Paradise News Magazine - May 2023

Photo: Tony Sica

DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS

(Partial listing of Rack & Stack locations)

DOWNTOWN ST. PETERSBURG

Happy Feet Plus ReMax Metro lobby

Hollander Hotel Vinoy Hotel

Morean Art Center St. Pete Chamber

Florida CraftArt Chihuly Museum

The Hangar Sundial

Hawthorne Bottle Shop Fergs

So Chic Consignment

St. Pete City Store

TYRONE AREA

Cody’s Road House Ancient Healing

GULFPORT

Welcome Center Habana Café

Library/City Hall Gulfport Casino

Sail Market Maddy Spa

Stellas Town Shores Lobby

ISLA DEL SOL & BAYWAY ISLES

Regions Bank Island Salon

Isla Yacht & CC Patchingtons

TIERRA VERDE

Billy’s Century 21

TD Bank Mariott

Phila Deli Wong Lee’s

Tony & Nello’s Island Grille

SOUTH PASADENA

Ace Hardware Spiro’s Deli

Winn Dixie Fountains Towers

Regions Bank

PASS-A-GRILLE

Merry Pier The SeaHorse

The Wharf

Hurley Realty Suntan Art Center

Don CeSar Shaners Land-Sea Mkt

ST. PETE BEACH

Basil Leaf Basil Leaf Sushi

Nikko’s Dog Bar Sea Dog Brewery

Resort Realty Vito & Michael’s

Library/City Hall Riptides Lounge

Nori Thai Sushi Synovus Bank

Larry’s Ice Cream Odi’s Kitchen

Baird Realty Coldwell Banker RE

TBB Chamber ReMax Preferred

Gulf to Bay Bait Dolphin Landings

UPS Store 5th/3rd Bank

Skidders Dolphin Bch Resort

COREY AREA DISTRICT

Chill Restaurant SPB Post Office

Frog Pond Beach Theatre

TREASURE ISLAND

Bilmar Hotel T.I. Hardware

TI & MB Chamber Keller Williams Realty

JOHN’S PASS VILLAGE

Kilwin’s Ice Cream Spice & Tea Exchange Chamber Kiosk

MADEIRA BEACH

Waterfront Realty Post Office

Recreation Center City Hall Library

www.ParadiseNewsFL.com

Copyright: Entire contents copyright © 2023 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 & restrictions before making your purchase, understand your individual agreement prior

To

FORTIFIED™

PUBLISHERS MESSAGE

Real estate has been very good to Paradise NEWS for many years. We are proud to showcase an amazing $8.5 million Pass-a-Grille home for sale on our cover this month, along with Melinda Pletcher, the Smith & Associates realtor that, for a decade, balanced her role as city commissioner and historian for Pass-a-Grille with the rising demand for a rare commodity. Pass-a-Grille is a historic, eclectic community that was a city of its own until it merged with 3 other cities to form St. Petersburg Beach in 1957.

The Gulf Beaches Historical Museum is located in the original church on Tenth Avenue. A one-hour visit on Friday-Saturday 10am-4pm or Sunday 1-4pm can take you back 50-120 years. Read all about 1108 Pass-a-Grille Way in our centerspread, on pages 32-33.

Thanks to all who reached out about Sammy, our late, beloved rescued feline, the subject of last month’s publisher’s message. He deserved the eulogy after surviving Hurricane Katrina and 17 years as our guard cat, co-conspirator, and constant companion. We will remember him and all who died in service to our country with Memorial Day festivities at month’s end.

Paradise NEWS is packed full of information designed to help you live a better life in Paradise. If you are a newcomer, you will wonder how you ever got along without it. If you have gotten behind on your Paradise NEWS reading, summer is your chance to catch up. We publish two bimonthly editions, June/July and August/September.

Paradise NEWS magazine is the creation of a team of very talented individuals, each working remotely in lockstep with one another. Our weekly digital newsletter is sent Thursdays by our digital specialist with the top five things to do this weekend and up-to-date tidbits.

You can subscribe for free on your smart phone, tablet, or computer under This Week at www.paradisenewsfl.com and get a copy in your email the following Thursday.

You can read Paradise NEWS magazine for free online. Each new current issue usually gets posted and goes to press on the first. The last decade of Paradise NEWS issues are available through our website too. The Past Issues button is under the Current Issue tab. You can also subscribe to get 10 issues in your snail mail for under $20/year.

Advertising is the lifeblood of any magazine, and we treasure our local advertisers. If you do business with any of them, please mention “We found you in Paradise NEWS.”

If you are a businessperson, summer is a great time to advertise in Paradise NEWS

You get two months exposure for the same price as one month the rest of the year. For info about an ad campaign in print or online, please call Pete at 727-363-6888 or email sales@paradisenewsfl.com

Paradise NEWS

Volume 29 Number 5 • May 2023

PUBLISHERS

Peter Roos | Marketing & Sales sales@paradisenewsfl.com

Renee Roos | Creative Director info@paradisenewsfl.com

EDITORIAL

Nanette Wiser - Executive Editor wiser86@gmail.com

Steve Traiman - Feature Editor traimancreativecopy@gmail.com

ART & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Janet Nummi

CONTRIBUTING COLUMINISTS

Caron Schwartz - Art News / Hanging Around Buddy Baker - Arts & Leisure & Events

Dr. Dennis Merritt Jones - Encouraging Words Dr. Johnathan Pierce - Pet Health

Michael Moses - The Centre

Susan Koenig - Good Deeds

Pamela Joy Trow - Words of Joy

Danielle L. Vaughn, Esq., B.C.S., LL.M. Property Law/Vaughn Voyage

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

VisitStPeteClearwater.com

City of St. Pete • City of Madeira Beach

Visit Florida • 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 audited by U.S. Postal Service

Fall/Winter/Spring; (Monthly) Oct - May 36,000+

Summer;(Bi-monthly) June/July & Aug/Sept 30,000+

DISTRIBUTION - Mailed on “Island Time”

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, DISTRIBUTION IN RACKS & STACKS

See table of contents page for partial list of rack & stack locations. To be a distribution site, e-mail: info@paradisenewsfl.com

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ADVERTISING & SUBSCRIPTIONS

MEMBERSHIP AFFILIATIONS

Corey Area Business Association

Greater Gulfport 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

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PETER & RENEE ROOS

DRINK TO YOUR HEALTH

by Michael Moses

Since our seasonal residents and the spring breakers have left, our favorite food & beverage establishments are more readily available. Is it time you thought about taking better care of your health? In this article I point out some options for a healthier life.

I want you to know I enjoy drinking: craft beer, wine and alcohol all have a place in my heart. My uncle and a cousin were “liquor salesmen” who taught me (after my dad died) to find what works for me. “Drink it straight, neat or with ice. Stay away from mixers and sugars and always drink a glass of water after each drink.” My journey began certain single malts, bourbons and tequilas, a full-bodied red wine. I am sure you all know drinking to excess is bad. It’s harmful to our livers and our overall well-being.

Since opening TheCentre@SPB, I have been enlightened about more alternatives for well-being and balance. With meditation, yoga and micro-dosing medicinal cannabis, some clients have reduced and/or eliminated their need for medications for blood pressure, anxiety, and depression. We have also learned that different approaches work better for different folks. We have been at 7525 Blind Pass Road, next to Lenny’s SPB bike and surf shop for two and a half years. People are still popping by for the first time, some who live nearby. All are amazed at our offerings. Massage, individual and group classes for a variety of yoga and meditation techniques, belly dancing, vibrational sound relaxation and more.

Triverde health makes it as easy as possible for our clients to complete the state required doctor’s visit and application for certification. Call 727-322-4588 or visit www.thecentrespb.com for more info or to schedule.

The Centre also has a series of educational courses on how to integrate Cannabis into your life. Our Wellness Café is open daily 7am-2pm, accessible at the window on Blind Pass Road or inside after 9am. It is great-tasting, high-quality coffee, which has its own list of medicinal benefits, available with most imaginable creamer and sweetener options plus such healthy additions or coffee substitutes, as the powerful antioxidant, Turmeric.

Kava-Kava (aka Yaqona) is a beverage popular in many Polynesian Island cultures for the relaxing effect it has on the brain. Formal Yaqona ceremonies often accompany important functions, usually involving a ritual presentation of the bundled roots as a gift, and the drinking of the Kava.

Kratom is a leaf collected from a tree in the coffee family that has pain-relieving effects like opioid drugs. There are many purported medicinal uses for this substance, including serving as a natural alternative to treat depression, anxiety, addiction, diabetes, chronic pain and fatigue. Many individuals experience an increase in energy, elevations of mood, and relief from pain when using kratom. One of our longest-time members said thanks for offering kratom. His nephew was able to break his narcotics habit drinking kratom infused beverages.

There is a national trend away from alcohol and towards drinks made from such botanical sources.The Centre will soon be joining the trend, offering a botanical bar, drinks infused with CBD, Kava Kava, and Kratom, all within federal laws. Many are finding these beverages can assist in alcohol or opioid reduction and elimination who want a social buzz without the effects of alcohol, and some products are marketed as low-calorie, natural, and “hangover-free.”

Weekdays 11am-5pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-7pm

What works for you? We have a selection of top-quality, thoroughly tested, CBD products: drops, capsules, gummies and more. Some say, “it takes just a drop on a toothpick to help me get to sleep.” We even have a top-quality line of anti-anxiety products for your pets. Some feel better when a little THC is included.

Ask about our holiday and event catering!

Scan the QR Code with your smart phone to learn more about The Centre at St. Pete Beach, a medicinal marijuana-centric health, education, meeting, and event facility in the literal center of St. Pete Beach.

TIDBITS

Gulfport residents, free smoke detectors are available for elderly and low-income households within Gulfport city limits. Call 727-893-1059. City of Gulfport residential water customers are eligible for a rebate of up to $100 after the purchase and installation of a high efficiency water-saving toilet. Restrictions apply. Application and guidelines are available at mygulfport.us/ toilet-rebate-program

Alert Pinellas Emergency and Community Notification Service for Pinellas County enables the city to provide residents with critical information quickly in a variety of delivery methods. Visit mygulfport.us/alert pinellas for this free service.

Get informed to be prepared at Gulfport’s Annual Hurricane Preparedness Seminar at the Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. at 6pm Thursday, May 25. This informative seminar is free and open to the public. Attendees can enjoy a slice of pizza and a drink for $3.

Seven Florida water parks made a splash with U.S. News & World Report reviewers. The website named these watery attractions in the Sunshine State as being among the top nation’s top 36 water parks for 2023. Included in that list is Adventure Island Tampa. “Within walking distance of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the 30-acre Adventure Island water park, offering mat racing slides, corkscrews, a lazy river and more. In 2022 the park introduced two new rides: a multirider Rapids Racer and a Wahoo Remix family raft ride.”

Niche recently named Pinellas County #9 in the top 10 Florida counties to live with an overall grade of A; public schools B+, housing C+, nightlife A+, good for families A-, diversity B+ and jobs B-. Said the report card: “Pinellas County is one of the best places to live in Florida. In Pinellas County, most residents own their homes. In Pinellas County there are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. Many young professionals and retirees live in Pinellas County and residents tend to have moderate political views. The public schools in Pinellas County are above average.”

The Economist lists historian and USF St. Petersburg professor emeritus Gary Mormino’s latest nonfiction book as one of six to read about Florida! Dreams in the New Century: Instant Cities, Shattered Hopes, and Florida’s Turning Point depicts early 21st-century Florida and its connections to some of the most significant events in contemporary American history. Available at Tombolo Books and online.

Wedding and prom season is here and it’s time to get fitted for a tux or clean the one in your closet. St. Pete’s family-owned Sacino’s Formalwear “suits you” for all occasions. The local go-to since 1916 for suits, tuxes and drycleaning. Ron Sacino and his team provide 5-star customer service earning rave reviews and loyal customers. They offer dry cleaning with free pick-up and delivery to your home or office as well. Check them out at Sacino.com and SacinosCleaners.com.

In April, SPB’s Beach Memorial Chapel’s Jeff and Lisa kicked off their Cereal for Summer campaign to gather boxes of cereal for kids who count on schools to provide breakfast or lunch during the school year. Last year, Beach Memorial Chapel was third place for donations. You can drop off cereal boxes at 301 Corey Ave. during business hours.

Sea Dog Brewing Treasure Island thanked everyone who bought the Skyway 10K IPA and t-shirts in support of the 2023 Skyway 10K Race and The Armed Forces Families Foundation by presenting a $12,823 check to the members of the Armed Forces Families Foundation at a reception in late April, one of their many philanthropic efforts during the year.

“Visualize this thing that you want, see it, feel it, believe in it. Make your mental blue print, and begin to build.”

– Robert Collier

TIDBITS

habitat similar to natural oyster communities found along shoreline areas throughout Tampa Bay.

Transportation alternatives from ferries to bike shares continue to make getting around carless easy. St. Pete Beach’s Freebee provides on-demand free taxi service around the island from 6am-midnight daily up and down Gulf Blvd. Use the app, flag one down or call 855-918-3733. The SunRunner Bus between St. Pete Beach and downtown St. Pete remains free of charge through November.

The Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce has taken over the monthly “Gulfport Boulevard Block Party” as part of its ongoing efforts to promote local businesses and revitalize different areas of the city and plans to expand activities.

The Block Party started Nov. 2021, organized by independent business owners along Gulfport Blvd. to attract visitors and residents with live music, food vendors and merchants. promoting it as a must-attend monthly gathering. Said Melissa Helmbold, president of the Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce: “Our aim is to highlight other areas of Gulfport in addition to Beach Blvd.and create more opportunities for local businesses to thrive. This event is an excellent platform to showcase the diverse offerings of our city and bring the community together.”

Join in the fun May 27 11am-3pm; free street parking between 5317-5401 Gulfport Blvd. S.

he has been at the forefront of re-envisioning the art museum model by maximizing exhibition planning, fundraising opportunities and public engagement initiatives and is committed to the future of art museums and cultural organizations as diverse, equitable and inclusive institutions. Nicholson is committed to examining issues of cultural appropriation, and the interaction of Western and Indigenous artistic visions in the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries and how The James Museum can serve as a platform to ensure Indigenous voices are heard and their stories are told.

Housing Authority and a host of other partners who are supporting the new apartments at a groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, April 14.

Giving back to the community is important to Engel & Völkers St. Pete, who take on a monthly project such as Dog Beach cleanup at Fort Desoto Dog Beach and helping with oyster reef balls at MacDill AFB. Part of Tampa Bay Watch’s Community Oyster Reef Enhancement (CORE) program, the oyster reef ball program (formerly called “oyster domes”) uses reef balls to stabilize shorelines and prevent erosion while creating

Robin

An imaginative strategic thinker,

Valor Preserve, is a new fully affordable development on Lake Seminole that will provide 64 apartment homes to people with disabilities, particularly for veterans, is now under construction in Seminole. Pinellas County officials joined developer Norstar Development USA, the Pinellas County

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport hired aviation consultants C&S Companies for its $106 million terminal expansion including a second-floor boarding level and more airplane parking. The method of water treatment for Pinellas County and its wholesale customers will be temporarily modified between Monday, May 15, and Saturday, June 3. This routine maintenance measure is the first of two short-term changes from chloramine to chlorine disinfection in 2023 designed to optimize water quality. St. Pete Beach has improved and launched a new CivicClerk Public Portal with upgraded features, media and design, including better searchability and easier event upload.

Nicholson as the new executive director of The James Museum

Reimaging Tyrone Mall In April, Tyrone Square Mall and St. Petersburg Arts Alliance revealed a mural showcasing the power of art in public spaces. Called Ulele-The Spirit of St. Pete, local artist Brian McCallister created it to inspire dialogue and unite our community with art. This newest endeavor enhances the national respect for Pinellas County as an art and culture destination. The city of St. Petersburg is famous for the more than 600 murals which adorn its walls that started about a decade ago when city officials loosened a local ban on street art, instead embracing local artists and their vision of transforming St. Pete into a true arts destination.

JBM Studios is the professional art studio of Brian McAllister, an international muralist, professional artist, and arts educator based in St. Pete, Florida. A life-long artist, Brian graduated from Ringling College of Art and Design with a degree in art and has been honing his craft ever since.

Craig Badinger the new executive director of freeFall Theatre Company. Badinger succeeds Executive Director Cheryl Forchilli, long-time patron and former freeFall Board President, who served in the role for several years. With more than a decade of experience in nonprofit fundraising, Badinger began with Miami City Ballet and New York’s Martha Graham Dance Company before relocating to Florida’s Gulf Coast in 2016 and working with Sarasota’s Hermitage Artist Retreat. He first stepped into a leadership role in 2019 with Punta Gorda Symphony, then relocated to St. Petersburg where, for the past year, he had the good fortune to work with two other cornerstone institutions of this community, the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, and The Florida Orchestra.

The freeFall Theatre Company Board of Trustees has named

American Stage has a new managing director, Anthony Winter-Brown, who succeeds former managing director CJ Zygadlo who left earlier this year. He moved to Florida from London after an 18-year career in the UK, most recently working as director of visitor experience at the Royal Albert Hall Concert Hall. With a background both in hospitality and theater, he’s a welcome addition from across the pond. “I have always loved live theater ever since I was a teenager,” says Winter-Brown.

The Ultimate Seaside Paradise

Waterfront Dining

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, lunch 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.

7203 Sunset Way

St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

727.292.0282

Eatat82.com

SPIRITS

By Nanette Wiser

HORSEY COCKTAILS

Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails is hosting their Fifth Annual Kentucky Derby Formal 5/6 4-8pm with the Run for the Roses live, an oyster pop up bar, live music, mint juleps and prizes for best hat and outfit. The Mint Julep has been the traditional beverage of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century. Each year, almost 120,000 Mint Juleps are served over the two-day period of Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby weekend at Churchill Downs Racetrack. That’s a feat that requires more than 10,000 bottles of Old Forester Mint Julep Ready-to-Serve Cocktail, 1,000 pounds of freshly harvested mint and 60,000 pounds of ice. It’s easy to make at home. Ingredients: 3 oz. Old Forester Mint Julep, 0.75 oz. simple syrup, 8-10 mint leaves and 3 mint sprigs for garnish. Directions: Pack mint julep cup with crushed ice. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, syrup, and mint leaves. Lightly bruise mint leaves with a muddler, strain contents into julep cup. Garnish with 3 generous sprigs of mint. *Make sure to slap mint and insert straw into ice near mint.

SPRITZ ME The popular Italian Spritz (three parts prosecco, two parts bitter liqueur (Aperol or Campari) and one part soda morphs as you travel through Italy. Spring cocktail trends of botanical/floral flavor and low ABV characterize the spritz. Try The Hugo Spritz for a taste of the season. This aperitif is made with elderflower cordial in northern Italy and is a lovely addition to your Mother’s Day (or any weekend) brunch. I like LaMarca Prosecco best for a spritz. For more ideas, check out Spritz: Italy’s Most Iconic Aperitivo Cocktail by Talia Baiocchi/Leslie Pariseau. Ingredients: 1/2-ounce St-Germain elderflower, 1 sprig mint, 4 oz. chilled prosecco, 1 oz chilled club soda and a mint sprig and lemon wheel for garnish. Directions: Add the St. Germain and mint sprig into a wine glass. Muddle and let sit for three minutes. Add ice, prosecco, and soda water; stir briefly and gently to combine.

BLOOMING BEERS

Fruit beer represents a beverage that is prepared by blending and fermenting various malt-scented fruits, such as raspberries, plums, blueberries, strawberries, and cherries, with additional extracts, syrups, flavorings, and spices. Local craft beers are seasonal but there’s at least one fruity brew at Mad Beach Brewing (Passionfruit or Strawberry Hard Cider), Rapp Brewing (Mango Habanero, Blueberry Donut), Arkane Aleworks (Cherry Poppa Gose, Pineapple Dreams) and more.

Indulge your taste buds in one of our three restaurants just steps away from St. Pete Beach!

hurchhill

LIVE LIFE BETTER

WORDS OF JOY For Pamela Joy Trow, creating art for those who live colorful lives is easy. From greeting cards to prints, shower curtains to coffee cups, her whimsical designs celebrate nature and her other passions which include growing sensational orchids. She was just selected by Creative Pinellas and Pinellas County as one of a handful of artists for the ARTWorks Signal Box Project. Look for her designs on a box near you! pamelajoytrow.com

This month’s inspiration is “Butterfly Garden,” and she encourages everyone to add plants that sustain and attract bees and butterflies. “Although ‘Butterfly Garden’ doesn’t use anthropomorphosis (a mouthful, huh?), I use it in many of my works,” says Trow. Anthropomorphosis is when we give human characteristics to objects and non-human entities such as gods and animals. According to ‘Psychology Today’ attributing human intent to non-human animals, spirits, robots, or other entities, real or imagined, is one way people make sense of the behaviors and events they encounter. It’s a form of communication. I naturally lean toward creating animal ‘humans’ in my art because the symbolism conveys the messages suggested in my work. So, when my art is animals as animals, hopefully, you’ve seen my other work giving animals human traits. When I get so literal with animals, it expresses my love for animals and my respect for nature. Animals do not lie, do not hate, they do not seek revenge, or treat humans any differently based on personality. They follow their inherent nature. I hope my art reflects the desire to revere them.”

By Nanette Wiser

MOTHER OCEAN Greeting the sunrise with a yoga pose and the sunset with photo is part of living in Paradise. And lucky for us, proximity to the seawater creates a sense of tranquility and harmony. More than 70% of the Earth is water and more than 60% of our bodies consists of this fluid of life, so it re-energizes our mind, body, and spirit. So do the ocean’s gifts (salt, algae, mud, and minerals), so apparent to those who enjoy sea-sonal spa treatments.

The ancient Greeks praised the ocean’s health benefits and thalassotherapy” comes from the Greek words Thalassa or sea. Hippocrates recommended sea baths for those who suffered from rheumatism and sciatica. In 1865, French doctor Jacques de la Bonnardière rediscovered the importance of sea therapy and promoted it as a cure for mental and physical ailments.

Today, thalassotherapy is offered in many wellness centers from saltwater baths to algae and mud treatments. Pollen allergies and even asthma can improve after a few days spent near the ocean. The salty ocean breeze takes on a healing role as it cleans up the mucous membranes in the nose and the sinuses, destroys allergens, and soothes inflammation.

SPRING DETOX Motivated by Florida’s fresh veggies in the weekly markets from Tuesday Gulfport to Sunday Corey Avenue, it’s time to up your plant-based diet game with two easy-to-use devices. I love sprouting seeds and beans in a quart glass jar with a mesh lid so you to rinse your seeds. To sprout seeds, grains, or beans, soak them overnight, then rinse once or twice daily for about five days (larger beans and grains can take a day longer). Spiralizers are fun, turning zucchini, squash, and carrots into pasta-shaped goodies, best topped with a protein-rich nut sauce and olive oil.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

By Nanette Wiser

Warmer weather approaches and summer is prime time for insects here in Florida. Bugs, including mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and flies, can spread diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and Lyme. While some cases are mild, these diseases can be severe and have lasting consequences. The Anopheles mosquito is far and away the deadliest of dangerous insects. The parasite injected from the bite of this tiny creature causes more deaths and illnesses than the bite or sting of any other insect.

The fire ant is also a pesky, painful critter and may cause an extreme allergic reaction that requires a doctor. If bit, wash the affected skin with soap and cold water. Taking an oral antihistamine (an allergy medication, such as Benadryl®) may help the itchiness as well as applying hydrocortisone cream on the affected skin as needed.

To reduce mosquito bites, don’t go outdoors at dawn or dusk. If you are bit, wash the area with soap and water, apply an ice pack for 10 minutes to reduce swelling and itching and use an over-the-counter anti-itch or antihistamine cream.

Ticks can be found throughout the year in Florida, and both nymphs and adults can transmit any diseases they carry. Quick removal of ticks and prevention of tick bites are both important. To remove a tick, grasp it on its mouthparts with tweezers and pull it straight out with firm pressure. Avoid walking in brush or touching plants; remember your pet can pick up a tick on a hike too. The Gulf Coast tick disease symptoms include soreness, fever, fatigues, headaches, muscle pain, and general rash.

Spring is a good time to begin bug prevention and mosquito-proof your patio and outdoor area. Eliminate water-logged bromeliads, water-filled containers, and other places where mosquitos can breed. Repair screens and consider using no-see ‘em mesh. Be sure gutters are unclogged and roof low spots addressed. Put a lid on your rain barrel when it’s not pouring.

Citronella, lemongrass, sweet orange, lemon eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, and cinnamon are just a few of the oils known to repel biting bugs. Bug zappers seem clever, but they kill helpful insects as well. An oscillating fan on your patio seems to reduce mosquito bites. Consider growing pest-repelling plants, an eco-friendly way to get rid of bugs. Some of the best plants to grow are lavender, marigolds, sage, rosemary, tulsi, garlic, and peppermint.

“It started out as a normal outing. My wife and I had to run to the grocery store. We were driving down the road casually going over our shopping list when the car ahead of me started to slow down anticipating the yellow light. I started to move my foot from the gas to the brake as any normal person would do when they see brake lights in front of them, but I couldn’t feel my foot. The car kept moving forward and I just couldn’t get my foot on the brake. And CRUNCH! I finally came to a stop when I hit the car in front of me.”

This tragic story was shared with us by John S., a Tampa Bay area resident who has peripheral neuropathy. While no one was hurt in this accident, John S. had suffered almost every day of his life with tingling and burning in his feet until numbness set in and he could no longer feel even the brake pedal beneath his foot.

“Typically, the first stage is pain,” shares Dr. Rebecca Gibbons of AAIM–Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine. “You feel burning, tingling, sharp pains, or you feel like you’re walking on tacks or marbles. This pain eventually subsides and the numbness sets in. Unfortunately, the numbness brings with it a whole other host of problems.”

It is terribly common that peripheral neuropathy and its debilitating symptoms interfere with a person’s ability to live their life. Dan was reliant on his wife to drive him around, even the simple pleasure of cruising down Gulf Boulevard or taking her out to dinner was outside his capabilities. Even more common, Dan’s general practitioner and several specialists told him there was nothing they could do other than prescribe him pills that would ease the pain of his neuropathy.

That’s where Dr. Gibbons and her staff at AIM come in. “About 75% of our current patients come to us suffering from the same condition as John,” says Dr. Gibbons. “They’re in constant pain from neuropathy and it prevents them from not only living their lives but more importantly, it prevents them from enjoying it. Depending on the severity of their nerve damage, we typically see tremendous progress in 3-4 months of treatment. I like to say we’re in the business of making your golden years golden.”

“I can’t lie,” admits John “I was skeptical at first, but I had run out of options. Nothing else was helping but after about four months into treatment, I was confidently able to drive myself to Publix and to my appointments. Dr. Gibbons gave me my life back.”

Dr. Gibbons and her staff specialize in treating chronic pain, complicated neurological conditions and autoimmune diseases that leave other professionals scratching their heads. For more information about Dr. Gibbons and what she treats, visit ACHIEVEACUIM.COM.

Ready to schedule? Call (727) 272-3587 for a comprehensive consultation today.

PET HEALTH

the bones from sliding either forwards or backwards. The “cranial” cruciate ligament bears the brunt of the load, preventing forward motion of the bottom bone (the tibia). When it is ruptured, the tibia wants to slide forward creating significant instability in the joint when your dog puts weight on its hind leg. This isn’t necessarily painful aside from the initial rupture unless structures like the meniscus are torn and get “pinched” in the joint.

Hind Limb Lameness

Say your dog was at the park and was enjoying his/her freedom. Nothing too rough or too crazy but all of a sudden there is a yip and your dog is holding up its hind leg. Or maybe your dog was outside, and nothing seemed to have happened and now he/she is limping or holding up the hind leg. Hind limb lameness is the most common lameness veterinarians see. It’s commonly associated with cranial cruciate ligament rupture, known as the ACL in people.

The knee is held together by tendons and ligaments by design. It is literally a bone sitting on top of a bone, lashed together to form the knee joint. The cruciate ligaments are two small rope-like structures that prevent

It is important to have your dog evaluated for the lameness and tested for instability in the joint. This instability will lead to arthritis very quickly. If surgery is the best option, two most common ways to re-stabilize the joint and prevent development of arthritis are extra-capsular fixation and TPLO. Extra-capsular fixation is where a suture or fiber rope/wire are placed outside of the joint capsule to replace the stability that the ligament normally would provide. A TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy) is a geometry altering procedure where the flat portion of bone is rotated to change the angle of the slope of the femur (the top bone) to prevent the tibia from sliding.

Extra-capsular fixation is reserved for small to medium sized dogs. TPLOs tend to have a lower rate of complications, faster recovery

and can be used in most sizes and breeds. This is especially important for athletic or working dogs, as they are more likely to be able to return to enjoying close to if not full athleticism.

It is important to have your pet seen by your veterinarian soon after the injury. The longer the issue goes unchecked, the higher the likelihood of further injury and arthritis.

Island Life Animal Hospital

Dr. Danielle Gallo

Dr. Johnathan Pierce 5901 Sun Blvd., Suite 107 Saint Petersburg, FL 33715 727-289-3776

islandlifeanimalhospital.vet

“...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...”

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 both board-certified and fellowship-trained in facial cosmetic surgery and offers the latest and most trusted cosmetic services including laser, injectibles, eye rejuvenation, wrinkle treatments, CoolSculpting™, HydraFacials, microneedling with PRP and more.

FACE INJECTABLES LASER AESTHETIC BODY

Extraordinary care isn’t the exception. It’s what we provide every day.

At St. Anthony’s Hospital, you get personalized, quality health care from a compassionate, experienced team. One of BayCare’s founding hospitals, we have the support of the entire BayCare network, which means a hospital and health care system that’s dedicated to improving the health of our community. St. Anthony’s Hospital is considered a center of excellence, with comprehensive cancer services, neurosciences, orthopedics, bariatrics and cardiovascular care. We do our best to give you the extraordinary care you deserve.

Learn more: StAnthonys.org

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ALL CDC GUIDELINES FOLLOWED, PLUS SOCIAL DISTANCING

By Nanette Wiser

Mark June 10th 8am-5pm on your calendar to help collect trash and debris…and even win prizes during the annual St. Pete Ocean Sweep Trash Collection Tournament. Participation is free. The event begins at 8am. Weigh-ins start at 12:30pm and run until 2:30pm at Crabby’s on the Pass in Treasure Island. An awards ceremony, auction and free lunch will follow the event at Crabby’s on the Pass. Proceeds from the auction benefit Camp Coral SCUBA Camp scholarships.

The Ocean Sweep tournaments are a team cleanup competition for prizes with youth categories. The cleanup will focus on the area’s intracoastal waterways, mangroves, beaches, and parks, as well as a dive cleanup of the bay floor. You must register your team at WaterWarriorAlliance.org. There are several prize categories. They include the most unique item, total weight, the most single-use items, and the most abandoned anchors retrieved for divers. Interested teams should attend a Captain’s meeting 6/8 from 5pm at Crabby’s on the Pass.

Last year, the Ocean Sweep Trash Collection Tournaments helped recover tons of debris from Tampa and this year’s tournament is hosted by Water Warrior Alliance. Also supporting the event are Gulfport Dive Center (free charters and SCUBA gear), Freedom Boat Club (providing vessel support) and Repair the Seas (creating the Captain trophies from upcycled plastic bottles).

You can still be a sponsor for this event by making a donation, tournament prizes or providing giveaways for the volunteers (t-shirts, reusable cups, sunblock, sanitizer, fishing or dive swag, beach goodies, sunglasses, etc.) Want to do more all year round? Become a part of the solution to plastic pollution and join The Water Warrior Alliance in removing debris from our waters.

P.S. Keep Pinellas Beautiful recently named Water Warrior Alliance founder Jenna Byrne “Adoption Volunteer of the Year.” As part of her organization’s impact, Jenna has adopted two Watergoats, aquatic litter-catching devices, in partnership with KPB and is responsible for keeping them free of trash. Over the last year, she has done 23 cleanups events with 155 volunteers. These volunteers worked 381 hours and filled 398 bags of trash totaling 3,772 pounds.

HOME DESIGN

Looking for quality construction with a woman’s touch? Award winning contractor Susanne Van Selow, owner of Van Selow Design Build, L.L.C. started her clientfocused company in 2004. “I learned from working with others that there was a better way to build,” says the Seminole resident. “First, I listen carefully to my customer’s needs. I communicate the process and review the materials and design/renovation plan and what it entails with them every step of the way, from initial meeting to completion.”

Whether a client chooses Van Selow Design for a kitchen or bathroom remodel, or new construction, Susanne’s expertise, experienced contractors, and time-tested project management win rave reviews.

Said one satisfied client: “I hired Van Selow Design Build to do a complete remodel my master bath. Susanne Van Selow was a true professional throughout the process and a pleasure to work with. The cost of the job was comparable to other licensed contrac-

By Nanette Wiser

tors in the area and the completed project is beautiful. I am very pleased with the outcome. Susanne listens to her clients and strives to meet their needs. She is very detail-oriented and works hard to find creative solutions in every situation. She is always present and stays in constant communication. She provides quality work and is a highly ethical individual.”

Originally from Napa, Susanne started designing in high school and moved to Florida. Designing at a desk for 13 years, she decided to get her contractor’s license in 2004 and sees being a woman contractor as an advantage, especially for female clients. “I try to get to know the client first and look at the space for functionality and wasted space. Do we need to add storage? Does the client like to cook and do they want top-of-the line appliances within easy reach or just a fancy kitchen for entertaining?” says Susanne.

What’s trending in kitchen these days? “The kitchen is the heart of the home.

We’re seeing white cabinets, flat islands with countertop bar stools, stainless steel, glass windows on refrigerators and smart kitchens, from sensor lighting to appliances that can turn on with your phone,” says Susanne. As a Master Kitchen and Bath Certified remodeler, Susanne says her success is based on trust and hard work. “The final product is my calling card; when clients say, ‘Wow look at my kitchen’ and are in love with the redesign, I’m happy.”

Schedule a free consultation today! 727-391-2959 • info@vanselowdesign.com www.vanselordesign.com

B) 5 Sushi Salmon, 6 California Salmon, Avocado, Edamame, House Salad

F) 6 California Tuna Avocado, 6 California Crab Avocado, 6 California Salmon Avocado, Edamame House Salad

SPICY HAWAIIAN AHI POKE BOWL RAMEN SHOYU

Flit like a butterfly, embracing change and new activities as you emerge from your winter chrysalis. Discover paradise in Pinellas with these excursions.

EXPLORE SELF-CARE It’s time to book a massage, facial or rejuvenating spa treatment for a new you and slather on that sunscreen when walking or beach bumming. Check out Sage Wellness Spa, Spa Oceana @The Don CeSar, Sandpearl Spa, Sandava Spa @The Hyatt Regency, Pallavi Spa, Harmony Eco Spa, Woodhouse Spa, Rejuvenation Station and the new MedSpa at Coundouritis Facial Plastic Surgery and Laser Center. Looking to meditate? Check out the Second Saturday @ 10am with free Morean-member yoga in the Chihuly Zen Garden hosted by Hobie Long, an all-levels flow with a singing crystal bowl meditation to top it off.

FUR-EVER FRIENDS If you’re not ready for a pet, you can still experience the healing joy of hanging out with animals. Visit a local pet rescue or animal shelter with some donations (old towels, blankets, toys, food, money) and enjoy petting a cat, dog or bunny. Feeling the love? Consider becoming a foster parent to a kitty, puppy or guinea pig. Check out Pet Pal Animal Shelter, Friend of Strays, Humane Society of Pinellas, Save Our Strays, SPCA of Tampa Bay and others. We love our four-legged farm friends too, especially goats (yoga at DK Farms) and horses (Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures).

UNLEASH YOUR INNER ARTIST Choose from oodles of creative classes for adults, teens and kids at local libraries and craft stores. At the Morean Arts Center, Glass Center and Center for Clay, you can learn photography, drawing, glass blowing, clay, jewelry making, printmaking and more. moreanartscenter.org At the Suntan Art Center, take a class in watercolor, acrylic, oils, photography, crafts, glass fusion, yoga and more. suntanart.org/art-center

DANCE DIVAS Whether it’s Wednesday with Fiona Frensch at Elizabeth’s Wine Bar or Latin dancing at Gulfport Casino Ballroom, it’s time to shake your booty. OCC Roadhouse offers country western line dancing Wednesday and Corinne Rungo’s monthly dance parties and classes (ChaCha, Rumba, Salsa, Tango, Bachata, Bolero, Waltz) are legendary, now at The Clearwater Dance Depot. rungodance.com

Do Your Hurricane Shutters Need Some TLC?

Many of us moved here for the warm winter weather. The view from the windows is a bonus.

While year-round and seasonal residents appreciate the protection that storm shutters provide, they can be forgotten while the salt air takes its inevitable toll on them

The Shutterman has been in business ten years, specializing in servicing accordion and

Bahaman hurricane shutters. The business is insured and prepared for risky work including shutter removal and replacement.

Outstanding Shutter Maintenance, Repair and Cleaning

Shutter Man Is highly regarded by local residential, commercial, and industrial clients alike for our professionalism, integrity, and commitment to excellence. Their team goes the extra mile to provide superior solutions and superb results.

Protect Your Investment

The old saying goes “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” If your shutter warranty has expired, don’t worry, The Shutterman is in the area. He can inspect and lubricate your shutters to help prevent problems.

If problems already exist, they can definitely help with that too. For storm shutter sales and installation, maintenance, repair, or removal solution today, visit their website at www.TheShuttermanFL.com,

or call

NOW!

The Shutterman also installs and maintains roll down screens. Feel free to inquire.

SAY IT WITH SILK We have always loved going to Villa Gallace for dinner with family and over the years have become friends with Luigi and family. His amazing daughter Amanda Gallace has returned from working as a nurse in NYC during the pandemic (and helping in Ukraine) to pursue her dream of acting in Los Angeles (she was a safety officer on Manhattan film sets) and launching her artistic silk scarf line.

We caught up with Amanda in the Coffee Mill. “I wanted to follow up and share how I was inspired to start Morning Light. My family means a lot to me and my grandma especially has influenced me tremendously. In December 2021, my grandma passed away and I inherited many of her beautiful silk scarves. I have memories of my grandma playing dress up with me, wrapping her silk scarves in my hair as we would play and dance together,” recalls Amanda fondly.

“She was from Spain and so full of life; she was a mom of six, was an artist,

was so fashionable, and was always dancing. As an adult, I loved to wear those same scarves and I’d love to imagine the memories she made in them as I now got to live the story of my life in them, too.”

Amanda set her goals high for her scarf line: “Quality is important to me, and to honor my Italian roots, I found a wonderful family-run company in Italy to manufacture the scarves.”

Her art celebrates light, color, and adventure. Says Amanda: “I want the brand of Morning Light to symbolize a renewal; every morning is a new opportunity to become the person you’re created to be.

Each day is a new chance to live your unique story, love others well, and create the legacy you want to leave behind.”

As a final homage to her grandma, Amanda gathered cards and letters her grandma had written over the years and digitized her handwriting to spell out “Morning Light” which is on each scarf. InMorningLight.com

BOUTIQUE BUZZ If you haven’t checked out Canvas (“Fashion is art and you are the canvas.” – Coco Chanel) at 1535 Fourth St. N for shoes, accessories, dresses, rompers and more, you are missing out. Shop online too. Shopcanvas.com

DINING

RESTAURANT NEWS Three Tampa restaurants were named to the prestigious Michelin Guide 2023 Florida edition: Lilac, Ponte, and Noble Rice. Eight Miami and eight Orlando restaurants were also added to the new Florida edition. Congrats to Flute & Dram on their five-year anniversary, still one of downtown St. Pete’s best Beach Dr. restos to eat, drink and be merry with music. St. Pete Beach’s Thai Basil now serving an all-you-can eat buffet Tues.-Wed. for only $40/person. Intermezzo Coffee and Cocktails is moving to the former Independent Bar space at 1049 Central Ave. a block away, as their space will be the site of a new hotel development. In Gulfport, enjoy charcuterie and chardonnay at the Wine House, taking over the Backfin Blue Café space.

THE BIG CATCH AT SALT CREEK

Come by boat or car to this old-Florida-vibe waterfront bar and restaurant in DTSP that features live music (Tues., Thurs., Fri-Sun.), Monday trivia nights from 7-9pm and Wed. open mike night. Serving brunch, lunch, and dinner, this is the spot for seafood especially the coconut shrimp with house citrus glaze, smoked mullet fish spread, seafood nachos or chowder, mahi tacos, shrimp po’boy and entrees (balsamic-glazed salmon, grouper, shrimp boil, red snapper, shrimp and grits).

By Nanette Wiser

DATZ FANTASTIC! From the Datchos to the bacon-jalapeno mac n’ cheese, we love this kooky foodie haven. It’s a number one fave for crispy chicken wings, tossed in Korean BBQ sauce and topped with green onions and chopped peanuts. Save room for the Horse Soldier bourbon chocolate cake; a portion of the proceeds supports veterans’ groups.

DOC FORD’S RUM BAR & GRILLE

This Jungle Terrace waterfront restaurant and bar is a huge hit and a taste of Mexico and the Keys. With live music daily starting at noon (with a break to change out artists), the craft cocktails (mojito madness), craft brews and generous, mouthwatering appetizers, sandwiches, flatbreads, and entrees are spectacular. Share some appetizers (shrimp ceviche, black bean dip, steamed mussels, Caribbean jerk chicken tostados) or dive into the Sanibel cheesesteak, spinach and artichoke flatbread, Southwestern Cobb with blackened chicken, or achiote redfish bowl or seafood paella. The dry rubbed ribeye and Danish baby back ribs with house slaw or banana leaf snapper are best of show. Visit the gift shop for Randy Wayne White’s books and keepsakes. Come by boat or car, ample parking.

GRATZZI ITALIAN GRILLE Chef/owner

Tony serves my favorite regional favorites, from Naples’ eggplant rollatini with homemade ricotta to the clam posillipo steamed in a garlic tomato broth or the Sicilian swordfish carpaccio and baby whole artichokes stuffed with herbed mascarpone and goat cheese with an Asiago cream sauce. I swooned over the gnocchi publiese handmade potato pasta with crispy pancetta, cremini, and porcini mushrooms, fire-roasted tomatoes, peas, roasted chicken in an Asiago cheese sauce and the Chilean sea bass pan-seared with scallops, basil, capers, broccolini in a garlic tomato sauce. The side salad is beautifully displayed and the wine list extraordinary. Reservations suggested.

UNCLE FUNZ If you loved Z Grille downtown (which closed in 2017), then you will adore Zack and Jennifer Gross’s new restaurant and gift shop. Now open at 6630 Gulf Blvd. in St. Pete Beach, TBT named them one of the 15 BEST restos. The menu changes every Wednesday from these culinary imagineers serving gourmet dishes. Says Jennifer: “We always have sandwiches, salads and sides that include pickled items, dips & spreads – all homemade by my husband.” We loved the smoked chipotle chicken salad sandwich, pimento cheese, jalapeno hummus and wild mushroom sandwich with goat cheese spread. Take home charcuterie supplies, knives, flowers, salt blend and gourmet chocolates from the shop. Follow them on Instagram @unclefunz.

G ratzzi

talian

rille uncle funz

Enjoy Breakfast With A View

Wake up and smell the Kahwa coffee wafting from Treasure Island’s Sea Dog Brewing Co., where locals and visitors gather for scrumptious breakfasts, mimosas, tasty Blood Marys, and a panoramic water view. There’s even a kids’ breakfast menu.

Get eggs-actly your favorite wake-up dish, whether it’s a country breakfast (two eggs, breakfast potato or fruit and choice of applewood bacon or sausage served with toast), a 10 oz. sirloin steak and eggs or the eggs benedict with Canadian bacon and citrus Hollandaise sauce. Or nibble a taste of New England with the lobster benedict, tender chunks of lobster meat warmed in drawn butter.

If you love Mexican food, the breakfast burrito is a wow with scrambled eggs, peppers, onions, potatoes, bacon, and pepper jack cheese. Looking for a Southern style favorite? We love shrimp and grits in a seafood cream sauce with house smoked pork belly, bell pepper, green onion, and cheese grits. Biscuits and homemade sausage gravy star in two entrees, Big Momma’s buttermilk biscuits smothered in gravy and the breakfast bowl (biscuit, potatoes, sausage gravy and choice of bacon or sausage with eggs your way). Or dive into the crisp vanilla malted waffle and fried chicken, served with pure Vermont syrup or the Belgian waffle topped with fresh berries.

Want lunch for breakfast? Look no further than Sea Dog’s satisfying Sunrise Sammy or Avocado Toast with eggs and applewood bacon or the half-pound

Hangover Cheeseburger topped with bourbon bacon jam.

Sea Dog has three waterfront bars (two upstairs, one downstairs), dozens of specialty cocktails and rotating taps that change monthly featuring Sea Dog and Shipyard beers as well as local craft brews. In addition to multiple big screen TVs, there are family games and pool tables to amuse kids of all ages and a children’s menu. The downstairs patio is pet-friendly for dogs on leashes. Free parking. Come by boat (11 docks) or car!

Like them on social to find out about the Mug Club, special events and promotions, including Mother’s Day brunch. Breakfast Mon.-Thurs. 8-11am.; Fri.-Sun. 8am-1pm. Lunch & Dinner Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm; Fri.-Sat. 11am-11pm; Sun. 11am-9pm Happy Hour Mon.-Fri. 2-6pm.

2 FOR 1 BLOODY

combined with any other offer or special. Expires 6/30/23.

COOKING CORNER

Barbecue has gone global. Whether you are a pulled pork mustard-based fan or brisket in vinegar-based sauce, as long as it is smoked its BBQ. Korean influences are trending (think pulled pork sandwich with gochujang spicy pepper paste and kimchi slaw, the kind you get at Clear Sky).

In addition to Asian influences, check out Brazilian churrasco, Argentinian asado flank steak with chimichurri sauce, Indian tandoori chicken and Turkish shish kebabs. For dining out on great BBQ, I love the ribs at Cody’s and Sonny’s, Sea Dog Brewing, Urban Brew & BBQ, Dunedin Smokehouse, and the Sunday Market on Corey Ave. Are you ready to fire up your Green Egg, Weber or electric grill (that now smoke food too)? In addition to fusion flavors, rotisserie grilling is prime time and multi-function grills are a must for the outdoor kitchen set.

Stop in at Shaner’s Meat Market and pick up the meat or chicken. Do a Texas rub (salt and pepper, tomato-based or other regional sauces: Kansas City, Carolina, or Memphis. Vegan options are popular such as grilled corn with soy sauce and mirin, cauliflower steaks and veggie skewers. Experiment with gourmet flavored BBQ sauces (mango, chipotle, pineapple).

By Nanette Wiser

GRILLED SUMMER SQUASH

3 pounds summer squash

2 T lemon juice

3 T olive oil

Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper

2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese

4 tsp. chopped fresh mint leaves

Instructions Slice the squash. Place the lemon juice in a medium bowl and whisk in the olive oil in a slow stream until combined. Season with salt and pepper, then add half of the dressing to the bowl of squash, season generously with salt and pepper again, toss to combine, and set aside. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to high (about 450°F to 550°F).

When the grill is ready, use a slotted spoon to place the squash on the grill. Reserve the large bowl and any remaining dressing in it. Cook the squash uncovered, turning occasionally, until charred in spots and crisp-tender, about 7 to 8 minutes total. Return the grilled squash to the large bowl, add the remaining half of the dressing, and toss until evenly coated. Let the squash cool until just warm or room temperature, about 15 minutes. Add the feta and mint and stir to combine. Taste and season with more salt and pepper as needed.

All You Can Eat

by Peter Roos

When we relocated to Florida, we found Thai and Japanese flavors easily pleased the tastes we had developed for Asian foods. In St. Pete Beach we found two of our all-time favorites, Nori Thai and Basil Leaf. As soon as we ventured away from their amazing, familiar, sweet & sour sauce w/fried rice, we were caught up in the delicious aromas and flavors of the curries, Pad Thai, Spicy Basil and homemade three-flavor sauce. If you have not been there, you should treat yourselves. These two establishments are just a mile apart and serve slightly different markets. Nori Thai is at 7612 Blind Pass Road almost across from Mastry’s Brewing Co. They open for dinner every day and lunch weekdays with a siesta 2:30-4:30pm.

Basil Leaf, at 6395 Gulf Blvd. across from the Post Card Inn, is open noon–10pm, every day. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from noon until 8pm, there is a new optional dine-in only, All You Can Eat Thai & Sushi Menu ($40 + 18% tip). Select from six appetizers, sushi (including six favorite special rolls), Tempura, Teriyaki, plus Fried Rice, Pad Thai, Red Curry, or Green Curry, all with your choice of pork, beef, chicken, tofu or vegetables. Eat all you can, but no take home.

If you want food at home, or in your hotel, both restaurants are also experts at to-go orders. Call Nori Thai 727-367-6535 or Basil Leaf 727-360-4000.

AsCEO/President of Pinellas County’s Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, Steve Hayes’ role is to lead the organization responsible for marketing St. Pete/Clearwater to all potential visitors – locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. He was happy to return to the area both personally and professionally.

Hayes told Paradise NEWS, “Seeing the smile on my wife’s face when she learned that there could be an opportunity to come back to this area of Florida. In all seriousness, I was extremely interested in this role because of my deep-rooted history representing the region, combined with my desire to work in a dynamic industry with a standout team.”

Prior to coming to St. Pete/Clearwater in December 2019, Hayes served as the president of Visit Pensacola, the official destination organization for Pensacola/Escambia County, from 2013-2019.

Steve began his career in the tourism industry in 1985 with the Greater Peoria Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, joined Visit Tampa Bay in 1987 where he worked in sales and marketing roles

Steve Hayes, President/CEO

Visit St. Pete/Clearwater

By STEVE TRAIMAN | Photos Visit St. Pete/Clearwater

prior to becoming executive vice president in 1999. Hayes’ experience in tourism, and his successes, are numerous. He created a five-agency consortium called Showcase Pensacola to work collaboratively to help Visit Pensacola position the community as a travel destination. He contributed to the development of successful bids to host the 2012 Republican National Convention and Super Bowl XXXV in 2009 in Tampa. In 1999, he was named one of the Top 100 Marketers for his innovative marketing approach to summer travel generation and his team was recognized with seven awards for the company’s first sustained advertising campaign.

Hayes is active in several national organizations including the United States Travel Association where he serves on the Board of Directors as well as the Board of Advisors of the Destinations Council as well as active in Destinations Florida, Visit Florida and Destinations International.

Steve is married to Mary Hayes, a director of global accounts with HelmsBriscoe, the global leader in meeting procurement. They have two children – a daughter, Madison (second grade teacher in Tallahassee) and Jon, (junior at Florida State University).

For Paradise NEWS, Hayes shared his exciting and inspirational vision for Pinellas County. Locals know that tourism is the lifeblood of our community, bringing both jobs and national/international recognition.

Visitors generate $10 billion+ in local economic impact, setting records in 2022-23. Thanks to their efforts, Hayes and his team’s promotions for our county have garnered national accolades for arts, culture, entertainment, best beaches, diversity and so much more.

Here’s a glimpse of what this Mover & Shaker is doing at visitstpeteclearwater.com.

What do you think are Pinellas County’s biggest opportunities?

In the tourism space, I think our biggest opportunities are enhancing our storytelling that showcases the diversity of our communities. From St. Pete’s cultural scene and Gulfport’s funky art vibe to Dunedin’s “beer-muda” triangle, we offer so much in one destination and it often surprises visitors when they learn more.

What do you think are Pinellas County’s biggest challenges?

Refreshing what we have while keeping our uniqueness that we’ve been known for over the last multiple decades.

What do you hope to accomplish or what is your focus on – key programs, events, etc.?

My goal is to build upon the already established brand that is Visit St. Pete/Clearwater. By doing so, we are fulfilling our goal of supporting the hospitality workers that serve the tourism industry, while increasing a visitor’s spend – ultimately impacting the small business community. In terms of key programs, communicating the value that tourism provides to our communities and residents. In addition, focusing our efforts on promoting the diversity within the destination and enhancing our storytelling on the unique offerings we are afforded.

How will these new or expanded projects make a difference in the community?

As our communities evolve and add destination attractors, it gives us a chance to reinforce our story, provides more reasons to visit or to come back, and increase visitor’s spend in our destination –impacting our local economy.

What do you love about living in Paradise?

My wife and I like the diversity of our neighborhood, variety of places to go eat and activities to do. Our list of places to eat, things to do just keeps growing! I love getting out to explore the outdoors – not only are we home to award-winning beaches, but I have a fondness for our parks. I always find time to take in local events, it gives me an opportunity to see communities from a different perspective. I enjoy soccer, biking, golf, travel and reading when I get the chance.

Clearwater Beach and Pass-a-Grille rank high on the country’s top beaches in national surveys.

Family-oriented hotels & resorts are typified by iconic Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach.Beach.

The world-renowned Dali Museum in St. Pete is just one of many family cultural attractions.

Steve Traiman is president of Creative Copy by Steve Traiman; he offers freelance business writing services. Contact him at traimancreativecopy@gmail.com

Picturesque 1103 Gulf Way

You will fall in love with this classic but modern coastal single-family home and compound, the ultimate beachfront retreat designed specifically to relax and reconnect with a 5-Star Experience. It’s perfect for a dinner party or your next family reunion. Priced at $8.5 million, this designer 4,950 square foot home features five beds and five and ½ baths on a 8,233 square foot lot.

You’ll be dazzled by the thoughtful details resonating throughout. The interior spaces are generous, the outdoor spaces are tremendous, and the surrounding area creates a perfect setting for private parties or lounging by the pool with a book. This luxurious one-of-a kind home is on a double beachfront lot overlooking the sand, so you have lots of privacy in a quiet, luxurious neighborhood with the best sunset views on the Gulf.

The current owners spared no expense with renovation; they hired an incredible team of architects, designers, and builders to facilitate a whole house renovation and an extensive addition in 2015. Bright and airy, with high ceilings and 14 breathtaking rooms so everyone can enjoy private diversions, it features a basement with crawl space, game/recreation room, family room,

By Nanette Wiser | Photos Tony Sica

office/study, storage rooms and an extra room that can be an in-law suite, inside utility or media room.

The state-of-the-art appliances are a dream come true, especially your modern kitchen with convection oven, dishwasher, disposal, ice maker, range, refrigerator, wine refrigerator and central banquette. The indoor laundry room is located on the upper level, away from the family and game rooms on the first floor and near the living room and bedrooms for convenience.

The stars of the show are the balcony and porch on the second level, a lovely courtyard and in-ground heated saltwater pool, outdoor shower, outdoor kitchen and grill and gorgeous deck. The attached rear-facing garage has two 27x23 foot spaces and there is alley access as well. You can have up to six domestic pets per community rules, so your fur-babies can live in the lap of luxury as well. The city also provides parking permits.

The Mediterranean style home is both pretty and smart. Its fully integrated technology allows for Elan system access to monitor and control extensive amenities from electronic shades, separate sound zones with four inputs in each zone, high tech security and many other features.

If you buy this home, you’re buying a premier piece of Paradise! Picturesque Pass-A-Grille is the southernmost point of St. Pete Beach. The road narrows as you head south of the historic Don CeSar Hotel, taking you back in time through a promenade of palm trees that leads you to the town’s quaint and charming Historic District. You are walking distance to Eighth Avenue’s fabulous shops, restaurants, shuffleboard courts and Old-Florida style watering holes…and a rooftop hotel cocktail lounge noted for fine cuisine and wine.

With a long history of superb fishing, you are just a few blocks from Merry Pier where you can fish or depart on sunset boat cruises or fishing charters. For boating enthusiasts, the Yacht Club and High and Dry Marina are nearby. You can walk, bike or golf cart around the neighborhood, and you’re just minutes away from world-class downtown St. Pete, home to acclaimed concert venues, theaters, museums, trendy restaurants, and award-winning sports teams. Just across the bay is Tampa International Airport for easy personal or business travel.

MEET MELINDA PLETCHER, Smith

& Associates

Make an appointment to view this property today.

Cell (727) 455-6633

Office Phone (727) 440-9600

Email mpletcher@smithandassociates.com

Office: 1100 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg melindapletcher.smithandassociates.com

As a real estate agent at Smith and Associates, Melinda Pletcher gets to show people the area that she has proudly called home for 31 years. She has always loved homes, whether admiring the architectural elements that her grandparents used when building their home or the simple improvements she made to her first house; and realizing how easy it was to transform it into something special.

Melinda enjoys being involved in the community and has a passion for helping others and has decades of involvement in the community. She has taken on leadership roles for a number of organizations in St. Pete Beach and the greater St. Petersburg area including fundraising, membership development, and strategic planning for Junior League, Shorecrest Preparatory School, Admiral Farragut Academy, Pass-A-Grille Beach Community Church, Vina Del Mar Island Association, and the Pass A Grille Woman’s Club.

Melinda is consistently among the top agents in Pinellas County. Whether listing a home or representing a purchase, her service to her clients is her #1 priority.

105 10th Avenue

This beautiful St. Pete Beach single-family home in quaint Pass-A-Grille is a historic gem. Priced at $1.4 million, the three-bedrooms threebath 1,316 square foot house on a 4,356 square foot lot was built in 1923 and renovated exquisitely.

This landmark property was a one-room schoolhouse from 1915 to 1927 before it was repurposed into the luxury home it is today. The fenced-in enclave includes a main and separately metered guest house. The main house features a sunlit porch, soaring ceilings, heart-of-pine floors, custom cherry cabinets, soapstone integrated sink/ counter space, spacious main bath, and laundry room.

205 Gulf Way

Sliding doors lead to a private patio area and an expansive bricked courtyard for

Priced at $2,325,000, this beautiful single-family two- bedroom, 1.5-bath main house with one bedroom, one bath casita guest house sits on a verdant 5,083 square foot lot with ample parking. Perfect for entertaining, the beachfront compound is close to the Gulf and Pass-A-Grille’s fishing pier, shops, and restaurants.

Enjoy the view from the bright, airy master bedroom and living room cooled by ceiling fans and whip up a feast in your cozy modern kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances while your fur-baby romps in the dog run.

entertaining. This property is steps to the beach and across from the park and shuffleboard courts.

By Danielle L. Vaughn, Esq., B.C.S., LL.M.

As you walk down the bustling streets of Corey Avenue, filled with retail shops, restaurants and bars, you will see the teal accents of the new law office for Vaughn Law on the corner of Corey Avenue and Blind Pass Road. Vaughn Law is a boutique law firm that focuses on real estate law. We handle real estate transactions and closings; contract preparation and negotiation; and litigation. With the opening of this second location, Vaughn Law is expanding its services to offer estate planning and probate as well.

Vaughn Law has an amazing team, made up of 12 members, to assist you with your real estate legal needs. Danielle Vaughn, owner and managing attorney of Vaughn Law, is an expert in real estate law. She is a board-certified real estate attorney and has a Master of Laws in Real Property Development. Vaughn Law also has two associate attorneys to assist you with your real estate questions and issues.

So, you might ask yourself, “Why Vaughn Law?” Vaughn Law is committed to providing knowledgeable, straight forward,

and timely legal services through consistent communication with all clients. This means you will get real and honest legal advice, even if it is not exactly what you want to hear.

The mission of Vaughn Law is to educate clients on their rights and support them in resolving their real estate issues and planning for their future estate needs, to empower them to make the best decisions possible to further their ultimate goals. At every consultation, we focus on providing you with all your options to allow you to make educated decisions. And with this column, you will see us feature a new area of real estate law and estate planning each issue, so we can educate and inform you on how you can best protect yourself and the largest assets you own. From your first call until we complete your matter, you’ll feel genuinely supported through the entire process.

We combine top-notch legal expertise, superior accountability, communication, and great care for you and your family members involved in the process.

Said another way, we do what we say we will do because we truly care! That will show through each step of your journey with us. We know you have a lot of choices, and when you choose Vaughn Law, we show our gratitude through great service.

We cannot express how thrilled we are to be a part of this beach community and look forward to meeting you on your walk through the area! Keep an eye out for our article next month on the common misconceptions of landlord tenant law.

Contact us at 727-363-6100.

Mention Paradise News when requesting a consultation to discuss your issue.

Danielle L. Vaughn, Esq., B.C.S., LL.M. Board Certified Real Estate Attorney VAUGHN LAW, PLLC 5600 Central Avenue St. Petersburg, FL 33707

VAUGHN Get Your Mobility Back Corrective Massage Therapy

By Nanette Wiser

MOM NEEDS A VACAY Say it with flowers, spa treatments and brunch at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club during Mother’s Day weekend May 12-14 where she can enjoy a Pressed Flower Workshop with local artisan Amanda Moon and complimentary “MoM”osas and tea sandwiches, a brunch buffet 5/14 featuring a delectable chilled raw seafood bar, assorted salads, savory omelet and carving stations, complimentary mimosas, and more. Book her a Motherly Glow Brightening Facial, featuring a foaming vitamin C cleanser and a creamy avocado mask to illuminate the skin, followed by a whipped, creamy facial mousse to help nourish and brighten the skin. Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is steps to the sand in picturesque Ponte Vedra Beach (20 miles southeast of Jacksonville) where guests enjoy golf, tennis, spa and recreation experiences – all with authentic touches of gracious Southern hospitality. pontevedra.com

REAL FLORIDA REAL CLOSE Just 35 minutes from Orlando and close to Tampa Bay, Lake County has something for everyone. Nature lovers will find an abundance of options – like hiking through endless acres of preserves, viewing rare birds or paddling pristine Blueways. Anglers will be lured by the prospect of catching a trophy bass on one of over 1,000 freshwater lakes, while treasure hunters will enjoy finding that rare antique at the area’s many unique downtown districts. visitlakefl.com

Nature enthusiasts, pack your gear. Bike at Sugarloaf Mountain, the highest point in Peninsular Florida at the intersection of County Roads 455 and 561, Clermont. Check out the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook and Trailhead Run, bird watch, hike or bicycle at the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook and Trailhead, featuring views from the 130-foot elevated boardwalk at 20700 County Road 455, Ferndale. Get a breath of fresh air at Trout Lake Nature Center, a 230-acre wildlife preserve near the Ocala National Forest at County Road 44, Eustis. Visit PEAR Park, 4800 University Ave., Leesburg, and hike along several miles of trails, stop by the nature center, and take advantage of some of the best local birding in Lake County. Catch a glimpse of the rare Florida Scrub-Jay at the Florida Scrub-Jay Trail, 11490 Montevista Road, Clermont. Take in the sights of local wildlife along the St. Johns River, Golden Triangle, Palatlakaha Basin and Oklawaha Basin by kayaking a Blueways Trail.

When you’re done with the great outdoors, it’s time to hoist a pint or two. Sample local wine and take a tour among the vineyards at Lakeridge Winery (19239 U.S. Highway, Clermont) or sip in-house brewed beer, grab a bite and listen to live music at Rocking Rabbit Brewery (405 S Highland St., Mount Dora). You can browse antiques while drinking craft beers and wines at Mermaid Juice (458 N Highland St., Mount Dora) or catch the sights on Main St. during happy hour at Two Old Hags Wine Shop (410 W Main St., Leesburg). Still hungry? Relax with tapas and a glass of vino at Vineyards of the World in downtown Clermont (712 W Montrose St.). Foodies swear by the Crooked Spoon gastropub in Clermont for burgers (200 Citrus Tower Blvd.) as well as an elegant breakfast, and lunch at The Beauclaire Dining Room inside the historic Lakeside Inn in Mt. Dora.

Barter Can Improve Your Business and Your Life

24-hour authorization service, and IMS’ exclusive online, internet trading. In addition, each account is assigned a trade broker who acts as that company’s personal sales and purchasing representative. We have found those local trade brokers anxious to help us spend our barter dollars. With their help, over the years, we have found many reliable service providers through the exchange.

Accommodations

Accounting Services

Advertising Attorneys

Attraction Admission

Auto Repair

Boat Rental

Boat Rides

Catering

Charitable Organizations

Chiropractors

Computer Service

Concert Tickets

Delivery Service

Dentist Services

Dolphin Watching

by Peter Roos

Barter has become a huge industry. Billions of dollars worth of business transactions are being run through barter brokers around the world. Trade is the oldest form of currency, and the advent of the internet has made it easier than ever.

Paradise NEWS has bartered remnant advertising space for a wide variety of goods and services over the almost 30 years we have been publishing. When we barter, we are paid in “Barter Dollars,” which are recorded in a barter bank account. Our barter dollars improve both our business bottom line and our personal lives. We have a framer make “plackets” as thank-you gifts for our advertisers. Our office is cleaned by maids on trade.

A sign maker makes our yard signs and banners. Member hotels are happy to barter rooms, especially in the off-season. That has come in handy when we have had business guests, friends, or family visiting. We often spend 3-4 summer weeks in barter accommodations in the Rockies, mostly in Colorado. IMS, short for International Monetary Systems, has taken the business of barter to a whole new level. IMS is a business-to-business barter brokerage, with an office/showroom in Largo and another in Orlando.

Those are just two of 20 IMS offices serving more than 16,000 business and professional people in 54 metro markets. To give you an idea of the scope, in 2019, IMS processed $200 million in transactions and booked over 23,000 room nights.

Convenience and simplicity are crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment. International Monetary Systems provides its members with weekly e-mail newsletters, monthly statements, an App for mobile devices,

There’s a barter delivery service that picks up our magazines from the printer in Tampa and stacks them in a nearby storage, from where our delivery driver delivers them to 550 racks and stacks on trade.

Advertising is one of the best things a business can trade for, as it is a great way to turn barter bucks into cash. Until we reached Medicare age, practically all of our healthcare was on trade. In the past decade, some of our favorite local restaurants have started bartering through IMS.

We have also dined out on barter when we travel. Some of our most interesting and memorable experiences have been due to a barter deal. Last summer, we rented a Mercedes Sprinter Sunseeker RV through the IMS Orlando office for a week and visited a couple of Florida state parks, ending up at a refreshing spring near Disneyworld.

There is so much variety, in fact, we call the local IMS office to see if it might be available on trade before I call anywhere else to price any product or service I know will cost over $100. If anything about bartering interests you enough to learn more, email Cathy.LaGrange@IMSbarter.com or call 727-524-6800 and let them know you have been reading about them in Paradise NEWS

What can you get on trade? Here are just a few of the categories that the local IMS office sent promotional emails about in the past few months:

Drs. Walk-In Clinic

Electricians

Event Tickets

Gifts

Hair Salons

Health & Fitness Clubs

HVAC Contractors

Internet Advertising

Landscaping

Legal Services

Magazine Advertising

Marketplace Items

Massage Therapists

Medical Imaging

Movers

Moving Supplies

Newspaper Advertising

Optometrists

Pest Control

Pet Boarding

Pharmacies

Printing Service

Radio Advertising

Restaurants

RV Rental

Salons & Spas

Screen Printing

Security Systems

Social Media Assistance

Solar Direct Storage

Sunset Sailing

Supplements

Television Advertising

Tickets-events/concerts

Timeshares-rent/purchase

Tree Trimming Vacations

Video Production

Web Site Design

Window Tinting

Wines and Wineries

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

COACHMAN PARK TUNES UP

A new era of entertainment comes to downtown Clearwater with the opening of The Sound @Coachman Park in June, home to October’s Clearwater Jazz Holiday for many years, which will return to The Sound in 2023. Coachman Park is a 19-acre public park located in Downtown Clearwater set to open June 28. It is known for its beautiful waterfront location, features and outdoor performing arts venue that is poised to host a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and cultural events. Coachman Park also has numerous amenities, including a grand entrance and walkway, public art spaces, a waterfront pedestrian promenade, a marina amenity building, a scenic overlook with pavilions, a playground area and splash pad. myclearwater.com/coachmanpark

The weeklong Grand Opening Celebration of Coachman Park will include free activities, food and beverage vendors, local crafters and more. Ruth Eckerd Hall has announced three concerts at The Sound: Colbie Caillat and Gavin DeGraw on Friday, June 30; Dave Koz Summer Horns Tour with special guests Candy Dulfer & Eric Darius on Saturday, July 1; and Peter Frampton on Sunday, July 2. For info/tickets, facebook.com/thesoundfla.

During the week, visitors can enjoy daily events such as health and fitness classes, food and beverage experiences, exhibitors, children’s games, as well as activities and park amenities such as a splash pad, large playground, walking trails and more. On 6/28 is the ribbon cutting @5pm with the

first concert TBD. On 6/29, the theme is Clearwater Celebrates Diversity & Culture with a multicultural market and crafters, as well as dance troupes and musicians showcasing their talents. Children’s activities will include inflatables, face painters and other family-friendly activities. A free community concert tops off the day with The Black Honkeys Band. For these two free concerts, general admission will be on a first come, first served basis. Chairs are limited; bring a blanket for the lawn.

By Nanette Wiser

followed by a ticket-only concert at The Sound, featuring GRAMMY®-winner Colbie Caillat and GRAMMY® nominee Gavin DeGraw 7pm.

Saturday’s Clearwater Celebrates Community will begin with a 5K running event, followed by the craft beer garden, performances on The Green, a farmers market and events honoring Clearwater’s neighborhoods. A ticket-only concert at The Sound, featuring GRAMMY®-nominee Dave Koz Summer Horns Tour with special guests Candy Dulfer and Eric Darius 7pm.

Kicking off the weekend, Friday’s theme will be Clearwater Celebrates Music featuring a craft beer garden, children’s activities, buskers, food trucks and street entertainment with local musicians performing on The Green in the park

Sunday’s Clearwater Celebrates Hispanic Culture celebrates the large Hispanic community that makes up the fabric of Clearwater and will feature dance classes with professional instructors, musical performances on The Green (Rumbero’s De Tampa) DJs and Hispanic cuisine food trucks. Sunday night is a ticket-only concert at The Sound featuring GRAMMY®winner Peter Frampton 7pm. Monday’s Clearwater Celebrates Wellness highlights the new recreation area and a community volunteer. On July 4, Clearwater Celebrates America kicks off the holiday with a classic car show, farmers’ market, buskers, street entertainers and family-friendly games and entertainment and at night, fireworks over Clearwater Harbor.

GOOD DEEDS

WWP began in 2003 as a small grassroots effort to provide simple care and comfort items to the hospital bedsides of the first wounded service members returning from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The organization offers programs and services according to the needs of these service men and women, whether in mental health, career counseling or long-term rehabilitative care, regardless of how long the care may be needed.

By Susan Koenig

#TheHonorProject, is a Memorial Day tradition of honoring fallen heroes. Family members or battle buddies can submit the name of their fallen hero at one of the 14 locations to be visited by a Spartan to lay a hand-crafted Flag of Valor at their resting place on Memorial Day.

wwp.news/3vpYVFc

With Memorial Day approaching, what better time to support and honor our troops than by helping out The Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). WWP is an American Veterans Service non-profit organization that offers a variety of programs, services, and events for wounded vets of the military actions following September 11, 2001. The Project’s motto is: “The greatest casualty is being forgotten,” and their mission-vision is to “foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation’s history.“

The national headquarters are in Jacksonville, Florida, and locally, in Tampa.

One of the best ways we can help is connecting them with someone who will listen without judgment. The staff and volunteers are dedicated to serve these heroes with humility, dignity, and respect. Many vets who served in recent military conflicts were injured or left with lasting invisible wounds including depression, Post-Traumatic-Brain-Disorder (PTSD) and debilitating brain trauma. Did you know 76% of the wounded warriors we serve have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? They never know when they might face a sudden bout of anxiety, fear, or depression. WWP’s community partner, Travis Manion Foundation, and their initiative

We can all help. WWP needs supporters and like-minded organizations to collaborate and ensure that when those who serve come home, they are afforded every opportunity to be as successful as a civilian as they were in the military, and that they will not be forgotten. To donate or learn more, visit woundedwarriorproject.org or email info@woundedwarriorproject.org.

For the benefit of USF Graphicstudio

Please join USF Graphicstudio in Tampa to celebrate the 25th Annual Benefit Sale on May 20, 10am-5pm. Hundreds of original, artist-signed, fine art prints and sculptures will be on display and available for sale at discounted prices. Questions or more information email Kristin at soderqvi@usf.edu

Morean Arts Center hosts Art of Valor: Photography Workshop

Sat. May 20 and Sat. June 10, 1-4pm. Operation: Art of Valor is a community-based program that offers art programs for military patients and veterans through structured, hands-on learning. Free to participants, it is limited to veterans only. Register: 727-822-7872 x2121 or bit.ly/3mvwB50

Thank you, Ms. Doggett

If you’ve been able to find your way around airports around the world, including Tampa International Airport, you have Jane Davis Doggett to thank. Doggett, who recently passed away at the age of 93, came up with many airports’ Red Side/ Blue Side and other “wayfinder” concepts. The Tampa Bay resident also designed the TPA’s iconic “Spirit of Flight” logo.

Better business for artists

More powerful than graffiti Creative Pinellas, in partnership with Pinellas County, has selected artists for the 2023 ARTWorks Signal Box

Project: Kim Michelle Coakley, Amy Ilić-Volpe, Richard Logan, Clifton Moorhead, Heather Rippert, Diane V Radel, Patricia Rosa Gobbo, Heidi Stavinga, and Pamela Trow. The project’s goal is to deter graffiti by transforming traffic signal control boxes into public art. For more information see bit.ly/43uzOCB

Art with a theme

DRV Gallery in Gulfport presents Art in Harmony, a photography exhibit by award-winning Tampa photographer Donna Green. Although she’s known for shooting legendary musicians including B.B. King, Sting, and Lyle Lovett, this show features local musicians, many of whom will perform at the opening on May 11 from 6-8pm. Art in Harmony runs through May 27. drvgallery.com

PAVA (Professional Association of Visual Artists) is pleased to announce its Photographs and Memories exhibit is on display now through June 24 at The Cool Art Shop in Dunedin. The show features color and black-and-white photography as well as fine-craft memories including jewelry, metal, pottery, and more. pava-artists.org

The St. Petersburg Arts Alliance presents its annual Arts Business Academy (ABA) for creatives of all stripes. Training is provided by local arts professionals and business leaders in six weekly sessions from May 10-June 14. Tuition is $199 and scholarships are available. For information and registration: bit.ly/3zY8mji

Shows, shows, shows Ybor City’s LAB Theater Project presents Fire Thief May 4-21. Based on a Greek myth, this new drama by Laura Hirshberg explores the path of the titan Prometheus as he sacrifices his place on Mt. Olympus to bring fire to mankind. The story illuminates the joy and pain that inspiration and creativity can bring to creators and those around them. Tickets are $31 and are available at labtheaterproject.com

Join The Florida Orchestra as it brings the best of American and world music to Tampa Bay in its 2023-24 season: Gershwin, Copland, Holst, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Mahler, and many more. In the Raymond James Pops

“If I could say it in words there would be no reason to paint.”- Edward Hopper

series, the circus meets the symphony in Cirque Dances with Troupe Vertigo. TFO also honors 60 years of The Beatles in Twist & Shout. And don’t miss the Morning Matinees. For a complete listing see bit.ly/3KAAZrr

St. Petersburg City Theatre

2023-2024 season tickets are now on sale. Productions include Mary Poppins, A Christmas Carol, and Don’t Dress for Dinner. The price for all three shows is just $55! To learn more (including summer camps and apprentice programs) click spcitytheatre.org

Tombolo Books invites you to join them for Storytime every Thursday morning from 9:30-10am. They’ll open up the store a little early for the kiddos and have guest readers reading aloud some of the newest hits from our picture book section. The story selection is aimed at the pre-K to beginning reader crowd, but all ages are welcome! tombolobooks.com

Center invites you to ArtOUT 2023: Emergence, an international juried art show, on display at the James Museum in St. Pete and Gulfport Public Library June 1-30. Jurors for ArtOUT 2023 are internationally renowned glass artist Duncan McClellan, award-winning ceramicist Brenda McMahon, and commercial and fine artist Ray Domingo. For more information go to bit.ly/3TpSS08

Call for artists

Zoie’s is looking for local artists to display and promote their artwork in its St. Pete restaurant. Looking for a Southern flair that celebrates artists and music from the South. The sestaurant will not take a commission fee, as it supports all local talent. For more information and to apply, click zoiesfl.com

By Caron Schwartz

Children’s Corner

Want to raise kind, generous kids? Take them to the art museum! The feeling of awe inspired by great art can be a humbling experience that encourages kids to help others, rather than focusing on their own needs. According to a study by Eftychia Stamkou published in Psychological Science, “In encounters with vast mysteries, awe makes individuals feel small, humble, and less entitled, thereby shifting their attention toward the needs and concerns of others rather than the self.”

The Dunedin Fine Art Center has proudly offered over 35 years of Summer Art Enrichment fun. Art classes are taught by local multi-media experts with skills from painting to clay to drawing to dreamin’! The Summer Art Academy runs from May 30 - August 4 and welcomes children 4-1/2 to 14 years old. So, what are you waiting for? Enroll Now! Visit dfac.org or call 727-298-DFAC.

And dancers

Ballet Academy of St. Petersburg is looking for dancers of all ages to join its technique and performance classes. This season they are casting for Coppelia full-length performance and appearances at the St. Pete Pier and Largo Festival. The academy helps build portfolios for college and beyond. bit.ly/3ohMmxe

Stand-up intellectual

In a cultural landscape filled with endless pundits and talking heads, Fran Lebowitz stands out as one of our most insightful commentators. Listen to her off-the-cuff acerbic views when she comes to The Straz Center on Nov. 4 at 7:30pm. A 30minute Q&A and book signing will follow her talk, and you can buy her books, courtesy of Oxford Exchange. Tickets start at $55. strazcenter.org

Help Wanted

Florida Botanical Gardens seeks Holiday Lights “Workshop Elves.” On the second Saturday of each month, volunteers gather to help plan and implement the Holiday Lights display. The next workday is May 13, with two-hour shifts from 8am-3pm. Work continues throughout the summer with installation beginning in the fall. Sign up here: bit.ly/41aYRZM

Pride Month is coming Gulfport’s LGBTQ Resource

ARTISTS SPOTLIGHT

PIANO FEST Celebrated worldwide, the Rebecca Penneys’ Piano Festival (RPPF) launches its 11th season June 27-July 17, and continues its theme of Legacy of Piano and Planet hosted at the The University of South Florida. It brings together 40 of the world’s best aspiring collegiate classical pianists from 22 countries. Penneys is an acclaimed musician and Founder/ Director of RPPF as well as Professor Emerita of Piano at the Eastman School of Music. rebeccapenneyspianofestival.org

By Nanette Wiser

20th and 21st centuries. The show is presented in three sections: Southwest Pueblo pottery, California basketry, and Northwest Coast carving and textiles. Each section reflects on how objects harbor memories and tell stories about a time, a place, and a people. Drawn from the collection of the National Museum of Wildlife Art, Un/Natural Selections opens June 14 and centers on wildlife images from the last two decades that dynamically confront categorizations and speak to the significance of wildlife in art – in unconventional ways. The variety of art explores the relationship between humanity and the natural world with the artists’ personal narratives woven throughout.

SCARE FEST Don’t miss Dewey Caruthers’ Sunshine City Scare convention at the St. Petersburg Coliseum May 13-14. The horror-themed show will have some unique touches including an emphasis on anime horror, an appearance by the creator of the iconic Monster High dolls (which led to a movie and TV series), and a nod to Mother’s Day with a “Happy Murder’s Day” celebration of moms from horror movies.

“St. Pete is ready for an annual horror con, after showing tremendous support for our comic con and our anime festival,” said convention organizer Dewey Caruthers, who also created January’s St. Pete Comic Con and last September’s Anime St. Pete. Sunshine City Scare will feature three horror subgenres: anime horror, video game horror, and horror in movies & TV, appearances by anime voice actors, an evil maid cafe, frightening idol performers, and more than 20 hours of panel discussions. Celebrity guests will include voice actors and live-action actors from popular anime shows, video games, and movies like Chainsaw Man, Tokyo Ghoul, Resident Evil, Silent Hill, Cabin in the Woods, and Sleepy Hollow. The very special guest will be Garrett Sander, creator of the iconic Monster High doll.

HAPPY 5th BIRTHDAY Jamboree at The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art kicked off the month-long celebration with country western music, line dancing, Datz’s appetizers, towering cowgirl and cowboy on stilts, Honey the miniature therapy horse and tours of the galleries. Decked out in cowboy hats and boots, guests showed off their Western attire from fringed suede vests to embellished denim jackets with fringe.

Indigenous Art and the Photography of Edward S. Curtis closes May 14. Utilizing photogravures specific to Indigenous material culture by Edward S. Curtis as a starting gate, this exhibition displays correlating Native art from the

ENTER STAGE LEFT So much to celebrate at the Warehouse Arts District (WADA). In April, they welcomed the Academy of Ballet Arts to the AX Campus, the Foodies Lab and the AX Theater, a multidimensional stage that moonlights as a magnificent movie theater. WADA hosted Lift, a film festival feature; International Jazz Day and produced an official UNESCO event. warehouseartsdistrict.org

Arts & Leisure

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

YOGA

VOLUNTEERING ONLINE: TOASTMASTERS

(Events are subject to change. Please visit website or call to confirm.)

ART CENTERS/CLASSES

Beach Art Center

1515 Bay Palm Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach 727-596-4331 beachartcenter.org

Through May 12 – Poetry in Motion Show

Charlie Parker Pottery 2724 Sixth Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727-321-2071 charlieparkerpottery.com

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

Painters of all levels welcome.

Morean Arts Center

719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-822-7872

moreanartscenter.org

Contemporary art gallery. Art classes year-round. Through June 22 – Fresh Squeezed: Emerging Artists in Florida

Morean Center for Clay 420 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg 727-821-7162 ext 2311 moreanartscenter.org

Largest pottery in the Southeast

Morean Glass Studio 714 First Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727-822-7872 moreanartscenter.org

Daily demonstrations every hour noon to 4pm. Classes available.

Pinellas Park Art Society Park Station Building

5851 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park 727-360-4406 pinellasart.org

Suntan Art Center at Don Vista Arts Center

3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 727-367-3818 suntanart.org

Classes, Art Mart every weekend on Pass-a-Grille Beach Monthly members’ shows

The Hive

559 49th St. S, St Petersburg 727-290-6515 thehivestpete.com

Classes, open studio, pottery, and jewelry sales

Treasure Island Art Guild treasureislandartguild.org

Painting workshops weekly Closed June, July and August

Veterans Art Center

6798 Crosswinds Dr. N, St. Petersburg 813-504-3092 vactb.org

Provides opportunities for military and veterans to develop and showcase creative and artistic accomplishments

Zen Glass Studio & Gallery

600 27th St. S, St. Petersburg 727-323-3141 zenglass.com

Offers glassblowing and lampwork classes and workshops.

ART GALLERIES

To see galleries participating in Second Saturday Artwalk in downtown St. Petersburg, go to stpeteartsalliance.org/ experience-arts/artwalk

Art at 400 Studios

400 23rd St. S, St. Petersburg 786-567-1024 facebook.com/Artat400

Art Fusion Galleries

106 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-827-7195 artfusiongalleries.com

ARTicles/Leslie Curran Gallery

1234 Dr. MLK Jr St. N, St. Petersburg 727-898-6061 articlesstpete.com

ArtLofts (second floor) Florida CraftArt Gallery

10 Fifth St. N, St. Petersburg 727-504-8788 theartlofts.com

Open Second Saturday ArtWalk or by appointment

ARTpool Gallery

2030 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-324-3878 artpoolrules.com Open Wed.-Sun., noon-5pm

ArtsXchange 515 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg Open Fri.-Sat., 11am-5pm

Atelier de SoSi

2380 Sixth Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727-370-4192 atelierdesosi.com

Brenda McMahon Gallery

2901 Beach Blvd. S #104 Gulfport 518-692-7742 brendamcmahongallery.com

Bula Barua

2534 Terminal Drive S, St. Petersburg 727-900-1063 bulagallery.com Blown glass on canvas

Chasen Galleries

1830 S Osprey Ave., Sarasota 941-260-5787 chasengalleries.com/sarasota

Chihuly Collection 720 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-822-7872 ext 5102 moreanartscenter.org

Advance ticket purchase recommended

Through June 4 – Karen Tucker Kuykendall & Steve Hagan

Clyde Butcher Galleries clydebutcher.com/galleries

May

12-Dec. 31 Cuba: The Natural Beauty – Clearwater Main Library Venice Gallery & Studio 237 Warfield Ave. S, Venice 941-486-0811

May

13 – Meet Clyde Butcher Big Cypress Gallery 52388 Tamiami Trail, Ochopee 239-695-2428

Cobb Gallery

Eckerd College, Library Circle, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg 800-454-9009 eckerd.edu/visualarts/program

Collectors Exchange Gallery

1234 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N, St. Petersburg 727-898-6061 articlestpete.com

Open Sat. 11am-5pm

Craftsman House

2955 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-323-2787

craftsmanhousegallery.com Gallery-Café-Pottery Studio

Creative Clay Cultural Arts Center

1846 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727-825-0515 creativeclay.org

“Happiness is a butterfly, which when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you will sit down quietly may alight upon you.”

– Nathaniel Hawthorne

Buddy Baker | Events, Arts & Leisure Coordinator

ARTS & LEISURE EVENTS

Creative Pinellas

12211 Walsingham Rd., Largo 727-460-5477

Gallery hours noon-5pm Wed-Sun creativepinellas.org

May 16 – AfroQuantum Experiences: ArtMaker Talks

Crossroads Gallery St. Petersburg College, 2464 Drew St., Clearwater 727-791-2548

Five Deuces Gallerie 2101 Third Ave. S, St. Petersburg Open by appointment & Artwalk Facebook.com/five22222

Florida CraftArt Gallery

501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-821-7391 floridacraftart.org Sat. Mural Walk

May

5-June 24 – The Alchemy of Art

www.paradisenewsfl.com/may-2023-events

Scan QR code for event listings online to go with you. Sign up to receive upcoming event e-news online at www.ParadiseNewsFL.com • Like us on facebook.com/ParadiseNews

RECURRING EVENTS

Tuesdays & 4th Saturday • 9am-3pm, Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market, Beach Blvd. below 28th Ave. S. gulfporttuesdayfreshmarket.com

Fridays • 5-9pm, First Friday Art Walk, Downtown Gulfport. A juried event featuring emerging and professional artists. First Friday of every month.

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

Saturdays • 9am-2pm, St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market, First Ave. SE and First St., Al Lang Stadium parking lot near the marina. Celebrating community, food, and creativity. October through May.

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.

• 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 • 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 • Gulfport 4th Saturday Fresh Market 9am-2pm • 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.

Sundays • 9am-1pm Indian Shores Sunday Morning Market, Indian Shores Municipal Center, 19305 Gulf Blvd. Local vendors offer everything from gourmet foods to fine art. (November-April). TheBeachMarkets.com. Library Book Sale every third Sunday.

• 10am-2pm/Summer 9am-1pm, Corey Sunday Market, Corey Ave. (74th Ave), St. Pete Beach. Almost a hundred vendors with an emphasis on local fresh, hydroponic and organic veggies, gourmet take-out treats, locally made crafts and live music. (9-1 June - Sept.) Every other Sunday • 9am-noon, Organic Farming at Eco-Village, 302 15th St. N, St. Pete. Volunteer in a community garden that provides access to fresh organic produce, opportunities for physical activity, connection with nature.

Collection of SPC student art spcollege.edu/friends-partners/ community-resources

Custom House Décor 2901 Beach Blvd., Gulfport 727-317-5936 customhousedecor.com Tuesday Fresh Market

D Gallerie 1234 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N, Unit C St. Petersburg 407-921-3608 d-gallerie.com

DRV Fine Art Studios & Gallery 5401 Gulfport Blvd. S, Gulfport 727-382-7004 drvgallery.com

Duncan McClellan Gallery 2342 Emerson Ave. S, St. Petersburg 813-760-6600 dmglass.com

Dunedin Fine Art Center 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin 727-298-3322 dfac.org

Ekeko Gallery 290 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr St. N, St. Petersburg 727-685-5577 facebook.com/Ekeko-Gallery

Elliott Gallery Eckerd College, Nielsen Center for Visual Arts, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg 800-454-9009 eckerd.edu/visualarts/program

Factory St. Pete 2622 Fairfield Ave. S St. Petersburg thefactorystpete.com

Fairgrounds St. Pete 800 28th St. S, St. Petersburg Works by more than 60 local and international artists fairgrounds.art

Gulf Coast Artists Alliance St. Pete ArtWorks, 2604 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-738-8010 gcaa-fl.org

Heiress 2622 Fairfield Ave S, Bldg. 7, Studio A, St. Petersburg heiressgallery.com

Contemporary gallery and art advisory

Luis Sottil Studios

400 Beach Drive NE, Suite 150, St. Petersburg 727-220-1567

facebook.com/luissottilstpete

Mirella Cimato Art Gallery

2145 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg (inside St. Petersburg Opera) 727-543-9190

facebook.com/MirellaCimatoGallery

Nielsen Center for Visual Arts Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg 800-454-9009 eckerd.edu/visualarts/program

May

7-12 – Senior Thesis Exhibition: Hannah Stein 7-12 – Senior Thesis Exhibition: Oleg Kamen

14-19 – Senior Thesis Exhibition: Gillian Probert

Red Cloud Indian Arts

214 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg 727-821-5824

redcloudindianarts.com

Representing authentic Native American arts

Soft Water Gallery 515 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg 727-327-3473

softwatergallery.com

Through June 3 –

Mixed Messages

SPACE

855 28th St. S, St. Petersburg Warehouse Arts District facebook.com/spacestpete

Exhibits change quarterly June: Hot Box

Stirling Art Studios & Gallery

730 Broadway (Second Floor) Studio 12, Dunedin 800-325-2050 facebook.com/StirlingArtDunedin New artist exhibits monthly

Syd Entel Galleries

247 Main St., Safety Harbor 727-725-1808 sydentelgalleries.com

The Domingo Studio NEW 2620 Beach Blvd. S, Gulfport 727-821-2315

facebook.com/The-Domingo-Studio oils, giclees, art repros on canvas

Vince Anthony Fine Art Gallery NEW 10611 Bay Pines Blvd. #5, St. Petersburg 727-401-2886 fineartamerica.com/art/ vince+anthony artmanvinnie@yahoo.com

Woodfield Fine Art Gallery

2323 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-254-6981 woodfieldfineart.com

ARTS PERFORMING

Amalie Arena

401 Channelside Dr., Tampa 813-301-2500 amaliearena.com

May

21– Straight Jokes! No Chaser Comedy Tour

American Stage

Raymond James Theatre

163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg 727-823-7529 americanstage.org

Through May 14 – Ragtime

May

31-June 26 – Disgraced

Asolo Repertory Theatre

5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 800-361-8388 asolorep.org

Masks required inside building

May

10-June 11 – Man of La Mancha

Bilheimer Capitol Theatre

405 Cleveland St., Clearwater 727-791-7400 rutheckerdhall.com

May

4 – Cream of Clapton Band

7 – TFO: Mendelssohn’s Elijah

18 – The Psychedelic Furs

20 – Kennedy and Jimmy Failla

21 – Tom Petty: Damn the Torpedoes

28 – The Black Honkeys Band

30 – Sierra Ferrell

June

3 – Latrice Royale

15 – Gordon Lightfoot

Bininger Theater

Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727-867-1166 eckerd.edu/theatre

Catherine Hickman Theater

5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport 727-893-1070 mygulfport.us

May 12 – Art Reception and Exhibit

26 – Christie Lenee

June

2 – Art Reception and Exhibit

Central Park Performing Arts Center

105 Central Park Dr., Largo 727-587-6793 largoarts.com

May

5-14 – Oliver!

20- Chris Duarte

21 – Las Migas

27 – Matilda

Early Bird Dinner Theater

13355 49th St. N, Clearwater 727-466-5998

earlybirddinnertheater.com/site

May

6-June 11 – Casserole by Pam Harbaugh

Eckerd College International Film Series

All films free to the public, 7pm Miller Auditorium, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727-867-1166 eckerd.edu/international-cinema/

May

5 – Human Flowers of Flesh

Eight O’Clock Theatre

105 Central Park Dr., Largo 727-587-6793

eightoclocktheatre.com

May 5-14 – Oliver!

HURRICANES By Peter Roos

Are you prepared for the next Ian?

Folks in Fort Myers Beach are dealing with insurance claims in the aftermath of last year’s disastrous Hurricane Ian, which, until a day before landfall was aiming for Tampa Bay. How many of them would have taken the precaution of photographing their home and possessions and preserving those records safely in the cloud? A long-time St. Pete Beach resident with a photo and technical background has offered to help residents prepare, starting at only $99 until June 1.

360-180. WHAT IS THEIR SERVICE?

They provide a safeguard for your insurance, peace of mind for you, and provide you, the property owner, independent, dated photographic documentation of what you own prior to any potentially devastating event, storm, flood, fire, or theft. Images are presented in 360-degree surround view. See their demo at www.demo.360-180.com password “demo.” You never need to worry you have viable proof for your insurance company of what has been lost or damaged in some disaster to your furnishings, artwork, equipment, built-ins, cabinetry, architectural add-ons.

360-180 also provides valuable documentation of property condition, furnishings, artwork, equipment, what is on-site prior to storage for a remodeling project in your home or business, or a move to a new location.

WHAT IS THE COST? Their introductory price is a flat fee of $99 until June 1. Prices will increase by about 50% once the introductory period is over and are based on documented square footage of structure.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

• Documentation of all furniture, artwork, cabinetry, built-ins, add-ons, equipment in your home or business.

• Security of information. Owner, tech coordinator and photographer, Tim Krafcik, and representative Barbara Praete, are 40+ year Pass-a-Grille residents. References include Joan Walker, local Realtor for 36 years; Sean Hurley, owner/broker of Frank T. Hurley Associates, Inc, Realtors; Ron and Sherry Sacino; Jack LoBianco; Brenda Ercius.

• Creation date, imbedded in each room image, of Paradise News cover and front page of recent local newspaper.

• Cloud storage off-site. Access is password protected. Accessible with most web browsers.

• Material updated for same owner/property for $25/room at any time after the first document is delivered.

Call 727-228-0273 for an appointment. Visit www.360-180.com.

“A smile is happiness you’ll find right under your nose.”

– Tom Wilson

ARTS & LEISURE EVENTS

Floridian Social Club

687 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-322-4600

www.thefloridiansocial.com

May

17 – VOIVOD w/ Imperial Triumphant

19 – #NoFilter

20 – Save the Bees

ONGOING

Through May 14 — Ragtime in the Park

$23-$48, 7:30pm, American Stage’s annual musical at Demens Landing Park invites everyone to enjoy “Ragtime - the Musical” while hanging out in the spring air. Set in the melting pot of turn-of-the-century New York, three distinctly American tales are woven together – that of a stifled upper-class wife, a determined Jewish immigrant, and a daring young Harlem musician – united by their courage, compassion, and belief in the promise of the future and the power of the human spirit to overcome. americanstage.org/shows/ragtime 727-823-7529

UPCOMING

May 6 – Cinco Dog Mayo 5K Run & Half Mile Dog Fun Run

$40 person/$10 per dog, 8am start, Archibald Park, 15100 Gulf Blvd., and ROC Park, Madeira Beach. In this inaugural race, the 5K takes place in Archibald Park; the dog run in ROC Park. This fundraiser supports nonprofit organization Compassion Kind & ALS Association. Some of the proceeds will go to help with the new dog park in Madeira Beach. For more information email cmc@synergyfundraising.org

May 6 – Tropical Heatwave returns!

$40 advance/$50 at door (if available), 6-11:55pm, Cuban Club, Ybor City, 2010 N Avenida Republica de Cuba, Tampa. The Tampa Bay area’s most diverse music festival returns after a seven-year absence! Scheduled acts include Shemekia Copeland, Seratones, GA 20, Eilen Jewell Band, Glove, Have Gun Will Travel, The Snozzberries, Rocket 88, Vodkanauts, LPT, Talk to Mark, Cottondale Swamp, Magadog, Synergy in a Cup, and The Gulfport Gecko Amalgamated Marching Band. Tickets sold only online at wmnf.org.

May 12 — Reclamando Our Narrative Writing Series (Final session)

Free, 6-9pm,. Food and drinks 6-7pm; writing 7-8:30pm. Workshop series for the Latinx community to claim their stories, heal and connect, and participate in conversations about race equity, unity, and advocacy. The series is organized by Mi Gente Mi Pueblo. For more information, and to register, visit the Reclamando Our Narrative Writing Series on Facebook facebook.com/events/1265133814270883/?active_tab=discussion and scan the QR code.

May 13-14 – St Pete Tacos & Tequila Festival

General admission $12, $15 day of/ VIP: $42, $45 day of, kids 13 and under: free; Sat: noon-8pm/Sun: 1-8pm, Vinoy Park, downtown St. Petersburg. A waterfront festival with more than 25 taco vendors, great margaritas and other cocktail options, four great live bands, cold beer, games, prizes and so much fun! Leashed dogs okay. stpetetacos.com

26 – Stevie Nicks birthday bash

27 – Ultimate 80s Arena

Rock Party

29 – Motown Monday

June

2 – LoveSong: A Cure tribute

7 – Top of the Fire Escape

Francis Wilson Playhouse

302 Seminole St., Clearwater 727-446-1360

franciswilsonplayhouse.org

May

4-21 – Beauty and the Beast

freeFall Theatre Company

6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-498-5205 freefalltheatre.com

June

2-July 9 – Oz (world premiere)

Gulfport Casino

5500 Shore Blvd. S, Gulfport 813-840-3715

mygulfport.us/recreation/casino

Weekly dancing/instruction

Gulfport Community Players Back Door Theater

1619 49th St. S, Gulfport gulfportcommunityplayers.org

June

8-18 – Stop Kiss

Jannus Live 200 First Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727-565-0550 jannuslive.com

May

5 – Mike Love w/ Dub Inc.

6 – $not

7 – Alestorm, Gloryhammer, and Lutharo

9 – 100 Gecs Percent: 10,000 Gecs Tour 2

10 – The Gaslight Anthem

16 – Helloween w/ Hammerfall

19 – Avatar: Dance Devil Dance Tour

20 – Jazz is Dead

23 – The Backseat Lovers

24 – Hippie Sabotage

June

1 – Eli Young Band

3 – Waterparks

4 _ Ugly Kid Joe & Fuzzy

6 – The Inlovingmemory Tour w/ Bones, Xavier, Wulf and Eddy Baker

7 – Matt Maeson

9 – Anees

10 – Donna the Buffalo

11 – The Expendables & Passafire w/ Seranation

14 – Declan McKenna

15 – Men I Trust

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

Manatee Performing Arts Center 502 Third Ave. W, Bradenton 941-748-5875

manateeperformingartscenter.com

Through May 14 –Sunset Boulevard

May

6 – Annie KIDS

9-10 – DraMature Presents Hollywood 1940’s USO Radio Musical

14-17 – Annie KIDS by the Penguin Players

19-20 – The Power of Dance

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

Florida State Fairgrounds 4802 US Hwy. 301 N Tampa 813-740-2446 midflorida.com/amphitheatre

May

6 – Morgan Wallen

19 – Hank Williams Jr.

National Theatre Live Eckerd College, Miller Auditorium 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg

Performances in HD campusce.net/eckerd/course/ course.aspx?catid=159

New Tampa Performing Arts Center 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa ArsenaultK@ hillsboroughcounty.org

813- 829-2760

Patel Conservatory 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa, Dance / Theater / Music / Adult Classes 813-222-1002 patelconservatory.org

May 5 – Senior Capstone Performances

6 – Beginning Dance 1 Recital

9 – Spring Music Spectacular

13 – Spring Jazz Jam

Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center

4951 78th Ave. N, Pinellas Park 727-369-5746

pinellas-park.com/161/PerformingArts-Center.com

May

13 – The Gloria Estefan Experience

Raymond James Stadium

4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa 813-350-6500 raymondjamesstadium.com

May

4-7 – Topgolf Live

20 – Ed Sheeran

27-28 – Sunset Music Festival

Ruth Eckerd Hall

1111 N McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater 727-791-7400 rutheckerdhall.com

May 7 – TFO: Mendelssohn’s Elijah

10 – TFO: The Power of Music

12 – A Tribute to ABBA

13 – Joe Gatto

14 – Melissa Etheridge

21 – Wagner

The Ring Without Words

30 – Brit Floyd

31 – Happy Together

June

2-3 – Clearwater Smooth Jazz Jam

11 – House of Cheer

Safety Harbor Art & Music Center

706 Second St. N, Safety Harbor 727-725-4018

safetyharborart andmusiccenter.com

May 20 – Tapestry by Deborah Bostock-Kelly

Seminole Hard Rock

Hotel and Casino

5223 Orient Rd., Tampa 813-627-6649

seminolehardrocktampa.com

May 4 – Marlon Wayans

11 – Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo

18 – Mr. Red

26 – The Used and Pierce the Veil

28 – Alan Walker

June

1 – George Lopez

2 – Kevin Hart

4 – Trey Kennedy

Skipper’s Smokehouse

910 Skipper Rd., Tampa 813-971-0666 skipperssmokehouse.com

May 14 – Nu-Blu (Bluegrass)

St. Petersburg City Theatre

4025 31st St. S, St. Petersburg 727-866-1973 spcitytheatre.org

Oldest continuously operating community theater in Florida since 1925

Stageworks Theater

1120 E Kennedy Blvd., West Bldg., #151, Tampa 813-374-2416

stageworkstheatre.org

Through May 15 – Talking With…

June

9 – The Great American Trailer Park Musical

Straz Center for the Performing Arts

1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-229-7827 strazcenter.org

May

2-7 – Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations

5 – TFO: Mendelssohn’s Elijah

5-6 – Six Chick Flicks

6-7 – Next Generation Ballet: Don Quixote

9 – Spring Dance Spectacular

10-June 4 – Jobsite Theater’s Alice

12 – An Evening with Denis Phillips

13 – Matteo Lane

16-21 – Jagged Little Pill

19 – Margaret Cho

20-21 – Crowns (rescheduled)

21 – Broadway Star of the Future

23 – Alicia Odewale

24 – Arts & Mind Convening

25 – Voices of the Community Town Hall

26 – Marisela & Alvaro Torres

27 – Veteran Civilian Arts Showcase

27 – TFO: A Night at the Oscars

28 – BIPOC Play-Reading Series

June

6-11 – Annie Riverwalk Stage (free performances)

May

6 – Latin Night featuring Sol Caribe

19 – Fo’i Meleah

20 – Jarrod Barefoot

MARKETS

By Susan Schiber

Corey Avenue Market

Meet Trish, Her “B’s” and Her Blooms

Trish and her four children Brett, Brianna, Braelynn, and Brynlee, her four “B’s, so enjoyed their backyard tabebuia tree that they started selling seeds during the pandemic to make others happy too. Soon they were offering pink, purple, and white tabebuia seeds and tree saplings online, with a free biodegradable seedling grow kit. They became a nursery, registered with the Dept. of Agriculture, which allowed them work with other growers to secure additional plants.

What started as a little online business is now a certified backyard nursery with over 100 different trees and plants offered for sale including hibiscus, Chinese lanterns, bougainvillea’s and more!

“We are honored to be giving back what mother nature has given us. We like to call it ‘nature therapy.’ Nothing is more rewarding than receiving positive feedback from our customers. We hear how beautiful and healthy our plants are and how happy our plants and trees are making them. We have become like family with Corey Ave. Market. It has been a game changer for us. My schedule is more flexible during the week, allowing me to accommodate my children’s busy schedules and make self-care a priority,” said Trish.

Trish is on Corey Ave. every Sunday. Check her out on Facebook at facebook.com/TrishsTabebuiaSeeds. Corey Ave. Market hours are 10am-2pm from Oct.-June 4th. June 11th through September 9am-1pm to beat the heat.

Find out more at tampabaymarkets.com

ARTS & LEISURE

Studio Grand Central

2260 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg

727-202-7019

studiograndcentral.com

Tampa Theatre

711 N Franklin St. Tampa

813-274-8286

tampatheatre.org

One of America’s most elaborate movie palaces

May

5 – Steve Trevino

6 – John Crist

7 – 2023 Fly Fishing Film Tour (film)

8 – Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (film)

12 – Leslie Jones

15 – Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (film)

19 – Leanne Morgan

20 – Rodney Carrington

24 – Chicks in The Office

Tarpon Springs Cultural Center

101 S Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs

727-942-5605 tarponarts.org

May

13 – Sages Theater presents Memory Lane (free)

June

9 – Crimes of the Heart

Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center

324 Pine St., Tarpon Springs

727-942-5605 tarponarts.org

May

6 – Heritage: A Celebration of Scotland in Song

27 – Flossie Boyd Johnson & Favor

June

3 – Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute

The Mahaffey Theater

400 First St. S, St. Petersburg 727-300-2000 themahaffey.com

May

4 – Zach Williams

5 – Kashmir

6 – TFO: Mendelssohn’s Elijah

7 – Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles

10 – Walker’s Rising Stars

11 – TFO: The Power of Music

12 – Brian Regan

14 – One Night of Queen

18 – Inside Wagner’s Ring Without Words

19 – Puscifer

20 – Wagner’s The Ring Without Words

21 – Kountry Wayne

23 – Ryan Adams & The Cardinals

24 – Sing Out Tampa Bay

25 – Beethoven X Coldplay

26 – The Doobie Brothers

June

1 – Bad Friends

The Palladium

253 Fifth Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727-822-3590 mypalladium.org

May

2 – Tampa Bay Symphony: Tchaikovsky’s Pathetique

4 – Sinatra Sings: Bryan L. Hughes & The Crew

6-7 – St. Petersburg Ballet Co. Spring Dance Concert

10 – Milena Pajaro-Van de Stadt & Paul Nemeth: Palladium Chamber Series

11 – Howi Spangler

13 – Fred Astaire Dance: Best of Broadway

14 – Dance Academy of St. Petersburg presents Sleeping Beauty

21 – Kafkasso Show

June

2-6 – St. Petersburg Opera: Rossini’s L’Italiana in Algeri

8 – Donald Harrison Quartet

11 – Dancebox Studio

14 – “Night Doves” presented by Atlas Modern Ballet & Camp

The Sound

Coachman Park

301 Drew St., Clearwater 727-791-7400 rutheckerdhall.com

The Studio@620

620 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727-895-6620 thestudioat620.org

Masks requested while in building

May

4-7, 11-14 – Master Class by Terrence McNally

19 – Stand Up Comedy Night

22 – Radio Theatre Project Season Closer

23 – Joe Breidenstine

24 – Poetry Open Mic

26-27 – In the Winter by Kennedy Engasser

June

9-10 – Live Arts Celebration

USF Yuengling Center

12499 USF Bull Run Drive, Tampa 813-974-3111 yuenglingcenter.com

May 19-20 – Joyce Meyer Conference Tour

28 – To-Gather Tampa

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-953-3368 vanwezel.org

May

5 – Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles

8 – Grace: The Spirit of Aretha

10 – Melissa Etheridge

11 – The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA

13 – Tom Jones

14 – Cinderella presented by the International Ballet of Florida

June

9 – Nikki Glaser

West Coast Players 21905 US 19 N, Clearwater 727-437-2363 wcplayers.com

Through May 14 – The Last Night of Ballyhoo

June

9-25 – Out of Order by Ray Cooney

Zubrick Magic Theatre

1211 First Ave N, Suite 101, St. Petersburg

Performances Thur.-Sat. 7pm; Sun. 2pm zubrickmagic.com 866-ZUBRICK (866-982-7425)

Voted “Best Family Magic Show”

MUSEUMS

Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum

2240 Ninth Ave. S, St. Petersburg One City Chorus – Mon. 7pm woodsonmuseum.org

Florida Holocaust Museum

55 Fifth St. S, St. Petersburg 727-820-0100 flholocaustmuseum.org

Through Aug. 27 – Lukasz Baksik Matzevot for Everyday Use

Through Aug. 27 – Memories of My Life in a Polish Village: Testimony in Art by Toby Knobel Fluek

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

1630 E 7th Ave., Ybor City, Tampa 813-221-2222 fmopa.org

Glazer Children’s Museum

110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 813-443-3851 glazermuseum.org

Created specifically for children 10 and under.

Great Explorations

Children’s Museum

1925 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg 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.

May

11 – A Night at the Brewseum

Gulf Beaches Historical Museum

115 10th Ave., St. Pete Beach 727-552-1610

gulfbeachesmuseum.com

Gulfport History Museum

5301 28th Ave. S, Gulfport Free admission 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 Through Aug. 20 –

Imagined East: Decorative Arts & the Imperial Gaze

Heritage Museum

100 Beekman Lane, Tarpon Springs 727-942-5605 tarponarts.org

History and culture of the Greek community

May

11 – Sustainable Tarpon Springs

20 – Folk Rock Revival Summer Concert Series feat. Leon Majcen & Greg Bauman

June

10 – Folk Rock Revival Summer Concert Series feat. Mercy McCoy & Joshua Reilly

Imagine Museum

1901 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-300-1700

imaginemuseum.com

Contemporary American Studio Glass Thur. $5 after 5pm

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

Through May 28 – Gods and Lovers: Paintings and Sculpture from India

Through Aug. 1 – Art Deco

Lacquer & Textiles from Japan

Through Sept. 4 – Reclaiming

Home: Contemporary Seminole Art

Through Jan. 7, 2024 – As long as there is sun, as long as there is light. Selections from the Bring Gift and The Ringling Collection of Modern and Contemporary Art

May

6-Aug. 6 – From the Chambers: A John Sims Memorial

20-Oct. 15 – Lorna Bieber: Natural World

Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art

600 E Klosterman Road., Tarpon Springs

727-712-5762 leeparattner.org

Through May 21 – The Palladium Series: The Other Side of Dance

Through May 21 – Arts Alive!

Performance in Art

Through June 25 – Herb Snitzer: In the Present

Museum of the American Arts And Crafts Movement

355 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg 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. Petersburg 727-894-4638 mfastpete.org

Thur. $10 after 5pm

Cocktails & Collections third Thur.

Through May 21 – Images Private and Public c.1500-1800

Through June 25 – Unexpected

Visual Conversations

Through July 23 – Japanese

Photographs from the Meiji Era, 1870-1900

Through Aug. 6 – Dogs in Art

Through Aug. 13 –

Japanese Prints from the Read-Simms Collection

Through March 17, 2024 –

Time Flies, Hours Flee

National Comedy Hall of Fame Museum

2435 U.S. 19, Holiday 727-541-7876

nationalcomedyhalloffame.com

Closed, museum

expansion underway

Safford House Museum

23 Parkin Ct., Tarpon Springs

Restored Victorian home built in 1883, 727-942-5605 tarponarts.org

St. Petersburg Museum of History

335 Second Ave. NE

St. Petersburg 727-894-1052 spmoh.com

Watch “Ancient History for Kids” on YouTube!

Through June 8 – Civil Rights in the Sunshine State Happy Hour with the Historian: May

11 – Bill De Young: The Story of the Sunshine Skyway and the Man Who Brought It Down

June 8 – Robert Jacob: Andrew Jackson – From the Battle of New Orleans to the Invasion of Florida

Tampa Bay Automobile Museum

3301 Gateway Centre, Pinellas Park. 727-579-8226 tbauto.org

Tampa Bay History Center 801 Old Water St., Tampa 813-228-0097

tampabayhistorycenter.org

Walking tours of Tampa neighborhoods

Through Oct. 15 – Etched

Feathers: A History of the Printed Bird

Tampa Museum of Art 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 813-259-1720 tampamuseum.org

Thur. 4-8pm –pay-as-you-will admission

Through June 4 – Salman Toor: No Ordinary Love

Through July 9 – Travels in Italy: A 19th Century Journey through Photography

Through Aug/ 13 – Fleurish: The Art of Naeem Khan

Through Aug. 27 – Time for Change: Art and Social Unrest in the Jorge M. Perez Collection

Through June 30, 2024 –Purvis Young: Redux

-“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.”

– Thich Nhat Hanh

ARTS & LEISURE

Tarpon Springs Railroad Depot Historical Museum

160 E Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs Free admission 727-943-4624 tarponspringsarea historicalsociety.org

The Dalí Museum

One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg 727-823-3767 thedali.org

Thur. and Fri. reduced admission after 5pm Advanced-purchase timed tickets recommended

The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art

150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-892-4200 thejamesmuseum.org

Tues. $10 all day

Through May 14 – The Stories

They Tell: Indigenous Art and the Photography of Edward S. Curtis June 10-Sept. 17 –

Un/Natural Selections: Wildlife in Contemporary Art

USF Contemporary Art Museum Institute for Research in Art

3821 USF Holly Drive, Tampa ira.usf.edu 813-974-3503

USF Graphicstudio

3702 Spectrum Blvd., Ste 100, Tampa Free admission 813-974-3503 graphicstudio.usf.edu/GS/ gs_about.html

May

20 – 25th Annual GraphicStudio Benefit Sale

June

2 – Rico Gatson: Visible Time Exhibition Walkthrough + Opening Reception

MUSIC

Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association

Mon. Night Jazz Jam, 7-9pm, Hangar Restaurant, 540 First St. SE, St. Petersburg, aldowningjazz.com

New Horizons Band of Gulfport Gulfport Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport Novice, intermediate musicians 727-345-0285 newhorizonsbandgulfport.org

School of Rock St. Petersburg 2401 Central Ave., St. Petersburg

Guitar, drum, singing, keyboard/ piano lessons 727-871-7625 schoolofrock.com

South Pasadena Community Band

All-volunteer band 727-515-5407 southpasadenaband.com

June

1 – Free Concert: South Pasadena City Hall

St. Petersburg College Gibbs Campus Music Center 6605 Fifth Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727-341-4360 spcollege.edu/events

Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Society Cove Cay Golf Club 2612 Cove Cay Drive, Clearwater sdjs2022.org

May

21 – Charlie Bertini’s Monster Dixieland Band

June

18 – The Jazz Phools

Tampa Bay Symphony

Performances in various locations 727-827-8087

tampabaysymphony.org

TomKats Jazz Orchestra

The Blue Parrot, Mon. 7-9:30pm 85 Corey Circle, St. Pete Beach 727-368 9619

tomkatsjazzorchestra.com

Greg Dunn, Tomkats Music Dir. dunngsje@verizon.net 727-637-4123

tomkatsjazzorchestra.com

OPERA

Metropolitan Opera: HD Live Miller Auditorium, Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg

Live high-definition broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera 727-864-7600

https://www.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

June

2 – Outloud

Sarasota Opera House

61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota 941-328-1300 sarasotaopera.org

May 9 – Vivaldi & Mendelssohn pres. by Artist Series Concerts

12 – Musical Postcards pres. by Sarasota Orchestra

20 – Cinderella

June

11 – Adventure Awaits: Youth Show

St. Petersburg Opera Company

2145 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727-823-2040 stpeteopera.org

Various performance locations

May

7 – Ciao Bella Voce!

June

2-6 – L’Italiana In Algeri

St. Petersburg Opera Guild stpeteoperaguild.org

The Pinellas Opera League Socialize and be entertained first Wed. October-June

Thur.: Opera at the Dali pinellasoperaleague.com

ECO

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg 727-893-7326 stpeteparksrec.org/ boydhillpreserve

Tram Tours Sat., guided tours, classes. Encompasses Lake Maggiore Environmental Education Center, Terry Tomalin Campground, and Pinellas Pioneer Settlement

Brooker Creek Preserve

3940 Keystone Rd., Tarpon Springs 727-453-6800 brookercreekpreserve.org

Tram Tours Sat.

8,700 acres of forested wetlands and pine flatwoods.

Fort De Soto Park

3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde 727-552-1862 pinellascounty.org/park

Campgrounds, ferry services to Egmont and Shell Keys.

Seven miles of beach, historic fort, two fishing piers (Bay Pier closed through winter 2023).

Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

700 Second Ave. NE, St. Petersburg, at The St. Pete Pier 727-291-4103

tbwdiscoverycenter.org

Daily boat tours of Tampa Bay ecosystem

Weedon Island Preserve

1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Petersburg 727-453-6500

weedonislandpreserve.org

Guided hikes, birding, and photography tours. Classes and webinars.

GARDENS

Florida West Coast Orchid Society

Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo 727-420-7230 fwcos.org

Second Thurs, 7:30pm, visitors welcome. Educational classes

Garden Club of St. Petersburg 500 Sunset Dr. S, St. Petersburg 727-381-8920

gardenclubstpetersburg.org

Monthly special events

Ikebana International St. Petersburg Chapter 65 500 Sunset Drive, St. Petersburg (Garden Club building)

Ikebana – centuries-old art of Japanese floral arranging. ikebanastpetersburg.com

Monthly demonstrations

May

15 – Sushi Demonstration

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

1534 Mound St., Sarasota 941-366-5731 selby.org

Through June 25 – Tiffany: The Pursuit of Beauty in Nature

Pinewood Cultural Park

12520 Ulmerton Road, and 12211

Walsingham Road, Largo

Includes:

• Heritage Village – Free 21-acre living history museum pinellascounty.org/heritage

• Creative Pinellas –creativepinellas.org

May

5-July 16 – 2023 Emerging Artist Exhibition

16 – AfroQuantum Experiences: ArtMaker Talk

SPORTS & REC

TWO WHEEL ADVENTURES See the city like a local with St. Pete Biking Tours. All bike tours are 3-4 hours and include bicycles, helmets, souvenir water bottles and on occasion, complimentary food, and beverages. Choose among the history and heritage tour, art and mural tour, downtown St. Pete city tour, pedaling for pints tour and hidden gems food and wine tour. StPeteBikingTours.com You can go far by bike in paradise with Bike/Walk Tampa Bay, a consortium of organizations who want to make biking and walking the preferred mode of transportation. The website offers resources for bikers and walkers, info on the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail and bike rules, cycling tips and how to take your bike on a bus. Bikewalktampabay.org

THE BIG KAHUNA Let’s face it; the Gulf doesn’t get that much surf wave action except during storms. But you can try out the sport safely at Surf Style’s Indoor Surfing FlowRider wave machine in Clearwater Beach. The FlowRider challenges wave gliders to balance on surging waves and if you wipeout, you fall on a soft riding service. Practice tricks, hone your skills and see if you are Big Wave material. surfstyle.com

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS

May 19 — Carry the Load memorial walks

Free registration, 8am-9pm, throughout Pinellas County. This fundraising campaign to honor and remember the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes and make Memorial Day matter again comes to Pinellas County May 19. Begin the day at 8am with a memorial in downtown St. Petersburg to the city’s fallen officers. The walk will get to Bay Pines National Cemetery about noon, continuing to Seminole, Clearwater and Dunedin before ending the day at the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. Walkers can participate in any or all the day’s segments. For information about participating and fundraising, visit carrytheload.org/memorial-may

May 28 — Memorial Day Flag Placement

9am, Bay Pines National Cemetery, 10000 Bay Pines Blvd., St. Petersburg. Volunteers place some 25,000-30,000 small flags on individual gravesites. For this event, volunteers must register with Flags for Fallen Vets to obtain flags. tinyurl.com/4xhkw94x

May 29 — Bay Pines Memorial Day Ceremony

10 and 11am, Bay Pines National Cemetery, 10000 Bay Pines Blvd., St. Petersburg.

May 29 — Clearwater Memorial Day Salute

6-7pm, Crest Lake Park, 201 S Glenwood Ave., Clearwater. Local veterans’ organizations will be present including the Military Order of the Purple Heart represented by Florida’s first Purple Heart Chapter, Dunedin’s JFK 1963 Chapter. Keynote speaker will be Jack Tilly, the 12th Sergeant Mayor of the Army (retired). Restored military vehicles will be on display.

ARTS & LEISURE

• Florida Botanical Gardens –Free 100-acre park flbg.org

First Sat. –

Historic House Concert Series

Second Sat. –

Speaking of History Series

Third Sat. – Gardens open 7am-5pm; Creative Pinellas open noon-5pm; Heritage Village open 10am-4pm

Sunken Gardens

1825 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg Adult and child horticultural workshops 727-892-5715 sunkengardens.org

FERRIES

Crossbay Ferry

Connecting Downtown Tampa Aquarium Wharf to Downtown St. Petersburg Vinoy Basin Wed. through Sun., October through May 727-273-5932 thecrossbayferry.com

Egmont Key Ferry

Fort De Soto Boat Ramp 727-398-6577

hubbardsmarina.com

Pirate Water Taxi

Hop on, hop off, 14 stops along the Hillsborough River and Tampa Riverwalk. 813-223-7999 piratewatertaxi.com

Shell Key Ferry

Fort De Soto Boat Ramp 727-398-6577

hubbardsmarina.com

See website for overnight camping

LIBRARIES

Gulf Beaches Public Library

200 Municipal Drive, Madeira Beach 727-391-2828

gulfbeacheslibrary.org

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

Monday/Wednesday 10-8

Tuesday/Thursday/Friday 10-6

Saturday 10-2 Sunday closed

Closed Monday, May 29 — Memorial Day

Topics in American History: 1st Tues.

Mayor’s Open Office: 2nd and 4th Mon

Feature Films:

• Mon.: 1 & 15 • Fri.: 5

Book Club: 3rd Thur.

Tech Help: 2nd Mon.

Adult Crafternoon: 2nd Thur

Donut Happy Hour: 2nd Tues

Children’s Programs

Story Time: Tues

Family Movie Night: 3, 24

Family Crafternoon: 4th Tues

Middle Grade Graphic Novel Book Club: 4th Tues

Home School Social: 2nd Tues

Story & STEAM: 3rd Sat Make a Mother’s Day Bouquet: 9 spblibrary.com

President Barack Obama Main Library 3745 Ninth Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727-893-7724 splibraries.org Closed for renovation

MARKETS

TUESDAYS

Gulfport’s Tuesday Fresh Market 9am-3pm, January through April 9am-2pm, May through December Beach Blvd. below 28th Ave. S, Gulfport

Second Tues. Clothing Swap, Moved to Russian Club, 2920 Beach Blvd. S visitgulfportflorida.com

WEDNESDAYS

Madeira Beach Market November through May 10am-2pm 15000 Madeira Way, Madeira Beach

FRIDAYS

Treasure Island Friday Market December through April, 9am-2pm

Community Center Park (behind Walgreens) 104th Ave. & Park Place, Treasure Island. Free parking, live music. Pet friendly. 727-360-4121

islandneighborschamber.org

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY

Dunedin Downtown Market

9am-2pm, Pioneer Park, 420 Main St., Fri. market November-May; Sat. market year-round. facebook.com/

DunedinDowntownMarket

SATURDAYS

Market in The Bluffs

9am-2pm, second Sat., September through May

2747 Sunset Blvd., Belleair Bluffs

Outdoor market

facebook.com/marketinthebluffs

St. Petersburg Saturday

Morning Market

October through May, 9am-2pm

Al Lang Stadium parking lot, 230 First St. SE, 727-455-4921

saturdaymorningmarket.com

SUNDAYS

Corey Avenue Sunday Market

10am-2pm/Summer 9am-1pm

Corey (74th) Avenue, St. Pete Beach 727-498-8778

tampabaymarkets.com

Indian Shores Sunday Market

October through April, 9am-1pm

Indian Shores Town Hall, 19305 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores 727-300-6551

facebook.com/

IndianShoresSundayMarket/

St. Pete Artisan Sunday Market

Every other Sunday, noon-6pm, parking lot of Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Ave., St. Petersburg.

SPIRITUAL

Sacred Lands

1700 Park St. N, St. Petersburg 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

Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center (formerly Alligator Attraction)

John’s Pass Village, 12973 Village Blvd. A-D Madeira Beach, 727-329-8751 kissagator.com

Explore, learn & kiss a gator

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

249 Windward Passage, Clearwater 727-441-1790 www. 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 Parkway, 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

One mile west of I-275 (exit 48) 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

Pass-A-Grille Shuffle Board

January through March

Tues./Thurs./Sat., 10am–noon

Pass-A-Grille Park, Ninth & 10th Ave.

Member $20/yr., open to public.

funeral-homes/st-pete-beach-fl/beach-memorial-chapel/9761

If you have not been in the newly renovated chapel for a Celebration of Life lately, please stop by. Prepare to be surprised.Serving our community with funeral and cremation services for over 80 years.

ST. PETE | TIERRA VERDE | BRADENTON | PALM BEACH

-“Happiness is good health and a bad memory.”

– Ingrid Berman

Happy Mother’s Day

ARTS & LEISURE

Preserve The ‘Burg

727-824-7802

preservetheburg.org

Works to educate, advocate, and celebrate all things related to St. Pete’s history.

Rotary Club of Gulf Beaches

Tues., Noon. VFW, 12901 Gulf Blvd., Madeira Beach facebook.com/RotaryGulfBeaches/

Second Saturday Singers

Second Sat. October through April, 9am–noon Pasadena Community Church, 227 70th St. S, St. Petersburg

Sing songs you love, ages middle school and up bobd@pccumc.org

Senior Solos

Second Mon. except July and August, 1pm, Pinellas Park Senior Center, 7625 59th St. N, Pinellas Park. Social group of singles 50+ 727-369-5694 pinellaspark.com

Social Club of St. Petersburg

2500 34th St. S, St. Petersburg. Bocce, cards, and social events. Open to the public on Mon. and for special events. majordl050@aol.com

727-798-6355 socialclubofsp.org

St. Petersburg Audubon Society

727-753-9731 stpeteaudubon.org

101+ Years Conservation

St. Petersburg Chess Club

540 Fourth Ave. N, St. Petersburg

Open every Fri. for members from 6-11pm; Sun. 2-4pm for group chess lessons and friendly games. Individual lessons available. chessclubjoy.webs.com

727-776-5583

St. Petersburg Lawn Bowling Club

330 Fifth St. N, St. Petersburg

November to April, Mon., Wed., and Fri. 9:30am

Free lessons available. 727-344-4240/ 416-410-7671 stpetersburglawnbowling.org

St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club

Fri., 7-10pm, Free. 559 Mirror Lake Drive N, St. Petersburg 727-822-2083 stpeteshuffle.com

Suncoast Bonsai Society

Third Sat. 10am

Seminole Recreation Center

9100 113th St., Room 210A, Seminole

Demos, workshops, evaluations. Bring your own tree. One of oldest bonsai clubs in Florida. 727-209-7974 suncoastbonsaisociety.org

Suncoast Quilting Circle

Works to preserve and promote the art of quilt making. suncoastquiltingcircle.org

Swiss Club

Second Sat. 11:45am, October through May

12425 Sixth St. E, Treasure Island Augie – 727-522-0771 swissclubstpetersburg.com

Tampa Bay Surface Guild

Second Mon., 6:30-8:30pm Good Samaritan Church

6085 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park Coloring, patterning, structuring and transformation of fabric, fiber, and other materials surfacedesignguild.com

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

Jan..-April/Sept.-Dec.,

Second Mon., 5pm Sept. through Dec. meets at Treasure Island Community Center Garden Room, 154 106th Ave., 727-641-5203 facebook.com/ treasureislandFLhistoricalsociety New temporary location

Treasure Islettes

Bingo Thursdays 6:30pm, Treasure Island Community Center, 154 106th Ave. Doors open 6pm. Jackpot $200-$250! Free parking, free coffee and tea. Proceeds go to charity and college scholarships. 727-270-3178 treasureislettes.weebly.com

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Flotilla 7-8, St. Pete Beach Promoting boating safety with a 12-week repeating cycle Safe Boating Program, Tues. 7pm. Start at any point in cycle. Warren Webster Building, 1500 Pass-A-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach wow.uscgaux.info/content. php?unit=070-07-08

Tampa Bay Women In Tourism

Third Friday, various venues. Fosters relationships, encourages growth within the industry and your business. tampabaywomenintourism.com

WordSmitten Writing Workshops

Third Sat., 1-5:30pm, $15/session 800-727-6214 ext 101 wordsmitten.com

CLUBS – ATHLETIC

Clearwater/St. Petersburg Ski Club

Second Tues. 6:30pm, September to May

Mike’s Pizza & Deli Station, 13560 49th St., Clearwater. Pinellas County’s only ski club. 727-743-3108 snowshark.org

Mad Dogs Triathlon Club Wed. night swims through summer, 6pm, Hurley Park Shelter, Pass-A-Grille Beach, 1600 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach. 727-582-1910 stpetemaddogs.org

Tampa Bay Beach Bums

Beach volleyball for players of all levels. Gulfport 727-437-2867 Facebook

St. Pete Road Runners

Member of Road Runners Club of America. Walkers, joggers, non-competitive & competitive runners. Monthly meetings, guest speakers, coaching, group runs, Grand Prix Series and social events.

HEALTH

Depression Bipolar Support Meets at various locations and times. 727-410-1569 dbsatampabay.org/index.html

Jazzercise Exercise Classes

Mon. & Wed. 5:30pm

Treasure Island City Hall, 120 108th Ave., Treasure Island 727-687-6695 jazzercise.com

Memory Café – Gulfport

Third Mon. 12:15-2pm

Neptune Grille, 5501 Shore Blvd. S, Gulfport. Support for those suffering from dementia and their loved ones. RSVP 727-327-0167 sensol@seniorsmile.com or 813-384-7571

catemcarty@gmail.com

Memory Café – St. Petersburg Second Mon. 11am-1pm Carrabba’s St. Pete, 1951 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg. RSVP 727-327-0167 sensol@seniorsmile.com or 813-384-7571

catemcarty@gmail.com

Walking Club & Memory Café

Third Fri. 10-11am group walk Tyrone Square Mall 11:15am-1pm Memory Café at Red Robin, 2468 Tyrone Blvd. N, St. Petersburg, RSVP 727-345-3581 sensol@seniorsmile.com or 813-384-7571 catemcarty@ gmail.com

Wednesday Walkers

Second and fourth Wed. 9am, varying locations. Sponsored by Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport 727-893-1244

THRIFT SHOPS

Attic Shoppe 316 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach facebook.com/albansministry

CASA Thrift Shop 1011 First Ave. N, St. Petersburg Wed. Seniors 55+ save 25%. casa-stpete.org

Creative Thrift Art Store (at Creative Clay) 1846 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg creativeclay.org/creative-thrift

ARTS & LEISURE

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, St. Pete Beach pagchurch.org/home/thrift-shop/

St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop

5124 Gulfport Blvd. S, Gulfport facebook.com/stvinthrift

Church by the Sea Thrift Store 495 137th Ave. Circle, Madeira Beach churchbythesea.com/thrift-store

VOLUNTEERING

AARP

Various volunteer opportunities aarp.org/giving-back

Daystar Life Center

1055 28th St. S., St. Petersburg

Many volunteer opportunities available. 727-825-0442 facebook.com/DaystarLifeCenter

Empath Health Suncoast Hospice

Locations throughout Pinellas County. Training provided. Ages 14+ years. empathhealth.org

Friends of Strays

2911 47th Ave. N, St. Petersburg Nonprofit, no-kill shelter 727-522-6566 friendsofstrays.com/home

Hope Villages of America, Inc. Positions needed at Food Bank, Haven of RCS, Grace House, Thrift Store. Helping families of hunger, homelessness, and domestic violence. 727-443-4031 ext 506 rcspinellas.org/Volunteer/

Marine Exploration Center

Looking for volunteers who are passionate about the marine environment. 727-209-7115 mecstpete.org

Meals on Wheels

13945 Evergreen Ave., Clearwater Need volunteer drivers to deliver meals. 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. Help abused, abandoned, and neglected children 727-834-3493 guardianadlitem.org

St. Petersburg Arts Alliance

100 Second Ave. N, Suite 150 St. Petersburg

Help advocate for the arts, empower artists and drive artsrelated economic development. In-person and virtual volunteering opportunities. 727-754-6404 stpeteartsalliance.org

St. Petersburg Free Clinic

863 Third Ave. N, St Petersburg 727-821-1200 ext 114 stpetersburgfreeclinic.org

Tampa Bay Watch

3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde 727-867-8166 tampabaywatch.org

YOGA

Beach Yoga Pinellas Various locations 727-222-6476 Beachyogapinellas.com

Salty Souls Yoga Various locations 727-459-9178 saltysoulsyoga.com

Silver Sneakers Yoga Community Center, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach 727-363-9245 Fri. at 11:15am spbrec.com

South Pasadena Gentle Yoga

Thursdays, 9:30-10:30am. South Pasadena City Hall, 7047 Sunset Drive S. Chair or mat option. Instructor has 40+ years’ experience. barbmoeller1@gmail.com or 856-296-3647. Free/donation.

Sunken Gardens

1825 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg 727-560-7317

Mon. & Wed. 10:30am

The Centre of St. Pete Beach 7525 Blind Pass Rd., St. Pete Beach 727-258-2001 thecentreSPB.com/ calendar1

• Wake Up My Body

Mon. & Sat. 9-10am Hatha Yoga Wed. 6-7pm Mindful Slow Yoga. wakeupmybody.com

• St. Pete Aerial Yoga

AM & PM Aerial Yoga Class options. Beginners welcome. Private sessions and group parties available.

Reservations required www.stpeteaerialyoga.com

• Prism Wellness Yoga

Tues 3:30pm – Hatha Yoga

Thurs 9:30am – Mindful Meditation Reservations required prismwellnessandyoga.com

Ralph Marston

DOWNTOWN CONCIERGE

SIP & SUP Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls on First Ave. N serves up classic lobster, lobster salad and jumbo shrimp authentic New England style, as well as lobster mac n’ cheese, lobster bisque and authentic Maine root beer. And hot dog… you can nosh a Nathan’s here. Calida Kitchen & Wine features a fantastic global menu and wine list. Charcuterie, chow mein noodles, chicken thighs, flank steak, branzino, baked polenta, oysters and chopped salad get rave reviews; reservations suggested for Thurs.-Sat. at 2909 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N.

Sesh Brewing Co. on Fourth is moody and delectable, serving Sunday brunch and a savory, beer-friendly menu from burgers (jelly donut double burger), sandwiches (chicken club, grouper, pulled pork), catch of the day, build-a-bowl (flash fried gator, anyone?), oysters, salads, baby back ribs and a 12oz. ribeye with seasoned fries. Located in the historical Earl Gresch Wood Parade Property, parts of the resto date back 100 years. “All spirits are friendly, even behind the bar,” says the menu (bar drinks with ghostly names like fantasma and succubus will slay you) and alleged paranormal sightings are said to haunt the historic home and once famous French restaurant, now Sesh.

SHOP Downtown authors Tamara Lush (mysteries) and Roy Peter Clark (writing well) both have new books out; look for them in Tombolo Books. Looking for the perfect Mom or Dad Day gift? The St. Petersburg Store & Visitors Center features locally made goods, from ties to mugs, clever cards or t-shirts and gorgeous jewelry.

Baked in the Burg opens in May, taking the popular wholesale biz to the public Thurs. -Sat. with fresh bread, cookies, and other scrumptious baked goods. Bonu Taverna Italiana serves brunch Sat.-Sun. 11:30am3pm with pinsa, breakfast bacon and egg burger, dolce desserts and for your table, Aperol bottle and Prosecco bottle service so you can mix your Spritz. Check out Wild Child’s new menu, especially the hanger steak au poivre, braised short rib birria, chorizo-stuffed dates and inspired craft cocktails. Cecilia’s Sweets on Central’s mouthwatering mini-cakes, cupcakes, candy apples and other sweet treats are perfect for Mother’s Day.

The Cane & Barrel Rooftop Bar at the ACE Hotel is spectacular, from the rum craft cocktails to the modern tropical fare including beef or chicken empanadas, mini flatbreads with chimichurri sauce (steak or chicken), yucca fries, Cuban sandwiches and my fave, buñuelos, crispy dough covered with brown sugar and cinnamon, fresh berries and hazelnut dipping sauce with a signature cocktail, the Yes Chef, made with Caravedo Mosto Verde-Pisco, Ginger Liquor, strawberry and lime juice.

TIDBITS The St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and Leadership St. Pete Alumni Association is debuting Inside St. Pete, a one-day welcome to newcomers and long-time residents looking for a deeper discovery of St. Pete. On May 12, take this multi-stop tour for an insider view of St. Pete’s history, current events, and institutions, and hear from the community leaders who built it and continue to shape St. Pete’s future. stpete.com

Congratulations to Patricia Clynes, Chamber Board Member and CFO, YMCA St. Petersburg who has been named an honoree for the 2023 CFO of the Year awards by the Tampa Bay Business Journal…The application period for the City of St. Petersburg’s Arts and Culture Grant Program is open through June 9. Three levels of funding opportunities ranging from $7,500 to $22,000 are available for eligible arts-focused organizations. stpete.org/artsgrants

Isla Summer Memberships

CLASSIFIED

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

BACKGROUND CHECKS

King Background Screening

Since 2006. Tenant & employee background checks. Full credit report, nationwide criminal, and nationwide eviction. $50 See website for full details.

KingBackgroundScreening.com

Denise Anderson - Owner

Call/Text 941.284.4612

KingScreening@gmail.com

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

BODY SCULPTING

Medically supervised targeted weight loss with EMSCULPT at Regenesis Life 727.826.0329

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

COMPUTERS & VIRUS REMOVAL

Pinellas Family Computer Service

PC & Mac Technician for your home or business. Stephen Johnson A+ sjohnson@pfcs.biz 727.803.0219

CONDO FOR RENT - NEW

Annual lease $2,700/mo. 3 Palms Point, 2/2 with water view. Call 646.808.7043

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

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

Residential, Commercial

Linen & Maid Services

MNC Cleaning Service Stop in 9-4 at 7863 Blind Pass Rd. or call 727.826.0133

Laundry Wash - Dry - Fold Service

Laundromat 7815 Blind Pass Rd., SPB, call Laura 727.458.1412

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

KITCHEN & BATH REMODELERS

Quality Construction with a woman’s touch. vanselowdesign.com

Master Certified Kitchen & Bath

Remodeler, Green Certified Professional 727.391.2959

Schedule a FREE Consultation TODAY

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. HELP WANTED

Sacino’s Formalwear is hiring quality tailors, sales associates & management trainees. Join our expert team today! Resume to rons@sacino.com

HOUSEKEEPING & CLEANING

Dependable European Lady15+yrs exp., High Quality, Reasonable Rates, References. 727.564.1473 11/23

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 CleaningExperienced,Efficient European Cleaning LadyFree Estimates, Great local references 10+ years Irina 727.481.1364

INSURANCE

Academy Insurance - Full Lines -

Flood -Residential & Investment Property Specialist Call Rose rwainwright@academyins.net

727.343.0419

Bentley DeNight Insurance Services can save $$$ on Flood Insurance and can quote Homeowners, Auto & Business Insurances 727.344.4500

IV THERAPY

Medically supervised IV Infusions at Regenesis

727.826.0329

JEWELERS

Diny’s Jewelers - Custom Designs, restoration & repair; appraisals & more! 130 107th Ave., Treasure Island (N of Clock Tower) DinysFlorida.com 727.513.3469

LOCKSMITH SERVICES

COVID SAFE Lock Repair Service during daytime hours, weekdays. Vet owned. Tommy Locksmith 727.755.3975

LUMBERS

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

MASSAGE SERVICES

2Reds Massage (MM37417) is growing brand new treatment rooms open for medical massage or complimentary therapies. Great location for St. Pete and south beaches. Call Marsha Jo 2redsmassage.com 727.278.1175

Helios Health – Scott (MA-25432) & Zoe (MA31664) offer massage, personal training and Infrared sauna therapy on West Central Ave. at 57 St., St. Petersburg 727.322.8883

Corrective Massage Therapy

Muscular and Structural Rehabilitation

Robert S. King LMT, 214 Pasadena Ave. S, RobertKingLMT.com 813.625.1322

MEMORY CARE

Memory challenges are complex.

Let’s figure them out together. We take care of Moms and Dads. Inspired Living at the Ridge inspired.living.care

A purpose-built memory-care facility on high ground.

Join us for an upcoming

Dementia Live interactive presentation 727.231.5396

PAINTING SERVICES

Residential or Commercial Painting

Flo-Pro Painting 727.337.6888

PAYROLL SERVICE

For 1-50 employees. Competitive. Employee Retention Tax Credit Consultant. Get your application filed! Jack.Welsh@Payrollvault.com

Payroll Vault 727.424.4044

PERSONAL CHEF

Hire a French personal chef and enjoy dinner with your guests!

Text or call 571.435.5606

Custom Meals and Delivery

Andrea Dudley 813.541.8437

PET SERVICES

CBD for Pets - Natures Pet Herbals has a variety of CBD Hemp based products for you and your pets. The Centre@StPeteBeach carries Natures Pet Herbals for your pets and top quality CBD products for you!

Stop by 7525 Blind Pass Rd.

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

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.”

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Make New Friends at The Fountains of Boca Ciega Bay, a Watermark, Waterfront Community convenient to Paradise NEWS readers.

Call 727.202.3474

SCREEN REPAIR

Screen Repair for Pool Cages, Patios and Lanais, call or text for a FREE Estimate.

Rescreen Rescue 727.348.4307

SEAFOOD & BUTCHER SHOP

Shaners Land & Sea Market @ P-A-G 2000 Pass-A-Grille Way, St Pete Beach 8am-7pm, 7 days 727.367.4292

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 w/ 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 Paristropical@gmail.com 727.303.2541

Piano lessons your home or my studio. All ages & styles, affordable, 25 years of experience. 727.688.2782

French lessons by French nativeAll levels. Text or call 571.435.5606

Reading tutor. Certified. Grades 2-8.

1:1 Zoom or in-person. 941.962.5782 actuallylearnit.com

WANTED-PIANO

Steinway Grand piano. 727.381.4400

WEIGHT LOSS

Medically supervised, overall or targeted weight loss IV Therapy Too.

Regenesis Life 727.826.0329

WELLNESS

WellCare Coach / Independent Shaklee Distributor. Build Immunity! Take Meology Assessment! On FB @WatershedVisionsWellness

Jill

YOUR Home Renovation Resource

Open our door to upgrade yours! YörDör helps you get your home perfected to either enjoy or to sell. Maximize your home’s potential with YörDör and let them suggest easy renovations that translate to higher offers on your home or condo. YörDör hires and manages vetted contractors so you don’t have the hassle. Call today for a FREE consultation 727-390-4811!

• Specializing in new construction builds, renovation projects to perfect your home or small remodels to get your home ready for sale.

• Services include kitchen and bath renovations, home additions, casitas, outdoor kitchens, pools, home automation, and creation of energy-efficient homes through state-of-the-art hurricane-rated doors, windows, solar-powered and battery backup systems.

For our client at 3742 Foster Hill Dr. N, YörDör did a Level 3 Renovation and increased finished square footage, added additional beds, bath, lap lane pool, outdoor kitchen, pergola, and oversaw intensive landscaping to mitigate a busy street. –

Matthew Erickson, YörDör President

YörDör was easy to work with and the consummate professionals with an impeccable roster of contractors and services to call upon. They make small improvements with big results...I sold my home for $100,000 more than its listing price. – Steve G., Homeowner

Your Tierra Verde Real Estate Experts

$2,750,000

873 2nd Ave S. Tierra Verde One of-a kind home built for musical group ABBA. 4,527 sq ft, 6/BR, 4 remodeled baths and 2-1/2 baths. Two 2-car garages. Waterfront, dock and 2nd corner lot. Pool and hot tub. Newer roof. Solar panels. Nancy LaBare 607-760-8483, Randy Ierna 727-647-0813

$589,000

SALE $2,550,000 TO $2,990,000

455 Pinellas Bayway S. New Construction Luxury Gated Condo residences with boat slips. 8 waterfront condo. 50’ deep water boat slips. 2-car garage. Climate controlled storage. Heated pool & spa. Fitness center and lounge. Blanka Prusova-White, 727-480-6126

$337,000

$799,000

Stunning Tarpon Lake Pool Home in Palm Harbor’s Cobb’s Landing subdivision. 4BR/3BR. 2,763 updated living space and oversized 2-car garage. Marina, leased boat slips, playground, tennis and basketball courts. Kelle Dowling, 727-804-2299, Dallas Iannone, 352-502-6818

Waterfront

fully furnished, seaside unit. Private lanai and open floor plan. Western exposure. Beautiful sunsets! Resort style, waterfront heated pool. Minutes to beaches, downtown, and airports. Cindy Haskins 727-373-8288

6515 Grand Estuary Trail #304, Bradenton Furnished, turnkey condo, gated River Strand. Private lanai overlooking pond on 6th fairway. Updated kitchen. Deeded rights to 27 holes, clubhouses with restaurant. Resort pools, pickleball, tennis & fitness centers. Randy Ierna 727-647-0813

WATERFRONT 2/BR/2BA Furnished, turnkey condo, St. James in Treasure Island. Updated designer kitchen. Water views. New Impact windows and sliding glass door. Balcony with views of Boca Ciega Bay. Pool, fitness, dock, elevators, parking. Gabrielle Bettig 727-385-9017

en suite

2-car garage. Updated kitchen. Large

balcony overlooking pond, walk-in

Newer AC and water heater. Updated clubhouse. Blanka Prusova-White 727-480-6126

8816 N Malibu Rd, Citrus Springs Pre-construction

Custom design and build. 0.32 acres of beautiful Florida nature coast living. 3BR/2.5BA, in-house office. 2-car garage, lanai, pool optional, deed restricted. No

5505 PUERTA DEL SOL BLVD S, #126 2 BR/2BA

condo,

6309 Vista Verde Villas Del Verde 3BR/2.5BA townhouse, gated,

master

with

closets.

ENCOURAGING WORDS

How to Build Bridges Rather Than Walls

Have you ever wondered how to “bridge the gap” between you and another person when neither of you speaks the same language? Too often, when there is a communication barrier between human beings, the tendency is to build a wall separating us, reinforced by the discomfort we feel.

A lack of understanding establishes the cornerstone of such a wall – and fear is the mortar that strengthens it. An alternative is to build a bridge mindfully that unites us, reinforced with love, compassion and non-judgment. The practice is to start by focusing on what we have in common with that person. Common ground naturally offers us a place to stand that allows us to dismantle the invisible walls our assumptions and judgments construct.

Irrespective of the communication gap, it’s easy to find what we have in common with another human being – if we are willing and know where to look:

We all are born; we all die. We all laugh; we all cry. We all know joy; we all know pain. We all share the same planet. We all share the same name:

Human Being

Several years ago, I had the honor of making a series of keynote presentations at the International Convention of The Americas in Lake Chapala, Mexico. It was the first time I have spoken before a group with the help of a translator using wireless technology, allowing each person who spoke only

By Dr. Dennis Merritt Jones

Spanish to hear and, simultaneously, understand my words as I spoke them in English. It was quite remarkable to meet face-to-face with so many sweet people, knowing it wasn’t just my words they heard; the translator did an exquisite job of conveying the content of my heart–which was teeming with gratitude and a feeling of oneness that transcended any language or cultural boundaries. Likewise, when my new friends spoke to me, their hearts led the conversation; I know this is true because I could see it in their eyes; their words (most of which I could not understand) were secondary. The realization I had was, while some people have talked about building a wall separating “us” from “them” they can never build a wall high enough to separate hearts that know, in truth, there is only ONE of us here.

When we can look beyond age, gender, nationality, color, culture, religion, or any of the other many labels we mindlessly place upon others and ourselves, we realize we are all very much the same. All it takes is a simple gaze into another’s eyes while remembering that who we are looking at is actually a reflection of some aspect of ourselves...followed, of course, by the universal language of a smile to bridge any perceived communication gap.

THE TAKE-AWAY: What we each have in common with one another by far outweighs what we don’t. May we all focus on that golden thread in the tapestry of life to which we each add our unique essence, called “Human Being,” and celebrate the beauty and diversity found in the humanity of our oneness. Now, more than ever, this seems to be the call of the soul to which we must respond as a species. Building bridges is why we are here.

A Sweet Home with its own Resort-Like Pool

Light, bright, and airy single-level split floorplan home in Tierra Verde’s coveted Monte Cristo neighborhood.

Discover

Incredible Views and Impeccable Luxury

Gulf breezes and some of the most astounding views in Tampa Bay from this Tierra Verde penthouse condominium.

Stunning Townhome with Rooftop Deck and Slip

You’ll love life in this Tierra del Mar townhome, especially the rooftop deck with views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Penthouse with Deeded Slip on the Grand Canal

Incredible views from this 2295 sqft penthouse on the Gulf Coast’s premiere boating water, 20,000 lb lift, large patio.

Waterfront Townhome with Slip in Tierra Verde

A rare waterfront unit in the highly-desired community of Villa del Mar, complete with slip, lift, and a waterfront deck.

Keep Your Boat Behind Your Home

Greet the manatees and dolphins that come to visit your new waterfront backyard with deep water slip and lift.

3 beds, 2 baths, tons of upgrades, large lot. 3 beds, 3.5 baths, garage, slip with lift.

beds plus office, 2.5 baths, garage.

3 beds, 3.5 baths, garage, boat slip with lift.

beds, 3 baths, garage, and more.

Angela Mathias, Andrew Salamone, Ron Salamone, Libby Salamone