duPontREGISTRY Tampa Bay July/August 2012

July/August 2012

R ESTAUR ANTS • J EWELRY • R EAL E STATE • E NTERTAINMENT

the yacht-master ii

international plaza 813.354.8080

westfield brandon 813.684.4656

westfield southgate plaza 941.952.1945

It’s not just the water.

It’s all we add to it.

Exceptional New Island Home Values from the $370s to $500s.

Models Open Daily.

Start with maintenance-included, energy-efficient homes designed for care-free coastal living. Combine with resort-style amenities like a private clubhouse, pool, cabanas and marina. Top off with the pleasures of Anna Maria Island. It all adds up to the Florida resort lifestyle youÂ’ve been dreaming of. A place to gather family and friends today and celebrate all the tomorrows to come.

Experience Award-Winning Living Ten 2012 Parade of Homes “Best Awards�

12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209 On SR 64. Turn right just before the Anna Maria Island Bridge

(866) 947-6715 Tampa Bay

minto creates better places to inspire life Prices and availability subject to change without notice. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to the purchase agreement and homeowner documents, including the documents required by section 718.503, Florida Statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee in condominium communities. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. CBC 1258779, CGC 1505726, CGC 1519880. 6/2012.

Anna Maria Island

Gulf of Mexico

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MINTO NEW HOME SALES OFFICE

64

Manatee Ave. W.

Bradenton

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MASERATI OF TAMPA 11333 N. Florida Avenue | Tampa, FL 33612 | 813.375.3517 | jcruppi@drivereeves.com 2

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Weekend In Style Indulge your senses with the 2012 GranTurismo Convertible.

Ease into the hand-crafted luxury of a roomy convertible with hand-stitched Italian leather.

Turn the key and unleash the unmistakable growl of a 433-horsepower V8. And enjoy the exclusivity of driving the most coveted exotic convertible on the road today.

MASERATIOFTAMPA.COM www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

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experience the new hyatt regency clearwater beach resort & spa.

Steps away from the powder white sands of Clearwater Beach, a brand new resort is bringing world-class style and amenities to the west coast of Florida.

All guestrooms are suites with fully equipped kitchens featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, private balconies and Gulf of Mexico views. The hotel also offers Sandava Spa, Shor American Seafood Grill, Camp Hyatt, Hyatt StayFit™ Gym, 20 air-conditioned pool cabanas and indoor & outdoor meeting space perfect for any business gathering or special event. For reservations, call 727 373 1234 or visit clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com.

Hyatt. You’re More Than Welcome.

727 373 1234 CLEARWATERBEACH.HYATT.COM

HYATT name, design and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. ©2011 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

outdoor LIVING ROOMS

Style is a matter of taste.

Design is a matter of principles.

This year, re-discover the beauty and functionality of your home through the designer's eye.

For custom architectural waterscape, hardscape and home remodeling design, build and installation, we're the company to use...when you want to use one company.

Custom Pool/Spa Renovation & Construction Outdoor Kitchens Accessory Structures Home Remodeling Landscaping Financing Available

611 Druid Road East, Suite 206 • Clearwater, FL 33756 727.466.0700 • F 727.286.9020 • www.phillipspools.com General Contractor #CGC1508449 • Commercial Pool/Spa Contractor #CPC1456837

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Photo courtesy of Tiffany & Co.

dR CONTENTS

fe a t u r e s 14 32 34 40 42 44 50 56 58 64 68 70 74 84

FEATURE

by Janan Talafer WIne, Friendship & Charity

GETTING AROUND THE BAY

by Melinda Tam Orlando Lavish Resorts

by Janan Talafer Refined Dining

by Susan B. Barnes Unique Boutiques

by Janan Talafer Serene Spas

by Susan B. Barnes Culture, Museums, Arts, Theatres

by Janan Talafer Exploring Fun Attractions of Tampa Bay

by Janan Talafer One Day Trips

by Janan Talafer Unique Adventures, Eclectic Entertainment

by Janan Talafer Sports and Fitness

by Susan B. Barnes Water Everywhere

departments 20 86 90

TRAVEL

GARDEN

by Susan B. Barnes Create a Butterfly Garden in your Backyard

92

CULINARY MASTERS

by Susan B. Barnes Buon Appetito! At Benedetto’s Ristorante Italiano

QUICK GETAWAY

by Susan B. Barnes Cabbage Key

Getting Around the Bay in Style

by Cindy Cockburn Switzerland Sizzles

REAL ESTATE A Grand Key West Inspired Residence Mediterranean Masterpiece

FASHION

96

WINE

by Janan Talafer Wine Celebrity Extraordinaire

100 104 110 112

PARTY EVENTS CALENDAR AUTO 2012 Fisker Karma

BACK PAGE International Fashion Designer Returns Home

KITCHEN & BATH SPECIALISITS COMPLETE HOME REMODELING

COMPLETE REMODELS

Kitchens less 21 days or Bathrooms less 10 days or

•

COUNTERTOPS

“

•

INTERIORS

•

STONE FLOORS/WALLS

•

DESIGN

“

CABINETRY

Thanks Artisan Design for our Fabulous Kitchen & Master Bath Remodel. You guys worked so fast & efficiently not to mention you saved us a ton of money compared to other companies.

Melissa Carrington—Tampa

for details.

Call today

CRC1330438 Licensed & Insured

2304 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa, FL 33612 • 813.933.9245 • artisandesigntampa.com www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

7

dR PUBLISHER’S LETTER Dear Reader, Welcome to our annual Getting Around the Bay issue, where we highlight well-known attractions in our area as well as some off-the-beaten-path gems even our local readers may not have discovered. Pick your passion…… from shopping to dining, relaxing spas and resorts, museums and entertainment, adventures and one day getaways, we explore all aspects of life in the Tampa Bay area.

draenert.

A N E W D I S C O V E RY

If that’s not enough, dR TRAVEL will whisk you away to Switzerland and the beauty of the Alps. Visit quaint villages with historic hotels and take in the views of pristine lakes

at the Cologne furniture fair was

and glaciers. Our writer takes you along for the trip and

a German company that

shares everything from the best culinary delights to the

designs and produces distinctive designer furniture.

hippest jazz clubs.

Last issue we invited you to our Cars and Coffee event which featured exotic cars from the 2012 goldRush Rally 4.

S U P E R B LY C R A F T E D Their extension dining tables employ state-of-the-art patented technology which allows for effortless extension of the stone top leaves.

We were delighted to welcome over 3,000 guests and 750 cars at our headquarters. Whether you prefer the glamour of a Bugatti or the timelessness of a classic car there was something for everyone to enjoy. If you weren’t able to attend, you can join us the third Saturday of any month to see what you missed!

N AT U R A L S T O N E Marble, limestone, travertine,

Enjoy!

quartzite and granite are sorted under the open skies.

Every slab is a picture drawn by nature,

Thomas L. duPont Publisher

displayed to perfection.

P.S. P.S. For our guests visiting for the Republican National Convention, we hope you have a chance to experience at least some of the local treasures in this issue…..if not in person, then in these pages. exclusively at

P.S.S.The first person to email me the year of Joe Madden’s Chevy BelAir hardtop will win a free 1-year subscription to this magazine.

TLDUPONT@DUPONTREGISTRY.COM

contemporary furniture

homeresource.com

8

WWW.DUPONTREGISTRY.COM/TampaBay

The Draenert extension table integrates a patented lifting mechanism that effortlessly allows the leaves to be raised for dining or entertaining.

elegance perfected.

Wide range of sizes, custom bases, over 100 stone surfaces to select from.

Available nowhere else in Tampa Bay region

contemporary furniture

homeresource.com Gulf Coast’s Leading Contemporary and Modern Furniture Showroom Downtown Sarasota | 741 Central Avenue | Sarasota FL 34236 | 941.366.6690 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

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PUBLISHER BETH ANN DRAKE TAMPA BAY ADVERTISING DIRECTOR EDMUND BARRY III, EXT. 3232 NATIONAL SALES MANAGER JOHN D. CHAPMAN III, EXT. 2238 GENERAL SALES MANAGER CINDY CARR, EXT. 2204 TAMPA BAY MANAGING EDITOR TRESS EVELETH, EXT. 1420 ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES BRIGHAM AVERY, EXT. 1524 RON BARRETO, 727.638.2429 SHANE BURDEN, EXT. 2500 JILL MASSICOTTE, 813.610.6578

SHERI NORRIS, EXT. 3212 HAL REDDICK, EXT. 2333 C. E. WRAY, 727.867.3307 STEVE ZANETOS , EXT. 4212

ADVERTISING ASSISTANTS CHRIS COLDEN JEAN GARRONE

A campus that opens windows to nature and the world.

SALLY HAMMOND

MARTHA HENRY CHERYL ROSENLUND

AUTO MANAGING EDITOR ELIZABETH B. KOBAL BOATS MANAGING EDITOR JEFF CAMPBELL HOMES MANAGING EDITOR TRESS EVELETH ADVERTISING COORDINATOR CAROL BRESSLER PRESS MANAGEMENT CHARLIE WALSH

NORM BRUBAKER

GRAPHIC ARTISTS KHOI NGUYEN

JESSICA SHOUPE

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING JON N. CHAPMAN

JAIME HYNEMAN

NICOLE LAUBER

duPont Publishing, Inc.

CHAIRMAN/PUBLISHER Thomas L. duPont CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven B. Chapman COMPTROLLER Lauren Osekowski Purse, C.P.A. CHIEF TECHNICAL OFFICER Manuel O. Obordo PRODUCTION MANAGER Tony W. Alvis ASSISTANT TO CHAIRMAN/PUBLISHER Tina Nyp ASSISTANT TO CEO Anne Tuohy RECEPTIONIST Gwendolyn Cheramie GENERAL COUNSEL J. Douglas Baldridge CORPORATE ADDRESS 3051 Tech Drive, St. Petersburg, FL 33716 727.573.9339 • Fax 727.489.0210 • 800.233.1731 Subscription Inquiries: 800.233.1731 www.duPontREGISTRY.com Follow us on Are you a Fan? Join us on Linked In Twitter facebook.com/duPontREGISTRYhomes twitter.com/duPonthomes Linkedin.com/company/duPont-publishing

1600 St. Paul’s Drive, Clearwater, FL 33764 (727) 536-2756 ◆ admissions@st.pauls.edu 10 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

The duPont REGISTRYâ„¢ is copyright 2012 by duPont Publishing, Inc. ISSN 0890-362X. All rights reserved. duPont REGISTRYâ„¢, duPont REGISTRY Luxury Living in Tampa Bay, the Steering Wheel design, dupontregistry.comâ„¢, and various titles and headings herein, are trademarks of duPont Publishing, Inc. and may not be reproduced without written consent.

Printed in the U.S.A. Published 6 times per year. Single copies available at your newsstand or call our publishing office for shipping information. Canadian GST not included in cover price. The pictures for sale and the written offer for sale are the responsibility of the individual advertiser. duPont REGISTRYâ„¢ and duPont Publishing, Inc. make no representation or warranty for accuracy or content. All photos become the property of duPont Publishing, Inc. when printed unless otherwise agreed to by the Publisher.

www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

11

For over 20 years, our passion has been and continues to be designing, building and remodeling award-winning luxury homes on FloridaÂ’s Gulf Coast.

At the end of the day, your home should be your haven. Let us help you make it so.

12

www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 13

dR FEATURE

WINE, FRIENDSHIP & CHARITY

By Janan Talafer

Lee Burgees courtesy Moorman Photographs

Celebrating The Good Life in Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay Rays Manager Joe Maddon and Michael Stewart, proprietor of 717 South Restaurant in South Tampa, share an enthusiasm for red wine, classic cars and giving back to the community.

W

hen he’s not giving a pep talk to his team or creating a new winning strategy, you might find Joe Maddon behind the wheel of one of those big vintage cars from the late 1950s, or an all-American muscle car from the ‘60s

14

www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

and ‘70s, the kind that made every teenage boy dream of drag racing at the speedway.

“I love them. They’re part of my past,” says Maddon, the Tampa Bay Rays manager known for both his out of the box

thinking about the game and his easygoing, free-spirited nature.”

“I wish I had kept all those old cars,” says Maddon. “But at least now I can afford to collect them.”

And what a nice collection he has—a ‘56 Chevy BelAir hardtop, a ‘72 Chevelle convertible and a ‘67 Ford Galaxie 500 convertible. All fully restored and in mint condition. He loves to get behind the wheel and drive them.

On the other hand, classic cars were not something Michael Stewart, the owner of 717 South, thought a lot about— until he met Maddon. Now he owns a seafoam green 1966 Mustang. When he first brought it home, his wife Lindsay said to him, “What are you doing? You don’t know anything about old cars. Oh, I get it. You’re trying to be just like Joe.” “I thought about it and had to agree.

She was right,” jokes Stewart.

The two friends first met in 2006, shortly after Maddon traded the West Coast for the East Coast and came to manage the Tampa Bay Rays after 31 years with the California Angels.

Maddon soon became a regular at 717 South where he would come in, sit at the end of the bar, order dinner and befriend everyone around him, says Stewart. “He’s just that kind of person.”

One night they got to talking about life, wine, cars, dogs, family and books.

They realized how much they had in common, especially an appreciation for red wine. So far the two say they have about 400 bottles on their favorites list, everything from cabernets like Dominus to Sea Smoke Pinot Noir and wine from Ribero del Duero in the northern region of Spain.

This fall Stewart has arranged for Maddon and his wife Jaye to tour the Napa Valley wine country. “They know they’re going, but not the details,” says Stewart.

“And they’re in for a trip of a life-time.”

Jaye and Maddon first met in Southern California in 1995. They married in 2008.

“She’s the yin to my yang. She likes fast cars, man caves and red wine,” says Maddon, who has children and grandchildren from a previous marriage. “Jaye is a die-hard Seattle Sea Hawks fan—she’s from there originally, and now of course, she’s a Rays fan.” It’s a match made in heaven.

Maddon is also known for his charita-

ble work and his commitment to giving back to the community. Earlier this year, he and the Rays shaved their heads to raise funds locally for pediatric cancer research. He founded the Hazleton Inte-

Maddon finds particularly troubling. “The mental picture most people have of a homeless person is not accurate,” he says. “These are tough times. I always think, there but for the grace of God go I.”

Ray’s players help with “Guest Bartending” fundraisers at 717 South. Shown left to right: Michael Stewart, Matt Joyce, Joe Madden, David Price and former Ray Johnny Damon.

gration Project to improve the relationship between Hispanic and “Anglos” in his Pennsylvania hometown. And he’s proud to sponsor Thanksmas, a Tampa Bay project that feeds the homeless at the holidays.

“Back when I was with the Angels, I would ride my bike on the beach and see dozens of homeless people living there. I always vowed that if I ever got the chance one day to help, I would,” says Maddon.

“And now I can.”

Residents at shelters from Tampa Bay to Fort Myers are treated to a traditional Italian and Polish holiday meal of spaghetti and meatballs, sausage and pierogi— a testament to Maddon’s heritage. His mother, Beanie, is Polish; his father, now deceased, was Italian.

Maddon supervises the cooking and serving, accompanied by the Rays’ team members and staff. They also distribute new hoodies, toothbrushes, tennis shoes and other items with the free meals.

Homelessness is a social issue that

Funds to support Thanksmas come from donations, including a major fundraiser that Stewart hosts each year at 717 South. In early December, restaurant guests are treated to the “same meal” Maddon cooks for those at the shelter. The Rays’ players and coaches, plus other celebrities serve as “guest bartenders” and mingle with patrons that night. All proceeds go toward making Thanksmas possible.

Besides his reputation for turning around the Rays losing streak, Maddon is known for his laid-back style and his ability to stay cool, calm and collected—most of the time. What’s his secret? To keep everything in balance, he says requires a routine of meditation in the morning, riding his bike as often as he can, getting enough sleep and eating right.

It also requires an ability not to take yourself too seriously. “I have fun and I encourage my players to have fun. You have to remember that baseball is not life or death. We confuse things.” dR

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A C O N C E P T C A R Y O U C O U LD A C T U A LLY O W N .

T H AT WA S O U R C O N C E P T.

INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW CADILLAC XTS We invented a new way to warn you of danger with the Safety Alert Seat. And its revolutionary CUE1 driver interface brings the simplicity of a tablet to your car. The XTS usher in new standards with every ingenious detail. See how the all-new XTS is bringing the future forward at cadillac.com/xts.

AUTOWAY CADILLAC PORT RICHEY 727.842.9700 AUTOWAYCADILLAC.COM

COAST CADILLAC SARASOTA 941.922.1571 DRIVEACADILLAC.COM

CREST CADILLAC VENICE 941.497.5800 CRESTCADILLACVENICE.COM

DIMMITT CADILLAC CLEARWATER 727.797.7070 DIMMITTCADILLAC.COM

DIMMITT CADILLAC PINELLAS PARK 727.822.2019 DIMMITTCADILLACSTPETE.COM

ED MORSE CADILLAC TAMPA 813.968.8222 EDMORSECADILLACTAMPA.COM

ED MORSE CADILLAC - BRANDON BRANDON 813.661.0887 EDMORSECADILLACBRANDON.COM

TROPICAL CADILLAC BRADENTON 941.751.6886 TROPICALCADILLAC.COM

VILLAGE CADILLAC HOMOSASSA 352.628.5100 VILLAGECADILLAC.COM

1 . F u l l f u n c t io n a li t y r e q u i r e s c o m p a t i b l e B l u e t o o t h 速 a n d s m a r t p h o n e . S o m e d e v i c e s r e q u i r e US B c o n n e c t i v i t y.

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A REVOLUTIONARY USER EXPERIENCE Savant’s Apple®-based Smart Home Solutions are designed to deliver an unprecedented level of efficiency and simplicity, providing each user with a streamlined smart home technology experience. From simple media room control to a fully integrated whole-house audio, video and automation system, or even non-invasive retrofit solutions with very little wiring — Savant can meet the demands of any installation.

Savant’s SmartSystems are engineered to be expandable and allow for future home control upgrades. Enhancing the features of your smart home as time and lifestyle permits is a breeze.

Tampa 813.831.8551

St. Petersburg 727.531.1100

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Contact us to set up an appointment at your home or business, or schedule a personalized tour of our amazing showroom. We offer Tampa Bay’s most Skilled, and Experienced Installation Staff and stand behind our systems with an On-Site Inclusive System Warranty.

15201 Roosevelt Blvd., Suite 111 | Clearwater, FL 33760

info@EasyLiving.net

Opening July

AN ALZHEIMER’S CARE COMMUNITY

Featuring State of the Art Alzheimer’s Programming Memory loss can profoundly alter the lives of individuals and their families. People with dementia need an environment that caters to their needs and brings peace of mind to them and their loved ones. At Horizon Bay Memory Care By The Bay, we believe people with memory loss can still lead quality, meaningful lives.

ALZHEIMER’S & DEMENTIA CARE 2301 West Palm Drive, Tampa, FL 33629 (Located one block north of Bayshore Boulevard on the corner of South Howard Avenue and West Palm Drive.)

Your story continues here...

(888) 530-2970 www.brookdaleliving.com

+ ' #' # , !* $" #'& $ ( && & %) % $ %$$ ! # $% ) # # & ) !!

Schedule a personal visit of our beautiful community today and receive Take Your Oxygen First—a book by television host Leeza Gibbons. Learn the story of Gibbons’ mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

With the help of medical professionals, Gibbons provides a guide for caregivers to take care of themselves first.

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PARADISE ISLAND BOUTIQUE Turquoise Multi Wear Silk Blouse; Price Upon Request Helmut Lang Yellow Wrap Front Skirt; $109 Star Fish Cuff Bracelet; Price Upon Request

TINA J. OF STYLE ATTIC Kate Spade Chandelier Statement Earrings; $98

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Jimmy Choo T-Strap Cork Wedge Sandal; $495

tyle S

Getting Around the Bay in

Produced by: Brandi Kamenar Image Design Studio Wardrobe: Saks Fifth Avenue, London Amara, Paradise Island, LaFrance Models: Angie Mantiega, Rosy Boix, & Franz Hostalka from Benz Model & Talent Agency

Photography: Lee Burgees courtesy Moorman Photographics Fashion Styling and Accessories: Tina Jackson, Style Attic Hair Styling: Darren Pena, Darren Pena Salon & Spa Makeup: Bianca Ann Grace, Darren Pena Salon & Spa Location: The Westin Tampa Bay www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

21

PARADISE ISLAND BOUTIQUE Milly Embellished Floral Cocktail Dress; Price upon request

LA FRANCE BOUTIQUE Gold Leaf Earrings; $48 Broach Cuff Bracelet; $118 Striped Straw Hat; $58

22 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Robert Graham Coronation Long Sleeve Shirt; $198 AG Adriano Slouchy Slim Jeans; $195 Ferragamo Mufoloni Slide in Shoes; $495

www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 23

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Georgie Apparel Kristopher Moto Jacket; $800 Elie Tahari Roni Skirt; $348 Elie Tahari Mila Knit V Neck Shirt; $98 Gucci Suede Strap Mary Janes; $620

LA FRANCE BOUTIQUE Multi Beed Chain Necklace; $248 Brass Wrist Bracelet; $178 Stone Ring; $98

24 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

ON HER: SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Alice & Olivia Elyse One Button Blazer; $368 Alice & Olivia Silk Shorts; $187 Theory Yoan Abstract Burnout Blouse; $225 Jimmy Choo Glitter Backzip Platform Sandal; $865

LA FRANCE BOUTIQUE Gold Pendant Necklace; $38 Grecian Pendant; $88

ON HIM: SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Toscano Long Sleeve Linen Fancy Shirt; $148 Jack Victor White Micro Poly Trousers; $248 Linen Fedora; $60 Ferragammo USA Parigi Suede Shoe; $495 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 25

PARADISE ISLAND BOUTIQUE Lavender Maxi Dress; Price Upon Request

LA FRANCE BOUTIQUE Earth Stones Necklace; $288 Earth Stones Bracelet; $198 Earth Stones Ring; $188

26 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

ON HER: PARADISE ISLAND BOUTIQUE London Amara Raspberry Taffeta Cocktail Dress; $800

TINA J. OF STYLE ATTIC Kate Spade Crystal Gardens Chandelier Earrings; $198

LA FRANCE BOUTIQUE Crystal Sterling Ring; $128

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Jimmy Choo Glitter Backzip Platform Sandal; $865 ON HIM: SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Elzay Ready Wear Denium Blue Sportscoat; $698 Saks Exclusive Flat Front Cords; $220 Toscano Multi-Stripe Linen Shirt; $148 Ferragamo USA Parigi Suede Shoes;

$495

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The New 375 Center Console

Here we evolve again.....

Introducing the new 375 Center Console with an all new hull that gives you more running surface, more chine beam, more freeboard, and an all new elegant look with the swooping shear line and rolled transom. The now standard and newly designed hull side dive door gives you the ability to use it while out diving or at the dock with its lift up swing in flush design it takes up no cockpit space at all and the all new extended forward seating comes with deep insulated coolers or rig them as baitwells. It’s up to you!

Come sit down with one of our sales specialists at our Dania Beach Sales facility and design yours today and see how our unique and specialized personal process creates a customer bond that lasts long after the boat reaches the water.

One of a kind. One at a time.

805 N.E. Third St, Dania Beach, FL 33004

954.922.7544

Intrepidpowerboats.com

28 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Live the life.

Aqua Scapes at

Wesley Chapel Nursery & Landscape Supply Co.

/

/

Garden Center Rock & Boulders Koi & Aquatic Plants Water Features Fountains

// 31108 SR 54 West | Wesley Chapel, FL 33543

813.973.8890

Visit our outdoor showroom or on line:

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Specializing in Concierge Insurance Services

rivate Clients at Most Insurance are provided concierge services

specifically tailored for affluent customers. We design customized, thorough private client insurance portfolios and analyze complex protection needs to ensure policies are always aligned with assets and exposures.

ESTABLISHED IN 1973 • FAMILY OWNED & LOCALLY OPERATED ST. PETERSBURG (727) 347-5555

TAMPA (813) 347-5555

ORLANDO (407) 900-6678

SARASOTA (941) 882-0467

LUXURY HOME INSURANCE HIGH-END AUTOMOBILES YACHTS VALUABLE COLLECTIONS COVERAGE WORLDWIDE LIABILITY

Take every advantage you can get.

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Richard Greaser—President—Professional Clothier

4005 W. El Prado Boulevard • Tampa, FL 33629 • www.jrichardsofflorida.com

813-230-8666 • 813-831-2736 Fax www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

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dR GETTING AROUND THE BAY

Photo courtesy of Don Vicente de Ybor

Lavish Innisbrook Golf Resort & Club Innisbrook is home to four championship golf courses including the top-rated Copperhead course, which welcomes the world’s finest players each March when the PGA Tour visits. If golf is not your thing, head to the resort’s sprawling 18,000 square-foot spa, salon and fitness center. 36750 U.S. Highway 19 North, Palm Harbor; 727-942-2000. www.innisbrookgolfresort.com

Don Vicente de Ybor

Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key Innisbrook Golf Resort & Club

There’s nothing like a 35-foot cascading waterfall to get you in the beach spirit, and this Marriott has that and more. Keep entertained with a trip to Lisa’s Klubhouse for daily supervised activities. For a romantic evening, head to Watercolour Steakhouse & Grille, and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience. 1201 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater Beach; 727-596-1100. www.marriott. com/hotels/travel/tpams-clearwater-beach-marriott-suites-on-sand-key/

Don Vicente de Ybor Photo courtesy of Salamander Hotels & Resorts

Part of Ybor’s rich history, this boutique hotel underwent a $2 million renovation to bring back the building’s glory. Toast its stunning charm with a glass of wine in The Grand Salon, or relax with your loved one in one of the inn’s 16 guest rooms.

1915 Republica de Cuba, Tampa; 813-241-4545. www.donvicenteinn.com

Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay Stroll through the hotel’s 35-acre nature preserve, and marvel at the wetlands and birds that call this sanctuary home. Take in the Hyatt’s breathtaking waterfront views from one of the surrounding villas or head up to the 14th floor for a beautiful sunset while you dine on Armani’s delicious Northern Italian cuisine. 2900 Bayport Dr., Tampa; 813-874-1234. www.grandhyatttampabay.com

Grayl’s Historic Hotel Island’s End Resort Enjoy this scenic hideaway at the southernmost tip of historic Pass-A-Grille.

Watch dolphins swimming from the Island’s End fishing dock or hunt for shells along the private beach. Choose between a quaint cottage or a threebedroom home with a private pool. 1 Pass-A-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach; 727360-5023. www.islandsend.com

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

Oasis Palms Resort

Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway, this waterfront resort is right off Clearwater Beach’s Beach Walk. Reserve one of the resort’s 20 state-of-the-art, climate-controlled cabanas bordering the pool— each features Wi-Fi and a high-definition, flat-screen TV. 301 South Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater Beach; 727-373-1234. www.clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com

Only nine blocks away from John’s Pass Village, the Oasis Palms Resort is just a walk away from the well-known waterfront shopping venue. Shop ‘til you drop, and make your way back to your guest room, complete with pillow-top mattress, hardwood floors and fully-equipped kitchens. 11799 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island; 727-823-8200. www.oasispalmsresort.com

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa 32 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Photo courtesy of Hyatt Regency Clearwater BEach Resort & Spa

Built in 1922, the Grayl’s Historic Hotel is on the list of national historic buildings and boasts old-fashioned charm while still providing modern guest amenities. Enjoy the Gatsby’s Restaurant’s casual menu while sitting at street level in the courtyard right off Beach Drive or be seated, elevated above the crowd, on the romantic patio. 340 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg; 727-896-1080. www.graylshotel.com

Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel Located within International Plaza, the Renaissance hotel is in walking distance from shops like Neiman Marcus and Tiffany & Co, but the hotel’s hand-glazed tiles and custom ironwork will make you feel a world away. Be sure to sample the Pelagia Trattoria’s delectable antipasto offers. 4200 Jim Walter Blvd., Tampa; 813-877-9200. www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpaim-renaissance-tampainternational-plaza-hotel/

Renaissance Vinoy St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club With 85 years of history, the Vinoy has earned a National Register of Historic Places designation. The resort’s rich history complements its state-of-the-art amenities, including the 18-hole golf course, tennis complex and on-site spa. Discuss the resort’s beauty at Marchand’s over a bottle of wine. 501 5th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg; 727-894-1000. www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpasr-renaissance-vinoy-resort-andgolf-club/

Resorts

STAY IN ANY OF THESE VENUES AND YOU MIGHT NOT WANT TO LEAVE.

By Melinda Tam Orlando

Safety Harbor Resort & Spa Built on the site of natural mineral springs believed to restore youth and vitality, the resort’s spa uses the healing powers of the water in its spa treatments and three swimming pools to help you achieve your own personal serenity. Continue relaxing by enjoying dinner right in the hotel — contemporary-inspired cuisine is served at the Fountain Grille. 105 N. Bayshore Dr., Safety Harbor;727-726-1161. www.safetyharborspa.com

Sandpearl Resort Going green will have a whole new meaning after you visit the Sandpearl. The resort’s green initiatives complement and preserve Clearwater Beach’s magnificence. Indulge in the resort’s spa package, private boat slips or enrichment programs for an unbelievable time away from home. 500 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater Beach; 1-877-726-3111. www.sandpearl.com

Mike Dupre

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Whether it’s the 4,000 slot games or the 50 poker tables that get your heart racing, the Hard Rock serves the high-roller in you. Skip the gambling, and head to Council Oak, an upscale prime-steak and seafood restaurant. Browse the hotel’s music memorabilia, and take in a live show. 5223 N. Orient Rd., Tampa; 1-866-502-7529. www.seminolehardrocktampa.com

Renaissance Vinoy St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

The Lowes Don CeSar

Sheraton Sand Key

Known as the “Pink Palace,” the Don CeSar will treat you like royalty. Choose between one of two oceanfront pools during the afternoon, escape to the 11,000 square-foot Spa Oceana in the early evening and cap off the night with a signature meal at Maritana Grille. 3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach; 727-360-1881. www.doncesar.com

The Westin Tampa Bay When your day is over, rejuvenate your body at the Westin Workout gym or unwind on the private sunning beach. Indulge with a delicious meal at AQUA.Try something off the AQUA Bar Bites menu or the new Breakfast Buffet menu. 7627 W. Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa; 813-281-0000. westintampabay.com

Photo courtesy of Sheraton Sand Key

TradeWinds Island Grand This 20-acre beachfront playground was built with fun in mind. Take in the sun at one of five heated pools or hang out with your family pooch. This pet-friendly property boasts a Pet Play Zone. The luxury continues with a designated dog-walking zone along the waterway. 5500 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach; 727-367-6461. justletgo.com dR

TradeWinds Island Grand

All checked in? Head to the Turtle Bar for a much-needed tropical drink. Take a dip in the pool, and head on down to the beach to enjoy Sand Key’s powdery-white sand. Don’t forget to make reservations at Rusty’s Bistro, the resort’s critically acclaimed restaurant with flavorful Caribbean foods. 1160 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater Beach; 727-595-1611. www.sheratonsandkey.com

Sirata Beach Resort If you are looking for some outdoor fun, Sirata is the place. Water-sport activities include paddle boats, wave runners, parasailing, beach volleyball and more. Want something more relaxing? Enjoy a sunset around the fire pit at Harry’s Beach Bar, or head to the Lobby Lounge for a more intimate setting. 5300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach; 727-363-5100; www.sirata.com

Photo courtesy of TradeWinds Island Grand

Sheraton Sand Key

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Porcini Rubbed Filet Mignon at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Fleming’s is known for its top quality, corn-fed USDA prime beef, aged up to four weeks and broiled at 1600 degrees to seal in the juice and flavor. A classic on the menu is the signature steak, Porcini Rubbed Filet Mignon, a center cut piece of perfect steak grilled with asparagus spears and a dollop of gorgonzola cream sauce. Ask the Fleming’s sommelier for advice on the perfect wine pairing for the meal. 4322 West Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa; 813-874-9463. www.flemingssteakhouse.com Photo courtesy of Flemingʼs Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

GREAT FOOD, GREAT DRINKS AND GREAT AMBIENCE YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS.

By Janan Talafer Miso & Sake Cured Grouper at 717 South 717 South’s award-winning menu combines Pacific Rim specialties with traditional Italian cuisine. The place to be seen for both lunch and dinner, 717 features signature dishes such as Miso & Sake Cured Grouper with Kaffir Lime Buerre Blanc and Edamame Bean Salsa with Wasabi Mash. Or try the Macadamia Nut Chicken with lobster and sherry cream sauce, accompanied by jalapeno sweet potato mash. 717 S. Howard Ave., Tampa; 813-250-1661. www.717south.com

Camarones Escondidos at Cantina Laredo Start with a mango margarita and guacamole fresh-made at your table. Then enjoy signature dishes like Camarones Escondidos—grilled chicken breast stuffed with shrimp and topped with sautéed spinach and chipotle-wine sauce. Leave room for desert. Order the Mexican apple pie with Mexican brandy butter and cinnamon ice cream for an over-the-top finish to the meal.

2000 Piazza Ave., Wesley Chapel; 813-907-3068. www.cantinalaredo.com

Prime Rib at Rusty’s Bistro Prime rib buffet is the star of the show at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort.

Enjoy classics like Shrimp and Crab-Stuffed Salmon with blood orange hollandaise or indulge in a perfectly char-grilled Filet Mignon wrapped in bacon with a merlot demi glace. For a true Florida desert, nothing beats the sweet yet tart Key Lime Pie. 1160 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater Beach; 727-595-1611. www.sheratonsandkey.com/dining/clearwaterbeach-rustys-bistro.php

Grilled Lamb & Veal Sliders at Carmel Café Sliders have become very trendy these days and Carmel Café does it right with flavorful lamb and veal sliders served with mint cucumber sauce.

Known for its small plates and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Carmel Café’s menu also includes distinctive flatbreads, entrees like Lamb Lollipops, spreads like Baba Ganoush and an inspired “sharing” platter of Cyprian cured beef, Serrano ham, Don Juan manchego and French Boucheron. Locations in Carrollwood, Clearwater, South Tampa & Sarasota; 727-724-4228. www.carmelcafe.com

Filet Mignon at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

Miso Chilean Sea Bass at Café Ponte Clearwater Café Ponte’s creative menu that blends contemporary American with French, Asian and Italian influences. Start with filet mignon tartare and one of the many specialty martinis, then progress to Miso Chilean Sea Bass, served with baby bok choy, white shimeji mushrooms, purple potato puree, tamarind-date jam and red curry lobster nage for an exotic blends of flavors. 13505 Icot Blvd. #214, Clearwater; 727-538-5768. www.cafeponte.com

Guava BBQ Ribs at Besa Grill For tequila connoisseurs, look no further than Besa Grill with its Latin flair.

More than 30 tequilas are on the menu, including Chinaco “Black” Extra Anejo and Patron Gran Platinum Silver. Entrees include homemade guava BBQ sauce with ribs or Besa Chicken with romesco sauce and kalamata reduction. Forget the after-dinner coffee; have the Mexican hot chocolate.

2542 N. McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater; 727-400-6900. www.besagrill.com

Duck Confit Cassoulet at Cassis American Brasserie Cassis chef hails from Southern France and the Duck Confit Cassoulet is the real thing with Andouille sausage, bacon, white beans and crispy onion accents. Just want an appetizer and cocktail? Steamed mussels in lemon-garlic vermouth sauce are the best. 170 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg; 727-827-2927. www.CassisAB.com

Crab Cakes at Backfin Blue Café The best crab cakes in Tampa Bay can be found at Backfin Blue Café, a funky restaurant inside a 1920-era cottage located in Gulfport. Backfin Blue Jumbo Lump Crabcakes are seasoned Maryland style. For a nice variation on another down-home favorite, try the homemade meatloaf topped with a layer of Gorgonzola cheese. 2913 Beach Blvd. S, Gulfport; 727-343-2583. www.backfinbluecafe.com

Southwestern Grilled Florida Cobia at Oystercatchers

Photo courtesy of Carmel Café

The Cobia is a powerful, strong game fish with an excellent taste and texture. At Oystercatchers, it’s served southwestern style with black beans, chorizo sausage, broccolini, roasted pepper coulis and jalapeno confit for a distinctive blend of flavors. For starters, order the Mediterranean mussels sautéed in garlic, white wine, orange, oregano and tomatoes. 2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa; 813-207-6815. www.hyatt.com

Mango Nut Grouper at Middle Grounds Grill

Grilled Lamb & Veal Sliders at Carmel Café

34 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Start with a cup of Key West Chowder, followed by an order of Florida’s favorite fish, the grouper. This signature Middle Grounds’ entrée is coated with a delicious crust of macademia, pistachio and walnut nuts, than topped with mango buerre blanc and serve over coconut basmati rice. Save room for guava mousse and mango cheesecake. 10925 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island; 727-360-4253. www.middlegroundsgrill.com

Pan Seared Black Grouper at Shor Make a reservation at Shor American Seafood Grill in time to catch a spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Located on the beach in the new Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, Shor showcases fresh seafood and local produce. Try the Pan Seared Black Grouper, accented with lentil, zucchini, tomato and tarragon salad, or the house-made lobster ravioli with vermouth cream sauce. 301 South Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater; 727-373-4780. www.shorgrill.com/hpr/shor/en/clearwater.html

Cocktails and Appetizers at Ciro’s Speakeasy and Supper Club Sip creative cocktails like the classic Old-Fashioned, Corn-Fed Peach Sour and Blackberry Bramble, while enjoying house-made pretzels stuffed with chorizo sausage and manchego cheese, house-cured pork belly pizza and black truffle popcorn. The restaurant’s authentic speakeasy atmosphere is lots of fun with low lighting, private booths, a small aquarium with octopus, wait staff in period costume and passwords required at the door.

2109 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa; 813-251-0022.

Refined Dining Potato Crusted Salmon at Guppy’s on the Beach Bar & Grill

Photo courtesy of Shor American Seafood Grill

Tender flakes of potato crusted salmon served with a leek and garlic sauce is one of many outstanding dishes at Guppy’s, a waterfront venue on the gulf. Share one of the dozen small plates, such as filet mignon topped with gorgonzola butter and Maine lobster, fresh gulf oysters or lobster escargot.

Don’t miss the lobster bisque—homemade, thick and rich. 1701 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach; 727-593-2032. www.3bestchefs.com/guppys

Pan Seared Black Grouper at Shor

Creole Jambalaya at Ricky P’s Orleans Bistro Cajun, Creole and New Orleans are showcased by Ricky P’s Creole Jambalaya with crushed tomatoes, Andouille sausage and chicken and Shrimp Etouffe that is vegetables in a creamy wine sauce and served over rice, as well as traditional favorites like red beans and rice, Louisiana crab cakes and shrimp po’boys. 1113 Central Ave., St. Petersburg; 727-821-4061. www.rickyps.com

Shish Kabob at Acropolis Greek Taverna

Gyro Platter at Louis Pappas Market Café Louis Pappas’ Classic Gyros and the Pappas Greek salads are the most popular items on their menu. Picture hand-carved beef and lamb wrapped in a grilled pita, with tomato and chopped lettuce, then crowned with tzatziki sauce. The Greek salad has all the ingredients you would expect, including feta cheese, olives and a dollop of potato salad. Locations in Westshore, North Tampa, Odessa, Clearwater and Lakeland; 727-797-3700. www.louispapas.com

Delmonico at Capital Grille Relish prosciutto wrapped mozzarella with vine ripe tomatoes and the Porcini Rubbed Delmonico with 12-year aged balsamic. The Capital Grille is known for its dry-aged steaks and the Delmonico is top-rated. Pair it with a bottle of wine suggested by the sommelier from the restaurant’s extensive list.

2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa; 813-830-9433. www.thecapitalgrill.com

The Hangar Hamburger at The Hangar Enjoy a cooked to order hamburger with caramelized onion, bacon jam and melted brie while watching the planes take off and land at St. Petersburg’s small private Albert Whitted Airport. The second floor restaurant offers live music nightly, a Friday happy hour buffet and a great view of the city skyline at night. 540 1st St. SE, St. Petersburg; 727-823-7767. www.thehangarstpete.com

Find authentic Greek food, music and atmosphere, complete with belly dancing and hookahs in 30 flavors. House specialties include beef shish kabob with tomatoes, onions and peppers and the mouth-watering Mousaka—a Greek lasagna with potatoes, eggplant, zucchini, ground beef and creamy béchamel sauce, topped with fresh tomatoes sauce and feta cheese. Locations in St. Petersburg, Ybor City, Riverview & New Tampa; 813-242-4545. www.acropolistaverna.com

116 Signature Center Cut Filet at Grille One Sixteen

Photo courtesy of The Hangar

Grille One Sixteen’s sleek and stylish atmosphere is a perfect fit with its contemporary cuisine that includes the signature center cut filet. All steaks are organic, 100 percent hormone-free and oak grilled. Fish is also fresh daily.

Sides like the rum-glazed sweet potato mash and gruyere cheese grits are to die for. Save room for house-made key lime pie. Locations at Carrollwood and South Tampa; 813-265-0116. www.grilleonesixteen.com

Ceviche at Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant Six different Ceviche dishes are on the menu so be sure to go with friends and try them all. Two highlights: Ceviche De La Casa—marinated shrimp, scallops, squid and fish tossed with fresh tomatoes, onions, pepper and cilantro, and Ceviche A La Rusa, marinated oysters with cilantro, onion and caviar, served with a chilled shot of Russian Standard vodka. Locations in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater; 813-250-0203. www.ceviche.com

The Hangar Hamburger at The Hangar www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 35

Chicken Benedetto at Benedetto’s Restorante Italiano

Ed Barry

For anyone who complains that you can’t get good Italian food outside of New York, point them in the direction of Benedetto’s. Consistently named one of the best restaurants in the region, this fine dining restaurant offers all the specialties you would expect, from Veal Marsala and Chicken Parmesan to Almond Crusted Black Grouper and Chicken Benedetto—tender cutlets sautéed with broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes and onions over linguine.

21529 Village Lakes Shopping Center, Land O’Lakes; 813-909-9694. www.benedettoitaliano.com

Rod Millington

Chicken Benedetto at Benedetto’s Restorante Italiano

Antipasto Bar and Cocktails at Armani’s Afternoon Tea at Marchand’s

Afternoon Tea at Marchands Consistently listed in one of the top 10 restaurants in Tampa Bay, Marchands is in the elegant historic Renaissance Vinoy Hotel. For something completely different, go for the afternoon tea on Wednesday and Saturday afternoon from 2-3 p.m. Traditional tea sandwiches, scones, pastries, fruit, chocolate truffles, plus tea are served in an elegant location. 501 5th Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg; 727-824-8072. www.marchandsbarandgrill.com

Pad Thai at Jasmine Thai Jasmine Thai’s extensive menu features popular items like Pad Thai with rice noodles sautéed with egg, bean sprouts, green onions and ground peanut, along with nine different curries and exotic entrees. Order the lychee fruit on top of home-made coconut ice cream for dessert. Locations at Westshore Blvd. and N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Tampa; 813-831-8881.

Pork Porterhouse at Ocean Prime A thick-cut pork porterhouse steak with sweet and sour cabbage and port wine reduction is one of the signature dishes at Ocean Prime, an elegant, upscale dining adjacent to the tony International Plaza shopping mall. Order your meal with lobster mashed or jalapeno au gratin potatoes. White truffle caviar deviled eggs are the perfect start to a gourmet meal. 2205 N. West Shore Blvd, Tampa; 813-490-5288. www.oceanprimetampa.com

Fresh Seafood at Island Way Grill Order the day’s catch, fresh from the Gulf of Mexico, or choose from standards like sea bass, salmon, yellowfin tuna, red grouper and red snapper; then have it cooked just the way you like it—wood-fire grilled, blackened or Island Way style, seared in ginger oil, garlic, onion, pepper, tomato and curry sauce. Don’t miss this iconic restaurant located on the way to Clearwater Beach. 20 Island Way, Clearwater Beach; 727-461-6617. www.islandwaygrill.com

Artisanal Cheese at Mise en Place Mise en Place is noted for its inspired menu with entrees like Lemongrass Chili Mojo Grilled Chicken with Gingered Pork Belly Sweet Potato Ragout.

Don’t overlook the sampling of many artisanal cheeses, like English Tickler, a sweet, tangy cheddar; Beehive Barley Buzzed, coffee rubbed cow’s milk cheese; and Cabra Romero, pasteurized goat cheese rubbed with rosemary and lard for a tangy, sour flavor. 442 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa; 813-254-5373. www.miseonline.com 36 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

This landmark restaurant on the 14th floor of the Grand Hyatt Rocky Point offers a breathtaking view at sunset, live piano music on the weekend, a sophisticated menu featuring Northern Italian cuisine and a famous antipasto bar with over 30 selections. For entrees, try the Filetto del Vitello – grilled veal tenderloin, lobster and crab gratin, with angel hair pasta tossed with roasted garlic oil and fresh herbs. 2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa; 813-207-6800. www.armanirestaurant.com

Sushi & Tapas at V Formerly the Venue, the V features fine dining, music and drinks all in one venue.

Try the Crave Sushi Bar and Vin Tapas & Wine Bar for distinctive small plates and an extensive wine list. Wander into Club Five, known for its themed events or hang out at the Speak-easy Sports Lounge, Tropical Patio Bar or Main Stage Martini Bar. 2675 Ulmerton Rd., Clearwater; 727-827-7000. www.thevtampabay.com

Seafood Fra Diavolo at Grille 54 There are so many great Italian dishes at Grille 54, but Seafood Fra Diavolo is a classic, that tops the list. Here it’s loaded with lobster, shrimp, scallops, mussel and clams in a spicy red sauce. Pair it with fresh-baked French bread filled with spinach, garlic and Parmesan, and a bottle of Merlot. Locations in Citrus Park, Tampa; and State Road 54 at Trinity; 727-376-0254. www.grille54.com

Lamb Chops at Watercolour Steakhouse & Grille Watercolour Steakhouse & Grille, located at the Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key, has an impressive line-up of certified angus beef and has grilled lamb chops that are perfection. The fish selections are equally tantalizing—everything from tuna and snapper to sea bass and swordfish.

1201 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater Beach; 727-596-1100. www.watercolourgrille.com

Filet Mignon Columbia at The Columbia One of Tampa’s landmark historic restaurants, The Columbia is known for its outstanding Cuban-inspired cuisine, such as the Filet Mignon Columbia: tender filet mignon wrapped with paper thin bacon and topped with a sauce of mushrooms, ham, onions, tomatoes, green peppers and a touch of garlic.

Served over yellow rice. Finish with the best flan in Tampa Bay. Locations in Ybor City, Clearwater Beach, St. Petersburg and Tampa; 813-248-4961. www.columbiarestaurant.com

Abbacchio Al Forno Alla Ciociara at Donatello’s The art of romance is alive at Donatello’s, one of Tampa’s landmark Italian restaurants. For a very special evening, order Abbacchio Al Forno Alla Ciociara, rack of lamb for two, seared and baked with mustard and herb breadcrumbs, finished in a rosemary demi-glaze sauce. 232 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa; 813-875-6660. www.donatellotampa.com

Lobster Mac & Cheese at 400 Beach Seafood & Tap House For comfort food with an upscale, gourmet twist, order the Lobster Mac & Cheese with cavatappi pasta baked with three different cheeses, and chunks of lobster, accompanied by grilled asparagus. Don’t overlook the restaurant’s signature oyster bar with variations such as roasted blue cheese oysters siriacha and tap house oysters with garlic lee butter and parmesan. 400 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg; 727-896-2400. www.400beachseafood.com

The Harry Waugh Dessert Room at Bern’s Steakhouse After you have enjoyed the art of the steak, Bern’s style, you might want to go for a short walk before you begin round two in the Harry Waugh Dessert Room. Decadent doesn’t begin to describe the experience of sitting in your own private dessert booth, reading a five-page dessert and coffee menu, each mouth-water creation sounding better than the next, from Bananas Foster to Malted Chocolate Cake. 1208 South Howard Ave., Tampa; 813-251-2421. www.bernssteakhouse.com

The Hangover at Datz

Lamb Kebabs at The Pearl Lamb kebabs, grilled with fresh mint, herbs and garlic, and served over couscous, is a simple Moroccan specialty that Chef Karim has created to be one of The Pearl’s signature dishes. Shrimp Provençale, large shrimp sautéed with tomatoes, fresh herbs and garlic, is equally outstanding. 163 107th Ave., Treasure Island; 727-360-9151. www.gotothepearl.com

Sea Sea Sauté at Sea Sea Riders

Heather Ann Stalker

Sea Sea Riders offers a laid-back atmosphere and signature dishes like Sea Sea Sauté, a blend of shrimp, scallops, white wine, garlic, olive oil, sundried tomatoes, pesto and feta cheese over linguini. Or, try the unique Shrimp and Grits with manchego cheese, sweet and spicy bacon, scallions and BBQ marinade. 800 Pass-a-Grill Way, St. Pete Beach; 727-360-1734.

Stuffed Gulf Grouper at Snappers Sea Grill It’s no surprise that Stuffed Gulf Grouper is a “house favorite” at Snappers—fresh grouper, stuffed with shrimp, scallop and crabmeat, is finished with a champagne cream sauce and served with a potato puff pastry. Also popular is the Wasabi Crusted Tuna. 5895 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach; 727-367-3550. www.snappersseagrill.com

Prime Rib Sandwich at Malio’s Prime Steakhouse This landmark downtown Tampa steakhouse opened in 1969 and served as the business lunch place of choice for years. Today, Malio Sr.’s sons continue the tradition, serving top-rated steaks, fresh seafood and pasta for lunch, dinner and private events. 400 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa; 813-223-7746. www.maliosprime.com

Sunday Brunch at Aqua Indulge in Sunday morning brunch at Aqua, the upscale waterfront restaurant at the Westin Tampa Bay. When the weather is cool, sit outside. The brunch menu is extensive, from eggs and brioche French toast to handrolled sushi, salads and antipasto platters, pasta, grilled chicken and roast beef, plus decadent desserts. 7627 Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa; 813-675-8700. www.aquabarandgrill.com

The Hangover at Datz Too much merrymaking the night before? Order The Hangover: sourdough bread grilled with over-easy eggs, melted parmesan cheese and hot sauce; a side of breakfast potatoes and Nueske’s applewood smoked bacon. Add a spicy Bloody Mary and you’re good to go. 2616 South MacDill Ave, Tampa; 813-831-7000. www.datazdeli.com

Ravioli Genovese at Bella Brava Located on Beach Drive in downtown St. Pete, Bella Brava is both the place to be seen and the place for great Italian food. Ravioli Genovese features ravioli stuffed with goat cheese, spinach and toasted pine nuts, then covered in a basil pesto cream with oven-dried tomatoes. 204 Beach Drive, St. Petersburg; 727-895-5515. www.bellabrava.com

New York Strip at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse For steak lovers, the New York Strip has a full bodied texture and comes with a thick charbroiled crust and a tender, juicy interior. Order it with a Ruth’s Jumbo Chop Salad—iceberg, spinach and radicchio tossed with red onion, mushrooms, olives, bacon, eggs, hearts of palm, blue cheese, crispy onions and croutons.

1700 N. Westshore Blvd, Tampa; 813-282-1118. www.ruthschris.com

Raw Bar at Salt Rock Grill Order the “world tour” raw bar with oysters and clams from all over the U.S.—Cedar Key clams and gulf oysters, as well as Connecticut Blue Point and many more. Salt Rock Grill is also noted for its wide selection of fresh fish entrees, simply grilled with a garnish of mango-papaya salsa. 7627 Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa; 813-675-8700. www.aquabarandgrill.com

Small Plates at The Refinery The chef at the Refinery believes that good food is a necessity in life.

Order a selection of his creative, satisfying and unique small plates. The menu changes weekly, so depending on when you go, try the Seared Watermelon with pickled mango puree, Maytag blue croute, jalapeno, pea shoots and cashews and Barley Risotto with pork belly, peas, parmesan, caramelized onion and raw quail egg. 5137 North Florida Ave., Tampa; 813-237-2000. www.therefinery.com

Mini Indulgences at Seasons 52 Seasons 52 prides itself on fresh, healthy, low-calorie cuisine. But it’s the dessert menu that is really unique. The “mini-indulgences” come in single serving oversize shot glasses. Try Mocha Macchiato, Pecan Pie with Vanilla Mousse and the Chocolate Peanut Butter Mousse, all so rich and decadent, but in tiny bites. 204 N. Westshore Blvd., Tampa; 813-286-1152. www.seasons52.com

Italian Pastries at Mazzaro’s Shopping at Mazzaro’s is a full sensory experience, from the on-site roasted coffee to the strolling musicians, fresh-baked bread, wine shop, olive barrels, cheese chop, made-to-order sandwiches and more. But it’s the bakery that is truly over the top. Italian rum cake, cannolis, tiramisu, over 30 kinds of Italian cookies, homemade biscotti and the best fresh-made gelato in the area. 2909 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg; 727-321-2400. www.mazzarosmarket.com dR www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 37

If You Can Imagine It… …We Can Build It!

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Only the Highest Quality Products are Used (CPC-057073) 38 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

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813-792-1331 www.LandmarkPools.com

Buying Coins, Gold, Silver, & Watches Highest Prices Paid.

Free evaluations and offers, never any obligation to sell.

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Buying and selling pre-owned Rolex Watches.

727-585-4502

www.belleaircoins.com We also sell! Visit our huge 5,000 sqaure foot showroom.

Not an authorized dealer for new Rolex.

www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 39

dR GETTING AROUND THE BAY

By Susan B. Barnes

WE’RE FORTUNATE TO HAVE MYRIAD SHOPPING DESTINATIONS, FROM HIGH-END MALLS TO INTIMATE BOUTIQUES AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN. Bespoke & Co.

DKM Accessories

This shop in South Tampa is the place to go for custom tailored clothing.

From the fabrics and textiles to the style and design, you’ll work in partnership with a custom clothing professional in creating that unique piece, from a single shirt to an entire wardrobe, just for you. 3305 W. Bay to Bay Blvd., Tampa; 813-902-1963

For more than 10 years, women have found their way to DKM to accessorize their wardrobes, from spring to summer to fall to winter.

Add drama to a pair of jeans with chandelier earrings, or grab a colorful clutch to add a punch of color. Take a look at the Paris Pearl Cuff when you’re in the shop—fun! 3104 Palmira Ave., Tampa. 813-902-0044. www.dkmaccessories.com

Photo courtesy of Bespoke

Cerulean Blue Swim & Resort Wear Boutique

Bespoke The Pink Palm

Cerulean Blu Swim & Resort Wear Boutique Whether you’re going to a luxurious tropical resort, or simply ready to find something new to wear around town, stop by this boutique in downtown St. Petersburg. The spa-like setting is serene, inviting you to take your time to find just the right thing(s), just for you. 400 Beach Dr. NE, Suite 161, St. Petersburg. 727-498-8984. www.ceruleanblu.com

As the Bay area’s only Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store, the shop features the designer’s apparel and accessories, including exclusive items that can only be found in a signature store. The attentive staff will help you find just the right piece for that special occasion, too!

1532 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa; 813-259-9780. www.pinkpalmflorida.com

Photo courtesy of Lilly Pulitzer

The Pink Palm

Once you’ve seen all the surrealism within the museum, you may have the urge to take something home with you. You’re in luck! The museum’s store is the perfect place to fulfill that desire. Take home a piece of artwork to grace your home’s walls.

Or, perhaps, a piece of jewelry will catch your eye. The choices go on… 1 Dalí Blvd., St. Petersburg; 727-823-3767. www.thedali.org/store 40

WWW.DUPONTREGISTRY.COM/TampaBay

Keith Talley

The Dalí Museum Store

The Dalí Museum Store

Liz Murtagh Boutique

Deborah Kents

Kit’s Well-Heeled and Well-Dressed

This new boutique in West Park Village is filled with fun jewelry, hand-picked apparel, and original art and home décor items – at non-boutique prices! Stop by and say HI; you never know what you’ll find! 9904 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa; 727-517-5861. www.lizmurtaghboutique.com

For more than 30 years, the consultants have worked with their clients to create wardrobes as individual as their customers. Local and international designs fill the racks and shelves, offering plenty of selection, from cutting edge collections to timeless classics. 2120 A S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa; 813-259-1150. www.deborahkents.com

The worst is when you go to an event and someone else is wearing the same as you. That won’t happen when you shop at Kit’s! The insightful team will work with you to define your style, from casual to dressy, maybe a bit edgy. Finish your new look with a pair of shoes and a chic handbag and you’re ready to go!

3006 W. Swann Ave., Tampa; 813-871-5487. www.kitswelldressed.com

The Look Boutique Whatever day the mood strikes, visit the hip boutique for something to spice up your wardrobe, from chic, trendy dresses to intricate jewelry and more. Once you’ve rounded out your closet, pick up a new purse to compliment your newly discovered style. 2507 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa; 813-835-5665. thelooktampa.com

LaFrance

La Pink Boutique

Retro is always cool, and we have one of the coolest vintage shops right here in Ybor City.

Walk in, step back in time and try on all sorts of clothing to jewelry to accessories to hats!

Shopping is fun again at LaFrance! 1612 E. 7th Ave., Ybor City; 813-248-1381.

Photo courtesy of Vera Bradley

Boutiques Georgette’s From a show-stopping gown for a glamorous night out on the town to the perfect dress for the mother of the bride, or even just something new for a casual party, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Georgette’s. For 30 years, the women of the Tampa Bay area have looked to Georgette for the latest fashions. 141 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa. 813-254-1141. www.georgettesfashions.com

Georgette’s

La Pink Boutique Vera Bradley reigns supreme at this fashionable boutique. Stop by and pick up the latest pattern in all the styles – it boasts Tampa’s largest selection! While there, be sure to look through the clothing and accessories. You may just leave with more than you came for!

18035 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy., Tampa; 813-972-2862.

Photo courtesy of Georgetteʼs

Paradise Island Boutique Say aloha to designer labels such as alice + olivia, Elizabeth and James, Helmut Lang and Trina Turk. The season’s latest styles will have you looking fabulous in no time! And with the help of the thoughtful team, you’ll find a look that expresses your own style. 3316 S. West Shore Blvd., Tampa; 813-805-2060. www.paradiseislandboutique.com

Milagros More than 80 scented soaps, all made in-house, fill these two shops with heavenly scents. The best-selling scent is Coconut Lemongrass, a combination of pineapple, lime, lemongrass, peach, vanilla, sandalwood and coconut. Lather up and the summer will last forever! 1603 W. Snow Circle, Tampa; 813-251-1255.

1104 Central Ave., St. Petersburg; 727-821-7555. www.sisteragnes.com

Robert Young Jeweler Extraordinaire You’re unique, and your jewelry should be just as unique as you are. That’s what you’ll find at this store filled with original works of art. More than 200 pieces are on display.

250 N. Indian Rocks Rd., Belleair Bluffs; 727-584-1110. www.robertyoung.com

Sydney Buchanan If you’re looking for something whimsical to finish off a fun and flirty outfit, look no further than Sydney Buchanan. With a different designer featured each month, you can shop throughout the year and find something new to grace your neck, wrist, or fingers!

A perennial favorite is the monogrammed line of sterling silver jewelry. (813) 258-9600. www.sydneybuchanan.com (online only) dR

Paradise Island Boutique $1,950 Alligator Bag www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 41

dR GETTING AROUND THE BAY Ambrosia Spa & Salon

Indulgence Day Spa, Brandon

Treat yourself to the Spa Day that you deserve. The session begins with a 60minute relaxation massage to eliminate all the built-up stress of daily life, followed by a 60-minute European facial designed to exfoliate, hydrate and brighten the face. Then enjoy the pleasure of a classic spa pedicure and manicure for an all-around rejuvenating day. 10333 Seminole Blvd., Suite 1, Seminole; 727-320-9600. www.ambrosiaspaandsalon.com

Get your skin glowing with a Desert Mineral Body Polish. Fossilized bath salts rich in complex minerals are mixed with botanical shower gel and massaged into the skin to exfoliate dead skin cells and to draw out external pollutants and toxins from the tissues. After a shower and an application of hydrating body tonic, you will feel like a different person. 350 Robertson St. E., Suite 100, Brandon; 813-657-8141. www.indulgeforwellness.com

Awa Spa

Raydiance

At this lovely spa in South Tampa, you can indulge in a variety of massage, skin and face treatments. But most intriguing are the “ancient healing” methods, such as the Tibetan Sound Healing session in which special healing bowls create vibrational sounds to help you achieve a sense of wellbeing, deep relaxation and stress reduction. 5820 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa; 813-902-1904. www.awaspa.com

At this unique Hyde Park spa and wellness center, try the “mini-day special” and enjoy a massage, facial and your choice of either the hydration station to burn calories, the lumiere photofacial to improve skin tone or the ionic foot detox. Be sure to visit the tea house to sample one of the many herbal and medicinal teas from around the world. 122 S. Howard Ave., Tampa; 813-251-8121. www.raydiancehydepark.com

Darren Pena Salon and Spa

Renaissance Vinoy Salon & Day Spa, St. Petersburg

When you want to look great for a special event or “just because” visit this salon and spa owned by Tampa native Darren Pena, a top hairstylist and educator who has traveled around the U.S., Latin America and Asia. Let the staff do their magic on your hair with expert cut and color, and then have your makeup done for a perfect polished look. 10330 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa; 813-969-2420. www. darrenpena.com

Imagine you’re in the Caribbean with a poolside cabana massage at the Renaissance Vinoy Hotel Salon & Day Spa. Choose the massage you desire; relaxation, deep tissue, hot stone or bamboo fusion using warm, smooth pieces of bamboo. Or try something different –ashiatsu. The therapist holds on to an overhead bar and uses her feet to massage the body. 501 5th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg; 727-824-8070. www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/fitness-spa-services/tpasr-vinoy-renaissance-st-petersburg-resortand-golf-club

Photo courtesy of Salamander Hotels & Resorts

Photo courtesy of Darren Pena Salon and Spa

Serene

Darren Pena Salon & Spa Relaxation Room

Indaba Spa at Innisbrook Known for its golf and tennis program, Innisbrook Resort also offers the top-rated Indaba Spa. The spa offers distinctive amenities such as a meditation labyrinth along with face and body treatments. After a competitive day on the courts, schedule a deep tissue, hot stone or sports massage to relax those tired muscles. Add a Moroccan oil treatment to revitalize the scalp and energize the body. 36750 U.S. Hwy 19 N, Palm Harbor; 727-942-5258. www.innisbrookgolfresort.com/tampa-spas 42 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Indaba Spa Innisbrook

The Grand Beauty Spa

SB Health and Beauty Spa, Tampa Invite your girlfriends to join you at this elegant South Tampa venue for a “Party at the Spa.” Book facials, pedicures and manicures and then when you’re relaxed and blissed-out, adjourn to the private patio and garden for a glass of wine and some refreshments to complete the perfect girls night out.

116 S. Oregon Ave., Tampa; 813-259-3606. www.sbspa.com

Safety Harbor Spa

Sandava Spa, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach

Sandava Spa, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach

Photo courtesy of Sandava Spa, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach has a reputation for beautiful white sandy beaches and Sandava Spa takes advantage of this with packages that include features like an eco-sea body scrub, sun repair soother and endless wave massage – imagine oil gently dropped along the spine, followed by repetitive strokes to lull you into deep relaxation. Radiance Medspa is located onsite for additional services. 301 South Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater Beach; 727-373-4970. www.clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com/hyatt/pure/spas

Serenity Spa at the Tahitian Inn, Tampa

Photo courtesy of The Grand Beauty Spa

The historic Safety Harbor Resort offers a 50,000-square foot spa and fitness center, as well as indoor and outdoor pools. Schedule the All Day Escape, which includes a 50-minute Swedish massage, European deep cleansing facial, an herbal wrap or mineral bath, spa aroma pedicure and lunch. Come early or stay after and enjoy the center’s amenities for the day.

105 N. Bayshore Dr., Safety Harbor; 727-726-1161. www.safetyharborspa.com/packages/dayspa.html

Spas

By Janan Talafer

The Grand Beauty Spa The Grand is a beauty spa, medi spa and salon combined. In addition to facials, massage and body treatments, you can experience a few extras: eyelash and eyebrow tinting, eyelash extensions to create luxurious lashes, hair retexturizing to rebuild damaged hair, expert makeup application and a variety of laser procedures for the face and body. 2717 W. Kennedy Blvd. , Tampa; 813-874-7674. www.grandbeautyspa.com

The Spa at Saddlebrook Resort

A boutique hotel in the middle of an urban environment, the Tahitian Inn’s South Seas island theme is carried into the Serenity Spa. Schedule the decadent Four Hands of Serenity massage with two therapists working together to put you into a state of deep relaxation. Stay for a drink by the tropical Torch Tiki Bar. 601 S. Dale Mabry, Tampa; 813-877-6721. www.tahitianinn.com/c/serenity_spa

Saddlebrook is rated one of the top 100 golf resorts by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine. The full-service spa offers body wraps, massage, and hydrotherapy, as well as oxygen facials and skin resurfacing procedures. Schedule the Epicuren Papaya Pineapple Scrub for an all-over body exfoliation that adds crushed grape seed to the mix to leave the skin silky and smooth.

5700 Saddlebrook Way, Wesley Chapel; 813-973-1111. www.saddlebrook.com/spa_and_fitness.html

Spa Oceana at Loews Don Cesar

The Spa at Sandpearl Resort

In the historic Don Cesar Hotel – the “pink palace” – enjoy the signature Chocolate Covered Cherry Facial. A cleansing milk solution is applied, followed by a rosehip exfoliation, then a sour cherry mask with cocoa powder to tighten and soften the skin. For the finishing touch, a thermal moisturizer, serum, eye cream and a light dusting of mineral powder are applied.

3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach; 727-363-5029. www.loewshotels.com/en/Don-CeSar-Hotel/spa

At this upscale waterfront resort on Clearwater Beach, it only makes sense to try one of the water therapy treatments, such as the Ocean Memory Ritual, an 80-minute session that include a full-body scrub, ocean sensation bath and ocean wave massage. Finish with a Sea C Spa Facial that brightens, tones and firms the skin on the face. 500 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater Beach; 727-674-4140. www.sandpearl.com/spa

The Beauty Integrity Center This spa, wellness and cosmetic surgery center offers traditional to the outof-the-ordinary services, such as the DNA Cryostem skin therapy, a topical application to improve facial skin. For your first time, try the Time Capsule Treatment, which includes a mud wrap, body exfoliation and scalp massage, followed by a Vishi shower, hot steam and light therapy in the capsule.

11932 Sheldon Rd., Tampa; 813-884-0160. www.myrejuvacenter.com

Tranquility Wellness Spa, St. Petersburg A small, intimate spa in downtown St. Petersburg, Tranquility Wellness Spa offers the perfect getaway for couples – the Vacation Escape For Two that features side-by-side 60-minute relaxation massages, followed by manicures and pedicures. You’ll both be relaxed and glowing, ready to enjoy the many restaurants, shops and museums located just right around the corner. 149 Second St. N., St. Petersburg; 727-898-7800. www.tranquility-dayspa.com dR www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 43

dR GETTING AROUND THE BAY American Stage Theatre Company

Photo courtesy of David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

For more than 30 years, American Stage has brought theatric performances to the public through its main theatre and popular American Stage in the Park. The 2012-13 season starts with Hysteria: Or Fragments of an Analysis of an Obsessional Neurosis by Terry Johnson, opening Sept. 14.

163 3rd St. N., St. Petersburg; 727-823-7529. www.americanstage.org

Stroll through our many local art galleries and cultural centers

Keith Talley

David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

The Dalí Museum

By Susan B. Barnes David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Morean Arts Center

Broadway comes to Tampa via the stage shows at the Straz Center, not to mention comedians and musical acts, delighting audiences time and again.

The 2012-2013 Bank of America Best of Broadway Tampa Bay features Sister Act, Anything Goes, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Flashdance, Jekyll & Hyde, War Horse, Traces and ‘S Wonderful, Elf, Wicked and American Idiot.

100 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa; 813-229-7827. www.strazcenter.org

Create your own work of art—a 3-D postcard—using fun materials as part of an “art buffet,” and the center will mail it to the recipient of your choice. Urban Art in Florida runs through Aug. 19, and is followed by the 2012 Members Show, on view Aug. 31–Oct. 28. 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg; 727-822-7872. www.moreanartscenter.org

The Florida Orchestra The Florida Orchestra is considered one of the best orchestras in America, and performs nearly 100 concerts annually throughout Tampa, Clearwater and St. Petersburg. Single tickets for the upcoming season, including Opening Night featuring Beethoven to Bernstein, go on sale in August.

244 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg; 727-892-3331. www.floridaorchestra.org

The Dalí Museum The museum boasts the world’s most comprehensive collection of Dalí works of art, including 96 oil paintings; more than 100 watercolors and drawings; and 1,300 graphics, photos, sculptures and objects d’art. See Stripped Bare and Bathed: the Preservation of Dalí’s Masterworks through Sept. 9. One Dalí Blvd., St Petersburg; 727-823-3767. www.salvadordalimuseum.org

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts In its new home in downtown Tampa, FMoPA has a vast array of upcoming exhibits that will surely pique your interest, including a Civil War Exhibition (Aug. 9 – Oct. 14); Portraits of Power: Photography by Platon (Aug. 23 – Nov. 11); and Cuba 1999 – 2000: Photographs of Mario Algaze (Sept. 13 – Nov. 18).

200 N. Tampa St., Tampa; 813-221-2222. www.FMoPA.org 44 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

The Florida Orchestra

WE’RE VERY FORTUNATE THAT THE CULTURAL SCENE CONTINUES TO GROW THROUGHOUT THE TAMPA BAY AREA. FOLLOWING ARE A FEW PLACES YOU’LL SURELY WANT TO CHECK OUT. Glazer Children’s Museum Photo courtesy of Glazer Childrenʼs Museum

Kids like art, too, as is evident in artwork found on refrigerators all around the Bay area. The new children’s museum sparks creativity, in both kids and adults! More than 170 fun, hands-on activities can be found in 12 themed areas. 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa; 813-443-3861. glazermuseum.org

Henry B. Plant Museum at the University of Tampa The Plant Musuem is housed in what was formerly the Tampa Bay Hotel, and harkens back to turn-of-the-century opulence with its domes, cupolas, gingerbread details and Moorish minarets. Today, the museum is filled with treasures from around the world—Mr. Plant would be pleased.

401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa; 813-254-1891. www.plantmuseum.com

Glazer Children’s Museum Henry B. Plant Museum at the University of Tampa

Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg

Photo courtesy of Henry B. Plant Museum, University of Tampa

For more than 40 years, the museum has appealed to diverse audiences. Exhibits through the summer and into the fall continue that tradition, with Picturing a New Society—Photographs from the Soviet Union 1920s–1980s through Aug. 19, Global and Local—Studio and Contemporary Glass on Florida’s West Coast through Oct. 14, and Sitter and Subject in Nineteenth Century Photography. The museum is also home to Georgia O’Keefe’s Poppy (1927). 255 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg; 727-896-2667. www.fine-arts.org

Culture

Private Collection of Tom and Mary James Tour the private collection of Tom and Mary James located at the Raymond James Financial Corporate Headquarters for an intimate art experience. The collection features varying genres, including Pop, Contemporary, Figurative, Sports Art and Landscapes. Please reserve your tour at least a week in advance. Raymond James Financial Corporate Headquarters, 880 Carillon Parkway, St. Petersburg; 727-567-1363. www.raymondjames.com/art/

The Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College Live music, including blues, jazz, classical, Celtic and more, is king every summer weekend into September during Side Door Summer at the Palladium! The community theater is dedicated to making available opportunities for the public to perform and attend performances of value for everyone. 253 Fifth Ave., N., St. Petersburg; 727-822-3590. www.spcollege.edu/palladium

Photo Courtesy of The Florida Orchestra

The main attraction in this gallery is contemporary studio glass, but art aficionados will also appreciate the paintings and photographs that adorn the walls of the 2,000-square-foot gallery.

Artists featured include Kait Rhoads, Audrey Phillips and Kay Ritter, among many others. 442 Grand Central Ave., Suite 100, Tampa; 813- 250-1511. www.baisdengallery.com

Brad Cooper Gallery Established, mid-career and fledging artists all find a welcome home at the Brad Cooper Gallery in Ybor City. With a keen eye and focus on burgeoning talent, the gallery aims to exhibit under-valued artists, many of whom get on their feet at the gallery and continue to exhibit for years to come.

1714 E. 7th Ave., Ybor City; 813-248-6098. www.bradcoopergallery.com

The Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College

Photo courtesy of The Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College

Baisden Gallery

Ruth Eckerd Hall

Photo courtesy of Ruth Eckerd Hall

Designed by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, the performance hall boasts nearperfect acoustics and has received rave reviews from artists, technicians and audiences through the years. Beauty and the Beast shares the stage with Little Feat, Ted Nugent and Meat Loaf in July and August. 1111 McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater; 727-791-7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com

Ruth Eckerd Hall

For more on the arts in the Tampa Bay area, visit www.artstampabay.com or www.tampaarts.com.

Heritage Village Blacksmith Forge

Heritage Village Travel back in time, even to the 19th century and stroll amongst 28 historic structures, including a school, church, sponge warehouse, railroad depot, store and a variety of homes. The living history museum has lots for families to do to learn local history—and have fun!

11909 125th St. N., Largo; 727-582-2123. www.pinellascounty.org/Heritage

Museums Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art Opened in 2002, the museum has an impressive 6,000-piece collection of 20th century lithographs, tapestries, sculptures, paintings and stained glass that is comprised of donations from Abraham Rattner’s estate, donated by Allen and Isabelle Leepa, and a large donation from the Tampa Museum of Art. 600 Klosterman Rd., Tarpon Springs; 727-712-5762. www.spcollege.edu/central/museum

Photo courtesy of Tampa Museum of Art

Duncan McClellan

Tampa Museum of Art

Molten sand becomes breathtaking works of art at the hands of glass sculptor Duncan McClellan. Having worked with artists in Ybor City and New York, Duncan’s masterpieces in his St. Petersburg studio reflect emotions relating to family, personal growth and spiritual connections. 2342 Emerson Ave. South, St. Petersburg; 813-760-6600. dmglass.com

Dunedin Fine Arts Center In addition to rotating exhibits, the community is invited to take classes to learn or advance their skills in mediums ranging from photography to drawing to stone carving. Starting in September, the center goes out of this world with InterGALACTIC, My Favorite Martian and BEAM Me Up… 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin; 727-298-3322. www.dfac.org

Tampa Museum of Art The popular downtown Tampa museum, designed by San Francisco architect Stanley Saitowitz, is a work of art unto itself. Step inside and find galleries with changing exhibits to suit everyone’s tastes. Running through Sept. 9 is Masterworks of 20th Century Sculpture from the Martin Z. Marguiles Collection; through Sept. 16 is A Hundred Years—A Hundred Chairs; and through Sept. 23, Sculptors on Paper—Selections from the BNY Mellon Collection. 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa; 813-274-8130. www.tampamuseum.org 46 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Kotler Art Gallery While perusing the books in the library stop by the small gallery on the second floor, the oldest continuous art-space in downtown Tampa. A permanent art collection is in rotation, usually on a monthly basis, and is complimented by artwork from local artists. 900 N. Ashley Dr. (inside the John F. Germany Library), Tampa; 813-273-3652, ext. 4. www.hcplc.org/hcplc/locations/jfg/kotler.html

Linden Galleries

Tampa Theatre

More than a frame shop, Linden Galleries offers its clients a spectacular array of original, limited edition and print-on-demand works of art. Essentially, anything you’re looking for can be found at the galleries. And when you find it, Jim and Lynn McAvoy will create an incredible final framed look.

12926 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa. 813-264-1945. www.lindengalleries.com

Seeing a movie or concert at the Tampa Theatre is a magical experience.

Designed by famed theatre architect John Eberson and built in 1926, theatre-goers are transported to a Mediterranean courtyard, complete with a nighttime sky filled with twinkling stars overhead. Take a behind the scenes tour, or arrive early to a movie for a Mighty Wurlitzer Organ performance. 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa; 813-274-8286. www.tampatheatre.org

The comfortable gallery affords clients the opportunity to take museumquality artwork home to enjoy for years to come. Works from regional artists to master works of art can be perfectly paired with any one of more than 8,000 frames to fit your art needs. 2701 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa; 813-902-1414. www.michaelmurphygallery.com

St. Petersburg Little Theatre The oldest, continuously operating community theater in the state of Florida is right here in St. Petersburg! Since 1925, the theatre has provided quality entertainment, and the upcoming season looks just as bright, beginning with Rumors by Neil Simon. 4025 31st St. S., St. Petersburg; 727-866-1973. www.splt.org

For nearly 30 years, art lovers have found exquisite glass works to compliment their homes at one of the most comprehensive sources for fine art and art glass in Florida and beyond. In the gallery, find works available from hundreds of artists in all different mediums, including paintings, sculptures and blown glass. 247 Main St., Safety Harbor; 727-725-1808. www.sydentelgalleries.com

Joe Roberts

Syd Entel Galleries and Susan Benjamin Glass

Tampa Theatre

A RTS T HEATRES

Tampa Bay History Center More than 500 years of Tampa’s history comes alive at the riverfront facility with interactive displays that appeal to children and adults alike. Highlights include a look at the cigar industry, the Tampa Bay Timeline and drafting a few strokes in a crewing scull simulator. 801 Old Water St., Tampa; 813-228-0097. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org

Lynn Ponto-Peterson, The Nutmeg Lantern, watercolor, Dunedin Fine Arts Center, Dunedin

T.W. Curtis

Dunedin Fine Arts Center

Photo courtesy of Dunedin Fine Arts Center, Dunedin

Photo courtesy of Heritage Village

Michael Murphy Gallery

T.W. Curtis, Fluid Sounds 20x20

T.W. Curtis Art Gallery The contemporary artist displays his works within the unassuming gallery in St. Petersburg, yet his works find themselves in private collections, embassies, corporations, museums and galleries throughout the U.S., Canada, Australia, the U.K., continental Europe and Japan. 1663 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg; 727-898-9898. www.twcurtis.com dR www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 47

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dR GETTING AROUND THE BAY Adventure Island Beat the heat at an action-filled 30-acre water park where you can be as daring as you wish. Relax and float down the lazy river, race down the giant slides, get soaked in the waterfalls, surf in the wave pool or bake in the sun at one of the mini-beaches. The park is affiliated with Busch Gardens.

10001 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa; 813-987-5000. www.adventureisland.com

Take a self-guided or docent tour of Tampa’s maritime museum, the American Victory Mariners Memorial & Museum Ship. One of only four still operational WWII-era ships, the 455-foot American Victory Ship was restored in 1985 and brought to Port of Tampa in 1996. Tour the nine decks, including cargo holds, radio and gyro rooms, hospital, galley, flying bridge, wheelhouse, crew cabins and more. 705 Channelside Drive, Tampa; 813-228-8766. www.americanvictory.org

Armed Forces Military Museum The unique Armed History Museum is full of information and memorabilia showcasing military operations of the 20th and 21st centuries, such as the realistic WWI diorama showing the trenches, smoke, barbed wire and Red Baron tri-plane, WWII displays from Pearl Harbor, the South Pacific and Europe, a Korean MASH field hospital and more. Climb aboard and go for a ride on the fully restored WWII M8 Renaissance Vehicle. 2050 34th Way North, Largo; 727-539-8371. www.armedforcesmuseum.com

Photo courtesy of Armed Forces Military Museum

American Victory Ship

Armed Forces Military Museum

Bay Area Renaissance Festival

Busch Gardens

Every spring, travel back in time with the Bay Area Renaissance Festival, held for several weekends on the MOSI Museum campus. The event showcases period costumes, Irish dancers, kilt competitions, belly dancing, arm wrestling, juggling, horseshoes, longbow and more. There’s also music, stage performances, live jousting, roving character actors, and plenty of “period” items to purchase and fair-type food to consume. 11315 46th St. N., Tampa; 813-983-0111. www.bayarearenaissancefest.com

From the new Cheetah Hunt and other heart-stoppers like SheiKra, which drops 200 feet straight down and Gwazi, a blur at speeds up to 100 miles an hour, the roller coasters at Busch Gardens are not for the faint-hearted.

Tamer exhibits include Serengeti Railway, King Tut’s Tomb, Rhino Rally jeep ride, animal exhibits, a bird aviary and more. 10165 N. McKinley Dr., Tampa; 888-800-5447. www.seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-tampa

Whether you prefer high-energy or low-key entertainment, Tampa Bay has it all. Here are a few of our favorites—a “bucket list” of Tampa Bay venues you don’t want to miss. By Janan Talafer Cheetah Hunt at Busch Gardens

Big Red Balloon Sightseeing Adventures View Tampa Bay from a vantage point of 1,000 feet with a hot air balloon ride over the countryside. There are several hot air balloon companies in the area, all of which feature FAA-certified pilots and sunrise cruises that typically start around 6 a.m. and last about one hour. Big Red Balloon tours include a champagne toast and hot breakfast after the return. 8710 West Hillsborough Ave., Tampa; 813-969-1518. www.bigredballoon.com

Photo courtesy of Busch Gardens

´© Stephen Hodgins

Big Red Balloon Sightseeing Adventures

Ghost Tours of Tampa Bay Tampa Bay offers several Ghost tours. On Friday evenings, experience the Tampa by Twilight Ghosts & Graveyard Tour that begins in the city’s Oaklawn Cemetery, the oldest in town. A costumed guide spins tales of the “haunted” history of the area in a candlelight walking tour. 300 Beach Dr., NE, St. Petersburg; 727-894-4678. www.ghosttour.net/stpetersburg.html

Photo courtesy of Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Great Explorations Children’s Museum When it is too hot or rainy, this children’s museum in St. Petersburg is the perfect family outing. Kids can dress up in child-size firefighter jackets and boots, sit in a big fire truck and slide down the fire pole. There’s also a giant tree house for climbing and traveling exhibits from other children’s museums. The 100-foot long “pitch black” Touch Tunnel is a star attraction.

1925 4th St. N., St. Petersburg; 727-821-8992. www.greatexplorations.org

Historic Ybor City Museum State Park

Winter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Ybor City has been designated a National Historic Landmark District and the museum, located in the former Ferlita Bakery building, has a Mediterranean garden and a recreated cigar worker’s house. Take a self-guided walking tour of Ybor, with maps and a downloadable audio tour available at the museum. Take home a cigar from the museum shop.

1818 Ninth Ave., Tampa; 813-247-6323. www.ybormuseum.org

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

John’s Pass Village

Winter, the famous dolphin with a prosthetic tail, is now a movie star thanks to the movie Dolphin Tale. She’s also brought national status to this small marine research facility that rescues, rehabs and releases injured marine animals. Visit Winter, feed the rays or take an eco-tour boat tour of Clearwater Harbor. 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater; 727-441-1790. www.seewinter.com

This former turn-of-the-century fishing village has been transformed into a shopping, dining and entertainment venue. Visit more than 100 specialty shops, and dozens of restaurants, rent a jet ski or go parasailing, or take a boat for dolphin watching, shelling and fishing. 12901 Gulf Blvd., Madeira Beach; 727-394-0756. www.johnspass.com

Derby Lane Dog Track The greyhound racing tradition continues at Derby Lane Dog Track, which also features live poker play seven days a week. Sit in the Derby Club restaurant and enjoy a matinee or evening buffet while watching the dogs race.

10490 Gandy Blvd., St. Petersburg; 727-812-3339. www.derbylane.com

Lowry Park Zoo Lowry Park Zoo offers 60 acres of natural habitats for some 1,500 animals, from the elephants, zebras, giraffes and hippos of Africa to leopards, tigers and rhinos of Asia and the koalas, wallabies and singing dogs of Australia. Stingray Bay’s 16,000gallon touch pool allows guests to feed the stingray and a Manatee and Aquatic Center cares for injured, sick and orphaned manatees. 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa; 813-935-8552. www.lowryparkzoo.com

Exploring Fun Dinosaur World The 12-acre Dinosaur World attraction features more than 100 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs arranged in small herds throughout the park-like setting. A new museum displays fossils and new children’s playgrounds have been added. The fossil dig, in which sharks teeth, dinosaur bone fragments, small pieces of amber and tiny shells are hidden, waiting to be found, continues to be the most popular exhibit. 5147 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City; 813-717-9865. www.dinosaurworld.com

Florida Air Museum

Florida Botanical Gardens Over 30 acres of cultivated botanical gardens and 90 acres left natural await at Florida Botanical Gardens. New features include an educational children’s trail and mosaic garden art stepping stones. The gardens are both recreational and educational. The University of Florida horticultural extension service is on-site to answer questions about plants. 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo; 727-582-2100. www.flbg.org

Lowry Park Zoo

Photo courtesy of Lowry Park Zoo

Vintage aircraft, ultralights, experimental craft, military and aerobatic aircraft are showcased at the Florida Air Museum. Special exhibits include the Howard Hughes Avaiation Collection, Tuskeegee Airman, women in Aviation and Florida Aviation Hall of Fame. Ongoing restoration projects take place on the grounds. Lakeland Linder Regional Airport, 4175 Medulla Rd., Lakeland; 863-644-2431. www.sun-n-fun.org/Florida-Air-Museum.aspx

Mixon Fruit Farms Mixon Fruit Farms offers a peek at Old Florida with a tour of the groves—300 acres of oranges and grapefruits. Enjoy an interactive educational show at the Wildlife Refuge, then stroll over to the gazebo and Koi pond to feed the Koi fish and look at the gardens. Be sure to visit the gift shop for citrus and homemade fudge, along with Florida honey, marmalade, salsa and wine.

2525 27th St. E., Bradenton; 800-608-2525. www.mixon.com

MOSI

Old Tampa Book Company & Haslam’s Bookstore At a time when many private bookstores can no longer stay in business, Tampa Bay has two outstanding venues. In downtown Tampa, Old Tampa Book Company, offers some 40,000 collectible, rare, used, signed editions and out-of-print books on nearly every topic, from gardening to golf. Haslam’s in St. Petersburg calls itself Florida’s largest new and used bookstore. Browsing encouraged.

2025 Central Ave., St. Petersburg; 727-822-8616. www.haslam’s.com 507 N. Tampa St., Tampa; 813-209-2151. www.oldtampabookcompany.com

´Photo courtesy of MOSI

From the popular Sky Trail ropes course and zip line to the Saunders Planetarium, IMAX theatre, dozens of interactive science exhibits and a large butterfly garden, The Museum of Science and Industry has something for everyone. The museum encompasses the area’s largest science center with some 450 exhibits, including Disasterville, a focus on extreme weather con-ditions, and Amazing You, about the stages of human development.

4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa; 813-987-6000. www.mosi.org

MOSI Ropes Course

Sunken Gardens Sunken Gardens, a mini-tropical oasis in the midst of an urban environment, is a four-acre botanical garden with 50,000 mature plants from around the world. The Gardens also feature an enclosed butterfly garden and a flamingo exhibit. It’s hard to imagine that the garden was originally a sinkhole, drained by the Turner family back in the 1920s and filled with lush vegetation.

1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg; 727-551-3100. www.stpete.org

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino recently completed a $75 million expansion, adding more parking, restaurants, slot machines and a no-smoking gaming room. In addition to gaming tables, there’s also fine dining at Council Oak Steaks & Seafood; entertainment at the Hard Rock Café; massages at the Body Rock Spa; exercise at the Fitness Center and pool; and retail therapy at the many shops. Plus, there’s a top-rated hotel. 5223 N. Orient Rd., Tampa; 866-502-7529. www.seminolehardrocktampa.com

Shopping at Hyde Park Village, International Plaza & More Plenty of retail therapy can be found in Tampa Bay, from the boutiques and cafes of Hyde Park Village to the 200 specialty stores and 16 restaurants at the upscale International Plaza and Bay Street. WestShore Plaza, a regional shopping mall, has a movie theater in addition to restaurants and

Attractions Bowling is making a come-back at venues like Splitsville that offer an upscale entertainment destination featuring 12 bowling lanes, six billiard tables, a restaurant offering sushi, sliders, salads and pizzas, plus a lounge. Casual evening attire requested after 8 p.m. Happy Hour daily from 4–7 p.m. 615 Channelside Dr., Suite 120, Tampa; 813-514-2695. www.splitsvillelanes.com

St. Petersburg Museum of History The City of St. Petersburg’s history is on display at this quaint museum located downtown near The Pier. There’s a replica of the single-engine biplane that Tony Jannus flew in the first commercial flight, artifacts from the demolished landmark Soreno Hotel, a display of posters from WWII, various personal historic collections, historic photos and more. 335 Second Ave. NE, St. Petersburg; 727-894-1052. www.spmoh.org/home.html

Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary Trained staff and volunteers care for more than 8,000 injured birds every year at the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary and Avian Hospital. The largest non-profit wild bird hospital in the U.S. based on admission, Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary was founded in 1971 by a local zoologist and has emergency facilities, a surgical center and indoor and outdoor rehab areas.

18328 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shore; 727-391-6211. www.seabirdsanctuary.com 52 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

stores, and Ellenton Outlet Mall, just south of Tampa Bay, has 130 outlet stores for designer and brand name fashion.

5461 Factory Shops Blvd., Ellenton; 941-723-1150. www.premiumoutlets.com 2223 N. Westshore Blvd., Tampa; 813-342-3790. www.shopinternationalplaza.com 250 WestShore Plaza, Tampa; 813-286-0790. www.westshoreplaza.com 1621 W. Snow Circle, Tampa; 813-251-3500. www.hydeparkvillage.net

Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary

´Photo courtesy of Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary

Splitsville, Channelside

Tampa Bay Automobile Museum

Photo courtesy of Tampa Bay Automobile Museum

Mint-condition vintage cars to die for can be found on display at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, including the Peugeot Darl ‘mat, Maserati Sebring Series II, Delorean and Claveau 56. The featured cars showcase engineering and design excellence from around the globe, such as the replica of the French 1770 Fardier de Cugnot, the world’s first self-propelled vehicle. The museum recently added artifacts from Jacques Cousteau’s famous marine expeditions. 3301 Gateway Centre Blvd., Pinellas Park; 727-579-8226. www.tbauto.org

Tampa Bay Downs

Tampa Bay Downs Turf Race

Tampa Bay Automobile Museum

´Photo courtesy of The Florida Aquarium

´Photo courtesy of Tampa Bay Downs

First opened in 1926, Tampa Bay Downs is the only American Thoroughbred horse racing facility on Florida’s West Coast. In addition to horse racing, the facility offers a golf practice facility (practice your swing while watching the races) and a poker room open seven days a week. Trackside private suites, grandstand box seats and a clubhouse are onsite. 1125 Race Track Rd., Tampa; 813-855-4401. www.tampabaydowns.com

The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium Ranked among the top 10 aquariums in the country, the Florida Aquarium, in Tampa’s Channelside district, offers an up-close look at the plants and animals in Florida wetlands, beaches and coral reefs. You can also dive with the sharks, watch the penguin parade and let the kids play in the water slides and geysers and climb the pirate ship. Take the ecotour to observe dolphins in the wild.

701 Channelside Drive, Tampa; 813-273-4000. www.flaquarium.org dR

of Tampa Bay Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center When Tampa Bay temperatures drop below 68 degrees, dozens of manatees congregate in the clean, warm water discharge canal near Tampa Electric Company’s Big Bend Power Station. Visitors can walk out onto the manatee observation platforms to see these enormous, gentle creatures in their natural habitat. There’s also a walkway through a mangrove habitat for bird watching, an educational exhibit, small café and gift shop. 6990 Dickman Rd., Apollo Beach; 813-228-4289. www.tampaelectric.com/manatee

Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks

´Photo courtesy of Visit Florida

Just as Ybor was settled by Cuban and Italian immigrants, Tarpon was embraced by the Greek community. By 1890, the sponge industry was thriving in this small fishing village and dozens of experienced sponge divers from Greece were recruited to handle the demand. Today, the Greek culture is still dominant, the sponges continue to be harvested and dozens of authentic Greek restaurants and specialty shops line the docks. E. Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs; www.spongedocks.net

The Detective Dinner Theater Love detective murder mystery novels? Then you’ll enjoy the opportunity to help “solve” the murder at the Detective Dinner Theater. Dinner and performances are held year-round every Saturday night at the downtown St. Petersburg Hilton Hotel. The current production is The Spy Who Killed Me. 333 First St. S., St. Petersburg; 727-446-8569. www.detectivedinner.com

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dR GETTING AROUND THE BAY Anna Maria Island & Bradenton Beach

the Edison main house, guest house, caretaker’s house and Ford home. The Edison Ford Museum is filled with artifacts and the Edison Botanic Research Lab is where Edison tested plants to find an alternative source to rubber. 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers; 239-334-7419. www.edisonfordwinterestates.org

Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach still have a small town, low-key, unpretentious feel. Rent a scooter and tour the island or stroll the beautiful beaches. Shop at one of the cute boutiques. Have lunch at an outdoor café.

Or ride horses on the beach and into the surf, an experience called “horse surfing.” Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau; 941-729-9177. www.annamariaisland-longboatkey.com

Edison Home

Bok Tower Gardens

Photo courtesy of Visit Florida

The monthly Gardens Summer Music Series is a great way to experience the beauty of Bok Tower Gardens, an historic landmark in Lake Wales. The series showcases a variety of music, includes all-day admission to the gardens and an optional dinner before the performance. A highlight of the gardens is the 205foot Singing Tower Carillon with its 60 bells; concerts are held daily at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales; 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org

Everglade Adventure Tour Visit Florida’s wilderness, the West Everglades Big Cypress Region. Take a day safari tour with a private guide and enjoy a combination of hiking and a pole boat ride through the swamp. Or you can rent kayaks, canoes and paddleboards either on your own or with a guide. Guided fishing tours are also available, and so is a trip to a traditional Gladesmen camp filled with artifacts. 40904 Tamiami Trail, U.S. 41, Ochopee; 800-504-6554. www.evergladesadventuretours.com

Fifth Avenue South & Waterside Shops of Naples

Bok Tower Gardens

Cassadaga The historic 57-acre Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp community located just outside Orlando was established in 1894 by the Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp Meeting Association. The town has been designated an historic district and is the oldest active religious community in the Southeast U.S. Historic tours, workshops, church services and a bookstore are open to the public. Certified mediums offer spiritual healings and readings by appointment. Cassadaga Rd., CR 4139, Cassadaga; 386-228-3171. www.cassadaga.org

Cedar Key Named one of the coolest small towns in the U.S., Cedar Key is located three miles out in the Gulf of Mexico on Way Key, the largest of the barrier islands in the Cedar Keys. Now an artist and writer’s hideaway with dozens of shops, galleries and restaurants, Cedar Key is the oldest port in the state. Cedar Key; 352-543-5600. www.cedarkey.org

Edison & Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers The winter retreats of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford offer an interesting glimpse into the lives of these famous men who were neighbors, good friends and inventors. Tour the botanical gardens and historic structures, including 56 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Delight in finding unusual out-of-the-way venues? You’ve come to the right place. Many attractions can be enjoyed on a one-day road trip from Tampa Bay.

By Janan Talafer Florida Lighthouse Tour Florida has 30 remaining historic lighthouses, located from Pensacola to Anclote Key, Alligator Key to St. Augustine. The Florida Lighthouse Association, based in Tampa Bay, reports that lighthouses played an important role in making it possible to explore, settle and develop Florida’s 1,350 miles of coastline. Many of the lighthouses host monthly or at least occasional open houses and tours, such as the St. Augustine Sunset and Moonrise.

Visitors can celebrate the full moon of each month with a champagne toast and light hors d’ ouevres. www.floridalighthouses.org

Photo courtesy of Visit Florida

Tress Eveleth

Fifth Avenue South in Naples is a sophisticated destination with pedestrian friendly promenades, lush landscaping and more than 37 restaurants, 70 upscale retail shops, art galleries and a theater. Waterside Shops offers chic and fashionable stores—Gucci, Cartier and Hermes—with complimentary valet parking. 800 5th Ave. S., Naples; 239-692-8436. www.fifthavenuesouth.com.

5415 Tamiami Trail N., Naples; 239-598-1605. www.watersideshops.com

St. Augustine Lighthouse

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

John and Mable Ringling Museum

From the parking lot, take a boat over to Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and spend the day observing wildlife in its natural habitat. You can watch resident manatees at play from the underwater observatory or walk on the elevated boardwalk and you might spot a bobcat, white-tailed deer, alligators, river otters and black bears. 4150 South Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa; 352-628-5343. www.floridastateparks.org/homosassasprings/default.cfm

Sarasota’s John and Mable Ringling Museum showcases the Ringling’s outstanding art collection, as well as more recent acquisitions of Asian art. Visitors can also tour the Ringling restored winter estate, Ca d’Zan, enjoy a miniature circus museum and attend performances at the historic Asolo Theater, an 18th century theater brought over from Italy and reassembled onsite.

5401 Bay Shore Blvd, Sarasota; 941-359-5700. www.ringling.org

Legoland

Seminole Gulf Railway, Murder Mystery Dinner Train

Imagine life-size villages, castles, dragons, planes and cars made out of every kid’s favorite toy—Legos. Welcome to one of Florida’s unique theme parks— Legoland. You can also enjoy a water ski and stunt show, ride the rollercoasters, cool off at a large water park and stroll through the historic gardens that preserve the memory of Cypress Gardens, which once was an attraction at the Legoland site. One Legoland Way, Winter Haven; 877-350-5346. www.florida.legoland.com

Enjoy a murder mystery dinner theater in an unusual setting—four restored vintage railcars from the 1930s to 1950s. While you take a four-hour train ride from Fort Myers to Punta Gorda and enjoy a five-course meal, you take part in an interactive murder mystery comedy performance. Guests receive clues and help solve the mystery. 2805 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers; 239-275-8487. www.semgulf.com

Lion Country Safari

Enjoy an abundance of upscale specialty boutiques, art galleries and restaurants at Sarasota’s St. Armands Key, once a small fishing village and now a hub of restaurants and shops that attracts visitors from all over the world.

You’ll find shops like Island Pursuit offering men’s and women’s clothing; St. Armands Gifts & Winery and restaurants like Tommy Bahama. St. Armands Circle, Sarasota; 941-388-1554. www.starmandscircleassoc.com

Check out Lion Country Safari. At this wildlife preserve, the animals roam free while you stay inside your car, driving through four miles of wilderness to catch a glimpse of the animals, including lions, monkeys, giraffes and the largest herd of zebra and rhino in the U.S. The park also offers boat rides, camel rides, giraffe feeding, a petting zoo and more. 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd., Loxahatchee; 561-793-1084. www.lioncountrysafari.com

Photo courtesy of Visit Gainsville

Downtown Micanopy, FL

St. Armand’s Circle Sarasota

St. Augustine The oldest continuously occupied city in the U.S., St. Augustine was first visited by Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon and later established as a Spanish settlement in 1565. Today the city is a prime tourist destination with its restored forts, jails, one-room school house, churches, historic homes and more. Enjoy the many shops and restaurants and tour the city either on foot or by horse-drawn carriage. City of St. Augustine; 904-829-5671. www.stjohnscountychamber.com

The Powel Crosley Estate The Powel Crosley Estate is a 21-room Mediterranean Revival mansion on Sarasota Bay. Industrialist and entrepreneur Power Crosley Jr. built Seagate in 1929. The restored 60-acre estate is available for weddings and events and is open to the public during the holidays. 8374 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-722-3244. www.annamariaisland-longboatkey.com/crosley-estate

One Day Trips Micanopy

Weeki Wachee Springs

Step back in time to Old Florida with a trip to Micanopy, a quaint small town just a half hour from Gainesville. Micanopy’s Historic District encompasses 38 buildings and a Native American Indian Mound, all on the National Register of Historic Places. The town is noted for its Southern hospitality, antiques shops and specialty stores like The Shop, a distinctive gift gallery.

210 Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy; 352-466-4031; www.welcometomicanopy.com

Florida’s infamous mermaid show is alive and well in this restored retro 1950era Florida roadside attraction. You can watch mermaids perform an underwater ballet in Weeki Wachee Springs, a deep natural spring that has a constant five-mile an hour current. Cool off yourself at the adjacent Buccaneer Bay water park and small sandy beach. 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill; 352-592-5656. www.weekiwachee.com dR

Mount Dora

Sarasota Polo Club

Sarasota Polo Club Spend Sunday afternoon at the Sarasota Polo Club watching the polo ponies compete in what is often called the “game of kings.” Bring a picnic basket for tailgating with friends. You can also enjoy Clydesdale wagon rides, half-time entertainment and the tradition of divot stomping after the horses rough up the turf. The club in Lakewood Ranch encompasses nine polo fields and 35 private ranches. 8201 Polo Club Lane, Sarasota; 941-907-0000. www.sarasotapolo.com

Photo courtesy of Sarasota Polo Club

Shop for antiques, visit the art galleries and attend festivals nearly yearround, such as the spring art show, fall craft fair and the annual lighting of Mount Dora at the holidays. Take a carriage ride or hop on the Mount Dora Trolley. Stop by the Mount Dora Brewery for on-site brewed beer like the Rocking Rabbit Red made with organic ingredients and orange blossom honey. 341 Alexander St., Mount Dora; 352-383-2165. www.mountdora.com

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dR GETTING AROUND THE BAY

Off the Beaten Path Airfest at MacDill Air Force Base

Tress Eveleth

MacDill Air Force Base opens its doors to the public every year for one of the largest air shows in the country. The next show, scheduled for April 2013, will showcase the U.S. Navy Blue Angels demonstration team. Some 70,000 spectators attend each year. 6801 S. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa; 813-828-1110. www.facebook.com/MacDillAirfest

Central Avenue’s Funky Shops Enjoy browsing at small artist boutiques for original, eclectic art and vintage items? You’ll love Central Avenue in downtown St. Petersburg. Start at the renovated historic Crislip Arcade in the 600 block and continue up to the Grand Central District, home of Artpool Gallery & Vintage Boutique and Craftsman House. Central Ave., St. Petersburg; www.sixhundredblock.com

Dragon Boat Racing Picture 20 paddlers sitting side by side on an enormous, 45-foot slender boat with a colorful dragon’s head and tail on either end. Dragon Boat racing has become a popular international sport with heated competitions among racers.

Watch the local teams in action on Garrison Channel in downtown Tampa.

401 E. Jackson St., Tampa. www.tampabaydragonboats.com

Airfest at MacDill Air Force Base

Skippers Smokehouse For decades, Skipper’s has been a Tampa institution for great blues, rock ‘n roll, bluegrass, reggae and Zydeco music served up under the stars in the backyard “Skipperdome” with its picnic tables, big old trees and covered Tiki deck. The ambience, Florida “cracker” meets Key West, lends itself to casual dining with black bean gator chili, chicken wings, fried gator tail, catfish and more. 910 Skipper Rd., Tampa; 813-971-0666. www.skipperssmokehouse.com

Star Gazing

Swim with the Manatees

Explore the universe and observe the stars at a Tampa Bay planetarium. Free shows are held on Friday nights at the St. Petersburg College Planetarium and Observatory, which also has a 20-inch reflecting telescope open to the public after the planetarium shows. Or visit the Science Center of Pinellas and Tampa’s Museum of Science and Industry Saunders Planetarium. MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, 813-987-6000, www.mosi.org. St. Petersburg College Gibbs Campus, 69th St., N & 5th Ave., St. Petersburg, www.spcollege.edu/ Planetarium.

Science Center of Pinellas County, 7701 22nd Ave., N., St. Petersburg, www.sciencecenterofpinellas.org

There’s something magical about swimming with the manatees, those enormous aquatic, plant-eating animals that are sometimes called sea cows.

There are several organizations that offer the opportunity to snorkel, scuba dive or swim with the manatees in the deep natural springs of Crystal River, an area noted for manatee population. Jus how big are manatees? Up to 10feet long and some 1,200 pounds. Sunshine River Tours, 1 Southwest 1st Place; Crystal River; 352-628-3450. www.sunshinerivertours.com Manatee Tours USA, 267 N.W. 3rd St., Crystal River; 352-795-1333. www.manateetoursusa.com

Unique Adven Cuban Coffee at El Molino Breathe in the aroma of fresh beans as they’re roasted, ground and packaged at El Molino, a landmark coffee shop in historic Ybor City. Have a cup there and then take home a selection of your favorite beans, from espresso to flavored. 2012 E. 7th Ave., Tampa; 800-531-9586. www.elmolinocoffee.com

Photo courtesy of MOSI

Shop Fresh Farm Markets

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Enjoy local produce, tropical fruit, honey and jams, arts & crafts, fresh prepared food and other items at Tampa Bay’s many local farmer’s markets.

St. Petersburg: www.saturdaymorningmarket.com Tampa: www.tampdowntownmarket.com Seminole Heights: www.tampabaymarkets.com Hyde Park: www.tampabaymarkets.com Clearwater: www.clearwaterfarmersmarket.com Dunedin: www.dunedingov.com/home.aspx?page =events/greenmarket

MOSI Planetarium

Pump Up the Action Big Work Machines

Photo courtesy of People at Play

Did you love big earth moving machines when you were a kid? Ever wonder what it would be like to operate them? Well now you have the chance to climb up into the driver’s seat to play in the dirt with excavators, skid steers and bulldozers. This is a unique hands-on heavy equipment experience you don’t want to miss. People At Play, 2450 Tallevast Rd., Sarasota; 941-756-0886. www.comeplayinthedirt.com

The Exotic Driving Experience at Walt Disney It’s a dream come true! Drive high-performance Lamborghinis, Ferraris and Porsches at top speeds with no threat of traffic, police cars or stoplights. Ride with a professional instructor or take the wheel yourself with an instructor as a guide as you race the six-lap course. This is definitely the “adult Disney.”

Walt Disney Speedway, 3450 N. World Dr., Lake Buena Vista; 407-939-0130. www.exoticdriving.com

People At Play

Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World® Speedway

Walt Disney World®Speedway Exotic Driving Experience

tures

By Janan Talafer

Lions, Tigers, Oh My Here kitty, kitty takes on a whole new meaning at Big Cat Rescue, the largest accredited sanctuary in the world dedicated to tigers, lions, bobcats, cougars and other big cats that have been abused, neglected or abandoned. Part rescue mission and part educational center, Big Cat Rescue has been around for some 20 years and offers guided encounters, including day hikes, night hikes and feeding tours. Big Cat Rescue, 12802 Easy St., Tampa; 813-920-4130. www.bigcatrescue.org

Ride a Harley

Big Cat Rescue

Photo courtesy of Visit Florida

If you work hard, you should play hard. Release your inner child and let the wind ruffle your hair as you jump on a Harley for a long weekend out of town. Adventure Family Motorsports will arrange a custom Harley Davidson Motorcycle Adventure for you and a friend. Or for family fun, consider the dirtbike or waverunner adventure package. It’s the perfect opportunity for a little excitement without the hassle of ownership. Adventure Family Motor Sports, info@adventurefamilymotorsports.com; 813-410-4547. www.AdventureFamilyMotorSports.com

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You don’t need to journey to Costa Rica for a zip line adrenaline rush. Just come to Gatorland, a retro 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve in Central Florida. Five high-flying zip lines take you about 30 feet above the Florida wilderness and over gator ponds, including the alligator breeding marsh and the jumping Cuban crocodiles. Don’t miss the alligator wrestling show and gators jumping five feet to snatch food from the trainer’s hand. 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando; 800-393-5297. www.gatorland.com

Gatorland

Photo courtesy of Gatorland

Gatorland

Photo courtesy of Giraffe Ranch/Safari Wilderness

Exotic Game Ranches Visit one of several exotic game ranches for a trip through the Central Florida wilderness of live oaks, pine and wetlands and at the same time, observe exotic wildlife from Asia and Africa roaming free. Family owned, working ranches in Dade City and Lakeland also have herds of Austrian Haflinger horses and tiny Irish Dexter cattle.

Tours are led by guides driving safari tour vehicles, but there are also opportunities for close-up encounters, like riding the camels and feeding the giraffe and lemurs. Giraffe Ranch, 38650 Mickler Rd., Dade City; 813-482-3400. www.girafferanch.com. Safari Wilderness, 10850 Moore Rd., Lakeland; 813-382-2120. www.safariwilderness.com

Giraffe Ranch/Safari Wilderness

Eclectic En tert A Day Cruisin’ On The Water Is Better Than…

Take cover, the pirates have landed! In addition to the infamous Gasparilla Invasion, the historic pirate festival that takes place in Tampa each January, family friendly pirate cruise ships provide plenty of entertainment—pirate stories, face painting, water gun battles, treasure hunts and more on a cruise around the Gulf of Mexico. Captain Memo’s Original Pirate Cruise, Clearwater Marina, Clearwater Beach; 727-446-2587. www.captainmemo.com The Pirate Ship at John’s Pass, Johns Pass Boardwalk, Madeira Beach; 727-423-7824. www.thepirateshipatjohnspass.com 60 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Pirate Ship Cruises

Photo courtesy of Visit Florida

Pirate Ship Cruises

Not Your Average Tour

Cruising on the Bay Cruise around Tampa Bay on a three-diamond rated dining yacht. Dance under the stars. Toast the sunset. And take in the view. Lunch and dinner cruises daily. The 130-foot yacht has three decks, a large dining room, lounge deck and promenade deck. Ships depart from Channelside in Tampa and the Clearwater Marina. Yacht Starship Cruise, 603 Channelside Dr., Tampa or 25 Causeway Blvd., Slip #55, Clearwater; 813-223-7999. www.yachtstarship.com

TECO Streetcar Before everyone owned a car, streetcars were a major mode of transportation.

Tampa’s streetcars made their debut in the 1890s and rolled to a stop in 1946 after WWII. Today, a small portion of the streetcar line has been resurrected, along with 10 station stops. Take the streetcar from downtown Tampa to Channelside and Ybor City. Tampa, 813-254-4278. www.tecolinestreetcar.org

Catch the Big One Snook, red fish, cobia, tarpon, trout and sharks are some of the varieties of fish that lure anglers out into the open water of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. You can arrange for half-day, three-quarter day or full-day trips with one of the many fishing charters in the Tampa Bay area. Captain Stewart Ames of Gone Fishing Charters, arranges trips out of the Palm Harbor area, leaving from Marino’s Marina. Gone Fishing Charters, 297 Bayshore Dr., Palm Harbor; 727-784-0143. www.tampa-fishing-charter.com

Jump The Waves Enjoy the thrill of captaining your own mini-speed boat—think of a go-cart on the water. The small one or two person boats are safe; you can’t flip them, yet they can go full throttle through the water. A trained guide and narrator leads a two-hour tour of the St. Pete Beach area and Gulf of Mexico, allowing you to get close to pods of dolphin and to watch the birds dive for fish.

Tampa Speed Boat Adventures, 200 Madonna Blvd., St. Petersburg; 727-744-3218. www.tampaspeedboatadventures.com

Eco-Tour Cruise

Helicopter Tours For an exhilarating bird’s eye view of Tampa Bay, take a helicopter ride. Old City Helicopters takes off from Peter O. Knight Airport in Tampa, while Safari Choppers, with its distinctive zebra-stripped paint job, flies from Albert Whitted Airport in downtown St. Petersburg. Custom tours can be arranged for birthdays, special events, even wedding proposals. Safari Choppers, 540 1st St. SE, St. Petersburg; 813-384-8687. http://safarichoppers.com Tampa Helicopters, 825 Severn Ave., Tampa; 813-254-1300. www.tampahelicopters.com

Take A Water Taxi In Venice, Italy take a gondola ride. In downtown Tampa, take a water taxi. The Tampa water shuttle and water taxi service provides pick up and return service from downtown waterside hotels and nightspots, as well as homes on Davis Island, Harbor Island and Seddon Channel. Or take one of the special package tours, such as the sunset cruise, night light harbor tour, history tour or the Hillsborough River eco tour. 200 N. Ashley Dr., Tampa; 888-665-8687. www.watertaxitampa.com dR

Take an eco-tour cruise of the intracoastal with a Clearwater Marine Aquarium marine specialist serving as a tour guide. The 90-minute Sea Life Safari Boat Tour departs daily from the aquarium and takes visitors to a nearby shell island. Dolphin sightings practically guaranteed. The aquarium staff is authorized to use catch and release nets to help keep track of local marine life.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 25 Causeway Blvd., Clearwater; 727-462-2628. www.seewinter.com

ainment Pedal Power Take a ride on a surrey with the fringe on top. Wheel Fun Rentals specialty bicycles come in various sizes—big enough to accommodate the entire family or small enough for just two. Rent a surrey at the St. Petersburg Pier and enjoy a trip around the downtown shops and waterfront parks. Wheel Fun Rentals, 800 2nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg; 727-820-0375. www.wheelfunrentals.com/listlocations/87

Shells, Sun & Sand

Photo courtesy of Wheel Fun Rentals

What could be better than spending the day on an island accessible only by boat? Bring a picnic, suntan lotion, snorkeling gear and a bag for collecting shells (remember taking shells with live animals inside is illegal). Tampa Bay is blessed with some beaches accessible only by kayak or shuttle boat. Shell Key, just 2.5 miles long, is relatively tiny, and the majority of it is considered a bird preservation area and sanctuary. Caladesi Island State Park has a three mile nature trail, a marina and snack bar Shell Key Shuttle, 801 Pass a Grille Way; 727-360-1348. www.shellkeyshuttle.com Caladesi Ferry, end of S.R. 586, Dunedin; 727-734-5263. www.caladesiferry.org

Wheel Fun Rentals www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

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dR GETTING AROUND THE BAY

Get Out, Get Fit, Have Fun

By Janan Talafer

Make A Splash #1 Fly with JetLev Strap on a water-propelled jetpack and go for the amazing thrill of flying along the water or soaring up to 30 feet in the air. Look out James Bond! JetLev, an exhilarating but safe new water sport activity is only located at the TradeWinds Resort. TradeWinds Island Resorts, 6000 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. www.tradewindsresort.com

#4 Sail Away Tampa Bay offers great sailing opportunities for beginners and veterans. Here are a few sailing centers offering lessons and boats.

St. Petersburg Sailing Center, 11 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. www.spyc.org Simple Sailing Charters, 165 5th Ave., NE, St. Petersburg. www.sailsimply.com Sail Time Tampa Bay, 1110 3rd St. S., St. Petersburg; 727-688-3007. www.sailtimetampabay.com Annapolis Sailing Center, Tampa branch; 800-638-9192. www.annapolissailing.com Offshore Sailing School, St. Petersburg location; 888-454-7015. www.offshoresailing.com

#5 Skimboards & Surfboards Tampa Bay may not be Long Beach or Hawaii, but boards are popular here too. Check out the daily surf reports at www.gulfster.com and look for rentals and lessons at several local venues.

Overhead Surf Shop, 12951 Village Blvd., Madeira Beach; 727-398-7873. www.overheadsurfshop.com Suncoast Surf Shop, 9841 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island; 727-367-2483. www.suncoastsurfshop.com Sail Time Tampa Bay, 1110 3rd St. S., St. Petersburg; 727-688-3007. www.sailtimetampabay.com Nekton Surf Shop, 1313 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach; 727-593-8292. www.nektonsurf.com

TradeWinds Island Resorts JetLev

#6 Sculling Tampa Bay has a surprising long tradition of sculling or rowing, from college teams who come south to practice on Garrison Channel in Tampa (leaving the infamous school logo graffiti) and adult recreational programs and competitive teams through The Steward Foundation. The Steward Foundation, Julian Lane River Front Park, 900 W. Cypress St., Tampa. www.rowtampa.com

#7 Kiteboards For a serious thrill on the water, try kiteboarding. It’s been described as a combination of wakeboarding, windsurfing, paragliding and gymnastics blended into one extreme adventure sport. As the wind lifts the kite, it propels the rider into the air. Kiteboarding Tampa Bay, 813-389-3683. www.kiteboardingtampabay.com

#2 Escape In A Canoe What could be more peaceful than slowly paddling down the Hillsborough River through private and public areas filled with birds, wildlife, moss-draped Florida cypress trees and the quiet that can only be found in nature. Enjoy a self-guided trip or take a nature interpretive guided trip, moonlight trip and more. Canoe Escape, John Sargeant Park, 12702 U.S. Hwy 301, Thonotosassa; 813-986-2067. www.canoeescape.com

Sports and Fit Spend a day enjoying some of the most popular water sports today. Paddleboarding, also called stand-up paddle surfing, is easy to learn, suitable for any age and offers a unique full-body workout. Kayaking is a great way to experience the serenity of the water and visit areas not reachable by bigger boats. Here are a few St. Petersburg and Clearwater businesses that can set you up.

Water Monkey Shop, 215-360-8478. www.watermonkeyshop.com Barefoot Paddler, 813-500-0708. www.barefootpaddler.com Kayak Nature, 727-418-9728. www.kayaknature.com Tampa Bay SUP, 727-474-5018. www.tampabaysup.com Osprey Bay Outdoors, 727-524-9670. www.ospreybay.com 64 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Photo courtesy of Stand Up Fitness

#3 Paddleboards & Kayaks

Paddleboards & Kayaks

Trailblazing

Thrill Ride

Running, walking, bicycling and rollerblading

Sky Diving

Tampa Bay offers an unlimited number of venues to indulge your passion.

St. Petersburg has been named one of the country’s top 10 cities for cycling with its 35 miles of bike trails and 75 miles of designated bike lanes on public streets. Places to visit include.

• St. Petersburg’s downtown waterfront parks, from Vinoy Park to Albert Whitted Park.

• The 37-mile Pinellas Trail, which runs north-south from downtown St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs.

• Philippe Park in Safety Harbor, Pinellas County’s oldest park also an historic Indian mound on site.

• Fort De Soto, a 1,136-acre park with a three-mile sandy beach fronting the Gulf of Mexico, as well as mangroves, palm hammocks, nature trails and the remains of an historic fort.

• Bayshore Blvd. , a four-and-a-half mile wide sidewalk that links South Tampa with downtown Tampa. Stately mansions line one side of the street; the waters of Tampa Bay are on the other.

• Dunedin Causeway Trail links the town with Honeymoon Island State Park.

• Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg has a two-mile boardwalk through the mangroves and a 45-foot observation tower. Guided hikes every Saturday morning.

For the ultimate exhilaration, push your limits and jump from a plane. How high up? At least 10,000 feet. Test your fear factor.

Skydive Tampa Bay, 7498 Coronet Rd., Mulberry; 863-425-3140. www.skydivetampa.com Skydive Sarasota, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, 6000 Airport Circle, Sarasota; 941-586-3536. www.skydivesarasotafl.com

Horseback riding Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, horse back riding through the Florida backwoods is a great adventure. Guided and non-guided trail rides are available at many stables in the area, as well as lessons.

Sun City Stables, 4430 U.S. 41S., Sun City, 813-649-1126 www.suncitystables.com/services.htm Saddle Up Riding Club, 6080 94th Av. E., Pinellas Park, 727-520-3132, www.thumbtack.com/fl/pinellas-park/horseback-riding/horseback-riding R&R Ranch, 9805 Bryant Rd., Lithia, 813-653-3819, www.rrranchlithia.com In The Breeze Horse Ranch, 7514 Gardner Rd., Tampa, 813-264-1919, http://breezestables.hypermart.net/services.html dR

SOHO Cycling Studio

Indoor Cycling When the weather gets too hot, jump on a bike indoors SOHO Cycling Studio, 2019 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa; 813-944-3044. www.sohocyclingstudio.com Harbour Island Athletic Club, 900 S. Harbour Island Blvd., Tampa; 813-2021950. www.wellbridge.com/harbour-island-athletic-club/tampa/tennis

Yoga Anyone?

Go with the flow, release the tension from the day and take a yoga class. In addition to the dozens of private studios, yoga is taught at several unique locations: Curtis Hixon Park, East Zack St., Tampa. www.yogadowntowntampa.com Dali Museum, One Dali Blvd, St. Petersburg; 727-823-3767. www.thedali.org Sunken Gardens, 1825 4th St., N., St. Petersburg; 727-551-3100. www.stpete.org/sunken Boyd Hill Nature Park, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg; 727-8937326. www.stpeteparksrec.org/boyd-hill-programs.html

The climate and wide-range of available activities make “getting fit” a smorgasbord of choices— walking, cycling, horseback riding, water fun, outdoor exercise programs and even sky diving.

Photo courtesy of Female Fat Loss over 40

ness

Photo courtesy of SOHO Cycling Studio

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dR GETTING AROUND THE BAY

Anna Maria Island

Fort De Soto Park The largest park in Pinellas County, Fort De Soto is made up of five interconnected islands (keys) over 1,136 acres and boasts three miles of sandy white beaches, as well as one of the area’s only dog beaches. It has been named America's best family beach by Parents magazine. Fort De Soto Park makes you feel like you are a million miles away from the rest of the world. 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde; 727-552-1862. www.pinellascounty.org/park/05_ft_desoto.htm

© Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater

The super soft sands and expanse of beach make Anna Maria a popular destination for those looking for a quiet day at the beach. It’s perfect for kids, too: Parents magazine ranked Coquina Beach on Anna Maria Island as one of the 10 Best Beaches for Families in 2011. West of Bradenton. www.annamariaisland-longboatkey.com

© Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater

Photo courtesy of Island Photographer Anna Maria Services

Living in Florida, we have many beaches to choose from, and many receive national recognition for being the best in the country. In addition, we have rivers and waterways that provide a lot of recreational activities themselves. Whether you soak up the rays on the white sand beaches, or get more physical, one of these may soon become your new favorite.

Clearwater Beach

Hillsborough River

Its broad beaches, turquoise water and nearby hotels, shops and restaurants make Clearwater Beach one of the most popular beaches in the area.

After dining at one of Clearwater Beach's famous restaurants, stretch your legs along Beach Walk, a winding beachside promenade. Best Sand on the West Coast by Condé Nast Traveler. www.visitflorida.com/Clearwater_Beach

Put your kayak or canoe in at parking lot #4 and gently glide down the river, taking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. If you’re lucky (or, maybe, unlucky?), alligators will flank the riverbanks, sunning themselves.

Don’t worry, they’re not watching you. Or, are they? 15402 US 301 North, Thonotosassa; 813-987-6771; www.floridastateparks.org/hillsboroughriver

Water every

By Susan B. Barnes

Honeymoon Island State Park Honeymoon Island got its name from a Life Magazine contest for newlyweds in 1939; couples won a two-week honeymoon stay on the island. In addition to outstanding shelling, visitors to the beach can go birding, walk along nature trails and snorkel in the warm waters. #1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin; 727-469-5942. www.floridastateparks.org/honeymoonisland

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Sunset Beach

Schalk Mouton

Photo courtesy Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

At the southern end of Treasure Island lies Sunset Beach, the perfect place to, well, watch the sun set! A sense of bohemia permeates the beach, which is dotted with uniquely decorated houses, tiki huts, white sands and beachfront bars. 9000 W. Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island; 727-547-4575. www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/listings/7614/

South of the Don CeSar, Pass-A-Grille Beach is a taste of old Florida. Historic 8th Avenue contains the oldest dwellings on the area’s beaches, and one of the largest Historic Districts on the Gulf Coast. The area got its name from Cuban fishermen, “Grillers,” who camped on the water’s edge and would smoke their fish. Traveling through the pass, sailors would see the fires on the beaches, hence Pass-A-Grille. 1000 Pass-A-Grille Way, Pass-a-Grille; 727-363-9247. www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/listings/6378/

© Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater

Pass-A-Grille Beach

When the heat of the summer becomes too much to bear, take a drive just over an hour north of Tampa and dive into the 72-degree spring water that comes from a 45-foot deep natural spring in Homosassa. If you’d rather stay dry, pontoon boat rides are available, too. 4150 S. Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa Springs; 352-628-5343. www.citruscounty-fl.com/menu.html

© Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

St. Pete Beach

TREASURE ISLAND BEACH

Surprisingly, St. Pete Beach is one of the few spots along the Gulf of Mexico known for surfing, not to mention its popular beaches. In fact, TripAdvisor, the world’s leading authority on travel planning information, named St. Pete Beach the #1 beach destination in the United States and the #5 beach destination in the world in 2012. 4700 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach; 727-582-2267. www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/listings/7459/

Tucked between St. Pete and Clearwater, Treasure Island Beach is popular for offshore fishing and diving, in addition to beach time. It was home to Florida's first residents, settled more than 10,000 years ago by Native Americans trying to escape the Ice Age that was ravaging the Northern Hemisphere. Treasure Island's wide beach and family-friendly accommodations have made it a prime vacation destination for multiple generations. www.visitflorida.com/Treasure_Island

where

Some of the best beaches, rivers & waterways ...many receive national recognition.

Siesta Key Just a little over an hour south of the Bay area, outside Sarasota, is Siesta Key, the #1 Beach in the U.S. for 2011, so named by Dr. Beach. Visit the eight miles of beaches—the sand is quartz and thought to have healing powers—and discover for yourself why it’s a winner! West of Sarasota www.sarasotafl.org/siesta-key dR

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dR REAL ESTATE

A GRAND KEY WEST INSPIRED RESIDENCE WITH PANORAMIC WATER VIEWS ON BELLEVIEW ISLAND

T

he coastal charms of Key West meet the ambiance of Belleview Island within this striking custom-built home encompassing a lot-and-a-half property offering forever protected open Intracoastal, golf course and bridge vistas. Panoramic water vistas are evident from the living and dining rooms, study, master bedroom, guest bedroom and the self-contained guest cabana. An expansive waterside veranda allows for a seamless progression of indoor and outdoor living space with direct access to over 210 feet on the water, a deep-water dock with boat lift, heated pool and spa. The 5,284-square-foot home provides five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths allowing a gracious living environment ideal for a larger family as well as entertaining. Multiple private balconies, an enviable master suite with sitting area, a custom kitchen with superior appliances, an intentional and well-planned separation of space all on the most coveted site on exclusive, double-gated Belleview Island.

Dan Carlisle chose this homesite for his family’s legacy estate, and hired the renowned firm of Clark & Logan to execute the build of this timeless floor plan incorporating two distinct but separate guest suites easily accessible to the main home. The original intent of the homeowner’s association was to inspire its residents to build charming seaside homes reminiscent of a bygone era of casual elegance.

This magnificent coastal residence is listed for $2,599,000 with Rafal Wazio, Sand Key Realty, 727-424-4629 or email rafalwazio@yahoo.com. www.BelleviewIslandHome.com dR

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dR REAL ESTATE

MEDITERRANEAN MASTERPIECE

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eminiscent of a European estate, this magnificent waterfront home displays impressive craftsmanship, countless architectural details and modern luxury. Fine finishes, custom amenities and handpainted murals embellish this 11,000square-foot home, built in 2009, which overlooks wide-open water on the Intracoastal Waterway. A two-story foyer sets the level of sophistication with its handsome wood staircase, grand chandelier, reclaimed quarry stone floor and aged crumble plaster walls. A formal living room and dining room feature stunning special features. A finely appointed island kitchen with custom Olde World cabinetry and professional appliances combines with a generous butler’s pantry to

provide for your every need. The spectacular great room features both fireplace and media sitting areas adjoining an open breakfast area. The floor plan includes a state-of-the-art media room, game room with walk-in bar, exercise room, library and 500-bottle wine vault. An incredible master retreat boasts a sitting area with fireplace in addition to the luxury bath and his and her custom closets. French doors open to numerous covered terraces overlooking the sparkling Pebble Tec pool and waterfall spa. Additional amenities include a multipurpose boat dock, garage parking for seven vehicles, outdoor kitchen, half court basketball court, two entrance gates and an elevator.

The estate is offered for $9,995,000 with Martha Thorn, Coldwell Banker Previews International, 727-432-9019. www.TheThornCollection.net dR

#1 Real Estate Team

Over $41 Million 125 18TH ST │ $9,995,000

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Reminiscent of a European estate this magnificent waterfront displays impressive craftsmanship, countless custom features and modern luxury.

1260 GULF BLVD │ Last listed at $2,075,000

320 GULF BLVD │ Last listed at $2,395,000

434 ST ANDREWS $1,800,000 10 PAPAYA ST #1504 │ $2,245,000 Astonishing panoramic vistas of the gulf, Clearwater Beach and the Intracoastal Waterway abound from this 15th floor luxury penthouse.

This magnificent gated waterfront custom offers over 4,600 square feet of gracious Florida living plus additional downstairs recreation rooms.

“SOLD” I s O u r F a v o r i t e W o r d www.TheThornCollection.net 76

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The Thorn Collection

TAMPA BAY AREA

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14 N PINE CIRCLE │ $2,999,500

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Exquisite custom detail is included in this magnificent Belleair home, built in 2000, with panoramic open water views of Clearwater Harbor.

118 HARBOR VIEW LN │ Last listed at $4,300,000

1040 ELDORADO │ Last listed at $3,900,000

2681 VINA DEL MAR BLVD $1,299,000

17722 LEE AVE │ $1,349,000

What a desirable location! This boat dock is only minutes from Tampa Bay. Walk to PassA-Grille beach or stay at home to enjoy this rebuilt waterfront.

Overlooking gulf sand dunes and sea oats, this 2008 townhome boasts quality construction and gorgeous upgraded custom appointments.

Whether Buying or Selling, Call

727-432-9019

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Dania Perry Waterfront and Luxury Home Specialist MOBILE: 727-215-2045 | OFFICE: 727-367-3795 dania.perry@gmail.com www.tampabaywaterfront.net

$110+ Million in Real Estate Sales in 2010/2011

CAUSEWAY ISLES - ST. PETERSBURG Astonishing Franco Pasquale/Neil Rais designed 5,247 square foot 5 bedroom 4.5 bath Spanish Villa-style estate rests on beautiful open water. Dazzling old world feel and soaring 22+foot foyer welcomes you to the pinnacle of waterfront luxury. Impressive blending of exotic hardwoods, stone flooring, Venetian plaster, Walker Zanger tile, custom iron doors/railings and hand finished woodworking are complemented by barreled brick, coffered and tray ceilings, majestic arches and generous use of crown - yielding a spectacular piece of architectural splendor. Completed in 2008, this home will inspire and delight the most discriminating buyer. Offered for $1,999,900.

SOUTHERN HILLS GOLF AND C.C. - BROOKSVILLE Resting on a full acre and rising high above the 18th fairway of a "Top 100" Pete Dye course, this majestic 7,483 square foot 6 bedroom 7 bath masterpiece is one of the finest estates in the entire region. Magnificent luxury finishes and massive tray ceilings throughout. Elegant granite/maple kitchen with matching butler's pantry and gorgeous formal dining. Huge game room, top-of-the-line theatre room, card room, fitness center, heated Pebbletec infinity pool, huge 4-car garage and a long list of stunning features and amenities. The pinnacle of golf course luxury. Offered for $1,699,000.

JOHNS PASS - MADEIRA BEACH STUNNING ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN, LUXURIOUS AMENITIES AND MAJESTIC INTRACOASTAL WATERVIEWS. Extraordinary 4,230 square foot 4 bedroom, 4 bath home built in 2005 includes upper and lower level offices, impressive great room, rich/elegant den, formal dining and spectacular serpentine wood staircase. Lavish chef’s kitchen is flawlessly finished with cherry cabinetry, thick granite and commercial grade appliances. Multi-level outdoor complex features verandah, pool/spa and dock with lift. Offered at $1,499,900.

THE ENCLAVE - EASTLAKE WOODLANDS Grand "Southern Living" estate nestled within one of the finest nature preserves in all of Tampa Bay. Majestic covered entry and commanding 20+foot foyer introduce you to lavish formal living with towering ceilings and big inviting views. Spacious, top-ofthe-line kitchen, spectacular master suite, fabulous theatre room, stunning enclosed pool/spa deck and much, much more. Offered for $1,199,900.

Success is a Planned Event • Get Real Estate Results Now! CENTURY 21 JIM WHITE AND ASSOC. • 10645 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, FL 33706 78 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

#1 Realtor in Tampa Bay #1 Century 21 Realtor in America

ST. PETE BEACH One of the finest open water luxury homes in Tampa Bay delivers miles of stunning panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway! Built to commercial grade on a whopping 248 feet of waterfront, this impressive 5,816 square foot estate offers superb custom craftsmanship and countless regal appointments. Rare Amish-built cherrywood kitchen and wetbar areas. All en suite bedrooms include splendid water views, cherry/marble baths, high ceilings and rich woodworking. Incredible 110 linear feet of private Master deck overlooks waterway. Located on quiet cul de sac only 10 min walk to beach. Offered at $1,995,000.

YACHT CLUB ESTATES Magnificent waterfront estate offers dramatic open water views and easy access to the Gulf! 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath, 5,000 square foot home boasts rich, luxurious amenities.

Enjoy soaring 22 foot ceilings, an impressive great room with brilliant fireplace, handsome den/office, elegant formal dining and fabulous waterfront balconies. Huge master suite with private balcony boasts superb closet system and opulent granite/cherry bath.

Spectacular waterfront playground is enriched by 140 feet of seawall, a dazzling Pebbletek pool, rare flat stone waterfall, fine landscaping and extensive dock/lift setup. An exceptional waterfront value offered at $1,695,000.

Dania Perry Waterfront and Luxury Home Specialist 727-215-2045 | OFFICE: 727-367-3795 dania.perry@gmail.com www.tampabaywaterfront.net

MOBILE:

THE RESERVE OF OLD TAMPA BAY Rare masterpiece of waterfront luxury and grace! Welcome - and be drawn to soaring 24 foot ceilings, huge waterfront views, brilliant woodworking and superb travertine and teak flooring. Tray, coffered and domed ceilings are radiantly finished with a distinguished olde world flair. Astonishing gourmet kitchen is an unparalleled work of art that seamlessly integrates form and function. Breathtaking Master suite is a glimpse of uncommon opulence and splendor - Venetian plaster walls, Ocra marble flooring, Alder cabinetry, honed marble counters are just the start. Every aspect of this home is finished with uncompromising elegance and sophistication. Offered at $1,749,000

YACHT CLUB ESTATES Masterfully reconstructed in 2010 with rich, elegant finishes throughout, this resplendent 3600 square foot 4 bedroom 3 bath luxury residence enjoys more than 100 feet of seawall directly on the intracoastal waterway! Kitchen is absolutely stunning - elegant cherry cabinetry, exquisite granite counters, Bosch SS appliances, beautiful center island and opulent breakfast bar are complemented by fine arches and columns, brilliant wall treatments, lovely scalloped travertine flooring and a spectacular wetbar. Huge master suite has big private veranda and lavish master bath. Just 10 minutes to the Gulf by boat! Offered for $1,070,000.

Measure the Results • Experience the Difference CENTURY 21 JIM WHITE AND ASSOC. • 10645 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, FL 33706 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 79

The Merritt Portfolio

Your Most Valuable One-Stop Resource for Waterfront & Luxury Homes in the Tampa Bay Area

Two Highest Priced Residential Sales in South Pinellas and Hillsborough History Top Agent for Closed Sales of Listings $1,000,000 or more in South Pinellas 2010 & 2011 Highest Average Sales Price for Listings Sold in South Pinellas 2007, 2008, 2010 & 2011 #1 Coldwell Banker Realtor South Pinellas 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 & 2011 International President’s Premier—Top 1% of Agents Worldwide National Luxury Estate, Executive and Corporate Relocation Specialist Member Coldwell Banker Florida “Top 100” Realtors

Carole Merritt 727-580-4447 cwmerritt@aol.com

Sands Point in Tierra Verde Offered at $3,300,000

Classic Southern Estate on Tampa Bay with 1 1/3 Gated Acres Offered at $1,800,000

727.363.2576 • 727.580.4447 • cwmerritt@aol.com • www.carolemerritt.com 80 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

My success is based on my Customers’ satisfaction!

REALTOR Certified Home Marketing Specialist 727-455-2351 Award Winning Multi-Million Dollar Producer Coldwell Banker Residential www.TammyPlummer.com Tammy@MyGulfBeaches.com ÂŽ

Your International Previews Property Specialist

T ammyC ampbellPlummer, PA W NE

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6027 KIPPS COLONY DR

Enjoy sunsets every evening from this magnificent waterfront home in Pasadena Yacht and Country Clubs. This impeccable 4 bedroom, 3,600 square foot (MOL) Mediterranean residence offers a newer metal roof, an impressive cathedral entry with Brazilian cherry wood staircase, volume ceilings and built in cabinetry, an expansive pool with spill over spa and large dock with lift and boat slip that can accommodate a 65 foot vessel!

Offered for $1,575,000.

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185 FT OF OPEN WATER VIEWS IN TIERRA VERDE!

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This all block, custom Mediterranean home was built to maximize its views of the distant Skyway Bridge. The spacious 4,500 SF 5 bedroom 4 full and 2 half bath layout features both formal living and dining rooms, a grand family room with fireplace, two guest suites on the main living level and his and her master suites on the upper level as well as an office. This magnificent home also boasts volume ceilings throughout, walls of floor to ceiling pocket sliding doors, an elevator and sparkling blue pool with spill over spa! Both open and protected waterfront for your water toys! Offered for $1,599,000.

EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOM WATERFRONT HOME IN TIERRA VERDE!

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Entertain in style in this fabulous 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath, 4,700 square foot home that features a sprawling downstairs master suite, a waterfront courtyard plumbed for an outdoor kitchen, gorgeous cherry and tiger wood floors, and a gourmet kitchen! All bedrooms are private suites. Plenty of room for toys as this home offers an RV garage plus a 2 car garage and dock with lift. Offered at $1,199,000.

A YACHTER'S PARADISE IN TIERRA VERDE!

Tierra Verde estate with more than 190 feet of seawall and deep protected water, this impressive 7,500 square foot residence sits on two lots, a saline infinity pool and spa as well as an additional outdoor entertaining areas with fire pit and beach area. Built in 2000, this exquisite home boasts cathedral ceilings,stone and wood finishes, and the finest electronics and the highest quality building materials and designer details throughout! Offered for $3,500,000.

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KIPPS COLONY ESTATES $1,950,000

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PASADENA YACHT & COUNTRY CLUB $2,500,000

MY AM HS T Y NT DB O OL 2 M S N D & HA TE SS T S I L LE IN

PASADENA YACHT & COUNTRY CLUB $1,299,000

STATELY CUSTOM WATERFRONT IN PYCC

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Custom 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 4,000 square foot waterfront home in exclusive PYCC! The gourmet kitchen is newly remodeled with custom solid wood cabinets, granite counters, SS appliances and DBL ovens. Expansive Master bedroom with generous seating area, his and hers walk-in closets, large windows overlooking the water and balcony, en-suite bath with garden tub and double sinks. Backyard boasts tranquil pool/spa and dock with lift! Offered at $1,850,000.

www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

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Clearwater: A 3 bedroom/3 bathroom

Sand Key: Luxurious Meridian unit 3 bed-

South Pasedena: Golfer’s delight with 2

waterfront property right near downtown Clearwater, downtown Dunedin, and Clearwater Beach. $489,000.

Erica Etjeke, 727-326-2082.

room/3.5 bathroom with custom details, direct gulf front offers stunning North and South beach views. $1,499,000.

Steve Kepler, 727-647-6696.

bedrooms/2 bathrooms located next to the 7th hole tee box in the prestigious Pasadena Yacht and Country Club. $215,000.

Edwin Grabert, 727-422-0629.

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Redington Beach: Luxurious never lived in direct gulf front units. Each unit boasts 4 bedrooms/4 bathrooms and more than 5,000 square feet. Starting at $1,499,000.

Steve Kepler, 727-647-6696.

Sand Key: Enjoy resort style living in this 1,326 square foot, 2 bedroom/2 bathroom completely updated residence directly on the Gulf of Mexico. $399,000.

Mark Purtee, 727-518-5620.

Belleair Beach: Enjoy beautiful sunsets at the Tortugas de Mar. A 2 bedroom/2 bathroom condo, completely renovated with top of the line appointments. $595,000.

Martha Vasquez, 727-244-9404.

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Redington Beach: Beautiful white sandy beach at this private beach home. This 3 bedroom/3 bathroom home has a 1 bed/1 bath detached in-law suite. $1,599,000.

Steve Kepler, 727-647-6696.

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Clearwater: Five-unit commercial building on highly visible corner location in the heart of downtown. $1,500,000.

Kelly Kepler, 727-515-6887.

Clearwater Beach: Excellent 103’ x119’ commercial lot located directly on Mandalay Avenue. Just a few steps from the Gulf of Mexico. $495,000.

Kelly Kepler, 727-515-6887.

Walters/Margliano Jim 813.624.2050 • Greg 813.857.5339 • www.WMTampaBay.com

DAVIS ISLAND

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BEACH PARK

Open Bay Davis Islands Estate. Designed by famed designer Thomas Everett Lamb. The majestic curb appeal is just the beginning of this home experience.

Beautiful glass inlaid front doors open to the massive foyer with grand stairs. Perfect for entertaining yet features casual spaces for relaxed living. Construction is of the finest quality and craftsmanship. The bay-side exterior features walls of glass windows and doors overlooking the spectacular pool, hot tub, outdoor cabana area, and expansive lawn. $5,495,000

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Custom built waterfront home in 2008. Driveways and property is gated. Enter the 2-story foyer, all rooms feature high ceilings and the downstairs flooring is travertine. Family room is open to the gourmet kitchen which features custom cabinetry and granite countertops. A spacious guest suite with bath is part of the downstairs appeal. A staircase which is so elegant adds to the special curb appeal of the exterior. Master bedroom and bath make a truly graceful retreat. All this and a home theatre. $1,999,000

STONELAKE RANCH

BEACH PARK

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This low country designed home on “Pirates Cove” in South Tampa evokes the past with the perfect location to savor the present. Instilled by the recycled bricks, limestone, textured plaster, and cypress beams. Feel like you are living in the “Tuscan Sun” in this Italian Villa atmosphere. Deep-water canal, the covered lanai has a fireplace, outdoor kitchen with grill. 10,000 lb. boat lift, saline pool with massive granite walls and coping with fountains. $2,295,000

STONELAKE RANCH

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Former Alvarez Homes model modern Mediterranean located on a breathtaking 2+ acre waterfront lot. The mature oaks, brick driveway, porte cochère and marble fountain provide a distinct sense of arrival. Upon entering floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the hillside vista with a truly spectacular view of a nature preserve and the lake beyond. The foyer has a soaring 2-story ceiling with beautiful custom wood work and stunning wood wrapped columns flank the foyer, living room, dining room and study. INCREDIBLE DESIGN AND LUXURY! $1,695,000.

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Located in the gated community of Stonelake Ranch with 2.7 acres on Lake Thonotosassa. The living room has intricate ceilings with expansive glass and a cast stone fireplace. There is formal dining and a large informal dining space overlooking the gourmet kitchen renovated and reconfigured last year. Walls of glass and sliding doors that roll into each other to bring the outdoors in and overlook the gorgeous infinity saline pool, spa, and terraces and covered lanai featuring a fireplace, and outdoor kitchen. Master suite is on a separate wing with bedroom, bath and closets fit for a king. $2,200,000

TAMPA PALMS

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Magnificent "TUSCAN" inspired custom estate. Stunning design and picturesque setting on nearly 1 acre of golf course frontage with a private tennis court, putting green, enormous screen-enclosed lanai with raised gazebo, pool with waterfall, heated spa, outdoor kitchen, and lovely Spanish garden. Upstairs master suite with connecting exercise room and separate reading or meditation room, balcony overlooking golf course. Separate 2 bedroom guest quarters off lanai area. Downstairs guest room with bath. Gourmet kitchen with lovely golf course view. $1,495,000

Over A $1/4 Billion SOLD! www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 83

dR QUICK GETAWAY

CABBAGE KEY

By Susan B. Barnes

A remote island accessible only by boat.

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ach time I hear about a remote island accessible only by boat, the Gilligan’s Island theme song pops into my mind, along with images of the fated three-hour tour. Though the premise of the show was that the passengers were stranded, I think all of us occasionally dream of being deserted on an island, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Fortunately for us in the Tampa Bay area, we can desert ourselves on an island just about two-and-a-half hours south, on Cabbage Key outside of Fort Myers. Accessible only by boat—your own, a charter, or scheduled water taxi—Cabbage Key is a true oasis.

Originally settled by the Caloosa Indians, the Rinehart family found their way to Cabbage Key in the mid-1930s and it reflects their influences to this day. The island’s 100 acres remains filled with tropical vegetation and boasts panoramic views of Pine Island Sound. There aren’t any cars on Cabbage Key, only winding nature trails and ample opportunity for relaxation.

The Rineharts built many of the buildings that are still in use today, including the caretaker’s house, which now houses the island’s restaurant; and The Dollhouse Cottage, a one-bedroom cottage built as a life-size dollhouse for their daughters that is now used as overnight accommodations. The Stults family took over the is-

land from 1944—1969 and opened the island as a resort to the public. Today, the Wells family continues the tradition of welcoming guests, both day and overnight, to the tropical getaway.

Fishing has been and continues to be a big draw at Cabbage Key. If you enjoy fishing—from tarpon to speckled sea trout, redfish, snook, shark to the magnificent silver king—this is the island for you. Ken Wells, manager of Cabbage Key, does suggest that you have a boat of your own to explore the waters around the island; charters are available at nearby marinas.

The majority of the island’s guests are day trippers who come to Cabbage Key for a few hours to enjoy the nature trails and have lunch. During the height of the season, the restaurant on Cabbage Key sees between 550 and 750 for lunch.

“The beauty of the island is that our clients are like a melting pot of all different types of people—the guy that pulls up in a kayak or canoe to grab a sandwich while out fishing, or someone who’s docking his multi-million dollar yacht,” says Ken. “That’s probably the most unique aspect of Cabbage Key—everyone comes together and you just don’t know who’s who.”

“Another incredible aspect of the island is that you can stay here during the

height of the season, eat breakfast, go ďŹ shing or out on the water, come back at day’s end and not even know that there were 550 people on the island,â€? says Ken. “We’re open for all three meals every day of the year.â€?

Ken deďŹ nes the island’s overnight guests as eco-friendly, and into ecotourism and ďŹ shing. Though the island is said to hold the oldest liquor license in the county, it’s typically very tranquil. “Those who stay overnight ďŹ nd that it’s very quiet, a true getaway. Some of our rooms don’t even have TVs in them,â€? says Ken. “We’re a very rustic place; it’s kind of like going back in time.â€? dR When you go: Simply drive south on I-75, and turn west when you get to Fort Myers and make your way to Pine Island, about 20 miles northwest of Fort Myers. Water taxis are available at Pineland Marina, and should be reserved in advance.

Cabbage Key (239) 283-2278 www.cabbagekey.com

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Island Girl Charters Pine Island Charters (239) 633-8142 (239) 246-9577 www.northcaptivaislandgirl.com www.pineislandcharters.com

Tropic Star Cruises (239) 283-0015 www.tropicstarcruises.com

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dR TRAVEL

S WITZERLAND S IZZLES …

By Cindy Cockburn

Photography by Michael Dupre

Direct From Florida’s West Coast To The Alps Always dreamed of gazing over the Alps and experiencing what only Switzerland can offer?

Edelweiss Air offers direct service between Tampa and Zurich every Friday evening and each Tuesday through August.

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witzerland is full of surprises! The smallest country in Europe is the most densely populated with breathtaking scenery and endless adventures offered in extreme climate changes. And how the Swiss love cultural events—from ballet to jazz—and the country has over 900 museums. They do take for granted the scale of their magnificent mountains and the diversity of the countryside. You need only travel a few hours to experience different cultures and languages (they have four!).

So we got out our Swiss francs and planned our trip. Art Basel? Montreax Jazz Festival? Sign us up!

No more dreaded airport connections through Atlanta, Miami or New York City are required. Traveling between Florida’s West Coast and the heart of Europe just became very easy. Since May 25th, Edelweiss Air has been offering direct service between Tampa International Airport and Zurich every Friday evening. Tuesday service is available all summer.

We were excited to take the advice of Switzerland Tourism (www.MySwitzerland .com) and followed an itinerary combining the outdoor beauty of the Alps along with medieval villages and sophisticated cities.

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Fribourg, Switzerland

Tip #1—Bring sneakers or walking shoes as walking is a national pastime in Switzerland Off we went to Tampa Airport and decided to toast our first Swiss trip with a glass of wine at the new airport wine bar, First Flight, located on the third floor.

It’s owned by Tampa’s award-winning Mise en Place restaurant, and definitely lives up to the quality.

Three movies later, we arrived in Zurich and set our watches to the Swiss time of 10:15 am. Surprise! Dozens of connecting opportunities beyond Zurich and all over Europe are offered, including flights to Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

Getting around Switzerland is easy.

Most locals speak English, German, French or Italian—with a Swiss accent. The Swiss Rail Pass offered by the Swiss

Travel System was an excellent way to explore the country. More than 9,000 trains run daily and they are extremely punctual–to say the least. It’s only an hour and a half to the town of Fribourg.

After checking in to the charming Hotel Au Parc and a city tour, we enjoyed a lovely dinner at Les 3 Canards.

The highlight of this region? The chance to explore the cheese dairy at La Maison du Gruyere and a visit to its castle. A drink at the unique H.R. Giger Bar (resembling a dungeon) was topped off by a fondue lesson during lunch outside at the Fleur de Lys. A visit to the chocolate factory Maison Cailler was a fun side trip before dressing for dinner and finding the restaurant Le Gothard in Fribourg.

We journeyed by train to Interlaken next, excited to see a variety of shopping and café options right outside our door of the Hotel du Nord. The Alps surrounded us. After lunch outside, overlooking the majestic Alps, we found the train that took us to our boat to Brienz. We were transfixed by the sight of the crystal clear Giessbach waterfalls.

After another short train ride, a romantic and charming Grandhotel Giessbach greeted us. Dating back to 1873, it is only open in the summer months but can take on a private party in the fall or winter.

Its 70-plus suites overlook lake, mountains and waterfalls. Breathtaking! Dinner later at the restaurant Taverne was exceptional.

Grandhotel Giessbach overlooks mountains, lake and waterfalls Giessbach Waterfalls

The day trip to the Jungfraujoch (called the Top of Europe) was the experience of a lifetime. We traveled by the historic railroad (now 100 years old) 13,000 feet up in the Alps. We played in the snow and walked inside a glacier.

Worth the entire trip to see this panoramic view with bright blue skies high above this magical country.

Tip # 2 - This trip gave new meaning to the words “pack in layers” as the temperatures varied dramatically.

They soared to the high 70s by day but boots, turtlenecks, heavy coats, hats and gloves are strongly suggested as you rise into the Alps. It was snowing when we arrived!

Lucerne is a dream of a town. Small enough to walk around but far-ranging and sophisticated in its arts and cultural offerings. Stroll around the ancient 14th century Chapel Bridge for the photo opportunity of a lifetime. Our favorite hotel during our stay here was the art deco Hotel Montana, with a fabulous view from the Scala Terrace. We enjoyed lunch outside on the terrace overlooking the water, the boats and, of course, the beauty of the Alps.

We explored the town on foot and ended at the amazing new KKL center,

The city of Lucerne

which showcases the arts, and the Museum of Art Lucerne. This is a city that dates back to 1100—but jazz fans around the world know this hotel as they gather for the jazz jams on Thursday nights in the famous Louis bar.

Dinner at the Restaurant Old Swiss House in Lucerne (dating back to 1858) has a Tampa connection: the owner reminded us that we can find a similar restaurant replica in Busch Gardens!

The perfect end to the Lucerne visit was a trip to Pilatus Mountain Railway—with

its view of 73 mountain peaks—that ended with a gourmet dinner at 1871, located inside the Grand Hotel Lucerne.

The menu and fine wine list were exceptional and the atmosphere a most elegant experience out of a romantic film.

Ah, Switzerland—we love your beauty!

Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, Switzerland

True Confessions from Switzerland: Lucerne has my heart. Specifically, the luxurious penthouse spa suites located on the rooftop floor of the Art Deco Hotel Montana and a martini bar that is accented by jazz.

I may have been 5,000 miles away from home in Florida, where it was only 7 p.m., but I found myself in Switzerland at 1:00 a.m.—wide awake. The music was seductive inside the crowded, classic hotel bar named Louis. Exhausted after a 10-hour day exploring the medieval city, my room on the fifth floor with the big bed and the balcony with doors overlooking the Alps was waiting.

Swiss men wear conservative suits. A mix of languages can be heard. The women are dressed up and beautiful—it was definitely date night in Lucerne! The weekly Thursday night live jazz session started up—a large, sweet sound filled the room. Live music rose above the chatter of bartenders and conversations. First a young sax player closed his eyes and played to the crowd, and then a second man— slightly older—stood up from his position across the room and slowly joined in.

All the patrons were swaying to the sounds of jazz—no translation necessary.

Bliss! dR

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dR GARDEN

CREATE A BUTTERFLY GARDEN IN YOUR BACKYARD

By Janan Talafer

Some 180 different species of butterfly are found in Florida, making the state a premier location for butterfly gardens.

Monarch “Milkweed” Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)

Zebra Butterfly (Heliconius charithonia)

With the right plants and a little advance planning, your home landscape can be transformed into a magnet for butterflies.

As Lauren Shiner of Tampa Landscape Design points out, a garden often serves as an extension of the home and butterflies provide the perfect accent, adding motion, energy and excitement as they flit from plant to plant.

The key to a successful butterfly garden is to understand the difference between host plants and nectar plants, says Angela Sessa of Wesley Chapel Nursery & Landscape Supply Co. Butterflies have four distinct life cycles: egg; larva or caterpillar; pupa or chrysalis; and adult. Host plants serve as shelter and food for the caterpillars. Butterflies feast off flowers from nectar plants. While it is not mandatory to include both, cultivating each type of plant will make your garden more productive and enjoyable.

“When butterflies come to get nectar, having a host plant nearby will encourage them to lay their eggs there,” says Sessa.

In addition, adults tend to cluster in areas where larval plants are found. Why not give them a reason to stick around?

Backyard View is Best Plant placement is an important consideration for a butterfly garden, primarily for 90 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

aesthetics. “The majority of butterfly friendly plants are herbaceous perennials,” says Shiner. “That means Florida winters won’t kill them, but the cold will cause them to die back.”

Because of this, she says the backyard is a much more ideal playground for butterflies than the front yard, which is typically set up to maximize the curb appeal of the home.

Shiner likes to “tuck” butterfly plants in between hardy plants so if there is a hard freeze, the backyard garden doesn’t look like a disaster. In addition, she likes to make sure that the plants are in the sight line of the living room, pool, patio area, or wherever you might enjoy sitting to watch the show. And, she spaces the plants far enough apart so that the butterflies have to travel from plant to plant, which creates more movement and adds to the display.

But there is another reason to “tuck” the plants, especially larval or host plants.

Caterpillars crawl and chew leaves. At certain times of the year, it may appear that the plant has been infested. But don’t spray for bugs!

The newly hatched butterfly larvae awaken with ravenous appetites and will devour the leaves, says Sessa, but don’t worry, the plant will reseed itself and grow

Blue Morpho (Morpho menelaus)

Tiger Butterfly (Danaus genutia)

again, to support the next lifecycle.

Gardeners need not be concerned about their entire landscape being devastated by these hungry creatures. Butterfly larvae only feed on their host plants. They leave the rest alone.

Must-Have Plants For The Butterfly Garden What plants are best for luring butterflies?

Common nectar plants for this region include red pentas, passionflower, milkweed, blue porterweed, firebush, firespike, butterfly bush, salvia, lantana and golden dewdrop, says Sessa. Passionflower and milkweed are also host plants, she says. Additional host plants include dill, coontie, parsley, native wild petunia and citrus trees.

You may want to make a final selection based on the type of butterfly you want to attract. Each species has its favorite host plant. For example, Monarch caterpillars like milkweed best, while Zebra longwings (Florida’s state butterfly) and the Gulf Fritillary enjoy the passionflower.

With a little research and advice from the landscape garden experts, you can create a beautiful Florida friendly butterfly garden—one that will give you hours of pleasure nearly year-round. dR

Photo courtesy of istock.com

dR CULINARY MASTERS

BUON APPETITO! AT BENEDETTO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

By Susan B. Barnes

Ben Pumo . . .

Benedetto’s Ristorante Italiano in Land O’ Lakes enjoys wide acclaim and extreme popularity among its loyal clientele and new guests, and for good reason. In addition to using the freshest ingredients—all made in-house—and preparing every thing to order, the true reason for Benedetto’s incredible success is due to Chef and Proprietor Ben Pumo’s sheer passion and dedication to his craft.

Self-taught and self-trained, Ben credits learning traditional values during his time in the Boy Scouts, as well as family dinner at the table every night, with building him into the man he is today. At age 13, Ben had his own ice cream stand, and in his eighth grade yearbook he’s quoted as saying he wanted to own his own barb-que restaurant. Originally from Miami, Ben attended St. Leo University to earn his degree in hotel/restaurant management. His entrepreneurial spirit withstood, even in college, and he opened a bar in a house he rented; he didn’t earn his degree, but was rather asked to leave.

His sour luck continued, and eventually led him to washing dishes at a local Lutz restaurant. After a year of dishes, he started doing prep work in the kitchen and learned to sauté. “I fell in love with the sauté pan,” says Chef Ben. A year later, a customer came into the restaurant and asked if Ben was cooking. During a conversation, that same customer offered Ben the chance to cook in a little bar down the road. The 32-seat café opened in 2000 and within eight months, 24-year-old Ben received his first reviews, the café was on a two-hour wait and it was time to look for a larger location. Enter an old Captain D’s location, and Benedetto’s first opened its doors in 2001.

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“We’ve been going gangbusters ever since,” says Chef Ben. The recipe for Benedetto’s success is quite easy, actually. “Timing was the biggest thing I was taught,” says Ben. “That, and to make everything fresh. We take a lot of time with the food we prepare!”

The result? Northern and Italian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood, which was a big part of Ben’s childhood, what with being from Miami and having a family home in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. In fact, lobster rolls are featured on Benedetto’s menu and are served on a traditional roll from Maine. Of course, traditionalists will find their favorites such as lasagna, and spaghetti and meatballs on the menu, too.

Benedetto’s is a family affair. Chef Ben’s wife greets guests some nights at the door, and their daughter helps out, too. The menu reflects that sense of family, too, as many of the menu selections come from family recipes over the years, with lots of trial and error and taste testing. Guest favorite—and one of Chef Ben’s favorite items on the menu—resulted from a fishing trip with his dad. Grouper Bianco: black grouper lightly breaded, topped with jumbo shrimp, scallops and crab meat with cream sauce. The dish started as a special, but when guests repeatedly requested it, it took its permanent place on the menu.

“We play with different ingredients

BENEDETTO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO 21529 Village Lakes Shopping Center Land O’ Lakes 813-909-9694 www.benedettoitaliano.com

Ed Barry

Self taught and self trained, he has a sheer passion and dedication for his craft.

and see what comes out,” says Chef Ben. Other menu favorites of Chef Ben’s include Chicken Benedetto, the first dish Chef Ben made when he was a dishwasher: chicken breast served with shallots, sun dried tomatoes, caramelized onions in an Alfredo sauce marinara, sprinkled with fresh basil and served over linguini and steamed broccoli. Another favorite? The Benedetto Dip, which came about as a mistake. When making a stuffing for a fish that came out too loose, instead of throwing it away or adding breadcrumbs that would take away from the crab and lobster, Chef Ben turned it into a dip with cheese, artichokes and spinach that is served with baguettes and crostinis, made in-house, of course. It’s one of Benedetto’s guests’ top picks.

Over the 10-plus years Benedetto’s has had its doors opened, Chef Ben has received a number of awards, including Business of the Year, Pasco County; Tampa Bay’s Best, Best Italian; AOL— City’s Best Italian; and has been a celebrity chef in Publix’s Aprons series. In addition, Chef Ben is heavily involved in

Grouper bianco 8 ounce filet of black grouper or red grouper (fresh domestic never Mexican or imported) 2 fresh sea scallops (10 to 20 scallops per pound)

2 pink shrimp 16-20 count (do not use tiger shrimp they are tough.)

1/8 pound jumbo lump crabmeat (do not buy claw) 1 shallot, chopped 1 green onion, chopped 1/2 cup white wine 1 cup flour Salt Pepper 1 teaspoon butter 6 ounces heavy cream 4 ounces Romano or parmesan 2 ounces olive oil Preheat oven to 500 Add oil to 10-inch skillet on high heat. As oil is getting hot take one cup of flour and add a pinch of salt and pepper to it then mix. Lightly salt each side of grouper then dust it in the flour and add to sauté pan.

You will want to sauté the fish for about one to two minutes on each side or until golden brown, also add scallop to pan and sear one side. After grouper and scallop is seared, add a pinch of shallots, pinch of green onion to pan with a teaspoon of butter. When shallots turn a very light brown deglaze pan with white wine. Add shrimp then place entire pan in the oven for 3-5 minutes to finish cooking. Plate grouper and arrange scallop and shrimp on top of filet. Add heavy cream, lump crabmeat and romano to pan.

Reduce to desired consistency. Should be thick like a creamy soup. Ladle sauce over fish and enjoy.

This dish is not cheap to make but is unbelievably light and you will WOW your dinner guests. You may call Chef Ben directly for any pointers. 813-909-9694.

Serves 1 dR

Ed Barry

the community, and served as Mayor of Land ‘O Lakes in 2004. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2003 and beat it—and now helps out with local relays and makes donations to causes.

“Owning a restaurant was never really in my head, never did I think I’d become a chef,” says Chef Ben. “Never, ever.”

Fortunately for those of us who enjoy deliciously-prepared meals served with exceptional care in an inspired atmosphere, Ben wasn’t a fortune teller and opened Benedetto’s for all of us to enjoy.

Fresh.Local.

Original.

Home of $5 after 5 p.m. $5 Martinis, Wines, and Appetizers Voted “Best Chef of the Year” People’s Choice Awards

AWARD WINNING CUISINE! S TEAKS | S EAFOOD | PASTA Dinner Daily | Live Piano Bar Nightly 717 S. Howard Avenue | Tampa, FL 33606 | 813.250.1661 www.717south.com Private Room Available | Book your Holiday Party Now | Serving Lunch and Dinner

GRILLE

21529 Village Lakes Shopping Center (SR 54), Land O’ Lakes | 813-909-9694 Catering Line Only: 813-629-1799

www.benedettoitaliano.com

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inclusive entrees starting at $14.50

NE SIXTEEN

Chic, Metropolitan Atmosphere serving Contemporary American Cuisine. All our Steaks are Oak Grilled, Organic and 100% Hormone Free. Our Seafood is brought in Daily to provide the Freshest Cuts Available

South Tampa | 612 North Dale Mabry 33609 (Just south of I-275) | 813.350.0216 Carrollwood | 15405 North Dale Mabry 33618 (Just north of Erhlich) | 813.265.0116

www.grilleonesixteen.com 94 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Reservations Recommended

A Culinary Experience to Remember!

8

The ultimate in dining, featuring certified Angus beef steaks, the freshest seafood and delectable desserts in a relaxed elegant waterfront environment.

8 Dinner Daily 5–10 p.m.

1201 Gulf Boulevard | Clearwater Beach

727.953.1661 www.watercolourgrille.com www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 95

dR WINE

WINE CELEBRITY EXTRAORDINAIRE

A

sk Michael Green to talk about the topic he is most passionate about in life—wine—and he is immediately animated, ready to deliver his per-

sonal philosophy about a subject that is very near and dear to his heart.

“Wine is a journey into discovery,” says Green, whose energy and enthusi-

By Janan Talafer asm is contagious. “My favorite wine is the one in the glass in front of me right now.”

Michael Green, celebrity wine guru, and Judy Gallagher, celebrity chef, bring the “theater” of food and wine to corporations, culinary diva events and private parties.

“What’s my philosophy of life? Drink what you like, eat what you like. Bring wine and food together and the result is pure pleasure.“ -- Michael Green

96 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

The former wine and spirits expert for Gourmet Magazine and a celebrity guest at wine-related events around the country, Green is a nationally recognized sommelier with decades of experience in the industry.

But he’s far from pretentious. In fact, he might say his job is to make learning about wine less intimidating and much more accessible. Green simply delights in imparting bits of advice about what he considers to be the greatest pleasures in life—great wine, great food and great company.

What he loves most about wine, he says, is the connection it brings. “There is a shared experience that happens when you pair wine and food and friends,” says Green. One of his most memorable wine experiences? He was in his early 20s, in Madrid with a group of young people, enjoying local food and local wine. “It was a wonderful evening that I will always remember,” says Green.

At a wine tasting and food pairing this summer at Fleming’s Restaurant in Tampa, Green talked about his new role as U.S. Ambassador to La Mancha, Spain’s largest wine-producing region.

Best known as the setting for Miguel de Cervantes masterpiece Don Quixote, La Mancha’s dry climate, extremes of temperature and limestone and clay soil are ideal for growing grapes and making wine, such as Los Galanes Airén, a clean, crisp white newcomer to the U.S. market that Green is promoting.

The secret to enjoying wine, says Green, is to “drink what you like.” He also doesn’t subscribe to hard and fast rules about pairing wine with certain foods, just as he doesn’t believe there is always a relationship between price and taste.

“Sometimes a $12 bottle can knock your socks off,” says Green. “At the end of the day, it’s all about your preference.”

MICHAEL GREEN’S “RULES” FOR SERVING RED AND WHITE WINE… “SERVE THE WINE AT THE TEMPERATURE THAT WILL MAKE IT TASTE BETTER. AT THE END OF THE DAY, IT’S ALL ABOUT PREFERENCES. MOST PEOPLE SERVE WHITE TOO COLD AND RED TOO WARM. I RECOMMEND TAKING THE WHITE OUT OF THE REFRIGERATOR AND PUTTING THE RED IN 15 MINUTES BEFORE SERVING. IT MAKES THE WHITE MORE FULLBODIED; THE RED LESS ACIDIC.”

Green’s introduction to wine began early. At age six he started going to work with his dad at the prestigious Acker Merrall & Condit, America’s oldest wine shop, founded in 1820 in New York City.

Green worked there through high school, then went to college, studied in Cambridge, traveled around Europe and came back, not sure what to do next. “My friends were going into banking; I was lost,” says Green.

When he decided to return to Europe, his dad offered to arrange a few visits to local vineyards, including one in Alsace,

France, with a winemaking family who’d been in the business for centuries. It was a chance of a lifetime.

It was there, says Green, that he had what he calls that “Jerry Maguire” moment—a life-changing epiphany. “In a glass of wine, I saw life lessons in history, politics, art, food and more,” says Green.

“I wasn’t sure where it would take me, but I wanted to pursue it.”

He returned home energized, went to wine school to learn everything he could and launched his career, traveling around the top wine regions in Europe buying wine on behalf of Acker Merrall & Condit and meeting the top wine makers. “For my father, wine was a means to raise a family. I saw it as something more,” says Green.

His second lucky break came at age 26 when Gourmet Magazine asked him to write a wine column, a job he had for 19 years until the magazine folded in 2009.

Yes, he was extraordinarily fortunate.

“Sometimes in life it’s a few moments that change everything,” says Green. “You have to be aware and present to grab the opportunity. Fate loves the fearless.”

Twenty-five years after his start in the industry, he says that not a day goes by that he doesn’t wake up and say how blessed he is. “I have met such giving, welcoming people—people eager to learn or teach me.”

Green’s zest for life, his affinity for people and his enjoyment of wine is contagious. He says that he believes one of the secrets to being happy is to lead your life with passion. “What’s inside your heart that the world wants to see?” he asks. “Have persistence in achieving your goals. Never give up.” dR Photography by Tress Eveleth

www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 97

727-323-4545

Since 1920

1-800-227-9784

(Phone) (Stain Removal Hotline) 2855 22nd Avenue North | St. Petersburg, FL 33713

www.tinneyrugcleaners.com

O

Outside Interests of Florida, LLC., is a full-service landscape construction company that has been providing exceptional service to clients in the Tampa Bay area and throughout Florida for over 20 years. We provide a full complement of products and services to our clients.

We have three Certified Arborists on staff and hold licenses in Irrigation and Commercial Herbicide application, as well as FDOT / MOT certification. Our professional and courteous staff is trained to provide the highest level of service to our clients.

Our mission is to develop lasting relationships with our customers that carry beyond the completion of the projects.

Our services include design, instal-

Decorative Brick Pavers Landscape Design/Maintenance Irrigation Lighting Design

lation and maintenance of: Decorative Brick Pavers Landscape Irrigation Low Voltage Lighting 98 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

OUTSIDE INTERESTS OF FLORIDA P.O. BOX 8029 SEMINOLE, FLORIDA 727-532-0868 www.oiofla.com

Custom Aquarium Design Aquarium Maintenance Livestock

Make it Memorable, make it

Ambassador

813-486-4798

www.tampaaquariumservice.com tampaaquariumservice@tampabay.rr.com

For information or reservations call 727.442.9050 17116 US 19 North Clearwater, Florida 33764

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dR PARTY

1. Sponsors Dr. Doug and wife Lauren Carlan, Tampa Bay Rays’ player Sam Fuld 2. Sponsor Pegia Sugar, Rays’ player James Shields, Elizabeth Cervi, Marlo Cervi, Megan Depatie and sponsor Erika Sugar.

3. Rays’ wives event chair Ryane Shields, Dream model Manny Escamilla and James Shields 4. Rays’ player JP Howell, Dream models Jesse Mazen, King Brewer, Rays’ players BJ Upton and Matt Joyce

RAYS ON THE RUNWAY 2012 Tampa Bay Rays players, their wives, and some very special dream children modeled the latest fashions from Saks Fifth Avenue, all to make dreams come true for children with life-threatening illnesses. The annual Rays on the Runway event, benefitting The Children’s Dream Fund, happened on Thursday, June 14th at the St. Petersburg Marriott and featured a cocktail hour and a meet and greet with the players, followed by a runway fashion show.

Photography courtesy of Laura Chapin

GO RED FOR WOMEN The American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women Luncheon was held on May 4 in Tampa. Guests were inspired by female heart survivors, received health screenings and sampled healthy recipes from Largo Medical Center.

Approximately 330 guests attended the event raising more than $250,000.

100 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

1. Aimee Bennett, Robert Billings, Tammy Robicon, Jake Fisher 2. Becky Williams, Regina Marrow, Michelle Thomas, Martha Monaco 3. Aina Ince, Tracy Holt 4. Joyce Levine, event keynote Tracey Conway and Dr. Vicki Star

From general dentistry Carillon Outpatient Center to complete smile makeovers

let us help you achieve the smile you were born to have • Artistic Veneers and Crowns • Molar Root Canals • Wisdom Teeth Extractions • Invisalign Clear Orthodontics • Latest Technology in Dentistry

For over 10 years, Dr. Miller has been using his knowledge, skill and judgement to provide dentistry that not only creates beautiful smiles, but also improves your total health.

Nathan C. Miller, DMD

(727) 561-0555 • Miller-Dentistry.com • 900 Carillon Parkway, Suite 307, St. Petersburg, FL 33716

Indoor and Outdoor Travertine Tiles & Pavers

MARBLE Factory Direct Importers of Natural Stone Affordable & Huge Selection

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NEVER FADES, STAYS COOL MOLD RESISTANT "WE HAVE STONE FOR EVERY BUDGET"

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STRETCH BEYOND THE EXPECTED. This is the philosophy we have lived by for over twenty years. That’s why we create advertising messages that are hard to ignore. And easy to profit from. And when it comes to our customer service, we bend over backwards for our clients every day. We’re just built that way. Call 1-800-875-7851

PROVOKE. COMPEL. DELIVER.

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BENZ

MODEL & TALENT AGENCY 813.242.4400 www.BenzMondiale.com

BENZ MODEL: CRYSTAL HARRINGTON

PURE CULINARY BLISS B re a k f a s t • L u n c h • D i n n e r Market • Events • Catering

2616 S MacDill Ave. | 813.831.7000 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 103

dR EVENTS

Through September 8 Organic Inhabitants: The Creature Comforts of David Hicks & Patricia Sannit Mindy Solomon Gallery Through September 16 A Hundred Years—A Hundred Chairs Masterworks from the Vitra Design Museum Tampa Museum of Art Through September 23 Sculptors on Paper Tampa Museum of Art Through October 14 Studio & Contemporary Glass on Florida’s West Coast Museum of Fine Arts Through October 30 Crosscurrents of Design: Asian Export Ceramics Ringling Museum of Art

August 26 Santana 8:00 p.m.

1-800-ASK-GARY Ampitheatre

October 4 Joe Cocker 8:00 p.m.

Ruth Eckerd Hall

October 18 through December 29 Menopause The Musical Jaeb Theater The Straz Center

September 5–30 Fahrenheit 451 Shimberg Playhouse The Straz Center

October 6 Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition 10:00 a.m.

Mahaffey Theater

October 19 Clearwater Jazz Holiday 10:00 p.m.

Capitol Theatre Ruth Eckerd Hall

September 6 through September 8 2012 FARA Energy Ball 6:00 p.m.

A La Carte Event Pavilion

Las Vegas Night Charity 6:00 p.m.

Armed Forces Military Museum

September 8 Liquid Desires: Beer & Wine Tasting 8:00 p.m.

The Dali Museum September 13 through October 14 You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up Jaeb Theater The Straz Center September 15 Grand Funk Railroad 8:00 p.m.

Mahaffey Theater

The Art of Jade Ringling Museum of Art

Il Volo 7:30 p.m.

Carol Morsani Hall The Straz Center

Through November 20 Worlds Apart: Myth & History, Gods & Mortals Heros & Hybrids Tampa Museum of Art

September 16 Chris Isaak 7:00 p.m.

Mahaffey Theater

Through December 23 Japan and the Victorians Henry B. Plant Museum

Toby Keith 7:00 p.m.

1-800-ASK-GARY Ampitheatre

Through December 30 Tornado Alley MOSI

September 17 Tony Lucca 7:30 p.m.

Jaeb Theater The Straz Center

August 16 Brian Culbertson and David Sanborn 7:30 p.m.

Mahaffey Theater August 18 Casablanca 3:00 p.m.

Tampa Theatre August 25 Adam Carolla and Dennis Prager 8:00 p.m.

Carol Morsani Hall Ruth Eckerd Hall

104

WWW.DUPONTREGISTRY.COM/TampaBay

October 6 through January 13 The Man, The Image & The World Tampa Museum of Art October 12 through October 14 Oktoberfest Tampa Curtis Hixon Park October 12 Journey 7:30 p.m.

1-800-ASK-GARY Ampitheatre

October 21 Sarasota Pumpkin Festival 10:00 a.m.

Sarasota Fairgrounds October 23-28 Jekyll & Hyde Carol Morsani Hall The Straz Center October 24 through November 18 Gorey Stories Shimberg Playhouse The Straz Center

American Idol star, Constantine Maroulis, joins R&B star, Deborah Cox, in Jekyll & Hyde.

September 24 through November 5 Contradictions: Russell Biles, Muir Vidier, Gregory Green, Einar and Jamex La Torre Mindy Solomon Galery September 28 Brad Paisley 7:00 p.m.

1-800-ASK-GARY Ampitheatre September 29 Standup Comedy: Anjelah Johnson 7:30 p.m.

Ferguson Hall The Straz Center

Photo courtesy of Smallz & Raskind

Through September 4 The Human Touch Contemporary Art from the RBC Wealth Management Collection Museum of Fine Arts

Jekyll & Hyde

October 23-28

After four thrilling, chilling years on Broadway and multiple world-wide tours, this dark and dangerous love story from Tony® and Grammy® Award nominee Frank Wildhorn and Oscar® and Grammy® winner Leslie Bricusse returns in a stunning new pre-Broadway production that includes all the classic songs that first grabbed audiences by the throat and transformed Jekyll & Hyde into a theatrical phenomenon. For the official website, visit jekyllandhydemusical.com. The Straz Center

PHONE:

(813) 926-9937 ADDRESS: 8509 Gunn Hwy., Odessa, FL 33556 WEBSITE: www.eurocyclesoftampabay.com

www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 105

Venue key 1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre Tampa State Fair Grounds www.askgary.amphitheatre.com Asolo Repertory Theatre Sarasota, www.asolo.org American Stage St. Petersburg, www.americanstage.org

Photo courtesy of www.afgallaghermusic.com

The Beth Ann Morean Arts Center St. Petersburg, www.theartscenter.org

Rush

November 3

With more than 40 million records sold worldwide and countless sold-out tours, Rush is not only one of the most inventive and compelling groups in rock history, but remains one of the most relevant.

1-800-ASK-GARY Ampitheatre

October 26 Rascal Flatts 7:00 p.m.

1-800-ASK-GARY Ampitheatre November 2 Christian McBride Trio 8:00 p.m.

Mahaffey Theater November 3 through February 17 The Art of Golf Museum of Fine Arts November 3 Rush 7:30 p.m.

1-800-ASK-GARY Ampitheatre November 10 Red, White & Brews Fest 5:00 p.m.

Armed Forces Military Museum Relive History Cruise 10:00 a.m.

American Victory Ship Tampa November 11 Veteran's Day Ceremony Largo Central Park November 13-18 BBC Murder Mysteries Capitol Theatre Ruth Eckerd Hall November 20-25 Elf Carol Corsani Hall The Straz Center 106 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

November 29 Standup Comedy: Louis C.K. 7:30 p.m.

Carol Morsani Hall The Straz Center November 29 through December 2 St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show

Albert Whitted Park St. Petersburg December 1 Idina Menzel 8:00 p.m.

Carol Morsani Hall The Straz Center December 2 Cirque Chinois 7:00 p.m.

Mahaffey Theater December 8 Catch Me If You Can 2:00 p.m & 8:00 p.m.

Ruth Eckerd Hall December 10 West Side Story 8:00 p.m.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall December 11 Sister Act 7:30 p.m.

The Straz Cetner December 15 The Color Run 8:00 a.m.

St. Petersburg www.thecolorrun.com

December 26-30 Mary Poppins Carol Morsani Hall The Straz Center December 28 Three Dog Night 8:00 p.m.

The Lakeland Center January 1 Cash & Caddy Giveaway 1:00 p.m.

Hard Rock Casino Tampa

Capitol Theatre Palm Harbor Carrollwood Players Theatre Tampa, www.carrollwoodplayers.com The Club at Treasure Island St. Petersburg, www.theclubti.com/events The Coliseum St. Petersburg, www.stpete.org/coliseum Dunedin Fine Art Center Dunedin, www.dfac.org Henry B. Plant Museum Tampa, www.plantmuseum.com The Lakeland Center Lakeland, www.thelakelandcenter.com Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art Tarpon Springs www.spcollege.edu/central/museum Lowry Park Zoo Tampa, www.lowryparkzoo.com Mahaffey Theater St. Petersburg, www.mahaffeytheater.com Mindy Solomon Gallery St. Petersburg, www.mindysolomon.com Morean Arts Center St. Petersburg, www.moreanartscenter.org Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg, www.fine-arts.org MOSI Tampa, www.mosi.org North Straub Park St. Petersburg, www.stpete.org/parks Nova 535 St. Petersburg, www.nova535.com Old Hyde Park Village Tampa, www.hydeparkvillage.net Palladium Theatre St. Petersburg, www.mypalladium.org Ringling Museum of Art Sarasota, www.ringling.org

January 9-27 Wicked Carol Morsani Hall The Straz Center

Ruth Eckerd Hall Clearwater, www.rutheckerdhall.com

January 19 Mavis Staples 7:00 p.m.

Mahaffey Theater

Tampa Bay Times Forum Tampa, www.tampabaytimesforum.com

January 19-21 Festival of Chocolate MOSI

The Straz Center (Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center) Tampa, www.strazcenter.org

February 2 Monster Jam 5:00 p.m.

Raymond James Stadium Einstein on Food & Wine 7:00 p.m.

MOSI duPont Publishing has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all program schedules. Call ahead to verify the dates and times of these events. For consideration in future issues, e-mail teveleth@dupontregistry.com or fax 727-489-0279.

St. Petersburg Little Theatre St. Petersburg, www.splt.org St. Petersburg Museum of History St. Petersburg, www.spmoh.org

The DalĂ­ Museum St. Petersburg, www.dali.org The Studio@620 St. Petersburg, www.studio620.org

The Tampa Improv Tampa, www.tampaimprov.com Tampa Museum of Art Tampa, www.tampamuseum.com Tampa Theatre Tampa, www.tampatheatre.org USF Contemporary Art Museum Tampa, www.ira.usf.edu USF Theater 2 Tampa, www.arts.usf.edu USF Sundome Tampa, www.arts.usf.edu Van Wezel Performing Arts Center Sarasota, www.vanwezel.org Vinoy Park St. Petersburg, www.stpete.org/parks

Stay for the beach 1160 Gulf Blvd Clearwater Beach, FL 33767 (727) 595-1611

w w w.sheratonsandkey.com www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 107

Let Us Create A Masterpiece For You

3063 Tech Drive • St. Petersburg, FL 33716 (727) 540-0700 • (866) 822-2583

Custom Automobiles • Custom Audio & Video • Integration • Wheels • Tires • Custom Interiors & Whatever You Can Imagine

www.blvdcustoms.com

2012 Ford F150 Raptor

2012 Boss Laguna Seca Countryside Ford in Clearwater, FL, also serving near Tampa, FL and St. Petersburg, FL is proud to be an automotive leader in our community. Since opening our doors, Countryside Ford has maintained our solid commitment to our customers, offering a wide selection of cars and trucks and ease of purchase.

Whether you are in the market to purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle, if you need financing options, we'll help you find a car loan that works for you! You can trust that Countryside Ford will professionally fit you into the automobile of your choice.

COUNTRYSIDE FORD

24825 US Highway 19 North • Clearwater, FL 33763 • Phone: (800) 646-0595 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay 109

dR AUTO

2012 FISKER KARMA

F

Fisker Automotive has built a groundbreaking car. Their flagship model, the Fisker Karma, is an exhilarating, sexy electric vehicle and a step in the right direction when it comes to the EV industry. Fisker Automotive was kind enough to stop by the duPont REGISTRY™ headquarters and give Tom duPont and the team a closer look.

At first glance the Karma is a visually striking vehicle. From its sleek lines, solar panel roof and 22 inch rims to its fierce headlights, Fisker did a great job on designing the Karma. Once inside the car, the quality continues. The interior is just as “green” as the electric motors, with re-harvested wood trim and leather that adheres to Fisker’s “happy cow” policy, using only hides from one hundred percent grain and grass fed cattle that are never branded and free to roam. When asked how he felt in the driver’s seat, Tom duPont replied, “Incredibly comfortable……the interior design of the car is gorgeous.”

This 403 hp luxury sedan delivers in the performance department as well.

“The Karma handles like a dream” added duPont, after a test drive. One gear allows

110 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

faster acceleration with no lag time. “I was waiting for a gear change but I just kept accelerating.” Powered by two 120kw electric motors that drive each of the rear wheels, the 5,300 lb Karma can reach 60 mph in 6.3 seconds, which is very fast for any 4 door sedan. In Sport mode, a turbocharged 2.0 liter Ecotec four—cylinder generator kicks in that sends electricity straight to the rear drive motors.

Fisker’s chic Karma will change your mind about owning an electric vehicle…… it was built on the idea of luxury, comfort and style, with the firm belief that environmentally conscious vehicles need not sacrifice passion, style or performance.

S P E C I F I CAT I O N S Base Price

$95,900*

Engine

2.0 liter 260hp turbocharged four cylinder with direct injection

Horsepower

403 hp

Torque

981 lb-ft

Transmission Single ratio limited slip differential 0–60 mph

6.3 seconds

Top speed

125 mph

Weight

5,300 pounds

Length

196 inches

Tires

F: 255/35/WR22 R: 285/35/WR22

*Not including the $7500 tax credit

For more information visit: www.fiskerautomotive.com and/or www.fiskertampabay.com

THE ALL NEW FISKER KARMA

DESIGNED TO MAKE YOU HOT, NOT THE ENVIRONMENT! TAMPA’S FIRST LUXURY ELECTRIC SEDAN WITH EXTENDED RANGE. RESERVE YOURS TODAY! 320 E. FLETCHER AVENUE | TAMPA, FL 33612 | 866-597-5000 WWW.FISKERTAMPABAY.COM

TAMPA BAY

dR BACK PAGE

International fashion designer returns home Courtney Cox. Oprah Winfrey. Demi Moore. These celebrities are among those who wear the creatively designed Craig Taylor collection. Craig and his wife, Yul, who designs accessories for the line, appeared April 13 at Neiman Marcus Tampa to personally introduce their spring and summer fashions.

Among their international travels for fashion shoots, inspiration and pleasure, Craig and Yul have traveled to Lake Como in northern Italy for many years. That exotic location, with some of the world’s most beautiful fabrics, has become their “second home,” where they develop new designs for each season. But Italy remains only a destination, as they always look forward to returning home to the Tampa Bay area.

Home for them is Water’s Edge in downtown Clearwater, where Craig says “We feel like we’re living in a resort.” Their newest line for spring and summer has a tropical look, more likely inspired by our own bay area than Italy. Bright colors and a casual nautical theme bring palm trees and beaches to mind. Whether designing the latest fashions or choosing where to live, the focus of both their work and their pleasure is beautiful details. dR

112 www.duPontREGISTRY.com/TampaBay

Craig and Yul Taylor Craig Taylor Collection www.craigtaylor.com

El Toro Patented Perpetual Calendar. Self-winding movement.

18 ct rose gold case with ceramic bezel.

Water-resistant to 100 m. Also available on leather strap.

W W W . U LY S S E - N A R D I N . C O M