Accent On Tampa Bay #185, March 2013 by Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine

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Accent On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 24, Issue 185 March, 2013 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Vicki Kolb Barbara McGovern Senior Sports Editor Peter Martino Graphic Designer Missy Lynn Contributors Marty Peters Deborah Quigley JoAnn Ryan Roland Stone Photographers Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Beau deCatta Cover Photo: courtesy of Mid-America Festivals PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

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e-mail - AccentMagazine@aol.com Accent On Tampa Bay™ Digital Magazine is produced monthly by AM Media Group. Material submitted becomes the property of AM Media Group. All material herein, including ads and artwork is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent from AM Medfia Group. © Accent On Tampa Bay™

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LOCAL FOCUS Mid Florida Walk MS: Tampa 2013 - Thurs, March 7 Join the National MS Society, Mid Florida Chapter for their annual Walk MS at the Lowry Park Zoo. 1 mi and 2 mi walks, fully accessible and fun for the family. Register to walk as an individual, join a team or create a team. Registration is 5:30 p.m. and the walk kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $20 minimum donation requested per participant. Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 West Sligh Ave., Tampa, FL 33604. www.MidFloridaMSWalks.org

Safety Harbor Seafood Festival - March 8-9 Enjoy all your favorite types of seafood while listening to live entertainment at the Safety Harbor Marina. Bring the whole family out for arts & crafts and check out the family area with games and activities for the kids. Land lovers food available as well. FREE. Proceeds benefit Safety Harbor Marina. 727-724-1572. 110 Veterans Memorial Lane. Fri 5pm - 10pm; Sat. 12 pm - 10 pm. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/

Tampa Bay Boat Show - March 8-10 Chart your course to Tropicana Field for the Tampa Bay Boat Show — a grand event showcasing area boat dealers/manufacturers, the latest in boating and fishing supplies… great accessories too. This three-day sales event will feature the area’s top dealers. Compare all available makes and models in one location. Tropicana Field will be filled with new boats, watercraft, exhibits and more. Don’t miss the Florida Fishing School Seminar Series on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Take part in a series of presentations by the area’s top fishing guides and local experts….great tips, secrets and fun. Learn how to catch the big one. Admission is free. Tropicana Field, 1 Tropicana Drive St. Petersburg, Florida 33705. www.tampabayboatshows.com 4

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Huzzah and Cheers for 35 Years! J

ourney back in time as more than 100 merchants contribute to the atmosphere of this charming 16th century village. Experience live armored jousting, 12 stages of entertainment, 7 theme weekends, and fun and food for the whole family. The Bay Area Renaissance Festival is a first-class experience whose 35th season ends on April 7. The Festival is open weekends, with a special day for schools and seniors on Festival Friday, March 22. The Festival is open from 10 am – 6 pm rain or shine. Admission at the gate: Adults $18.95; Children 5-12 $10.95; four and under are free! Free parking is provided by James Rivard Buick GMC. Discount tickets are available at participating Circle K and Walgreens stores, at MOSI, or online at www.BayAreaRenaissanceFest.com

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Celebrating 30 years of Excellence

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The Studio@620 presents Jazz Scores of Film Noir - March 8, 9, & 10 The Studio@620 presents “Jazz Scores of Film Noir,” a festival comprised of five films which feature soundtracks by influential composers and musicians as part of the year long Harlem Renaissance Initiative. Known for a gritty edge, melodrama, and often featuring a femme fatale, the Film Noir genre always entertains. Friday March 8 7:00 PM “Odds Against Tomorrow” (1959) Directed by Robert Wise. With Harry Belafonte, Ed Begley, and Robert Ryan. Music by John Lewis performed by the Modern Jazz Quartet with pianist Bill Evans. “Odds Against Tomorrow” transforms the suspenseful heist genre into an explosive allegory of racism in America. 9:00 PM “Experiment in Terror” (1962) Directed by Blake Edwards With Lee Remick, Glenn Ford, and Ross Martin. Music by Henry Mancini. “Experiment in Terror” is an atmospheric thriller concerning a pretty San Francisco bank teller who is coerced into embezzling money by an asthmatic psycho killer. Saturday March 9 7:00 PM “Elevator to the Gallows” (1958) Directed by Louis Malle With Jeanne Moreau and Maurice Ronet. Music by Miles Davis. ‘Elevator to the Gallows” has been noted as “perhaps the most perfect use of jazz improvisation in cinema history”. Filmed in Paris, the film is in French with English subtitles. 9:00 PM “Sweet Smell of Success” (1957) Directed by Alex Mackendrick With Burt Lancaster, Tony Curtis, and Susan Harrison. Music by Elmer Bernstein featuring Chico Hamilton and his quintet. “Sweet Smell of Success” captures the sinister seductions and neurotic impulses of New York. Sunday March 10 6:00 PM “Anatomy of a Murder” (1959) Directed by Otto Preminger With James Stewart, Lee Remick, George C. Scott and Ben Gazzara. Music by Duke Ellington. One of the most immensely entertaining and intelligent courtroom dramas ever made also features Ellington’s masterful score, interweaving of blues, swing, and classical influences among others. The Studio@620 is a non profit arts venue located at 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701. www.studio620.org/620/

The 32nd Annual Florida Antiquarian Book Fair - March 8, 9, & 10 The book fair features more than one hundred specialized dealers from all over the country. This year’s “Mysterious Florida” theme celebrates Florida’s great mystery authors and its own uncanny past. Visitors will find books of every age and about every conceivable topic, including modern fiction, Americana, Florida history and literature, travel and exploration, fine bindings, poetry, cooking, military history, world history, the classics, art books, religion, children’s literature, and illustrated books. Additional materials found at the Fair include maps, prints, postcards, ephemera, autographs and other paper collectibles. Items range in price from a few dollars to several hundred thousand dollars. The Fair is open Friday, March 8th, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday, March 9th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, March 10th, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. St. Petersburg’s Historic Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave. N. www.FloridaBooksellers.com/BookFair.php 8

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Be The Match Walk+Run comes to Tampa - March 9 Tampa will host a Be The Match Walk+Run on Saturday, March 9, at Al Lopez Park; bringing together marrow donors and transplant patients to demonstrate that the cure for blood cancer is in the hands of ordinary people. This fundraising event helps patients with blood cancers like leukemia find a marrow donor and receive a life-saving transplant. Most of us won’t have a marrow match in our family and Be The Match recruits and matches volunteer marrow donors with patients who need them. Every year, more than 12,000 patients in the U.S. are diagnosed with blood cancers like leukemia for which a marrow transplant from an unrelated donor may be their best or only hope of a cure. Be The Match Walk+Run raises funds to support marrow transplant research, help patients with uninsured treatment costs, and add more volunteer potential marrow donors to Be The Match Registry, giving more patients hope for a cure. With a 5K, 1K and Tot Trot, the Walk+Run is perfect for the entire family and for people of all fitness levels. To register, fundraise, volunteer or support a runner or walker with a contribution, visit www.BeTheMatchWalkRun.org

MUSEUM OF FINE ART: ART IN BLOOM 2013 March 9-12

©J. Weiland, The Collected Tabletop

Art in Bloom, sponsored by The Stuart Society and the MFA, is a vibrant spring tradition and presents some of the most imaginative floral designs in the area. The exhibition and festivities begin Saturday, March 9, with the premiere of the exhibition and “Flowers After Hours,” the preview party in the evening. Talented Florida artist Christopher Still will be the special guest during “Conversations with the Designers,” on Sunday, March 10, from 2-4 p.m., and author Kathryn Crisp Greeley is the speaker at the Art in Bloom Luncheon on Monday, March 11. The floral arrangements will remain on view through Tuesday, March 12. Bonus demonstrations will be held during the week, before Art in Bloom begins. Debbie Baxter is the chair. The designs respond to individual works in the collection and entire Museum galleries and spaces. They have been created by both talented professionals and “hobby” designers. Many are members of area garden clubs. There will be docent-led tours at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday. Admission to Art in Bloom includes the special exhibitions Philip Pearlstein’s People, Places, Things and Photographing the City. The Philip Pearlstein retrospective features 62 paintings, drawings, and prints by this American master. Photographing the City includes choice images from the Museum’s impressive photography collection. 255 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg, FL 33701. (727) 896-2667 www.fine-arts.org/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Henry B. Plant Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Picnic in the Park - March 10

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Picnic baskets, old fashioned entertainment and the old fashioned taste of Blue Bell Ice Cream will be plentiful at the annual Picnic in the Park, Sunday, March 10. The event is 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., but guests should come early to the Henry B. Plant Museum to get a prime spot in the shade, and plan to stay late into the afternoon. Victorian games will be available for allday play, including hoops and sticks, horseshoes, badminton, and putt-putt golf. Live entertainment on Center Stage will feature the Flexible Four Barbershop Quartet, Tampa Community Band, Rose Bilal Jazz, and a theater performance at 2 p.m. from the Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Upstairs/Downstairs series. Admission is free, and $1 museum admission will be offered. Picnic in the Park is an opportunity for families and friends to relax while enjoying simple pleasures. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic baskets, chairs, blankets and coolers. Tables for eight are also available to rent for $25. Blue Bell will be serving complimentary ice cream, and hot dogs and water will be for sale. The Henry B. Plant Museum is located at 401 W. Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa 33606, on the campus of the University of Tampa. www.plantmuseum.com/ Reservations for tables must be made by March 6 by emailing sshifke@ut.edu

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‘THE INFLATED TALES OF PETER RABBIT’ At The Carrollwood Cultural Center - Sun, March 10 Magician and balloon artist Mark “the Balloon Guy” Byrne will perform The Inflated Tales of Peter Rabbit at the Carrollwood Cultural Center on Sunday, March 10 at 2pm. Byrne will take audiences through the classic tale of Peter Rabbit using balloon costumes and props to help tell the story. The performance will include comedy, improvisation and audience participation. The Inflated Tales of Peter Rabbit is part of the Center’s Children’s Theatre Series. Other shows in the series include: The Pied Bag-Piper of Hamelin on April 14, A World of Wonderful Tales on May 19 and Betty Spaghetti Dreams Big! on June 23. The Center is located at 4537 Lowell Rd.,Tampa. (813) 269-1310. www.CarrollwoodCenter.org

PGA TOUR at Innisbrook Resort - March 11-17 Luke Donald, the third-ranked player in the Official World Golf Ranking, will be the defending champion as the PGA TOUR comes to the Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor on March 11-17 for the Tampa Bay Championship. Donald won the 2012 event in a thrilling four-man playoff that also included 2010 winner Jim Furyk, Robert Garrigus and Sang-Moon Bae of Korea. British Open champion Ernie Els was among four others who missed the playoff by a single stroke. Now known as the Tampa Bay Championship, the tournament will continue to feature many Luke Donald of the top players in the world. Brandt Snedeker, the 2012 FedExCup champion, and Adam Scott are two other members of the OWGR top 10 expected to challenge Donald for the $990,000 first prize. Other top players expected include Sergio Garcia, Nick Watney, Martin Kaymer, David Toms, John Daly, Zach Johnson and 2005 Tampa Bay Championship winner Carl Pettersson as well as past champions Furyk, K.J. Choi, Retief Goosen, Gary Woodland, Vijay Singh and Sean O’Hair. The tournament will be nationally televised by NBC Sports and Golf Channel. More than 60 area charities will benefit from the tournament through the Birdies for Tampa Bay Charities program. In addition, the Tampa Bay Championship has named Moffitt Cancer Center as an official charitable partner for 2013. Tickets for the Tampa Bay Championship are available at TampaBayChampionship.com 14

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SPRING HOME SHOW at florida state fairgroundS - March 15 - 17 Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Largest Spring Home Show at the Florida State Fairgrounds showcases over 160,000 square feet of the latest home accessories, decorating ideas, furnishings, appliances, remodeling, landscaping, and much more. With over 900 exhibits, attendees can gain knowledge and comparison shop for virtually all items relating to their home. Through seminars, special features, guest appearances, and corporate sponsorships, The Spring Home & Garden Show is fun for the whole family. In MAN CAVE, experience the latest in home automation. The SPRING FLING ADOPT-A-PET will have dozens of pets available for adoption. www.bighomeshow.com

Beau Moore Classic Powerlifting Contest - Sat, March 16 The public is invited to attend the Beau Moore Classic Powerlifting contest FREE and root for their favorite participant. Competitors ages 8 to 95 will compete in squat, bench press and deadlift. This competition, named after one of the greatest heavyweight lifters and local competitor, Beau Moore, provides a wonderful opportunity for young lifters to complete together with great athletes. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competition features 91 year-old Edith Traina competing in bench and deadlift. The youngest competitor, Marissa Cawthon, age 14, will compete in the squat, bench and deadlift. The Beau Moore Classic is a full powerlifting contest run in conjunction with Raw United Powerlifting Federation and the Wounded Warrior Project. Jackson Springs Gym, 8612 Jackson Springs Road, Tampa. 813-5545064.

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Fifth Annual Art Festival in Hyde Park Village March 15-17 Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture and the Arts (TBBCA) will host its fifth annual Chalk Walk art festival March 15 - 17, in Hyde Park Village. More than 50 chalk and plein air artists will cover village sidewalks with original works of art and compete for $3,000 in cash prizes. Chalk Walk is a free community event with family-friendly entertainment. The three-day festival will include live entertainment, gourmet food trucks, craft beer by Blue Moon, an open-air market, childrenís activities and an artist gallery. The Chalk Tail Party on Friday night features musical entertainment by 10th Concession. Ms. Lisa’s Dance and Ted Wray will perform on Saturday; Grey Beard will perform on Sunday. Busch Gardens will also be on site with its animal ambassadors all day on Saturday. A temporary artist gallery will be open in Hyde Park Village during the festival featuring participating Chalk Walk artists. Original works and giclee prints will be available for purchase. The gallery will be open March 9 -17 and again March 23-24. Hyde Park Village, 742 South Village Cir., Tampa, FL 33606. 813-221-2787. www. tbbca.org

Thomas The Tank Engine - March 16-17 & 23-24 Thomas is pulling into the station for a larger than life experience at Day Out With Thomas: The GO GO Thomas Tour 2013, visiting the Florida Railroad Museum. Thomas the Tank Engine is star of Thomas & Friends. Day Out with Thomas is a fun-filled event that provides children of all ages the opportunity to climb aboard and take a ride with Thomas as well as participate in Thomas & Friends themed activities. For two back-to-back weekends, little engineers and their families are invited to take an approximate 25 minute on their favorite engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt, Controller of the Railway and enjoy a day of Thomas & Friends and more. The Florida Railroad Museum will also offer an inflatable slide, bounce house, face painting, inflatable snail obstacle course, G-scale train display, hayrides, a mini-tire train ride and much more. The Florida Railroad Museum at 941-776-0906. www.frrm.org/ www.thomasandfriends.com

Lunch With An Author Fundraiser Featuring Bestselling Novelist Adam Johnson - March 18 The Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. welcomes Adam Johnson, author of New York Times Bestseller novel, The Orphan Master’s Son, to its Third Annual Lunch With An Author fundraiser. This lunch event will be on Monday, March 18, at 11:30 a.m. at the University Club. During Lunch With An Author, Johnson will speak, answer audience questions, and sign copies of his book for those who wish to purchase it. From the Publisher Weekly, on The Orphan Master’s Son “…Johnson accomplishes the seemingly impossible: an American writer has masterfully rendered the mysterious world of North Korea with the soul and savvy of a native, from its orphanages and its fishing boats to the kitchens of its high-ranking commanders.” Booklist calls The Orphan Master’s Son “part adventure, part coming-of-age tale, and part romance.” For reservations or more information, call the Friends of the Library at 813-273-3616. University Club, 38th Floor, One Tampa City Center in downtown Tampa. 18

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Tiny Tot Olympics At Lettuce Lake Park - March 27 The Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department will host the 30th Annual Tiny Tot Olympics, Wednesday, March 20 at Lettuce Lake Park, 10 am - noon. The event features approximately 200 3-5 year olds currently enrolled in the PRC Tiny Tot program and the County’s Head Start Program. Participants will compete in events such as the basketball toss, bean bag toss, bucket relay, football throw, hula hoop relay, obstacle course, parachute games, sack race and soccer dribble. Scores are not kept and all participants receive ribbons. Everyone is a winner at these games. Lettuce Lake Park, 6920 Fletcher Ave., Tampa. For more information, call 813-635-3519.

A Girl’s Night Out Benefiting Dress for Success Tampa Bay - March 21 Enjoy a red carpet evening of fashion and refreshments at Dillard’s International Mall on Thursday, March 21, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm as Dillard’s presents The Dress for Success Tampa Bay Shopping Soiree and Fashion Show. This event will feature Spring and Summer fashion trends, cosmetic makeovers and raffle prizes all benefiting Dress for Success Tampa Bay. The first 50 guests to purchase a ticket will receive a free SWAG bag upon arrival of the event. For over five years, this exclusive event has brought together hundreds of women for a special cause. All proceeds from Dress for Success Tampa Bay Shopping Soiree will go directly to Dress for Success of Tampa Bay, part of the global non-profit and 100% volunteer organization promoting economic independence of disadvantaged women. Dress for Success Tampa Bay Shopping Soiree attendees may donate gently worn suits and accessories during the event -- so clean out your closet now. If you are unable to attend the event, but still want to support this special cause, visit www.dressforsuccess.org/tampabay and click the “Donate” button. Dress for Success Worldwide is an international non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of women located in more than 120 cities across 13 countries. The professional clothing, employment retention programs and ongoing support that we provide our clients symbolize our faith in every woman’s ability to be self-sufficient and successful in her career. Dillard’s at International Plaza, 2223 North Westshore Blvd., Tampa. 813-259-1876. www.dressforsuccesstampabay.eventbrite.com 20

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The Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg - March 22-24 The Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg returns for a ninth year of world-class racing and exciting competition, March 22-24. The event serves as the seasonopener for the IZOD IndyCar Series and takes place on a 1.8-mile, 14-turn waterfront circuit through the downtown streets of St. Petersburg, Florida overlooking the Tampa Bay and picturesque St. Petersburg Harbor and Marina. The festival-like atmosphere includes parades and fireworks, family entertainment, the tallest Ferris wheel in St. Petersburg, beer gardens, driver autograph sessions, live music, interactive games and exhibits. www.gpstpete.com/

OLDSMAR DAYS - March 22 - 24 Oldsmarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest running festival is held every year at the end of March in the legendary R.E. Olds Park. The event features fiery foods, collector cars, classic rock music, a great carnival, parade,dozens of vendors and warm spring sunshine. Admission and parking are free. Plan to have some fun with 14,000 or so of your best friends. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to miss the Wing Wars contest on Sunday where you decide who has the best wings in the Upper Tampa Bay. Bands line up for this year include Greg Billings, The Black Honkeys, Jeff Vitolo The Quarter Mile Rebels. Friday 5-11pm, Saturday 11-11pm, Sunday 127pm. www.OldsmarDays.com

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Great American Camp-Out - March 23-24 Spend the nights under the stars at Lake Park, and take your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first step into a lifetime filled with healthy, outdoor fun with Hillsborough Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Great American Camp-Out. This event, hosted by the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department, is perfect for those who have never camped before and want to learn how to set-up a tent, cook outdoors, and learn camping skills in a family-friendly, supervised setting. Campers can choose to participate in planned activities including crafts and outdoor games, or they can simply enjoy the Park on their own. Families wishing to participate must have at least one child 12 years of age and or younger with the adults. No pets or alcohol allowed. Recommended items to bring include blanket, bottled water, flashlight and extra batteries, insect repellent, ponchos, sleeping bags (or sheet and blankets), sleeping pad or air mattress, or just a plastic sheet over old newspapers, tent (blanket and tarp), and warm clothes. Those wishing to get a little more fun out of the Great American Camp-Out should bring binoculars, board games and cards, camera, camp chairs, football, GPS device, musical instruments and song books, and something to read. Register by March 20. 813-635-3519. Lake Park, 17302 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz.

SAFETY HARBOR EVENTS CHALK ART FESTIVAL - March 23-24. The streets and sidewalks of downtown Safety Harbor will be colorfully decorated by chalk artists from all over the world. See the artists create their pieces from start to finish all weekend while enjoying live entertainment and all the shops and restaurants on Main Street. Saturday, 3/23 10:00am-10:00pm; Sunday, 3/24 10:00am-4:00pm. Main Street. 813-495-5757 ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW - Sun, March 24. The Safety Harbor Kiwanis Club presents the Spring Arts and Crafts Show on Main Street. Visit over 150 artists and crafters as they exhibit their wares. Enjoy the all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast at the Rigsby Center before shopping. Sunday, 3/24 9:00am-4:00pm; Main Street. 727-637-3933. Pancake Breakfast 8:00am-11:00am, Rigsby Center, 727-724-1545. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/ 22

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24th Annual Hyde Park Village Art Fair - March 23 – 24 Juried outdoor art showcase with original art - handmade in America. 150 artists from 30 different states. Prices range from as little as $25 to $30,000. The artists are hand-selected by independent panel of expert judges from hundreds of applicants. There is a vast array of artistic media, including Paintings, Life Size Sculptures, Photography, Ceramics, Glass, Wood, Handmade jewelry, Collage, and Mixed Media. Free and open to the public. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Hyde Park Village, along Swann and Dakota Avenues in downtown Tampa – Navigational Address: 1622 Snow Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606. 561-746-6615. www.artfestival.com

Let’s Dance Featuring Burn The Floor at Busch Gardens Thru April 7 Sixteen dancers from around the world heat up the Desert Grill stage when Busch Gardens Tampa Bay presents Let’s Dance featuring Burn the Floor. Set against a fast-paced soundtrack of familiar favorites, the international dance troupe offers a new twist on the Foxtrot, Tango, Rumba, Cha cha, Jive, Swing, Mambo and more.

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TAMPA BAY WELCOMES WAWA

Wawa opened it’s first store in the Tampa Bay area recently on Gandy Blvd. in Pinellas Park. On hand were local dignitaries, reps from Wawa and media. All were treated to a sampling of Wawa’s fresh made sandwiches, soups and beverages. Their new touch-screen menu makes it easy to order your sandwiches in a variety of ways. Wawa has partnered with Feeding America Tampa Bay, with a portion of hoagie sales going to the charity. Five more stores are slated to open soon in the Tampa Bay area. For more information on Wawa, visit www.wawa.com/

Wawa’s mascots, Wally Goose and Shorti

Fruit Smoothies come in a variety of flavors, including Strawberry, Mango, and Strawberry Banana.

Thomas Mantz and Brandy Halladay from Feeding America Tampa Bay. Chris Gheysens, Wawa’s President and CEO

Wawa trainees Bianca and Christopher enjoy their first day at work.

Coffee lovers will love Wawa’s coffee selections, and their hot and cold coffee concoctions.

For more photos of this event, please visit www.ampubs.smugmug.com/ACCENT-ON-TAMPA-BAY-MAGAZINE/TAMPA-BAY-EVENTS/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Festa Italiana at Ybor City - April 4-7 A Taste of Italy, right in the heart of Historic Ybor City... Festa Italiana celebrates its 16th Annual Event on April 7th. On Thursday, April 4th, loin Festa Italiana for a unique tasting experience, featuring over seventy wines from different regions of Italy and Italian Antipasti and Desserts. The Italian Club of Tampa hosts this special evening and the event serves to benefit the Italian Club Restoration Fund. Space is limited, so purchase your tickets now by calling 813.248.3316. The 4th Annual Krewe of Italia Bocce Ball Tournament will be held on Friday, April 5th, starting at 6:30 pm with checkin. Entry fee. Register at www.bocciballtampa.eventbrite.com/ On Saturday, April 6th, Festa Italiana hosts a free day of festivities for the entire family to enjoy, including the annual Bocce Ball Invitational Tournament in Centennial Park, an assortment of Italian food, the Italian Idol Competition and the Homemade Vino Competition starting at 4:00 pm. The Saturday Fresh Market will also be in full-swing.! Festa Italiana’s 16th Annual Event takes place on Sunday, April 7th when Centennial Park and Historic Ybor City host a true taste of Italy. Over thirty-five Tampa Bay area restaurants and caterers present flavorful specialties. Enjoy cooking demonstrations, children’s activities, live entertainment with Joey Dee and the Starliters, Carme Pitrello, Lisa Casalino, Michael Castaldo, Gene Ferrari, Bella Danza and more. www.festaitalianatampa.com

Hillsborough County Seeks Geeks For Hack-A-Thon Challenge April 12-14 Hillsborough County is reshaping how people interact with their government. On April 12-14, Hillsborough County seeks geeks - techies, programmers, data crunchers, entrepreneurs, hiring business - to see which team can come up with the best idea for how open government data can benefit County residents in new and easy to use ways. The Hillsborough Hack-A-Thon Challenge will take place at the Hillsborough Community College - Brandon Campus, 10414 E. Columbus Drive in Tampa. During the Challenge, data from many County departments and agencies will be open to Tampa Bay’s technology community to see how they can use it to make our lives easier. Prizes will be given for the best app built or idea that may be implemented by the County. Online registration will start in March for teams and individuals, and run through Thursday, April 4. Even the way prizes are being generated is innovative... a site on Citizinvestor - a Hillsborough County based company - is being used to crowd fund the prizes for this event. As with all projects on Citizinvestor, credit cards are not charged until the project reaches 100 percent of its funding goal. www.citizinvestor.com/ 26

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For size comparison, Melissa stands next to megalodon jaws. The jaws are reproductions, but the teeth are real.

SEA MONSTERS REVEALED at MOSI thru Sept 2

Do sea monsters exist? Find out at MOSI’s new exhibit of plastinated sea creatures. These fascinating animals are all authentic, created with a polymer preservation technique, enabling us to see them outside and in. Eighteen full body creatures are on display, along with more than 150 organs and smaller specimens. You can see a 6’ wide manta ray, a 15’ mako shark, giant squid, and 18’ whale shark. There are hands-on displays for children and adults alike. For more information, visit www.MOSI.org

SHARK!!

Ocean Sunfish. Heaviest bony fish in the ocean. Can grow to 10’ in diameter.

Conger eel can grow to 10’ in length.

A lot of displays of smaller creatures.

Interactive displays will be enjoyed by children and adults alike.

Coffee lovers will love Wawa’s coffee selections, and their hot and cold coffee concoctions.

Giant squid incased in polymer. Eyes of this creature are the largest in the animal kingdom. It can snatch prey up to 33 feet away with it’s tenticles.

For more photos of this event, please visit www.ampubs.smugmug.com/ACCENT-ON-TAMPA-BAY-MAGAZINE/TAMPA-BAY-EVENTS/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Tampa Bay Navy Week - April 1-7 Tampa Bay Navy Week is one of 18 selected cities where America’s Navy will “come home” in 2013, giving area residents an opportunity to meet Sailors and learn about the Navy’s capabilities and relevance to national security. The U.S. Navy conducts Navy Weeks across the country to show Americans the return they receive for their substantial investment in America’s Navy. During a Navy Week, the Navy conducts a variety of outreach events (approx. 75+) in a metropolitan area, sharing the Navy story with as many people as possible. The Navy plans to include the following elements in Tampa Bay Navy Week 2013: “Blue Angels,” The Navy Flight Demonstration Team; Navy ship visit; Navy Band musical performances; Admirals and other senior Navy leaders, who will engage with local corporate, civic, government and education leaders; Navy simulator and other interactive displays; Visits to area schools; Community service projects and events with local sports franchises; Visits with local veterans. www.navyoutreach.org/tampabay2013/

ST. PETE BEACH COREY AREA SPRING CRAFT FESTIVAL - April 6 - 7 Some of the finest Crafters in the Country come with a wide variety of unique and affordable crafts at the 10th Annual St. Pete Beach Corey Area Craft Festival on Saturday & Sunday, April 6 - 7, from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Corey Ave. & Gulf Blvd. in Downtown St. Pete Beach - Navigational Address: 595 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach, FL. 561-746-6615. www.artfestival.com

This juried outdoor craft showcase presents 150 crafters from 30 different states with rices set to suit all budgets - ranging from as little as $3 to $3,000. There will be a vast array of artistic media including: Folk art, Pottery, Handmade jewelry, Paintings, Personalized gifts, Handmade clothing, 3-D Acrylic Paintings, Basket Weaving, Beaded Utensils, Candles, Ceramic, Cork Assemblage, Fabric Design, Fiber Quilts, Fused Wax & Glass, Hair Accessories, Handbags & Accessories, Handmade Cards, Leather, Mosaic/Wood, Painted Wood, Plaster craft, Stained Glass, Green Market featuring exotic plants, gourmet dips and spices and much more. A portion of the proceeds benefits St. Pete Beach Corey Area Merchants. 561-746-6615. www.artfestival.com 28

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UPCOMING EVENTS DAILY ACTIVITIES AT THE PIER - CHECK IT OUT Check it out! You can come to The Pier during the day to shop, dine and explore and enjoy the following events every day, depending on what YOU like to do. Tuesday: Yappy Hour is still held from 6-9PM with water provided for your furry friends at Jonny Reno’s. Reno’s is looking for some “stupid dog tricks” to entertain the guests, as well. Wednesday: Wednesday night is “Open Mic” at Jonny Reno’s. Hang out with your friends and bring your OWN talent! Thursday: The Mad Dog Club joins us on Thursdays for the Renegade Run - starting at 7PM - running from Jonny Reno’s into downtown - on the sidwalks - and then back for refreshments. There is always live music at Cha Cha Coconuts and Jonny Reno’s - Thursdays through Sundays and The Pier’s Music Fest by the Bay is held on Sunday afternoons from 1:00-4:00 p.m., feauturing a different live band every week! Nat Baily with “Flex” - March 10 Years of experience has given Nat Baily the opportunity to work with many name brand acts such as Lucky Peterson, James Brown, Sam & Dave, Toots and the Maytails, The Drifters. Nat is known for his amazing sound and has often been compared to celebrity guitarist Prince, Jimmy Hendrix, Lee Ritenour, and George Benson. Coventry Jones - March 16 Coventry Jones is a local, multi-talented musician who has been playing the Milwaukee scene for quite a while. Jones plays bluesy, folky, Dylanesque songs. Many of his songs have a humorous aspect to them, such as a reworking of Jimmy Buffet’s “Margaritaville” into “Microwaveable,” or a political tinge, like the song “Green Earth Turns Black,” written several years ago about conservation for Earth Day and inspired by his job as a door-to- door eco-activist. Swingin’ Harpoon on St. Patrick’s Day - march 17 Swingin Harpoon is a Harmonica Driven Tail Shakn ‘ Band with the unique blistering Harmonica style of Mike Lanigan, whom also Fronts with Soul Shakn Vocals, with a Brotherhood Rhythm Section comprised of Shawn Scott & Kyle Chervanik, smooth and polished Guitar & Vocals of Chris Skene, and incomparable Vocals/Guitar/Keys of Allie McKay. Jose Valentino WOWS at Music Fest by the Bay - march 24

Jose Valentino Ruiz is a 25 year old mutli-instrumentalist & vocalist, producer/engineer, composer, arranger, film scorer, and performer who is well-versed in multiple idioms of music such as Jazz, Latin, Classical, Funk-Fusion, World music, & Contemporary idioms. He is known for his passionate performances, versatility & fluid expression on Flute, Saxophone, and Bass Guitar. In addition, Jose plays Piano, EWI, and Percussion. “The Dweebs” - America’s Favorite Party Band - march 30 Expect The Dweebs to deliver something for every

musical taste, every age, and every type of fan. This seven-piece Wisconsin based band features five family members: Michael “Papa Dweeb” Blue, his daughter, two sons, and a nephew. Evenings of laughter and music begin with The Dweebs! GREEN FLASH - march 31 Green Flash plays Old School Soul, Classic Rock, Reggae, Southern Rock,Buffett & some new Rock.

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

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

through the Cultural Center. The Weedon Island Preserve VIVA LA MUSICA April 14 - Center’s May 5hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 to 4:00 iva la Música features food, drink, music and fun for the entire family, bringing together liveAM salsa andPM. merenFor more information on gue performances from award-winning Latin artists, authentic arts and crafts, and regional Latin cuisine. Weedon Island, visit www.weeJoin the fiesta from April 14 through May The festival at 12 p.m. donislandcenter.org with 5.boardwalk or begins concrete. Every Concerts include Ednita Nazario, Oscar D’Leon, Quesada and El Gran Combo. begin at 3 p.m. For moreConcerts Weedon Island photos, visit Saturday guidedMilly Hikes of Weedon Island AccentOnTampaBay.com, click on Event on Gwazi Field. are conducted by volunteers. (Pre-regPhoto Gallery, click on Tampa Bay istration is required at (727) 453-6506.) www.BuschGardens.com Attractions. Guided canoe trips are also offered

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OUTDOOR MARKETS & EVENTS

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

FLICKS AND FOOD TRUCKS Downtown Channel District Every 3rd Thursday of the month is Gourmet Food Truck fun, independent short flicks (10-15 minutes each) and some micro-brews and live music too. Expect to find 10-15 gourmet food trucks offering everything from Burgers to Vegetarian Bites, there is something for everyone. Join in for some all out outside food fun. the Grand Central at Kennedy, 1208 E. Kennedy Blvd., 33602. 6 - 10 pm. www.tampabaymarkets.com/flicks-and-food-trucks

4th FRIDAY FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL Hours: 5-9 pm. Live entertainment, local artists and crafters and a variety of snack food vendors. Buskers and street performers. Corey Avenue is the Heart of Downtown St. Pete Beach. 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 Hours: 10am - 3pm. 100+ vendors selling fresh, local, homemade, handcrafted and eco-friendly products. Conventional and hydroponic produce, homemade take home foods such as breads, pastries, gluten free items, pies, prepared entrees, sandwiches, ethnic specialties; handcrafts, eco friendly products & fair trade items. 1621 West Snow Circle, Tampa, FL 33606; www.hydeparkvillage.net/

GULFPORT TUESDAY FRESH MARKET 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Tuesday. Over 50 vendors are present offering a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, cheese, seafood, Florida beef, and desserts. Also hand-made items, jewelry, art work and more. Live music. www.gulfportma.com

WESTCHASE TOWN CENTER FRESH MARKET - 2nd Saturday, Oct thru May Hours: 10am - 2pm. 60+ vendors located on the grassy lawn near Maloney’s Restaurant at 9622 West Linebaugh Ave, Tampa, 36626. Local, organic, hydroponic and conventional produce, florida plants, herbs, flowers, organic food/supplies, locally made jams, jellies, salsa, dips, seasonings, sauces and oils, local artists, live Music, bounce house and face painting. www.tampabaymarkets.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

EXHIBITS Windows to Our Wildest Place: These permanent, hands-on educational exhibits help visitors understand how natural Florida has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center. Connecting People and Place: This is an art-inspired, permanent hands-on educational exhibit of the area’s history, ecology and people at the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center.

Birds of Prey: Several live birds of prey will be used to illustrate aspects of predator-prey relationships, adaptations that ensure success as predators, and these birds’ role in maintaining healthy, balanced ecosystems. The basic natural history of each species is also discussed along with the impact of humans on their habitats and populations. 10 to 11 a.m. Free. Brooker Creek Preserve. Introduction to Plant Identification: Join a Pinellas County Extension specialist and examine the basics of

MARCH March 8 Great Weedon Bird Quest: Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of our feathered year-round residents and seasonal visitors while assisting in compiling an annual checklist of the preserve’s birds. This hike is designed to take advantage of all levels of birding experience. Binoculars and bird guides are available. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve March 9 Birds of Brooker Hike: Join this hike to identify common birds of Brooker Creek Preserve. Meander along the onemile trail to gather information on the birds seen and heard. Binoculars will be helpful. Bring water. 8 to 10:30 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve. Nature Walks Along the Beach Trail at Fort De Soto Park: Free onehour guided nature walks down one of six different trails are offered each Saturday and Sunday, except holidays. Visitors on the hikes will be absorbed in the abundance of history, natural beauty and the complexity of the ecology not immediately apparent to the casual beachgoer. Emerging from the wealth of bird life, sea life, wildlife and plant life is the majestic tapestry called Fort De Soto Park. 10 to 11 a.m. Fort De Soto Park. 32

plant identification, from using simple keys to identifying critical characteristics that will help any would-be botanist in the field. An emphasis will be placed on flowering plants, but ferns will be included as well. Registration is required and all materials will be provided. Wear comfortable shoes, as part of the class will be outdoors. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free. Weedon Island Preserve. Florida 4-H – Discovering Nature with Your Child: Join the fun for activity-based learning adventures! On the second Saturday of each month, www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

an Extension specialist will lead families through a fun activity specially designed by 4-H to help understand the wonders of the natural world. Sign-up to become a Brooker Creek Explorer and continue learning-based activities throughout the year! Please register each member of the family, as space and supplies are limited. 1 to 2:30 p.m. Brooker Creek Preserve. MARCH 9, 16, 23, 30 Brooker Creek Guided Hike: 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. Weedon Island Guided Hike: 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. March 10, 16, 23, 24, 30 Nature Walks at Fort De Soto Park: Free one-hour guided nature walks down one of six different trails are offered each Saturday and Sunday, except holidays. Visitors on the hikes will be absorbed in the abundance of history, natural beauty and the complexity of the ecology not immediately apparent to the casual beachgoer. Emerging from the wealth of bird life, sea life, wildlife and plant life is the majestic tapestry called Fort De Soto Park. 10 to 11 a.m. Fort De Soto Park. March 13 Botany Hike: Join a Brooker Creek naturalist to explore the fascinating plants found on the preserve while identifying wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also

be examined. Best suited for adult participants. Come prepared with your camera and questions. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. March 14, 28 Wee-Time at Weedon: This program is designed to introduce preschool children to the wonders of the natural and cultural world. Every second and fourth Thursday of each month, children are treated to a variety of stories and hands-on activities that connect them to their environment. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve. march 14, 21, 28 Book Time at Brooker: 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. march 14 & 28 Vegetable, Herb and Tropical Fruit Garden Tours at Florida Botanical Gardens: Learn about growing food and marvel at the eye-catching array of culinary, medicinal and aromatic herbs, trees and flowers. Wander the brick paths between the Egyptian, Mediterranean, Asian and beverage plantings while learning how the plants can be used in the home. Discover the tropical fruits that do well in our Florida climate and view a diversity of plantings, including ground cover and trees that can be used when designing lawn landscapes. Tours are limited to groups of four to 10 and are recommended for adults. 9 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension. March 16 Photography Hike: This hike is a perfect opportunity for adult photographers to hone their skills. After a classroom session highlighting specific wildlife behaviors and focus tips, guides will assist participants in capturing the natural beauty outdoors. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. March 20 Forestry Hike: Join a local natural resources agent and hike along two miles of boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. Come prepared with binoculars, cameras and questions. Questions can also be re-

searched in the resource room upon return to the education center. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. March 21 Archaeology Lecture â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stable Isotope Analysis of Busycon Sinistrum to Determine Fort Walton. Period Seasonality at St. Joseph Bay, Florida is presented by Ryan Harke. Learn how research suggests that coastal and inland Fort Walton populations represent separate cultural groups. 7 to 8 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. March 23 Guided Photography Hike: In a brief classroom session, local photographers and master naturalists Karl and Kathleen Nichter highlight the seasonal features that help participants capture the natural beauty of the preserve, then hike the boardwalk and trails looking for those shots that reflect the season. Recommended for adults and children over 12. 8:30 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. Introduction to Plant Identification: Join a Pinellas County Extension specialist and examine the basics of plant identification, from using simple keys to identifying critical characteristics that will help any would-be botanist in the field. An emphasis will be placed on flowering plants, but ferns will be included as well. Registration is required and all materials will be provided. Wear comfortable shoes, as part of the class will be outdoors. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free. Brooker Creek Preserve. March 27 After School Fun 4-H Activity: Join the fun for activity-based learning adventures. On the fourth Wednesday of March and April, an Extension specialist will lead families through a fun activity-based learning adventures designed by 4-H to present the wonders of the natural world. Sign-up to become a Brooker Creek Explorer and continue with the learning activities throughout the year. Please register each member of the family, as space and supplies are limited. 2 to 3:30 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. March 30 Family Herpetology Series III â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gophers: Join an expert herpetologist and learn about Gopher tortoises. Brooker Creek Preserve is home to many of www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

these incredible creatures. Find out facts about their diversity, ecology and conservation. Stop by the Exhibit Hall afterwards to crawl through a largerthan-life-sized Gopher burrow. Recommended for all ages. 10:30 to noon. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

APRIL APRIL 2 Florida-Friendly Garden Tours: Enjoy a stroll through our garden of Florida-native and Florida-friendly plants. Learn how to incorporate some of these plants in home landscapes and observe how the same plants can survive under different light and water conditions. Tours are limited to adult groups of four to10 people and recommended for adults. Tours are from 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension. April 3 Botany Hike: Join a Brooker Creek Naturalist to explore the fascinating plants found on the preserve while identifying wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also be examined. Best suited for adult participants. Come prepared with your camera and questions. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve

LOCATION INFO... Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org The Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road. (727) 5822100; www.flbg.org Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde. (727) 5521862; www.pinellascounty.org/park Heritage Village, 11909 125 St. N., Largo. www.pinellascounty.org/heritage Pinellas County Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 582-2600; www.pinellascounty.org/ animalservices. Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 582-2109 Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org 33

STRAZ 2013 BROADWAY SEASON

HE STRAZ SEASON offers Cole Porter’s classic Anything Goes, feelgood romps with ’80s hits like Priscilla Queen of the Desert’s “I Will Survive”, the poignant and spectacular drama War Horse, American Idiot, and the all-dancing celebration of the Gershwins in ’S Wonderful. ANYTHING GOES - March 12 - 17. One of the greatest musicals in theater history, Cole Porter’s first-class musical comedy stars critically-acclaimed actress Rachel York as Reno Sweeney and directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Kathleen Marshall. When the S.S. American heads out to sea, etiquette and convention get tossed out the portholes as two unlikely pairs set off on the course to true love … proving that sometimes destiny needs a little help from a crew of singing sailors, an exotic disguise and some good old-fashioned blackmail. Peppering this timeless classic are some of musical theater’s most memora-

ble standards, including “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “You’re the Top,” and of course, “Anything Goes.” Season Shows Coming Up: Priscilla Queen of the Desert - April 9 - 14; War Horse - April 30 - May 5; American Idiot - May 17 - 19. AND THERE’S MORE in MARCH... ’S Wonderful - thru - April 28, is an allsinging, all-dancing celebration of the music and lyrics of George and Ira Gershwin. ’S Wonderful pays a nostalgic tribute to their incomparable songbook, featuring more than 40 classic hits such as “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off,” “Shall We Dance,” “Someone To Watch Over Me” and “Rhapsody in Blue.” Giacomo Puccini’s La Boheme - March 7-10. With some of the most beautiful and best-known arias in all of opera, it’s sumptuous score evokes the high romance of the 19th century Paris where a candle flickers out, tentative hands meet in the dark, and a rapturous duet soars under the moonlight. Follow the tale of young Parisians who live an exuberant bohemian existence, surviving on love and laughter. Daniel Lipton conducts an international cast, plus the Opera Tampa Chorus and Orchestra. Much Ado About Nothing - March 13 - April 7. One of the most popular and charming of Shakespeare’s comedies, Much Ado About Nothing features a classic battle of the sexes couple in Benedick and Beatrice. While the feisty couple hides their infatuation beneath witty barbs, young love blossoms as Hero and Claudio race to the altar. Witty wordplay, passionate poetry and clever plot twists make this the perfect romantic evening to share love and laughter.

Alex Finke and Erich Bergen Photo by Joan Marcus

For more information, visit Straz Center, 813229-7827, www.strazcenter.org

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WHEN THE WORLD WAS GREEN (A CHEF’S FABLE) - March 22 - April 21 A hauntingly lyrical memory play about an old man once a superb chef - and the young reporter who comes to interview him in the prison…where he has been locked up for a mysterious act. WHEN THE WORLD WAS GREEN is steeped in the elliptical, poetic style for which Shepard is justly celebrated. Though it is sketched in a world of sensual delight, of great journeys to distant lands, and exotic food “piled as high as a mountain, glistening in the sun”, the beauty of Shepard’s landscape is only skin-deep. Under the surface lies a family vendetta that has lasted for seven generations. A tender story of regret and loss through which these two unique characters transcend their memories and reach mutual forgiveness and love.

THE AMISH PROJECT - April 12 - May 12 by Jessica Dickey. Starring Katherine Michelle Tanner. “Leaves you breathless. It happens very rarely. But there are times when you leave a theater fervently hoping no one will try to engage you in small talk and break the spell that has just been so magically cast. This certainly was the case as I left The Amish Project” -Chicago Sun-Times. October 2, 2006 was a day that shocked the world when an Amish community in Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania displayed unprecedented forgiveness and compassion. The sensation at the New York International Fringe Festival, The Amish Project is an unforgettable tour-de-force about the mystical world of the Amish and the ultimate limits of forgiveness. 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

Mar 1-Apr 21

Apr 26 - Ju ne 9

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

www.showpalace.net www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

2013 SEASON TO KILL A MOCKING BIRD - March 1-17. Drama by Christopher Sergel from the novel by Harper Lee. The Pulitzer Prize award winning story that has become a classic of modern American literature. A journey down a twisted road that leads to compassion and hope. A gripping must see. THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB – April 19 - May 5. Comedy by Jones Hope Wooten. From the writer of the Golden Girls comes a story about 5 southern women who met on their college swim team. This wonderfully funny play catalogs their adventures at a North Carolina beach house through 33 years and guarantees to keep you laughing from beginning to end. DOUBT - May 31 – June 17.

Patrick Shanley’s Pulitzer Prize story and Tony award winning play. Suspicion is cast on a priest’s behavior in a captivatingly nuanced story that balances all sides. This passionate, evocative yet subtle

show will keep you riveted to your seat. SP City Theatre, 4025 31st St So, St. Petersburg FL 33712; 727-866-1973. www.splt.org/

AL ROMAS March 29-30 Al Romas’ hilarious material and his natural rapport with his audiences got him gigs opening for some of the biggest names in comedy during the late 80s/early 90s, names such as Jerry Seinfeld and Dennis Miller. He has been seen at the Radio City Music Hall for ESPN’s Espy Awards and on the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines to Las Vegas, with countless gigs in between all over the country. Al’s material covers a broad range of topics, from marriage and divorce, to growing up in 1970’s Long Island and much, much more. SideSplitters is located at 12938 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa. www.sidesplitterscomedy.com 36

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JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT - March 1 April 21 The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Joseph, his father’s favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged. He is purchased by Potiphar where thwarting advances from Potiphar’s wife lands him in jail. When news of Joseph’s gift to interpret dreams reaches the Pharaoh (wryly and riotously depicted as Elvis), Joseph is well on his way to becoming second in command. Eventually his brothers, having suffered greatly, unknowingly find themselves groveling at the feet of the brother they betrayed but no longer recognize. After testing their integrity, Joseph reveals himself leading to a heartfelt reconciliation of the sons of Israel. Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock ‘n’ roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless. Show Palace, 16128 U.S. 19 N., Hudson. 1-888-655-7469. www.showpalace.net

Luv - March 1 - 17 A comedy by Murray Schisgal. A mix of absurdist humor and traditional Broadway comedy more in the Neil Simon vein, Luv concerns two college friends - misfit Harry and materialistic Milt - who are reunited when the latter stops the his mistress. former from jumping off a bridge, the play’s setting. Milt sees in Harry an answer to his primary problem - The Runner Stumbles his wife Ellen, who he tries to foist - April 19 - May 5 on his old pal so he can run off with A young nun has died under mys38

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terious circumstances and her superior, Father Rivard, has been charged with her murder. Action alternates between interrogations, testimony and scenes from the past which reveal that Father Rivard fell in love with Sister Rita; and when circumstances forced her to move into the rectory with him, his anguish became unbearable. Their relationship spelt tragedy, but not until the explosive and surprising climax of the play is their sacrifice made clear and the identity of the murderer revealed. West Coast Players Theatre, 19 Commerce Center, 21905 US 19 N, Clearwater. 727 437-2363; www.wcplayers.org/

The Producers - March 1-17 Glitz! Glamour! Guffaws! Mel Brooks’ record-breaking, 12-time Tony Award-winner. This laugh-out-loud musical comedy is the story of scheming producer Max Bialystock and his mousy accountant Leo Bloom. Bloom discovers that under the right circumstances they could make more

money producing a Broadway flop than they could with a hit. The two set out to produce the worst Broadway musical of all time (the gloriously offensive “Springtime For Hitler”). But what will they do when their sure-to-offend musical becomes a surprise sensation? You’ll find out with this great big, over-the-top, fun-filled musical comedy. This is a Mel Brooks production and, as such, is an equal opportunity offender, containing adult language and situations. Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo Florida. 727-587-6793. www.eightoclocktheatre.com

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Early Bird Dinner Theatre Murder Among Friends March 7 - April 28

roadway star Palmer Forrester and his wife, Angela, one of the richest young women in the country, are finding their marriage less than it might be. That’s why Angela and Palmer’s young agent, Ted, plan to murder the unsuspecting Palmer, leaving them free to marry. Their plan is foolproof. With the aid of a hit man posing as

a burglar, their agenda is detailed down to the second. They even have witnesses to keep suspicion from falling on them. Jack Cassidy is a matinee idol; Janet, his wife, is having an affair with his agent. The agent is secretly Jack’s lover. The husband & wife are both plotting with the agent to murder each other. 200 South McMullen-Booth Rd, Clearwater, FL. 446-5898; www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com

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Circle Mirror Transformation March 7-24

strangers. 6 weeks. Seduction. Sorrow. War. In this hilarious and touching play by Annie Baker, we catch glimpses of the poignant drama that animates ordinary lives in a small town acting workshop. Hailed as “absorbing, unblinking and sharply funny” by the New York Times, it celebrates the subtle and surprising transformative power of creativity where secrets come to light in unexpected ways.This critically acclaimed show won the 2009 Obie Award for Best New American Play. Featuring: DIANE DEHN, KIBWE DORSEY, LIZZIE KEHOE, DAWN TRUAX and JIM WICKER. Directed by

KARLA HARTLEY. Stageworks Theatre, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa FL 33602; 813-251-8984. www.stageworkstheatre.org

AIN’T RETIREMENT GRAND! March 8 - 31

“Ain’t Retirement Grand!” the musical that broke all attendance records at Venue Theatre is returning again by popular demand, March 8 - March 31. The musical by Gil Perlroth, who also penned “Gulfport The Musical” and “Francis Wilson: The Man And His Theater” as well as the recent hit, “Once Upon A Bench,” has new songs, new jokes, and a new cast consisting of Nancy Wright, Susan Taylor, Mike Arnold, and Bill Harber and is directed by Daniel Harris. “Ain’t Retirement Grand!” is a spoof on the subject of retirement and contains songs about Early Bird Specials, Grandchildren, Wills, Doctors, Pets, and Exercise among others. With more than 20 original songs, the show appeals to retirees, those about to retire, baby boomers, seniors and anyone who wants a fun evening in the theater. Performances are March 8 - March 31. Friday and Saturday performances at 8 pm; Sunday matinees at 2:30 pm.

Venue Theatre and Actors Studio is located at 9125 US Hwy 19 N, in the Hudson’s Furniture Plaza at Mainlands Blvd in Pinellas Park. Call 727-822-6194 for reservations and more information. www.venueactorstudio.org/

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Memoirs of a Painted Woman Thurs, April 4

The Studio@620 welcomes Karleigh Chase as she gives us a glimpse into the imagined inner workings of such notable women subjects like Marilyn, Mona Lisa, Gala, or The Girl with the Pearl Earring. “Memoirs of a Painted Woman” is a one-woman show that delves into the private lives of the women in some of

the most famous paintings in history. What is it like to be immortalized in a painting? Are these women really who we think they are? Karleigh Chase’s local credits include Delicious Nut at The Studio@620, See You Next Tuesday at the Ltrain, and Stones from God at SPC. The Studio@620, 620 1st Ave. So., St. Petersburg FL 33701; 727-895-6620. www.studio620.org/

www.spcitytheatre.org

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MARCH 8th - 31st 2013

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together from 1929, then married in 1934. The Sterling Society’s program will be accompanied by Spanish foods and sangria. Tuesday, March 19, at 6:30 pm, at the Dunedin Fine Art Center. For more information, 727.298.DFAC www.dfac.org/

Spend an Evening With

Gala Dali March 19

ctress Roxanne Fay brings Gali Dali to life through her interpretation scripted by Heather Jones. Both women are cofounders of Blue Scarf Collective. Roxanne has appeared locally at the freefall Theatre, Studio@620, Dali Museum and Disney EPCOT. Gala was Salvador Dali’s wife and muse who inspired and served as frequent model in many of his artworks. Gala and Dali lived

Bernarda Alba March 15 - April 7

ernarda Alba, based on the The House of Bernarda Alba by Federico Garcia Lorca and adapted into a new musical by John Michael LaChiusa (The Wild Party) opens at freeFall Theatre in St. Petersburg, Fl on March 15. After the death of her husband, Bernarda Alba, the dominating mother of five grown daughters, imposes a period of mourning on her household to last eight years. Isolated from the town, and forbidden from forging relationships with men, tension and jealousy mounts within the house. Bernarda Alba reminds us how precious the power to imagine our own future is, how quickly it can be taken away, and how dire the consequences of that loss can be. Combine Lorca’s haunting story with Michael John LaChiusa’s exciting musical score and you have a theatrical event told through the musical passion and power of the castanets, clapping, and stomps of Flamenco. “Bernarda Alba is to know the absolute best of what musicals can and ultimately must be. It’s vital, important, unparalleled work, essential viewing for anyone who truly cares about musical theatre.” – Talkin’ Broad44

way “Michael John LaChiusa has done it again. Bernarda Alba is fascinating, riveting, vibrant and exciting.” – Playbill Online. Chicago based actress Kate Young stars in the title role. Ms. Young was recently seen in Florida Rep’s production of The Importance of Being Earnest. The cast also includes Bay area favorite Alison Burns (Rent National Tour, Janet in American Stage’s The Rocky Horror Show), Regional favorite Laura Hodos (Asolo’s Bonnie & Clyde), Jennifer Byrne (Sally in freeFall’s smash hit Cabaret), Ann Morrison (Broadway’s Merrily We Roll Along, LoveMusik), Meghan Moroney (Broadway’s Mamma Mia), Sarah McAvoy (freeFall’s Romeo + Juliet, American Stage’s August: Osage County) Georgia Mallory Guy, Bela Aquino and Kelly Pekar. Bernarda Alba is directed by freeFall Artistic Director Eric Davis, and musically directed by Michael Raabe (both of freeFall’s smash hit Cabaret). Tampa Bay Flamenco dancer and teacher Caroline Esparza is choreographer. Bernarda Alba runs March 15 through April 7, 2013. For more information (727) 498-5205;

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S T R E C N HOT CO TAMPA BAY TIMES FORUM Alicia Keys ‘Set The World On Fire’ Tour With Special Guest Miguel - Sun, March 24

licia Keys, a 14-time Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and producer, is on tour in support of her new album GIRL ON FIRE. Joining Keys on tour is rising R&B star Miguel who was recently nominated for five Grammy Awards including Song of the Year, Best R&B Performance and Best Urban Contemporary Album. Miguel’s ubiquitous single, “Adorn,” recently reached #1 on Urban, Urban Adult and Rhythmic Radio. “2013 is such a powerful and fun year!! I can feel the energy of this year building and I couldn’t be more excited to go on tour with the new album! Everything is new and this show is so fresh!! and I’m thrilled to have the insanely talented Miguel join me,” said Alicia Keys. “Girl On Fire has been such an empowering and freeing experience for me as an artist. I can’t wait to discover how the new and familiar faces I see on tour embrace the music and the journey we’re taking.” Since her 2001 release of her monumental debut album, songs in A minor, Keys has built an unparalleled repertoire of hits and accomplishments with more than 30 million albums and 25 million singles sold worldwide. Keys became the first female R&B artist to have three consecutive #1 album debuts on the Billboard 200 album chart. Keys is also an accomplished actress, New York Times best-selling author, entrepreneur and a powerful force in the world of philanthropy and in the global fight against HIV and AIDS. For additional information, visit: www.LiveNation.com

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tampa bay times forum André Rieu - and his Johann Strauss Orchestra - Fri, March 8

iolin master André Rieu, one of the best-selling live acts in the world, is returning to the US and Canada with a brand new show. His Tampa concert, part of Rieu’s international, “And The Waltz Goes On Tour”, will be held on Friday, March 8 at 8:00 PM. The tour is named after his successful album for which he collaborated with Sir Anthony Hopkins. Billboard ranked his 2011 tour as the 9th highest grossing tour of the year, just behind Lady Gaga. He has broken all classical concert records, packing stadiums and arenas with more than 700,000 adoring fans each year. Rieu has sold over 32 million albums globally and received 330 platinum awards for his albums. With his natural charisma, Rieu conducts his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra and plays his 1732 Stradivarius violin to create a celebratory atmosphere. The maestro and his orchestra will perform beautiful waltzes on this tour, but the concerts are much more than that. From famous Viennese operettas to film scores, spirituals to musicals, and from folk songs to marches; Rieu’s concerts are a perfect mix of thrilling, romantic, festive and emotional melodies combined with surprises, balloons, beautiful soloists and of course Rieu’s great sense of humor. For additional information, visit: www.LiveNation.com

Leonard Cohen - March 18

THE STRAZ CENTER

fter enchanting audiences worldwide, Leonard Cohen, the legendary singer/songwriter/poet culminated the first series of North American dates with breathtaking engagements at New York’s Madison Square Garden and Barclays Center – and fans were left wanting more. Cohen is a master songwriter, musician and poet whose stunning body of original work has touched the lives of millions. Cohen first shot to the forefront of the music industry in the ‘60s and has remained an inspirational talent and contributor to the industry since he first emerged. His albums Songs of Leonard Cohen (1967), I’m Your Man (1990) and Dear Heather (2004) are rightly considered classics along with the beautiful singles “Hallelujah” and “Suzanne.” He has sold more than 20 million albums worldwide and published 12 books. With a career spanning five decades, Cohen has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame (2008), the Songwriters Hall Of Fame (2010) and is a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient (2010).The tour celebrates Cohen’s highly acclaimed 12th studio album, Old deas. www.strazcenter.org/ 48

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The Florida Orchestra

he Florida Orchestra March concerts cover the range of Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No. 1, a salute to Harlem’s famed Cotton Club and more. March 7: Beloved Ballets – Coffee Concert Series Featuring highlights from Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty, Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet and Stravinsky’s Firebird, among other beloved ballets. Stuart Malina conducts this morning Coffee Concert, with complimentary coffee and doughnuts served before the performance. There will be a Pre-concert Conversation one hour before the concert. Show time: Thu, March 7 at 11am, Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater March 7: An Intimate Collaboration The orchestra and The Studio@620’s next “Intimate Collaboration” focuses on the vitality and creativity of the Harlem Renaissance with lively discussion and music as a prelude to the orchestra’s “A Night at the Cotton Club” concerts on March 8, 9 and 10 (see below). This “Intimate Collaboration” is Wed, Mar. 7, at 7pm at The Studio@620. Reservations are accepted by phone at 727-895-6620, as seating is limited. A suggested donation of $10 is payable at the door. The Studio@620 is located at 620 First Ave. South, St. Petersburg 33701. March 8, 9 and 10: A Night at the Cotton Club – Raymond James Pop Series It’s an all-star cast of trumpeter extraordinaire Byron Stripling, world-class tap dancer Ted Louis Levy and Count Basie songstress Carmen Bradford. It will be a swinging salute to Harlem’s famed Cotton Club with It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing, Dinah, Minnie the Moocher, St. James Infirmary, Bill Bailey, Stormy Weather, Am I Blue, I Can’t Give You Anything But Love, I Got Rhythm, St. Louis Blues and more. Conductor is Jeff Tyzik. Show times: Fri, March 8 at 8pm, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Carol Morsani Hall; Sat, March 9 at 8pm, Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater; Sun, March 10 at 7:30pm, Ruth Eckerd Hall March 15, 16 and 17: Mahler’s Das Lied von der Erde – Tampa Bay Times Masterworks Series The Song of the Earth is a voyage through Mahler’s extraordinary musical world of orchestra and song, as an expression of the desire to understand life’s heart-wrenching melancholic beauty. The concert closes with Haydn’s Symphony No. 45, Farewell. Featuring mezzo-soprano Susan Platts and tenor Vinson Cole, Stefan Sanderling conducts. Show times: Fri, March 15 at 8pm, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Ferguson Hall; Sat, March 16 at 8pm, Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater; Sun, March 17 at 7:30pm, Ruth Eckerd Hall. For information on times and venues, visit www.floridaorchestra.org or call 727.892.3337 or 1.800.662.7286.

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STATE THEATRE

SLEEPING WITH SIRENS With Conditions, Dangerkids, And Lions Lions - March 16 Sleeping With Sirens announces headline the Take It Or Leave It Tour with support from Conditions, Dangerkids and Lions Lions. Sleeping With Sirens acoustic album, If You Were A Movie, This Would Be Your Soundtrack, was produced by Mark Trombino (Jimmy Eat World, Finch, Blink-182). Along with Quinn, Sleeping With Sirens is guitarists Jesse Lawson and Jack Fowler, bassist Justin Hills and drummer Gabe Barham. The band was formed in 2009 by ex-members of bands For All We Know, Broadway and We Are Defiance. The Grand Rapids, Michigan-based group’s first album for Rise Records, With Ears To See And Eyes To Hear, debuted in March 2010 at #7 on Billboard’s “Top Heatseekers” chart, and at #36 on “Top Independent Albums.” Released in May 2011, the record peaked at #78 on Billboard’s “Top 200” chart, as well as #13 on “Top Independent Albums” and #5 in “Hard Rock.” www.sleepingwithsirens.net

Creedence Clearwater Revisted - March 9 Stu Cook and Doug “Cosmo” may not have intended it, but their band Creedence Clearwater Revisited has taken on a startling life of its own. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame rhythm section (bass and drums respectively) from the legendary group Creedence Clearwater Revival launched the Creedence Clearwater Revisited project in 1995 to once again perform live Creedence Clearwater Revival hits - touchstones of a generation. Creedence Clearwater Revisited now performs up to 100 shows a year and has released the album “Recollection.”

Jamey Johnson - March 23 Jamey’s 2008 CD That Lonesome Song achieved Platinum certification as well as the Song of the Year trophies he collected for “Give it Away” and “In Color” from both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association. Johnson has emerged as one of the most important country artists of the last decade, both as a recording artist and songwriter. Jamey recently released Hank Cochran Tribute Album. The relationship between Johnson and Cochran was one of mutual admiration. www.silversprings.com/ 50

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COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM A Quick Look At A Cultural Landmark

he Country Music Hall of Fame is the closest thing country music has to a Smithsonian Institution or a Library of Congress. The museum has been assembling its nearly 2,000,000-item collection since 1967.

The Experience Touring the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is like a journey through time. Arranged over three floors, the exhibits walk you through the entire history of country music, with stops at all the side roads. Everywhere you look, treasures abound that illustrate the story of a vibrant and vital art form. At each station on the tour, you can listen to samples of music from that particular style or era. The Background Since it first opened in 1967 on Nashville’s storied Music Row, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has collected, preserved, contextualized and displayed the myriad elements that make up both the art and the business of country music. In 2001, the museum relocated to its custom-designed current home at 222 Fifth Avenue South in downtown Nashville. So You Don’t Like Country Music You’ll still be inspired and informed by all the museum has to offer. Each item is exhibited as part of a larger musical, social, political or historical pattern. Timelines on the wall near some of the displays cite significant national and world events that occurred

during that musical period. Some Treasures: STAR VEHICLES: Elvis Presley’s 1960 Solid Gold Cadillac limousine, Webb Pierce’s 1962 Pontiac Bonneville convertible. FANCY THAT: Stage costumes galore, Hank Snow’s Golden Rocket Nudie suit, Jim Reeves’ tuxedo jacket, Patsy Cline’s cocktail dress, Hank Williams’ Nudie suit. BAND ROOM: Mother Maybelle Carter’s Gibson L-5, Ralph Stanley’s banjo, Elvis’ gold-leaf piano, Bob Wills’ fiddle, Bill Monroe’s mandolin, and dozens of other historic instruments. PAPER TRAILS: Dolly Parton’s handwritten lyrics to Jolene, Merle Haggard’s pardon signed by Ronald Reagan. They Say Country music is still devoted to the lyric and to the telling of stories, which people love and people need. Country music artists took what they heard around them, material that was in the air and that was common currency, and they made something entirely new. This is a museum that preserves their memory so that they can continue to inspire creators in the future. It’s also a museum that honors the people who their music was made for. Those people are all of us, people who’ve ever been lost or confused or sad or felt excluded. For more information, visit www.countrymusichalloffame.org/

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CARRIE UNDERWOOD THE BLOWN AWAY TOUR EXHIBITION Opens June 5th At The Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum

he Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will explore superstar Carrie Underwood’s critically acclaimed world tour with the exhibition Carrie Underwood: The Blown Away Tour, which opens on June 5, 2013, and runs through November 10, 2013. The exhibition will include costumes, instruments, microphones, set pieces and more from the six-time Grammy winner’s 2012-13 “Blown Away Tour,” which runs through May 23. “Carrie Underwood’s dynamic ‘Blown Away Tour’—starring her powerhouse vocals and featuring amazing special effects including a tornado— has been entertaining music fans around the globe,” said Museum Director Kyle Young. “It’s easy to see why she was Pollstar’s 2012 top female country touring artist. We are delighted to be able to show our visitors key elements from Carrie’s show; whether re-living their favorite memories of the ‘Blown Away’ tour, or experiencing it for the first time via our exhibition, fans will enjoy this ‘up close and personal’ look at a world-class, superstar level music tour.” Carrie Underwood’s current release, Blown Away, made history last year when it debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums Chart, making the Oklahoma native only the second country artist in the 47-year history of the chart to have each of their first four albums debut at #1. Blown Away also debuted at #1 on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart, making her only the second country artist in history to have three consecutive albums debut at #1. Blown Away became country’s best-selling digital album debut since 2010. In addition to reaching #1 on the country airplay charts, “Good Girl” and title-track, “Blown Away,” have both been certified platinum for selling more than one million digital downloads. Since releasing her debut, Some Hearts, in 2005, Underwood has sold more than 15 million albums with Some Hearts, 2007’s Carnival Ride, 2009’s Play On and 2012’s Blown Away, making her the best-selling American Idol in the U.S. She’s accumulated 16 #1 singles, seven of which she co-wrote, and she became the first country artist in history and the only American Idol winner ever to achieve 10 #1 singles from her first two albums. In addition to being a six-time Grammy Award winner, Underwood is a two-time Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year, a three-time Country Music Association and ACM Female Vocalist winner, and a proud member of the Grand Ole Opry. More information about the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is available at www.countrymusichalloffame.org

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MUSIC TRAX

Jazz LISA HILTON - American Impressions www.lisahiltonmusic.com As composers Gershwin, Copland and others have done, Hilton creates musical experiences focused on impressionistic views of everyday life in America. Once again backed with the creative force of J.D. Allen on tenor sax, Larry Grenadier/bass and Nasheet Waits/drums, Hilton explores 21st Century jazz. GIL EVANS - Ryan Truesdell Presents CENTENNIAL Newly Discovered Works of Gil Evans www.gilevansproject.com This CD features thirty-five of New York’s top musicians, including Lewis Nash, Donny McCaslin, Steve Wilson, Frank Kimbrough, Greg Gisbert and Marshall Gilkes performing previously unheard works written by luminary jazz pianist, arranger, composer

JESSY J Hot Sauce

and bandleader Gil Evans throughout his decades-long career. ASUKA KAKITANI JAZZ ORCHESTRA - Bloom www.asukakakitani.com Asuka Kakitani has attracted some of New York’s finest jazz artists with her adventurous, melodically charged music. Her 18-piece orchestra makes a stunning debut with Bloom. A series of watercolor washed canvases, Bloom focuses on Kakitani’s original compositions and arrangements with music that unfolds with poetic flair and canny narrative drive. ERIC ERHARDT - A Better Fate www.ericerhardtmusic.com A Better Fate is saxophonist Eric Erhardt’s debut CD as a leader and features eight of his original compositions. The material ranges from modern jazz to acoustic fusion. Intricate harmonies and thoughtful melodies, infused with Brazilian, Afro-Cuban, swing, and rock rhythms.

ith her sizzling mix of hot beats, Latin and samba rhythms, instantly captivating melodies and model looks, Jessy J proved quite the sensation when Tequila Moon was released in 2008. Her third album, Hot Sauce, spotlights her collaborations with some of today’s most prominent contemporary jazz musicians, including guitarists Paul Brown and Ray Parker Jr, keyboardists Joe Sample and Gregg Karukas, and drummer Harvey Mason of Fourplay. Hot Sauce showcases eight originals along with adventurous new arrangements of Francis Anthony ‘Eg’ White’s pop hit “Leave Right Now” and Duke Ellington’s jazz classic “In a Sentimental Mood.” www.jessyj.com

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WORLD

Paz Del Castillo Eleven Drops

ne of Spain’s most important solo pianists, Paz del Castillo is able to touch people’s hearts and convey thoughts and emotions with her music. Nature is one of her main inspirations, but the memorable melodies on Eleven Drops were inspired by many different aspects of her life, and explored with variations on a theme.

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TRINE OPSAHL - Somewhere In A Hidden Memory www.trineopsahl.com Trine Opsahl’s sound draws on Nordic musical traditions, yet with spiritual inspiration. She has established herself over the years as a renowned New Age Celtic harp player and composer in Europe. Trine lives to share and express her music within her community and with the world, and does just that on Somewhere In A Hidden Memory. NAZARENES - Meditation www.igraderecords.com The reggae music on the Nazarenes new album, Meditation, was born in the African-derived culture of Jamaica’s black communities. The Nazarenes’ (brothers Noah and Medhane Tewolde) music reflects the journey of reggae and invokes organic, contemporary connections between Jamaica, Africa and people everywhere.

MANUEL GALBAN - Blu Cha Cha www.concordmusicgroup.com Blue Cha Cha celebrates the life of legendary Cuban guitarist Manuel Galbán, who passed away in 2011. With his uniquely personal stylistic elegance, Galbán could transform any tune into a gem, adapting it to a language ahead of its time, where the sounds of the instrument bore as much significance as the discourse of the guitar. This CD is his final gift to the world. ELIKEH - Between 2 Worlds www.elikeh.net Elikeh knows how to get the fire burning. They channel that energy into funkified pop anthems and thoughtful critiques of corruption, ignorance, and cultural neglect. On Between 2 Worlds, the group digs deep into the African vintage pop inspiration, the reggae vibes, and African-inflected funk and blues. With bold brass, and interlocking percussion Elikeh mixes precision with just enough raw power to pack a punch.

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NewAge JIM HUDAK - Embracing Winter www.jimhudak.com Jim Hudak’s latest release, Embracing Winter, is a collection of 14 songs, featuring pianobased instrumentals. Jim has been performing since age 10, and his music has a universal appeal, and includes elements of classical, pop, jazz and county. JILL HALEY - Zion & Bryce Canyon Soundscapes www.jillhaley.com Jill Haley is an oboist, English horn player and pianist who composes music for the National Parks. She is often invited to play her English horn improvisations on such performers’ recordings as Fiona Hawkins, Ann Sweeten and others. Her soulful music on this recording is inspired by the beauty in Zion and Bryce Canyon Parks in Utah. LAURA McMILLAN - Linger Longer www.lauramcmillanpiano.com/ Pianist Laura McMillan blends both traditional classical piano elements and a strong appreciation of Broad-

way music with modern age and neo-classical motifs to create her own sound. Her musical message is to wring as much pleasure as you possible can from special times, to make the most of them, and not just let them fly by. SOULFOOD - Yogi Chill www.soulfoodmusic.com Yogi chill is a 60 minute beatmixed, hypnotic musical journey of tranglobal electronica, tribal rhythms, world flutes and exotic chants. Perfect for energetic Yoga, active meditation, working out or even a cocktail party. Yoga meets chill. BONNIE WHITEHURST - The Dark Island www.bonniewhitehurst.com/ A lifelong musician, composer and teacher, Bonnie Whitehurst has developed an eclectic musical style, playing a variety of instruments. On The Dark Island, she invokes her Irish/Welsh roots and presents a full 19-track CD of Celtic music.

Tryshe Dhevney

Crystal Bowl Sound Healing www.soundshifting.com

inging bowls have been used for centuries as a tool for shifting into meditative states and emotional quietude. Researcher and music artist Tryshe Dhevney has found that specific gemstone-infused crystal bowls resonate with powerful healing properties. These five suites, recorded in Arizona’s reverberant Colossal Cave, were designed to amplify our natural bio-frequencies for healing and balancing at every level. Upon first listening to this extraordinary music, many report an immediate sense of soothing calm, relaxation, and centering. Ideal for use by body workers, energy healers, meditators, or anyone looking for a profoundly peaceful listening experience.

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COUNTRY LAURA SULLIVAN Love’s River www.laura-sullivan.com/

CLINTON GREGORY Too Much Ain’t Enough www.melodyroundupmusic.com After a 17-year absence from performing, master fiddler Clinton Gregory has returned with his new CD, Too Much Ain’t Enough. As expected, the recording showcases his world-class fiddle wizardry and multi-faceted musical talents, and takes the listener on a journey of self-discovery.

inger/songwriter/pianist Laura Sullivan composes soft Adult Contemporary/ Classical and New Age Music. Her latest album includes eleven tracks of emotional and soul touching piano music combined with cello, acoustic guitar, English horn, oboe, flugel horn, and trumpet. She is joined on the album by renowned performers, such as Will Ackerman and Jeff Oster.

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J. CHARLES AND THE TRAINROBBERS Upon Leaving www.thetrainrobbers.com Country morphs into rock and back again with a pinch of punk thrown in with J. Charles & The Trainrobbers. The Dallas-based band’s insistent, urgent roadhouseripping sound thrives on their new album Upon Leaving. They are very comfortable playing roots-based music with an aggressive style.

NO END OF NOW - Some Music We Made www.noendofnow.com Some Music We Made presents ten original compositions from avant-garde guitarist, Rex Shepherd and his trio, No End Of Now. The tracks fuse jazz, rock, funk, blues and world music offering an infectious, hypnotic vibe that is ever-evolving. This power trio loves to jam.

DETHKLOK Metalocalypse: Dethklok Dethalbum III www.myspace.com/dethklok Dethklok returns with songs from Metalocalypse, the hit Adult Swim show centers around the metalest band, Dethklok. As the band goes about their daily affairs, the evil Tribunal tries in vain to stop Dethklok from expanding their empire. Dethalbum III offers 12 brand new tracks that are more brutal than ever before. Prepare for an onslaught of bone-crunching Nordic riffs.

MISS MAY I At Heart www.myspace.com/missmayi Metal mavericks Miss May I’s album At Heart refreshingly isn’t full of hate as with most metal bands. Instead they have written songs about things that are personal to them. They are anything but soft, however, continuing to hammer out their pummeling metal. There’s no computer enhancement here. If it couldn’t be played live, it didn’t go on the album.

EMACULENT 15 Min. to E www.emaculent.com Emaculant delivers the grit, the art and the skills, as well as swagger on his debut album, 15 Min. to E. The album is filled with megavoices like Ray J, E-40, Bone Thugs, Toshi Yanagi, Danny Levin, LULU, Capt. Invengo, and more, producing street smart hip-hop that combines different genres. It results in a welcome crossover for a broader appeal.

ROCK n RAP

illette Johnson is touring through Florida performing with American Idol winner Kris Allen, on two dates - Jan 22 (State Theatre, St. Petersburg) and Jan 23 (The Back Booth, Orlando). Jillette is on tour in support of her debut EP, Whiskey & Frosting. With influences like Joni Mitchell, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel and Carole King, her EP is an intimate and boldly emotional fivesong collection of stately pop from a unique artist. Johnson explores the raw and controversial in her lyrics. Whiskey & Frosting was Produced by Peter Zizzo, widely respected for developing Vanessa Carlton and Avril Lavigne, and also Michael Mangini, esteemed for his work with Joss Stone, Bruce Hornsby, and David Byrne. Visit www.jillettejohnson.com

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Tasty Food and Drinks! Lee Roy Selmon’s

Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott-Martino

Sports Restaurant with Tasty Comfort Food

ee Roy Selmon’s opened its eighth restaurant on Florida’s West Coast recently in Carrollwood, preceded a few months before with a new location in Brandon. Best known for its soul-satisfying comfort food served with heartwarming hospitality, the restaurant always becomes a local favorite since first opening in Tampa’s Westshore area in 2000. The restaurant serves as a tribute to the late NFL Hall of Famer and former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Lee Roy Selmon - athlete, family man and community leader. He used to say how rewarding it was to him to see customers enjoying the cooking traditions he remembered from his days spent on his family’s farm in Oklahoma where they harvested the land together. Lee Roy Selmon’s wife Claybra with their son, Chris. The restaurant features generous portions of mouthtination for the sports enthusiast. Its design watering food. Some allows for a free-flowing environment that menu items are Mablends the comfort of the dining room with ma’s Meatloaf, Sela lively sports bar, complemented with Lee mon’s Sweet Heat Roy Selmon’s and local sporting memoraFried Chicken, Cedar bilia. It’s a spirited atmosphere with multiple Plank Salmon, Fried high def televisions located throughout the Green Tomatoes, bar and restaurant, a sharing table for lively and Cheese and Badiscussions within the bar and an outdoor con grits. House fapatio that offers an alternative for those vorites include Beef seeking relaxation while enjoying the outBrisket, Short Rib doors. Brisket with Cole Slaw and Smashed Potatoes Mac N Cheese, and For more information and locations, visit Baby Back Ribs with www.leeroyselmons.com a choice of signature sauces. In addition, a bountiful choice of fresh vegetables and lighter fare items include Flatbreads, Smoked Chicken Salad, and Tropical Spinach Salad with grilled Salmon. A wide selection of desserts includes fan favorites — a Georgia Peach Cobbler a la mode and Selmon’s Bread Pudding. A gluton-free menu is also available. Perhaps best news of all in today’s economic climate is that many entrees start at just $10. Smoked Chicken Flatbread Lee Roy Selmon’s is a popular des-

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Steak and Baked Corn

Georgia Peach Cobbler a la mode

Selmonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brandon location features local sports figures

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Indulge in Wellness with Chocolate Treats A

ctive D’Lites is the pioneer in probiotics-infused chocolate bars and ice cream treats. Founded in 2010, Active D’Lites spent years in research and development to deliver an allnatural, GMO-free, low-calorie, low-carb, low sugar, probiotics-powered chocolate and ice cream product line. The company uses a proprietary blend of DuPont HOWARU Premium Probiotics which includes: Bifidobacterium Lactis HN019 and Lactobacillus Acidophilus NCFM in the formulation of its Active D’Lites products. It leverages the benefits of this unique blend of probiotics to help assist digestion and enhance weight loss through its Active D’Lites chocolates and lite ice creams. The chocolate bars come in original chocolate, almond, peanut butter, caramel, chocolate crisp, almond-cranberry, and truffle variety. The lite ice creams come in vanilla, almond, and caramel variety. Made in the U.S.A., all chocolate and ice cream bars contain probiotics and prebiotics – a combination known as synbiotic – that work together to help promote and sustain digestive health and a lifestyle of wellness. For more information, visit www.activedlites.com/

BOLD Organics

Healthy, Organic Pizza Right From Your Oven

iscerning pizza lovers finally have a healthy alternative and the health conscious consumer who has often settled for inferior taste for health reasons finally has a pizza that tastes great. BOLD Organics has developed a variety of frozen, gluten-free and dairy-free thin crust pizzas that are organic, healthy and great tasting. The products are also casein-free, egg-free, peanut-free, and tree nut free and contain no GMOs, preservatives, nitrites, nitrates, or trans-fats. BOLD Organics’ recipes were formulated by founder Aaron Greenwald in conjunction with Executive Chef, Eric Brenner, and come in four varieties of pizza in a small size: a Cheese Pizza; a Veggie Lovers Pizza (containing roasted red peppers, roasted yellow onions and shiitake mushrooms); a Meat Lovers Pizza (containing pepperoni and sausage); and a Deluxe Pizza (combining meat and veggie toppings). The sauce pops with Eric’s signature blend of organic tomatoes and organic herbs & spices. The thin crust crunches with texture achieved from an alternative mixture of organic baking ingredients without the need for gluten. The healthy toppings were scoured from farms throughout the country for the perfect flavors, such as the organic roasted bell peppers, organic roasted onions, and shiitake mushrooms. For non-vegan consumers, they searched for the leanest, tastiest, nitrate-free meats available on the market. Eric and Aaron believe that it’s their mission to show consumers that food products can deliver amazing taste while being healthy for the consumer. For more information on BOLD Organics Pizza, please visit www.bold-organics.com/

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FLEMING’s STEAKHOUSE Tasty Seasonal Tastings By Melissa Wolcott-Martino

am always pleased to receive notice of something new at Fleming’s Steakhouse, and in this case it is their delightful Taste of the Season Menu of 2 courses for $40.95. The first course is a Lemon Ricotta Crostini with Fresh Pear Slices — Ricotta with lemon zest and bosc pear on thin and crispy garlic herb Crostini, drizzled with lemon honey and orange zest. The second course is an Iron Seared Delmonico Steak with Béarnaise butter and spiced blue crab glaçage, accompanied by a crisp potato cake, and fresh heirloom carrots with lemon-garlic butter. The featured cocktail suggested for this offering is a Pomegranate and Sage Margarita, and dessert is a light Almond Soufflé. This is a limited special that will run until March 10, so hurry in!

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f you don’t make it in time for the Taste of the Season - not to worry, the restaurant offers new menu creations regularly, and have recently introduced four tasty new items. A succulent Pan Crisped Pork Belly appetizer is served over goat cheese grits. Peak-of-the-Season Heirloom Tomatoes are served with Burrata cheese for a lovely salad. Braised Short Ribs of Beef are wonderfully flavorful and tender, and are served with arugula and spinach. A very fresh Broiled Pacific Swordfish comes with Israeli couscous and pine nuts. Add to this Fleming’s regular menu offerings, excellent wine list, warm ambiance, and friendly wait staff, and you have a reason to return anytime for a memorable evening of dining. Fleming’s is located at 4322 West Boy Scout Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607. Hours are Monday: Thursday, 5 PM - 10 PM; Friday & Saturday: 4:30 PM - 11 PM; Sunday: 4:30 PM - 9 PM. For more information, please visit www.flemingssteakhouse.com/

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Dining In The Dark Glimpse into Lives of the Blind to Support Sight-Saving Research

he Foundation Fighting Blindness, a national nonprofit focused on sight-saving research, will open guests’ eyes to the challenges of the visually impaired at its 4th Annual Tampa Bay – St. Petersburg Dining in the Dark on Wednesday, April 10, at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in St. Petersburg. To recognize their philanthropic and professional accomplishments in the Tampa Bay community, the Foundation will present its Visionary Award to Hazel and Bill Hough and Patsy and Gene McNichols. Serving as master of ceremonies again this year will be legendary sports personality and Tampa Bay Rays Senior Advisor Dick Crippen. Dining in the Dark is a distinctive sensory awareness experience in which guests participate in an unforgettable dining adventure, in complete darkness. To get a glimpse into the lives of the blind, diners will wear special light-blocking blindfolds and enjoy their entrée using only their heightened senses of smell, sound, taste and touch. The one-of-a-kind event will benefit the Foundation’s cutting-edge research into preventions, treatments and cures for vision-robbing retinal degenerative diseases like macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, Usher syndrome and related conditions.

President and CEO of Tampa-based NexTech Systems, Dr. Majeed is motivated in the fight against blindness because his late mother experienced vision loss later in life, and his mother-in-law is now losing her sight to age-related macular degeneration. “We’re thrilled to honor these visionaries and their notable contributions to the Tampa Bay community, as we come together to support promising advancements happening in gene therapy, stem cell and pharmaceutical-based research

Honorees Hazel and Bill Hough

that stand to one day help the millions affected with retinal diseases.” Co-chairing the event with Dr. Majeed is Foundation Fighting Blindness National Trustee Patricia M. Campbell-Stichweh, whose daughter Melissa became a doctor despite having the vision-robbing disease retinitis pigmentosa. Visionary Award Attendees wear blindfolds and can only enjoy their entrees by recipients Hazel and Bill Hough are smell, sound, taste and touch. well-known Tampa Bay philanthropists, notably supporting The University of Florida with the largest private contribution in the institution’s history, establishing the Hough Graduate School of Business. And, Mr. Hough has made a significant mark on the finance world through founding the investment banking firm William R. Hough & Co. decades ago in St. Petersburg. Also receiving the Foundation’s Visionary Award are philanthropists Patsy and Gene McNichols, Chairman and CEO of McNichols Company, which is North America’s leading supplier of various photos by Wayne Cathel forms of metal. Mr. McNichols currently serves on the board of trustees for “Reactions to Dining in the Dark are truly powerful the David A. Straz Center for Performing Arts and the because the experience opens people up to the daily Tampa General Hospital. challenges of people living with low to no vision,” says Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, 501 5th AvDinner Co-Chair and Foundation Fighting Blindness enue NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. For tickets and National Trustee Dr. Kamal Majeed, of St. Petersburg. more information, visit www.blindness.org 66

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www.surfandturfmarket.com

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COOLSTUFF!

MIGHTY MUG www.themightymug.com Mighty Mug is one clever idea way overdue. Have you ever spilled a beverage on your computer, and then kept your drink just out of arm’s reach to prevent it from happening again? Mighty Mug solves that problem, with a design that won’t let the mug tip over, but is easy to lift up. The mug grips to all flat solid non-porus surfaces (like most desks and tables. Check out their website and you can see it in action. This is one handy product!

HEY SHUGA! www.HeyShuga.com Take rein of the baked goods on the menu with Caribbean Liquid Sugar. Hey Shuga! and Lil’ Shuga! are cane sugar syrups that are 100% USDA organic, glutenfree, GMO free, vegan, kosher and preservative free. Hey Shuga! is a pure cane sugar syrup and Lil’ Shuga! is a blend of both cane sugar and Stevia. These Shuga syrups pour more easily than honey, and professional bakeries love Hey Shuga! because it takes approximately 30% less time to bake. They say their baked goods taste better, stay fresh longer, have better texture, and show superior browning. jenkins jellies Hell Fire Pepper Jelly, Fiery Figs Pepper Jelly, Guava Brava, and Passion Fire Pepper Jelly www.jenkinsjellies.com With balanced layers of heat and sweet and uniquely versatile, Jenkins Jellies go well with just about anything. They’re great smothered atop burgers, hot dogs or meatloaf; paired with a variety of cheeses; used as a marinade or glaze for steak, chicken, salmon, or pork; or to spice up a turkey or peanut butter sandwich. Made with organic ingredients and containing no preservatives, artificial flavors, food coloring or high fructose corn syrup, its ingredients are simple: a blend of seven fresh peppers, organic sugar, vinegar, pectin and sweet notes from figs, guavas, or passion fruits. The entire line is also vegan and naturally gluten-free.

COLONIAL CANDLES New London-Inspired Candle Collection www.ColonialCandle.com Colonial Candle’s new London Destinations Collection celebrates one of the world’s greatest cities – and its cultural and historic richness – with new fragrances including: Chocolate Souffle: Rich custard notes of melted chocolate and caramelized sweet sugar; Afternoon Tea: Relaxing notes of fresh lemon juice, white freesia and fresh brewed tea; Abbey Road: Fresh undertones of green galbanum, earthy musk and flower power top notes; Poppy Fields: A blend of wild strawberry, dew kissed leaves and cream rose petals. Colonial Candle is known for its quality, exclusive fragrances, and style, with more than 100 years of experience in candle craftsmanship, Colonial Candle products are made in the U.S.A.

Grand Marnier Natural Cherry www.grandmarniercherry.com/ Grand Marnier Cherry blends Grand Marnier’s signature premium cognacs with the essence of natural European Griottes cherries. It is an elegant, yet complex blend of wild tropical oranges, European griotte cherries and smooth Cognac. This new spirit marks the inaugural launch of a new series that will introduce a new limited edition flavor each holiday season. Here’s a holiday (or any day) recipe to enjoy: Grand Cherry & spice 2 1/2 oz. Grand Marnier Cherry 1/2 tsp. Freshly grated ginger 1/2 oz. Fresh lime juice 2 oz. Chandon Rosé (chilled) DIRECTIONS: Muddle the ginger in the bottom of a mixing glass. Add Grand Marnier Cherry and lime juice and shake well with ice. Strain into a chilled flute glass and top off with the chilled Chandon Rosé. Stir briefly.

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www.3bestchefs.com/mystic/

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20th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival - March 6-May 19 Whimsical Disney topiary spectacles and sweeping garden landscapes set the colorful scene this year for new festival additions that include food-and-beverage Garden Marketplaces, a circuslike “Land of Oz” play area and nighttime illuminated gardens. Debuting this year: Garden Marketplace culinary creations ranging from smokehouse barbecue and shrimp with grits and Zellwood corn to sweet “frushi” made with fresh fruits and coconut rice. Garden Marketplace refreshing libations with a kick like Hot Sun Tomato Wine from Florida Orange Groves Winery and Dole CHUBBY CHECKER Whip with Spiced Rum, as well as non-alcoholic drinks like Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade and Wild Berry Slush. The Land of Oz Garden circus-like play area, based on the Disney fantastical film adventure “Oz The Great and Powerful”. The interactive children’s play zone will feature play systems adorned with giant flowers and designed to stretch kids’ imaginations and muscles. Midway-style games, circus-themed game tents and the “Oz Movie Garden” of intriguing plants will capture the spirit of the upcoming film.

Larger-than-life Fab Five Disney character topiary. Floral versions of Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto and Donald Duck (with Daisy Duck in a cameo) star in a celebratory cookout scene in living topiary color. Illuminated Gardens in the park’s Future World and World Showcase will twinkle and glow over the festival’s world-famous Disney gardens and topiaries each festival evening. Epcot Future World and World Showcase. Throughout the 75-day garden party, guests will discover festival surprises around every corner including new topiary triumphs, a butterfly bounty, whimsical children’s play areas, HGTV celebrity designers, daily hands-on gardening seminars and a Festival Center packed with events that offer innovative ideas, gardening know-how and design tips. Weekends, top Flower Power rockers of the 1960s and ’70s will perform. The concert series kicks off March 8-10 with Micky Dolenz (“I’m a Believer”) and continues each weekend with pop favorites including: March 15-17: Chubby Checker & The Wildcats; March 22-24: The Guess Who; March 29-31: Nelson; April 5-7: The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie; April 12-14: Paul Revere & the Raiders; April 19-21: Village People; April 26-28: The Orchestra, featuring Former Members of ELO and ELO II; May 3-5: Tommy Roe; May 10-12: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone; May 17-19: Starship starring Mickey Thomas. For more information call 407/824-4321 or visit www.disneyworld.com.

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New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park The expansion of the New Fantasyland – nearly doubling in size — continues at Walt Disney World Resort. Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid, a major attraction where guests travel with Ariel and her friends through their exciting adventures above and below the waves – all against a musical backdrop of songs from the film. Adventurers feel as if they are descending below the ocean’s surface. Once “under the sea,” find themselves immersed in the Park story of New guests Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom “The Little Mermaid.” The expansion of the New Fantasyland – nearly The castle the Beast stands World on a Rehill doubling in size — of continues at Walt Disney across an old from Ariel’s new home. The sort. Slated tostone makebridge their debuts: Be Under Our Guest Restaurant featuresofathe lavish dining expethe Sea - Journey Little Mermaid, rience in the elegant ballroom, gallery, and mysterious a major attraction where guests travel with Ariel and “West Wing” of thetheir castle. Withadventures seating forabove 550, and this her friends through exciting magnificent facility– offers “greata food fast”backdrop service by below the waves all against musical of day andfrom full-service dining infeel theas evening. songs the film.table Adventurers if they Nearby are dein Belle’s Village, guests can surface. find Gaston’s scending below the ocean’s OnceTavern “under and the Bonjour! Village sea,” guests findGifts. themselves immersed in the story of

Belle’s cottage and Enchanted Tales “The Little Mermaid.” with begins in Maurice’s stands on a hill TheBelle. castleThe ofadventure the Beast workshop, where a magical mirror is the doorway to a across an old stone bridge from Ariel’s new home. The captivating newRestaurant kind of storytelling guests Be Our Guest features experience: a lavish dining exare transported to the Beast’s library to meet Belle and perience in the elegant ballroom, gallery, and mysteriLumiere, share in castle. a lively,With interactive re-telling of ous “Westand Wing” of the seating for 550, this the “tale as old as time.” magnificent facility offers “great food fast” service by day and full-service table dining in the evening. Nearby BOWLING RE-IMAGINED SPLITSVILLE: in Belle’s Village, guests can find Gaston’s Tavern and The age-old Bonjour! Villageimage Gifts. of bowling has changed with the recent openingcottage of Splitsville, America’s Bowling Alley, at Belle’s and Enchanted Tales Downtown Disney West Side. with Belle. The adventure begins in Maurice’s Splitsville’s 50,000 squaremirror feet, two-story location workshop, where a magical is the doorway to is a unlike traditional bowling alleys — experience: with 30 lanes sepcaptivating new kind of storytelling guests arated into several clusters createto ameet one-of-a-kind are transported to the Beast’stolibrary Belle and perspective immersed hip and retro elements. The Lumiere, and share in in a lively, interactive re-telling of Downtown Disney location also boasts billiard tables, the “tale as old as time.” live entertainment, a dramatic balcony and ample out-

SPLITSVILLE: door seating. BOWLING RE-IMAGINED The age-old image bowling has changed with the Placing a whole newofspin on the bowling experience recent opening of Splitsville, America’s Bowling Alley, with its emphasis on unique design, Splitsville greets at Downtown Disney West Side. guests with upscale sushi bars, plush booths and dySplitsville’s 50,000 square two-story is namic decor overlooking the feet, bowling lanes.location Between unlike bowling alleys withon30menu lanesitems sepstrikes traditional and spares, guests can — feast arated into several clusters to create a one-of-a-kind including hand-tossed pizza, fresh-rolled sushi, grilled perspective immersed in hip and retro elements.filets The mahi-mahi with “Voodoo” shrimp and hand-cut Downtown Disney location also boasts billiard tables, alongside alley-classics such as cheeseburgers and live entertainment, a dramatic balcony ampleinforoutcrinkle-cut fries served right at the lane. and For more door seating. mation, visit www.splitsvillelanes.com. Placing a whole new spin on the bowling experience with its emphasis on unique Splitsville Design, then test drivedesign, The new Test greets guests upscale sushi bars, plush booths and dyTrackwith Presented by Chevrolet namic decor overlooking the bowling lanes.Presented Between Test Track A re-imagined, design-centric strikes and spares, guests can feast on menu by Chevrolet has debuted with a new “Chevroletitems Deincluding hand-tossed pizza, fresh-rolled sushi, grilled sign Center.” Amid upbeat music, engaging media, mahi-mahi with “Voodoo” shrimpofand hand-cut filets dramatic lighting and a collection Chevrolet concept alongside alley-classics such as cheeseburgers and cars and model vehicles, guests themselves become crinkle-cut fries served right at the lane. For more inforautomotive designers and create their own custom mation, www.splitsvillelanes.com. concept visit vehicles. Then guests buckle into their 6-person “SimCar” ride vehicle and put their design through Design, drive The Test and its paces then on thetest exhilarating hills,new switchbacks Track Presented by Chevrolet straight-aways of the Test Track circuit. Their perforA re-imagined, design-centric Test Track Presented mance testing complete, guests move into a post-show by Chevrolet has debuted with aand neware “Chevrolet Design area filled with special effects scored on how Center.” Amid upbeat music, engaging media, dramatic well their custom concept vehicle did.

lighting and ainformation, collection of Chevrolet concept For more call 407/824-4321 or cars visit and model vehicles, guests themselves become automowww.disneyworld.com.

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S C I T O X E Y T T E P D R A H RIC E C N E I R E P X DRIVING E by Melissa Wolcott Martino

eel a need for speed? Not just any old speed, but the most thrilling auto speed imaginable? Head over to The Walt Disney World Speedway for Richard Petty’s new Exotic Driving Experience. You can choose from luxurious supercars by Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche and Audi to fulfill your fantasy. I’m not a “car person” per se, but I thought I would try it out to see what the big deal was about an exotic car since I will likely never own one unless I win the lottery, which is highly unlikely.

Instructors go over specifics of the ride.

My group picked their ride out of a hat (helmet in this case) and I lucked out with a Ferrari 458 Italia — a red one — very cool. Now, my last experience driving a Getting ready for my Ferrari thrill ride. sports car was in the 60s with my brother’s Triumph TR-3, so this was a little step up. Since I haven’t driven a stick shift since then, I was worried about the drive. No problem, because the Ferrari has an automatic mode, which I readily chose. I was also intimidated by the car’s price tag — $295,000 — yikes! The Richard Petty Exotics Driving Experience starts with a short class by the pro instructors to familiarize you with the track. The program is a 2-hour course including lesson and drive. Offerings include 6, 8, or 10 laps. And, no, you do not take the car out on your own, you have a pro riding shotgun and advising you all the way. I had no idea what a thrill this experience would turn out to be. I started out pretty wimpy, but my pro driver told me to “go for it”. By the third lap I felt more confident of the course, and the car, and my adrenaline was pumping. The one-mile road course has challenging right and left-hand turns, barriers, fencing and rumble strips, and the layout

The Exotic fleet 74

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Ferrari on the track.

you did. My max speed on the backstretch was 106 (felt like 200), but some guy in our group did 115, and some people have even gotten up to 135 at that track. I’m going to start buying lottery tickets. In the meantime, I can just go back to the Walt Disney World Speedway when I want another incredible adrenaline rush.

Ferrari 458 Italia

allows you to experience rapid acceleration to high speeds on the backstretch of the oval and, when you come into the interior section, you can feel the incredible braking and handling characteristics of the car. The Ferrari 458 Italia does 0 to 60mph in 3.2 seconds and 0 to 100mph in 6.7 seconds. I know I let out some “woo hoos” on the backstretch with the Ferrari’s phenomenal acceleration power. Once you trust it, the car handles like it’s part of you. I kind of get the price tag on the car now — it’s an incredible machine. The rides are filmed, so you can purchase your experience and take it home to relive.“Did I really do that?!” Your ride is also timed so you can see how

Last minute pointers.

The Richard Petty Exotics Driving Experiences start at $169 for six laps around the circuit. Rides with a professional driver behind the wheel are available for $99. For reservations, visit exoticdriving.com or call 855822-0149.

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ORLANDO HAPPENINGS Titanic The Experience: Jewels of Titanic thru Mar 12 Titanic The Experience announces new traveling exhibit, Jewels of Titanic in Orlando. Fifteen of the most prestigious artifacts recovered from the wreck site of Titanic are being displayed including diamonds, sapphires, pearls and gold jewelry that once belonged to some of Titanic’s wealthiest passengers. Jewels of Titanic is complimentary with paid admission to Titanic The Experience. 404-842-2600; RMSTitanic.net EMOTIONS DANCE COMPANY HOLDS ANNUAL COCKTAIL BENEFIT “MOVEMENT SPEAKS” March 9 Emotions Dance Company will hold their annual cocktail benefit fundraiser, “Movement Speaks” on Saturday, March 9, from 6-10pm at The Venue (511 Virginia Drive, Orlando). Presale tickets are available starting February 1 through March 7. (407) 788-1659; www.emotionsdance.org 2013 FLORIDA FILM FESTIVAL REVEALS THE BEST OF INTERNATIONAL CINEMA - April 5-14 The 2013 Florida Film Festival includes the harsh tale of a loan shark enforcer with mother issues, a unique coming of age tale set against a British neigh-

borhood, a shocking portrayal of accusation and scandal, and a Capture the Flag contest like you have never seen before. With one Southeast premiere and other international titles in other programs to be announced by March 13th, this year’s Festival, April 5-14, is offering the best in current foreign cinema to audiences in Central Florida. New to the Festival this year is the 76

British Shorts Now! program, featuring several outstanding examples of UK short film. This program is filled with recognizable faces such as Dame Judi Dench (Shakespeare in Love), Tom Hiddleston (The Avengers), Michael Fassbender (Shame), Liam Cunningham (TV’s Game of Thrones), and Mackenzie Crook (TV’s The Office). www.FloridaFilmFestival.com Great American Pie Festival - April 27-28 The 2013 American Pie Council’s Great American Pie Festival returns to Celebration, FL Preserve America’s pie heritage by taking part in the Never Ending Pie Buffet, pie eating contests, pie baking competitions, cooking demonstrations, PieCasso art, the Baker’s Square Pietopia stage with live music and entertainment, games and much more. The event is free. Lakeside Park - 631 Sycamore Street Celebration, FL 34747. www.piecouncil.org 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. 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; 407-239-9223. www.Arabiannights.com

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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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niversal guests can experience all the spirit and excitement of The Big Easy at Universal Orlando Resort’s Mardi Gras 2013 - a family-friendly version of the famous New Orleans street party that features an authentic celebration throughout Universal Studios Florida. On select nights, the Mardi Gras celebration offers an elaborate Mardi Gras parade, a sea of colorfully costumed performers, authentic New Orleans muVATO

DEMI LO

sicians, delicious Cajun cuisine and live concerts by some of today’s most popular artists. Enjoy 14 nights of performances by such acts as DEMI LOVATO, STEVE MILLER BAND, and Matchbox Twenty. Before enjoying the live concerts, guests can dance along with street performers and collect beads by the handful as the Mardi Gras parade makes its way through Universal Studios. Guests can also enjoy the soulful sounds of authentic New Orleans bands that travel straight from The Big Easy to Universal’s French Quarter Courtyard to perform Blues, Jazz and Zydeco music for partygoers. www.universalorlando.com

April 13 - May 4

njoy all the fun of Viva La Musica beginning at noon on Saturdays at SeaWorld. Concerts are located at Bayside Stadium and begin at 3:00 pm. In the event of rain, concerts will move to Nautilus Theater. Celebrate the food, fun, sights and sounds of Latin culture at this annual festival, featuring live concerts by internationally renowned Latin musical artists. All concerts are free with admission. Enjoy savory Latin cuisine prepared by SeaWorld Orlando’s own Executive Chef, Héctor Colón. Lechón, arroz con gandules y pasteles, arroz con pollo, habichuelas rojas y maduros, mofongo con carne frita, alcapurrias and bacalaítos are just some of the items available during Viva la Música. www.seaworldparks.com/seaworld-orlando/Events/Viva-la-Musica

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Angry Birds Space Encounter

at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Opens March 22

ennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has partnered with Rovio Entertainment, creator of Angry Birds franchise including Angry Birds Space, to bring the casual puzzle game to life. The new Angry Birds Space Encounter, set to open at the Visitor Complex on March 22, is the first comprehensive, interactive Angry Birds attraction in the United States designed for people of all ages. The grand opening of Angry Birds Space Encounter will feature an appearance by NASA astronaut Donald Pettit, Ph.D. “This one-of-a-kind experience gives guests an up-close encounter with Angry Birds Space characters in a unique multifaceted adventure featuring Danger Zone, Eggsteroids Slingshot and Red Planet Lazer Challenge,” said Bill Moore, chief operating officer of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Angry Birds Space Encounter, which is included in regular Visitor Complex admission, brings to life the space adventures of the Angry Birds as they follow their kidnapped eggs into an inter-galactic wormhole, come face-to-face with Space Pigs and gear up with heroic superpowers. Visitors encounter six interactive stations designed to engage and immerse guests in a new dimension of Angry Birds Space. “Concepts of human space exploration are incorporated into Angry Birds Space Encounter, reflecting Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s ongoing mission to encourage young people in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields of study,” said Moore. “Kids will love interacting with their favorite Angry Birds Space characters, while parents will appreciate that their children are enjoying the learning experience.” For more information on Kennedy Space Center Complex, visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com

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Wisconsin Getaway to

DOOR COUNTY Story and Photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino

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Asian Brown Rice Salad with Grilled Chicken at The Cookery.

The Beachfront Inn in Baileyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbor has wonderful sunset views.

Ephraim 1934 firetruck

Scenic stop on trolley tour www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Ephraim Moravian Church

With a change of seasons comes thoughts of getting out and traveling. A lot of folks travel from Wisconsin to Florida in the winter, so I, as a Floridian, decided to travel to Wisconsin for a getaway last fall. Where to go? Ask a Wisconsiner where they travel to in their home state. Door County is the popular answer. It has charm, history, a beautiful coastline, and yes, cheese. Door County is a peninsula in the northeast part of the state, named after the strait between Door Peninsula and Washington Island. Actually, the original name from both French explorers and the native Potawatomi Indians was a lot more sinister — Death’s Door. It was shortened somewhere along the line for obvious PR reasons. It was aptly named originally due to some violent history that happened in the area, with many ships foundering in the treacherous waters of the strait, and territorial Indian wars, both of which claimed many lives. But that was then. Now peace reigns over the area, although the strait can still be a tough travel at times for some boats. Door County can be reached by flights into Green Bay or Appleton airports. I flew on Delta from Tampa to Green Bay, then it was about a one hour, twenty minute drive to my first destination, Bailey’s Harbor. I checked in to the Beachfront Inn, a cozy two story inn with a private beach and incredible sunset views. In the evening, Beachfront’s accommodating hosts set a bonfire on the beach surrounded by Adirondack chairs and offerings of s’mores. Some of the most popular attractions in Door County are the lighthouses, and the Cana Lighthouse in Bailey’s Harbor is probably the favorite. Its French hand-crafted Fresnel lens has been in continuous use since it was first lit in 1870, making it one of the few lighthouses in the U.S. whose original lens is still functioning as an active navigational aid. The distance the light can be seen is 18 miles, limited only by the curvature of the earth. Visitors can climb the 97 steps to the top for a fabulous view of Lake Michigan, and an appreciation of a

lighthouse keeper’s job back in the day ascending those steps every night. Now the light goes on and off automatically at dusk and dawn. The keeper’s living quarters have been turned into exhibits and memorabilia about the lighthouse. Only 20 minutes away from Bailey’s Harbor, in the laid-back lakeside town of Fish Creek, the 77-year old Peninsula Players Theatre was presenting the comedy “God of Carnage”. This gem of a theater is the oldest professional resident summer theatre in the USA. High quality plays are presented in this wonderful state-of-the-art theater located in the woods along the lake. My traveling companions and I enjoyed the show before heading out to dinner at a Fish Creek favorite, The Cookery, a family owned restaurant serving creative American cuisine. Their produce as well as meats are locally outsourced for the freshest possible fare. As a visitor, I always like to experience an area by doing an overview tour when available. Door County Trolley Tours have a lot to choose from. My group chose the Scenic Tour, which started at the Orchard Country Winery in Fish Creek, and took us to some breathtaking scenic overlooks, while we learned the lore of the land — some true, and maybe some legend. The Orchard Country Winery & Market, which is where the trolley tours originate, is a wonderful destination in itself. The winery is housed in a 100-year-old dairy barn, and their award-winning wines are mostly made from fruit grown right on property. With over 100 acres of fruit bearing trees and grape vines there is a diverse selection of varietals and blends. Visitors are invited to sample six complimentary tastes before purchasing wine. I was particularly fond of the Honey Crisp Apple, which was sweet and smooth. A 30-minute walking tour of their orchards and vineyards is available as well.

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Cherries are a big deal in Door County. Back in the 1950s the county was known as “Cherryland USA”, so you will find a lot of cherries in this area made up in ways you never thought of — and all mighty tasty. Mid-July is cherry-picking time, and people can pick their own at Orchard Country. Apple season starts up mid-September. The Orchard Country Market is full of flavorful dressings, artisan cheese and homemade jams and jellies among other treats. Voted “the Best Small Town in Wisconsin”, Door County’s Egg Harbor has a beautiful panoramic view of the bay, and lots of interesting shops and restaurants. Located in the shopping area of Liberty Square is Galileo’s Italian Steakhouse, featuring mouth-watering steaks, seafood and pastas. I enjoyed a very flavorful grilled pork with a cherry sauce, served with fresh asparagus and bistro potatoes. Another Door County area oozing charm, is the village of Ephraim, which is proud of it’s Scandinavian heritage, and has preserved many of it’s historical sites. All Ephraim homes are white or natural — no colors. We took a self-guided walking tour of Ephraim, passing by some lovely historic homes, such as the 1853 Iverson House. Out first stop was the historic Anderson general store built in 1858, and operated by the Anderson family for 100 years until it was turned into a museum. Store contents are mostly dated at the turn of the century. Next to the store, an historic warehouse sits on Anderson dock with graffiti covering it’s surface. However, this graffiti is welcome as it is made up of signatures created by the many folks that have docked in Ephraim.

Across the street is the Fire House Museum with 1934 and 1927 firetrucks, as well as old equipment. Enthusiastic volunteers gladly answer any questions visitors may have. Walking up the street we found the original one-room Pioneer Schoolhouse used for K through 8th grade from the 1880 through 1948. It is disheartening to see the same kind of school desk I used as a child in a museum. Lunch at Wilson’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor is a must. This Door County landmark has been operating since 1906, and family-owned since 1950. It has managed to maintain it’s original charm with it’s oldfashioned soda fountain, juke box and knick knacks. The restaurant’s large portions of tasty hamburgers and sandwiches were impressive, but it was the homemade rootbeer and amazing fried cheese curds that put it over the top for me. By the way, Ephraim is the only dry municipality in Wisconsin. We ventured via ferry across the waters of Death’s Door to Washington Island, located about 5 miles off the Northern tip of the Door County Peninsula. No boating mishaps! It is one of the earliest immigrant settlements in Wisconsin dating back to 1865, by people of mostly Scandinavian descent. Tourists go to Washington Island to “get away from it all”. With 700 year-round residents, it swells to 3,000 in the summer. The Island has unique stone beaches, parks, and soil that is particulary kind to apples, cherries and other fruits and vegetables. You will find a lot of deer, pheasant, and quail, but no poisonous animals of snakes — my kind of place! To keep the island rural, you have to own 5 acres of land before you can build a house.

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Fish Boil at Square Rigger Restaurant

Cana Lighthouse walk

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Fish Creek Shops

Spooky Ghost experience on trolley tour 85

Making jewelry in the Hands-On Studio

Cana Lighthouse site manager, Dwight Zeller, displays the tiny bulb that runs the lighthouse Fresnel lens today.

Maritime Museum’s John Purvis tugboat originally built in 1919, restored to 1960s look.

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Maritime Museum’s ship’s wheel display.

Visitors can catch the Cherry Train open air tram right at the pier for a 2-hour narrated tour of Washington Island, and if you would like to stay overnight, you will not find any chain hotels or motels. All accommodation are refreshingly unique. Exploring the island via the tram, we found some interesting places, such as The Ostrich Farm, and the Farm Museum, which exhibits farm life as it was in the 1880s, with home, barn, farm tools and animals. Did you know that an ostrich lives about 50 years, and the males sit on the eggs for 1 1/2 months? The Schoolhouse Beach stop was intriguing, as there are only 4 such beaches in the world. Instead of sand, the beach is all limestones — looking lovely, but not great for bare feet. Perhaps the most interesting stop for me was the architecturally striking Stavkirke Church. Constructed in 1991 by local carpenter/ members of the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, it is patterned after a medieval Norwegian style church, using Viking shipbuilding techniques — tongue and groove joinery, ship frames and shaped masts. Set in the woods surrounded with only the sounds of nature, the church is a great place for reflection. Keeping with the Scandanavian theme, we stopped in for lunch at The Danish Mill, which is not hard to miss, as the building looks like a windmill. Inside are Dutch knick knacks, locally made preserves, fresh sandwiches and, yes, cherry pie. It was back to the mainland and time for a change of scenery, so I checked out of the Beachfront in Bailey’s Harbor and into the Door County Lighthouse Inn B&B in Egg Harbor. I felt at home the minute I walked in the door. Hosts Claire and Frank Murphy couldn’t be more

accommodating, and have created a most comfortable and cozy environment for their guests. Each room is named after one of Door County’s lighthouses. My room (Eagle Bluff) had a queen bed, private bathroom, fireplace, and balcony overlooking the harbor in the near distance. The breakfasts are delicious, and are changed daily. When I returned to my room on a chilly evening, I turned on my fireplace, even though the room had it’s own thermostat. (Living in Florida, it’s something I rarely see or get to use.) A cozy room, a lovely pouffy comforter, and I was off to dreamland in no time. the Lighthouse Inn offers some enticing packages all year long during different seasonal events. A very popular dining highlight in Door County is the Authentic Fish Boil from May through October, at the Square Rigger Galley in Jacksonport, on Lake Michigan. Going on for 30 years now, they cook locally caught whitefish in a huge pot over an open fire outside the restaurant. Back inside, they serve the fish with new potatoes, onions, coleslaw, rye bread, cherry pie ala mode, vegetables, and beverages. This is definitely a fun and tasty experience. In Sturgeon Bay, located on the waterfront, is the Door County Martime Museum, created to celebrate and preserve the county’s maritime history. This would actually be a good place for a tourist to start, as you get a good overview of the whole peninsula. Ship building in Sturgeon Bay made it what it is today. Folks at the museum build a small wooden boat every year to keep boat building alive. Inside are maritime displays, ship models and the information and history of Door County’s lighthouses. Outside is the 1919 Tug, John Purves, in fantastic shape after years of loving restoration to the look it had in the 1960s. You can explore the boat (which was also used in WWII) along with volunteer guides.

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The utter charm of Door County seems like a natural for inviting artists to work and be inspired, and so it does. In Fish Creek there is the Woodwalk Gallery, a wonderful contemporary art gallery housed in an 1890s barn. It features the work of 42 regional artists, as well as a venue for concerts, theater and events. The strawbale construction studio creates the perfect ambiance for viewing the art. Some great fun was had by all at the Hands On Art Studio also in Fish Creek. This large complex (8,000 sq ft) of different art media rooms has something of interest for everyone, from children to adults. They supply the tools and help, you supply the talent. And talent is a relative term here, since it’s all about having fun. Visitors can try their hand at fused glass, lampworking, metal, jewelry, ceramics, glassware, wood, and mosaics. No reservations, just drop in. I tried glass fusing on a small scale — a jewelry pendant. I could get hooked. It’s pretty cool wearing something you created yourself. With all the lighthouses and the unfortunate history of “Death’s Door,” you know there have to be ghost stories floating around. And so there are, and you can hear them all on the Trolley Of the Doomed which takes you around to different “spiritual” points of interest. We heard tales of unusual murders, haunted buildings and maritime frights. We stopped at the historic 1875 Noble House, which during the day is an interesting home furnished as it was “back in the day”, but at night with only 88

a flashlight by our goulish guide, going through it is downright creepy. A visit to an old overgrown gravesite using only a flashlight was also pretty spooky. Our driver was just the right mix of humor and fear. Everyone on board thoroughly enjoyed the trip. Some Wisconsiners enjoy getting away to Florida in the winter, and I found plenty of reasons to visit Door County in the spring, summer and fall.

If You Go...

Bailey’s Harbor: baileysharbor.com Beachfront Inn, Bailey’s Harbor: 866-2510750; beachfrontinn.net/ Cana Island Lighthouse: dcmm.org/cana-island-lighthouse/ Cherry Train Tours, Washington Island: cherrytrain.com The Cookery: cookeryfishcreek.com/ Door County Lighthouse Inn: dclighthouseinn.com/ Door County Martime Museum: dcmm.org Door County Trolley Tours: doorcountytrolley.com/ Delta Airlines: delta.com Egg Harbor: eggharbordoorcounty.org Ephraim: ephraim.org Fish Creek: visitfishcreek.com/ Galileo’s Italian Steakhouse: libertysquareshops.com Hands On Art Studio: handsonartstudio.com Noble House: historicnoblehouse.org Orchard Country Winery & Market: orchardcountry.com/ Peninsula Players Theatre: peninsulaPlayers.com Square Rigger Galley: squareriggergalley.com Stavkirke Church (Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church): washingtonisland-wi.com Trolley Of the Doomed: doorcountytrolley.com/ Washington Island: washingtonisland-wi.com/ Wilson’s Restaurant & ice Cream Parlor: wilsonsicecream.com Woodwalk Gallery: woodwalkgallery.com

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Orchard County Winery

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Delicious Cheese Curds at Wilsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant

trolley tour view. 89

Art Lines PHOTOGRAPHING THE CITY - thru May 26 This exhibition explores how nineteenthand twentieth-century photographers responded to cities and towns, presented and preserved their history, and influenced their perception by the public. Among the artists represented are Berenice Abbott, Walker Evans, Aaron Siskind, Weegee, and Garry Winogrand. The major themes include transportation, commerce, disaster, and community. Both documentary and fine art photographs are on view. The earliest image is an albumen print, Panorama of Paris (1852) by Edouard Baldus, one of the great photographers of architecture and monuments. The exhibition has a number of albumen prints, one of the first photographic processes, as well as two striking cyanotypes, with their blue cast, of The Paris Exposition of 1900 by Albert Levy. The most recent image is Garry Winogrand’s famous 1970 photograph of people gathering in front of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, from his series Women are Beautiful. History comes alive through images of storefronts and factories, railroads and bridges, street scenes from cities like New York and Paris, and urban disasters like the San Francisco earthquake and fire of 1906, which resonate with our own like hurricanes Sandy and Katrina. The presence of people is felt even in the photographs of buildings and sites alone.

PHILIP PEARLSTEIN RETROSPECTIVE: Philip Pearlstein’s People, Places, Things 90

March 2 - June 16 Philip Pearlstein’s People, Places, Things is the most comprehensive retrospective of his art to date and features 62 paintings, drawings, and prints. Many have never before been seen by the public or outside of New York City. Born in 1924 in Pittsburgh, Mr. Pearlstein studied at Carnegie Tech (now Carnegie Mellon University), where he formed a friendship with fellow student Andy Warhol (then Warhola). When he was stationed in Jacksonville for training during World War II, he produced a series of watercolors focusing on army life and the tropical landscape, and later served in Italy, designing signs and diagrams and sketching symbols for maps. After graduating from college, Mr. Pearlstein set off for New York with Warhol. His powerful painting Superman (1952), from The Museum of Modern Art, made him a forerunner of Pop Art. Mr. Pearlstein completed an MA in art history at The Institute of Fine Arts at New York University and began his career as a highly respected and popular professor of art. During his time at Pratt, he produced expressionist landscapes and other works in response to Abstract Expressionism. He presents his models together and singly and in highly unusual poses. The perspectives are compelling and parts of the body, including the head, are sometimes cut off. The models usually do not look at or particularly relate to each other, or the viewer. He has increasingly positioned his models with a wide array of objects, seemingly turning human figures into still life elements. Reflections in mirrors add another dimension to his compositions. These juxtapositions of figures and objects create tension and complexity. Mr. Pearlstein’s work is in more than 75 public collections.

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ART IN BLOOM’S FLORAL DESIGNS with Special Guest CHRISTOPHER STILL - March 10 - 12 Art in Bloom, sponsored by The Stuart Society and the MFA, is a vibrant spring tradition and presents some of the most imaginative floral designs in the area. The exhibition and festivities begin Saturday, March 9, with the premiere of the exhibition and “Flowers After Hours,” the preview party in the evening. Talented Florida artist Christopher Still will be the special guest during “Conversations with the Designers,” on Sunday, March 10, from 2-4 p.m., and author Kathryn Crisp Greeley is the speaker at the Art in Bloom Luncheon on Monday, March 11. The floral arrangements will remain on view through Tuesday, March 12. Bonus demonstrations will be held during the week, before Art in Bloom begins. The designs respond to individual works in the collection and entire Museum galleries and spaces. They have been created by both talented professionals and “hobby” designers. There will be docent-led tours at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday. The MFA Café will serve a unique dish with a floral theme each day from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission to Art in Bloom includes the special exhibitions Philip Pearlstein’s People, Places, Things and Photographing the City. Award-winning Florida artist Christopher Still will discuss his impressive painting Orchids (1991), from the MFA Collection. A resident of Tarpon Springs, Mr. Still has earned critical acclaim and a large following for his artistic exploration of Florida. 255 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-896-2667; www.fine-arts.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

AMERICAN ART FROM THE PHILLIPS COLLECTION: To See As Artists See - Through April 28 Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino

Edward Hopper’s 1926 “Sunday”

he Tampa Museum of Art recently opened it’s new exhibit, To See as Artists See: American Art from The Phillips Collection. Seventy-five American artists are represented spanning a period from the 1850s through the 1960s with art purposefully collected by Duncan Phillips. The represented artists are some of the most recognized names in the history of modern American art, such as Winslow Homer, Thomas Eakins, Childe Hassam, Rockwell Kent, Georgia O’Keeffe, Edward Hopper, Grandma Moses, Jacob Lawrence, Jackson Pollock, Clyfford Still, and Mark Rothko. Duncan Phillips was one of the few collectors between the wars to champion America’s artistic diversity, collecting works by self-taught artists, artists of color, immigrants, and naturalized Americans. This early commitment to American artists of fresh vision propelled the Phillips (Museum located in Washington, D.C.) as a force in American art. Phillips was always “in the moment” in his appreciation and investment in the arts, and tended to look forward rather than back in collecting. He was the first to place a Grandma

The Romanticism and Realism themed gallery 92

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Moses painting in a museum. Phillips Collection Curator, Sue Frank, was in attendance at the opening of the exhibit, and walked media through the galleries describing the importance of the various artists to their time periods. She explained that it wasn’t until the 1940s that American artists received any real credibility in the art world. The Tampa Museum of Art has arranged the spacious six galleries of the exhibit to provide an excellent line of sight to the timeline flow of the art, as well as hanging the paintings according to theme. For more information on the Phillips Collection, visit www.phillipscollection.org. The Tampa Museum of Art is located at 120 Gasparilla Plaza Tampa, FL 33602. For more information, visit www.tampamuseum.org/

Phillips Collection Curator, Susan Behrends Frank, PHD

A section of the Abstract Expressionism gallery

Legacy of Cubism gallery with an Alexander Calder mobile

Phillips was an early exponent of the value of self-taught artsts of color. wHorace Pippin’s 1943 “Domino

Grandma Moses’ 1944 “Hoosick Falls In Winter”

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Mythic Creatures of China - thru July 14, 2013 Chinese artists have portrayed animals in ceramics across thousands of years of the country’s continuous history. These animals cap-

tured the imaginations of Chinese potters as they sought to portray animals they had seen, and others they could only imagine. Drawn from the Ringling’s collection of Chinese ceramics, these animals will tickle your fancy with their stories, legends and vibrancy. Almost one hundred objects are presented, including dragons, butterflies, fish and phoenix. Paolo Veronese - thru April 14 Paolo Veronese (1528–1588) was one of the giants of Venetian painting, the most elegant of the triumvirate that also included Titian and Tintoretto. Veronese is perhaps best known for his grand ceiling paintings and large scenes of Biblical feasts. Yet throughout his successful career, he and his workshop also created imposing altarpieces and smaller religious paintings, striking portraits, depictions of sensual episodes drawn from the

classical tradition, and allegories glorifying the Venetian state. HERB RITTS: L.A. Style - ThruMay 19 Herb Ritts (American, 1952–2002) was a Los Angeles-based photographer who established an international reputation for his distinctive photographs of fashion models, nudes, and celebrities. From the late 1970s until his untimely death from AIDS in 2002, Ritts’s ability to create photographs that success-

fully bridged the gap between art and commerce was a testament to the power of his imagination and technical skill, and marked the synergy between art, popular culture, and business that followed in the wake of the Pop Art movement of the 1960s and 1970s. 941-358-3180, or visit www.ringling.org 94

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Dodie O’Keefe: A Colorful Life - March 15 - April 6

celebration of the life and work of artist Dodie O’Keefe, a painter, designer, illustrator, and stylist. This exhibition celebrates the life and work of the late Dodie O’Keefe. Dodie wasn’t simply an artist (there was nothing simple about her), she was a walking work of art. Her sense of style, color and design were evident in everything she did (and wore!). So many of her artist friends and acquaintances benefited from her generosity of spirit and ideas. Her critical eye was sharp and insightful and she wasn’t shy about voicing her opinions. If she liked you and/or your work, she was on the lookout for you…considering other artists you would like, people you should know, opportunities you should know about. Florida Craftsmen Inc, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701; 727 821-7391; www.floridacraftsmen.net/

FLORIDA MUSEUM of PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS A Couple of Ways of Doing Something: Photographs by Chuck Close, Poetry by Bob Holman - thru March 31 Born in 1940 to a workingclass family in Monroe, Washington, Chuck Close has managed from childhood to outmaneuver a long list of disabilities: dyslexia, bad eyesight, a myriad of neuromuscular problems and prosopagnosia - a condition making it difficult for him to recognize faces. Also, since 1988, he has been a quadriplegic. But don’t call him disabled. Chuck Close is one of the most enabled and acclaimed artists active today. “I wanted to translate from one flat surface to another. In fact, my learning disabilities controlled a lot of things. I don’t recognize faces, so I’m sure it’s what drove me to portraits in the first place,” he said. His paintings, prints and even his tapes-

tries start with photographic images, often Polaroids that he does not take himself. Close works from a grid, dividing up his canvas, his plate or his paper into bits that he fills in separately using all sorts of “tools” including paints, airbrush, razor blades, erasers, liquid paper and even his fingers. His working methods were well established in 1988. That’s when he became almost completely paralyzed because of a collapsed anterior spinal artery. Working from a wheelchair with his arm and hand propped up with braces, he continues to be able to attack his grids. Today, with museum shows around the globe, Close has a secure place in the canon of contemporary art. 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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Appraising Some Manly Antiques

t my public antiques appraisal events, I don’t have anyone waiting in line. And, when I appraise objects, I cut to the core. No nonsense, no delicate high-brow vocabulary, no malarkey. I tell it like it is. If you have a piece of junk, I tell you. If you spent too much money on something, I tell you. If you are hoping to become of millionaire on a collection of Pez dispensers, I tell you that it’s not happening in this lifetime. I have been known to break a heart or two and I have been known to reveal that the ugly lamp you have can make you a millionaire in the antiques Paul and his $15K weathervane that helped get his grandmoth- Ray with his market. And, I er’s house out of foreclosure. manuscript reveal my faults too, like my well-documented and obvious (particularly on my thighs and hips) addiction to chocolate bars. My antiques appraisal shows presented more than 150 times every year around the globe are as funny as they are frank. I have been told by my audience members the world over that my presentation style is engaging just like the wealth of information that I reveal about antiques. As audience members, men are typically brought to my appraisal events by their wives but they quickly become my most devoted fans. Men return to my events day after day, event after event when I appear in a particular city. In Philly, I laughed with the male owner of a Shirley Temple doll worth $275. After I appraised it, he told me that only a real man would be comfortable enough to bring a doll out in public to an appraisal event. In Houston, TX, Ray came to my antiques appraisal comedy show in part to get back on his wife’s good side. He was on his way to the gym when his wife asked him if he could attend my appraisal event instead. He didn’t mind the diversion too much until his wife said that she wanted me to look at some piece of china she bought at a yard sale. He convinced her to bring me an old Spanish book that was in his family for centuries. Wrapped in a black plastic trash bag, the book was a hand painted il96

luminated manuscript with period texts and original paintings. Produced in the middle of the 1600s --about the time of the reign of King Philip of Spain-- the rare manuscript was worth $10,000. That sure will cover his gym membership fee. Paul’s story warms my heart. I was presenting my appraisal show in Louisville, KY when a guy in his mid-30s puts a copper weathervane on my appraisal table and tells me that he doesn’t know what he’s got but one of his neighbors told him it might be worth some money. I explain how weathervanes do have good value in the marketplace and that his example has a strong provenance and is attributed to a particularly well known maker. I tell him that it is worth $15,000. All of a sudden this guy --who could be a linebacker in the NFL--starts crying like a baby in front of God and everybody. Wip$10K Spanish All smiles with this Shirley Teming his eyes on ple doll, worth $275 his shirtsleeve, he jumps up, runs towards the stage and hugs me like a linebacker would. No one knew what he was going to do after that, but he did calm down and then returned to his seat in the audience. He goes on to explain that his grandmother’s house is in foreclosure, he has been supporting his extended family for nearly a year, and now he can start down the road to recovery by selling the weathervane (which was incidentally on the barn of the property in foreclosure). Someone had offered him a mere $100 for the weathervane but he didn’t believe it was worth so little. He was thrilled to know the truth. And I got the hug to prove it. Sports collectibles, guns, edged weapons, fishing lures and reels, and other objects are the typical types of antiques and collectibles that I review at my events, but sometimes the real men show up with something interesting and unexpected. Guys want me to cut to the chase and tell it like it is. I’m all for it. Let’s hear it for the boys! Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser and author, Dr. Lori presents appraisal events to audiences worldwide. Dr. Lori is the expert appraiser on the hit TV show, Auction Kings on Discovery channel. To have Dr. Lori appraise your antiques, check out her event schedule at http:// www.DrLoriV.com, http://www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori

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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

Looking Good... GAIAM

Unique Handcrafted Jewelry

By Melissa Wolcott Martino

aiam’s accessories are always attention getters. You will certainly make a statement with this Egyptian-inspired eco-conscious Cleopatra Paper Necklace. It is handmade with recycled paper beads by from Au Lac Designs fair trade artisans based in Hanoi. Created from recycled paper and plastic beads, each is one-of-a-kind. Every purchase provides invaluable support and improves the community’s quality of life. As one of the most successful fair trade businesses in Vietnam, Au Lac helps artisans from all over the country use their skills and traditions to create exquisitely made items. For more information on Gaiam products, visit www.Gaiam.com

LUMAFIRM

Eco-friendly spa skincare from Pevonia Botanica

LKiss Your Way to the Florida Keys

umafirm Repair Cream Lift & Glow is a lightening, brightening, and lifting line utilizing all-natural ingredients such as Kombucha (fermented black tea), Diactyl Boldine (an extract from a Chilean tree bark), Sorghum Bicolor (an extract from a cereal plant) and other powerhouse ingredients to provide immediate brightening results and long-lasting lightening and lifting benefits. This cream works deeply and quickly, infusing your face, neck, and décolleté with anti-free radicals, repairing peptides, and lightening actives. Lumafirm Cream & Freeze-Dried usekey advanced technology to flashey West, Florida, is At-Home famous forIntensifier its fabulous lime pie,manufacturing an freeze the active ingredients so they only become active when mixed with water and applied to the skin. Featuring indigenous regional dish. Give your shaving routine a sweet Sorghum Boldine, boost withand the Diacetyl Kiss My Face Keythis one-of-a-kind treatment will deliver dramatic Shave. repairing and brightening results and render Lime Moisture Take the skin ultra-luminous. smooth legs to Florida For more information, visit www.pevonia.com/ and back

KISS MY FACE Key Lime Moisture Shave

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OBAGI

bagi eyelash conditioner helps your eyelashes appear fuller and longer in a matter of weeks — without a prescription. ELASTILash is a safe, nonprescription treatment that is dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. It’s nonallergenic, and has no evidence of eyelid darkening or change in iris pigmentation. Treat your eyelashes without harmful side effects. This eyelash conditioner is ideal for those with light eye color and a fair skin tone as it will not cause a change in skin or eye color. It’s easy to use. Apply along your upper lash line every night, and in as little as 6 weeks, you can say “adios” to your false eyelashes. Obagi skin care is the only FDA-approved products that restore and maintain optimal cellular renewal for anti aging. www.obagi.com/

PURETOES

ELASTILash Eyelash Solution

Get the appearace of fuller, longer lashes

Yoga and Pilates Footwear — Better Than Barefoot!

ureToes are a functional, comfortable and stylish enhancement to any Yoga, Pilates, dance, and martial arts practice. The footcovers allow wearers to have full foot movement, enabling then to perform any indoor activity that they might otherwise do barefoot, while also offering anti-microbial protection. The unisex line comes in a variety of prints and black. PureToes feature a non-skid grip on the bottom that allows for enhanced traction while still allowing for natural foot movement. They have no material between the individual smaller toes, and are made with a moisturewicking fabric which helps eliminate odor and perspiration. For more information, please visit www.puretoes.com

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Couture Shoez

Gently Loved Designer Shoe Boutique Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino

omen who love uptown shoes but have a downtown purse â&#x20AC;&#x201D; rejoice! You can finally release your inner Carrie Bradshaw at Couture Shoez in Tampa. Specializing in gently loved and new shoes, this one-of-a-kind boutique houses high-end brands such as Prada, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, Giuesippi Zanotti, Diane Von Furstenberg, and more, at up to a 75% savings. Most styles are current, but some classics are also available. Couture Shoez owner, Sunny Paige, decided it was something Tampa needed when she had a hard time finding affordable quality shoes for herself. Sunny will also handle consignments if you have any designer shoes you would like to sell. Couture Shoez is located at 4025 Henderson Blvd., Tampa, and is open six days a week, Mon. through Sat. from 11am to 5pm. For more information, call 813-398-8080 or visit: www.facebook.com/pages/Couture-Shoez/384345084926740

Couture Shoez owner, Sunny Paige

These gorgeous Louboutins originally sold for around $1,000. Selling here for $599.

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Designer shoe prices start at an affordable $99 and up.

Beautiful black velvet Louboutin kitten heels.

Handbags are also available, such as this Louis Vuitton, which originally retailed for around $2,000, selling here for $800.

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JESSICA Nail Collection GELeration Colours

ELeration unique gel in a bottle, with patent-pending technology, is applied like a polish with the durable strength of a gel. Available in 67 of Jessica’s bestselling Custom Colours, 22 GELeration Colours, and 12 Glitters. GELeration lasts for 21+ days without chipping, peeling, or fading and is easily removed in minutes. Jessica custom colours are formaldehyde, toluene and Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) free. Jessica’s GELeration Essentials Kit includes the key products to perform a manicure or pedicure. Self-leveling formulas bond to the natural nail while maintaining the ultimate flexibility. For more information, visit www.jessicacosmetics.com/

Colorful and Creative Headbands

ondi Band hairbands are a comfy, colorful and creative way to hold your hair back whether you’re riding in a convertible, rushing out the door to get your kids, or getting some exercise. They are composed of a unique blend of nylon, lycra, and spandex. The result is a stretchy yet form fitting band that holds up under the toughest hair styles and types. Bondi Bands are great for women, men, girls and boys. Their wicking fabric bands absorb and evaporate lots of sweat. And each year Bondiband donates 10% of their pretax profits to charity. For more infomation, visit www.bondiband.com/

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Skinspirations Academy Awards Party Benefitted ‘Dress For Success’

kinspirations transformed their cosmetic medical facility into a glamorous pre-Academy Awards party in February. Live demonstrations of different non-surgical cosmetic procedures were held for guests, along with an appearance by Marvelous Marvin Boone of WJQB 106.3 FM and refreshments and hors d’oeuvres. Celebrities don’t take their beauty routines lightly, especially for the biggest night in Hollywood. Stars may prep for months ahead of time, including custom exercise regimens, $345 facials, $2,000 haircuts and laser facials at $600 a session. Dr. Cynthia Elliott, board-certified owner of Skinspirations, guarantees that her patients can come in for non-surgical procedures which can be completed in less than one

Dr. Elliott (L) with Terry Thompson from Dress for Success.

hour at a fraction of the cost of Hollywood glam. Skinspirations demonstrated:

SEVANI BOTANICA Holistic Skin Care

the HydraFacial, which merges soothing spa therapies with advanced medical technology to achieve instant, lasting results; Diva Décolletage, a Laser Micro Peel of the chest, done one month before an event; Red Carpet Makeup Tips; Clarisonic Skin Devices, home beauty tools to maintain a flawless glow; and Detoxification & Hormone Optimization, looking good from the inside out by removing toxins & restoring balance. This event benefitted the local Dress for Success, a not-for-profit organization that offers services to help women enter the workforce, stay employed, advance in their careers and improve their lives. For more information about Dress For Success, visit www.dressforsuccess.org/ Skinspirations is located in Feather Sound, Clearwater, FL 33762; 727-571-1923; www.skinspirations.

evani Natural Beauty Products meticulously select ingredients found in nature via potent botanicals, vitamins and the latest scientific research. Products are formulated without the use of synthetic additives. Their skin care products even offer an organic preservative system. Sevani combines the latest scientific research with nature’s actives for firming, brightening, plumping, cellular renewal, antioxidant protection, exfoliation and hydration. Products are vegan, and cruelty free. Sevani pure plant ingredients are specifically selected for their powerful antioxidants, natural vitamin content, natural sun protection properties, cell regeneration & exfoliating fruit acids. For more information, please visit www.sevanibeauty.com/

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DVD VIEW S DRAMA

school bus. This is a powerful and inspiring film that every educator, parent and teenager should see.

Officer Down [Blu-ray] Starring: Tommy Flanagan , James Woods; director: Brian A. Miller www.anchorbayent.com Dirty cop Detective Callahan was shot in a drug bust gone wrong, and saved by a stranger who gave him a second chance to clean up his life. But when the stranger comes forward, seeking revenge against the men responsible for a string of assaults on young women at a local strip club, Callahan must go rogue to find the attacker. His desperation to find the attacker, and cover his tracks, takes him down a violent road of deception, cover-ups and fraud. Can he play the ‘’good cop’’ and track down the assailant, while still keeping his reputation clean? Bully Lee Hirsch (Director) www.anchorbayent.com Lee Hirsch’s beautifully cinematic, character-driven documentary follows five kids and families over the course of a school year. Offering insight into different facets of America’s bullying crisis, the stories include two families who have lost children to suicide and a mother awaiting the fate of her 14-year-old daughter, who has been incarcerated after bringing a gun on her

The Master Starring: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Joaquin Phoenix; Director - Paul Thomas Anderson www.anchorbayent.com A striking portrait of drifters and seekers in post-World War II America, Paul Thomas Anderson’s THE MASTER unfolds the journey of a naval veteran (Joaquin Phoenix) who arrives home from war unsettled and uncertain of his future–until he is tantalized by The Cause and its charismatic intellectual leader (Philip Seymour Hoffman) known as “The Master” who creates a belief system which catches on with other lost souls. The young WW-11 veteran becomes his right hand man. People Like Us Starring: Chris Pine and Elizabeth Banks; Director: Alex Kurtzman www.ppllikeusmovie.com/ Sam (Pine) is a twenty-something, fast-talking salesman whose latest deal collapses the day he learns his father has suddenly died. Against his wishes, Sam is called home to put his father’s estate in order and reconnect with his estranged family. While there, he uncovers a startling secret that turns his entire world upside down — he has a 30-yearold sister he never knew existed.

Francis Ford Coppola

5-Film Collection (Apocalypse Now / Apocalypse Now Redux / One From the Heart / Tetro / The Conversation) [Blu-ray] www.lionsgatebluray.com Francis Ford Coppola has made a name for himself in cinema history as one of the most influential filmmakers of his time. With 5 Academy Award wins and countless praises from critics his work is also loved by independent film enthusiasts and fans alike. In honor of his fearless innovative filmmaking career fans can now own a stunning collection featuring 5 films directed by Coppola available together on Blu-ray for the first time. Including Apocalypse Now, Apocalypse Now Redux, The Conversation, One From the Heart, and Tetro - this must own collection is now available. 104

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Music Gregg Allman: I’m No Angel - Live on Stage Gregg Allman, Cherry Red www.cherryred.co.uk I’m No Angel features a full length concert from Gregg Allman and his solo band in Nashville in 1988. Among the songs featured are “I’m No Angel” and a version of Blind Willie McTell’s “Statesboro Blues.” Gregg Allman continues to record and play live, both solo and as part of The Allman Brothers Band, who were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1995. Marley by Bob Marley, Kevin MacDonald www.bobmarleymovie.com By 1971 David Bowie was brBob Marley’s universal appeal, impact on music history, and role as a social and political prophet

is both unique and unparalleled. Marley is the definitive life story of the musician, revolutionary, legend, and the man, from his early days to his rise to international superstardom. The film features rare footage, never before seen performances, previously unreleased music, and revelatory interviews with the people that knew him best. Turner, Ike & Tina - On The Road: 1971-72 by Nadya & Bob Gruen www.mvdb2b.com In the early 70’s, legendary rock photographer Bob Gruen and his wife Nadya toured with Ike & Tina Turner and filmed them performing, on the road, and behind the scenes. Now for the first time ever this footage is unveiled. This is a look inside a hardworking band as well as an iconic couple. In addition to renditions of Ike & Tina classics, you also get a glimpse of the group at work in the recording studio, Tina and the Ikettes practicing their dance routines, goofing off on airplanes and in airports, and even at home with the kids.

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Action / Thriller Cherry Tree Lane Starring: Rachel Blake, Tom Butcher. Director: Paul Andrew Williams www.watchimage.com Christine and Mike are an ordinary middle-class couple. It is an average evening as they prepare dinner, open a bottle of wine and bicker as they wait for their teenage son, Sebastian, to come home from football. A ring at the door is answered by Christine. A terrible scream and she reappears, a knife at her throat, a gang of teenagers at her back, who tie them both up. It seems Sebastian has squealed on one of them and they are here to exact the worst revenge imaginable to a parent. All Superheroes Must Die [Blu-ray] Starring: James Remar, Lucas Till. Director: Jason Trost www.watchimage.com Four superheroes awaken in a seemingly abandoned town, stripped of their powers and at the mercy of their sinister archnemesis who forces them into a series of brutal challenges â&#x20AC;&#x201D; where the stakes include the lives of the innocent, as

well as their own. Will the superheroes prevail, or will they be forced to meet their demise as mere human beings? Fire With Fire Bruce Willis, Josh Duhamel. Director: David Barrett www.lionsgatedvd.com After witnessing the brutal murders of a convenient store owner and his son; firefighter Jeremy Coleman nearly escapes with his life. As he is forced to testify against the crime lord Hagan he is placed in the witness protection program. As his new identity becomes compromised Jeremy is forced to take an unexpected course of action. Rescue (IMAX)(3D) [Blu-ray] Documentary directed by Stephen Low www.watchimage.com Rescue plunges audiences into the gruelling, technical work of saving lives in the face of a natural disaster.The film follows first responders as they train at sea, in the air and on the ground preparing for the worst that can happen. When a magnitude 7.0 earthquake strikes Haiti, emergency teams jump into action. Within days, a massive effort is launched that brings military and civilian responders and hardware from around the world, and then the real work begins.

Starring: Sylvester Stallone Jason Statham, Director: Simon West www.theexpendables2film.com/

he cast of The Expendables, with newest members Billy the Kid (Hemsworth) and Maggie (Nan) aboard, are reunited when Mr. Church (Bruce Willis) enlists the Expendables to take on a seemingly simple job. The task looks like an easy paycheck for Barney and his band of old school mercenaries. But when things go wrong and one of their own is viciously killed, the Expendables are compelled to seek revenge in hostile territory where the odds are stacked against them. Special Features include Deleted Scenes, Gag Reel, GODS OF WAR: Assembling Earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mightiest Antiheroes, ON THE ASSAULT: The Real-Life Weaponry of THE EXPENDABLES, BIG GUNS, BIGGER HEROES: The 1980s and the Rise of the Action Film, GUNS FOR HIRE: The Real Expendables, Audio Commentary with director Simon West.

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TV Shows FLASHPOINT: The Fourth Season Starring: Mark Taylor, Hugh Dillon, Amy Jo Johnson; www.paramount.com Flashpoint is a drama which depicts the emotional journey into the tough, riskfilled lives of a group of cops in the SRU (inspired by Toronto’s Emergency Task Force). It’s a unique unit that rescues hostages, busts gangs, defuses bombs, climbs the sides of buildings and talks down suicidal teens. Members of a highly-skilled tactical team, they’re also trained in negotiating, profiling and getting inside the suspect’s head to diffuse the situation to try and save lives. BODY OF PROOF: Season 2 Starring: Dana Delany, Jeri Ryan, Nic Bishop; www.bodyofproofdvd.com Dr. Megan Hunt is back with riveting new cases in ABC’s Body Of Proof Second Season. It’s a season filled with unique medical mysteries and shocking twists and turns. The team pulls together when a 6-year-old child is kidnapped, a lottery winner’s luck takes an unfortunate turn, and one of Philadelphia’s most despised citizens turns up dead, leaving an entire city of suspects. Relive every astonishing case from Season Two in this 4-disc collection, complete with exclusive bonus features.

CHILD Disney’s THE MUPPETS: (Three-Disc Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy + Soundtrack Download Card) Starring: Amy Adams, Jason Segel, Chris Cooper; Director: James Bobin; www.disney.com/Muppets On vacation in Los Angeles, Walter, the world’s biggest Muppet fan, and his friends Gary and Mary discover the nefarious plan of oilman Tex Richman to raze the Muppet Theater and drill for the oil recently discovered beneath the Muppets’ former stomping grounds. To stage The Greatest Muppet Telethon Ever and raise the $10 million needed to save the theater, Walter, Mary and Gary help Kermit reunite the Muppets, who have all gone their separate ways.

Disney’s LADY AND THE TRAMP: Diamond Edition (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo in Blu-ray Packaging) (1955) www.disneybluray.com Fall in love with Walt Disney’s Beloved Classic, Lady and the Tramp. Experience the thrilling adventures of Lady, a lovingly pampered cocker spaniel, and Tramp, a freewheeling mutt with a heart of gold. This heartwarming tale now charms a new generation of families and fans with its exquisite animation, unforgettable songs and one of the greatest love stories of all time. This is the night to share a special bella notte with your family and introduce to them to the film Janet Maslin of the New York Times News Service hails as “one of Disney’s most enduring classics!”

SING-A-LONG: BEATLESONGS www.mvdb2b.com/ The Beatles have written and performed many of the greatest pop songs in the history of music. These are songs that are known and loved around the world and listened to by millions daily. But what if you want to share this love of The Fab Four with your little ones while they learn to read and speak English in a fun and stimulating manner? Where do you start? Enjoy “Sing-A-Long: Beatlesongs” with your children or friends with visually compelling classic animation and music written by the Beatles that will capture the imagination and attention of every viewer. Does not include actual Beatles performances. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Night in the Islands - Sat, April 13, May 11, June 1, July 13, Aug 3, Sept 7, Oct 5, Nov 2 Dinner, Dancing and Live Entertainment at the Sponge Docks Dine under the stars and enjoy some of the finest Greek food outside of Athens. The event features live music by Ellada, an exciting Greek musical group with three of the best Greek musicians in Florida. They will perform nisiotika, the lively traditional music of the Greek islands, as well as some old and new Greek favorites. Ellada features George Soffos on bouzouki, Elias Poulos on vocals, and Dino Theofilos on keyboard. Prior to the main event, there will be live Greek music by the Bouzouki Boys from 4 and 6pm on Dodecanese Blvd. at Riverwalk, west of Hope Street. Presented by the City of Tarpon Springs. GREEK VIOLIN WORKSHOPS March 7 Tarpon Springs Cultural Treasures program presents workshops in playing Greek-style violin. Michalis Kappas will journey from Greece to provide workshops in the traditional violin music of the island of Kalymnos. An archaeologist by profession, Dr. Kappas learned from the best traditional Kalymnian players of the older generation and began performing at events (glendia, panigyria, weddings) when he was 17. He appears on a recording of traditional Kalymnian music and has performed extensively at festivals in Europe and the U.S. The workshops are supported in part by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. Students should bring a violin. For further information, please call 727-937-1130 or 942-5605. SAFFORD HOUSE, 23 PARKIN CT., TARPON SPRINGS 34689 108

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TARPON SPRINGS Con’t Irish Eyes are Smilin’ Hootenanny March 16 Guitarist and singer Dave Wladaver leads the audience in an old-fashioned sing-along with the best oldies-but-goodies, Irish favorites and folk tunes. Song sheets provided. Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum, 100 Beekman Ln . Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

Latin Guitarist David Burgess April 13 Praised by musicians and critics worldwide, David Burgess is recognized as one of today’s outstanding acoustic guitarists. His international appearances as soloist and chamber musician have taken him to concert halls around the world. First-prize winner in the Andrés Segovia Fellowship Competition, he has also won top honors in the Ponce International Competition in Mexico City. Tarpon Springs Cultural Center, 101 S. Pinellas Ave. (Alt. 19) . Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 7:30 pm

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SPCA TAMPA BAY 5th Annual Animal Affaire - April 6 Join an elegant party to benefit the animals held at the Armed Forces History Museum. This is a VIP Party with passed hors d’oeuvres, complimentary rides on the Flight Motion Simulator Virtual Voyager, and guided tours of the Armed Forces History Museum. The evening begins at 6:30pm - The Animal Affaire ~ Night of the Unleashed! There will be an open bar, International tapas dining. The emcee is Cynthia Smoot, journalist/FOX 13, and there will be a premier live auction and chance drawings. Lost Luggage Claim is a mystery drawing including a surprise vacation. The 50,000 sq. ft Armed Forces History Museum features an extensive array of memorabilia from WWI to present day with animated displays and interactive dioramas . Attire is cocktail, business, black tie optional. www.spcatampabay.org/

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St. Petersburg Walkathon March 9 AT Vinoy Park Waterfront, sunshine and Tampa Bay breezes invite Walkathoners to St. Petersburg’s Vinoy Park, nestled among picture-perfect marinas and historic city streets. Celebrate a morning of music kicked off by Magic 94.9’s Ann Kelly, family entertainment—including a bounce house—plus pet-friendly vendors such as pet photographers and dog massage services, the ever-so-popular food trucks, and the Southeastern Guide Dogs Gift Shop. Two and four-legged supporters are welcome. Dogs should be well behaved, friendly and on a short leash (for safety, please no retractable leashes). www.guidedogs.org/

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Secrets To Raising A Happy, Healthy Cat W hether you’ve just adopted a kitten or are a seasoned pet parent, there are plenty of tasks to consider when it comes to cat care. Use these tips: Satisfy the pickiest eaters - Kittens will need plenty of vitamins and minerals to support growth, while older cats need food that aids in weight control, energy and bone support. Your veterinarian can help you choose healthy food that will satisfy even the pickiest cats. Choose natural litters - A natural cat litter can help limit the amount of chemicals your cat is exposed to. One option is Feline Pine Clumping Cat Litter, which has no perfumes, additives or harsh chemicals. It is made from highly absorbent pine, which acts as

a natural sponge to quickly and efficiently absorb moisture and eliminate odor naturally. Stay on schedule - To ensure your cat maintains a healthy weight, stay on schedule when it comes to feedings. For households with several pet parents, make sure everyone is aware of when and who will feed the cat, especially during busy weeks. Kitty-proof your home - Cats love to explore and can jump to great heights so be sure to protect all nine lives by keeping harmful items – poisonous plants, medications, or toxic substances – in a closed space that can’t be accessed by your cat. Make sure to also remove any breakable items that could fall on them. www.FelinePine.com.

Tampa Bay Pet Expo at the Florida State Fairgrounds March 23 P

et lovers in the Tampa Bay area should get their four-legged friends ready for the 2013 Tampa Bay Pet Expo, Saturday, March 23 at the Florida State Fairgrounds. This free, indoor event attracts thousands of pet lovers looking to enjoy a day out with their furry, feathered or reptilian pals. From 10 AM to 6 PM, the expo will be packed with an abundance of local and nationally recognized veterinarians, groomers, trainers, retailers and organizations primarily geared towards pet lovers. Whether you’d like to learn, shop, play, or adopt, this is an event you won’t want to miss! Shorty Rossi, star of ‘Pit Boss’ on Animal Planet and Official Spokesperson for Amazing Pet Expos in 2013, will make an appearance with his popular canine sidekicks, Hercules and Mario. He be available for pictures and autographs all day, and will share how you can become an advocate for animals and help make a difference as well. Here are some tips from Amazing Pet Expos: 1. Only bring your pet along if it is well behaved.

2. Please review safe pet greeting behaviors with your children before attending the show. 3. Your pet must be current on all shots or you should plan to have your pet’s immunizations updated at the event; vaccinations and micro-chipping are offered on-site. Dogs must be on a fixed lead or a locked retractable lead, no longer than 6 feet, at all times. No female pets in heat can attend. 4. Once inside, stop by the prize entry table to register for giveaways and prizes. Enter your pet in the talent and costume contests. 5. Bring cash. There are opportunities for shopping and donations and some rescue groups may not accept credit cards. There is an ATM on site as well. 6. Hundreds of pets will be available for adoption applications (since there are no on-site adoptions). 8. You’ll be given bags for your pet’s waste pick-up when you enter. Please pick up after your pet. 10. If you have a small dog, you may want to be prepared to either carry it or have a stroller available. 15. If you are attending the expo with the intent of adopting, you may want to bring a crate or some sort of car restraint. www.tampabaypetexpo.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

www.bigcatrescue.org

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Gaming Scene Las Vegas

The General Tire Mint 400 Off-Road Race Returns to Las Vegas - March 20-24 The General Tire Mint 400 is four days of off-road excitement, including a vehicle parade, the pit crew challenge, the official Mint 400 Party, the Miss Mint 400 crowning and a full day

Tim McGraw & Faith Hill Soul2Soul at The Venetian thru April The Venetian Las Vegas presents Tim McGraw and Faith Hill “Soul2Soul” for a limited engagement. “Soul2Soul” includes many of the no. 1 hits that have made them, both in their own right, two of the most significant entertainers of our generation. www.venetian.com/Soul2Soul

Raiding the Rock Vault at LVH The history of rock ‘n’ roll will come to life like never before when Raiding the Rock of intense off-road racing. Started in Vault, a one-of-a-kind rock 1967, The Mint is steeped in American concert experience boasting lore as thousands of racers in addition the ultimate set list, kicks off to celebrities from around the world a year-long run Mar. 9 at the Faith Hill & Tim Mcgraw have attempted to tame the brutal LVH - Las Vegas Hotel & CaNevada desert. Contingency or tech sino. Narrated, sung and acted inspection takes place each year on Fremont Street in along with compelling imagery, including historical foot- front of the casinos in historic, downtown Las Vegas. age, the show transports the audience back to a magi- Contingency gives the fans a chance to see the race cal musical journey from 1948 to 1989, traversing the vehicles up close and personal, www.themint400.com/ genre’s history chronologically through the ‘40s, ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. The show features classic anthems Food University at Caesars Palace from The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Doors, Led March 27-29 Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, The Eagles, Queen, Van HaFood Network series “Ace of Cakes” star Duff Goldlen, AC/DC, Journey, Free, Bryan Adams, Supertramp, man, winner of season 10 of “Hell’s Kitchen” Christina Toto, Deep Purple, and more. Wilson, acclaimed pastry chef François Payard, chef and restaurateur Frank Pellegrino, Jr. and the “Godfather of ItalianAmerican cooking” Steve Martorano will join the faculty of Food University at Caesars Palace. Tickets are available for the event, which is designed to transform fun-loving foodies from average cooks into exceptional home chefs with a dynamic schedule of classes. www.caesarspalace.com/shows 116

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

will kick off with at $100,000 guaranteed prize pool with an entry fee of $300 + $40 March 22-24. Spring Break Poker Classic registration begins at 6 p.m. on March 21 and will be open from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily. There are special room rates for players participating in the Spring Break Poker Classic. For information, please call 888-567-6667 or on-line at www.beaurivage.com or www.beaupoker.com/ The classical/rock fusion band, THE MOODY BLUES will entertain on March 16. Country favorite

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 Epicurean treatments unique to the Gulf Coast, and a perfect place for a Girlfriend Getaway with their special “Pamper Parties.” The dining opportunities at the Beau are wonderfully varied - from the simple Snacks Deli to the exceptional BR Prime (the Beau’s signature steak and seafood restaurant), and every thing in between. Guests have eleven restaurants to choose from, as well as several bars.

Moody Blues

VINCE GILL performs on March 22. Chicago’s amazing horns arrive at the Beau on April 12. The still hot PAT BENATAR & NEIL GERALDO rock the house on April 19. Enjoy the magic of PENN & TELLER on April 26.

UPCOMING EVENTS: SPRING BREAK POKER CLASSIC - MARCH 21-31 Poker action returns to the Beau Rivage in Biloxi with the Spring Break Poker Classic. The tournament features 14 events with buy-ins ranging from $100 up to $1,000. There will also be nightly No-Limit Hold’em tournaments at 7:00 p.m. March 21 – 30 with $80 + $20 entry. Single table satellites with buy-ins ranging from $80 - $360 will be held daily. Event 1 No Limit Hold’em

Reservations for airinclusive travel packVince Gill ages may be made by calling 877-462-2328. Visit www.beaurivage.com for more information.

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Florida Authors Write THE SWEETNESS OF FORGETTING

THE DARK SIDE OF SUNSHINE by Paul Guzzo www.amazon.com

by Kristin Harmel

www.kristinharmel.com

t thirty-six, Hope McKennaSmith is no stranger to bad news. Her dreams of becoming a lawyer long gone, she’s running a failing family bakery on Cape Cod and raising a troubled preteen. Her French-born grandmother, Mamie, is drifting away into a haze of Alzheimer’s. But in a rare moment of clarity, she realizes that unless she tells Hope about the past, the secrets she has held on to will soon be lost forever. She reveals mysterious snippets of a tragic history in Paris. Arming Hope with a list of names, she sends her to France to uncover a seventy-year-old mystery. Hope’s emotional journey takes her through the bakeries of Paris and religious traditions, all guided by Mamie’s tales and the sweet tastes of home. Kristin Harmel is the author of four previous women’s fiction novels, and two young adult novels. She also writes for People magazine, and her work has been featured in Glamour, Woman’s Day, and Runner’s World, among other media outlets. She also appears on the nationally televised morning show “The Daily Buzz.” Kristin lives in Orlando, Florida.

urder, mayhem, militias, marijuana, mafia and The Mons. A criminal history of Tampa focusing on its most infamous people and events of the past century. Yes, Tampa has a dark side. Tampa’s history can be divided into three dark eras - the early years of danger, where the greatest fear was the nightmarish individuals who were allowed to roam the nights in a city without a proper law enforcement organization in place; the mid-1900s when one of the most power criminal syndicates in the nation made its home in Tampa and when a another nation’s revolutionary war affected the city’s residents; and the late 1900s to early 2000s when Tampa became a sexual playground. Whether known or unknown, good or bad, each of the individuals explored in this book had an impact on Tampa’s history. Paul Guzzo writes for La Gaceta Newspaper - the nation’s only tri-linguel newspaper. Along with his brother, he has produced numerous independent films that have shown all over the world, and have won dozens of awards along the way.

rom the Mayan pyramids of Chichen Itza to the Caribbean ruins of Tulum, many lives will be lost while searching for by Chris Kuzneski The Death Relic. www.chriskuzneski.com Little remains of the Aztec and Mayan civilizations after being vanquished by the Spanish Empire. From the ashes of their cities emerged a unified legend: their conquerors possessed a mysterious artifact so powerful—so deadly—that it was known as the Death Relic. Despite its infamy, little else is known about the object, which was lost long ago. When archaeologist Maria Pelati’s research team disappears in the Yucatán Peninsula, she enlists Jonathon Payne and David Jones to find them. As they embark on their perilous mission, they realize that Maria’s research could be the key to solving one of the darkest mysteries of the New World and unearthing the secret of the Death Relic. Chris Kuzneski is the internationally bestselling author of The Secret Crown, The Prophecy, The Lost Throne, Sword of God, Sign of the Cross, and The Plantation. He grew up in Pennsylvania and now lives on the Gulf Coast of Florida.

THE DEATH RELIC

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ONE TANK TRIPS

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PAJAMAS ON A SUN STAINED BEACH

A story somewhat supposedly based on a true tale... by Stevie B www.amazon.com

aul Jones Palin is a deeply depressed, severely stressed, self-medicating dysphoric, agoraphobic on the verge of suicide. He’s made and lost moderate fortunes, married and divorced three times, and is terminally ill. Alone in a post 9-11 New York City, P.J. struggles through the not-so-great recession with neither health insurance nor hope just when things couldn’t get any worse...but it’s not just his disease that’s killing him, it’s the irony! Pajamas on a Sun Stained Beach is a work of fiction chronicling the dying thoughts of a drowning man. It not only explores biological death but also the death of our dreams. Pajamas on a Sun Stained Beach covers 50+ years of the character’s life (1954-2010) and uses the death of the American dream as a basic subtext. It’s intended to not only work in published form, but is also adaptable to film as well as a blueprint for various video/computer games. This is Stevie B’s first novel. As a teenager, author Stevie B. was signed to his first record deal with Decca Records. Over the years he produced records and wrote songs for such international megastars as Madonna and many other artists. In addition, he worked on various gold and platinum awarded projects and is actively involved in the music publishing business.

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THE DONORS

V V INN SERIES

by Jeffrey Wilson www.jeffreywilsonfiction.com/

(sexually explicit)

n evil force is at work at the Hospital where Nathan is recovering from injuries he received at the hands of his Mom’s abusive exboyfriend. Demonic looking men with pale faces and glowing eyes lurk in the shadows. Someone is harvesting skin and organs from living donors against their will. In his dreams, Nathan can see these demons in their true form - evil creatures who feed on the fear and hatred they create in their victims. Nathan’s only ally is the Doctor who cares for him. Bound together by their common legacy, they alone seem to share the ability to see the demons for what they truly are. Jeffrey Wilson is a Trauma Surgeon. He also served two tours in Iraq as a combat surgeon with both the Marines and with a Joint Special Operations Task Force. He has written dozens of short stories, and won a few fiction competitions. Jeff and his wife, Wendy, call Tampa, FL home.

TANKTOWN CONFIDENTIAL A Searing Indictment Of The Florida Way Of Life. by Mike Winters www.amazon.com/

essica is a successful, attractive 34-year-old woman. She’s the director of Tanktown’s favorite charity, New Heights Ministries, a home for wayward girls sponsored by the town’s richest men. Everything is going perfectly but now a mobster is threatening to take it all away from her. All he wants is a bit of respect and to be part of his new community, but Tanktown’s elite are just a bunch of snobs.

by C.J. Ellisson www.cjellisson.com

VAMPIRE VACATION (Book 1) Meet Vivian. She’s a 580-year-old vampire who exudes sex, has a talent for drama, and is passionate about two things: her human husband, Rafe, and their resort for the undead. The powerful vamp is put to the test when she discovers a corpse in a locked guestroom. Rafe hides the body, convinced he and Vivian can find the culprit without disturbing their guests. Will their prodding uncover secrets Vivian would kill to protect? THE HUNT (Book 2) Seven vampires and seven werewolves pay to hunt a supernatural criminal across the cold, vast grounds of an Alaskan resort. The one to catch her, and live through the encounter, will increase their power by feasting on hers. The tiny vampire they track is more than she appears, however. To escape a fate of ten years in silver chains, she’ll do anything to survive the weeklong excursion. This time, the darkness holds more than just the stinging bite of the Arctic—it holds death. BIG GAME (Book 3) Our sexy couple journeys to Argentina to uncover who’s plotting against them and why. From an island off the southern Argentine coast, to the decadence of Buenos Aires, the group has plenty to keep their attention-seductive twins, deadly games, and a bunch of bloodsucking fiends who hate our much-loved, despotic innkeeper enough to see her dead.

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Music

Black Sabbath: Pioneers of Heavy Metal (Rebels of Rock) by Brian Aberback

TURN IT UP! by Ron Eckerman

www.enslow.com

www.amazon.com

Lynyrd Skynyrd was the definition of Southern Rock. The iconic band, the American Rolling Stones, lasted only four years under the leadership of Ronnie Van Zant. Ron Eckerman was with them the last two of those years, and had a unique view of the band’s meteoric rise from 2500 seat venues to performances in front of 500,000 fans. Meet these unlikely rock stars and experience life on the road as the group rips its way across the USA. The road life is revealed from a unique point of view, as well as the effects on personal lives and tragedy of the untimely plane crash.

SelfHelp Ambition Equals Success by Elton Patterson www.amazon.com

This inspirational book will motivate you to succeed by going further than you ever imagined. Included are different steps to assist you on your journey to success. People often tell you what you need to do in your life to be successful, but Patterson shows you how to become successful. As you read you will find the logical thought process needed for your journey. Upon finishing this book you will understand the type of ambition it takes to PROSPER and how to enjoy your success. Overall, success is around the corner and it is waiting on you. The Rational Psychic: A Skeptic’s Guide to Extraordinary Perception by Jack Rourke www.amazon.com

In The Rationa Psychic, some of the subjects explored are: The biological reason all people are extrasensory; How to tell the difference between genuine psychic ability and paranormal perception; The hidden dangers of psychic development and how to avoid them; What’s really occurring when 122

Author Brian Eckerman has penned a new,educational Black Sabbath book, titled Black Sabbath: Pioneers of Heavy Metal. An unauthorized “rockography” that transforms the extensive knowledge about Black Sabbath that Aberback has amassed over the years to the page for future music enthusiasts and students to enjoy. This book has been added to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It sits on the shelves of libraries in the United States, New Zealand, Singapore and the US Army Base in Heildelberg, Germany.

sensitive people discern ghosts and malicious spirits; How neuroscience and modern physics support the existence of psychic perception; How to identify, access, and strengthen your psychic abilities. This book answers the tough questions about being psychic, empowering readers with facts and first hand accounts of real-life paranormal experiences. HAPPY THOUGHTS FOR A HAPPY LIFE by Aaron R. Fodiman To order call 1-727-791-4800 and say “I want the book”

Publisher of a lifestyle magazine, Tampa Bay Magazine, Aaron Fodiman has been musing about life for decades in his editorials, and has collected them for this tome. It is Aaron’s belief that life is like a bank account — you only get out of it what you put into it. You will chuckle and laugh as you think about who you are, what you are and why you are that way.

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Life’s Little Necessities... Poo-POURRI www.poopourri.com/ Some say the secret to a happy relationship is separate bathrooms. Those people have never tried Poo-Pourri, the ultra effective way to leave the bathroom smelling better than you found it. It is not a chemical cover up. A squirt or two into the bowl forms a protective layer of essential oils that prevents nasty smells from showing up in the first place. With Poo-Pourri, people can do their business while smelling like a rose... or lemongrass or jasmine or... well, there are over 20 products, so take your pick. GoPilot www.thegopilot.com/ The GoPilot is a portable handheld urinal that can be used by men, women and children. It consists of a quart-sized container, accordion-style tube, and two leak-proof caps. This unique design keeps it easy to use, easy to clean and easy to store. Perfect for truck drivers, tailgaters, boaters, long-distance travelers and children riding with parents. The GoPilot is helpful to people with overactive bladders, who are bedridden or wheelchair bound — anyone confined to a vehicle without ready access to a bathroom.

CLEAN WELL DISINFECTANT PRODUCTS www.cleanwelltoday.com Eliminate germs botanically with CleanWell products. Their botanical disinfectants kill 99.9% of germs yet contain no harsh chemicals. No rinsing or wiping are necessary, CleanWell cleans, disinfects and deodorizes using a thyme based formula. Conveniently sized in the form of a 1 oz spray and 10-count wipes, the products fit easily into any purse, pcket or bag. If you’re at the gym, the park, a restaurant, a hotel, the airport or a diaper changing station, CleanWell will keep non-porus surfaces disinfected. CleanWell also offers a range of hand sanitizers and antibacterial soaps that kill germs without using alcohol or harsh chemicals.

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ICY COLD HERBAL TOWELETTES For When You’re Hot and Tired www.thequickchill.com Cool Off is an icy cold herbal therapy therapeutic cooling towelette with 17 Natural Herbs — Botanicals — Essential Oils, infused on a luxurious towelette. It renews, refreshes, and re-energizes your skin. It will reduce skin temperature 12 degrees in minutes, and stay 13 degrees cooler for an hour or more. They come in a convenient pocket-sized packet. Press the towelette where needed and feel a WOW chill right away. You can even reactivate the cool by splashing a little water on the areas where you wiped the towelette.

FLINGS RECYCLING & TRASH BINS www.flingsbins.com A lot of material that could be recycled ends up in the landfill because folks find it inconvenient to recycle. But new Flings Pop-Up Trash & Recycle Bins have found a way to make clean-up and recycling easy and fun. No more unsightly trash bags tied to doorknobs during parties or recycling mixed in with trash. Flings Bins are decorative, portable containers that arrive flat for easy storage and pop open in an instant. All Flings Bins have a 13-gallon capacity and feature an easy-touse drawstring allowing the portable containers to go directly from the party to the curb. Flings Pop-Up Recycle Bins feature the universal recycling logo, so they’re easy to see at a party and signal to guests where to recycle. Each recycle bin saves 60 cans or bottles from the landfill and is extra strong and leak-proof so it can be reused. Flings Pop-Up Trash and Recycle bins are packaged flat so they will not take up additional storage space in your home.

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Live Bait The Key To Consistent Catches By Capt Bill Miller

or overall consistency and productivity, you can’t beat live bait for most inshore pursuits. My live baits of choice are scaled sardines (whitebait), live shrimp and pinfish. I try to have all of them in my bait well if I can. Threadfin herring (greenbacks) will also work, but their weakness and low endurance makes them a lesser preference. Whitebait is my No 1 choice, although at times, it can be hard to find and catch. Castnetting is the primary method, but some may lack the interest and/or ability to throw a net. Shrimp is my second choice for live bait. They’re commonly available at most bait shops, but you do have to budget for the extra cost. For many, that’s a fair trade-off to avoid getting wet and dirty from castnet duties. Leaving the dock with bait in your well is also a psychological benefit. Next on my bait list are handsize pinfish – because you never know when you might run into cobia, tarpon, shark, grouper, etc. Catch these hardy baits with a trap set near the edge of a grass flat or by anchoring along the edge of the flat and using a small piece of squid on a No. 10 hook. Smaller pinfish can also be used the same as the whitebait for trout, reds, snook, etc. Whatever baitfish I’m catching, I like the bigger ones when I head offshore because I’m usually going for bigger fish like grouper, snap-

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per, amberjacks or bigger kings. Larger whitebait and threadfins hang around bridges so I’ll look there first. I will also use sabikis around channel markers and bridges for bigger baits.

Whitebait Roundup The most common places to find whitebait are over grass flats and around bridges. On the flats, bait schools often dimple the surface like rain, but also watch for sea gulls and pelicans diving on this food source. Ease in slowly, quietly anchor or drop your Power Poles and coax the baitfish into net range by chumming. Options include dry chum, available at bait shops in zippered plastic bags, or jack mackerel and wheat bread. Mixing either of these recipes with sea water forms a smelly paste that forms a scent trail when scattered across the grass flat. When the baitfish gather in the www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

chum, toss the net and load the live well. Another way to find bait is the rodeo technique. Ride slowly over the grass and when you see bait throw your net. If no other boats are in the area this works fine. If there is other boats anchored and chumming, do not rodeo. It will scare and push the bait around and off the flats and irritate other anglers. For catching bait on the flats, a ½-inch stretched mesh cats net with standard weight will do the job. A 6-foot net will work but I prefer an 8- to 10-foot net for the flats. Another good place to catch white bait is around bridges and big channel markers. The bait can be found raining on top or it can be found with your depth recorder. Look for a cloud of bait in the water column. Anchoring and chumming will work here but water depth and tide movement make it harder. I like to ride around the marker or the bridge pilings and when I see the bait marking on my screen, I throw the net. For deeper water, use a 1-inch stretched. You may gill a few baits in the larger mesh, but the net will sink faster so fewer baits will escape. Bait schools are harder to hit in deeper water, so use a 10- to 12-foot net, which will catch more on each throw. In either case – flats or deeper water – handle your baits carefully so they justify all the effort by lasting for a full day of fishing. For fishing videos, catch photos and lots of angling resources, visit www.fishingwithbillmiller.com. For fishing charters in the Tampa Bay area, call (813) 363-9927.

Who Let The Dogs Out? After taking a season off the Tampa Bay Bulls Dogs are back. The team was founded in 1997, and they play in a fourteen team league called Southeast Football League. The league home office is in Miami, where the game of football and the state of Florida received its first Pro Football Team and Pro Sports Team of any kind, the Dolphins. The teams owner is Cherylene Levy, a small business owner in the Tampa Bay Area who loves the game of Football. ”This would be a good opportunity to provide young men a well organized program to complete at one of our nations favorite sports” added Cherylene. “The Tampa Bay Bulldogs organization offers athletes a place to play, allows players the opportunity to cultivate and improve their football skills.” Tampa Bay will be playing their home games at Brandon Bronco Field, off Kings Way in Brandon. All home games will be played on Saturdays and the kick off will be at 4 PM. ‑‑Cost per ticket will $5 per Adults $1 for kids. Kids under 12 will be free. When the Dogs are not playing Football they are out in the Central and West Florida helping people. They are there if someone is in trouble or in need. “We are establishing ourselves as pillars in the community in which we play, by donating our time to local charities” Cherylene added, “The Sunshine Kids, Feeding the homeless program, The Lakeland (Fl) Habitat, and working with local youth organizations are just a part of our community involvement.” For more information, visit www.tampabay-bulldogs.com/

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All is peaceful in the Realm tonight 128