Accent On Tampa Bay #177, July 2012 by Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine

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Accent On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 23, Issue 177 July, 2012 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Barbara McGovern Senior Sports Editor Peter Martino Graphic Designer Julie Johnston Contributors Sylvie Damien Marty Peters Deborah Quigley Roland Stone Photographers Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Charlie deCatta Cover Photo: Kiss by Glenn La Ferman PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

AM PUBLICATIONS P.O. Box 20044 St. Petersburg, FL 33742 (727) 577-5500

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LOCAL FOCUS FLORIDA BOTANICAL GARDENS July 10, 24, Aug 7, 21 - Garden Tours Enjoy a stroll through the Florida Botanical Gardens and discover how to incorporate some of Florida native and Florida-friendly plants in home landscapes. Observe how the same plants can survive under different light and water conditions. Tours, recommended for adults, are limited to groups of four to 10 people. 9 to 11 a.m. Free. Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Registration required at www.pce-lawnandgarden.eventbrite.com. July 19, Aug 2, 16, 30 - Herb and Tropical Fruit Garden Tours Explore Florida-friendly groundcovers, vegetable gardening in raised beds, and the herb and tropical fruit gardens. The herb garden delights visitors with the scents, colors and historical uses of medicinal, culinary and ceremonial plants. Get tips on what crops can be raised locally with success. Tours are recommended for adults and limited to groups of four to 10 people. 9 to 11 a.m. Free. Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Registration required at www.pce-lawnandgarden.eventbrite.com/

SPINNING YARN at GULFPORT FRESH MARKET - July 10 The time-honored art of spinning yarn from fiber will be the subject of hands-on classes to be held during the Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market this summer. Billie Rodriguez and her daughter Brennan will teach students during 4-hour courses, each consisting of two-hour classes conducted on two consecutive Tuesdays. Registration for classes will start immediately. The first two-hour class is scheduled for Tuesday, July 10th, followed by a second two-hour class on Tuesday, July 17th. To ensure individual attention, classes will be limited to four persons each. Waiting lists for additional classes to be held during summer will be maintained for others interested in learning. The cost for classes will be $15 per hour, or $60 for the entire four-hour course. Spinning wheels and fiber, including angora and other types, will be provided. The open-air market is located on Beach Blvd. South below 29th Ave. South. For more information, call 813-428-2484 or email boogie595@yahoo. com.

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HISTORICAL WRITING WORKSHOPS AT HERITAGE VILLAGE - July 6, Sept 7 Award-winning author Angela T. Pisaturo returns to Heritage Village to host workshops on July 6 and Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each three-hour workshop will be unique and will cover aspects of writing historical novels, from research to setting the scene. Cost for each workshop is $15/historical society members $13; extensive handouts provided. Advance registration recommended. Heritage Village, 11909 125th St., N. Largo. (727) 582-2233 or visit www.pinellascounty. org/heritage/

GUIDED HIKES Brooker Creek Guided Hike - July 7, 21, 28, Aug 4, 18, 25 See how the land has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org/ Birds of Brooker Hike - July 14 Learn how to identify birds seen and heard on this special hike identifying common birds of Brooker Creek Preserve. Meander along this one-mile trail gathering information on the birds seen. Binoculars will be helpful. Bring water. 8 to 10:30 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org/ Unveiling Our Urban Wildlife - July 28 A Sensing Nature guide will help you learn what wildlife lurks in our metropolitan jungle. Discover the secret clues left for you by wildlife, including rabbits, rodents, coyotes, armadillos, snakes, raccoons and many others with which we share our urban yards. Enjoy an “urban safari” by connecting wildlife signs with the importance of our urban habitats. After the indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Aug 4,11, 18, 25 Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org/ Weedon Island Photography Hike - July 21, Aug 18 This hike is a perfect opportunity for adult photographers to hone their skills. After a classroom session highlighting specific wildlife behaviors and camera tips, guides will assist participants in capturing the natural beauty outdoors. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org/

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Weedon Island Guided Hike - July 7, 14, 21, 28, www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

CLASSICS AND CONCERTS COME TO THE MOVIE THEATER SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN - July 12 Singin’ in the Rain celebrates its 60th anniverary with a return to the silver screen for one day only on Thursday, July 12 at 7:00 p.m. with special matinees in select theaters at 2:00 p.m. The event begins with TCM host Robert Osborne in an exclusive specially-produced filmed interview with star Debbie Reynolds. In this interview, audiences will be taken behind the scenes, as Ms. Reynolds shares memories of working with the late great Gene Kelly and Donald O’Connor. The musical itself has been fully remastered and more beautiful than it ever has been before. STAR TREK - July 24 Star Trek fans nationwide have the chance to catch Star Trek: The Next Generation on the big screen, Monday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m., with with additional late night showings at select theaters. This special event will feature two of the most popular Next Generation episodes: Ep. 106, “Where No One Has Gone Before” and Ep. 114, “Datalore.” It was painstakingly retransferred from the original source material during its ongoing multimillion-dollar restoration. In addition to the two episodes—which will be introduced by wellknown Star Trek experts and restoration consultants Mike and Denise Okuda—fans will also be among the first to get a glimpse of the brand-new special features, including interviews with the team behind the restoration, as they discuss the process and countless man-hours dedicated to the upgrade of The Next Generation. THE WHO: QUADROPHENIA—CAN YOU SEE THE REAL ME? Movie theater audiences nationwide will get a dose of rock history with “The Who: Quadrophenia—Can You See The Real Me?” The Story Behind The Album, on Tuesday, July 24, at 8:00 p.m. Taking fans on a riveting ride back to the 1970s, when The Who’s creative musical genius was taking the world by storm, the event will provide an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look into one of rock’s most influential bands and the creation of their celebrated 1973 album, “Quadrophenia.” the event begins with a special welcome message from lead guitarist Pete Townshend. Check www.FathomEvents.com for participating movie theaters for these showings in the Tampa Bay area. 6

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WORLD’S BEST WAKEBOARDERS TO COMPETE INTHE HEART OF TAMPA July 13-14 Wakeboarders from eight countries will head to Tampa on the most innovative playing field to date for the sport of wakeboarding with the Red Bull Wake Open. Florida born athletes ar participating as well. Based on the facilities and opportunities the local area provides for wakeboarding, athletes have migrated to live in Florida for their sport. Riders will use the new Sesitec System 2.0 to be pulled through a water terrain park in front of the convention center for the Park and Big Air portion of the competition. Launching off a single 50-Foot ramp, riders will pull the best tricks they can in the air. This environmentally friendly system allows the competitors to hit speeds up to 38mph in short distances to make for a competitive showdown between the best riders. Viewing locations are available around the Channel including the Tampa Convention Center, Harbour Island and from Bayshore Boulevard. Tampa Convention Center, 333 South Franklin Street, Tampa, FL 33602 Fri., July 13 (4:00pm-8:00pm); Sat., July 14 (12:00pm-3:00pm). Free Admission; All Ages www.redbullusa.com/

THE STUDIO@620 SUMMER FUN NIGHTS The Studio@620 Summer Fun Nights series kicks off with Swing Dance Night on Friday June 15th and then continues through August with such events as a Ugly Sweater Party, Drive In Movie, and ends with the tackiest Prom Night in town. Events start at 7:30 PM, Suggested Donation $5 at the door. Tuesday July 17: Movie and Popcorn Night. A screening of “Best in Show” with Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara. Saturday July 21: Swing Dance Night II Friday July 27: Summer Stones Tribute Night: Roll on Into the Studio! Saturday August 4: Drive In Movie Night Friday August 10: St. Pete Got Comedy Night Friday August 31: Tacky Prom Night Summer Fun Finale The Studio@620 is a non profit arts venue located at 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701; 727-895-6620; www.studio620.org/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

FREE And Discount Passes for Military And First Responders For Entry To Hillsborough County Parks Hillsborough County is offering members of the military and first responders FREE and discounted annual Regional Park passes to all Hillsborough County Regional Parks. Passes can be obtained at the Branchton Regional Parks Office, 15502 Morris Bridge Road in Thonotosassa. The County is considering additional pass purchase locations in the future. The FREE lifetime family entrance pass is for Hillsborough County residents who are: Honorably discharged veterans who have service-connected disabilities; Surviving spouse and parents of deceased members of the US Armed Forces, National Guard, or Reserves who have fallen in combat; Surviving dependents of deceased First Responders killed in the line of duty who reside in Hillsborough County. There is a 25 percent annual regional park pass discount for: Active duty members and honorably discharged veterans of the US Armed Forces, National Guard, or Reserves who live in Hillsborough County; Active duty members of First Responders who live or work in Hillsborough County; Hillsborough County employees. Those wishing to obtain free or discounted passes, must provide proper documentation as outlined in the policies. The free and discounted passes do not include the boat launching pass, which is $100. Regular cost for an annual regional parks pass is $50 for an individual, and $100 for a family. View a list of regional parks online at http://bit.ly/HCParks. 813-987-6240.

NATURE WALKS ALONG THE TRAILS AT FORT DE SOTO PARK - Sat & Sun all year Free one-hour guided nature walks are offered along six different trails each Saturday and Sunday, except holidays. Visitors at the park will be absorbed in the abundance of history, natural beauty and the complexity of the ecology not immediately apparent to the occasional beachgoer. Emerging from the wealth of bird life, sea life, wild life and plant life is Fort De Soto Park. The largest park within the Pinellas County park system, the park consists of 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands (keys). These keys are home to beach plants, mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks, hardwoods and scores of native plants. The park is also home to beaches that provide refuge to the loggerhead sea turtles and more than 290 species of birds. 10 to 11 a.m. Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde. For more information, call (727) 552-1862; www.pinellascounty.org/park.

STEPPING WITH THE STARS - August 10 On Friday, August 10, from 6:30 to 10 pm the Stars will align at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa when the Safety Harbor Chamber of Commerce presents its premiere fundraiser gala, “Stepping with the Stars.” Held in the elegant Baranoff Ballroom, this exciting evening of dinner and dancing will showcase local business leaders and notables as they swing, salsa, and tango in a friendly competition. The occasion pairs contestants with professional dancers from Safety Harbor’s Dance Tonight Studio. The evening includes a three-course dinner, silent and live auctions. Dancers win with the help of your vote donations; vote for your favorite dancer through PayPal at Safety Harbor Chamber.com or call The Safety Harbor Chamber at (727) 726-2890. www.safetyharborchamber.com/

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JULY EVENTS 4th OF JULY EXTRAVAGANZA Beginning at noon with “Bus Stop”, classic rock band, on our Courtyard stage until 3:00 p.m. then “Kim Betts and the Gamble Creek Band” take to the stage with country tunes - old and new - from 4:00-7:00 p.m. “Baby Grand in the Sand” will perform between band breaks from 3:004:00 p.m. and from 7:00-8:00 p.m. and then “soulRcoaster” tops off the evening with pop rock from 8:00-11:00 p.m. Face painting begins at noon (nominal charge, depending upon design) and runs until 9:00 p.m. We welcome back the “One Man Band” who will be strolling throughout The Pier and out front from 4:008:00 p.m.; Fritz from Fritzy Bros One Man Circus will give us a full seven hours of hilarious entertainment from 1:00-8:00 p.m.; and the Power Skipper will return this year and perform his jumping antics from 1:00-5:00 p.m. The “Dance Heads” will be in the Dockside Activity Room where you can be a STAR in your own dance/music video! DVD’s are FREE for you and your friends who are participating and you choose your own song! Danceheads from 2:00-5:00 p.m. Fireworks at 9:00 p.m., brought to you by the City of St. Petersburg! BOOK NOOK - July 7 10:30-noon, the First Saturday of Each Month featuring Fresh Fish Theater and craft activity, Featured Creature facts, suggested reading by Youth Services Coordinator Beth Lindsay from the St. Petersburg Public Library System, the aquarium’s marine science library and the reading of books. It is free with a paid aquarium admission. SUNCOAST BAND - July 8 Tampa Bay’s Longest Running High Energy Variety Top 40 Act with over 25 years of Rockin’, High Energy Dance Music. WOODY & THE WOODTONES - July 15 Tampa Bay grown original music with solid covers mixed in so there’s something for everyone in the audience. They also build the one-of-a-kind instruments they play on stage. All their guitars are for sale. THE SWINGIN’ HARPOON - July 22 The “Swingin’ Harpoon” featuring Jamie Eubanks is a band based out of North Florida. They serve up quality, energetic, and tasteful live music. This is a big band combined with harmonica driven blues rock, vintage blues and rockabilly. Covers and original music performed. MUSIC FEST with SWEET SPOT - July 29 Hear one of Tampa Bay’s premier modern rock cover bands, “Sweet Spot”. Experience live music at its best as this high energy quartet performs the hottest tunes all over the radio dial.

Pier - 800 2nd Avenue NE, 33701; www.stpetepier.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

ST. PETERSBURG SATURDAY MORNING MARKET St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market is located in Al Lang Stadium parking lot (Progress energy Park), hours from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. The parking lot is at the SE corner of First Avenue South and First Street. The Market is located on the western portion of the parking lot. For a GPS location, use 101 1st St SE. (zip - 33701). The market features a wide variety fresh food, plants and crafts including: Farmers providing locally grown fresh produce and herbs. Meet who grows your food; Fresh Produce with a wide selection of regular & organic fruits and vegetables; Prepared Foods such as BBQ Turkey, smoked seafood, pickled vegetables, gourmet cheeses, fruit smoothies and much more; Gourmet Baked Goods including crusty bread, muffins, pies, and delectable desserts; Greenery - Plants, Flowers, Orchids, and Fresh Herbs; and Hand-crafted House wares & Gifts. www.saturdaymorningmarket.com

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

LIVE ARTS ON THE 600 BLOCK! - Every Third Saturday Of The Month Hosted by the diverse and creative venues on the Block, LIVE Arts on the 600 Block! is a multi-arts sidewalk fest featuring artists and artisans in downtown St. Petersburg. Stop by the block every third Saturday of the month, to listen to live music, enjoy the shops, and watch artists of all kinds at work. In addition, many of the shops and galleries will be showcasing their offerings with enticing specials throughout the day. 10am-6pm. For more information visit www.sixhundredblock.com

COREY SUNSET CELEBRATION - Second And Fourth Friday Of Every Month, Year Round The Corey Avenue Sunset Celebration takes place from 6-10 pm. Each bi-monthly event feature a variety of unique live entertainment, as well as local artists and crafters and a variety of snack food vendors. Buskers and street performers are always welcome at Corey Sunset Celebration, and may work for hat, at no charge to set up. Corey Avenue is the Heart of Downtown St. Pete Beach, the Sunset Capital of Florida. Discover the unique stores, specialty shops, the theater, restaurants, art galleries, clothing stores, imaginative gift shops, craft and hobby shopping, beachwear shops, and more. Visit by car or trolley. Free Parking and admission. www.CoreyAve.com.

HYDE PARK VILLAGE “LOCAL FOOD, HAND CRAFTS & LIVE MUSIC” - 1st Sunday of the month The Fresh Market at Hyde Park Village operates year round at 10am - 3pm. This Market and supports 100+ vendors selling fresh, local, homemade, handcrafted and eco-friendly products. A taste of what you will find is: conventional and hydroponic produce, homemade take home foods such as breads, pastries, gluten free goodies, pies, prepared entrees, sandwiches, tacos, italian delights, german bratwurst, mexican specialties; handcrafts, eco friendly products & fair trade items. 1621 West Snow Circle, Tampa, FL 33606; www.hydeparkvillage.net/ 10

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FREE GUIDED NATURE TOURS AT LETTUCE LAKE PARK Every Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Park entry fee is $2 per vehicle up to eight people. Lettuce Lake Park’s free guided tours take participants through the boardwalk and along the scenic Hillsborough River. Park rangers will highlight many native plants, a variety of birds, and usually even an alligator or two. Those bold enough to climb the five story observation tower can enjoy a scenic overlook from the skies. Florida has a rich history, and these tours include a look into traces of what happened two and three hundred years ago. After the tour, participants can enjoy the exhibits in the interpretive center located inside the visitor center. It is suggested to wear walking shoes and cool clothing, and carry water. Binoculars and a camera are welcome. Pets are not permitted on the boardwalk. 813-987-6204. Lettuce Lake Park, 6920 E. Fletcher Ave. in Tampa.

DESPERATELY NEEDED HELP FEED THE HUNGRY

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers are needed to deliver hot, nutritious meals to the homebound in Pinellas County. Volunteering for the Neighborly Meals on Wheels program is a hands-on, front line experience. If you have 112 hours, midday, to help in your own neighborhood, you could help improve someone’s life and make a real difference in this critical area of need. Currently, we have a desperate need for volunteers to deliver in the Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Gulfport, and Pinellas Park areas. Meals are picked up at a site near you and delivered to the homebound in your area (maps and directions are provided). Many Pinellas County seniors are living alone, too poor to buy food, or too frail to shop and cook for themselves. And the need is growing every day. Do someone else a favor and you will be doing yourself one! We are confident that if you try it once, you’ll be back! Neighborly needs compassionate, caring volunteers to share their time with lonely, isolated seniors. Please call Sandi Narron 727-573-9444, ext. 4210 to start helping your community today.

WESTFIELD BRANDON SHOPPING CENTER’ SESAME STREET SAFARI OF FUN PLAY AREA On July 15, Westfield Brandon shopping center will open a new play area themed after Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Sesame Street Safari of Fun. Located in shopping center’s newest wing near Gymboree, the 1200-sq. foot area features an iconic 16-foot-tall treehouse with favorite Sesame Street friends in their safari attire and beneath several African animals to climb on, play with and explore. Incorporating Busch Gardens’ elements and Sesame Street characters, families shopping at Westfield Brandon will be engaged, informed and entertained. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

G N I L E U F E R L A I R E A L L MACDI LIGHT ON A R E F K N A T O T A R T S 5 3 1 KC Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott and Al Martino

R Melissa and Al in the jump seats.

Pilot Maj Eric Zion and Copilot Kendall Brown.

ecently, we had the extreme pleasure of a ride-along on an in-flight refueling training mission from MacDill Air Force Base. Some members of the media were invited to experience and share just what it’s like on such a mission. We arrived at MacDill early for an 11 am takeoff with several other media, a few servicemen, the crew — consisting of a pilot, copilot and two refueling boom operators from MacDill’s 6th Air Mobility Wing, to fly in a KC-135 Stratotanker. Our job (well, their job) was to fly 26,000 feet over Louisiana to refuel a huge B-52 bomber. The KC-135 is a large jet with a barebones interior except for jump seats along the walls and only four small windows on the sides to catch a glimpse outside. But it’s been the go-to aircraft for the Air Force refueling for over 50 years. It makes it possible for the Air Force to have a global reach, as well as the Navy, Marine Corps and allied nation aircraft. It also serves as an ambulatory aircraft during evacuations. Once we were airborne we were able to explore the whole plane, and found the best seat in the house was actually not a seat, but the boom operator’s station in the back of the plane, where you lie in a prone position on a padded board. There is no relaxing going on there, however, as the boom operator has some delicate maneuvering to do to line up the 28 ft. long fueling tube to a very small hole in the object aircraft, using a joystick. The receiving aircraft comes within feet for the hookup — so close we could actually see the B-52 pilot’s insignia on his uniform. You have to remember both planes are flying around 530 MPH. It is quite amazing to watch. These guys must be great at video games. Since this was a training mission and no fuel was actually transferred, we watched the procedure repeated for about an hour before heading back to St. Petersburg. We never felt a bit of turbulence. Kudos to the great crew. For more information on the MacDill 6th Air Mobility Wing, visit www.macdill.af.mil/

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Pilot Maj Eric Zion

Servicemen training for the mission.

The B-52 is mere feet away from the Stratotanker

SSgt. Ryan Thomas explains the process to Al.

The fueling tube is inserted into the receiving port on the B-52.

L to R: Maj Eric Zion, SSGT Ryan Thomas, copilot Kendall Brown.

A1C Christopher Cannon, boom operator

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STRAZ PERFORMANCES THE NEW STRAZ SEASON offers the singing and dancing nuns of Sister Act, Cole Porter’s classic Anything Goes, feel-good romps with ’80s hits like Priscilla Queen of the Desert’s “I Will Survive” and Flashdance’s “Flashdance – What A Feeling,” the chilling return of Jekyll & Hyde, the poignant and spectacular drama War Horse, the exhilarating and evocative Traces and the all-singing, all-dancing celebration of the Gershwins in ’S Wonderful. In addition to the eight-show series, the Straz Center will also present Green Day’s American Idiot and, based on the hugely popular movie, Elf The Musical, the “endearingly goofy” (USA Today) story of a man raised as an elf at the North Pole who goes in search of his human family. Plus, The Straz presents the triumphant return of Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, Wicked, the story of what happened before Dorothy dropped

in on Oz. Season ticket holders will be able to add any or all of these three shows to their package. “Our Broadway season will offer theater audiences in the Tampa Bay area the opportunity to experience a vast array of top-notch theatrical productions. This entertaining and rewarding series has something for everyone and showcases the best that theater has to offer.” – Judith Lisi, president and CEO of the Straz Center. At a glance: Jekyll and Hyde - Oct. 23 - 28; Elf - Nov. 20 - 25; Sister Act - Dec. 11 - 16; Wicked - Jan. 9 - 27, 2013; Traces - Jan. 29 - Feb. 3; Flashdance - Feb. 19 - 24; Anything Goes - March 12 - 17; Priscilla Queen of the Desert April 9 - 14; War Horse - April 30 - May 5; American Idiot - May 17 - 19. For more information, visit Straz Center, 813-2297827, www.strazcenter.org.

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THE FOREIGNER - July HYSTERIA: OR FRAGMENTS OF AN ANAL18-Aug 19 YSIS OF AN OBSESSIONAL NEUROSIS The Foreigner demonstrates Sept 14 - Oct 21 what can happen when a group of devious characters deal with a stranger whom they think knows no English. The scene is a fishing lodge in rural Georgia often visited by Froggy LeSeuer, a British demolition expert. This time Froggy has brought along a friend, a pathologically shy young man named Charlie who is overcome with fear at the thought of making conversation with strangers. So Froggy tells all assembled that Charlie is from an exotic foreign country and speaks no English. Once alone the fun really begins as Charlie overhears more than he should. What Charlie does fuels the nonstop hilarity and sets up the breathtaking climax.

by Terry Johnson, previews September 12 and 13. Winner of Olivier Award for “Best New Comedy”, Hysteria is based on a stunning, historical meeting between two of the world’s greatest and most eccentric men - Sigmund Freud and Salvador Dalí. Set in London in 1938, Hysteria springs from Freud’s fanciful mind as he juggles unexpected visits to his home by the famous surrealist painter Dalí and a mysterious young woman named Jessica who can’t seem to keep her clothes on. Full of mistaken identities, dazzling surprises, and sheer Freudian slips, the tables are turned as Freud soon finds himself the subject of Jessica’s own bizarre form of psychoanalysis while Dalí’s surreal imagery creeps into his dreams and consciousness. American Stage is located at 163 Third Street North, St. Petersburg. 727-823-PLAY; www.americanstage.org/

Florida’s Most Exciting Theatrical & Dining Experience!

m p -7 m a 9 r u h -T n o M Fri-Sat 9am-8pm Sun 10am-3pm

UpComing

Thru July 15

Aug 23 - Se pt 3

Dinner & Show $49.50 + tax • Show Only $38.45 + tax

www.showpalace.net www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

88th SEASON 2012 – 2013 RUMORS - Comedy by Neil Simon - Sept 14 - 30, 2012 THE SENSUOUS SENATOR - Comedy by Michael Parker Nov 2 - 18, 2012 BONUS SHOW: Cool Yule At The City – Holiday Musical - Dec 7 - 16, 2012 9 to 5, THE MUSICAL by Dolly Parton and Patricia Resnick - Jan 18 - Feb 3, 2013 TO KILL A MOCKING BIRD - Drama by Christopher Sergel from the novel by Harper Lee - March 1 – 17, 2013 THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB – Comedy by Jones Hope Wooten - April 19 - May 5, 2013 DOUBT - Drama by John Patrick Shanley - May 31 - June 17, 2013 4025 31st Street South, St. Petersburg FL 33712; 727-866-1973. www.splt.org/

LaVell Crawford July 26 - 29

avell Crawford is fresh off his one-hour special Can a Brother get Some Love for Comedy Central. Lavell is a regular guest on Chelsea Lately and Tosh.O, go to guest host for The Steve Harvey Show, and currently recurring for his third season on Breaking Bad. Lavell first gained national exposure on NBC’s Last Comic Standing. His televised stand up appearances include his headlining performance on Shaquille O’Neal Presents: All-Star Comedy Jam, and appearances on Russell Simmon’s Def Comedy Jam on HBO, Showtime at the Apollo, Martin Lawrence Presents 1st Amendment, Steve Harvey’s Big Time, Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, Comic’s Unleashed with Byron Allen, Motown Live, and BET’S Comic View. The Improv is located at 1600 E 8th Ave., Tampa, FL 33605; www.improvtampa.com

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NEW YORK NIGHTS - through July 15 It’s New York City! The “City Rhythm” is taking the streets by storm as The Show Palace presents an all-new musical revue which features highenergy singing and dancing to the sounds of Motown, Rock & Roll, Disco and Broadway. NEW YORK NIGHTS follows a struggling pop singer as he makes his way through the city that never sleeps. Filled with classic pop hits, high-energy singing and dancing and the sights and sounds of New York City this show is a must-see! THE “ALL NEW” FABULOUS 50’S AND 60’S REVUE - Aug 24 - Sept 23 Audiences young and old have loved our classic revues and the most popular of all those shows have been our spectacular jukebox shows. This season not only do we revisit the great music and dancing of the

1950’s but we continue our musical journey into perhaps the most creative period in our Nation’s history – the sizzling 60’s! This is an unforgettable bonanza of music, dancing, and laughter – jam-packed with the 50’s sounds of such greats as Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Dave Brubeck, Ritchie Valens, Connie Francis, as well as the 60’s sounds of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Patsy Cline, Simon and Garfunkel, The Mamas and the Papas, Bob Dylan and much, much, much more. This revised and expanded version is a Show Palace premiere and is not to be missed. Show Palace, 16128 U.S. 19 N., Hudson. 1-888-655-7469 www.showpalace.net

BROADWAY DIVAS - July 20-21 Five dazzling ladies sing songs made popular by Broadway’s most powerful divas, July 20 - 21 at 8:00 pm at West Coast Players. From Streisand to Lupone, these girls from Split Personalities will knock your socks off and leave you begging for more. Featuring Gillian Bertrand, Alix Faulhaber, Stephanie Fox, Sabrina Hamilton and Latoya McCormick. West Coast Players is located at 21905 US 19 N., Clearwater, FL 33765; 727 437-2363; www.wcplayers.org/

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SHOWS IN THE CHANNEL DISTRICT SYLVIA - through July 22 A romantic comedy about a dog and the couple who adopts her is a hilarious commentary on mid-life angst, and the role pets play in our lives. When middle-aged, upper-class Greg brings Sylvia back to the empty nest he shares with his wife, a romantic triangle ensues. Sylvia is a beautiful, frisky young blonde and yes, she talks. (Sarah Jessica Parker created the role on Broadway.) And of course, you will never look at Fido or Fifi the same way again. For dog lovers this is a must. Bring a photo of your dog to put on StageWork’s “Sylvia’s friends” wall in the lobby. Stageworks Theatre, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa FL 33602; 813-251-8984. www.stageworkstheatre.org.

www.splt.org 18

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Ben Vereen One Night Only Performance

at the Broadway Theatre Project Festival ne of Broadway’s most iconic stars, Ben Vereen, will be performing a concert at the prestigious Broadway Theatre Project Festival on Friday, July 27th, 2012 at 7:30 P.M.at the University of South Florida’s Theatre 1. Vereen earned a Tony Award for his performance in Pippin. Among his other Broadway credits are Wicked, Fosse, Chicago, Jesus Christ Superstar, Hair, Jelly’s Last Jam, Grind, and I’m Not Rappaport. His many film and television credits include How I Met Your Mother, Grey’s Anatomy, Roots, Star Trek, and All That Jazz. Ben has recently be inducted into the Theatre Hall of Fame, the highest honor in theater. Few entertainers today are as accomplished or versatile as Ben Vereen. His legendary performances transcend time and have been woven into the fabric of this country’s artistic legacy. Vereen’s One Man concert shows have been drawing rave reviews wherever they play and now is your chance to see and hear for yourself the remarkable talent that is Ben Vereen - The Legend. Broadway Theatre Project (BTP), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization celebrating its 22nd anniversary in 2012, is the renowned musical theatre intensive that provides its apprentices with critical training in the disciplines of acting, dancing and singing, taught by a faculty of accomplished educators and performers. As part of its mission, the program strives to engender students with the personal skills necessary to work and survive in the professional world of performing arts. Sessions are held annually every July in Tampa on the campus of the University of South Florida. Tony-Award-winning actor, singer and dancer Ben Vereen is an Artistic Director of the Broadway Theatre Project for 2012. Debra McWaters, who was one of the Co-Founders of BTP 22 years ago is the President and Co-Artistic Director of BTP. Broadway Theatre Project (BTP) has been described by Playbill magazine as “the world’s most prestigious musical theatre arts education program for high school and college students.” Information about BTP is available at available at www.broadwaytheatreproject.com/ Purchase tickets for Ben Vereen’s show at www.ticketmaster.com/

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NUNSENSE II: THE SECOND COMING

July 13-22 Funny whether or not you saw the original Nunsense, this sequel takes place six weeks after the Little Sisters of Hoboken’s first benefit show, and now they are back with a Thank You show. But now they’re a bit slicker, having been “bitten by the theater bug.” Things get off to a rousing start, and before long chaos erupts. Two Franciscans come to claim Sister Mary Amnesia (who has won the Publishers’ Clearing House Sweepstakes).

The nuns hear that a talent scout is in the audience. From the riotous bingo game run by Sister Amnesia, to the hilarious duet What Would Elvis Do? to the rousing finale There’s Only One Way to End Your Prayers and That’s to Say Amen! This show will have you rolling in the aisles. Eight O’Clock Theatre at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr, Largo, FL. www.largoarts.com

www.americanstage.org

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CABARET thru July 22 The legendary 1966 musical smash with score by Kander and Ebb is set in pre-war Weimar Germany in the seedy world of a Berlin cabaret called The Kit Kat Klub. While tensions build outside with the rise of the Nazi party, the carefree abandon of the bohemian world of the club is interrupted. Battle lines are drawn and the world of the cabaret begins to parody the politics outside its doors. The season ends with freeFall’s production of this beloved classic.

TOO DARN HOT! - July 8 Enjoy the songs of summer as crooner/jazz pianist Michael Raabe and chanteuse Sara DelBeato put their retro-tastic spin on everything from The Beach Boys and Cole Porter to Nelly and Sir-Mix-a-Lot. An evening of sizzling entertainment.

SHE’S NOT MY TYPE - July 11 Alison Burns and Lulu Picart are two powerhouse singers who will make you laugh and cry, fall in and out of love, and make you agree wholeheartedly with the observation: they’re better than pizza.

SEPARATED AT BIRTH - July 15 freeFall’s Managing Director Jim Sorensen has appeared shirtless on stage more times than he cares to remember. Laura Hodos has appeared frequently also, but usually fully clothed. Beside having the same birthday, they also love silly songs and a joie de vivre.

MATTHEW MCGEE: Matthew With a Z - July 18 Matt McGee is quick-witted, sharp-tongued, and one of the sweetest, most genuinely lovable people you’ll ever meet. Join Matthew for his one-man tribute to Liza... and Paula Dean. 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33710, (727) 498-5205. www.freefalltheatre.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Broadway Theatre Project

The future of Broadway is training in Tampa this summer from July 8-29

his July, apprentices from all over the country will head to the University of South Florida to participate in Broadway Theatre Project (BTP), an intense three-week training session in all things musical theatre. BTP concludes in an exciting three-day theatrical festival at USF with performances open to the public on July

27-28. Broadway Theatre Project apprentices, who range in age from 16-24, are taught acting, singing and dancing by industry professionals who have appeared on Broadway, in television and in major motion pictures. Broadway Theatre Project has successfully prepared and trained numerous apprentices who have performed in more than 70 different Broadway shows and countless films, television, national and world tours. Some recent Broadway successes include: BTP alum Sierra Boggess, who was Ariel in Disney’s long-running The Little Mermaid, and this past summer co-starred with Tyne Daly in the Broadway revival of Master Class; Sara Andreas, Alex Ellis, Aleks Pevec, Kristin Piro and Sarah Strimel, who all appeared in the recent hit Catch Me If You Can; Cameron Adams, Paige Faure Finger, Erica Mansfield and Ryan Watkinson, who are all currently starring in Broadway’s How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying; Jeff Metzler and Josh Buscher, who are both currently starring in Broadway’s Priscilla Queen of the Desert; Mandy Gonzalez, who recently completed a 10-month run starring as Elphaba in Wicked on Broadway; and Chase Brock, who choreographed the current smash musical Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark. The list continues. In addition to the above, this past Broadway season Michael James Scott had the honor of receiving the coveted Gypsy Robe, which is given to the chorus member with the most Broadway credits. He received it for Book of Mormon. Founded in 1991, Broadway Theatre Project (BTP) is described by Playbill magazine as “the world’s most prestigious musical theatre arts education program for high school and college students.” Under the Artistic Direction of Tony-Award-winning actor, singer and dancer Ben Vereen, and Co-Artistic Director, Debra McWaters, the notfor-profit BTP focuses on the key disciplines of musical theatre including acting, dancing, and singing, as well as the critical life skills necessary to work in the professional world of entertainment. Past BTP Guest Artists have included entertainment industry luminaries such as Julie Andrews, Jay Binder, Stanley Donen, Savion Glover, Jeff Goldblum, Joel Grey, Gregory Hines, John Kander, Patti LuPone, Terrence Mann, James Naughton, Bebe Neuwirth, Phylicia Rashad, Tommy Tune, Gwen Verdon, Frank Wildhorn and Patrick Wilson, among many others. To order tickets for the BTP Theatrical Festival, visit Ticketmaster.com and search “Broadway Theatre Project” or call the USF Theatre Box Office at 813-974-2323. www.broadwaytheatreproject.com/

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Dawn Smart and Doré Designs Chart Success One Swarovski Crystal at a Time The Ballroom Dance industry has experienced an ex-

plosive rise in popularity as a result of hit reality television shows including “So You think You Can Dance,” “Dancing with the Stars“ and “America’s Best Dance Crew.” As a result, Ballroom dance has become an accessible and enjoyable art for both dance fanatics and non-dance audiences. Dawn Smart’s Doré Designs can be seen on the young dancers of the reality show, “So You Think You Can Dance,” and on the global stage in national and international dance competitions. Boasting over $2 million in annual sales, Doré Designs Inc.’s yearly gross margin has more than doubled in the last 5 years and Dore Designs 40 full and parttime employees in the United States. With Dawn’s experience as a professional dancer, teacher and studio manager, as well as a background in fashion design and garment construction, she transformed Doré Designs, Inc. from a local operation into a global leader that produces cutting edge fashions for competitive ballroom dancing.

Smart trains her talented sales force on the basic elements of garment construction, how to execute rough illustrations and to take extensive measurements so that they are able to properly communicate the clients desires to the design team. In keeping with the French tradition of haute couture, or high dressmaking, each Doré Design garment is an exclusive creation made to the wearer’s explicit measurements and carriage. Doré Design garments are produced in jersey, crepe, silk, elastin and various types of Swarovski crystals. Gowns are all draped and hand crafted for a look that allows the wearer to feel confident, comfortable and elegant. “Fashion in the ballroom world is about movement and telling a story as part of a duet” explains Dawn. Inspired by designers such as Valentino, Versace and Alexander McQueen, for their use of luxurious materials and intricate construction, Smart’s creations have a luxurious feel inside and out. Doré Designs sponsors 42 professional and amateur couples in the United States and Canada, and can be seen across the globe on world champions, finalists and dance novices alike. For more information, visit www.doredesigns.com.

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S T R E C N HOT CO 1-800-AskGary Ampitheatre ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL - July 13 In 2008, the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival bulldozed onto the scene and quickly made itself known as the preeminent summer destination for the hard rock and metal community. Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival boasts the most powerful artist lineups in heavy music. This marks the first summer tour that Motörhead has taken part in the Rockstar Mayhem Festival for a long time. The legendary metal veterans join the already stellar 2012 main stage line-up, featuring multi-platinum Iowa cult metal groundbreakers Slipknot in the headlining position, as well as legendary thrash metal kings Slayer. In addition to Slipknot, Slayer, and Motörhead, the main stage will also spotlight a ferocious rotation of today’s best artists, including The Devil Wears Prada, As I Lay Dying and Asking Alexandria. This year the Jagermeister Stage will feature a special headline set by New York metal masters Anthrax supported by a rotation of The Devil Wears Prada, As I Lay Dying and Asking Alexandria, along with Whitechapel, High On Fire and the Jagermeister opener. (Bands may vary per market.) www.rockstarmayhemfest.com and www.livenation.com for up-to-date ticketing information.

BARENAKED LADIES with BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS “Last Summer on Earth” Tour, also featuring BLUES TRAVELER and CRACKER - July 17 Multi-platinum pop rock group the BARENAKED LADIES have announced their “Last Summer On Earth,” a freewheeling road show featuring BLUES TRAVELER, BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS and CRACKER. Barenaked Ladies is touring in support of Hits From Yesterday & The Day Before, a new collection of their biggest hits, including their theme song for the hit CBS television series, “The Big Bang Theory.” Over the course of the past twenty-two years, Barenaked Ladies have racked up eight Juno Awards and multiple Grammy nominations, sold more than 14 million albums worldwide, written a plethora of hit singles, released 11 studio albums and amassed an international fanbase whose members number in the millions. The band’s most recent studio album, All In Good Time, is their first as a four-piece (Ed Robertson – guitar/vocals, Jim Creeggan – bass/vocals, Kevin Hearn – keyboard/vocals and Tyler Stewart – drums/vocals). Big Head Todd & The Monsters continue with their winter/spring club tour; their first in over three years. A quarter-century is a long time for any band to stick together, but Big Head Todd & The Monsters not only remain intact (Mohr, bassist Rob Squires and drummer Brian Nevin have been at it since their University of Colorado days and keyboardist, steel guitarist and background vocalist Jeremy Lawton joined in 2004) but continue to evolve, fine-tune and surprise. With more than a dozen albums and countless live gigs to their credit, BHTM—with their signature mix of funky rock and blues, soul, country, folk and jazz, Caribbean and African rhythms and more—inspired one newspaper critic to enthuse, “Ah, so this is what a stick of dynamite feels like!” www.livenation.com 24

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DAVE MATTHEWS - July 18 Dave Matthews Band’s lyrical themes focus on topics ranging from love, sex, the enjoyment and appreciation of life, to ending racism, and political and anti-war statements. The Dave Matthews Band has sold over 40 million copies worldwide. The band is known for their annual summer-long tours of the US and Europe, featuring lengthy improvisational renditions of their songs, accompanied by an elaborate video and lighting show. This portion of the tour has become a stamp of DMB and has grown with the band since Fenton Williams began in the early 1990s. The band’s album, Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King debuted at number one on Billboard 200, giving the band their fifth consecutive number one debut, making them the second band behind Metallica to do so. The band has won one Grammy Award, and was awarded the NAACP Chairman’s Award.

SUGARLAND - July 27 Sugarland’s “In Your Hands” Tour is interactive. The tour is relying solely on fans requests to determine the set list played in each city. “This year’s tour is based around the concept of putting the show into the hands of the fans,” said Jennifer Nettles. “They will make the requests that will help form the set list and guide the show. Through texts, handwritten signs, the Internet (Twitter, Facebook, etc) phone calls made during the show and selections directly from the stage, the fans will become the conductors as well as the audience. If it’s on one of our records or if we’ve played it on a stage it is fair game.” Go online to http://sugarlandmusic.com/requestline to sign up. www.livenation.com

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1-800-AskGary Ampitheatre KISS & MOTLEY CRUE - July 28 w/ THE TREATMENT Rock ‘n Roll doesn’t get any bigger than this! KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE on the same stage on the same night. With combined album sales of almost 200 million, KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE are more than just iconic; they remain today as the dominant powerhouses of rock music tallying 30+ chart-topping hits, countless sold out tours and awards and accolades from around the world. Known for their elaborate and spectacular stage shows, each band plans to give fans the ultimate summer concert experience with the most impressive lighting and sound production ever and their signature over-the-top pyrotechnics. This is the first time KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE will share a stage since 1982. KISS consists of Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer. MÖTLEY CRÜE consists of Vince Neil, Mick Mars, Nikki Sixx and Tommy Lee. These veterans of the music business are still at the height of their popularity. KISS has 3,000 licensed merchandise products, including the KISS golf course in Las Vegas and a new album. KISS has broken box office records set by The Beatles and Elvis. MÖTLEY CRÜE is the first rock band in history to have just completed an epic sold-out Las Vegas residency at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The band is best known for continuing to reinvent not only their live show (with mind blowing elements such as Tommy Lee’s 360 drum roller coaster) and music (brand new song due out this spring), but remain on the cutting edge via social media interaction. MÖTLEY CRÜE’s New York Times bestselling book The Dirt is currently being adapted into a major motion picture. The band was featured in one of the highest rated Super Bowl ads of all time for the KIA Optima. The Treatment is a five-strong outfit based in the Cambridge area of the UK who combines the drive of early Def Leppard with the song-writing ability of prime UFO and Thin Lizzy. www.livenation.com

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SUN DOME

Fresh music festival - july 7

The Fresh Music Festival is a celebration of the best in R&B, hip-hop, soul and comedy. Founder and creator of the festival, Gary S. Guidry, wanted to bring the best in music to one stage. The following artists are scheduled to attend this year’s Fresh Music Festival. DOUG E. FRESH The first human beatbox in the rap world, and still the best of all time, Doug E. Fresh amazes audiences with his note-perfect imitations of drum machines, effects, and samples of hip-hop classics. Fresh is one of the biggest names in rap music, and his first single “The Show/La Di Da Di,” became a hip-hop classic. KEITH SWEAT, One of the bestselling Platinum R&B artists of our time, Keith Sweat blazed the charts with many Top 10 hits including “I Want Her” (#1 R&B/#5 Pop). Sweat continued to rise with his sophomore album I’ll Give All My Love To You, which hit #3 on the Billboard 200 chart, and Keep It Comin debuted in the Top 20. K-CI & JOJO, still one of the hottest singing duos in the game, R&B duo K-Ci & JoJo has sold millions of records and landed a host of award nominations over the years. Today, they continue to sing all the hits, while continuing to leave the ladies wanting more. GUY rose to fame with hits like “Groove Me,” “I Like” “Piece of My Love,” “Let’s Chill” and “Do Me Right”. In 1992, Aaron Hall collaborated with Charlie Wilson on the soundtrack to the hit film, Boomerang. Guy recently united and are rocking the New Jack sound that we all love. SWV scored a string of top ten R&B hits such as “I’m So Into You”, “Right Here”, “Downtown”, “Weak”, “Anything” and “Your always on My Mind,” establishing the trio as a commercial force in the 90’s. SWV is one the world’s top selling female R&B groups and is one of the hardest. www.sundomearena.com/

THE ORPHEUM

tyler hilton - july 11

Tyler Hilton is currently on tour in support of his new album, “Forget The Storm”. He will be performing in Tampa on July 11 at The Orpheum, and also in Bradenton on July 13th at Joyland Nightclub. Tyler is best known for his role as Chris Keller on the CW hit-show “One Tree Hill” and for playing Elvis Presley in the Johnny Cash biopic, “Walk The Line.” In both notable roles, he plays a musician, indicative of his real-life musical talent. After his recent performance on the series finale of “One Tree Hill,” he was trending worldwide on Twitter. Now, after a very long wait, he has broken free from the creative restraints of his record label, and is finally able to introduce his new music on his own terms. The new record unleashes a new side of the artist combining multiple genres including: folk, rock, rockabilly, americana, and heavy rock & roll. The title, “Forget The Storm,” references an unreleased album that got shelved called “The Storms We Share,” which he spent 5 years working on as part of his major label deal. For more information, visit www.TylerHilton.com

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SUMMER CONCERT SERIES The 2012 Rays Summer Concert Series begin shortly after select homes games conclude and are free with the purchase of that game’s ticket. Enjoy the sounds of the game and music with friends and family. tampabay.rays.mlb.com/ TRAIN - July 13, Boston Red Sox at 7:10 p.m. Formed in 1994 in San Francisco, Calif., Train is best known for their hit singles “Meet Virginia,” “Calling All Angels,” “Hey, Soul Sister” and most recently “Drive By.” The band consists of lead vocalist Pat Monahan, drummer Scott Underwood and guitarist Jimmy Stafford. Train has won three Grammy Awards, including Best Rock Song in 2002 and two Billboard Music Awards. Their self-titled debut album was certified platinum while the song “Meet Virginia” became a Top 40 hit. In 2001, Train released their single “Drops of Jupiter,” which remained in the Top 40 for nearly 40 weeks and helped their second album sell more than 3-million copies. Train’s third album, My Private Nation went platinum largely due to their successful single, “Calling All Angels” which was the band’s third Top 20 hit. In 2009, Train released “Hey, Soul Sister” from their album Save Me, San Francisco. Train’s most recent album California 37 was released in early 2012 and their first single “Drive By” is currently climbing up the Billboard Top 100 charts. “Drive By” marks Train’s third Hot 100 Top 10. THE WIGGLES - August 5, Baltimore Orioles at 1:40 p.m. Known as “Your Child’s First Rock Band,” The Wiggles have achieved worldwide success with their children’s albums, videos, television series and concert appearances. Formed in Sydney, Australia in 1991, The Wiggles are known around the world for combining music and theories of child development in their videos, television programs and live shows. They have earned 17 gold, 12 platinum, three double-platinum and 10 multi-platinum awards for sales of over 17 million DVDs and four million CDs. The Wiggles were named Business Review Weekly’s top-earning Australian entertainers for four straight years and in 2002 became the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) most successful pre-school television program of all time. The Wiggles have won two Australian Performing Right Association (APRA) songwriting awards and multiple Australian Record Industry Association (ARIA) awards for Best Children’s Release in 1995, ‘96 and ‘98. O.A.R. - August 24, Oakland Athletics at 7:10 p.m. O.A.R. released their seventh studio album, King, in August 2011. It debuted at No. 12 on the Billboard charts, making it their highest debut to date. Since forming the band in 1996, O.A.R. has remained true to the basic principles of song writing and performing live for masses of faithful fans dating back to their start at Ohio State University. They’ve produced several studio hits including “That Was A Crazy Game of Poker,” “Night Shift” and “Love and Memories,” which was performed at the MLB All-Star Home Run Derby in 2006. King has a strong act to follow as 2008’s All Sides produced the band’s first ever certified platinum single “Shattered” and earned them a spot on performing songwriter’s list of the 100 Most Influential Independent Artists of the Past 15 Years. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

SKIPPERS SMOKEHOUSE

TAB BENOIT - july 6

In a career of more than two decades, blues guitarist/vocalist Tab Benoit has generated an impressive body of work — every note of it rooted in the rich and centuries-old musical and cultural traditions of his native Louisiana. While his earliest recordings and performances may have established him as a genuine blues musician, his everexpanding body of work has become even more resonant in the years since Hurricane Katrina and its devastating aftermath in 2005. Through his environmental advocacy work with Voice of the Wetlands — which actually predates Katrina by a few years — Benoit has counterbalanced his musical career with a tireless commitment to protecting the precarious landscape of his home state.

This fierce commitment to creative and environmental ideals comes to the forefront in a compilation of recordings from Benoit’s years, so far, on the Telarc label. Legacy: The Best of Tab Benoit gathers 14 tracks that mark some of the high points in the career of an artist who has been aptly described as “the new kid from the old school.” “Benoit is a true Louisiana resource, the product of a life steeped in music — blues, country, Cajun, rock and soul,” according to the liner notes by author John Swenson. Skippers Smokehouse, 910 Skipper Rd., Tampa, FL. www.skipperssmokehouse.com/

VINOY PARK - july 29

WE THE KINGS from Bradenton

The Warped Tour is a touring music and extreme sports festival. The skateboard shoe manufacturer Vans, among others, has sponsored the tour every year since 1995. As of the mid-2000s, the Warped Tour has featured as many as 100 bands per show. The bands play on approximately 10 stages, although the biggest bands generally play the two main stages. Bands typically start at 11:00 a.m. and end around 9:00 p.m., with several bands playing at once. The stages are set up in various locations around the venue to ensure one band’s music is not disrupted by the other bands performing at that time. Fans can vote online for the band they want to see play a longer set as the last band of the night. The tour started as a skate punk and third wave ska tour, but later began to feature mostly post-hardcore, pop punk, and metalcore acts. Vinoy Park is at 5th Ave and Bayshore Adjacent to Renaissance Vinoy, St.Petersburg, FL 33701. For a list of bands performing at the Vinoy Park, visit www.vanswarpedtour.com/bands/

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MUSIC TRAX

Jazz FAB TRIO - History of Jazz in Reverse www.turnrecords.com FAB Trio’s album History of Jazz in Reverse marks another historic meeting of three improvisers and legends of the New York jazz scene, bassist Joe Fonda, drummer Barry Altschul and violinist Billy Bang, who have for decades been known the world over as masters of their craft. With the FAB Trio, they forged a unique common language that reached its peak on this recording. CURTIS FULLER - The Story of Cathy & Me www.challengerecords. com Curtis Fuller played with the likes of Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Jimmy Smith, Wayne Shorter, and in Art

Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and Dizzy Gillespie’s band. He toured with Count Basie. This CD is a reflection of how Curtis is going on without his dear wife of so many years. It emotionally reaches into your hearts core. OSCAR PEREZ - Afropean Affair www.oscarperezmusic.com Featuring Perez’s stellar young band Nuevo Comienzo, Afropean Affair focuses on the pianist’s original music, which he designed to showcase his group’s improvisational prowess and conservatory-honed facility for interpreting extended compositions. Balancing poise and power, the combo features some of the most prodigious young players on the scene today.

ESPERANZA SPALDING Radio Music Society

t has not taken Esperanza Spalding long to emerge as one of the brightest lights in the musical world.The young bassist, vocalist and composer from Portland, Oregon is the real deal, with a unique and style-spanning presence, deeply rooted in jazz yet destined to make her mark far beyond the jazz realm. Her latest release, Radio Music Society, is her most diverse, ambitious and masterful recital yet. Eleven songs are accompanied by conceptual short films, which further express Esperanza’s inspiration and story behind each track. Shot in various locations including New York City; Barcelona, Spain; and Portland, Oregon; all videos are be available to purchasers of Radio Music Society as a digital download or a DVD on the deluxe version. In addition to longtime partners Lovano, keyboard player Leo Genovese and drummer Terri Lyne Carrington, her musicians include jazz legends Jack DeJohnette and Billy Hart; guitar heroes Jef Lee Johnson and Lionel Loueke; an array of master vocalists including Algebra Blessett, Lalah Hathaway, Gretchen Parlato, Leni Stern and Becca Stevens; hip-hop giant Q-Tip and two Portland-based musicians, Janice Scroggins and Dr. Thara Memory. www.esperanzaspalding.com

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JACQUES LOUSSIER TRIO Schumann: Kinderszenen

or more than five decades, pianist Jacques Loussier has explored and meshed the traditions of classical music with the spontaneous nature of jazz. In the early years of his career, his Play Bach Trio focused on developing improvisatory compositions around the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. In later years Loussier expanded his repertoire by taking a similar approach to composers like Debussy, Ravel, Vivaldi, Beethoven and others. The Jacques Loussier Trio - including Loussier, bassist Benoit Dunoyer de Segonzac and drummer André Arpino - brings its jazz sensibility to the work of Robert Schumann with the release of Schumann: Kinderszenen (Scenes from Childhood). The Loussier Trio recording puts its unique improvisational spin on the 13-song opus that Schumann composed in 1838 as a fond tribute to his childhood. www.telarc.com/

DEVIN GRAY - Dirigo Rataplan www.devingraymusic.com Drummer/Composer Devin Gray has made his first outing as a leader on his new CD, Dirigo Rataplan. An artist who strives for quality and sincerity in his work, Gray’s exciting energy has compelled him towards many different musical directions. Dirigo Rataplan consists of compositions that range from New Orleans jazz to funk. The sound is completed by the talents of his quartet Ellery Eskelin, Dave Ballou and Michael Formanek. Devin currently lives, performs and composes in Brooklyn, NY.

THE JENS WENDELBOE BIG BAND - Fresh Heat www.crazyenergy.com Jens Wendelboe is an award-winning arrangercomposer (as well as a member of the brass section of Blood, Sweat & Tears), and his newest album features his contemporary treatments of jazz classics by Clifford Brown and Joe Henderson, alongside his own energized originals. Alternately brassy and lyrical, the album also features Wendelboe’s rare big-band transformation of Steve Swallow’s small-combo gem “Falling Grace,” as well as vocals by Deb Lyons on Brown’s “Joy Spring” and “My Funny Valentine.”

JEFF HAMILTON - Red Sparkle www.caprirecords.com The 10 year collaboration of the Jeff Hamilton Trio continues with the latest CD, Red Sparkle. The recording showcases Laura and A Sleepin’ Bee as well as the hit On and On, Monk’s Bye Ya and Too Marvelous for Words. I Know You Oh So Well features beautiful bowing by bassist Luty. The four original compositions by members of the Trio include an upbeat opener by Hamilton, a rhythmic collaboration of Hamilton’s drums and Hendleman’s piano, and the title tune, Red Sparkle, Hamilton’s up-tempo showcase for the trio named for the look of his first drum set.

CINQUE - Catch A Corner www.almarecords.com The band Cinque includes musical greats Joey DeFrancesco (the fine B3 organist), drummer Steve Gadd (with James Taylor, Eric Clapton, and Chick Corea) along with three of Canada’s most respected jazz players, pianist Robi Botos (recorded and performed with Chaka Khan and James Blood Ulmer), saxophonist John Johnson (accompanied Aretha Franklin, and Diana Krall) and bassist Peter Cardinali (Oscar Peterson, Rick James, and Michael Bublé.) The CD has a free-flowing, spontaneous and warm vibe.

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ROCK

sets the tone of the album with it’s stinging guitar lines and driving drums.

CLARK COLBORN Again www.clarkplaysguitar.com/ Again is Clark Colborn’s second album (the first was “Clark Plays Guitar).” The sound encompasses hard rock, experimental, full throttle prometal, and even guiet, introspective pieces. Although he feels he played it safe on his first album, he goes full-bore out on this one. Colborn has been compared to Steve Vai and Joe Satriani.

JOHN NORUM Play Yard Blues www.mascotlabelgroup.com/ John Norum is best known for his work in the band Europe. To this day, ‘Final Countdown’ remains one of the most recognizable songs from that genre and time period. John’s solo album ‘Play Yard Blues,’ is a fantastic collection of originals, as well as a couple of covers.

ERIC HISAW Ghost Stories www.erichisaw.com Roots rocking songwriter Eric Hisaw released his new album, Ghost Stories. A mix of Rolling Stones inspired rock’n’roll and the storytelling lyricism of Texas outlaw country, the journeyman songwriter, guitarist and singer delivers a strong and honest album. The opening track

MXPX Plans Within Plans www.mxpx.com/ Plans Within Plans is MxPx’s first original album since 2007’s Secret Weapon. The album was written, recorded, and produced by the band, who are celebrating their twentieth anniversary. While the band has undergone changes in recent times, they’re still plowing ahead with the same ferocity as their young punk selves.

17 PINE AVENUE www.thenewriders.com 17 PINE AVENUE is the follow-up to Where I Come From which was released by the New Riders of the Purple Sage in 2009. It features 12 new songs, 7 of which were written by David Nelson and Grateful Dead lyricist Robert Hunter. Also included are Just The Way It Goes

and Truth Is Dead, written by Michael Falzarano (formerly of Hot Tuna), a live show favorite Down For The Ride, penned by Johnny Markowski, and Shake That Thing by Ronnie Penque. This legendary band’s renaissance began seven years ago and continues to grow today with over 100 shows annually to audiences throughout the United States and Canada.

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WAYLON JENNINGS Goin’ Down Rockin’ - The Last Recordings of Waylon Jennings www.saguaroroad.com/ A new album from outlaw country legend Waylon Jennings will be released this September, filled with recordings the icon made during the last few years before his death in 2002. Jennings spent hours in a recording studio with his longtime accompanist, Robby Turner and together they laid down twelve tracks using just Waylon’s guitar and vocals and Turner’s bass. All songs were personally selected by the country star, ones that resonated in a deeply personal way and reflected his state of mind, his passions, and important statements he wanted to make about his life. The duo planned out the future instrumentation that would be added to the tracks, but Jennings was never able to complete them. Ten years after his passing, Turner returned to the recordings, finishing each song to honor Waylon’s vision of what would turn out to be his very last album. Bringing in musicians who had long worked with Waylon, such as Reggie Young, Richie Albright and tour mate Tony Joe White, Turner painstakingly created the album that Waylon set out to make. No one has ever heard these performances before; they are Waylon’s last gift to his fans.

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COUNTRY JANIE FRICKE Country Side Of Bluegrass www.newmusicdeals.com One of the premier female vocalists in country music in the early 1980’s, Janie Fricke becomes the most recent country performer to enter the bluegrass field. To that end, she has recast in a bluegrass setting her country hits from that period, such as, “Don’t Worry ’Bout Me Baby,” “It Ain’t Easy Bein’ E a s y, ” “He’s A Heartache,” and “Tell Me A Lie,” as well as her first big hit “Please Help Me I’m Falling.” CHRIS CAGLE Back In The Saddle www.chriscagle.com/ Chris Cagle’s release from Bigger Picture, Back In The Saddle is his homecoming, a rekindling of his creative flame and a reminder of his rock-infused country roots. It s something he originated and what he does best: relatable, backroads and familiar while also being a striking form of country music worth getting excited about. Cagle sees his new persona as a better version of himself. “I want my music to be an environment, to strike chords, passions, memories, faults, loves, angers and redemptions,” Chris says. 35

Tasty Food and Drinks! Olives and Olive Oil Add Life to Casual Parties

ow is the perfect time to relax and invite friends for an evening of good food and great company. Entertaining can be as easy as preparing a few simple, yet impressive appetizers - and olives and olive oil are a great way to add life and flavor

to any menu. Olives and olive oil are incredibly versatile. They’re bursting with flavor and health benefits, making them essential ingredients in every cook’s kitchen. And with a few flavorful recipes in your back pocket,

you’ll always be ready to impress. Try this delicious, easy-to-prepare recipe created by the International Olive Council to make your casual evening one to remember. Visit www.addsomelife.org for more inspiration.

CRISPY GARLIC SHRIMP SKEWERS

1/3 cup finely shredded pecorino or Parmesan cheese 16 pitted large green olives 16 pitted large ripe olives 32 grape tomatoes 1/2 medium cucumber, sliced lengthwise and cut into 32 pieces 32 (4 to 6-inch) appetizer skewers

bowl. Set aside.

Total Time: 30 minutes Makes: 32 appetizers 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided 1 egg white 2 large cloves garlic, minced 32 raw medium shrimp, shelled and deveined (about 1 1/4 pounds) 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh dill or parsley 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel Dash salt, optional 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs 36

Heat oven to 475° F. Blend 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, egg white and garlic in small bowl. Add shrimp; toss to coat; set aside. Blend remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, dill, lemon peel and salt in small www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Mix bread crumbs and cheese on waxed paper; dredge shrimp to coat evenly. Place in single layer on baking sheet. Bake 8 to 12 minutes or until light golden and thoroughly cooked. Gently loosen shrimp from baking sheet; cool 1 to 2 minutes. Thread a single shrimp, olive, tomato and cucumber piece on each skewer. Serve immediately drizzled with olive oil mixture. TIP: Rub bread crumbs and cheese between your palms to create a uniform, consistent mixture. The mixture will adhere more evenly to the shrimp.

The

freshest thing to hit

Clearwater! Sweet Tomatoes Express is a little restaurant with big taste. While not a buffet, we feature custom, made-to-order salads and our famous house-made soups.

NOW OPEN! CLEARWATER EXPRESS 2689 Gulf to Bay Blvd. (727) 796-0404

Why wait in line? Order online! www.sweettomatoesexpress.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

A Ta s t e of Africa Story ad Photos by Melissa Wolcott and Al Martino

Berkshire Pork Tenderloin

ne of the wonderful things about Walt Disney World is the amazing dining opportunities it affords a true food afficianado — and any who just enjoys a really fabulous meal! There are so many authentic domestic and international cuisines represented throughout the property it is mind-boggling. Every time we visit “the world” we try to sample a different country’s food fare. Our most recent foray was into Africa, at Jiko “The Cooking Place” located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Here the flavors of Africa reign supreme with a fusion of some Indian and Mediterranean.

Chef Jonathan O’Brien

When we stepped through the doors at Animal Kingdom Lodge and into the majestic lobby we were already transported to Africa. Entrance into Jiko continued the immersion with warm colored decor and abstract African touches. The menu offerings at Jiko are so unique, we knew we were in for an exciting dining experience, especially under the expert helm of executive Chef Jonathan O’Brien.

Our evening began with one of their creative woodfired flatbreads — a tasty Pickled Artichoke, with Sundried Tomatoes, Piquillo Peppers, Goat Cheese, Ricotta and Parmesan Cheese. Salad or soup? We picked one of each since they both sounded so intriguing. Jiko Salad was made with Forelle Pear “Carpaccio”, Golden Raisin-Icewine Vinaigrette, Pistachios, and Pecorino Toscano Cheese, which looked and tasted devine. The Warm Avocado Soup was topped with Poached Egg, Smoked Bacon, and Tika Marsala. Definitely an exotic new taste for our palates. With this course we enjoyed a refreshing, crisp Cederberg Bukettraube wine. African wines, by the way, are some of the most enjoyable we’ve ever tasted.

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Jiko Salad

Two appetizers we found to be a treat were the Grilled Wild Boar Tenderloin with Mealie Pap (a grain), Chakalaka (like spicy stewed tomatoes), White Truffle Oil and Micro Cilantro, and the Tuna “Biltong” (So. African version of jerky) with Air-cured Tuna, Pickled Hearts of Palm, Smoked Mackerel Aioli, and Chili Oil. The suggested wine complement was a full-bodied Rudera Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch, made from 30 years old bush vines. For entrees we chose a meat and a fish. The MaizeCrusted Corvina came in a Tomato-Butter Sauce with

ander Cake (a So. African version of an English Sticky Toffee Pudding), and a yummy Coconut Milk Pana Cotta (which was Vegan, made with soy milk) with

Tuna Biltong and Wild Boar Tenderloin

Vegetables “of the moment”, and was as tender and flaky as can be. The also very tender Berkshire Pork Tenderloin was cooked over an oakwood fired grill, and was served with Tandoori Squash Puree, Black Eyed Peas, Piquillo Pepper Relish, and a Cilantrobased Zough Oil Sauce. The exotic menu continues with the dessert choices. We ordered the “Tipsy Tart”, a Wine-soaked Cori-

“Tispy Tart” and Coconut Milk Pana Cotta

a Blackberry Sauce. While savoring the sweet ending to our most enjoyable evening repast, we sipped a lovely Kanu Kia-Oro Noble Late Harvest Stellenbosch Reisling.

Maize-Crusted Corvina

If you want to get away from the same-old sameold and take your palate to a new level, you must make a date with Jiko for an unforgettable dining experience. For more information, please visit disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/jiko-the-cooking-place/

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Oyster Bay Wine Dinner at Vincenzo’s Grill To Benefit Abilities Foundation Exclusive Tasting to Benefit Job Placement Service for Returning Veterans

ine wines from Oyster Bay New Zealand will be featured in an exclusive wine dinner Friday, July 20, at Vincenzo’s Grill at the St. Pete/Clearwater Marriott, 12600 Roosevelt Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL benefiting job placement services for disabled veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. “Italy meets New Zealand when

executive chef Vincenzo Longo pairs his culinary creations with Oyster Bay’s Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, and Hawke’s Bay Merlot,” said Frank DeLucia, president and CEO of the Abilities Foundation. “What a perfect match for a summer night in July.” More for information on Oyster Bay Wines visit http://www.oys-

terbaywines.com. Serving as wine dinner ambassadors will be Foundation benefactors Tom and Roslyn Puderbaugh, who have taken an active role in supporting returning disabled military veterans. RSVP to Lisa Johnson at 727538-7370x234 or ejohnson@abilities.org.

Numi Organic Tea

New Decaf Blend

umi Organic Tea has introduced new decaffeinated blends to their line of teas: Decaf Green, prized for its superior health benefits, and Decaf Aged Earl Grey, one of the world’s most popular blends. The new additions are premium, organic, full leaf teas made with 100% real ingredients. Perfumes and flavorings are never used. Numi is dedicated to providing exceptional, pure-tasting teas. For their new decaf teas, the company uses the chemical-free, CO2 process to retain more flavor and health properties, providing consumers with the besttasting teas possible. The CO2 extraction process is sometimes referred to as “effervescence.” It entails placing the tea in a pressurized chamber. Carbon dioxide is pumped in and locks on the caffeine in the tea leaves, extracting it. Antioxidant levels and the flavor quality of Numi’s organic teas remains the same, so the result is both great tasting and good for the body. For more information, www.numitea.com

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w w w. O m a h a S t e a k s . c o m / www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Seasons 52

Enjoy a Divine Summer Menu

“To every thing there is a season....” but for Seasons 52 restaurant, that is all year long, as their food is always fresh as can be. They present a change of seasons menu that reflects whatever produce is best at the moment. We had the good fortune to sample the summer menu recently and can highly recommend it.

Seasons 52 is a fresh grill and wine bar located in 13 states, with 9 restaurants in Florida, and found locally in Tampa and Orlando. The restaurant’s friendly vibe hits you as soon as you enter the establishment with it’s warm colors of wood and stone, soft lighting, contemporary decor and engaging staff. An open kitchen is always a comfort to diners, and Seasons 52 is a bustling one. Chef Clifford Pleau is the man behind the menu planning, and he is inspired by what’s best at the farmer’s market. Every week of the year he includes the freshest ingredients at their peak of ripeness. Master Sommelier George Miliotes conjures up a selection of 100 award

Story by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

winning and ever-changing seasonal wines (over 52 of them by the glass) always coming up with the perfect pairing for every course. Seasons 52 uses wood-fire grilling and brick-oven cooking, which actually produces food which is lower in calories. The restaurant states that nothing on its menu is over 475 calories. Flatbreads have become very popular of late, and Seasons 52 serves up some creative and tasty ones. We sampled some of their Summer Menu choices: the BBQ Chicken (glazed chicken, balsamic onions, sliced scallions, melted Parmesan), and the Artichoke & Goat Cheese (spinach, balsamic onion and roasted peppers.) The suggested wine was an Aveleda Vinho Verde, which went perfectly with the flatbreads. We also sampled an appetizer of Chilled Lobster and Shrimp Spring Roll, which was light and fresh. The trio of sauces that came with it were very flavorful, which a choice of salsa verde, aromatic lemongrass, and sweet-hot red chili. The wine paired was a Hirsch

Chilled Lobster and Shrimp Spring Roll 42

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BBQ Chicken Flatbread

#1 Gruner Veltliner, Kamptal, which was crisp and clean, with a white pepper aroma and a hint of spice. Some real culinary creativity went into our second course with an organic Arugula Salad with watermelon, grilled golden beets, goat cheese, jicama and toasted pistachios, and a Summer Vegetarian Tasting with “grains of life”, soft taco, chili relleno, vegetables, cedar roasted tofu rubbed with mustard, and mango chutney. Both offerings were a unique taste treat that we will definitely order again. The wine tasting for this course was a Honig,

grass fed with an all-natural diet. This delicious beef is actually recommended by the American heart Association as a heart-healthy food. It is low in saturated fats, has half the cholesterol of regular beef, and less fat than a skinless chicken breast, salmon or swordfish fillet. Seasons 52 prepares their beef with a red wine reduction, served with cremini mushrooms, grilled asparagus and fingerling potatoes. As of this writing, Seasons 52 is the only restaurant in the area serving the Piedmontese. Mini Indulgence Desserts

Wild Alaskan Copper River Salmon

The wine for the salmon was a Chehalem INOX, Williamette Chardonnay, which played off the Omega 3 richness of the salmon with the fruity flavors of orange, pear and apple. The wine for the beef was a Markham Cellar 1879, Napa

with rich plump tannins. By the time one gets to dessert, one usually has indulged a bit too much with all their courses, but Seasons 52 understands that, and has created “Mini Indulgence” Desserts. There are nine choices of little heavenly concoctions, just enough to satisfy that end-of-meal sweet desire. Top it off with a sweet, juicy Jam Jar Moscato, Western Cape wine and you have just had the perfect dining experience. What will fall bring at Seasons 52? Seasons 52 is located at the West Shore Plaza, 204 North Westshore Blvd. Tampa, 33609. For more information visit www.seasons52.com/

Summer Vegetarian Tasting

Napa — a Sauvignon blanc with mango and papaya flavors. Our third course choices were a wonderfully fresh Wild Alaskan Copper River Salmon served with corn risotto, asparagus, roasted pepper and dill sauce, and an AllNatural Bone-in Strip Steak from a new breed of cattle — the Piedmontese. The Piedmontese beef cattle are range raised in Nebraska and

All-Natural Bon-in Piedmontese Strip Steak www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Voli

Delicious Low Calorie Vodka

f the model with the Voli Vodka bottle here looks an awful lot like Fergie of the superstar group Black Eyed Peas, that’s because it is Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas. Fergie is not a hired spokesperson, however, she is part owner of Voli Light vodkas. She got involved becasue Voli vodkas are the first low-calorie vodkas on the market, which are perfect for health-conscious consumers. Voli is named after the meshing of Vodka and Light and is available in five flavors - Raspberry Cocoa, Espresso Vanilla, Orange Vanilla, Lemon and Lyte (original). Voli Light Vodkas are hand crafted by master distillers in Cognac, France and feature a delicate blend of the finest multi-distilled wheat vodka, pure spring water, natural flavor and electrolytes. Voli Light Vodkas are on average between 25 and 40 percent lower in calories than the leading brands and are available in all major markets. For more information please visit www.volispirits.com

727.821.4061

Serving Authentic New Orleans Cuisine Oysters and Cocktails. Featuring Live Music Friday and Saturday Nights, Sunday Jazz Brunch

Dang! That‛s Good! 1113 Central Avenue • St. Petersburg, FL 33705 Just before Ferg’s!

www.RickyPs.com 44

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T-fal’s

ActiFry

Fry Healthy!

ow can you cook all of your favorite meals using just one kitchen appliance. T-fal’s ActiFry is quite a revolutionary appliance that will change the way you cook and eat, since you can create delicious and healthier versions of everyday meals. This versatile appliance cooks a broad range of meals in one machine, cooking vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, grains, desserts and fruits. It can achieve results similar to a roaster, stir fry pan, healthy fryer or speedy slow cooker, and it’s odorless. It’s easy. You simply place food in the pan, close the lid, set the timer, and turn it on — no preheating required. With ActiFry you can enjoy crispy, great tasting fries that are low in fat. One tablespoon of oil makes two pounds of fresh French fries. That one spoonful is over 200 times less than a traditional 3 liter deep fat fryer. ActiFry automatically cooks a variety of dishes with a patented heat pulsing action that evenly cooks the food at a constant temperature of 338° F, while a stirring paddle gently stirs the food. The ActiFry’s transparent lid is steam-free. You can use your favorite recipes but may need to adjust cooking time and amount of oil. Poultry take about 15 minutes, beef about 20, and vegetables between 10 and 20 minutes. ActiFry comes with recipes and more can be found on their website. The closed cooking vessel provides safe splatter-free cooking. it was even awarded the Parent Tested- Parent Approved seal. The T-fal ceramic non-stick pan, stirring paddle, filter and lid are all easy to remove and are dishwasher safe for quick and easy clean up. For more information and a demo of the product, visit www.t-falusa.com/

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Graeter’s Ice Cream is Truly Great! by Melissa W. Martino

I www.accentontampabay.com

f a product has been around for 142 years, it has to be good to have that staying power — especially in today’s highly competitive ice cream market. Louis Graeter began making his popular hand-made French Pot Ice Cream in 1870, and now 4 generations later, it is still a Graeter family-owned business serving up the same recipes Louis conjured up back in the day. (Why mess with a good thing?) Only two gallons are created at a time, which is why Graeters is so very creamy. Fresh cream and egg custard is swirled along the chilled sides of a spinning French Pot Freezer. As the blend thickens, a blade scrapes the sides of the pot, folding the ice cream into itself. The gentle folding process prevents air from whipping into the ice cream which accounts for the dense and creamy consistency. Where a typical pint of ice cream can weigh as little as 8 ounces, a Graeter’s pint weighs nearly a full pound. Then the fresh ingredients are added. Greaters ice cream consists of the finest ingredients, with fresh cream from farms that don’t use artificial growth hormones, no hydrogenated oils, hand selected berries, etc. Right now there are 21 ice cream flavors to choose from, and 3 sorbets. I sampled several flavors and am hard-pressed to say which one is best. I may be partial to the Black Raspberry Chip with absolutely HUGE pieces of chocolate buried in it. In fact, all their flavors with chips are generously loaded — they should be called chunks instead of chips. If you don’t want to listen to me, how about a word from some famous folk? Bobby Flay also loves the Black Raspberry Chip, and Oprah Winfrey stated “You haven’t had ice cream till you’ve had Graeter’s. The Butter Pecan is Stedman’s favorite, and mine, too.” There are many more glowing endorsements as well. Right now Graeters stores are only located in Ohio and Kentucky, but no worries - you can have them shipped right to your home, as I did. They arrive in perfect frozen condition packed in an insulated cooler with dry ice. Graeters ice cream is a bit more expensive than most, but so much more worth it. If you are an ice cream lover, you will find your ultimate treat with Graeters. For more information, visit www.graeters.com

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Friday 7/27 & Saturday 7/28 10am-2pm

OPERATION:

Nothing says summertime like Panera Lemonade. Stop by any participating Panera Bread bakery-cafe Friday July 27th and Saturday July 28th from 10am-2pm and enjoy a refreshing lemonade. Show your support for the Children's Cancer Center by donating a $1.00 for a sample of home-style lemonade at our Lemon-Aid Stands created by Panera Bread associates. All money collected through our Operation Dough-NationÂŽ boxes during the month of July will be matched and donated to the Children's Cancer Center.

helping children & fa milies cope

Find you neighborhood bakery cafe: www.panera-tampa.com

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Fresh and Simple Cooking with Bon Appetit Chef de Cuisine

Mary Nolan

Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino

he gleaming new 4,500 square-foot Viking Culinary Center in Lakewood Ranch offers customers demonstrations and hands-on cooking classes with some of Sarasota’s culinary experts, and occasionally with some celebrity chefs. Recently, the Viking facility and the nearby Polo Grill welcomed Bon Apétit Chef de Cuisine, and Food Network star chef of “Chic & Easy”, Mary Nolan, for a food event — “Fresh & Simple Cooking”. For $99, participants enjoyed several different events over three days.

The first event was scheduled for Friday night at the Viking Culinary Center for a meet and greet with Ms. Nolan, who was unfortunately detained in Chicago due to bad weather, and couldn’t make it. I was detained in St. Petersburg for the same reason (not willing to drive over the Skyway Bridge in 35 miles per hour winds and torrential rain!) Event participants who braved the weather were treated to some tasty hor’doeuvres and cooking tips from a Bon Apétit representative.

Chef Mary Nolan tak

es the class throug

h the steps.

The Viking Center’s gleaming kitchen. 48

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On Saturday, a cheerful Chef Mary Nolan arrived at the Polo Grill for a handson cooking demonstration with recipes from the Bon ApĂŠtit Fast Easy Fresh Cookbook. Tables were set up with burners, utensils and the ingredients for our first dish, a Watermelon and Watercress Salad with Ginger. We donned our aprons and set to work with Chef Mary directing our steps and offering suggestions as she roamed the room. She explained she uses watercress instead of lettuce because it has a distinctive peppery kick that provides a nice contrast to the sweet watermelon. It turned out quite delightful.

lon Our finished Waterme

The class gets ready to cook at the Polo Grill in Lakewood Ranch.

and Watercress Salad

with Ginger.

Event attendee Virginia Baden mixes her Watermelon and Watercress Salad.

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Fresh and Simple Cooking . . .

ur entree to prepare was Seared Coriander Scallops with Bok Choy and Hoisin. Servers brought out all the ingredients for this next dish. We heated up our skillets over the burners and again followed Mary’s instructions. The scallops came to us draining on paper to remove all the moisture. She pointed out that the recipes are very adaptable to substitutions. First we combined the sauce

Our Seared Scallop

ingredients in our bowls, which we then set aside. We pressed coriander and seasoning onto the scallops and cooked them on two minutes per side. When done, we transferred the scallops to our plates, and added the bok choy to the skillet with water and sauteed until wilted. We placed the bok choy on our plates, and added the sauce ingredients from our bowls to the skillet for reduction. How do you know when your sauce is reduced enough (I ask)? When the sauce sticks slightly to the back of a spoon I am told. When the sauce was ready, it was time to make our plates attractive, as presentation is a big part of how appealing food is. Our dishes all turned out beautiful and delicious — even for a non-cook like me. 50

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dish — beautiful an

d tasty.

yummy dessert of Chocolate Chip Cookie and Mint Ice Cream Sandwiches was presented to us all ready made from a Bon Apétit recipe. Mint Chocolate Chip is my personal favorite ice cream, and I learned how easy it is to make using vanilla ice cream with fresh mint, peppermint extract and chocolate chips. At the end of our session we were all given gorgeous cookbooks (the size of an encyclopedia) from Bon Apétit titled “Fast Easy Fresh”, which Mary graciously autographed for each attendee. This amazing cookbook, written by Barbara Fairchild, gleaned from the magazine’s best and easiest recipes, has over 1,100 quick recipes that use fresh, easily available ingredients in clever ways.

Chef Mary Nolan signs copies of Bon Apetit’s cookbook, Fast, Easy, Fresh.

Sunday Bunch at Lakewood Ranch with Chef Mary Nolan

n Sunday, we were all treated to a nice relaxed brunch at the Polo Grill with Mary at the head of the table. Inevitably, the discussion centered on food — favorite restaurants, where to buy different fresh ingredients locally, and looking forward to the next culinary adventure. For the Bon Apétit recipes for the dishes we enjoyed, please visit our facebook page (below), and for more photos from the event, please visit our photo gallery (below).

www.facebook.com/pages/Accent-On-Tampa-Bay-Magazine/114183828605771 www.ampubs.smugmug.com/ACCENT-ON-TAMPA-BAY-MAGAZINE/TAMPA-BAY-AREA-DINING www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.surfandturfmarket.com

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SPLASH ALONG WITH NEMO AND FRIENDS AT DISNEY’S ART OF ANIMATION RESORT To kick off the summer vacation season, Walt Disney World Resort has opened the doors to its newest resort hotel with Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, a value property consisting primarily of family suites that immerse guests into the magical worlds of classic Disney and Disney/Pixar films. Opening in phases, each of the four wings celebrates rich storytelling, spirited characters and playfulness with colorful icons and whimsical theming inspired by each beloved film depicted. Three family suite wings showcase Finding Nemo which opened May 31, Cars opening June 18 and The Lion King opening Aug. 10, with elaborate storytelling both inside and out. Standard guest rooms make up The Little Mermaid wing, the final phase to open on Sept. 15. The first phase to open, the Finding Nemo wing focuses around the “Big Blue” pool, the largest resort swimming pool at Walt Disney World Resort measuring 11,859 square feet. Guests enter scenes from the

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animated world and can explore the colorful reef with a giant-sized Mr. Ray whose wings span 27 feet, pose for a picture with Crush or frolic with Squirt in the Righteous Reef, a children’s play area. The whimsical property, situated adjacent to Disney’s Pop Century Resort, features 1,120 family suites boasting two bathrooms, a kitchenette and three separate sleeping areas that can sleep up to six and 864 standard rooms sleeping up to four. For reservations, guests can call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639) or contact their travel agent. BRAVE – THE HIGHLAND GAMES TOURNAMENT From June 1-July 8, Epcot will serve as the setting for the Brave – The Highland Games Tournament, a kid-focused offering that will include games like Mini Caber Toss, Cake Toss, Haggis Flip and archery. There will also be a kids’ playground with enhanced free wireless. The tournament will take place on the Rose Walk (right where Future World blends into World Showcase), from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., daily. Park admission is required.

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SECRET AGENTS TO FOIL DR. DOOFENSHMIRTZ’S EVIL PLANS Debuting in June at Epcot, Disney Phineas & Ferb: Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure is based on the wily secret-agent alter-ego of Perry the Platypus – faithful pet to the title characters from Disney Channel’s animated series “Phineas & Ferb.” Although just a simple pet to Phineas and Ferb, Perry turns into Agent P in each episode to help stop the misguided plans of his nemesis, Dr. Doofenshmirtz. Epcot guests will transform into secret agents to help Agent P thwart some of Dr. Doofenshmirtz’s most daring plots. Agents will use a “high-tech secret agent device” to receive clues for each case. Solving the clues will take agents to different places throughout

seven World Showcase countries at Epcot – Mexico Pavilion, France Pavilion, Germany Pavilion, Norway Pavilion, Japan Pavilion, China Pavilion and the United Kingdom Pavilion. Agents will scour each country for clues, evil “Inators,” and – with a little bit of luck – help Agent P defeat Dr. Doofenshmirtz. SET SAIL FOR NEW ADVENTURES WITH DISNEY CRUISE LINE’S SUMMER ITINERARIES Disney Cruise Line will set sail from new ports in summer 2012 – making the Disney family cruise vacation more accessible to guests around the country.

Additionally, the cruise line will offer more choices than ever before with several new itineraries planned. Beginning May 25, the Disney Magic will sail a total of 20 cruises from New York – including eight-night cruises to the Bahamas and five-night cruises up the New England coast to Canada plus two-night cruises that will give a sampling of the Disney Cruise Line experience over a weekend. The eight Bahamas cruises will include a day at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay; Nassau, Bahamas; and a stop at Port Canaveral, Fla. to visit the nearby Walt Disney World Resort. Rates start at $1,480 per person. The nine five-night cruises up the New England coast will call at Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Saint John, New Brunswick. Rates start at $715 per person. The three two-night cruises out of New York are perfect for families looking for a quick getaway with a day at sea over a weekend. Rates start at $370 per person. Beginning May 28, 2012, the Disney Wonder will sail a total of 14 seven-night cruises from the Port of Seattle to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. These cruises will combine the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled, family-friendly experience found on a Disney Cruise Line ship. Disney Cruise Line works closely with Alaskan tour operators to create exclusive-to-Disney family-friendly Port Adventures that allow guests to best experience Alaska’s natural beauty and rich history. Rates for the seven-night Alaska cruise itinerary departing from Seattle start at $917 per person. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500 or contact their travel agent. For more information on Walt Disney World, call 407/824-4321 or visit disneyworld.com.

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ORLANDO HAPPENINGS FREE POPCORN FLICKS IN THE PARK - July 12, August 9 Winter Park and Enzian Theater hosts free Popcorn Flicks in the Park on the second Thursday of each month from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., in central park of downtown Winter Park. Movies include: June 14: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers; July 12: The Great Muppet Caper; August 9: Babe. 407-629-0054. www.enzian.org/film

THE ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART - FROM ALICE TO ZEUS: THE ART OF JOHN ROCCO - July 14 The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) presents From Alice to Zeus: The Art of John Rocco, opening July 14. This exhibition is the eighth in the OMA’s Art of the Picture Book Series. The exhibition will feature approximately 60 preparatory and finished drawings by Rocco, and will be on view through October 28. John Rocco will appear at the OMA’s opening on July 14 at noon for a presentation and book signing. During the opening event, Rocco will make a public presentation, including a demonstration of how he creates an illustration, a process that involves a combination of traditional and computer based media. 407-896-4231; omart.org/ 6TH ANNUAL TARGET FAMILY THEATRE FESTIVAL - July 22-31 Held at the Orlando Repertory Theatre and Loch Haven Park, the Target Family Theatre Festival features a variety of family-friendly and affordable shows. Admission: Free. 407-896-7365. orlandorep.com/

ASCENDIO (HARRY POTTER FANCON) - July 1215 Ascendio takes place at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando. This weekend event will incorporate three distinct Harry Potter fan events: Night of a Thousand Wizards private event at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter on July 12, a Quill Track with agents from New York City and Wizard Rock. Joining Ascendio are two Harry Potter films cast members: Chris Rankin (Percy Weasley) and Afshan Azad (Padma Patil). The fancon has sessions covering a wide variety of topics from Harry and the Law to Snape’s Redemption to how Mythology is used in the series There’s everything from live Quidditch to fanfilm showings, numerous crafting sessions, programs for writers who are looking to meet possible publishers and more. Admission: Varies. hp2012.org 56

ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER FLORIDASCAPES: I-4 — THE EXITS LESS TRAVELED - thru September 9 The Orange County Regional History Center in Orlando, Fla., invites visitors to rediscover I-4 and the cities and towns that surround it in the exhibition, FloridaScapes: I-4—The Exits Less Traveled, on display through September 9. Sherri Bunye, Crealdé Studio Artist, hopes her images inspire others to take an exit less traveled and discover the unexpected beauty and charm she captures. The exhibition focuses on the Orlando/Sanford stretch of I-4, and showcases her newest work, including 10 never-before-seen photos. www.thehistorycenter.org/ WHIRLYDOME NOW OPEN WhirlyDome a combination of bumper cars, basketball, Jai-alai and hockey recently opened on International Drive. The game Whirly Ball is typically played 5-on-5, with players piloting WhirlyBugs (high tech bumper cars) as they use a scoop to pass and shoot a plastic ball at their opponent’s goal while bumping and blocking their way around the court. The game requires no prior experience or athletic skills. WhirlyDome also offers visitors a Formula One race car simulation experience, laser tag, pool tables, a variety of arcade games, and the Bloodhound Brew Pub & Eatery. WhirlyDome

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Orlando Happenings con’t on next page

The American Princess Arabian Nights Presented By...

6 Delicious Meals. 50 Spectacular Horses. 20 Incredible Performers.

Winner! 2011 Expedia Dinner Show of The Year!

800-553-6116 or 407-239-9223 www.arabannights.com Arabian-Nights.com

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ORLANDO HAPPENINGS has multiple party rooms with the ability to host large corporate functions, family reunions, Bar Mitzvahs and everything in between. There is no admission charge at the WhirlyDome, visitors pay only for activities. 407212-3030. www.whirlydome.com CSI: The Experience - thru the end of 2012 CSI: The Experience is a traveling exhibition combining the entertainment of the hit show with real-life scientific and investigative techniques. Guests will be able to play the role of crime scene investigators and solve multiple mysteries at the hands-on exhibit featuring handmade props, special effects, meticulous crime-scene re-creations and two state-of-the-art crime labs. 407-226-7220 www.csiexhibit.com ARABIAN NIGHTS SHOW The current featured production at Arabian Nights is a lighthearted tale of adventure and romance. On her 21st birthday, all-American girl and champion rider Sherry Smith discovers that she is actually the Princess Scheherazade. Along with her genie Abracadabra, Princess Scheherazade takes the audience on a magical journey around the world to find her prince – who must love horses as much as she does. You’ll join the princess as Abracadabra takes her to Europe to see the famous military-style quadrilles; to Latin America to see the romance of the garrocha; to a Gypsy camp to see unbelievable acrobatics on horseback; to the world of Imagination to see that beauty of the magical, mystical unicorn; and back to the U.S.A. where four fabulous acts honor America. Along the way, Abracadabra must protect Princess Scheherazade from the evil Prince Vaneer, and help her find her true love, Prince Khalid. The show includes dinner. 3081 Arabian Nights Blvd., Kissimmee; 407239-9223; www.Arabiannights.com 58

et ‘n Wild Orlando kicked off the summer with the recent grand opening of their new family water playground, Blastaway Beach, covering an acre and featuring a new sandcastle-themed water playground. Built around a sandcastle rising 60-feet high, the new attraction features 15 slides, expand across two pools and have over 160 soakers, jets, waterfalls and water cannons. Designed especially for families, Blastaway Beach features a single entrance/exit, creating a secluded environment that is family-friendly and family-safe. Wet ‘n Wild Orlando, the world’s first waterpark as recognized by the World Waterpark Association, introduced the world to the waterpark concept in 1977. Today, over 15 themed rides and attractions comprise an arsenal of thrills that provide guests an exciting variety of ways to “share the rush” with family and friends.

www.wetnwildorlando.com/

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niversal Orlando Resort’s brand new ride, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem grand opens on July 2. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is bringing minions, mayhem and tons of laughter to Universal Studios Florida. The brand-new ride combines the outrageous humor

and memorable characters from the hit Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment’s blockbuster film, Despicable Me, with an all-new storyline, incredible new animation and the latest 3-D technology to create a wildly-hysterical and unforgettable experience. For more information, www.universalorlando.com

Summer Nights at SeaWorld is a nighttime spectacular and the best place to be when the sun sets. Celebrate summer with exciting, nighttime shows, including a high-energy, rock ‘n roll Shamu Rocks, the hysterical duo of Clyde and Seamore in Sea Lions Tonite, and Reflections, a spectacular fireworks and fountains finale. Enjoy Summer Nights at SeaWorld every evening through August 12. 407-363-2259 . www.seaworldorlando.com

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Weedon Island Preserve Weedon Island Preserve is an ecologically important reserve with a highly informative and beautifully designed interpretive Cultural and Natural History Center. Their musuem exhibit focuses on Florida Native American history and artifacts. In the preserve visitors can enjoy 4.54 miles of hiking and nature trails that meander through mangrove forest and seagrass flats,

where one can spot wading birds, manatee and various fish species. Almost two miles of the trails are handicap accessible

with boardwalk or concrete. Every Saturday guided Hikes of Weedon Island are conducted by volunteers. (Pre-registration is required at (727) 453-6506.) Guided canoe trips are also offered

through the Cultural Center. The Weedon Island Preserve Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For more information on Weedon Island, visit www.weewww.weedonislandcenter.org donislandcenter.org For more Weedon Island photos, visit AccentOnTampaBay.com, click on Event Photo Gallery, click on Tampa Bay Attractions.

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DVD VIEW S COMEDY I DON’TKNOW HOW SHE DOES IT Starring: Sarah Jessica Parker, Greg Kinnear, Pierce Brosnan; Director: Douglas McGrath www.anchorbayent.com I Don’t Know How She Does It, is a comedy based on the bestseller by Allison Pearson. It follows a Boston-based working mother trying desperately to juggle marriage, children, and a high-stress job. Complicating matters further is Kate’s charming new business associate Jack, who begins to prove an unexpected source of temptation. BUCKY LARSON: BORN TO BE A STAR Starring: Nick Swardson, Don Johnson, Christina Ricci; Director: Tom Brady www.sonypictures.com Bucky [Nick Swarsdon] is a small town grocery bag-

ger, going nowhere in life until he discovers that his conservative parents were once adult film stars. With the belief that he has found his destiny, Bucky heads out to LA, hoping to follow in his parents footsteps. CASA DE MI PADRE Starring: Will Ferrell, Gael García Bernal, Diego Luna; Director: Matt Piedmont www.lionsgate.com Armando Alvarez has worked on his father’s ranch in Mexico his entire life. When the ranch faces financial strains, Armando’s younger brother Raul shows up with his new fiance, Sonia and pledges to settle all his father’s debts. But when Raul’s business dealings turn out to be less than legit, the Alvarez family finds themselves in a full-out war with Mexico’s most feared drug lord.

THE THREE STOOGES: The Ultimate Collection

(20 Disc Set including 190 Shorts, 2 Feature Films, 28 Never-Before-Released Shorts, 3 Columbia Cartoons; Starring: Moe Howard, Larry Fine, Curly Howard www.sonypictures.com/DVD ans will enjoy more than 60 hours of fun and laughter for the whole family from the masters of merriment and mayhem with Sony Pictures Home Entertainment release of THE THREE STOOGES ULTIMATE COLLECTION on DVD. The entire Three Stooges Columbia shorts catalog spans three decades of slapstick silliness, featuring 190 shorts, plus three discs of rare and unreleased content. Fans will revel in this chance to see several of the Stooges work separately in solo shorts, developing the comic skills that would lead them to their roles as successors to Curly in the comedy trio. The collection includes 28 never-before-released short films starring Stooges actors Shemp Howard, Joe Besser, and Joe DeRita, as well as the feature length films Have Rocket, Will Travel and Rockin’ in the Rockies available for the first time on DVD. From the classic teaming of Moe, Larry and Curly to later cast members Shemp, Joe and Curly Joe, this 20-disc set is a must-own collection for any Stooges fan.

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DRAMA THE ARTIST (Blu-ray/DVD Combo + UltraViolet Digital Copy) Starring: Jean Dujardin, Bérénice Bejo; Director: Michel Hazanavicius www.sonypictures.com/ bluray Winner of 5 Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Hollywood 1927. George Valentin (Jean Dujardin) is a silent movie superstar. The advent of the talkies will sound the death knell for his career and see him fall into oblivion. For young extra Peppy Miller (Berenice Bejo), it seems the sky’s the limit - major movie stardom awaits. The Artist tells the story of their interlinked destinies. TANNER HALL Starring: Rooney Mara, Brie Larson, Georgia King; Director: Tatiana von Furstenberg www.anchorbayent.com As Fernanda (Rooney Mara) enters her senior year at Tanner Hall--a sheltered boarding school in New England--she’s faced with unexpected changes in her group of friends when a childhood acquaintance appears. Fernanda is usually the voice of reason among

her friends, but when she begins a complicated friendship with Gio (Tom Everett Scott), she decides it’s finally time to take some risks. Victoria begins to sabotage Fernanda’s plans and plots to publicly humiliate her. As the girls flirt with adulthood, they realize they still need each other. FIREFLIES IN THE GARDEN Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Willem DaFoe, Julia Roberts; Director: Dennis Lee www.sonypictures.com Dad Charles (Willem Dafoe) is a tenured professor, son Michael (Ryan Reynolds) is a well-known romance novelist, daughter Ryne (Shannon Lucio) is poised to enter law school, and on the day we are introduced to them, matriarch Lisa (Julia Roberts) will graduate from college—decades after leaving to raise her children. But when a serious accident interrupts the celebration, the far more nuanced reality of this Midwestern family’s history and relationships come to light.

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Action

SPIDERMAN

DAWN RIDER Starring: Christian Slater, Jill Hennessy, Donald Sutherland; Director: Terry Miles www.vivendient.com/ This is a gripping story of vengeance and passion set in the American West. When the father of gunslinger John Mason is shot to death by masked bandits, Mason sets out with guns blazing to track down the bandits who killed him. During his quest, he finds himself involved in a grim love triangle when he falls for Alice, also adored by John’s best friend. THE AGRESSION SCALE Starring: Ray Wise, Dana Ashbrook, Derek Mears; Director: Steven C. Miller www.anchorbayent.com When out-on-bail mob boss Bellavance discovers that $500,000 of his money is missing, he sends four hardcore hit men to send a message to the suspected thieves’ families. But when the killers invade the Rutledge home, they meet the household’s emotionally disturbed young son Owen. Owen has a history of violent behavior, and is about to teach these thugs some deadly lessons in extreme vengeance.

(Blu-ray + UltraViolet Digital Copy) www.sonypictures.com/bluray Just in time for this summer’s “The Amazing Spider-Man,” Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has released “Spider-Man,” “Spider-Man 2” and “Spider-Man 3” on Blu-ray with UltraViolet. Each edition includes new, collectable O-Ring packaging, as well as a code for owners to enter at a movie ticket redemption site (www.sonymoviecash.com/ASM), where they can see a sneak peek of “The Amazing Spider-Man” and print their free movie ticket offer (good until 8/13/12). The “Spider-Man” Blu-ray includes two neverbefore-seen bonus features “Spider Sense Over Movie Trivia Game” and “The Spider-Man Cutting Room.” The “Spider-Man 2” Blu-ray includes both previously released theatrical and extended versions of the film, with additional footage and fight sequences not seen in theaters. The critically-acclaimed trilogy based on the Marvel Comics characters stars Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker (alias Spider-Man), Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson, and James Franco as Harry Osborn. All three releases are directed by Sam Rami. The series also features spectacular villains, with Willem Dafoe as Green Goblin/ Norman Osborn in “Spider-Man,” Alfred Molina as Doc Ock/Dr. Otto Octavius in “Spider-

JULES VERNE’S MYSTERIOUS ISLAND Starring: Werner Herzog, Franc G. Fallico; Director: Werner Herzog; www.lionsgate.com In this adaptation of Jules Verne’s classic, American history meets fantasy. As famine and death ravage Richmond, VA, five northern Civil War POWs plan a daring escape by hijacking a hot air balloon. Drifting through the night, they wake to find themselves marooned on a desert island - but they’re not alone. The island is home to a cast of survivors who have been lost in space and time, including two young women from modern times who become stranded while flying over the Bermuda Triangle. Forced to defend themselves against vicious pirates, terrifying creatures and a volcano that’s ready to blow, they must find a way to survive. 64

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Man 2,” and Thomas Haden Church as Sandman/Flint Marko and Topher Grace as Venom / Eddie Brock in “SpiderMan 3.”

TV Shows DROP DEAD DIVA: The Complete Third Season Starring: Brooke Elliott, Margaret Cho www.sonypictures.com/ DVD Acclaimed by critics and adored by viewers, the third season of Drop Dead Diva is the most delightful and deliriously funny yet. Whether forced to play wedding planner for her former fiancé’s nuptials, fighting courtroom cases from breast implant surgery gone wrong to a Death Row inmate finally trying to do right, or facing down her own love life issues with suitors both past and present, Jane is living the adventure of two lifetimes, and then some. PRIVATE PRACTICE: The Complete Fifth Season Starring: Kate Walsh, Tim Daly, Taye Diggs www.privatepractice-DVD.com From the creators of Grey’s Anatomy, comes the fifth season of ABC’s intriguing medical drama, Private Practice. Addison and her Oceanside Wellness family are faced with new challenges as unexpected people enter and complicate their lives. From a sexy new

doctor to an illegitimate son, the lives and loves of these doctors are put to the test. Relive every memorable moment plus never-before-seen bonus features. EPISODES: The First Season Starring: Matt LeBlanc, John Pankow, Stephen Mangan www.paramount.com Husband and wife writing team Sean and Beverly can’t wait to bring their successful British television series across the pond to make it big in America. But in true Hollywood fashion, it quickly becomes a cliched sitcom - starring none other than Matt LeBlanc. Matt not only messes with their beloved show, he rocks the foundation of their relationship. So now, even if they survive the absurdity of show business, will their marriage survive Matt LeBlanc?

DYNASTY THE SIXTH SEASON - Volume One & Two Starring: John Forsythe, Linda Evans, Jack Coleman, Heather Locklear, Catherine Oxenberg, Joan Collins, George Hamilton, Diahann Carroll, Michael Nader, Maxwell Caulfield www.cbsstore.com/ Dynasty fans! It’s true! Dynasty is coming to the big screen! Since it’s a way off, in the meantime you can get your dynasty jolllies with the release of the sixth season with a double set (Season One and Two) with each season containing 4 discs each. The volumes are also sold separately. For the uninitiated, Dynasty, was created by Richard & Esther Shapiro and produced by Aaron Spelling. It revolved around the Carringtons, a wealthy oil family living in Denver, Colorado. Starring John Forsythe and Linda Evans as oil magnate Blake Carrington and his new wife Krystle, with Joan Collins playing Blake’s ex-wife, Alexis. This was IT for over-the-top glamour and drama. Relive (or live for the first time) the conflicts, passions, drives and tensions of the Carringtons as they struggle to maintain their status of wealth and influence. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

HORROR

DON’T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK Starring: Guy Pearce, Katie Holmes; producer: Guillermo del Toro www.sonypictures.com While architect Alex Hurst (Guy Pearce) and his new girlfriend Kim (Katie Holmes) restore their Gothic mansion’s period interiors, Alex’s young daughter Sally (Bailee Madison) can investigate the macabre history and dark corners of the estate. Spurring Sally’s investigation are the voices-rasping whispers who call out to her from the basement, who promise her understanding and friendship, who are so very hungry and would like to be set free. When Sally gives in to her curiosity, she opens a gateway into a hellish underworld from which an army of beady-eyed, sharp-clawed monsters emerge, small in size but endless in number. Confronted with the horror that now threatens to taker her life and destroy her family, Sally desperately tries to warn the whole house, but there’s just one problem: no one believes her.

THE SKIN I LIVE IN: (Three-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo) Starring: Antonio Banderas, Elena Anaya, Jan Cornet; Director: Pedro Almodóvar; www.sonyclassics.com Dr. Robert Ledgard (Antonio Banderas) is a driven plastic surgeon haunted by personal tragedies. After many years of trial and error, he finally perfects a new skin – a shield which could have prevented the death of his wife in an accident years earlier. His latest “guinea pig” is a mysterious captive whose true identity masks a shocking mystery. The Skin I Live In is a masterful tale of secrets, obsession and revenge. THE WICKER TREE Starring: Brittania Nicol, Henry Garrett, Christopher Lee; Director: Robin Hardy; www.anchorbayent.com When two young missionaries (Brittania Nicol, Henry Garrett) head to Scotland, they are initially charmed by the locals in the town of Tressock, and agree to become the local Queen of the May and Laddie for the annual town festival. But the couple is not prepared for the frightening consequences of their decision, and the very disturbing secrets they are about to discover about Tressock’s seemingly friendly

townspeople. Written and Directed by Robin Hardy, The Wicker Tree also features Graham McTavish, Jacqueline Leonard, Honeysuckle Weeks, Clive Russell with Christopher Lee, star of the original The Wicker Man. MONSTER BRAWL Starring: Dave Foley, Art Hindle, Robert Maillet; Director: Jesse Thomas Cook; www.watchimage.com Prepare yourself for monster wrestling mayhem. In the tradition of a PayPer-View event and set in a cursed and abandoned graveyard, comes a fight to the death that’s as hilarious as it is grotesque. Eight classic horror monsters – supported by their colorful and eccentric managers – compete in visceral bloody combat to determine who will be the most feared and powerful fiend of all time. Monster Brawl is your ringside ticket to a fight of the living dead. Narrated by Lance Henriksen (Aliens, Terminator) and featuring an eclectic cast, including Art Hindle (Invasion of the Body Snatchers, The Brood), and famous mixed martial arts referee Herb Dean, Monster Brawl is sure to quench any fans thirst for violence, horror and humor.

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Music JOHNNY WINTER: LIVE AT ROCKPALAST 1979 Starring: Johnny Winter; www.mvdvisual.com Live Rockpalast 1979 features Johnny and his three piece band live on Germany’s famous Rockpalast TV show in 1979. Straight up blues like only Johnny can deliver, lean and mean. Johnny and the band also blaze through some killer covers like the Rolling Stones’ “Jumping Jack Flash” and “Suzie Q.” “Hideaway,” the guitar workout made famous by Freddie King, kicks things off. CACTUS: LIVE, LOUD & PROUD Starring: Carmine Appice, Tim Bogert, Jim McCarty, Jimmy Kunes; www.mvdvisual.com This DVD features killer Cac-

Instruction

tus performance footage recorded in various cities throughout the band’s 2006/07 tour. This incarnation of the band sees original members Carmine Appice, Tim Bogert and Jim McCarty reunited and joined by former Savoy Brown frontman Jimmy Kunes on vocals. The DVD also contains bonus interviews with the band, testimonials, and more. FROM STRAIGHT TO BIZARRE: Zappa, Beefheart, Alice Cooper and LA’s Lunatic Fringe www.mvdvisual.com In 1968 Frank Zappa set up the Bizarre and Straight labels and began a string of releases which remain extraordinary in the extreme. Releases by Wild Man Fischer, the all female GTOs, The Persuasions, Alice Cooper, Starsailor, Lenny Bruce, Lord Buckley, Captain Beefheart, and a range of other musical oddities. This film revisits and reviews the astonishing music that came out and reveals the background, operations the lives of the performers, with rare footage, archive interviews, location shoots and extras.

DOCUMENTARY

FLOWER ARRANGING: CREATE A GORGEOUS BOUQUET/THE FLOWER DUET WAY: How To Create A European Wrap Bouquet www.flowerduet.com/ This easy-to-follow instructional series is perfect for beginners and will give you the confidence to be creative with flowers available daily at your local grocery or farmers’ market. It’s a ife-saver for brides on a budget who want to create their own wedding flowers. This flower arranging how-to DVD includes: The sister team of Flower Duet, Casey and Kit, take you on location to their favorite wholesale flower vendor and show you how to choose only the freshest flowers – just like they do for all their clients in person. Then, it’s back to the design studio where you will see how professional florists prepare flowers to optimize their vase life. In addition to tips on color and flower choice, you learn the easiest and most adaptable way to create a hand-tied European wrap bouquet using three different sets of flowers.

TITANIC’S FINAL MYSTERY: Smithsonian Channel www.smithsonianchannel.com On April 15, 1912, the frigid North Atlantic Ocean played host to the biggest maritime catastrophe in history. For the last 100 years, the sinking of the RMS Titanic has grown so large that legend has replaced the truth. However, recent findings and modern technology have raised new questions about what really happened that fateful night. Follow Titanic detective Tim Maltin from the icy Labrador current of the Atlantic to the blistering deserts of the Mojave as he shatters old myths and sheds new light on the disaster that sent over 1,500 passengers and crew to a watery grave.

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FAMILY THE GARFIELD SHOW: SUMMER ADVENTURES www.thegarfieldshow.com It’s one adventure after another as Garfield and his pals look for a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, try to save their favorite pizza place and morph into superheroes! Then hold on and get ready for one wild ride as they visit Cheese World, a cheese-lover’s theme park! But will Jon rain on the summer fun when he enrolls Garfield in an extreme education program to become a “normal” cat? Not if Garfield can help it. THE TEAM UNITES: VOL 1 A NEW ENEMY: VOL 2 www.lionsgate.com

PHINEAS AND FERB: THE PERRY FILES (Two-Disc Combo: DVD + Digital Copy + In-pack Perry Activity Kit; www.disneychannelDVD.com While Phineas and Ferb do it all to make every day the best day ever, evil lurks just around the corner. But there is hope for the unsuspecting citizens of Danville. Now, we crack open the top-secret archives of O.W.C.A. (Organization Without a Cool Acronym) to expose... The Perry Files. Join Perry the Platypus–a.k.a. Agent P.–on his most exciting adventures as he thwarts his nemesis, Dr. Doofenshmirtz, at every turn.

The Power Rangers have returned to save the world with Power Rangers Samurai: The Team Unites (Vol. 1) and Power Rangers Samurai: A New Enemy (Vol. 2). Join the team of Samurai Rangers as they battle Master Xandred and his evil Nighlok monsters to defend mankind. Power Rangers, a fan favorite, combines action-filled story lines with humor and heart while promoting strong values including teamwork, friendship, honor, fitness and loyalty. The DVDs each contain four episodes of the show and are loaded with special features.

THE MIGHTY MACS Starring: Carla Gugino, David Boreanaz, Ellen Burstyn; Director: Tim Chambers; www.sonypictures. com From the inspiring true story comes the tale of one woman who just wanted to make a difference and wound up making history. When Coach Cathy Rush arrives at Immaculata College, the women’s basketball team has no budget. Cathy finds help from a young nun named Sister Sunday. As financial troubles rock Immaculata, the Macs charge into the championships against all odds. You’ll stand up and cheer for the incredible season that made the real Cathy Rush a Basketball Hall of Fame legend. 68

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TRAVELOGUE

THE INN ON FIFTH Inviting Elegance by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

ntering the lobby of the elegant Inn On Fifth in Naples, FL, one would never guess the building housing the hotel was once a 1951-era bank. The hotel is a mere 15 years old, but has the look and feel of seasoned grand dame â&#x20AC;&#x201D; perhaps because of all the marble, warm lighting, and lovely antique furnishings adorning the lobby and common areas.

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e were warmly greeted by staff when checking in to the Inn On Fifth, and they could not have been more accommodating, trying to anticipate our every need. An unexpected surprise at a hotel as lovely as this one, is discovering that parking is free â&#x20AC;&#x201D; including valet â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and there are no separate resort fees for the use of the pool and exercise equipment, etc. that most hotels tack on to your bill. ddd

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photo supplied by the Inn On Fifth

odern British Colonial comes to mind in describing the hotel’s guest rooms decor. Inviting and comfortable, yet sophisticated with predominate shades of buttercup yellow and pale green. The Inn’s pillow-top bedding is divine, and slumber came easily to us after busy days exploring Naples. All the rooms have sliding French doors leading to balconies or terraces with rattan or wrought iron furniture. We made full use of our balcony in the mornings with coffee and conversation in our snuggly hotel-supplied robes while watching Fifth Avenue come alive. To get ourselves going, we enjoyed a dip in the Inn’s rooftop pool before heading out for the day. A must during a stay at the Inn is a visit (or two!) to the Inn’s luxurious Spa On Fifth. Utilizing Feng Shui and all natural products, skilled staff will relax or rejuvinate you with a variety of treatments. How does a Chocolate Raspberry Brown Sugar Body Scrub, or a romantic couples massage sound‑? Athough the hotel is not old, it recently underwent complete refurbishing of all the guest bathrooms in Italiante marble. And the Inn is actually expanding, having purchased buildings directly across the street and renovating them to become new suites (some at 1,000 sq feet) with exclusive club level check-in, and with retail shops on the ground floor. The project is expected to be complete in the fall of 2012. ddd 72

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Judy Nelson, Spa Manager, will see to your every need.

Couples massage.

photo supplied by the Inn On Fifth

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McCabes Irish Pub ining can be found right at the hotel’s location, with McCabe’s Irish Pub and Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House.

McCabe’s is a truly authentic Irish Pub, as a lot of the interior findings, paneling and decor were shipped over from Ireland. The menu consists of traditional Irish fare, with hearty Irish stew, shepherd’s pie, angus beef and grilled seafood, and, of course, Irish beer. The pub’s site includes the old bank vault (complete with the thick steel tumbler door) which they utilize as a private dining room. With live entertainment and a fun crowd, McCabe’s is the place to be. Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House is next door to McCabes, and is the most popular fine dining spot in Naples. The restaurant is elegant, and service is impeccable. The food, however, is what keeps folks returning, and reservations are a must (months in advance for Saturday night!) The Naples Truluck’s is one of eleven owned by the company (others located in Texas, California and more in Florida.) To supply all the restaurants, Truluck’s founded their own sustainable fisheries. Their menu changes seasonally, as their seafood is only the freshest possible. The most popular dishes are their Dungeness and King Crab when in season. All their vegetables and meats are organic, and the absolutely delicious, tender steak comes from Niman Ranch grass fed, free-range cows. Truluck’s has over 100 wines by the glass, and their wine program is always changing.

Rick Rinella, Manager of Truluck’s.

Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House

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hey say real estate is most valued by location, so the Inn On Fifth is prime. It is located right in the heart of Naples, on it’s most prized shopping street, and short ride to most area attractions. Unfortunately, we did not have a lot of time to stay in Naples, but did manage to visit two of the area’s popular attractions, the Naples Zoo, and the Naples Princess luxury yacht, and both experiences were memorable.

Naples Zoo handler shows us how a sloth likes to just hang around.

The Naples Zoo is non-profit, with conservation being key. Begun in 1919 as a botanical garden, animals were introduced in 1969. The animal enclosures are all natural habitats, so they are able to roam around comfortably. A guided boat takes visitors around islands inhabited by different primates, where the aniZoo mals swing freely in trees and “jungle gyms”. Among other events are a giraffe feeding (where guests can feed the giraffes themselves) and an alligator feeding (no, no guests - just handlers for this one!) The shows are fun and fascinating.

The Naples Princess is a beautiful three-year-old, 105 ft. long, $4M custom built yacht, which sails several times a day out of the Port O Call Marina. There are different sailing options available, from afternoon sightseeing to a sunset dinner cruise. You glide past waterfront mansions, and most likely will see some interesting wildlife, like dolphins playing in the wake of the boat, or some slow-moving manatees. We heartily recommend the sunset cruise, for the beauty of the area and catching one of Florida’s spectacular sunsets.

The Inn On Fifth offers some very attractive vacation packages year round, and with an average 75° temperature in Naples, it is well worth a visit at any time of year.

Naples Princess

A gorgeous sunset seen from the Naples Princess cruise.

If you Go

Upsacle shopping is right outside your door at the Inn On Fifth.

Inn On Fifth - 239-403-8777; www.innonfifth.com McCabes Irish Pub - 239-403-7170; www.mccabesirishpub.com/ Naples Visitor Bureau - 239-225-1013; www.paradisecoast.com/ Naples Princess Cruises - 239-649-2275; www.naplesprincesscruises.com Naples Zoo - 239-262-5409; www.napleszoo.org Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House 239-530-3131; www.trulucks.com/

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Road Trip Tips

Friendly t e g Bud

ith warm weather season in full swing, now is the time to start planning your fun family getaways. If you are concerned about affording it all, author and financial expert Farnoosh Torabi offers the following tips to help you have fun and save money on your next vacation. BANK ON GAS-SAVING APPS Look to budget-friendly websites, such as www.GasBuddy.com, which also offers an app that helps you find the closest gas station with the best prices near you. Another gas-saving app is Gas Hog. It costs 99 cents and calculates your car’s fuel economy, then provides tips on ways to make your car more fuel-efficient. RENT A CAR It turns out that, contrary to popular belief, it can actually be cheaper to rent a car for weekend getaways than it is to drive your own. According to a study by Brett Smith, co-director, manufacturing, engineering and technology for the Center for Automotive Research, when renting a compact car from Enterprise Rent-ACar at its weekend rate, the savings can come to 12 cents per mile. If your getaway is a 300-mile round trip, the fuel savings could be more than $20. “By renting a car, you reduce the stress and mileage placed on your own vehicle, and you can upgrade or downgrade depending on the size of your family and fuel economy needs,” explains Torabi. To learn more

about the benefits of renting a vehicle for your summer getaway, visit www.Enterprise.com/familytravel. PACK AND SAVE On road trips, most people grab a few snacks every time they stop for gas. Over time, those candy bars and sodas can really add up. A family of four can easily spend $15.00 for drinks and snacks at just one stop. “One easy way to lower the cost of your trip is to pack your own food. Pack a cooler full of bread, peanut butter, string cheese, water, juice and plenty of fruit. You’ll be less likely to splurge while filling up the tank, make healthier choices, and save a bundle over all,” says Torabi. BOOK HOTELS ON SUNDAY NIGHTS This is when the weekend rush is over and hotel managers have time to talk on the phone and discuss available discounts. Ask to get a free night’s stay if you’re staying for more than two nights. That’s at least $100 saved right there. BETTER YET - SKIP THE HOTEL Find cheap - but chic - guest rooms in local homes and apartments through websites such as www.AirBnB.com and www.OneFineStay.com. “With a little planning and flexibility, your family can enjoy a vacation they’ll remember for years to come,” says Torabi.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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Make this the anniversary to remember.

Second Night

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Now thru September 3rd with one paid night during your anniversary month.

Sunset Sam’s - a Key West Grill

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It only happens once a year so make it count! Make your anniversary as unforgettable as the day you said, “I do,” with a romantic weekend getaway to Gaylord Palms Resort. Stunning indoor gardens provide the perfect place to unwind, while exciting dining, shopping and entertainment options mean adventure is always close at hand. We offer worldclass service and amenities in an atmosphere like no other. What better way to celebrate another amazing year?

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*First paid night rates vary, select weekends through September 3, 2012. Subject to tax, resort fee, Osceola County Assessment fee and parking for all occupied nights. Proof of anniversary date required upon arrival. Not retroactive or valid with other offers or group. See website for other restrictions.

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6/13/12 4:29 PM

Art Lines CONTEMPORARY ART GLASS Through October 14

ith its intense sunlight and coastal views, Florida is the ideal home for contemporary glass. The region and the entire state have particularly strong examples of studio and contemporary glass in both private and public collections. Global + Local: Studio and Contemporary Glass on Florida’s West Coast features more than 100 works from approximately 17 collections, including the Museum’s own. This exhibition continues through Sunday, October 14 Recent MFA acquisitions of major works by Therman Statom and Michael Glancy are high points, as well as objects by internationally renowned artists Harvey Littleton, Lino Tagliapietra, Dale Chihuly, Richard Ritter, William Morris, Sonja Blomdahl, Dante Marioni, Toots Zinsky, and Yoichi Ohira. Exceptional works by area artists Duncan McClellan, Owen Pach, and Chuck Boux also enhance the exhibition. Mr. McClellan’s new studio/gallery in downtown St. Petersburg is attracting artists from around the globe. The Chihuly Collection and the Hot Shop at The Morean Arts Center and the Zen Glass Studio likewise reflect the city’s emergence as a center for the display and creation of glass art. The MFA, The Chihuly Collection presented by The Morean Arts Center, and The

Morean Glass Studio and Hot Shop will offer one free child six to 18 years old with each paid adult through August 31, 2012. These art attractions are close to each other in downtown St. Petersburg. The MFA is open until 8 p.m. on Thursdays, with admission reduced to $10 from 5-8. One collection includes several works by Australian glass artists, rarely found in this area. Another has objects by gifted Venetian artist Archimede Seguso. A third contains two works by Swedish artist Bertil Vallien, who will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Glass Art Society at its June conference at the Toledo Museum of Art. 255 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-896-2667; www.fine-arts.org

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Three New Exhibitions Celebrate 2,000 Years of Sculpture

A Hundred Years - A Hundred Chairs MASTERWORKS OF 20TH CENTURY SCULPTURE - thru Sept 9 From the Martin Z. Margulies Collection. This exhibition chronicles important developments in sculpture in the 20th century, and includes twenty outstanding works by Joan Miro, Isamu Noguchi, Willem de Kooning, Louise Nevelson, Manuel Neri, George Segal, Deborah Butterfield, and John Chamberlain. OBJECT IMAGE \ ERIK LEVINE \ SCULPTURE AND VIDEO - thru Sept 23. In 2011, the Museum acquired a large-scale sculpture by New York-based artist Erik Levine. Hand-Held (1997) is made of plywood and measures more than 14 feet in length. This exhibition marks the debut of the new acquisition and complements two video works by Levine, who rose to prominence with his use of humble plywood in massive installations. Since 2002, he has focused exclusively on video.

UTILITY AND AESTHETICS IN ANCIENT ART thru July 4. Drawn primarily from the Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s permanent collection, Utility and Aesthetics in Ancient Art explores the complex relationship between function and form in the ancient world. Aesthetics and utility can rarely be kept wholly separate, and these two aspects of a given ancient object deserve careful consideration. In this exhibition, drawn primarily from the Tampa permanent collection, objects have been grouped together according to certain common features â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from images, aesthetics, and individual style to form, utility, and technical details. In each case, the visitor is invited to ask questions: whether aesthetics or utility takes precedence; or whether a given object should be labeled art or craft, its maker artist or artisan.

A HUNDRED YEARS - A HUNDRED CHAIRS - thru Sept 16. Masterworks from the Vitra Design Museum. Design played an important role in cultural development at the beginning of the 19th century, and following the Second World War, American designers began to collaborate closely with industry, developing designs

that would be used for mass production of furniture. This exhibit offers an intimate view of different periods of industrial furniture design throughout the century, showcasing chairs by designers such as Charles Eames, Marcel Breuer, Eero Saarinen and Harry Bertoia alongside drawings, sketches, historical documents and information on production techniques relating to each chair. Pop Art inspired later designers such as Verner Panton to play on form and color, and the search for simple, innovative shapes and materials characterizes furniture by those such as Frank Gehry in the last of this century. The Vitra Design Museum maintains one of the most important collections of modern furniture design, and this exhibition provides an opportunity to contemplate some of their most significant and beautiful chairs. 120 Gasparilla Plaza (Polk Street) Tampa, FL 33602; www.tampamuseum.org

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DECO JAPAN: SHAPING MODERN CULTURE, 1920-1945 - July 13 – Oct 28 Deco Japan not only provides dramatic examples of the spectacular craftsmanship and sophisticated design long associated with Japan, it conveys the complex social and

cultural tensions in Japan during the Taishô and early Shôwa epochs (1912-1945). In these pre-war and war eras, artists and patrons created

a Japanese modernism that signaled simultaneously the nation’s unique history and its cosmopolitanism. The vitality of the era is further expressed through the theme of the modern girl, known in Japan as the modaan gaaru or moga, for short – the emblem of contemporary urban chic that flowered along with the Art Deco style of the 1920s and 1930s. Selected by Dr.Kendall Brown, the nearly 200 works highlight the Levenson collection -- the world’s premier collection of Japanese art in the Deco style. These pieces include spectacular examples of metalwork, ceramics, lacquer, glass, wood furniture, jewelry, textiles, graphic design on paper, painting and woodblock prints;

they range from fine art objects made to impress the public at national art exhibitions to goods mass produced for the modern home. The exhibition is coorganized by The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and Art Services International. See this exhibition during regular Museum hours, 10 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Thursdays until 8 p.m. For more information, 941.358.3180, or visit www.ringling.org

GULFPORT ART WALKS 1st Friday Art Walk - July 6, August 3 3rd Saturday Art Walk - June 16, July 21, August 18 Observe and purchase from talented independent artists and crafters at work all along Beach & Shore Boulevards, as well as the works of local authors and entertainers stretched over a half-mile up and down scenic Beach Boulevard on April 6, from 6 pm-10 pm. Live musicians appear at venues throughout the Village. View the stars through St. Pete Astronomy Clubs state of the art telescopes, weather permitting, every first Friday. While browsing the art and craft booths, dont miss Gulfports unique shops, boutiques and galleries. Enjoy dinner at one of over a dozen fine restaurants within the Art District. 3129 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707; 866-ART-WALK; Free Admission, Free Parking, Free Trolley Rides. 80

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No Man is an Island through August 11

Though no man may be an island, the artist as island traveler or explorer might certainly be the theme that joins three exhibits at the Dunedin Fine Art Center. In Three Islands, Maine artist, Bill McCarthy exhibits a photographic series created in three environmentally and geographically distinct island locations: the active volcanic island country of Iceland, Bailey Island off the coast of Maine and local barrier island, Caladesi. The images capture an ancient world in today’s light, but ultimately, each image is a world unto itself. DFAC is also offering an exhibition by Sarasota photographer Aydelette Kelsey. Others, Elsewhere, explores the role of artist as traveler. These photographically captured moments from other worlds celebrate what poet, Wallace Stevens, called “the voluptuousness of looking.” The third exhibition, CASTaway, features works of DFAC’s members who translate the title theme in all media. The Dunedin Fine Art Center - 1143 Michigan Blvd. - Dunedin, FL - 727.298.DFAC; www.dfac.org

FLORIDA MUSEUM of PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS The Secret Paris of the 1930’s: Vintage Photographs by Brassaï through August 11

Venture into a world of dark shadows and romantic interludes through the lens of Brassaï. This sensual body of work includes five rare “Transmutation” photographs made with the cliché-verre technique, a hybrid of photography (primarily of female nude subjects) and etching in which Brassaï scratched his choice of imagery onto an existing photographic glass-plate negative before printing it. This experimental technique was developed in collaboration with, and inspired by, Brassaï’s close friend Picasso. They are emblematic of how Brassaï viewed photography as fully intertwined with the traditional arts: painting, printmaking, and sculpture. The FLORIDA MUSEUM of PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS is located at 400 N. Ashley Drive, Cube 200, Tampa, FL 33602; 813.221.2222; www. fmopa.org

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Cool Art Show Breezes Into St. Petersburg - July 21-22 Get out of the heat at the 24th Annual Cool Art Show July 21-22, from 10:00am to 5:00pm at St. Petersburg’s historic Coliseum. The Cool Art Show arrives in the midst of summer, oblivious to heat and storms. Approximately 80 outstanding artisans have been selected to exhibit a remarkable collection of visual and functional creations in paint, wood, ceramics, photography, metal, glass, mixed media and jewelry. This juried Fine Art and Fine Craft Show is hosted by PAVA, the Professional Association of Visual Artists. PAVA is a nonprofit organization run by volunteer artists to serve artisans and support the arts community in the Tampa Bay area and artists around the state of Florida. It provides exhibition and educational opportunities, media exposure, web site information and many other resources for its members. This year’s selection of artists promises an extraordinary cache of creative visual and functional art for attendees.

The Coliseum is located at 535 4th Avenue North. Admission and parking are free, and the Coliseum’s food and beverage concessions will be open to the public, including beer and wine. For more information, visit http://pava-artists.org/

A SALUTE TO THE ART OF GEORGE HANOVER through - Aug 12 On exhibit is a retrospective of artwork by Ocalabased artist George Hanover. Showcased are a variety of paintings and sculptures in a variety of media.

Singing Stone, Historic Ybor City, 1903 N. 19 St., Tampa, FL 33605 (813) 247-2787 (ARTS), www.SingingStoneOnline.Com

The Appleton Museum of Art presents a permanent collection of European, American and contemporary art, plus Asian, African, Islamic and pre-Columbian artifacts and antiquities. The Appleton Museum of Art is located at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala; 352291-4455 or www.AppletonMuseum.org.

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22x30 inch poster of Girl With Wine printed on matte paper with archival inks, signed and dated 1968 on front, is $75, plus $15 S&H. Or pick up at Tampa studio, oďŹ&#x20AC; Kennedy Blvd. The poster is also available mounted at $125 and mounted/framed at $195. Contact Richard at 813-289-8149 or rstewart@galleryartphotos.com.

Richard Stewart Fine Art Photography

120 S. Lauber Way, Tampa FL 33609 www.galleryartphotos.com www.galleryartphotos.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Choosing Vintage Value from the Bridal Registry A

re you faced with trying to choose just the right wedding gift from a lengthy bridal registry? Do you know what gifts will be valuable in fifty years as the newlyweds reach their golden wedding anniversary? Here’s how to distinguish the contemporary trinkets from the future collectible treasures. HOARD THE CHINA When it comes to wedding china, many contemporary couples only ask for select pieces. Today’s brides complain that wedding china requires hand washing and a lot of storage space. While most adult daughters don’t want their mother’s post-war era wedding china in favor of their own selected pattern, a complete service for 12 with all of the accessories dating from 2012 will be a highly cherished and very valuable collectible on the secondary antiques market in 2062. Mother’s high quality Wedgwood, Limoges, or Spode sets from the 1940s1960s still bring significantly more money than an incomplete set. When the time comes to reap value from the china, you’ll want the entire set-- gravy boats and all. When it comes to long term collectability, complete sets are icing on the wedding cake. COLLECT WINE, NOT WINE GLASSES Many newlyweds would actually end up with a larger nest egg if they 84

collected vintage wines rather than wine glasses. Fifty years from now, it’s probable that you won’t have all your wine glasses. You know the score, clumsy Uncle Leo will undoubtedly drop one when you host a family dinner. Another way wine glasses get damaged is from an unlikely source-your china cabinet or dining room breakfront. Once you realize that the lights inside your china closet get so hot that the wine glasses cracked under the heat, you’ll realize that it is a good rule to only leave these display lights on for about 1 hour at a time. If wine glasses are a must on your bridal registry, ask for high quality crystal. Many young couples have realized that their taste for wine can become an interesting collectible category. Many new collectors are choosing wines as their object of focus. It is fun to visit various wineries, attend classes about wine connoisseurship, and purchasing bottles that recall a favorite vacation spot or occasion. Wines have quickly become a very desirable collectible in today’s market. NAILS AND NUPTIALS When the groom drags his bride to Home Depot to add items to the bridal registry, don’t discourage him. Fifty years from now, those tools will most likely make a very strong showing on the collectibles market. As you reach that golden anniversary, be mindful of your www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

If you are adding vintage wine glasses to your bridal registry, ask for high quality. Otherwise, take Dr. Lori’s advice and collect wine, not wine glasses.

husband’s tool box. Overall, the most valuable items remain original works of art, antique furniture, and precious metals (Yes guys, that means jewelry, too!).When deciding about the bridal registry, remember that quality is key--now and always. Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events nationwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on the hit TV show, Auction Kings on Discovery channel which airs Wednesdays at 10 PM. Learn about your antiques at www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori or call (888) 431-1010.

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“iHangy”

Necklaces and Keychains for Your iPhone

product from the makers of OnTrion mobile phone batteries, the iHangy necklace and the iHangy music necklace drape around the neck, while the iHangy keychain clips to belt loops, backpacks and computer bags. All securely attach the iPhone 4S, 4, 3GS and 3 models to the body or carryall to keep the smartphone within easy reach. iPhone junkies can update their Facebook status, upload pictures and videos, and check up on their friends whenever the mood strikes with the iHangy necklace and iHangy keychain, keeping their iPhones handy at all times. The product’s attached touchpen simplifies their social networking habits. With iHangy, iPhone users are never at a loss as to where their

smartphone is. The iHangy also allows iPhone owners to remain hands-free when they’re not using their Apple device. A touchpen is included with iHangy products, which are also compatible with all iPod devices. The iHangy music necklace is so convenient to keep hands free and phone handy while listening to favorite tunes or talking to Siri. And the earbuds on the necklace are top quality, so sound is crisp and clean. For more information visit www.ihangy.com/

Put Yourself In the Picture With iPhone Accessories from XSHOT

ith the XShot iPhone 4 / 4S Case, you can easily attach your iPhone 4/4s to any tripod or the XShot extender, and be in front of the camera instead of behind it. This is a solid case that integrates the ability to mount it to a tripod and use it in both landscape and portrait modes. The new case was designed around three core concepts: full protection, versatility and functionality. It allows users to simply attach the XShot tripod adapter unlike other tripod adapters that require users to remove their iPhone case. It is ideal for use with the FaceTime feature and dual cameras, and excellent for iPhone 4 camera stabilization. Great for videos and self-portraits. It is simple to insert and lock the tripod adapter horizontally or vertically depending on the shot you want. The XShot tripod is very flexible, and can bend into any position you set up. It is also small enough to easily carry in your pocket, as is the XShot extender, which telescopes out to 30.5 inches, from a compact size of 6.5 inches. For more information, visit www.xshot.com/

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Audiofly Headphones

My Stubs

Clear, Natural Sound

Personalized Ticket Album

f you love music concerts, the theater or sporting events and like to keep your ticket stubs as momentos, what do you do with them? Perso n a liza tio n Mall.com has just the answer. Rather than shoving them in an old shoe box, get an attractive keepsake scrapbook for them. You can cherish your memories and share your stories with our My Stubs Personalized Ticket Album - the perfect personalized gift for music lovers, theater enthusiasts and sports fans alike. PersonalizationMall.com will custom personalize any 1-line at the bottom of their exclusive design, for a personal touch to call your own. The scrapbook holds up to 96 tickets in 32 archival quality pages. Custom designed ticket pockets measure 6 1/4” x 2 3/4”, and tickets slide in from the center of album so they won’t fall out. Check this and more gift ideas out at www.PersonalizatonMall.com/

ho better to design headphones than musicians? They know all about how sound should, well, sound. The fellows at Audiofly are just that. Musicians. They have created a product with an exceptionally clear, natural sound. Actually, there are four different models to choose from. The AF78 Series is Audiofly’s premium hybrid in-ear headphone featuring a balanced armature driver and a 9mm custom dynamic driver. The combination produces amazing separation across the dynamic range. The AF56 Series offers a large 13mm dynamic driver voiced for a punchy bass response that doesn’t overpower the subtle detail of the midtones or the smooth chimey highs. The AF45 features a powerful custom-voiced 10.7mm dynamic driver for inspired detail across the dynamic range. Delivering superb sound, the AF 33 offers an expertly tuned 9mm dynamic driver and many other features. Audiofly headphones are available with or without a microphone and feature a gold plated connection. For more information on AudioFly, visit www.audiofly.com/

Samsung Nexus S 4G Extended Battery Give Your Smartphone a Boost

he latest Samsung Nexus S-compatible extended battery lasts up to three times longer than traditional mobile phone batteries. It was even used by the Atlantis astronauts to access a broad range of capabilities and achieve better communication between land and sky. If a phone and battery can handle distances exceeding 200,000 miles, then earthbound Samsung Nexus S 4G users can certainly expect even greater airtime and output from an OnTrion extended battery. The battery is made from high quality Lithium Ion cells with PCM Technology, and comes with a replacement door. The batteries are designed to support Data Transfer, SMS, MMS Messaging, Social Network, Media, tethering, gps, apps and other applications. In order to obtain the full capacity of the OnTrion battery, it is recommend that you charge the battery for 3-4 hours. For more information on how to give a Samsung Nexus S smartphone a NASA-worthy boost, visit www.ontrion.com/

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TARPON SPRINGS SUMMER SOLSTICE FESTIVAL OF THE PERFORMING ARTS 2012 - thru August 24 The 4th Annual Tarpon Springs Summer Solstice Festival of the Performing Arts runs through August 24. Enjoy a sizzling summer of hot jazz, cool shows, and tropical concerts. On June 23, the Hot 8 New Orleans Brass Band will perform a short “flash” parade at 11 am on Tarpon Avenue. Learn and enjoy maritime traditions and music at the Gulf Coast Maritime and Music Festival on July 14 on the Sponge Docks, 11

am to 8 pm. The festival closes this year with the fun-filled annual event “Music Out of a Hat.” NIGHT IN THE ISLANDS: LIVE GREEK MUSIC WITH ODYSSEY, DANCING, AND OUTDOOR DINING - July 7, Aug 4, Sept 8, Oct 6 On Saturday, from 6:00-11:00pm,

the City of Tarpon Springs presents Night in the Islands – a free event on the Sponge Docks. Enjoy Greek music, dancing, and dining. Night in the Islands features the music of Odyssey. Prior to the main event, there will be live Greek music by the Bouzouki Boys between 4 and 6pm on Dodecanese Blvd. at Riverwalk, west of Hope Street. GULF MARITIME FESTIVAL July 14 From 11am to 6pm, the City of Tarpon Springs will present the third annual Gulf Maritime Festival. Tarpon Springs is the best venue to showcase Gulf Coast maritime continued on next page

www.thespongeexchange.com 88

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Tarpon Springs Events conâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t folklife from Cortez to Cedar Key to Apalachicola. Demonstrators will explore sponge diving & sponge processing; making diving helmets and nets; foodways; fishing, clam farming, boat building, model boats, and much more. The free festival will also present music and dance associated with Gulf maritime communities, as well as interviews with those involved in maritime activities. Among the many participants will be National Heritage Fellow Nicholas Toth (sponge diving helmets), as well as several Florida Folk Heritage Award winners: Taso Karistinos (sponge diver/captain), Wayne Martin (bateau boats & old-time fiddling), George Saroukos (Greek boatbuilding), George Soffos (Greek music), and Mike Berg (duck decoys). Sponge Docks (Dodecanese Blvd between Athens and Roosevelt Streets), Tarpon Springs, Fl 34689 For more information visit www.tarponarts.org.

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NIGHT in the ISLANDS

featuring live Greek music, dancing, and outdoor dining

on the world famous Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks.

2012 Saturdays

Enjoy Music

April 7 • May 5 • June 2 • July 7 August 4 • September 8 October 6 • November 3

by Florida’s Best Greek Bands: Odyssey will play April, May & November Ellada will play June-October

6 to 11 pm

FREE ADMISSION Presented by the City of Tarpon Springs Kalymnian Society Levendia Dance Troupe Prometheas Pan-Helllenic Cultural Center

For more information, call 727-942-5605 or 727-937-1130 92

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Looking Good... Unique Parasols Necklace ali & bird from Gaiam Handcrafted Unique Jewelry

Bybird, Melissa Wolcott Martino ake flight in the summer heat with ali & a cool, handcrafted piece I have in my jewelry box and unique jewelry line.healicoolest & bird features semi-precious stones has to be my new Parasols Necklace, and other natural materials. was hand by female Peruvian arali & bird jewelrywhich was founded bymade Ali Howell, Atlanta resident tisans. Whenever I wear it, it never fails todeget and Memphis native. For over 10 years, Ali was the creative multiple compliments and queries as to where sign force behind Herend USA’s marketing, US showrooms and I got visual campaigns. Ali is it. passionate about great design, and her Is principle it jewelry of or creating is it art? affordable I think both. Since company is built on the jewelry are hand made,trends the parasol necklaces that follows currentthey fashion and color while remaining are all original pieces. Made from reclaimed timeless for years to come. No two pieces are ever the same and materials including fabric scraps and all materials are real, unique, and sometimes unbelievablymulticolrare. ored yarn, features they are the alsosterling eco-friendly. Genuine ali & bird jewelry silver kissing is available thorugh birds, symbolizing theThis carepiece and creativity that goes intoGaiam, every a company that presents fair trade products handmade jewelry design. They welcome custom orders, from around the webwhether you’re interested in aworld. piecePlease you seevisit on their their site; site to see all the different interesting products you need special, unique jewelry for a wedding or other they have offer. You will find homejewelry decor, special occasion; or to you have a piece in your spa items, clothing, bags & totes, accessories box that you would like to update. and Jewelry more. www.gaiam.com/ ali & bird is available locally at Being in St. I would like to say that is me wearing the Petersburg. www.shopbeing.com/ necklace this photo, alas, it is a beautiful To view differentinjewelry frombut their line, please visit Gaiam model. www.aliandbird.com/

Kiss Your Way to the Florida Keys

KISS MY FACE Key Lime Moisture Shave

ey West, Florida, is famous for its fabulous key lime pie, an indigenous regional dish. Give your shaving routine a sweet boost with the Kiss My Face Key Lime Moisture Shave. Take smooth legs to Florida and back with this all natural formula that contains highly effective natural essential oils, extracts and vitamins. Kiss My Face Key Lime Moisture Shaves are ideal for the face and body. Lime is a natural, cooling antiseptic that also acts as an astringent. The moisturizing formula contains highly effective natural essential oils, extracts and vitamins. Soothing aloe, olive oil and lemongrass and orange flower botanicals combine to give the best shave. Lady’s Mantle acts as an astringent and has styptic properties. Vitamins A and E are infused to provide nutrients to maintain healthy skin. For more information, visit KissMyFace.com/

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essence

Low Cost, High Quality Makeup

ince its launch in Germany in 2002, essence cosmetics has spread to 30 countries, and most recently introduced into the USA. essence has trendy and high quality cosmetics at a low price, which is very appealing to the consumer. essence attaches great importance to quality standards and manufacturing directives — they even list the ingredients of all their products online on the essence web site. They comply with the provisions of the European cosmetics directive, which includes all regulations for the manufacturing process, shelf life and safety assessment of products. Absolutely no testing on animals is conducted for the cosmetic products by essence. This applies to the final products as well as any ingredients. In addition to the permanent product line, Essence releases limited edition collections several times a year. Look out for “miami roller girl” - bright colors like orange, pink and yellow, with intensive, shining shades and soft textures perfect for tanned skin. For more essence information, visit www.essence.eu/ Right now, you can find essence products at Ulta stores and Ulta.com/

Wear A Book

ut of Print celebrates the world’s great stories through fashion. Their products feature iconic and often out of print book covers. Some are classics, some are just curious enough to make great t-shirts, but all are striking works of art. Out of Print works closely with artists, authors and publishers to license the content that ends up in their collections. Each product is treated to feel soft and worn like a well-read book. In addition to spreading the joy of reading through tees and accessories, they are working to change the fact that many parts of the world don’t have access to books at all. For each product sold, one book is donated to a community in need through Books For Africa. Out Of Print’s first collaboration with award-winning designer Mikey Burton produced this fabulous looking T-Shirt, featuring wwThe Great Gatsby. Out Of Print’s poly/cotton T-shirts are soft, distressed style, slim fit (read: smaller than you think! so pick a size larger.) For more information on their t-shirts and to view Out of Print’s other products, visit www.outofprintclothing.com/

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Organic, Vegan and Eco-Friendly Makeup

veryday Minerals products contain only the finest essential ingredients. Sustainability is their priority, as they are committed to protecting and nurturing our natural resources. Everyday Minerals source the finest natural ingredients from local farms while dreaming up ultra-feminine shades. Each product is hand crafted, using the natural plants that grow within the Texas Hill Country, which is where the company is based. Everyday Minerals is organic, vegan and eco-friendly, and specializes in an innovative collection of products with a spectrum of over 300 vibrant colors and shades that flatter virtually every skin tone. Innovation is an important ingredient in their recipe for success. Founder Carina Menzies believes that all-natural makeup products should not cost a fortune. Her goal is to empower every womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inner beauty to shine by focusing on what wom-

en love most about makeup: effortless application, long lasting qualities, versatile shades, and most importantly, fun. With Everyday Minerals, women all around the world can access premium quality mineral makeup at an affordable price. Carina draws inspiration from nature, art and fashion. www.everydayminerals.com/

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Clever Travel Companion 100% Pick Pocket Proof Underwear

oney belts, neck pouches, wallets and purses are no match for seasoned thieves. Travelers accidentally misplace their belongings, finding themselves stranded and scared in a foreign country without money or passport. With the Clever Travel Companion’s 100 % pick pocket proof travel garments with secret built in pockets, travelers can finally keep their valuables safe. The Clever Travel Companion’s product line includes underwear in the shape of a boy short for women and a boxer brief for men, both with two pockets with secure zippers on the front, T-shirts and tank tops with a with a secret pocket on the stomach, and for the winter season, Long Johns with pockets. All products come in multiple colors and sizes in either soft cotton or lightweight, breathable modal. The garments are all very comfortable. The wearer won’t feel the pockets at all. The secret pockets are made to fit passports, travel documents, cash and credit cards perfectly. If a traveler needs to spend the night in a misty train station, or wait for a delayed flight, he or she can rest assured knowing that the valuables are hidden away and zipped. www.clevertravelcompanion.com.

It’s You Babe

Support Garments for Pregnant Women

must have for travel for the pregnant woman is It’s You Babe’s Mini Cradle. It’s a maternity band designed to support tummy and back pain, and the perfect solution for pregnant women who want to be out and about through all stages of their pregnancy. Simple to use and seamless under clothing, the Mini Cradle can provide an expecting mom with that little extra lift that will help her stay comfortable, especially while traveling. Designed to be worn with maternity fashions, this pregnancy support belly band discretely fits under most maternity clothes. The Mini Cradle is a 3” adjustable orthotic support for the abdomen and lower back and helps to promote increased circulation from lower extremities. It has hook and eye closures to reduce snagging of expensive lingerie. It’s You Babe has a 20 year history of creating support garments for pregnant women to ease abdominal and back pain during pregnancy. Prenatal Cradle, Mini Cradle and the newest award-winning Best Cradle are favorites of doctors and other medical professionals as well as expecting mothers. Their product line also includes other types of support to address hip stabilization, vulvar varicosities, and a prolapsed uterus. The Mini Cardle is available in sizes from Petite to Large for $25 on It’s You Babe’s website and at retail locations throughout the country. There are six locations currently in the Tampa Bay area. You can find out more information, and locations at www.itsyoubabe.com 96

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Introducing Bergamonte™

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“After using Bergamonte for 30 days, my doctor wanted to find out what I did differently, as my blood testing numbers came back with amazing results!” D.Frazier A human clinical study published on Fitoterapia April 2011 demonstrated remarkable results for cardiovascular benefits because of Bergamonte’s ability to positively affect the amount of cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL within 30 days.†** The research showed taking 1000mg of Bergamonte can help naturally increase good (HDL) cholesterol levels by 40% and reduce Triglycerides by 39%.† Bergamonte was developed & recommended by cardiologist Vincenzo Mollace, M.D. in Italy, to help his patients achieve healthy cholesterol levels naturally.†** †These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. **Levels already in normal range.

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Gaming Scene Las Vegas

Binion’s Gambling Hall announces its summer pool party series, Kiss The Sky, with DJs, dancing, and drink specials high above Las Vegas at the historic property’s 25th floor pool. Admission is free, and all guests 21 and over are invited to party under the stars every Friday night starting at 9pm from June 8 through August 31. www.binions.com/

TAYLOR HICKS HEADLINES AT BALLY’S LAS VEGAS thru July 31 Taylor Hicks, winner of American Idol’s fifth season, is in an engagement headlining at Bally’s Las VeTaylor Hicks gas. Hicks will play in The Indigo at Bally’s 5 nights a week at 7 p.m. www.ballys.com/ JABBAWOCKEEZ AT MONTE CARLO RESORT AND CASINO - thru Sept World-famous dance crew Jabbawockeez perform its celebrated show “MÜS.I.C.” in an 800-seat tent adjacent to the resort’s porte cochère through September. In spring 2013, the Jabbawockeez make a permanent move to Luxor Hotel and Casino. www.montecarlo.com/ SUMMER POOL PARTIES AT BINION’S GAMBLING HALL - thru Aug 31

NBA SUMMER LEAGUE RETURNS TO LAS VEGAS - July 13-22 NBA Summer League returns to action at the Thomas & Mack Center and the COX Pavilion on the campus of the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Launched in 2004 as the Las Vegas Summer League, the inaugural event featured six NBA teams playing a 13-game slate. The NBA joined forces with the original event organizers in 2007, and the summer showcase has expanded exponentially since its inception. Tickets for the 2012 NBA Summer League at UNLVtickets.com/ GOLDEN GATE HOTEL & CASINO UNDERGOES DRAMATIC EXPANSION Founded in 1906, the Golden Gate - Las Vegas’ original casino - made its first major expansion in 50 years. The landmark property in downtown Las Vegas has added a 35,000-square-foot, five-story luxury tower with Jabbawockeez

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16 hotel suites, including two penthouses, an extended casino floor, a high-limit gaming pit and a new lobby where artifacts from the hotel’s notable past are displayed. The new tower also features a porte-cochere designed to provide convenient valet parking. www. goldengatecasino.com/

brand-new Gordon Ramsay Steak - his first Las Vegas restaurant located in the Paris Las Vegas resort. This newest hotspot offers the easy-to-navigate, touch screen system delivered via an Apple iPad. Menus are brought to life for customers in a compelling, interactive format. www.parislasvegas.com.

GORDON RAMSAY STEAK AT PARIS OFFERS WIRELESS, IPAD WINE LISTS Michelin Star Chef Gordon Ramsay opened his

CARLOS SANTANA at the House of Blues, Mandalay Bay - through Nov 18 On select dates, the House of Blues Las Vegas features a two-year Engagement with Carlos Santana of unique performances - “An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live - Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow” — in the specially reconfigured House of Blues at the Mandalay Bay Hotel. www.mandalaybay.com/

What’s happening at the Beau Rivage

Biloxi Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Beau Rivage is a beautiful resort destination — very convenient for Tampa Bay area folks looking for either an exciting time, or a relaxing time, or both — the Beau has it all. With a partnership with Vision Airlines, the resort has an exclusive package that includes a round trip non-stop jet flight, ground transfers, and two nights in a luxurious guestroom — starting at only $199 per person (double occupancy). The flight takes only an hour and fifteen minutes and leaves from the St. PetersburgClearwater Airport. Golfers will definitely want to experience Fallen Oak,

rean treatments unique to the Gulf Coast, and a perfect place for a Girlfriend Getaway with their special “Pamper Parties.” The dining opportunities at the Beau are wonderfully varied - from the simple Snacks Deli to the exceptional BR Prime (the Beau’s signature steak and seafood restaurant), and every thing in between. Guests have eleven restaurants to choose from, as well as several bars. Beau Rivage presents a brand-new Cirque-style extravaganza, Fata Morgana. Experience all the thrills and comedy of the very best international acrobats, aerialists and artists in a show produced exclusively for Beau Rivage, through August 19. Reservations for the air-inclusive travel packages may be made by calling 877-462-2328. Visit www.beaurivage.com for more information.

Fallen Oak

Beau Rivage’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with it’s dramatic elevation changes and beautiful magnolia trees, ponds, streams and wetlands. GOLF Magazine rated it one of the “Top 100 Courses You Can Play.” A visit to the Beau’s spa and salon will show Epicuwww.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Pinellas County Animal ServicES

Flags, Fur & Fireworks Safety On Wednesday, July 4, the public is invited to the County animal shelter for flag-waving fun, including adoptions at 50 percent off. Flags & Fur ‘Til 4 will take place from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. at 440 N. Falkenburg Road in Tampa. The red, white and blue bash for shelter pets will feature patriotic pack members and purrfect patriots at half-price. Adoption fees include spaying/neutering, vaccinations, microchip, veterinary health check up, Hillsborough County pet registration tag, and a free goodie bag. Prospective adopters need only bring valid photo ID and proof of address. Cash and credit cards are accepted, and many animals will be ready to go home the same day. PET SAFETY DURING THE FIREWORKS The loud noises and unpredictable flashes from fireworks are a nightmare for animals. Hillsborough County Animal Services offers the following safety tips: Keep county tags and ID securely fastened on pets at all times. Bring all pets indoors by late afternoon and ensure they remain inside until well after the fireworks have stopped. Search and reclaim lost pets immediately at Hillsborough County Animal Services (view kennels online at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices). Please note: while Animal Services will be open for this event, adoptions and lost pet search, the animal turn-in gate will remain closed on July 4th. As always, a limited number of animal control officers will be on call for animal emergencies. The shelter will resume normal hours and operations on Thursday, July 5, at 9

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a.m. For more information on Flags & Fur ‘Til 4 or general pet safety, contact Hillsborough County Animal Services at 813-744-5660 or online at www.hillsboroughcounty.org. DOG TRAINING - July 7 Learn the basics of dog training in a seminar for all who have adopted dogs from Pinellas County Animal Services or other shelters in the county. Learn about housetraining, loose-leash walking and dealing with challenging dog behaviors. No dogs at the class please. 10 a.m. Free. Pinellas County Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 582-2600. www.pinellascounty.org/animalservices/ CREATURES OF THE NIGHT at Brooker Creek Preserve - July 7 Awakened by a hooting owl, heard a coyote howling after dark or wake to find trash cans ravaged by a raccoon? There are many species that come out after dark. Learn about some of the most common critters visiting backyards. 10 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800. www.brookercreekpreserve.org

FLORIDA’S FASCINATING SNAKES at Weedon Island Preserve - July 14 These ecologically important, but often misunderstood vertebrates are the subject of herpetologist George Heinrich’s presentation. As this area is home to many of these incredible creatures, this is the opportunity to find out the facts about their diversity, ecology and conservation. Includes a live reptile presentation. Recommended for all ages. 10 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www. weedonislandpreserve.org/

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www.bigcatrescue.org

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HERITAGE VILLAGE SUMMER PASSPORT ADVENTURES Jump Back in Time This Summer with “Passport Adventures” at Heritage Village: Designed especially with summer camps, recreation groups and church groups in mind, these special tours include indoor and outdoor activities. Junior docent teens ages 12 to 17 deliver this fun, energetic program for kids ages 4 to 11. Each child will create their own toy from the past to take home. Bring your picnic lunches, and shop for souvenirs at the gift shop. After the tour, maps are provided for self guided fun! Program is available Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m.; 1 p.m. $3/per child; groups of up to 60 children with adult supervision. Reservations required. Call 582-2125 to register. www.pinellascounty.org/heritage __________________________________________

BROOKER CREEK PRESERVE - JULY BOOK TIME AT BROOKER: July 5, 12, 19, 26. Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800 DISCOVERING WILDLIFE WITH YOUR CHILD: July 14. Who lives in that skin; what is the difference between a carnivore and an herbivore; whose tracks are those? Stop by the Weedon Island classroom anytime between 1 and 3 p.m. to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities. A Brooker Creek Preserve volunteer will be available to answer your questions. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800. 102

HERPETOLOGY CAMP: July 23 to 27. A perfect opportunity for inquisitive children ages 7 to 11 to enjoy this five-day nature camp and explore the fascinating world of amphibians and reptiles side-by-side with George Heinrich, professional herpetologist. Up close and personal encounters with animals such as gopher tortoises, frogs, lizards and snakes. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. $150; advance registration a must since space limited to 30 campers. Camp information (727) 865-6255. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800. www.brookercreekpreserve.org. __________________________________________

WEEDON ISLAND EVENTS - JULY WILDLIFE ECOLOGY CAMP: July 9 thru 13. This summer camp is designed for children with a strong interest in nature. Campers will explore the ecology and conservation of Florida’s wildlife and natural habitats with field biologist and environmental educator, George L. Heinrich. A blend of classroom and field sessions will include hands-on activities, guest presentations, and exploration of the preserve’s diverse habitats, where campers will practice their nature detective skills. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. $150; advance registration a must since space limited to 30 campers. Camp information (727) 865-6255. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500. WEE TIME AT WEEDON: July 12, 26. Children ages 3 to 5 will learn about fish and how they breath and eat underwater in the book, What’s it Like to be a Fish? by Wendy Pfeffer. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500. DISCOVERING THE ESTUARY WITH YOUR CHILD: July 14. Stop by the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center’s open classroom anytime between 1 to 3 p.m. to participate in a variety of self-guided estuary activities. With the Enviroscope, learn how pollutants can affect our Bay and waterways. No registration required. Recommended for families with children of all ages. www.weedonislandpreserve.org/

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The Perfect Gift For First-Time Dads: The Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox

hen it comes to baby showers, it’s all about the mommy-to-be (not that there’s anything wrong with that). But what about dad? How about showing some love to the daddy-to-be? A Tampa entrepreneur has come up with the perfect solution - the Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox! Part fun and part practical, it makes the perfect gift for the sure-to-be overwhelmed first-time dad. The Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox was created by “dadpreneur,” Chris Hartsfield, owner of Fun Stuff 4 Babies. The Tampa, FL company’s mission is to develop products that encourage and acknowledge a dad’s involvement in raising kids. The company was created in 2008 by Chris and his wife, Julie, who have three kids; Alex, age 10, Brodie, age 8 and Sophia, age 4. For Chris, becoming a dad changed his life, but it wasn’t always smooth sailing. Parenting can be a very scary job, and he described his range of emotions as joy to pure terror. He remembers thinking “one minute you can’t snuggle them enough, then you are worried you will rip their head off taking off their t-shirt!” He also remembers his first diaper change like it was yesterday. It was day two, they were still in the hospital and his wife was sleeping so he decided he was ready to take on this new daddy task. Chanting “you can do it” he opened the diaper and he panicked, running to the nurse’s station with a look of shock on his face. A nurse and doctor rushed out to check the baby. Finally, the doctor said, “Congratulations Mr. Hartsfield. Your son just had his first bowel movement.” Realizing moment’s like these were probably the norm for new daddies, Chris created the Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox, which Includes: Mask - toxic fume filter for the times it doesn’t smell like roses.

Goggles - just in case you don’t get the new diaper in place fast enough. Rubber Gloves and Ear/Nose Plugs. Poop Poncho - need we say more. Turkey Baster - for precision tushy cleaning. Tongs - to ensure space between you and your first gift from baby. Biohazard Bag - for proper disposal of that stink bomb. Hand Wipes, Baby Wipes, and a Newborn Diaper. The Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox is available at www.giftsfordadtobe.com

Entrepreneur Chris Hartsfield and his daughter Sophia www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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nyone who has been to a beach knows what a hassle it can be to remove sand after an afternoon of fun in the sun. "Sand-Off" is an allnatural, powder-filled mitt that breaks the bond between skin and sand. It is a great way to eliminate unwanted sand without ever using an ounce of water to remove the substance from skin. This dry body wash and sand remover is a must-have accessory for the beach, or anywhere you travel since itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also great at removing dirt, and grass too. Each Sand-Off mitt has an allnatural, talcum-free patented powder formula infused, so you only use what you need. To use it, simply clap to release the powder and rub the soft terry cloth mitt over the skin to

easily wipe away the sand. It dispenses the powder formula evenly and gets excellent body coverage. It even works despite suntan lotion and perspiration. The kids can be cleaned with less fuss and less hassle in no time at all. The Sand-Off mitt is good for 30 to 40 uses and retails for just $7.99. www.sandoff.com/

Marshmallow Fun With A Rapid Fire Launcher he Marshmallow Fun Company is proving T that you can have fun with your food, especially when you can shoot marshmallows up

to 30 feet at unsuspecting targets. Scope out your target, and squeeze the trigger for a spread of mini marshmallow furry. The new futuristic Marshmallow Rapid Fire blasts multiple mini marshmallows up to 30 feet in one shot. Regulate the use of your marshmallow ammo by varying the amount of pumps that create air pressure. The more pumps to the rear handle, the more marshmallows will exit the barrel. When pumped to full capacity, The Marshmallow Rapid Fire sprays out the entire magazine of 25 mini marshmallows with one squeeze of the trigger. Ages 6 and up. $49.95

www.marshmallowville.com

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Protect Your Baby with Guavamitts

Stephen Joseph Gifts

tephen Joseph Gifts is a line of celebrity loved, high quality, colorful, fun items for kids. One popular item from the line is the Personalized Quilted Ballet Duffle, which is perfect for the little dancer in your family. Stylish, sturdy and fun to use for dance class, an overnighter with friends or a weekend at Grandma’s. The generously sized bag measures approximately 9” x 15”, has durable quilted, padded construction, a 100% cotton twill cover, and is machine washable. Comfortable handles make it easy for small hands to carry and the full zippered top keeps everything safely tucked inside. There’s also a zippered inside pocket for additional storage and to help keep things organized. Check out the Stephen Joseph Gifts website for many really cute products for your little ones, and see what items the many celebrities listed have picked out for their kids! www.stephenjosephgifts.com/

Name Bubbles — Names That Stick!

ame Bubbles are the personalized and waterproof way to put your name and contact information on the items and all supplies your child takes to dance camp, daycare and school. They can take a beating in the washer, dryer, dishwasher and food fights in the lunch room or in the pool during a triathlon or on the hiking trail with bug spray and greasy sunscreen all over them. Superior vinyl stickers are water-proof and fade-resistant, and are designed to work on a litany of products. Created to be both functional and

fun, Name Bubbles are easy to apply; they stand out and stay put. Designed for kids of all ages, Name Bubbles are a must have for anything that leaves home. Durable property labels identify baby bottles, gym clothes, sports equipment, camping gear, and other items that can go missing between daycare, school, camp and vacation. With Name Bubbles, you’ll always know which item belongs to whom and help keep those items out of the lost and never-found box; plus, they’re fun to personalize online. They come in a large assortment of color and style options, and customers may choose a single style or a Value Pack that offers a number of different labels for different needs. All the labels are made with non-toxic, eco-friendly inks, and are tough enough to stick in extreme conditions — from the hottest clothes dryers and dishwashers (220 degrees Fahrenheit) to the frostiest freezers or winter conditions (minus-60 degrees Fahrenheit). For more information, visit www.namebubbles.com/

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ig Cat Rescue is the world’s largest sanctuary for big cats who have been abused, abandoned, retired from performing acts, or saved from being slaughtered for fur coats. The sanctuary houses tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, bobcats, lynx, ocelots, servals, caracals and others — a total of 16 of the 35 species of wild cat, many of whom are threatened, endangered, or now extinct in the wild. At this home for rare and exotic cats, The narrow mission of Big Cat Rescue is to provide the best permanent home they can for these cats. The broader mission of the sanctuary is to reduce the number of cats that suffer the fate of abandonment and/or abuse and to encourage preservation of habitat and wildlife. People are urged to behave in a way that will support these goals by teaching people about the plight of the cats, both in the wild and in captivity. This is accomplished through guided tours, educational programs for young people, and by maintaining a website that is a great resource for information about exotic cats. Big Cat Rescue has built enclosures in a very natural habitat with foliage and shelter on a 45 acre site, and provides the best nutritional and medical care possible. They have conditioning and enrichment programs to provide for the cats physical and psychological well being. The sanctuary is supported entirely by donation. Big Cat Rescue is located at 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. Call 813-920-4130 for more information, or visit BigCatRescue.org.

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unken Gardens is a botanical paradise in the midst of a bustling city. As St. Petersburg’s oldest living museum, this 100 year old garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region. Unwind as you stroll through meandering paths, lush with exotic plants from around the world. Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful demonstration gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers. Sunken Gardens provides garden tours, horticultural programs, special events, field trips, weddings, private and corporate rentals. If you enjoy Yoga, Pilates, or want to try Hoop Dancing, why not go to Sunken Gardens and exercise in a botanical, tropical paradise. Mon - Thurs; 10:00am - 11:30am; $45/month or $12/class / Weekend classes $10 Sunken Gardens Members / $15 non-members Sat: 10am 11:15am / Sun: Noon - 1:15pm / Wed 6pm - 7:15pm $15 or $10 for Sunken Gardens Members / $59 for unlimited Daily, Weekend and Evening classes. HOOP DANCING - Tuesday 10am 11am, Wednesday 9am - 10am, $80/8 sessions or $15/class CHUTE CHI GONG Friday, 10am - Noon, $10/class. 825 4th Street N., St. Petersburg; 727-551-3100; www.stpete.org/sunken

A Botanical Experience Awaits You... • Discover the beauty of a 100 year old botanical paradise. • Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers and the walk through butterfly encounter. • Experience a guided tour, special event or workshop. $8 Adults; adults; $6 seniors 55 & up; $4 ages 2 3 to 11 $8 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100

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www.stpete.org

PRESCHOOL • ELEMENTARY SCHOOL • AFTER SCHOOL • VPK • SUMMER CAMP

We’re Enrolling!

Immediate Opening for

1 Year Olds! We got a

Registering for VPK

! e r o c S t VPK

Perfec

Ages 1 to 12 Years Open M-F 6:45am-6:15pm

Enroll now for...

SUMMER

• NAC Accredited Award Winning Program • High Child Readiness Rate • Multiple Intelligence Inspired Instruction • US Department of Education • Preschool Center of Excellence • Low Student Teacher Ratios • Offering Spanish & Other Electives • After School Pick Up: Call for Info

Our Pre-KProgram is a stepping stone to our SUMMER CAMP & SUMMER VPK! Award Winning K-6th Grade Charter School Community Ask us about it!

Kid’s

College® C HC 431890

www.kidscc.org • 10544 Lake St Charles Blvd Riverview • www.kidscc.org

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(813)671-0828

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Florida Authors Write DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF www.dondrunsbooks.com

Stumbling, bumbling James Lessor and Skip Moore are licensed private investigators. It could take time to get Moore or Less investigations off the ground, so James takes a job with a traveling carnival show. But this show has had a string of accidents and at least one death in the past year. When they’re hired to investigate what’s caused the carnival chaos, James and Skip set into motion a dizzying, roller coaster chain of events. They finally realize they’ll get anything but cooperation from this cast of carnies. But when a carnival worker is murdered, James and Skip find they might be next in line. Don Bruns is an award-winning novelist, songwriter, musician and ad executive, who lives in So. FL. He is also the author of Stuff to Spy For, Stuff Dreams Are Made Of, Stuff To Die For, Bahama Burnout, St. Barts Breakdown, South Beach Shakedown, BarbadosHeat and Jamaica Blue.

by Randy Rawls

www.randyrawls.com

A private investigator launches a vendetta to find and destroy the Thorns on Roses gang. Tom Jeffries, a PI in Broward County, Florida, is a man with a past-exSpecial Forces, ex-Dallas cop. But mostly, he’s a man driven by a thirst for justice. His brand of justice. When a seventeen-year-old girl, the stepdaughter of Tom’s best 110

by Wendy Wax www.penguin.com

by Don Bruns

THORNS ON ROSES

OCEAN BEACH

Friends Madeline, Avery and Nicole have hit some speed bumps in their lives, but when they arrive in Miami’s South Beach neighborhood, they are all hoping for a do-over. They’ve been hired to bring a once-grand historic house back to its former glory on a new television show called Do-Over. If they can get this show off the ground, Nikki would get back on her feet financially, Avery could restart her ruined career, and Maddie may be able to keep her family together. That’s the plan, but having their personal lives play out on TV is another thing entirely. Soon they are struggling to hold themselves, and the project, together. With a decadesold mystery—and the hurricane season—looming, the women are forced to figure out just how they’ll weather life’s storms. Wendy Wax is a St. Pete Beach native, a USF grad, and now an Atlanta resident. She is best known for her exploration of women’s bonds, and has written eight novels - the most recognizable being Ten Beach Road.

friend, Charlie Rogers, dies in the midst of a brutal gang rape, Tom vows to avenge her death. Following a well laid out plan, Jeffries methodically stalks the gang. As he eliminates them one by one, the police get closer to connecting him with the disappearances. Rushing will invite catastrophe, but Tom cannot wait. Randy Rawls is a retired US Army Officer and Dept of Defense civilian. Rawls is the author of the Ace Edwards, Dallas PI series and a number of short stories. He lives in South Florida. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Music & Film

Welles, Billy Wilder, Nicholas Ray, and Joseph Losey as well as lesser-known lights of noir. Each article will include a short biography of the director, a list of their major noir films, as well as a deep analysis of the films themselves. Lavishly illustrated, this book is a must for any aficionado of the American style of film noir.

MAKE YOUR MOVIE: What You Need To Know About the Business and Politics of Filmmaking by Barbara Freedman Doyle

PHOTOGRAPHICALLY SPEAKING: A Deeper Look at Creating Stronger Images by David duChemin

www.focalpress.com

This book is about how to work with people in the film industry, about who they are, what they do, and what they need. Most importantly for you, it is also about how to become one of them. This is a straightforward and comprehensive must-read for any aspiring filmmaker. With a down-to-earth, tell it like it is approach, the author offers insight through relatable, real-world experience and one-on-one interviews with working professionals who are already at the top of their game. FILM NOIR: THE DIRECTORS Edited by Alain Silver and James Ursini www.limelighteditions.com

Noted film noir historians Alain Silver and James Ursini concentrate in this work on the thirty key directors of the classic noir period. These include well-known luminaries, such as Orson

www.newriders.com

Photographically Speaking is about learning photography’s visual language to better speak to why and how a photograph succeeds, and in turn to consciously use that visual language in the creation of our own photographs, making us stronger photographers who are able to fully express and communicate our vision. By breaking up the visual language into two main components–“elements” make up its vocabulary, and “decisions” are its grammar–David duChemin transforms what has traditionally been esoteric and difficult subject matter into an accessible and practical discussion that photographers can immediately use to improve their craft. Elements are the “words” of the image, what we place within the frame–lines, curves, light, color, contrast. Decisions are the choices we make in assembling those elements to best express and communicate our vision–the use of framing, perspective, point of view, balance, focus, exposure.

ROCKABILLY: The Twang Heard ‘Round the World - The Illustrated History Edited by Michael Dregni www.penguin.com

Born out of country, bluegrass, jazz, and the blues in the 1950s, the musical phenomenon known as rockabilly sprung from the instruments of some of the most exciting musicians in history and became what we know now as rock ’n’ roll. The story of rockabilly starts with Elvis Presley’s first Sun records that inspired all. It’s also a story rooted in the music of Carl Perkins, Gene Vincent, Eddie Cochran, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, and many more rockabillies from the golden years of 1955–1959. And the story continues today, with a rockabilly revival that began with stars, such as the Stray Cats and Robert Gordon, spreading around the globe from Europe to Japan. Today, rockabilly is better than ever, with bands like Rev. Horton Heat and others playing the music and living the life from Memphis to Helsinki to Tokyo. There’s still good rockin’ tonight! The first illustrated history of the sound, style and attitude that changed music history forever, Rockabilly: The Twang Heard ’Round the World contains more than 600 rare photographs, concert posters, singles and LPs, memorabilia and collectibles—from Elvis to the Stray Cats to today—as well as interviews and reminiscences from an impressive cast of rockabilly stars. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Non Fiction SON OF HARPO SPEAKS! by Bill Marx

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BEHIND THE MASK: The Mystique of Surgery and the Surgeons who Perform Them by David Gelber MD www.ruffianpress.com

www.applausebooks.com

In this warmhearted memoir, Bill Marx shares what it was like growing up as the son of a Marx brother. Harpo Marx, most famous as the silent jokester in the comedy team, was actually a very talented actor, artist and musician (a world-renowned harpist). Author Bill, under the influence of his father, became a consummate musician and composer as well. They collaborated as professional musicians. Bill documents both his working and creative relationsjip with Harpo, as well as their father-son bond. He describes growing up in an orbit of many talented creative forces, and their lasting impressions on his life. He covers his existence in two world — that of a normal boy at home with his family and that of a child exposed to extraordinary talent, culture and of course, the energy of his legendary father, Harpo.

A look at the world of surgery through the eyes of Dr.David Gelber, a surgeon with more than twenty years experience. Dr. Gelber gives the reader a glimpse into the mind and thought processes of surgeons; how they evaluate their patients, what happens during and after surgery, along with pitfalls and complications that can develop. Numerous anecdotes and actual cases carry the reader on a journey through the often unpredictable life of a busy surgeon.

e f g h i j k l BELOVED WARRIOR: The Rise and Fall of Alexis Arguello by Christian Giudice

www.potomacbooksinc.com

m n o Christian Giudice offers a balanced an critical look at great boxer Alexis Arguello’s life. His reporting discusses the contradiction between Alex’ triumphs in the ring and the emotional, psychological, and political turbulence beyond the ropes that eventually claimed his life.

p q r WALKABOUT DANCER by Eileen Kramer

www.dancereileen.com

Eileen Kramer spent her childhood listening to the kookaburras and sailing along the coast of Australia. A creative, magical spirit from the beginning, young Eileen left school at an early age, finding a course that enabled her to go her own way. Eileen’s life was changed in 1939 when she attended a performance of the Bodenwieser Dance Company, opening the door for her world travels and her remarkable journey through life. Through Bodenwieser, Eileen absorbed European culture – appreciation of music, art, architecture, and politics. This book chronicles Eileen’s life with tales of her travels, experiences, and escapades, as we watch her dancing lightly through the years.

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www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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