Accent On Tampa Bay #226, Nov/Dec 2016

l a i c e p S s t n e v E y a d i l o H ! e d i s n I n o i t c Se www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Accent

On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 28, Issue 226 Nov/Dec, 2016 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Barbara McGovern Graphic Designers Missy Lynn Contributors Bridget Burke 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: PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

savethemanatee.org

AM PUBLICATIONS St. Petersburg, FL (727) 577-5500

e-mail AccentMagazine@aol.com

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LOCAL FOCUS Thru Nov 22

FREE TACOS IN TAMPA BAY AREA FOR THOSE WHO HELP MILITARY FAMILIES. Dozens of franchise Taco Bell locations throughout the Tampa Bay Area began their annual fundraiser to support the Armed Forces Families Foundation (AFFF), which helps military families in the Tampa Bay area and the southeastern U.S. Diners wishing to support military families may do so by visiting participating Taco Bell locations and purchasing a paper icon for $1 or more. In return for their generous contribution, donors will receive a coupon for a free soft or crunchy original seasoned beef taco. The coupons are good for their next visit and are available while supplies last.

Throughout Nov

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO TAMPA SUPPORTING METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES. During the month of November, Hard Rock guests will have the opportunity to support Metropolitan Ministries. Metropolitan Ministries serves poor and homeless families in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Polk counties. The property will be selling customized limited edition earbuds for $10 with 100% of the proceeds going to the organization. The property will also host a Metropolitan Ministries benefit event on Wed, Nov 30 — a charity slot tournament (2 p.m.), as well as a red carpet ceremony (6 p.m.), a concert by the Matt Billor Duo (7 p.m.) and a check pre-

Compiled by Vicki Kolb

sentation of funds raised for the month (8 p.m.) in Hard Rock Cafe.

Wed, Nov 9

SAPPHIRE SHOWCASE LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW. Fashions from Macy’s will be modeled by physicians and business professionals from St. Anthony’s Hospital. Silent auction.

Proceeds to benefit the hospitals expansion of services. 11am. 727.896.5097. St. Petersburg Yacht Club, 11 Central Ave., St. Petersburg.

FILM TAMPA BAY LAUNCHING 2017 PRODUCT GUIDE AT MIXER AT GASPAR’S GROTTO. Film Tampa Bay today is holding a mixer to launch its 2017 Product Guide; a resource for Tampa Bay crew and businesses involved in the industry of film production. The 2017 Product Guide will feature film crews, equipment rental, transportation, sound stages, post-production facilities, caterers and other support resources, all searchable by category, crew position, name or company. There will be opportunities to learn, ask questions and meet Executive Director of Film Tampa Bay, Commissioner Dale Gordon at the mixer. 6pm – 9pm. www.filmtampabay.com

Nov 10

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF TAMPA HOLIDAY GIFT MARKET. Enjoy the Holiday shopping experience while helping to foster the entrepenuerial spirit of the Junior League of Tampa. 7 – 10 pm Thurs, 9 am – 6 Continued

8 8 V E T E R A N S D AY 8 8 Friday, November 11

Many businesses are honoring active military and veterans on Veterans Day with Free Meals, Discounts, Sales and Deals. Visit the Military Benefits Website for more information. www.militarybenefits.info/veterans-day-discounts-sales-deals-free-meals/ 4

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pm Fri & Sat, 9 am – 5 pm Sun. Special VIP preview packages for Thursday evenings event.

Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall, 4800 US Highway 301 N., Tampa. www.jltampa.org

Nov 10 -13

BLUE 2016. BLUE is a fun 4-day Ocean Film Festival and Conservation Summit jampacked with great ocean related films, breath-taking photography, inspiring keynotes,

captivating art, thought-provoking panels, engaging music, hands-on film & photography workshops, conservation activities and great parties. There are so many opportunities to network with amazing individuals... innovators, emerging talent, ocean icons, thought-leaders, explorers and interesting people from all walks who share common passions and love of the sea. The Palladium Theater, The Mahaffey Theater, Hotel Indigo, & the Lowe’s Don Cesar Hotel - 253 Fifth Avenue North 3400 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach,

Saint Petersburg, FL 33701. www.blueoceanfilmfestival. org/

GREATER PINELLAS COUNTY FAIR.

The Greater Pinellas County Fair is four days of rides, fair food, crafts, animal shows, competitions and live entertainment. Bring the whole family to the Performing Arts Center and England Brothers Park at for a fun-filled day.

Daily events include Modern Midways Carnival Rides, Robinson’s Racing Pigs, National and Local Bands and Polynesian Dancers as well as 4H, FFA and Florida Farm Bureau live farm animals and quilts, fine arts and Family Living competitions as well as a display of entries in the Art Competition in the Performing Continued 6

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Arts Center. There’ll be fun crafts for kids to take home and great Fair Food. 5010 81st Ave. N. in Pinellas Park. www.pinellasfair.org

Fri, Nov 11

THE ARMED FORCES HISTORY MUSEUM VETERANS DAY. On Fri, Nov 11, veterans and their immediate families will receive complimentary admission. Tours will be available for those wishing to receive in-depth information, and coffee and sweets will be served in the museum’s Officers’ Club Quonset Hut. Children from elementary schools will be making thank you cards in advance, which will be distributed to each veteran. The museum will be open from 10am to 4pm. 727.539.8371. www.armedforcesmuseum.com/ I AM FOR THE CHILD. A fun filled evening with food, music, and fine wines. Help lift up the voice

of a child-learn more about the work volunteer child advocates do every day to protect abused, abandoned, or neglected children in Pasco County. Gourmet tastes from: Cornerstone Pizza, Family Butcher and Deli, Johnny Grits, Rose’s Bistro, Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant, and Wright’s Nutrients, and more. Libations from Brown Craft Beers, Cuba Wines, and Florida Estates Winery. Hear inspiring stories from families involved in the Guardian ad Litem Program and enjoy music and dancing. Little Coronas Cigar Lounge, 6324 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey, FL. www.galf6.org/ EVENING WITH DAN RATHER. An evening of thoughtful discussion with Dan Rather.

Rather’s appearance is part of a program Poynter is hosting: the U.S. State Department’s Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists. Rather has called Murrow his “north star” and will reflect on the life and career of this television pioneer while at Poynter. The

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Poynter Institute, 801 Third Street S., St. Petersburg, FL, 33701. Register online at www.poynter.org/DanRather or by calling Elisa Jackson at 727-553-4676, or emailing ejackson@poynter.org

features the best barbeque ribs, national recording artists and kids fun zone. Benefits All Children’s Hospital. This fundraiser helps a variety of youth oriented causes. Touring bands will play classic & southern rock & country hits. On Saturday and Sunday, fun activities for kids - in the Family Fun Zone Hosted by Great Explorations Children’s Museum. Vinoy Park, Bayshore Dr., St. Petersburg. www.ribfest.org 29th ANNUAL SPONGE DOCK SEAFOOD FESTIVAL. Enjoy fresh seafood along the historic Sponge Docks. Featuring tons of fresh local seafood to tempt your taste buds, an art & craft show with up to 60 local and regional artists selling their work, continuous live music, unique retail shops and complimentary festivities for the whole family. Free. Fri - 12:00-9:00 PM; Sat, 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM; Sun, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Sponge Docks, 828 Dodecatese Blvd., Tarpon Springs. 727-322-5217. www.spongedocks.net

Sat, Nov 12

FREE RED, WHITE, & BLUE PANCAKES TO ALL VETERANS AND ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY AT IHOP ON VETERAN’S DAY. IHOP’s classic Red, White, & Blue Pancakes return to show gratitude to the men and women who have served their country. From 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. at participating IHOP Restaurants, all veterans and active duty military will receive IHOP’s world famous Buttermilk Pancakes with glazed strawberries, blueberry compote and whipped topping for free.

Nov 11-12

DUNEDIN WINES THE BLUES. This free event kicks off at 5:30 on Friday with the Official Wines the Blues Kickoff Party in Pioneer Park, partnered this year with 2nd Friday Dunedin Night Out on the Town. Music will be provided by the Kat Crosby Band. On Saturday, a full schedule of live entertainment is scheduled for the Pioneer Park Stage, including the Wendy Barmore Band, Bryan Lee, the Damon Fowler Group and Jonathan Boogie Long. Enjoy additional live entertainment on Saturday night at the East End Stage at The Living Room and on the West End Stage. www. dunedinwinestheblues.info/

Nov 11-13

RIBFEST. Fun-filled three day charity fundraiser 10

ST. PETERSBURG FESTIVAL OF READING.

Books, authors, music and food fill the day. Many book signings and activities for all ages. 10 – 5 pm. Free. USF, 140 7 th Ave. S, St. Petersburg. www.tampabay.com/expos/festival-of-reading TIERRA VERDE WOMEN’S CLUB MARKET IN THE PARK. Seventy vendors with arts, crafts, food and collectibles. 10 am – 4 pm. Free to browse. Tierre Verde Park and Playground, just south of downtown.

20th ANNIVERSARY VETERAN’S BOAT PARADE 10 am opening ceremonies, 11 am boat parade begins. Free to watch, $25 registration per boat includes t-shirt, skippers meeting and luncheon. Departs ROC

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Park, Madeira Beach. This annual tradition honors our men and women who have served our country in a fun and festive Florida tradition. www.veteransboatparade.org 6th ANNUAL WHEELY GOOD TIME. It is going to be a “Wheely Good Time” for a tremendous cause. The event will consist of cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, auctions, raffles and amazing family testimonials.

Maybe even a little magic. This event has become known for the once in a lifetime experiences we put up for auction. In the past, they have auctioned off Meet and Greets with several celebrities including Sir Paul McCartney and Billy Joel. Price Includes 1 free cocktail, premium hors d’oeuvres, goody bag (as long as they last), and drawings. (727) 946-0963. Ruth Eckerd Hall. www.wheelchairs4kids.org/events/ wheelygoodtime2016/

10TH ANNUAL TASTE OF INDIAN ROCKS BEACH Indulge in delicious food from the best restaurants on Indian Rocks Beach, plus beer and live music at Chic-A-Si Park, starting at 4 p.m. Enjoy a large selection of food from area restaurants, food vendors, beer, wine and so much more. There is a little something for everyone of every palate. You’ll find seafood, pizza, pub fare, desserts, frozen treats, and lots more. Try a little bit of everything and get your fill of your local favorites. 4 – 10 pm. Free admission.

Chic-a-Si Park, 380 2nd St. in Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Rocks. www.irbhome.com 2ND ANNUAL PALM HARBOR MUSEUM BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL. Enjoy traditional bluegrass music in a beautiful setting of John Chestnut Sr. Park.

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HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE & BOARDWALK

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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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perform and vendors will be on site to offer taste treats and beverages. Music from by Tommy Holt & Wildwood Valley Boys, Dreamcatcher, Stump Hollow, Big Cypress Bluegrass Band and Penny Creek Band.

Children 12 and under are free. The fun goes down from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. com. Chestnut Park, 2200 East Lake Rd. S. in Palm Harbor. www.PalmHarborMuseumBluegrass.com

bounce house, trains, museum tours, Art Show by East Hillsborough Art Guild, A Standard Garden Show by the Plant City Garden Club, heritage crafts, vendors and a whole lot more. 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

FREE. 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins Street, Plant City FL 33563. 813757-9226. www.facebook.com/37thAnnualPionee rHeritageDay/

12TH ANNUAL HUGS OF FLORIDA FAMILY FUN DAY AND WALK FOR NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS.PROCEEDS BENEFIT HUGS OF FLORIDA, INC. HUGS of Florida, Inc. supports families affected

by Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy, Hydrocephalus and other related Neurological conditions. 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. 727-851-6705. Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL. www.hugsflorida.org/

Nov 12 - 13

8TH ANNUAL DISCOVER THE ISLAND – EGMONT KEY. The event offers an opportunity to peer inside the 158 year old lighthouse, historical re-enactments, entertainment and silent auctions. Monies raised benefit the Egmont Key Alliance which restores, preserves and protects this historic landmark. 9 am – 4 pm. Admission is free, though the island is accessible only by boat. Ferry from Fort DeSoto is $18, 6 – 11 years $9, 5 and under free. www.egmontkey.info or 727.361.7563.

Sun, Nov 13

GEMS AND JEANS BALL: 4TH ANNUAL. An evening of fun while helping some of our communities most vulnerable children. All proceeds go towards the continued support of adoptive children and families through Sylvia Thomas Center. Enjoy live entertainment, great food, beverages and a silent auction in the Old Town venue of Brandon Harley-Davidson.

This event is for ages 21 and over. 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Brandon Harley-Davidson Shop , 9841 E Adamo Dr, Tampa. 813-651-3150. www.sylviathomascenter.org/ 39TH ANNUAL PIONEER HERITAGE DAY. Begin the full day of entertainment with a stroll by southern belles and gents, fun, food, dancing, hayrides,

4th ANNUAL CHOWDER CHALLENGE. Help determine the Best Chowder on the beach while enjoying music, entertainment and friends. This a fund raiser for the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum, Suntan Art Center and Pass-a-Grille Association. 1 – 5 pm. Horan Park, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. www.gulfbeachesmuseum.com

Nov 13 -14

CHI CHI CHARITY CLASSIC. This year’s 37th annual Chi Chi Charity Classic will be the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Chi Chi Youth Foundation. Two days of golf at the Continued

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Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club, including breakfast and lunch at the course. On Sunday evening Chi Chi Rodriguez will join “superhero” local and national business and civic leaders who support the Chi Chi Academy for a “superhero dinner” at the Neilson dining room in Oldsmar, provided by the Baystar Restaurant group. (727) 726-8829 x 246 or mallory@chichi.org

Nov 16 -20

ET CULTURA. Where the creative sights and sounds of authors, artists, theater and film converge within the city. Various times and locations throughout St. Petersburg. www.etcultura.com 8th ANNUAL SANDING OVATIONS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL. Sand sculptors come from throughout the world, representing countries such as Ireland, Netherlands, Singapore, Russia, Lithuania, Canada and the United States compete. Sculptures begin creation on Wed with food court, vendors and entertainment Fri, Sat & Sun. New this year sand sculpting instruction. Free. Treasure Island Beachfront. www. sandingovations.com

Nov 17-19

COREY AVE SIDEWALK SALE. Stroll along the street in search of great bargains as merchants clear the shelves to make room for new holiday merchandise. Entertainment and specials line the street with Sunday Market as well. www.coreyave.com

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Nov 18 -20

26th ANNUAL SUNCOAST JAZZ CLASSIC ROCKS CLEARWATER BEACH.

and the Marriott Suites on Clearwater Beach with trolley service running between the host locations. Performances at the Sheraton will be at Zorch’s Place for Jazz, Haley’s Music Hall and Condon’s Corner, while at the Marriott the music will fill the Al Downing Memorial Hall and the New Orleans Room. The schedule runs from 9 a.m. in the morning to the wee hours of the late night. www.suncoastjazzclassic.com

Sat, Nov 19

The 26th annual Suncoast Jazz Classic features both professional and aspiring jazz musicians in genres ranging from Swing Dance to Traditional Jazz to Youth Jazz and Jam Sessions at five different venues located in the Sand Key Sheraton

TOY TRAIN, COLLECTIBLE & HOBBY SHOW/ SALE. Vendors will be on hand selling various model trains, hobbies collectibles, and diecast cars, and much more. There will be a running train layout. Thomas the Tank Engine video will be playing for kids to enjoy. Take your children to the show. Have a chance to enter a drawing to win a gift certificate to an upcoming show.

9am – 2pm. Columbia Club#1 (Former Knights of Columbus). 5850 K of C Drive, Port Richey, FL 34668. 727-244-1341. www.regalrailways.com

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CHILLOUNGE NIGHT. Celebrating the 80’s & 90’s with music, entertainers, fashion show and fireworks. The park is filled with lounging furniture and giant disco ball for your entertainment pleasure. Monies raised benefit area charities. 6 – 11 pm. $25+. North Straub Park, Beach Dr., St. Petersburg. www.Chilloungenight.com

DUNEDIN CELTIC MUSIC & CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL. Headliners Enter the Haggis from Canada, The Screaming Orphans from Ireland, Off Kilter, Seven Nations, Mac Gilliossa, Whiskey Dregs, and the City of Dunedin Pipe Band.

Music from Noon to 10 pm. Bring a lawn chair and spend the day. Tickets on sale in local Dunedin outlets and online through EventBrite. All proceeds benefit the Scottish Arts Programs of Dunedin. 11 AM to 10 PM. Highlander Park, 1920 Pinehurst Rd, Dunedin, FL. www.dunedincelticmusicfestival.com

enjoyable holiday shopping experience while supporting our local economy. Food, entertainment and prizes. Visit the Gulfport Trolley and find out all that Gulfport has to offer from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Presented by Local Shops 1. 10 am – sunset. Free. South Straub Park, Beach Dr., St. Petersburg. www.shopapaloozafestival.com GUY HARVEY OUTPOST HOSTS “AWAY” LIGHTNING GAME WATCH PARTIES ON THE BEACH AND AT RUMFISH GRILL. RumFish Grill at Guy Harvey Outpost is the “Official Watch Zone” of the Tampa Bay Lightning for ALL away games. Every away game, visitors can register to win a pair of tickets to see the Lightning play at home. The games will be broadcast on a huge screen directly on the beach and ThunderBug and the Lightning girls will be on-hand with fun giveaways. There will also be a DJ and beach games for the whole family. Food and beverages including cookout items and drink specials will be available for purchase. Coolers are not allowed, but fans are encouraged to bring their own beach chairs, umbrellas and towels. TradeWinds Island Resorts is inviting hockey fans to head out to St. Pete Beach for fun-filled, family-friendly Tampa Bay Lightning game watching parties all season long. Must be present to win. Free admission.

Watch Parties on the beach at Guy Harvey Outpost: Sat, Nov 19 – 1:00 p.m. – vs. Philadelphia Flyers; Sat, Jan 7 - 1:00 p.m. – vs. Philadelphia Flyers; Sun, Jan 8 – 1:00 p.m. – vs. Pittsburgh Penguins; Sat, March 4 – 7:00 p.m. – vs. Buffalo Sabres. Parties begin one hour prior to start of game. (727) 367-6461. 6000 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach. www.JustLetGo.com/Lightning

Nov 19 -20

SHOPAPALOOZA PART 1. Featuring over 100 small businesses, artists and non-profits for an 16

TICA CAT SHOW . Cats will compete in 12 different rings, both days. Judges from all around the country judge cats both days. Feline Education and Welfare, learn about different breeds of cats and how to care for them. Fun for all ages. Meet 25+ all breeds of cats. Vendors will have cat trees, cat bed, toys, unique gifts, and much more cat related items for sale. Cats and kittens available for adoption. Raffle table. Food available at hall.

Free Parking. All Breeds of cats, short hair, long

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hair, short legs, hairless, curly hair and straight hair, leopard look alikes, tiger look alikes, may be attending the show as well as a Household Pet Category. 9am until 4 pm both days. Bring can or dry cat food to receive a $1 off discount on donation* admission. Minnreg Hall - 6340 126th Ave North, Largo, FL 33773. (near Honeywell). 727 289-1989. www.skywaycatclub.com

Nov 20

CHANNELSIDE BAY PLAZA - FRESH ARTISAN MARKET. Every 3rd Sunday. 2:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Featuring a diverse range of artisan food vendors, fresh produce, gourmet cheeses, breads, jams, spices, interesting crafts, live music and more. 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa, Florida 33602. www.harbourislandartwalk.com

Nov 24

ST. PETE BEACH THANKSGIVING SUNRISE SPRINT. Fun and rewarding way to begin your holiday by giving back to children’s charities.

Opening ceremony 6:30 am, race begins at 7 am. One Mile Fun Walk $10, 5K Kids $10, 5K Adult $25+. Just behind Paradise Grille, Upham Beach, St. Pete Beach. www.thanksgivingsunrisesprint.com TAMPA BAY TIMES THANKSGIVING TURKEY TROT. More than 17,000 runners participate annually. There’s a race for every skill level, includContinued

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ing one for competitive runners, one for recreational runners, and one for walkers. Top finisher for the competitive races will receive a trophy. Proceeds benefit local charities, including the West Florida Y Runners Club scholarship program. Canned goods and non-perishable food will be collected in the stadium on race day to be donated to the Food Pantry Program at Religious Community Services in Clearwater. Races start at 7 a.m. Start at Keene Road south

of Gulf to Bay Blvd. (except the 5k Fun Run) and end in Jack White Stadium at Clearwater High School. www.tampabay. com/marketing/turkey-trot. page

Nov 25

ST. PETERSBURG TREE LIGHTING AND ILLUMINATED PARK DISPLAYS. Kick-off to the city’s holiday festivities as the Mayor flips the switch and illuminates the city’s holiday

spirit. Entertainment and activities for the entire family. 5 pm activities begin, 7 pm tree lighting. Free. North Straub Park, Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg.

Annua; www.stpete.org

Sat, Nov 26

SHOPAPALOOZA PART 2.

Featuring over 100 small businesses, artists and non-profits for an enjoyable holiday shopping experience while supporting our local economy. Food, entertainment and prizes.

Presented by Local Shops 1.

10 am – sunset. Free. South Straub Park, Beach Dr., St. Petersburg. www.shopapaloozafestival.com

Nov 26 - 27

HUMANE SOCIETY OF PINELLAS PHOTOS WITH SANTA. Bring your holiday spirit, ugly holiday sweater and your pets for Photos with Santa 11am-3pm. 3040 State Road 590 Clearwater, FL 33759. www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org/

DECEMBER 1-4

ST. PETERSBURG POWER & SAILBOAT SHOW. A regional boat show bringing in over 200 boats in-water and 250 marine and electronic exhibitors in beautiful downtown St. Petersburg. With a high concentration of sail boats as well as cruisers, runabouts, fish and sport yachts, the show offers fun activities for the family including educational activities and special events such as boat20

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ing seminars, sailing classes, kids fishing clinics presented by non-profit Hook the Future, musical entertainment, food and a floating cocktail bar. www.showmanagement.com/st-petersburgpower-sailboat-show-2016/event/

Sat, Dec 3

75TH ANNIVERSARY HONOR CRUISE.

PEARL

HARBOR

The next fundraising cruise on Tampa Bay is scheduled for Saturday, December 3, 2016, 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., in honor of the 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor. For more information about the Pearl Harbor Honor cruise, corporate sponsorships, and cruise ticket information, please visit www.AmericanVictory.org or call 813-2288766. Individual donations to the American Victory Ship can also be made at www.gofundme. com/amvic TAMPA BAY TRIPLE THREAT THEATRE (TBTTT) 2ND ANNUAL LUCKY 13 GALA. Festivities will begin at 7pm with wine, beer and heavy hors d’oeuvres (including a pasta bar), Tables filled with prizes from Atlantis Bahamas Resort, Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club, Bright-

house, Kendra Scott, American Girl, Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay Lightning, Soho Images and more. Dance the night away, take pictures or try your luck at one of the gaming tables or slot machines. All proceeds from the Gala will be allocated to sponsor local community schools to attend our theatrical productions, enhance and expand TBTTT’s community outreach program, provide scholarships and resources for educational and cultural development and help fund start up productions. Gala will be at the Nielsen Ballroom in Oldsmar. www.tbttt.org

CHRISTMAS TOY TRAIN, COLLECTIBLE AND 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. The Polar Express video will be playing for kids to enjoy. So come and bring your children to the show. Have a

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chance to enter a drawing to win a gift certificate to an upcoming show of ours. Refreshments for sale. 9am – 2pm. Lopez Hall, 7177 58th Street N. Pinellas Park, FL 33781. 727-244-1341. www. regalrailways.com

Wed, Dec 7

THE ARMED FORCES HISTORY MUSEUM 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF PEARL HARBOR. Seating, presentations and food will be added to the museum’s Pearl Harbor Gallery as the recognition will feature Mike Eversole, military historian, who will provide further facts and information on the day that will live in infamy. Young Naval Sea Cadets will present colors. And, 99-year-old Pearl Harbor and 4-time Kamikaze survivor Wil-

liam “Wild Bill” E. Monfort will engage in up close and personal conversations with guests. “Wild Bill” was at radio control (aboard the USS Claxton a few hundred miles away) on December 7th when he received the message, “Air raid in Pearl Harbor. This is not a drill.” He immediately took the message to the Captain who would be found on the bridge. The Captain took to the PA and announced, “All men to their battle stations.” He spent the remaining time sending out messages in 5-letter group codes. The Claxton made its way to Pearl Harbor where he saw ships still burning.

“Wild Bill” witnessed the USS Oklahoma turned over and saw men as they drilled holes on the bottom of the ship in an effort to save any survivors. 727.539.8371. www.armedforcesmuseum.com

VALSPAR CHAMPIONSHIP To Rock Tampa Bay with TOBY KEITH - March 6-12

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esides 144 of the world’s best golfers competing for more than $6 million in prize money and valuable FedExCup points, the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship offers a free concert by Toby Keith and an expanded array of culinary treats and hospitality venues at the Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor.

The excitement begins with a special run/walk called the HSN Cares Par4Miler to Benefit Moffitt Cancer Center on Sun, March 5 and continues through Sun evening when a new champion will hoist the tournament’s distinctive trophy after battling the difficult Copperhead Course for four days and 72 holes. Last year, that champion was Charl Schwartzel, a former winner of the Masters from South Africa.

The Valspar has been known for great food and drink over the years with the Innisbrook Resort options like Packard’s and Market Salamander Grille available as well as Frenchy’s, Hooters, and Michelob Light among the sponsors. In 2017 there will be a new Food Truck Rally, an Earl of Sandwich kiosk and a new Wine Bar. The Valspar Championship is kid friendly and a major supporter of the U.S. Military. Kids under 15 are admitted free with a ticketed adult and McDonald’s is sponsoring the expanded Family Fun Zone.

Active duty members of the U.S. military also enter the tournament free and have their own hospitality area..

For more information and all ticket packages, visit ValsparChampionship.com. For the latest tournament information, follow the tournament on Twitter (@ ValsparChamp) or Facebook. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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The Centre For Women’s 25th GOURMET FEASTIVAL

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he Helen Gordon Davis Centre for Women celebrated it’s 25th Annual Gourmet Feastival at the A La Carte Pavilion recently and nd a e g a plied their guests with delicious tastes from 40 area restaurants. Music was Cover provided by the Southern Train Band, and the emcee for the evening was Channel 10’s Reginald Roundtree. A silent auction was jam packed with wonderful donated goods, and VIP patrons were treated to some amazing culinary delights provided by Chef William Gideon from the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel/Casino. Solle Rico, Miss Latina Tampa and Thalia, Miss Latina Tampa Jr. lent some extra beauty to the event.

The Centre for Women is a nonprofit, offering an array of programs to help women in the Tampa Bay area by encouraging, educating, and empowering them. For more information visit www.thecentre.org by photos

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Hard Rock’s executive chef William Gideon

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Miss Latinas Thalia (L) and Solle Rico

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Y A D I HOL TS N E V E Tampa Bay

Around

MACY’S 9TH ANNUAL BELIEVE CAMPAIGN, BENEFITTING MAKE-A-WISH - thru Dec 24

www.macys.com/believe Customers can visit their local Macy’s store to drop their letters to Santa into the big red letterboxes or send online at macys.com/believe. For each letter collected in-store and online, Macy’s will donate $1, up to $1 million, to Make-A-Wish, the national organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. In addition to letter writing, this year’s campaign will bring back the National Believe Day on Dec. 9.

FLORIDA CRAFTART - thru Dec 31

www.FloridaCraftArt.org It’s that magical time of year again, and you can expect to be dazzled by Florida CraftArt’s amazing collection of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your holiday list. Experience the ultimate shopping experience with new jewelry, clay, glass, ornaments & more – handcrafted by over 300 of Florida’s most talented artists. Second Saturday Gallery Walks, Nov 12 and Dec 10 5:30-8:30 Florida CraftArt Gallery, 501 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.

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DOWNTOWN ST. PETE FAMILY HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES www.stpeteparksrec.org/holiday-events.html

Santa & Ice Skating in North Straub Park - select days between Dec 3 - 14. Visit Santa in the Park and go “glice” skating on a simulated ice rink in North Straub Park. Both activities typically are from 6 to 9 p.m. on the following dates: December 3 & 4, 8 through 11, and 14 through 23. Skating is $5 for 30 minute sessions. Santa visits are free. Cameras welcomed.

Waterfront Lights and Display - While you stroll along the pedestrian walkway of St. Petersburg’s waterfront, see thousands of holiday lights and decorations in North and South Straub Parks including the unique snowflake lights from Friday, November 25 through Sunday, January 1. Don’t miss the giant greeting card display along Bayshore Dr. at Vinoy Park made by local teens from St. Petersburg’s recreation centers. Lights and decorations by City of St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation.

39th Annual OAKDALE DISPLAY - Thru Jan 3

CHRISTMAS

LIGHT

www.ChristmasDisplay.org This event is among the largest and longest running home displays in the United States. Featuring:

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One-half acre in size; App. 1/4 million lights; A walking yard tour that includes a small pond, several waterfalls & fountains; An 18-train HO scale railroad, with moving planes and carnival rides; Many animated & lit up figures and inflatables; House covered with lights and window cabinet displays; Bubble machines for the kids; Power sources: Three electrical meters; Takes a team about 3 months to install.

Among the top 3 finalists on NBC’s Today Show, featured on HGTV’s All Out Christmas Special and in PEOPLE Magazine.

Beginning Friday, Nov 27 thru Jan 3, 2016, 6 pm to 10 pm, nightly (rain or clear skies). 2719 Oakdale Street S, St. Petersburg, FL .

HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN THE GARDENS - thru Dec 31 www.flbg.org Brighten your holidays by taking in more than 750,000 lights as the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo are magically transformed into a holiday paradise.

Stroll through the brilliant display from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. each night. Nightly live family-friendly entertainment along with special visits from Santa Claus. A donation of $4 is suggested for those 13 and over, while children 12 and under and parking are free. The Gardens will host its annual Gift and Plant Sale on Sunday Dec. 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds go to help the Foun-

dation’s efforts to keep the Florida Botanical Gardens beautiful.

SHOW PALACE CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR - thru Dec 25 www.tampawaterski.com The Show Palace presents favorite memories from Christmas. From building Snowmen to drinking Eggnog, singing Carols as you decorate the tree, hearing your favorite stories or watching children open their gifts, there is something magical about Christmas-time.

Hudson. 727-863-7949.

HOLIDAY EVENTS AT TAMPA THEATRE www.TampaTheatre.org Share favorite holiday films on the big screen with family and friends, and sing along to Christmas carols with the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ before the show.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE Movie (1946) – 7:30pm Friday, Dec. 16; 3:00 & 7:30pm, Saturday, Dec. 17; 3:00pm Sunday, Dec. 18; 7:30pm Monday-Thursday, Dec. 19-22 LOVE ACTUALLY Movie (2003) - 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23 MY THREE ANGELS - Dec 1 - 11 www.franciswilsonplayhouse.org/ Continued

The Staff at

Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine Wishes you all a

Very Joyous Holiday Season & A Happy and Prosperous New Year!

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HOLIDAY EVENTS This classic 1953 Broadway comedy by Sam and Bella Spewack has delighted audiences for decades, with a heartwarming turn of the century Christmas setting. Made famous by the film We’re No Angels, it’s the story of three Devil’s Island convicts who humorously fix the broken lives of a family in conflict, just in time for the Christmas holidays, at Francis Wilson Playhouse.

727-736-1176.

35TH ANNUAL VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS STROLL - Dec 1 - 23 www.ut.edu/plantmuseum/ Experience the warmth and charm of an old-time holiday at Henry B. Plant Museum. Carolers sing everyday at 6 p.m., and warm apple cider and cookies are served to visitors on the museum veranda. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

28th Annual Georgette’s Holiday Fashion Show. The spectacular runway show and elegant luncheon will feature musical entertainment, professional dancers, celebrity models, 50/50 raffle drawings and live and silent auctions. Fox 13’s Kelly Ring will emcee the event, and Russell Rhodes will co-emcee and serve as auctioneer. This Broadway-style show is the perfect start to get you in the mood for the holiday season. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital’s newborn resuscitation room. Doors open at 10 a.m. Fashion show begins at Noon, followed by lunch at the Hilton Downtown Tampa, 211 North Tampa St., Tampa. (813) 872-0979 SUNKEN GARDENS’ JINGLE MINGLE - Dec 2 www.events.stpete.org/events/2997 Enjoy music, wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres under the lights in beautiful Sunken Gardens. 5:30pm 8:00pm. 727.892.5715. 1825 4th Street North, St Petersburg, Florida 33704.

ANNUAL TARPON SPRINGS BOAT PARADE - Dec 2 www.spongedocks.net/tarpon-springs-illuminatedboat-parade.htm Vessels will proceed down the Anclote River and into the bayous where Santa will give out treats. Your best bet for viewing these holiday decorated vessels is from Craig Park/Spring Bayou. The event is free and boats are expected to enter Spring Bayou around 8 p.m.

GEORGETTE’S 28TH ANNUAL CELEBRITY FASHION SHOW - Dec 2 www.sjhfoundation.org See the season’s most trendy fashions during the

SAFETY HARBOR TREE LIGHTING - Dec 2 www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/events-calendar/ safety-harbor-tree-lighting/5437 Bring out the family and friends to enjoy the lighting of Safety Harbor’s giant Christmas tree. Choirs will warm up the crowd for a visit from Santa Claus. The fun starts at 11 a.m. at the John Wilson Park Gazebo, Safety Harbor, FL. Oakdale Christmas Light Display

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HOLIDAY EVENTS ST. PETE BEACH BOAT PARADE AND WINTER FESTIVAL IN THE PARK - Dec 2 www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/events-calendar/ st-pete-beach-boat-parade-and-winter-festivalpark/5624 Don your favorite holiday outfit and head to St. Pete Beach to watch lighted boats parade through our water ways - it’s how we celebrate the holidays in paradise!

The Parade Viewing Party starts at 6 p.m. in Horan Park and includes music, hot chocolate, art projects for children, and a special visit from Santa. Admission is free.

LARGO CULTURAL (CENTRAL PARK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER) HOLIDAY EVENTS www.LargoArts.com Dec 3 - Over one million LED lights and entertainment that will fill Largo Central Park. This family-friendly event is free for all ages. Peruse the Holiday Craft Market, enjoy fun activities and concessions from 6:309:30pm. Christmas tree lighting at 7 p.m. Limited onsite parking for $10 will be available, along with free park and walk from Largo Middle School.

Dec 7 - The California Guitar Trio Holiday Show.

Celebrating their 25th anniversary playing together, the California Guitar Trio will deliver a holiday show at 7:30pm. The California Guitar Trio’s shows are full of captivating stories and humor that enable audiences to feel like they are part of the music.

Dec 17 - Santa’s Holiday Revue.

Dec 18 - A Big Band Christmas featuring The 10 O’Clock Swing Band. An 18 piece big band performs a special holiday show in swinging style at the Largo Cultural Center at 2pm. Your toes will tap as the band plays swinging holiday music for dancing and your listening enjoyment. Largo Central Park is located at 101 Central Park Drive.

CHRISTMAS CAROL AT ST. PETE CITY THEATRE - Dec 8 - 18 www.spcitytheatre.org In one night Bob Cratchit sees his past, present and future come to haunt him and discovers the true meaning of Christmas. Scrooge, Tiny Tim and a host of beloved characters come to life in this new production of the classic holiday story. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the Christmas season with the entire family. 4025 31St. St. South, St. Petersburg, 33712. 727-866-1973 EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD (And Then Some!) - Dec 9 - 18

AMALIE ARENA

Fri, December 2

CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR The CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR is coming to the Amalie Arena at 7:30 PM. The show will be performed with a LIVE Symphony orchestra.

CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR is a funfilled family holiday event featuring the cast of Cirque Musica together with all-time favorite holiday songs performed by a live orchestra. Cirque Musica is a concert and visual experience where audiences journey into a world of high-flying adventure with amazing acrobats, aerialists, hilarious hijinks and holiday cheer, too. The show blends the spell-binding grace and dare-devil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with the sensory majesty of great holiday music.

This is the perfect event for the entire family to enjoy. www.amaliearena.com/events/detail/cirque-musica

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www.wcplayers.org West Coast Players again presents the hilarious send-up by John K. Alvarez, Michael Carleton, and James FitzGerald with original music by Will Knapp.

Rick Bronson, Jason Freeman, and John Timberlake will barrel through just about every Christmas story, movie, or Bass-Rankin TV special you can think of including such beloved classics as A Christmas Carol, Miracle on 34th Street, How The Grinch Stole Christmas, and It’s A Wonderful Life. 727-437-2363 8TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY HOOPLA - Dec 10 www.visitgulfportflorida.com/events/8th-annualholiday-hoopla/ Holiday Hoopla is a celebration of arts, crafts, foods, live music and roving holiday characters set in a waterfront atmosphere amid bright, twinkling, colorful lights.

Stroll the decorated streets of Gulfport filled with talented exhibitors and unique shops. The festival will provide shoppers with one-of-a-kind gifts that cannot be found anywhere else, and all of your holiday shopping can be done in one place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 727322-5217. 3101 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707 ST. PETERSBURG’S ILLUMINATED BOAT PARADE - Dec 10 www.stpeteboatparade.org/ Holiday decorated boats will light up Tampa Bay near downtown St. Pete. The 30th annual parade hosted by the St. Pete Rotary Club will kick off at 6:30 pm. Parade-goers can get a good look all along the waterfront with the best spots will be near Albert Whitted Airport, Spa Beach, Vinoy Yacht Basin and Vinoy Park. Free and family-friendly.

MADEIRA BEACH HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE & ROC PARK CONCERT - Dec 10 www.visitstpeteclearwater.com Lighted and holiday decorated boats will light up the waterways. The parade will kick off from John’s Pass Village on Madeira Beach immediately following the Christmas Tree lighting celebration at 6 p.m., and it will

end at the Madeira Beach Recreation Center (ROC Park).

CHRISTMAS MARKET & PARADE ON ST. PETE BEACH - Dec 11 www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/list/holiday-events Head down to historic Corey Avenue on St. Pete Beach for for a wonderful day of holiday shopping before the Christmas parade. Special holiday vendors will be at the Sunday Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Shop then get a prime spot on Corey Ave to watch the parade. The parade starts at 4 p.m. from Gulf Blvd at Blind Pass heading south to Corey Ave, then east on Corey to Boca Ciega.

TREASURE ISLAND’S LIGHTED BOAT PARADE - Dec 11 www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/events-calendar/ treasure-islands-lighted-boat-parade/5753 Like Las Vegas on the water. This year’s dazzling nautical spectacle features over 70 varieties of boats making it the biggest lighted boat parade in Tampa Bay. Boats will depart from The Club at Treasure Island at 6:20 p.m., sail past the Treasure Island Causeway Bridge at 7 p.m. and end at 8:15 p.m. at John’s Pass.

REDINGTON BEACH & INDIAN SHORES HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE - Dec 11 www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/events-calendar/ redington-beach-indian-shores-holiday-boatparade/5763 Festively decorated boats will meander through the intra-coastal waterways from the Tom Stuart Causeway to the “The Pub” restaurant in Indian Shores. The parade kicks off at 6 p.m. Free and family-friendly.

SYMPHONY IN LIGHTS - Dec 12 - 31 www.theshopsatwiregrass.com/ Lighting of the tree, with a light show choreographed to music and snow. Band and street performers, Santa’s arrival and fireworks. The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. 813-994-2242.

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HOLIDAY EVENTS ANNUAL CANDLELIGHT TOUR OF HOMES - Dec 13 www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/events-calendar/ annual-candlelight-tour-homes/5609 Stroll the brick-lined streets of Historic Old Northeast. Use your map to discover eight festively decorated homes and seasonal music to get you in the holiday spirit. The tour kicks off at Westminster Palm View, 939 Beach Drive NE from 3 - 8 p.m.

GINGERBREAD DECORATING EVENT AT THE DON CESAR - Dec 15 www.redcross.org/news/event/local/centralflorida/Don-CeSar-Gingerbread-House-Event-2015 This unique fundraising event celebrates the holiday season while supporting the American Red Cross. This is a fantastic way to get your creative juices flowing while enjoying the holiday fun. The day not only consists of the gingerbread house decorating contest, but also includes a brunch hosted by Loews Don CeSar, celebrity judges, a live auction of one-of-a-kind items, and thousands of dollars worth of prizes. Don CeSar Resort, St. Pete Beach. 727-515-5958.

SAFFORD HOUSE VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS - Dec 16 www.tarponarts.org/event/annual-safford-housevictorian-christmas/

Experience a Christmas celebration with decorated trees, entertainment, refreshments and a festive holiday gift shop. Tarpon Springs. 727-937-1130.

HOLIZAAR at The Studio@620 - Dec 17

www.thestudioat620.org/events/holizaar-2016 It wouldn’t be the holidays without Holizaar. The ninth annual hand made art and fine craft event featuring the most fun and funky gifts you could wish for.

Over two dozen hand selected artists and crafts people will have their creations available so you can give creative gifts. Support local art and creative entrepreneurs by buying handmade this year. Free admission. 11am - 5 pm. 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701.

727-895-6620.

SAFETY HARBOR HOLIDAY PARADE - Dec 17

www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/ Head over to Main Street in Safety Harbor for amazing floats, old fashioned cars & a visit from Santa himself! The free fun starts at 1 p.m.

LARGO OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS PARADE -

Dec 17 www.largo.com/ Wave and cheer as holiday decorated floats, local dance troups, fire trucks, marching bands, and of course Santa parade through Downtown Largo. Food trucks will be stationed at the end of the parade route Continued

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he annual holiday tradition, Christmas Town, returns to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with more than two million twinkling lights, festive treats, holiday entertainment and unique attractions, including the all-new addition of the beloved Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

ENTERTAINMENT: RUDOLPH’S WINTER WONDERLAND: Meet and take photos with Rudolph, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and Bumble at Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland.

SANTA’S HOUSE: The Claus family invites you into their North Pole home at Santa’s House.

THRILL RIDES AT NIGHT: Some of the best views of Christmas Town can be found atop thrill rides, including the new family spin coaster, Cobra’s Curse.

FAN-FAVORITE SHOWS: Christmas on Ice, Carol of the Bells light show and the Holiday Hills Brass Band.

Christmas Town is open until 10 p.m. on select dates and will close at 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. New Year’s Eve open until 1 a.m. Event is included with annual pass, Fun Card or daily admission to the park. 813-987-5523.

Nov 25 - Dec 31

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HOLIDAY EVENTS

in Ulmer Park. The parade kicks off at noon from the corner of 1st Ave and 4th St SW and circles the brick streets of Largo.

from Santa from 6:30-9:30pm. This event is FREE. Limited on-site parking for $10 will be available, along with free park and walk from Largo Middle School. Largo Central LARGO’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY Park is located at 101 Central Park Drive.

STROLL: LET IT SNOW - Dec 17 w w w. c l e a r w a t e r. c o m / e v e n t s calendar/largos-annual-holiday- ANNUAL ST. PETERSBURG HOLIstroll-let-it-snow/5752 DAY OF THE ARTS - Dec 17 - 18 Bring a blanket to enjoy a movie www.paragonartevents. in the park, play in the snow or take com a stroll around beautiful Largo CenHead to in South Straub Park for tral Park to gaze at the holiday dis- this showcase of local, regional and plays featuring over one million LED national artisans. This outdoor art lights. Enjoy a snow zone and a visit show is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. both

Saturday and Sunday. Admission and parking are free.

ROCKAPELLA

CHRISTMAS

-

Dec 22 www.rutheckerdhall.com Contemporary rock group performs classic and new holiday songs. Capitol theatre, Clearwater.

727-791-7400.

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL - Dec

22 www.rutheckerdhall.com/ This holiday season, see all of their favorite characters, including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph, as they come to life in Rudolph The RedNosed Reindeer: The Musical. It’s a charming adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special.

CHANNUKAH CELEBRATION Dec 27 www.theshopsatwiregrass.com Grand Menorah lighting on the 8th nights featuring entertainment, face painting, balloon artists, hot latkes and more. Shops at Wiregrass, Wesley Chapel. 812-9942242.

GULFPORT NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA - Dec 31 www.visitgulfportflorida.com/ events/new-years-eve-gala/

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dance music will be performed by Otis Velt and the Old School Band as well as DJ James. A full cash bar and drink specials will be available.

Complimentary party favors and a champagne toast are included as the “Gecko Ball” drops at the stroke of midnight! Guests are encouraged to dine at one of Gulfport’s many fine restaurants prior to the event. Late night tapas, provided

by Gulfport area restaurants, will be served at the party after 10:00 p.m.

Dress for the evening is described as “Gulfport Formal,” leaving much to the imagination! Doors open at 8 p.m. and the party rolls on until 1 a.m. 5500 Shore Boulevard South in Gulfport.

valid government-issued ID will be required for entry.

SALUTE TO VIENNA NEW YEAR’S CONCERT - Dec 31

www.rutheckerdhall.com More celebratory than a glass of champagne, Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert is a delight for the eyes and the ears. Welcome 2017 with this elegant concert—celebrating a 20-year tradition in Clearwater.This New Year’s Eve, a new program featuring Strauss waltzes and sweeping melodies from operettas will be performed by a full orchestra, European singers, bal-

WRAP PARTY 2016: ANIMAL HOUSE AT THE TAMPA THEATRE Dec 31 tampatheatre. org Tampa has plenty of swanky champagne-and-sequins New Year’s Eve parties, if you’re into that kind of thing. But for the rest of us who like our celebrating a little more on the irreverent-movie-themed-historic-theatre side...

TOGA! TOGA! TOGA! Tampa Theatre will present its inaugural NYE Wrap Party this New Year’s Eve, from 9:00pm until 1:00am.

The Theatre will be transformed into the Nu Uplison Sigma fraternity house, where Bluto, Flounder, Otter and the rest of the gang from 1978 classic Animal House will throw the most epic house party this side of 2017. Party-goers will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, live music and dancing with party band SeKond Nature, and an open beerand-wine bar all night long, plus the ball drop on the big screen at midnight. Signature themed cocktails and a cash liquor bar will also be available. Bed-sheet togas or Animal House-inspired costumes will be welcomed. (Starting food fights in the majestic movie palace, however, will not.) Guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend, and 36

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let and ballroom dancers. András Deák, conductor (Budapest); Sera Gösch, soprano (Vienna); Dániel Lokös, tenor (Vienna). Featuring dancers from Europaballett St.Pölten (Austria) & International Champion Ballroom Dancers. VIP ticket-holders will watch the concert from the best seats, and are invited to an exclusive post-performance event with the artists. Ruth Eckerd Hall. 8:00 PM.

SWINGIN’ THE NEW YEAR AT THE ST PETERSBURG COLISEUM - Dec 31 Swing.com

www.NewYearContinued

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HOLIDAY EVENTS

Dance your way into the new year at this all-ages event with music by Mitch Woods and his Rocket 88’s Band. Includes a countdown to midnight and a balloon drop, party favors and noisemakers, chocolates, prize giveaways and a cash bar. There is also a vintage fashion photo shoot and contest. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. with a swing dance lesson from 8 to 9 p.m., the party continues until 1 a.m.; 9 p.m. $30; Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave. N., St. Petersburg.

SOJA WITH SPECIAL GUEST COLLIE BUDDZ AT JANNUS LIVE - Dec 31 www.jannuslive.com Kick off the New Year with a live show featuring an explosion of energy and positivity. Originally from the D.C. area, the Grammy-nominated artist’s music is a blend of reggae, go-go, D.C. hardcore, Latin, rock and hip-hop. An all ages concert. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Downtown St. Petersburg.

the New Year’s Eve celebration at Busch Gardens. Admission to the New Year’s Eve celebration is included with a paid admission to the park.

FIRST NIGHT IN DOWNTOWN ST. PETE - Dec 31

www.firstnightstpete.com Join the fun at First Night St. Petersburg’s 23nd Annual New Year’s Eve celebration of the Arts. One of the most anticipated annual events in downtown St. Pete, this family-friendly event features live music, entertainment, drama, dance, games, art, fireworks and more.

First Night will begin at 4 pm with activities for kids in the churches and library, followed by a Giant Sea Creature Procession with Sea Creature Puppets created with the Morean Center for Clay Summer Campers led by the Mt. Zion Drumline and Color Guard at 7:15 pm. First Night will feature many local favorite musical acts such as the David Pate Trio, the Fred Johnson Quartet, the fabulous Lakewood High School Jazz Band, WAHH! World Fusion Band, Uncle John’s Band and Gumbi Ortiz and New Groove City.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT BUSCH GARDENS - Dec 31

www.seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-tampa/ events/new-years-eve-at-busch-gardens/ Enjoy the thrill rides, live music and fireworks during

It will also include Latin Dance Lessons by Simone and DJ Manny, St. Petersburg Opera singers and chamber music, choral and organ concerts. The Dance Stage will feature ballet, tap, Russian Folk dancing, hip hop and urban ballet. In the parks and around town, exContinued 38

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HOLIDAY EVENTS

perience glass blowing demos from Duncan McClellon Glass and hands on art projects with Night Blooming, Hands On Art from the Bloom Arts group and, children’s art activities with the NOMADstudio art bus, Human Foosball with the Rowdies, Tree Climbing with Pathfinder Outdoor Education, ice skating, and much more.

Buttons can be purchased at www.firstnightstpete.com

open bar, gourmet food stations, a DJ, party favors, a champagne toast at midnight, and a great view of the fireworks. Boarding begins at 10 p.m. and the ship will return to the dock by 12:30 a.m. Attendees must be 21 years and up, and are encouraged to wear their cocktail-style best.

TOAST BY THE COAST AT THE TRADEWINDS Dec 31

www.JustLetGo.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS CRUISE - Dec 31 www.yachtstarship.com/

Say “Bon Voyage” to 2015 on a Yacht StarShip Fireworks Celebration Cruise. This event includes

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“Toast by the Coast” takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the TradeWinds Island Grand Ballroom. Partiers 21 and over are invited to don their best duds for an evening of festivities, food, and fun. Live entertainment by Motel Funk, dance contest, access to an open bar, noisemakers for the champagne toast at midnight, gourmet hors d’oeuvres buffet, and a dessert display of chocolate fondue and miniature pastries and fruit tarts make for a fun, fine evening. (727) 363-2258.

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! s d o o M y a d i l o Cool H CDs

STEVEN C Christmas Beyond Piano and Orchestrations Recorded at the Cathedral of St. Paul

C

hristmas Beyond” is a collection of timeless old world Christmas music by pianist Steven C. Recorded in the majestic Cathedral of St. Paul, MN, this album captures the beauty of the deep Cathedral’s acoustics through Steven’s Bosendorfer Grand. The sound is truly rich, lush and from “Beyond.” With touchingly elegant solos piano selections by Steven C, to fully orchestrated songs, arranged by Adi Yeshaya, and with members of the MN Orchestra, “Christmas Beyond” is a moving experience that is deeply transformative. The collection also features music beyond Christmas that evokes the timeless magic that embraces the essence of winter.

THE KING’S SINGERS Christmas Songbook

A

dored the world over for their superlative musicianship, wide-ranging repertoire, and contagious charisma, The King’s Singers follow their recent Great American Songbook album with the Christmas equivalent, on a disc that pays homage to the group’s roots while acknowledging their current passion for swing. Traditional favourites such as White Christmas, In the Bleak Midwinter, and the beautiful Austrian carol Still, Still, Still, jockey for position among modern-day classics like Winter Wonderland, Frosty the Snowman and Sleigh Ride, with a total of 16 tracks on the CD.

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JESSY J

California Christmas

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ith her sizzling mix of hot beats, Latin and samba rhythms and captivating melodies, Mexican American saxophonist and singer Jessy J shares the joys of the season “California” style. This is her first holiday Album with classics like “Little Drummer Boy,” “Feliz Navidad,” “Silent Night,” “The First Noel” and more. Guest artist include Jeff Lorber, Paul Brown, Maurice Smith, and Steve Oliver.

Changi Records

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

Atlantic/Rhino Entertainment

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rans-Siberian Orchestra has released The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve as an audio package. In addition to the tracks already familiar to and loved by TSO fans from the 2001 multi-platinum DVD and long running PBS fundraiser of the same name, this new album version contains a special bonus track, “Music Box Blues. Additionally, to more closely mirror the tale as presented on tour, The Ghosts of Christmas Eve also contains “Christmas Dreams” and “What Child Is This” from The Lost Christmas Eve. The enchanting rock opera follows the journey of a young runaway who breaks into an abandoned vaudeville theater seeking shelter from the cold on December 24.

Once inside, the teen is discovered by the theater’s caretaker who uses the ghosts and spirits from the building’s past to turn her life around.

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daytona beach t

TRAVELOGUE

Story and photos

by Melissa Wolcott Martino & Al Martino

Way More than Very Fast Cars

Thoughts of Daytona Beach conjure up the world famous Daytona Speedway and also Bike Week when all sorts of motorcycles and attending characters converge from all over the country. The mind pictures cars driving along the beach (which is fun, by the way) and a lot of water sports. However, there is a lot more to the area that has an even broader appeal. We discovered another side to Daytona and the drivable nearby towns.

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The Plaza Resort & Spa

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ne of the best, and centrally located resorts, is the PLAZA RESORT & SPA right in Daytona Beach. This beautiful ocean front property has a rich history, having been built in 1895 and catering to the posh crowd. It originally had a casino, and stables for horses and carriages.

Guests were treated to exhibitions and airplane rides in the 20s. But, not to worry, it has been thoroughly modernized through the years, yet kept it’s historic charm. You will find interesting old photos from “back in the day” in the hotel.

Our ocean front room was spacious and had everything one could need, including a full-size refrigerator, stove top, kitchen sink and utensils — not to mention a very, very comfy bed. The room’s sleep-sofa will come in handy if you bring your family with you. A balcony overlooking the pool, resort grounds and ocean is icing on an already tasty cake.

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As I mentioned, the resort is centrally located and only a few minute walk to the Ocean Walk Shoppes with restaurants, and a movie theater. Daytona Beach’s family friendly boardwalk, pier and amusement rides are also a short walk away. Did you know that Florida only has 6 wooden piers left in the whole state? Two of them are on Daytona Beach — the Daytona Pier and the Sunglow Pier, both of which we visited.

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he DAYTONA PIER is next to the amusement area, and houses JOE’S CRAB SHACK RESTAURANT, with a great rooftop deck on the ocean for cocktails and kicking back.

The SUNGLOW PIER is a well-known fishing pier since the 1960s where people can catch a wide variety of fish (king, pompano, flounder, trout, tarpon, shark, etc.) And, it has CRABBY JOE’S RESTAURANT on it, where we had a delicious breakfast — we highly recommend the Shrimp & Grits with cheese grits, andouille sausage, grilled shrimp & chive garnish. Mmm mmm! Crabby’s opens at sunrise every day and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Stroll down the pier and watch the fishermen/women (fisherpeople?) or rent a pole right there and go fishing yourself.

Another stroll from the Plaza takes you to the OYSTER PUB SPORTS BAR & GRILL, Daytona Beach’s largest oyster bar. It has a full menu, but you definitely want to taste one (or some) of their delicious variety of oyster dishes, preferably while taking in some sports action on the 45 TVs spread throughout the place. A few other popular spots to check out in the area are Riptides and Beach Bucket.

Daytona’s MUSEUM OF ARTS AND SCIENCES (MOAS) has a large collection of Cuban and Florida art, also American and European fine and decorative arts, pre-Columbian and African artifacts, Pleistocene fossils, Florida history and regional natural history, and a state-ofthe-art Planetarium. The impressive Cici and Hyatt Brown Florida art collection is the most extensive in the world. A museum within the museum is the Root Family Museum with a large collection of Coca Cola memorabilia. Another addition to the museum is the Visable Storage Museum with a glass-front peek into some of the museums treasures that are in storage until there is more display room. Definitely worth a visit.

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The Sunglow Pier

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The Daytona Pier

Downtown Daytona has a bunch of shops and restaurants, but one must-go-to place is the ANGELL & PHELPS CHOCOLATE FACTORY, which has been making candy since 1925, and still uses the recipes created by the two ladies (Riddell Angell and Cora Phelps) who started it all. Homemade and fabulous. It is a fun place to visit, as you can take a tour of the candy making process and get free samples. They even have a video playing of the famous Ethel and Lucy candy making scene from “I Love Lucy.” No way you walk out of there without buying something!

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Crabby Joe’s Shrimp & Grits

Oyster Pub’s oysters with bacon and melted Monterey Jack cheese.

Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory

Museum of Arts & Sciences

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The Brickyard Restaurant’s Renny Miles and his delicious hamburger

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Daytona Speedway

Racing’s North Turn’s magnificent view

f course, even though there are many things to do in the Daytona area, a visit to the DAYTONA SPEEDWAY is a must. Even if you’re not a big race fan, it’s still fascinating. If you are a race fan, then it’s nirvana.

The Speedway was built in 1958 by Bill France, and it’s the crown jewel of NASCAR. During the year, there are 8 or 9 big races held, with the Daytona 500 being the biggest in the world. Fifty percent of the attendees are from out of state. They did a $400M renovation a few years ago to make it more comfortable for spectators. Seats went from 146,000 to 101,000, and 40 escalators were installed, as well as more modern facilities. We got a kick out of the fact that the seats are different colors so that even if they are empty, it will look like it’s full on TV — and it does!

Tours of the Speedway are available, so, of course we took one. You can experience the 31-degree high banks as the tram drives along turns 3 and 4, and then step on the podium in Victory Lane for a photo op. You end the tour by standing next to the car of this year’s DAYTONA 500 champion, Denny Hamilton (who won by a hair — the closest race in Daytona 500 history.) Pretty cool.

When we finished our visit at the Speedway, we were all fired up with racing, so we headed over to the BRICKYARD RESTAURANT, a favorite hangout of racers and fans since 1961. Kind of fun and funky, there is racing memorabilia galore all over the place, and they are known for having the best burger in Volusia County.

For dinner we went to Ponce Inlet to RACING’S NORTH TURN which sits on the location where racing began literally on the beach in 1936. That was until 1958, when NASCAR relocated to the Super Speedway (now the Daytona Speedway.) This is a really fun place with old beach racing photos, great food, live music, fun cocktails, and a spectacular ocean view, especially as evening approaches.

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ome places of interest beyond Daytona, but close by, are DeLeon Springs, DeLand, New Smyrna Beach, and Ormond Beach.

DELEON SPRINGS STATE PARK is a 625 acre park featuring a clear spring that maintains 72° year round. The depth of the center spring is deceiving at 28 feet. There are Native Americans burial mounds, and a 6,000-year-old canoe sunk in the spring. Swimmers and snorkelers are welcome, and folks can rent canoes, paddleboats and kayaks to skim across the lakes and creeks of the 22,000 acre Lake Woodruff National Refuge.

We took in the beauty of the spring, but then headed to the main reason for the visit, the OLD SUGAR MILL RESTAURANT in a 100 year-old replica of the original 1830s sugar mill. There you can get a great breakfast either by ordering off the menu, or do-it-yourself cooking on the griddle that is in the center of all the family style tables. Best pancakes I ever made (with a little help from their homemade pre-mixed batter and fixin’s.) The restaurant is open until 4 p.m., so you can also get salads and sandwiches.

DeLeon Springs State Park and Old Sugar Mill Restaurant

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DELAND is known for skydiving and hot-air ballooning among other outdoorsy things. Lots of weekend festivals and events. They have a Bike Rally the same weekend as Daytona’s, but more family friendly. It is actually a charming, artsy community with ethnic restaurants and mom & pop shops. DeLand is considered one of the top 100 art towns in USA. Artisan Alley is where old warehouses have been turned into art event spaces. We took a DeLand Historic Mural & Sculpture Walk, which were all completed by Florida artists, and, if viewed chronologically, follows history.

The 1929 Volusia County Historic Courthouse also displays four hundred years of Florida’s history with beautiful paintings by Jackson Walker.

DeLand murals and sculpture walk

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New Smyrna Beach Museum

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Artist at work in the Hub Art Gallery

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EW SMYRNA BEACH’s claim to fame was they had the oldest English colony in the country, established in 1768. Now the (dubious) claim to fame is that it’s #1 for most shark attacks in the world. But for fishermen, it is the redfish capital of the world. It is also a place of art. THE HUB ART GALLERY on Canal Street has 24 studios for local working artists, and over 40 wall exhibit areas.

The artists work in varied mediums including painting, ceramics, photography, glass, jewelry, fiber arts, and sculpture.

Canal Street has even more art, restaurants and the NEW SMYRNA BREWING (NSB) COMPANY. NSB is a micro-brewery and taproom, and they get their hops from all over the world. We stopped in for a beer tasting and sampled 4 of their most popular brews, with titles like Shark Attack IPA, Inlet Amber, Old Fort Coffee Stout, and Disappearing Island Apricot. We both liked the Disappearing Island Apricot’s taste best.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH MUSEUM is just off Canal and houses interesting exhibits mostly pertaining to the history of the area.

We drove over to Flagler Ave for lunch at the GRILLE AT RIVERVIEW for their reputed great food (voted best outdoor dining in Volusia County.) We were not disappointed. If you go, do try the Grille’s delicious Crab Cakes — blue lump and claw crabmeat with onions, peppers and herbs, panko breaded and flash fried — and served with rice pilaf and mixed vegs. All this with a great view of the Indian River. We then strolled down the street and popped into a few of the attractive shops and boutiques before heading back.

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The Grille at Riverview’s Crab Cakes ight miles north of Daytona is ORMOND BEACH, once the winter playground for the mega rich. Built in 1913, it was home to the world’s richest man, J.D. Rockefeller. His home called “The Casements” is modest by billionaire standards, and can be toured for free. Interesting note, J.D.’s worth today — adjusting for inflation — would be $340B. Yes, that’s B for Billion. He makes Bill Gates (the current richest man) look like chump change.

Across the street is the TOMOKA STATE PARK with a scenic loop, nature trails and a canoe launch.

If you visit Ormond Beach between December and March, you may catch a glimpse of the North Atlantic right whales and their calves. That’s on our to-do list.

New Smyrna Beach shops Ormond Beach is also home to a delightful Italian restaurant, FRAPPES NORTH, under the helm of Chef Bobby Frappier. Dishes are made with all fresh ingredients, with organically grown produce. Chef Bobby has fun and informative cooking classes and wine tastings. For our last night of our Daytona trip, we had a wonderful dinner of Lemon Basil Shrimp at Frappes. After which we took a short stroll down the street to the huge outdoor KONA TIKI BAR with live music, lively people and plenty of tasty drink concoctions.

We shall return soon since there’s plenty more to see and do in Volusia County.

Kona Tiki Bar

Frappes North Lemon Basil Shrimp

IF YOU GO...

ANGELL & PHELPS CHOCOLATE FACTORY - www. angellandphelps.com/ BRICKYARD LOUNGE & GRILL - www.brickyardlounge. com/ CRABBY JOE’S DECK & GRILL - www.crabbyjoesdaytona. com/ DAYTONA SPEEDWAY - www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/ DeLAND - www.discoverdeland.org/ DeLEON SPRINGS STATE PARK - www.floridastateparks. org/park/De-Leon-Springs

FRAPPES NORTH RESTAURANT - www.frappesitaliangrille.com THE HUB ON CANAL - www.thehuboncanal.org/ KONA TIKI BAR - www.grindgastropub.com MUSEUM OF ARTS & SCIENCES (MOAS) - www.moas. org/ MUSEUM OF ART DeLAND - www.moartdeland.com NEW SMYRNA BEACH BREWING COMPANY - www. newsmyrnabrewing.com/ THE OLD SPANISH SUGAR MILL - (386) 985-5644 OYSTER BAR - www.oysterpub.com/menu PLAZA RESORT & SPA - www.plazaresortandspa.com RACING’S NORTH TURN - www.racingsnorthturn.com/

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he Humane Society held their Golden Paw Gala recently at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort on Clearwater Beach. Attendees enjoyed a delicious sit-down dinner, silent auction, live auction, and mingling — all while raising money to benefit the Humane Society of Pinellas. The event was to honor lissa the volunteers that serve the organization so well. Some adorable adoptable e M y tos b nd pho pets were also in attendance strutting their stuff. For more information on the a e g a Cover Humane Society and upcoming events, visit www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org

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THEATER & MUSIC AMALIE ARENA 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa 813.301.6500. www.amaliearena.com NOVEMBER 16 - Carrie Underwood 26 - Dolly Parton 30 - Barbara Streisand DECEMBER 2 - Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular AMERICAN STAGE 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg 727.823.7529. www.americanstage.org/

NOVEMBER Thru NOV 20 - TARTUFFE. Orgon, a wealthy American businessman entrusts his reputation and his fortune to up-and-coming politician, Tartuffe. As the cunning and lusty imposter insinuates himself deeper into his household and his family, the status quo of Orgon’s world gets turned thoroughly and hilariously upside-down.

5, 10 - George’s Marvellous Medicine 20 - Improv House Teams LIVE DECEMBER 4 - Hawk & Wayne’s 10 - 24 - It’s A Wonderful Life - Radio 18 - Improv House Teams LIVE Continued

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arbra Streisand will bring her legendary live performances to the Amalie Arena in Tampa, November 30 as part of her THE MUSIC…THE MEM’RIES…THE MAGIC! tour. The tour marks Streisand’s first ever appearances in Tampa, which supports her new duet album, The Music…The Mem’ries…The Magic! The only recording artist or group to achieve number one albums in each of six decades, the show features Streisand performing her hits from each decade and other favorites, including from her latest number one album, “ENCORE: Movie Partners Sing Broadway,” celebrating a career of unparalleled creative achievement. The best-selling female recording artist, Streisand has recorded 52 gold, 31 platinum and 13 multi-platinum albums in her career. She is the only woman to make the All-Time Top 10 Best Selling Artists list. Streisand also has the longest span of number one albums in history, just under 52 years. www.amaliearena.com

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE NOV 15 - JAN 1 - “Guys And Dolls” kicks off Asolo Rep’s 2016-17 season. In this Tony Award-winning musical, the bright lights of Broadway illuminate author Damon Runyon’s iconic American characters and their quest for love and luck. 5555 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243. www.asolorep.org

CAPITOL THEATRE 405 Cleveland Street, Clearwater 727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com/Venues NOVEMBER 11 - Olivia Holt 12 - Ottmar Liebert 15 - Eric Johnson 18 - Shaun Hopper Trio 27 - David Crosby & Friends DECEMBER 8 - A Peter White Christmas 11 - John Tesh Grand Piano Christmas 16 - The Outlaws

20 - Rockapella Christmas JANUARY 26 - Leon Russell CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa

CARROLLWOOD PLAYERS THEATRE 4335 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 813.265.4000. www.carrollwoodplayers.org/ NOVEMBER 10 - 19 - PROOF. A young woman named Catherine’s father is dead. She has cared for him for years through bouts of mental illness.

He also happened to be a genius professor of mathematics. Now, her absentee sister is home, and one of her father’s students is combing through his work looking for a game-changing mathematical proof. Can Catherine trust these people? Can she even trust herself? Is her father’s fate her own destiny, or can she find her own place in the world?

CENTRAL PARK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 105 Central Park Dr, Largo. 727.587.6793. www.larContinued

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he Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time - Nov 8 - 13

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME, winner of five 2015 Tony Awards® including BEST PLAY, has be hailed as “One of the most fully immersive works ever to wallop Broadway” by The New York Times, this “dazzling” (Associated Press) adaptation is the Tony Award-winning new play by Simon Stephens, adapted from Mark Haddon’s best-selling novel and directed by Tony winner Marianne Elliott.

Fifteen-year-old Christopher has an extraordinary brain; he is exceptionally intelligent but ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. When he falls under suspicion for killing his neighbor’s dog, he sets out to identify the true culprit, which leads to an earth-shattering discovery and a journey that will change his life forever.

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

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he eternally beautiful ladies of Heart enchanted the crowd during their stop at the Ask MidFlorida in Tampa FL accompanied by veteran rocker Joan Jett along with newly inducted Hall of Fame members Cheap Trick while on the Three for all tour in September.

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t goarts.com NOVEMBER 4 - 15 - How to Succeed in Business 16 - The Four Freshmen 19 - Carl Palmer’s ELP Legacy – Remember Keith and the music of Emerson, Lake & Palmer.

COCONUTS COMEDY CLUB 5501 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach 727.360.5653. www.coconutscomedyclubs.com Open Mike on Tuesdays. Shows: Wed - Sat, 9pm

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.

THE COLISEUM 535 4th Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727.892.5715. www.stpete.org/coliseum Tea Dances resume with special guests from Suncoast USA Dance celebrating 25 years. Live music begins at 1 pm. BYOB drinks and snacks. Tea Dances are the first and third Wednesday of each month. October through May. NOVEMBER 10 - YMCA Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast EARLY BIRD DINNER THEATRE 13355 49th St N, Clearwater, FL 33762. 727.864.7600. www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com THRU DEC 18 - A Nice Family Gathering. The story about a man who loved his wife so much, he almost told her. It’s Thanksgiving Day and the first family gathering at the Lundeen household since the Patriarch died. At the gathering, Dad comes back as a ghost with a mission; to tell his wife he loved her, something he neglected to tell her while he was alive. After all, they were only married for 41 years. The problem is, she can’t hear or see him. The trouble begins when Mom invites a date for dinner.

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

FLORIDA ORCHESTRA 727.662.7286. www.floridaorchestra.org See venues for dates – Mahaffey Theater, Ruth Eckerd Hall & David Straz Performing Arts Center FLORIDA OPERA FESTIVAL Straz Center for the Performing Arts, 1010 North W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa, Florida 33602 www.operatampa.org NOVEMBER 17 - Opera Tampa Singers - Donatello’s

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. Power, sex, ambition, greed... it’s just another day at the office in this classic musical satire. Big business means big laughs in this delightfully clever lampoon of life on the corporate ladder. HOW TO www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 1241 North Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236. (941) 366-9000. www.floridastudiotheatre.org NOV 11 - JAN 1 - Million Dollar Quartet. Filled with electric sounds and unforgettable characters, Million Dollar Quartet tells the story of legendary music icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins coming together for one unforgettable night.

FREEFALL THEATRE COMPANY 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727.498.5205. www. freefalltheatre.com Thru NOVEMBER 6 – Assasins GLENRIDGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota 941.552.5325 www.gpactix.com

GULFPORT COMMUNITY PLAYERS www.gulfportcommunityplayers.org *Back Door Theater, 1619 49th St. S, Gulfport NOVEMBER 3 - 13 - Over the River and Through the Woods JANNUS LIVE 200 1st Ave. North, Saint Petersburg, Florida 33701. www.jannuslive.com/29 NOVEMBER 10 - Toots and the Maytals 12 - Elle King 19 - Badfish (Tribute to Sublime) Badfish’s mission, throughout their career is to bring the awesome music and message of Sublime to their spirited fans. Badfish tries to revive the Sublime experience by keeping faithful to their down-to-earth, punk rock attitude. Badfish’s philosophy is to spread good vibes, and create a concert experience that surges with energy and originality.

JIMMY FERRARO At Sparton Manor, 6121 Massachusetts Avenue, New Port Richey, Fl 34653. 727-409-0293.

JANUARY 8 - My Big Fat Italian Wedding Murder! an interactive murder mystery / musical / comedy. (the action will surround you). Welcome to the wedding reception of Angelica Pasquale and Francesco Giavanni.

The guests arrive to celebrate the festive occasion and as the doors to the banquet hall open ... MURDER is on the MENU. Can you figure out who dunnit? YOU BE the DETECTIVE!!! Great food, singing, dancing and fun. 3 course sit down dinner and show. 1:30pm.

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JOBSITE THEATER Shimberg Playhouse, Straz Center for the Performing Arts. 1010 N. W.c. Macinnes Place, Tampa . 813229-7827. www.strazcenter.org Jan 11 - Feb 5 - WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S AS YOU LIKE IT.

As You Like It will be set in present-day Tampa.

2015’s Twelfth Night, set in 1926 Ybor City, was one of Jobsite’s most successful productions of all time and the company is equally hopeful for this classic tale of love, lust and mistaken identity. Featuring some of the most famous lines penned in the English language, As You Like It subverts the traditional rules of romance. Gender roles, nature and politics all become a muddle in a clever and astute comedy that reflects on how bewildering yet utterly pleasurable life can be.

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t MAHAFFEY THEATER 400 1St St. S, Bayfront Center St. Petersburg, 727.892.5767. www.themahaffeytheater.com NOVEMBER 11 - Tracy Morgan 12 - TFO - Songs of the Sea 13 - Odd Squad Live 15 - Pet Shop Boys MATINEE OPERA PLAYERS Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center. 64th Way, Pinellas Park. www.facebook.com/MatineeOperaPlayers MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPHITHEATER - Florida State

Fairgrounds 4802 Us Hwy 301 813.740.2446. www.ticketmaster.com DECEMBER 3 - 97X Next Big Thing

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ORPHEUM 1915 E. 7th Ave., Tampa

THE PALLADIUM 253 5Th Ave N, St. Petersburg. 727.822.3590. www. mypalladium.org

PATEL CONSERVATORY 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa. 813.222.1002 www.patelconservatory.org Dance / Theater / Music / Adult Classes Continued

Catching Up with Celtic Thunder

by Barb McGovern

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ecently I spoke with Neil Byrne, one of the original members of Celtic Thunder. I had interviewed Neil several years ago when he was in Clearwater, and I wanted to see what the group had been up to since then. Their current tour was the longest tour they have done in the states, and by the time it ends they will have done 72 concerts in various cities. In addition they toured for a month in Australia, plus shows in Ireland and Europe.

Celtic Thunder has been entertaining people all over the world since 2007. Several members are original, Neil, Ryan Kelly and Damian McGinty. When I first interviewed Damian about 9 years ago in Tampa, he was a small 15 or 16 year-old with braces. Now he’s pushing 25 and is well over 6 ft. and back with the group after spending time on the hit TV show “Glee.” George Donaldson was a major force in the group. He

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was a bit older than the rest of the “boys” so he was like the Dad of the group. George died very suddenly a few years ago just after his last tour in Clearwater. The group said the are still trying to process George’s death and during the shows the still feel his presence. RIP George.

Celtic Thunder has had amazing success. They grew to be a worldwide sensation in part because of PBS. Now their millions of fans flock to see all their concerts, buy all their recordings and videos and look forward the their cruises. It’s interesting to see the make-up of the audience, from tots to teens, mom and dads and grannies. Their music speaks to everyone even if they’re not Irish!

When Celtic Thunder comes to your area, do yourself a favor and get tickets. You won’t be sorry. Also check your PBS stations to see their shows.

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t POWER STORIES THEATRE 2015 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa FL 33606. 813-2532000. www.powerstories.com RUTH ECKERD HALL 1111 N. Mcmullen Booth Rd, Clearwater . 727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com NOVEMBER 11 - KANSAS - In celebration of Kansas’ breakthrough album Leftoverture, the band is on a 40th Anniversary Tour. Kansas’ brand new song is “With This Heart” from the band’s new studio album The Prelude Implicit ­— the first new album release in 16 years for the band that has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, and is famous for classic hits such as ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ and ‘Dust In the Wind,’ to progressive epics like ‘Song for America’ and ‘Miracles Out of Nowhere.’

12 - AJ Finney 17 - Josh Sneed 25 - Rahn Hortman A SIMPLE THEATER The Biniger Theater, Eckerd College. 4200 54Th Avenue S, St. Petersburg. 727.864.7811 www.asimpletheatre.org NOVEMBER 15 - The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance 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 DECEMBER 8 - 18 - A Christmas Carol ST. PETERSBURG OPERA COMPANY 727.823.2040. www.stpeteopera.org Various performance locations NOVEMBER 10, 11 - Opera’s Top Ten DECEMBER 18 - 19 - Seasonal Sparkle

13 - TFO - Songs of the Sea 16 - TFO - Gilbert & Sullivan 18 - PYS Holiday Chamber Ensemble 19 - Bob Dylan 20 - TFO - Great American Pops 29 - Dave Koz Christmas Tour SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. 941.359.0099 ext.101 www.sarasotaopera.org NOVEMBER 12 - The Secret World of Og SIDESPLITTERS COMEDY CLUB 12938 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33618 .(813) 960-1197. www. sidesplitterscomedy.com/ NOVEMBER 10 - Gilbert Gottfried *Special Event*

SARASOTA BALLET 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota 941-359-0099. www.sarasotaballet.org Oct 28 - 30. A variety of styles and the versatility of the company including the company premiere of Antony Tudor’s Continuo, resident choreographer Ricardo Graziano’s new work Sonata in Four Movements and the revivals of Dominic Walsh’s Wolfgang for Webb and Joe Layton’s The Grand Tour.

NOVEMBER 7 - Principle Film Series

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t 813.374.2416. www.stageworkstheatre.org THE STUDIO @620 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701. 27-8956620. www.studio620.org STRAZ CENTER 1010 N. W.c. Macinnes Place, Tampa . 813.229.Star. www.strazcenter.org NOVEMBER 8 - 13 - The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime 11 - TFO - Songs of the Sea 12 - Greg West 14 - Joe Pug

to succeed, Shrek must battle an even bigger obstacle: learning how to believe in himself and open his heart to others.

URBAN PHOENIX STUDIOS www.urbanphoenixstudios.com/ 813-419-0799. 2002 E 5th Ave, Suite 103, Tampa, FL 33605. NotYourGrannysVaudeville@gmail.com NOV 11, DEC 2 - Not Your Granny’s Vaudeville. A spectacle of short acts that are too clever to edit, too giddy to censor. Twenty-first-century sin inhabits the classic forms: comedy, songs, burlesque, and dirty wordplay (soap not provided). Starring KathySings4u, and burlesque triple threat Miss Vulva Va-Voom.

URBANITE THEATRE 1487 Second Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. www.urbanitetheatre.com NOV 11 - DEC 18 - MY BARKING DOG. Two reclusive apartment dwellers’ unfulfilled lives take a turn for the bizarre when a hungry coyote begins to visit their fire escape. This brush with wildlife incites them to embrace their animal instincts as they bond with their untamed visitor. by Eric Coble. Contains mature themes.

Viewer discretion is advised.

VAN WEZEL 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.953.3368. www.vanwezel.org

SUNCOAST DIXIELAND JAZZ SOCIETY 727.596.7142 www.sdjs.org NOVEMBER 18 - 20 - Suncoast Jazz Classic

WEST COAST PLAYERS 21905 Us 19 N. Clearwater 727.437.2363. www.wcplayers.org NOVEMBER 4 - 20 - A NICE FAMILY GATHERING is a story about a man who loved his wife so much, he almost told her.

It’s Thanksgiving Day and the first family gathering at the Lundeen household since the Patriarch died. At the gathering, Dad comes back as a ghost with a mission.

TAMPA BAY SYMPHONY 727.827.8087. www.TampaBaySymphony.org Performances in various locations TAMPA BAY TRIPLE THREAT THEATRE Center for the Arts at Wesley Chapel, 30651Wells Rd, Wesley Chapel, FL 33545. 813-969-0240. www.tbttt. org NOV 19 - Shrek The Musical Jr. The family-friendly musical comedy follows the adventures of an ogre named Shrek who sets off on a quest to save a princess from a dragon. However, it turns out that in order 66

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ampa Bay Times Masterworks MOZART’S JUPITER SYMPHONY - Nov 4 - 6. Michael Francis conducts Mozart’s greatest symphony, No. 41, “Jupiter,” along with brilliant young violinist Benjamin Beilman on Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 1. Also: Stravinsky’s Symphony in C. Get the full stories at the pre-concert conversation, one hour before the performance in the concert hall.

FAMILY CONCERTS - Nov 5, 12. TFO’s Fall Family Program will introduce children Michael Francis to the violin and cello through instrument demonstrations and the familiar tale ofThe Three Little Pigs. Will the big, bad wolf catch the little pigs this time? Or will the pigs get away by the hair on their chinny-chin-chins? Come find out! Join us 30 minutes before the performance for the Musical Petting Zoo and other fun children’s activities. Admission is pay what you can at the door, but space is limited so please arrive early to guarantee your seats. Admission is pay what you can.

Inside the Music INSIDE DEBUSSY’S LA MER - Nov 10, 7:30 pm. Dive deeper into Debussy’s La Mer with a talk by Music Director Michael Francis as the orchestra plays musical demos. A performance of the full work follows. University of South Florida Music Center Admission is pay what you can.

Maren Weinberger

Tampa Bay Times Masterworks 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. Also: Jake Heggie’s The Work at Hand. Michael Francis conducts. Get the full stories at the pre-concert conversation, one hour before the performance in the concert hall.

Coffee Concert GILBERT & SULLIVAN - Nov 16 - 17. Enduring gems from Gilbert and Sullivan classics like H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance and The Mikado, featuring vocalists Maren Weinberger, Joel Malina and John Dooley. Stuart Malina conducts. Join us for the pre-concert conversations at 10 am.

Raymond James Pops GREAT AMERICAN POPS: FROM FIEDLER TO WILLIAMS - Nov 18 - 20. A night of hits that honor the great tradition of American pops, with music the great Arthur Fiedler made famous including composers Leroy Anderson, John Philip Sousa, George M. Cohan, Gershwin, and the master of modern film scoring himself, John Williams. Bob Bernhardt conducts.

The Florida Orchestra: The Florida Orchestra regularly performs at the Straz Center in Tampa, Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Masterworks and Pops tickets are $15, $30 and $45. Rock concerts are $35, $50 and $65. Buy at floridaorchestra.org or 727.892.3337 and 1.800.662.7286. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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COOLSTUFF!

BOOK

Unlikely Friendships: DOGS 37 Stories of Canine Compassion and Courage

by Jennifer S. Holland

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nhanced with beautiful full-color photographs, these true stories of camaraderie, affection, and remarkable bravery are from the author of the New York Times bestsellers Unlikely Friendships, Unlikely Loves, and Unlikely Heroes.

Meet Rex, a German shepherd who learned to love and trust again through the improbable friendship of a goose.

The pit bull named Dolly, whose antics with her best friend, Sheldon the tortoise, include games of tag.

For the millions of dog lovers, this heartwarming and inspirational book celebrates 37 stories of unusual canine companionship.

Jennifer S. Holland is a contributing writer for National Geographic. She has also written for, among others, The Discovery Channel, NPR, and The New York Times, specializing in science and natural history.

Workman Press www.amazon.com/

BOOK

MELVIN The Sad...(ish) Robot

Mascot Books www.amazon.com/

by Joshua Margolis

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elvin the Sad...(ish) Robot is a story about one robot’s longing for love and happiness. Melvin wakes up each morning with a familiar sense of sadness and loneliness. He goes to school each day to learn how to be a fixer bot, but as much as he loves what he is learning, he is failing all his classes. He has friends that ask him to join in on fun activities, but he has trouble accepting their offers for fear of new experiences. What happens one day when he gathers the courage to confront those obstacle? Will he succeed? Will he fail? Fall in love with Melvin and find out.

Joshua Margolis is an artist and educator living in the San Francisco Bay Area. He teaches ceramics to children and adults by day, and works on creating monsters and robots out of clay in the evening. His work has been shown in many galleries throughout the country.

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YANNI

CD

Sensuous Chill

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anni is a true global artist - a multiple Grammy Awardnominated composer, multi-instrumentalist, producer and performer whose extraordinary body of work has both pioneered contemporary instrumental music and reimagined the live concert-going experience. Yanni’s new album, Sensuous Chill, is a lush sonic experience featuring 10 brand new tracks. The album sees the visionary musician exploring new realms of sound and creativity inspired by his world travels. Tracks like the rhythmic “Desert Soul” and the bhangra-spiced “Dance For Me” offer a new sonic perspective on his adventures and experiences.

Portrait Records www.amazon.com

CD

BETTE MIDLER: THE DIVINE MISS M•DELUXE

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hino Records revisits the early days of Bette Midler’s incredible career with a deluxe version of her iconic 1972 debut album, The Divine Miss M. The collection features a remastered version of the original album, including the Top 40 hits: “Do You Want To Dance” and “Friends,” as well as the Top 10 smash, “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” Co-produced by Barry Manilow, The Divine Miss M was released in November 1972, reached the Top 10 on the album chart, and was later certified platinum by the RIAA. The following year, Midler won the Grammy Award for “Best New Artist.”

2-CD set that includes the remastered album, plus a bonus disc of singles, outtakes and demos, as well as new liner notes written by Midler.

www.amazon.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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TAMPA BAY FERRY & TAXI

had a sneak peek experience on the new Tampa Bay Ferry Service that began October 28th, in conjunction with the John’s Pass Seafood to o h p d Festival at Hubbard’s Marina. This alternative route for getting around the beach age an Cover area is convenient and fun. Cruise the intracoastal and see the beautiful homes that line the waterway, along with exciting wildlife spottings — you are almost guaranteed to see dolphins playing in the boat’s wake at some point.

The brand new ferrys, under the helm of Captain Mark Hubbard, run Friday through Sunday to nine designated locations: Hubbard’s Marina – Madeira Beach; 135th Ave Beach Access – Madeira Beach; Elks Lodge – St. Petersburg; Madeira Beach Marina – Madeira Beach; Madeira Beach Rec Center – Madeira Beach; American Legion –St. Petersburg; Jungle Prada Park – St. Petersburg; Middle Grounds Grill –Treasure Island; Gators Cafe & Saloon –Treasure Island.

Different fare prices include one stop, or hop-on-hop-off all day. And yes, there is a bathroom on board.

Locations, and more info can be found at www.tampabayferry.com/madeira-beach-taxi-route/ a

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Captain Mark Hubbard

Approaching the Jungle Prada dock.

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The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation FIRST ANNUAL GALA

he Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation held their first annual Gala in September at the TradeWinds resort in St. Pete Beach. The mission of the foundation is to serve the greater Tampa Bay area lawenforcement by securing and providing financial resources to support leadership, education and training, research programs, and provide financial educational assistance in the form of scholarships to local students seeking education in a criminal justice related field.

The 2016 scholarship recipients were Brooke Leistl, her father is retired from the Tampa PD, Christin Hutchinson from Pinellas Park and Anthony J Spada a TSA officer.

The following awards were presented to Officer of the Year, Sgt. Stephen Wannos, Clearwater Police Department. Deputy of the Year was awarded to Deputy Alicia Dominquez, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Agent the Year was awarded to Deputy United States Marshal Roger DeVall, US Marshals Service. Community Oriented Policing Program of the Year went to the High Point community policing unit, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. Law Enforcement Business Partner of the

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Year went to Tom Dobies, Dobies Funeral home.

The foundation thanks all the presenting sponsors for their help in making the evening such a success. The next event that the foundation will hold is the 11th annual Phil Lebid’s Memorial Golf Tournament on Dec. 5 at the Avila Golf and Country Club. Tickets are available at www. chiefsfoundation.org . All proceeds benefit the Gold Shield Foundation and the Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Education and Research Foundation.

A new campaign of the Tampa Bay Area of Chiefs of Police Association is Consent Florida.

Rape is the silent scourge of America. While a robbery occurs once every 42 minutes, a murder once every 33 minutes and a sexual assault occurs once every five minutes of our country.

Law enforcement wants to spread the moral, ethical and legal concept of CONSENTFLORIDA to public schools, college students and Bay area residents through school resource officers and public service announcements. The message of CONSENTFLORIDA is easy to understand, yes equals Consent, no equals NO, it’s really just that simple.

For information please contact www.

CONSENTFLORIDA.org

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Chief Anthony Holloway

2016 Scholarship recipient TSA Office Anthony Spada with his wife.

2016 Scholarship recipient Brooke Leistl with her father, christin Hutchinson.

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ATTR ACTI ONS & M U S E U M S E V E N TS TAMPA B AY A RE A

stand and appreciate Florida’s rural heritage.

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.

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.

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 under76

DR. CARTER G. WOODSON AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 2240 9th Ave.S, St. Petersburg. www.woodsonmuseum.org EGMONT KEY SHUTTLE Hubbard’s Marina, Ft. DeSoto Co. Park. RSVP; 727.867.6569. www.hubbardsmarina.com/egmont 727.893.2627 www.egmontkey.info NOVEMBER 12, 13 - Discover the Island 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 Closed weekends & County Holidays.

NOV 25 - DEC 31 - HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN THE GARDEN. Open every evening with the gardens decorated in an array of dazzling holiday lights. live entertainment and a visit from santa. 5:30 - 9:30 pm. $4 suggested donation.

FLORIDA HOLOCAUST MUSEUM 55 5th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. (727) 8200100. www.flholocaustmuseum.org Thru JANUARY 2 – Women of Ravensbruck Exhibition FORT DE SOTO PARK Tierre Verde. 727.552.1862. www.pinellascounty. org/park/05_Ft_DeSoto.htm One of the world’s best beaches. Guided Nature Walks – Sat & Sun.

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usch Gardens Tampa Bay’s newest member of the gorilla troop in the Myombe Reserve habitat is “Oliver”, a male endangered western lowland gorilla, born on Aug. 18 and is being cared for by 28-year-old mother, Mary, who came to Busch Gardens in February 2010. The sire is 10-year-old Bolingo, who was born at Busch Gardens in 2005. This successful birth makes a total of seven gorillas that call Busch Gardens Tampa Bay home.

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elcome Berisi, a young Malayan tiger cub, born in September at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo to mom, Bzui. The two have been bonding and nursing in a den for months, and the cub has ventured outside to explore her surroundings. This is the first chance guests have gotten to see the rambunctious cub, which has a TON of energy from relaxing in her den for so long.

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fter over a year of pregnancy, “Ubi,” an endangered Malayan tapir at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, gave birth on Sept. 10 to her third calf, a girl named “Tengahari,” which means “noon” in Malay – the time she was born. She is a sibling to “Tembikai” - the male calf born at the Zoo in January 2015. This species is facing a number of threats, primarily due to human development and habitat loss.

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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.

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.

NOVEMBER 13 - Chowder Challenge

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/

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.

FIRST FRIDAY (thru Nov)

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 78

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www.stpete.org

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.

NOV 5 - Farm City Day NOV 26 - DEC 31 - Holidays at Heritage Village Enjoy a nostalgic stroll through time as Heritage Village is decked out for the Holidays. Normal operating hours. Free.

LOWRY PARK ZOO 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. 813) 935-8552. www.lowryparkzoo.org NOV 25 - DEC 30 - Christmas in the Wild. Select evenings. A magical holiday event in the unique setting of the Zoo at night. Festive lights, Holiday carolers, holiday music and more. Lowry Park Zoo is 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 MONDAYS - Yoga in the Garden Thru NOVEMBER 27 - Selby’s Secret Garden Exhibition CONTINUED

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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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NOVEMBER 9 - Selby’s Secret Garden Keynote

MOTE AQUARIUM 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, 941.388.4441. www.mote.org Science, Education, Aquarium MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY (MOSI) 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617. (813) 9876000. www.mosi.org

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).

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

Gaze skyward - Saunders Planetarium. IMAX Dome Theatre. Over 450 Hands-On Activities. Zip Line.

To make fun and learning even more open to all

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NOVEMBER 5 - SNOOTY’S GALA - “STARSTRUCK”. 6:00 pm Welcome Reception, Raffles and Silent Auction Packages are Open. 7:30 pm - Dinner by Michael’s On East. Dance to the sounds of Serenade of Soul in the Spanish Plaza. Open Bar, Black Tie, Complimentary Valet Parking. 201 10th Street West, Bradenton FL 34205. (941) 746-4131. www.southfloridamuseum.org/

orating a small plastic pot filled with garlic, basil, and oregano. For ages 4+.

NOV 19, 10:30-11:30 a.m. – “Nature Photography 101” Learn 10 tips to take better photos using Sunken Gardens’ flamingos, butterflies, turtles, flowers, and more as your subjects.

Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 Fourth Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. For more information call 727.551.3102.

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.

NOVEMBER 10 - Happy Hour w/ Historian 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.

NOVEMBER 5 - Downtown Walking Tour 12 - Waterfront Tour 18 - Lunchtime Tour 19 - Historic Gulfport 26 - Westward Ho!

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.

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.

SUNCOAST SEABIRD SANCTUARY 18328 Gulf Blvd, Indian Shores. 727.391.6211. www.seabirdsanctuary.com Located on the Gulf Coast, the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary is staffed by experienced professionals and dedicated volunteers who share the same committed goal of rescuing and rehabilitating sick, injured, and orphaned birds. Largest non-profit wild bird hospital sanctuary. FREE. Donations accepted. Tours.

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 NOV 5, 10:30-11:30 a.m. “Plant a Pizza Pot” Get your pizza garden started right by planting and dec-

NOVEMBER 9 - Florida Conversations 12 - Walk Tampa - Ybor City 17 - Sunshine in the Dark - Florida in the Movies TAMPA THEATRE 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2748981. www.tampatheatre.org/

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A restored classic theatre showing modern independent and classic films. Pre-show Wurlitzer organ concerts.

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.

WEEDON ISLAND PRESERVE 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg.

727.453.6500, www.weedonislandpreserve.org NOVEMBER 3 - Salty Topics 18 - Rainwater Harvesting WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS www.weekiwachee.com/

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21st EPCOT INTERNATIONAL

FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

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Thru November 14

he 21st Epcot International Food & Wine Festival features global and specialty cuisine, refreshing new beverages and three live concerts nightly. The festival at Disney’s Epcot theme park also showcases 30 global marketplaces including four new Future World marketplaces featuring fresh culinary concepts to pair with select wines, beers, cocktails and other beverages. Rockin’ Burger Block Parties and Party for the Senses grand tastings will take place at World Showplace during the festival run.

Eat to the Beat concerts feature entertainment ranging from rock and soul to funk and blues. Concerts take place at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. daily. The remaining lineup includes: Boyz II Men, Sister Hazel, and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

During Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak festival scavenger hunt, guests can help Remy scour the park for the ingredients to make his signature dish, ratatouille. Along the way, they’ll find Remy statuettes hidden in each of 11 countries of the World Showcase and at the African Outpost location. Guests can redeem the stickers they’ve collected for one of the special pins at Select merchandise locations.

ABC’s Emmy Award-winning lifestyle series, “The Chew,” broadcasts from the festival for the second year and participate in one of the new Future World festival marketplaces, The Chew Collective. Celebrity chefs and visiting culinarians from 10 countries and 26 U.S. states participate in the festival at culinary demos, book signings, and special tasting events and dinners.

The 21st festival features new marketplace dishes cocktails, beers, wines and ciders. At marketplaces and premium events, more than 300 domestic and international wines are offered. More than 50 wineries and more than 35 breweries from around the world, including local craft beer operations, are represented at festival marketplaces.

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HOLIDAY FUN!

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eck the halls! Walt Disney World Resort is turning up the yuletide magic with new shows, spectaculars, beloved characters to create lasting memories, festive holiday treats, and theme parks and resort hotels all aglitter with holly, jolly decorations.

MAGIC KINGDOM

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Disney princes join princesses at Princess Fairytale Hall. Meet Nick and Judy from “Zootopia” in Tomorrowland. The special party – complete with cookies, cocoa and snow flurries – begins at 7 p.m., after regular park hours on select dates. Mickey and his pals host some of their friends for a Christmas soiree filled with medleys of delightful classic and contemporary holiday songs, and magical holiday projections on Cinderella Castle. The holiday parade transforms Main Street, U.S.A. Santa Claus, gingerbread men, elves, reindeer, toy soldiers and other friends from the North Pole join Mickey and his pals. Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf from “Frozen” join in the fun. The wintry wonder and magic of Disney’s “Frozen” enchants park guests as Queen Elsa transforms Cinderella Castle into a shimmering ice palace for the holidays. With Holiday Wishes, the night sky bursts with color high above Cinderella Castle with a holiday fireworks spectacular. www.Disneyworld. com/Christmasparty

America Gardens Theatre from Nov. 25-Dec. 30. Narrators include Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg, Stephen Curtis Chapman, Meredith Vieira, and Cal. Ripken, Jr. Candlelight dinner packages are available through Disneyworld.com/holiday The sky-filling spectacle IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth adds a special seasonal finale Nov. 25Dec.30.

DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

“Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!,” premieres at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Nov. 14-Dec. 31, sending Disney animated characters on a yuletide adventure to get Santa back to the North Pole in time for Christmas Eve. It combines state-of-the-art projections, fireworks, special effects and Christmas music – capped by a special message from Santa. A dessert party will be offered nightly, one hour prior to each performance. 407/WDWDINE or visit www.Disneyworld.com

EPCOT

New Holidays Around the World Marketplaces – Explore what the holidays taste like around the globe at five new marketplaces Nov. 25 – Dec. 30.

Holidays Around the World entertainment – Enjoy the sights and sounds of the nations of World Showcase, as each country’s holiday heritage comes to life amid joyful music and time-honored traditions.

The Candlelight Processional captures the spirit of the season in the retelling of the Christmas story by celebrity narrators, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and choir, performed three times each evening at

DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM

New daytime-into-night experiences, including Tree of Life transformations, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Kali Rivers Rapids and Expedition Everest for the holidays.

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

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STK

Millennials have spoken and STK listened. They wanted a restaurant with a cool edge, but that also has an elegant ambiance. STK delivers with a sleek, modern design using woods, brushed metals, and white accents. The addition of a live DJ spinning music mixes determined by the mood of the diners is what sets STK apart — that, and fabulous food.

by Melissa Wolcott Martino & Al Martino

Restaurant photos courtesy of STK. Food photos by Melissa 88

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STK is the newest addition to Disney Springs’ (formerly known as Downtown Disney) restaurants, and fills a niche aimed at 30-somethings, but enjoyed by everyone. The restaurant covers two floors, yet has an intimate feel since it is broken up into sections, each with their own vibe.

The area we dined in (and our favorite) is cozy, with comfy white leather-like banquettes in addition to tables and chairs. Low lighting and the infusion of large vases of white blossoms complete the scene. Step down a few stairs and you’re in a more open area of tables and chairs, and a bar. A lovely private dining room seats 12. The 2nd floor has a casual urban chic dining area and outside balcony dining. Even more casual is the rooftop terrace which overlooks all the Disney Springs happenings. There is even a fire pit section (if we ever get some cold nights!)

The initials STK do not stand for anything other than what they sound like — steak. The STK brand started in New York, and is now in 13 locations in the states and Europe with plans for even more expansion soon.

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The Disney Springs’ STK is under the helm of Executive Chef James O’Donnell, who comes with an impressive resume, having overseen culinary operations at Capital Grille, Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse, some W Hotel restaurants, etc. The menu at STK is a testament to his expertise, as it is delectable. Chef uses Florida-based farms when available and seasonal produce and seafood.

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We began our repast with succulent Seared Scallops with short rib marmalade, scallion and cornbread puree.

“LIL BRGs” were next, and are amazing sliders with wagyu beef, “special sauce” and a sesame seed bun.

Our salad was a new taste treat — Heirloom Tomato & Watermelon, made with red chili-honey dressing and dried jack cheese.

For our entrees, we opted for the Free Range Chicken and a 10 oz. Filet. The chicken was tender and juicy, and was served with succotash and smoky vidalia onion soubise. The filet was deeply flavorful and fork-tender, and served with broccolini and sweet corn pudding. A variety of sauces are offered to enhance your meat choices: STK, STK Bold, horseradish, chimichurri, blue butter, and béarnaise.

Dessert came in the form of a dream — Orange Dream Cheesecake with bruléed oranges and whipped cream.

Just sublime. The final treat was Bag O’Donuts with dulce de leche filling and spiced chocolate & raspberry sauce.

Just perfect, with that little crunch on the outside and soft inside.

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STK has a fun and tasty cocktail menu, with such choices as “Not Your Daddy’s Manhattan” created with bulleit bourbon, zinfandel port, carpano antica, sweet vermouth and bitters, or, “Green Intensity” made with absolut elyx, fresh lime, jalepeno, and basil. Of course select wines and beer are on the menu.

If you haven’t been to Disney Springs since it was known as Downtown Disney, you are in for a big surprise. There are wonderful new shops and restaurants, and some old favorites are still there. Definitely worth the trip to check it out. And bring your appetite.

STK is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. Price Range: Salads & Appetizers: $11 - $21; Main Dishes: $28 - $89. The restaurant is located at 1580 E. Buena Vista Drive, Orlando, FL 32830.

For more information: www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/disney-springs/stk-steakhouse/ To see some tasty dishes and see what’s happening at STK, follow on facebook: www.facebook.com/STKhouse

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ATTRACTIONS CONTINUED ORLANDO AREA 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/la-nouba Enter the Attic of Make-Believe. A door opens 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.

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 free-flight aviary, petting zoo, one of a kind animal shows, natural alligator breeding marsh, and the “thrilling” Screamin’ Gator Zip Line.

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 Kis-

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December 3 to January 1

elebrate the holidays at Universal Orlando Resort where the joy and wonder of the Macy’s Holiday Parade fills the streets with floats and more. The fun continues with Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, featuring the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.

AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS: Share the joy and wonder of the spectacular seasonal classic, the MACY’S HOLIDAY PARADE, with authentic balloons and floats direct from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER visits Universal Orlando Resort every December. Live performances are December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, and 18. 7 pm.

AT ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE: Catch the music and festivities of GRINCHMAS as Seuss Landing is transformed into a whimsical, wintry wonderland, and the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s classic holiday tale starring The Grinch.

Get up close and personal with your favorite Dr. Seuss characters with THE GRINCH & FRIENDS CHARACTER BREAKFAST in Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous, a circus-themed eatery where strange creatures perform and acrobats twirl high overhead.

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simmee Gateway Airport in Kissimmee, FL. It houses vintage aircraft from World War II to the Vietnam War including an outdoor showroom.

LEU GARDENS 1920 N. Forest Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32803.

407.246.2620. www.leugardens.org VETERANS DAY - Nov 11. Leu Gardens salutes the men and women who have served our country. Discover the 50-acre botanical oasis from a tropical rain forest to stunning roses to an amazing butterfly garden.

Thank you for your service.

CHRISTMAS AT THE LEU HOUSE - Nov 13 - Jan 2. Local Interior designers will spruce and illuminate the grand rooms of the Leu House Museum, Mr. & Mrs. Leu’s private home which is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Each room will reflect a designer’s interpretation of an enchanting Christmas from traditional to whimsical. The 11-room estate will be adorned with holiday trimmings, Christmas trees and amazing decorations for all to enjoy.

MADAME TUSSAUDS 8401 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866-

630-8315. www2.madametussauds.com/orlando/en/ Madame Tussauds Orlando has announced the arrival of Scarlett Johansson and Zac Efron for a limited 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.

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 CONTINUED

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t SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration carols fill the air, a sea of lighted trees sparkles over the lake in a wintery wonderland, and skaters twirl on ice. With festive food, live shows, and entertainment, Christmas Celebration is where holiday memories are made. Included with park admission.

O WONDEROUS NIGHT - Hear the greatest story never told with over 30 carols, live-size puppets and live animals in the brand new show.

SHAMU CHRISTMAS MIRACLES - Experience the power and beauty of the Shamu family in this nighttime holiday show.

MEET RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER and friends at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration.

WINTER WONDERLAND ON ICE - Christmas comes to life on a stage of ice, jewels and light in this ice skating extravaganza.

ELMO’S CHRISTMAS WISH - Join Rosita, Grover, Zoe and Cookie Monster as they work together to help Elmo find his Christmas wish!

CLYDE AND SEAMORE’S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS - Sea Lion and Otter Stadium celebrates the season in a hilarious Christmas comedy.

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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.

WIN THE ULTIMATE GOLF GETAWAY. The sweepstakes is currently calling all golfers to demo the Golf Channel hit series, Driver vs. Driver show’s winning driver at Driver vs. Driver events to take a swing at winning the four-night / five-day trip for two at Reunion Resort Orlando from March 11-15, 2017. The prize package includes daily breakfast, a custom 2017 Wilson driver fitting, and one complimentary round of golf. The winner also receives two practice round passes to the Bay Hill tournament with a meet and greet from Kevin Streelman

CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR December 17-18, 24-30

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he annual holiday celebration returns to deck the halls with a 30-foot-tall Christmas tree made of thousands of LEGO and DUPLO bricks, festive decorations, a life-size LEGO Santa, reindeer and sleigh, holiday-themed scavenger hunts with prizes, and opportunities to build with LEGO alongside Master Model Builders. Meet LEGO Santa and LEGO Toy Soldier during daily park appearances and end the evening with a not-so-silent-night fireworks spectacular set to classic Christmas melodies.

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– two-time PGA TOUR winner, Wilson Advisory Staff member, and one of the “Driver VS Driver” judges. You can experience the campaign’s Orlando event at the PGA Superstore on Sat, Nov 26 from 10 – 2pm, where you can: Meet the winning designer, Demo the winning driver, Receive Custom fittings, Experience a Long drive competition, Participate in Hourly Giveaways for golf balls, hats, head covers, and enjoy a Food truck and Live DJ. www.DriverVsDriver.com 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.

Experience the two uniquely different lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — one located in each of Universal Orlando’s two theme parks.

Step inside a world where magic is real. Within Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park you can visit the iconic Hogwarts castle and explore Hogsmeade village. And, at Universal Studios, you can enter Diagon Alley to enjoy unforgettable thrills, magical experiences, and more.

THE POLAR EXPRESS 4-D EXPERIENCE at the Holiday Inn Resort - thru Jan 8 www.hisuitesorlando.com Guests have the opportunity to experience the magic of this beloved Christmas classic through cutting-edge 4-D technology at 6, 7, 8 and 9 p.m. nightly. The 13-minute show is inspired by the beloved children’s book. The family-friendly, modern classic is included in the cost of an All Access, All Stay Wristband. Through Dec 23, guests can continue their holiday celebrations by visiting Santa at the resort’s North Pole Pajama Party. These evening events include dancing, holiday crafts, hot chocolate and cookies - all included in a stay at the Holiday Inn Resort property. Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites - Waterpark, 14500 Continental Gateway, Orlando, FL 32821

GAYLORD PALMS

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xperience ICE! at the Gaylord Palms, featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles Schulz. Watch Charlie Brown rediscover the true meaning of Christmas as the beloved classic story unfolds through interactive ice sculptures and displays. Experience the Peanuts gang in iconic scenes such as their holiday play rehearsal, Snoopy’s decorated doghouse and Charlie Brown choosing the perfect Christmas tree. Everything is handcarved from 2 million pounds of ice.

Enjoy other related events at the Alpine Village: ALPINE RUSH SNOW TUBING - Visit the Alpine Village and zoom down an eight-lane tubing hill that’s fun for all ages and covered in REAL SNOW! ELF ON THE SHELF SCAVENGER HUNT - Find the scout elves hiding around the resort by solving puzzles then redeem you completed clue booklet for a special prize. GINGERBREAD DECORATING CORNER - Create either a delectable gingerbread cookie family or a complete gingerbread house. MRS. CLAUS’ CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS AND STORY TIME SING-A-LONG (through Dec 24) - Delight in the reading of holiday classics and join along in the singing of Christmas carols during this 30-minute show. Enjoy a batch of Mrs. Claus’ world-famous cookies and a glass of ice cold milk. SANTA’S SNOW THROW - Grab a bucket of real snowballs and test your aim.

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

THE DAYTONA 500 RETURNS FOR ITS 59th EDITION IN SPECTACULAR FORM - FEB 26 Fresh off of a sold-out crowd witnessing the closest finish in DAYTONA 500 history against the backdrop of the world’s only motorsports stadium, the 59th running of the DAYTONA 500 is sure to be another for the record books. Two-time Daytona 500 Champ, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. returns for the 59th Daytona 500. At a place where the timeline unfolds like the pages of history, a proud new chapter is set to be written at the “World Center of Racing.”

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 98

all just an hour from Orlando.

HOLIDAYS IN SPACE is Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s unique high-tech holiday celebration, featuring “Spirit of Exploration,” a custom, space and holiday themed projection mapping show set against the side of a Saturn 1B rocket.

This remarkable presentation, reimagined for this year, takes guests on a journey through NASA’s history and plans for the future. Featuring custom animation blended with historic footage of actual launches and awe-inspiring views of Earth, the presentation is a completely unique outdoor cinematic experience, complete with stadium-style seating and a pyrotechnics display.

In addition, the visitor complex is adorned for the holiday season with a stunning array of decorations.

EVENTS: Thru Jan. 1: Decorations throughout the visitor center.

Dec. 21-Jan. 1: “Spirit of Exploration” projection mapping and pyrotechnics show will illuminate rockets throughout the Rocket Garden.

Dec. 21: Annual Passholder and Media Event.

Dec. 25: No show will take place due to early closing.

All events are included with admission (excluding the 12/21 Annual Pass event).

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ufthansa recently celebrated its One Year Anniversary of flying from Tampa International Airport to Frankfurt, Germany. The event lissa

by Me s o t o was held aboard the Starship Yacht located in Channelside, Tampa, and ph e g a r and featured a short film on visiting Frankfurt, produced by Rob and Kerri Stuart of Cove All Aboard TV. The dinner served during the Starship’s Sunset Cruise was delightfully German, with Jagerschnitzel, Weilbwurst, and Rosti & Rotkohl. Music was provided by the talented guitarist, Jason Hobert. The evening concluded with dancing and drinks on the top deck of the yacht.

Lufthansa offers an attractive non-stop flight to Frankfurt, which is a great gateway for visiting Europe — as well as being a fascinating city to visit on its own. The aircraft is the Airbus A340-300, which is equipped with broadband internet access, and offers a three-class configuration that includes Business Class seats, Premium Economy seats and Economy Class seats.

Happy First Anniversary, Lufthansa!

To view the visit to Frankfurt film, please visit www.allaboardtv.com/watch-episodes/ For more information about Lufthansa, please visit www.lufthansa.com/

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ArtLines Events THE GALLERY: ARTWALK FEATURING ARI AZZOPARDI - SAT, NOV 12 Join in the Second Saturday ArtWalk, open late for a special exhibition for local artist Ari Azzopardi. Tours of the artwork will be provided as well as the chance to meet the artist. Refreshments will be served. Free event to attend. Live music. 5-9 p.m. Central Arts District. 200 Central Ave. Suite 111, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 727324-6730. www.TheGalleryArt.com

ated by artisans and their artwork from across America and overseas. This tapestry is woven from creations in painting, sculpture, jewelry, glass, ceramics, fiber and wearable art, photography, mixed-media, woodworking and more. All the artists creating these pieces will be present at the event. Sat 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: FREE. Selby Five Points Park, 1 Central Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236. www.paragonartevents.com/S-31-Sarasota+Fall+Fine+Art+Festival.html

24th ANNUAL DOWNTOWN DUNEDIN CRAFT FESTIVAL - NOV 19 - 20 A vast selection of handmade crafts, affordable and functional art as well as unique items suitable for holiday gifts will be on display and for sale at the 24th Annual Downtown Dunedin Craft Festival. Festival patrons will be able to leisurely stroll down Main Street and explore the eclectic exhibits featuring a variety of art styles and media by the top artists and crafters in the country. Admission is free and open to the public.

271 Main Street, Dunedin, FL 34698. 561-746-6615. www.artfestival.com

26th ANNUAL TARPON SPRINGS THANKSGIVING ART & CRAFT SHOW - NOV 26-27.

Small Business Saturday is an American shopping holiday held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year.

The event encourages holiday shoppers to patronize businesses that are small and local. The Thanksgiving Art & Craft Festival is the perfect opportunity for locals and visitors alike to shop small for their gift giving needs and avoid getting mauled at the mall. Downtown Tarpon Springs, Tarpon Avenue. 727-322-5217. Visit Facebook Thanksgiving Art Craft

CRAFTART 2016 - NOV 19 - 20 Annual event, featured some of the nation’s best established and emerging fine craft artists with handcrafted works in jewelry, clay, fiber, glass, wood, metal, paper and mixed media. 10 am - 5 pm Sat, 10 am - 4 pm Sun. Free. 400 - 600 Block of Central Ave., St. Peterburg. www.floridacratart.org

100 ARTISTS SHOW Horan Park, 7700 Boca Ceiga Dr., St. Pete Beach. www.suntanartcenter.org NOVEMBER 27 - 28 - Kick off the Holiday gift giving season with original art on Small Business Saturday. Live music, food & beverage vendors in a gorgeous park setting. 10 am - 5 pm. Free.

4th ANNUAL SARASOTA FALL FINE ART FESTIVAL NOV 19 - 20

22nd ANNUAL ST. PETE BEACH COREY AREA ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL - DEC 3 - 4 Quality handcrafted art including unique and functional pieces as well as affordable gift items will be on display and for sale during the 22nd Annual St. Pete Beach Corey Area Art & Craft Festival. Lisurely explore the eclectic exhibits and meet the artists and crafters who will be present for the duration of the event. In addition, the Green Market will offer exotic live plants, handmade soaps, savory dips, gourmet sauces and much more. Admission is free and open to the public.

Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. 595 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach, FL

Experience and purchase original handmade artwork. The festival transforms Selby Five Points Park into an outdoor gallery, weaving a tapestry of art cre102

DECEMBER ARTIST TOUR: THE ARTIST AT WORK - DEC 3 - 4 The Artist Enclave of Historic Kenwood’s Artist Tour; Dec 3 from 10 am to 5 pm; Dec 4 from 12 pm to 5 pm.

Stroll through the architecturally rich neighborhood of Historic Kenwood, while you view the exhibits of 19 artists at 14 different stops. See a variety of work ranging from emerging artists to internationally recognized

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professionals. The self-guided tour will include work by ceramicists, sculptors, jewelers, photographers, illustrators, and fine art painters. The tour is free, self-guided and open to the public. For more information and maps for the studio locations: kenwoodartistenclave. org

255 Beach Drive. NE, St. Petersburg, 727.894.4638. www.fine-arts.org Thru JAN 22 - OUR AMERICA: THE LATINO PRESENCE IN AMERICAN ART features 75 works by 62 gifted modern and contemporary artists, drawn entirely from the illustrious collection of the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. NOV 6 thru FEB 19 - FROM THE HEART: FOLK ART ON PAPER. JACK BARRETT: PEOPLE WATCHING brings together works that convey the breadth of Mr. Barrett’s explorations of the human figure.

In addition to paintings and sketchbooks, select sculptures will be on view. At the core of Jack Barrett’s vibrant, whimsical canvases is the steady hand of an expert draftsperson.

NOV 19 - MARCH 19. THE FAR NORTH: INUIT PRINTS AND SCULPTURE. This Museum premiere of 30 works by accomplished Inuit artists spans the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The Inuit people of the Arctic, formerly known as the Eskimo, have combined traditional and contemporary worlds in their work and have developed a distinctive visual language using modern materials and techniques. Through their art, the Inuit have continued a vital storytelling tradition among themselves, Continued....

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ArtLines continued while reaching out to the broader public. They are especially known for their prints and sculpture. Art is part of traditional knowledge in Inuit society, also encompassing storytelling, mythology, music, and dancing.

NOVEMBER 8 - Affaires de Art - Dale’s Delight 12 - Our America Family Day. Celebrating the Latino influences with art, music and hands on activities. Food sampling for purchase.

12, 26 - Drumming 16 - Affaires de Art - Vinoy Tour and Lunch 19 - Kidding Around Yoga; Make and Take Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. www.mfastpete.org DALÍ MUSEUM One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, 727.823.3767 www. thedali.org SATURDAYS - Dilly Dally w / Dali SUNDAYS - Yoga with Dali NOVEMBER THRU NOV 23 - FIGHT AGAINST HUNGER. As The Dalí celebrates legendary chef Ferran Adrià (widely known for changing the landscape of gastronomy) and presents the transcendent nature of food in its special exhibition Ferran Adrià: The Invention of Food. For some, food is not the subject for discourse or experimentation, but a necessity which is all too often lacking.

In Pinellas County alone, 1 in 7 adults do not have consistent access to the food they need and 17% of residents, including 1 in 4 children, lack reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. The Dalí will join the fight against hunger with a food drive, collecting non-perishable, high-demand canned food items from November 1-23. Dalí Museum visitors donating canned food items will each receive a $2 credit toward adult or senior admission. TheDali.org/Ferran THRU NOV 27 - Ferran Adria - The Invention of Food Exhibition 9 - Immersion Dinner 10 - Poetry at the Dali 11 - Veterans Day at the Dali 16 - Immersion Dinner DEC 17 thru APRIL 17- FRIDA KAHLO AT THE DALÍ.

An exhibition of Frida Kahlo’s paintings and drawings, together with her personal photograph collection.

Kahlo’s works have achieved monumental importance in art and popular culture. Her dreamlike work suggests that love and suffering create a new sense of beauty.

Frida Kahlo at The Dalí will be Florida’s first solo exhi106

bition showcasing the extraordinary career and life of the acclaimed 20th century artist. The exhibit will feature a collection of more than 60 Kahlo pieces including 15 paintings, seven drawings and numerous personal photographs from the celebrated female artist and influential icon. The exhibition will extend outdoors where a special collection of flowers and plants representative of those in Kahlo’s own garden at Casa Azul, her home in Mexico, will grace the grounds of the Museum’s Avant-Garden.

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, 813.259.1720. www.tampamuseum.org Monday - Meditation at Museum Fridays - Art on The House - 4 to 8pm.

Saturday - Art Spot for Families Thru JANUARY 8 - MANUEL CARRILLO: MI QUERIDO MEXICO (MY BELOVED MEXICO). Manuel Carrillo, known as “El Maestro Mexicano,” is celebrated for his intimate photographs of workers, the elderly, and families in his native Mexico. Carrillo captures the kindred relationship between children and animals, with several works depicting the playful and affectionate bonds between humans and their four-legged companions.

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CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER GALLERY 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. (813) 269-1310. www. carrollwoodcenter.org

Thru JANUARY 16 - SELF-TAUGHT GENIUS: TREASURES FROM THE AMERICAN FOLK ART MUSEUM. This exhibition proposes reframing American folk art through the concept of “self-taught genius,” as an elastic and enduring notion whose meaning has evolved over time. More than 100 artworks from the permanent collection of the American Folk Art Museum (New York, NY), produced in a wide range of media from the eighteenth century until the present day.

Thru JANUARY 22 - COMPLICATED BEAUTY: CONTEMPORARY CUBAN ART. Complicated Beauty is the Tampa Museum of Art’s first survey of contemporary Cuban art from the 1970s to the present. With 40 works on view by over 25 artists, this exhibition is a cross-generational look at recent trends in Cuban art.

ART LOFTS Florida Craftsmen Galleries (2nd floor) 10 5th St. N, St. Petersburg. 727.504.8788. www. theartlofts.com Second Saturday Gallery Walk

CRAFTSMAN HOUSE 2955 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, 727.323.2787. www.craftsmanhousegallery.com Gallery-Cafe-Pottery Studio 2nd Saturday Gallery Walk Continued....

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“Word is Bond” Last Sunday each month

DUNCAN MCCLELLAN GALLERY 2342 Emerson Ave. S, St. Petersburg, 813.760.6600 www.dmglass.com 2nd Saturday Gallery Walk NOVEMBER 12 - Patchen’s Patterns 13 - Art Glass Afternoon DUNEDIN FINE ART CENTER 1143 Michigan Blvd. - Dunedin, 34698. 727.298.

DFAC - www.dfac.org Thru DEC 23 - See/Hear. Invitational exhibition of sound artists and artist-made instruments, featuring sound/video/film installations amidst an array of captivating creations by modern sound wizards.

29 – DEC 23 - Synesthesia. Sensory cross-pollination gives rise to the Unexpected in this multidisciplinary installation of contemporary artists who create visual music.

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 downtown 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.

FLORIDA CRAFTART GALLERY 501 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, 727.821.7391. www.floridacraftart.org Second Saturday Artwalk Mural Walk on Saturdays NOVEMBER 19, 20 - CraftArt Festival FLORIDA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS 400 N. Ashley Drive, Cube 200, Tampa, FL 33602, 813-221-2222. www.fmopa.org GALLERIE 909 909 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg. 727.565.3930. www.gallerie909.com Featuring African American Artists Second Saturday Artwalk Drum Circle First Friday each month 108

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

MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 900 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803. (407) 246-4278. 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.

MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 445 North Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789.

407-645-5311. www.morsemuseum.org/ A collection of the work of Louis Comfort Tiffany as well as fine 19th and 20th century American decorative arts.

MUSEUMS ON US - The First Full Weekend Of Each Month www.museums.bankofamerica.com Bank of America’s Museums on Us offers free weekend access to Bank of America and Merrill Lynch credit and debit cardholders in Tampa and St. Petersburg. Participating Tampa Bay area museums are: Florida Holocaust Museum, Museum

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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.

refreshments. Plan to drive, walk or take the trolleys to visit the districts of your choice. Free parking can be found on 1st Ave N and 1st Ave S from 15th St. to 30th St. and at the Florida Holocaust Museum.

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) 688-7743 www.polkmuseumofart.org Thru DEC 3 - Lessons from the Shadows. New Orleans photographer Josephine Sacabo employs an array of photographic techniques to produce dream-like images that often illustrate historical and cultural narratives.

Thru DEC 3 - One Collector’s Dream. This exhibition features art from the private collection of voice actor and comedian George Lowe, who has been an art collector for more than 30 years.

Photos available.

Thru DEC 4 - UNFORSEEN LIGHT: A study in reflection. A showcase of photographer David Woods’s experimentation with High-dynamicrange photography.

Thru DEC 31 - Monkey Business: Ruben Ubiera. Ubiera designed and created a unique mural measuring 16’ x 24’ onto one of the Museum’s most prominent walls. He has adopted the gorilla as an iconic power animal for the current state of street art.

ST. PETERSBURG WALKING MURAL TOURS Departing from Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Murals and history behind them. 727.821.7391 www.floridacraftart.org

RINGLING MUSEUM OF ART 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, 941.359.5700. www.ringling.org Mondays FREE admissions all day Thurs - Art After 5 Third Thurs - Ringling by the Bay Fri & Sat - Bayfront Garden Tours Sat - Kid’s Quest, Family Workshop NOVEMBER 21 - Ringling by the Bay Thru APRIL 1, 2017 - Walker Guest House Replica

STUDIO 620 620 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg. 727.895.6620 www.studio620.org NOVEMBER 11 thru Dec 3 - Cultural Routes: Continuing the Journey is a joint exhibition with artists Rachel Stewart and Judith Salmon. It reflects their individual and intersecting perspectives and experiences across two different cultures - Jamaica and the United States..

ST. PETERSBURG’S 2nd SATURDAY ARTWALK www.stpeteartsalliance.org Over 40 galleries and studios in the Waterfront Arts District, Central Arts District, Edge District, Grand Central District, and the Warehouse Arts District come together as one arts destination. ArtWalk is Opening Night where many galleries and studios premiere new works. Some are only open on ArtWalk, and many offer demonstrations and

USF CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM 3821 USF Holly Dr., Tampa, 33620. 813. 974.4133 - Info 813.974.2849 NOVEMBER Thru DECEMBER 10 - EXTRACTED 2 - Movie - Dam Nation 3, 4 - Symposium - A New Ecology 18 - Public Art Walking Tour

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by Dr. Lori Verderame

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China Tips for your Thanksgiving Table

n the autumn of 1621, the Plymouth community and the Wampanoag Indians celebrated a harvest feast. A longstanding event in Native American culture, the harvest feast was also known as the Thanksgiving celebration.

The 1621 harvest feast offered lots of meat and very few vegetables. Forks were not used and the most prominent person at the table was seated at the head of the table and was positioned closest to the food.

For your Thanksgiving meal, you’ll want to invite friends and family and offer turkey with all the fixins. You may even serve it on your best china or your grandmother’s beloved serving pieces. If you are displaying vintage china, here are some tips for making the event special.

BEWARE OF LEAD Some antique and vintage china may contain lead and lead leaching can be toxic.

Some of the old glazes used on pre 1900 china may contain lead. Often, highly decorated or multi-colored china may have lead glazes. Damaged, chipped, cracked or crazed (that funny zig zag pattern in the colorless glaze) china may allow lead to leach and contaminate food. So, if you have damaged pieces, don’t use them in the preparation or service of food.

It is better to use them for display purposes only.

It is common knowledge that grandma’s antique china should not be used in the microwave or dishwasher, but it is also a bad idea to place an old piece of china in the refrigerator piled high with leftovers. Why? Storing your leftovers in the refrigerator on an old decorated china plate is not good for the life span of the antique nor is it good for you once you re-serve those leftovers.

The plate is fragile and cooling will impact its overall condition. Also, lead can leach from china in the refrigerator that is hosting foods high in acidity. Thus, a piece of lead glazed or lead decorated antique china that experiences a significant temperature change (as with cooling) may leach. If you must eat off of your antique china or vintage ceramic dishware, don’t do so regularly.

Basic white china may be the safest type for your family and pets. It is not wise to eat off of china with painted or metallic decorations--like gold leaf or silver banding. And, if you are in the practice of using an old ceramic bowl to feed your pets, make sure these antique or vintage ceramic pieces are not damaged in any way. You want to protect our furry friends too!

So, if you want to highlight your grandmother’s china, it is best to display the lovely pieces as a holiday centerpiece, in a china cabinet, or on the Thanksgiving buffet table hosting flowers. Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving!

“Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and awardwinning TV personality, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. She is the star appraiser on international hit TV shows: Discovery’s Auction Kings, History channel’s The Curse of Oak Island and Fox Business’ Strange Inheritance. Visit www.DrLoriV.com, Facebook.com/DoctorLori, or call (888) 431-1010.”

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Gaming Scene Las Vegas STEVIE NICKS FIRST PERFORMER AT NEW PARK THEATER - Dec 17 www.montecarlo.com Rock ‘n’ Roll legend Stevie Nicks will be the first artist to perform at the new Park Theater at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino when it opens its doors December 17. Nicks will be joined by The Pretenders. Bruno Mars, a 17-time GRAMMY Award nominee, will ring in the New Year in a big way when he performs Dec. 30 - 31. He is scheduled to return to Park Theater for additional performances in March 2017. Worldwide superstar Cher will bring her more than 60 years’ worth of pop hits to Park Theater with performances in February and May.

THE ULTIMATE HIGH ROLLER CHOCOLATE EXPERIENCE ABOVE THE LAS VEGAS SKYLINE www.ethelm.com

Chocolate has the power to transform a casual bite into a deep, multi-sensory experience. Journey 550 feet into the air on the High Roller observation wheel, as it launches the in-cabin chocolate tasting experience with Ethel M Chocolates.

Guests will learn about the origins of chocolate and how the pieces were created, all while focusing their attention on the aroma, taste and texture.

The 30-minute (one rotation) adventure includes a chocolatier ambassador showcasing five different types of pieces and the story behind them.

COSMOPOLITAN MARQUEE DAYCLUB POOL DOME - thru March 13 www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com Winter weather doesn’t put a stop to a party in

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Las Vegas. The Marquee Dayclub has brought back its pool dome for the winter season so guests can continue to enjoy a Las Vegas pool party despite the cold. At more than 22,000 square feet, 50 feet at its highest and accompanied by a climatecontrolled pool, the Marquee Dayclub festival-style dome is Las Vegas’ only winter pool party location.

Open every Sat through March 13, with select holiday Sundays.

CHERRY BOOM BOOM AT TROPICANA LAS VEGAS www.troplv.com/ Cherry Boom Boom, the awe-inspiring, immersive, engaging and interactive new show with a fresh and masterful mix of amplified choreography, packs a powerful punch. Cherry Boom Boom is a playground for excitement, music, love and rock ‘n’ roll. Cherry Boom Boom is leading a movement about empowerment for strong, sexy women – with a great storyline threaded throughout a visceral rock ‘n’ roll performance.

BAND OF MAGICIANS AT TROPICANA - The celebrated production brings together four of the brightest young magicians from across the globe to create a revolutionary experience. Band of Magicians has been described as “truly baffling, hilarious and even strangely moving marvel of a show.”

The international consort of magicians includes James Galea of Australia, Stuart MacLeod from the UK, and Brett Loudermilk and Joel Ward of the United States.

A new 75-minute stage show production is packed with spy craft teachings, previously only available to those who attend the two-day seminar and training, the all-new stage show will allow the opportunity for all visitors of Las Vegas to learn life-saving skills and crisis preparedness all while being entertained on the Las Vegas Strip.

THE BRONX WANDERERS ROCK BALLY’S LAS VEGAS www.caesars.com/ballys The Bronx Wanderers are charming audiences with 90 minutes of America’s Rock ‘N’ Roll songbook at Bally’s Las Vegas. Up close and personal, yet larger than life, the father-and-son trio, flanked by their top-notch band, effortlessly perform hits made famous by the likes of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, Dion, the Beach Boys, Queen, Bruno Mars and many others spanning from the beginning of Rock ‘N’ Roll right through today’s tunes.

NEW SPY ESCAPE & EVASION STAGE SHOW AT THE STRATOSPHERE

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Continued....

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Las Vegas cont BELLAGIO GALLERY OF FINE ART PRESENTS “TOWN AND COUNTRY: FROM DEGAS TO PICASSO” www.bellagio.com Small towns transform into sophisticated, alluring and mysterious urban cities, and countryside villages into picturesque, serene, untouched landscapes inside Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art’s (BGFA) newest exhibit “Town and Country: from Degas to Picasso.” The display features 47 works of art ranging from paintings and prints to drawings and photographs. Featured artists include Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, Jean-François Millet and many more.

HOOTERS CASINO HOTEL PRESENTS COMEDY DAREDEVIL www.hooterscasinohotel.com/ Comedy Daredevil is a danger-packed stunt spectacular with chainsaws, sledgehammers, power drills and a lawn mower. This dangerpacked sideshow’s tension is cut throughout with jokes and jabs onstage alongside their more daring antics.

Andrea Bocelli - Dec. 3 Toby Keith - Dec. 9 Tim Mcgraw - Dec .10 Luke Bryan - Dec. 30 MANDALAY BAY Carlos Santana - 11-13 Maroon 5 - Dec 30 - 31 MIRAGE ACES OF COMEDY Ray Romano And David Spade - Nov 11-12 Ron White - Dec 2-3; 9-10; 29-30 Boyz II Men - Nov 3-5, 11, 13, 18-20, 24-26; Dec 23 – 25 Wayne Brady - Nov. 18 Jay Leno - Nov. 19 Michael Carbonaro - Dec 23 CLINT HOLMES: BETWEEN THE LINES AT THE VENETIAN - thru Jan 14 www.venetian.com

UPCOMING VEGAS VENUE EVENTS T-MOBILE ARENA 2016 Latin Grammy Awards - Nov. 17 Carrie Underwood With Special Guests Easton Corbin And The Swon Brothers - Nov. 26 Maxwell & Mary J. Blige - Dec. 9 George Strait - Dec 2 - 3, Feb 17 - 18 MGM GRAND Amy Grant & Michael Smith - Nov. 12

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

DINING AT BELLAGIO: www.bellagio.com HARVEST BY ROY ELLAMAR

DEAL ME IN with Mark Pilarski www.markpilarski.com/ ‘LOOSE SLOTS’ DOESN’T NECESSARILY MEAN THEY ARE A GOOD BET Dear Mark: In your recent article you told a reader that “there is no magic switch that’s flipped from some secret location” to get more dough out of people.

My question is this. Here in Reno, casinos talk and advertise about “we’ve loosened our slots”, or, we have “the loosest slots in town”. Is this a myth? Steve As I stated in that column, Steve, it is not cost effective for casinos to vary their payouts on slot machines when the circus comes to town.

Instead, let’s concentrate on your other inquiry, that of “loose slots.”

When it comes to slot machines, there is no verifiable return for slot paybacks of any one machine, or any particular casino in Reno, just its geographic location. Fortunately, for you, Reno casinos have always been competitive and liberal with

SNACK

WAGON 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 line-up is: Dec 14 - Executive Chef Sean Griffin of Jean Georges Steakhouse at ARIA.

their returns. Nevada is home to the top three sections of America with the loosest slots, and Reno has remained #1 for eight years running. So, as for the general use of the term, “loose slots,” there is no myth here.

Essentially, Steve, the looser the slot machine the more money it returns to the player. That said, a loose slot doesn’t mean the player has any additional advantage over the house. The casino still has an edge on your play, but looser slots offer better returns. Every slot machine in a casino is programmed to return a certain percentage, over a specific period, of the dollars wagered.

“Loose” slot machines are only “loose” relative to other machines in that gaming jurisdiction, or even within that casino itself. The rub, Steve, is that even if some machines in Casino A are “looser” than Casino B next door, there’s no way to verify which machines on the floor pay back what. And keep in mind that slot machines hold some of the largest house edge ratios for casinos no matter where you play.

I am skeptical of those “Loosest Slot” ads mainly because that term is never machine-specific. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Even explicit numbers such as “up to 98% return” should be labeled, without qualifiers, for that claim to be meaningful. “Up to” could denote but one machine out of a bank of machines that is set to pay back at 98%, which technically, complies with that advertisement.

What is a certainty, Steve, is that casinos do not set every slot machine to the same payback percentage. Typically, they will have a mix of machines with both higher (looser) and lower (tighter) payouts scattered across their casino floor.

Aside from the fact that, comparatively speaking, Reno does happen to have looser slots compared to other gaming jurisdictions, don’t be mislead by the notion of the term “loose” slots. Remember, in most instances, those loose slots are unidentifiable.

Besides, since slot machines make up approximately 85% of a casino’s revenue, just because a casino says their machines are loose doesn’t mean they are a smart bet. The payback percentage of a loose slot is the overall percentage that a slot machine will return over the long run, based on millions of spins, and not when your hind end is sitting front and center.

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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 Parties.”

The dining opportunities at the Beau are wonderfully varied - from the simple Snacks Deli to the exceptional BR Prime (the Beau’s signature steak and seafood restaurant), and every thing in between. Guests have eleven restaurants to choose from, as well as several bars. The popular Terrace Cafe Terrace Café offers a delicious new twist on café dining. A new menu celebrates classic southern favorites, fresh and healthy alternatives, and a number of savory specialties to satisfy every appetite.

Reservations for air-inclusive travel packages may be made by calling 888.640.8973. www.beaurivage. com WINNING WONDERLAND Guests can win their share of $500,000 in FREEPLAY and prizes, including a Lexus RC F in the Winning Wonderland Giveaway. Guests earn one drawing entry for every 100 Slot Points through Dec 29. Drawing days are every Thurs and Sat. Grand Prize drawing will be Thurs, Dec 29 where one lucky guest will drive away in a luxury car.

THANKSGIVING FEAST NOV. 24 From traditional favorites to fall treats with a twist, the dining options at Beau Rivage will offer mouth-watering menus on Thanksgiving Day. UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT November 18 - CARROT TOP December 2 - DONNY & MARIE: CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS December 10 - MARTINA MCBRIDE: LOVE UNLEASHED TOUR December 21-29 - CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND December 31 - THE MOLLY RINGWALDS

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 “Pam116

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Donny & Marie

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Looking Good SMATERIA

Fair Trade Bags

www.smateria.com/

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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.

Anthony Men’s Grooming Line

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nthony Sosnick was one of the first to create a comprehensive men’s grooming line over 16 years ago, changing the landscape and perception of men’s skincare. Anthony continues to create skincare and grooming products based on his active lifestyle. Anthony Brands consists of five umbrella brands including: Anthony, Shaveworks, Emily & Tony, Grandma Stelle’s and ACTION Solutions for Men. The core line, Anthony, is consistently highly ranked among the top men’s brands in prestige skincare.

Anthony is a multi-functional, multi-benefit personal care system designed with natural ingredients utilizing the latest in technology., and is comprised of a wide array of products that address specific skincare concerns from head-to-toe.

THE PERFECT SHAVE KIT This four-piece set of essentials for a clean, close shave eliminates the bumps, burns, and irritations while ensuring the closest, cleanest shave possible.

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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.

www.completelybareproducts.com

BEACH GLAM Look Chic at the Beach

by Melissa Wolcott Martino

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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

W

ho are these guys on the field?

Where have my old Bucs gone? Where did these guys come from?

OMG, the turn around by the team is nothing short of amazing. Did Coach Koetter find some magic cookies and feed them to the team? Good job, coach! I’m being silly but the changes in the team the last few weeks has been great. The entire team has jelled into a force to be reckoned with. The team is functioning like a well oiled unit. Every game has seen players step up to replace teammates that have gone down.

It’s been fun to see how the team has grown. All of a sudden the national media is beginning to realize that the Bucs aren’t the Yucks anymore. The fans are returning and filling the stadium with noise, noise and more noise. I’ve covered the Bucs for about 25 years (o.k., I started when I was six) and this is the first time since the Super Bowl season that I have been so excited. During training camp I said this might be the year that the Bucs make another Super Bowl run. If that happens, I want a ticket and a seat on the team plane!

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by Barbara McGovern Photos by BAM

JAMIES JAMBOREE

Wherever happens with the team, Tampa Bay will always love the Bucs, not only for the enjoyment they give us but the positive things that they do for the community. In December, Jameis Winston hosted the second annual Famous Jamies Jamboree, presented by Bill Currie Ford at 1 Bucs Place. Fans brought new toys for admission to the family-friendly event. The toys were donated to support the students at the 24Bucs Academy schools. Those attending had a chance to play games, do the PLAY 60 drills, enjoy food, music, and treats with the team. This was another example of the Bucs For A Better Bay.

VINCENT JACKSON 2016 BUCS MAN OF THE YEAR Vincent Jackson was named the 2016 Bucs Man of the Year for the fourth consecutive year. As one of the 32 players nominated, he will receive a $50,000 donation to the Jackson in Action 83 found and another $50,000 in his name to implement the leagues Character Playbook which is a program focused on youth character development and healthy relationships during the critical middle school years.

Donations will be made by the NFL Foundation,

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Nationwide, and the United Way. Three of the finalists will be announced and the winner will be presented at the NFL Honors the night before the Super Bowl. A total of $1 million will be donated in the name of the Walter Payton Man of the Year, with $500,000 going to the charity of his choice and $500,000 to support the expansion of the Character Playbook. The other two finalists will receive $125,000 for the charity of their choice and $125,000 donation in their name to the Character Playbook.

BUCCANEERS ACADEMY EDUCATION HUDDLE

On December 13, the Gazer Family Foundation hosted a Buccaneers Academy Education Huddle wth Foundation Copresident Darcie Glazer Kassewitz and Jamies Winston. One hundred underserved children from all 24 Hillsborough Buccaneers Academy attended and heard Jamies stress the importance of schoolwork, determination and accomplishing their goals. Darcie Kassewitz attended to stress the Foundation’s long standing commitment to the schools. The Venison Mobile was there and provided eye screenings and glasses to selected students. To date, the program has provided more than 66,000 exams and given more then 9,100 gasses to students. Way to go! Can you imagine what those glasses meant to those kids?

I want to all wish all our readers a very happy and healthy holiday season. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night. I hope Santa knows that we all have been good and we really would like a winning season.

GO BUCS! www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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The “I Wanna Go There!” Travel Page

St. Mary Lake, Glacier National Park Montana

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t. Mary is the eastern gateway to Glacier National Park. Prairies, mountains, and forests all converge there to create a diverse and rich habitat for plants and animals. The open meadows surrounded by dense forests can afford some great opportunities for wildlife viewing.

St. Mary Lake, its surface often riffled by the wind, spans almost 10 miles. A drive along St. Mary Lake provides some of the most incredible vistas available in the park. Bordering the Blackfeet Reservation, Native American history and culture is strong in the St. Mary Valley.

Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai tribal members participate in the park’s Native American Speaks programs. These programs feature award winning performing artists and local drummers and dancers at the St. Mary Visitor Center.

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