I have seen offered lately. Finally, for the advanced player, most video blackjack machines operate using just one deck and shuffle after every round. If you happen upon one with multiple decks that shuffles when 50 percent of the cards have been used, it is possible to count cards.

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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 Sun Country 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 $299 per person (double occupancy). The flight takes only an hour and fifteen minutes and leaves from the St. Petersburg-Clearwater 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 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.”

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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 888.640.8973. www.beaurivage.com UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT Kenny G - Sept 2 Vince Gill - Sept 22 - 23 The Beach Boys: 50 Years of Good Vibrations - Oct 7 - 8 STYX - Oct 14 ZZ TOP: Hell Raisers Tour - Oct 21

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Looking Good SMATERIA

Fair Trade Bags

materia makes cool and attractive bags, purses and accessories using only re-purposed, up-cycled or recycled materials, including fishing net, plastic shopping bags and leather off-cuts from a sofa manufacturer. The bright-colored, long-lasting bags are designed with Italian flair and made by Cambodian artisans. Smateria’s philosophy is to use materials that already exist or that have been designed for another purpose, and create a whole new accessory. Smateria’s greatest triumph is recycling plastic bags while training and employing women displaced from Phnom Penh under the city’s wave of building and urbanization. Every Thursday, a Smateria employee travels to a shanty village and trains the women to crochet and knit plastic strips. She takes new patterns and templates, oversees their techniques and checks the quality of the products. The women work at their own pace, in their own time for fair wages and safe labor conditions as well as daycare and free school for their children. Every purchase made provides an average of five meals to children in Cambodia.

blowpro Anti-Aging Density Spray

low back time anti-aging density spray mends breakage and visibly restores softness so hair behaves as it should with strength, thickness and vitality. Enriched with an amino ricetein complex, it binds moisture to the cuticle to promote strength, agility and gives hair an overall healthier look. If your hair gets too much sun, blow back can help manage the damage with its natural protective blend, including venucean and sunflower seed extract that “auto-adjusts” to varying levels of sun intensity and environmental stress, reversing the signs of sun damaged hair and bringing it back to life while adding on years of defense. blow back time is free of sulfates, parabens, and sodium chloride, and is never tested on animals. $9.50

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COMPLETELY BARE C

Hair Removal

ompletely bare offers spa-quality hair removal at home with a complete collection of gentle, innovative and highly effective easy-to-use products and formulas, infused with soothing ingredients that provide long-lasting results. Salon Quality Bikini & Body Wax Kit. A low temperature wax designed to remove the deepest and coarsest of hairs. Wax lifts hair as short as 1/6th inch, resulting in smoother skin, less redness & irritation, and minimized bumps. Don’t Grow There Body Moisturizer & Hair Inhibitor. Wonderfully scented with lemongrass & green tea, this body moisturizer contains CB tricomplex and Capislow to help reduce hair density, length, and growth.

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Beach Glam Look Chic at the Beach by Melissa Wolcott Martino

each Glam’s fashion forward accessories are perfect for strolling along the beach or around the resort. If you’re going to travel, why not go Glam? Items are all highquality and beautifully made. Pictured here are just a few of the many products you can find at BeachGlam.com/ This leopard print sarong can be worn as a scarf, a dress, a wrap, or swimsuit coverup. One size; 100% Silk Polyester. $49.99. The sturdy and stylish blue POM POM bag has a hand-woven 100% straw exterior with cotton lining interior and side pocket, and rattan wooden handles. $74.99. The must-have beach hat! This 100% straw hat has a unique white rope design,is soft yet durable, easy to pack, and comfortable to wear all day long. $54.99

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Bucs Bits

by Barbara McGovern

Photos courtesy of Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Welcome Back Buccaneers Fans!

t has been along time since we saw our team in action. There have been a lot of noteworthy things going on at the Bucs. First and foremost we have a new head coach, Dirk Koetter. Coach Koetter has been with the organization as a coach so he knows the sys-

tem and he knows the players, so that should be a big help. Who knows? Maybe Super Bowl will be in our future? From my mouth to God’s ear! The team had an excellent draft that should be another piece of the puzzle. Hopefully everyone will stay healthy and be productive. The past sev-

eral months have seen major changes in the landscape at RJ. When everything is done, I think the fans will be appreciative of all the care that went into new amenities in the entire stadium.

Community involvement

Pediatric Cancer Foundation. As usual the Bucs been very involved in the community. For the past four years they have teamed up with the Pediatric Cancer foundation in an effort to eliminate childhood cancers. Gerald McCoy, Jameis Winston, Donovan Smith, Allie Marquette, Andrew DePoli, Mike James, Charles Sims, Keith Tandy, Danny Vitale, and Brian Ford, among others on the staff, had their beards and their heads shaved by the kids and the survivors of this cruel disease. Free Football Clinic. Gerald McCoy hosted 500 children ages 7 to 14, at a free football clinic. McCoy and his teammates offered instruction with an emphasis on teamwork and discipline. The kids got to see the facility, be around NFL players and coaches and meet people who are at the height of the profession. Changing lives is what Gerald hopes to achieve. Florida Special Olympics. Once again the Bucs hosted the Florida Special Olympics at training camp. Everyone—the special olympians and the players—had the time of their lives. The Bucs have supported military families for many years. Books For Military Children. Vincent Jackson was a child of the military and always been very involved helping the military. Vincent knows that military life can be very hard on the families and on the children. He is always working with the military and he just released one of his new books, a series that he is been doing for military children. BucsSquad Experience. The new “Bucs squad “targets fans 14 and younger. Darcy Glazier Kassewitz unveiled the new BucsSquad experience south of the practice field with a huge Buccaneers

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helmet and interactive activities. It was a memorable day for the kids and their families. The Bucs gave 2000 free tickets to the preseason home against the Browns.

and his wife Lauren are wonderful people. I remember before the Bucs games, Lauren would pray with the players. They have a great family (and lots of them!) I know that Tonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family will be walking in the sunshine wherever they happen to be. We are so lucky to have them in Tampa and I know they will continue to serve the community.

Buc Murals. Buccaneers are updating the huge murals on the corners of the stadium. Jameis Winston and Gerald McCoy were there before and now two new ones are being added, Doug Martin and Levante David.

Poor Warren Sapp, he got bitten by a shark while he was fishing in Keys.I guess he â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ll do anything to grab a headline.

Congratulations to Tony Dungy. He was inducted into the Pro football Hall of Fame in August. Tony is an amazing man. It broke my heart when he was let go by the Bucs. He

Well Bucs fans the time has come to show the team that we are there for them. Siege the Day.

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The “I Wanna Go There!” Travel Page

Natchez, Mississippi N

atchez just might be what most outsiders think of when they imagine Mississippi — from the historic antebellum homes such as Magnolia Hall, Monmouth Plantation, Dunleith, and others (a tour of homes open to the public is collectively known as the Natchez Pilgrimage) to the Natchez National Cemetery, where many Civil War soldiers are buried. Natchez was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi River. It has since seen the state evolve many times. Originally the area was occupied by Natchez Indians, who built mounds and worshipped the sun. Later, Natchez found itself under French rule, then British, then Spanish. Eventually, Natchez became a city of great wealth through slavery and agriculture. That history renders the many relics from that era magnificent in design and scope, but difficult and complex in theme.

Dunleith Plantation