300 CAPRI BLVD #10 - LISTED AS A ZILLOW SHOWCASE+ LISTING
300 Capri Blvd. #10, Treasure Island
3BR/3BA Updated Townhome with Fireplace, 3 outdoor seating areas, and 3 car tandem garage, private elevator. Offered at $975,000. Jane McCroary | 727.348.3888
#1 Agent
on the Beaches SOLD
Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated
150 2nd Ave. N Suite 100, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701
www.homesearchlocal.com
0 Days on the Market
This cute condo is one block from the Gulf in the heart of St. Pete Beach.
Only the Top 5% of Agents can feature your property as a Zillow Showcase+ Listing. Benefits Include: Maximized Exposure Enhanced Presentation Faster Sale Potential Competitive Pricing • Market Insights Professional Representation Targeted Marketing Call Jane at 727-348-3888 for more details. SOLD
2080 Dolphin Blvd. S, Gulfport Last Offered for $1,348,000
Tina Herrell | 727.521.6630
Tina Herrell | 727.521.6630
WATERFRONT LOT OPPORTUNITY
LINKS CONDOMINIUM
CENTRAL PASADENA CHARMER
GALEON DR. #14, ST. PETERSBURG
9200 PARK BLVD. #405, SEMINOLE
6251 1ST AVE. N, ST. PETERSBURG
Ultimate waterfront living with extraordinary deep-water lot on Grand Canal in Tierra Verde. MLS# U8228291. Offered at $3,500,000 Marion Clark | 727.418.9635
Renovated 2BR, 2BA, 1CG, Top-Floor Penthouse Enlarged loft, stunning golf course views. Offered at $419,000 Bettina Guild | 727.420.7606
Charming 2BR, 1BA, 1 car garage with alley access, located in the Central Pasadena neighborhood. Price Improvement, now $395,500! Bettina Guild | 727.420.7606
St. Pete Beach
5801 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 727-367-3636
www.flpreferred.com
Pass-A-Grille
Dolphin Cay
One of only a few key vacant lots in desirable Pass-A-Grille! Gulf views from the lot! Build 4,000 Sq.Ft. dream home! $995,000
Located in gated community with over 3,000 + Sq. Ft. 5BR with pool overlooking lake! $1,525,000
Panoramic water views abound from this Bahia Vista condo! Enjoy a 25 foot seaside balcony overlooking the world-famous Don CeSar! Designer decorated at $635,000
Sunshine Skyway Area
Marina Harbour
Allison and Dave Estabrooks (727) 460-4061
Bahia Del Mar
Water, water everywhere! Totally updated 2BR with one of the best locations! $549,900 turnkey! Allison and Dave Estabrooks (727) 460-4061
Allison and Dave Estabrooks (727) 460-4061
Water views abound from this totally updated 1st floor condo! 2BR, 2BA with brand new kitchen, baths & more! $435,000
Allison and Dave Estabrooks (727) 460-4061
ISLA DEL SOL
Allison and Dave Estabrooks (727) 460-4061
You won’t find a better water view at this price! 2BR waterfront with covered parking! $325,000 Allison and Dave Estabrooks (727) 460-4061
St. Pete Beach
Carol Giovannoni, Chris Graus and Team (727)481-9909
Brilliantly Renovated Beach Front Penthouse 3BR/2BA/Office/2GA/Cabana/Corner Unit/106’ of Balconies Professionally Designed and Curated. Sold Furnished. List Price $2,550,000
iluvRW.com
St. Pete Beach
Pass-a-Grille
1350 Sq. ft 2 Bed 2 Bath with Waterfront Views, lots of amenities & Beach Access. List Price $425,000 Diana Sames (727)776-0122.
Boca Isle 1,877 Sq. Ft. Pool 2 BD/ Ciega 2 BA 1,370 Sq. 4 Ft. Bed 2 Bath, NO LAND LEASE 2 Pools, Gym, Rec Rooms and Game Room, 2 Docks and BBQ Picnic Home. Private backyard with areas, Green Space. Just steps away to Beach. Restaurants Near by. List Price: $450,000 Tiki Hut. List Price $997,000 Diana Sames (727)776-0122 Diana Sames (727)776-0122.
2 Bed, 1.5 Bath 600 Sq. Ft. Condo w/2 deeded Parking. Short walk to the beach and Restaurants. List Price $575,000 Diana Sames (727)776-0122.
RE/MAX, LLC. Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
FEBRUARY 2024
20
CONTENTS
COVER STORY and COUNTING Paradise News celebrates 30 years of publishing, South Pinellas’ Favorite News Magazine! BY JANET NUMMI
DEPARTMENTS
REAL ESTATE Condominiums Now Safer and Financially Sound
Publishers Message................ 6
BY PETER ROOS/JOAN WALKER
36 NEED A PART
TIME ASSISTANT? Lisa Piazza Wants to Help with Your Projects
21
BY PETER ROOS
FEATURES
14 VALENTINE’S SPIRIT
21 PLAYING OUTDOORS
Floridians LOVE Playing Tennis & Pickleball Outdoors BY PETER ROOS
24 HISTORY OF THE BY PETER ROOS
25 KEEPING THE
SPARK ALIVE Staying In Love for Over 50 Years is Worth the Effort BY PETER ROOS
40 TAMPA BAY BY STEVE TRAIMAN
41 JOIN THE ACADEMY OF SENIOR PROFESSIONALS Serving Eckerd College & Community Lifelong Learning
42
IN TAMPA BAY Date Ideas and February Events
BY KAELEY DAWSON/BUDDY BAKER
43 LOCAL ELECTIONS
New State Reporting Law Changed March 19 Elections
24
46 DATE ON A DIME
Some GREAT Ideas for Dates That Don’t Cost a Fortune
38
Home Improvement
DISTRIBUTION
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
Home & Garden..................... 37 Home Improvement............... 38 Art News........................... 44-45 Arts & Leisure................... 47-59
Classified Ads................... 60-61 Encouraging Words............... 62 COVER Design: Janet Nummi facebook.com/ParadiseNews @ParadiseNewsFL @ParadiseNewsFL info@ParadiseNewsFL.com www.ParadiseNewsFL.com
BY KELLY ROUSE
4
Dining............................... 16-18
Eco: Cormorants.................... 57
42 VALENTINE’S DAY
Top 5 EVENTS & Latest TIDBITS e-newsletter subscribe at www.ParadiseNewsFL.com
Cooking Corner..................... 19
Events............................... 48-54
BY GREG “GEESE” GIESEN
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Happy Hours.......................... 13
Pet Health: Vaccinte.............. 30
BY CARON SCHWARTZ
YOURSELF FIRST Before Giving all Your Love Away, Look in the Mirror
Tidbits........................... 8, 10-11
Pier Dental............................. 29
SUN SOCCER Women’s Professional Soccer League coming to Tampa Bay
Gulf Beach Historical Museum
GULF BEACHES Gulf Beaches Historical Museum on Pass-a-Grille & festival returns
Centre of SPB News................ 7
Treating Neuropathy.............. 27
Valentine’s Day In Tampa Bay
A Celebration of Friendship, Love, and Affection
28 LOVING
32 SOUTH PINELLAS St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club
20 300 EDITIONS
Paradise NEWS Reaching 100,000+ in print, online, social media, web content, weekly eblasts, and more!
Copyright: Entire contents copyright © 2024 Paradise NEWS LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the contents of Paradise NEWS in whole or in part by photocopying, entry into any data-retrieval system, or any other means is strictly forbidden, without written consent of the publisher. Paradise NEWS has a non-political policy. Paid political ads are accepted. Signed letters to editors welcomed. NOTE readers: Paradise NEWS does not recommend or endorse any products or services in the publication. Any misrepresentation should be reported to the local authorities. Investigate all conditions and restrictions before making your purchase, understand your individual agreement prior to payment. Use discretion with any business transaction, whether making a purchase or accepting payment.
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Marina is the ToBay the architects FIRSTand community builders of Marina Bay, it’s in Pinellas County EVERYTHING. to receive the Marina Bay is the FIRST FORTIFIED Gold™ BUILDER and ONLY DEVELdesignation. OPMENT in Pinellas County to receive the FORTIFIED
GOLD designation. FORTIFIED™ goes Building to FORTIFIED means beyond code, creating resilient homes that meaning FORTIFIED™ will better with-stand severe weather. Construction far FORTIFIED goes beyond exceeds most building code, meaning it exceeds codesmost andbuilding improves codes by improving the performance the performance of of buildings against natural buildings against disasters and reducing the risk of personal property natural disasters andlosses. reducing the risk of personal property losses.
PUBLISHERS MESSAGE
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR www.paradisenewsfl.com/letter
PETER & RENEE ROOS
This, the second issue of our 30th year, we are calling our LOVE edition, with Valentine month on our minds. There is an article by our newest writer, Kelly Rouse, on self-love, and one by yours truly with advice on “keeping the spark alive.” Part of self-love is the pursuit of vitality and longevity. Paradise News’ health and wellness content provides a choice of local dentists, acupuncturists, a veterinarian, hospital, massage and more.
We’ve made some staff changes. Let us know what you think about any content shifts you may notice. Most long-time readers will recognize a Paradise News they used to love. We hope you do too. A third of our editorial pages remain a constantly updated arts and leisure and event calendar, usually page 43-55. In the online version, all the provided web links are active so you can get more info and buy tickets directly. Kelly is also writing a downtown dining column focused on options for vegetarian and vegan options. We aim to add retirement living and a holistic primary care doctor with legendary diagnostic abilities. The local real estate market has adjusted somewhat to the higher interest rates instituted by the Fed to slow post-pandemic inflation. Home and condo sales have slowed allowing home and condo for sale inventories to rise. State mandated condo building inspections have resulted in certifications and adequate reserves built up. In most cases, surprise assessments are history. With due diligence, now may be the best time this decade to buy a home or condo, especially if you can pay cash. Choices are more available and historical and projected increase in values exceed current and expected long term returns elsewhere. February is also local campaign season, complicated by commissioner resignations over new Florida Form 6 disclosure requirements. Roof-top solar production has been expanding and electric cars are catching on. Our solar system is ten years old. We have been charging our all-electric Chevy Volt using solar power for a decade with a power bill under $100/ month. Neighbors have been making improvements in their dwellings, renewing window treatments, organizing closets, updating electrical service, including installing new panels and car chargers as well as generators, hardening homes against rising tides. Paradise News’ home improvement section helps connect readers with trustworthy contractors. Our advertisers pay for the printing and mailing of Paradise News because they want your business. Reader and advertiser satisfaction with us has provided us with security and longevity. Please let advertisers know “Paradise News sent you” and let us know if anything could have been better. A Letter to the Editor form and so much more is now available at www.paradisenewsfl.com. We have been building that site for ten years and it is loaded with great history too. There are even 10 years’ worth of back issues accessible through the past issues tab under current issue. If you are seeing this magazine for the first time, you are part of our outreach program. If you like what you see, you can subscribe for just $19.95 a year (and as little as $1.50 each on a 5-year). You can buy online at www.paradisenewsfl.com/get-paradise-news-in-print or link to the subscription form below. Our weekly Thursday digital newsletter is still free to subscribe after 10 years and provides a reminder of the top 5 things going on in the area each weekend. We LOVE publishing the news from paradise and we LOVE that you are enjoying reading it. 2024 READER SURVEY We would love to hear from you! www.ParadiseNewsFL.com Check out Paradise NEWS online, in print, and like us on social media. Sign up on our website for the FREE weekly eblast on what to do around town.
6
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
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Paradise NEWS
Volume 30 Number 2 • February 2024 PUBLISHERS Peter Roos | Marketing & Sales sales@paradisenewsfl.com Renee Roos | Creative Director info@paradisenewsfl.com ART & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Janet Nummi info@janetnummi.com SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE MANAGER Kaeley Dawson paradisenewsfl@gmail.com EDITORIAL Steve Traiman - Features Caron Schwartz - Art News, Features Buddy Baker - Arts & Leisure / Events Dennis Merritt Jones, DD Encouraging Words Dr. Johnathan Pierce - Pet Health Kelly Rouse - Dining, Features CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Visit St. Pete Clearwater Visit Florida • City of St. Pete • Janet Nummi Public Media Resource Images SUBMISSIONS WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Paradise News welcomes submissions. 727.363.6888 • info@paradisenewsfl.com DEADLINES - Advertising • Classified • Editorial 10th of the month, one month prior to print PRINT CIRCULATION Mailings by USPS Fall/Winter/Spring; (Monthly) Oct - May Summer;(Bi-monthly) June/July & Aug/Sept DISTRIBUTION - Mailed on “Island Time”
30,000+ .3 0,000+
www.paradisenewsfl.com/distribution-locations Downtown St. Petersburg, St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille, Tierra Verde, Isla Del Sol, Pinellas Bayway, Harbourside, Pasadena Yacht & C.C., Gulfport (partial), Treasure Island, Yacht Club Estates, Causeway Isles SUBSCRIPTIONS https://bit.ly/subscribe-to-paradise ANNUALLY - (10 issues) $30 US (3rd class) $50-US (1st Class) $50 Canada (3rd class) SINGLE ISSUE - Select desired month(s) Fall to Spring Oct thru May (Monthly) Summer June/July & Aug/Sept (Bimonthly) $5/@-USA • $7.50/@-Canada • $25/@-Europe MEMBERSHIP AFFILIATIONS Corey Area Business Association Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce 2007 “Business of the Year Award” Recipient Preserve The Burg • Skyway Marina District St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurial Academy Spring 2019 Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce 2008 “Small Business of the Year” Award 2013 “Woman-Owned Business of the Year” Tampa Bay Watch - Corporate Sponsor Treasure Island & Madeira Beach Chamber PUBLISHED BY: Paradise News, LLC P.O. Box 66385, St. Pete Beach, FL 33736 727.363.6888 • info@paradisenewsfl.com www.ParadiseNewsFL.com | Facebook
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TIDBITS What would you like to read about in the new year? Take our reader interest and suggestion survey online at www.paradisenewsfl.com/ 2024-survey. Send letters to the editor at www.paradisenewsfl.com/letter. ST. PETE BEACH
By Peter Roos
Former city managers are in demand by beach cities this winter as St. Pete Beach rehired former city manager Wayne Saunders and Treasure Island brought Garry Bromback back until a more permanent replacement is chosen. St. Pete Beach Mayor Adrian Petrilla unseated Alan Johnson last Marc, running on a slow or no growth platform, and calling for replacement of the entire commission. PINELLAS COUNTY
On Friday, January 19th St. Pete Beach Fire Rescue hosted an official push-in ceremony for their new state-ofthe-art Truck 23, which includes a 100ft ladder. The “Push In” tradition dates back to the days of horse-drawn equipment in the fire service, when firefighters would return from a call, detach the horses from the apparatus, spray it down, and push it back into the bay. The City of St. Pete Beach is hiring for multiple positions! Explore career opportunities in multiple departments and job functions at www.stpetebeach. org/431/Job-Openings. The city of St. Pete Beach is also seeking volunteers for advisory board and committee vacancies including on their Beach Stewardship Committee, Library Advisory Board and Planning Board. Learn more about how you can volunteer at www.stpetebeach.org/590/ Board-Vacancies.
8
The Southwest Florida Water Management District is reminding residents who irrigate their lawns to “Skip a Week” or more of watering during February. According to research by the University of Florida, grass doesn’t need to be watered as often during the cooler months. One-half to three-quarters of an inch of water every 10–14 days is sufficient. In fact, if your lawn has received any significant rainfall, then you can turn off your irrigation system and operate it manually as needed. Watering only every other week at most during the winter will help conserve drinking water supplies that the public needs for critical uses during the dry season. Learn more at www.paradisenewsfl.com/ skip-a-week.
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
TIERRA VERDE
Save the Date! Tampa Bay Watch is celebrating Earth Day on Thursday, April 18, 5-8pm with their Earth Night 2024 at the headquarters in Tierra Verde. Earth Night is a sustainable foodie event that helps students from underserved local communities participate in meaningful marine science education programs hosted by the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center. More information to come. Learn more about what Tampa Bay Watch is doing for our coastal community, sign up for upcoming volunteer projects or donate today at www.tampabaywatch.org. ST. PETERSBURG
The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club – America’s oldest and largest shuffleboard club – is turning 100 in 2024 and is inviting the community to celebrate together. Festivities began on Saturday, January 20, with the club’s 12th Annual Tweed Ride – the most fashionable event on two
wheels. Their 100th anniversary celebration will continue all year. The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club is planning multiple special celebrations including a Centennial Shuffleboard Tournament in October, with details to come at a later date. To learn more about upcoming events, visit www.StPeteShuffle.com.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is celebrating their one-year anniversary of its Jungle Terrace restaurant in St. Petersburg. Nestled on the waterfront on Boca Ciega Bay, right off Bay Pines Boulevard, the restaurant opened in late 2022, quickly becoming a popular destination for prime sunsets, sea breezes and Doc Ford’s award-winning Caribbean Rim-inspired food and refreshing cocktails. Learn more at www.paradisenewsfl. com/doc-fords-1-year.
Tampa Bay Markets’ NEW Sunday St. Pete Market celebrated their grand opening Jan. 7! This new weekly market will be every Sunday 10am-2pm at St. Petersburg
Capture Newfound Confidence.
Picture a life where your weight doesn’t hold you back. At the Bayfront Health Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery Institute, we recognize the obstacles associated with obesity and are committed to assisting you in overcoming them. Our compassionate surgeons and weight loss specialists offer minimally invasive robotic surgery, revision and conversion procedures, and nutritional guidance to help you reframe your future. Giving you more reasons to choose well. BayfrontHealth.com/WeightLoss
TIDBITS High School. See photos from their Facebook album of their grand opening at www.facebook.com/ TampaBayMarkets. Learn more about this new weekly market at www.paradisenewsfl.com/ sunday-market-st-pete.
The Firestone Grand Prix is looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers with a can-do attitude for their Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 8-10 in downtown St. Petersburg. Volunteering at the event is a unique and fulfilling experience that offers great insight into one of the biggest annual sporting events in Florida! There are a number of different positions available. Learn how you can volunteer at www.gpstpete.com/ contact/volunteer. TREASURE ISLAND
Treasure Island Fire Rescue wants local chefs to bring the heat to people’s tastebuds at this year’s Chili Cook-Off on Feb. 16, 5-7pm at the Treasure Island Community Center. There will be music, prizes, a 10
raffle and more. There will also be beer and wine available for donation. This annual event benefits the Treasure Island Fire Association and its chosen charities. There will be prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd best chili recipes in two different classes – “The Open Class” and “The Pro Class.” Tickets are $10. Attendees can sample and vote on all the entries. Tickets must be pre-purchased at the Treasure Island Fire Department during regular business hours, M-F 8am to 4pm and traditionally sell out early. Admission is limited to 150 people. Children under the age of 12 are free. Do you think you have the next best chili recipe? Show everyone what you’ve got by entering your recipe into the Chili Cook-Off. Contact Mercedes Nelson Palmer with any questions at 727-547-4590 ext. 261 or mnelson@mytreasureisland. org. Learn more about this event at www.facebook. com/cotifire. GULFPORT The City of Gulfport Senior Center’s Telephone Reassurance Program is a free service for Gulfport residents 50 years of age or older. Volunteers make daily phone calls to registered members and provide comfort, security, and peace of mind to members and families. Registration is simple and free. If you or someone you know could benefit from this service during this difficult time, please call 727-893-2237 and register today.
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
TAMPA BAY
Tampa Bay’s wildest night returns Saturday, April 6! Join ZooTampa for an ALL-INCLUSIVE night filled with up-close wildlife, endless food, unlimited drinks, live music, games, and more at their annual ZooBrews events! Save with early bird pricing.
St. Petersburg is 2024 Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best winner #2 Travelers’ Choice Awards. Best of the Best winners are destinations whose hotels, restaurants, and things to do received a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the TripAdvisor community over a 12-month period. Fewer than 1% of TripAdvisor’s 8 million listings are awarded Best of the Best, signifying the highest level of excellence in travel. From lesser-known cities to new escapes, these places are up and coming destinations. Wedged between #1 Napa Valley and #3 Marathon in the Florida Keys, “the sun
almost always shines on St. Petersburg, the “Sunshine City” that enjoys an average of 361 days of clear skies per year. Combine that with 244 miles of glimmering coastline along Tampa Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, Boca Ciega Bay and the intra-coastal waterways and you have one hot beach destination. Catch the sun, surf and sand, kayak, canoe, explore a fort and more at Ft. De Soto Park, or take a hike, bike or even an electric bike ride up the 37-mile Pinellas Trail. Enjoy a Lightning, Bucs, Rowdies, or Tampa Bay Rays game or escape to the shady oasis of the Sunken Gardens. Visit the Museum of Fine Art, Museum of History, James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art, the only Salvador Dali Museum outside of Europe, the only Chihuly glass museum outside of Seattle, Imagine Glass Museum, Museum of American Craft Art or one of a host of other museums just a 15-minute SunRunner or 25-minute Central Avenue Trolley ride from St. Pete Beach hotels.
Clyde Butcher’s epic book “LifeWorks in Photography” Clyde Butcher has been called the next Ansel Adams by Popular Photography magazine, awarded as a humanitarian for acting for the betterment of his community, and recognized as a conservationist for bringing issues to the forefront of public
consciousness through his art. His photography transcends political boundaries, challenging us to work together to protect natural places across the globe. “LifeWorks in Photography” is a comprehensive reflection of Clyde Butcher’s remarkable journey, spanning the last 60 years of his prolific career. Divided into six captivating chapters, each section unveils a unique aspect of his life, accompanied by stunning photographs that chronicle his adventures across the United States – from state parks to national parks, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of our nation. Additionally, the book takes you on an international journey, exploring captivating scenes from Cuba, Spain, and the Czech Republic. The release of “LifeWorks in Photography” will be complemented by his new traveling exhibit, also titled “LifeWorks,” opening Sept. 6 in New Mexico at Las Cruces Museum of Art. This exhibit will bring the pages of the book to life, allowing you to immerse yourself in the captivating visuals that have defined his career. info@clydebutcher.com 941-486-0811
American Stage has gotten a head start on their summer camp programs, offering children interested in acting or theatre 1–3-week sessions and a t-shirt at $275/week
from June 3-Aug. 2, 9am-3pm Monday-Friday, ages 5-17. Stagecraft Week will introduce three new camps for littles through teens. In “Storybooks Come to Life!” 5–7-year-olds will work as a team to create and perform a unique and imaginative story based on a popular children’s book. “Storybooks Come to Life!” will culminate in a mini production designed by youth and teen campers in the “Gadgets, Gizmos, & Whosits” and “Page to Stage” camps. Teens and tweens interested in bringing their stories to the screen can enroll in “Acting for the Camera,” a two-week intensive where campers will be immersed in in the world of creating mock commercials, screenwriting for TV & Film, and creating short films that will be presented at a viewing for parents and friends. Precare from 8am and aftercare until 5pm are available at $10 and $20/day respectively. Registration is now open, and financial aid is available. For more information, please visit www.americanstage.org/ summer-camp Across Florida, roughly 100 municipalities have adopted summer rainy-season fertilizer bans. Pinellas County’s fertilizer ordinance became law in 2010. One of Pinellas County’s main legislative priorities this year is to support efforts to keep counties in charge of their fertilizer bans, according to spokesperson Tony Fabrizio. The county believes the ordinance is an effective way to curb nutrient pollution from entering waterways like Tampa Bay, Fabrizio said.
While Leesa Souto conducted research in 2019 to evaluate the effectiveness of local fertilizer ordinances in the Tampa Bay area at preventing nitrogen pollution and found a positive correlation, a new report born from a lobbying effort by the TruGreen lawn care company argues there isn’t enough research to determine whether seasonal fertilizer bans help stop pollution from dumping into Florida waterways.
JD Power named TPA the best large airport in the country for the second year in a row. Strong scores across all factors: A robust food and beverage program, public art, superb customer service, amenities, security, and a plethora of foreign destinations all make TPA stand out among the pack. The J.D. Power Satisfaction StudySM measures passengers’ satisfaction with their airport experience. The study provides insights that can help airports improve their performance and passengers’ airport experience. Frontier Airlines has been expanding its Tampa hub too. Non-stop flights are planned to fly from Tampa to several underserved Caribbean destinations, with or without the absorption of Spirit Airlines.
Suntan 61st Birthday Bash & Fundraiser Suntan Art Center is a wonderful resource, including a variety of art classes, monthly exhibitions, scholarships for children, and a boutique featuring unique masterpieces by local artists for artists. They are planning their annual fundraising party, Let’s Twist Again, March 23 from 6:30-9:30pm. More details next month. You can sign up or donate on their website, www.suntanart.org, mail a check or stop by 3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. For info, call Cindy Rodella-Purdy, Director 727-367-3818. Paczki and Dyngus Days What are you doing on Valentine week? Start off with a Polish Dinner & Dance on Paczki Day, Sunday, Feb. 11 (under $25 each). Bring a dance partner or find one at the Polish American Club, 1343 Beach Dr. SE, St .Petersburg. Doors open at 1:30pm. Music by the Florida Generations from 3-8pm is included in $12 entry. There is a cash bar and an optional Polish dinner $12, 2:15-3:30pm. Everyone gets an awesome Polish Donut to prepare to start Lent. Mark your calendar now for the end of Lent, April 1 this year, when the Polish American Society brings you Dyngus Day. Described “like a reverse Mardi Gras.”
ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
11
The ESCAPE from your ESCAPE.
Eatat82.com
Waterfront Dining 7203 Sunset Way, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
craft cocktails
live entertainment
82 Degrees provides nature imbued interiors and fresh Southern coastal cuisine to launch you into the decadence of an unhurried coastal vacation. Whether you are dining in for brunch, happy hour or a leisurely dinner, 82 Degrees provides a space to enjoy craft cocktails, fine wine, and locally distilled beer with alfresco dining options and live music. With locally sourced ingredients, signature drinks and an unparalleled atmosphere, 82 Degrees is a favorite amongst locals.
gulf views
coastal fare
7201 Sunset Way, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 727.360.0120
We invite you to lose yourself in an ultimate seaside paradise at The Saint Hotel, a boutique haven in St. Pete Beach. Experience laid-back vibes, barefoot ambience, and artistic touches that speak to the senses. thesainthotel.com
727.292.0282
brunch lunch happy hour dinner
HAPPY HOURS Imagine yourself sitting on the sun-kissed shores of St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island or Madeira Beach, where the rhythmic sounds of gentle waves mingle with the laughter of beachgoers. As the sun begins its descent, casting warm hues across the horizon, you find the perfect spot at a local bar to unwind. It’s that magical time of the day – happy hour at the beach. From now until daylight savings time resumes, sunset and dinner time meet between 5:30-6:30pm. The atmosphere is vibrant, with a laid-back coastal charm that sets the tone for a relaxing evening. Sip on refreshing cocktails as you soak in the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you’re sharing stories with friends or simply enjoying the solitude, this seaside escape brings a sense of joy that resonates with the beauty of the sun, the sand, and the sea. Daylight Savings time runs from March 10-Nov. 3. Sunset will occur at 7:37pm on March 10, an hour later than on March 9 and it will continue to get 20 seconds later each day until Summer Equinox, June 21, when sunset is 8:30pm. 82 Degrees 7203 Sunset Way, St. Pete Beach (SPB) Happy Hour: 7 days a week from 3-5pm. www.eatat82.com PCI Beach Bar 6300 Gulf Blvd (SPB) Mon.-Fri., 4-7pm, 1/2 price drafts, apps, $5 wells www.pcibeachbar.com/location/pci-beach-bar Caddy’s 9000 West Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island Breakfast & Bottomless Mimosas 8-11am Best Beach Happy Hours vary Mon.-Fri. www.caddys.com/happy-hour Grand Hacienda 4394 Gulf Blvd. SPB & Tyrone Mall Bottomless Margaritas Mon.-Thurs., 6-9pm Endless Mimosas daily til 2pm www.grandhaciendarestaurant.com Mastry’s Brewing Co. 7701 Blind Pass Road, SPB Mon.: Service Industry Night $4 drafts, 20% off to-go Tues.: Teacher Tuesday $4 drafts, buy one get one, half to-go Wed.: Wing It Wednesday Wing Specials Thurs.: Trivia Night at 7pm and $10 Growlers www.mastrysbrewingco.com RumFish Grill 6000 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 1/2 off bar bites and drink specials daily from 4-6pm. Happy Hour: Daily 4-5pm. Get Tanked Tuesday 4-7pm. www.rumfishgrill.com/menu/happy-hour Sea Dog Brewery 9610 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island Happy Hour: 2-6pm, $3 off some apps, beer specials Breakfast: Every day 8am-12pm www.seadogbrewing.com/location/treasure-island Sirata Beach Resort 5300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach Happy Hour: 4-6pm, $2 off house cocktails, draft beer, wine by the glass, and appetizers. www.sirata.com/resources/media/pdf/Compass-Bar-Menu.pdf Slyce, St. Pete Beach 6340 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach Happy Hour: Weekdays 11am-6pm Wine Wednesdays 20% of bottles www.slycepizza.com The Wharf 2001 Pass-A-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach Happy Hour: Mon.-Fri. 3:30-6:30pm. www.wharfpag.com
Beachy eats Indulge your taste buds in one of our thre e restaurants just steps away from St. Pete Beach!
5300 GULF BLVD • ST. PETE BEACH, FL T:+1 727-363-5100 • Sirata.com •
Siratastpete
ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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Be My Valentine: A Celebration of Love Valentine’s Day, also known as Saint Valentine’s Day, is celebrated on February 14 every year. It is a special day dedicated to expressing love and affection towards loved ones. While it has become increasingly commercialized, Valentine’s Day continues to be a cherished holiday for many people around the world. Originating from ancient Roman traditions, Valentine’s Day has a rich history. The day is named after Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr who was executed for performing secret marriages in third-century Rome. According to one legend, Saint Valentine sent a letter to his jailer’s daughter signed, “Your Valentine” before his execution, hence the tradition of exchanging Valentine’s Day cards. Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in various ways, with individuals expressing their love and appreciation for their partners, friends, family members, and even pets. The most popular symbol of this day is the heart, which represents love and affection. People often exchange greeting cards, flowers, chocolates, and other gifts to show their affection.
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FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
Romantic gestures, such as candlelit dinners, surprise gifts, and heartfelt messages, are also common on Valentine’s Day. Many couples take this opportunity to spend quality time together, making memories and reaffirming their love for one another. Restaurants and hotels often offer special Valentine’s Day packages to cater to these celebrations. However, Valentine’s Day is not reserved solely for romantic relationships. It is also a day to celebrate friendship and the love shared between friends. In some countries, like Finland and Estonia, Valentine’s Day is called “Friend’s Day,” where friends exchange small gifts and sweet gestures to show their appreciation. For some, Valentine’s Day may bring feelings of loneliness or sadness, particularly if they are not in a romantic
relationship. However, many organizations have embraced the idea of “self-love” on this day – emphasizing the importance of loving oneself and practicing self-care. In recent years, Valentine’s Day has also become a platform for activism and social causes. Campaigns promoting love and acceptance for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender, have gained traction during this holiday. It is a time to celebrate love in all its forms and to promote equality and inclusivity. Overall, Valentine’s Day is more than just a commercial holiday – it is an occasion to celebrate love and affection with the people who matter most to us. Whether it is a romantic partner, a friend, or yourself, the day serves as a reminder to cherish and appreciate the love in our lives.
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DINING Additionally, adopting a vegan or vegetarian diet can have positive environmental effects, as plant-based diets generally have a lower ecological footprint compared to diets based on animal products. It’s essential for individuals on vegan or vegetarian diets to ensure they get a well-balanced intake of nutrients, including protein, vitamin B12, iron, vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids (which can be found in fortified foods or supplements). Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian can help tailor a plant-based diet to meet nutritional needs.
Are you vegan-curious?
who does not eat any meat, poultry, game, fish, shellfish, or animal by-products.
A vegan diet is a type of plant-based diet that excludes all animal products. People following a vegan diet abstain from consuming meat, dairy products, eggs, and any other animal-derived ingredients. The primary focus is on plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. A vegetarian is someone
Both vegan and vegetarian diets have been associated with various health benefits. Some of which are: heart health (reduced risk of heart disease), weight management, blood sugar control, digestive health, lower cancer risk, lower blood pressure, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and improved kidney function.
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St. Pete Beach (727) 317-4971
Tyrone Mall (727) 302-0777
4393 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
2424 Tyrone Blvd north. St. Petersburg, FL 33710
www.grandhaciendarestaurant.com
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FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
Vegan diets encourage a diverse and creative approach to meals. With the wide range of plant-based ingredients available, there are numerous delicious and nutritious recipes to explore. Or you could visit one of the fantastic vegan and vegetarian hotspots in St. Pete which are profiled here...read on! St. Pete has plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from that feature vegan and/or vegetarian focused menus. For those looking to try something new and tasty, be sure to visit one of these popular plant-forward establishments:
By Kelly Rouse
GOOD INTENTIONS
HOUSE OF VEGANO
GOLDEN DINOSAURS
HOUSE OF VEGANO
The atmosphere is inviting, the specialty drinks are enticing, and the ever-changing seasonal menu offers appetizers such as the delicious Whipped Ricotta to entrees that make magic with lion’s mane mushrooms. Dinner Tues.- Sun. and brunch weekends. Closed Mon. goodintentionsfl.com
Voted #1 Cuban Cuisine in Pinellas Co.
727.394.PIPO (7476) • pipos1979.com
GOLDEN DINOSAURS
GOOD INTENTIONS
In St. Pete’s Grand Central District, a meal at Good Intentions is a must! The owners of Golden Dinosaurs and Nah Dogs have combined their creative and culinary talents to bring us this delightful dining experience, which is Tampa Bay’s first all vegan owned full service bar and restaurant.
Their chic, new location in the Grand Central District allows House of Vegano to shine! The chef- driven menu is inspired by traditional flavors and offers, according to their website, a “fresh, creative, and sustainable interpretation of Japaneseinspired cuisine.” Their mission to bring mouth-watering plant-based sushi, ramen and dumplings to the St. Pete area has more than succeeded. Inventive pairings make for savory and sometimes spicy treats. A popular specialty roll is the Volcano, which bursts with flavor – avocado, carrots, and cucumbers topped with spicy vegan seafood dynamite, vegan caviar, spicy mayo, sriracha, and vegan eel sauce and green onions. If you are doubtful about giving vegan sushi a try, you won’t be disappointed if you go! Lunch and dinner Mon., Thurs.-Sun. Closed Tues-Wed. houseofvegano.com
This vegan deli and sweet-tooth soothing bakery is Gulfport’s answer to plant-based specialties like barbecue tofu and pastrami Reuben sandwiches. Service is fast-casual style, with seating outside on their patio or at sidewalk tables. The menu is a mix of meatless proteins (beyond burgers), salads, soups, pressed sandwiches, and baked goods. In January, they launched “Brunch In A Crunch” on weekends, featuring a grab and go brunch menu – including their world famous breakfast burrito – from 10am-12pm. Lunch and dinner Mon., Tues., Thurs.-Sun. Closed Wed. goldendinosaurs.com
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Dinner 4-9pm Tu-Th; 4-10pm Fri-Sat Outdoor Dining | Take Out | Catering 7201 66th St. N | 727-209-2695 | dasesto.com ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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LOVE FOOD CENTRAL Voted Best Vegan Eats in St. Pete by I Love the Burg, Love Food Central has a fantastic menu of sandwiches, salads, and divine desserts (all of which are gluten free). From the Love Burger featuring a homemade beet and black bean burger to the delectable Mac and Cheez, you will find something to satisfy your cravings. Lunch Mon., Wed.- Sun. Closed Tues. lovefoodcentral.com LOTUS VEGAN RESTAURANT A Vietnamese Vegan and Vegetarian restaurant in Pinellas Park, Lotus offers
“Nothing has benefited me more physically, mentally and most important spiritually, then adapting a vegan diet. The best decision I have made as a human for me and the planet.” – Tim Shieff
a vast and varied menu of many surprising flavors, as well as traditional rice and noodle dishes. They even offer pizza, panini, and garlic knots! The lemongrass tofu is excellent. Don’t forget to save room for dessert (or a smoothie if you are more calorie-conscious). Lunch and dinner Mon.- Sat. Closed Sun. lotusvegan.us WORLD VEGAN CUISINE New to St. Pete, World Vegan Cuisine is a small gem that offers what might be the best pho in town! A must try for vegans and non-vegans alike. The service is friendly, signaled by the “Be Vegan, Make Peace” sign in their window. Lunch and dinner Tues.- Sat. Closed Mon. worldvegancuisine.com
Daily specials, sensational seafood, sandwiches & more, full bar. Enjoy water view, indoor/outdoor dining and your favorite sports teams on 13 TVs. HAPPY HOUR Mon.-Fri. 3:30-6:30pm MENU
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2001 Pass-A-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach https://bit.ly/thewharfpag 727-367-9469
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
5010 81st Ave. North, Pinellas Park. FL 33781
WORLD VEGAN CUISINE
LOTUS VEGAN RESTAURANT
Off-street parking, a covered patio with outdoor bar and plans for live music in the future will no doubt make this a go-to spot once again. Dinner Mon.-Thurs. Lunch and dinner Fri.-Sun. ciderpresspub.com
LOVE FOOD CENTRAL
CIDER PRESS VEGAN GASTROPUB
CIDER PRESS VEGAN GASTROPUB Now in their new Historic Kenwood neighborhood location, their new menu features Beyond Beef burgers, Jambalaya Balls, French Quarter “Shrimp” Po’Boys and other hearty, plant-forward pub fare with a Cajun accent, accompanied by a full bar.
COOKING CORNER Seeking some homemade-with-love recipes? Some foods that are often seen as romantic include chocolate-covered strawberries, oysters, lobster, and steak. Ultimately, the most important thing when it comes to romantic food is that it’s something both you and your partner enjoy and have a special connection. Here are some simple recipes for a LOVEly romantic celebration. Enjoy! HEART-SHAPED PIZZA Ingredients: Store-bought pizza dough or homemade pizza dough Pizza sauce Shredded mozzarella cheese Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms) Instructions: Preheat the oven according to the pizza dough instructions. Roll out the pizza dough into a heart shape, using a heart-shaped cookie cutter or a knife. Place the heart-shaped dough on a lightly greased baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Add your desired toppings evenly over the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for the time specified on the pizza dough package or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. CHOCOLATE-COVERED STRAWBERRIES Ingredients: Fresh strawberries Dark, milk or white chocolate Instructions: Wash and dry the strawberries well. Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating around two-thirds of the fruit. Place the coated strawberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them cool and harden in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. FROZEN YOGURT RASPBERRY HEARTS Ingredients: 150g plain yogurt dairy free if needed 6g freez-dried raspberries Instructions: Place yogurt into a small mixing bowl. Tip in the freeze dried raspberries and mix well with a spoon. Using a teaspoon transfer to a silicone heart shaped mold. Use the back of the spoon to gently push it down to avoid any air holes. Freeze for 3-4 hours or until frozen solid. Carefully remove from the mould and store in an airtight container in the freezer. www.sneakyveg.com
2024 resolution...
Enjoy New Brews + Old Friends Mastry’s Brewing Co. and The Kitchen are open daily at noon for dine in, or take out. Enjoy taco Tuesday, wing Wednesday, live music Fri.-Sat., open mic Wed. and trivia Thurs. Day or night, it’s sip sip hooray at Mastry’s! MASTRY’S
Mastry’s Brewing Co. & The Kitchen 7701 Blind Pass Rd., St. Pete Beach 727-202-8045 www.mastrysbrewingco.com
THE KITCHEN
INDOOR & OUTDOOR DINING DINE IN CARRY OUT DELIVERY OPEN DAILY 11AM WEDNESDAY - MONDAY Dine in with us at 6340 GULF BLVD ST PETE BEACH, FL
ST PETE BEACH
or call:
(727) 353-3181
1 HOUR FREE PARKING BEHIND SLYCE, OR TAKE FREEBEE
Sunday Brunch 11-3 Happy Hour Weekdays 11-6 Weekday Lunch Specials 11-3 Wine Wednesday: 20% Off Bottles Music Bingo, Live Music, LOTS of Sports TVs ALSO SERVING MADEIRA & INDIAN ROCKS BEACHES
SLYCEPIZZA.COM ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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COVER STORY St. Petersburg is more than just a city; it’s a community,” says Peter Roos, the magazine’s publisher. “We want Paradise News magazine to be the mirror that reflects the unique beauty of our area. Whether it’s featuring local businesses, profiling fascinating individuals, or delving into the city’s rich history, we want our readers to feel a deeper connection to the Tampa Bay area.
Spotlight on Arts and Culture A vibrant arts and culture scene has long been a hallmark of St. Petersburg. Paradise News magazine continues to shine a spotlight on the artists, musicians, and creators shaping the city’s cultural landscape. In a recent feature, the magazine delved into the thriving mural scene that has transformed St. Pete’s streets into an outdoor art gallery. Readers were treated to in-depth interviews with local artists, gaining insights into the inspiration behind their colorful creations.
Navigating the Local Scene Paradise News magazine is not just a passive observer; it’s a guide for residents and visitors alike. The magazine’s comprehensive event calendar highlights the best of St. Pete’s social scene, ensuring that readers are in the know about upcoming festivals, art exhibitions, and community gatherings.
30 years Unveiling the Beauty of St. Pete and its Beach Communities
Digital Presence & Community Engagement
By Janet Nummi
From the heart of the sunshine city through the sunset capital of Florida, a beacon of local charm has been capturing the essence of St. Petersburg’s vibrant community for nearly 30 years now. Paradise News is the go-to source for all things St. Pete, blending insightful journalism with the unique spirit of this Gulf Coast gem. With a commitment to showcasing the diverse culture, art, and lifestyle that define St. Petersburg, Paradise News is more than just a monthly periodical – it’s a celebration of the people, places, and stories that make St. Petersburg, Florida, and its barrier island beach communities such an amazing destination and place to call home.
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
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Recognizing the importance of staying connected in today’s digital age, Paradise News maintains an active online presence. The magazine’s website features exclusive content, behind-the-scenes looks, and interactive features that encourage community engagement. Ten years’ worth of Paradise News issues can be easily found online at www.paradisenewsfl.com. You can read and download by clicking past issues under the current issues tab. You can also subscribe to the weekly digital newsletter which has been created and sent to subscribers free on Thursdays with the top 5 things to do each weekend. “Our goal is to foster a sense of community through both our print and digital platforms,” says Roos. “We want readers to feel like they are part of the Paradise News family, sharing in the excitement of everything that makes St. Petersburg truly special.”
Embracing Local Flavor Paradise News magazine prides itself on its dedication to local journalism. From the bustling downtown streets to the new pier, tranquil waterfront, alluring beaches, and the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the magazine’s team of seasoned journalists is committed to bringing readers a fresh perspective on St. Pete’s ever-evolving landscape.
Additionally, the magazine’s restaurant reviews and city guides offer invaluable insights into the culinary landscape and hidden gems that make St. Petersburg a food lover’s paradise.
As Paradise News continues into its 30th year, it promises to be a steadfast companion for those seeking to unravel the tapestry of St. Petersburg’s charm. With its dedication to authenticity, community, and celebration of local treasures, Paradise News has become an indispensable part of the city’s cultural fabric.
OUTDOOR PLAY
By Peter Roos
VisitStPeteClearwater.com
Enjoying the outdoors ... There are three or four outdoor sports you can participate in downtown and on the barrier islands, which you may learn to love. You could play with someone you love, meet someone to love, or learn to love the sport itself. Have you ever tried lawn bowling or shuffleboard, tennis or pickleball? For those not into sports, there’s St. Petersburg’s amazing new accessible St. Pete Pier with enough to keep you busy for hours, and some great local food options.
and a plastic, poly baseball with holes. Interested in learning how to play? Check out the website of local tennis and pickleball pro Brian Hartz at www.sunshinecitytennis.com, or contact Coach Brian directly at 727-481-6375 or brian@sunshinecitytennis.com, or contact Jack for lessons at: jack@beachtobaytennis.com or call him at 727-280-4276.
Opportunities abound for TENNIS and PICKLEBALL enthusiasts A great way to keep your new year’s resolution for more exercise is to take up or return to a sport like tennis or pickleball. Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the nation for the third year in a row, growing by around 40% annually. The Tampa Bay Area has long been a mecca for recreational tennis players of all ages. St. Petersburg and its barrier island communities are dotted with both public and private tennis facilities. Pickleball is quickly growing in popularity, sometimes causing conflict with tennis players over availability of courts. So, it pays to know where courts are open and available. In St. Pete, several public parks offer both tennis and pickleball courts. Pickleball is a racquet sport played by 2 or 4 people on a badminton-sized court using wood, or composite paddle racquets ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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City of St. Pete/St. Pete Pier
“It’s more than just a PIER. It’s an exPIERience” On the city’s picturesque downtown waterfront, at the St. Pete Pier there is fun for all ages, residents and visitors alike. The 26 acres combines the tranquil blue waters of Tampa Bay with the vibrant greenery of downtown St. Petersburg’s parks, creating the perfect place to walk, bike, dine, drink, shop, swim, take in a concert and more. No reservations are required. So make it a date at the St. Pete Pier this love month. February events include: Feb. 4 @ 9-10am, F45 Training FREE Boot Camp A 45-minute high-energy workout session. Feb. 7 @ 4:30-5:30pm, St. Pete Library’s Outdoor Early Literacy Program Feb. 7 @ 6-7pm, Sunset Yoga with The Body Electric Feb. 17 @ 10-11am, YMCA Bodycombat For more information about the St. Pete Pier, including events, map, parking, Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro, Teak, Pier Teaki, Driftwood Café, and more, visit www.stpetepier.org. PARKS & REC___________________________________________ Northeast St. Pete Willis S. Johns Rec Center, a.k.a. Fossil Park Rec Center, 6635 Dr. Martin Luther King St. N, has four lighted tennis and six pickleball courts. in addition to a hitting wall and restrooms. Just a few miles away, Puryear Park has six lighted tennis courts and restrooms, but no pickleball. Denver Park, also in northeast St. Pete, has two tennis courts and six pickleball courts, but no public restrooms. Riviera Bay Park to the north has two tennis courts, but no public restrooms. Downtown St. Pete With scenic views of Tampa Bay just steps away, North Shore Park offers one of the most picturesque settings for tennis. Because of their prime location, the park’s four courts tend to be busy, especially on weekends and weekday evenings. Public restrooms are located nearby. Two of Crescent Lake Park’s lighted tennis courts were converted into six pickleball courts, and they are usually packed with large groups of players taking turns. Be prepared to wait for a spot if you’re there to play pickleball. The two remaining tennis courts are usually not too busy. No public restrooms are available, but two dog parks – one for small pups, another for larger dogs –
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FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
are next to the tennis and pickleball courts. Campbell Park, tucked away just south of I-175, at 601 14th St. S, is one of the best-kept secrets among local tennis enthusiasts. While not as idyllic as North Shore Park, it offers four well-lit, well-maintained tennis courts that are rarely busy, in addition to public restrooms. Also on the downtown periphery is Woodlawn Park, which has four lighted tennis courts and public restrooms. South St. Pete/Gulfport Lake Vista Sports Complex, at 1401 62nd Ave. S, boasts eight well-lit tennis courts as well as a wall to hit against and public restrooms. St. Pete Tennis Center charges court fees but as a city-run facility, its rates are low, and memberships are available, but not required. If you prefer to play on clay courts rather than hard courts, check out St. Pete Tennis Center. You can also reserve courts in advance to ensure you won’t have to wait for other players to finish, and the pro shop sells equipment and accessories and offers racquet-string services. The City of Gulfport put its American Rescue Plan Act funds to good use with a total overhaul of the tennis facility at Chase Park, which now has two resurfaced tennis courts, a hitting wall, public restrooms, and two brand-new, purpose-built pickleball courts. Coquina Key Park’s sports complex has also recently been upgraded and now boasts six pickleball courts and two tennis courts, all with lights. A large dog park is also available. West St. Pete/Tyrone J.W. Cate Recreation Center, at 5801 22nd Ave. N, is one of the best public facilities in St. Pete for tennis and pickleball. It has four tennis courts and six pickleball courts, all with lights, and public restrooms and plenty of parking. At 1600 72nd St. N, not far from J.W. Cate is Azalea Park, which has four lighted tennis courts. It also has a disc golf course if you’re into that. Just north of Azalea Park, at 7891 26th Ave. N., is Walter Fuller Park and its two tennis courts and six pickleball courts. Beach Communities Tucked-away Vina Del Mar Park, 302 S. Isle Dr., in the Pass-a-Grille area, has two lighted tennis courts, and a pickleball court was recently added. Hurley Park, 1501 Gulf Way, also in Pass-a-Grille, has tennis and pickleball courts and restrooms as well. Lazarillo Park, 224 DeBazen Ave. in St. Pete Beach, has four lighted tennis courts and pickleball lines have been painted on one of the tennis courts. Parking is limited, however and there are no public restrooms. St. Pete Beach Community Center, 7701 Boca Ciega Drive, offers indoor pickleball open or drop-in play, scheduled weekday mornings M-F 8am-noon, Tuesday evenings 6:30-8:30pm and Saturdays 9:15am-1pm. St. Pete Beach residents pay $3, non-residents $5 for 1 year, 20-punch pass available for $50. To register to play round robin, contact Jack for players card at: jack@beachtobaytennis.com. Farther north, just before the bridge to Treasure Island, you’ll find Egan Park, 9101 Gulf Blvd., which has two lighted tennis courts with pickleball lines and public restrooms.
St. Pete Picnic Co.
SUNSET PICNIC is another lovely outdoor activity! There isn’t anything much more romantic than sharing some sweets, a meal or a drink with your sweetheart while watching the sunset on one of our local beaches. Valentine’s Day falls on a Wednesday this year, so we recommend keeping it easy by picking up some treats or a full picnic from one of our favorite local markets. Mazzaro’s (St. Petersburg), Bayway Market (Tierra Verde), Casa Del Pain (St. Pete Beach) or The Helm (St. Pete Beach) are some of our favorites! Arrive early or order ahead for the best selection. Other essentials for your romantic beach picnic include a towel or chairs to sit on, sweatshirts in case it gets chilly, your favorite beverage and a selfie to remember the night!
St. Pete Picnic Co. www.stpetepicnicco.com Picnics that Pop www.picnics-that-pop.com The Picnic Boys www.thepicnicboys.com Instant Picnic & Co. www.instapicnicco.com/locations Picnics Perfected www.hpicnicsperfected.com The Picnic Babe www.thepicnicbabe.com/picnics
SHUFFLEBOARD is also a popular way to get out and get active in downtown St. Petersburg, on the beaches and in many retirement communities in the area. The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club – America’s oldest and largest shuffleboard club – is turning 100 in this year! SPSC is the oldest and largest Shuffleboard Club in the world. It is open to both residents and visitors. Our favorite way to get started at St. Pete Shuffle is their open play Friday Nights! Since starting their Friday night games in 2005, St. Pete Shuffle has welcomed 10s of thousands of people to the club. You can join them any Friday 7-10pm, weather permitting. Friday nights are free for members and their guests. $10 per person for non-members, kids are free. Their volunteers and staff will help you get set up on a court and show you how to play. Fridays are first come first served. You are welcome to bring your own food & drinks, but glass is not allowed on the courts. Learn more about their Friday Nights and watch a video showing how to play shuffleboard at www.paradisenewsfl.com/friday-shuffle. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, St. Petersburg offers plenty of opportunities to play shuffleboard year round and enjoy the camaraderie of the shuffleboard community. Learn more about their upcoming 100th Anniversary celebration at www.stpeteshuffle.com LAWN BOWLING is easy to learn, very low cost, and provides gentle, healthy exercise and pleasant social company. A day on the green will get you out of the house (or office) and challenge you to some mental and physical stretching. The St. Petersburg Lawn Bowling Club, 540 Fifth Ave. N, plays Mon., Wed., and Friday at 9:30am sharp. Free newcomer lessons start each of those days at 9am. Tea and coffee provided as well as lawn bowls.They also have a quaint clubhouse they rent out for small gatherings. For more info call Trevor at 727-344-4240 or visit www.stpetersburglawnbowling.org
St. Petersburg Lawn Bowling
Also, you can also leave the picnic planning to a local expert. Picnic packages can be customized with everything from lemonade for 2 to a LED Marry Me sign to a backyard movie setup. Check out what these picnic pros offer.
St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club
Like St. Pete Beach and St. Pete Tennis Center, Treasure Bay Golf & Tennis, at 10315 Paradise Blvd., Treasure Island, is a municipally owned club that charges reasonable court fees. You can also buy equipment and accessories and get your tennis racquet restrung there. Treasure Bay Golf & Tennis boasts eight clay tennis courts, two hardcourts, and three pickleball courts. It also has a nine-hole, par-three golf course, two shuffleboard courts, and a beach volleyball court. Also in Treasure Island, Roselli Park has two lighted tennis courts that have pickleball lines painted on them. Just a few miles north, in Madeira Beach, Remember Our Children (ROC) Park has two lighted tennis courts. Meanwhile, nearby North Redington Beach has two lighted tennis courts at 16615 Gulf Blvd. For another public park option, head to Redington Shores, where there’s a single lighted tennis court next to a residential building at 17425 Gulf Blvd. If you’re interested in lessons for either tennis or pickleball, check out the website of local tennis and pickleball pro Brian Hartz at www.sunshinecitytennis.com, or contact Coach Brian directly at 727-481-6375 or brian@sunshinecitytennis.com.
ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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HISTORY OF THE GULF BEACHES
By Peter Roos
Bound for the wrecking ball, the original church property was saved by Joan Haley, a widowed journalist who had moved to the beach in 1952 from Washington, D.C. Her passion for historic preservation, love of antiques, and curiosity about the area prompted her to sell her bayfront property, purchase the old church and make it her very special home. Upon her death in 1989, Mrs. Haley left the church property to Pinellas County to be used as an island museum.
Photos Courtesy Gulf Beaches Historical Museum
The Gulf Beaches Historical Museum is located on the grounds of the first church of the local barrier islands. Built in 1917 of rusticated block, the Pass-a-Grille Community Church was a staple of the growing island town throughout the years. But in 1959, its membership outgrew the small building, and a new church was built 6 blocks north.
The permanent collection includes a timeline display from 1500 to present, hundreds of then and now photos and maps, postcards, local school yearbooks, Haley’s personal memorabilia, a WWII exhibit, artifacts from island churches, special exhibits about “The Sunshine School” (a public school unique to Pass-a-Grille), and a special Don CeSar Hotel display. Manned solely by volunteers, the museum opens from 10am-4pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 1-4pm Sundays. The museum also has a gift shop featuring books, local art, vintage-style wares, and island-inspired items for visitors of all ages.
After updating, cleaning, and refurbishing, the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum opened to the public in March 1993. A non-profit support organization was formed, volunteers were recruited, artifacts gathered, and with hard work the museum has grown to become a real island treasure. The museum is operated entirely by volunteers, and their mission is “To collect, preserve and exhibit the history of the barrier islands.” Joan Haley
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In upcoming issues of Paradise News, we will share a few notable tales of local lore, introducing some of the colorful characters who were barrier island pioneers, like Silas Dent, Joseph Merry and Frank Hurley. Gulf Beaches Historical Museum 115 10th Ave., St. Pete Beach • 727-552-1610 www.gulfbeachesmuseum.org The Gulf Beaches Historical Museum’s Island Festival is back! March 23rd from 11:30am-4pm. Join the annual FUN-raiser. Car show on 9th Avenue. Food and craft vendors on 10th. Hot dogs & hamburgers from our local firemen. Mikey Shaner will be serving up some yummy eats and Jason of Grillin & Chillin brings his delicious BBQ and sides. Beer & Wine. 50/50 drawing. Raffle baskets with lots of local goodness! Cabana Dogs playing your favorite island tunes from 12-4. Museum will be open 10-4.
KEEPING THE SPARK ALIVE
When I first met Renee LaFountain in government class at St. Pete Junior College in the fall of 1970, somehow I knew that she was my soulmate. Probably the most important step in being able to keep the fire burning over the long term is choose the right mate. She was more than I could have hoped for, yet I dared. She was an accomplished dancer, teacher and a model, long established in the local community. I was a Canadian high school grad one year removed. We married young and Renee and I have been virtually inseparable for over half a century. When asked “What contributes most to the longevity of your relationship,” we say that we each live more for our mates than for ourselves. If a disagreement ensues, we’re both likely to say “you’re probably right.” That diffuses things right away.
By Peter Roos
Otherwise, we have all seen disagreements turn into fights and fights over the long term contribute to breakups. The longer we are a couple the harder it is to find new special ways to experience occasions, but it is almost always worth the effort. An unexpected touch, a kiss, a hug, breakfast in bed, a single rose, a sign of our love. Over time, passion turns to love, love turns into respect and eventually to lifelong gratitude for many years of love, caring and faithfulness. Sharing helps keep the spark alive. Sharing memories and experiences. Sharing successes and failures. Sharing friends and vacations. Sharing occasions, eclipses, experiences. Making memories.
Sharing dogs and cats can help too. We have had our share of pets in a half a century together. Children can go either way, but sharing a fur baby that depends on us and yearns for our attention has provided us with endless hours of enjoyment in exchange for our time, attention and loyalty. It is hard to lose them but adopting a replacement from a shelter can ease the loss. If you actually behave like the person your pet thinks you are, odds are your relationship will last the test of time. They say that even when our memories fade, the oldest ones remain the longest, so don’t stop making old memories. It is not easy to keep the spark alive, but it is almost impossible to rekindle the fire once it goes out.
acknowledge • surprise • forgive • compliment • touch • travel • share
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Healthy Diet
Heart Health According to the Florida Department of Health, heart disease is the leading cause of death for Floridians, accounting for approximately 2 out of 10 deaths in Florida. So, this February for American Heart Health month, we encourage our readers to show their hearts a little love by adding fresh fish and local strawberries to your table as well as enjoying our cooler weather with sunset walks and maybe a game of pickleball.
Regular Exercise
Physical activity is vital for maintaining heart health. Engaging in 30 minutes of activity five days per week can significantly reduce the risk of developing heart diseases. In Florida, February is a great month to get into a workout routine. With cooler temperatures, outdoor activities like walking, jogging, biking, and playing pickleball or tennis are easy free ways to get moving! Find trails you can explore at www.pinellas.gov/ pinellas-county-trail-guide or check in at your local library to borrow a pickleball starters pack!
A balanced and nutritious diet plays a pivotal role in heart health. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals while limiting the consumption of processed foods, saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and excessive salt. This month an easy and tasty addition to your diet for heart health is some Florida strawberries. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins & fiber plus contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects. Strawberries are also shown to help regulate blood pressure & lower cholesterol levels. You can also add some locally caught fish to your table. Redfish, spotted seatrout, mangrove snapper and flounder are great in-season species to look for, when out fishing or at the local butcher.
Maintain a Healthy Weight Excess weight and obesity are major risk factors for heart disease. To maintain a healthy weight, it is important to balance the calories consumed with physical activity. Portion control, eating mindfully, and avoiding sugary beverages can aid in weight management. Consulting a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can help develop a personalized weight management plan.
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Manage Stress
Chronic stress can have a detrimental impact on heart health. It is important to develop healthy coping mechanisms such as regular exercise, deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and engaging in activities that bring joy. Relaxing on our white sandy beaches, watching the sunset, or getting out to enjoy your weekend can all make a big impact on your heart health. Check out our events and arts & leisure listings for ways to get out and enjoy paradise this month.
Love Your Heart
Maintaining a healthy heart requires a commitment to making positive lifestyle changes like eating more locally caught fish, taking more time to be active outdoors, and relaxing in paradise. By incorporating regular exercise, a nutritious diet, stress management techniques, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption, Floridians can significantly reduce their risk of heart diseases and promote overall cardiovascular wellness. Other ways to improve your heart health include regular checkups. Remember that small changes can make a big difference when it comes to heart health, so start your journey towards a healthier heart this February.
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Peripheral Neuropathy: Understanding and Managing the Condition Learn about the progressive disease that affects millions in the US. Discover symptoms, treatment options, and how a local clinic is helping people regain their life back.
Neuropathy doesn’t just affect people with diabetes or elderly people. It is a progressive disease that affects all age ranges AND there is a solution to this debilitating disease that doesn’t involve surgery or medications. Peripheral neuropathy is a progressive and life altering disease that affects millions of people in the US. “Many may think that you get neuropathy from being diabetic or just because you are old“ states Dr. Gibbons, founder of Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine here in St. Petersburg. “But we have treated patients who suffer from different forms of neuropathy who are in their twenties, into their nineties and all ages in between. The causes are not always the same either. Some patients suffer from neuropathy due to autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy or radiation, diabetes, poor cardiovascular circulation, trauma injuries or even idiopathic where we just don’t know why they are having these symptoms.” “We see patients that have been told there isn’t anything else that can be done but to take medications like Gabapentin, Lyrica or Cymbalta. Unfortunately, western medicine doesn’t have a lot of tools in their tool box to help slow down the progression of neuropathy or reverse any of the symptoms. BUT we do and have really been able to help a lot of people regain their life back.” Dr. Gibbons and her team understand how peripheral neuropathy can disrupt your life. Peripheral neuropathy causes a wide range of debilitating symptoms. These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and ability to function normally. One of the most common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy is chronic pain, which can be described as burning, tingling, or shooting sensations in the affected areas. This pain may be constant or intermittent and can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities and sleep. In addition to pain, individuals with peripheral neuropathy may also experience numbness and loss of sensation in the affected areas. This can make it difficult to detect injuries or changes in temperature, increasing the risk of accidents and complications. Other symptoms may include muscle weakness, cramps, and difficulty with coordination and balance. These symptoms can further impact mobility and increase the risk of falls and injuries. “Overall, the debilitating symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can greatly impair an individual’s physical and emotional well-being. This is why it is so important to get treatment in order to stop the progression and help reverse some of the symptoms,” states Dr. Gibbons.
To schedule a consultation call 727-272-3587 To learn more visit: WWW.ACHIEVEACUIM.COM
ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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Love Yourself Valentine’s Day will soon be here and before you dive into planning a date with your special someone, here’s a gentle reminder to be sure to give some love to yourself first.
By Kelly Rouse
Always remember, that the words you most wish to hear from others are the ones you are most in need of telling yourself. You are beautiful. You are loved. You matter. You are
The concept of “self-care” was first coined by the medical community in the 1950s but has exploded in 21st century with expensive spas and countless high-end products promoting “total body wellness.” However, you don’t have to spend a fortune to nourish your mind and body. Try a new recipe and make yourself a healthy homemade meal. Take a long walk in one of our many lovely parks or on our beautiful beaches. Enjoy a free community yoga class or visit any of our incredible local museums (many of which offer discounted days). Pack a picnic lunch and eat it near the water where you might spot a friendly manatee this time of year. Keep a gratitude journal. Or a list is okay, too.
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appreciated, forever and always. –Tahlia Hunter Remind yourself of what you love about you. Maybe even buy a box of the Valentines we sent each other as kids and hand them out to co-workers – but be sure to save a few for yourself. Carve out some time for yourself, which can be difficult in our demanding and chaotic lives. Savor that first sip of coffee in the morning. Stretch and take deep breaths. Listen to your body and your thoughts. Most importantly, treat yourself kindly. Because that old adage, you have to love yourself before you can truly love someone else, only becomes more important as we age. We are living longer and we have to like who we see in the mirror each morning. And, oh yeah, take good care of your teeth.
Last March we met with Dr. Brittany Pierpont after she purchased Dr. Asta Grinis’ office and renamed it Pier Dental, a reference to her last name and proximity to the beach. As we approached Pier Dental’s one-year anniversary, we returned to the office’s convenient location on Blind Pass Road across from St. John Vianney to see how the practice’s first year went. What we found is if you’re going to any other dental office, it’s because you haven’t yet visited Pier Dental and had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Pierpont and her team! A quick internet search of Pier Dental found existing patients unanimously agreed with our assessment of the practice. “Dr. Pierpont has an amazing attention to detail and truly cares for her patients,” wrote Greg, a recent patient. Whereas today’s dental landscape trends toward corporate-style dentistry which prioritize profits over patient-focused care, another patient, Marty, noted the difference from corporate offices: “Pier Dental is the opposite of these multi-site practices. Dr. Pierpont is focused on quality of care.” Dr. Pierpont represents a return to the values reminiscent of an era when dentists made patient well-being their foremost concern, rather than profit margins. Her dedication to delivering
FACE
INJECTABLES
LASER
exceptional care mirrors the commitment seen in dentists of yesteryears, setting her apart in a world dominated by corporate dental chains. For example, Dr. Pierpont has noticed several patients anxious of their dental visit or embarrassed their dental hygiene has lapsed since the COVID pandemic. However, Dr. Pierpont has eased patient concerns with her genuine, quality care and allocating more time for each patient to ensure all patients receive the respect and attention they deserve. She believes in discussing available options to allow her patients to make informed choices for their treatment. As we read multiple other five-star reviews mentioning patients traveling from as far as Gainesville to see Dr. Pierpont, we realized how fortunate we are to have such a skilled, experienced dentist rooted at our beaches for the foreseeable future.“Growing up here, I watched my father, a respected cardiologist, as he built trust and relationships with his patients,” explained Dr. Pierpont. “My goal is to provide the same genuine, quality care to my patients. With two young children and my entire family living here, I plan to practice in St. Pete Beach for many years to come.” Pier Dental warmly welcomes new patients seeking a visit centered on personalized care. To schedule an appointment at what we have confirmed to be the premier dental experience in the area, please call 727-363-6169 to speak with a “Helpful Human” who will set you up to meet Dr. Pierpont! You can also learn more about Dr. Pierpont, Pier Dental, and dental wellness information by visiting www.PierDental.net.
AESTHETIC
Coundouriotis Facial Plastic Surgery & Laser Center is a full service facial plastic and cosmetic surgery practice specializing in the art and science of surgical and non-surgical procedures for the face, eyes, neck, and nose. The new MedSpa excels in aesthetic treatments and services to restore and maintain healthy, beautiful skin. Dr. Coundouriotis is dual board-certified and fellowship-trained in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and offers the latest and most trusted cosmetic services including laser, injectables, eye rejuvenation, wrinkle treatments, CoolSculpting™, HydraFacials, microneedling with PRP and more.
BODY
“...I would recommend Dr. C to everyone I know. Not only is he a professional at what he does, but he goes over and above what’s necessary to see that you leave his office satisfied. He listens to your concerns and recommends the best options for you. He has all the latest equipment and stays up with all the new procedures...”
Call for a complimentary consultation! Andrew Coundouriotis, MD, FACS AAAASF accredited
5600 22nd St. N, St. Petersburg
727.525.9900 • www.dr-c.com ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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PET HEALTH
By Dr. Johnathan Pierce
WHY DO WE VACCINATE?
Distemper virus is typically included in the vaccine that we use to prevent Parvo. This virus causes severe coughing, pneumonia and/or neurological symptoms like depression, stumbling and seizures. There is only symptomatic treatment and there is a high mortality rate with infections. It is a highly contagious disease that is preventable with vaccination.
Sometimes it can seem like doctors recommend things that may not be necessary, however, this is far from the case. As scientists, we base our approach based on not only scientific data but also personal experiences with patients that have presented with certain diseases. Vaccinations fall under this category.
We recently had an outbreak of canine distemper in the raccoon population at the Fort DeSoto campgrounds. This runs a course every 5-7 years in wild populations and can be carried by wild canine populations like foxes and coyotes. Vaccination is extremely effective at preventing disease in our canine pets.
Most of us veterinarians have treated Parvo in patients with varying degrees of severity. Many have lost patients from the disease, but most of the patients with symptoms are treatable especially with the advent of monoclonal antibody therapy. This is a disease that is highly preventable with vaccination and hence the reason that we have this in our core vaccination protocol.
Last but not least is rabies virus. Talk about a severe disease process. Most everyone knows the classical symptoms of aggressive behavior, “foaming at the mouth,” stumbling, dazed appearance, and death. This disease poses a significant public health concern and a severe threat to us as humans as well as to our pets. We have been able to reduce the cases that we have seen through vaccination
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of our pets but also through wildlife vaccination in our more endemic areas. In northeast Ohio, for example, air drops of rabies vaccination prevent the spread. Raccoons and other wildlife ingest the vaccine and it provides immunity to prevent the spread of rabies from the neighboring state of Pennsylvania and vice versa. Indoor pets are not immune to the threat. Although being indoors does reduce the likelihood of contact with an infected wild animal, it does not eliminate it. Bats, raccoons, bobcats, and other such wild animals have been known to make it indoors and spread disease. There are many more diseases that we vaccinate for but overall, modern vaccines are a safe and effective means to prevent disease. Please make sure to keep your pets vaccinated and up to date on their boosters. Island Life Animal Hospital Dr. Danielle Gallo & Dr. Johnathan Pierce 5901 Sun Blvd., Suite 107 Saint Petersburg, FL 33715 727-289-3776 • islandlifeanimalhospital.vet
ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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REAL ESTATE IN SOUTH PINELLAS
By Peter Roos & Joan Walker
visitstpeteclearwater.com
Tourism and real estate have long been the drivers of the local economy in south Pinellas. Pass-A-Grille was a beach and fishing tourist destination long before it became one of west Florida’s most exclusive and expensive places to call home. Especially in the waterfront communities and on the barrier islands, increasing home values have provided many property owners with a comfortable retirement. When interest rates were low, inventories were almost non-existent. Clear through the pandemic, top local Realtors were reporting multiple offers over list price at the first open house. Thankfully, the Fed’s interest raising efforts slowed inflation and has left the local real estate scene a little saner. Rising interest rates priced many out of their would-be homes. Others just decided to keep their options open. Still others were affected by war in the Middle East. At this point there are a number of alternatives available at a variety of price points and properties are taking long enough to sell that we sometimes see them in two and three monthly ads. For several years Jim Beggins wrote a monthly real estate column, and his friend Tom Broderson wrote a popular column on property law. Danielle Vaughn acquired the law practice and has continued the contribution of advice columns on property law, estates and trusts. Marina Bay, an amazing waterfront community next to Eckerd College on the Pinellas Bayway, has been advertising on page 5 in Paradise News for years now. They have been building the only community in the entire county to receive the Fortified Gold™ Designation. Their Marina Pointe ll Condominiums cover an entire floor each 32
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with just three “penthouse type” 4 BR 4 BA units each with a dedicated two-car garage under the dwelling. Most of the top real estate salespeople in our market area advertise in Paradise News. There are smaller ads by agencies like Frank Hurley & Associates and Pam Moll with Coldwell Banker. There are two ad pages from Remax, two from Compass including the Salamone Team in Tierra Verde and Downtown St. Petersburg, Tammy Campbell Plumber McNelis head of The CPM Team, plus Melinda Pletcher of Smith & Associates with the front cover story last May and the back cover ad ever since. With a vengeance since retiring as commissioner from Pass-a-Grille and Vina Del Mar, Melinda has focused her considerable talents on listing, fixing up, staging, and selling luxury homes. She is the top realtor in St. Pete Beach and Top 20 in the county, with $44 million in sales in the past year. There is a lot of work behind those numbers; blood, sweat, and tears too, Melinda is not afraid to say. Some of the properties she agrees to put on the market need a great deal of work before they can be shown. If the sellers do not have the money to do what is necessary, she sometimes puts her own money at risk to make it more acceptable. Sometimes landscaping, electrical and HVAC repairs are needed. “You cannot sell an unsafe home or one that cannot be heated and cooled. Knowing people who can respond quickly at a fair price is key to getting the property on the market,” says Melinda. Joan Walker, Senior Broker Associate, Sunshine Professional Realty Corp., and a Licensed Mortgage Originator - NMLS
312081 with Innovative Mortgage Services, Inc., recently completed state required engineering studies and reserve restructuring for Pass-A-Grille’s Butler House, perhaps the oldest condo building on the beaches. Joan’s winter blog is entitled “Real Estate Market Forecast: Opportunities for Home Buyers and Sellers in 2024.” This is a good read for current market insight which Joan is letting us reproduce here: “There may be a unique opportunity right now for buyers, a window in our real estate markets which especially applies to our established coastal condo communities. Building structural integrity is being scrutinized by Florida licensed engineers, structures are being updated and modified, and are, or soon will be, in better condition than they have ever been since many of us have been old enough to buy one their reserve schedules for maintenance and timely, reasonable replacement, including mechanical, structural, electrical, plumbing and safety elements, is now highly regulated, providing peace of mind going forward for new owners as well as existing owners. Condo buyers, especially first-time condo buyers, have historically been concerned about the stability of monthly dues assessments and unexpected or pending special assessments. They should feel far more comfortable now than in the past. National surveys say sales prices are not expected to decrease as many buyers hoped. If interest rates continue retreat, I don’t believe we should assume prices will drop. Inventory remains tight. But the sellers who have decided to put their units on the market now are motivated. Florida SB-4D, or 2022-269, Laws of Florida, effective May 26, 2022, was the legislation that came about rather quickly in the traumatic months following the June 24, 2021, collapse of the 12-story beach- front Champlain Tower condominium in a Miami suburb. This legislation is transformational, containing arguably the most significant changes in condominium and cooperative statutes ever. It should prove to have significant effects on affordability and unit values, as well as public concerns and
Your Tierra Verde Real Estate Experts T
ROVEMEN
PRICE IMP
120 1ST STREET E Unit #109 Updated 2-BR/2.5BA + loft, townhouse. Water views. Private BOAT SLIP, 10K boat lift. Two balconies. Gourmet kitchen. New appliances. Versatile loft space. 2/car tandem garage. Gated community. Clubhouse. Blanka Prusova-White 727-480-6126
FOR SALE
$625,000
138 1ST ST E #106, THE VILLAGE AT TIERRA VERDE 2BR/2BA gated condo. Prime location and water view. Amenities include: 3 heated/cooled pools, tennis courts, gym, saunas, clubhouse, and onsite manager. Judy Bader 727-698-3831, Jacqi Dockery 727-424-3700
FOR SALE
$875,000
487 PINELLAS BAYWAY S #107, TIERRA VERDE 3200+ sq ft. Waterfront townhouse. Two deeded boat slips. 4BR/3.5 BA.2-car garage. 2 waterfront balconies. End unit. In-law suite apt. Two screened lanais overlooking water. Wood burning fireplace. Julia Paulsen 727-463-4853
FOR SALE
$1,500,000
9510 36TH AVENUE E, PALMETTO 5-acre horse ranch. 4.99 acres. Paved driveway. Pond. 3,946 sq. ft., 2-story, 5BR/3BA/3Car garage. Eat-in kitchen, family room, fireplace. Elevated deck. 1BR/1BA log cabin. 20-stall, full size barn. Fenced training area. Randall Ierna 727-647-0813
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3988 BELLE VISTA DRIVE E, ST. PETE BEACH 3BR/2.5BA beach sanctuary. Gourmet kitchen. Open-concept, outdoor water views. High wood-planked ceilings. Heated pool, jacuzzi and waterfall feature. Large updated boat dock. Deep water. 2 garages. Blanka Prusova-White 727-480-6126
FOR SALE
219 2ND ST. W 3BR/2BA pool home. 2-car garage. Block. Open floor plan. Pool view from French doors. Updated kitchen. Abundant windows. Natural light. Split floor. Master suite with walk-in closet. Screened-in pool. Fenced backyard. Near marina and beaches. Blanka Prusova-White 727-480-6126
FOR SALE
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ROVEMEN
PRICE IMP
$859,000
$1,325,000
131 YACHT CLUB LN ., TIERRA VERDE Waterfront 3BR/3BA townhouse. Deep water. Deeded boat slip. Jet ski dock. Quick Gulf access. Under building garage. Hardwood floors, dual balconies. Wood burning fireplace. Pets welcome. Pool, clubhouse, tennis courts. Julia Paulsen 727-463-4853
REDUCED
522 PINELLAS BAYWAY S #108 Tierra Verde Grand Canal. Spectacular water views. Spacious, renovated, 2BR/2BA condo. Stunning new kitchen. Electric storm shutters. Boat Slip. 13,000 lb. lift. Detached covered parking. Storage. New dock in 2024. Heated pool. Bob Gaskins 727-492-5237
$362,900
842 Park St. S 2BR/1.5BA updated home in S Pasadena. Spacious living rooml. Updated kitchen and bathroom. Ceramic tile flooring throughout. Florida room. Large landscaped backyard. New A/C and roof. Newer water heater and irrigation system. Bob Gaskins 727-492-5237
List with the GOLD. We have a proven track record of success to get your property SOLD. 173 1ST ST. W, TIERRA VERDE – $2,600,000 2038 CAROLINE AVE NE ST PETERSBURG – $2,785,000 11555 GULF BLVD # 110 TREASURE ISLAND – $877,500 676 DE SOTO DR. S, TIERRA VERDE – $1,030,000 4750 DOLPHIN CAY LN. S #2 – ST. PETERSBURG – $650,000
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6265 SUN BLVD #602, ST. PETERSBURG – $540,000 873 2ND AVE. S, TIERRA VERDE – $2,200,000 1308 PASADENA AVE. S #8, S PASADENA – $565,000 1515 PINELLAS BAYWAY S #65, TIERRA VERDE – $565,000 5541 PUERTA DEL SOL BLVD S #315, ST PETERSBURG – $549,900
727-867-8633
150 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL 33715 • c21coastalalliance.com ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024 33
REAL ESTATE CONT’D perceptions of safety issues involved in condominium living. To briefly recap Milestone and SIRS mandated by the State of Florida: All condos which are 3 floors or higher are required to complete the Milestone study prior to December 31, 2024, or within 180 days of official notice to do so, which analyzes substantial “structural weakness” or material deterioration, if any. If repair or replacement is indicated the situation must be addressed within 365 days. Some communities have arranged to have an engineering firm oversee specific contracting work prior to scheduling their formal engineer-sealed on-site state inspections.
The Milestone and SIRS are essentially a Reserve Study with defined factors of structure and safety to be scrutinized by authorized engineers at an on-site inspection as required by the new legislation. These reports must be completed prior to Dec. 31, or within 180 days of notification by local municipality.
Condominium communities have been calling on Reserve Study firms to help navigate evolving condominium reserve requirements. A couple years ago condo communities could actually vote to waive reserves altogether, or minimally, reserve only for roof, painting, and paving. Associations were also allowed to fund reserves at less than 100%, for instance, 75% funding in the budget. Now there will be a catch up to arrive at a 100% funding plan for all condominium communities in the state of Florida.
The SIRS, Structural Integrity Reserve Study, is required of all condos in our state no matter the height. It is a reserve planning tool, to incorporate the integrity of specific components into budget planning, to be adopted before 2025. Any budget after December must adopt the SIRS and provide full funding for the required components. There is no guess work.
State reserve mandates now contain a greatly expanded list which adds general elements such as electrical, plumbing, fire prevention; specific elements such as elevator, building HVAC, windows…i.e. any elements contributing to structural integrity or safety or where there is determined to be deferred maintenance. It can be complicated and where issues arise, unusual assessments could be necessary, or alternative funding initiatives, such as a corporate loan, the route I took as treasurer for my small historic condo in Pass-a-Grille. The new legislation requires older buildings of three or more stories to conduct Milestone and SIRS (Structural Integrity Reports), sealed by an authorized architect or engineer. Every applicable condominium was required to report to the state last year and get on their list for compliance. A statewide shortage of qualified engineers is expected.
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Whether three stories+ or less, no condominium community will have an exemption regarding the new prohibition against waiving or reducing full funding of certain statutory reserves. This legislation will affect every single condominium community in the state of Florida.
Condo ownership is a huge segment of Florida real estate. It is a signature, highly popular Florida lifestyle choice, offering shared maintenance expense, which often comes with extensive amenities, preferred by part time owners, by those who travel a lot, by those who downsize from a single-family home, by busy professionals and retirees alike who need or prefer maintenance-free living. In my generally eclectic local market, the beaches, especially Pass-a-Grille, two like properties in a given location may not come on the market for years. This advice has held true, if you find what you want, and you can afford to buy it, get in there and buy it. In the 36 years I have been involved in the real estate market here, I have not known anyone who was sorry they bought their property here, only those who did not. I have been fortunate to be involved in a number of recent condominium transactions, as a realtor and as a Condo Board Director, in a 28-year-old building, a 50-year-old building, and a 100+ year old building. Do not put off buying your condo. Get educated. This is Florida and condominiums are the most popular
lifestyle choice, offering shared maintenance expense, which often comes with extensive amenities, preferred by part time owners, by those who travel a lot, by those who downsize from a single-family home, by busy professionals and retirees alike who need or prefer maintenance-free living. Learn how the condominium you are considering is financially positioned now, and how the association is addressing compliance issues, so you are comfortable where the budget planning is headed. Check how well the property has been maintained in general and focus on big ticket items such as elevators and roofs and facades/balconies/rebar. And be realistic, i.e. replacing old, galvanized pipes could be an issue in buildings dating from the 70’s, but it could also be a manageable process, especially where the community location is outstanding. Study the financials provided by your realtor at or before time of contract, specifically the Reserve schedules. Ask to see the minutes of meetings for the past 12 months, what has been discussed or put on record. And ask about the Milestone and SIRS inspections and reports.” Joan has a rare 2-BR Point Pass-A-Grille unit, #310 listed for $879,000, and has Unit 5N at Pointe Towers, an exceptional 2 BR condo for sale, 555 Gulf Way, asking $1,125,000. She is looking for more properties in the area to list for sale. To reach Joan Walker, call 727.580.0822, email Joan@GulfToGlobalLLC.com or visit www.GulfToGlobalRealEstate.com. Tourism remains strong enough that new owners of the two largest resorts in St. Pete Beach–Sirata and TradeWinds–want to substantially rebuild and expand their resorts. A continuation of the Sirata Resort expansion review by the commission was to be heard at the next commission meeting, and in the meantime 80% of the people on the commission have changed. A lawsuit is being threatened over how the commission changes were handled. So, the future of resort expansion is still a big question in St. Pete Beach as 2024 height of season arrives.
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NESTWATCH HOME ASSISTANT If you have ever wished you could find an assistant capable and flexible enough to help you get a project done, make some progress toward decluttering your life or just to be somewhere when you cannot be, you are in luck. Renee and I had been wishing for such a person, and the universe just delivered her to our inbox. Recently relocated from Louisville, this lady is talented, capable, has an awesome Midwestern work ethic and a desire and willingness to be of service. Her business is fairly new, but she has local reviews and everyone is raving about her. She is asking a modest $50/hour for her time and is willing to break it down into as little as a half hour at a time. Meet Lisa Piazza, your boots-on-the-ground personal assistant. Home Care & Maintenance Personal & Virtual Assistant Arriving & Departing Services Home Organization Decor & Design
By Peter Roos
Have a project in mind? Connect with Lisa 502-419-1498. lisa@nestwatchhome.com | www.nestwatchhome.com “We were lucky enough to have found NestWatch early on to help us to not only manage but set up our home away from home. Lisa has accepted delivery of furniture, coordinated home renovation projects, and taken care of many other tasks with the utmost professionalism. She is friendly, responsive and inspires complete confidence. For us, NestWatch has eliminated all the hassle of owning a second home. We simply enjoy our time in St. Pete Beach and NestWatch takes care of the reset!” Cleo R. Check out Lisa’s array of services and reviews online at www.nestwatchhome.com/services
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FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
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HOME & GARDEN
By Linda Roeder
St. Petersburg Garden Club Hosts Home and Garden Flea Market The St. Petersburg Garden Club is a 95-year-old not-for-profit tax-exempt organization located on the shore south of Central Avenue just west of Park Street at 500 Sunset Drive S in St. Petersburg. They hold periodic sales that are open to the public to raise funds for their numerous plant related local projects. Their biggest annual sale and fun-raising event starts with a reception ($6) Thursday, Feb. 22, 5-7pm, and continues Friday, Feb. 23, 9am-3pm, and Saturday Feb. 24, 9am-1pm. You can find plants, pots, crafts and more, including antiques, jewelry and collectibles, kitchen items, furniture, textiles, recreational equipment, outdoor furniture, clothing, and accessories. Proceeds from the event supports club operations and benefits club programs like garden therapy at local nursing homes, coral reef restoration, seed catalogs at public libraries, scholarships, and other worthy causes. If for any reason you cannot attend the February event at the Garden Club, mark your calendar now for St. Petersburg’s amazing 38th Green Thumb Festival where the Garden Club has a plant sale (held Arbor Day weekend each year, this year April 27-28, 9am-4pm at Walter Fuller Park, 7891 26th Ave. N off Park St. N).
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Visit www.rugbazzar.com or call 727-726-8787. ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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HOME IMPROVEMENT advertisers we LOVE to introduce to our readers. Tommy the Locksmith is another example. A veteran with a career under his belt, he prefers to work business hours on weekdays, and has been advertising a simple solution to key issues in your life. We have embraced his combination locks around our home and have not been locked out since. Our son even got one that Alexa can lock or unlock remotely for him. One of the secrets to the success and longevity of Paradise News as a publication and online media company is the quality of our advertisers. We have never had an army of advertising salespeople on the street or in a boiler room somewhere like some of our competitors. We do not want everyone. We prefer individuals and small local companies that can provide the custom services that our readers deserve. If we can help them save some money in the process, all the better.
Such has been the case with one of our longest running advertisers. When we told our readership ten years ago what Beacon Windows and Doors (aka SliderRepair.com ) had done for the Alden Resort, Lizette and Steve LaForge and their new slider repair teams stayed busy for a while. They have advertised in every Paradise News issue since. They presently have 373 Google reviews with an average of 4.9 out of 5. That is the kind of home improvement
Window treatments wear out over time and styles and colors change, but to us here in Florida, windows are everything. We have been thrilled to give you a choice of several window treatment companies, folks that have years of experience in their industry. Budget Blinds has been with us the longest, and we have never heard a complaint about them. Service First Installers (aka The Shutterguy) offers and installs blinds, shades and shutters including new remote or Bluetooth
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FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
Call Now For FAS T Service! (727) 228-1065
By Peter Roos
controlled, motorized roller shades for the inside. The Shutterman is the guy to call about your storm shutters. If your windows need cleaning, Tim’s Window Cleaning will do that for you. Most of us are a little space challenged, especially on the beaches. If you are finally looking to update and organize your storage, we are proud to introduce Tony from NewClosetToday.com. He can help you maximize your closets, pantry, linen storage, laundry room and more, adding beauty and value to your home.
Red Royal Electric has done several jobs around our home, from installing an electric car charger in the carport to wiring up our Hot Spring Spa. I have also had them do work for some advertisers in the past. I cannot recommend Michael Pasquino and his team enough for their professionalism. When I am ready to install a backup generator, or for any electrical issue, they are the ones to call. We have not had a carpet supplier for a while until recently, and we are thrilled to introduce the family owned and run Oriental Rug Bazaar, the oldest in Pinellas, across from Ruth Eckerd Hall. They have a huge selection of imported rugs, many handmade that will last your lifetime and beyond. They also offer cleaning and professional repair, including pickup and delivery for Paradise News readers. One of our newest advertisers is Rescreen Rescue, a small local service company that is celebrating ten years in that service industry, so if you need screen work,
you will likely find them near our classified ad pages near the back of this magazine. We are always hunting for a good HVAC company, plumbers, painters, kitchen and bath remodelers, tree service and landscaping, a pool installation and service company, someone for outdoor kitchens, paver installers and sealers, garage remodelers and more. If you have been happy lately with a service company you would like to see in Paradise News, you can help. Recommend they contact us and let us know directly you were happy with them. Please call Peter Roos at 727-363-6888 or email sales@paradisenewsfl.com.
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Women’s Soccer League
Expands Tampa Bay Professional Sports Scene
By Steve Traiman
The USL Super League is a professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Built for the future of women’s soccer, the USL Super League has committed to U.S. Soccer’s Division One standards, reflecting its collective vision to be a global leader on and off the field while providing more opportunities for more women in more communities. The USL Super League will play on the “fall-to-summer” soccer calendar traditionally followed around the world, ensuring players are able to represent both club and country and allowing clubs to actively participate in the emerging global women’s transfer market. When the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club opens play in the new U.S. Soccer Division One women’s 8-team USL Super League inaugural season next August, it will join the Tampa Bay MLB Rays, NFL Buccaneers, NHL Lightning, and the USL Rowdies to expand the local major league sports scene. The Sun’s team coach, Denise Schilte-Brown, joined the Super League Tampa Bay in November after completing her 17th season as head coach for the University of South Florida (USF Bulls). Childhood friends and local Tampa Bay business leaders Darryl Shaw, David Laxer and Jeff Fox serve as co-owners of the new team. At the November announcement of the new club’s name and logo crest, Shaw said, “Creating a community-centered club 40
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
has been our unwavering focus since day one! We invested months in engaging with and heeding the voices of our community across the region. In those conversations, this message stood out loud and clear.” The team’s president - Christina Unkel, J.D, M.B.A - is an entrepreneur, legal attorney, multi-business owner, and sports TV analyst/journalist. As a past NCAA collegiate soccer athlete and former FIFA referee, Christina has spent the past 15 years working and performing at the highest professional, international, and collegiate levels of the soccer game among the elite players of the world. Said Unkel about creating the name and logo, “Through months of thoughtful discussions and meetings with fan groups, we turned directly to our local communities. We wanted to capture part of all we love about the Tampa Bay area and find a symbol that’s full of energy, with the power to connect us all together.” The team got more than 2,500 entries from the public and nine suggested Sun(s). As one explained, “You can have Tampa Bay Sun FC and within an hour you can touch the beach, the city and the county.” All nine will get a prize pack with team merchandise and a ball signed by the new team roster. The club is also working with the fans on a new team mascot to be announced later. In October, the Hillsborough County School Board approved a landmark partnership with Super League Tampa Bay to expand
the waterfront stadium adjacent to Blake High School in downtown Tampa. The Club will invest more than $4 million in stadium enhancements for permanent upgrades that will remain with the school when the team later moves to its permanent Riverwalk area home. At that meeting, Interim School Superintendent Van Ayres said: “This is a unique public-private partnership that creates fantastic opportunities for our students and the entire community.” Added Unkel, “As a fan this location unlocks an entire evening of fun, with so many hubs of activity around downtown Tampa. You can have dinner with friends, then hop on a water taxi or stroll to the Riverwalk and cheer for the Sun.” Tampa Mayor Jane Castor put it in perspective: “The value of having a women’s professional soccer league here can’t only be measured in dollars and cents. The timing could not be better as women’s professional soccer has been exploding around the world. The Tampa Bay Sun will rapidly become part of the fabric of our vibrant community. The team holds a special place in my heart as a shining example of how girls and young women of any age can participate in sports at any age and sharpen the skills they will need to succeed in life.” Learn more at www.tampabaysunfc.com. [Feature Editor Steve Traiman is president of Creative Copy by Steve Traiman and can be reached by email at traimancreativecopy@gmail.com]
ECKERD COLLEGE–ASPEC
An Introduction to The Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College For the intellectually curious, the ideal retirement hangout is the Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College (ASPEC). Now in its 41st year with over 230 members, ASPEC is recruiting retired business executives, accomplished professionals, teachers, professors, physicians, attorneys, and community leaders to sample our programs, activities, and social events for 30 days for $50.
The focus of the academy is lifelong intergenerational learning, with service to the college, service to the community, along with plenty of social engagement mixed in. We have member-led presentations five days a week on campus (or via Zoom), including medicine on Mondays, current events on Tuesdays, economics on Wednesdays, science on Thursdays and foreign affairs on Fridays. Some of our members even
Greg “Geese” Giesen
help faculty and interact with students in the classroom. And did I mention the social activities and events! We have dinners out together, wine tasting, boat trips, and museum tours, just to name a few. Want to learn more about ASPEC? Go to www.eckerd.edu/aspec or call us at 727-864-8834. Come try us out for 30-days and see what our welcoming community has to offer. Isn’t it time you did something for yourself?
Sponsors and Vendors Wanted 14th Annual Spring Break Waterfront Festival, hosted by the City of Madeira Beach and Gulf Beaches Rotary Club featuring Carnival rides, midway games, live entertainment, and food vendors The Gulf Beaches Rotary Club contributed $50,000 last year to local children’s charities like: Suncoast Voices for Children, Caring Kids, Rotary Camp Florida, Pinellas Education Scholarships, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Guardian ad Litem and All Children’s Hospital. Check out the following YouTube website from a past year: www.youtube.com/watch?v=veC_XSIfV4g For additional information confact John Doctor at (727) 214-7583 or email John.Doctor42@amail.com. ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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VALENTINE’S DAY IN TAMPA BAY February offers a variety of romantic and enjoyable activities for couples in St. Petersburg and adjacent beach communities. Celebrate LOVE all month!
By Kaeley Dawson/Buddy Baker
visitstpeteclearwater.com
WINE TASTING Explore the local wine bars for a romantic wine-tasting experience. Some places may offer special Valentine’s Day events with wine pairings. HELICOPTER RIDE Experience the breathtaking views of Tampa Bay from a helicopter. This can be a unique and romantic way to celebrate the day. COOKING CLASS Take a cooking class together and learn how to prepare a special meal. It’s a fun and interactive way to bond and enjoy delicious food. FEBRUARY EVENTS
ROMANTIC DINNER Choose among the numerous romantic restaurants in Paradise News territory. Sea Dog Brewery, Rumfish Grille, The Island Grille, Caddy’s, and Doc Ford’s all offer Valentine’s Day specials plus waterfront dining for a more scenic experience. LIVE PERFORMANCES Check out local theaters or performing arts venues for special Valentine’s Day performances, such as concerts, plays, or dance shows. Check out the lineup at The Palladium, Tickled Pink Comedy Tour, and The Florida Orchestra. SPA DAY Treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day at one of the area’s luxury spas. Many spas offer special packages for couples, including massages, facials, and other pampering treatments. Blush Beauty Center, Maddy Spa, and Radiant Massage are a few of our favorites. GARDENS AND PARKS Visit the lush and serene gardens in the area, such as the Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg or the Florida Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the scenic landscapes. BEACH PICNIC Pack a picnic basket with your favorite treats and head to one of the beautiful beaches in the area. Enjoy a romantic sunset picnic on the sand. CRUISE OR BOAT TOUR Take a romantic cruise or boat tour around Tampa Bay. Some companies offer special Valentine’s Day cruises with dinner, live music, and beautiful views. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES If you and your partner enjoy outdoor activities, consider renting a scooter, taking a mural bike tour, going for a bike ride along the Bayshore Boulevard, taking a nature walk in a nearby park, or renting a kayak or paddleboard for a peaceful paddle. 42
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2/2, 9, 16 Largo Movies in the Park https://bit.ly/largo-movies 2/7-18 Moulin Rouge the Musical at the Straz https://bit.ly/straz-moulin 2/3 Cupid’s Undie Run https://bit.ly/st-pete-cupid-5k 2/8 Blooms & Brews at 3 Daughters https://bit.ly/3-daughters-blooms 2/9 SPB Spring Concert Series Jimmy Buffet Tribute https://bit.ly/jimmy-spb-concert 2/8 & 2/10 St. Pete Opera presents Opera Scenes https://bit.ly/st-pete-opera-scenes 2/9 Chemistry of Cocktails https://bit.ly/cocktail-chemistry 2/10 Willie Nelson & Family at The Sound https://bit.ly/nelson-sound 2/10 Marine Quest 2024 https://bit.ly/marinequest-2024 2/10-11 Gulfport Fine Arts Festival https://bit.ly/gfaf-2024 2/10-11 Monster JAM! https://bit.ly/2024-tampa-jam 2/13 Dunedin Fat Tuesday Pub Crawl https://bit.ly/dunedin-fat-tuesday 2/14 18th Annual Valentine’s Day Wedding PCCT https://bit.ly/pinellas-v-day-wedding 2/14 Maritana Valentines Day Dinner at The Don Cesar https://bit.ly/maritana-v-day 2/14 Fit2Run & 3 Daughters Valentine’s Day 5K https://bit.ly/fit2run-v-day 2/14 Valentines by the Fort: Ebike Tour of For De Soto https://bit.ly/v-day-at-the-fort 2/14 Gladys Knight at The Mahaffey https://bit.ly/gladys-mahaffey 2/16 The Dome After Dark: Valentines Day Editions https://bit.ly/dome-after-dark-feb 2/16-18 2024 Hobie 33 Midwinters https://bit.ly/hobie-midwinters 2/17 65th Annual Queen of Hearts Ball https://bit.ly/hearts-ball 2/17 CMA Jazz by the Bay https://bit.ly/cma-jazz 2/17 Rays Fan Fest www.mlb.com/rays/fans/fan-fest 2/17-18 Bay Area Renaissance Festival Highland Fling Weekend www.bayarearenfest.com 2/17 Mirror Lake 5K www.bridgepointfl.com/mirror-lake-5k 2/18 Grand Central’s Mardi Gras on Central https://bit.ly/central-mardi-gras
ELECTION By Caron Schwartz
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
Jackson McMillan
Local elections and SB 774 A new financial disclosure law enacted last year has local officeholders and candidates concerned. The law, known as SB 774, requires commissioners and mayors of cities, villages, and towns to submit a Form 6 financial disclosure. The previous requirement, Form 1, meant disclosing liabilities over $10,000. Now, individuals must reveal their net worth and the value of each asset, liability, and income source over $1,000. Many have questioned the new law. Others have resigned, including four out of five in St. Pete Beach and one in Treasure Island. Seminole and several of the beach communities have also lost elected officials. One of the biggest problems, according to Gulfport City Councilman Ian O’Hara, is that it lessens the pool of potential candidates. “Why would anyone want to participate where you have to inform the entire world of your property, net worth, or clients?” he asks. While he’s concerned about naming his assets and liabilities, he thinks a bigger issue is running a city. “Say a municipality is unable to get people fast enough and we get into the budget season,” he says. “If we don’t have a quorum we can’t vote.” Gulfport City Manager Jim O’Reilly agrees that the new requirement could impact the participation of residents. “Most folks that serve have the community at heart,” he says. “If there’s an obstacle, community givers may not want to participate.” Political strategist Jackson McMillan sees SB 774 another way. He says as local news organizations have shrunk or gone out of business there’s less accountability for local elected officials. “There are very few entities tracking where money goes in and out of municipalities,” he says, “and contracts with them are known to be inflated. Cutting local electees in on the deal to ensure a contract goes their way has become standard practice.” McMillan hopes having to disclose even small transactions will reveal “shady practices.” O’Reilly agrees that a lack of transparency is an issue in municipalities with a strong mayor form of government. But he thinks there are fewer opportunities for corruption in the council-manager form of government, which comprises two-thirds of Florida municipalities. “As city managers, we have checks and balances,” he says. “Council sets policy, but they don’t buy things or spend city money.” Voter guide Pinellas County municipal elections are Tuesday, March 19. Vote-by-mail ballots usually drop around the middle of February, and early voting runs March 9-17. The deadline to request a ballot by mail is March 7 at 5pm at MailBallot@VotePinellas.gov or 727-464-VOTE (8683). ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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ART NEWS
Thank you for being a fan The Golden Girls are back and better than ever with a brand-new stage show that’s more exciting than a trip to the Rusty Anchor. Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue arrives at the Straz 3/22-24. VIP photo add-on experience available. https://bit.ly/golden-straz
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GALAxy American Stage presents its Gala for the Stars at The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art on 2/23 6-10pm. The glamorous evening includes Tymisha Harris as Josephine Baker. https://bit.ly/stage-gala
Read all abOUT it ReadOUT Festival of LGBTQ Literature returns for its seventh year 2/16-18. Attend in person at Artists of Elements: the Gathering Space in St. Pete or virtually over Zoom. The festival also features evening events at the Hickman Theater in Gulfport: a Friday 18+ drag show benefit and a Saturday concert by Tret Fure. https://bit.ly/readout-gulfport Gulfport-based LGBTQ Resource Center received its third $10,000 grant from Florida Humanities to help fund ReadOUT. The Gulfport-based
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
Tymisha Harris
Hop on the Star Trolley for the SHINE Mural Tour and celebrate the St. Pete Arts Alliance treasure year-round. The monthly two-and-ahalf-hour tour includes a complimentary craft beer at Bayboro Brewing. https://bit.ly/star-trolley
nonprofit also received funding for its SpeakOut series in 2022-23. https://bit.ly/ gulfport-lgbtq
Movie night Gulf Coast Artists’ Alliance presents Monday Night at the Movies presents The Art Of Making It, Kelcy Edwards’ documentary that delves into the lives of up-and-coming artists, exploring who gets to make it and how. 2/26 7-9pm at St. Pete ArtWorks. https://bit.ly/gcaa-classes
Tret Fure
Clang, clang, clang The St. Petersburg Museum of History hosts monthly trolley tours on the first Saturday of each month departing the museum at 9am. Reservations required. https://bit.ly/spmoh
Get happy The history museum is also home to Happy Hour with the Historian on the second Thursday of the month at 6pm. Upcoming speakers include Gwendolyn Reese, Tiffany Faykus, Dr. Lu Vickers, and more. https://bit.ly/2024-historians
Science = Art Discover The Overview Effect at the Museum of Fine Arts, a presentation by Jane Poynter, designer and inhabitant of Biosphere 2. 2/22, 6-7pm. https://bit.ly/mfa-effect A true artist is not one who is inspired, but one who inspires others. – Salvador Dalí
By Caron Schwartz
Fashion Design at The Dalí
Claudia Peña Salinas
Walk this way Witness the wild side of teen designers as they walk the runway in their Dalí-inspired fashions created in this year’s Fashion Design at The Dalí program. Gibbs High School 2/24 5:30pm. Winning designs will be on display at the Florida Craft Art Gallery through 3/17. https://bit.ly/dali-runway-2024
museumaacm.org
Creative Pinellas has a new CEO, Margaret Murray. Murray is well-known for her strong advocacy of the arts in Pinellas County and beyond, with a professional history of providing visionary arts leadership for organizations such as the Museum of Fine Arts, freeFall Theatre, and the Tampa International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. https://bit.ly/creative-pinellas
captured the essence of joy, friendship, and refreshment. Remember Santa Claus or the polar bear family enjoying a Coke? One of the earliest ads 1890s featured a pretty girl in formal 19th-century attire.
Dip your pen Extraordinary bronze inkwells designed by
Celebrate the only museum dedicated to the Arts and Crafts movement at MAACM’s first annual gala with an artfully prepared dinner, craft cocktails, live auction and more, all benefiting MAACM’s education programs. https://bit.ly/maacm-gala
Tiffany Girl
Nature Pix
It’s the real thing Since its inception in the late 19th century, Coca-Cola has used advertising campaigns that have
“Tiffany Girl” Clara Driscoll are now on display at The Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement (MAACM). These inkstands demonstrate Tiffany Studios’ ability to transform a standard desk accessory into something to be treasured by its owner. www.museumaacm.org
MAACM
Laureate Mikhail Mansion
Pix clicks Creative Pinellas Artist Laureate Mikhail Mansion’s new exhibition, Nature Pix, opens at the Gallery at Creative Pinellas on 2/22 with a reception from 6-8pm. The show, which combines code and electronics to explore nature’s voice through art, continues through 4/21. https://bit.ly/nature-pix
Margaret Murray
While at the MFA check out the work of Claudia Peña Salinas, a research-based artist whose work blends references to architectural minimalism with ancient Mesoamerican history and craft. On view through 6/30. https://bit.ly/mfa-salinas
ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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Date on a Dime
Romance on a Budget – Inexpensive date activities to enjoy around St. Pete
Urban Kai
Corey Avenue Market
Paddleboarding or Kayaking in Tampa Bay Rent a paddleboard or kayak and navigate the calm waters of Tampa Bay. It’s not only a great workout but also a fun and budget-friendly way to enjoy the water. You might even spot some marine life beneath the surface before sunset.
Level 11 Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Sunset Stroll Along Pass-a-Grille Beach Take a leisurely walk hand in hand along Pass-a-Grille Beach during the magical hours of sunset. The breathtaking views of the sun dipping below the horizon create a romantic atmosphere that’s both serene and budget-friendly. Markets & Second Saturday Art Walk Explore the artistic side of St. Pete by strolling through a market (see page 59) or take a free trolley ride to art galleries at the downtown artwalk. Most galleries offer free admission, allowing you to admire local art and each other without spending a dime. It’s cultural and budget-friendly. www.stpeteartsalliance.org/experience-arts/artwalk
Shell Key Preserve
Jimmy Bs Beach Bar
St. Pete, with its sun-kissed shores and romantic ambiance, provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable date. Contrary to the notion that romance comes with a hefty price tag, this article explores wallet-friendly date activities that allow you to enjoy the charm of St. Pete without breaking the bank.
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Live Music at Beach Bars Many beach bars along St. Pete Beach host live music events, especially during weekends. Grab a pair of drinks and enjoy the tunes as you soak in the lively atmosphere or sunset on a rooftop. Some places may even have dance floors, adding a fun and cost-effective element to your date night.
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
Shell Key Preserve Excursion Embark on an affordable adventure together by taking a water taxi or kayak to Shell Key Preserve. Explore the pristine, uninhabited barrier island, collect seashells, and enjoy the natural beauty. It’s an inexpensive yet memorable date for those seeking a bit of adventure. Play Disc Golf It’s fun and free. Listed are some frisbee disc golf courses neaby: Tocobaga Disk Golf Course at Maximo Park Sunshine Skyway Lane S & Pinellas Point Drive S, St. Petersburg 33711 Cliff Stephens Park 901 Fairwood Ave., Clearwater 33759 John S. Taylor Park 1100 8th Ave. SW, Largo 33770 Azalea Park 1600 72nd St. N, St. Petersburg 33710 North East Coachman Park NE Coachman Road and Old Coachman Road, Clearwater 33765 St. Pete Beach offers a plethora of romantic experiences that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. From sunset strolls to beach picnics and cultural explorations, these inexpensive date activities allow you to create lasting memories without the financial stress. Embrace the charm of St. Pete Beach and enjoy quality time together on your next budget-friendly date.
Arts & Leisure Buddy Baker | Events, Arts & Leisure Coordinator IN THIS ISSUE: ART CENTERS/CLASSES ART – GALLERIES ARTS – PERFORMING MUSEUMS MUSIC OPERA FILM ECO GARDENS FERRIES LIBRARIES MARKETS SPIRITUAL ZOOS/AQUARIUMS CLUBS – SERVICE/SOCIAL CLUBS – ATHLETIC HEALTH THRIFT SHOPS VOLUNTEERING YOGA Events are subject to change. Please visit website or call to confirm.
ART CENTERS/CLASSES
Morean Glass Studio 714 First Ave. N, St. Pete 727-822-7872 moreanartscenter.org Daily demonstrations every hour noon to 4pm. Classes available.
ARTicles/Leslie Curran Gallery 1234 Dr. MLK Jr St. N, St. Pete 727-898-6061 articlesstpete.com Through 3/1 – ‘Taproot’ exhibition by Babette Herschberger
Pinellas Arts Village 5663 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park • Studios @ 5663 Fourth Saturday block party and indoor market. facebook.com/Pav727/
Artists of Elements 4746 22nd Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727-420-7438 artistsofelements.com
Pinellas Park Art Society Park Station Building 5851 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park Members’ work shown at Pinellas Park Library and Pinellas Park City Hall 727-360-4406 pinellasparkartsociety.org Suntan Art Center at Don Vista Arts Center 3300 Gulf Blvd., suntanart.org Classes, Art Mart every weekend 2/3-29 – PCCA/Gibbs Student Show
Beach Art Center 1515 Bay Palm Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach 727-596-4331 beachartcenter.org Through 2/9 – Gallery Show
The Hive 559 49th St. S, St Pete 727-290-6515 thehivestpete.com Classes, open studio, pottery, jewelry sales
Charlie Parker Pottery 2724 Sixth Ave. S, St. Pete 727-321-2071 charlieparkerpottery.com
Treasure Island Art Guild treasureislandartguild.org Painting workshops weekly
Heart of Pinellas Decorative Artists Pinellas Park Art Center, Roe’s Deli, 5851 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park. Local chapter of National Society of Decorative Painters 727-244-4321 hpdafl.com Morean Arts Center 719 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-822-7872 moreanartscenter.org Contemporary art gallery. Art classes year-round. Through 3/28 – PCCA Alumni Exhibition Morean Center for Clay 420 22nd St. S, St. Pete 727-821-7162 ext 2311 moreanartscenter.org Largest pottery in the Southeast
Veterans Art Center 6798 Crosswinds Dr. N, St. Pete 813-504-3092 vactb.org Opportunities for military and veterans to develop and showcase arts. Zen Glass Studio & Gallery 600 27th St. S, St. Pete 727-323-3141 zenglass.com Classes and workshops.
ART GALLERIES Art at 400 Studios 400 23rd St. S, St. Pete art-at-400.com By appointment, Art Walk Art Fusion Galleries 106 Central Ave., St. Pete artfusiongalleries.com
ArtLofts (second floor) Florida CraftArt Gallery 10 Fifth St. N, St. Pete 727-504-8788 theartlofts.com Open ArtWalk or by appointment ARTpool Gallery 2030 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-324-3878 artpoolrules.com Open Wed.-Sun., noon-5pm ArtsXchange 515 22nd St. S, St. Pete Open Fri.-Sat., 11am-5pm warehouseartsdistrict.org Atelier de SoSi 2380 Sixth Ave. S, St. Pete 727-370-4192 atelierdesosi.com Brenda McMahon Gallery 2901 Beach Blvd. S #104 Gulfport 518-692-7742 brendamcmahongallery.com
Cobb Gallery Eckerd College, Library Circle, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete eckerd.edu/visualarts/program Collectors Exchange Gallery 1234 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N, St. Pete articlestpete.com Open Sat. 11am-5pm Craftsman House 2955 Central Ave., St. Pete craftsmanhousegallery.com Gallery-Café-Pottery Studio Creative Clay Cultural Arts Center 1846 First Ave. S, St. Pete 727-825-0515 creativeclay.org 2/2 – First Friday Valentine’s Day Art Market 2/10 – Artwalk: African Americans and the Arts Celebrating Black History Month 3/9 – Artwalk: Inspire Inclusion Celebrating Women’s History Month Creative Pinellas 12211 Walsingham Rd., Largo 727-460-5477 Gallery noon-5pm Wed-Sun creativepinellas.org 2/6 – Fresh Ink 2/17 – Third Saturdays at Pinewood 2/22 – Nature Pix Exhibition & Opening Reception 3/5 – Fresh Ink
Bula Barua 2534 Terminal Drive S, St. Pete 727-900-1063 bulagallery.com Blown glass on canvas
Crossroads Gallery St. Petersburg College, 2464 Drew St., Clearwater spcollege.edu/friends-partners/ community-resources
Chasen Galleries 1830 S Osprey Ave., Sarasota 941-260-5787 chasengalleries.com/sarasota
Custom House Décor 2901 Beach Blvd., Gulfport 727-317-5936 customhousedecor.com
Chihuly Collection 720 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-822-7872 ext 5102 moreanartscenter.org
D Gallerie 1234 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N, Unit C, St. Pete d-gallerie.com
Clyde Butcher Galleries clydebutcher.com/galleries Venice Gallery & Studio 237 Warfield Ave. S, Venice Big Cypress Gallery 52388 Tamiami Trail, Ochopee 2/3 – Meet Clyde & Niki Butcher
DRV Fine Art Studios & Gallery 5401 Gulfport Blvd. S, Gulfport drvgallery.com Duncan McClellan Gallery 2342 Emerson Ave. S, St. Pete 813-760-6600 dmglass.com ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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EVENTS
ARTS & LEISURE Dunedin Fine Art Center 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin 727-298-3322 dfac.org Through 2/4 – 49th Annual MASF International Art Show Through 2/25 – Come Closer…Works in Miniature Through 2/25 – DFAC Jewelry Showcase Through 2/25 – Wallace McGuire: Drawn Together 2/7 – Art Talks: Grant Wood and the American Gothic 3/15-16 – Trashy Treasures art garage sale
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RECURRING EVENTS First Fridays • 10am-2pm, Creative Clay Outdoor Art Market, 1846 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg • 5-9pm, First Friday Art Walk, Downtown Gulfport • 6-9pm, Concert in front of Studio Movie Grill, Seminole City Center, 11201 Park Blvd. N, Seminole Last Friday • 6-9pm, live music at the John’s Pass Bell Tower, John’s Pass Boardwalk and Shopping Village, 12902 Village Blvd., Madeira Beach 1st Saturday • 8am Beach Cleanup, Archibald Park, 15100 Gulf Blvd. Mad. Beach. 2nd Saturday • 8:30am, Beach Cleanup. Municipal Pavilion, 11260 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, 11185 Gulf Blvd.• The Market Marie,10am-3pm, Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland St., Clearwater • 5-9pm, St. Pete Artwalk. Artists and gallery owners from 40 studios and galleries in five arts districts show off their latest works. Take the trolley, drive or park and walk. stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk 3rd Saturday • 10am-2pm, Crossroads Market, Crossroads Christian Church, 1645 Seminole Blvd., Largo • 10am-5pm, Creative Pinellas at Pinewood, 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo • 5-9pm, Indie Faire, Beach Blvd., Gulfport. Outdoor, socially distanced event in Gulfport features local art, handmade crafts, jewelry, and pottery to locally sourced botanicals. 4th Saturday • Pinellas Arts Walk 4-8pm, Pinellas Arts Village Walk, 5600-5800 Park Blvd. (north side), Pinellas Park. Pinellas Park Art Society, Donnelly COVE, Complete Sweet Shoppe, Pompei Factory, Studios @5663, Painting with a Twist, Bottles Pub, and Swartz Gallery.
ONGOING
Through 3/31 – Resilience & Revolution: An Immersion of Black Americana Free, The Woodson African American Museum of Florida, 2240 Ninth Ave. S, St. Pete. The exhibition delves into the rich tapestry of African-American history and culture and aims to be a beacon of hope, knowledge, and understanding that challenges stereotypes and celebrates the resilience and contributions of African Americans.
UPCOMING
2/1-11 – U.S. Premiere: Whiskey & Soda $36, time varies by date, The Off-Central Players, 2260 First Ave. S, St. Pete. While Margaret Thatcher prepares to speak at the White House in 1979, she invites John Lennon for drinks. Thatcher has a deal for John that could change the course of his life. Their fears of the past and their dreams of the future come to the surface. These powerful beliefs and their force of personality lead to a dramatic and explosive finale. John would go onto to write his last but legendary album, and Margaret would deliver to the White House one of her most notorious speeches. Tickets: www.theoffcentral.com/tickets
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Ekeko Gallery 290 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr St. N, St. Pete 727-685-5577 facebook.com/Ekeko-Gallery Factory St. Pete 2622 Fairfield Ave. S, St. Pete thefactorystpete.com 2/24 – Onlyonetwo 369 album release party Fairgrounds St. Pete 800 28th St. S, St. Pete Works by more than 60 local and international artists fairgrounds.art Five Deuces Gallerie 2101 Third Ave. S, St. Pete Open by appointment & Art Walk Facebook.com/five22222 Florida CraftArt Gallery 501 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-821-7391 floridacraftart.org Sat. Mural Walk Through Feb. – Members Show 3/15-4/27 – Animal Attraction Gulf Coast Artists Alliance St. Pete ArtWorks, 2604 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-738-8010 gcaa-fl.org Heiress 2622 Fairfield Ave S, Bldg. 7, Studio A, St. Pete heiressgallery.com Luis Sottil Studios 400 Beach Drive NE, Suite 150, St. Pete 727-220-1567 facebook.com/luissottilstpete Mirella Cimato Art Gallery 2145 First Ave. S, St. Pete (inside St. Petersburg Opera) 727-543-9190 facebook.com/MirellaCimatoGallery
Nielsen Center for Visual Arts Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete 800-454-9009 eckerd.edu/visualarts/program Red Cloud Indian Arts 214 Beach Dr. NE, St. Pete 727-821-5824 redcloudindianarts.com Representing authentic Native American arts Soft Water Gallery 515 22nd St. S, St. Pete 727-327-3473 softwatergallery.com Through 2/3 – Women of the Diasporas Through 3/2 – Constructing Utopia: Selected Works by Marianne Chapel SPACE 855 28th St. S, St. Pete Warehouse Arts District facebook.com/spacestpete Stirling Art Studios & Gallery 730 Broadway (second floor) Studio 12, Dunedin 800-325-2050 facebook.com/StirlingArtDunedin 2/1-25 – Possibilities of Pastels by The Pastel Society of Tampa Bay Syd Entel Galleries 247 Main St., Safety Harbor 727-725-1808 sydentelgalleries.com Through 2/3 – Snow Birds II 2/10-3/16 – Hessam Abrishami The Domingo Studio 2620 Beach Blvd. S, Gulfport 727-821-2315 facebook.com/The-Domingo-Studio The Werk 2210 First Ave. S., St. Pete 727-289-8685 https://thewerk.gallery Uniquely Original Art Studio 915 24th St. S, St. Pete 727-239-3696 https://tinyurl.com/mrx4c253 Original Afrocentric art, open by appointment and during Art Walk Vince Anthony Fine Art Gallery 10611 Bay Pines Blvd. #5, St. Pete 727-401-2886 fineartamerica.com/art/ vince+anthony
“Creativity takes courage.” –Henri Matisse
Wild Space Gallery The Factory St. Pete, Bldg. 8 2606 Fairfield Ave. S, St. Pete 2/10-3/29 – Archbold Biological Station: Art, Science and Nature floridawildlifecorridor.org/ wild-space-gallery/ Woodfield Fine Art Gallery 2323 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-254-6981 woodfieldfineart.com Through 3/2 – The Poetry of Paint: The Art of D. Yael Kelley & Robert Jeffrey
ARTS PERFORMING Amalie Arena 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa 813-301-2500 amaliearena.com 2/2 & 4 – Drake 2/5 – Pantera 3/1 – Lauren Daigle 3/10 – Enrique Iglesias, Ricky Martin, Pitbull 3/11 – Burna Boy 3/15 – Tim McGraw American Stage Raymond James Theatre 163 Third St. N, St. Pete 727-823-7529 americanstage.org Through 2/25 – The Chinese Lady Asolo Repertory Theatre 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 800-361-8388 asolorep.org Masks requested inside building Through 2/24 – Inherit the Wind 2/7-3/29 – Born with Teeth 2/13-3/10 – Miss Julie 2/14-3/9 – Clyde’s 2/28-4/18 – Intimate Apparel Bilheimer Capitol Theatre 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater 727-791-7400 rutheckerdhall.com 2/1 – Lucinda Williams 2/2 – Sasha Velour 2/4 – Dar Williams 2/6 – Tabitha Brown 2/7 – Gaelic Storm 2/8 – The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash 2/9 – Piff the Magic Dragon 2/10 – The Simon & Garfunkel Story 2/16 – Led Zeppeliin IV 2/17 – You Should Know Podcast Live 2/18 – Rumours: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute 2/21-22 – Spyro Gyra 50th Anniversary 2/23-24 – Napoleon Dynamite Live 2/26 – Geoff Tate & Adrian Vandenberg 2/27 – John Lodge 2/28 – Rodney Crowell Band 3/7 – Gino Vannelli 3/9 – Lords of 52nd Street:
Billy Joel Legends 3/14 – Pink Floyd: The Wall 3/15 – Colin Hay Bininger Theater for Performing Arts Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete 727-867-1166 eckerd.edu/theatre Catherine Hickman Theater 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport 727-893-1070 mygulfport.us 2/11 – Duos of the 70s: Tribute to Sonny & Cher, Capt. and Tennille, Donny & Marie 2/16 – Silver Foxx 2/17 – Tret Fure 2/18 – Brothers from Another Mother Comedy Tour 3/3 – Senior Center Foundation Nan Colton Show Central Park Performing Arts Center 105 Central Park Dr., Largo 727-587-6793 largoarts.com 2/1 – Minute By Minute 2/3 – Hearts for the Arts Gala 2/7 – Garth Tribute Live! 2/8 – Girls Night: The Musical 2/10 – West Florida Dance Company 2/14 – Fleetwood Mach 2/15 – Heartland Rock: A Mellencamp Seger Tribute 2/16 – Zuzu African Acrobats 2/17 – Judy Kuhn 3/1 – Escape to Margaritaville 3/12 – The Jake & Elwood Blues Revue 3/13 – The Edwards Twins 3/15 – Wishbone Ash
Michael Francis, Music Director
Aldo López-Gavilán, piano HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS
Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue Feb 17 & 18
HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS
Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto Feb 23 - 25
RAYMOND JAMES POPS
Twist & Shout: The Music of The Beatles Feb 17 & 18
COMING SOON
Rick Steves’ Europe: A Symphonic Journey
Support your Florida Orchestra today FloridaOrchestra.org/donate
FloridaOrchestra.org | 727.892.3337
Early Bird Dinner Theater 13355 49th St. N, Clearwater 727-446-5898 earlybirddinnertheater.com/site Through 2/18 – One Slight Hitch by Lewis Black 3/2-4/21– The Underpants by Carl Sternheim, adapted by Steve Martin Eckerd College International Film Series Free, 7pm, Miller Auditorium, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete 727-867-1166 www.eckerd.edu/ international-cinema/ 2/9 – Aftersun (UK & US) 2/16 – The Persian Version (US) 2/23 – The Animal Kingdom (France & Belgium) 3/8 – Anatomy of a Fall (France) Eight O’Clock Theatre 105 Central Park Dr., Largo 727-587-6793 eightoclocktheatre.com 3/1-10 – Escape to Margaritaville
The Bay Area Renaissance Festival celebrates 45 years of adventure! Travel back in time as you step into the 16th century! Thrill to the exploits of Jousting Knights on thundering steeds. Roam the village shoppes, delight in comedy, music, magic, and more on our 13 stages of non-stop entertainment! 12838 Auton Rd., Dade City, FL 33525 Weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) February 17th to March 31st • 10am to 6pm • Rain or Shine FREE PARKING • More info at BayAreaRenFest.com ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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EVENTS 2/3 – Raptor Fest Free, 10am-4pm, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Pete. Watch trained raptors in free flight, learn about Floridaʼs native raptor species, get a photo with live birds of prey, learn from local environmental exhibitors, and enjoy activities for children and families. Scheduled flight shows and bird walks. Free parking with shuttles at Lakewood High School and Lake Vista Rec Center. 2/3 – St. Olaf Choir Concert $40 adults and seniors/$10 students, 7pm, First Presbyterian Church, 701 Beach Drive NE, St. Pete, Composed of 75 mixed voices, the choir is hailed as one of the nation’s premier a cappella ensembles, renowned for its artistry and beauty of sound. 800-363-5487 Tickets: http://tinyurl.com/ymn2kmr4 2/3 – Sixth Anniversary Fire & Light Celebration $60/$40 members, 6:30-8:30pm, Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Ave., St. Pete. Mix and mingle with more than two dozen international glass artists. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of live music, and savor delicious hors d’oeuvres as you marvel at the Museum’s spectacular collection. http://tinyurl.com/yzsu5ve3 2/3-4, 10-11 – Pinellas Medieval Festival $15/$22 day of, 9am-5pm, DK Farms and Gardens, 1750 Lake Ave SE, Largo. Adventure awaits with pony rides, miniature golf, animal feeding, wine tastings and more! Enjoy the artisan market and live blacksmith demonstrations. Be entertained with archery, tournament reenactments and tomato throwing. Enjoy a stroll through the farm to see the animals. 727-348-0818 Ticket information: DKfarmsandgardens@gmail.com 2/6 – Valentine’s Mixer, hosted by The James Museum Trailblazers $25/$20 members, 6-8pm, James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, 101 First Ave. S, St. Pete. Enjoy a wine tasting provided by Book & Bottle, sweets from Schakolad Chocolate Factory and a custom floral bouquet activity with The Roaming Petal. Hosted by the museum’s Trailblazer Committee, who are art lovers ages 21-35. Open to everyone ages 21 & over, regardless of relationship status. Space is limited; registration required. Tickets: http://tinyurl.com/27tktx56 2/9-10 – The Studio Honors: Celebrating 20 Years of Community Studio@620, 620 First Ave. S, St. Pete. Friday cocktail party $50; Sat. awards gala $175 and up; The Studio Honors recognizes contributions made by individuals in our community who uplift others through their efforts, mirroring The Studio’s dedication to the arts, equity and diversity. The event serves as an important annual fundraiser for The Studio@620. Info and tickets: http://tinyurl.com/5d9dt6c5 2/9-3/29 – Born with Teeth $29-$95, times vary by date, Asolo Rep, Sarasota. Get an inside peek at the tumultuous relationship of two of history’s greatest playwrights, William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe, each harboring momentous secrets. Be among the first in the nation to watch this award- winning new play that offers an alternate perspective on the history we think we know. An Alley Theatre World Premiere production. Tickets: http://tinyurl.com/mux6c7ft 2/10 – 31st Annual Dunedin Mardi Gras Parade and Festival Free admission, 1-10pm, spans Pioneer Park, Main Street, and Broadway. The streets of Douglas and Main will be transformed into a pedestrian-friendly zone all afternoon and evening for music emanating from multiple stages as well as food, beverage and merch vendors. The parade begins at 7pm, departing from Douglas Ave./ Beltrees, traveling north to Skinner Blvd. Be prepared to catch beads! 2/10 – Super Bold Saturday, Free, 1-5pm, Tropicana Field, Lot 4. An exciting family-friendly event that allows you to register to vote and learn about your voter registration status.
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ARTS & LEISURE Floridian Social 687 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-322-4600 thefloridiansocial.com 2/2 – Thought Processes B2B Duffrey w/ Vinja 2/3 – TL Jentgens 2/4 – LocalShops1 Sunday Pop-up Market (18+) 2/7 – Top of the Fire Escape 2/10 – Galentine’s Day 2/14 – Valentine’s Day feat. Casablanca and Live Music 2/16 – The Spazmatics 80s Retro Night 2/24 – Mark Farina + Jask + Austen Van Der Beek 2/25 – Sunday Jazz in the Lounge/ Localshops 1X 2/26 – Motown Monday 3/3 – LocalShops1 PopUp Sunday Market 3/10 – Sunday Jazz in the Lounge Francis Wilson Playhouse 302 Seminole St., Clearwater 727-446-1360 franciswilsonplayhouse.org 2/15-3/3 – Something Rotten 3/9 – Broadway by The Year: Celebrating 1975 freeFall Theatre Company 6099 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-498-5205 freefalltheatre.com 2/9-3/10 – Kurt Vonnegut’s God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater 2/14 – Paul Wilborn & Eugenie Bondurant: Love is a Cabaret 3/1 – Kissy Simmons 3/15 – Varla Jean Merman Gulfport Casino 5500 Shore Blvd. S, Gulfport 813-840-3715 mygulfport.us/recreation/casino Weekly dancing/instruction
2/22 – Drake White 2/23 – Ripe 2/24 – Lettuce 2/29 – Nu Metal Night 3/2 – Sammy Rae & The Friends 3/3 – Grateful Dub 3/9 – Extreme w/ Living Colour 3/14 – Larry Fleet 3/15 – Less Than Jake LAB Theater Project 812 E. Henderson Ave., Tampa 813-586-4272 labtheaterproject.com Produces only works from emerging playwrights. 2/22-3/10 – Syd, written by Craig Houk M.A.D. Theatre of Tampa (Music Acting Dance Theatre of Tampa) @ The Straz Center, 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-229-7827 madtheatre.com Through 2/10 – The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Manatee Performing Arts Center 502 Third Ave. W, Bradenton 941-748-5875 manateeperformingartscenter.com Through 2/4 – Oklahoma! 2/10 – A Neil Diamond Tribute 2/15-17 – Temps, Tops, Supremes & Gladys: A Motown Revue 2/29-3/10 – The Glass Menagerie 3/7-17 – Parade 3/12 – Those Were the Days: The Spirit and Folk Songs of the 60s MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre Florida State Fairgrounds 4802 US Hwy. 301 N, Tampa 813-740-2446 midflorida.com/amphitheatre
Gulfport Community Players Back Door Theater 1619 49th St. S, Gulfport gulfportcommunityplayers.org
National Theatre Live Eckerd College, Miller Auditorium 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete Performances in HD http://tinyurl.com/y5fxrtc3
Jannus Live 200 First Ave. N, St. Pete 727-565-0550 jannuslive.com 2/1 – Highly Suspect w/ Dead Poets Society 2/2 – Matisyahu 2/3 – San Holo 2/4 – The Movement 2/11 – Beartooth 2/13 – Destin Conrad 2/14 – G. Love & Special Sauce 2/16 – Pigeons Playing Ping Pong 2/17 – North Mississippi Allstars 2/21 – Twin Temple w/Vows
New Tampa Performing Arts Center 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa 813-829-2760 newtampaartscenter.org 2/2-4, 9-11 – New Tampa Players presents Dreamgirls 2/8 – Taiko Drums of Japan w/ Tampa Taiko 2/10 – Kids Film Series: How to Train Your Dragon 2/12 – Omari Dillard 2/15 – Alexis Cole & the USF Jazz Ensemble
2/16 – Tampa Bay Symphony: Music of the Heart 2/25 – New Tampa Unplugged: Judy Tampa & Bunko Squad 3/2 – Master Chorale of Tampa Bay: Annelies 3/5 – Ballet Magnificat presents The Scarlet Cord Patel Conservatory 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa, Dance / Theater / Music / Adult Classes 813-222-1002 patelconservatory.org Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center 4951 78th Ave. N, Pinellas Park 727-369-5746 pinellas-park.com/161/ Performing-Arts-Center.com 2/1, 4 – Pinellas Park Civic Orchestra 2/17 – Chicago Tribute Raymond James Stadium 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa 813-350-6500 raymondjamesstadium.com 2/10-11 – Monster Jam 2/24 – Billy Joel & Sting Riverwalk Tampa thetampariverwalk.com Second Sundays – 11am-3pm: Market + Art Walk, Armature Works 2/3 – Riverwalk Clean Up Ruth Eckerd Hall 1111 N McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater 727-791-7400 rutheckerdhall.com 2/3 – Tanya Tucker 2/4 – Always Olivia: Tribute to Olivia Newton-John 2/7 – TFO: Center Stage 2/8 – Tower of Power 2/9 – Bored Teachers Comedy Tour 2/16 – Diana Krall 2/17 – David Foster & Katherine McPhee 2/18 – Chris Botti 2/20 – Dancing with the Stars: Live! 2/22 – Annie 2/23 – The Return of Emerson, Lake & Palmer 2/24 – Nickel Creek 2/25 – Stayin’ Alive: Bee Gees Tribute 2/25 – TFO: Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto 2/29: Ones The Beatles #1 Hits 3/2 – Steve Hackett 3/3 – Come From Away 3/8 – Paul Anka 3/9 – Little Women 3/10 – Doo Wop Reunion XXII 3/11 – The Temptations & The Four Tops
Safety Harbor Art & Music Center 706 Second St. N, Safety Harbor 727-725-4018 safetyharborartand musiccenter.com 2/1 – John Moreland 2/4 – Moors and McCumber 2/7 – Mikel Paris 2/23 – Ryan Montbleau 2/23 – Ana Popovic 2/24 – Vegas Baby: Hits of the Headliners 3/3 – Vanessa Collier 3/8-9 – Will Evans 3/15 – Anthony Geraci Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino 5223 Orient Rd., Tampa 813-627-6649 seminolehardrocktampa.com 2/4 – Sevendust & Static-X 2/6-7 – Aaron Lewis 2/8 – Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons 2/14 – Boyz II Men 2/16 – Rod Stewart 2/18 – deadmau5 3/7 – The Jacksons 3/10 – Brantley Gilbert Skipper’s Smokehouse 910 Skipper Rd., Tampa 813-971-0668 skipperssmokehouse.com 2/1 – Melody Trucks + Tony Tyler Band 2/2 – Shinyribs w/ Mitch Lind 2/3 – Grateful Dead Nite 2/10 – Kent Burnside 2/15 – Chicago Farmer 2/16 – COPE w/ The Ain’t Sisters 2/17 – James McMurtry w/ Betty Soo 2/22 – Ana Popovic w/ Ellie Lee Band 2/23 – Band of Heathens 2/24 – Carbon Leaf 2/29 – Vanessa Collier 3/2 – Crossfire Creek Band Sparkman Wharf 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa • Burger Fi • Jotoro • LightHaus • Noblerice • Splitsville • Shortwave Coffee • Whatever Pops sparkmanwharf.com 2/14 – Pirate Pup Costume Contest St. Petersburg City Theatre 4025 31st St. S, 727-866-1973 spcitytheatre.org 3/15-24 – Don’t Dress for Dinner Stageworks Theater 1120 E Kennedy Blvd., West Bldg., #151, Tampa 813-374-2416 stageworkstheatre.org 2/9-25 – I Am My Own Wife 3/15-31 – The Immigrant
CONNECT
WITH THE ARTS Explore the many ways to get to know Pinellas County art and artists during your trip to the Arts Coast! From gallery interactions to digital explorations, you can experience the arts through Creative Pinellas.
EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARD. Try Arts Navigator to find the arts and experiences you’ll love most.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: SANDRASONIK PERFORMER HUYEN HUYNH AT ARTS ANNUAL 2023
NATURE PIX EXHIBITION Opening in February 2024 The Gallery at Creative Pinellas Open Wed - Sun | 10am-5pm FREE ADMISSION 12211 Walsingham Rd., Largo, FL 33778 CreativePinellas.org | 727-582-3600
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EVENTS 2/10 – Lealman Honey and Arts Festival Free admission, 8am-5pm, Ray Neri Park, 4303 46th Ave. N, St. Pete. The festival offers a day filled with honey tastings, artistic wonders, and abundant family-friendly fun. Sample a diverse range of honey varieties sourced from local beekeepers, while local vendors showcase honey-infused artisanal food creations. Local artisans will exhibit handmade jewelry, intricate pottery, stunning paintings, and unique sculptures. 2/10-11 – Gulfport Fine Arts Festival Free admission, 10am-5pm, Veteran’s Park, 5350 31st Ave. S, Gulfport. This waterfront arts festival hosts a select group of juried artists in all genres of media from across the country. 2/14 – Valentine’s Vows and ‘Girl Shy’ $14.50, 7pm, Tampa Theatre, 711 N Franklin St., Tampa. The Right Rev. John Bell, (Tampa Theatre President & CEO), will lead married couples in an en masse renewal of their vows, written especially for an audience well-versed in romantic movie quotes. A champagne toast and viewing of the 1924 Harold Lloyd silent film “Girl Shy” will follow. Should anyone be ready to walk down the aisle that night, just bring your marriage license, and Bell will perform the legal ceremony! Film starts at 7:30pm. Tickets: http://tinyurl.com/3xu8ykrj 2/16-18 – Gasparilla Music Festival $60 (two days) and up, Julian B. Lane Park,1000 N. Boulevard, Tampa. The two-day event will feature 50 bands performing on five stages at its new venue. Family-friendly performers at the Kids Fest 1-3pm on the 18th. Tickets at www.gmftickets.com 2/17 – 65th Annual Queen of Hearts Ball $200 and up, 6pm, Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront. One of St. Petersburg’s most anticipated charitable events of the season, the Ball includes a cocktail hour, dinner, dancing, live music, silent and live auctions, and an elegant program honoring two selected charities and St. Petersburg’s most philanthropic and honorable women. Net proceeds will be distributed to Wheelchairs 4 Kids and Inspire Equine Assisted Center. 727-593-4699 Tickets: www.queenofheartsball.org 2/17-18 – Meet and greet with Christopher Still $25, 2pm, Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum, 100 Beekman Lane. Noted Florida artist Christopher Still will share insights into his creative process in an exclusive private preview of “The Great State of Florida “exhibit that opens to the public 2/20. The exhibition includes several original works by Still donated from private collections, as well as his most recent masterpiece, “Beautiful and Historic Tarpon Springs.” Admission to the museum is $3 resident/$5 non-resident. Museum hours are Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm. 727-942-5605 www.TarponArts.org 2/17-18 – Clearwater Craft Festival Free, 10am-5pm, Coachman Park, 301 Drew St., Clearwater. The festival features handmade arts and crafts as well as a green market area, offering a diverse range of hand-picked goods and eco-friendly products to peruse and purchase. 2/17-18 – The Florida Highwaymen exhibit Free, Sat. 6-8pm/Sun. 2-5pm, Studio@620, 620 First Ave. S, St. Pete. The installation speaks to the struggle for freedom and self-respect and is an Essential African-American art movement from 1950’s Jim Crow South. Some 14 artists are represented in the exhibit. 2/18 – Brothers from Another Mother Comedy Tour $25 general admission/$40 (premium seats), 4-5:30pm, Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport. Two nationally known comedians, Jackie Flynn and Kevin Flynn, (no relation). Tickets at Gulfport Senior Center Foundation office from 9:30-1pm, Monday-Friday and at the Gulfport Beach Bazaar. Online tickets: http://tinyurl.com/4b6ce2rm Benefits the Gulfport Senior Center Foundation Building Commitment Fund.
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ARTS & LEISURE Straz Center for the Performing Arts 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-229-7827 strazcenter.org Through 2/10 – The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Through 2/11 – Twelfth Night 2/2 & 4 – Don Giovanni 2/3 – BIPOC Play-Reading Series 2/7-18 – Moulin Rouge! The Musical 2/10 – Absolute Queen Tribute 2/11 – Tampa Bay Symphony 2/15 – Your Vetchat 2/17 – Ballet Hispanico 2/20 – Bill Blagg 2/22-25 – Tuck Everlasting 2/23 – Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto 2/25 – Natalia Jimenez Live in Concert 2/25 – Black Arts Gala 3/1 – The Definitive Tribute to CSNY featuring Southern Cross 3/1 – Twist & Shout: The Music of the Beatles 3/2 – Carneyville 3/3 – Spring Music Brunch 3/3 – Blippi 3/5-10 – Jesus Christ Superstar 3/8 & 10 – Hansel and Gretel 3/10 – BIPOC Play Reading Series 3/13-4/7 – The Beauty Queen of Leenane Riverwalk Stage (6-9pm, free) 2/2 – Egypt and the Vibe w/DJ MSM 2/3 – Kyle Schroeder feat. Justice Michael 2/9 – Eliana Blanchard 2/10 – Jarryd Dollard 2/22 – Latin Nights w/N Fusion Band 2/23 – Arts Legacy Remix 3/8 – Arts Legacy Remix Studio Grand Central 2260 First Ave. S, St. Pete 727-202-7019 theoffcentral.com 2/1-11 – Whiskey and Soda 2/29-3/10 – Fully Committed Sunshine City Comedy Club 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 727-435-0327 sunshinecitycomedyclub.com Tampa Theatre 711 N Franklin St. Tampa tampatheatre.org 813-274-8286 One of America’s most elaborate movie palaces 2/1 – Cowboy Bebop Live! 2/2 – Demetri Martin
2/3 – TFO: Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances & Mores 2/4 – Sister Act (film) 2/7 – An Evening in Celebration of Frederick Douglass 2/9 – Vir Das 2/11 – Peeples (film) 2/12 – Fast Pitch 2024 2/14 – Valentine’s Vows & “Girl Shy” 2/16 – Ronny Chieng 2/17 – Ralph Barbosa 2/18 – This Is It! The Miracle of BBQ (film) 2/23 – An Evening with Natalie Grant feat. Bernie Helms 2/24 – Bob Marley 2/25 – Daughters of the Dust (film) 3/9 – TFO: Copland’s Appalachian Spring Tarpon Springs Cultural Center 101 S Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs 727-942-5605 tarponarts.org 2/25 – Flip Flop Opera: The Best of American Composers 3/8-10, 15-17 – Art by Yasmina Reza Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center 324 Pine St., Tarpon Springs 727-942-5605 tarponarts.org 2/3 – The Brit Pack British Invasion Band 2/24 –Nefesh Mountain Band 3/2 – Uptown: Motown Remixed 3/9 – The Taburitzans The Mahaffey Theater 400 First St. S, St. Pete 727-300-2000 themahaffey.com 2/2 – Charlotte’s Web 2/3 – Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular 2/4 – K&D Company Showcase 2/6 – Michael Feinstein 2/7 – Cenicienta: Bilingual Cinderella Story 2/8 – TFO: Center Stage 2/9 – Mike Birbiglia 2/10 – TFO: From Broadway with Love 2/14 – Gladys Knight 2/16 – Mania: The Abba Tribute 2/17-18 – TFO: Gershiwin’s Rhapsody in Blue 2/22 – Inside Ein Heldenleben 2/23 – Foreigners Journey 2/24 – TFO: Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto 2/28 – Members Mingle 2/29 – Top of the World: A Carpenters Tribute 3/1 – Stars of the Sixties 3/2 – Celtic Woman
3/14 – Andrew Schulz 3/15 – Godsmack The Palladium 253 Fifth Ave. N, St. Pete 727-822-3590 mypalladium.org 2/2 – Nicole Henry: The Songs of Whitney Houston 2/4 – TFO: Rachmaninoff’s Symphony Dances & More 2/7 – Vaughan Williams Piano Quintet 2/9 – Hot Tonic Celebrates Bacharach 2/10 – The Fleetwood Mac Experience 2/13 – Tampa Bay Symphony – Music of The Heart 2/14 – Whitney James’ Jazz Valentine 2/15 – The Mersey Beatles 2/16 – Bryan Hughes & The Crew Album Release 2/17 – 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience 2/18 – Tampa Bay Symphony: Music of the Heart 2/21 – A Tribute to Sarah Brightman 2/22 – James Taylor & Carole King Tribute 2/23 – Daybreak: The Music & Passion of Barry Manilow 2/27 – Ronnie Dees & Helios Jazz Orchestra 2/28 – Hers feat. Molly Carr & Anna Petrova 3/1 – Listening Room Festival 3/2 – John Heffron 3/15-19 – St. Pete Opera: Puccini’s Turandot The Sound Coachman Park 301 Drew St., Clearwater 727-791-7400 rutheckerdhall.com 2/10 – Willie Nelson & Family The Studio@620 620 First Ave. S, St. Pete 727-895-6620 thestudioat620.org Masks requested while in building 2/2 – Monthly Stand Up Comedy Night 2/9-10 – The Studio Honors 2024 2/16 – Home 2/17-18 – The Florida Highwaymen 2/19 – Two Truths in One Heart, Two Peoples in One Land 2/26 – Radio Theatre Project Live 2/27 – The Eric Stern Trio in Concert 2/28 – Poetry Open Mic 2/29 – Daniela Soledade & Nate Najar USF Yuengling Center 12499 USF Bull Run Drive, Tampa 813-974-3111 yuenglingcenter.com 2/3-4 – Katt Williams
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-953-3368 vanwezel.org Through 2/4 – Hadestown 2/5 – RCLA presents Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch 2/6 – The Simon & Garfunkel Story 2/8 – Kenny Wayne Shepherd 2/9 – Sarasota Orchestra presents Smoke & Fire 2/13 – Gipsy Kings 2/14 – David Foster & Katharine McPhee 2/15 – Sarasota Orchestra presents Celebrate 75 2/17 – Chris Botti 2/18 – Diana Krall 2/19 – Detroit Symphony Orchestra 2/21-25 – Life & Times of The Temptations 2/26 – RCLA presents Stanley Tucci 2/27 – Jagged Little Pill 2/29 – Celtic Women 20th Anniversary 3/1 – Sarasota Orchestra presents Singers and Songwriters 3/3 – Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra 3/4 – Stayin’ Alive 3/5 – The Righteous Brothers 3/6 – The Midtown Men 3/7-8 – Little Women 3/9 – Terry Fator 3/10 – Paul Anka 3/11 – RCLA present Nir Eyal 3/12 – Champions of Magic 3/13 – Rick Springfield 3/14 – Neil Berg’s 114 Years of Broadway 3/15 – Sarasota Orchestra present Rhapsody in Blue @100 West Coast Players 21905 US 19 N, Clearwater 727-437-2363 wcplayers.com Through 2/4 – First Date (musical) 3/8-24 – The Dining Room Zubrick Magic Theatre 1211 First Ave N, Suite 101, St. Pete. Thur.-Sat. 7pm; Sun. 2pm 866-ZUBRICK (866-982-7425) zubrickmagic.com
MUSEUMS Florida Holocaust Museum 55 Fifth St. S, St. Pete 727-820-0100 flholocaustmuseum.org 2/5 – History of the Jewish People in the Land of Israel (Session 1) 2/12 – History of the Jewish People in the Land of Israel (Session 2) 2/20 – Speaking Yiddish to Chickens 2/27 – History of the Jewish People in the Land of Israel (Session 3) 3/14 – Pink Triangle Legacies: Coming Out of the Shadow of the Holocaust
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We are here to help with your rental and property management needs. Call us for an in home consultation about what we can do to help you make the most of your investment. ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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EVENTS 2/23 – Arts Legacy REMIX: Mabuhay Florida – A Celebration of Filipino Culture Free, 7:30-9pm Riverwalk Stage, Straz Center, Tampa. A celebration of the vibrant visual art, fashion, music, and food that make up the Filipino culture. Experience the richness and range of emotions that emanate from the culture’s ability to story tell through art. 2/23-25 – St. Petersburg Seafood and Music Festival $7, Fri. 4-10pm, Sat. 11am-10pm, Sun. 11am-6pm. Vinoy Park, downtown St. Pete. Local restaurants and food purveyors will cook up seafood entrees and vegetarian dishes, along with side dishes and desserts, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Live music by local and regional bands. And…arts, crafts and other fine products! 2/24 – 20th Annual Get Rescued Free admission, 10am-5pm, 3101 Beach Blvd. S, Gulfport. An animal-focused event with adoptable pets, pet supplies drive, pet friendly shopping, street festival, raffle, weiner dog derby, and more. Up to 50 animal rescue groups, pet friendly vendors, pet care education, and a pet foot and supplies drive. All leashed people and well-behaved pets are welcome. Proceeds benefit Get Rescued, Inc., which supports animal rescue groups throughout the state. 2/24 – Iconic: Paint St. Pete Edition $150 members/$175 non-members, 7-10pm, Morean Center for Clay, 420 22nd St. S, St. Pete. This fundraiser for The Morean Arts Center will highlight the city’s talented artists as they engage in a one-day battle of the brushes. See plein air paintings unfold before your eyes during the day at several iconic St. Pete locations, then attend the evening event to view the final masterpieces, bid on favorites, and cast a vote for the most captivating artist. Tickets: http://tinyurl.com/28vth2tr 2/25 – “Garden Groove” concert $30-$35, 3-5pm, Dr. Carter A. Woodson African American Museum, 2240 Ninth Ave. S, St. Pete. “Garden Groove” features the Scotty Wright Quintet, presented by the Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association in celebration of Black History Month. Wright will be joined by some of the area’s best: Butch Thomas (saxophone), Judi Glover (keyboard), Erik Hempel (bass), and Rod Alnord (drums). Tickets: http://tinyurl.com/2rt8pbdb 3/2 – Gulfport’s Pink Flamingo Home Tour $25/$30, 10am-5pm (ad page 51) Tour Stetson University College of Law, built as a luxury hotel, and a number of artistic homes in the Northwest Gulfport Stetson area. 3/2 – Tickled Pink Comedy Tour $40/$55 Palladium Theatre, 8pm, 253 5th Ave., St. Pete 33701 Squeaky Clean comedy tour. (scan QR code on page 55) 3/2-3 – Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Free, Sat. 9-6, Sun 10-5, Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, Tampa. One of the top outdoor, juried fine arts shows in the U.S. The festival showcases artists and their work to include ceramic, digital, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor and wood, as well as the works of local young artists. Artists vie for nearly $100,000 in prize money and scholarships.
ARTS & LEISURE Florida Museum of Photographic Arts 1630 E 7th Ave., Ybor City, Tampa 813-221-2222 fmopa.org Through 3/17 – Carlton Ward Jr.: Path of the Panther 2/20 –HOPE Photovoice Initiative On View
Through 3/3 – Working Conditions Through 6/2 – Michele Oka Doner: The True Story of Eve Through 6/23 – Mountains of the Mind: Scholar’s Rocks from China & Beyond Through 1/5/25 – Shinique Smith: Parade
Glazer Children’s Museum 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 813-443-3851 glazermuseum.org Created specifically for children 10 and under.
Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art 600 E Klosterman Road, Tarpon Springs 727-712-5762 leeparattner.org Through 4/28 – Beauty in Excess: The Pattern and Decoration Movement Through 4/28 – Kim Kirchman: An Allegory of Spring Through 4/28 – : Benny Andrews: Everything That Rises Must Converge
Great Explorations Children’s Museum 1925 Fourth St. N, St. Pete 727-821-8992 greatex.org First Sun. of month open special hours for special needs families. Families with a SNAP, EBT, or WIC card get in free every Tues. Limited hours. Gulf Beaches Historical Museum 115 10th Ave., St. Pete Beach 727-552-1610 gulfbeachesmuseum.com Gulfport History Museum 5301 28th Ave. S, Gulfport 727-201-8687 gulfporthistoricalsociety.org Henry Plant Museum 401 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa 813-254-1891 plantmuseum.com Live classical music performances every third Thur. Most Sundays – Upstairs/ Downstairs at the Tampa Bay Hotel Heritage Museum 100 Beekman Lane, Tarpon Springs 727-942-5605 tarponarts.org History and culture of the Greek community 2/17-18 – Christopher Still exhibition
3/2-3 – Pinellas Botanicals and Brunchfest Free, 9am-4pm, 5010 81st Ave. N, Pinellas Park. Festivities will include live music, a best brunch competition, a selection of unique plants, charming garden accessories, talented local artisans, craftsmen, and kids’ activities.
Imagine Museum 1901 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-300-1700 imaginemuseum.com Contemporary American Studio Glass. Thur. $5 after 5pm 2/3 – Sixth Anniversary Fire & Light Celebration
3/9-10 – 49th Tarpon Springs Fine Art Festival Free admission, 9am-5pm Sat./10am-5pm Sun., 100 Library Lane, Craig Park. The festival offers more than 150 exhibiting artists, selected by a jury of discriminating art professionals. Visitors enjoy a full schedule of music, sample craft beers, and taste a variety of crowd-pleasing international foods.
John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art 5401 Bay Shore Road., Sarasota 941-359-5700 ringling.org Mon. – Free admission all day Thurs. – Art After 5
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Museum of the American Arts And Crafts Movement 355 Fourth St. N, St. Pete 727-440-4859 museumaacm.org. Sun. Film Series – 12:30/2pm Daily Arts and Crafts-inspired films Museum of Fine Arts 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Pete 727-894-4368 mfastpete.org Thur. $10 after 5pm Through 3/17 – Time Flies, Hours Flee Through 4/14 The Nature of Art 2/22– The Overview Effect: presentation by Jane Poynter 3/14 – Egyptomania– Fashion’s Conflicted Obsession: presentation by Darnell– Jamal Lisby Palm Harbor Museum 2043 Curlew Road, Palm Harbor 727-724-3054 palmharbormuseum.com Thur.-Sat. 10am-2pm Safford House Museum 23 Parkin Court, Tarpon Springs 727-942-5805 tarponarts.org Restored 1883 Victorian home St. Petersburg Museum of History 335 Second Ave. NE 727-894-1052 spmoh.com Happy Hour with the Historian 2/8 –Gwendolyn Reese: African American Heritage Trail 3/14 – Tiffany Faykus: Sarah Williams Armistead: A One Woman Performance
Sarasota Art Museum 1001 S Tamiami Trail, 941-309-4300 sarasotaartmuseum.org Through 2/11 – Juana Valdes Through 2/11 – Selections from the Basch Glass Collection Through 3/17 – Judy Pfaff 3/10-7/7 – Contemporary Artists of the Hermitage Artist Retreat Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 3301 Gateway Centre, Pinellas Park. 727-579-8226 tbauto.org Tampa Bay History Center 801 Old Water St., Tampa 813-226-0097 tampabayhistorycenter.org Walking tours of Tampa neighborhoods Through 7/14 – Decade of Change: Florida Through 7/14 – Sharps & Marks in Paradise: Selling Florida in the 1920s Tampa Museum of Art 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 813-259-1720 tampamuseum.org Thur. 4-8pm: pay-as-you-will admission Through 2/11 – Fleurish: The Art of Naeem Khan Through 3/17 – A Passion for Haitian Art: The Albrecht and Heller Collection Through 4/21– Garry Winograd: Women are Beautiful Through 5/19 – Pepe Mar: Myth and Magic Through 6/23 – Reframing Haitian Art Through 9/1 – The Last Picture Show: Paintings by Rod Penner Tarpon Springs Railroad Depot Historical Museum Free. 160 E Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs 727-943-4624 tarponspringsarea historicalsociety.org The Dalí Museum One Dali Blvd., St. Pete 727-823-3767 thedali.org Thur. and Fri. reduced admission after 5pm Advanced-purchase timed tickets recommended Through 4/28 – Dali & the Impressionists: Monet, Degas, Renoir & More The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art 150 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-892-4200 thejamesmuseum.org Tues. $10 all day
USF Contemporary Art Museum Institute for Research in Art 3821 USF Holly Drive, Tampa 813-974-3503 ira.usf.edu 2/8 – Scholars Choice Gallery Talk 2/22 – Ubiquity As Legacy: Conversation w/ Ksenia Nouril & Christian Viveros-Faune USF Graphicstudio 3702 Spectrum Blvd., Ste 100, Tampa 813-974-3503, free admission graphicstudio.usf.edu/GS/ gs_about.html Woodson African American Museum of Florida 2240 Ninth Ave. S, St. Pete 727-323-1104 woodsonmuseum.org One City Chorus – Mon. 7pm Through 3/31 – Resilience & Revolution: An Immersion of Black Americana
MUSIC Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association Jazz Jam, Mon., 7-9pm, Hangar Restaurant, 540 First St. SE, St. Pete, aldowningjazz.com 2/25 – Scotty Wright Quintet at Woodson African American Museum of Florida
The Perfect Date Night! LIVE AT THE PALLADIUM Feb. 22, 7:30pm TROUBADOURS James Taylor & Carol King Tribute Feb. 23, 8:00pm DAYBREAK Barry Manilow Tribute BUY TICKETS https://bit.ly/palladium-tickets Reserved seating. Groups 10+ discount. PRESENTED BY
New Horizons Band of Gulfport Gulfport Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport 727-345-0285 newhorizonsbandgulfport.org Novice, intermediate musicians School of Rock St. Petersburg 2401 Central Ave., 727-871-7625 schoolofrock.com Guitar, drum, singing, keyboard/piano lessons South Pasadena Community Band 727-515-5407 southpasadenaband.com All-volunteer band 2/15 – Free concert, South Pasadena City Hall, 7:30pm St. Petersburg College Gibbs Campus Music Center 6605 Fifth Ave. N, 727-341-4360 spcollege.edu/events 2/28 – SPC Faculty Recital
“One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.” –Bob Marley
TM
Saturday, March 2, 2024 8PM
Palladium Theater, St. Petersburg
Purchase Tickets NOW!
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ParadiseNewsFL.com | FEBRUARY 2024
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ARTS & LEISURE Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Society Cove Cay Golf Club 2612 Cove Cay Drive, Clearwater sdjs2022.org 2/4 – Kevin VanEss’s Talk of the Town Jazz Band 2/18 – Jeff Barnhard’s ‘Sweet & Hot’ 3/10 – Terry Meyers & The Dixie Lizards Tampa Bay Symphony Performances in various locations 727-827-8087 tampabaysymphony.org 2/11 – “Music of the Heart” (Straz Center) 2/13 & 18 – “Music of the Heart” (Palladium) 2/16 – “Music of the Heart” (New Tampa Performing Arts Center) TomKats Jazz Orchestra The Blue Parrot Mon. 7-9:30pm 85 Corey Circle, St. Pete Beach tomkatsjazzorchestra.com
OPERA Metropolitan Opera: HD Live Miller Auditorium, Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete Live high-definition broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera 727-864-7600 campusce.net/eckerd/course/ course.aspx?catid=156 Opera Tampa at Straz Center, 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-229-7827 strazcenter.org 2/2 & 4 – Don Giovanni 3/2 – Carnevale (grand gala) 3/8 & 10 – Hansel and Gretel Sarasota Opera House 61 N Pineapple Ave., 941-328-1300 sarasotaopera.org 2/3 – The Opera Gala: A Masked Ball 2/11 – Manatee Opera Guild presents Stars of Tomorrow 2/17-3/22 – Carmen 2/24-3/23 – Lucia Di Lammermoor 3/9-24 – Luisa Miller 3/15-23 – Deceit Outwitted (L’Infedelta Delusa) St. Pete Opera 2145 First Ave. S, 727-823-2040 stpeteopera.org Various performance locations 2/8-10 – Opera Scenes 3/1 – Mornings w/the Maestro
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3/2 – Broadway Cabaret 3/15-19 – Turandot (Palladium) St. Petersburg Opera Guild stpeteoperaguild.org 2/3 – SPOG High School Vocal Competition The Pinellas Opera League Thur.: Opera at the Dali pinellasoperaleague.com
ECO Boyd Hill Nature Preserve 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Pete 727-893-7326 stpeteparksrec.org/ boydhillpreserve Closed Mon. Brooker Creek Preserve 3940 Keystone Rd., Tarpon Springs 727-453-6800 brookercreekpreserve.org Tram Tours Sat. Fort De Soto Park 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde 727-552-1862 pinellascounty.org/park Campgrounds, ferry services to Egmont and Shell Keys. Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center 700 Second Ave. NE, at The St. Pete Pier 727-291-4103 tbwdiscoverycenter.org Daily boat tours of Tampa Bay ecosystem
Ikebana International 500 Sunset Drive, St. Pete (Garden Club building) ikebanastpetersburg.com Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 1534 Mound St., Sarasota 941-366-5731 selby.org Through 8/31 – Clyde Butcher: Nature Through The Lens 2/11-6/30 – Yayoi Kusuma: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe Pinewood Cultural Park 12520 Ulmerton Road, and 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo Heritage Village pinellascounty.org/heritage Creative Pinellas – creativepinellas.org Florida Botanical Gardens – Free 100-acre park flbg.org Third Saturday – Gardens open 7am-5pm; Creative Pinellas open noon-5pm; Heritage Village open 10am-4pm Sunken Gardens 1825 Fourth St. N, St. Pete Adult and child classes sunkengardens.org
FERRIES Crossbay Ferry Connecting Downtown Tampa to Downtown St. Pete Wed.-Sun. through May 727-273-5932 thecrossbayferry.com Egmont Key Ferry Fort De Soto Boat Ramp 727-398-6577 hubbardsmarina.com
Weedon Island Preserve 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Pete 727-453-6500 weedonislandpreserve.org Guided hikes, birding, and photography tours. Classes and webinars.
Shell Key Ferry Fort De Soto Boat Ramp 727-398-6577 hubbardsmarina.com See website for overnight camping
GARDENS
Gulf Beaches Public Library 200 Municipal Drive, Madeira Beach 727-391-2828 gulfbeacheslibrary.org
Florida West Coast Orchid Society Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 10891 102nd Ave. N, Seminole 727-420-7230 fwcos.org 2/10 – Plant Sale 3/9 – Orchid Repotting Clinic (Lighthouse Bldg. at Florida Botanical Gardens Garden Club of St. Petersburg 500 Sunset Dr. S, 727-381-8920 gardenclubstpetersburg.org 2/23-24 – Flea Market, Plant & Garden Sale
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
LIBRARIES
Gulfport Public Library 5501 28th Ave. S, Gulfport 727-893-1074 mygulfport.us/gpl St. Pete Beach Public Library 365 73rd Ave., St. Pete Beach 727-363-9238 Mon/Wed 10-8 Tues/Thurs/Fri 10-6 Sat 10-2; Sun closed See spblibrary.com for daily events 2/19 – LIBRARY CLOSED
President Barack Obama Main Library 3745 Ninth Ave. N, St. Pete 727-893-7724 splibraries.org Closed for renovation
SPIRITUAL Sacred Lands 1700 Park St. N, St. Pete 727-347-0354 sacredlandspreservation.org Drum circle first Fri.; Sun. tours, meditations, special events Soothe Our Souls (S.O.S.) 4737 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 727-360-7411 sootheoursouls.org Provides complimentary sailing for seriously health-challenged people and their support groups Spiritual Conditioning Program 153 107th Ave., Treasure Island Pat Jano at 727-324-9222 Small group Bible study
ZOOS/AQUARIUMS Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater 727-441-1790 cmaquarium.org Rescue, rehab and release Home of Winter and Hope, stars of Dolphin Tale I & II Florida Aquarium 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa 813-273-4000 flaquarium.org Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota 941-388-4441 mote.org Seaside Seabird Sanctuary 18328 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores 727-391-6211 seasideseabirdsanctuary.org Free. Donations accepted. Tours. ZooTampa at Lowry Park 1101 W Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552 zootampa.org
CLUBS-SERVICE/SOCIAL Gulfport Lions Club Second and fourth Tues. 6:30pm Gulfport Lions Clubhouse 4630 Tifton Dr. S, Gulfport 727-709-6694 facebook.com/Gulfport-Lions-Club
“Start where you are, do what you can, use what you have.”
ECO By Peter Roos
National Audubon Society
Double-Crested Cormorants The 30-foot Ficus tree in our backyard has recently become the evening perch for four young, double-crested cormorants. These amazing birds are found in coastal areas, and near rivers and streams from Florida to Alaska’s Aleutian Islands. The four arrive within minutes of one another as the sun is setting and always seem to land on the same long thin branch as they stood on the night before. At sunrise, they head off for a day of swimming and fishing. Ducks and other water birds have more preen oil in and on their wings, which helps them shed water. Cormorants’ feathers get saturated with water quickly, allowing them to submerge more easily to chase their prey. Underwater, their feet propel them like flippers, their wings too sometimes. Their diet includes a very wide variety of fish, seafood, and some plant material. Cormorants are often seen drying their feathers in the breeze. When mature, they nest in colonies, sometimes mixed with by splashing with wings, swimming in zigzags, diving and bringing up pieces of weeds. At the nest site, the male displays by crouching and vibrating wings while calling. Nest sites are near water on cliff ledge, on ground on an island, or at any height in trees. Nests are built mostly by females, with materials brought by male, a platform of sticks and debris, lined with finer materials. They usually first breed at 3 years of age. They lay 1-7, most often 3-4 bluish-white eggs which are tended by both parents until they hatch in about a month. Both parents feed the hatchlings who begin to wander from ground nests at 3-4 weeks and begin to fly two weeks later. At 9-10 weeks they are generally independent. In China and Indonesia, as a traditional fishing method, a snare is tied around a tame cormorant’s neck to stop it from swallowing bigger fish, which the fisherman gets. This is now mostly a tourism activity. (Info thanks to Audubon)
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ARTS & LEISURE Pass-A-Grille Shuffleboard January through March Tues./Thurs./Sat., 10am–noon Pass-A-Grille Park, Ninth & 10th Ave. Member $20/yr., open to public. Preserve The ‘Burg 727-824-7802 preservetheburg.org Rotary Club of Gulf Beaches Tues., Noon. VFW, 12901 Gulf Blvd., Madeira Beach facebook.com/RotaryGulfBeaches/ Second Saturday Singers Second Sat. 9am–noon, Oct-April Pasadena Community Church, 227 70th St. S, St. Pete bobd@pccumc.org St. Petersburg Audubon Society 727-753-9731 stpeteaudubon.org St. Petersburg Chess Club 540 Fourth Ave. N, St. Pete Open every Fri. for members 6-11pm; Sun. 2-4pm group lessons and friendly games. https:// chessclubjoy.webs.com St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club 559 Mirror Lake Drive N, St. Pete Fri., 7-10pm, Free. stpeteshuffle.com 2/26 – State Open M/L Doubles Tournament 3/2 – Mirror Lake Championship tournament Suncoast Bonsai Society Seminole Recreation Center 9100 113th St. Third Sat. 10am suncoastbonsaisociety.org Suncoast Quilting Circle Works to preserve and promote the art of quilt making. suncoastquiltingcircle.org Swiss Club St. Petersburg Welcomes new members. Please inquire via website: SwissClubStPetersburg.com Tampa Bay Surface Guild Good Samaritan Church 6085 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park. Second Mon., 6:30-8:30pm Coloring, patterning, structuring and transformation of fabric, fiber, and other materials surfacedesignguild.com
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The Contemporaries Support group of Members of Museum of Fine Arts. Monthly lectures, gatherings and field trips supporting contemporary artists of Tampa Bay. mfastpete.org Treasure Island Historical Society Treasure Island Community Center Garden Room, 154 106th Ave. Sept.-April, Second Mon., 5pm facebook.com/ treasureislandFLhistoricalsociety Treasure Islettes Treasure Island Community Center, 154 106th Ave. Bingo Thursdays 6:30pm treasureislettes.weebly.com Supports charity and college scholarships. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary 1500 Pass-A-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach Safe Boating Program, Tues. 7pm Warren Webster Building, wow.uscgaux.info/content. php?unit=070-07-08 Tampa Bay Women In Tourism Third Fri. various venues. tampabaywomenintourism.com
CLUBS – ATHLETIC
Wednesday Walkers Second and fourth Wed. 9am, varying locations. 727-893-1244. Sponsored by Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport
THRIFT SHOPS Anona Thrift Shoppe 12025 Indian Rocks Road, Largo Mon., Wed.-Sat. 10am-3pm handsofhealinginc.org/thrift-shoppe Attic Shoppe 316 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach facebook.com/albansministry CASA Thrift Shop 1011 First Ave. N, St. Pete casa-stpete.org Creative Thrift Art Store (at Creative Clay) 1846 First Ave. S, St. Pete creativeclay.org/creative-thrift HEP Thrift Store 1212 N Betty Lane, Clearwater Facebook.com/hepthriftstore Pass-A-Grille Beach Community Church Thrift Shop 107 16th Ave. & Pass-A-Grille Way, Tues., Thurs., Sat. 9am-noon pagchurch.org St. Vincent’s Thrift Store 180 34th St. N, St. Pete https://tinyurl.com/yc4kjb2u
Clearwater/St. Petersburg Ski Club Mike’s Pizza & Deli Station, 13560 49th St., Clearwater. Second Tues. 6:30pm, Sept.-May. 727-743-3108 snowshark.org Pinellas County’s only ski club.
Church by the Sea Thrift Store 495 137th Ave. Circle, Madeira Beach Tues., Thurs., Sat. 10am-2pm churchbythesea.com/thrift-store
Mad Dogs Triathlon Club Wed. night swims through summer, 6pm, Hurley Park Shelter, Pass-AGrille Beach. stpetemaddogs.org
AARP Various volunteer opportunities aarp.org/giving-back
VOLUNTEERING
Hope Villages of America, Inc. 727-587-7747 rcspinellas.org/Volunteer/ Marine Exploration Center Needs volunteers 727-209-7115 mecstpete.org Meals on Wheels 13945 Evergreen Ave., Clearwater Needs volunteer drivers. 727-573-9444 neighborly.org State of Florida Guardian ad Litem Program Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of FL, 14250 49th St. N, Suite 4000, Clearwater. guardianadlitem.org St. Petersburg Arts Alliance 100 Second Ave. N, Suite 150 727-754-6404 stpeteartsalliance.org St. Petersburg Free Clinic 863 Third Ave. N stpetersburgfreeclinic.org Tampa Bay Watch 3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde tampabaywatch.org
YOGA Beach Yoga Pinellas Beachyogapinellas.com Salty Souls Yoga saltysoulsyoga.com Silver Sneakers Yoga Community Center, St. Pete Beach Fri. 11:15am spbrec.com South Pasadena Yoga • Gentle Yoga: Thursdays, 9:30-10:30am • Yoga Flow: Thursdays, 10:40-11:40am South Pasadena City Hall 7047 Sunset Drive S barbmoeller1@gmail.com
Tampa Bay Beach Bums Gulfport 727-437-2867 https://tinyurl.com/5n8s8f2k
Daystar Life Center 1055 28th St. S., St. Pete Needs volunteers 727-825-0442 facebook.com/DaystarLifeCenter
St. Pete Road Runners Walkers, joggers, non-competitive & competitive runners. facebook.com/StPeteRoadRunners
Empath Health Suncoast Hospice Training provided empathhealth.org
HEALTH
Friends of Strays 2911 47th Ave. N, St. Pete Nonprofit, no-kill shelter friendsofstrays.com/home
The Centre of St. Pete Beach 7525 Blind Pass Road, 727-258-2001 thecentreSPB.com/calendar1
Do Good Things!
Yoga at The Dali Dali Museum, third Sun., 9-10am https://tinyurl.com/bd6e88mz
Jazzercise Exercise Classes Treasure Island City Hall, Mon. & Wed. 5:30pm 727-687-6695 https://tinyurl.com/43caxjwr
FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
Sunken Gardens 1825 Fourth St. N, St. Pete 727-560-7317 Mon. & Wed. 10:30am Sunset Yoga at The St. Pete Pier First Wed. 7-8pm. Free https://tinyurl.com/3m2wbmc6
ARTS & LEISURE MARKETS TUESDAYS Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market 9am-3pm, Oct. through April 9am-2pm, May through Sept. Beach Blvd. below 28th Ave. S, Second Tues. Clothing Swap: Russian Club, 2920 Beach Blvd. S visitgulfportflorida.com WEDNESDAYS Madeira Beach Market Nov.-May 10am-3pm 15000 Madeira Way FRIDAYS Sunset Market First and third Fri. nights, 5-10pm, parking lot of Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Ave., St. Pete. Creative Clay Outdoor Art Market First Fridays, 10am-2pm 1846 First Ave. S, St. Pete Treasure Island Friday Market Dec.-April, 9am-2pm Community Center Park islandneighborschamber.org FRIDAY AND SATURDAY Dunedin Downtown Market 9am-1pm, Pioneer Park, 420 Main St., Fri. market Nov.-May until 2pm; Sat. market year-round. SATURDAYS Crossroads Market Third Saturdays, 10am-2pm, Crossroads Christian Church 1645 Seminole Blvd., Largo
St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market Oct.-May, 9am-2pm Al Lang Stadium parking lot, 230 First St. SE June-Sept. 9am-1pm, Williams Park, 350 Second Ave. N saturdaymorningmarket.com The Market Marie Second Saturdays, 10am-3pm Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland St., Clearwater Mezzo Market One Saturday a month Oct.-May, Baum Avenue between Intermezzo Coffee & Green Bench Brewing, St. Pete intermezzo.co/mezzo-market/
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FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
ACCOUNTING / BOOKKEEPING & TAX SERVICES David J. Strickler, CPA, PA, djscpa1@aol.com 727.906.9600 ACUPUNCTURE Ancient Healing Acupuncture & Herbs Authentic oriental healing arts are still the foremost healing methods in China. 6600 31st. Terrace N., St. Pete. 727.384.4826 Achieve Acupunture & Integrative Medicine, Treatments specializing in chronic conditions, including Peripheral Neuropathy. ACHIEVEACUIM.com 727.272.3587 ANNUAL HOME RENTAL Keyrenter property management takes the worry out of being a land lord. KeyrenterStPete.com or call Sam 727-202.2700 BOAT CLUB Limited Membership Boat Club with Premium Boats. All day usage for a fraction of the cost of ownership. SovereignBoatClub.com Tierra Verde – 727.200.3474 BLINDS & SHUTTERS Do Your Shutters need some TLC? Hurricane Shutters Sold, Installed, Cleaned, Maintained & Repaired. The Shutterman 727.810.4606 Shopping for Window Treatment? Call for a free in-home consult. See ad for 30% off next purchase. Call Budget Blinds 727.821.0976 and/or Service First Installers CAREGIVER/COMPANION In-home aid, dementia/companion care, meals, laundry, groceries, pets, appointments. St. Petersburg / S. Pinellas. References available. Maritza Palmucci 813.230.9392 Companionship, errands, transportation to appointments, light cooking, cleaning, and laundry, medication reminders. Call Gail 260.242.0246, email gail@compassionatecompanioncare forseniors.com, compassionate companioncareforseniors.com CARPETS & RUGS Professional Rug Cleaning & Invisible Repairs – Free pick-up and delivery. Also, the largest selection of imported Handmade works of art you can walk on. Oriental Rug Bazaar 727.726.8787 CLOSET DESIGN & INSTALLATION Get organized. Maximize the space you have in closets, pantries, laundry rooms & more. newclosettoday.com Call for a free consult 727.641.6448 DENTAL SERVICES Advanced Dental Technology, Implants, Reconstructive, Cosmetic & Laser Dentistry, 617 75th Ave., St. Pete Beach 40 Years Experience – Free 2nd opinions CenturyDental.org 727.367.3313 Pier Dental, 8351 Blind Pass Rd., SPB Family-owned General and Cosmetic Dentistry with Personalized Care. Florida native Dr. Brittany Pierpont. Pierdental.net 727.363.6169
DRY CLEANERS & LAUNDRY Home Pick-up & Delivery-Dry Clean, Wash-Dry-Fold, Alterations, Patio Cushion Cleaning, Shoe & Handbag Repair, Pick-up 2x weekly Sacino’s Cleaners sacinoscleaners.com 727.471.0573 Laundry Wash - Dry - Fold Service Laundromat 7815 Blind Pass Rd., SPB, call Laura 727.458.1412 ELECTRICAL SERVICES Your contact for all things electrical. Solar hookup, generators, wiring and rewiring homes and businesses. Red Royal Electric 727-228-1065 HEALTH & FITNESS Ancient Healing Acupuncture & Herbs Seasonal Allergies, Hip & Back Pain April Wang 727.384.4826 Certified Chinese MD, (Tyrone Area) 6600 31st Terrace, St. Pete Worried About Your Memory? Alzheimer’s Association – Offers FREE & Confidential Memory Screenings, CALL to schedule 727.893.5657 HAULING - DELIVERY HB Hauling Demo, junk removal, dump trailer rental & more. 727.793.5816 Hot Momma’s Hauling does pick-ups and delivery, including shell, sand, and pavers. Trailer rentals, junk removed, clean outs. Call Ashlie 727.678.3156 LetMommahelpyou.com HEALTH & NUTRITION Gulfport Nutrition - 5012 Gulfport Blvd. S., Cardio Drumming Classes. Call Marlene for Info 305.619.9734 HEARING CARE Pasadena Hearing Care Anne S. Carter, Ph.D. 727.329.8852 Don’t let Hearing Loss impact your life. HOME ASSISTANT Home Care and Maintenance Personal & Virtual Assistance Arriving / Departing Services Home Decor, Declutter, Design, & Organization. Lisa loves Projects. Call 502.419.1498 NestWatchHome.com HOUSEKEEPING & CLEANING Dependable European Lady15+yrs exp., High Quality, Reasonable Rates, References. 727.564.1473 Reasonable cleaning. Homes, windows, offices. Experienced and insured. Pinellas county. 727.259.3558 Laddy’s Cleaning Service - on the beaches over a decade 727.430.8826 Laundry Wash Dry Fold Service Laundromat - 7815 Blind Pass Rd., St. Pete Beach. Some pickup/delivery available. Call Laura 727.458.1412 Cleaning Is Our Passion - Maids, Maintenance & More. Steadfast, Reliable, Best of Beaches service for 25+ years. L/B/I 727.363.1074 Home & Office Cleaning Experienced,Efficient European Cleaning LadyFree Estimates, Great local references 10+ years Irina 727.481.1364
CLASSIFIED INSURANCE Bentley DeNight Insurance Services can save $$$ on Flood Insurance and can quote Homeowners, Auto & Business Insurances 727.344.4500 IV THERAPY IV Lounge@ The Centre SPB See AD Page 7. Ask about getting your infusion where you are, or at 7525 Blind Pass Rd., 727.258.2001 thecenterspb.com LOCKSMITH SERVICES COVID SAFE Lock Repair Service during daytime hours, weekdays. Vet owned. Tommy Locksmith 727.755.3975 LUMBER Need wood to match your old house? If it isn’t in stock, ask if we can make it for you. Anderson Lumber 666 49th St. S 727.321.3111 MARINE CONSTRUCTION Island Marine Construction Docks, Boat Lifts, Service, since 1997. Licensed Marine Contractor, C-8463 727.363.7282 MARKETING SERVICES Janet Nummi, Graphic Design info@janetnummi.com Buddy Baker, Copyediting melvin.baker@gmail.com MASSAGE SERVICES Helios Health – Zoe (MA31664) offers massage and Infrared sauna therapy on West Central Ave. at 57th St., St. Petersburg 727.322.8883 PAINTING SERVICES Residential or Commercial Painting Flo-Pro Painting 727.337.6888 PET SITTING & WALKING Pete’s Perfect Pet Care is a true professional. Get happy text messages from your best friend daily while you are apart. Bonded and Insured. 727.742.2599 Pete@PetesPerfectPetCare.com PICKLEBALL/TENNIS LESSONS Private/group lessons for all ages/skill levels. 727.481.6375 brian@sunshinecitytennis.com PICKLEBALL EXPO Thurs. April 18th, 3-7pm At St. Pete Coliseum needs • Volunteers • Attendees • Exhibitors • Sponsors suncoastPB.com suncoastPB@gmail.com 727.900.9704 PLASTIC SURGERY Coundouriotis Facial Plastic Surgery and Laser Center 727.525.9900 “Reverse the Signs Of Aging Anywhere on your body, Rebuild collagen & reduce wrinkles.” REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Marina Bay – New Construction Near Eckerd. More than beautiful. Resilient, Private, Peaceful, Protected FORTIFIED 727.906.3300 MarinaBaystPete.com
ISLA Condo, 1 Bd 1 1/2 Ba, Top Floor, Water & Golf Views, furnished $399K, 6279 Sun Blvd. #603, St. Pete, 33715 See photos on Zillow. Please text (no realtors) 727.639.8316 RESIDENTIAL PROTECTION Insurance Companies are now rejecting claims if no one has been there in 14 days. Property Watch Ninja’s are your boots on the ground When you’re not around. PropertyWatchNinja’s.com or Call 727.620.2620 RUGS – See Carpets SCREEN REPAIR Screen Repair for Pool Cages, Patios and Lanais, call or text for a FREE Estimate. Rescreen Rescue 727.348.4307 SEO & WEBSITES Advanced Digital Media Services develops websites with SEO built-in to get your company to the top on Google. Text or call 727.509.6930 Create and Improve Your Online Presence, customerloyaltyagency.com Call Dean at 941.323.1402 SLIDING DOOR REPAIR Stop struggling with old sliding doors. We fix it to open for a fraction of the cost of a new door. We replace windows too. Lic. C1050, YouTube.com/user/SliderRepairs Slider Repairs 727.493.2644 TERMITES Cameron Termite & Pest Control Inspections, Treatments and Tenting Camerontermite.com 727.577.0789 TOURS & TRANSPORTATION Paradise Tours & Transportation Call us 1st for your transportation needs. We will take you where you want to go! Sightseeing tours and transportation around Tampa Bay. 727.417.8036 BATS - Bay Area Taxi Service BatsTaxi.com 727.367.3702 Free Beach Rides 727.776.7553 TUTORING Portuguese & French Tutoring Conversational-Grammar-Literature parigitropicale@gmail.com 727.301.5917 Piano lessons your home or my studio. All ages & styles, affordable, 25 years of experience. 727.688.2782 French lessons by French native All levels. Text or call 571.435.5606 Reading tutor. Certified. Grades 2-8. 1:1 Zoom or in-person. 941.962.5782 actuallylearnit.com WINDOW CLEANING See Life More Clearly, 30 yrs. exp., Residential, Commercial. Estimates are free. Call Tim 727.488.8516. CLASSIFIED ADS 10 Words 10 issues $100 20 Words 10 Issues $200 Single issue or less than 10 $2.50/word. Email: sales@paradisenewsfl.com Or call 727-363-6888.
In Maximo by the Tiki Docks! 4146 53rd Ave. S, St Petersburg, FL 33711 Single Family Home 3/2/2 with screened patio, immaculately remodeled throughout. Call me to learn more about this St. Pete Beach water view condo or a beautiful home inland! If you’re ready to sell, call for a free Market Analysis of your home. Pam Moll REALTOR COLDWELL BANKER REALTY
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ENCOURAGING WORDS
By Dennis Merritt Jones, DD
Getting To “No” You more succinctly; “There can be no friendship where there is no freedom. Friendship loves free air, and will not be fenced up in straight and narrow enclosures.”
With Valentine’s Day this month, love is in the air and it’s a good time to look at your relationship IQ.
The person who seeks all their applause from outside has their happiness in another’s keeping. – Claudius Claudianus
Once, when I was conducting a relationship class, I gave a homework assignment to each participant which required them to commit to living one full week with a strict willingness to communicate precisely what they were thinking and feeling to those with whom they had any contact. This included family, friends and even strangers. What I discovered was that many people are challenged by their ability to be completely honest and transparent in saying what they truly think to others. They are deeply conflicted between what they truly think and their desire (need) to not risk the disapproval of others. One young woman named Linda came back the next week and shared how she could really identify her need for approval and acceptance from others when she denied a request from a close friend. She reported that although it was initially uncomfortable, it turned out to be the most liberating experience she had ever known. Linda realized she had allowed herself to be held hostage in every relationship she ever had been in because she was addicted to the approval of others; her ability say “no” was MIA. Buddha taught that attachment is at the root of all suffering. I wonder how many of us allow ourselves to suffer, being held in emotional bondage (or better said, emotional blackmail) by others, not because of their demands, but because of our own attachment to being loved and fear of rejection or disapproval to a point where we couldn’t say “no.” Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “The only sin that we never forgive in each other is a difference in opinion.” William Penn said it even
Are you free to have a difference of opinion with others and express it without fear? Could you say “no” without the fear of upsetting others? And, equally, do you offer them the same freedom to say no to you without sending them on a guilt trip? If the very thought of that type of encounter makes your pulse race, perhaps it’s time to explore your ability to get to “no” others better. Where do you start? Work at becoming comfortable in knowing that beyond your egoic self (which thrives on approval from others) there lies within you the sacred presence of an Infinite power acting as your “soul” authority. While Spirit always operates with unconditional love, it never seeks approval from others. Often, saying no can be the most loving thing you can do for others and yourself. When you conduct your life with self-awareness, you’ll know that saying no to someone requires no need to apologize, sell or justify your position. Mindfully and calmly explain you are not rejecting them, only their request. The Take-Away When someone makes a request of you that does not find an authentic “yes” in your heart, simply breathe deeply and invite a conscious awareness of the Spirit within to speak for you. Let your words be filtered through that Presence and you will discover the power and grace to say “no” in a way that is kind, loving and unquestionably clear. Let nothing be incomplete in your communications today and notice how free you feel. Peace, Dennis Merritt Jones, DD
Peace, Dennis Merritt Jones, DD • Copyright © 2024 - DMJ Presentations LLC • www.DennisMerrittJones.com Dennis Merritt Jones’ vision is “Guiding People to Purpose.” He is an award-winning author of six books, a keynote speaker, and personal mentor/coach who loves living in St. Petersburg. If you would like more information regarding his availability as a speaker, his mentoring programs, and his books, please visit his website at DennisMerrittJones.com.
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FEBRUARY 2024 | ParadiseNewsFL.com
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