hometown’s world-class running event is a family affair!
you eaten at Verducci’s lately?
Italian dishes
Private, Peaceful, Protected
Discover Marina Bay in St. Petersburg, a hidden gem tucked away on Boca Ciega Bay, where 60 acres of lush tropical landscaping, lakes with dramatic water features and abundant wildlife blend to form this vibrant community. Just seven minutes to downtown and seven minutes to St Pete Beach, the new Villas, Estate Homes and Condominiums of Marina Bay redefine luxury and provide resilience by building to Fortified Standards. Visit Marina Bay, next to Eckerd College, to tour our new models
• FORTIFIED™ Construction for the utmost protection against hurricanes and extreme weather
• Featuring unparalleled design and construction that far exceeds building code requirements.
• Concrete block construction all floors
• Natural gas cooking and generators standard
• Private elevator from garage to living level
• Impact windows and doors
• Two pools, day dock, fishing pier, fitness room
• Deep water boat slips no bridges to the Gulf
To the builder of Marina Bay, it’s EVERYTHING.
Marina Bay is the FIRST community in Pinellas County to receive the FORTIFIED Gold™ designation.
To thearchitects andbuildersof MarinaBay,it’s EVERYTHING.
FORTIFIED™ goes beyond code, meaning FORTIFIED™ Construction far exceeds most building codes and improves the performance of buildings against natural disasters and reducing the risk of personal property losses.
Buildingto FORTIFIED means creatingresilienthomesthat willbetterwith-standsevere weather.
FORTIFIED goesbeyond code,meaningitexceeds mostbuildingcodesby improvingtheperformance ofbuildingsagainstnatural disastersandreducingtherisk ofpersonalpropertylosses. HOW IMPORTANT IS SAFETY TO YOU?
PUBLISHERS MESSAGE
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
www.paradisenewsfl.com/letter
We took a road trip this summer from Breckenridge, Colo., through Utah and Idaho to Spokane, Wash., and back through Yellowstone and Rocky Mountain National Parks. We spent a magical evening reminiscing at the Spokane Arena on Aug. 9, listening to John Mellencamp, the legendary Bob Dylan and his band, followed by the amazing 91-year-old Willie Nelson and family, with Waylon Payne. As soon as the sun sank behind the stadium walls, it was a cool, comfortable, amazing night. That’s the way it’s likely to feel Friday, Oct. 4, the first of four weekly free concerts when the Horny Toads perform at Horan Park in St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce kicks off their “Taste of the Beaches” promotion, the chamber’s biggest fund-raiser, and a great way to inexpensively sample the fare at over 50 local restaurants from Saturday, Oct. 5, through Sunday, Oct. 13. Taste Tickets ($10) are available now at the chamber 727-360-6957.
Things are getting busy. Oct. 17 is the start of the Clearwater Jazz Festival and two weeks later it is the spookiest time of the year, featuring trunk and treats, Barktoberfest, costumed pet parades and more, leading up to election day, Nov. 5.
Hurricane season officially continues through November and there have been, in past years, some horrendous late season storms, but we seem to have been spared the worst of the prognosticator’s predictions for a big storm season in 2024.
Most of you are aware that this magazine is funded through advertising. Paradise News has been blessed to have a very loyal family of regular advertisers that help pay our bills. The content of most ads change each month. We also have a great bevy of seasonal advertisers, like Clearwater Jazz Festival and United Healthcare Plans, reminding you open enrollment, (when you can adopt Medicare Advantage plans) starts Oct. 15. United Healthcare, by the way, is considered to be the most holistic. Renee changed to United Healthcare – AARP when she was told she needed chelation therapy for heavy metal poisoning. Only United Healthcare covers it. If you are just reaching Medicare age, an independent health care agent is suggested. They know who is happy with a variety of plans that may fit your needs.
Paradise News prints 30,000 copies, 10 times/year, monthly from now through May, and mails 65% or more of them, mostly to homes on the barrier islands and some of the top residential areas in St. Petersburg. The remaining 10,000 are distributed in 500+ racks and stacks, from the beaches through downtown St. Petersburg. We are also active online at www.pardisenewsfl.com and e-mail a weekly digital newsletter on Thursday to a fast-growing list of subscribers. You can see last week’s and subscribe online for FREE under the WEEKLY tab. Between our print copies, our outreach and web readership, we estimate 100,000 sets of eyes are watching. We are always looking for shops or service providers who are worth what they cost and can handle more business. Email me your contact info at sales@paradisenewsfl.com We are thankful that you read Paradise News. Come back next month to learn what else we are thankful about.
Paradise NEWS
Volume 30 Number 8 • October 2024
PUBLISHERS
Peter Roos | Marketing & Sales sales@paradisenewsfl.com
Renee Roos | Creative Director info@paradisenewsfl.com
ART & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Janet Nummi info@janetnummi.com
SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE MANAGER
Kaeley Dawson paradisenewsfl@gmail.com
EDITORIAL
Steve Traiman - Features
Caron Schwartz - Art News, Hanging Around Buddy Baker - Arts & Leisure / Events
DISTRIBUTION - Mailed on “Island Time” www.paradisenewsfl.com/distribution-locations Downtown St. Petersburg, St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille, Tierra Verde, Isla Del Sol, Pinellas Bayway, Harbourside, Pasadena Yacht & C.C., Gulfport (partial), Treasure Island, Yacht Club Estates, Causeway Isles
“We’re thrilled to welcome Shannon Gruber and Dr. Natalie Park to The Centre SPB and Triverde Health & Wellness family! When I asked them to join our community, they both said yes without hesitation. Shannon’s creative culinary flair and Dr. Natalie’s holistic expertise bring exciting new dimensions to our space. Whether you’re indulging in a mouthwatering sandwich or seeking cutting-edge wellness care, they both offer something special. I can’t wait for everyone to experience the unique offerings they bring to The Centre SPB and Triverde Health & Wellness!”
—Michael
Moses, Owner of The Centre SPB
Shannon
Dr. Park and Chef Adam
Stop by or give us a call at 727-409-2445.
St. Petersburg native Shannon Gruber, owner of Toasted Associates, is excited to introduce a new concept to the area: Toasted TwooZdaZe! Specializing in classic worldly sandwiches, each stuffed with mouthwatering roasted meats and fresh veggies on local artisan breads, along with beef tallow fries and Chef Adam’s specialty sauces, this culinary team is ready to elevate the corner of Blind Pass and 75th.
Join us for late-night bites and enjoy free fries to those who order the special that we announce on Tuesdays! Stop by or give us a call at 727-409-2445.
Dr. Natalie Park, a specialist in pelvic health, pain management, and dry needling, holds a doctorate in physical therapy from the University of Cincinnati and a bachelor’s in social work and gender studies from Calvin College. Her extensive experience across various states and settings has shaped her holistic, patient-centered approach to wellness. Dr. Natalie emphasizes the importance of authentic human connection and aims to empower individuals to understand and care for their own bodies.
At Authentic Pelvic Health, located at The Centre in St. Pete Beach, Dr. Natalie offers alternative, non-invasive healing solutions. She specializes in Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT), a treatment known for its immediate results and no downtime. AWT addresses musculoskeletal pain, cellulite, and pelvic health issues such as sexual dysfunction, pelvic pain, and incontinence. Dr. Natalie is excited to bring her expertise to the community.
TIDBITS
Taste of the Beaches, sponsored by the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce and presented by Smith & Associates, offers eight days of $10 tastes at a wide variety of restaurants from Clearwater to Tierra Verde, even a distillery in St. Petersburg. Kickoff is at Horan Park on Oct. 4 at 6pm with the Horny Toads. Taste tickets valid through Sunday, Oct.13. Visit www.TampaBayBeaches. com/Taste for complete details including photos and descriptions of each of the tastes.
Corey Avenue will be closed Thursday, Oct. 10, 5-11pm for a Stormbringer concert that was rained out on April 3. Other events on Corey Ave. this month of course include the Sunday Markets 10am-2pm, a customer appreciation day Oct. 19 from 10am-4pm, and the city sponsored Trunk or Treat on Corey, Thursday, Oct. 24th from 5-6:30pm. CABA also announced the formation of a “Friends of Corey Ave.” group of resident volunteers to help on projects involving the downtown business district.
The SHINE Mural Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary, Oct. 11-20, with stunning largescale murals and special events, recognizing the transformative power of a decade of public art. Join the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance in this community-wide event honoring mural art and artists in St. Pete.
This milestone event will add 15 new murals throughout St. Petersburg plus a series of street art related events, tours, and community Bright Spot projects. For artist bios, the 2024 map of murals, Bright Spot project information and full event details, visit www.stpeteartsalliance.org/ shine-2024.
Oct. 11, 5-8pm is the opening event: SHINE 10 Year Retrospective Group Exhibition at the Morean Arts Center. See works from over 100 SHINE artists from the past decade, including work from local, national, and international artists on this year’s lineup.
Oct. 19, 7-9pm is the SHINE 10 Finale Event at FloridaRAMA. The 10-day festival culminates with a
finale event at FloridaRAMA featuring a solo show and book release by 2023 artist Chris Dyer.
Friday, Oct. 11 from 7-10pm is Oktoberfest at St. John Viannney Catholic Church, 500 84th Avenue. In St. Pete Beach, a donation of $125 gets two tickets for food beverages and festivities, plus a chance to win a $10,000 top prize. Visit events at www.sjvcs.org
Nearby in Horan Park, Carnival of Crue – Motley Crue Tribute Band is the Friday, Oct. 11, concert band in Horan Park. Oct. 18 is for Toby Keith fans, and Oct. 25 is a Heart tribute band.
Swamp Celebration 2024 Clyde Butcher will be at Big Cypress Gallery on Saturday, Oct. 19! This year is especially meaningful as they celebrate the 50th
anniversary of the Preserve. After a challenging summer of health issues, Clyde is eager to reconnect with all of you. Alongside the park rangers, he is excited to offer his support for this remarkable place. This event holds a special place in our hearts as it supports environmental education, a cause that is important to us. This is a ticketed event with four different options to choose from. Each ticket requires you to select a time. If you would like to attend the event and participate in all activities without a swamp walk, there is a $15 donation entry fee (children are free). For those who want to enhance their experience with guided swamp walk tours, we have three options available. These tickets include the entry fee.
Tampa Baywatch fall restoration season kicks off in October, and they need YOU to help restore the beauty of Tampa Bay! As summer fades away, there’s no need to feel guilty about letting go of that gym membership you picked up for a beach-ready body. With cooler days ahead, it’s the ideal moment to join the Tampa Baywatch restoration
Having a baby can be one of the most memorable moments in life. At Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital Center for Women and Babies, previously known as Baby Place, our expert team will guide you through a safe, supportive birth experience. With state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology and private suites, every detail is designed with you and your baby in mind. If needed, you’ll have access to high-risk perinatal care ensuring the safest delivery of your new arrival. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/BayfrontMaternity
TIDBITS
team. Dive into activities like crafting oyster reef balls, installing living shorelines, and tossing around shell bags. Think of it as a rewarding version of CrossFit.
Whether you’re building oyster reef balls in Tierra Verde, lending a hand at MacDill’s longest-running project, harvesting plants in Apollo Beach, or recycling fishing line at their spooky Mono Clean-a-thon on Halloween, there’s a project for everyone. Ready to get your hands dirty? Sign up on their event calendar.
Tampa Baywatch gets in the spooky spirit early this month with Pumpkins on the Porch at the Discovery Center on the Pier downtown 11am-4pm on Oct. 12. Get into the Halloween spirit with pumpkin painting, mad science experiments, games, and prizes $10/person (family-friendly).
Tampa Baywatch’s Haunted History Tour Ready for a ghoulishly good time? Uncover St. Pete’s haunted waterfront aboard the boat tour with eerie tales from the Pier to Lassing Park. 5:30pm on 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, $45 per passenger (ages 14+)
Wear your costume during Halloween Week for a special sweet treat!
Pinellas Park Art Society is to Pinellas County what Sun Tan Art Center is to the beaches. You are invited to join them for their 60th birthday on Saturday, Oct. 19, 1-5pm at Park Station, 5851 Park Blvd. www.pinellaspark artsociety.org
Tampa Baywatch’s Halloween Candy Cruise is 2:30pm on 10/26, 10/27. Set sail on a magical quest to lift the curse on Tampa Bay! Join us for a candy-filled adventure with marine science puzzles, spooky surprises, and fun for wizards, witches, and muggles of all ages. Costumes encouraged! 2:30pm on 10/26, 10/27, $26/adult, $18/child (under 13), free for kids under 3.
Beers on the Pier, a history filled Craft Beer Festival returns to the St. Petersburg Museum of History Saturday, Oct. 26 from 7-10pm. Breweries from Florida to California will be represented, throughout the museums galleries, as well as VS wines and bourbon and rye from Mastry’s Craft Spirits. Enjoy unlimited tastes, Mom’s Taco truck, live music and more. Presale
tickets $50. Day of $65. DD $20. https://bit.ly/ beers-pier-2024
Barktoberfest is held on Sunday, Oct. 27 from 11am-2pm in John Morroni Memorial Dog Park at Lazarillo Park 11650 Capri Circle S in Treasure Island. Costume Contest Registration at 11am. Judging at noon. Pet Adoptions, Music, Food, Beverages, Giveaways, Vendors and more. Call 727-547-4575 ext 221, email recreation@ mytreasureisland.com.
The annual Christmas Sale is on Saturday, Nov. 2, 8am-2pm at St. Albans Church, on Blind Pass Road in St. Pete Beach. St. Albans extends a warm welcome to ALL to come shop on Saturday and to come join us at 10am on Sunday for service.
Later Saturday, Nov. 2 from 6-9pm, the St. Petersburg Woman’s Club hosts “A Night of Jazz in St. Pete. at 40 Snell Isle Blvd. NE. Individual tickets $75, Heavy Hors d’oeuvres, desserts, Jazz band, dancing, silent auction opportunity, and beer with wine bar. Sponsorship opportunities exist. See www.stpetersburgwomans club.org for more.
food and drink, just in time for Christmas shopping, all money benefits the non-profit. Soothe Our Souls takes folks fighting critical health issues, their caretakers, and families out sailing for free. The free cruise offers relaxation and a nature experience so they can forget their troubles and enjoy life a bit.
The 34th Annual Suncoast Jazz Festival will return to Sand Key, Nov. 22-24. Music fans will be able to enjoy live performances by dozens of musicians inside the Sheraton Sand Key, just south of Clearwater Beach. Besides local favorites James Suggs, La Lucha, Nate Najar, The Al Downing All-Stars, and James Wall, Women in Jazz will be featured, including Daniela Soledade, Synia Carroll, Theo Valentin, Heather Thorn and Vivacity, Pepper and Fine Thyme, plus international stars Diego Figueiredo, Brazil, Wycliffe Gordon, Georgia, Jason Marsalis, New Orleans, Ken Peplowski, NYC, Jon-Erik Kellso and the EarRegulars with John Allred, NYC Get your tickets now at www. suncoastjazzfestival.com.
By Peter Roos
Florida State Rep. Linda Chaney has joined Our Children Have Rtghts (OCHR) as Development Director according to Executive Director, Jake Hornstein. She is responsible for overseeing the nonprofit’s fundraising efforts. A statesperson, business person, local community and business leader, Rep. Chaney brings a wealth of expertise from the private business, nonprofit, and public sectors. OCHR is dedicated to safeguarding the rights of children to have access to their parents by providing education and direct support services to parents navigating child custody & co-parenting. For more information, visit www.OCHR.org
Employees of Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille’s St. Petersburg Pier restaurant recently
volunteered at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Tampa Bay’s shelter. The group helped the nonprofit agency organize the kennel, clean litter pans, food and water dishes, and bathe dogs. Renowned for its legendary guest experience, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is open daily from 11am-10pm.
Doc Ford’s Jungle Terrace was Paradise News’ cover story in January and has advertised steadily in subsequent issues, offering a FREE mojito with entree to anyone mentioning their Paradise News ad. They have also been the #1 restaurant out of over 500 in St. Petersburg ever since and are in mid-September, #1 out of 788 with almost 2,000 5-star reviews. Its sister at the Pier Downtown is #2 with over 3,000 5-star reviews.
SEE MENU
CAREGIVER CORNER
By Elli Baldwin,
Caregivers who need a break –Is respite stay an option?
Caregiving is an around-the-clock responsibility, and it is common for caregivers to experience burnout. Respite care is designed to give caregivers the much-needed respite and reset they need when caring for a loved one with high needs. It can also be a good solution for a primary caregiver who is planning a vacation or needs to travel for other reasons.
Respite care may also be needed when someone is being discharged from a hospital or rehab facility and needs more care than what a caregiver can comfortably provide. In these circumstances, a patient can seek respite care at an Assisted Living facility (ALF). ALFs often offer month-tomonth commitments and are the perfect stepping stone to getting a patient stronger before returning home.
What is a respite stay?
A respite stay at an assisted living or memory care community is usually under 30 days. Respite rooms come furnished, so there is no need to coordinate moving furniture or decorating the room. Think of it as staying in a hotel for a short-term stay, but all meals, care, laundry, housekeeping, transportation, and activities are included.
Should you consider a respite stay?
There are many reasons why a respite stay may be a great option, such as:
• If a primary caregiver needs an extended break due to caregiver burnout, an out-of-town trip, etc.
• It’s a great way to try out a community without a full commitment. Residents and families will get a more realistic view of care, food, resident engagement, etc.
• Use it as an extension to a rehab stay before returning home. At discharge, many seniors are not fully ready to return home safely after a hospital or rehab stay.
A respite stay of two to four weeks ensures they are getting care and nutrition, plus home health orders can continue PT/OT efforts while they are there to increase their chances of success once they go home.
What does a respite stay cost?
You are charged an all-inclusive daily rate for a respite stay. So, calculate the daily rate by the number of days. As mentioned, all care and amenities are included in that rate. On average, respite rates are usually $175-$250 daily.
Things to consider
Respite stays can last a few days or up to 30 days. Due to COVID-19, many communities will have a minimum number of days to avoid too many “coming and going” to ensure the safety of residents and staff.
If the duration of your respite stay is 3+ weeks or uncertain, it may be worth comparing the respite daily rate total to the cost of a monthly contract. Most rental assisted living and memory care communities are “month to month” contracts with a flat monthly rate. It isn’t binding, and you can move out at any time…you can just ask for a 30-day notice that you could give shortly after moving in, so you have that flexibility.
Every family’s situation is unique, and we honor that. To learn more about what specific communities will work for you or a loved one, call us at 727-314-6415
Also, our Sunways website has a caregiver blog and many free downloads and resources, so be sure to check it out! www.sunwaysseniorliving.com
465 Pinellas Bayway S #307 Gorgeous 2 BR/2BA, w/ bonus room and garage. Upgraded townhouse on Tierra Verde. Minutes To Ft. Desoto Park and St. Pete Beach.
Have You Been to Your Library’s Website Lately?
by Steve Traiman
FREE services you can access from anywhere through St. Pete Beach Library online. The library has long been the go-to place for researching information and seeking free entertainment. It is still a terrific place to get out of the mid-day sun and be entertained or learn something. In the digital age, people do not search the stacks to check out books as much as they used to, but many library card holders use their library card numbers to access a wide variety of free services through apps on their smartphones. Here are a few, for example, that are available to SPB Library Card Holders. Anyone 16 and older with valid photo id and proof of residence can get one, usually for free, good for 3 years. You can apply online at Pinellas Public Library Cooperative www.pplc.us or in person at a library.
Libby (formerly known as Overdrive) offers eBooks, eAudiobooks, and 100s of popular magazines. In fact, you can request alerts when each new issue of your favorite magazines is available! Libby is available to anyone with a valid PPLC (Pinellas Public Library Cooperative) card. Download the app on your smartphone or tablet, or access online at www.libbyapp.com
CloudLibrary offers eBooks and eAudiobooks to St. Pete Beach Library card holders (and possibly other libraries as well, including Seminole, Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, and East Lake). The wait for these items is usually shorter than Libby. There are no magazines here. Download the app on your smartphone or tablet or log in at www.yourcloudlibrary.com
Hoopla is offered by most libraries in Pinellas so your PPLC card will likely give you access. Hoopla offers a variety of formats including audiobooks, eBooks, comics, movies, TV, magazines, or music. There are limits to how much you can watch or read each month, but the app is available for your TV too! Download the app on your smartphone or tablet or log in at www.hoopladigital.com
Kanopy offers streaming movies, documentaries, foreign films, classic cinema, independent films and educational videos to St. Pete Beach Library cardholders (and maybe through other libraries). There’s a TV app for this service as well. Download the app on your smartphone, tablet or TV or log in at www.kanopy.com.
Freegal is a music streaming service, but you can also download three songs per week and build your collection over time. This is free and legal music; get it? Freegal! St. Pete Beach cardholders have access. Download the app on your smartphone or tablet or log in at www.freegalmusic.com.
America’s News with NewsBank provides a comprehensive collection of reliable news sources covering a wide array of topics and issues. Go to www.SPBLibrary.com and under Newspapers, click on “America’s News.” Log in with your library card number.
The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal are available in both print (in-house reading only) and digital remote access through the generosity of the Friends of St. Pete Beach Library to St. Pete Beach Library cardholders. Access this and all of the following through the library website at www.SPBLibrary.com
New to investing? Planning for retirement? Morningstar Investment Research Center’s newsletter, personal finance articles, informative videos and analyst insights are free to St. Pete Beach Library cardholders.
NetSmartz Kids Internet Safety teaches kids to be safe online through games and videos.
Consumer Reports online offers ratings and reviews for thousands of products and services. New in October, complements of the Friends of the St. Pete Beach Library.
AtoZ Databases Profiles over 30 million U.S. businesses and executives, and over 220 million U.S. residents. Ideal for finding friends and relatives, market research, sales leads, and mailing lists
OurChildrenHaveRights.org
By Jake Hornstein & Greg Hill, Our Children Have Rights (OCHR)
Social Media during divorce and Child Custody Disputes
For parents navigating divorce and child custody, posting on social media can significantly impact the outcome in court. Properly navigating the social media landscape is critical to avoiding unnecessary pitfalls, which can have devastating effects on the children. Before clicking “post,” consider these consequences.
Evidence in court: Posting seemingly harmless comments, vacation photos, a night out with friends etc. can be used as evidence in court. Posts can portray your finances, judgement and parenting skills. All of which are factors that determine court outcomes. It’s a common tactic for resentful co-parents and their attorneys to use social media posts against one another in court.
Fueling the flames: Social media can inflame tensions between co-parents and the children. Public mudslinging creates negativity and derails communication, which is highly frowned upon by judges. Judges favor parents focused on co-parenting and the best interests of the children, not drama.
Privacy: Social posts can expose private details that could be used against you. Even in private groups, your posts can still be shared for public exposure.
Becoming totally inactive on social media may seem extreme (and to some, impossible). You can still maintain a social media presence without creating major issues. Consider these tips:
Privacy settings: Review your privacy settings on each of your profiles. You may want to tighten them up by limiting who can view your posts and profile. Be mindful of friends and family, especially the kids!
Think twice: Ask yourself… Is this appropriate? Bad-mannered? Likely to be misconstrued? Can this suggest I’m not focused on co-parenting and the best interests of our kids?
Post Positive: Focus on positive updates. Posts are used as evidence in court to form opinions about you, your judgement, state of mind and standard of living. Again, these are factors that determine outcomes in court. Regrettable posts can have devastating consequences. Even the most well-intended parents make these mistakes. Be mindful & cautious! And always think of your children when posting.
OCHR is a Pinellas based 501c3 nonprofit that helps parents more seamlessly navigate their child custody & co-parenting journeys, at no cost to the family. Support of our mission is vital. And we kindly ask you to consider a small financial contribution. Your support is needed for us to serve children by helping parents achieve successful co-parenting outcomes, which impacts our entire community.
Most importantly, if you, or someone you know, needs our assistance, we’re here for you. We’re on a mission… A mission to protect the rights of children to have access to both responsible parents by providing education, resources, and support services for successful co-parenting. Why? Because Our Children Have Rights.
Contact Jake at JakeHornstein@OurChildrenHaveRights.com or learn more online at www.OCHR.Org To donate: www.ourchildrenhaverights.org/donate.
DINING
Spooky season is here! If you’re seeking some ghoulishly good cuisine and sublime spirits, head to one of these memorable haunts, if you dare…
SESH
Newly nominated for Best Brewery in the Burg, Sesh is set in St. Pete’s historic Earl Gresh Cottage and the building is said to have an aura of mystery and ghostly tales. The restaurant’s design delightfully plays upon the paranormal themes and for Halloween they go all out with decorating for the holiday, complete with a gigantic Jack Skellington greeting guests (for fans of “The Nightmare Before Christmas”).
The menu will take you on an extraordinary gastronomic journey – highlights include the jelly donut burger, the gator po’boy, and the whipped feta salad, which can be enhanced with a protein. Their state-of-the-art Alpha Brewing Operations Brew House has created a terrific array of tasty beers, and you can sample a flight of four for just $12. Or try one of the tantalizing drinks from their Spirits selection, such as the “Evil Eye,” which features a lychee eyeball! And they serve BooRunch on Sundays.
Mon. 11am-10pm. Tues. and Wed. 4pm-10pm. Thurs., Fri. and Sat. 11am-10pm. Sun. brunch 11am-3pm and Sun. dinner 3pm-9pm. www.seshstpete.com
DRACULA’S LEGACY WINE BAR & BISTRO
A divine spot for a night of decadence on Halloween or year-round, Dracula’s Legacy Wine Bar & Bistro is located downtown and specializes in fine wines (they have a second location in Tampa). They have a wonderful selection of red, white, rose and sparkling wines to choose from, as well as a delicious hand-crafted tapas menu from Chef Kate, owner of the Turnip the Beet catering company. Dracula’s Legacy Wine Bar & Bistro hosts a number of exciting events throughout the month, like wine tastings, live music, food and wine pairings, wine classes, wine glass painting, artist parties, and even book clubs. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or new to the wine world, they have something for everyone!
“All spirits are welcome in Tampa Bay’s own haunted kava bar.” Located in Ybor City, Spookeasy offers alternatives to alcohol for those “weary spirits wanting a change of pace.” What is kava? Kava is a beverage made from the roots of a plant from the South Pacific Islands. It has been used ceremonially and medicinally for hundreds of years. Traditional kava has an earthy flavor, but can be flavored with savory selections of chocolate, vanilla or caramellet your “tea-tender” guide you. Kava is also said to elevate the mood. For food, consider a Chupacabra Quesadilla or the Nachos of Nightmares. Spookeasy Lounge welcomes
witches, warlocks, werewolfs, vampires and elves (ordinary humans are admitted as well). Their endearing motto is “All Souls are Welcome!” Spookeasy Lounge is an alcohol-free area, but if you’re looking for spirits, visit their sister business which is located downstairs, The Catacombs.
Sun.-Thurs. 11am-1am. Fri. and Sat. 11am-3am. www.spookeasylounge.com
HALLOWEEN BAR CRAWL
If you’re looking for the scariest Halloween themed bar crawl ever, don’t miss the annual event on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 4pm-12am that kicks off at The One Night Stand bar in downtown St. Pete. Once you check-in, you will be given your badge.
The crawl includes five plus venues and two drinks – no covers at the bars and drink/ food specials are offered. A “crazy” after party is promised and costumes are, of course, encouraged (the event is part of a national contest that awards the winner $1000).
2023 venues included: Crafty Squirrel, Park & Rec, Thirsty First and Whiskey Exchange. They suggest tickets be purchased in advance at the website below (prices increase as the event approaches, but groups get a discount). What are you waiting for? Get your ticket and your costume and have some thrilling fun!
www.crawlwith.us (St. Petersburg)
Daily specials, sensational seafood, sandwiches & more, full bar. Enjoy water view, indoor/outdoor dining and your favorite sports teams on 13 TVs.
HOUR Mon.-Fri. 3:30-6pm
https://bit.ly/thewharfpag 727-367-9469
Sunday Brunch 11-3
Happy Hour Weekdays 11-6
Weekday Lunch Specials 11-3
Wine Wednesday: 20% O Bottles
Music Bingo, Live Music, LOTS of Sports TVs
COOKING CORNER
By Janet Nummi
Ingredients...
1 loaf sourdough bread, about 1 pound
8 to 12 miniature pumpkins
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons Diamond kosher salt, more as needed for seasoning the pumpkins
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, more as needed for seasoning the pumpkins
3 ounces (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups diced onion
1 cup diced celery
2 medium tart apples, such as Granny Smith, peeled and diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh sage
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth, more as needed
3 large eggs, beaten
8 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dried cranberries, optional
Directions...heat oven to 250, tear then bake bread for 30 minutes, increase oven temo to 400, slice off pumpkin tops and core, spray inside with olive oil then salt and papper, put pumpkin lids on and bake for 25 minutes until slightly tender, melt butter in a skillet and sautee vegetable mixture with seasonings, mix sautee with bread crumbs, pour over mixed cream, broth and beaten eggs, add cheeze-nuts-cranberries, fill pumpkins with stuffing mix. Leaning the lids on the mini pumpkins, return them to the oven and decrease the oven temperature to 375F. Continue to cook until the internal temperature of the stuffing reaches at least 160F, 30 to 40 minutes.
Our hometown’s world-class running event is a family affair!
This year will be the seventh running of St. Pete Run Fest, our hometown’s world class running event staged at Albert Whitted Park, Nov. 15-17. St. Pete Run Fest is a three-day event with running distances for all levels, including the Regenexx St. Pete Half Marathon & Relay, Rollin’ Oats 10K, Duke Clean Energy Connection 5K, First Horizon Bank PeliKids Youth Run, and Veterinary Emergency Group PeliPaws Dog Walk.
For those who want to participate in multiple events during the weekend, there are four Challenges – the Green Bench Tortuga Triple (all three races), the Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital Dolphin Double (the Half Marathon plus one shorter distance), and the Stingray Double Play (10K and 5K). More than a running event, the weekend includes the Good Sweat Festival, featuring local musicians, artists, entertainers, food and craft breweries, and wellness programming. The festival expo also includes vendors and exhibitors offering the latest in fitness technology, training trends, and nutrition.
St. Pete Run Fest is locally owned and produced by brothers Ryan and Keith Jordan and their families, who brought it to life in 2017 after the city of St. Petersburg approved the major downtown running event. Every year since, except when it was cancelled in 2020 due to Covid-19, the event has continued to grow and take its place on the world running stage. Recently the St. Pete Half Marathon was named #5 in BibRave’s top 20 “Half Marathons of the Decade.” Runners come from all over the country and the world to run here in beautiful St Pete!
The USA Track & Field certified flat and fast run courses start at Albert Whitted Park on St. Pete’s scenic waterfront, then wind through downtown neighborhoods and business districts, showing off what makes our city unique. The 5K and 10K are the only competitive races to include the St. Pete Pier, other than the St Pete Pier Run on July 4, which the Jordans also produce. All the courses include themed aid stations and live performers to inspire and cheer the runners. The finish line in front of the Dali Museum
By Claire Brinsden Jordan
and Mahaffey Theater offers a picturesque setting for runners to celebrate their accomplishment.
For organizations across Tampa Bay who register a large group of runners, St. Pete Run Fest offers the Team Tailgate Zone which includes a prime location at the finish line, entertainment, special food, and drinks.
Since its inception, St. Pete Run Fest has been an ocean-friendly event, focused on sustainability. Single-use plastics and Styrofoam are banned from the event to protect the nearby waters of Tampa Bay, and all cardboard and aluminum are recycled. Run Fest uses “Hiccups” at the water stops, which are made of silicone so they can be washed and reused. All other cups used must be compostable. Finishers receive a stainless-steel keepsake cup or tumbler that can be refilled with water. As part of the “Tees for Trees” program participants can forego their included race shirt to instead contribute to planting a tree in one of our City of St. Petersburg parks.
St. Pete Run Fest also strives to give back to the community with several charity partners, including St. Petersburg Free Clinic, St. Pete Youth Farm, and the American Cancer Society’s #GoldTogether program to fight childhood cancers. The PeliPaws dog walk benefits the Pet Pal Animal Shelter.
All the artwork for the event, including shirt, medal, and award designs, are created by Keith Jordan. In fact, St. Pete Run Fest takes great pride in showcasing local talents. Artist Justin Lucci of the Global Love Project adorns the race site and run course with his chalk art of positivity. Local musicians provide live music on two stages at the event, as well as on the course. Groups like Sunshine City Roller Derby offer entertainment for runners on the course.
The Jordans, with help from the City of St. Petersburg and Visit St. Pete-Clearwater, are proud to bring St. Pete Run Fest to their beloved hometown and showcase everything that makes St. Pete spectacular! For more information, to volunteer, or to register go to www.stpeterunfest.org
St. Pete Run Fest founders, Keith & Ryan Jordan.
Half marathon finishers.
Starting line with beach ball volley.
St. Pete Run Fest finish line.
Have you eaten at
Verducci’s lately?
By Peter Roos
If you have not eaten at Verducci’s Pizzeria & Trattoria lately, you are missing out. With 3,000 square feet of beautiful, air-conditioned space and a great outdoor dining area, a big brick oven for pizzas, a full liquor bar, a private dining room for parties up to 30 people and an amazing commercial kitchen, this location has the best infrastructure of any independent Italian restaurant on the beach. The restaurant desperately needed friendlier management, community involvement and better food. It got all three. Cincinnati natives Matt & Sidney Sora became the hard-working, hands-on owners of Verducci’s restaurant in St. Pete Beach as summer hit. They care deeply about making Verducci’s a community staple and are committed to continuing the legacy of great Italian food service in St. Petersburg.
The new menu is comprehensive, prices are competitive with the better Italian restaurants in the area, portions are generous and the food quality is amazing once again. All dishes are made in-house, prepared fresh daily, just like at your Italian grandmother’s home. An early-bird menu Is offered from 4-5:30pm daily, including a smaller entrée, salad and desert at reduced prices. Verducci’s has had a long successful history on the beach, and some of the best original items are still offered.
The full liquor bar, including unique and fun, Italian-themed cocktails, unavailable at most Italian restaurants on the beach, is still expanding. If your favorite is not yet in house, ask for it and Matt says he will try to get it in time for your next reservation. The curated wine list features some incredible, imported Italian wines that naturally complement the cuisine. Mention you read about Verducci in Paradise News, and your first drink with dinner is complimentary.
During happy hours 4-6pm daily, all beverages are half price, including beers, wines by the glass, and your favorite specialty cocktail. Bar seats are available for locals to stop in just for a drink or to eat at the bar in front of a large television. Local performers have already been welcomed by the new Verducci, including local favorite Fiona French, who returns from a trip to Paris this month.
Verducci’s offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for romantic date nights or creating lasting memories with friends and family! Whether you’re a local that lives right up the road or a tourist that is half across the country visiting it is the perfect spot. If you are planning a private dinner party you can order from Verducci or consider using their party room.
If the primary parking lots are full on both sides of the restaurant, overflow parking is available just south in the Helm parking lot after 4pm.
Delivery is available primarily through their website, www.verduccistpetebeach.com, but they also work with DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub for added convenience. Give Verducci’s Pizzeria & Trattoria a try again soon. Call 727-363-7900 from 4-10pm daily with any questions.
By Andrea Martone
THE DARK SIDE OF PARADISE
The Gulf Coast of Florida is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant art, music & culture scene. With an average daily temperature of around 70.7°F and over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, the Gulf Coast enjoys a mild and pleasant climate year-round. But despite the light of the sun, a very dark side permeates the region, and it’s called sex trafficking. Sex trafficking is not limited to Florida’s Gulf Coast, in fact it can be found in nearly every zip code in America. Unfortunately, Florida ranks as the # 3 state in America for this $173 billion-dollar global industry, trailing only California and Texas. Staggering statistics paint a grim picture of what many call a “pandemic.” In the 2022-23 fiscal year, the Florida Abuse Hotline Number reported 2,076 reports of human trafficking of which 1,627 were children. Approximately 80% of sex trafficking victims are girls and women, with the average age of initial trafficking experience ranging from 11 to 17 years old.
To address this issue, Gulf Coast states and cities have implemented various strategies, including awareness campaigns, law enforcement training, and partnerships between government agencies and non-profit organizations. One of the most successful nonprofit organizations is Selah Freedom. Headquartered in Sarasota, Selah Freedom’s five programs service “survivors” of the trade in multiple counties on the Gulf Coast and beyond.
For 13 years strong, Selah Freedom’s programs (Prevention, Awareness, Outreach, Residential, and Consulting) has enabled thousands of students, educators, law enforcement agents, community groups and churches to become educated about this pandemic which affects so many at-risk children and teens.
Selah Freedom’s success is evident by the fact that in 2023 alone, our prevention team trained 9,564 youth and adults; awareness
team trained 4,020 adults; 64 survivors were served in our residential program; 169 survivors were serviced in our outreach program and in our consulting program, we helped 12 organizations nationwide to use our model, four of which established new safe homes under the guidance of Selah Freedom.
How can you help to fight sex trafficking of our American boys and girls? There are many ways you can help eradicate sex trafficking, especially financially. Selah Freedom is a nonprofit that relies mostly on philanthropic donations. Selah Freedom also hosts two annual fundraisers each Fall called “Light the Path to End Sex Trafficking.” Held in October and November in both Tampa and Sarasota, this important fundraiser aims to raise funds and awareness to support survivors of sex trafficking through the five programs and services offered by Selah Freedom. To become a major sponsor of Light the Path, or to donate to a worthy cause, please visit: www.selahfreedom.com/training-and-events. This year’s celebrity keynote speaker is former Mets baseball star Darryl Strawberry.
Light the Path North will be held on Oct. 22 at 6pm at Armature Works, Tampa.
Light the Path South will be held on Nov. 14 at 6pm at the Westin Hotel, Sarasota.
For more information and to participate in the event, you can visit Selah Freedom’s website at www.selahfreedom.com or call 1-888-8-FREE ME.
Sex trafficking can happen to anyone, child or grandchild. No one is immune and everyone needs to join forces to raise awareness. Protecting the welfare of our children, preserves the quality of life here on the Gulf Coast.
LEGAL CORNER
As an attorney that handles auto collision injuries, I get asked frequently, “If I use my own insurance for a wreck I did not cause, can my insurance company raise my policy rates?” Before answering that question, I believe it is important to discuss what auto insurance coverages are applicable to injuries caused in a collision and what is required by law in Florida. Due to space limitations, I will address the same questions for property damage, in a separate issue.
Florida is a “no-fault” auto collision state, meaning that if you are injured in a wreck, you use your own insurance coverage to pay the costs associated with your injuries, medical expenses, and costs of loss of wages if you cannot work. Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, is the part of your car insurance coverage that applies to these expenses cause by a collision.
Florida law mandates that every vehicle registered in the state carry at least $10,000 in personal injury protection, which is subject to a deductible chosen by the policy holder. PIP pays up to 80% of reasonable medical costs related to injuries from a collision; up to 60% of lost earnings; and $5,000 in death benefits. PIP pays for these expenses and losses, regardless of whether the injured person causes the wreck. PIP coverage applies to all family and household members of the insured, and any passengers or operators who do not own their own vehicle.
PICK UP & DELIVERY to your home & office!
By Steve Walden, Attorney at Law
If you are injured in a collision, it is important to know that you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the wreck. The insurance company can deny future claims under PIP if the claimant did not receive treatment from a physician, chiropractor, emergency room, or certain other providers within the first 14 days after a wreck.
Florida auto insurance companies offer Medical Payments coverage, or MedPay, that pays for medical expenses only due to a collision. MedPay covers medical expenses for the car owner, passengers in the owner’s vehicle, and even for injuries as a pedestrian if struck by a car. MedPay may cover the 20% of the medical bills that are not covered by PIP and all of the remaining medical expenses until the selected policy maximum is reached.
What happens if your medical bills and lost wages exceed the mandatory PIP coverage of $10,000? In that event, the at-fault driver’s bodily injury (referred to as BI) insurance policy could provide coverage for the additional expenses, as well as compensation for your personal injuries, such as physical pain, disability, disfigurement, and loss of earnings. BI coverage applies to injuries caused by negligence of the car owner, or a driver with the owner’s permission, to other drivers, passengers, cyclists, or pedestrians.
Since Florida currently does not require vehicle owners to carry BI coverage (with some limited exceptions) to pay for injuries
caused by negligence, insurance companies offer coverage for underinsured and uninsured motorists (referred to as UIM and UM respectively.) UM coverage applies when another driver causes a wreck and does not have BI coverage to pay for costs of the injury. UIM coverage applies when the at-fault driver has BI coverage, but the limits of the coverage is insufficient to pay for all of the costs of injury.
Now for that insurance rate question. In Florida, our state laws prevent insurance companies from raising insurance rates for personal injury protection solely because you the policy holder, or other insured person, was in a collision that was not his or her fault. These laws also prohibit insurance companies from cancelling your insurance policy for making a claim for a wreck you did not cause. Other facts may allow the insurer to raise insurance rates, such as added expenses across the market, added risks such as speeding violations, or adding a new driver to the policy.
Steve Walden, Attorney at Law
The Carlson Law Firm 333 3rd Ave. N, Suite 220 St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 373-4655
swalden@carlsonattorneys.com
CRIME PREVENTION
From the Desk of Sheriff Bob Gualtieri October is Crime Prevention Month. As scammers get more sophisticated and technology evolves, we must be more alert than ever. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) Crime Prevention and Community Awareness (CPCA) Unit is dedicated to educating the public about ways they can keep themselves and their finances safe. CPCA runs the Neighborhood Watch program and presents information about safety to groups all around the county. They’ve been seeing several new scams that take advantage of changing technology.
You’ve probably used your phone to scan a QR code, those black and white squares that usually link you to a website. They’re a great way for companies to share information, but recently scammers discovered that it is simple to make their own QR code and stick it over the real one in places such as signs for paid parking. Instead of taking you to the actual parking app, it brings you to a malicious site that will either infect your phone or harvest your information. Any time you scan a QR code, make sure it takes you to the right link. Or search for the site or app yourself without scanning the code.
Artificial intelligence is another technology that is giving scammers greater scope for deception. AI can be used to create pictures or even videos of things that aren’t real. That could be used to make you think a company is legitimate, or that a loved one is in danger. AI technology can even recreate someone’s voice from a brief audio sample. Do your family members ever post videos on social media that include them speaking? Then their voice can be cloned by AI. A scammer may use the cloned voice of a family member to pretend they are in danger, maybe arrested overseas, and can only be saved if you send them money. If you hear your “niece” crying you may be tempted to send money (or gift cards, or crypto) fast, but as with all scams, slow down and fact check.
When you’re looking for work, the stress about your next paycheck might make you more vulnerable to scammers. One of the most common recent scams is for criminals to text you a job offer out of the blue. Just click the link and accept the offer… but the link takes you to a malicious site. Or they might gather all of your sensitive information as part of their fictitious hiring, including your social security and bank account information. They might even send you a check to purchase office supplies, which makes them seem legitimate. Except the check is fraudulent, and the “store” they direct you to is also fake. The check bounces, and you send your own money to the scammer.
There are some common denominators to protect yourself from all scams. Don’t click on links. Don’t act fast when you feel pressured. Don’t pay with things like gift cards, crypto, or digital payment services like Venmo or Zelle. If you think you’ve been the victim of a scam, call the PCSO non-emergency line at 727-582-6200.
Let PCSO help you stay safe. If you don’t already have a Neighborhood Watch in your area, consider establishing one. You can get guidance from our CPCA deputies and stay on top of all scams and dangers. If your community group, church, or business would like a presentation about safety, scams, or crime prevention, reach out to CPCA at 727-582-2222.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Plants for Pink
A Plant-Based Diet for Breast Cancer Prevention
This is the month when we notice those pink ribbons everywhere for Breast Cancer Awareness, and while one in eight women will get breast cancer in their lifetime, it also affects one in 726 men. Unfortunately, everyone has a friend or relative who has battled breast cancer. There are many factors involved in the risk of getting breast cancer, including inherited genetic mutations, exposure to estrogen, obesity, and lifestyle choices like smoking and heavy drinking. But one risk factor – diet –has been studied as a significant tool for
prevention. As a disclaimer, I have been a pescatarian since the age of 25, and now that I’m – let’s just say over 50, I hope to enjoy the health and longevity of my grandmother. She was a pescatarian and lived to the age of 97, cancer-free. Beyond my own anecdotal evidence, numerous studies have shown that a plant-based diet can significantly reduce your chance of getting breast cancer. In fact, there are a group of foods that can be a shield to protect you against the disease. So, let’s look at this A-to-Z list of “mighty” foods.
Allium Vegetables like onions, garlic and leeks contain flavonoid antioxidants and vitamin C to protect against cancer.
My best friend from college would bite into a Vidalia onion like it was an apple, and while I cringed at the sight, perhaps she was on to something.
Beans are a high-fiber cancer fighter, and given their heartiness and variety, can be a great substitute for meat. Think meatless chili.
Berries like blueberries and strawberries contain antioxidants that prevent cell damage and the formation of cancer cells. My favorite short-cut for berries is a frozen, organic berry and kale smoothie mix from the grocery store that I throw in the blender with a little apple juice for a sweet and healthy snack.
Citrus Fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes contain folate, flavonoid, and carotenoid antioxidants, and of course Vitamin C. I like to eat grapefruit every morning with breakfast but do be aware that it can interact with some medications for high blood pressure and cholesterol management. Other fruits like peaches, apples and pears contain polyphenol antioxidants that lower the risk of breast cancer. Give them a good wash and eat them whole because the skin contains the most fiber and antioxidants.
Cruciferous Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage contain compounds that your body converts into cancer-fighting molecules. I use riced cauliflower instead of rice in meals to boost my vegetable intake.
Fatty Fish like salmon contain omega-3 fats, selenium and antioxidants that protect against cancer. If you are vegan and don’t eat fish, take a high-quality fish oil supplement to get your omega-3 fatty acids.
Fermented Foods like yogurt, kimchi and miso contain probiotics that enhance the immune system. I must admit I’m not a fan of fermented foods, especially yogurt since I have cut out most dairy, but there are non-dairy yogurts and probiotic supplements to maintain a healthy gut.
Herbs & Spices like oregano, thyme, turmeric, and ginger contain powerful antioxidants with anti-cancer properties. I have a giant planter on my patio in which I grow turmeric and ginger together. Their leaves complement each other, and in the fall, I harvest the roots and juice them for a super antioxidant boost.
Leafy Green Vegetables like spinach, kale, and arugula contain carotenoid antioxidants which hang out in your blood to fight off
cancer. I also use red butter lettuce, which contains as much iron as spinach and lots of Vitamin K. It makes a colorful and flavorful salad base.
Walnuts contain the healthy fat alphalinolenic acid, which has been shown to block the growth of breast cancer cells. I like to add these to salads, and I have found a nut bar containing walnuts that makes a great post-workout snack.
Whole Grains like brown rice and quinoa contain antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can protect you against breast and other types of cancer.
While a plant-based diet can protect you from developing breast cancer, the following not-so-healthy foods can do just the opposite. Fast food, and especially fried food, significantly increases your risk of developing breast cancer. I know, I love french fries too, but eat them as a rare special treat, not a daily staple. Processed Meats like bacon, hot dogs, pepperoni, and deli meats also increase your risk of breast and other cancers due to the added chemical nitrates and nitrites. Sugar & Refined Carbs like white bread and sugary baked goods increase inflammation and contribute to the growth and spread of
By Claire Brinsden Jordan
cancer. I have a sweet tooth, so I’ve found that a piece of dark chocolate with 70-85% cacao satisfies my craving for something sweet and contains beneficial antioxidants.
In addition to a mostly plant-based diet, plenty of exercise and regular screenings like mammograms are vital to breast health. Switching to a plant-based diet may seem daunting (and perhaps not as tasty) at first, but there are plenty of businesses here in South Pinellas that offer healthy and delicious options! Good Intentions in St Pete’s Grand Central District offers a variety of creative vegan dishes. Cider Press Vegan Gastropub in Historic Kenwood has hearty, plant-based pub food. Love Food Central on Central Ave offers vegan and gluten-free wraps, sandwiches, and desserts. Golden Dinosaurs Vegan Deli in Gulfport is a vegan deli, butcher, and bakery. And if you want to enjoy your meal at home, Rollin’ Oats Market on MLK Jr Street, and Earth Origins Market on Central Avenue stock all the ingredients you’ll need to make a plant-based masterpiece. You can start with one plant-based meal a day to ease yourself into a healthier lifestyle!
FACE INJECTABLES
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Call for a complimentary consultation!
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
PET HEALTH
By Dr. Johnathan Pierce
TRICK OR TREAT First of all we would like to say it is great to be able to share our knowledge and expertise with the Paradise News community to help improve the health of our local pets. Halloween is fast approaching with a number of different risks that could threaten the health and well-being of your pets. Here are a few more common things that we see around this time of year for you to be aware of to help keep your pet safe.
Chocolate candy – Chocolate is toxic to your pets. The amount and concentration of the cocoa (milk or dark) that your pet ingests will determine the severity of the toxicity. The symptoms could range anywhere from vomiting and diarrhea to seizures and possibly death.
Sugar free candy – Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is found most commonly in sugar free gum but can be found in candy and even sugar free peanut butter. Small amounts can be very toxic and cause symptoms such as low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure and death. Keep all candy in a safe place away from your pet’s reach and if ingested seek emergency veterinary expertise and care.
Toys and candy wrappers – Toys may be tempting for your pet to chew on and candy wrappers could be ingested along with the candy. If either are ingested, size, shape and quantity could create a large enough object that could obstruct your pet’s stomach or intestine. Symptoms could include vomiting, diarrhea, straining to defecate, lethargy, inappetance, and more. Should you note any of these symptoms seek emergency veterinary expertise and care.
Flight or fight risk – Opening the door to greet trick-or-treaters may present the opportunity for your pet to escape. It is also possible your pet may become territorial or scared of the costumed kids, eliciting an aggressive reaction. Your pet may be better off in a separate room or place a barrier such as a strong baby gate to prevent access to the front door during trick-or-treat hours.
Be careful out there and have a Happy Halloween –from the veterinarians and staff of Island Life Animal Hospital!
Island Life Animal Hospital
Dr. Danielle Gallo
Dr. Johnathan Pierce 5901 Sun Blvd., Suite 107 Saint Petersburg, FL 33715
727-289-3776
islandlifeanimalhospital.vet
Start Your Next Chapter at Marina Bay
Enter Marina Bay beneath a graceful canopy of live oaks that frames the approach to these elevated Spanish and Mediterranean homes nestled in Marina Bay. This meticulously manicured, 60-acre gated waterfront community is pet-friendly and located near Eckerd College, Bayview Isles, and Tierra Verde, overlooking the tranquil shores of Boca Ciega Bay. Boat slips with lifts are available for purchase with these homes.
REMEMBERING CAPTAIN JIM MYERS
By
Captain Jim Myers began “Ringing of the Sunset Bell” in Pass-a-Grille on March 27,1996. Visitors were honored to ring the bell and have their names recorded in a log book for years.
The self-proclaimed “Head Ding Dong” recruited his own replacement, Jim LeBlanc, who took the tradition to the next level by putting it on Facebook. See Ding-Dong Sunset at Pass-a-Grille. Sunset enthusiasts celebrated the passing of the lanyard Pass-a-Grille style, with a retirement party on Jim’s 21st anniversary. He had seen over 7000 sunsets in Pass-a-Grille in the past 21 years.
The “Head Ding Dong” retired from sunset bell duty on his 21st anniversary in 2017. He had about five good years after that. Jim Myers passed peacefully in his sleep on July 7, 2024, according to Susan Myers, Jim’s first and third wife. “I took care of him at home as long as possible, then a nursing home and eventually hospice took over,” said Susan.
Jim is remembered for his generosity, his sense of humor and much more. His nurses said he was one of the funniest patients ever. I remember a little about our first experience with Jim. For years he had a very nice older boat on a lift near the Bayway Bridge, two blocks from the Don Cesar. When we approached Jim about being in the city’s lighted boat parade, he was on board with it. Our plan was to have a new Elvis impersonator in the area sing Elvis’ holiday tunes from the bow, as an introduction to the community. It worked really well except that, as it often does, the boat parade fell on the coldest night of the year. While we were toasty with Captain Jim in the cabin, poor Bruce Nye, the Elvis Guy, was meeting the full force of his first Florida
winter on the foredeck. Luckily many Maine winters had prepared him for that.
According to Captain Jim Myers’s wishes, his body was cremated and his ashes will be spread over the Gulf where he supervised the ringing of the Sunset bell for 21 years. He will be remembered in his very casual way, Sat. Nov. 2 at the Sunset Bell at sunset, Jim’s favorite time of day.
October & Halloween Treats
By Buddy Baker
10/3 – Rocky Horror Picture Show
$66, 8pm, Mahaffey Theater, downtown St. Pete. Join the original “Magenta” — Patricia Quinn — for a screening of the original unedited movie with live shadow cast, Hell on Heels, and audience participation! Plus, memorabilia display with artifacts and an actual costume from the movie, a costume contest, and more! Audience participation bags will be available for purchase in the lobby prior to the start of the show. 18+. https://tinyurl.com/mvrxdkdr
10/4-26 – Fearville
$29, 6:30-10pm, DK Farms, 1750 Lake Ave. SE, Largo. When the sun dips below the horizon, monsters and maniacs alike will take over this seemingly peaceful farmland, and torment those brave enough to enter. Experience the dark atmosphere of Halloween with walk-around characters, photo ops, amazing decorations and animatronics and performances, with a full-fledged haunted house attraction. Designed for a mature audience 14+. Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/mrypnm64
10/6 – Spookyzaar
Free, Noon-4:30pm, ArtLofts Artists Studios, 10 Fifth St. N, St. Pete. St Pete’s only creepily curated Halloween Craft Market! Located in ArtLofts, a haunted building, this event will fulfil all your spooky season needs! Shop handmade items from local vendors and explore the ArtLofts and learn its history and perhaps…run into a spirit who resides there!
10/6 weekends through Halloween – Ghost Ship Royal Conquest
$32-$42, 7:30pm (times may vary), 140 Boardwalk Place W, John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk, Madeira Beach. This 60-minute cruise around Boca Ciega Bay is an immersive experience with digital projections that bring the ghostly realm to life. Included are unlimited beer and wine and a costume contest, a free photo and trinkets. Not recommended for children under 13. www./boattoursjohnspass.com/ghost-ship-royal-conquest
10/9-30 – Ghostly Haunted Trolley Tour
$35-$45 every Wednesday, 6:30-8:30pm, St. Petersburg Museum of History, 335 Second Ave. NE, St. Pete. Departing from the Museum of History, experience the creepy and dark side of the Sunshine City. Hosted by SPIRITS of St. Petersburg founder Dr. Brandy Stark, the tour takes you through lesser-known haunts of downtown and the vastly haunted neighborhoods of Roser Park and the Old Northeast. Reservations are required. Admission without a reservation cannot be accepted. Trolley seating is limited. https://tinyurl.com/284tv74a
10/12 – Pumpkins on the Porch with Tampa Bay Watch
$10/person, 11am-4pm, Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, at The St. Pete Pier. Get into the Halloween spirit with pumpkin painting, mad science experiments, games, and prizes. Wear your costume during Halloween Week for a special sweet treat! Register: https://tinyurl.com/4hhf9ub3
10/12 – Pint Sized Halloween Party
$10 child/$4 adult, noon-4pm, Southwest Recreation Complex, Largo. Have a spooky good time with a variety of games, crafts, and snacks. Arriving dressed in costume is highly encouraged. For ages 7 and under; children six months and older must purchase ticket. Pre-registration is required by 10/11. For more information, call 727-518-3125.
10/12 – Unholy Comedy Show
$35-$75, 9-11:30pm, Unholy Theater (inside Zubrick Magic Theatre), 1211 First Ave. N, Suite 101, St. Pete. Unholy Comedy Show is an immersive night of R-rated stand-up comedy, audience tarot readings, music, and more. Winner of 2023 Creative Loafing’s Best Of The Bay’s Critic’s Choice award, guests can expect R-rated stand-up comedy sets, devilish priests and nuns, and a dip into the occult as your hosts lightheartedly provide live audience tarot readings between comedy sets. Hosted by comedians Hugh Carey and Lauren Gray from Roast Battle with Jeff Ross. Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/mrwyun4u
10/12-27 – Hunsader Farms 33rd Annual Pumpkin Festival
$15, ages 10 and under free/$5 parking, 9am-5pm weekends only, 5500 County Road 675 E, Bradenton. Craft show, live music, live shows, pumpkins, kids’ pumpkin games, Pioneer Trades Village, hayrides, pony rides, corn maze, rain rides, fresh produce and more. Cash only. www.hunsaderfarms.com
10/16, 23, 30 — Haunted History Tour with Tampa Bay Watch $45/person, departs 5:30pm from The Pier. Uncover St. Pete’s haunted waterfront aboard TBW’s boat tour with eerie tales from The Pier to Lassing Park. Ages 14+ recommended. Register: https://tinyurl.com/4kkpp3s4
10/18 – Festival of Fright Free, 5-8:30pm, Long Center, 1501 N Belcher Road, Clearwater. This frightful festival includes Halloween carnival games, spooktacular food trucks and family-friendly activities. Festival activities will be from 5-8pm, with a movie from 8-9:30pm.
10/18 – WMNF Halloween Ball
$20, 8pm-1am, New World Brewery, 810 E Skagway Ave, Tampa. A spine-chilling evening hosted by the enigmatic Apollo Infiniti, the night will be filled with dark delights as a sinister lineup takes the stage, with Dollya Black; queen of the macabre; Mr. Gripp, bringing the fright; Discord Addams, master of the eerie; and Kenny Demornay, the night’s dark allure. DJ Jet will keep you dancing in the moonlight. Don’t forget the Costume Contest! Prizes await the most terrifying, creative, and jaw-dropping costumes of the night! Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/2dyzfm7f
10/19 – Roser Park Ghost Tours and Halloween Block Party Free (ghost tour tickets $30-$60), 5-9:30pm, Roser Park, Seventh St. S and Ninth Ave. S, St. Pete. Get ready to get spooky in your favorite historic neighborhood. Test your sixth sense with ghost tours with a local paranormal investigator, indulge in a Halloween market, get your tarot read, and watch a Halloween movie in the park by the iconic Booker Creek. Come in costume! Ghost Tour tickets at https://tinyurl.com/mrehdbrt
10/25 – Trick or Treat in John’s Pass Village Free, 6-9pm, John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk, Madeira Beach. Families and friends can enjoy traditional door-to-door trick-ortreating throughout the village. Collect treats and experience the Halloween spirit in this scenic waterfront setting. The festivities culminate at the iconic John’s Pass Bell Tower, where live music, exciting games, and plenty of entertainment await.
10/26 – Third Annual Don Cesar Place Halloween Pet Parade
$10 entry fee donation, 9am-noon, Lazarillo Park, Don Cesar Neighborhood, 3280 E De Bazan Ave., St Pete Beach. Registration 9am at the gazebo; parade begins 10am; awards presentation 11am. Prizes will be awarded for Cutest, Scariest, Best Pet/Owner Combo, and Best Movie Themed. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.
10/26 – Florida Botanical Gardens Pumpkinfest Free, noon-4pm, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Join the fun with a pumpkin patch, pumpkin carving, and spooky activities in the Majeed Discovery Garden, led by the Children’s Garden Educator and community sponsors Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscaping Association and County Farm Bureau. Participate in the Scarecrow Contest!
10/26 – Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
$35, 8pm, First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg, 1900 Gandy Blvd. N. Listeso String Quartet will perform, by candlelight, 60 minutes of Halloween-inspired music such as Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Gounod’s Funeral March of a Marionette, Tubular Bells (Theme from The Exorcist), the theme from Stranger Things, themes from Beetlejuice and The Addams Family, Danse Macabre by Saint-Saens, and Grieg’s In the Hall of the Mountain King. Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/mr2n8w2h
10/26-27 Halloween Candy Cruise with Tampa Bay Watch $26 adults/$18 under 13/free under 3, 2:30pm, The Pier. Set sail on a magical quest to lift the curse on Tampa Bay! Enjoy a candy-filled adventure with marine science puzzles, spooky surprises, and fun for wizards, witches, and muggles of all ages. Costumes encouraged! Register: https://tinyurl.com/2s3h2ra4
10/27 – TFO: Haunted Halls Family Concert $25, 2pm, Mahaffey Theatre, St. Pete. Show off your favorite costume at The Florida Orchestra’s popular Halloween-themed concert featuring a full orchestra of spooktacular musicians for goblins of all ages. Come early to try out instruments at the Instrument Petting Zoo! Chelsea Gallo, conductor. Tickets: www.themahaffey.com/show/tfo-1027
10/27 – Halloween on Central Free, noon-5pm, Central Avenue in St. Pete from Martin Luther King Jr/Ninth Street to 31st Street. St. Pete’s largest open-air familyfriendly event, attendees can stroll and roll along nearly two miles of the city on Central Avenue. There will be strolling performers, entertainment, and music, trick-or-treating, food trucks, costume contests and even wiener dog races and their own costume contests. The street will be closed to traffic and SunRunner will be free all day Or park in the Rays’ lots for free.
— FrankenPride at Halloween on Central Free, Noon-5pm, the 2800, 2900, and 3000 blocks of Central Ave. St. Pete. FrankenPride will showcase entertainment, games, community partners, and more! St. Pete Pride’s sponsored zone will include a trick or treat station, performances by local entertainers, interactive art, and so much more. This is a running 22 blocks of Central Avenue from MLK to 31st, you can expect amazing costumes, strolling performances, trick or treating, food and retail vendors, and more while strolling Central Avenue’s local shops, galleries, pubs, and restaurants. Located in the Edge and Grand Central Districts, this car-free event is filled with trick or treat stops and special Halloween festivities for all! More information at www.halloweenoncentral.com
— Voodoo Vendor Village @ Halloween on Central Free, noon-5pm, Central Avenue from MLK to 31st Street, St. Pete. The four-block-long Voodoo Vendor Village takes place on Central Avenue, between 16th and 20th streets, smack in the middle of Halloween Central (which runs from MLK to 31st Street). The Voodoo Vendor Village will feature entertainment, candy stations, and more than 100 local makers and small businesses.
Sunday, Oct. 27 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
TRICKOR TREATTRAIL TREAS U R E ISLAND
HELENE
By Janet Nummi
Hurricane Helene, a powerful Category 4 hurricane, tore through the Tampa Bay area on Sept. 26, leaving behind a trail of destruction, severe flooding, and widespread power outages. The hurricane unleashed gusts reaching more than 80 mph in the Tampa Bay region and close to 150 mph in Florida’s Big Bend. Torrential rains battered the state for hours. The death toll as of press time is 64 across five states, with 11 confirmed in Florida. As healing and restoration commence, our thoughts and prayers are with our communities, businesses, friends, family, and neighbors.
Robby's Pancake Breakfast
The most immediate impact of Hurricane Helene was catastrophic flooding, particularly in low-lying coastal areas. Storm surges reached up to about seven feet in parts of Pinellas County, inundating homes, roads, and businesses. The Tampa Riverwalk, a popular downtown area, was submerged under several feet of water, with local authorities calling the flooding some of the worst the city has seen in decades. “We knew this storm would be bad, but the amount of water we’re seeing is unprecedented,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor.
Power outages crippled the area, with more than 300,000 homes and businesses across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties without electricity. Utility companies, including Duke Energy and TECO, mobilized crews from neighboring states to assist in the restoration efforts. Emergency responders worked around the clock to clear debris from major roads, with fallen trees, power lines, and disabled vehicles reported across the region. All three bridges connecting Pinellas to Hillsborough and Manatee counties were closed due to high winds, storm surge, and structural damage.
The economic toll of Hurricane Helene is expected to be staggering. Early estimates suggest that the damage to homes, infrastructure, and businesses in the Tampa Bay area could exceed $10 billion. Homeowners and businesses are already working with FEMA. Florida Commerce activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $15 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene. Visit www.floridajobs.org/EBL to apply.
The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg is thrilled to bring Audubon’s Birds of America to St. Petersburg. Produced by National Museums Scotland, this exhibition celebrates the extraordinary legacy of John James Audubon (1785-1851). It tells the story of this iconic artist, naturalist, and ornithologist, as well as the evolution of one of the world’s rarest, largest, and possibly most coveted books, The Birds of America.
Printed almost two hundred years ago, its epic scale and spectacular life-sized bird illustrations caused a sensation. The exhibition features over 40 of these
splendid hand-colored prints, as well as additional illustrations, books, letters, photographs, and ephemera. The majority of these delicate pieces have never been shown in public and have undergone years of conservation treatment in preparation for their inaugural display and tour.
Audubon’s Birds of America brings new interpretations of the creation and significance of this incredible body of work. It explores this work’s historical context with fresh viewpoints and new research and considers why Audubon’s artistic style was so ground-breaking – and how, even
Catering
today, his artistic vision is both comfortingly traditional and yet edgily modern.
The exhibition also illuminates how this remarkable illustrated book influenced the evolution of the natural sciences, its continuing impact today, and what we can learn from Audubon’s incredible legacy.
Specializing in Cajun, Caribbean & Coastal
The Bayou Market & Café opened in late 2019 serving lunch & dinner weekdays and brunch on Saturday Menus Posted Weekly at bayoumarketandcafe.com and on facebook.
Complete ready to go, hot, made from scratch meals.
On-site catering for your event!
Specializing in Authentic Cajun plus “Traditional Comfort Food.”
Typical Weekly Menu Selections: Bourbon Chicken
Seafood Jambalaya
Seafood Gumbo
Shepherd’s
Teriyaki Chicken
Beef Lasagna
• Shrimp & Grits
Blackened Catfish w Crawfish
Etouffee • Shrimp, Catfish, & Oyster Poboys
Traditional, Mojo, Jerk Cubans
Crawfish Stuffed Baked Potatoes
See menu online at www.bayoumarketandcafe.com
GULFPORT MATTERS
Living in Gulfport comes with its own rhythm – where sunny days are sometimes interrupted by the inevitable reality of tropical storms. Hurricane Helene struck Sept. 26. Last month, the Gulfport community braced itself as Tropical Storm Debby intensified into a Category 1 hurricane just before landfall. For some, the storm’s impact was felt deeply. Homes and businesses in low-lying areas were hit hard, but it was the boats anchored in Boca Ciega Bay that suffered the most. An estimated 20 boats broke free, washing ashore on Gulfport’s coast. Among this devastation, the community mourns the tragic loss of boater Brian Clough, who did not survive the storm. For others, the hurricane stripped away not just possessions but entire homes, leaving boaters without the shelter they’d come to rely on. Yet, in the midst of heartbreak, the Gulfport community did what it does best – came together. Neighbors reached out, offering meals, essentials, and helping hands.
As we rebuild and return to the rhythm of everyday life, it’s a powerful reminder that while we may weather storms together, we also thrive together. Gulfport is more than just a place – it’s a resilient community, a place where even in the darkest moments, hope and kindness shine through.
ALL THINGS GECKO IN AUGUST
August in Gulfport was alive with gecko fever, offering the perfect opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate in true Gulfport style. The Gecko Crawl, Gecko Ball, and, of course, GeckoFest, drew thousands of attendees who enjoyed the festivities from morning to night.
Costumed revelers filled the streets, marching in the lively parade, while vendors and street entertainers added color and excitement to the day. Music echoed from two stages, complemented by performances at Gulfport’s local venues, and everywhere you looked, there were smiles. The spirit of GeckoFest brought everyone together, making it a highlight of the summer!
AND AWARENESS
This Gulfport gallery, known for its exquisite fine art, contemporary crafts, and jewelry, showcases the work of 20 acclaimed artists alongside Brenda McMahon’s signature ceramic vessels and tiles. Each First Friday in Gulfport brings a fresh opportunity to feature a different artist, along with a stunning collection of ceramics, glass, paintings, sculpture, and jewelry.
On Oct. 4, from 6-9pm, Brenda will host her first solo exhibition – a deeply personal showcase of her works and inspirations from a five-week ceramic residency in Vallauris, France, this summer. The monthlong exhibit not only highlights her artistry, but
also serves a greater cause, supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Proceeds will benefit the Sonia Plotnick Health Fund, making the exhibit both an artistic and philanthropic event.
Join us on Thursday, Oct. 17, for a fresh installment of the gallery’s monthly artist conversation series. In October, Leslie Bestulic, the September guest artist, will sit down with Brenda McMahon to discuss the profound impact of Brenda’s recent five-week residency in France. They’ll explore how this immersive experience has influenced Brenda’s creative process and enriched her artistry. For more details on special October events, visit her website or find Brenda McMahon Gallery on Facebook.
AND WELLNESS
After a summer hiatus, the DRV Gallery is set to reopen on Oct. 4 from 5:3-8:30pm with a solo exhibition by local artist David Hosler. The evening will be filled with creative energy, featuring live music from Jim Gilmour and Joey Interrante, adding to the ambiance.
BRENDA MCMAHON GALLERY: A CELEBRATION OF ART
DRV GALLERY REOPENS WITH ART, MUSIC
Kicking off something new, the gallery will also debut DRV Gallery Presents: Yoga for Artists on Oct. 6 at 9:30am, blending wellness with creativity. Following the yoga session, the gallery will open at 11am, showcasing works from seven talented regional artists.
For more information on the events, visit tinyurl.com/4mdmyfwj or explore their official website at www.drvgallery.com.
POETRY OPEN MIC WITH GULFPORT’S POET LAUREATE
Gulfport’s Poet Laureate, Christa Fairbrother, invites all poetry lovers to a monthly poetry open mic, held every third Thursday at Scout Hall from 7-8pm Whether you have a poem of your own to share or a favorite piece by another poet, all are welcome to participate or simply enjoy the readings in this creative community space.
49th ST. MAKERS AND GROWERS MARKET RETURNS TO RED FEATHER STUDIOS
Mark your calendar for Oct. 13, from 10am-2pm, as the 49th St. Makers and Growers Market makes its return to Red Feather Studios. This vibrant community market features a variety of farm-fresh goods, plants, herbal medicines, and delicious food and drinks. Enjoy live music and browse unique art in this lively studio and street market located at 1301 49th St. S.
A GULPORT WELCOME PROGRAM –OPEN TO ALL
Whether you’re a new resident or a long-time member of the Gulfport community, the Gulfport Welcome Program offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with neighbors and become more familiar with the area. Designed to help everyone feel at home, the program provides a chance to meet city staff and community leaders, explore volunteer opportunities, and learn about local civic organizations and city services.
Join us for the next event on Friday, Oct. 18, from 6:30-8pm For more information, visit www.gulfportwelcome.com
STORMRUNNERS TAVERN OPENS!
Excitement built as Stormrunners Tavern, the new bar and restaurant in town, prepared to open its doors on September 25. After extensive and unique renovations, this venue is set to become a local hotspot. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with the main floor restaurant and bar featuring garage door-style openings, the Crow’s Nest, and the dog-friendly BarK. Don’t miss out on exploring their diverse menu and experiencing the new space which is located at the intersection of Beach Blvd S and Shore Blvd. S, directly across from the Gulfport Casino Ballroom.
For more details, contact them at info@ stormrunnerstavern.com or visit their Facebook page: Stormrunners Tavern
NEW OWNERSHIP AT THE DRUNKEN TACO – READY FOR THE ULTIMATE TACO AND TEQUILA EXPERIENCE!
Exciting news – Drunken Taco has new ownership and they’re ready to deliver the right taco and tequila experience. Their menu promises creative tacos, handcrafted cocktails, and a selection of premium tequilas. Get ready for a
By Marlene Shaw
fresh take on your favorite flavors! For more information, reach out to DrunkenTaco Gulfport@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page: Drunken Taco – Gulfport.
DISCOVER ProjectFREE: EMPOWERING ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES IN GULFPORT
ProjectFREE, based in Gulfport, may not be new, but it’s certainly making a significant impact. Their mission is to implement a bold new concept for adults with disabilities who are eager to live and work independently while becoming integral members of the community.
Their comprehensive program includes academics, fitness, real-life training, and entrepreneurship opportunities, enabling participants to earn income and explore their potential. Balancing these elements with performing arts and music, ProjectFREE proudly states, “the results are priceless.” You may have caught them on the Blueberry Patch stage at GeckoFest, where they brought vibrant energy to the streets with diverse music and an engaging original song that had everyone joining in.
To learn more or get involved, reach out to ProjectFREE at contact@myprojectfree.org or visit their Facebook page.
COUNTRY COASTAL CREATIONS: A COLORFUL ADDITION TO GULFPORT
Country Coastal Creations is a vibrant shop offering an eclectic mix of items. From art consigned by local artists to redesigned and repurposed furnishings, clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, and more, this shop is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The more you browse, the more unique finds you’ll uncover.
They’re also excited to welcome more local artists to showcase their work. For more updates and to get involved, visit their Facebook page
Don’t forget to follow Gulfport Matters on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ gulfportmatters for all the latest happenings in Gulfport!
ART NEWS
Where’s Winston?
Yousuf Karsh’s “Roaring Lion” photograph of a stoic Winston Churchill has been recovered and will be returned to Canadian authorities. The 1941 portrait, which had hung in Ottawa’s Fairmont Château Laurier hotel for decades, was snatched and replaced by a fake during the Covid lockdown.
DRV Gallery updates Learn palette knife techniques from the master, award-winning abstract artist Amy Howell. DRV Gallery’s first workshop of the season, 10/19, 1-4pm. Register: https://bit.ly/a-palette-knife
If painting isn’t your thing, how about jazz at DRV? Check out La Lucha, 11/7 6-9pm. https://bit.ly/la-lucha-live
McMahon solo Ceramic artist and gallery owner Brenda McMahon’s transformative five-week residency in Vallauris, France, this summer offered her the opportunity to dive into work she says has been simmering inside for more than a decade. Inspirations from France: The Seeds of Vallauris Take Form, McMahon’s first solo show in her acclaimed gallery, will be on display in October. www. brendamcmahongallery.com
Rise & SHINE For 10 years the annual SHINE® St. Petersburg Mural Festival has illuminated the power of art in public spaces by revitalizing areas, inspiring dialogue, and uniting our community – while cultivating new standards of artistic excellence reflecting St. Petersburg’s creative and vibrant spirit. SHINE 2024 takes place 10/11-20. Find events, including a 10-year retrospective and star-studded finale at https://bit.ly/shine-24
Judy Vienneau’s exhibition Existential Crisis – Abstractions with Wire is on display at Gulf Coast Artists’ Alliance’s new event and class space at 5546 First Ave. N, St. Pete through 10/26. The location is also home to Judy’s new art studio. www.gcaa-fl.org
Show off your art at St. Pete ArtWorks. Gallery space is available for a small fee and eight hours per month of volunteer time. Learn more and apply: https://bit.ly/ fund-creative-2024
Not an early-bird special Imagine Museum in St. Pete offers $5-weekday admission for seniors through 11/22. Discover the beauty of contemporary glass art and take advantage of additional savings in the museum store. www.imaginemuseum.com/ special-offers
Museums for All Anyone receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,300 museums throughout the US simply by presenting their SNAP EBT card. Museums for All, an initiative of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLSM), encourages individuals of all backgrounds to visit museums regularly and build lifelong museum habits. https://museums4all.org
Creative Pinellas’s Arts Annual, now in its seventh year, returns 11/9, 6-9pm, with its Annual Fundraiser. The Arts Annual 2024 Exhibition will be on view 11/10–1/4/2025. Participating artists will be announced in October. Learn more and register https://bit.ly/ fund-creative-2024
Tour Ybor The Third Annual Ybor Arts Tour takes place on 10/17, from 5-9pm. The free event starts at HCC’s Ybor Campus Art Gallery and culminates at Kress Contemporary. https://bit.ly/ybor-arts-tour
View Vienneau
By Caron Schwartz
Under new management Klaudio Rodriguez is the St. Pete Museum of Fine Arts’s new executive director and CEO. Rodriguez joins the MFA from The Bronx Museum of the Arts in The Bronx, NY, where he led the institution in its core mission of inspiring people and connecting communities through the power of art and education.
For the birds The MFA’s new exhibition, Audubon’s Birds of America, celebrates the legacy of John James Audubon (1785 –1851). The iconic artist, naturalist, and ornithologist published one of the world’s rarest, largest, and possibly most coveted books, The Birds of America, almost 200 years ago. More than 40 hand-colored prints, additional illustrations, books, letters, photographs, and ephemera are on display 10/12-2/16/2025.
https://bit.ly/mfa-birds
Caturday calm Find inner peace with the soothing sounds of Himalayan Singing Bowls and purrs. Adoptable kitties
will surround you as you relax and rejuvenate at Whiskers Workspace, the first cat coworking space in St. Pete. Second Saturdays, 2-3pm. https://bit.ly/whiskers-bowls
Bank/sy heist Banksy’s iconic print, Girl With Balloon, was stolen from a London gallery, but was promptly recovered by the police a few days later.
My way or the Skyway Skyway 2024: 12 Ways of Looking at a Landscape is USF Tampa Contemporary Art Museum’s contribution to Skyway 2024: A Contemporary Collaboration, a multi-venue exhibition profiling new art in the Tampa Bay region. Other participating institutions include the Ringling Museum of Art, St. Pete MFA, the Sarasota Art Museum, and the Tampa Museum of Art. See it through 11/23. https://bit.ly/usf-skyway
Fins Up! Celebrate Jimmy Buffett, Van Morrison, and other musical legends, powered by The Florida Orchestra. Sing along to hits like Come Monday, Fins, Kokomo, It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere, and Brown-Eyed Girl. Escape to paradise with the vibes of these magic-filled melodies. https://bit.ly/tfo-buffett
More TFO You bring a blanket and a picnic and The Florida Orchestra will provide free music under the stars. No better way to impress a date or spend quality time with the whole family. Featuring movie music, Broadway hits, and classical favorites. Please bring nonperishable goods for TFO’s annual food drive. 11/9, 6:30pm, Vinoy Park in St. Pete. https://bit.ly/2024-pops-vinoy
Fun-for-a-good-cause Party on the Plaza at the Mahaffey Theater Plaza 11/9, 7pm. This special benefit concert features local band, #NOFILTER. Proceeds benefit the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts, which provides arts education programs for youth, community outreach programs, and performances for the entire community. https://bit.ly/ mahaffey-plaza-party
Go Blue With Cyanotypes! during the Museum of the American Arts & Crafts Movement (MAACM) Family Day 11/2 at 10am. Have fun learning this beautiful, historical printing process inspired by the natural world by using plants and flowers to create your own. Includes a tour of the Arthur Wesley Dow cyanotypes in the museum. www.my. museumaacm.org/790/2450
Adults only MAACM’s Morning Pour and Tour begins at the Arts Café for a crisp mimosa, followed by a specialty docent-led tour featuring the works of this month’s featured iconic artist of the Arts and Crafts movement: The Unique Metalwork Style of Dick Van Erp. Must be 21 and over. Doors open at 10am, tour begins promptly at 10:30am. https://bit.ly/join-maacm
ARTISTS SPOTLIGHT
Music Icon Engelbert Humperdinck’s “Piano Man”
Sixty-nine-year-old Eddie Tobin has travelled the world with British pop singer Engelbert Humperdinck, known for his romantic ballads and smooth vocal style.
A professional pianist with over 30 years of experience in the music industry. Eddie is known for his diverse repertoire that includes jazz, blues, standards, ragtime, classical, and pop music. Now retired from playing to audiences globally, Eddie settled in Sarasota with his wife and couldn’t keep his fingers off keyboard, so he started playing gigs at area restaurants and private events. You can hear him sing and play the keyboard at Sarasota’s Amore Italian & Portuguese Restaurant in Sarasota on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. He wows the senior crowds each Saturday at Sarasota’s Plymouth Harbor. And his private bookings keep him busy well throughout the year.
Eddie says he “never wanted to be a musician,” but the Universe had other plans for him. In high school as a baseball player, he was nicknamed “The Musician Jock” because he used to play the accordion on the bus for long drives to competitions. In the lunchroom at his high school, he’d entertain his classmates playing the baritone ukulele, while they munched on cafeteria food.
Fast forward in life and he was approached by a friend who said Engelbert was looking for a music director, conductor, pianist and arranger. Eddie was hired to work with the star in 1997-2004. Originally from Fort Pierce, Florida, (Nashville prior to that), he came to Sarasota in 2002 and targeted the Gulf Coast to retire and play at leisure. He still texts with his boss, Engelbert, who at 88 still performs worldwide.
If you are interested in booking Eddie for a private event, visit him at eddietobinmd@gmail.com or call 941-737-1577.
Eddie Tobin plays at Amore Restaurant in Sarasota Wednesdays, Fridays and Sunday.
Latin Pop Influences his Art John Gascot, Latin Pop Genre
John Gascot, hailing from the Caribbean, traces his childhood roots to Puerto Rico, an origin that fuels his passion for vibrant hues.
While he delves into diverse artistic styles such as Painterly and Geometric Abstractions, his hallmark remains the Latin Pop genre. Coined affectionately after years of honing his craft, “Latin Pop” merges Pop art, Cubism, and Folk art, resulting in a distinct visual dialect. These artworks serve as modern narratives, blending global influences to challenge cultural barriers.
In John’s Latin Pop creations, cultural boundaries blur as diverse influences intertwine in contemporary tales. The figures depicted often possess grand, voluptuous forms, symbolizing not just size but strength and presence. His aim is to craft art that is both inclusive and thought-provoking, questioning social and gender norms dictated by various societies.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, John holds roles as co-owner and Studio Coordinator at Studios @ 5663. He is the driving force behind Diversity Arts 501c3, an organization dedicated to empowering underrepresented youth through free, safe spaces, art supplies, and mentorship for selfexpression. Additionally, he stands as a founding member of the Pinellas Arts Village.John Gascot, Artist/Curator, Studios @ 5663Founder/President, Diversity Arts Inc. www.gascot.com www.diversityartsinc.com
Photo by Laurie Elmer-Meehan
By Andrea Martone
His work is in the Smithsonian Institute
Terri Scopelliti
A resident of St. Petersburg for six years now, Terry moved from Atlanta, Ga., and loved the “people and the art scene. It reminds of what Atlanta was in the mid 80s.”
A photographer, Terry says “depending on the series I am working on my work is dark and sensual or humorous. People inspire my portraits and figure works. I believe every person is special and I strive to bring that out in my work.”
His photography has received multiple awards and has been exhibited in galleries across the world, including – but not limited to: American Art Awards winner, The Exposure Award (exhibited at La Louve in Paris), and The Photography Gala Awards.Most noteworthy is that Terry has three works held in the national archives of the Smithsonian Institution.
“Dance Like There’s No Tomorrow” inspired by a Paula Abdul song
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RECURRING EVENTS
First Fridays • 10am-2pm, Creative Clay Outdoor Art Market, 1846 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg • 5-9pm, First Friday Art Walk, Downtown Gulfport • 6-9pm, Concert in front of Studio Movie Grill, Seminole City Center, 11201 Park Blvd. N, Seminole
Last Friday • 6-9pm, live music at the John’s Pass Bell Tower, John’s Pass Boardwalk and Shopping Village, 12902 Village Blvd., Madeira Beach
2nd Saturday • 8:30am, Beach Cleanup. Municipal Pavilion, 11260 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, 11185 Gulf Blvd. • 9am-2pm, Market on The Bluffs, 2747 Sunset Blvd, Belleair Bluffs. Farmers Market/craft event on the street in front of Belleair Bluffs City Hall. • The Market Marie,10am-3pm, Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland St., Clearwater • 5-9pm, St. Pete Artwalk. Artists and gallery owners from 40 studios and galleries in five arts districts show off their latest works. Take the trolley, drive or park and walk. stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk
3rd Saturday • 10am-2pm, Crossroads Market, Crossroads Christian Church, 1645 Seminole Blvd., Largo • 10am-5pm, Creative Pinellas at Pinewood, 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo • 5-9pm, Indie Faire, Beach Blvd., Gulfport. Outdoor, socially distanced event in Gulfport features local art, handmade crafts, jewelry, and pottery to locally sourced botanicals.
4th Saturday • Pinellas Arts Walk 4-8pm, Pinellas Arts Village Walk, 5600-5800 Park Blvd. (north side), Pinellas Park. Pinellas Park Art Society, Donnelly COVE, Complete Sweet Shoppe, Pompei Factory, Studios @5663, Painting with a Twist, Bottles Pub, and Swartz Gallery.
ONGOING
Through 10/20 — Ring of Fire $23, 7pm, American Stage, 163 Third St. N, St. Pete. A tribute to the Man in Black, this jukebox musical will take you on a wild ride through the music of one of America’s most iconic singer-songwriters, Johnny Cash. Through a series of vignettes, witness the highs and lows of life in 20th century rural America — the struggles, the triumphs, the loves lost and found. The show will climax in a concert that will both move and exhilarate! www.americanstage.org/2024-2025
Dunedin Fine Art Center 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin 727-298-3322 dfac.org
Ekeko Gallery
290 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr St. N, St. Pete 727-685-5577 facebook.com/Ekeko-Gallery
Factory St. Pete 2622 Fairfield Ave. S, St. Pete thefactorystpete.com
Five Deuces Gallerie 2101 Third Ave. S, St. Pete Open by appointment & Art Walk Facebook.com/five22222
Florida CraftArt Gallery
501 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-821-7391 floridacraftart.org Sat. Mural Walk Through Oct. 19 –Layered Narratives Through Oct. 31 – Ghost Stories 11/1-12/31 – Unwrapped: Handmade Holidays
FloridaRAMA (formerly The Fairgrounds St. Pete) 800 28th St. S, St. Pete Works by more than 75 local and international artists fairgrounds.art Through 10/5 – POP
Galvez-Woodfield Fine Art Gallery 2323 Central Ave., St. Pete 248-759-7203 www.g-w-fineart.com
Gulf Coast Artists Alliance St. Pete ArtWorks, 2604 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-738-8010 gcaa-fl.org
Heiress
2622 Fairfield Ave S, Bldg. 7, Studio A, St. Pete heiressgallery.com
Luis Sottil Studios
400 Beach Drive NE, Suite 150, St. Pete 727-220-1567 facebook.com/luissottilstpete
Mirella Cimato Art Gallery 2145 First Ave. S, St. Pete (inside St. Petersburg Opera) 727-543-9190 facebook.com/MirellaCimatoGallery
Nielsen Center for Visual Arts Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete 800-454-9009 eckerd.edu/visualarts/program
Red Cloud Indian Arts 214 Beach Dr. NE, St. Pete 727-821-5824
redcloudindianarts.com Representing authentic Native American arts.
Soft Water Gallery
515 22nd St. S, St. Pete 727-327-3473 softwatergallery.com Through 10/5 – Forever 27: Florida Landscapes by Cindy Vener Through 11/2 – Melangerie
SPACE 855 28th St. S, St. Pete Warehouse Arts District facebook.com/spacestpete
Stirling Art Studios & Gallery 730 Broadway (second floor) Studio 12, Dunedin 800-325-2050 facebook.com/StirlingArtDunedin Open Thurs-Sun, Second Saturdays
Syd Entel Galleries 247 Main St., Safety Harbor 727-725-1808 sydentelgalleries.com 10/5 – “We are Current” opening
The Domingo Studio 2620 Beach Blvd. S, Gulfport 727-821-2315 facebook.com/The-Domingo-Studio
The Werk
2210 First Ave. S., St. Pete 727-289-8685 thewerk.gallery
Uniquely Original Art Studio 915 24th St. S, St. Pete 727-239-3696 https://tinyurl.com/mrx4c253 Original Afrocentric art, open by appointment and during Art Walk
Vince Anthony Fine Art Gallery 10611 Bay Pines Blvd. #5, St. Pete 727-401-2886 fineartamerica.com/art/ vince+anthony
Wild Space Gallery
The Factory St. Pete, Bldg. 8 2606 Fairfield Ave. S, St. Pete floridawildlifecorridor.org/ wild-space-gallery/ Through 10/26 – Open Air: Multimedia works by Scott Fisher, Babs Reingold, and David Waterman 11/9-12/14 – Breaking Barriers
ARTS PERFORMING
Amalie Arena
401 Channelside Drive, Tampa 813-301-2500 amaliearena.com
10/5 – Nicki Minaj
10/10 – Kirk Franklin
10/11 – For KING + COUNTRY
10/16 – Peso Pluma
10/19 – Carin Leon
10/20 – Brandon Lake
10/25 – Sabrina Carpenter
10/31 – Maverick City Music
11/6 – Cyndi Lauper
11/9 – Gabriel Iglesias
11/15 – Ana Gabriel
American Stage
Raymond James Theatre
163 Third St. N, St. Pete 727-823-7529 americanstage.org
Through 10/20 – Ring of Fire 10/24-11/3 – Weird in St. Pete (at FloridaRAMA)
Asolo Repertory Theatre
5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 800-361-8388 asolorep.org
Bilheimer Capitol Theatre
405 Cleveland St., Clearwater
727-791-7400 rutheckerdhall.com
10/4 – Piff the Magic Dragon
10/13 – Samara Joy 10/18 – Stevie Ray Vaughan
Texas Flood
10/24 – Politics as Usual w/Rick Wilson & Molly Jong-Fast 10/29 – The Fixx
11/1 – Candy Dulfer
11/2 – Two Hot Takes Podcast Live
11/7 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
11/9 – Here Come the Mummies
11/13 – Stryper
11/14 – David Brighton’s Space Oddity 11/15 – Tab Benoit
Bininger Theater for Performing Arts
Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete 727-867-1166 eckerd.edu/theatre
10/30-11/2 – Firebringer: A New Stone Age Musical 11/13-16 – Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind
105 Central Park Dr., Largo 727-587-6793 largoarts.com
10/6 – Joel Hoekstra & Brandon Gibbs
10/10 – Crush: The Bon Jovi Experience
10/11 – Henhouse Prowlers
10/20 – Damn Strait:
A Tribute to George Strait
10/28 – Martin Barre Band
10/30 – A Little Hocus Pocus: A Drag Queen Tribute Show
11/1 – Ricky Nelson Remembered 11/2 – Joe Bouchard 11/15 – White Christmas
Early Bird Dinner Theater 13355 49th St. N, Clearwater 727-446-5898
earlybirddinnertheater.com/site Through 10/27 – The SecondTo-Last Chance Ladies League
Eckerd College International Film Series
Free, 7pm, Miller Auditorium, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete 727-867-1166
eckerd.edu/international-cinema
10/4 – Les Yeux Sans Visage (Eyes without a Face)
(French w/ English subtitles) 10/18 – Delicatessen (French w/ English subtitles) 10/25 – Titane (French w/ English subtitles)
11/1 – Handling the Undead (Norwegian w/ English subtitles)
11/8 – Evil Does Not Exist (Japanese w/ English subtitles)
11/15 – All Roads Taste of Salt (USA)
Eight O’Clock Theatre
105 Central Park Dr., Largo 727-587-6793
eightoclocktheatre.com
11/15-24 – White Christmas
Floridian Social
687 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-322-4600
thefloridiansocial.com
10/5 – The 17th Annual Crack Up Cancer Comedy Night
10/20 – Free Yoga
11/8 – Future Joy Homecoming Show w/ Michael Wilbur
Francis Wilson Playhouse
302 Seminole St., Clearwater 727-446-1360
franciswilsonplayhouse.org
10/5 – Mercer & Mancini concert
10/10-20 – Murder on the Orient Express
11/2 – The British Invasion concert
freeFall Theatre Company
6099 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-498-5205 freefalltheatre.com
10/12-13 – Love, Linda w/ Paula Broadwater
11/8-12/15 – Ken Ludwig’s Moriarty
HANGING AROUND
By Caron Schwartz
I don’t usually brave the elements when the weather is in the 90s. But for the third anniversary of our first date, my sweetheart Lenny insisted we get out and celebrate. I suggested something artsy (see my art news column on pages 42-43), and next thing you know we’re off to Creative Pinellas in the far-flung wilds of Largo.
First, we immersed ourselves in the Florida Watercolor Society’s 53rd Annual Exhibition. From the photorealistic “Kid in a Candy Store” by Judy Nunno (how did she do that?) to Kristin Herzon’s abstract “Random Thoughts,” the colors, the designs, and the sheer imagination were enthralling.
The Tampa Bay Surface Design Guild’s “Threads of Nature” was completely different, ranging from the whimsical –Susan Lumsden’s thread-painted exotic flowers – to the practical – Barbara Ellen Williams’s Tropical Winds Cotton Top. Ready-to-wear, ready-to-hang, ready-to place on a tabletop to admire fine craftsmanship.
Of course, hunger called. Empanada Brothers, just down Seminole Blvd., greeted us with a bright, hand-painted sign. Owner Camilo explained that traditional corn-based Colombian empanadas are naturally gluten-free. The amazing array of fillings ranged from meats to vegetarian, and even vegan. We opted for the $10 four-empanada special – two Beyond Beef and broccoli, two plantain and beans. Turns out the brother left for college so Camilo’s wife, Carrie, is partner instead.
What celebration is complete without dessert? Google Maps led us to Oh! Gelato on 102nd Ave., and what a find! Shawnie told us she had purchased the business about two months earlier, and was updating and upgrading with color, lights, and kid-friendly videos. Her enthusiasm was as delightful as her gelato. I wouldn’t share my gingerbread (complete with embedded cookies) and Lenny held onto his chocolate brownie for dear life.
Great guy, great fun, great day.
ARTS & LEISURE EVENTS
Through Oct. 21 – Ghost Stories
Free, Florida CraftArt Gallery, 501 Central Ave., St. Pete. What we fear can tell us much about ourselves. The 38 artists in the exhibition explore their own terrors while offering images that reflect our collective anxieties and even fantastic views into worlds beyond our perception. Catherine Bergmann, curatorial director of the Dunedin Fine Art Center, guest curated the show. Keep St. Pete Lit has challenged a group of local writers to pen ghost stories of their own inspired by the pieces found in the exhibition. The reading will be held at the gallery on Oct. 5, at 6pm.
Through 11/10 – Live Conservation: Restoring a Jain Shrine Free with museum admission, Tuesdays through Fridays, 10am-2pm, Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Pete. This small, intensive exhibition focuses on the treatment of the museum’s extraordinary carved and painted Jain Shrine. This rare object, which was used for daily worship by members of the Jain faith in a private home, preserves most of its original surface. However, over time dust, soot, and the touch of hands have dulled its rich colors. Visitors can see the conservation process and interact with the conservator.
Through 1/5/25 – Writers of Surrealism: Salvador Dali $32 (adult museum admission),10am-6pm, Raymond James Community Room, Dali Museum, One Dali Blvd, St. Pete. Renowned primarily as a painter, Salvador Dalí also left an indelible mark as a writer. This special exhibition explores Dalí’s literary works across many genres, including novels, essays, poetry, and autobiographical writings.
UPCOMING
10/1-11/10 – World Premiere: The Boy Who Loved Batman $75+, times vary by date, Straz Center, Tampa. This inspiring comedy by Asa Somers is drawn from the memoir of Batman film executive producer Michael Uslan and tells the incredible true story of one man’s dream that transformed into a national sensation. Audiences will embark on a wild ride from the streets of New Jersey to the glamour of Hollywood, and from comic book pages to the silver screen. Actor, comedian and writer Dan Fogler leads the cast, playing Michael Uslan during the first three weeks of the Tampa run of this brand-new production. www.strazcenter.org or 813.229.7827
10/4, 11, 18, and 25 –October Concert Series Free, 7-10pm, Horan Park, St. Pete Beach. Come for a fun-filled night of live music and entertainment! This dog-friendly event is perfect for a night out with friends and family. Bring your chairs, and enjoy great food, beer, and wine available for purchase. Scheduled bands are:
$25-$40, 7am-2pm, St. Pete College Clearwater campus, 2465 Drew St., Clearwater. Three different routes as well as a Cycle Your Way option ensure that this bike ride has something for everyone. Distance options are a seasoned cyclist 62-mile course, an adventure seeker ’s 40-mile course, and a family trek that tops out at 10 miles. Benefits the American Lung Association. Register: https://tinyurl.com/2r9cxpv4
Green Light Cinema
221 Second Ave. N. St. Pete 508-816-8968
greenlightstpete.com
80-seat art house theater Through 10/3 –Manhattan Short 2024 10/3 – Amber Alert
10/4-10 – The Outrun 10/11-12 – The Conversation (50th Anniversary Restoration) 10/11-16 – Sugarcane 10/27 – No One Asked You
Gulfport Community Players Back Door Theater 1619 49th St. S, Gulfport gulfportcommunityplayers.org 11/14-24 – Geezers
Jannus Live
200 First Ave. N, St. Pete 727-565-0550 jannuslive.com
10/2 – Sepultura
10/4 – Strfkr
10/5 – The Floozies w/ The Sponges
10/7 – Neck Deep
10/8 – Tori Kelly
10/9 – Jess Glynne w/ Leah Kate 10/11 – Tropidelic w/ The Supervillains & Palmer Squares
10/12 – Moon Taxi
10/16 – Testament & Kreator w/Possessed
10/24 – Beats Unique 10/25 – Fit for An Autopsy w/ Bodysnatcher, Distant, Sylosis & Judiciary
10/26 – Ricky Montgomery
10/27 – Riovaz
10/29 – Quinn XCII
10/31 – Weston Estate
11/1 – Coin w/ Aidan Bissett
11/3 – Say Anything: Is a Real Boy
11/6 – IDKhow
11/7 – G-Eazy
11/8 – Misterwives
11/9 – Kip Moore w/ Nomad Tour
11/10 – The Devil Wears Prada w/ Silent Planet, Like Moths to Flames, Greyhaven
11/13 – Luh Tyler
11/14 – Juvenile w/ The 400 Degreez Band
11/15 – Badfish: A Tribute to Sublime
LAB Theater Project 812 E. Henderson Ave., Tampa 813-586-4272 labtheaterproject.com Produces only works from
emerging playwrights. 11/7-24 – Crazy Quilts, written by Karen Fix Curry
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 10/6 – The Fantasticks 10/8 – Caribbean Chilling: Tribute to Jimmy Buffett 10/24-11/3 – Merrily We Roll Along 11/7-11/17 – On Golden Pond 11/12 – Brand New Day: Tribute to Sting & The Police
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union –Amphitheatre
Florida State Fairgrounds 4802 US Hwy. 301 N, Tampa 813-740-2446
https://tinyurl.com/52rmv4ex 10/4 – The Marley Brothers 10/5 – Kidz Bop Live
National Theatre Live Eckerd College, Miller Auditorium 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Pete Performances in HD http://tinyurl.com/y5fxrtc3
New Tampa Performing Arts Center 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa 813-829-2760 newtampaartscenter.org 10/11-20 – Little Shop of Horrors 10/15 – The Little Shop of Horrors (film) 10/25 – The Piano Man: A Tribute to Billy Joel 10/27 – New Tampa Unplugged: WAHH! World Fusion Band 10/28 – New Tampa Jazz Nights: Tom Brantley -JJ Johnson Centennial Celebration
11/8 – Tampa Bay Symphony Fall 2024 Virtuosic Adventures 11/9 – Kids Film Series: Finding Nemo
11/9 – Nathan Pacheco 11/10 – New Tampa Unplugged: Paul Wilborn Words & Music 11/13 – Steinway Piano Series: Nikolov-West Duo
Patel Conservatory
1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa, Dance / Theater / Music / Adult Classes 813-222-1002 patelconservatory.org
Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center
4951 78th Ave. N, Pinellas Park 727-369-5746
pinellas-park.com/161/ Performing-Arts-Center.com
Tickets: ticketsales.com
10/19 – Tapestry: The Carole King Songbook
Raymond James Stadium
4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa 813-350-6500
raymondjamesstadium.com
10/4 – Morgan Wallen
10/31-11/3 – Garden Brothers Nuclear Circus
Riverwalk Tampa thetampariverwalk.com Latin Thursdays
Second Sundays – 11am-3pm: Market + Art Walk, Armature Works
Ruth Eckerd Hall
1111 N McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 727-791-7400 rutheckerdhall.com
10/4 – Lyle Lovett and his Large Band
10/6 – TFO: Ravel’s Bolero
10/9 – TFO: For the Love of Italy
10/17 – Experience Hendrix
10/18 – Celtic Thunder
10/19 – Men At Work
10/20 – Ancient Aliens Live
10/26 – Jim Henson’s Labyrinth in Concert
11/3 – TFO: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5
11/6 – TFO: Expect the Unexpected
11/8 – Blackberry Smoke
11/9 – Neil Berg’s
50 Years of Rock & Roll
11/14 – The Jinkx & Dela Holiday Show
Safety Harbor Art & Music Center
706 Second St. N, Safety Harbor 727-725-4018
safetyharborartand musiccenter.com
10/4 – John Nemeth
10/5 – SHAMc’s Golden Ticket
10/11 – Damon Fowler
10/12 – John Prine’s Birthday Party: Grant Peeples & Friends
10/13 – Betty Fox Band
10/25 – Toronzo Cannon
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
5223 Orient Rd., Tampa 813-627-6649
seminolehardrocktampa.com
10/2 – The Used w/ Plain White T’s & Race
10/3 – Boyz II Men
10/6 – Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
10/10 – Teddy Swims
10/11 – Daniel Habif
10/20 – Willy Chirino
10/21 – Chase Atlantic
10/24 – Carly Pearce
11/3 – Greeicy
11/7 – Parmalee
11/10 – Randy Houser
11/14 – An Evening of Icons feat. The Commodores and The Pointer Sisters
Skipper’s Smokehouse
910 Skipper Rd., Tampa 813-971-0668
skipperssmokehouse.com
10/4 – Grateful Dead Nite
w/Uncle John’s Band
10/5 – WMNF Presents Fifth Annual Tom Petty
Birthday Tribute
10/13 – Acoustic Sunday Brunch w/ Rev. Billy C. Wirtz and Marvelous Marvin (free)
10/18 – Drake Milligan
10/19 – Julia Cole
10/24 – Tommy Castro + The Shaelyn Band
11/2 – WMNF presents The Ultimate Talking Heads Tribute
11/8 – Corey Smith
11/14 – DIZGO
Sparkman Wharf
615 Channelside Drive, Tampa
• Burger Fi
• Jotoro
• LightHaus
• Noblerice
• Splitsville
• Shortwave Coffee
* Whatever Pops sparkmanwharf.com
St. Petersburg City Theatre
4025 31st St. S, 727-866-1973 spcitytheatre.org
Stageworks Theater
1120 E Kennedy Blvd., West Bldg., #151, Tampa 813-374-2416 stageworkstheatre.org
Through 10/13 – What the Constitution Means to Me
10/19-20 – Laughter After 50 10/25-26 – Soul Picnic: A Celebration of Laura Nyro
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-229-7827 strazcenter.org
10/1-11/10 – The Boy Who Loved Batman
10/3 – Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert
10/5 – Anne Wilson
10/12 – A Coldplay Experience featuring The Royal Symphony Orchestra
10/12 – TFO: Bette, Babs and Beyond
10/15 – Hillary Clinton Live
10/19 – Broadway Ball 2024
10/20 – Girls Gone Bible Live
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We are here to help with your rental and property management needs. Call us for an in home consultation about what we can do to help you make the most of your investment.
ARTS & LEISURE EVENTS
10/5 – Safety Harbor’s First Craft Beer Festival
$10-$75, 3pm, Waterfront Park, 105 Veterans Memorial Lane, Safety Harbor. More than 30 craft brewers will be present. Ticket will get you into the Craft Beer tent and samples from more than 30 brewers. Food trucks, live music and more will be free and open to the public. Benefits Paint Your Heart Out and Kiwanis Club of Safety Harbor.
10/5 – Wildlife and Pollinator Festival
Free, 9am-2pm, Brooker Creek Preserve Wildlife Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Celebrate Florida wildflowers and the pollinators that support us all. A native plant sale will feature plants that are beautiful, pollinator-friendly, and best suited for our climate. A Pollinator Encounter tent will let visitors experience these helpful, harmless insects close-up. Various organizations will be available to answer questions about growing wildflowers, attracting pollinators, and being a good friend to nature.
10/5 – Health, Wellness & Resource Expo
Free, 10am-1pm, Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd. S, Gulfport. This annual event offers a wealth of information concerning health and wellness for seniors with free health screenings, demonstrations and information. This year, the expo has expanded to include providers of legal services, health insurance, housing and real estate, health services, fitness services, financial planning, and alternative health care.
10/5-13 – Taste of the Beaches 2024
$10 a “taste,” at participating restaurants and lounges up and down the beach. Taste of the Beaches invites you to savor an array of delectable local cuisines, from the freshest seafood straight from our shores to unique spins on the classics. The Taste kicks off at 6pm 10/5 at Horan Park on St. Pete Beach with music by the Horny Toads and exclusive silent auction items. Proceeds benefit a local charity. For participating businesses, tickets, and more information, visit www.tampabaybeaches.com/taste
10/5-27 – DK Farms Fall Fest
$15/children under 30 inches free, 10am-3pm, 1750 Lake Ave. SE, Largo. Pick up a pumpkin at the Pumpkin Patch and enjoy a ride down the scenic canal hayride. Get hands-on at the Petting Zoo. Come hungry for some delicious apple cider donuts and other local food vendors. Launch pumpkin bits with the Pumpkin Cannon and ride the mechanical bull. Enjoy bounce houses, craft booths, and take a ride on the ponies. Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/2ychumde
10/11-20 – SHINE Mural Festival
Free, throughout downtown St. Pete. This is the 10th anniversary of the festival, noted for its stunning large-scale murals. The opening event is 6pm at the Morean Arts Center on 10/11 with a group exhibition featuring artists from all 10 years of #shineonstpete. The festival culminates 10/19 with a finale event at FloridaRAMA that is free and open to the public. A limited number of tickets will be available for the SHINE VIP Experience inside FloridaRAMA’s immersive art space. The $75 ticket price includes valet parking, limited edition keepsake item, gourmet bites, and open bars.
10/23 – Eddie Izzard
10/23-11/17 – Gorey Stories
10/24 – National Ballet of Ukraine
10/26 – Jeff Ross
10/26-27 – Rex Orange County
10/27 – Paloma San Basilio Last Concert
10/30 – Mark Nizer’s Sciencesplosion
11/1 – TFO: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 11/2 – Bob the Drag Queen 11/6 – The Magic School Bus 11/6-10 – Moulin Rouge: The Musical 11/7 – Let’s Go Science 11/11 – USAF Band Airmen Of Note
11/12 – Dr. Lindsay Zanno: Rise of the T. Rex 11/12-17 – Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas the Musical Riverwalk Stage (free performances)
• Arts Legacy Remix (7:30pm)
10/4 – Fourth Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration 11/8 – A Global Tapestry of Tampa Bay
• Live & Local (6pm)
10/5 – The Ian Douglas Project 11/9 – MW Walker
Studio Grand Central 2260 First Ave. S, St. Pete 727-202-7019 theoffcentral.com
10/3-13 – The Hollow world premiere 11/7-17 – The Sound Inside
Sunshine City Comedy Club 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 727-435-0327 sunshinecitycomedyclub.com
Tampa Theatre 711 N Franklin St. Tampa tampatheatre.org 813-274-8286
One of America’s most elaborate movie palaces Films:
10/2 – Batman 10/4 – Shaun of the Dead 10/4 – Dazed and Confused 10/8 & 10 – Eno
A Nightmare on Franklin Street Film Series: 10/11 – Carrie 10/11 – Prom Night
10/12 – House on Haunted Hill 10/12 – The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 10/12 – House of 1,000 Corpses 10/13 – The Birds 10/13 – The Abyss 10/14 – Coraline
10/14 – Little Shop of Horrors: Director’s Cut 10/15 – Beetlejuice
10/16 – Evil Ed
10/16 – The Blackening 10/17 – Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?
10/18 – Nosferatu w/ Radiohead: A Silents Synced Film 10/18 – Queen of the Damned 10/19 – Young Frankenstein 10/19 – The Ghost and Mr. Chicken
10/19 – The Rocky Horror Picture Show
10/20 – Donnie Darko 10/22 – When Evil Lurks
10/23 – Film Tampa Bay presents: Bitter Souls
10/25 – The Sixth Sense 10/25 – The Watchers 10/26 – Hocus Pocus
10/26 – The Craft
10/26 – Black Sunday 10/27 – Faust 10/27 – Hellraiser
10/28 – Tucker & Dale vs. Evil 10/29 – The Masque of the Red Death 10/30 – Lisa Frankenstein 10/30 – Late Night with the Devil 10/31 – Halloween 10/31 – Scream Live Shows: 10/5 – Atsuko Okatsuka 10/6 – Ms. Pat: The Hot & Flashy Tour 10/10 – The Moth Mainstage 10/11 – Franklin Street Block Party 10/20 – PHANTASMAGORIA XV: Grim and Grimmer Tales 10/21 – Campfire Stories 11/3 – Nurse John: The Short Staffed Tour 11/8 – Brad Williams
Tarpon Springs Cultural Center 101 S Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs 727-942-5605 tarponarts.org
Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center 324 Pine St., Tarpon Springs 727-942-5605 tarponarts.org 10/6 – Beginnings: A Celebration of the Music of Chicago 10/12 – Let’s Hang On: The Music of Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons 11/3 – Elements: The Ultimate Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute 11/9 – Troubadour Project: 70s Rock Revival
10/3 – The Rocky Horror Picture Show 49th anniversary tour w/ Patricia Quinn
10/5 – TFO: Opening Night: Ravel’s Bolero
10/6 – The Black Crowes
10/10 – TFO: For the Love of Italy
10/11 – America
10/12 – 1964: The Tribute
10/13 – TFO: Bette, Babs and Beyond
10/18 – Rob Schneider Live
10/19 – International Ballet of Florida: Don Quixote
10/19-20 – TFO: Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 3
10/24 – 60s Rock n’ Roll Revival
10/25 – TFO: Parrots + Palms: The Songs of Buffett & Fins
10/26 – King Diamond
10/27 – TFO: Haunted Halls
Family Concert
11/2 – TFO: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5
11/7 – TFO: Expect the Unexpected 11/9 – Party on the Plaza 11/12 – Mannheim
The Studio@620
620 First Ave. S, St. Pete 727-895-6620
Masks requested while in building
USF Yuengling Center
12499 USF Bull Run Drive, Tampa 813-974-3111 10/17
USF Homecoming Comedy Show 10/23 10/25
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-953-3368 10/4 10/15 10/20 –10/23 11/1-2 11/7
11/12 11/14
Troupe’s 25th Anniversary Celebration
Featuring Sibelius’ Violin Concerto Oct 19 & 20
West Coast Players 21905 US 19 N, Clearwater 727-437-2363 wcplayers.com 10/18-11/3 – Evil Dead the Musical
Zubrick Magic Theatre 1211 First Ave N, Suite 101, St. Pete. Thur.-Sat. 7pm; Sun. 2pm 866-ZUBRICK (866-982-7425)
ARTS & LEISURE EVENTS
10/12-13 – St. Pete Pier Fall Festival
Free, 11am-7pm, Spa Beach Park. Browse the artisanal market, sample seasonal treats like pumpkin pie and warm apple cider, and let the kids have a blast with games, face painting, and bounce houses.
10/12 – Octoberfest Indian Rocks Beach
Free entry, noon-6pm, Kolb Park, 1507 Bay Palm Blvd. German band and dancers, kids’ crafts and face painting, stein carrying and keg toss contests. Silent auction. Hosts are IRB Action 2000 and the city of Indian Rocks Beach.
10/12 – Second Annual Burg BBQ Benefit
$45, 5-9pm, Urban Brew & BBQ, 2601 Central Ave., St. Pete. A full BBQ dinner buffet, live music, a photobooth, free shuffleboard, raffle baskets, silent auction, 50/50 tickets, and more! It’s sure to be a great night – all to benefit the GFWC Saint Petersburg Junior Woman’s Club.
10/12 – Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer
$35, 8pm, First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg, 1900 Gandy Blvd. N. Listeso String Quartet will perform, by candlelight, an hour of works by Academy Award-winning film composer Hans Zimmer, who has written the musical soundtracks for dozens of blockbuster movies, including Dune, Dunkirk, Interstellar, The Da Vinci Code, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Gladiator, and The Lion King. Tickets at https://tinyurl.com/46zmr8wj
10/12-13 – 31st Annual Downtown Dunedin Craft Festival
Free admission, 10am-5pm, 271 Main St., Dunedin. Meet some of the country’s finest artists and crafters with products all handmade in America. Ceramic planters, functional pottery, hair accessories, handmade one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces and an expansive Green Market.
10/13 – Second Annual Pups & Pumpkins Fundraiser
Free admission, 1-4pm, Pinellas Ale Works, 1962 First Ave. S, St. Pete. Event includes a dog costume contest, 50/50 and lottery board raffles. The silent auction will include donations from local businesses, sports venues, and attractions. A photographer can take a photo of your doggo in front of a fall background. Benefits Safe Paws Rescue.
10/14 – 300 Beach Drive Block Party
Free, 4pm, businesses along 300 Beach Drive NE & Third Avenue NE. An evening of community fun, local flavor, and seasonal cheer. Sip, dine and celebrate beginning at 4pm.
10/15 – Hillary Clinton
$79.50, 7pm, Straz Center, Tampa. Former First Lady, Senator from New York and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and a moderator will take the audience on a journey of unvarnished exchanges on politics, democracy, the threats we face, as well as friendship, aging, marriage and how we can all work together to shape a future to be proud of. Tickets: 813.229.STAR (7827) or www.strazcenter.org
Gulf Beaches Historical Museum 115 10th Ave., St. Pete Beach 727-552-1610 gulfbeachesmuseum.com
Gulfport History Museum 5301 28th Ave. S, Gulfport 727-201-8687 gulfporthistoricalsociety.org
Henry Plant Museum 401 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa 813-254-1891 plantmuseum.com Live classical music performances every third Thur. Most Sundays – Upstairs/ Downstairs at the Tampa Bay Hotel Through 12/23 – Imperfect Harmony: Man, Machine, and Music at the Tampa Bay Hotel
Heritage Museum 100 Beekman Lane, Tarpon Springs 727-942-5605 tarponarts.org
History and culture of the Greek community 10/22 – Tarpon Talks: The Leepa-Ratner Museum of Art
Imagine Museum 1901 Central Ave., St. Pete 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 1/5/25 –Shinique Smith: Parade Through 2/25/25 – Jess T. Dugan: I want you to know my story Through 5/11/25 –Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists from Japan Through 9/21/25 –Embodied: Highlights from The Ringling Collection
Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art 600 E Klosterman Road, Tarpon Springs 727-712-5762 leeparattner.org Through 12/8 – Dolores Coe: Lost Worlds Through 12/8 – Bruce Marsh: Terra Incognita Through 12/8 – City of Dreams: Through the Veil of Surrealism Through 12/15 –Recontextualizing the Atlas: Five Decades of Barton Gilmore
Museum of the American Arts And Crafts Movement
355 Fourth St. N, St. Pete 727-440-4859 museumaacm.org
Sun. Film Series – 12:30/2pm Daily Arts and Crafts-inspired films
Museum of Fine Arts
255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Pete 727-894-4368 mfastpete.org Thur. $10 after 5pm Through 11/3 – Skyway 2024: A Contemporary Collaboration 10/12 – Live Conservation 10 /17 – Smartly Dressed Fashion Show
Safford House Museum 23 Parkin Court, Tarpon Springs 727-942-5805 tarponarts.org Restored 1883 Victorian home
St. Petersburg Museum of History 335 Second Ave. NE 727-894-1052 spmoh.com
Happy Hour with the Historian 10/10 – Dr. Brandy Stark: The Ghosts of St. Petersburg 11/14 – Dr. Gary Mormino: The 10 Foods that Define Florida
Sarasota Art Museum 1001 S Tamiami Trail, 941-309-4300 sarasotaartmuseum.org Through 10/27 – Skyway 2024: A Contemporary Collaboration Through 10/27 – Modern Masterpiece Uncovered: Galloway’s Furniture Showroom by Victor Lundy 10/20-1/19 – Tammy Nguyen: Timaeus and the Nations 10/20-1/19 – Claire Ashley: Chromatic Blush
Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 3301 Gateway Centre, Pinellas Park. 727-579-8226 tbauto.org 10/1 – Mechanic Guided Tour
Tampa Bay History Center 801 Old Water St., Tampa 813-226-0097 tampabayhistorycenter.org
Walking tours of Tampa neighborhoods
Tampa Museum of Art 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 813-259-1720 tampamuseum.org Thur. 4-8pm: pay-as-you-will
Tarpon Springs Railroad Depot Historical Museum
Free. 160 E Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs 727-943-4624 tarponspringsarea historicalsociety.org
The Dalí Museum
One Dali Blvd., St. Pete 727-823-3767 thedali.org Thur. and Fri. reduced admission after 5pm Advanced-purchase timed tickets recommended
The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art 150 Central Ave., St. Pete 727-892-4200 thejamesmuseum.org Tues. $10 all day
USF Contemporary Art Museum Institute for Research in Art
3821 USF Holly Drive, Tampa 813-974-3503 ira.usf.edu 10/4 – Skyway 2024: 12 Ways of Looking at a Landscape Artists Conversation 10/16 – Political Advertisement 1952-2024 Screening and Conversation 11/7 – Film on the Lawn: The Florida Project
2240 Ninth Ave. S, St. Pete 727-323-1104 woodsonmuseum.org One City Chorus – Mon. 7pm Through 12/20 – Mary Proctor: Paint the Way to Stay
MUSIC
Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association Jazz Jam, Mon., 7-9pm, Hangar Restaurant, 540 First St. SE, St. Pete, aldowningjazz.com
New Horizons Band of Gulfport Gulfport Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport 727-345-0285 newhorizonsbandgulfport.org Novice, intermediate musicians
School of Rock St. Petersburg 2401 Central Ave., 727-871-7625 schoolofrock.com Guitar, drum, singing, keyboard/ piano lessons
South Pasadena Community Band
727-515-5407 southpasadenaband.com All-volunteer band
10/24 – Free concert, South Pasadena City Hall
St. Petersburg College Gibbs Campus Music Center 6605 Fifth Ave. N, 727-341-4360 spcollege.edu/events
Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Society Cove Cay Golf Club 2612 Cove Cay Drive, Clearwater sdjs2022.org 10/20 – Schaff/Wall Collective
Tampa Bay Symphony Performances in various locations 727-827-8087 tampabaysymphony.org
11/3 – Virtuosic Adventures (Straz Center)
11/8 – Virtuosic Adventures (New Tampa Performing Arts Center) 11/10 – Virtuosic Adventures (Palladium)
TomKats Jazz Orchestra
The Blue Parrot Mon. 7-9:30pm 85 Corey Circle, St. Pete Beach tomkatsjazzorchestra.com
OPERA
Opera Tampa at Straz Center, 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-229-7827 strazcenter.org
Sarasota Opera House
61 N Pineapple Ave., 941-328-1300 sarasotaopera.org
10/4 – Duck Soup (film)
10/6 & 20 – Die Entfuhrung aus dem Scrail (in HD) 10/18 – The Greatest Show on Earth (film)
10/20 – La fille mal gardée (HD ballet film)
St. Pete Opera 2145 First Ave. S, 727-823-2040 stpeteopera.org
Various performance locations Through 10/1 – Samson & Delilah 11/2 – Broadway Cabaret: An Evening of Cander and Ebb (Opera Central)
St. Petersburg Opera Guild stpeteoperaguild.org
The Pinellas Opera League Thur.: Opera at the Dali pinellasoperaleague.com
Dr. Natalie Park
ARTS & LEISURE EVENTS
10/17-20 – Clearwater Jazz Holiday
$45-$200, times vary by date, on the green in Coachman Park, Clearwater. The 45th annual Jazz Holiday will feature appearances by Mavis Staples, St. Paul & the Broken Bones, Bruce Hornsby (replacing the previously announced Sierra Ferrell), Tower of Power and others. Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/mryjt56u
10/17-20 – Our Lady of Lourdes Fall Festival
Free admission and parking, Thu 5-10pm/ Fri 5-11pm/ Sat 11am-11pm/ Sun 11am-5pm, 750 San Salvador Drive, Dunedin. Rides, games, music, laughter, and fun! Dozens of rides cater to children of all ages with a special section of “kiddie rides” for the little ones, or festival attendees can win prizes at a variety of game booths.
10/18-20 – P1 Offshore St. Pete Grand Prix
High-speed watercraft racing action near the St. Petersburg Pier and downtown parks with offshore powerboats and jet ski racing. Race teams from across the world will compete in multiple classes during the race weekend. The race is best viewed live along the course near downtown St. Petersburg and The Pier.
10/19 – Fall Fest Fundraiser for Reach St. Pete Free, but tickets ($15-$25) may be required to participate in certain activities, noon-5pm, 3 Daughters Brewing, 222 22nd St. S, St. Pete. Paint pumpkins, listen to live music, and browse an outdoor market, all while enjoying food trucks, bounce houses, and more. Reach St. Pete provides essential resources to individuals experiencing financial hardships, inequities, homelessness, or at-risk situations while removing barriers that hinder access to a better life.
10/19 – 2024 St. Petersburg International Folk Fair
$14, 10am-6pm, Vinoy Park, downtown St. Pete. Travel the world in a day, with exhibits and demonstrations of cultures from around the world. SPIFFS is the only independent multi-ethnic organization of its kind in the United States. It was founded in 1975 as an umbrella organization of ethnic groups who joined together to present a festival during the U.S. Bicentennial Celebration. Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/47tmpxe9
10/19 – Broadway Ball
$800 and up, 6pm, Straz Center, Tampa. The Straz’s annual, muchanticipated fundraiser will celebrate the upcoming Broadway season – including the return of The Lion King – with cocktails, a dinner on the stage of Morsani Hall, silent and live auctions and outstanding live performances. Cap off the evening at Broadway Ball After Dark, which is included with the ticket. https://tinyurl.com/mvwxwy7n
10/19 – International Ballet of Florida presents Don Quixote NEW DATE
$37 and up, 2pm, Mahaffey Theater, St. Pete. Set to the virtuoso score of Ludwig Minkus, this original production will feature guest artists including Prima Ballerina Olesia Shaytanova and Principal Dancer Jonas Laucius of Lithuanian National Ballet in their signature roles of Kitri and Basilio; Denys Nedak, Principal Dancer of Atlanta Ballet, People’s Artist of the Ukraine as Espada; and many more from around the world. https://tinyurl.com/5n8vw2x
ECO
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Pete 727-893-7326 stpeteparksrec.org/ boydhillpreserve Closed Mon. Environmental education center, Terry Tomalin Campground, Pinellas Pioneer Settlement
Fort De Soto Park 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde 727-552-1862 pinellascounty.org/park Campgrounds, ferry services to Egmont and Shell Keys.
Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center 700 Second Ave. NE, at The St. Pete Pier 727-291-4103 tbwdiscoverycenter.org Daily boat tours of Tampa Bay ecosystem
Weedon Island Preserve 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Pete 727-453-6500 weedonislandpreserve.org Guided hikes, birding, and photography tours. Archaeology lectures, classes and webinars.
GARDENS
Florida West Coast Orchid Society Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 10891 102nd Ave. N, Seminole 727-420-7230 fwcos.org
Garden Club of St. Petersburg 500 Sunset Dr. S, 727-381-8920 gardenclubstpetersburg.org
Ikebana International 500 Sunset Drive, St. Pete (Garden Club building) ikebanastpetersburg.com
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 1534 Mound St., Sarasota 941-366-5731 selby.org 10/5-12/1 – The Orchid Show 2024: Purple!
Pinewood Cultural Park 12520 Ulmerton Road, and 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo Heritage Village pinellas.gov/parks/heritage-village/
Creative Pinellas –creativepinellas.org
Florida Botanical Gardens –Free 100-acre park flbg.org
Third Saturday – Gardens open 7am-5pm; Creative Pinellas open noon-5pm; Heritage Village open 10am-4pm
Sunken Gardens
1825 Fourth St. N, St. Pete Adult and child classes sunkengardens.org
FERRIES
Crossbay Ferry
Connecting Downtown Tampa to Downtown St. Pete Wed.-Sun. through May 727-273-5932 thecrossbayferry.com
Egmont Key Ferry
Fort De Soto Boat Ramp 727-398-6577 hubbardsmarina.com
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 stpetebeach.org/780/Public-Library Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10-2; Sun closed See spblibrary.com for daily events.
President Barack Obama Main Library 3745 Ninth Ave. N, St. Pete 727-893-7724 splibraries.org Closed for renovation.
SPIRITUAL
Sacred Lands
1700 Park St. N, St. Pete 727-347-0354
sacredlandspreservation.org
Drum circle first Fri.; Sun. tours, meditations, special events 10/19 – Celebration of Trees
Soothe Our Souls (S.O.S.)
4737 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 727-360-7411
sootheoursouls.org
Provides complimentary sailing for seriously health-challenged people and their support groups
Spiritual Conditioning Program 153 107th Ave., Treasure Island Pat Jano at 727-324-9222
Small group Bible study
ZOOS/AQUARIUMS
Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater 727-441-1790 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 Pkwy., Sarasota 941-388-4441 mote.org
Seaside Seabird Sanctuary 18328 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores 727-391-6211
ZooTampa at Lowry Park 1101 W Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552 zootampa.org
Through Oct. 27 (select nights) –Creatures of the Night
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 Shuffleboard
January through March Tues./Thurs./Sat., 10am–noon Pass-A-Grille Park, 1000 Pass-a-Grille Way Member $20/yr., open to public.
Preserve The ‘Burg 727-824-7802 preservetheburg.org
10/2 – Ghost Buildings: Places that Haunt St. Pete’s Past 10/5 – Historic Mirror Lake Walking Tour
10/26 – Historic Fourth and Fifth Avenue N, Downtown’s Northern Edge
Rotary Club of Gulf Beaches Tues., Noon. VFW, 12901 Gulf Blvd., Madeira Beach facebook.com/RotaryGulfBeaches
Second Saturday Singers
Second Sat. 9am–noon, Oct-April Pasadena Community Church, 227 70th St. S, St. Pete bobd@pccumc.org
St. Petersburg Audubon Society 727-753-9731 stpeteaudubon.org
St. Petersburg Chess Club
540 Fourth Ave. N, St. Pete Open every Fri. for members 6-11pm; Sun. 2-4pm group lessons and friendly games.
St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club
559 Mirror Lake Drive N, St. Pete Fri., 7-10pm, Free. stpeteshuffle.com
Suncoast Bonsai Society
Seminole Recreation Center 9100 113th St., Third Sat. 10am suncoastbonsaisociety.org
Suncoast Quilting Circle
Works to preserve and promote the art of quilt making. suncoastquiltingcircle.org
Swiss Club St. Petersburg
Welcomes new members. Inquire via website: SwissClubStPetersburg.com
Tampa Bay Surface Guild
Good Samaritan Church 6085 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park.
Second Mon., 6:30-8:30pm Coloring, patterning, structuring and transformation of fabric, fiber, and other materials surfacedesignguild.com
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
$43.25, 7:30pm, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. This an experiential extension of the Ancient Aliens TV series explores the theory that extraterrestrials have visited Earth for thousands of years. The 90-minute live experience features leading Ancient Astronaut theorist Giorgio A. Tsoukalos, investigative mythologist William Henry, UK government UFO investigator Nick Pope, and real-life Indiana Jones, David Childress. https://tinyurl.com/2s3tnjjv
10/20 – Girls Gone Bible Live
$39.75, 7pm, Straz Center, Tampa. Angela and Arielle are Girls Gone Bible, hosts of the podcast of that name, which is one of the most popular in the faith-based category. The pair has built a reputation for the light-hearted humor and heavy-duty discussions of faith, mental health, relationships and more, all filtered through the women’s’ Christian faith. www.strazcenter.org/ 813-229-7827
10/21– Night in Italy Dinner
$50/$450 reserved table of eight, 5pm, Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd. S, Gulfport. Indulge in an authentic Italian dining experience with a carefully curated menu featuring classic dishes that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. Cash bar. After dinner, hit the dance floor, with live music provided by Hot Tonic. Proceeds benefit The Gulfport Senior Center Foundation. Tickets at https://tinyurl.com/45uj6dj8
10/24 – National Ballet of Ukraine
$42.38-$192.88, 7:30pm, Straz Center, Tampa. The first tour of the U.S. by National Ballet of Ukraine since dissolution of the USSR more than 30 years ago. World-class dancers will present a program of classics, including “The Dying Swan,” and “Don Quixote,” performed in front of a cutting-edge 3D LED screen that makes the audience feel as if they are traveling onto the stage. The spectacular Ukrainian Shumka Dancers will join the tour, showcasing their traditional music, athletic choreography, and colorful historic costumes. https://tinyurl.com/3vv5uhvk
10/26 – Beers on the Pier
$50-$60, 7-10pm, St. Petersburg Museum of History, Beers on the Pier, a history-filled craft beer festival with more than 20 breweries from across America, will offer a sampling of their unique brews throughout the Museum’s galleries Sponsored by J.J. Taylor Distributing. All proceeds benefit the mission of protecting St. Pete’s rich history! https://tinyurl.com/bdhzykrv
10/26 – OctoberWest Beer Fest
$50, 8-10pm (general admission), James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art, 150 Central Ave., St. Pete. OctoberWest is a unique opportunity to sample craft beers from over 22 breweries and experience the museum’s new exhibit. Plus, live entertainment, lite bites, and other fun surprises.
10/26 – Suenos de Dali
$140-$150, 8-11pm, Dali Museum, One Salvador Dali Blvd., St. Pete. Step into a dreamlike world with this year’s theme, “A Surrealist Awakening.” Guests are encouraged to let their inner Surrealist be the guide. Give an ode to past artists or tap into those embracing the movement today, or accent your look with key surreal symbols, including melting clocks, eyes, ants, lobsters and more. While themed attire is recommended, all are welcome www.thedali.org/event/suenos-de-dali-2024
10/27 – TFO: Haunted Halls Family Concert
$25, 2pm, Mahaffey Theatre, St. Pete. Show off your favorite costume at The Florida Orchestra’s popular Halloween-themed concert featuring a full orchestra of spooktacular musicians for goblins of all ages. Come early to try out instruments at the Instrument Petting Zoo! Chelsea Gallo, conductor. Tickets: www.themahaffey.com/show/tfo-1027
Treasure Islettes
Treasure Island Community Center, 154 106th Ave.
Bingo Thursdays 6:30pm treasureislettes.weebly.com Supports charity and college scholarships.
Yoga at The Dali Dali Museum, third Sun., 9-10am https://tinyurl.com/bd6e88mz
MARKETS
TUESDAYS
Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market
9am-3pm, Oct. through April 9am-2pm, May through Sept. Beach Blvd. below 28th Ave. S, First Tues. Clothing Swap: Russian Club, 2920 Beach Blvd. S visitgulfportflorida.com
WEDNESDAYS
Madeira Beach Market
Nov.-May 10am-3pm 15000 Madeira Way
FRIDAYS
Sunset Market
First and third Fri. nights, 5-10pm, parking lot of Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Ave., St. Pete.
Creative Clay Outdoor
Art Market
First Fridays, 10am-2pm 1846 First Ave. S, St. Pete
Treasure Island Friday Market Dec.-April, 9am-2pm Community Center Park islandneighborschamber.org
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY
Dunedin Downtown Market
9am-1pm, Pioneer Park, 420 Main St., Fri. market Nov.-May until 2pm; Sat. market year-round.
SATURDAYS
Crossroads Market
Third Saturdays, 10am-2pm, Crossroads Christian Church 1645 Seminole Blvd., Largo
St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market
Oct.-May, 9am-2pm
Al Lang Stadium parking lot, 230 First St. SE
June-Sept. 9am-1pm, Williams Park, 350 Second Ave. N saturdaymorningmarket.com
The Market Marie
Second Saturdays, 10am-3pm Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland St., Clearwater
MAVIS STAPLES
ARTS & LEISURE EVENTS
11/2 – 2024 Evening for the Bay: Spotlight on the Future
$180+, 6-10pm, Tampa Bay Watch, 3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde. Immerse yourself in a night of storytelling, heartfelt moments, and a shared commitment to preserving the Tampa Bay watershed. Indulge in cocktails, a gourmet dinner, and dance the night away. Bid on exclusive items in auctions while mingling with fellow supporters. Sean Daly of ABC Action News will emcee. Purchase tickets and sponsorship opportunities at www.tampabaywatch.org/2024-evening-for-the-bay
11/2 – Community Center Indoor Garage Sale
Free admission, 9am-2pm, 400 Alt. Keene Road, Largo. Over 40 tables of new-to-you treasures. Interested in selling? Tables reservations are available ONLY in-person at the Largo Community Center! Clean out your closets and garages and bring in gently used items or crafts to sell at your table.
11/2 – Safety Harbor Wine Festival
Free, 4-11pm, Waterfront Park, 105 Veterans Memorial Lane, Safety Harbor. Don’t miss out on the biggest party of the year! Enjoy wine tastings, live music, delicious food and good company. Dog friendly.
11/2 – Historic Kenwood Bungalowfest
$25, 10am-4pm, check-in at St. Petersburg High School, 2501 Fifth Ave. N. The tour showcases Historic Kenwood homes, highlighting Craftsman Bungalows, Frame Vernacular, Prairie, Mid-Century, Modern homes, and more with a special glimpse into spaces beyond the bungalow. This year’s featured home will have a salvaged mural from the previous garage. Stroll or use the free continuous trolleys. https://tinyurl.com/2p8zszfx
11/2 – Gulfport Art in the Yard
Free. Gulfport’s community art sale is a bi-annual event occurring in March and November that is open to all resident artists who reside in Gulfport. It is a grassroots event that is sponsored by the city and organized by a few artists for the benefit of the entire arts community. Rain date 11/3.
11/2-3 – Savor St. Pete Food and Wine Festival
$115-$145, 1-4pm/Noon-4pm VIP, Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Drive NE. The festival brings together the best of the best in food, wine, craft beers and premium spirits. Guests can enjoy flavor-packed bites from leading Bay area restaurants, and an array of craft beers and wines. The VIP Spirits Lounge offers top-shelf cocktails and experiences. A percentage of ticket sales benefit local Bay area charities. www.savortheburg.com
Recreational Complex, 200 Rex Place, Madeira Beach. The Old Salt King of the Beach is one of the largest, richest and, certainly, most exciting king mackerel fishing tournaments in the United States. The King is a combination fishing tournament and waterfront festival drawing upwards of 600 teams competing for a share of over $300,000 in prizes, thousands of attendees and visitors, live music-boatsfishing gear-apparel-food and beverages, all capped off on Tournament Day when fish are weighed, and monies are paid with the crowning of the 2024 Fall KING. Registration: https://tinyurl.com/57etxye7
MARKETS CONTINUED
Mezzo Market
One Saturday a month Oct.-May, Baum Avenue between Intermezzo Coffee & Green Bench Brewing, St. Pete mezzomarket.co
SUNDAYS
49th Street
Makers/Growers Market
First Sunday, 10am-2pm Red Feather Studios, 1301 49th St. S, Gulfport
Corey Avenue Sunday Market 10am-2pm/June-Oct. 9am-1pm Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach coreyave.com
Indian Shores Sunday Market Nov.-April, 9am-1pm
Indian Shores Town Hall, 19305 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores facebook.com/ IndianShoresSundayMarket/
St. Pete Sunday Market Third Sun. of the month, Noon-6pm Arts Xchange 515 22nd St. S, St. Pete
Sunday Market St. Pete Weekly, 10am-5pm, St. Petersburg High School, 2501 Fifth Ave. N
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS
Art Mart at Pass-a-Grille Sat. & Sun., 9am-2pm (+ Fridays through April) 900 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach
11/8-10 –36th Annual Tarpon Springs Seafood Festival
Free admission, Fri - noon-9pm/Sat - 10am-9pm/Sun - 10am-5pm, Sponge Docks, 735 Dodecanese Blvd. The festival will feature a variety of seafood vendors, as well as non-seafood items for landlubbers. There will also be a variety of arts and crafts vendors, activities, a chef’s competition and more.
11/9 – Pops in the Park
Free, 6:30pm, Vinoy Park, St. Pete. Bring the blanket and a picnic and The Florida Orchestra will provide the perfect soundtrack of free music under the stars. Featuring movie music, Broadway hits and classical favorites. Be sure to bring your non-perishable goods for TFO’s annual food drive.
11/12 – Dr. Lindsay Zanno: Rise of the T.Rex
$25, 7pm, Straz Center, Tampa. Paleontologist and National Geographic Explorer Dr. Lindsay Zanno hunts for clues in the evolutionary mystery of T. rex, which reigned as the apex predator of North America around 66 million years ago. Each year she spends several months on expedition, scouring the badlands of western North America. Along the way, she has discovered many new species—including some of the earliest predecessors of T. rex. https://tinyurl.com/6nm2c3ss
11/15-17 – St. Pete Run Fest
This three-day event features a half-marathon, a 10K, a 5K and a Kids Run. In addition, the festival will have local artists, live music, food and drink. Vendors and exhibitors will offer the latest in fitness technology, training trends and nutrition. Register at www.stpeterunfest.org/register-now
MEMORIAL
By Peter Roos
Florida Medal of Honor Memorial
Sgt. Maj. August “Augie” G. D’Alessio was born in New York and raised in the Bronx. A Marine in the World War at 17, he became a pastry chef in his father’s bakery, and later worked as an officer of the court for a career. Auggie was well over 80 years old and living in Vina Del Mar when he first expressed the idea for a Medal of Honor Memorial in St. Pete Beach.
Immediately prior to his accidental death at the age of 86, in the fall of 2013, he was working on designing and seeking funding for a Medal of Honor Freedom Fountain to honor the Florida men and woman who received this great award throughout military history.
Auggie was a much beloved member of the Veterans of South Pinellas County, and fellow members Harry Metz, Brooks Cavender and Wayne MacDowell have continued working on what Auggie started. Wayne MacDowell said, “he was like everyone’s favorite uncle.” April 2024 Harry Metz also passed, but progress continues.
There is a design for the memorial, a $130,000 grant from the State of Florida and a prospective location. It has taken more than a decade to get this far, but Wayne and Brooks hope and expect the St. Pete Beach City Commission to review and approve the location, just west of the berm on the east end of Ron McKenny Park near the northern entrance to St. Pete Beach. The term of the grant has been extended to May, 2026, but as time passes some of the materials are becoming costlier, and additional funds may be needed. “We are looking at alternatives for raising additional funds, if needed, to complete this worthwhile project,” said Wayne MacDowell recently.
For more info, email The Veterans of South Pinellas County at VSPCBrooks@brookslink.com
Reaching 60,000 online through social media, web content, weekly eblasts and more! 100,000+ Readership • 10 Issues Annually 50,000+ Viewership
Peter Roos • sales@paradisenewsfl.com cell (813) 230-3965
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
ANNUAL HOME RENTAL
Keyrenter property management takes the worry out of being a land lord. KeyrenterStPete.com or call Sam 727-202.2700
BOAT CLUB
Limited Membership Boat Club with Premium Boats. All day usage for a fraction of the cost of ownership. SovereignBoatClub.com
Call for a free in-home consult. See ad for 30% off next purchase. Call Budget Blinds 727.821.0976 and/or Service First Installers CAREGIVER/COMPANION
In-home aid, dementia/companion care, meals, laundry, groceries, pets, appointments. St. Petersburg / S. Pinellas. References available. Maritza Palmucci 813.230.9392
Companionship, errands, transportation to appointments, light cooking, cleaning, and laundry, medication reminders. Call Gail 260.242.0246, email gail@compassionatecompanioncare forseniors.com, compassionate companioncareforseniors.com
CARPETS & RUGS
Professional Rug Cleaning & Invisible Repairs – Free pick-up and delivery. Also, the largest selection of imported Handmade works of art you can walk on.
Oriental Rug Bazaar 727.726.8787
COLLEGE ADMISSION
FL-based College Counselor
Helping students with college admissions www.ic-prep.com
CLOSET DESIGN & INSTALLATION
Get organized. Maximize the space you have in closets, pantries, laundry rooms & more. newclosettoday.com
Call for a free consult 727.641.6448
CREMATION
Family Cremation Plot - 49th St., $12K, Memorial Gardens 727.381.5363
DENTAL SERVICES
Century Dental, Advanced Dental Technology, Implants,Reconstructive, Cosmetic & Laser Dentistry, 617 75th Ave., St. Pete Beach, 40 Years
Helios Health – Zoe (MA31664) offers massage and Infrared sauna therapy on West Central Ave. at 57th St., St. Petersburg 727.322.8883
PAINTING SERVICES
Residential or Commercial Painting
Flo-Pro Painting 727.337.6888
PICKLEBALL/TENNIS LESSONS
Private/group lessons for all ages/skill levels. 727.481.6375 brian@sunshinecitytennis.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.”
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
Marina Bay – New Construction Near Eckerd. More than beautiful. Resilient, Private, Peaceful, Protected FORTIFIED 727.906.3300
MarinaBaystPete.com
Amazing Marina Bay homes for sale NOW! 10 Bayfront Court S, St. Pete,
$2,875,000, 4 BR/3.5BA, 3,239sf of waterfront elegance karabrookshomes.com/10bayfront 16B Franklin Court S., St. Pete
$1,695,000, 3 BR/2.5BA 2,334sf of effortless waterfront convenience karabrookshomes.com/16bfranklin by www.KaraBrooksHomes.com, Premier Sothebys Real Estate For SALE
Completely Renovated 2BR 1.5 BA, 5503 80th St. N #209 1139 sf $239K (see Leverocks Realty ad page 23) 727.422.3483
Amazing Marina Bay homes seek new owners!
18A Franklin Court S., St. Pete
$1,749,000, 3 BR/2.5BA 2,374sf of effortless waterfront convenience 26 Jefferson Ct S.3 BR 2 BA 2,000sf
PENDING 10 Bayfront Court S, St. Pete, $2,875,000, karabrookshomes.com/18AFranklin karabrookshomes.com/26Jefferson by www.KaraBrooksHomes.com
Premier Sothebys
727.313.1233
Marina Bay New ConstructionBuilt like its Fortified Call the developer 727-906-3300
Visit www.MarinaBaySt.Pete.com
(see their ad on page 5)
RESIDENTIAL PROTECTION
Insurance Companies are now rejecting claims if no one has been there in 14 days.
Property Watch Ninja’s are your boots on the ground When you’re not around.
PropertyWatchNinja’s.com or Call 727.620.2620
SCREEN REPAIR
Screen Repair for Pool Cages, Patios and Lanais, call or text for a FREE Estimate.
Rescreen Rescue 727.348.4307
SEO & WEBSITES
Advanced Digital Media Services develops websites with SEO built-in to get your company to the top on Google. Text or call 727.509.6930
Create and Improve Your Online Presence, customerloyaltyagency.com
Call Dean at 941.323.1402
SLIDING DOOR REPAIR
Stop struggling with old sliding doors. We fix it to open for a fraction of the cost of a new door. We replace windows too. Lic. C1050, YouTube.com/user/SliderRepairs
Slider Repairs 727.493.2644
TERMITES
Cameron Termite & Pest Control Inspections, Treatments and Tenting Camerontermite.com 727.577.0789
TOURS & TRANSPORTATION
Paradise Tours & Transportation
Call us 1st for your transportation needs. We will take you where you want to go! Sightseeing tours and transportation around Tampa Bay. 727.417.8036
Free Beach Rides 727.776.7553
TUTORING
Portuguese & French Tutoring Conversational-Grammar-Literature parigitropicale@gmail.com 727.301.5917
Piano lessons your home or my studio. All ages & styles, affordable, 25 years of experience. 727.688.2782
French lessons by French nativeAll levels. Text or call 571.435.5606
“Draw the value from the lesson. Take a look at whatever is going on in your life that you may be feeling overpowered by or have given too much authority to and challenge it.”
~ The Art of Being
Even though our kids’ school started recently, the School of Life is a perpetual classroom, open 24/7, 365 days a year. With this in mind, I have a question for you. Do you consider yourself to be teachable? Are you able to stand back objectively, observe, and learn from your experiences – or, like so many of us, do you continue to repeat them endlessly? (This is how the past becomes the future, again and again). Have you noticed how certain irritating issues in life can be self-perpetuating – how annoying circumstances, conditions, and even people follow you around like a lost puppy dog –almost as if an invisible leash tethered them to you? The saying, “we can run but we cannot hide” comes to mind. When we are not teachable, some of our most repetitive problems take on a life of their own and attach themselves to us at the hip.
If the aforementioned scenario sounds familiar, the question we may wish to unpack is, why? Why is this happening to me again, and how can I break the cycle? It begins with the question, are we teachable? Some say that within every question lies the answer. A word of caution, however: In the School of Life, the headteacher is a taskmaster. If we are teachable and willing to ask the tough questions, we had better be prepared
L I F E
to hear the answers. When we cannot embrace the lesson being offered, metaphorically, we are emitting a message to the Universe saying, “Hey... send me more of the same.” The law of cause and effect aligns with the law of attraction –which together never fails in drawing to us whatever reflects our predominant thoughts and deepest beliefs about ourselves and life. As an example, many of us have gone from one dysfunctional relationship or unsatisfactory job to the next, and then the next, and the next, never stopping long enough to explore the possibility that each failed experience had something to increase our wisdom IF we are teachable.
If we are not teachable, we can run, but we can’t hide from ourselves. While the next person’s eyes and hair color may be different, the “issues” aren’t; while the next job may offer a new work environment, amazingly enough, the same “problem”
people show up in different bodies. We can’t outrun our self-limiting behaviors and beliefs because they will follow us like our own shadow; however, we can transcend them by exposing them to the light of present-moment awareness. We simply need to be mindful when they pop up. This is the reward to be found in remaining open and teachable; an opportunity to change our mind, our behavior and, ultimately, the trajectory of our life.
Consider using the following affirmation as your mantra: Today, I invite the problems that follow me around to reveal the lesson they have come to share. By being aware and teachable, I “sever the tether” and set myself free.
Dennis Merritt Jones’ vision is “Guiding People to Purpose.” He is an award-winning author of seven books, a keynote speaker, and personal mentor/coach who loves living in St. Petersburg. If you would like more information regarding his availability as a speaker, his mentoring programs, and his books, please visit his website at DennisMerrittJones.com
On the Gulf Coast’s premier boating water with 5 bedrooms 5 1/2 baths, and over 5,600 sqft of living space.
Ultimate Boater’s Dream Waterfront Paradise
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Elegant Waterfront
In the coveted neighborhood of Bayway Isles, this home features a truly gorgeous interior and excellent boating.
With protected boating water, dock, lift, and proximity to the beach, this could be the start of your new salt life.
Gorgeous Views & Marina Access
One-of-a-kind single-family home with views of the Grand Canal and access to Port 32 Marina right out your back gate.
St. Pete Beach Waterfront Rare Gem at a Great Price
This charming one-level home will thrill you from the moment you walk in the door. Tropical living in a dreamy location.
Nestled in a prestigious gated community, this block home offers supreme comfort, privacy, and amenities.
Views and One-Floor Living Luxury Waterfront Penthouse Townhome in Paradise
Top-floor, single-level living with elevator, featuring great water views and superior boating, with slip and lift. Not your run-of-the mill towhome, with gorgeous architecture and a wonderful floor plan. 3 beds, 3.5 baths, and more.
Your own boat slip, 2 large bedrooms, loft, den and bonus space on the serene Grand Canal of Tierra Verde!
Resort-Like Pool and Grounds The Best Deal in Pt. Brittany
This Tierra Verde single-level home features high ceilings, open spaces, and both a huge pool and a very spacious yard. This elegantly-furnished condo comes turnkey in the bay area’s favorite 55+ community with tremendous amenities.
Angela Mathias, Andrew Salamone, Ron Salamone, Libby Salamone
