Accent On Tampa Bay #228, February/March 2017 by Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Accent

On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 29, Issue 228 Feb/March, 2017 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Barbara McGovern Graphic Designers Missy Lynn Contributors Bridget Burke Sylvie Damien Gordon James Vicki Kolb Michael Martino Barbara McGovern Marty Peters Deborah Quigley JoAnn Ryan Photographer Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Beau deCatta Cover Photo courtesy of: Wicked by Joan Marcus. PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

savethemanatee.org

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

e-mail AccentMagazine@aol.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

LOCAL FOCUS EVENTS Compiled by Vicki Kolb FEBRUARY

Feb 15-17

Thru Feb 28

GULFPORT FRINGE ART AND CULTURE MONTH. The first ever Gulfport Fringe Art and Culture month includes visual arts, theater, poetry, music, dance, film and more. The diverse slate of activities, a mix of long-standing events and those newly developed for Fringe, is intended to highlight the vitality of Gulfport’s artistic and cultural community. 727-608-0070. A full schedule of activities can be found on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Gulfport-Fringe-Art-and-Culture-747864918705680

Thru Feb 28

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO TAMPA IS SUPPORTING HUMANE SOCIETY TAMPA BAY THROUGH THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY. The property will be selling special Humane Society Tampa Bay umbrellas in its retail stores for $10. All proceeds generated from sales will go to the charity. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, 5223 North Orient Rd., Tampa, FL 33610. www.seminolehardrock.com

Feb18

1000 POINTS OF WINE TO SUPPORT THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS. The 1000 Points of Wine Gourmet Dinner on Saturday, February 18, from 7-11 p.m. is the pièce de résistance and will be held at the Rolls Royce Tampa Bay Showroom, 3255 Gandy Boulevard in Pinellas Park. Dress to impress is the suggested attire. Five courses will be curated by gifted chefs David Varley and Jeffrey Hileman of the San Francisco-based Mina Group. They will be paired with 10 wines. www.stuartsociety.donorshops.com/ wine-weekend-overview.php

CONFERENCE ON WORLD AFFAIRS. Multiple panels of distinguished diplomats, military, media, and academic experts will discuss critical international issues of the day. Free, please register online. USF St. Petersburg, 140 7th Ave. S, St. Petersburg. www.stpetersburgconferenceonworldaffairs.com

Fri, Feb 17

6th ANNUAL BLUES WALK. The 6th Annual Blues Walk will take place on Cleveland Street. This restaurant crawl event will kick off an awesome weekend filled with blues music and great seafood. On Friday night there will be live blues music. Select restaurants will offer “Sea-Blues” themed dinner and drink specials all night. With each participating business you walk into, you will have a chance to win great prizes with the SeaBlues Raffle. www.clearwaterseablues.com/ TOTALLY AWESOME 80S FOOD TRUCK RALLY. Join the Gulf to Bay Food Truck Association for an evening of 80s music, karaoke, a movie and great food. 6 – 9 pm. Free. Port St. Pete, 250 8th Ave. SE, St. Petersburg. www.facebook.com/totallyawesome80sfoodtruckrally A NIGHT AT THE BREWSEUM. Taste local brews, challenge your friends to various games and relays in the museum, play like a kid again in our interactive exhibits and listen to live music. 7 – 10 pm. Great Expectations, 1925 4th St. N, St. Petersburg. Visit website to purchase tickets. www.greatex.org

Feb 17-19

HELLY HANSEN NOOD REGATTA. Sailors come from far and wide to race in this one design PHRF racing in Tampa Bay. 11 categories. Winners will be invited to the championships in the British Virgin Islands. www.sailingworld.com/nood-regattas Continued 4

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Feb 18

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BEER, BOURBON & BBQ FESTIVAL. Join in the festival for a great day of beer sippin’, bourbon tastin’, music listenin’, cigar smokin’, and barbeque eatin’. Your admission buys you a sampling glass so you can enjoy an all-you-care–to-taste sampling of beer and bourbon. Barbeque vendors are on-site if you get hungry all while enjoying seminars in the tasting theater and live music all day. All guests receive a Souvenir Glass For Tastings. There are 40 Bourbons and 60 Beers on Tap. There is a gaming area with trike races, giant jenga, cornhole and more. Enjoy the great barbeque selection – pulled pork from whole hogs, ribs, brisket, chickens, sausages and fixins. Enjoy seminars with master distillers, brewmasters, and pit masters from the deep south. Listen to live rock & blues music and great bluegrass on the main stage. Enjoy the great contests on the main stage: tampa’s best beer belly competition and the daisy dukes & boots contest. Browse cool exhibits of brewerania, hot sauces, bbq accessories, and even a cigar tent for all guests. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Tampa, FL. www.Beerandbourbon.Com/ florida/show-info-0

Sat & Sun, Feb 18-19 11th ANNUAL CLEARWATER SEA-BLUES FESTIVAL. Enjoy the Festival for two days filled with seafood and blues. Saturday’s performers include JJ Grey & Mofro, The Record Company, The Sheepdogs, The Congress, The Ries Brothers, and Bear & Robert. Sunday’s performers include Walter Trout, Sonny Landreth, Mike Zito, Selwyn Birchwood, THE BETTY FOX BAND, and

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Souliz. Reserved Seating & VIP upgrades are available for purchase here and general admission is FREE. www. clearwaterseablues. com/

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LOCAL FOCUS

PET FESTIVAL.

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BATTLE ON THE BEACH. All day Pro-Am Volleyball tournament. Players party Saturday evening. Begins 8 am Friday ending 9 pm Sunday. Free to watch. Postcard Inn, 6300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. www.volleyamerica.com/va-beach-volleyballevent

Sun, Feb 19

13th ANNUAL GULFPORT’S GET RESCUED

Gulfport’s Get Rescued is one of the largest animal rescue events in the state, with all profits Continued on page 12

Huzzah and Cheers for 39 Years! Feb 18 - April 2 T

ake a time-travel adventure into the 16th century at the annual Bay Area Renaissance Festival! Join the Queen in a jubilee. Journey back in time as more than 100 merchants contribute to the atmosphere of this charming 16th century village. Experience live armored jousting, 12 stages of entertainment, 7 theme weekends, and fun and food for the whole family. The Festival is open weekends, with a special day for schools and seniors on Festival Friday, March 31st. The Festival is open from 10 am – 6 pm, Rain or Shine. Parking at the Bay Area Renaissance Festival is always free. Discount tickets are available at participating Walgreens stores and at MOSI. 11315 N. 46th Street, Tampa, FL 33617. www.bayarearenfestnew.bayarearenfest.com/

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PETFEST TAIL-GATE PAWTY

Humane Society of Pinellas

he successful and fun PetFest 2017 Tail-gate Pawty and Puppy Bowl Adoption event offered nearly 100 adoptable pets from HSP and other rescue groups. The Humane Society of Pinellas had dogs of all shapes and sizes on site including 30 puppies. All animals were already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. The event featured fun for the whole family with more than 50 pet and human retail and service vendors. Dunkin Donuts offered free donuts early on in the event. There were interactive activities for the dogs including a lure course and pet photo booth, and Ghira’s Goodies Kids Zone for the kids. OneBlood was also be on site for blood donations. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit had a demonstration for everyone to watch, and there was a Pet Costume contest for the best sports fan, most original and funniest costume. Contest judges included WFLA’s Melanie Michaels, 2016 Golden Paw Community Volunteer James McCook and former NFL Defensive End and Super Bowl Winner Rodney Bailey who played for the Patriots, Steelers, Seahawks and Cardinals and is an Ohio State Football Alumni. Petrendologist, Charlotte Reed, served as the event MC. For more information, please visit www.HumaneSocietyofPinellas.org

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to benefit participating non-profit rescue groups. From 10am to 6pm, animal rescue organizations, many appearing with adoptable pets, take over Beach Blvd. to raise money and awareness for their causes. Additionally, animal-related vendors, artists and crafters offer their wares to festival-goers. Pet Related activities will include an adoptable pet parade, pet care education, pet services, a pet food and supplies drive, animal rescue groups, free samples, training demos, a Bark-B-Que, food, DJ music & more. Well behaved pets and their leashed people are welcome. The daytime event is free for the public to attend, with plenty of free parking in and around the area. 3101 Beach Boulevard South Gulfport, FL 33707. www.GulfportsGetRescued.com ERTH’S DINOSAUR ZOO LIVE AT THE MAHAFFEY. It may have been 65 million years in the making, but it was worth the wait. The puppets of Dinosaur Zoo Live are so extraordinarily realistic you may feel the urge to run and hide – but don’t! You won’t want to miss a minute of this fun, unique, entertaining and educational live show. It’s an eyepopping collection of amazingly life-like dinosaurs and other creatures presented in a theatrical performance that will thrill kids while stimulating their imaginations. www.themahaffey.com/ 10th ANNUAL TEDDY BEAR SHOW AND SALE. Hundred’s of teddy bears to add to your collection. Made from Mohair, plush, furs and fabrics. One-of-a-kind collectibles. Enjoy a day with the bears and meeting the talented artists. Doors open at 10 a.m. Door prizes and surprises. Bears come in every imaginable size, shape and colors. 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Crowne Plaza Westshore Hotel, 5303 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa Fl 33609. www.bright-star-promotions.com TAMPA THEATRE WELCOMES “THE LINCOLN LAWYER” AUTHOR MICHAEL CONNELLY. Connelly, who has written 29 novels and is the executive producer of Amazon’s original drama series Bosch, will welcome Tampa Theatre fans to a screening of the 2011 film adaptation of his #1 bestselling novel The Lincoln Lawyer, and will answer audience questions after the movie. Joining him for the Q&A will be Dan Daly and Roger Mills, 12

two Tampa-based criminal defense attorneys with whom Connelly spent time while researching the book. His books have been translated into thirtynine foreign languages and have sold more than sixty million copies worldwide, making Connelly one of the most successful writers working today. The film, THE LINCOLN LAWYER, will be shown at 3:00pm. Based on the 2005 novel of the same name, The Lincoln Lawyer is half courtroom drama and half whodunit, with the interesting twist of an attorney who works out of his chauffeur-driven car. Tightly paced and original, with a deep and wellchosen cast, The Lincoln Lawyer ticks like clockwork from introduction to ripping conclusion. www.tampatheatre.org

Tues, Feb 21

“LOVE YOUR LIBRARY” FUNDRAISER. 5 – 7 pm. $3 suggested donation. Gulf Beaches Public Library, 200 Municipal Dr., Madeira Beach. 3rd ANNUAL SUNSHINE AWARDS. Annual Downtown Neighborhood Association awards community icons for their service. 6:30 – 8 pm. $25+. St. Petersburg Museum of History, 335 2nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg. www.stpetedna.org

Web, Feb 22

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS AT AMALIE. The world famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, will bring their spectacular show to AMALIE Arena in Tampa. New this season, for the first time ever, the Globetrotters will debut basketball’s first 4-point line. The 4-point line will be located 30 feet from the basket – 6 feet, 3 inches beyond the top of the NBA’s current 3-point line. During

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their 2017 World Tour, the famed team will feature a star-studded roster that includes Big Easy Lofton, Ant Atkinson, Hi-Lite Bruton, Thunder Law, Bull Bullard and Cheese Chisholm – plus female stars TNT Lister and Ace Jackson. Every game will showcase incredible ball handling wizardry, rimrattling dunks, trick shots, hilarious comedy and unequaled fan interaction. After the game, Globetrotter stars will sign autographs and take photos with fans. www.amaliearena.com

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Thurs, Feb 23 March 2 - 12

he Florida Strawberry Festival is an 11-day community event celebrating the strawberry harvest of Eastern Hillsborough County. Each year, the Florida Strawberry Festival welcomes visitors from throughout the Sunshine State and the world. Guests come from near and far to enjoy exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, livestock, fine arts, horticulture, and crafts. The fabric of American life is woven into the Festival through social events, contests, youth developmental programs, top-name entertainment, and parades with floats and marching bands. Central to its focus, the Festival continues to preserve and enhance the agricultural and historical legacy of the Florida strawberry. MARCH 7 - Brenda Lee / HEADLINERS

MARCH 2 - Jimmu Stur & His Orchestra / Drifters, Platters & Cornell Gunter’s Coasters / for King & Country MARCH 3 - Willie Nelson and Family / Kip Moore MARCH 4 - Kane Brown / 3 Doors Down MARCH 5 - Clare Bowen, Charles Esten / Little Big Town MARCH 6 - The Bellamy Brothers / Jennifer Nettles

NEEDTOBREATHE MARCH 8 - Tracy Byrd / Scotty McCreery MARCH 9 - Cab Calloway Orchestra / The Oak Ridge Boys / The Blues Brothers MARCH 10 - Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers / Elle King MARCH 11 - Maddie & Tae / Patti LaBelle MARCH 12 - Joe Nichols / Rascal Flatts ‘RHYTHM & ROOTS’ Tour

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WELLNESS EVENT PROMOTES BETTER LIVING FOR OLDER AMERICANS.

essential oils; ways to promote weight loss; home health care services; chiropractic services; health coaching services; skin care products; retirement planning; medicare information; physical therapy; home and garden services; insurance information; pharmacy information; and dental or medical information. In addition, the health fair will highlight a seminar by Dr. Christopher Hood. The health fair runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. 727-512-3017. Magnolia Auditorium in Five Towns, a 55+ Retirement Condo Community, 7950 58th Ave. N in St Petersburg. www.meetup.com/Smart-HealthyLifestyle/events/237000185/

Feb 23-25

Senior citizens and Baby Boomers are invited to attend a health and wellness event that is designed to show that smart living equals better living. Participants will be able to have health screenings, see demonstrations of products, dance to Zumba exercises and have fun. Vendors will be available to answer questions for people who are older than 50. The event will feature natural products for the home and people’s health; products that promote safety for the elderly; products for hearing, including an amplified phone; food and nutrition for seniors; fitness ideas; massage therapy;

WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT SOLDIER RIDE. A group of our nation’s heroes begins a journey toward recovery alongside their fellow warriors, throughout the course of three days and 30 miles. This event will be the first time that some warriors venture out of their homes to connect with the community since being wounded. Many warriors face similar challenges with isolation when transitioning to civilian life, and events like this offer a chance to bond with one another and learn they are not alone. Soldier Ride also introduces wounded veterans to WWP’s long-term health and wellness programs, which include physical training, outdoor events, and nutrition classes. Before the ride, each warrior is fitted with adaptive equipment to accommodate injuries and make the ride as comfortable as possible. Full Schedule of Events: Thurs, Feb. 23- 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. Bike Fitting with Injured Veterans. Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore, 2225 N. Lois Ave., Tampa, FL Fri, Feb. 24- 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. Warrior Ride (15 miles). Ballast Point Park Ride. Start & End: 5300 Interbay Blvd., Tampa, FL Sat, Feb. 25. 8:30 am – 10:30 am. Warrior Ride (15 miles), Fort Desoto Ride. Start & End: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., St. Petersburg, FL

Sat, Feb 25

COLOR FUN FEST AT RAYMOND JAMES. The event includes a 5k run, with color stations featuring thousands of pounds of colored powder showering down on runners, and a massive color throw and D.J. dance party in a family-friendly carContinued

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nival atmosphere afterwards. Run at night for an otherworldly black light experience. All proceeds to benefit Just Care More, extreme sports star Jamie Leibert’s charity to teach at-risk teens to #RespectYourdDreams. Children 12 and under are free with advance, online registration. 601-255-8291. www.colorfunfest5k.com/tampa/ “RALLY FOR THE CURE” 9 HOLE GOLF EVENT. Hosted by the Treasure Island Ladies Golf League, play a round and help the community. All proceeds to benefit Susan G Komen Foundation. Treasure Bay Golf & Tennis, Treasure Island. 727.481.1646. TAILS AT TWILIGHT. An evening of food, fun and dancing all to help our area animal rescues.

Raffles, tapas buffet and cash bar. 7 – 10 pm. $25. Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd., Gulfport. www.gulfportsgetrescued.com GREAT EXPLORATIONS READY, SET, GO! The Firestone Grand Prix will have an official car out front of museum for the children to see and experience. Then, families can zip and zoom inside the museum for a truckload of transportation activities! 10 am – 2 pm. Included with admission. Great Explorations, 1925 4th St. N, St. Petersburg. www.greatex.org BEST BUDDIES 2017 WALK KICK OFF PARTY. Enjoy food, fun, and dancing, and learn more about how you can take part in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk event. There will be awesome Best Buddies swag, raffle prizes, and more. The teams with the most members registered,

HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE & BOARDWALK

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

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

(727) 394-0756 • johnspassvillage.net

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most money raised to date, and most members present will receive awesome prizes. The first 30 people with $50 on their page will receive an awesome pair of Best Buddies sunglasses to wear at the walk. 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. Whiskey Joe’s Bar & Grill, 7720 West Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa, FL. www.bestbuddies.org

Feb 25 - 26

GASPARILLA DISTANCE CLASSIC. The annual Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic will be held along Bayshore Blvd, South Tampa and Davis Islands. There will be a health and fitness expo along with a 5k, 8k, 15k, and half marathon. It’s a fun and action packed two-days that on Saturday, includes the 15K, 5K Run, 5K Walk and 5K Stroller Roll; on Sunday, you can run or walk in the Half Marathon and/or 8K OR if you’re up for a ‘CHALLENGE’, check out the Michelob Ultra Challenge (15K, 5K, Half Marathon & 8K), MIchelob Ultra Amber Challenge (15K, 5K & Half Marathon) & Michelob Ultra Lime Cactus Challenge (15K & 8K). ARRRGH YOU READY TO RUN FOR THE BOOTY? www.tampabayrun.com/

VB Tour. Tournament play will start at 9 am with women’s finals scheduled for 6 pm Saturday and men’s finals at 12 noon on Sunday. Admission is free for all spectators. Spring Tour Local Schedule Feb 25-26: Clearwater Beach, FL - East End Volleyball March 11: Gulfport, FL - Tampa Bay Beach Bums April 1-2: Gulfport, FL - Tampa Bay Beach Bums April 15: TBD - East End Volleyball & Tampa Bay Beach Bums www.eevb.net

Sun, Feb 26

MUSIC IN THE AFTERNOON. Bring a blanket and enjoy the classic music of “The Rhythm Kings”. 2 – 4 pm. Free. St. Pete Beach Community Center, Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. www.spbrec.com Continued on page 21

Feb 25 - April 15

SPALDING KOB BIG SHOT VOLLEYBALL COMES TO FLORIDA.

The Spalding King of the Beach Big Shot Volleyball Series, presented by Park & Sun Sports, will start the 2017 season at sites throughout Florida during February, March and April. Teams from throughout the East Coast will compete as they warm up for the 2017 Pro Beach Volleyball Tour. All events are sanctioned by Volley America. Top male and female doubles teams will compete for over $75,000 cash prizes during the 2017 season including the five events at the Spalding Big Shot www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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BUBBLEOLOGY

at the Citrus Park Mall

f you’re a tea lover and you haven’t stopped by the Bubbleology kiosk at the Citrus Park Mall, you are in for a real treat when you do. A “Bubbleologist” creates a tea based beverage with fruit flavor infusions. These nutritional beverages (and there are many to choose from) use freshly brewed tea combined with Tapioca pearls, which add an interesting twist to the taste experience. Teas are made with milk or fruit, and can be customized with extras. They are 100% vegetarian and are hand made to order. There are also some very tasty specials, such as the Cookies & Cream Tea (as pictured middle left). A few of the Milk Tea flavors are: Jasmine, Taro (the most popular), Honeydew, Mocha, Coconut, Vanilla. Some Fruit Tea flavors are: Mango, Passion Fruit, Strawberry, Ginger, Lychee, Apple. You can customize with extra tapioca, flavored jelly, and “popping boba”— a fun tiny juice ball that bursts with flavor in your mouth. For more information visit www.bubbleologyusa.com/

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SURFRIDER MAKING WAVES COMMUNITY KICKOFF PARTY. Join the Suncoast Surfrider Foundation as they kick-off the year with music, ocean friendly businesses and how you can get involved to keep our waters clean. 6 – 10 pm. $5 suggested donation. Jannus Live, 200 1st Ave. N, St. Petersburg. www.suncoast.surfrider.org

Tues, Feb 28

by Doug South Band and Josh Higgins, and more for everyone to enjoy. Food will be served at 4 PM and the performance will start at 6 PM. Parking is free. 7700 W. Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa, FL 33607. www.beachtampa.com/

MARCH Thru April 2

CRAWFISH FESTIVAL ON MARDI GRAS. Tampa’s Bay Harbor Hotel is hosting a fun, familyfriendly Mardi Gras cookout on February 28th in celebration of Mardi Gras. Guests can expect entrees of Jambalaya and Crawfish Broil and doughnut desserts. The event will also include drink specials all day, stilt walkers, balloon artists, throwing beads, fire spinners, live Mardi Gras performances

2nd ANNUAL DRESS FOR SUCCESS. Dress for Success, the international not-forprofit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life, has teamed up with O, The Oprah Magazine and Talbots to raise money and awareness for the Continued

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

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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organization through its limited edition nine-piece capsule collection, which is available in stores nationwide and online throuh April 2nd, with 30% of net proceeds benefiting Dress for Success. You can donate gently worn work attire from March 2 March 5 to your local Talbots to benefit the Tampa Bay chapter of Dress for Success. If you haven’t worn it in a year and it still has the tag on it or if you can’t think of at least three ways to style it, it’s time to let go. www.dressforsuccess.org

Wed, March 1

DECONSTRUCTING THE BEATLES: SGT. PEPPER at the Tampa Theatre. Musician, composer, software company CEO and Beatles expert (he taught a class about the Beatles at Yale!) Scott Freiman leads the viewer through an educational journey into the creative process of the Beatles’ performances and recording sessions, their studio innovations and the history behind their music. www.tampatheatre.ticketforce.com/

2 Thru 5

6th ANNUAL MUSIC ON THE BAY. Music On The Bay (MOTB) is a 3 ½ day Parrot Head Trop-Rock music festival, with music that blends other genres including Caribbean, Tropical/Island, Latin and Rock Reggae, with roots in the beach music scene. In addition, there will be vendors with “parrotphanalia” and other fantastic items on site.Last year Music On The Bay Continued

TAMPA THEATRE

HOLLYWOOD AWARDS NIGHT - Feb 26

Join Tampa Theatre on Sun, Feb 26 in celebrating Hollywood’s biggest night of the year with a Red Carpet Reception and VIP watch party for the live telecast of the 89th annual Academy Awards on the big screen. The Hollywood Awards Night Red Carpet Reception begins at 7:00pm on Franklin Street under the marquee. After a limo ride around the block, superstar guests will walk the red carpet past adoring fans and paparazzi, rub shoulders with costumed characters representing Hollywood’s biggest bigwigs, pose for a picture with a living award “statue,” and chat with “Roan Jivers” about who they’re wearing. Inside, there will be games, prizes, free popcorn and soda, hair and makeup touchups with stylists from Paul Mitchell the School, the OSCAR Red Carpet Live pre-show on the big screen, and a cash bar. ABC’s live coverage of the Academy Awards begins at 8:30 p.m., and guests who stay until the Best Picture is announced at the end of the telecast will enjoy doughnuts and coffee in the lobby. Upgrade your VIP experience with “Backstage Pass” tickets which include access to the Theatre’s Green Room and a spread of complimentary appetizers, beer, wine, and signature cocktails until 11:00pm. Guests are encouraged to show off their star status with a movie-themed costume, or let the glamour of hollywood inspire an outfit. Tickets: backstage pass tickets are $75 per person ($70 for tampa theatre members.) GA tickets are $20 ($15 for members.) Group tickets for parties of four or more are also available for $15 per person.

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raised and donated $50,000 dollars, and to date $150,000 dollars, to the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Tampa Bay Parrot Heads has over 500 members who “volunteer when called upon” and do civic duties in Tampa Bay. Thurs: 5pm-10pm, Fri & Sat: 10am-11pm, Sun: 11am-6pm. Must be 21 to attend event. Whiskey Joe’s Barefoot Beach, 7720 W Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa, FL 33607. www.musiconthebay.org

11th GASPARILLA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL. The 11th annual festival will be held March 2-March 9, 2017 at the Tampa Theater and AMC Centro Ybor. The festival will host the World Premiere for Academy Award winner J. K. Simmons’ ALL NIGHTER, directed by Gavin Wiesen. With 35 films and over 70 shorts, the festival will host international and regional premieres of narrative features, documentaries and short films around the world, master classes, panel discussions and much more. A jury of 12 TV & Film industry professionals will be presenting awards to competition films in the following categories: U.S. Narrative Feature, International Narrative Feature, Documentary and Shorts. www.gasparillafilmfestival.com

Fri, March 3

FIRST FRIDAY DOWNTOWN. Monthly street party with music, food and beverages for purchase. Proceeds benefit Breakfast Optimists Club. 5:30

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— 10 pm. Free. Central Ave., between 2nd & 3rd Streets, St. Petersburg. www.firstfridaystpete.com WORLD’S STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE.

LARGEST YOGURT

rative cups for a suggested donation of $1.00 - go directly to United Food Bank of Plant City. In keeping with Guinness World Records’ zero food waste policy, any remaining Smoothie will go directly to Feeding Tampa Bay and will be distributed to Food Banks and Pantries throughout the greater Tampa Bay area for consumption by those in need.

Sat, March 4

ISLAND FESTIVAL. Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the museum’s building and 60year anniversary of the St. Pete Beach community. Car show,

Cabot Creamery Co-operative is joining forces with the Florida Strawberry Festival to create the world’s largest strawberry yogurt smoothie - all to benefit United Food Bank of Plant City and Feeding Tampa Bay. The Cabot Smoothie prep team, led by Cabot Chef Jimmy Kennedy, will be hard at work beginning at 10am on March 3 during the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival blending a healthy and delicious smoothie made from more than 250 gallons of Cabot Vanilla Bean Greek Yogurt, that represents more than 1,100 two-pound tubs of Cabot Greek Yogurt for every one of Cabot’s 1,100 farm families, 2,000 pounds of fresh Florida strawberries, 3,375 pounds of ice and 265 pounds of Cabot Whey protein powder. The Cabot Smoothie team is going for the GUINNESS WORLD RECORD for the Largest smoothie. Once completed, all proceeds from the sale of the record setting Smoothie - sold in commemo-

music, vendors and lots of fun to benefit the Historical Museum. 9 am — 4 pm. Free. Gulf Beaches Historical Museum, 115 10th Ave., St. Pete Beach. www. gulfbeachesmuseum.com 13TH ANNUAL GULFPORT’S GET RESCUED - PET FESTIVAL. From 10am to 6pm, animal rescue organizations, many appearing with adoptable pets, take over Beach Blvd. to raise money and awareness for their causes. Additionally, animal-related vendors, artists and crafters offer their wares to Continued

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festival-goers. Pet Related activities will include an adoptable pet parade, pet care education, pet services, a pet food and supplies drive, animal rescue groups, free samples, training demos, a Bark-B-Que, food, DJ music & more. Well behaved pets and their leashed people are welcome. The daytime event is free for the public to attend, with plenty of free parking in and around the area. www.GulfportsGetRescued.com ASOLO REP TO HOST ANNUAL GALA: LA FÊTE DE MONTE CARLO. Asolo Rep’s Annual Gala: La Fête de Monte Carlo, will be held at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota. The fundraiser will begin at 6pm with a cocktail reception and silent auction, followed by a seated dinner, paddle raise, live music and dancing. It will celebrate Monte Carlo, which became the epitome of jet-set chic in the 1960s and one of the most noteworthy James Bond film locations. Musical entertainment will feature actress Veronica J. Kuehn, and headliner Mark Zauss and his 11-piece orchestra, the 007 Band. Joey Panek, Senior Producer of ABC 7’s Suncoast View, will emcee the event. All Gala proceeds will support the artists in Asolo Rep’s 2016-17 season and the theatre’s Education & Outreach programs, which help students develop an appreciation for the arts while gaining empathy and insight into the lives of others through experiencing, discussing and creating live theatre. www.asolorep.org/ANNUALGALA

321 BOOKS ANNOUNCES NEW RETAIL BOOKSTORE. 321 Books is expanding from selling on Amazon to its first brick and mortar location. The store will occupy over 10,000 square feet at Tyrone Square Mall and is in the main concourse by JCPenney. The store will be stocked with over 100,000 used books. Most of the inventory will be hardcover books. The store will carry fiction, nonfiction, kid’s books, DVD’s, CD’s and video games. The store will feature a children’s area and be home to 321 Books book signings and author readings. The books are priced $3 and lower. 321’s goal is to donate 1,000,000 books each year to kids and local charities. www.321-books.com CARROLLWOODSTOCK. A day-long music festival celebrating Carrollwood, featuring local bands, art vendors and local restaurants. Bands scheduled to appear include: Fauxthentics, Avenue 43, Whiskey CrossRoad, Troy Youngblood, and the Jonnie Morgan Band. 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Free admission. 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa. www.carrollwoodcenter.org EMPTY BOWLS BENEFIT. Enjoy a simple mean of soup and bread in bowls created by local potters and crafts people. Food donated by restaurants. Event benefits Society of St. Vincent de Paul homeless shelter. 1 - 5 pm. Clay Center of St. Petersburg, 2010 First Ave. S. $10 includes handcrafted bowl. 727-439-8522. www.claycenterofstpetersburg.com/ BATTLE OF THE MINDS. Compete in the Master Mind Challenge electronic trivia game. Cocktails, dinner and auctions at the Tradewinds Island Grand Resort. Event will benefit St. Petersburg Free Clinic. 6 pm. 5500 Gulf Blvd., St. Petersburg Beach. 727-821-1200. www.stpetersburgfreeclinic.org/events/battle/ REGGAE RISE UP MUSIC FESTIVAL AT VINOY PARK. Reggae-influenced alternative rock band Iration—currently touring in support of their new acoustic album Double Up—comes to St. Petersburg to perform at the Reggae Rise Up Music Festival at Vinoy Park. Also performing that day will be Slightly Stoopid, The Hip Abduction, Proteje, Fortunate Youth and more. www.reggaeriseup.com/festival/reggae-rise-festival-florida/ Continued on page 30

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Freefallin’

Without a Chute Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino

lways wondered what it would be like to go sky diving but were a little (or a lot) apprehensive? Settle out your fears at iFLY, the new indoor skydiving venue in Tampa. I have been skydiving (well, once) and wondered how the indoor experience compared. It really has quite the same feel without the view. This is a fun time, and may make you want to take a step further to outdoor skydiving, or you may just enjoy the security of the much safer indoors, and without that pesky parachute. At iFLY, you will be with an experienced skydiver to take you through your paces and fly with you. Watching the “real” skydivers in action makes you want to return again and again to be able to accompolish the very cool moves they can make. The military even uses iFLY for training. The action all takes place in a 14 foot diameter glass tunnel, with four turbine fans on top and turning veins on the plenum (bottom.) The wind is set around 110 for novices, and up to 160 for experienced skydivers. There is a “pilot” monitoring flyers the whole time. After you check in, you get suited up, a few pointers of what to do and not to do, and you’re off! The whole event including the training and coaching takes about 1 1/2 hours. You can also purchase photos and videos of your flight. This is fun for the whole family, from ages 3 to 103, with a 300 pound weight limit. It is also good for corporate outings, team building and sales events. I think it would be great fun for birthday parties as well. Today iFLY has 37 locations around the world, with 3 in Florida (Tampa, Orlando, and Ft. Lauderdale.) iFLY Tampa is located at 10654 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL. 813-773-4359. For more information please visit

Up, up and away.

www.iflyworld.com

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Get outfitted with the right size suit, helmet and goggles.

14 foot diameter glass tunnel.

Checking in at the front desk.

Floating on a column of air.

Suited up and waitng for our flights.

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AWAKENING INTO THE SUN FESTIVAL. Music, vendors and inspiration in the Park. Event begins at The Mahaffey Theater with a series of enlightened speakers prior to park festival. 10am — 9 Saturday, 10 am — 6 pm Sunday. Free. South Straub Park, Bayshore Blvd., St. Petersburg. www.awakeningintothesun.org

31ST ANNUAL MASSING OF THE COLORS Community patriotic service with procession of Color Guards, music, 21 gun-salute and speaker Mayor Leslie Waters. Honoring our flag. 2 pm. Free. Pasadena Community Methodist Church, 227 70th St. S, St. Petersburg. 727.343.7664. PICNIC IN THE PARK at Plant Park. Roll back the clock a century and join us for an old fashioned picnic starting at 10 am, in Plant Park. Bring your blanket, pack a picnic basket and invite family and friends to experience the pleasures of a simpler time. Relax in the shade, or test your Victorian sporting prowess with challenges of hoops & sticks, croquet, horseshoes, badminton, and three-legged races. Victorian table games will be offered including dominoes, checkers, jacks or tiddlywinks. There will be strolling models in vintage clothing, live theater, and continuous enter-

AMALIE ARENA - March 24-26

DISNEY ON ICE

ev up for non-stop fun with four of your favorite Disney stories at Disney On Ice presents Worlds of Enchantment. Thrill to high-speed stunts as Lightning McQueen and the crew of Disney Pixar’s Cars race across the ice. Dive into adventure with Ariel and The Little Mermaid’s undersea kingdom. The toys are back in town with heroic action when Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the Disney Pixar Toy Story gang escape Sunnyside Daycare in their most daring adventure. Plus, enter the wintery world of Arendelle with sisters Anna and Elsa and pals Olaf and Kristoff from Disney’s Frozen as they learn that true love comes from within. Get warmed up at Mickey’s Dance-Along Pre-Show. Ages Two and Older Require Ticket. *Note: Costumes not permitted for guests 14 years & older.

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tainment on Center Stage. Blue Bell will provide complimentary ice cream. Two food trucks from Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally will have food available for purchase. Complimentary popcorn courtesy of the Museum. Community partners will offer crafts and activities. The Humane Society of Tampa Bay will be present at a table with some friendly dogs looking for a forever home. Visitors will be able to interact with the dogs. The Paper Seahorse will host Victorian paper-crafting on the veranda. Check out Big Cat Rescue and see some big cat artifacts. Bring your own picnic basket, chairs, blankets and coolers and enjoy the day. A limited number of tables are available throughout the park.

some of the best racing in the world. Fan activities, entertainment, fan village and beer garden. Albert Whitted Airport and surrounding area downtown St. Petersburg. For schedule and tickets visit www.gpstpete.com

Sat, March 11

BEER BREAKFAST FOR READY FOR LIFE. A Beer Breakfast gathering is a place to be yourself, have some fun and do good in your community. Proceeds to benefit Ready for Life, a local 501c3 charitable organi-

zation founded to provide the support, resources and guidance former foster care youth need to transition to adulthood. With a family-like community that serves, inspires and empowers young adults that have transitioned out of foster care (and their children) to be Ready for Life. From 9am to 2pm at The Mandarin Hide in Downtown St. Pete. 231 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. www. readyforlifepinellas.org INDIAN SHORES WOMContinued

Thurs, March 9

LGBTQ FILM SERIES. Celebration of Women’s History Month explore the women’s music cultural movement from 1970’s to now. 7 pm. Free, first come, first serve. Gulfport Public Library, 5502 28th Ave. S, Gulfport. www.facebook.com/GulfportLibrary

Fri, March 10

DANCE FOR PLANTS. A swing & zydeco dance to benefit the Gulfport Community Garden. Plant costumes encouraged. 7 — 11 pm. Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd., Gulfport. www.gulfportcommunitygarden.org

March 10 - 12

FIRESTONE GRAND PRIX OF ST. PETERSBURG. Offering www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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EN’S CLUB FASHION SHOW. Enjoy lunch, raffles and fashion show to help in raising money for community causes. 11:30 am. Salt Rock Grill, 19325 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores. Tickets 727.736.1812.

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS: THE FRIENDSHIP TOUR 2017.

March 11-12

55TH ANNUAL IKEBANA EXHIBITION. Over 80 floral arrangements on display with daily demonstrations. Arrangements for sale. Free with donations appreciated. Treasure Island Community Center, 1 Park Pl. & 106th Ave., Treasure Island. www.ikebanastpetersburg.com GASPARILLA MUSIC FESTIVAL. Four stages with over 40 bands, Kid’s Fest runs from 12 — 2 pm each day with free admission and activities on Sunday at the Glazer’s Children’s Museum adjacent to the park. Kids under 12 free. Curtis Hixon Park, Ashley Dr., Tampa. www.gasparillamusic.com

Children everywhere can spend the day with their friend Thomas when the #1 Engine pulls into the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish. Climb aboard and take a ride with Thomas as well as participate in Thomas & Friends themed activities. Day Out With Thomas: The Friendship Tour 2017 will feature an array of friendship-inspired activities. Attendees will be able to participate in events that encourage and celebrate friendship including

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photo opportunities, crafts, and a fun activity that invites kids to collect passport stamps throughout the day to receive a trio of Day Out With Thomas friendship bracelets. The 2017 tour theme is in line with this year’s Thomas & Friends global brand campaign, ‘Set Friendship in Motion’ - a campaign that ties together content, social integrations, and event activations across the entire Thomas & Friends franchise to highlight the importance of first friendships and the development of key friendship skills in toddlers. Thomas the Tank Engine rides depart every hour on the hour, rain or shine. Departure times begin at 9:00AM through 4:00PM each day of the event. Florida Railroad Museum, 12210 83rd St E, Parrish, Fl. 34219. www.dayoutwiththomas.com

March 12

DADA LIFE AT SHEPHARD’S BEACH.

overall chart. 619 South Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater Beach, FL. 33767. www.dadalife.com/

March 16 -19

SPRING BREAK WATERFRONT FESTIVAL. Carnival rides, live entertainment and vendors. Fundraiser for Gulf Beaches Rotary in which proceeds benefit area charities. 3-11 pm Thursday, 12 -11 pm Friday, Saturday, 12-9 pm Sunday. Free admission. ROC Park, 200 Rex Dr., Madeira Beach. www.madbeachfun.com

Fri, March 17

1st ANNUAL ST PETE FRENCH FRY FESTIVAL. Join Gulf to Bay Food Truck Association for Food, Fun and Live Entertainment at the St Pete 1st Annual French Fry Festival. FOOD TRUCK LINEUP: Flip’n Tasty Filipino Food Truck, Hot Rod Wings, Surf and Turf Truck FL, The Boom Boom Box, Cajun in a Truck, St Pete Taco Lady, Vanchetta Food Truck, I WANNA WOK, Merica Food Truck, In the Middle Food Truck, Krepelicious, Cake Girl. Tour the Sir Winston Cruise Ship docked at the Port. 6pm-9pm. FREE Admission and Parking. Beer, Wine and Sangria for purchase. In and outside waterfront seating. www.gulftobayfta.org

Sat, March 18

GULFPORT HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPO. A day of healthy fun for everyone. Door prizes, entertainment, fresh & healthy vendors, family medical info and services. Proceeds to benefit the Gulfport Senior Center Foundation. 10 am-2 pm. Free. Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd. S, Gulfport. www.mygulfport.us The headlining Swedish dance DJ-duo of Olle Cornéer and Stefan Engblom are bringing their “no rules but the rules of Dada” trademark live experience through North America and stopping in Clearwater on Sunday, March 12 at Shephard’s Beach. Their “THE COMPOUND: EVOLVED” tour will feature a diverse lineup of support acts and stacks of activities. DADA LIFE’s live successes also include show-stealing sets at the biggest festivals in the world including Ultra Music Festival, Electric Daisy Carnival and Coachella. Their last album The Rules Of Dada reached #1 on the iTunes Dance chart and Top 10 on the iTunes

Sun, March 19

2017 BOLTS FAMILY CARNIVAL at Amalie Arena. 1:00 - 4:00pm. The Bolts Family Carnival is the Lightning Foundations marquis annual fundraising event. Funds raised will enable the Lightning Foundation to support the American Heart Association, Feeding Tampa Bay, Junior Achievement, the V Foundation, and the Tampa Bay History Center. Suite signing passes, video game passes, and Bolts Rookie Combine passes can be purchased. www.amaliearenaestore.com/boltsfamily-carnival/

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Tues, March 21

OUT OF THE SHADOWS at the Palladium. This important two hour forum reveals the results of a groundbreaking study conducted by The LGBTQ Homeless Youth Project in partnership with Family Resources and underwritten by The Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg. The severity of LGBTQ homelessness in Greater St. Petersburg and Pinellas County has been calculated to affect as many as 800–1200 young people. We will explore this crisis through theatrical journalism, as Your Real Stories stages the life experiences of five people either affected by, or working to solve the challenges of a truly underserved population. The mission is to identify needs, create community collaborations, and to present findings in an engaging and educational format. In addition, the audience will be able to directly participate in a post show Q&A enhanced by the ability to give direct, real time feedback on personal devices. Admission is free, but if you would like to make a donation, use the donation option. 7—9 pm. The Palladium Theatre, 253 5th Ave N. www.eventbrite.com/e/ out-of-the-shadows-tickets-31755105375

ties, to donate to Mascots for a Cure, and to create their own Twist Challenge videos. Chubby Checker, the celebrity spokesperson for the organization, performs at The Palladium Thursday, March 23. The public is invited to come out and watch the fun, and to twist along in the video. 400 First Street South St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 727.892.5767. www.themahaffey.com/

Sat, March 25

3rd ANNUAL TAMPA PRIDE PARADE. The 3rd annual Tampa Pride Parade will be in historic Ybor City, also known as the GaYBOR District. The parade will wind its way east from the corner of Nuccio Parkway and 7th Avenue, down 7th Avenue to 20th Street where it will turn north to end at our new Street Festival location around historic Centennial Park. While the parade starts at 1PM, a special tribute to Orlando Pulse tragedy victims and a display of a section of the Sea-to-Sea Rainbow Flag originally from Key West will begin at noon in front of Centro Ybor. www.facebook.com/events/376683462704950/

March 25 - 26

TAMPA BAY MASCOTS TAKE CHUBBY CHECKER’S TWIST CHALLENGE. Team mascots from all over Tampa Bay will take Chubby Checker’s Twist Challenge at 11:30 a.m. on the steps of the Palladium Theater. Raymond (Tampa Bay Rays), Thunderbug (Tampa Bay Lightning), Pelican Pete (Tampa Bay Rowdies), along with mascots from the Tampa Yankees, Clearwater Threshers and other teams, will dance The Twist to Checker’s classic recording, in support of Mascots for a Cure, a national non-profit organization dedicated to help children and their families battling cancer. The resulting video will be used as a challenge to those in Tampa Bay, and other communi34

ST. PETERSBURG SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL in North Straub Park. Enjoy a weekend of food and live music while enjoying the downtown St. Petersburg community. 10 am to 8 pm. General admission is $5 at the gate. Fresh dishes are prepared onsite by top local restaurants and food purveyors. Seafood dishes are created using indigenous and sustainable ocean resources from Florida’s coastal waters. Musical entertainment varies from soul, classic rock, R&B, jazz, salsa and more. Musical groups include Jah Movement, Orchestra Fuego, Mike Tozier, the Greg Billings Band, Twinkle & Rock Soul Radio, RJ Howson, the HubbTones, RJ Howson and the Sarasota Steel Pan Band. The event also features a Crafts Village showcasing arts, crafts and fine products, many with a nautical theme, along with gourmet food products and specialty items. www.seafoodfestivals.com

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GEORGE W. BUSH Portraits Of Courage

Book Signing at MacDill AFB

eorge W. Bush signed his Portraits Of Courage book at MacDill AFB recently. The portraits are all of wounded warriors, a subject close to Bushâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart. He painted the portraits himself, and each portrait

is accompanied by the wounded warriorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story. Profits from the book go to the George W. Bush Presidential Center, which focuses on helping post-9/11 veterans and families, and on the issues of veteran wellness. This book signing was available to anyone with a military ID. The lines were long (estimated at 2,000) and Bush was warm and gracious to everyone that passed through, thanking them for their service. While the press only had a 10 minute viewing window, we observed one instance where Bush stood up to hug a gold star mother. A few wounded warriors gave interviews to the press and shared their appreciation for what the former president continues to do for them. Several of the servicemen and women depicted in the book are from the Tampa Bay area. The book is available for purchase at major bookstores and Amazon. 36

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Bush hugged Gold Star mom, Yolando Mercado, who wore a ribbon dedicated to her son.

Bush thanked everyone for their service.

Wounded warrior BT Urruela finds some good friends he was in recovery with in the book.

Scott Neil, retired Green Beret and a wounded warrior, is depicted in the book.

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1010 N. W.c. Macinnes Place, Tampa. 813229-Star. www.strazcenter.org

singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first musical! With its heart on its ruffled sleeve and sequins in its soul, Something Rotten! is “The Producers + The Book of Mormon x The Drowsy Chaperone. Squared!” (New York Magazine).

BROADWAY SERIES

WICKED - Feb 01 - Feb 26. WICKED looks at what happened in the Land of Oz …but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another girl, born with emerald-green skin — smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships … until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.” With a score that includes the hits “Defying Gravity,” “Popular” and “For Good,” WICKED has been hailed by The New York Times as “the defining musical of the decade.”

SOMETHING ROTTEN! - MARCH 7 - 12. Set in 1595, this hilarious smash tells the story of Nick and Nigel Bottom, two brothers who are desperate to write a hit play. When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theater involves 38

RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN’S THE KING AND I - May 2 - 7 One of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s finest works, THE KING AND I boasts a score which features such beloved classics as “Getting To Know You,” “I Whistle a Happy Tune,” “Hello Young Lovers,” “Shall We Dance” and “Something Wonderful.” Set in 1860’s Bangkok, the musical tells the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher whom the modernist King, in an imperialistic world, brings to Siam to teach his many wives and children. FINDING NEVERLAND - May 30 - June 4. FINDING NEVERLAND tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. He sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. Barrie leaves his old world behind for Neverland where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever.

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DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID - July 11 - 16. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner Alan Menken, this beautiful Broadway hit is based on a favorite Disney film. Fall in love with the magic for the first time – or all over again. “One of the most ravishing things I have ever seen on a Broadway stage” – Time Magazine MOTOWN THE MUSICAL - Aug 8 - 13. Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl”

and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music in the record-breaking smash hit Motown The Musical! RENT - 20th Anniversary Tour - Sept 19 - 24. In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway … and forever changed the landscape of American theater. A reimagining of Puccini’s La Bohème, RENT follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out. With its inspiring message of joy and hope in the face of fear, this timeless celebration of friendship and creativity reminds us to measure our lives with the only thing that truly matters—love.

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t AMALIE ARENA 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813.301.6500. www.amaliearena.com FEBRUARY 28 - TWENTY ØNE PILØTS – EMØTIØNAL RØADSHØW With Special Guest JON BELLION. Twenty One Pilots – who only just returned home from show stopping performances at Lolla South America in Brazil, Chile, and Argentina – have received a number of major awards nominations in recent weeks, including four nods for the 2016 Billboard Music Awards.

MARCH 12 - GAME OF THRONES LIVE CONCERT EXPERIENCE WITH RAMIN DJAWADI AMERICAN STAGE 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg 727.823.7529. www.americanstage.org/ MARCH 5 – HAWK & WAYNE 15 – APRIL 9 – INFORMED CONSENT 19 – IMPROV – HOUSE TEAMS LIVE ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE 5555 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243. www.asolorep.org MARCH 15 - APRIL 15 - THE LITTLE FOXES. Relevant, ruthless and gripping, Lillian Hellman’s chronicle of the dark side of the American Dream is a masterpiece of 20th century drama. A skewering social critique of greed and corruption first produced in 1939, Hellman’s portrayal of class and power 40

remains as potent and compelling as ever. Contains strong language including historical racial epithets, as well as mature themes. CAPITOL THEATRE 405 Cleveland Street, Clearwater 727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com/Venues MARCH 1 – Rick Springfield 2 – Here Comes the Mummies 3 – Marc Cohn’s 25th Anniversary 4 – The Fab Faux 7 – Clint Black 8 – Taj Mahal Solo Acoustic 9 – Edwin McCain 10 – Paula Poundstone 11 – Ricki Lee Jones & M, Peyroux 12 – The Irish Tenors 13 – Robert Earl Keen 14 – EDGAR WINTER & RICK DERRINGER. Edgar is best known for his hit “Frankenstein” and the ever popular “Free Ride” from his 1973 release They Only Come Out at Night, which stayed on the Billboard Hot 200 chart for 80 weeks. 15 – David Bromberg 16 – Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot 17 – Gordon Lightfoot 18 - Sinbad

31 - THE WILSON VAN. Paul, Mark and Patrick Wilson and friends, with Special Guest Kyle Schroeder. CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. www.carrollwoodcenter.org MARCH 17-19, 24-26 – NANA’S NAUGHTY KNICKERS. Bridget and her Grandmother are about to become roommates. However, what Bridget saw as a unique opportunity to stay with her favorite Nana in New York for the summer quickly turns into an experience she’ll never forget. It seems her sweet Grandma is running an illegal boutique from her apartment, selling hand-made naughty knickers to every senior citizen in the five borough area. CARROLLWOOD PLAYERS THEATRE 4335 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 813.265.4000. www.carrollwoodplayers.org/ MARCH Thru 4. RED VELVET CAKE WARS. With more

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t twists and turns than a Busch Gardens roller coaster, Red Velvet Cake Wars layer outlandish, head-shaking situations on top of one another. 19 - 26 - THE LARAMIE PROJECT. A critical play that addresses the brutal murder of openly gay teenager Matthew Shepard in the small town of Laramie, Wyoming, an incident that sparked national debate back in 1998.

upside down when Georges son Jean-Michel (fathered during a one-night stand) announces his impending marriage to the daughter of a bigoted, right wing political couple who are involved in a movement to close drag clubs. Craziness ensues when Georges and Albin agree to disguise their lifestyle and play it straight for the future in-laws – events that cause heartache and hilarity. CENTRAL PARK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 105 Central Park Dr, Largo. 727.587.6793. www.largoarts.com MARCH 3 – 19 – Evita 7 – John Sebastian

17 – APRIL 8. LA CAGE AUX FOLLES focuses on loving partners Georges and Albin. After 20 years of unmarried bliss, the couple has their world turned

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wo legends recently graced the stage at the Mahaffey Theater on different dates. TONY BENNETT, who is like a fine wine, and just keeps getting better, and the soulful SMOKEY ROBINSON, who brought his unique smooth style to St. Petersburg. photos by Bridget Burke

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t COCONUTS COMEDY CLUB 5501 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach 727.360.5653. www.coconutscomedyclubs.com Open Mike on Tuesdays. Shows: Wed - Sat, 9pm. MARCH 1 – 4 – Ken Evans 8 – 11 – Mike “Mad Dog” Adams 15 – 18 – Darryl Lennox 22 – 25 – Chris Barnes EARLY BIRD DINNER THEATRE 13355 49th St N, Clearwater, FL 33762. 727.864.7600. www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com MARCH 4 - APRIL 23. AIN’T RETIREMENT GRAND! A hilarious musical that confirms retirement is grand. The show is for and about retirees, those about to retire, baby boomers, seniors and anyone who wants a fun time at the theater. A delightful look at our retirement years with a cast of four singing twenty original songs. It is a spoof of the subject of retirement and explores those golden years with no holds barred. Upbeat characters sing catchy songs about early bird specials, the silver cord, pets, and much more. 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 MARCH 11 – La Traviata 25 - Idomeneo EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATRE 105 Central Park Drive, Largo 727.587.6793, www.eightoclocktheatre.com MARCH 3 - 19 - EVITA. Argentina’s controversial First Lady is the subject of this dynamic musical. As an illegitimate fifteen year old, Eva escaped her dirt-poor existence for the bright lights of Buenos Aires. Driven by ambition and blessed with charisma, she was a starlet at twenty-two, the president’s mistress at twenty-four, First Lady at twenty-seven, and dead at thirty-three. Eva Peron, “saint to the working-class” and the 44

most beloved and hated woman in Argentina, reviled by the aristocracy and mistrusted by the military, was destined to leave a fascinating political legacy unique in the 20th century. Told through a compelling score that includes “What’s New Buenos Aires,” “A New Argentina,” “Another Suitcase in Another Hall,” and the powerful “Don’t Cry For Me, Argentina,” EVITA creates an arresting theatrical portrait as complex as the woman herself. FLORIDA ORCHESTRA 727.662.7286. www.floridaorchestra.org See venues for dates – Mahaffey Theater, Ruth Eckerd Hall & David Straz Performing Arts Center FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 1241 North Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236. (941) 366-9000. www.floridastudiotheatre.org MARCH Thru APRIL 15 - PIANO MEN. This hit revue celebrates the virtuosity and elegance of artists such as Elton John, Billy Joel, and Barry Manilow. 19 - 23 - THE EXONERATED. Imagine spending days, weeks, or months in a space with concrete walls and floors, and bars that keep you from going where you want. Imagine spending years in jail, especially if you are not guilty of the crime for which you’ve been convicted. True stories of exonerated prisoners from interviews and court transcripts, some of whom spent as many as twenty two years behind bars. FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSE 302 Seminole St., Clearwater, Florida 33755. 727446-1360. www.franciswilsonplayhouse.org/ MARCH Thru 12 - HELLO DOLLY.

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Based on Thornton Wilder’s comedy The Matchmaker, this lively musical is the story of Dolly Levi, a matchmaking widow in turn of the century New York. With a classic score by Jerry Herman, this colorful kaleidoscope of a Broadway show features thrilling musical numbers, memorable characters and unforgettable situations, all wrapped up in a delightful package. This classic musical is still glowin’, still crowin’ and still goin’ strong. FREEFALL THEATRE COMPANY 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727.498.5205. www.freefalltheatre.com FEBRUARY 13 – Behind Enemy Lines 24 – March 26 – Red Velvet MARCH 3, 10, 17, 24 – Talkback GLENRIDGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota 941.552.5325 www.gpactix.com FEBRUARY 15 – The Mersey Beatles 17 – Jason Graae

MAHAFFEY THEATER

18 – Cynthia Sayer’s Hot Banjo Show 24 – Velvet Caravan 25 – Live in Central Park – [Revisited] MARCH 10 – George Winston GULFPORT COMMUNITY PLAYERS www.gulfportcommunityplayers.org *Back Door Theater, 1619 49th St. S, Gulfport MARCH 16 – 26 – God of Carnage JANNUS LIVE 200 1st Ave. North, Saint Petersburg, Florida 33701. www.jannuslive.com MARCH 25 - GOD SAVE THE QUEEN. God Save The Queen brings to life a mythical Queen tribute show presenting all of Queen’s greatest hits from 1973 to 1995 in one show, “Don’t Stop Me Now.” They have performed in 30 countries using the precise set list, clothing, and stage antics that Queen was known for. Continued

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER - The Musical Fri, March 17

he iconic story of Tony Manero, the kid from Brooklyn who wants to dance his way to a better life, is back! An all-new stage production of Saturday Night Fever - The Musical comes to the Mahaffey Theater Friday, March 17 at 8 p.m. Fueled by the Bee Gees’ timeless hits, this contemporary retelling of the classic story captures the energy, passion and life-changing moments that have thrilled audiences since 1977. Now, a new generation of talented actor/singer/dancers meets a new generation of theater-goers to explore the soaring sounds and pulsating rhythms of this coming-of-age disco fantasy. Based on Nik Cohn’s 1975 New York Magazine article “Tribal Rites of the New Saturday Night,” and Norman Wexler’s hit 1977 film, Saturday Night Fever - The Musical includes nearly all of the songs from the original movie soundtrack. The album spent a recordbreaking 24 weeks on the top of the U.S. chart.

www.themahaffey.com

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t JOBSITE THEATER Shimberg Playhouse, Straz Center for the Performing Arts. 1010 N. W.c. Macinnes Place, Tampa . 813-229-7827. www.strazcenter.org Mar 17 – Apr 9 - A SKULL IN CONNEMARA. Mick Dowd is hired one week a year to disinter the bones in the local cemetery in Leenane, Ireland to make way for the new arrivals. As the time approaches for him to dig up those of his own late wife, strange rumors surrounding his involvement in her sudden death seven years ago begin to resurface. Populated by misfits and miscreants all digging for the truth, A Skull in Connemara is a blasphemously funny whodunit complete with flying skulls and bloody hatchets.

MAHAFFEY THEATER 400 1St St. S, Bayfront Center St. Petersburg, 727.892.5767. www.themahaffeytheater.com FEBRUARY 17 – Loretta Lynn 20 - Masters of Illusion - Live! 24 - Benise 26 - Rhythm of the Dance MARCH 2 – Tony Bennet 4 – TFO – The Dali Experience 5 – Dwight Yoakum 15 – Brain Candy Live 17 – Saturday Night Fever

MARCH 30 - WE THE KINGS and PLAID BRIXX. After releasing their 2016 self-titled EP and three buzzing videos from the project, “Since You Came,” “The Greener Side” and “Don’t Look Down”, Plaid Brixx is hitting the road with WE THE KINGS’ 10th Anniversary Tour. THE PALLADIUM 253 5Th Ave N, St. Petersburg. 727.822.3590. www.mypalladium.org FEBRUARY

15 – Nicki Parrott, Rossano Sportiello & Ed Metz 17 – Upright Citizens Brigade 18 – BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet 19 – Canine Cabaret Comedy Show 22 - 26. 9TH ANNUAL ST. PETERSBURG JAZZ FESTIVAL. The lineup includes modern jazz from Robotman, The Martin Bejerano Trio, the Joshua Breakstone Trio, The Helios Jazz Orchestra with guest singers Whitney James & Fred Johnson and L.A. drummer Jason Lee Bruns with the SPC Jazz Profs. MARCH 1 – THE MASTER CHORALE OF TAMPA BAY YOUTH INITIATIVE EDUCATION AND OUTREACH PERFORMANCE. This concert is designed for elementary students and will feature performances by The Master Chorale Ensemble Singers and Lumina Youth Choirs. The free-to-students concert will be presented in the morning, and 4th and 5th grade elementary students from all over Pinellas County are invited to attend for free. 3 – Jim Breuer 4 – Boogie Woogie Blues Piano Stomp 5 – THE YARDBIRDS and VANILLA FUDGE. The Yardbirds are back on the road! Rock and Roll Hall Of Famer/founding member Jim McCarty has kept The Yardbirds’ train a-rollin’ with guitarist Johnny A, bassist Kenny Aaronson, singer/blues harpist/percussionist Myke Scavone, and guitarist/singer John Idan.

ORPHEUM 1915 E. 7th Ave., Tampa 46

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Continued

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established herself as one of the preeminent interpret-

FOOTLIGHTS con’t The Vanilla Fudge is known for the classic “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” among others. Considered one of the “heaviest” rock bands of the late 1960s, the band showcases their three founding members: Mark Stein, vocals/keyboards; Vince Martell, guitar/vocals and drummer Carmine Appice.

ers of American songcraft.

17 – Doo Wop 17 – Karla Bonoff 18 – Once 19 – TFO – Mahler Resurrection

8 – George Winston 12 – The Music of Stan Getz 16 – The McCartney Project

RUTH ECKERD HALL 1111 N. Mcmullen Booth Rd, Clearwater 727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com FEBRUARY 17 – Three Dog Night & America 18 – The Piano Games 19 – Live from Nashville 19 – TFO – Beethoven’s 2nd Symphony 22 – TFO – American Celebration 24 – Dennis DeYoung 25 – STOMP! 26 – Peking Acrobats 26 – TFO – Mardi Gras in New Orleans MARCH 1 – Hit Men in Concert 2 – Sleeping Beauty 5 – Barbara and Frank 5 – TFO – Dali Experience 7 – Norah Jones 9 – Elayne Booster 12 – Paul Anka

13 – Kristin Chenoweth. Throughout a remarkable career that encompasses stellar work in live theatre, television, film, music and concerts, Kristin Chenoweth has 48

SARASOTA BALLET 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941.359.0099 www.sarasotaballet.org FEBRUARY 24 – 26 – Paul Taylor Dance Company MARCH 10, 11 – A Tribute to Ashton SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. 941.359.0099. www.sarasotaopera.org FEBRUARY 16, 19, 22, 25. 28 – Madam Butterfly 18, 21, 23, 26 – The Italian Girl in Algiers 20, 27 – Opera House Tour 28 – Meet the Artists - Dialogues MARCH 3, 10 – Concert at Noon 3, 8 – The Italian Girl in Algiers 4, 7, 12, 15 – Dialogues of the Carnelites 5, 10, 17 – Madame Butterfly 6, 13 – Opera House Tour 7 – Meet the Artists – Three Kings 10 – Covers at Three 11, 14, 16 – The Love of Three Kings SIDESPLITTERS COMEDY CLUB 12938 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33618 .(813) 960-1197 www.sidesplitterscomedy.com/

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FEBRUARY 14 - Valentine’s Day Show starring CARL RIMI and RAHN HORTMAN - The Lover’s Package includes 2 admissions, a bottle of champagne, and Rahn Hortman’s book Daily Dose for REALationships. 16 - CHRIS ROACH 19 - Comic’s Night Out 23 - 26 - STEVE-O 25 - CARL RIMI MARCH 2 - 5. PAUL ZERDIN - A winning combination of technical skill, hilarious ventriloquism, charm and impeccable comic timing. 4 - STEVE MILLER - Topics ranging from his own health (poor) to the political climate (even worse). 9 - 11. NICK DiPAOLO 11 - MATT FERNANDEZ 16 - JOE LIST 23 - TOM RHODES

AMALIE ARENA

30 - VIC DiBITETTO A SIMPLE THEATER The Biniger Theater, Eckerd College. 4200 54Th Avenue S, St. Petersburg. 727.864.7811 www.asimpletheatre.org MARCH 14 – THE TRESTLE AT POP LICK CREEK THE SPACE 2106 West Main Street, Tampa FL 33607. www.gmctb.org FEBRUARY 17-18. UNA VOCE THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF TAMPA BAY 15TH ANNIVERSARY: “NOW MORE THAN EVER” - Bette, Babs, & Beyond: A Cabaret Show. With talented soloists, ensembles and the full chorus, the cabaret style concert showcases those fabulous females who have influenced our lives for decades. From Barbra Streisand to Bette

GAME OF THRONES

LIVE CONCERT EXPERIENCE

Continued

Sun, March 12

nter the world of Westeros with the Game of Thrones Live Concert Experience — an immersive music and visual experience that will bring the Seven Kingdoms to life on a scale never seen before. Using state-of-the-art technology, Game of Thrones composer Ramin Djawadi, along with a full orchestra and choir, will take fans on a musical journey through the realm — from King’s Landing to Winterfell, along the northern stretches of the Kingsroad to The Wall and across the Narrow Sea to Braavos, Meereen and beyond. Fans of the show will finally have an opportunity to immerse themselves in the Game of Thrones universe through the breathtaking score created by Ramin Djawadi. Ramin’s popular title track alone has become instantly recognizable as a pop culture phenomenon. The tour uses innovative music production and video technology that showcases footage from the show in addition to all new imagery created exclusively for the tour.

www.amaliearena.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

FOOTLIGHTS con’t Midler, Beyoncé and beyond, these iconic women have been at the forefront of the music industry. STATE THEATRE 687 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL. statetheatreconcerts.com FEBRUARY 18 - Local Lockdown 23 - Devendra Banhart 24 - Save Ferris

MARCH

2 - Old 97’s 5 - Suicidal Tendencies - World Gone Mad Tour 9 - Dua Lipa 11 - Wayland 17 - Anvil 21 - Katatonia 23 - JoJo - Mad Love Tour 26 - The Menzingers 28 - Dinosaur Jr. APRIL 4 - Shovels & Rope

STRAZ CENTER 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813.229. STAR www.strazcenter.org MARCH 3 – TFO – The Dali Experience 3, 4 – Taj Express 4 – The Princess Bride 5 – An Evening w Carl Hiaasen 5 – Celtic Woman – Voice of Angels 7 – 12 – Something Rotten! 10 – Tiempo Libre 11 – Mike Tozier – Live & Local 29 - HOME FREE.

ST. PETERSBURG OPERA COMPANY 727.823.2040. www.stpeteopera.org Various performance locations

MARCH

16 – Mission Impossible – The Music Gallery 17 – Mission Impossible – MFA

ST. PETERSBURG CITY THEATRE Located Just Off I-275 At 4025 31St. St. South, St. Petersburg, 33712. 727-866-1973. www.spcitytheatre.org MARCH 9 - 19. THE GAME’S AFOOT. The danger and hilarity are non-stop in this glittering whodunit set during the Christmas holidays. Come solve this mystery with us, it will keep you laughing and guessing from start to finish!

Columbia Records’ All-Vocal Country Sensation catapulted into the national spotlight as NBC’s “The Sing-Off” Season 4 winners. Well-known for their trademark a cappella renditions of today’s biggest Country and pop hits, they have a huge online presence with over 134 MILLION YouTube views. A few fan-favorite videos include: “Ring of Fire,” “Angels We Have Heard On High,” “All About That Bass,” SUNCOAST DIXIELAND JAZZ SOCIETY 727.596.7142 www.sdjs.org Wednesdays – Bilmar Beach Resort, Treasure Is. MARCH 12 – The Terrier Brothers USF CONCERT HALL 4202 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa, Fl 33620 MARCH 5 - Florida Wind Band: The Chamber Winds In Concert USF SUN DOME 4202 East Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33620. www. sundomearena.com

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MARCH 11 - Festival of Laughs: Mike Epps, Sommore, Bruce Bruce, Arnez J 18 - Casting Crowns - The Very Next Thing Tour

APRIL 1 - 2. Sarasota Orchestra - Masterworks: Magnificent Seven 4 - Menopause the Musical

WEST COAST PLAYERS 21905 Us 19 N. Clearwater, 727.437.2363. www.wcplayers. org MARCH 3 - 19. THE LYONS. As Ben Lyons lies dying, his wife of forty years, Rita, flips through decorating magazines, planning a living room make-over. Ben and Rita have been at war for many years and when they’re joined

by their children, Lisa and Curtis, all efforts at a pleasant visit or a sentimental goodbye to the dying patriarch are soon abandoned. Terrible secrets and vicious accusations replace sentimental memories.

23 - Charlie Wilson’s “In It To Win It Tour” with Fantasia 26 - Gabriel Iglesias: FluffyMania VAN WEZEL 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.953.3368. www.vanwezel. org MARCH 1 – Orchestre National de Lyon 2 – Smokey Robinson 3, 4 – Sarasota Orchestra – Pops 5 – Alan Cumming 6 – James Balog 7 – Taj Express 10, 11 – The Sarasota Ballet 12 – Kristin Chenoweth 14, 15 - Annie

16 - Sarasota Concert Association - Royal Scottish National Orchestra 17 - Once 18 - 19 - Sarasota Orchestra - Masterworks: Titan 21 - Jump, Jive & Wail featuring The Jive Aces 22 - Ringling Town Hall - Kofi Annan 23 - Shadowland by Pilobolus 24 - 26 - Chicago 27 - Nitty Gritty Dirt Band 28 - Momix - Opus Cactus 30 - Sarasota Concert Association - Piano Duo www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

From Concert Hall To Racetrack

ven die-hard spring breakers need a refuge from the beach. The Florida Orchestra offers a variety of cool ways to add in some music, from the concert hall to the racetrack. And what would spring break be without Happy Hour? The largest professional orchestra in Florida has it all, with concerts in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater. The Dalí Experience (March 3-5) Make your visit to St. Petersburg’s Salvador Dali Museum complete with a concert dedicated to music that inspired one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. It’s a surreal night for your senses, with Spanish classical guitarist Cañizares, dancers and artwork. Music Director Michael Francis conducts. Kids 5-18 get in free to this and all Tampa Bay Times Masterworks concerts. Free Concert at Sebring International Raceway (March 11) Spring break will be going full tilt with The Florida Orchestra’s first-ever concert at Sebring International Raceway to kick off the track’s biggest race week of the year, the 65th Annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring Fueled by Fresh From Florida. The free, speed-themed concert features music from Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, William Tell Overture, Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4 and Flight of the Bumblebee, all conducted by Music Director Michael Francis.

Carmen Bradford

Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony (March 17-19) This will make spring break epic for sure. More than 250 people perform Mahler’s emotional Symphony No. 2, “Resurrection,” featuring the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay, under the baton of Michael Francis conducts. Unforgettable. Happy Hour Concert (March 23 Tired of the crazy traffic? Let the music move you instead. Have happy hour with The Florida Orchestra at the Straz Center in Tampa. Start with free drinks from Stella Artois and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, along with appetizers, before an hour-long concert. Linger afterward to meet TFO musicians. The final concert in the series is March 23 and it’s a doozy: Scheherazade, with Maestro Francis as your guide. Doors and bars open at 5:30 p.m. $35 general admission. Presented by Smith & Associates Real Estate. Singin’ and Swingin’: A Century of Ella (April 21-23) Never miss a chance to celebrate a century of the one and only Ella Fitzgerald. Join Grammy Awardwinning jazz vocalist Carmen Bradford and conductor Jeff Tyzik for the music that made the “First Lady of Song” unforgettable in this Raymond James Pops concert. The Florida Orchestra: Masterworks and Pops tickets are $15, $30 and $45 at floridaorchestra.org or 727.892.3337 and 1.800.662.7286. The orchestra regularly performs at the Straz Center in Tampa, Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg, and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

COOLSTUFF!

BOOK

Unlikely Friendships: DOGS 37 Stories of Canine Compassion and Courage by Jennifer S. Holland

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

elvin the Sad...(ish) Robot is a story about one robotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

YANNI

Sensuous Chill

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

BETTE MIDLER: THE DIVINE MISS M•DELUXE

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

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

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 FEBRUARY 18 – Invasive Plants of Pinellas

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 understand and appreciate Florida’s rural heritage. DR. CARTER G. WOODSON AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 2240 9th Ave.S, St. Petersburg. www.woodsonmuseum.org 56

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. Closed weekends & County Holidays. www.flbg.org FEBRUARY 14 – Valentine’s Day Group Wedding MARCH 25 – Orchid Repotting & Bromeliad Sale FLORIDA HOLOCAUST MUSEUM 55 5th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. (727) 8200100. www.flholocaustmuseum.org FEBRUARY thru April 16 – Holocaust by Bullets Exhibit thru June 25 - The Armenian Genocide Exhibition 18 – July 16 – Jehovah’s Witnesses – Faith Under Fire Exhibition 25 – FHM 25th Anniversary Celebration MARCH 16 – Darfur Genocide Lecture 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. 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/ 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. FEBRUARY 17 – Night at the Brewseum 20 – Discovering Dr. Seuss Schools Out Camp 25 – Ready, Set, Go! Grand Prix Event

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MARCH 2, 9 – Peaceful Powerful Parenting Class

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. MARCH 4 – Island Festival

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. FEBRUARY Thru 26 - GASPARILLA: A TAMPA TRADITION. The new exhibit explores Tampa’s premier party, attended by a motley crew of the famous and infamous, the beautiful people and bad dudes. Learn more about the early Gasparilla parades and enjoy vintage photographs from 1904 to the present. Visitors can also enjoy film coverage on the celebration. HERITAGE VILLAGE 11909 125th St N, Largo. 727.582.2123. www.pinellascounty.org/Heritage

GULFPORT HISTORY MUSEUM 5301 28th Ave. S, Gulfport. 727-327-0505. Free Admission. www.gulfporthistoricalsociety.org HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM 401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606. (813) 2541891. www.ut.edu/plantmuseum Continued

ries is FREE with park admission. Show tickets are required and can be picked up at the tent outside of the Stanleyville Theater Real Music remaining 2017 Lineup Beginnings: The Ultimate Chicago Tribute Band - Feb 13-18 Micky Dolenz - Feb 20-25 Lee Greenwood Feb 27 - March 4

usch Gardens’ concert series returns with live music spanning from the 1950s to today, including soul, blues, country, pop and rock ‘n roll. The Real Music Series runs through March 4. Concerts are held at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. (subject to change) The Real Music Se-

10165 N McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, (888) 800-5447. www.buschgardens.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

ATTRACTIONS

CONTINUED

Free 21-acre living history museum. New exhibit Boathouse display. Sundays – Speaking of History. LOWRY PARK ZOO 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. 813) 935-8552. www.lowryparkzoo.org FEBRUARY thru AUG - Dinos Alive! Grab the whole family and step back in time to the Jurassic and Cretaceous Eras and share in the fun surrounded by life size animatronic dinosaurs. Guests can transport and immerse themselves in another time, when dinosaurs ruled the Earth. Get up-close and personal with varying species of dinosaurs to take pictures, learn fun facts about how they lived, and maybe acquire a better appreciation of how we can help save present-day species of wildlife from extinction. Feast with Dino-sized food and drinks, or just enjoy this larger than life experience with the entire family.

MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, 941.366.5731. www.selby.org MONDAYS - Yoga in the Garden FEBRUARY 13 – The Color of Dreams 15 – Flower Fantasy 15 – Chagall Nights 18 – Chagall Family Saturdays 19 – Garden Music Series 22 – Growing Orchids 28 – Potting and Mounting Orchids MARCH 1 – Wine & Design 8 – Chagall’s Life Lecture 9 – Chagall Nights 17 – Ikebana Past & Present 18 – Chagall Family Saturday 19 – Garden Music Series MOTE AQUARIUM 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, 941.388.4441. www.mote.org FEBRUARY 18 – Yoga with the Sharks 27 – Special Lecture – Kim Bassos-Hull MARCH 1 – Teen Science Café 6 – Special Lecture – Dr. Nicole Rhod 8 – Coffee with a Scientist 12 – Magic, Myth and Memory 13 – Special Lecture – Dr. Richard Pierce MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY (MOSI) 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617. (813) 987-

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 58

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www.stpete.org

6000. www.mosi.org Gaze skyward - Saunders Planetarium. IMAX Dome Theatre. Over 450 Hands-On Activities. Zip Line. FEBRUARY 18 – Engineer Your Future MARCH 11 – Skywatch 18 – Science & Beer

SEASIDE 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 rescue and rehabilitate sick, injured, and orphaned birds. This is the largest nonprofit wild bird hospital sanctuary. More than 100 birds live in the sanctuary, representing 20 species.Tours are available. FREE admission. Donations accepted. SOUTH FLORIDA MUSEUM 201 10th Street West, Bradenton FL 34205. (941) 746-4131. www.southfloridamuseum.org/

SAFETY HARBOR MUSEUM 329 Bayshore Boulevard South, Safety Harbor. 727724-1562. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/573/MuseumCultural-Center

The Parker Manatee Aquarium, designed to house three adult manatees, holds nearly 60,000 gallons of water, including a medical pool. The pool offers both Continued

ig Cat Rescue is the world’s largest accredited sanctuary devoted to big cats. The nonprofit sanctuary is home to more than 70 lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, servals, caracals, and various other exotic cats. BCR has built enclosures in a natural habitat with foliage and shelter on 55 acres in the Citrus Park area of north Tampa. They provide the best nutritional and medical care possible, and have conditioning and enrichment programs to provide the cats physical and psychological well being. The sanctuary is primarily supported by donation. The facility offers a variety of guided educational tours at 14 set times during the week. Be aware that most tours are not open to children ages 9 and under. All ages tours are held Saturdays at 12 pm. They also offer private tours, field trips, birthday parties, and other events. BCR, 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. For tour times and reservations, call 888-316-5875, or visit www.BigCatRescue.org

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deep and shallow water, allowing the manatees to maintain natural feeding behaviors. An exhibit area within the facility helps to educate the public about manatee anatomy and offers above and below water viewing. The Museum’s Parker Manatee Aquarium is a second stage rehabilitation facility which provides a temporary home for manatees that will be released back into the wild after having received treatment from an acute care hospital. The facility is the permanent home to Manatee County’s most famous resident and the oldest known manatee in the world, Snooty. ST. PETERSBURG AUDUBON SOCIETY 727.753.9731 www.stpeteaudubon.org 101+ Years Conservation. Meets 3rd Tuesday of each month First Saturday of month Boyd Hill Bird Walk FEBRUARY 18 – Tour Circle B Bar Ranch 21 – Birds and Bombs 26 – Eco Fun Festival MARCH 4 – Boyd Hill 11 – Lake Seminole Park

ST. PETERSBURG MUSEUM OF HISTORY 335 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg. 727.894.1052 www.spmoh.org Schrader’s Little Cooperstown is made up of more than 4,800 baseballs, documents, story boards and video screens – connects America’s national pastime with historical events from the region and around the world. Legendary Landscapes by Highwaymen Through MARCH 5 – African Americans Experiences in WWII FEBRUARY 25 – Cocktails on the Courts Fundraiser MARCH 9 – Happy Hour with Historian – Weird Florida 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. 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

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living museum, this 100 year old garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region. FEB 18 - 19. IKEBANA EXHIBITION. 10 am – 4:30 pm. Free with admission. The St. Petersburg Chapter of Ikebana Intl. will be demonstrating and exhibiting arrangements. www.ikebanastpetersburg.com

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. FEBRUARY Thru MARCH 5 – Celebrating Our Heritage Exhibition 15 – Florida Conversations 22 – OLLI Course – Intro to Genealogy MARCH 11 – Walk Tampa – Ybor City 15 – Florida Conversations TAMPA THEATRE 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 274CONTINUED

www.SPMOH.org

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8981. www.tampatheatre.org/ A restored classic theatre showing modern independent and classic films. Pre-show Wurlitzer organ concerts. TARPON SPRINGS RAILROAD DEPOT HISTORICAL MUSEUM 160 E. Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs. 727.943.4624 Free Admission. www.tarponspringsareahistoricalsociety.org

MARCH 2 – Salty Topics – Microplastics 11 – Archaeology Academy WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS www.weekiwachee.com/ A natural tourist attraction where underwater performances by “mermaids”, women wearing fish tails as well as other fanciful outfits, can be viewed in an aquarium-like setting in the spring of the Weeki Wachee River. A waterpark, Buccaneer Bay, and boat rides are also part of the attraction.

WEEDON ISLAND PRESERVE 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. 727.453.6500, www.weedonislandpreserve.org FEBRUARY 16 – Archaeology Lecture Series 17 – Going Coastal – Salt Pond Hike 18 – Identifying Non-Marine Turtles 17 – Going Coastal – Salt Pond Hike 18 – Identifying Non-Marine Turtles 25 – Tips for Tempting Pollinators 25 – Paddle the Preserve 25 – More than a Movie – Dirt 26 – Nature by the Book

HENRY PLANT MUSEUM

www.ut.edu/plantmuseum/

MENUS: THE EPICUREAN EXPERIENCE his exhibit uses original menus as a starting point to ex-

plore the fine dining at the Tampa Bay Hotel and other grand Florida resorts from 1891 to 1932. These rarely exhibited menus draw visitors into the conversation of Victorian food, the source of food, its preparation, etiquette, fashion, and utensils that blend together to create the Victorian epicurean experience. They will briefly touch on menu art and children in the Hotel dining room. This exhibit displays original artifacts, including menus, photos, clothing, and utensils from the Tampa Bay Hotel and other Florida hotels. At the Tampa Bay Hotel, and other Florida resorts, meals were not simply about eating, but instead were a fine dining experience. Thought and care were put into food choices, decorations, place settings, music selection, and of course, menu design. Dressing for dinner often took over an hour, and meals could be a full ten courses. Meals for special events and holidays were even more elaborate. Included in the exhibit are menus from holidays.

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The Florida Holocaust Museum Celebrates 25 Years

Betty Grebenschikoff (center) with other survivorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and families participate in a candle lighting ceremony.

Story and Photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino

n International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27th), the Florida Holocaust Museum (FHM) in St. Petersburg celebrated itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 25th Anniversary. It was on this date in 1945 that the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp was liberated by the Russian army. The Florida Holocaust Museum honors the memory of millions of men, women and children who suffered or died in the Holocaust, and is dedicated to teaching members of all races and cultures the inherent worth and dignity of human life in order to prevent future genocides.

Students from St. Cecelia Interparochial Catholic School joined in on the candle lighting ceremony. 64

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vaguely remember the museum’s opening, but have never visited because I deemed it too sad. I have been through the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, and it was so very heartbreaking. We were invited to the FHM anniversary commemoration, so we decided to finally go. Yes, it is sad. Very sad. Beyond sad, into words I cannot conjure up. But it also sends the extremely important message that we can never be complacent when actions around us become threatening to certain factions of our society. Six million Jews were killed back then, but five million more were also killed. Who were the other five million? Eastern European “gypsies,” homosexuals, Jehovah’s Witnesses, political dissidents, and more — anyone who didn’t fall into the party line. The 25th commemoration included a Holocaust survivor — Betty Grebenschikoff — who shared her harrowing story with an audience made up of other survivors, their children, other interested parties, and students from St. Cecelia Interparochial Catholic School. I watched the students listening intently to Mrs. Grebenschikoff, and was glad that the young people are being exposed to the horrors of the past so they will know not to repeat them as they grow into maturity. After the speech, the students shared a candle lighting ceremony with the survivors. The museum is very well laid out, telling the story of the Holocaust through images, videos, and artifacts. There is a large photo that covers a whole wall of Hitler giving a speech to the biggest crowd you’ve ever seen. It was filled with the disenfranchised, and Hitler told them exactly what they wanted to hear, so they followed him fervently. The most poignant exhibit is an actual wooden boxcar that carried people to one of the death camps. It is placed on the original tracks from the Treblinka Killing Center. When in use, one hundred plus people were crammed in for days with no water and air accessible only through cracks in the wood, and one chamberpot that was useless after the first few hours. Many died in the boxcar — mostly the elderly and children and just lay there until the journey’s end. Man’s inhumanity to man is unfathomable.

The Florida Holocaust Museum is located at 55 5th Street S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. For additional information, please visit www.TheFHM.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Picturesque Paddling Trail Offers Scenic Tour of Hernando County’s Coast by Mary Lou Janson

new way to naturally enjoy Hernando County’s scenic waterways and adventurously explore its coastal ecosystem is now open to paddlers. The new Bayport-Linda Pedersen Paddling Trail features miles of waterfront well suited for passengers aboard canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. The well-marked trail features signs that make it easy to navigate the route that is marked by cabbage palms, cordgrass and mangroves and carries paddlers across crystal clear water. Ramps, parking, picnic tables and restrooms make it easy to begin from either Bayport or Linda Pedersen parks to enjoy round trips or to coordinate transportation for drop off at one location and pick up at the other. Paddling distances range from 1.7 miles one-way to just under five miles roundtrip with the inclusion of the Redfish Bayou Trail. This tidal estuary is home to shore birds, oyster bars and, on occasion, manatees, dolphins and otters. There is no fee for the parks or facilities. To rent canoes, single or tandem kayaks, contact Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, at 352-597-8484 or go to http://weekiwachee.com/boating-in-florida/ rentals/. The rental fee includes shuttle service. Shuttles are also available for paddles with private watercraft. The park service also offers group rates for rentals. For more information about the coastal paddling trail contact Florida’s Adventure Coast at 800-6014580 or go to FloridasAdventureCoast.com.

Photos courtesy of Florida’s Adventure Coast

Photo by Mary Lou Janson 66

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COOLSTUFF! “I

by Melissa Wolcott Martino

! n e h c t i K In The

AnySharp

THE Best Knife Sharpener

t’s a poor workman who blames his tools.” I know you’ve heard that old adage, but sometimes it is the tool’s fault. In this case, any chef/cook will tell you the most important tool in the kitchen is a knife. A sharp knife. If it isn’t sharp, it can be the cause of much frustration and unpleasantness. The AnySharp Knife Sharpener Pro will be a chef’s 2nd most important tool in the kitchen. There are other knife sharpeners out there, but if you’ve tried a lot of them, as I have, you know they may be difficult to use, may work for a little while, or not work at all. The AnySharp is hands-free, super easy to use, and tucks away in a drawer when not in use. It will sharpen pretty much any kind and size knife (except ceramic), even wide tooth serrated blades which are usually difficult. A few light strokes and you’re done. If you don’t want to tuck it away, you can leave it out as they come in a variety of colors sure to match your kitchen decor. (Pink Cream, Pistachio, Almond Cream, Royal Red, British Racing Green, Royal Blue, Orange Zest, and Citrus Lime.) A handle snaps a rubber base tightly to your counter so you are hands free, then releases easily when you are done. Once you add this tool to your kitchen gadgets, your soufflé may frustrate you, but not your knife. AnySharp Pro also comes with a 10 year warranty, and is available at Amazon.com Visit the AnySharp website for more information on this and other products.

www.anysharp.com/

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SCRAMBLE

Makes Tasty Egg Dishes www.cleverfoodies.com

cramble is a handy line of small-batch cooked mixed veggies and herbs you add to eggs for an easy — yet impressive and tasty dish. It’s kid-friendly, low cal, vegetarian, gluten-free, and has no sugar added, plus it makes healthy breakfast and snacking super easy — you don’t need to chop any veggies, just open the jar and add to eggs (or use to make dips, or as a pizza, quiches, pasta and quesadilla topping). Scramble comes in 3 different delicious flavor styles: LEAFY GREENS (kale, tomatoes, onion, spinach, garlic, broccoli rabe, sunflower oil, olive oil, parsley, jalapeno, spices, citric acid) RANCHEROS (tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, black beans, sour cream, jalapeno, garlic, cilantro, sunflower oil, olive oil, spices, citric acid, oregano ) MEDITERRANEAN (tomatoes, onion bell pepper, Kalamata olives, parsley, garlic, basil, capers, sunflower oil,olive oil, spices, citric acid, oregano ) Scramble comes to you from the folks at CleverFoodies. For more information and some great recipes, check out their website above.

AUTOSEAL WEST LOOP

Stainless Steel Travel Mug from Contigo

www.gocontigo.com

he reusable AutoSeal West Loop Travel Mug is BPA-free, with an easy clean lid, and is 100% leak-proof — AND spill-proof, even for the most active person. Contigo’s vacuum-insulated technology keeps drinks hot for up to five hours and cold for up to 12 hours. It’s a larger capacity mug (14 oz, 7.8” tall, 3” wide) and will fit most car cup holders and under most single serve brewers. It also provides one-handed drinking with the push of a button. Every year, 14.8 million plastic beverage cups and 12.3 million paper hot cups are sold in the food service industry, accumulating into millions of cups in our trash. Opting for a reusable mug cuts down on this waste and offers considerable money-saving benefits. $20.99 on Amazon and GoContigo.com

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A New Land of Fantasy Highlights A New Year Full of Magical Additions and Openings

as its expat owner. Shoppers can stock up on Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits and more at Windtraders. RIVERS OF LIGHT OPENS FEB 17 in DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM. this powerful theatrical production takes Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests on a magnificent emotional journey – a visual mix of water, fire, nature and light choreographed to an original musical score. The amazing after-dark show celebrates the majesty of nature and the connection between animals and humans in the world.

SKY DINE-AROUND

DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM

PANDORA – THE WORLD OF AVATAR, opens May 27 In DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM. In collaboration with filmmaker James Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment, Disney is bringing to life the fantasy world of Pandora, inspired by Cameron’s epic film AVATAR, in a breathtaking new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Avatar Flight of Passage will send guests flying above the jungles of Pandora on a Mountain Banshee. Bioluminescent rainforests dramatically wrap around Na’vi River Journey, a family-friendly boat ride. Hungry adventurers can recharge at SATU’LI CANTEEN, the main dining location, or PONGU PONGU, a drink kiosk with a design as eclectic

The new Highway in the Sky Dine-Around gives Walt Disney World Resort guests priority boarding on the monorail for an unparalleled dining journey around the circuit between Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The jour-

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ney takes guests to all three resort hotels along the monorail route, and includes a welcome drink, appetizers, an entree and a wine pairing, dessert, cordials and coffee, plus other sips and samplings along the way and a private patio to watch the Magic Kingdom Park fireworks. Highway in the Sky Dine-Around is offered each Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Cost is $150 per person, gratuity included, tax additional. 407-WDW-DINE. wwwDisneyWorld.com/Dining

LA NOUBA - Families can now experience the thrills and enchantment of La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil for less with the Florida Resident Family Pack deal, which offers savings up to 57% off on groups of three or more tickets for shows now through April 29. Florida residents can book by calling 407-939-7328 or visiting the La Nouba box office. Proof of Florida residency required.

MAGIC KINGDOM

A NEW WELCOME SHOW AT MAGIC KINGDOM PARK. Now performing, a new welcome show is on the Castle Forecourt Stage. Guests can meander up Main Street, U.S.A. to the edge of the Castle and join in the celebration as a Royal Herald delivers a proclamation and welcomes a few familiar characters.

DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

STAR WARS GUIDED TOUR AT DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS. For the ultimate Star Wars fan comes the ultimate tour — a seven-hour immersion in all current Star Wars experiences at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Character greetings, themed dining, ride experiences, insider’s tours, dessert party and VIP viewing of Star Wars: a Galactic Spectacular are among highlights.

DISNEY SPRINGS

MORE ADDITIONS TO DISNEY SPRINGS. PADDLEFISH – Sleek and modern after a bowto-stern transformation from the former Fulton’s Crab House, Paddlefish will serve fresh seafood, steaks and chops. A new rooftop lounge will serve up a late-night menu and views of the water and Disney Springs. Open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.

PLANET HOLLYWOOD OBSERVATORY – The reborn space will be themed to a turn-of-the-20thCentury observatory serving up burgers and sandwiches created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, and craft cocktails. Movie memorabilia, video screens, contemporary music and themed merchandise complete the scene. THE POLITE PIG – Focuses on genuine Florida cuisine. Lunch and dinner menus will feature a variety of wood-fired smoked and grilled items as well as an innovative beverage program. WINE BAR GEORGE – Orlando master sommelier George Miliotes uncorks his first Disney wine bar in a space reminiscent of a winemaker’s estate warmed by oak wood and cozy lighting. Small plates dominate the food menu but it will be the wines with a starring role: more than 100 selections both by the bottle and the glass in a range of varietals and vintages.

DISNEY’S WILDERNESS LODGE

NEW CABINS AND DELUXE VILLAS COMING TO DISNEY’S WILDERNESS LODGE IN 2017. A proposed new Disney Vacation Club Resort, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort, is scheduled to open, featuring new Resort accommodations that include plans for Deluxe Villas and unique waterfront cabins.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com For more information, call 407-934-7639. Check online at www.DisneyWorld.com71

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he First Annual Festival of the Arts at Disney World’s Epcot is in full throttle, and will continue through February 20. Combining visual, culinary and performing arts from around the world, the Festival of the Arts creates a global masterpiece on the weekends, Fri-Mon.

The Festival features new art each week, making each weekend original. A collaboration with Disney Theatrical Productions brings a new showcase of music and Broadway talent to the America Gardens Theatre stage. Performances are at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. Park Guests enjoy different pairings of Broadway talent in concert, performing songs from some of Disney on Broadway’s award-winning shows, including ‪The Lion King‪, Newsies, and Aladdin, to name a few. New Food Studios showcase delicious and intricate culinary creations. There are hands-on experiences for the whole family, favorite Disney characters channeling their favorite artists, and seminars. The festival is included with regular Epcot admission. There is so much to see at the Festival, it makes sense to stay at one of the resorts most convenient to Epcot, such as the Boardwalk Inn, the Disney Yacht Club or the Beach Club. They are just a breezy walk over to the park, and have all the amenities you can ask for, not to mention some fine dining. Disney artists explain the art of animation.

Comfy and convenient, stay at the Disney Beach Club, and stroll over to Epcot to enjoy the Festival of the Arts. Watching one of Disney’s premier artists, JOE KAMINSKI at work.

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There are different life-size painting sets you can walk into inserting yourself and take photos. this is Renoir’s “The Boating Party.”

Popping Bubbles Cocktail

Trio of Savory croissant Doughnuts: Spicy Tuna with Sriracha Mayonaise; Chicken Mousse with Fresh Herbs; Whipped Herb Cream Cheese with Sea Salt.

Different stations around Epcot have coloring sheets for kids.

Entertainment can be found on different stages around Epcot.

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Looks can be deceiving. This is a Deconstructed Purple Sweet Potato Pie.

... and this is a Classic Reuben.

Different Broadway stars perform each week at the America Theater. This is Josh Strickland (the original Tarzan.) Artisans painting custom shoes.

A fun scavenger hunt has festival goers visiting different countries to find paintings that match this map. If they find all the paintings, they will receive a special magnet featuring Figment.

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Many of the exhibiting artists are working on site. This is ROB KAZ and one of his pieces.

Works by Jasmine Becket-Griffith 76

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Star Wars themed art are very popular at the festival.

Love this “Lilo and Stitch” painting.

“Alice” as interpreted by a Disney artist.

Mickey and Minnie “Under The Moonlight” by Disney artist James Coleman.

“The Warm Embrace” by Lisa Keene

For more information, call 407-934-7639. Check online at www.DisneyWorld.com77 www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

SKIPPER CANTEEN 78

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Tasty Jungle Cuisine in Adventureland Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

alt Disney World is always upping the ante on giving guests new and interesting food from around the world (the real world in this case). One of the newer such eateries is Skipper Canteen, a casual sit-down restaurant, located in Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland, across from the popular Jungle Cruise, and it’s theme has a connection to the cruise ride.

Punch Line Punch and Shiriki Noodle Salad

There is a story attached to the restaurant so that diners may feel more involved in their experience. As it goes.... Alberta Falls is the proprietor of Jungle Navigation, a cargo shipping company. When business started to take a downturn, she decided to offer passenger jungle cruises instead. This was such a success that she set up Skipper Canteen in her home to host passengers before and after their cruise. There are three dining rooms, a mess hall, and two smaller, more private rooms. All three are loaded with memorabilia from the Falls family travels, and are fun to view more closely. Looking around Skipper’s, you may see some familiar items adorning the restaurant, that is, if you had ever visited the Adventurer’s Club in Downtown Disney (now Disney Springs) years back. A lot of thought always goes into the decor anywhere in Disney World, and they keep and recycle the “good stuff” when it fits in. Skipper’s servers are all up on the story, and pitch in with friendly humor.

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SKIPPER CANTEEN

o enter one of the smaller rooms — the S.E.A. (Society of Explorers and Adventurers) room — you pass through a narrow hallway with bookshelves on both sides. In years past, according to the legend, this used to be a secret room hidden by the wall of books. On close inspection, the book titles all have some connection to Disney World. The meaning of some of which we “got” right away, and others were apparently over our heads. We dined in the S.E.A. room, and really enjoyed the ambiance. Dark wood paneled walls and gentle lighting make the room feel cozy. The chandeliers are made using stained glass parrots, and antiques can be viewed in a lighted glass china closet as well as throughout the room. The Skipper Canteen menu is truly unique, and you will find some new taste treats to try out. It is an eclectic mix of Asian, African and South American. (Don’t worry, in amongst the interesting food fare you will still find good choices for picky-eater children.) We started our dining experience off with the popular Punch Line Punch, made with tropical fruit juices, mango purée, and a spiced-rim for extra zing.

Falls Family Falafel

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Several intriguing appetizers came our way, starting with the Falls Family Falafel, a traditional recipe of chickpeas, garlic, onions, lemon juice, and herbs, served with White Bean Dip and Tomato-Cucumber Salad, which was delightfully crispy on the outside. Next was the S.E.A. Shu Mai, a perfect blend of pork, shrimp, edamame beans, and spices wrapped in a dumpling and steamed. Then we sampled the Orinoco Idaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cachapas, very flavorful housemade corn pancakes, topped with mojo-braised pork, black bean salad, and avocado cream. The Sustainable Fish Collar was applauded by several members of the group, it was served with a papaya salad and soy sauce. A refreshing Shiriki Noodle Salad came with rice noodles, edamame beans, mushrooms, green mango, and cucumber tossed with a sweet chili sauce.

S.E.A. Shu Mai,

d Orinoco Idaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cachapas

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SKIPPER CANTEEN

rom the delectable entrée menu we chose the Baa Baa Berber Lamb Chops which were spiced with mint couscous, curried carrots, sun chokes, and topped with lamb-butter sauce. A table favorite was the boldly flavored Char Siu Pork, marinated and grilled, and served with Chinese broccoli and jasmine rice. The Sustainable Fish was cleverly titled “Not Piranha,” and was served over Chinese broccoli, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and red bell peppers in a fragrant lemon grass broth. Skip’s Beefy Baked Pasta is an Egyptian-inspired dish of spiced braised beef, pasta, cheese, and béchamel sauce served with seasonal vegetables (Mac & Cheese with meat!) We tried two really fine tasting and visually creative desserts with Kungaloosh! an African-inspired chocolate cake with caramelized bananas served with cashew-caramel ice cream topped with coffee dust, and the Coconut Bar Vanilla Chiffon Cake with pineapple-basil compote, vanilla cream and LimeWhite Chocolate Ganache. Plan to make Skipper Canteen a lunch or dinner stop next time you visit the Magic Kingdom (before or after your Jungle Cruise adventure), and broaden your palate with some tantalizing new world flavors. For more information and reservations, please call 407-WDW-Dine or visit www.disneyworld.com/dine

Char Siu Pork

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Sustainable Fish Collar

Baa Baa Berber Lamb Chops

Skipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beefy Baked Pasta

Kungaloosh! and Coconut Bar

Sustainable Fish

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ATTRACTIONS CONTINUED ORLANDO AREA ORLANDO JAZZ FESTIVAL Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 South Magnolia Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801 MARCH 9 - 11. The Orlando Jazz Festival features renowned jazz stars and will be emceed by popular radio personality and comedian Jay Anthony Brown. Join in for a night of fun, food, and great music. WGI SPORT OF THE ARTS University of Central Florida, 12777 Gemini Blbd. N, Orlando, FL 32816. www.wgi.org MARCH 25 - 26. The Southeast Color Guard Championship event brings together premier color guard teams in the region to compete for top honors. Winter Guard International (WGI) centers on providing a venue for young people to pursue excellence in both performance and competition through nationwide color guard, indoor percussion and winds regional competitive events. CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS 3755 NW Hwy 17-92, Sanford, FL 32771. www.centralfloridazoo.org/

MARDI GRAS Thru March 25

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. 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.

ach spring, the sights and sounds of Bourbon Street make their way from the bayou to the streets of Universal Studios Florida. As the sun sets, grab a good spot for the parade. Festive floats glide past, surrounded by spectacular performers as strands of beads are tossed into the crowd. After the parade, head to the Music Plaza stage: On select nights you can catch big-name headliners live in concert. Chow down on delicious Cajun cuisine. Mardi Gras events are included with an Annual Pass (Seasonal Pass blockout dates apply) or Universal Studios theme park admission. Parades and French Quarter celebrations happen every night. HEADLINERS:

Feb 18 Collective Soul Feb 19 X Ambassadors Feb 25 Fifth Harmony March 4 Yandel March 5 Olivia Newton-John

www.universalorlando.com/ 84

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March 11 UB40 March 12 Toby Keith March 18 Jason Derulo March 19 Earth, Wind & Fire March 25 The All-American Rejects

KISSIMMEE AIR MUSEUM - WARBIRD ADVENTURES 233 N Hoagland Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34741. 407870-7366.www.warbirdadventures.com/air_museum The Kissimmee Air Museum is located at the Kissimmee Gateway Airport in Kissimmee, FL. It houses vintage aircraft from World War II to the Vietnam War including an outdoor showroom.

LEU GARDENS 1920 N. Forest Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32803. 407.246.2620. www.leugardens.org Leu Gardens offers a unique setting to see a classic or current feature film. Each month from Feb to Dec,

(no movie in July) Leu Gardens hosts a movie night on a 32 ft screen, weather permitting. Movie goers may bring dinner picnics including alcohol and seating (chairs or blanket) then sit back and enjoy an outdoor movie. Leu Gardens opens at 6 pm on movie nights so movie goers can stroll the 50-acre gardens before the movie. Visit lwebsite for movie selections and times. FEBRUARY thru APRIL 30 - Dinosaur Invasion. An outdoor exhibit of prehistoric creatures which inhabit the gardens. The exhibit features 13 life-size dinosaurs ranging in size from 14 inches to a massive 33 feet. MARCH CONTINUED

SEVEN SEAS FOOD FESTIVAL Feb 11 - May 13

ombining unique culinary delights with memorable performances on Saturdays, the Seven Seas Food Festival is coming to SeaWorld Orlando. Each week guests can sip and sample their way around the world of international coastal cuisine while enjoying craft beers, paired wines and specialty entertainment. The fun extends beyond the food with live performances each Saturday from top country, rock and Latin music artists. Remaining Festival Headline Entertainment: Lee Brice (Feb 18) Village People (April 8) Bill Engvall (Feb 25) Commodores (April 15) Styx (March 4) Oscar Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LeĂłn (April 22) Justin Moore (March 11) Olga Tanon (April 29) ZZ Top (March 18) Grupo Mania (May 6) Phillip Phillips (March 25) Coming Soon (May 13) Coming Soon (April 1)

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ATTRACTIONS

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11 - 12. From 9 am - 5 pm. Shop the largest quality selection of plants in Central Florida. Purchase directly from growers and learn which plants are right for your landscape and garden. Admission to the gardens and sale is FREE. EXPERIENCE MOVIES OUTDOORS. Leu Gardens offers an amazing and unique setting to see a classic or current feature film. Each month from Feb to Dec, (no movie in July,) Leu Gardens hosts a movie night at the floral clock on a 32 ft screen, weather permitting. Movie goers may bring dinner picnics including alcohol and seating (chairs or blanket) then sit back and enjoy an outdoor movie. Visit website for movie selections. MADAME TUSSAUDS 8401 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866630-8315. www2.madametussauds.com/orlando/en/ Madame Tussauds Orlando has unveiled a new interactive guest experience in the themed room featuring Brazilian soccer star Neymar da Silva Santos Jr. The attraction has added a one-of-kind customized camera system that utilizes multiple cameras to stitch together

a unique photo of fans interacting with Neymar’s figure. The camera technology captures 40 photos in less than one second to produce a GIF image. Guests will receive the GIF via email to share with friends. 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 The Orlando Eye is one of the newest attractions

EGOLAND Florida Resort has debuted an all-new theme park land where you BecomeTheNinja in your very own LEGO NINJAGO [NIN-JAH-GO] adventure. LEGO NINJAGO World is an immersive area filled with several hands-on, outdoor activities where kids can sharpen their ninja skills before the ultimate showdown on LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, a dazzling new attraction that blends 3D computer animation, “4D” effects and groundbreaking technology never seen outside a LEGOLAND theme park.

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in Orlando and the largest observation Ferris Wheel on the East Coast.

ORLANDO SEALIFE AQUARIUM 8449 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866-622-0607. www. visitsealife.com/orlando/ Sea Life Orlando will transport you into a magical underwater world filled with a dazzling array of amazing creatures. From faceto-face encounters with sharks, to a hands-on touchpool experience, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy at the newest aquarium in Orlando.

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.

PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE 6400 Carrier Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. (407) 206-5100. 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. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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 Cape Canaveral, FL 32899. www.kennedyspacecenter.com Kennedy Space Center is the official site for Kennedy Space Center. Visit NASA’s launch complex, astronaut hall of fame, or see a rocket launch all just an hour from Orlando. HEROES & LEGENDS - An immersive experience that celebrates the brave men and women of America’s fledgling space program. Relive the stories of NASA’s pioneering astronauts and discover why they chose to launch into the great unknown. Their stories have the power to ignite heroism within us all. Heroes & Legends seeks to inspire new generations of space explorers, while serving as a compelling prologue to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex guest experience.

ALAN SHEPARD - One of the original Mercury 7 astronauts, Alan Shepard was the first American in space and later walked on the moon during the Apollo 14 mission.

GOLDSBORO HISTORICAL MUSEUM, Sanford 1211 Historic Goldsboro Blvd., Sanford. www.goldsboromuseum.com/

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Town” in the State of Florida, Goldsboro Township (incorporated into Sanford in 1911), offered residents its own US Post Office, City Government, Tax Collector, jail and business district. The museum showcases Goldsboro’s rich history and culture, with an emphasis on the early pioneers. SOUTH BEACH WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL at Jungle Gardens, Miami - Feb 25 - 26 www.sobefest.com/funandfit Join favorite chefs and culinary personalities for two fun-filled days of food, fitness and learning at the Badia Spices’ Fun and Fit as a Family sponsored by Carnival featuring the Goya Kidz Kitchen at Jungle Island. This family-friendly event allows parents and kids to learn the basics of a healthy lifestyle with Food Network personalities and renowned chefs including Andrew Zimmern, Robert Irvine, Duff Goldman and more. 10 a.m. to 5.

ANNUAL HERITAGE DAYS OPEN HOUSE , Manatee Village Historical Park, Davie - March 25 1404 Manatee Avenue East (SR 64), Bradenton, FL. 34208. www.manateevillage.org/

History buffs can visit a collection of restored buildings from the area’s settlement history including: 1903 Wiggins General Store, the Settlers House constructed in 1912, a “Cracker Gothic” pioneer farmhouse, a restored church, farmhouse, steam engine and more. On March 25, the annual Heritage Days Open House will offer a glimpse into the pioneer lifestyle and how the area was developed. This free five hour event has historically included readings of the works of Florida’s most popular writers, musical performances by authentic nautical sea shanty singers, magic shows, lessons from master boat builders and more.

FLAMINGO GARDENS, Davie - Feb 25 - 26 3750 S. Flamingo Road, Davie. www.flamingogardens.org Established in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is one of the oldest botanical gardens in South Florida. The 60-acre not-for-profit botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary contains over 3000 tropical and sub-tropical species of plants and trees, and is home to the largest collection of Florida native wildlife in the state. The Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 90 species of Florida native birds and animals, including Alligators, Bobcats, Eagles, Otters, Owls, Panthers, Peacocks, and of course, Flamingos. The new American Black Bear Habitat opened this past September. Most of the birds and animals in the sanctuary are permanently injured or non-releasable, and unable to live in the wild. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

ArtLines Events CREATIVE CLAY 1114 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705. 727.825.0515. www.creativeclay.org Thru April 5 - CIVIL RIGHTS: YESTERDAY AND TODAY commemorating Black History Month - The students were introduced to the movement as it began in the 1950s and developed the exhibit to reflect how it relates to them in their world today. MARC CHAGALL,FLOWERS, AND THE FRENCH RIVIERA: THE COLOR OF DREAMS at Marie Selby Gardens - Thru July 31 811 S Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236. www.selby.org/ An exhibition of Marc Chagall’s nature-inspired artwork is on view in Sarasota’s botanical garden in an immersive exhibition. The Color of Dreams marks the first time nature’s profound influence had on the artist is examined in-depth. The six-month exhibit features the masterwork painting The Lovers (1937), along with two additional paintings that have not been publicly exhibited before, as well as ceramic vases once owned by Chagall, archival photos, a glass house cathedral of plants, and outdoor garden scenes reminiscent of the French Riviera where Chagall spent the later part of his life. Accompanying cultural performances, special events, classes and lectures will be part of the exhibi-

tion, which encourages visitors to use all five senses, immersing themselves in the dream world created by Chagall in his artwork. NIGHT BLOW - MOREAN ARTS CENTER - Feb 18 www.moreanartscenter.org/hot-shop/night-blow/ Join the Morean Glass Studio & Hot Shop for a night of glow-in-the-dark fun. Live glass-blowing demonstrations featuring David Spurgeon, Jeremiah Jacobs and Pauli Maiville. Enjoy rockin’ beats by DJ Rich Ranck, food, beverage & glow-in-the-dark accessories along with some exciting glass-blowing in the dark. 727.822.7872, Tickets. 7-10pm The MUSE 9th ANNUAL BODY ART SHOW - Sat, Feb 18. Artpool Gallery, 2030 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. www.artpoolrules.com Living breathing canvas exhibition with models painted head to toe. Video art, music and activities. 8 pm – midnight. 2nd ANNUAL GULFPORT MASTERS FINE ARTS FESTIVAL - Feb 18 - 19 Gulfport’s waterfront Veteran’s Park (5350 31st Ave So) 239-293-9448. Continued....

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ArtLines continued www.boulderbrook.net/gulfport-masters-art-festival-february The Festival is a juried “boutique” show, focusing solely on fine art and fine craft. Purchase awards and other prizes will be offered to participating artists. Free admission. The event is open to all and is family and pet-friendly. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 4th ANNUAL BAY LIFE ART EXHIBIT - Sat, Feb 25. Tampa Bay Watch, 3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde. www.tampabaywatch.org 10 am – 2 pm. View the work of eight distinguished Florida nature artists. Artwork will be for sale with a portion of proceeds benefiting Tampa Bay Watch. 4th ANNUAL ST. PETERSBURG FINE ART FESTIVAL - Feb 25-26 North Straub Park, St. Petersburg. www.paragonartevents.com/ The art festival showcases extraordinary original handmade artwork. These artisans weave a tapestry of exceptional art from exquisite works in painting, glass, mixed-media, ceramics, sculpture, photography, metalwork, digital art, fiber art, woodworking - and more. Hours of the event are both Sat and Sun from 10am to 5pm.

4th ANNUAL SARASOTA SPRING FINE ART FESTIVAL - March 11-12 801 Gulf Stream, downtown Sarasota, FL 34236. www.paragonartevents.com/S-33-Sarasota+Spring +Fine+Art+Festival.html The event creates an outdoor gallery of extraordinary art on Gulf Stream, all original and handmade by artisans present at the event. Over 130 artisans from 27 states and 3 international countries will display their artistic talents at this event. This outdoor gallery is created from stunning artwork in painting, sculpture, jewelry, digital art and photography. Explore creations in glass, functional and decorative ceramic art, fiber art from pursues to dresses and jackets, mixed-media, woodworking and more. All the artists creating these works of art will be present at the event, many of them award-winning artists with works in the most prestigious public and private collections in the country. 10 am to 5 pm both days. Admission is free. SEMPER FI ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL - March 11-12 Marine Corps League #567 – 7241 Baillie Dr., Holiday, FL 34653. www.SIKpromotions.com Stroll through the artisans and craftsmen and shop for hand crafted items, including wood products, clocks, wine accessories, art deco, body products, clothing & accoutrements, candles, pottery and more. All products at the show are made in the USA. The canteen will be opened for business. The event is pet and family friendly and there’s no fee for the public to attend. MAD HATTER’S MASQUERADE BALL - Sat, March 18 Artpool Gallery, 2030 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. www.artpoolrules.com Don your favorite mask or hat for an evening of fun and frolic. Video art, original artists, runway and entertainment. 8 - 11:59 pm.

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

255 Beach Drive. NE, St. Petersburg, 727.894.4638. www.fine-arts.org Thru 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, while reaching out to the broader public. They are especially known for their prints and sculpture. Art Continued.... 92

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ArtLines continued is part of traditional knowledge in Inuit society, also encompassing storytelling, mythology, music, and dancing.

Through MAY 7 – GREG SMITH – BREAKDOWN LANE EXHIBITION Thru JUNE 4 - THE OPEN ROAD: PHOTOGRAPHY AND THE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP. This exhibition includes approximately 100 photographs that trace the rise of road culture in the United States. It begins with Robert Frank’s series The Americans from the mid-1950s and continues to the present day with images by Ryan McGinley and Justine Kurland. Cars, billboards, signs, the landscape, urban and rural areas, motels and restaurants, and people.

MARCH 4, 18 – Make & Take 4 thru July 2 – Dominique Labauvie: Dig Exhibition 8 – Coffee Talk with Nan Colton 9 – Collectors Circle Lecture 25 – Drumming DALÍ MUSEUM One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, 727.823.3767 www.thedali.org 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 exhibition 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. FEBRUARY 17 – Behind Z Scenes at freeFall Theatre 23 – Film – Life and Times of Frida Kahlo MARCH 2 – ArtFLix – Frida Kahlo 4 – Morning at the Museum 4 – Anniversary Dinner TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, 813.259.1720. www.tampamuseum.org FEBRUARY 23 – May 29 – Alex Katz: Black & White Exhibition ART LOFTS Florida Craftsmen Galleries (2nd floor) 10 5th St. N, St. Petersburg. 727.504.8788. www.theartlofts.com Second Saturday Gallery Walk

FEBRUARY 18 – Stuart Society Wine Weekend 25 - Drumming 12 – Hot Gatherings, Cool Conversations 19 – Porch Party 22 – The Contemporaries : Janos Enyedi Studios 94

ARTPOOL GALLERY 2030 Central Ave., St Petersburg. 727.324.3878. www.artpoolrules.com FEBRUARY 18 – MUSE Body Art Show CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER GALLERY 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. (813) 269-1310.

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14 – Dillman’s Festival of Artists

www.carrollwoodcenter.org

CHIHULY COLLECTION 720 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727.822.7872. www.moreanartscenter.org Only permanent collection of Dale Chihuly’s work. CRAFTSMAN HOUSE 2955 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, 727.323.2787. www.craftsmanhousegallery.com Gallery-Cafe-Pottery Studio 2nd Saturday Gallery Walk FEBRUARY 23 – Sunshine City Songwriter’s Festival DUNCAN MCCLELLAN GALLERY 2342 Emerson Ave. S, St. Petersburg, 813.760.6600 www.dmglass.com 2nd Saturday Gallery Walk FEBRUARY DUNEDIN FINE ART CENTER 1143 Michigan Blvd. - Dunedin, 34698. 727.298. DFAC - www.dfac.org Thru March 14 - Oye Cumo Va? Representing a cross-section of contemporary Cuban artists, educators and visionaries, this exhibit is a vibrant sampling of the vital, creative culture active in Cuba today. FEBRUARY 20 – Winter II Class Session Begins 22 – Elio Camacho Painting Demonstration

MARCH

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 Thru February 25 – Sharp Edges Exhibition

10 – Trashy Treasures Garage Sale

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ArtLines continued MARCH 10 – April 22 – Round Square Exhibition FLORIDA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS 400 N. Ashley Drive, Cube 200, Tampa, FL 33602, 813-2212222. 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 “Word is Bond” Last Sunday each month 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 accesso-

ries, 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. 407-6455311. www.morsemuseum.org/ A collection of the work of

Louis Comfort Tiffany as well as fine 19th and 20th century American decorative arts. PINELLAS PARK ART SOCIETY Park Station Building, 5851 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park. 727.360.4406 www.pinellasart.com POLK MUSEUM OF ART 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland, FL 33801, (863) 688-7743 www.polkmuseumofart.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 Thru APRIL 1, 2017 - Walker Guest House Replica Thru Early MAY – Pathless Woods Exhibition Thru NOV, 2017 – First Five Years of Art of Our Time FEBRUARY 14 – Conversation – Sacred and Profane Love 17, 18 – SEESAW 20 – Ringling by the Bay MARCH 2 – Gallery Walk & Talk 2 – Gallery Performance 2 – Ringling Underground 4 – Bayfront Gardens – Butterflies 4 – Art & A Movie – The Wedding Banquet 7 – Conversation about Tea 9 – Gallery Walk & Talk 11 – Viewpoint – Reimagining the Museum ST. PETERSBURG’S 2nd SATURDAY ARTWALK www.stpeteartsalliance.org Over 40 galleries and studios in the Waterfront Arts District, Central Arts District, Edge Dis-

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trict, 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 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. 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

STUDIO 620 620 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg. 727.895.6620 www.studio620.org FEBRUARY 16 – 20 – Dangerous Gully. USF CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM 4202 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa. 813. 974.4133. www.ira.usf.edu FEBRUARY 17 – SYCOM Concert: Music for Duke Riley 23 – Fly By Night with Jean Coony

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 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.

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FRIDA KAHLO at THE DALÍ Thru April 7th

n exhibition of Frida Kahlo’s paintings and drawings, together with her personal photograph collection, is on exhibit at The Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, FL, continuing through April 17. Kahlo’s dreamlike work suggests that love and suffering create a new sense of beauty. Kahlo’s art and storied life stir immense public interest. This is Frida Kahlo’s first Florida solo exhibition show casing the extraordinary career and life of the acclaimed 20th century artist. The exhibit features a collection of more than 60 Kahlo pieces including 15 paintings, seven drawings and numerous personal photographs. The exhibition extends outdoors where a special collection of flowers and plants representative of those in Kahlo’s own garden at Casa Azul, her home in Mexico, grace the grounds of the Museum’s Avant-Garden. “Much like Dalí, she constructed an eccentric identity through the iconography in her paintings and then dressed and carried herself as the personality she created in her art. Painting by painting, she becomes a heroic figure of struggle and perseverance” said Dalí Museum Executive Director, Dr. Hank Hine. In conjunction with the exhibition, The Dalí will host a series of programs that engage visitors in journaling, Mexican cooking, and gardening – some of Kahlo’s favorite pastimes. Additional programming such as films will accompany the Kahlo exhibition and a large variety of Kahlo-inspired merchandise – including jewelry, home décor, apparel and more – will be available in The Dalí Museum Store. The Dalí Museum is located at One Dalí Boulevard, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701. For additional information contact 727.823.3767

www.TheDali.org

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Frida standing by her garden at the house she was born and died in.

Autorretrato con changuito (Self Portrait with Small Monkey), 1945

Portrait of Alicia Galant, 1927

Frida and Doctor Juan Farill in her studio in the Casa Azul in front of her 1951 “Portrait of Doctor Farill,” 1951.

A young Frida (L), dressed androgenously, and her family.

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Flowers and plants representative of Kahlo’s own garden in the Daliº’s AvantGarden. 99

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by Dr. Lori Verderame

Valentines from the Head and Heart

hard to find. These hair crafts were the result of years of saving actual human hair. Intricately woven hair crafts became love gifts from circa 1850 to 1910. Hair jewelry was most commonly used for sentimental remembrances and as gifts. On Valentine’s Day, women believed that giving their beloved a hair bracelet or hair watch fob would serve as a love charm and ensure a long and happy relationship. Many Civil War soldiers had such items and many are found by relatives alongside of military memorabilia.

alentine’s day falls on February 14th and along with the Roman Goddess of Marriage, Juno, the holiday honors the Christian martyr, St. Valentine. Persecuted by the Roman Emperor in 273 AD, St. Valentine enjoys a legacy that has been carried on by lovers, young and old, for centuries. St. Valentine’s day is celebrated by BLONDE OR BRUNETTE? gifting flowers, sharing love symbols, One of the most beloved Valentine and sending romantic cards. While St. antiques is the coveted hair picture. Valentine presented the flowers from Hair pictures were devotional objects his garden to young lovers in an effort coveted by families for generations. to promote the Catholic sacrament of Accompanied by a hand written inmatrimony during his lifetime, the Febscription, hair pictures are fascinating ruary holiday that bears his name has mementos. Some of the most common sparked the exchange of various artiVictorian Valentines featured the symsan works. ictorian hair picture bolic lover’s rose or a bouquet of forDuring the Victorian era of the late get-me-not flowers to remember the dead made from 19th Century, Valentine traditions existed that promptthe hair locks of one’s beloved. ed loved ones to share homemade baked goods and With values in the $1,000 to $5,000 range, framed handcrafted keepsakes. Since the way to someone’s Victorian hair pictures grew from loving pictures to fine heart is really via the stomach, Victorians on Valenmemorials. Images made of hair related to the lover’s tine’s Day showed loved by giving items that were uselifestyle, his or her occupation, military service, or hobful in the kitchen. The Victorians said “I love you” with bies. Hair pictures made of woven hair depicted intrigifts of decorative ceramic rolling pins, pie plates, and cate landscapes, family homesteads, military symbols hand painted, decorated china. like rifles or sea anchors, bicycles, and still lifes of favorite fruits or flowers documenting the bounty of a FROM HEART TO HAIR couple’s love or a life well lived. Although the Valentine card remains the most recogIf you are looking to collect a hair receiver, hair picnizable of the lover’s offerings, Victorian gifts from the ture, or piece of woven hair jewelry in the form of a heart --and the head—were the most desirable. watch fob or locket, look for pieces that are in period One such gift was an item that would assist in makframes and in very good condition. ing handicrafts: the hair receiver. Today, antique hair Happy Valentine’s Day! receivers range in value from $15 to $500 for specialty examples, in the Victorian era a hair receiver was a Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and awardcommon dresser accessory. Victorian women saved winning TV personality, Dr. Lori Verderame hosts antheir hair in a small ceramic bowl with a hole in its tiques appraisal events worldwide. She is the star aptop called a hair receiver. After accumulating a good praiser on TV shows: History channel’s The Curse of amount of locks, the hair would be used to make a hair Oak Island, FOX Business’ Strange Inheritance and object. These receivers would be used to save brushed Discovery’s Auction Kings. Get your antique appraised hair for use weaving hair pictures, hair bracelets, hair at www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori, lockets, hair chains, hair watch fobs, etc. Today, the or (888) 431-1010. popular hair crafts made from all of this saved hair are www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Gaming Scene Las Vegas CAESARS PALACE INTRODUCES LV’S FIRST VIRTUAL REALITY LOUNGE www.caesars.com Caesars Palace recently introduced Las Vegas’’ first Virtual Reality Lounge, featuring Oculus Rift. The Oculus Virtual Reality Lounge will feature four Oculus Rifts with Touch, taking guests on a fully immersive 360-degree experience. The lounge will include a variety of the most popular VR games available, providing guests with the ability to manipulate objects and gameplay elements with extraordinary precision. WYNN LAS VEGAS ANNOUNCES ADDITION OF AMAZON ECHO TO ALL HOTEL ROOMS www.wynnlasvegas.com Wynn Las Vegas and Amazon announced plans to equip all 4,748 hotel rooms at Wynn Las Vegas with Echo, Amazon’s hands-free voice-controlled

speaker. The introduction of this technology into every guest room, which began in December with installation in suites, will be an industry first in the world, allowing guests of Wynn Las Vegas to control various hotel room features with a series of voice commands via Alexa, the brain behind Echo. RAIDING THE ROCK VAULT COMING TO THE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO - March 11 www.hardrockhotel.com Raiding the Rock Vault will join the Hard Rock’s lineup of entertainment, with headline shows inside Vinyl. Raiding the Rock Vault brings the history of rock ‘n’ roll to life, featuring classic anthems by the biggest acts in music, including The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Free, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Queen, Boston, Kansas, U2, Aerosmith, Van Halen, AC/DC, Pat Benatar, Foreigner, Heart, Journey, Bon Jovi, Whitesnake, Supertramp and many more.

February 8 - 25

he Venetian Theatre presents a new nineshow engagement featuring the original diva, Diana Ross. The Essential Diana Ross: Some Memories Never Fade will feature a special set of hits from the iconic star’s career, spanning over five decades. One dollar from every ticket sold will be donated to the Diana Ross Charitable Foundation.

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COMEDIAN RALPHIE MAY BRINGS “NO APOLOGIES” SHOW TO HARRAH’S www.caesars.com With no subject off limits, this raw, edgy, and uncensored, late-night show will reveal the hilarious quirks that infiltrate politics, race and even Ralphie’s family, curated especially for Las Vegas audiences.

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

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. ENTERTAINMENT 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 - 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, Stuart MacLeod, Brett Loudermilk, and Joel Ward. Continued....

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van Gogh, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, Jean-François Millet and many more.

Las Vegas cont 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. BELLAGIO GALLERY OF FINE ART PRESENTS “TOWN AND COUNTRY: FROM DEGAS TO PICASSO” thru Feb 20 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

VEGAS VENUE CONCERTS

CAESARS COLISEUM ELTON JOHN - thru Feb 20 REBA, BROOKS & DUNN - Feb 22 - Mar 4, Jun 21 - Jul 2, Nov 29 - Dec 9 ROD STEWART - March 17 - April 1 MANDALAY BAY TWENTY ONE PILOTS - Feb 18 PANIC! AT THE DISCO - March 24 HOUSE OF BLUES at Mandalay Bay: BILLY IDOL FOREVER - March 8; 10-11; 15; 1718; 22; 24-25; May 3; 5-6; 10; 12-13 MGM GRAND BLAKE SHELTON - March 4 GAME OF THRONES LIVE CONCERT EXPERIENCE - March 25 MIRAGE ACES OF COMEDY DANIEL TOSH - March 17-18; June 9-10 JAY LENO - March 3; July 7 TIM ALLEN - March 4; April 8 RON WHITE - March 31-April 1 ; June 2 - 3 SEBASTIAN MANISCALCO - Feb 17-18 RAY ROMANO and DAVID SPADE - Feb 24-25; April 21-22 BILL MAHER - March 10-11; May 19-20 NICK SWARDSON - March 25 PARK THEATER www.montecarlo.com

PARK THEATER • Thru February 25 & May 3 - 20

worldwide superstar for more than six decades with over 100 million records sold, Cher is set to perform at Park Theater. From concerts to television, film and beyond, the Oscar, Emmy, GRAMMY and Golden Globe Award-winning Goddess of Pop continues to break the mold of a traditional performer. Be prepared for an incomparable, intimate entertainment experience with the legendary talent.

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CHER - thru Feb 25, & May 3-20. BRUNO MARS - March 11-12, & Sept 2-3 IL VOLO - March 25. PLANET HOLLYWOOD BRITNEY SPEARS - March 22 - May 20 JENNIFER LOPEZ - thru June 11, & Sept 6 - Oct 7 T-MOBILE ARENA GEORGE STRAIT - Feb 17-18, April 7-8, BON JOVI - Feb 25

ENTERTAINMENT AT THE VENETIAN

DEAL ME IN with Mark Pilarski www.markpilarski.com/ IS FREE SLOT PLAY RIGGED? Dear Mark: When a casino gives free slot play, does the slot machine “know” you are playing with the casinos free given “money?” It seems that spins on the slot machine change when I put my money in the machine. Say, for instance, I get $5 free play. With ten spins at $.50 each, I don’t seem to win anything. As soon I put my money in, the machine seems to change and starts to pay with some credits. Gerry L. More and more casinos are rewarding slot players with free slot play, giving slots players a chance to win without having to drop a dime into a machine. Slot aficionados see it as getting something for nothing. Then there are other casinos that offer something less called matching play, whereby you are rewarded with $10 in free play after playing through $10 of your money. Obviously, this offer is not as good a deal as a “something for nothing” promotion. Your $5 free play offering is a

www.venetian.com BAZ - Star Crossed Love - thru July 1. The Movies You Love. The Songs You Know. BAZ Star Crossed Love is a celebration, a mash-up of music, and moments from the greatest love stories imagined by famed director Baz Luhrmann. HUMAN NATURE JUKEBOX - thru March 30. Human Nature, Australia’s top selling pop vocal group & Las Vegas headliners, effortlessly blends retro cool with contemporary sounds to bring you the ultimate Jukebox party.

cash reward for your play. Sad to say, that compensation must be used within the casino. That, Gerry, is the drawback of free play; you can’t take the money and skedaddle. In contrast, with cash backs for your action, there is no requirement that you play your cash reimbursement. Like winnings, it is your money, not the “house’s,” and you can always pocket it to use as you

please. All things being equal, Gerry, I would rather have cash-in-hand that I can spend as I wish. Moreover, with free play, most players do get something, but end up with nothing because they tend to play back their free play allowance before they cash out. The biggest challenge any casino has is getting you to walk through the front door. Free slot play – something for nothing – is one such Pavlovian offering that triggers saliva amongst slot jockeys. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

I have always been amazed at how just $10 in free slot play brings in the slot masses. Unfortunately, once forward-facing a slot machine, you can easily run through that $10 in but a few spins if you’re playing max coins and max lines. Now the casino has you captured within their friendly confines for a total outlay of $10. The up and up, Gerry, is that the random number generator doesn’t care one iota if you are playing the free play or with your hard-earned money. What might be happening is that you are the victim of your own selective memory along with a shortened gambling timeline. Your assumption is that the machines hit less frequently when you are playing free play versus when you’re playing with your money. Consequently, you tend to remember the times that you don’t hit on the free play and forget the times that you did. I would suggest, Gerry, that you keep track of your play and not rely on discriminatory impressions. So, Gerry, in the future as you play free slot play promotions, humor me and keep track of the number of spins and the number of hits that you get from free play. Then, actively track the same number of spins with your money. As your gambling timeline extends, your returns should be relatively close. 105

Gaming Scene cont Biloxi What’s happening at the Beau Rivage www.beaurivage.com

Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Beau Rivage is a beautiful resort destination — very convenient for Tampa Bay area folks looking for either an exciting time, or a relaxing time, or both — the Beau has it all. With a partnership with Sun Country Airlines, the resort has an exclusive package that includes a round trip non-stop jet flight, ground transfers, and two nights in a luxurious guestroom

— starting at only $299 per person (double occupancy). The flight takes only an hour and fifteen minutes and leaves from the St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airport. Golfers will definitely want to experience Fallen Oak, Beau Rivage’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with it’s dramatic elevations and beautiful magnolia trees, ponds, streams and wetlands. The newly-remolded course is player-friendly and more strategic. With some bunkers removed, the remaining bunkers have been rebuilt creating a much more strategic course. In addition, 15 of the hallmark live oak trees were repositioned to add to the Fallen Oak experience. A visit to the Beau’s spa and salon will show Epicurean treatments unique to the Gulf Coast, and 106

a perfect place for a Girlfriend Getaway with their special “Pamper Parties.” The dining opportunities at the Beau are wonderfully varied - from the simple Snacks Deli to the exceptional BR Prime (the Beau’s signature steak and seafood restaurant), and every thing in between. Guests have eleven restaurants to choose from, as well as several bars. The popular Terrace Cafe Terrace Café offers a delicious new twist on café dining. A new menu celebrates classic southern favorites, fresh and healthy alternatives, and a number of savory specialties to satisfy every appetite. Reservations for air-inclusive travel packages may be made by calling 888.640.8973. www.beaurivage.com PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS MISSISSIPPI GULF RESORT CLASSIC - March 30 - April 2. Now in its 8th consecutive year, the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic is returning to the coast. “The PGA TOUR Champions players always enjoy coming to the Mississippi Gulf Coast with its great food, fans and hospitality,” said Chairman of the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic Foundation Frank Bertucci. For tickets: www.2017mgrc.com/ UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT Feb. 24 - JOHNNY MATHIS March 3 & 4 - RODNEY CARRINGTON March 10 - KENNY LOGGINS March 17 & 18 - LORETTA LYNN March 31 - April 2 - LEGENDS IN CONCERT April 21 - Alice Cooper April 28 - CHAKA KHAN April 7 - KIP MOORE May 13 - SMOKEY ROBINSON May 26 - HUEY LEWIS & THE NEWS

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Huey Lewis & The News

WWW.BEAURIVAGE.COM/FLIGHT

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Murals of players line the underpasses.

There are 7 different styles of hot dogs to choose from.

Beef Briskit & Fries

Lounge seating around the park. 108

Chicken nachos with guac. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Delicious crispy loaded fries.

STEINBRENNER FIELD Yankees Spring Training $40 Million Renovation Story and Photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino & Al Martino

here is a whole new ballgame at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. After two years and $40M, the Yankees Spring training stadium really shines with new seats, bars, lounge areas with cushioned seats, a 2-story gift shop, and tasty new food selections and specialty cocktails throughout all the concession areas. Walking through the tunnels to the brand new stadium seats, fans pass large photo murals of players and some baseball trivia adorning the walls. Folks can stroll completely around the park along a walkway and stop to get a bite to eat in one of the many concessions. Some lounge areas are open for regular admission fans, and some are for premium ticket holders. They have large screen TVs so you don’t miss any of the action while you’re getting food or beverage, but pretty much anywhere you go has an open view to the game anyway. Another plus for those hot game days are the cool misters that are placed around the stadium. We found the new food options that dot the stadium to be quite good. Staples such as hot dogs and hamburgers have been upgraded with new sauces and fixin’s, and a more varied menu has been added. There is even a smoker for meats on property. The field has been reconfigured to be the same as Yankee Stadium in NY so the players will really feel at home. And so will the fans in this new incarnation of Steinbrenner Field.

www.steinbrennerfield.com

All new seating.

Locally sourced beef for juicy sliders. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Looking Good SMATERIA

Fair Trade Bags

www.smateria.com/

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

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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www.anthony.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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

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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The “I Wanna Go There!” Travel Page

Mojave Desert, Nevada

ightseeing opportunities in Mojave Desert are plentiful and diverse. Tourist attractions include museums and art galleries, amusement parks, National and State Parks, historical places, sporting events and festivals. Spend a day taking a scenic drive on one of the Mojave Desert area’s beautiful byways, back-ways, or historical routes exploring the diverse wildlife and scenery.

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