Paradise NEWS Magazine - December 2020 Edition

Page 1



5801 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 727-367-3636 www.remaxpreferred.net

Preferred for a Reason HIA

BA

TA

VIS

A SS-

PA

N

TH

A IST

N DE

PE

COASTAL LIVING AT IT'S FINEST! Spacious 2BR/2BA Condo Totally Turn Key! Offered at $459,900

Exclusive Waterfront Community of Dolphin Cay! Gorgeous 2BR/2BA Condo Offered at $549,900 Allison Estabrooks (727) 460-4061

Exquisitley Remodeled 2BR/2BA 2nd Floor Condo on the Golf Course! Offered at $344,900 Allison Estabrooks (727) 460-4061

Allison Estabrooks (727) 460-4061

ET

G

IN

ND

R

VE

V

.P

Beautifully Updated 2BR/2BA Condo with Golf Course Views! Offered at $339,900 Allison Estabrooks (727) 460-4061

OR

N DI

CH

aEA ThiB SBEa b N lu CSU

H

AC

E EB

AR

LM

DE

Quintessential Beach Bungalow Spacious 3BR with Private Courtyard and POOL! Offered at $1,100,000 Allison Estabrooks (727) 460-4061

G

ST

ASA

C

Panoramic Water Views! 2BR/2BA Waterfront Condo Offered at $487,500 Allison Estabrooks (727) 460-4061

PE

H

EAC

LB

IL -GR

Live Where Others Dream Of Vacationing!! 2BR/1.5BA Move in Ready Condo. Views of the Gulf of Mexico. Offered at $604,900 Rebecca Mitchell (727) 272-9029

Move in Ready with Water View 1BR/1BA Condo, Walk to the Beach www.MySylvette.com Offered at $230,000 Diana Sames (727) 776-0122

D OL TS JUS

Bahia Vista Waterfront Condo Call for Current Listings! Sold for $469,000

Martina Vela (561) 601-9999

Carol Giovannoni & Team (727) 481-9909 www.yourbeachhometeam.com

s

iew

gV

azin

Am

Looking to List or Sell...Call

3BD/2BA Treasure Island PENTHOUSE 15 ft Ceilings, Sweeping 280 Degree views Under $800K Lisa Marie Jerrard (727) 366-1614

www.remaxpreferred.net

Pink

ets

Stre

Waterfront in the coveted Pink Streets of Pinellas Point with amazing views! Pool, spa and gorgeous patio area. $1,500,000

Bill Newsome (727) 667-6365


Aerial view of St. Pete Innovation District. (Image courtesy of Dorian Photo Inc.)

DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS (Partial listing of Rack & Stack locations)

ST. PETERSBURG

Sundial Shoppes Happy Feet Plus Florida Jean Co Hollander Hotel Vinoy Hotel So Chic Consignment Morean Art Center St Pete Chamber Florida CraftArt Chihuly Museum The Hangar Terminal

GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT

DECEMBER 2020

13

CONTENTS

FEATURES

13

Innovation District

Healthcare, Research & Education BY STEVE TRAIMAN

27

Nice not Naughty

Acts of Kindness Recognized BY NANETTE WISER

STORIES

40

City Theatre Joins SHINE

Keep Up To date

BY CARON SCHWARTZ

LIFE IN PARADISE

18

Travel

Healing Waters of North America BY PETER ROOS

25

Lifelong Learning

Keep Up To date

BY NANETTE WISER

28

Meet the Artists

Sacred Story Cards BY DEB CARSON

32

33

Spirits

Paradise NEWS Reaching 60,000 online through social media, web content, weekly eblasts and more!

DEPARTMENTS

Fergs

TYRONE AREA

Cody’s Road House Harold Seltzer

GULFPORT

Chamber Seabreeze Inn Gulfport Casino

Regions Bank Island Salon Sterling Cleaners Isla Yacht & CC Patchingtons

Publisher’s Message...............6

34

Tidbits.................................8-12 TIERRA VERDE Downtown Concierge............20 Billy’s

Dining Out

Breakfast, Brunch and Bacon BY NANETTE WISER

36

Home Entertaining

There’s No Place Like Home BY NANETTE WISER

37

Live Music

Local Musicians We Love BY NANETTE WISER

42

Adventures in Paradise

Daytrips to Florida Springs

Health & Wellness.................24 Book Nook.............................29 Fitness Tips...........................41 Property Law.........................44

TD Bank Phila Deli Tony & Nello’s

ReMax Metro Marco’s Wong Lee’s Island Grille

Palms Hospital Winn Dixie

Spiro’s Deli Fountains Towers Regions Bank

Paradise Grille Gennaro’s SeaCritters Suntan Art Center

The SeaHorse Paradiso Boutique The Wharf Hurley Realty Don CeSar Shaners Land-Sea Mkt

Custom Cafe Smith & Associates Resort Realty Library/City Hall Nori Thai Sushi Agave Mexican Mickie’s Ice Cream Baird Realty TBB Chamber ReMax Preferred Dolphin Landings Cafe Soleil Dolphin Bch Resort

Nikko’s Dog Bar Sea Dog Brewery Vito & Michael’s Riptides Lounge Paradise Grille Synovus Bank St Pete Beach Deli Coldwell Banker RE Basil Leaf Sushi Gulf to Bay Bait UPS Store 5th/3rd Bank Skidders Tony & Nello’s

Art Expo Paradise Gifts Frog Pond

Chill Restaurant Beach Theatre Keller Williams Realty Coastal Cottage

Bilmar Hotel The Pearl TI & MB Chamber

T.I. Hardware ReMax Metro Clock Tower Bus Stop

SOUTH PASADENA

Art News...........................46-48 PASS-A-GRILLE Arts & Leisure...................51-61 Merry Pier Events...............................52-56 Holiday Events..................58-61 ECO.......................................63

BY NANETTE WISER

Pet Health..............................64 ST. PETE BEACH

43

Fishing...................................65

Remembering Julia

Pioneer preservationist Julia Moseley

Classified ads...................66-67

BY PETER ROOS

Astrology................................68

62

Construction..........................69

Saving Sick Children

Hopkins is Saving COVID Sick Kids BY DEB CARSON

Encouraging Words...............70

COVER DESIGN: Janet Nummi

Sunset Bistro

PHOTO: Dorian Photo Inc.

An Island Treasure

Habana Café Library/City Hall Art Village Boulevard Shoppe

ISLA DEL SOL & BAYWAY ISLES

Terrific Tequilas

BY NANETTE WISER

Haslams Book Store

COREY AREA DISTRICT

TREASURE ISLAND

27

28

JOHN’S PASS VILLAGE

Kilwin’s Ice Cream Spice & Tea Exchange Chamber Kiosk Sand Bar Ice Cream Shop

MADEIRA BEACH

FREE Weekly E-mails

Top 5 EVENTS & Latest TIDBITS Subscribe - ParadiseNewsFL.com

facebook.com/ParadiseNews @ParadiseNewsFL @ParadiseNewsFL info@ParadiseNewsFL.com

18 4

42

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

ADVERTISING & SUBSCRIPTIONS

Century 21 Beggins Post Office Recreation Center City Hall Library

ParadiseNewsFL.com • Facebook

Copyright: Entire contents copyright © 2020 Paradise NEWS LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the contents of Paradise NEWS in whole or in part by photocopying, entry into any data-retrieval system, or any other means is strictly forbidden, without written consent of the publisher. Paradise NEWS has a non-political policy. Paid political ads are accepted. Signed letters to editors welcomed. NOTE readers: Paradise NEWS does not recommend or endorse any products or services in the publication. Any misrepresentation should be reported to the local authorities. Investigate all conditions & restrictions before making your purchase, understand your individual agreement prior to payment. Use discretion with any business transaction, whether making a purchase or accepting payment.


from $700s to $3.9 million from $799,000 to $3.9 million

More than beautiful ... Resilient 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.

Gated, exclusive, convenient!

HOW IMPORTANT IS SAFETY TO YOU? HOW

To the builder of IMPORTANT Marina Bay, it’s IS SAFETY EVERYTHING.

TO YOU?

Marina is the ToBay the architects FIRSTand community builders of Marina Bay, it’s in Pinellas County EVERYTHING. to receive the Marina Bay is the FIRST FORTIFIED Gold™ BUILDER and ONLY DEVELdesignation. OPMENT in Pinellas County to receive the FORTIFIED

GOLD designation. FORTIFIED™ goes • FORTIFIED™ Construction for the utmost protec• Natural gas cooking and generators standard Building to FORTIFIED mean beyond code, tion against hurricanes and extreme weather creating resilient homes that • Private elevator from garage to living level meaning FORTIFIED™ will better with-stand severe • Featuring unparalleled design and construction • Impact windows and doors weather. Construction far that far exceeds building code requirements. • Two pools, day dock, fishing pier, fitness room FORTIFIED goes beyond exceeds most building • Concrete block construction — all floors • Deep water boat slips — no bridges to the Gulf code, meaning it exceeds codesmost andbuilding improves codes by improving the performance the performance of of buildings against natural buildings against disasters and reducing the ris of personal property natural disasters andlosses. reducing the risk of personal property S T. P E T E R S B U R G losses. Sales Center • 4 Franklin Court South • St. Petersburg, FL 33711 • MarinaBayStPete.com • 727-906-3300 ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020 5


From the Publishers

Paradise NEWS

Volume 26 Number 10 • DECEMBER 2020 PUBLISHERS Peter Roos | Marketing & Sales sales@paradisenewsfl.com Renee Roos | Creative Director info@paradisenewsfl.com

What an interesting year 2020 has been! Your own adjective to describe the year now ending would likely be directly influenced by what impacts you may personally have felt from this year’s global pandemic. As we write this holiday edition, hospitals around the country, including Tampa Bay, are already facing spikes in cases and deaths prior to the traditional gatherings for the holidays and New Years.

EDITORIAL Nanette Wiser - Executive Editor wiser86@gmail.com Steve Traiman - Feature Editor traimancreativecopy@gmail.com

We ask you to listen to the CDC, wash your hands often, wear a mask when indoors away from home, practice safety. We also encourage strengthening your immune system, and practicing a higher level of hygiene than usual. COVID 19 will still be with us in 2021. The coronavirus made a lot of businesses change dramatically. We were no exception, but most of Paradise NEWS’ challenges related to content, not logistics. It seems even smarter today, but the team that contributes to each of our issues have been working remotely from our homes for decades. We have to thank our incredible team for helping us navigate that.

ART & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Janet Nummi ADVERTISING REPS Gigi Grimshaw | Claudine Fle Linda Motzenbecker CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS Arts & Leisure | Events - Zelda Traiano Art News - Caron Schwartz CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Frank Adornato | Tom Broderson Deb Carson | Captain Dylan Hubbard Dennis Merrit Jones | Sarah Lyons Michael Moses Jr. | Tom Smith Dr. Scot Trefz, DVM | Susan Schiber Linda Motzenbecker

Results of the most divisive election ever are still being argued over and tried in court suits weeks later. As if all that wasn’t enough, on Veterans Day, Tropical Storm ETA followed a rather round-about route to remind our readers what a really high tide feels like. If you aren’t suffering from anxiety by now, you are likely in the minority. Your holiday and New Year plans probably involve fewer guests than usual this year. Some of your seasonal neighbors stayed up north at least through New Years, including virtually all our seasonal guests from Canada. Others who generally come early and go back for family gatherings are looking for holiday experiences here this year. We managed to get to an amazing event as we put the November issue to bed. FLIBS, the largest in-water boat show in the world, was held on Halloween weekend in Fort Lauderdale. I was amazed how well attended the mostly outdoor event was. Everyone was masked and there was room everywhere for social distancing. The promoter of that event is holding the St. Petersburg Boat Show in the middle of January. Superbowl in Tampa should be interesting on February 7th too. It was a surprising year for advertising, with gyms, bars and restaurants shut down for months. Luckily real estate has remained so strong that realtors are digging for listings even more than usual, and prices have been inflating. We are also experiencing an increase in advertising interest from the healthcare and financial sectors, which bodes well for Paradise NEWS’ future. We are excited to see smaller businesses starting to advertise to locals again. We have begun co-op pages to group smaller business ads for the Corey area in St. Pete Beach and the Gulfport area.

PHOTO BY FLOURISH - VALERIE BOGLE

It goes without saying that local businesses are hurting from a huge fall in tourism. Please try to do business locally. If you visit our advertisers kindly let them know that you saw them in Paradise NEWS. Have a safe and memorable holiday season. We are praying for a less interesting 2021.

6

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Peter & Renee Roos

& All the Talented PN People

“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love!” – Hamilton Wright Mabie

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS @AMGvisual | Janet Nummi Dorian Photo Inc. | Visit Florida Visit St. Pete/Clearwater SUBMISSIONS - WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Paradise News welcomes submissions. 727.363.6888 • info@paradisenewsfl.com DEADLINES - Advertising • Classified • Editorial 12th of the month, one month prior to print PRINT CIRCULATION Mailings audited by U.S. Postal Service Fall/Winter/Spring; (Monthly) Oct - May . 36,000+ Summer;(Bi-monthly) .J une/July & Aug/Sept 30,000+ DISTRIBUTION - Mailed on “Island Time” Downtown St. Petersburg, St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille

Tierra Verde, Isla Del Sol, Pinellas Bayway, Harbourside, Pasadena Yacht & C.C., Gulfport (partial), Treasure Island, Yacht Club Estates, Causeway Isles,

DISTRIBUTION IN RACKS & STACKS See table of contents page for partial list of rack & .

stack locations. To be a distribution site, e-mail:

info@paradisenewsfl.com SUBSCRI PTI ON - info@paradisenewsfl.com ANNUALLY - (10 issues) $30-US (3rd class) $50-US (1st Class) $50-Canada (3rd class) SINGLE ISSUE - Select desired month(s) Fall to Spring; Oct thru May (Monthly) Summer; June/July & Aug/Sept (Bimonthly) $5/@-USA • $7.50/@-Canada • $25/@-Europe ADVERTISING & SUBSCRIPTIONS

MEMBERSHIP AFFILIATIONS

Corey Area Business Association Greater Gulfport Chamber of Commerce 2007 “Business of the Year Award” Recipient Greater Treasure Island Club • Grand Central District Preserve The Burg • Skyway Marina District St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurial Academy Spring 2019 Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce 2008 “Small Business of the Year” Award 2013 “Woman-Owned Business of the Year” Tampa Bay Watch - Corporate Sponsor Treasure Island & Madeira Beach Chamber

PUBLISHED BY: Paradise News, LLC

P.O. Box 66385, St. Pete Beach, FL 33736

727.363.6888 • info@paradisenewsfl.com www.ParadiseNewsFL.com | Facebook


THE CENTRE-ST. PETE BEACH 7525 Blind Pass Road, St. Pete Beach FL 33706 727.258.2001 | www.TheCentreSPB.com

The Centre of St. Pete Beach, with a 20ft Xmas tree in the lobby and lots of room for social distancing, can be rented for holiday meetings, parties and events.

By Michael Moses The Centre-St. Pete Beach

New Years 2021 is upon us. The Centre of St. Pete Beach has had an amazing first year of operation, helping people access the benefits of medicinal marijuana. The benefits are easy to learn about, if you wish to. Highly respected online health expert Dr. Joseph Mercola interviewed Dr. Allan Frankel, a California Internist, who, by the time of his interview in March of 2014, had been treating patients with medicinal quality cannabis for seven years. By that time, 20 states had approved the use of medicinal marijuana. Colorado and Washington had approved recreational use. Dr. Frankel said in that interview “we’ve been indoctrinated to view marijuana as a dangerous gateway drug that will lead you down a path of illicit drug use. Many fail to realize that prescription drugs actually have FAR greater potential to turn you into “a junkie.” Legal drug addiction is also taking lives in record numbers. In the UK, one million people are addicted to over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription painkillers and tranquilizers. That’s significantly more than the number addicted to illegal drugs.1 In the US, there were four times more deaths among women from prescription painkiller overdose than for cocaine and heroin deaths combined in 2010.2 Pharmaceuticals in general are among the leading causes of death in the US, and some medicines have killed tens of thousands of individuals.”

In his medical practice, Dr. Frankel treats a wide variety of patients with medical cannabis, which has become his specialty. Despite the many claims of cannabis performing miracles, he’s reluctant to think of it as a cure for anything. Occasionally, however, patients will experience very dramatic results. For example, he has seen tumors virtually disappear in some patients using no other therapy except taking 40 to 60 milligrams of cannabinoids a day. The most common thing he sees in cancer patients, however, are tumors shrinking, or a metastasis disappearing. Sometimes tumors will shrink or vanish, only to reemerge in other areas, months later, and then shrink or vanish again... Other common ailments already being treated with cannabis in 2014 included: Mood disorders, Pain disorders,

Powerful MUV high quality THC-free products. Available over the counter. Ask about our CBD Care package and discounts! Medicinal Marijuana Get Your Card, Or Renew HERE

Triverde Health 727-322-4588 Degenerative neurological disorders such as dystonia, Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, PTSD and Seizure Disorders. Come visit the Centre of St. Pete Beach this month. Our 20-foot Christmas tree is a sight to behold, and we have some of the highest quality over-the-counter CBD products for you and your pets. Consider attending some of our relaxation classes, including yoga, or schedule a massage. If you or a loved one have an issue that would warrant access to medicinal cannabis, we strongly suggest you make an appointment with Dr. Ycasa of Triverde Health (727) 322-4588 to discuss getting an ID. It could be the very best holiday or New Year’s gift ever. Stop by the Centre of St. Pete Beach, 7525 Blind Pass Road, St. Pete Beach, call 727-258-2001 or visit www.TheCentreSPB.com.


TIDBITS ST PETE BEACH

St. Pete Beach Library is working out of temporary quarters next to PJ’s Oyster Bar at Gulf Blvd. and 75th Ave. while the historic building is rebuilt. The actual address is 7460 Gulf Blvd. Masks are required in the building. Sewer maintenance is underway on the northbound side of Gulf Blvd., leading to minor delays. Leave a little extra time for trips up and down the beach for the next couple of years. Tropical Storm ETA impacted our area rather severely on Veterans Day, Nov. 11th, and the following day. We have always heard that a hurricane making landfall in the area between Port Richey and Cedar Key would cause the worst storm surge for Tampa Bay, due to the circular action of the storm. It seems ETA proved the theory, as the weak, disorganized tropical storm with 50 mph winds dropped 6” of rain on Wednesday and piled water higher at high tide that night than even longtime residents had ever seen. High tide late Wednesday night saw levels 6-8” above seawalls behind the house and several inches above street level in front.

8

By Peter Roos ST PETERSBURG Annual Wreaths Across America laying ceremony will be held virtually on Saturday, Dec. 19, at Bay Pines National Cemetery at the VA Center on Bay Pines Blvd. Co-sponsored again by the DAR Caravel Chapter, an online sign-up will be available and wreath-laying volunteers will be scheduled in two different groups: 11-11:45am and noon-12:45pm. Additional questions or inquiries about volunteering can be addressed to Diana Schwarz, NSDAR Caravel Chapter for Wreaths Across America, via email to dianasf11@aol.com. A new survey from SmartAsset.com ranks St. Petersburg No. 23 among the “best places to live on a $60,000 salary.” With a median household income of $61,631, St. Petersburg was the sole Florida city and one of just three in the southeast U.S. in the top 25. “Strategically living in a place with robust employment opportunities and a lower cost of living can help Americans stretch their dollar further and enable them to sock away ample savings,” SmartAsset. com said. In 2020 Sioux Falls, South Dakota, came in first as the best place to live on $60,000, followed by Billings, Montana, and Lincoln, Nebraska. St. Petersburg came in ahead of Santa Fe, New Mexico (No. 24) and Salem, Oregon (No. 25). City aims to increase diversity at USF Marine Science School A contribution of $125,000 by the city of St. Petersburg aims to enhance diversity in the

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

college’s graduate programs. The $125,000 gift to the USF College of Marine Science’s “Bridge to the Doctorate” fellowship endowment will support under-represented African American, Hispanic, Native American or Alaskan students over the next five years.

Cross Bay Ferry is Running Again The Cross Bay Ferry is running three to four trips daily Wednesdays-Sunday, with extensive precautions in place to keep passengers and crew safe amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The ferry, sailing between Vinoy Yacht Basin in St. Petersburg and the Tampa Convention Center, will follow all CDC guidelines, said Kevin Fisher, general manager of HMS Ferries. Masks are required at all times inside the ferry and are suggested for those on the outdoor deck. All high-traffic touch points, such as door handles and rails, will be wiped down and sanitized between trips and during sailings. There are plastic dividers between seats, hand sanitizer stations throughout the boat and touchless sinks in the restrooms. Tickets are available online, through the Hornblower mobile app and at dockside ticket booths. Reservations are encouraged. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors 65, military and college students, $5 for youth 5-18, and free for children under 4. The ferry is scheduled to run through April 30, 2021.

SunRunner Construction has Started PSTA’s new SunRunner will connect downtown St. Petersburg (including the Innovation District), South Pasadena and St. Pete Beach with express bus service. To learn more about the SunRunner, visit the SunRunner page on the PSTA. net website or call SunRunner Construction Information Line: 727-540-1973. EDGE Animal Hospital Dr. Raul Buso, owner of and vet at the Haines Road Animal Hospital announced his new EDGE Animal Hospital, located at 913 1st Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33714, also offers at-home visits and golf cart pickups and deliveries. A feline-inspired mural painted by St. Petersburg artist Matt Kress has already made its mark on the EDGE District. EDGE Animal Hospital’s initial hours are 8am–5pm Weekdays, Saturday 8-noon. Closed on Wednesday and Sunday.

MADEIRA BEACH Ten Masons, friends and family members prepared and delivered Thanksgiving food baskets to less fortunate families in the area. The baskets included a large turkey, pies, and all the sides necessary for a most sumptuous Thanksgiving


CHOOSE A TRUSTED FRIEND. We know what it means to be here for the communities of St. Petersburg. After all, we’ve been doing it for generations — listening, guiding and providing award-winning, compassionate care that’s always nearby. And as we’ve built our expertise, we’ve also built strong relationships within our communities. That alone makes a big difference. Because when you need care you can trust, you want the kind that’s been there, like a friend, year after year. Learn more about how we’ve increased our safety and

protection for patients and team

members at BayfrontStPete.com.

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

9


TIDBITS dinner. Gulf Beach Masonic Lodge, located at 14020 Marguerite Dr. in Madeira Beach since 1950, has provided Holiday baskets for over 45 years and looks forward to continuing the tradition well into the future. Madeira Beach City Manager reports… The beach access at Tom and Kitty Stuart Park should be open after the pouring of the concrete slab for the bathrooms in the SW corner of the park. The park itself will probably be reopened in January or February of 2021. On the Madeira del Mar Condominium project: (13 units, four stories with two floors above parking), 15305 1st St. E. Parapets. All trades rough-ins, roof dry-in, window & exterior door installation. The project is at 79% completion. The Gulf Grille Restaurant, 14080 Gulf Blvd.–Framing and trade roughs are 88% complete. The 54th Annual Festival of Lights Boat Parade begins at 6:30pm on Saturday Dec. 12th behind the American Legion just north of the Tom Stuart Causeway and travels through the Madeira Beach canals and ends at Johns Pass. Everyone is welcomed to participate or attend. John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk is open for business, with over 100 individually owned, brick and mortar businesses, 14 restaurants, watersports and even a wildlife discovery center. While sand intrusion is affecting some key businesses along the boardwalk that depend on dock space, other businesses are open and ready to see the 10

return of the locals and tourists. Sonny Flynn, president of the John’s Pass Village Association, says “community involvement is the key. John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk is a showcase of our community along with all the great things we have to offer, on the beach and on the sun coast of Florida.”

The new date of the 39th John’s Pass Seafood Festival is Jan. 22-24, 2021. Festival organizers have rearranged the footprint to allow for social distancing, are diligently planning for the health and well-being of all festival attendees. The John’s Pass Seafood Festival is a way to support the village as well as the charities selected for this year. For more details visit johnspassseafoodfest.com. Dec 5 – John’s Pass Tree Lighting and Jingle Bell Tourney – All Day Dec 12 – Festival of Lights Boat Parade – 6:30pm The West Events Center recently held an open house to show prospective users the facility is open and able to book events with social distancing as required by the CDC. For more info contact Laurie or Michelle at WestEvents.com.

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Do you love thrifting and second hand stores? Blondie’s Resale recently opened at 15026 Madeira Way. PINELLAS COUNTY To kick off the holiday “do good” season, Achieva Credit Union donated a $20,000 gift to The Salvation Army of Clearwater and Northern Pinellas and has pledged to match funds raised by the Kettle Bells in their lobbies at three locations: Park Blvd., Pinellas Park; 4th St. and 62nd Ave. N; and DTSP, 11th Ave. N. The Kettle Bell campaign runs through Dec. 23. The Tampa Bay Rays and Duke Energy Florida (DEF) partnered to raise $123,000 for 211 Tampa Bay Cares. DEF donated $1,000 for each regular season run and $2,000 for each run in the post-season.

Pinellas County celebrates 30 years of the Pinellas Trail Pinellas County is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail with a special social media campaign. The first five miles of the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail opened on Dec. 5, 1990, along an abandoned railroad corridor, providing a unique and protected green space for walking, running and biking. Today, the linear park stretches for 54 miles and is used by 250,000 residents and visitors

every month. It provides recreation and safe and affordable connectivity to many county amenities and locations. The Pinellas Trail extends from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs and East Lake. The Pinellas Trail Loop is an interconnected network of trails that offers regional connectivity to the Hillsborough and Pasco county trail networks and the 250-mile Florida Coast-to-Coast Connector Trail. The Pinellas Trail is part of the Florida Greenways and Trails System and has been inducted into the National Rails to Trails Hall of Fame. It is a two-time winner of the Best Trail of Florida award from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. To learn more, visit Pinellascounty.org/trailgd. Sunstar Paramedics wins American Heart Association’s Lifeline EMS Gold Plus Award Again Sunstar EMS has been recognized with the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus Recognition Award for the fourth year in a row. This award goes to EMS agencies for implementing quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who experience severe heart attacks. This is the highest award level possible from the AHA’s Mission. OCC Road House & Museum Paul Teutul Sr. of Orange County Choppers fame and area hospitality executive Keith Overton will open the OCC Road House & Museum, a new restaurant and attraction based on Teutul’s wildly popular OCC brand. Located adjacent to the 9.5-acre complex that is home to Bert’s Barracuda


By Peter Roos Harley-Davidson, the one-of-a-kind destination restaurant will be decked out with a fleet of Paul Sr.’s custom choppers featured on the hit Discovery Network series “American Chopper,” along with hundreds of rare items from his vast collection of biker memorabilia, many never before seen by the public. With more than 11,000 square feet of indoor space, the family-friendly OCC Road House will be one of the area’s largest full-service restaurants, with indoor and outdoor seating for more than 325 guests to enjoy a full menu of classic American fare. The restaurant will also feature a massive 25,000-square-foot pavilion for concerts, outdoor dining, a billiards hall, floor games and other entertainment, and a retail store loaded with merchandise and collectibles for bikers, friends, and fans. The new OCC Road House & Museum is expected to break ground by the end of the year, with an anticipated opening in May 2021.

was forced to close because of the COVID 19 pandemic. During the shutdown, Foster focused on the importance of indoor air quality. “Becoming a Certified Pure Air Indoor Environment has given our members the confidence to come back in for classes,” Foster says. “It’s really provided the bounce we need to get back to business and has given us an edge over the competition.” The Studio is open MondayFriday, 5am-8pm, and Saturday-Sunday, 7am-noon. SPENGA offers a one-hour boutique fitness high intensity interval training workout of 20 minutes each of spin, strength and yoga. A second Pinellas County location is coming in 2021. The Karol Hotel Welcomes Back Guests Tampa-based Mainsail Lodging & Development has announced the reopening of The Karol Hotel (2675 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater). Centrally located in beautiful Feather Sound between Clearwater, St. Pete and Tampa, and the first member of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio in Pinellas County, The Karol Hotel is welcoming guests again after a temporary closure due to the pandemic.

YOU’RE GONNA NEED

A BIGGER BOW...

From unique gifts in our giant shop to unique dining experiences next to our giant tank, ‘tis the sea-son to give the gift of RumFish Grill! Get yours at RumFishGrill.com

G I F T

C A R D

6000 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 727. 329.1428 | RumFishGrill.com

SEMINOLE SPENGA Fitness Studio certified for indoor air Dan Foster, a mechanical contractor working in HVAC for more than 35 years, opened the first SPENGA franchise in the Tampa Bay area in February 2019. Just over a year later, the studio ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

11


TIDBITS TAMPA BAY New biweekly nonstop route from Fargo, North Dakota Allegiant announced a new nonstop route to Hector International Airport (FAR) in Fargo, North Dakota, from St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE) beginning Feb. 11, 2021. The new seasonal nonstop route will operate twice weekly. Flight days, times and the lowest fares can be found only at Allegiant.com. Introductory one-way fares start at $79. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium officially broke ground for the new Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) at Nathan Benderson Park. Federal, state, and local government officials, Mote Trustees and supporters, and other community partners came together to celebrate the occasion.

By Peter Roos Mote SEA will be an iconic facility at a nexus location for Sarasota and Manatee counties and the entire southwest Florida region. Reaching nearly 700,000 visitors per year, Mote SEA will surely inspire the next generation of marine scientists, while serving as a major tourism and economic driver for the greater SarasotaManatee region. Three stateof-the-art STEM teaching labs will bring marine science to life for thousands of school children, offered at no cost to Sarasota and Manatee county school districts. The Baseball Writers’ Association of America has announced Kevin Cash as the winner of the 2020 American League Manager of the Year Award. Cash received 22 first-place votes, five second-place votes and one third-place vote for a total of 126 points in the 5-3-1 scoring system. Cash is the second manager in Tampa Bay Rays history to win the award, following Joe Maddon in 2008 and 2011. Cash led the Rays to a 40-20 (.667) record in the shortened 2020 season, the best winning percentage.

On one of his many trips to St. Pete Beach’s Sister City, Sandown, on the Isle of Wight, St. Pete Beach author/historian, Wayne McDowell proposed to the City-Council that, like St. Pete Beach’s Upham Beach, they consider an honor-walk program in which individuals could purchase bricks on behalf of town members or the “Holiday Visitors”

12

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

iPhone performance in an effort to keep the phones from unexpectedly shutting down. Attorneys general of 30 states claim that decision led to Apple profiting from selling additional iPhones to consumers whose phone performance had slowed.

University of Tampa, USF rank among top 20 best entrepreneurship programs in the U.S.

Be aware of these scams: Duke Energy says fakers are posing to collect unpaid bills, and people have been paying for internet pet adoptions that never happen.

Tampa General, AdventHealth will be among the first to administer Covid-19 vaccines in Bay area TGH provided the first monoclonal antibody treatment to a Covid-19 positive patient. Apple Lawsuit Settled Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody announced a $113 million agreement with Apple, in response to Apple’s decision to throttle consumers’ iPhone speeds in order to address unexpected phone shutdowns. Apple allegedly discovered that battery issues were leading to unexpected shutdowns in iPhones. Instead of disclosing those issues or replacing batteries, Apple updated software that reduced

to their beach resort as a remembrance of their time at a most favored place. Wayne has 8 bricks at Upham Beach...dedicated to family, friends and folks from Sandown, Isle of Wight. The funds from the “tiles,” as they called them on the Isle of Wight, help offset the cost of maintaining the beach in a proper manner and helping the city beach

Tampa-born singer / actress / DJ Lauren Mayhew has joined the cast of Trollstopia, a DreamWorks Animation production. The successful franchise TV series debuted Nov. 19th on Hulu. Lauren plays the new character Val Thundershock.

financial funds. Two years ago they had Wayne place the “First Tile” with his name and St Pete Beach onto the sea front promenade! The photo enclosed from Heather Humby, Isle councilor and former Sandown Mayor, shows some of the over 100 tiles placed already.


St. Pete Innovation District: Key Hub for HEALTHCARE, RESEARCH, Story by STEVE TRAIMAN & EDUCATION

In one of the Southeast’s most dynamic

waterfront downtowns, the St. Pete Innovation District is the professional home to thousands of scientists, doctors, educators and entrepreneurs working together to make life better. From the impact of oil spills on marine life to finding a cure for childhood diabetes, researchers in the St. Pete Innovation District tackle tough questions alongside colleagues in a regional marine research hub, two hospitals, a university, a world-renowned media school, a business incubator and several other public and private research organizations. Executive Director Alison Barlow provided this brief overview to Paradise News. “To capitalize on that excellence for a better St. Petersburg, public and private leaders came together in 2016 to create a non-profit organization. Their intent is to encourage collaboration between institutions and businesses, and support the District’s attraction for new investment.

“The official mission is to develop St. Petersburg into an environment that fosters job growth, economic development, and learning and inspiration by bringing innovative people and organizations together. Through these collaborations, people in the District have the potential to create solutions that not only address local challenges but also benefit the world. “The District, which extends from Fifth Avenue South to 18th Avenue South, officially launched in 2016, though there had been planning for a few years prior. Our organizing framework is built on a model by the Brookings Institute. That model highlights the need to bring together three things: economic assets - attracting and supporting innovation driver organizations, innovation cultivators, and neighborhoodbuilding amenities; physical assets - creating public and privately-owned spaces designed to stimulate connectivity and collaboration; and networking assets - facilitating the formal and informal relationships that have the potential to generate, sharpen and accelerate the advancement of ideas.” District innovators include under Healthcare: Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital… Research: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Institute of Oceanography, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, SRI International, Poynter Institute for Media Studies, USF Geologic Survey, USF College of Marine Science, USF St. Petersburg … Education: Bayfront Health, Florida Institute of Oceanography, Johns Hopkins, Port St. Pete, Poynter. ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

13


Key district partners include The Dali Museum, Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, Pinellas County Economic Development, Small Business Development Center, St. Pete Area Economic Development Corp., St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce, St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership, and Tampa Bay Innovation Center.

Goals, Industries & Governance Barlow continued, “Key goals were to attract new, diverse businesses and intellectual capacity. This includes working with the city and the St. Petersburg Economic Development Corp. to recruit new businesses. We also assist existing entrepreneurs and businesses as they look for ways to expand their efforts.

Marine Science, St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership, and the City of St. Petersburg. “An advisory Innovation Council includes the anchor organizations, plus others from within the District, and from around the region. Examples include The Dali Museum, The Tampa Bay Innovation Center, Poynter Institute, BayCare, St. Petersburg College, Spectrum, Suncoast Developers Guild, and Duke Energy. We welcome anyone who has an interest in innovation, particularly in our target areas, to join us.”

Recent District Accomplishments

St. Pete Ocean Team is administrated by the Innovation District and is the largest concentration of marine science related Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital is a key District Innovator (Image courtesy of JHACH) professionals in the “Our objective is to southeast United States, create new employment with most of these experts opportunities for individuals based in the District. The in the area, and to facilitate group originated prior to collaboration in the search the District being formed of innovation that includes but with the District’s raising the awareness of support, the USF College the expertise that exists in of Marine Science recently St. Pete. Then using that won an $8 million coastal insight to form working mapping project with groups from around the NOAA. (See www.usf.edu/ areas to tackle interesting marine-science/news/2020/ and relevant challenges. usf-and-noaa-to-launchAnd to create a ‘sense of world-class-cooperativeplace‘ that includes physical ocean-mapping-center.aspx. improvements to the District They have also developed area, creation of new places a collaboration between for people to gather such the USF College of Marine as The Library Restaurant, Interior view of new Innovation Center (Image courtesy of The Beck Group) Science and Johns Hopkins and implementation of All Children’s Hospital technology infrastructure. to expand research on the intersection of ocean and human health. “St. Petersburg has five target industries that are articulated in the Grow Smarter strategy: Marine and Life Science, Data Analytics, Creative Art and Design, Financial Technology/ Services, and Specialized Manufacturing. The Innovation District focused on the areas of Marine and Life Science, Data Analytics, and Creative Art as well as Entrepreneurship.

A Smart Gigabyte Community grant was awarded to the District by US Ignite in early 2019 for the city of St. Pete – the only Florida city. (See www.us-ignite.org/program/ smart-gigabit-communities/).

“The seven anchor organizations that comprise the governing Board of Directors are Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, Bayfront Health St Petersburg, Foundation for a Healthy St Petersburg, USF , St Petersburg campus, USF College of

Through the grant, the District is piloting smart city technology such as smart street lights, smart intersections that can gather data about collisions and near-misses of pedestrians, bikes, and cars, and a unique STEM education program that brings

14

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com


Aerial view of St. Pete Innovation District. (Image courtesy of Dorian Photo Inc.)

together the USF College of Marine Science and students at the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Suncoast. Digital Inclusion St. Pete is co-led by the Innovation District and the Deuces Live District with the joint purpose to eliminate the digital gap. This includes making sure that everyone has internet access, a computer, training on how to use it, and technical support. Though this effort began in late 2019, we saw the importance and gained a lot of momentum in 2020 with the onset of COVID and stay at home restrictions. Details on website: www.digitalstpete.com.

This October, The Beck Group, official Incubator architect, noted that the Innovation Center should be ready for bid proposals by the end of March 2021. Once the county evaluates the construction bids, a prime contractor will be selected. According to the proposed schedule, construction will commence on the building no later than July 2021 and a ribbon-cutting should occur no later than July 2023.

Barlow noted, “We are thrilled that the Tampa Bay Innovation Center will have its new home in the Innovation District. This is an important organization in our entrepreneurial ecosystem. They have a proven track record of helping entrepreneurs to District Innovators include USF St. Pete campus and College of Marine Science (foreground). (Image curtesy of Dorian Photo Inc.) grow their business. We work together closely, In July 2019, the Federal government awarded a $7.5 million and I know that this new facility will only strengthen those grant to Pinellas County to help build the planned $12 million collaborations.” (See www.stpeterising.com/home/2020/10/22/ Tampa Bay Innovation Center Incubator just south of tampa-bay-innovation-center-makes-progress-towards-2021downtown. Pinellas County commissioners agreed to finance groundbreaking). the other $4.5 million for the 45,000-square-foot facility to be built on a 2.5-acre city-owned site at the southwest corner of [Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Alison Barlow for her valuable Fourth Street and 11th Avenue South in the Brookside Park input and photos.] neighborhood. In response to the news, Mayor Rick Kriseman said, “This is a big win for St. Pete and Pinellas County and the [Steve Traiman is President of Creative Copy by Steve Traiman, culmination of much hard work on a project years St. Pete Beach, providing business writing services at in the making.” traimancreativecopy@gmail.com or by phone to 727-363-7531.] ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

15


Happy Holidays

CENTURY 21 Coastal Alliance 150 Pinellas Bayway S , Tierra Verde, FL 33715 (727) 867-8633 21 Reasons to List With Us! 1. High visibility offices in Tierra Verde & Palm Harbor 2. Professional, trained Realtors with decades of experience 3. Century 21, the most recognized name in real estate 4. Multi-national referral network in 82+ countries 5. Listings appear on 600+ websites: C21Gobal.com, Realtor.com & Zillow.com, etc. 6. Latest technology, tried and true marketing & open houses

7. Cater to all age groups from Baby Boomers to Zenials 8. Op City and realtor.com referral systems 9. National TV advertising during sport events 10. Fine Home and Estates approved offices 11. Regular market update reports 12. Perseverance: we answer our phones 13. Home warranty offered to our clients

14. Your listing advertised on our Pinellas Bayway digital display 15. Electronic lock boxes monitoring home entries 16. Advertising in various print media 17. Our connection with C21 Alliance (8 offices) in NY state 18. Professional management on call 24/7 19. World recognized C21 signage 20. Rental division with trained and dedicated agents 21. We are C21: Relentless, Smart, Bolder & Faster

Celebrating 40 Years as a Century 21 Office on Tierra Verde SOLD

SOLD

CIEGA VERDE 3BR/2BA Townhouse w/Boat Slip. Water view, 2 fireplaces, kitchen w/ center island, quartz counters, 2 balconies. $458,000 Gabrielle Bettig (727) 385-9017

Tierra Verde, 745 Pinellas Bayway S, 1500 sq. ft. 2 Br/2.5 Ba Townhouse WITH BOAT SLIP, Open Floor Plan, Fireplace, 2 balconies, 2 car garage $370,000 Gabrielle Bettig (727) 385-9017 USTED

SOLD

PRICE ADJ

VILLAGIO - Elegant 3BR, 3BA waterfront on Grand Canal. 3-car garage, elev., gourmet kitchen, 9 ft. ceilings. Many upgrades. $1,000,000 Gabrielle Bettig (727) 385-9017

SOLD

1055 Pinellas Bayway S - TIERRA SOUND. 3 BD/ 3 BA, tandem garage, 3 story condo. Spacious rooms. 2136 sq. ft on Tierra Verde close to downtown TV & Ft. DeSoto. $400,000 Kim Shuey (727) 488-7627 75,000

SOLD $1,0

7th Avenue Lot on Monte Cristo: 80x130. Build your dream home or land bank for the future. In area of fine homes. $330,000 Hurry! Randall Ierna (727) 647-0813

306 8th Avenue N, Tierra Verde - 3 BR/3BA. Pool home. Waterfront with Dock and Boat Slip. $1,200,000 Robert Gaskins (727) 492-5237

www.c21coastalalliance.com RESIDENTIAL HOMES • CONDOS & TOWNHOMES • LOTS & COMMERCIAL • RENTALS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT


LIFE IN PARADISE

Photo by @AMGvisual

leave a little sparkle wherever you go


TRAVEL Strawberry Park Hot Springs, Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Healing Waters Skin is our largest organ. It dispels waste through its pores and can absorb what touches its surface. We also sense temperature through our skin. Most of us spent the first nine months of our lives floating in water about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Many find floating in waters that feel hot is relaxing, even therapeutic. The chemical and mineral content of the waters is an important part too.

Prior to antibiotic medications, the sun, salt and spring water were felt to be powerful cures. The search for the fountain of youth brought Europeans to Florida in the first place, and a week at the beach is still thought of as a “healthy” vacation. A recently published book by Florida’s Healing Waters, by author Rick Kilby, published by University Press of Florida, Florida’s Healing Waters, presents wonderful details of the Gilded Age of Mineral Springs, Seaside Resorts and Health Spas with some great photos and more. Soaking in hot water for health has been around for centuries. On page 5 of the book is a photo of the Roman Baths in Bath, England, where it says the Celts soaked before the Romans arrived in 49 AD.

18

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

of North America by PETER ROOS

Renee and I have been natural hot springs enthusiasts for over 40 years. Our first experience was almost by accident. Renee and our 8-year-old son Jordan had joined me while I was working a consulting engagement at the San Francisco mint. On the weekend we left the city to visit wine country. We visited Berringer’s Winery and one other on our way north through Napa. Looking for a room at the north end of the valley that night, we were referred to the Calistoga Spa. That was the beginning of a love affair with natural hot springs that has already spanned more than 40 years and has taken us from California to Alaska and from a hot pool at Doe Bay Resort and Retreat overlooking the San Juan Islands on Orca Island, to a hose-filled and creek-side tub in Hot Springs, North Carolina. We even have a Classic Hot Spring Spa next to the banana plantation in our back yard, constantly set to 104 degrees. We soak in it two to three times per week. Renee’s Native American studies group took her on a “journey of the waters” that expanded her understanding of the value of the minerals and elements in the water that help treat or “cure” various ills. Sulphur, while not our favorite, is a commonly found element from which a whole field of pharma has evolved. Lithium is also common, and springs high in lithium content are praised for anxiety relief and as mood enhancers. In many places, the geological formations are such that hot water had been surfacing there since the beginning of recorded time. Hot springs are spiritual places to native peoples, and were sources of healing and relaxation for all who knew enough to take advantage of them. Fifteen years ago, after her “journey of the waters” Renee decided we should tour hot springs in the mountains for our vacation that summer.


We visited 19 different soaking spots in Colorado and New Mexico in three weeks. That was when we really learned the features we liked most and the attributes we did not care as much for. For us, we like it hot, at least 103 F.

Courtesy Authentic Florida

Some hot spring sites are remote, accessible only by a long hike. Not being big hikers, we have bypassed most of those; however, our favorite was one of the most difficult to get to. Hot Springs Cove was billed as “probably the finest hot spring in North America” in a book on Vancouver Island in the book store on the ferry that takes you, your car and 20 semi-trailers from Vancouver to Nanaimo in an hour and a half or so. You then have to get yourself from the east coast to the west, which involves a drive similar in length to crossing Florida, but in the middle, you are at the entrance to a ski resort 10,000 feet above sea level. When you return to sea level and hit the Pacific, turn right. At the end of the road is Tofino, British Columbia. It looks like Key West might have 75 years ago. Boats go there at 10am and come back at 6pm. If you miss the boat, a seaplane may be available. About an hour out of Tofino by motorboat, or 20 minutes by seaplane, British Columbia’s Hot Springs Cove Provincial Park sits on an Indian reservation, so there are no commercial features, just a dock and walkway through a virgin rainforest. Built by volunteers out of native red cedar trees, the 3-inchthick cedar planks are aromatic, as you walk the path through gigantic virgin fern and towering red cedars, some so large it would take a dozen people holding hands to surround their trunks. After an easy, and amazing, 1½ mile walk, you eventually glimpse the ocean through the trees. You also notice steam rising from a stream beside your path. At the cliff ahead, the steamy stream becomes a 110-degree waterfall into a very hot pool 20 feet below. Stone steps take you down the hill to sea level. There are three pools in all, the third of which has cooling waves from the Pacific spilling into it. That is the “entry” pool, averaging around 100 degrees. As bodies adjust, many visitors slowly edge closer to the source of the heat. Some stand under the waterfall. Often majestic bald eagles are flying overhead. Hot springs experiences can vary from the comfort of commercial spas with luxury accommodations to the adventure of natural, undeveloped pools, on the side of Cottonwood Hot Springs

Mount Princeton Hot Springs

Path to Hot Spring Cove

streams in the unlikeliest of places. Some of our favorites offer more rustic accommodations. We are there for hot water and massage, not TV, email, internet. For example, we keep returning to Cottonwood Hot Springs, near Buena Vista, Colorado, which is totally disconnected from the world, when just a few miles away is the amazing, and totally connected Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort. Other favorites of ours include several that have been minimally and carefully developed to make them more accessible without destroying the natural feel. A great example is Strawberry Park Hot Springs, a few miles out of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. If you prefer the resort spa feel, check out Pagosa Hot Springs, Glenwood, or Iron Mountain Hot Springs. For more information check out the guidebooks “Hot Springs and Hot Pools of the Southwest,” Northwest, or whichever quadrant you are headed for. When you find a likely destination, “Google” it for recent reviews. There are plenty of details available about most of the ones you would want to visit. ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

19


DOWNTOWN CONCIERGE

By Nanette Wiser

Let’s bid adieu to the 2020 pandemic siesta by supporting local downtown St. Pete businesses during the holiday season, wearing your mask and smiling eyes while you explore the new SHINE murals and whistle a merry tune. 2021 brings two new coffeehouses, Buddy Brew and Chelsea Coffee (WADA). Happy New Year 2021!

CELEBRATE DTSP STYLE: Need some New Year’s Eve & holiday take-out ideas to avoid home-cooking fatigue? Fresh Market’s $5 Thursdays (and their seafood) are amazing. You can get pizza, sushi, roasted chicken and other side dishes and specials (today was 2 for $5 nut breads) that any gourmet could serve with pride. Buy four or more bottles of wine and get 10% off. Stop by for nibbles, desserts and dishes from Mazzaro’s and Trader Joe’s, wine from Rolling Oats, Lolita’s and Hawthorne Bottle Shop to enjoy in the comfort of your jammies. Normally, I’d be jazzing it up with bubbly at Flute & Dram, but this year, why not pick up a delicious meal to enjoy at home from a DTSP restaurant? Nothing Bundt Cakes is now open at 2458 4th St. N, serving up large and small sweets, even bite-sized Bundtinis. You can order the perfect size in delicious flavors like chocolate chip, red velvet, carrot, white chocolate raspberry, pecan praline and more. Now you’re ready for some entertainment. In addition to Siri, why not listen to WUSF Public Media’s new free online streaming service, ArtsAxisFL.org, where you can stream performances and visit museums from all over Florida, including DTSP’s Florida Orchestra, Dali Museum, and James Museum for Western and Wildlife Art. 20

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

GRAB YOUR BASKET: The beloved Saturday Morning Market is back at Al Lang Stadium, but it looks a bit different this year. At press time, there was no limit on attendees, but wearing a mask is mandatory. Enter at three entrances where you will be politely asked to put on a mask (or they will give you a free one) and the rest of the parking lot and market space are fenced off. Emmanuel Roux’s farm with 100 fruits and vegetables at 340 15th St. N opens to the public Wednesday and Sunday 9am-2pm. You can order his produce to pick up at the Saturday Morning Market only, but his expertise on gardening, good soil and the veggie/good gut connection is free. No wonder this urban farmer is a consultant with the Metropolitan Food Project at the USF Microbiome institute. Shop local for gifts at Creative Clay’s Holiday Art Market 12/4 10am-4pm features ceramics, cards, ornaments, wrapping paper and jewelry from the student artisans. The Indie Flea 12/4 (2201 1st Ave. S) and Uptown Market 12/5 outside MIZE Gallery (689 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N) serve up art, crafts and Uptown Eats. Also, that weekend is Vintage Marche for gently used treasures and antiques. The Miracle Holiday Market 12/12 11am-3pm serves up 50 local vendors selling vintage items, crafts, plants, clothes, food and drink with live music and Intermezzo coffee and cocktail drinks.

FUN IN THE SUN: On Feb. 7, 2021, Super Bowl LV, the 55th Super Bowl and the 51st modern-era National Football League championship game, will decide the league champion for the 2020 NFL season. Look in our January 2021 issue and social media about all the fun events on both sides of the bay leading up to the big day. Will Bucs and Brady be there watching, or playing? On Dec. 5, 3 Daughters celebrates their 7th anniversary with plenty of pints, live music (Acoustic Thunder, Applebutter Express), musical bingo, giveaways and games supporting local charities. Catch holiday films outdoors at Green Bench Brewing. The Factory St. Pete is hosting a two-day outdoor preview 12/11 6-11pm and 12/12 11am-11pm at their new location (2622 Fairfield Ave. S). Friday night 12/11 is a ticketed evening of live music and a performance of “Shakespeare & Shots” supporting Keep St. Pete Lit. This is an outdoor event with designated socially distant seating areas to accommodate individual parties of up to six people. Saturday 12/12 is a free, day-long community event featuring a ribbon cutting ceremony for Keep St. Pete Lit’s children’s reading garden, outdoor holiday makers market presented by Keep St. Pete Local, pop-up art exhibit by Gallerie 909, outdoor live performances (music, poetry slam, and more!), food trucks, beer and wine. The Factory St. Pete’s mission is to provide a platform for local artists and creative businesses to come together, share ideas, grow, and inspire the community.


THE LARGEST POWER & SAILBOAT

SHOW ON THE

GULF COAST JAN 14 - 17, 2O21

STPETEBOATSHOW.COM 400 1ST STREET SOUTH AT MAHAFFEY THEATER BASIN NEXT TO THE DALI MUSEUM

FREE SAILBOAT RIDES PLUS CRUISING AND SAILBOAT SEMINARS

PROUDLY FOLLOWING ALL

STANDARDS ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

21


I sla D el S ol & T ierra V erde I NG AC C E PT N EW S A P TI E NT 24/7 Access to Provider • Same/Next Day Appointments • Urgent Care PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN

GULF CLUB MEDICINE Concierge | Health & Wellness | Spa Luke C. Williams, M D 5901 Sun Blvd., # 206 | Isla Shoppers Village | 727.310.0616

gulfclubmedicine@gmail.com | gulfclubmedicine.com

3,600 SF 4/3/2 exclusive waterfront pool condo on the Gulf. $2,950,000 Pam Moll REALTOR

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

6505 Gulf Blvd • cell 727.295.7776 • 727.360.6927 pam.moll@floridamoves.com • beach2bayhomes.com

Fresh Pack for Two

www.BaywayCountryStore.net

2 - 5-6oz Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon 1 lb. Extra Lean Ground Beef 2- Center Cut Boneless pork chops 2 Pork or Chicken Dijon 1 lb. Bacon or Sausage 2 - Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast 2 - Chicken Cordon Bleu or Other Chicken Rolls

5401 Leeland St. S • St Petersburg 33715 • (727) 867-7507 Hours: Monday-Saturday: 8am-8pm • Sunday: 9am-8pm

RELAX THE MIND. RENEW THE BODY

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

lemontreespa.com

MASSAGE FACIALS WAXING BODY TREATMENT EYELASHES St Pete Beach 727.363.0772 Tierra Verde 727.329.8977


Foley’s BarBershop

Island Salon in The Shops at Isla Matt Foley, Barber 5901 Sun Blvd., St. Petersburg 216-640-1883 call for appointment or walk-ins welcome foleythebarber@gmail.com www.theislandsalon.com The Shops at Isla have new landlords and a number of new tenants, some of which have chosen to advertise in Paradise NEWS. The new landlords have decided to remove the rack in front of Subway, where some of you have been getting your Paradise NEWS. No worries, check for a copy at any of the businesses there, from the coffee shop to the island salon. If you happen to contact or visit any of the businesses on this spread, please be sure to let them know you read about them in Paradise NEWS. If you are looking for an old fashioned barbershop, there’s one across from the funeral parlor on Corey Ave. in St .Pete Beach, that has been there for years. There is another on Treasure Island just south of the clock tower. Foley’s Barbershop, a new-age, old-fashioned barber shop is in a corner of the Island Salon in the Shops at Isla Del Sol. For appointments visit theislandsalon.com. Matt Foley, barber says “just walk-in or call my cell 216-640-1883. No one knows I’m here, so odds are you’re next in line.” There is also a concierge physician in the center. Dr. Luke Williams at Gulf Club Medicine is accepting new patients. Stop in, as long as you are healthy, at 5901 Sun Blvd. #206, upstairs at Isla Del Sol Shoppers Village, call 727-310-0616 or email GulfClubMedicine@gmail.com.

Take advantage of our Summer & Fall experience at…

Isla Del Sol Yacht & Country Club during the Holidays!

Our Club is safely sanitized and follows the CDC guidelines. Make Isla Del Sol YCC, your happy place this Holiday Season. You owe it to yourself to get out. Bring the kids & enjoy the outdoors. We have been busy making our club a better place for you. Come play golf with our new cart navigation yardage system. Play Tennis, enjoy the waterside Pool bar & grille, relax on our sandy beach where you can enjoy picnic tables and tiki huts offering beachside food & beverage services.

For details on how you can enjoy the Club for the holidays… contact Star Garcia at 727-828-0002 or visit www.isladelsolycc.com

Come Play On Our Island… It’s where the Fun & Sun never Sets!

Isla Del Sol Yacht and Country Club has had their best crop of summer members ever, as people look for COVID-friendly recreational activities. There are also new affordable membership options. The yacht harbor is now full, and the dining room is operating with CDC guidelines for member safety. Dinners to go are also offered. For membership info contact Star Garcia at 727-828-0002 or visit isladelsolycc.com, email info@theislandsalon.com, or call 727-866-8915.

6000 Sun Boulevard, St Petersburg, FL 33715

www.IslaDelSolYCC.com


HEALTH & WELLNESS

By Nanette Wiser beast. Shinrin in Japanese means “forest,” and yoku means “bath.” So shinrin-yoku means bathing in the forest atmosphere or taking in the forest through our senses. It is simply being in nature, connecting with it through our senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch. It is proven to reduce stress hormone production, improve feelings of happiness and free up creativity, as well as lower heart rate and blood pressure, boost the immune system and accelerate recovery from illness. CLEARING CHAKRAS: Haven’t we all had the experience of walking into a home or even just a room and felt like something has JUST happened right before you got there? Sometimes it’s subtle, like dust settling. Other times it feels much more chaotic, mimicking gusty winds.

Serenity Made Simple Mental health awareness is one of the hot topics of 2020, trending on social media. Finally, on center stage is the importance of better mental health and destigmatizing mental health issues such as depression, PTSD and more. One silver lining to 2020 is that leading therapy providers have developed or improved apps for providing online therapy, such as BetterHelp. Couples can use ReGain.us for therapy together. Companies such as Starbucks are offering counseling services. Managing our mental health is easier now. There are more self-help options and support resources available online to guide you to free or affordable resources in your area. For non-emergency mental health issues, there are more available resources, downloads, exercises, and board-certified therapists available online. Locally, efforts are ramping up to support mental health wellness. PN Columnist Dennis Merritt Jones writes about a bridge to a better place and emotional resiliency frequently. Pinellas County Sheriff Dept. and other first responders are training their staff to provide support and recognize issues. Peer-to-peer support services are also gaining in popularity as people with non-emergency issues 24

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Home Energy Clearing Specialist Michele Louise D’Ercole lives in St. Pete Beach and has 40 years of experience studying physical, energetic and intuitive worlds and helping people clear the chi in a home. “I have always compared the human body to those of a house – the frame equals skeletal structure, the plumbing is the digestive & eliminative channels, the wiring is the nervous system, and the heart equals emotions.” often just need a listening ear, and they can find trained listeners for free on hotlines or certain sites online. www.psycom.net/25-best-mental-health-apps THE ART OF NIKSEN: The Dutch art of doing nothing is the opposite of multi-tasking, which science indicates is not good for our brains. This isn’t the first global mental health concept we’ve grown to love. First there was hygge, the Danish concept of staying in, cozy and cool. The Swedes popularized lagom, a mindset of everything in moderation. And Marie Kondo’s method of paring our stuff down that does not inspire joy has overloaded thrift shops with castoffs. Need to restore and renew or recover from burn-out? It’s simple as hanging out, looking out the window and listening to music without purpose. Discover what ways of relaxing fit you best. Knitting. Gardening. Popping plastic bubbles. Petting the cat. A positive side-effect is that even when we do nothing, our brains still percolate and process information, perhaps generating new solutions to problems. Let’s nik! FOREST BATHING: Thoreau had it right when he wrote “Walking.” To reduce anxiety and stress, a walk in the woods can soothe our savage

How does it work? As a Home Energy Clearing Specialist, she starts with an address and no personal details are disclosed. There is an energetic scan of the property’s perimeter, assessing any disturbances in the environment, narrowing in on what areas might need attention, balance of the energy and then finally a move to the interiors. There is a natural pathway for all energy or chi to flow most freely through a space. Says Michele: “I use a systemic approach to identifying the major areas of discordant electromagnetic fields or disturbances, potentially from a previous resident or other nearby energy. I’ve seen time and time again that spaces people live in absorb all emotional experiences and family dynamics that happen within their four walls. In addition, there is the added influence of environmental and landscape considerations.” For example, in condominium buildings, all of the floors, the entrance, stairways and traffic patterns of the residents add to energy on each unit along with the ground that the complex was built on. “Over time, I’ve had countless cases where a property has been on the market or listed for rent, ran into a variety of unexpected problems, decided to have the energy cleared, and subsequently have gone under contract within days of a clearing.” FYI: michelelouisellc@gmail.com


Lifelong Learning Starts Now The key to being a good employee is being a great learner. At every age and in this pandemic era, it’s essential to keep your skills up-to-date and relevant. Some professions may not translate to future opportunities. In my case, print journalism is nothing without the added skills of digital, social media and video.

One of the best resources is Pinellas Technical College or PTEC in Clearwater and St. Petersburg, offering online and in-person classes. Voted Tampa Bay Times Best of the Best People’s Choice 2020 as “Best Trade/Vocational College in the Tampa Bay area,” it’s low-cost, offers career placement, has a network of 250 business and industry partners and is accredited. myptc.edu

Lucky for all of us, Pinellas County offers dozens of opportunities to reinvent yourself for the new age. STEM and healthcare, robotics, cybersecurity, programming and AI are in need of educated workers. Manufacturing, automotive and construction job-training programs are available and older workers are welcome.

St. Petersburg College also offers career pathways in engineering/manufacturing/ building arts, digital design, business certificates (accounting), health sciences/ veterinary technology, technology, science (biotech, environmental), public safety (crime scene tech, homeland security) and now robotics. Spcollege.edu

By Nanette Wiser

Online classes are plentiful such as Great Courses, MasterClass and via YouTube at universities such as Yale oyc.yale.edu and Harvard/MIT edx.org. You can learn any career on YouTube; of course, I also recommend additional classes on www.openculture.com/freeonlinecourses. Other top careers for 2021 are solar energy technician, nurse practitioner, software developer, physical therapist, data analyst, health service manager, gerontology/health navigator, digital content, information security analyst, mechanical engineer, rehabilitation counselor, drone pilot, HR professionals, IT professionals, market research analyst and accountant.

Are you tired of

Droopy Eyes and Bags? It’s Time for an Eyelift! Call today to schedule an appointment!

• • • • •

Short and easy surgery Quick recovery Little downtime Natural results Affordable

5600 22nd St N, St Petersburg, FL 33714 727.525.9900 • www.dr-c.com ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

25


Scratch Proof Vinyl Floors?

by Peter A. Roos

Woody’s Kitchens and More has a great showroom right around the corner, in the Marina Village shopping center at 4737 34th St. S., next to the Dollar Tree. If you are planning a kitchen or bath remodel or to replace any flooring, I suggest you stop in to Woody’s Kitchens and More. It is likely a safer place to go than the big box stores and the people are far more helpful. They have the best selection and lowest prices on top quality materials, all wood cabinets, Quartzo counters and flooring with a waterproof cushion, not cork. The flooring product they are excited about is billed as the next generation of vinyl. Scratchmaster by NextFloors is truly waterproof, not water-resistent, and it is guaranteed comprehensively by the manufacturer against scratches. Be sure to tell Woody’s you read about them in Paradise NEWS.

To see and touch the samples or get a quote, take rough measurements to: Woody’s Kitchens and More, 4737 34th St. S. St. Petersburg, F L 33711 To ask a question or make an appointment call (727) 864-4819.

w All ! No ing nce pt ra ce Insu c A or j Ma

Millennium Physician Group Welcomes

Ryan RyanBaker, Baker, M.D. M.D. “MPG “MPGConnect” Connect”

Ryan Baker, M.D.

Getting to Know Dr. Baker: l l l l

A Tampa Bay native and graduate of FSU College of Medicine Board-certified family physician Practices full-spectrum primary care with focus on prevention and wellness Strives to keep St. Petersburg happy and healthy

Dr. Baker is here for you in the office and online through our telehealth service MPG Connect.

Schedule today! (727) 619-2229 Accepting New Patients 2299 9th Avenue North, Suite 1A, St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | www.MillenniumPhysician.com 26

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com


Jackie Praciado of ECCO-VISION has developed a product made from the avocado pit, the only product in the world made out of agricultural-waste. The best part? This product decomposes in 240 days in the landfill. Another sustainability guru for the good is Tampa Bay Watch executive director Peter Clark. Rotarian and TI resident Mitchell Shenkman donates time, clothes, books and more to local organizations and events.

By Nanette Wiser

The Arts Alliance John Collins, Paul Carder, Liz Dimmitt, Bob Glaser, Stephanie Gularte, Alex Harris, Dr. Kimberly Jackson, Duncan McClellan, Chuck Prather, David Ramsey, St. Pete C of C’s Chris Steinocher and Deputy Mayor Dr. Kanika Tomalin are working on a five-year roadmap to help grow capacity in the St. Petersburg art community as part of CAS (Comprehensive Arts Strategy) and all have given tirelessly to grow DTSP as a world-class arts destination, touted by Conde Nast and others.

Paradise Acts of Kindness

From St. Petersburg to Gulf Beaches, we are experiencing a kindness revolution making a difference in Paradise. Our first responders, military, health care professionals, educators, faith-based groups, essential workers, parents working from home and teaching their children, elected officials with a vision contribute to Pinellas County’s high Kindness IQ.

Haley Crum, chair of the Homeless Empowerment board of directors, and team have earned a four-star rating for HEP for the 10th year, by Charity Navigator. HEP, RCS, CASA, The Kind Mouse and Metropolitan Ministries are just the tip of the iceberg of non-profit groups providing help for those in need, homeless or hungry as does Julie Weintraub’s Hands Across America.

While this story isn’t long enough to congratulate all the do gooders, it’s a snapshot of some our favorite “do good” peeps. I love Congressman Charlie Crist’s ad honoring his mom who always taught him to say “please” and “thank you,” thanking everyone who voted, not just for him and his unwavering support for those in need, using his virtual and in-person town halls to listen and learn from our community. St. Pete Beach’s PR wiz Sarah Ervin Laracuente’s Kindness initiative wows us as well.

Four realtors stand out in helping our community. John Barkett is a sponsor for SHINE and Heel to Heel, part of Mayor Rick Kriseman’s PAWS initiative and helps out the St. Pete Free Clinic. SEASALT Properties’ Hendrik Bisanz lives in Treasure Island and is dedicated to eliminating childhood drownings with his Water Smart Tots, Inc., non-profit organization. Racking up oodles of philanthropic deeds is Jon Reno LaBudde (owner of Big Catch and Reno Beach Surf Shop).

Achieva Credit Union donated a $20,000 gift to The Salvation Army of Clearwater and Northern Pinellas and has pledged to match funds raised by the Kettle Bells in their lobbies at three locations: Park Blvd., Pinellas Park; 4th St and 62nd Ave. N; and DTSP, 11th Ave. N. The Kettle Bell campaign runs through Dec. 23.

Realtor Jamie “Bunny” McKnight’s Pawlicious Poochie Pet Rescue is a fave, as are all the pet rescue groups. Southeast Guide Dogs get a “bark out” in our hall of fame.

Phil Yost is a St. Pete-based entrepreneur with a big heart. The newest passion project for his company, Compass Land & Title, is COMPASS ARTIST SPOTLIGHT SERIES, in collaboration with St. Pete-based Scatter Brothers. Filmmakers Ben Daniele and Doug Tschirhart produced several profiles for social media (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube), a love letter to Tampa Bay artists. Featured are Alex Harris (musician/recording artist and co-founder of the Arts Conservatory for Teens), Rory Lawrence (playwright and creator of the Tampa Bay Theatre Festival), Geff Strik (internationally acclaimed French artist based in St. Pete), Michael Francis (Music Director–The Florida Orchestra & international conductor), Mark Cantrell (The Florida Orchestra President and CEO of The Florida Orchestra), Ella M. Fredrickson (Principal Librarian for The Florida Orchestra) and Yann Weymouth (internationally acclaimed architect and designer from the Dali Museum to the Grand Louvre Project in Paris).

More Kindness Ideas • Reach out to the elderly. Deliver a meal, flowers, or visit through an open window and lend an ear. • Shop local for holiday gifts and gift certificates from hair salons, nail salons, restaurants, bakeries, boutiques, and more. • Create holiday cards for assisted living residents • Clean out some closets and donate old clothes, books and other household items. CASA, RCS and others can use your donations. • Make coffee and cookies for outdoor workers and your mail carrier. • Foster a pet. • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay can use your help. Visit bbbstampabay.org. • Help someone find a job by helping with a resume, job leads or coaching on how to interview. ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

27


images stimulated introspection and inspiration by the users. Like rune stones, Steven and Diohn say the Sacred Story Cards visualize “transformative experiences, universal themes and powerful archetypes.” By following the directions, the user can discover the colorations in a life’s journey that helps stimulate personal growth, self-knowledge and soulful connecting. The cards’ popularity expanded beyond Diohn’s network to local museum gift shops and yoga studios. Currently, they are available online on their websites.

MEET THE ARTISTS By Deb Carson

When high school sweethearts Steven Kenny & Diohn

Brancaleoni reconnected 30 years later at a beloved Peekskill, NY, art teacher’s retirement party, it was kismet. He is a worldrenowned artist; she is a PhD and psychologist. The couple live and work in historic DTSP’s Kenwood neighborhood, where they relocated to in 2011, because they love it here in Paradise. “St. Pete’s sunshine and arts community were two big draws for us.” Their relationship is also an artistic partnership. Diohn and Steven collaborated on the imaginative Sacred Story Cards, a beautifully compelling set of 18 cards featuring Steven’s superb paintings on front with Diohn’s inspirational interpretations on back. First developed by Diohn for a women’s group in 2017, Steven’s

Need Money? Got Equity?

NMLS 546381

100 Corey Ave | St Pete Beach, FL 33706 28

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Clinical psychologist Diohn earned her doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology in California. With more than 30 years in practice, she has helped clients live healthier, more positive and productive lives through her work as a psychotherapist and life coach. In 2019, Diohn wrote and illustrated the book “The Happy Life Toolkit: Life and Wisdom From a Down-to-Earth Psychologist.” $20/set available at their websites. www.stevenkenny.com/ cards.html or www.diohn.net/book-%26-cards.

PIPO’S

Authentic Cuban Cuisine

Offering Drive Thru, Delivery (Bites Squad & Uber), Order Online & Pick-up

Pipos1979.com

NMLS 82060

Branch NMLS 1374312

www.SteveKellyMortgage.com

In 1997, Steven focused his talents full time on fine arts and quickly rose to notoriety as a world-class, highly collected artist whose paintings soon became part of permanent museum and patron collections from Florida to Italy. His singular paintings are reminiscent of Renaissance and Northern Baroque Old Masters yet firmly rooted in Contemporary and often Surreal Art.

Visit… for Catering Menu w/ Pricing & Call for Answers! NMLS 69488

Facebook: All Western St Pete FL Instagram: All.Western.Mortgage.FL

NMLS 457758

Want to buy a home instead of renting or refinance at today’s low rates? • Temporary leave of work or furlough is ok. • Homeowners in need of financial help can get relief without leaving home. Contact All Western Mortgage branch manager, Steve Kelly at 727-415-1842, Deidre Kelly his assistant 727-483-0490, or one of their professional team members: Tina Housdan 813-351-9965 Brenna Miller 601-398-7667 Louis Imbody 727-385-4301

Steven graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design and worked as a commercial illustrator with great acclaim, winning awards from the Society of Illustrators, Communications Arts Magazine and the Art Directors’ Club of New York for clients including Sony Music, Time Magazine, AT&T, United Airlines, and Celestial Seasonings.

TWO LOCATIONS! 642 22nd St. S St. Petersburg 727.256.1808

9531 Bay Pines Blvd. St. Petersburg 727.394.7476

CATERING ALL Your PARTY NEEDS!


BOOK NOOK

By Nanette Wiser Sold for $1,630,000

Sold over asking price with multiple offers at $1,211,000

Saving the sellers over $32,000

Saving the sellers over $24,000

If you’re paying more than 4% to sell your home, you’re paying way too much!

Award-Winning “Becoming Jesse” St. Petersburg author Patsie McCandless is an award-winning author, artist, musician, TEDx speaker and educator. Her “Becoming Jesse: Celebrating the Everyday Magic of Childhood” won the Family Choice Award and Mom’s Choice Award. “The creativity and extraordinary imagination in Becoming Jesse amazed our distinguished judges and staff,” said Family Choice Magazine. McCandless was inspired to write this novel to encourage parents and children to put down their cell phones, turn off their screens, open a book and read it together. “It’s time for a new story,” McCandless says. “A story to change our upside-down world for the better. Families are yearning for their light… for a beautiful, beguiling, positive story.” The CEO of the prestigious Mom’s Choice Award, Dawn Matheson, wrote, “Becoming Jesse is fueled by a passion to make a better world. It merits a place on our list of the best in engaging, family-friendly books in which parents and educators can feel inspired and confident.” Jack Canfield, co-author of “Chicken Soup for the Soul,” said, “Becoming Jesse is a radiantly magical story… inspirational… with a very profound message, because it’s really about becoming the magic in you.” Becoming Jesse is available at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Books-a-Million and IndieBound.com. Vintage St. Pete St. Pete resident and author Bill DeYoung’s newest book is a gem. “Vintage St. Pete: The Golden Age of Tourism - and More” is a clever trip down the Sunshine City’s memory lane. The new full color, hardbound book from St. Petersburg Press features 22 of his “Vintage St. Pete” stories from the St. Pete Catalyst. Part of Heritage Village’s Speaking of History series. DeYoung is the Florida-based author of “Skyway: The True Story of Tampa Bay’s Signature Bridge and the Man Who Brought it Down,” “Phil Gernhard Record Man” and “I Need to Know: The Lost Music Interviews.” A veteran newspaper reporter and editor whose music journalism has appeared in numerous national and international publications, he is also featured as an essayist in the liner notes of more than 100 albums, by artists ranging from Cat Stevens (the four-disc “Cat Stevens Box Set”) to Stephen Stills, B.B. King, Black Oak Arkansas, Patsy Cline and Steve Winwood.

A Uniquely Better Real Estate Company

When you list your home with me, I charge 4% while providing full concierge level service. If I’m the only agent involved in the sale, I lower my fee to just 3%. Jeff Thomsen, Realtor

3 Big Reasons to call JEFF to sell your home... #1 You will get a lot more money! REALean

average 98.11% of list price

MLS

average 96.4% of list price

0%

100%

#2 Your home will sell faster! REALean MLS 0 DAYS

average 33 days on the market average 113 days on the market 30 DAYS 60 DAYS

90 DAYS

120 DAYS

#3 Your home is more likely to sell! REALean

98.5% listings sell

MLS

71.3% listings sell

0%

100%

Point Brittany condo listed at $489,500 Under contract in 3 days with multiple offers

www.JeffThomsen.com

727-222-0099 ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

29


Visit &Corey Area Crystals Bangles &“makeBeads your vision

C O R E YAV E . C O M

crystal clear”

Mention this ad for 20% off one item.

425 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach

727-289-3223

crystalsbanglesandbeads.com

RELAX THE MIND. RENEW THE BODY

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

lemontreespa.com

MASSAGE FACIALS WAXING BODY TREATMENT EYELASHES St Pete Beach 727.363.0772 Tierra Verde 727.329.8977

350 Corey & 4765 Gulf Blvd St Pete Beach 727.254.9526 elizabethsboutiques.com

zzzz

Basil Leaf THAI•SUSHI

Lunch Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:30pm

30

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Dinner Daily 4:30pm-10:00pm

Open Daily 12:00pm-10:00pm

7612 Blind Pass Rd., St. Pete Beach

6395 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach

727.367.6535 NoriThai.com

727.360.4000

BasilThaiSushiBar.com


The Corey Ave. Sunday Market 10-2 on Corey (74th) Ave., St. Pete Beach by Susan Schiber

Marketing Solutions For A Changing World 429 Corey Ave. St. Pete Beach

(727) 324 - 7461 www.SailMktg.com

Local Creations Affordable Boutique Clothing 429 Corey Ave. St. Pete Beach

Open Weekends 10a - 2p www.SailMarket.net

FREE GIFT w/purchase while supplies last.See store for details

An ocean fresh scent that’s clean and invigorating, Inis instantly refreshes for a ‘ sun in your face, wind in your hair’ feeling. Discover Inis along with Coastal Home Decor and Great gift ideas at Corey Avenue’s most unusual shop.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration Thursday, December 31

10pm, $5 for up to six people, Col. Michael J. Horan Park, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. Reserve a space for up to 6 people to share. Bring your blankets, snacks, friends and family and celebrate the new year with fireworks. 727.363.9245 spbrec.com

Meet The Maker... We are so proud of the young “makers and shakers” that make up a large part of the Corey Ave. Sunday Market on St. Pete Beach. As we move forward in these difficult times it’s nice to see the traditions of years past continue. Sarita Arrazola, founder of St. Pete Ferments, blends old world methods with modern tastes. Many of her products are seasonal, as she sources most of her ingredients from local growers. Traditions that evolve from times when food and refrigeration was scarce and preservation methods were natural. She offers her ferments and kombucha, a vast knowledge of the benefits, and a great smile every Sunday 10am-2pm at the market! The Corey Area Business Association sponsors the market that generally fills the street from Beach Memorial at Boca Ciega Drive, most of the way west toward Gulf Boulevard. The merchants group tried a number of operators before they settled on Tampa Bay Markets, a company that organizes markets from New Tampa to Dunedin. Four times per year, the market moves east from the post office toward city hall as it shares the street with Howard Alan Events’ Annual Craft Shows on Corey, including the pre-holiday show Dec. 5-6 and the New Year’s show on Jan. 9-10, 2021. Tampa Bay Markets brings an assortment of vendors from the other side of the bay, most of whom are not found at other local markets. You can smell the market early, a mile away, after Mr. I Got Them cranks up the barbeque to finish ribs and turkey legs for lunch or a take-home dinner. Nearby, the fresh farm produce vendor has set up a big tent with almost everything you can think of, fresh from the garden, at highly competitive prices. There are more organic foods than you will find anywhere else on the beaches: herbs and honeys, plus breads, jams, dips, a food court, drinks, live entertainment, you name it. Starting on Dec. 13th, KUBA en La Playa, St. Pete Beach’s newest restaurant, plans to be “in the market” along with The Centre of St. Pete Beach. We even have a vendor selling reusable cotton mesh bags so you can cut down on your use of plastic. For more info, catch me Sunday at the market info booth, email me, or visit TampaBayMarkets.com. Susan Schiber is the Corey Avenue Market Manager. Her email is coreyavenuemarket@gmail.com. ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

31


by Nanette Wiser

Savoring Life @Sunset Bistro Located in Treasure Island’s Thunderbird Hotel, Sunset Bistro is the best way to start and end the day. Chef Thomas G. Mandzik is a culinary wizard, from his inspired handcrafted cocktails to his new breakfast menu, served from 8-noon daily, with all you can eat weekend brunch. On New Year’s and Christmas Day, holiday breakfast will be served 7am-12:30pm. The restaurant will be closed Thanksgiving Day. Check the Facebook page for New Year’s Eve plans. “Good food has the power to bring people together and make them happy,” says Chef Mandzik. “Our menus change with the season and we feature a Chef’s Special menu nightly in addition to our all-day lunch/dinner menu.” With patio tables outside overlooking the Gulf and casually elegant tables set with linen and walls adorned by sunsets, Sunset Bistro’s horseshoe bar is the perfect place to meet friends for a happy hour drink. You can order ahead for take-out and catering is available for off-site parties. On the second and fourth Friday of each month, the lovely Fiona sings jazzy favorites while you dine. Start with a lively libation, like a Dragonfruit Mai Tai, Passionfruit Hurricane Blackbeard, fresh blood orange,

32

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

gin and strawberry martini or Fresh Mango Lime Margarita. The new breakfast menu features Kahwa coffee, berry and chocolate chip Belgian waffles (add Southern Chicken), Southern grits with shrimp and chorizo or bacon and cheddar, Banana Fosters French toast, Kettle oatmeal (add peanut butter and banana), breakfast sandwiches (bacon/egg/cheese, ham/egg/Swiss) or egg, chorizo and cheese burrito. Add a side of malt pancakes, corned beef hash or biscuit with creamy sausage gravy. Seafood lovers will adore the Gulf Grouper Sandwich, Mahi Fish Tacos, Pow Pow Mango Shrimp, lime-seasoned Shrimp Quesadilla and Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pina Colada dipping sauce. Vegetarians flock to the Flatbread Margherita Florentine and Plant-Based Burger on a warm garlic bread Kaiser roll and salads. Graze and share the crispy calamari, mozzarella sticks and nachos but keep the Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms for you! Another favorite is the chicken and rice bowl with caramelized onions over Spanish yellow rice. For a reservation, catering menu or take-out, call (727) 222-9112 or email sunsetbistroflorida@gmail.com. The Sunset Bistro, 10700 Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island www.sunsetbistroflorida.com.


SPIRITS Terrific Tequilas By Nanette Wiser

There’s more to tequila than Jose Cuervo. So many choices: Silver or gold? Anejo or reposado? George Clooney’s Casamigos or my personal favorite Herradura? Sip it, shoot it, flash blend it or stir? In 2019, 181 new tequila brands debuted. Some are boutique crafters, others are celebrities such as Teremana, Duane “The Rock” Johnson’s and basketball star Michael Jordan’s Cincoro. Artisanal brands and small batches are popular, processing agave in brick ovens at Arette Tequila instead of autoclaves. Brick oven batches displayed more floral, creamy, and mineral notes while the autoclave had more peppery, green, and herbal notes. Tequila and mezcal are red hot, with sales outdistancing beverages in every other category except bourbon. The number one premium seller is Patron, as well as Don Julio 1942 and Clase Azul Reposado, all pricey and worth it. Consumers’ taste have shifted from añejo to blancos, the unaged, first tier of tequila, before reposado and añejo in a desire for authenticity. You’ll also notice that color is disappearing from anejos, with more distilleries using cristalino variants, which filter the barrel color out of the spirit for a clear, aged product. 2020 will see more sustainable practices. Dulce Vida continues to operate with an eco-conscious mindset, using sustainable farming and production practices in growing and dealing with agave waste.

Currently, there are 135 active tequila distilleries in Mexico. One of the craziest quarantine trends was making tequila at home, like beer. While I’ve produced some kick-ass Kahlua and beer in my days, this seems a bit ambitious. I prefer to read up on new tequilas to try in my margaritas at www.tequilamatchmaker.com. Better yet, sample tequilas before you purchase for home; DTSP’s Red Mesa and Treasure Island’s VIP Lounge are the places to tipple. Ask your bartender for their recommendations, at favorite watering holes like the Crafty Squirrel and Flute & Dram. I just ordered a tequila cocktail making/ tasting kit from Williams Sonoma. It includes an infusion bottle with tasting straw, three flavor blends, step-by-step instructions and cocktail recipes. Flavor blends include Smoky Blend (layered black teas and bergamot), Chili Blend (salty Sencha, citrus and chili) and Lime Blend (lime with botanicals and edible grasses). Each packet infuses half of a standard bottle of tequila (375ml).

TEQUILA RECIPES Corazon Blanco Tequila 1.5 oz. blanco tequila 1 oz. green Chartreuse 1 oz. Maraschino Originale (Luxardo, an Italian cherry liqueur) 1 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice In a shaker, combine these ingredients, add ice and shake. Strain into a cocktail glass.

Tequila Sazerac

A classic New Orleans old-fashioned with a twist. In a pint glass mix 2 oz Fortaleza Añejo tequila 1/2 ounce of cocktail-ready agave nectar 2-3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters Add ice and stir (don’t shake!) Spritz the inside of a glass with Absinthe. Strain the cocktail into the spritzed glass and top with a bit of orange peel.

Casa Paloma

2 oz. Casamigos Reposado 1.5 oz. grapefruit juice 1 oz. fresh lime juice .5 oz. simple syrup 8-10 mint leaves Muddle herbs. Combine all ingredients into tin shaker. Add ice. Shake vigorously for 8–10 seconds. Fine strain into highball glass. Add fresh ice. Garnish with grapefruit wheel and mint sprig.

MOCKTAILS MADE EASY Torani syrups jazz up coffee drinks, cocktails and mocktails. Smoked Black Cherry Old Fashioned 1 double shot espresso (about 2 oz. room temperature) 1 Tbsp (½ oz.) Torani Puremade Smoked Black Cherry Syrup 2 drops of bitters orange peel Combine the ingredients in a glass and gently stir. Rub the orange peel around the glass, then drop it in. ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

33


Breakfast, Brunch & Bacon! Photo courtesy Belleair Cafe

By Nanette Wiser Breakfast should be eggs-actly how you like it, whether you prefer fancy (eggs benedict) or simple (two eggs, easy, bacon extra crispy). So many options, from kitschy coffeehouses with morning glory muffins and breakfast delights to weekend brunch, some with unlimited mimosas. Rise and shine at our breakfast faves in downtown St. Pete, the beaches and beyond. COFFEEHOUSES: Java joints feature artsy drinks like lavender lattes and salted caramel cold brew with a pastry or avo toast and a welcome break from the morning muddle. We like Kahwa, Coffee Grounds, Kraft Café, The Coffee Mill, Gulf Perk Coffee Bar, Black Crow Coffee, Gypsy Soul, La Casa del Pane, SumitrA Espresso Lounge+ and Banyan Café. BRUNCH: Sadly, the breakfast buffet is off the menu, but happily unlimited mimosas and other drink specials spark up a weekend brunch. Downtown, we like Nueva Cantina, Cassis, Tropez, Stillwaters Tavern, The Left Bank Bistro, Parkshore Grill, Oak & Stone Brick & Mortar and The Mill. In Tierra Verde, Alsace serves a lovely French weekend brunch as does St. Pete’s Noble Crust, Southern style. In Pass-A-Grille, linger over breakfast at Sea Porch Café or weekend brunch at The Dewey Beach Bar & Grill. BREAKFAST: Our hall of famers below are just the top of the stack. We also like Trip’s Diner, First Watch, KeKe’s Café, Maple Street Biscuit Company, Maggie Mae’s, Bob Evans, Mickey’s Café & Organic and The Happy Place.

Belleair Café: Next to Antique Alley, relax under tiki umbrellas and the patio while nibbling bagel-lox-cream cheese, cherry smoked bacon, silver dollar pancakes, savory corned beef hash and mouth-watering omelets. Belleair Bluffs Clear Sky On Cleveland: Dine al fresco on the closed street with a view of the bay for outstanding cocktails and breakfast, especially the rib eye steak and eggs, huevos rancheros, barbacoa breakfast tacos, maple glazed chicken and waffles, short rib Benedict, banana French toast or a lobster brie bennie. Downtown Clearwater Chill Restaurant & Bar: Breakfast and the Sunday Corey Market is always fun, as are the mimosas. St. Pete Beach

Photo courtesy Annex

Datz St. Pete: One of the best on both sides of the bay, especially the Cubano breakfast sandwich (fried egg, pulled pork, Compart® ham, pickle and Swiss cheese piled on a Wolferman’s® English muffin), Popeye’s Rise N’ Shiner (fried egg, bacon, fresh spinach and smoked gouda. Served on an artisan challah bun), pork belly breakfast burrito, salted caramel donut waffle, cheddar crusted breakfast tacos and the best BACON! DTSP Flying With Jerome: Tues.-Sun. 7:30am-2pm, enjoy French-ified dishes (Croque Croissant, Swiss ham and cheese crepe, brie and salmon omelet, goat cheese mushroom quiche) and elegant pastries (pistachio cherry tart, macarons, hazelnut éclair) in this delightful bistro. Largo

Annex: Stop by for savory breakfast sandwiches, egg soufflés, gluten-free oatmeal, yummy waffles, a healthy acai or fruit bowl. Sip a citrus carrot yogurt smoothie, mimosa, kombucha, Kahwa coffee or Mighty Leaf organic teas, then browse the nifty gifties. DTSP

Frog Pond: Huge omelets, quiche Lorraine, fruit-topped waffles, Benedicts and breakfast burritos, seasonally updated. Kitschy frog décor and great service. North Redington, St. Pete Beach, DTSP The Galley: Weekend brunch with a Caesar Bloody Mary, breakfast poutine or The Frenchy (tavern ham, Havarti on 7-grain, smothered in creamy bechamel, topped with a fried egg) is a hang-over cure. DTSP The Hangar: Enjoy breakfast on the fly with biscuits and country gravy, eggs Florentine, Belgium waffles with toasted Georgia pecans or chicken on a buttermilk biscuit with goat cheese. DTSP

34

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com


The Library: The coffee bar is open daily, but weekend brunch is the big draw for the egg white and quinoa scramble, apple and pecan spiced pancakes, hickory smoked salmon and house chips. DTSP

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

ALL CDC GUIDELINES FOLLOWED, PLUS SOCIAL DISTANCING

Photo courtesy Metro Diner

Metro Diner: Croissant French toast, huevos rancheros, steak and scramble bowl drizzled with hollandaise sauce, fried chicken Benedict and cinnamon roll pancakes. St. Petersburg 2nd and Second: A gourmet diner serving spirits, the kooky menu features hash many ways, old-fashioned donut French toast, Chicken Artichoke Florentine or Cowboy Omelet (ham, caramelized onion, roasted peppers, chipotle bbq), Dutch Benedict with scrapple, bacon bleu hash browns, mimosa samplers and a morning mojito. DTSP Skidders Restaurant: Lots of healthy options plus the most delicious chocolate chip pancakes, cheese blintzes, Black Angus chicken-fried steak and eggs, feta and gyro omelette and Florentine Benedict. St. Pete Beach Skyway Jack Restaurant: A local icon where Humpty Dumpty and Rooster sculptures greet you. Enjoy old-fashioned favorites (Philadelphia scrapple with eggs, S.O.S., creamed chipped beef), iconic omelets (Tex-Mex, pizza), chicken and waffles, pancakes (Nutella) and some of the best biscuits and gravy in town. St. Petersburg Stella’s: So delicious we went twice in one week for the crab cake benedict (lox or green tomato versions rock), the chorizo, breakfast burrito, banana nut bread French toast and Southern shrimp and grits. Try a mimosa flight (Bellini and Hawaiian with coconut rum) or the kooky Bloody Mary concoctions (Italian, Asian or Mexican). Gulfport Sweet Sage Cafe & Boutique: The quirky garden gnomes and décor beckon, as do the sensational crepes (peaches/pecans), waffles, apple crisp French toast, Benedicts (salmon, California style), scramblers (Italian, roast beef/blue cheese or turkey/spinach) and homemade muffins served with a Bloody Mary or mimosa. Dog-friendly, too. North Redington

“There is nothing that makes me happier than sitting around the dinner table and talking until the candles are burned down.” — Madeleine L’Engle ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

35


Home Entertaining By Nanette Wiser We live in Paradise, so why plan a holiday getaway when your home is a vacay? Instead of a Cabo, Caribbean or Hawaii trip, pick a theme for this year’s Kwaanza, Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations. After all, there’s no place like home for the holidays. With the help of Pinterest for global ideas, décor from Dollar Tree, Party City and Oriental Trading Company, a global playlist and an imaginative food and drink menu, transform your backyard or patio….or throw the bash at the beach or local park. Holiday Competitions: Invite your pod and Zoom friends/family to participate in your traditional events with a quarantine twist. Ugly sweater contest or holiday light contests, caroling, and best matching pajamas are just the start. Cookie exchanges let you vote on the best cookie. Ditto the gingerbread house challenge. Add in a “do good” challenge and adopt a family or charity to support.

www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/ christmas-ideas/g23743657/christmas-books/ Hanukkah: This year, I am using Joan Nathan’s ethnic recipes from around the world, and zooming with my family to play Dreidel and light the first candle. New Year’s Eve: A virtual champagne tasting and hors’ d’oeuvres, with dance lessons on waltzing on You Tube for a Vienna themed adventure, followed by pastries and more bubbly. Or go Mexican, with margaritas, nachos and salsa dancing via Zoom, breaking a pinata at midnight, followed by good luck tamales with raisons. HOLIDAY TREATS We love pigs in a blanket, baked brie, shrimp, cheeses, olives and crackers for grazing and these signature cocktails. Make it festive with party plates and themed décor.

Backyard Screenings: Duplicate St. Pete Beach’s Holiday’s in Horan with movie classics (12/4, 11, 18) and set up a neighborhood or backyard screening, with each family bringing a picnic basket, some small bags of holiday cookies for a treat table and end the night with holiday karaoke.

Slow Cooker Meatballs 2 lb. frozen meatballs 2 c. bbq sauce 1 (12-oz.) jar grape jelly 1/4 c. sriracha Place meatballs in bowl of a slow cooker and pour bbq sauce, grape jelly, and sriracha over. Stir to coat meatballs. Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Stir meatballs before serving.

Quiet Fun: With a friend or family, make an advent calendar and put together a Christmas puzzle. Write cards or make a handmade ornament and deliver them to an assisted living or senior center. Make a holiday music mix of your favorite song links and email your friends. Watch the holiday specials on Lifetime, The Hallmark Channel or your favorite holiday DVDs (The Polar Express, Elf) or reach a holiday book out loud.

Ramos Gin Fizz 2 oz. gin 1 egg white 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1 tbsp. lime juice 1 tbsp. heavy cream 1 tbsp. simple syrup 3 drops orange blossom water Club soda

36

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

In a cocktail shaker (with no ice), shake gin, egg white, lemon and lime juice, heavy cream, simple syrup, and orange blossom. Add ice and shake until cold. Strain into a Collins glass and top with a splash of club soda. Boozy Grinch Punch 1 (0.13-oz.) packet Kool-Aid Lemon Lime mix 4 c. water 4 c. ice 3 c. lemon-lime soda 2 c. pineapple juice 2 c. vodka 1 c. Ginger Ale Lime wedges, for rimming Red sanding sugar, for rimming In a large pitcher combine Kool-Aid and water. In a large punch bowl, combine ice, Kool-Aid, soda, pineapple juice, vodka, and ginger ale. Use a lime wedge to rim glasses and dip in sanding sugar to coat. Pour punch into glasses to serve. LUCKY FOODS for NEW YEAR So many traditions from around the world to eat on New Year’s Day. On New Year’s Eve, we always open fortune cookies at midnight and peel 12 grapes for 12 months of good luck, a Spanish tradition. Start your own tradition in 2021. Happy New Year! Round Fruits (apples, oranges): Symbolize coins & prosperity Black Eyed Peas, Greens, and Cornbread: Pennies, dollars and gold Pork: Progress Pomegranate: Fertility, life and abundance Fish: Abundance Noodles: Longevity Rice: Fertility and wealth


Local MUSICIANS We Love By Nanette Wiser

Kirk Adams: St. Pete songwriter Kirk Adams wows me. Saw him at DTSP’s The Hideaway Café’s outdoor seating, socially distanced Friday night performances 8:30am-10:30pm, one of the best venues in town. His songs are addicting, and I love his CDs “Night Owls Boogaloo and Bottle Club” and “After Hours.” You may have caught him in past years at Ricky T’s or with Lords of the Ringside, a staple at the old Ringside Café on 4th Street or his other band, The Honeybadgers. Pre-COVID 19, he picked up gigs at Ruby’s Elixir, Ricky T’s, Saltwater Hippie, Middle Grounds Grill, Flute & Dram, the Ale & the Witch, The Toasted Monkey and others. Tune in to www.soundcloud.com/kirk-adams.

NEED TO SELL YOUR HOUSE? ANY Situation... ANY PRICE. We Always Pay Cash!

Pinellas Cash Buyers

727-263-3122

The Ries Brothers: I met The Ries Brothers, a duo from Clearwater, at 10 News a few years ago when they were just getting famous for their blend of rock, blues, funk, and reggae melded into a soulful-sophisticated sound. Older brother Charlie (24) sings lead vocals while simultaneously playing drums and keyboard bass; younger brother Kevin Jordan (20) plays guitar, provides background vocals and co-writes many of their songs. Discovered by the band Chicago as teens who took them out for two tours, The Brothers’ inimitable live performances have captured fans and major festival bookings. After Supporting a G Love & Special Sauce tour in 2018, G Love asked the brothers to tour as his backing band and open his solo tour. They repeated that feat again in 2019. In between the brothers completed their own solo tours in addition to supporting major artists like Stick Figure, 311, Ballyhoo, Pepper, Galactic, Stephen Marley, and playing major festivals Rootfire, Cali Roots, Gasparilla, Sun Fest, and Summer Camp. The duo recently completed their second full-length album, “Paint Your Emotion,” produced by John Agnello (Screaming Trees, Dinosaur JR, Patti Smythe.) The Ries Brothers have been named as a breakout artist by Creative Loafing, a favorite band by The Tampa Bay Times, and were two out of 25 selected from the state of Florida to participate in the exclusive Los Angeles Grammy Museum’s Music Revolution Project. They will perform at St. Pete Reggae Rise Up 3/20/21 with more gigs to be announced.

www.PinellasCashBuyers.com

30% OFF next purchase

Call now for your free in-home consultation

727 - 821- 0976 BudgetBlinds.com Showroom by appointment only • 800 Pasadena Ave. S. Blinds • Shutters • Shades • Motorization

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

37


Visit Gulfport visitgulfportflorida.com

Holiday Gifts

for the Divers In Your Life.

Learn to dive! Classes and Equipment Trips: Curacao, West Palm Beach, Key Largo

Gift certificates available

$20 OFF ($100 purchase with ad)

divegulfport.com

Gulfport Dive Center, 5008 Gulfport Blvd.

727-498-8702

The Coolest Little Hippie Beach Store in Gulfport • Unique Art and Gifts from 30+ Local Artists in the Gallery! • Linen, Silk, Tie Dye, and Boho styles in the Boutique! • Crystals, Geodes, Sage, Palo Santo & CBD oil in the Gift Shop!

ZAIYA Artizen Market 3119 Beach Blvd South, Gulfport • 678-665-4988 Open 10-5 every day! 38

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

s Pamper Locals

727-338-2008 MaddySpa.com • FULL Service Salon • Manicures and Pedicures • Facials, Peels, Microdermabrasion • Top of the Line Lash Extensions • Instant Anti-Aging Treatments • Non-surgical Lifts & Body Contours • Air Brush Make-up • Services for entire Bridal Parties

5532 Gulfport Blvd., Gulfport, FL 33707 Check them out on: Facebook @lovemaddyspa or Instagram @maddyspalove


Beach House 5317 BEACH HOUSE A R T

F U R N I T U R E

C R Y S T A L S

D E C O R

Art • Crystals • Furniture Home Decor • Gifts

5 3 1 7

We are a creative and magical store of 20 Tampa Bay artists & curators. 5317 Gulfport Blvd S, Gulfport

BeachHouse5317@gmail.com Beach House 5317 @BeachHouse5317

10% OFF any purchase w/this ad 2908-A Beach Boulevard In The Heart Of The Village

Gulfport’s New Retail Destination (727) 303-0976 • Kitschy Kitchenware

• Snarky Barware • Stella’s Pantry • Books • Serving Ware • Home Goods • Greeting Cards • Stella’s Apparel & Swag • Gifts • Free Gift Wrap

Been To Gulfport Lately? by Linda Motzenbecker

Locals and visitors alike recognize Gulfport as an open and welcoming waterfront arts community. There are lots of dining places and many new, unique shopping options, great music and art everywhere. Weekly year-round, the Gulfport market offers fresh produce, honey, handmade soaps, lotions, and lots of arts and crafts, Tuesdays 9am-3pm. First Fridays and third Saturdays are special evenings in Gulfport. For example, Jan. 16th 5-9pm at the Maker’s Market, art makers and crafters will be lined up and down the boulevard with homemade candles, pottery, jewelry and more. Mark your calendar and check it out. This is quintessential Gulfport – fun, wacky, arty and weird. This month, Paradise NEWS began this co-operative advertising spread for Gulfport merchants and another for Corey Avenue in St. Pete Beach, features we plan to bring you each issue if sufficient support exists. We appreciate the charter advertisers who joined us for the first few months and ask you to help spread the word. If you live in Florida, you should learn to scuba dive. The Gulfport Dive Center at 5008 Gulfport Blvd. (22nd Ave. S) offers dive classes, affordable trips and everything anyone could need or want for diving. The owner and staff are very knowledgeable with lots of experience. In the same plaza, you can find Mid-Florida Appliances. Brothers John and Jim offer quality used refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers and more, at the best prices in town. Jim’s been with GE for 30 years and John knows commercial plumbing. Three blocks west, on the north side, you’ll find Beach House 5317. They have over a hundred artists’ works including unique hand-painted furniture, wall and home decor. Great gift ideas too.

Nancy Poucher pastel

Enjoy a beautiful selection of paintings, ceramics, glass, jewelry, and ber in an inspired setting. 518.692.7742

brenda@brendamcmahon.com

[gallery open Sunday-Tuesday 11-4, Thursday-Saturday 11-7]

In the heart of Gulfport. Zaiya Artizen Market, 3119 Beach Blvd., is a boutique, gallery, gift shop with crystals and all sorts of unique finds, from Soho and tie-dye clothing to sophisticated linens and silks in all sizes. Paw Paws Pet Boutique has relocated from John’s Pass, next door to Zaiya at 3129 Beach Blvd., with great gift ideas for pets and the people who love them. In its new courtyard location, next to Stella’s restaurant, Stella’s Sundries offers a variety of unique gifts including kitchen gadgets, artist works, etc. Across the street from Stella’s, in the new blue building, is the ceramic studio and gallery of Brenda McMahon. Brenda creates handmade sugar fire vessels and wall art tile for commercial and residential settings. This wall art tile brings many earth materials together, clay, stones and glass. She would love to create one of her dozens of custom creations just for your home. Stop by her gallery or give Brenda a call for more information at 518-692-7742. ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

39


St. Petersburg Arts Alliance Executive Director John Collins orchestrates the St. Petersburg City Theatre’s SHINE mural ribbon-cutting on Nov. 7.

St. Petersburg City Theatre

joins SHINE By Caron Schwartz

If you’re on the hunt for St. Petersburg’s SHINE murals don’t limit yourself to those in and around the Grand Central Distract. There’s treasure to be found on 31st St. S, illuminating the St. Petersburg City Theatre. When looking for wall candidates for the 2020 SHINE festival of murals, St. Petersburg Arts Alliance Executive Director John Collins put out the word to the community, and the City Theatre stepped up to the plate. “We’ve got tons of walls,” said theatre volunteer and former board president Lisa Marone, “and a very active youth program.” So local artists Alyssa Marie and Braden Everly put their heads together (not a stretch – they’re married) and came up with a “paint by numbers” approach, which would allow artists of all ages to participate in the project.

Mural designer Alyssa Marie shows off the signatures of the many volunteers who helped create the St. Petersburg City Theatre mural.

The result is a wall of sunflowers held aloft by racially diverse hands that’s clearly visible from the street. Around the corner there’s a quote by John Lennon: “You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one,” along with a wall of signatures. The mural is part of Marie and Everly’s Happy Mural Project, an effort to spread happiness through community involvement and art. “We just want to see the world smile!” they say. Organizations or individuals interested in creating a mural can contact them at the happymuralproject.com.

40

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com


FITNESS TIP

By Frank Adornato

Getting Started The hardest part of any fitness program is getting started – overcoming what I call “negative inertia.” You know you should be exercising, but you sit on the couch and wonder how do I begin? What can I do and where can I do it? And there’s also the needless worry that you’ll embarrass yourself in front of the super-fit “jocks” because you’re so out of shape. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Everyone has to take that first step on their road to fitness and here are some things to consider when getting started. First ask yourself what do you want to get out of a fitness program? What are your goals? Do you want to lose weight and look better? Are you concerned about better heart health? Do you want to compete in races? There are no right or wrong answers to the question. Just know what you want. Second is to choose a sport or exercise that you like and one that will help you achieve your goals. Usually, running is the first thing people think of, but if running is not for you, maybe swimming or cycling is a better fit. And don’t stop there. There are many different sports to choose from: rowing, kayaking, stand up paddling, dragon boat racing (yes you read that right). Strength training at the gym is another option. And if you realize that your first choice is not what you hoped it would be, choose something else.

Comprehensive Hearing Care

• Diagnostic Testing • Tinnitus Consultation • Real-ear Measurement • Speech in Noise Testing • All Major Hearing Aid Manufacturers Supported • All Levels of Hearing Aid Technology Available

Tired of Paying for Overpriced Hearing Aids? Call today to inquire about our new pricing model. www.PasadenaHearing.com

And third, realize that the vast majority of people who are exercising every day are not “jocks.” They’re all regular people just trying to stay fit and healthy. And most will welcome you and encourage you. As you move into your fitness program, start gradually with short easy efforts. Increase the volume and intensity as your body gets more adapted to the stress of the workouts. Yes, you will feel some aches and pains at the beginning, but that should be temporary until your body adjusts. Another thing is to consider training with a workout group or club. All groups welcome new members regardless of their level of ability or experience. They offer advice, encouragement, and there’s a measure of accountability to make sure you show up for the workouts. Some also offer group discounts for races, training clothes and merchandise, etc. And if you are really serious, you might want to seek out a fitness trainer. There are many certified trainers and coaches available in our area. They will help you set up a workout plan, ensure you do the exercises correctly, encourage and motivate you to succeed. Every goal is accomplished in small increments. Identify manageable milestones on the road to your success and as you achieve each milestone you get closer to being the healthy, fit individual you want to be.

SLEEPING PROBLEM? WE CAN HELP! ALL NATURAL… EFFECTIVE & DRUG FREE!

Ancient Healing

April Wang A C U P U N C T U R E & H E R B S C L I N I C

Acupuncture Physician (Lic. 1493 • M.D. (China)

727.384.4826

6600 31 Terrace, St. Petersburg 33710 st

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

41


By Nanette Wiser

Rejuvenation Station

Trip 1: South of Sarasota, North Port is home to Warm

Mineral Springs, a peaceful location to recharge and experience the sole naturally occurring warm mineral spring in the state. Florida is home to more than 1,000 springs, but Warm Mineral is one of only three known natural hot springs in Florida, and the only one with public access. At about 87 degrees, Warm Mineral Springs is the warmest and southernmost spring in the state. It also boasts the largest number of different minerals — calcium, magnesium, strontium, sodium,

D ay c a t i o n : S a f e t y H a r b o r

Trip 2:

With special spa packages, a natural mineral spring and glorious wellness program, a day trip to Safety Harbor Resort & Spa is a terrific holiday gift for a friend…or you! The 50,000 sq. ft. spa features 30 newly renovated treatment rooms including men and women’s bath and shower facilities, Kerstin Florian Signature treatments and products, three swimming pools and world-class dining for a revitalizing mind and body experience. Daily fitness classes include yoga, Pilates, Zumba, tai chi and Aqua Yoga. Ask about half day and full day packages with Florida resident rates. safetyharborspa.com/spa. Safety Harbor is a serene community, anchored by the Resort and fun to explore from the history to the boutiques and excellent restaurants In 1539, Hernando Desoto reached the shores of Old Tampa Bay and discovered the natural springs, later named “Espiritu Santo Springs,” believing he had found the legendary “Fountain of Youth” missed by Ponce De Leon. In 1964, Safety Harbor Resort and Spa was named a Historical Landmark; in 1997 it became a Florida Heritage Landmark. 42

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

potassium, phosphorus, iron, silica, sulphur, nitrogen, fluoride and chlorides — at least 51 in all. Because of its high mineral content, the water also has gained a reputation for being magical. Research shows that magnesium helps nerve function, sulfate helps fight infection, and potassium helps electrolyte balance. It’s a sinkhole, believed by archeologists to have opened to the surface as much as 30,000 years ago. Some 10,000 years ago the spring was used as an Indian burial ground. The mineral water preserved the fossils of saber-toothed tigers, sloths — and ancient humans and their primitive tools. Learn more at www.warmmineral.com. For more on Florida springs, visit www.floridasprings.org.

courtesy Visit Florida

Adventures in Paradise


Julia Winifred Moseley 1919-2020 - A Florida Pioneer By Peter A. Roos

courtesy Plantation at

Crystal River

M a n at e e s @ C ry s ta l R i v e r

Trip 3: In Crystal River, hundreds of the slow moving

mammals meander from the cooling Gulf to pristine spring Nov. 15-March 31. Known as the Manatee Capital of the World, the Crystal River area is home to an amazing network of springs along Kings Bay and the Homosassa River, where the waters remain a constant 72 degrees (23 C). It is also home to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, the only refuge in the United States specifically created to protect critical habitats for the manatees. Crystal River and Homosassa are the only places in North America where swimmers can experience an up-close encounter with manatees in the wild. With COVID-19 precautions top of mind, many outfitters now offer semi-private and private boat tours, carefully cleaning all swim and snorkel gear to ensure visitors have the safest, most rewarding underwater experience possible. New for this year, visitors can expect to see improvements at Three Sisters Spring Refuge. Though there is no ramp access to the springs from the refuge, the area is popular for its winding boardwalk, where manatees can easily be seen, thanks to the crystal clear water. The refuge has paved the entry road for cars and opened restrooms for park users. Why so many manatees? Fed by the Floridan aquifer, Crystal River springs are the natural choice for manatees to seek warm water shelter when temperatures in Florida waters fall below 65 degrees (18 C). In waters that cold, manatees can experience cold stress and even hypothermia. Springs are the natural sheltering choice for manatees since the springs have a constant temperature of 72 to 74 degrees (22-23 C).

We were long-time neighbors, friends and accomplices of Julia Winifred Moseley, a Florida pioneer who passed this summer at age 101. Although her frontier was 45 minutes inland, we wrote about Julia and her “Nest” in east Hillsborough County in Paradise NEWS before and I did not wish the year to end without recognizing her passing. She offhandedly rejected numerous offers from commercial developers, even after the neighboring properties became a furniture store and a Chrysler dealer, living modestly and leaving her family’s 15-acre lakefront homestead and irreplaceable100-year-old Florida vernacular home in a trust for posterity. Julia was born on March 21, 1919, in Limona, the daughter of Ruby Davis Moseley and Hallock Moseley. Her love of nature, music, writing, and dedication to preserving the legacy of her family was central to her life. As the granddaughter of Julia Daniels Moseley and Charles Scott Moseley, she dedicated her life to preserving their family homestead, including a wealth of documents, photographs, artwork, artifacts and objects and the land and lakefront setting that makes up the National Register of Historic Places site. Julia was a beloved piano teacher, but she was also outspoken about history and the environment, voicing opposition to the rampant development and loss of habitat she witnessed in Brandon and throughout Florida during her long lifetime. She was an advocate for ecosystem approaches during her life and founded the Timberly Trust to preserve and protect her family land and home site. She celebrated her 101st year of life in March 2020 and passed away in her beloved “Nest” on Aug. 9th, 2020. Her headstone memorial is located at the historic Limona Cemetery beside those of her family. My wife Renee and I gave Julia one of our old Macintosh computers for her correspondence and mailing list maintenance, and two generations of Rooses became her volunteer IT department. Julia Winifred Moseley and Renee joined forces and successfully lobbied together over a number of years to keep Lakewood Drive in Brandon from being widened to five lanes or more as an eastern frontage road to I-75 between Buffalo and Brandon Blvd. They filmed a video and arranged a county commission presentation about it that filled Brandon High School auditorium on a rainy Tuesday evening. That got the message through to the county commissioners, all of whom were in attendance that night, and the following day they voted to ask that Lakewood Drive be removed from the 2010 plan for road widening. We also helped with a brochure about the Nest and the Timberly Trust, as well as with photography for Julia’s book “Come to My Sunland.” Julia edited from letters and writings of her grandmother, Julia Daniels Moseley. USF historian Gary R. Mormino, one of the publisher’s editors for the series, has been eulogizing Julia in the Tampa Bay Times since her passing. To learn more about her preservation legacy, family and to take a virtual tour of the homestead, visit: www.dhhc.lib.usf.edu/moseley/. You can order a copy of “Come To My Sunland” online from University Press. We also have a few brand-new soft cover print editions available for sale at the Paradise NEWS office for $27.50 + $10 sales tax & shipping in the USA. Call 727-363-6888. ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

43


PROPERTY LAW

Travels through Property Law by Tom Brodersen, Esq.

For Sale By Owner commission to someone who doesn’t have to do what it takes to market your home.

Successful Realtors® work extraordinarily hard to assist their clients, from setting a realistic asking price for their home, staging it for sale, taking pictures and/or drone videos, nailing down all the details for the MLS, marketing the property, showing the home and writing offers. And this is a very short partial list, compared to all of the things they are actually responsible for. But sometimes, you already have a buyer, whether it’s a friend, family member or neighbor whom you’ve known for years, who told you just last week/month/year to “be sure to let them know if you ever decide to sell.” So, the marketing is already taken care of, and you just need to write a contract and get it closed. Of course you don’t want to be responsible for paying a substantial

44

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

These are the things that real estate lawyers excel at. That plus counseling you about tax ramifications and many other complications, explaining every stage of the detailed, legally complicated process of buying and selling, helping you negotiate with that friend (without losing the friendship in the process), telling you what to expect as your buyer seeks a mortgage (including the appraisal, inspections and other due diligence), and sharing information with your buyer to protect yourself from allegations of hiding defects, so as to avoid damaging lawsuits in the future. As you go through the process, you start to understand how complicated buying and selling real estate really is, hopefully before you need to, rather than too late afterward. And ideally, with sufficient in-depth knowledge and not just a little bit of “bed-side manner” so that you actually sleep at night while navigating those waters.

The surprising thing is that there is often very little cost involved in providing that assistance and guidance, and you may even save some money over what you would pay a title company to conduct the closing. Title companies do a surprising amount of marketing just to get your business, and ultimately, it’s you who pays that cost. Sometimes, even if you pay Realtors® to market your home and title companies to close the deal, you may still need to hire a lawyer to write leases, seller-mortgages, complicated contract contingencies to protect you, and other documents which are sometimes required, which neither Realtors® nor title companies are licensed or competent to draft. And, SURPRISE! We never charge for initial consultations. ANDERSON & BRODERSEN, P.A., 350 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 (727) 363-6100 www.PropertyLawGroup.com


HAPPY

Holidays from

THE SALAMONE GROUP

We are so honored to be your friends, neighbors, and Realtors. Wishing you the merriest of holiday seasons and the happiest of New Years. – Libby, Ron, Angela, and Andy

THE SALAMONE GROUP

Libby Salamone, Ron Salamone, Angela Mathias, Andrew Salamone

727-456-8093 islandlife@stpete.pro WWW.STPETE.PRO


ART NEWS LocalShops1 is excited to present the 2020 Holiday Gift Guide! The guide, in collaboration with Tampa artist Monica Guerrero, features more than 100 gift ideas from LocalShops1 members. We invite you to sit back and browse through its holiday shopping guide. We’ve compiled a ton of local gift ideas for everyone, including pets, children and of course … yourself! Got the stocking stuffers, too. localshops1.com/blog/ localshops1-holiday-gift-guide-2020

The St. Pete Arts Alliance is hosting its first-ever virtual silent auction benefit: Curate St. Pete Arts Fair. Online bidding begins on Dec. 6 and culminates with a virtual celebration and live auction on Sunday, Dec. 13, at 7pm. CURATE ST. PETE Arts Fair spotlights local artists, providing an online presence for direct sales during the holiday season. Sponsored by Duke Energy, sales will be split to benefit both the artists and the arts alliance. While you’re online check out Curate St. Pete Gallery Tours, which provides access to artists who don’t have the resources to establish and maintain a virtual creative business. For more information see curatestpete.com/art-fair and curatestpete.com/explore. SEASONS SHOPPINGS With an exuberant theme of “Spread JOY” the Morean Arts Center hosts the annual holiday members’ show and sale through the holidays. The festooned galleries at 719 Central Ave. will feature locally made art and gifts that allow visitors to peruse great art while checking off gifts for every age and interest. Collectors can expect to find art by their favorite local creators and enjoy the opportunity to discover amazing new talent too! And remember, Morean Arts Center members save 10% at Morean Galleries and Gift Shops, supporting local artists and saving money too.

46

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

SEASONS SHOWINGS American Stage continues their 2020-21 Reimagine Season with the third show in their Digital Theatre Series, “Nosotros La Gente” (We The People), an American Stage commissioned work by Jerry Montoya. As the country is on the verge of a World War, a pair of brothers toil planting date palms in the fertile soil of the California desert. Salvador dreams of owning land of his own, while Santiago dreams of seeing the world beyond the valley. When Santiago enlists, Salvador vows to care for his brother’s love, Sophie. Heartbroken and alone, the two must find a way to care for the land, for themselves, and each other. This story of America runs through Dec. 20.

REIMAGINE Season Memberships Loyalty Membership Enjoy the full season of REIMAGINE’s productions, with all access to all streaming productions performed live on the group’s Virtual Stage. Receive members-only benefits including dynamic performances featuring new artists each month throughout the season. ($225 or monthly $25) Premiere Membership- Loyalty benefits plus Premiere-members-only opening performances with special artist experiences for each streaming production, and even more access to special shows, events and classes all season long. ($315 or monthly $35) Sustaining Membership- Help theatrical arts and education thrive in our community. ($405 or monthly $45) Learn more about memberships at www.americanstage.org/membership. Asolo Rep rings in the holiday season with We Need a Little Christmas, a holiday concert under the stars, performed at Asolo Rep’s newly constructed Terrace Stage, an open-air venue located in front of its box office at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts. It previews Dec. 17, opens Dec. 18, and runs through Jan. 3. Tickets start at $25 for blanketed seating in the grass, bring your own blanket. Seated tickets start at $40.Tickets go on sale to Asolo Rep subscribers beginning at noon on Nov. 18. Tickets for the general public go on sale beginning at midnight Nov. 21. Tickets are on sale at asolorep.org and are not available at the box office or by phone. You can print tickets at home, have your tickets scanned on your phone, or pick them up at will-call. For more information email Patron Services at patronservices@asolo.org. In the face of COVID-19, Sarasota’s Circus Arts Conservatory has instituted rigorous health and safety protocols to continue to offer classes including Sailor Circus, Junior Sailor Circus, and Aerial Silks. And while seating capacity for the Sailor Circus Arena and Circus Sarasota Big Top has been reduced for social distancing, circus fans around the world can enjoy the


By Caron Schwartz season’s circus shows via video streaming. Tickets are now available, for live and video streaming options, for the full season of shows: ● Sailor Circus holiday show, “Season’s Greetings” (Dec. 26-31) ● Circus Sarasota 2021 (Feb. 12-March 7) ● Sailor Circus spring show “Star Voyage” (April 1-3 and 8-11) ● Cirque des Voix “Circus of the Voices” (April 30-May 2) Livestream tickets for all shows will be for one viewing upon activation for $25/device; prices for live shows vary. For more information or tickets, go to circusarts.org or call 941-355-9335.

Interested creatives must apply for Art Walk and IndieFaire each month at least seven days before the event. Questions? Email artworkshere@visitgulfportflorida.com.

The St. Pete Store & Visitors Center is looking for new artists to showcase in the store! The St. Pete Store is your one-stop St. Pete shop, selling local art, gifts, t-shirts, pottery, photos, postcards, masks, hats, home decor, housewares, pillows, totes, and much, much more. Interested in getting your pieces included in the St. Pete Store or volunteering with us? Email St. Pete Store Manager Shelli Hemans at shemans@stpete.com for more info. Learn how to be a public-art artist during a virtual workshop 1-2:30pm Dec. 17 when the St. Pete Arts Alliance presents a Zoom panel discussion with public-art artists and public-art professionals to discuss how to compete for a public art commission. Topics range from building the artist’s resume and finding the right calls to artists, to writing proposals and collaborating with the right entities to create your project.

Opportunities for artists and makers in Gulfport ... ArtWalk welcomes emerging and professional contemporary craft and fine artists throughout Pinellas. This juried event pairs artists and businesses; until social distancing protocols end, artists will exhibit outdoors. Artists must present artwork professionally. Tents encouraged, though not required. First Friday ArtWalk runs from 5-9pm; load-in begins at 3pm. IndieFaire is a maker’s market featuring high-quality local art, fine crafts, jewelry, and other exceptional items. This curated event features work that best fits the theme of unique, whimsical, and trendy. Every item at IndieFaire must be made by the artist or maker. Tents not required, although encouraged. Third Saturday IndieFaire runs from 5-9pm; setup starts at 3pm.

Panelists:

● Greg Belew - Architect, designer,

consumer of public art in his museum installations ● Leslie Tharp - Blacksmith, creator, installer of public art pieces ● Mark Aeling - Public-art artist with a national reputation ● Cecelia Lueza - Muralist, international artist converting 2D art into 3D public-art installations ● David Ramsey - Member of the St. Petersburg Public Arts Commission, arts supporter Moderator: Wayne Atherholt Register at stpeteartsalliance.wildapricot. org/event-4059291 to receive the Zoom link. Free for Arts Business Partners, $5 nonmembers.

The Warehouse Arts District (WADA) is launching Ignite - Open Studio Sunday and Tuesday evenings and offering the opportunity to join on a monthly or quarterly basis. Painting sessions will be held in the large open space upstairs allowing up to 14 people to safely social distance in their own 6-foot area. Sessions will be overseen by resident artist Nancie Norman, who will provide easels, tables and chairs, inspiration and guidance. To learn more, go to tinyurl.com/y6srpnbx to schedule a call with Nancie. If you are ready to subscribe purchase your subscription online: openstudioattheartsxchange. square.site. When: Sunday & Tuesday evenings; 6-9pm. Where: The Studios at the WADA ArtsXchange Campus, 2nd Floor. 515 22nd Street S, St. Pete Cost: Monthly memberships: $125 for 4 sessions. Quarterly memberships: $300 (includes one extra session/month or three total as space is available). The St. Pete Arts Alliance needs you! For the first time in Aliance history, the organization is asking the public to support its operations. Due to COVID, SPAA has lost $65,000 in event income, including its approved state arts grant for the SHINE Mural Festival that the governor vetoed. It does not have a dedicated income stream, and arts organizations are not eligible for county relief. Despite unprecedented challenges, SPAA has persevered through 2020 intact and remains true to its mission. This is what they’ve accomplished since April: ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

47


ART NEWS ● Established the Arts Relief Fund with Creative Pinellas and the Pinellas Community Foundation and helped to raise $134,000 to grant emergency relief to 207 artists, 21 creative businesses, and 17 creative non-profit businesses. ● Awarded $20,000 in artist community engagement awards and one $5,000 professional development award. ● Raised approximately $15,000 for Funding Futures Awards to enable disadvantaged students to continue their arts education after school or during the summer. ● Raised $16,000 to create Curate St. Pete, a website that features individual marketing videos for 28 studios and galleries designed to help them gain national exposure ● Developed and presented five webinars on how artists can apply for funds or learn how to grow their businesses. The Arts Alliance is the only St. Petersburg non-profit local arts agency that serves our arts and cultural community. All of the above funds raised this year went to the creatives – not one dollar went to administrative needs. SPAA absorbed the cost of salaries, bookkeeping, insurance, e-newsletters, Mailchimp, and other services that enable them to do what they do. Visit stpeteartsalliance.org/donate-2 to help. WUSF Public Media has launched Arts Axis Florida, a free online streaming service that bridges a divide created by COVID-19 precautions. Visitors can stream and enjoy performances from a wide variety of arts genres and cultural destinations in Florida, including classical music, jazz, opera, performance theater, and dance. Presenters include Asolo Rep, Dalí Museum, Key Chorale, The Florida Orchestra, and many more. Go online to artsaxisfl.org and enjoy. Non-profit arts organizations that want a profile page on Arts Axis Florida can learn more at wusf.org/arts-axis-florida.

By Caron Schwartz Join the Dalí and partners from the Bishop Planetarium for a unique stargazing experience and a private viewing of the Van Gogh Alive exhibition. This experience will include the rare opportunity to see the conjunction of the planets Jupiter and Saturn, an opportunity that will not happen again until 2080! The evening will also include opportunities to see other celestial bodies and a talk on the Star of Bethlehem. Dec. 21, 6-8:30pm. Tickets $25 for Museum members, $35 for non-members For tickets: thedali.org/visit/buy-tickets.

The Tampa Museum of Art (TMA) celebrates and honors the richness and complexity of Florida’s cultural tapestry with its newest exhibition, Living Color: The Art of the Highwaymen. On view through March 28, 2021, Living Color brings together 60 paintings featuring the works of the core group of Florida Highwaymen.

Groups of four or more can schedule a private virtual tour, and groups of 10 or more can schedule an in-person tour of Living Color and any exhibition at TMA by visiting TampaMuseum.org/Adult-Tours. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Tampa Bay Chapter recently awarded its highest design award, the H. Dean Rowe FAIA Award for Design Excellence, to ASD SKY and Rogers Partners for the new St. Pete Pier. The jury selected the project for its innovative architectural design, sustainability, commitment to education, and excellence in landscape design. According to the jury, “the design transcends the expectations of a Pier … and is a community asset that has the potential to galvanize the fabric of a community in a strong, social, and equitable way.” No one is traveling at this time, so Syd Entel Galleries and Susan Benjamin Glass in Safety Harbor did the next best thing: on Dec. 5 they open a multi-media glass show with the Borowski family from Poland. Glass work was shipped in from Poland and the Borowski’s will show off a video tour of their studio in Poland and discuss creating their extraordinary glasswork. Check out this multi-generational group of artists and their creativity that cannot be contained on this ODD BIRDS video: vimeo.com/470927672.

These celebrated Black artists depicted the state’s natural environment and rich tones through their unique self-taught painting styles. The Highwaymen produced artwork from the 1950s to the 1980s. Facing racial prejudice, these artists had little or no formal training or access to conventional art markets. To overcome these obstacles, they produced large numbers of works that could be sold at affordable prices, often door-to-door and sometimes from their cars.

“We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” - Maya Angelou 48

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com


Beverly’s Favorite Jewelry

Order early, Special Easy Finance options available, and Free Gift Wrapping!

A Classic Watch The ultimate everyday accessory, the finishing touch that makes any outfit complete. Everyday wardrobe should include a classic timepiece. $510

Ladies Two Tone Watch with diamond dial (pictured in black and champagne)

Cocktail Ring

$7,500

14KW Ruby and Diamond Cocktail Ring

Forget minimalism, the joy of a cocktail ring is that you only need a single piece to make a statement. A no-brainer evening accessory, but are equally decadent in the daytime.

Hoop Earrings Versatile, stylish, everlasting and in-style. A jewelry collection isn’t complete without at least one pair!

$295

14K Polished 2mm Tube Hoop Earrings

A Chain Necklace One of the biggest jewelry trends in recent years is here to stay. Whether you layer them or wear them as a statement piece, chains are timeless and elegant. $2,220

14K Two Tone Polished Chain

A Diamond Bracelet One of the hardest-working pieces in any jewelry collection. Smart for the office and glamorous for black-tie dinners. Adds just the right amount of sparkle to your closet!

$4,200

14KW Tennis Bracelet

Diny’s Jewelers of Florida | 130 107th Ave., Treasure Island, FL 33706 | 727.513.3469 | www.dinysflorida.com

Inside Seating 1-8pm Tuesday-Thursday 1-9pm Friday & Saturday RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED FULL BAR - OUTDOOR DINING Safer, More Intimate Private Booths Curbside Pick-up available 1-8pm Tuesday-Saturday Closed Sunday and Monday, but available for Private Catered Events

727.209.2695 7201 66th St N, Pinellas Park

dasesto.com

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

49


Pass-A-Grille

Treasure the Past 115 10th Avenue, St Pete Beach www.gulfbeachesmuseum.com

727.552.1613

May-Oct: Fri/Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 1-4pm Nov-Apr: Thurs/Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 1-4pm

St Pete Beach

A St. Pete Beach Favorite for 26 years! PASTA • BAKED DISHES • OUTSTANDING SELECTIONS Italian Dinners… Veal - Chicken - Seafood

PIZZA N.Y. style hand tossed or SICILIAN Crust. We start to cook when your order is taken!

REPARED F

EVERYTHING P St Pete Beach

RESH!

Only ONE LOCATION!

2004 Pass-A-Grille Way • 727.360.0563 at 21st Ave. in “H i s t o r i c P a s s - A - G r i l l e ” VISIT... www.GennarosStPeteBeach.com


Arts & Leisure PERFORMING ARTS Amalie Arena 401 Channelside Dr., Tampa 813.301.6500 amaliearena.com American Stage Raymond James Theatre 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg americanstage.org 40th Anniversary Season December 2 – 20 – Nosotros La Gente (We The People) Digital Theatre Series 22 – 27 – “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” Family Series Asolo Repertory Theatre 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 800.361.8388 asolorep.org Online classes

CATEGORIES: Venues are listed, alphabetically within category, in the following sequence of categories. Each listing includes address and web link, if available. Most web links are active when you are online at paradisenewsfl.com. PERFORMING ARTS MUSEUMS ART GALLERIES ART CENTERS & CLASSES HANDS-ON MUSEUMS MUSIC OPERA ECO | ZOOS | AQUARIUMS FERRIES NATURE SERVICE | SOCIAL CLUBS ATHLETIC CLUBS HEALTH TOASTMASTERS THRIFT SHOPS SPIRITUAL MARKETS VOLUNTEER PUBLIC LIBRARIES (Events are subject to change. Please visit website or call to confirm.)

Bilheimer Capitol Theatre 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater 727.791.7400 rutheckerdhall.com/capitol-theatre December 5 – Don McLean 11 – CAL: Fleetwood Mac 17 – CAL: The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band 18 – Rockapella Christmas 20 – Sister’s Christmas Catechism 31 – Anthony Rodia New Year’s Eve January 13 – Leo Kottke 15 – Fleetwood Mac Tribute 16 – Rosanne Cash 20 – CAL: The Who

Zelda Troiano Events & Arts and Leisure Coordinator January 7 – February 28 – Over the River and Through the Woods Eight O’Clock Theatre 105 Central Park Dr., Largo 727.587.6793 eightoclocktheatre.com Francis Wilson Playhouse 302 Seminole St., Clearwater 727.446.1360 franciswilsonplayhouse.org December 11 – Virtual Concert: Christmas on Broadway 31 – Virtual Concert: New Years Eve Live Party Event freeFall Theatre Company 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.498.5205 freefalltheatre.com December 1 – 6 – War of the Worlds 11 – 24 – A Christmas Carol in Concert Glenridge Performing Arts Center 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota 941.552.5325 gpactix.com Gulfport Community Players Back Door Theater 1619 49th St. S, Gulfport gulfportcommunityplayers.org

Bininger Theater Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727.867.1166 eckerd.edu/theatre

Jannus Live 200 1st Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727.565.0550 jannuslive.com December 5 – Tropidelic and Kas’d Out Plus Bonzai 10 – Dark Star Orchestra 12 – Smith & Myers 17 – Uncle John’s Band 18 – Steel Panther w/Black Stone Cherry 19 – Local Live Fest 31 – JJ Grey & Mofro

Catherine Hickman Theater 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport 727.893.1070 mygulfport.us

M.A.D. Theatre of Tampa (Music Acting Dance Theatre of Tampa) 813.386.6173 madtheatre.com

Central Park Performing Arts Center 105 Central Park Dr., Largo 727.587.6793 largoarts.com December 10 – Christmas with the Celts 12 – Santa’s Holiday Revue 16 – Holidays with the Stars 17 – A Million Dollar Christmas 19, 20 – Elf the Musical, Jr. January 8 – Broadway Songs of Hope 16 – Chris Hillman

Manatee Performing Arts Center 502 3rd Ave., Bradenton manateeperformingartscenter.com December 3 – 20 – Winter Wonderettes January 14 – 31 – Nunsense

Early Bird Dinner Theater 13355 49th St. N, Clearwater 727.466.5998 earlybirddinnertheater.com/site

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre Florida State Fairgrounds 4802 US Hwy. 301 N Tampa 813.740.2446 midflorida.com/amphitheatre

National Theatre Live Eckerd College Miller Auditorium 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg Performances in HD eckerd.edu/olli/theatre Patel Conservatory 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa Dance / Theater / Music / Adult Classes 813.222.1002 patelconservatory.org December 8 – Holiday Music Stroll 11 – 23 – Next Generation Ballet’s Nutcracker Outdoor Wonderland January 15, 16 – Side by Side by Sondheim Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center 4951 78th Ave. N, Pinellas Park 727.369.5746 pinellas-park.com/161/ Performing-Arts-Center December 19 – Carpenters Tribute January 4 – Elvis Tribute 11 – CCR/John Fogerty Tribute Ruth Eckerd Hall 1111 N McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater 727.791.7400 rutheckerdhall.com December 7 – Geoff Tate 9 – 38 Special 10 – Styx 12 – Travis Tritt 13 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy 20 – Michael W. Smith Christmas 30 – Collective Soul 30 – 112 Years of Broadway January 3 – 112 Years of Broadway 3 – The Price is Right Live! 8 – Air Supply 15 – Jay Leno 15 – The Mavericks St. Petersburg City Theatre 4025 31st St. S, St. Petersburg 727.866.1973 spcitytheatre.org Oldest, continuously operating community theater in Florida since 1925 December 4 – 13 – Christmas Carol 2.0 January 8 – 10 – Love, Loss and What I Wore 30 – Youth Intensive Theater Workshop Showcase Stageworks Theater 1120 E Kennedy Blvd., West Bldg., #151, Tampa 813.374.2416 stageworkstheatre.org

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

51


Events Sign up to receive upcoming event e-news online at ParadiseNewsFL.com • Like us on facebook.com/ParadiseNews

Red titles denote Paradise News recommendations.

ON-GOING EVENTS Through December 31 – Operation: Art of Valor 10am –5pm Monday – Saturday/noon–5pm Sunday, Members free/ $13 – $20 nonmembers, Chihuly Collection, 720 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. An exhibition of art created by Veterans. features both works of glass art and photography. 727.822.7872 ext 5102 moreanartscenter.org Through Sunday, January 3 – Diego & Frida: A Visual History 11am–6pm Wednesday through Sunday, $8 – $25, The Dalí Museum, One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. Featuring over 60 reproductions of rare historical photographs, this exhibition offers a personal look into the rich and harrowing 25-year relationship of one of the most fascinating couples in art history – Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. 727.823.3767 thedali.org Through Sunday, March 28 – Living Color: The Art of the Highwaymen 10am–5pm Monday, Tuesday Wednesday, Friday/10am–8pm Thursday/10am –5pm Saturday & Sunday, $5/$10, Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. Sixty paintings from five outstanding private collections, featuring the works of the core group of Florida Highwaymen. 813.259.1720 tampamuseum.org Through Sunday, April 4 – From Chaos to Order Noon–5pm Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday/noon–8pm Thursday, Friday/ 10am–5pm Saturday, $10 – $20, Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. The first exhibition to focus on the aesthetics of Greek Geometric art, and the first to demonstrate how stylistic principles in visual art during the Geometric period reflect a characteristically Greek idea of “the beautiful” (kallos). 727.894.4638 mfastpete.org

Arts & Leisure Straz Center 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813.229.7827 strazcenter.org December 5 – Vanessa Williams in Concert 8 – Holiday Music Stroll 11 – 23 – Next Generation Ballet’s Nutcracker Outdoor Wonderland 13 – Jagged Little Pill Livestream 18 – 20 – Opera Tampa’s Home for the Holidays January 15, 16 – Side by Side Sondheim 15 – February 7 – Henry V Tarpon Springs Cultural Art 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 The Coliseum 535 4th Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727.892.5715 stpete.org/coliseum The Mahaffey Theater 400 1st St. S, St. Petersburg 727.300.2000 themahaffey.com December 5, 6 – TFO: Tchaikovsky & Vivaldi for Strings 5, 6 – TFO: American Heroes 11 – 13 – TFO: Holiday Pops 15 – The Chick Corea Akoustic Band 16 – 99.5 QYK’s Country Christmas Concert 16, 17, 20 – Classical Christmas 18 – Glow Table Dinner 18 – The No Apologies Comedy Tour 19 – St. Petersburg Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker 19 – Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker The Palladium 253 5th Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727.822.3590 mypalladium.org USF Yuengling Center 4202 E Fowler Ave., Tampa 813.974.3004 yuenglingcenter.com

Through Sunday, April 11 – Van Gogh Alive 11am–6pm Wednesday through Sunday, $8 – $25, The Dalí Museum, One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. Experience Vincent van Gogh’s works in an immersive art installation that opens a new window into the celebrated painter’s artistic genius. From his famous “Starry Night” to his radiant “Sunflowers,” Van Gogh’s vibrant work invites viewers to revel in color, light and sound. Visitors will feel the sensation of walking right into Van Gogh’s paintings – an experience that is both educational and inspiring. Advanced tickets are required. 727.823.3767 thedali.org

52

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Van Wezel 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.953.3368 vanwezel.org December 3 – Jim Brickman: Comfort & Joy at Home 5 – Darlene Love Streaming Concert 11, 12 – Cabaret By the Bay: Whitney James 12 – Dave Koz & Friends Virtual Concert 13 – Jagged Live in NYC: A Broadway Reunion Concert 19 – Moscow Ballet’s Nutcracker

Christmas Stream 20 – Celtic Thunder: Christmas 27 – January 3 – Salute to Vienna and Budapest 31 – A Killer Party: The Movie January 17 – Roald Dahl’s Charle and the Chocolate Factory 20 – Kathleen Turner West Coast Players 21905 US 19 N, Clearwater 727.437.2363 wp2.wcplayers.org

MUSEUMS Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum 2240 9th Ave. S, St. Petersburg One City Chorus – Mondays 7pm woodsonmuseum.org Visit us online! Florida Holocaust Museum 55 5th St. S, St. Petersburg 727.820.0100 flholocaustmuseum.org Outdoor Exhibition – Beautiful Questions: The Art of Samuel Bak Florida Museum of Photographic Arts 400 N Ashley Dr., Tampa 813.221.2222 fmopa.org Gulf Beaches Historical Museum 115 10th Ave., St. Pete Beach 727.552.1610 gulfbeachesmuseum.com Only museum dedicated to the preservation of history of the local barrier islands. Preserving island history for tomorrow’s generation! Gulfport History Museum 5301 28th Ave. S, Gulfport Free Admission 727.201.8687 gulfporthistoricalsociety.org Henry Plant Museum 401 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa 813.254.1891 plantmuseum.com December 19 – The Original Gulfport Walking Tour January 16 – The Original Gulfport Walking Tour Heritage Museum 100 Beekman Ln., Tarpon Springs tarponarts.org History and culture of the Greek community December 5 – 19 – Sorry! Wrong Chimney! Imagine Museum 1901 Central Ave., St. Petersburg imaginemuseum.com Contemporary American Studio Glass Thursdays $5 after 5pm


John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota 941.359.5700 ringling.org Mondays: Free admission all day Thursday – Art After 5 Tuesday & Thursday– ROAR! – Ringling Order of Art Readers December 3 – Holiday Splendor Drive-Through Experience 14 – Acoustic Sunsets 15 – January 24 – Syd Solomon: Concealed and Revealed Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art 600 E Klosterman Rd., Tarpon Springs 727.712.5762 leeparattner.org Museum of Fine Arts 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg 727.894.4638 mfastpete.org Thursdays $10 after 5pm Museum Minis, Explore More! Family Days, Fall Camps Through February 28 – Explore the Vaults: Abstraction and the American Scene Through April 4 – From Chaos to Order December 9 – Coffee Talks w/Nan Colton: Let it Snow 19 – March 14 – Color Riot! National Comedy Hall of Fame Museum 2435 U.S. 19, Holiday 727.944.4453 nationalcomedyhalloffame.com Safford House Museum 23 Parkin Ct., Tarpon Springs Restored Victorian home built in 1883 tarponarts.org Through January 6 – Victorian Christmas Stroll St. Petersburg Museum of History 335 2nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg 727.894.1052 spmoh.com Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 3301 Gateway Centre, Pinellas Park Unique collection of vintage cars and vehicles. 727.579.8226 tbauto.org Tampa Bay History Center 801 Old Water St., Tampa 813.228.0097 tampabayhistorycenter.org Through December 16 – Sunshine State Showdown: Pro Wrestling in Tampa Bay December 9 – Florida Conversations: Millard Fillmore Caldwell: Governing on the Wrong Side of History (online) Tampa Museum of Art 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 813.259.1720 tampamuseum.org Through January 9, 2022 – HerStory Through March 28 – Living Color: The Art of the Highwaymen

Thursdays 4–8pm – pay-as-you-will admission December 6 – Virtual Antiquities Circle Lecture January 9 – CITY: Fashion + Art + Culture Tarpon Springs Railroad Depot Historical Museum 160 E Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs Free admission 727.943.4624 tarponspringsareahistoricalsociety.org The Dalí Museum One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg 727.823.3767 thedali.org Thursdays and Fridays reduced admission after 5pm Through January 3 – Diego & Frida: A Visual History Through April 11 – Van Gogh Alive December 3 – Amazon Prime Watch Party: Vincent & Theo January 7 – Amazon Prime Watch Party: Vincent & Theo The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.892.4200 jamesmuseum.org Tuesdays $10 All day Through January 31, 2021 – Blake Little: Photographs from the Gay Rodeo December 3 – Selections from the Frontier Gallery 12 – Art in Motion Sculptures 12 – Chalk Landscapes 12 – Floating Horses: The Live of Casey Tibbs 16 – Art Look & Book 17 – Barbed Wire: The Fence that Changed the West January 21 – Empire of the Summer Moon USF Contemporary Art Museum Institute for Research in Art 4202 E Fowler Ave., Tampa ira.usf.edu Visit us online! USF Graphicstudio 3702 Spectrum Blvd., Ste 100, Tampa Free admission 813.974.3503 graphicstudio.usf.edu/GS/gs_about.html Visit us online!

ART GALLERIES Art Fusion Galleries 106 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.827.7195 artfusiongalleries.com ARTicles Art Gallery & Custom Framing 1445 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.898.6061 articlesstpete.com Second Saturday ArtWalk

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

53


Events EVENTS CALENDAR Through Friday, December 11 – Virtual Black-Tie Gala Celebrate safely and help raise funds to support PARC. Select a time and date that fits your schedule and just snuggle up in your favorite loungewear or go all glam in full black-tie attire. It’s your choice. parc-fl.org/black-tie-gala Through Sunday, December 20 – Arts Annual Exhibition Noon–5pm Wednesday through Sunday, The Gallery at Creative Pinellas, 12211 Walsingham Rd., Largo. Features the artwork of two dozen artists, from innovative up and coming creators to internationally recognized mid-career artists. Visitors to the gallery will be able to view and purchase the art in person in a safe and socially distant manner. creativepinellas.org

ARTS FAIR VIRTUAL TOUR

Sunday, December 6 through Sunday, December 13 – Curate St. Pete Arts Fair A holiday virtual silent auction. Spotlights artists and their work, providing them an online presence for direct sales during the holiday season. Sponsored by Duke Energy, the art sales will be split to benefit both the artists and St. Petersburg Arts Alliance. curatestpete.com/art-fair

Saturday, December 12 – Gift and Plant Sale 10am–4pm, Suggested donation $5 per person, Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo. An assortment of plants from herbs to fruit trees. The Botanical Bounty gift shop and more than 45 vendors with a variety of items perfect for gift giving. 727.582.2100 flbg.org Saturday, December 12 – Second Saturday ArtWalk The studios and galleries of the Central Arts District, EDGE District, Grand Central District, Warehouse Arts District and downtown Waterfront Arts District will welcome visitors. Each venue will set their own Saturday hours. COVID guidelines will be in place at each individual venue. The ArtWalk trolleys will NOT be running due to not having enough space for social distancing. stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk Monday, December 14 – Acoustic Sunsets 5pm, $18 Members/$20 Nonmembers, John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota. This socially distanced event on the Ca’ d’Zan Terrace will feature live music with food and drink for purchase. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. 941.359.5700 ringling.org Thursday, December 17 – Barbed Wire: The Fence That Changed the West (Virtual Program) 11am–12:30pm, Free, The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Before the mid-1800s, Native Americans and cattlemen depended on the wide-open range, but homesteaders needed a way to protect their crops. Barbed wire became the solution, leading to changes that shaped the West as we know it. 727.892.4200 jamesmuseum.org Saturday, December 19 – Paddle Lake Maggiore 9–11:30am, $25, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg. Here’s your chance to see Lake Maggiore up close! Paddle with an experienced naturalist-guide and see all the living beauty of the preserve from an entirely different perspective than you are used to! Appropriate for beginners to experienced paddlers. All boats and equipment provided. 727.893.7326 stpeteparksrec.org/boydhillpreserve

54

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Arts & Leisure ARTpool Gallery 2030 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.324.3878 artpoolrules.com Visit us online! Brenda McMahon Gallery 2901 Beach Blvd. S #104 Gulfport 518.692.7742 brendamcmahongallery.com Local & regional artists Gourmet Wednesdays

Crossroads Gallery St. Pete College – Clearwater 2465 Drew St., Clearwater spcollege.edu/friends-partners/ community-resources D-Gallerie The Sundial, 153 2nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg 407.921.3608 d-gallerie.com

Bula Barua 212 Second St. N, St. Petersburg 727.900.1063 bulagallery.com

Domain Home Accessories & Gallery 3129 Beach Blvd. S, Gulfport Local and Florida artisans featured 727.302.9299

Chasen Galleries 1830 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota 941.260.5787 chasengalleries.com/sarasota

Duncan McClellan Gallery 2342 Emerson Ave. S, St. Petersburg 813.760.6600 dmglass.com Second Saturday ArtWalk

Chihuly Collection 720 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.822.7872 ext 5102 moreanartscenter.org First permanent collection of Dale Chihuly’s work Through December 31 – Operation: Art of Valor

Dunedin Fine Art Center 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin 727.298.3322 dfac.org More than 100 classes offered Scholarships available Through December 23 – Mighty Fine! Holiday Show and Sale

Clyde Butcher Galleries Venice Gallery & Studio 237 Warfield Ave. S, Venice 941.486.0811 Big Cypress Gallery 52388 Tamiami Trail Ochopee 239.695.2428 clydebutcher.com/galleries Cobb Gallery Eckerd College, Library Cir. St. Petersburg 800.454.9009 eckerd.edu/visualarts/program Collectors Exchange 2939 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.440.9643 facebook.com/collectorsexchangedtsp Second Saturday ArtWalk Craftsman House 2955 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.323.2787 craftsmanhousegallery.com Gallery-Café-Pottery Studio Second Saturday ArtWalk December 4 – Cliff Eberhardt Live Stream 12 – 18th Anniversary Celebration January 19 – Tom Russell Creative Clay Cultural Arts Center 1846 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727.825.0515 creativeclay.org Second Saturday ArtWalk

Ekeko Gallery 290 Dr Martin Luther King Jr St. N, St. Petersburg 727.685.5577 facebook.com/EkekoGallery-370989486676862 Florida CraftArt Gallery 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.821.7391 floridacraftart.org Second Saturday ArtWalk Mural Walk on Saturdays Through December 31 – Holiday Boutique December 5 – CraftArt Festival Grand Central Fine Art 3920 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.289.2089 facebook.com/grandcentralfineart Gulf Coast Artists Alliance 727.738.8010 gcaa-fl.org Two Locations in St. Petersburg St. Pete Artworks / Avenue 5 Studios Leslie Curran Gallery 1431 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.898.6061 facebook.com/ lesliecurrangallery Second Saturday ArtWalk Red Cloud Indian Arts 214 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg 727.821.5824 redcloudindianarts.com Ringling College of Art & Design 2700 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.359.7563 ringling.edu


Stirling Studios & Art Gallery 730 Broadway (2nd Floor) Studio 12 Dunedin 727.366.6477 facebook.com/StirlingArtDunedin Syd Entel Galleries 27 Main St., Safety Harbor 727.725.1808 sydentelgalleries.com December 14 – Meet the Artist: Borowski The Art Lofts Florida Craftsmen Galleries (2nd floor) 10 5th St. N, St. Petersburg 727.504.8788 theartlofts.com Second Saturday ArtWalk The Gallery at Creative Pinellas 12211 Walsingham Rd., Largo thegalleryatcreativepinellas.org The Studio@620 620 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727.895.6620 thestudioat620.org December 11, 12 –Happy New Year 18 – DanceBreak Session 7: Closing Year Reflection Online events

ART CENTERS & CLASSES Beach Art Center 1515 Bay Palm Blvd., Indian Rocks Bch. 727.596.4331 beachartcenter.org Heart of Pinellas Decorative Artists (HPDA) 2nd Saturday except December Faith Community Church, 1501 Walker Ave. N, Seminole. Local chapter of National Society of Decorative Painters 727.244.4321 hpdafl.com Painters of all levels are welcome Morean Arts Center 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727.822.7872 moreanartscenter.org Glass Studio & Hot Shop, Classes and Galleries Free Saturdays @ The Morean for Families Second Saturday ArtWalk Through December 26 – Annual Holiday Show: Spread Joy! Morean Center for Clay 420 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg 727.821.7162 moreanartscenter.org Fridays – Friday Night Clay Free Sundays @ The Morean for Families 1–2pm and 2–3pm Second Saturday ArtWalk December 5 – Meet the Makers: A Joyful Outdoor Celebration Pinellas Park Art Society Park Station Building 5851 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park 727.360.4406 pinellasart.org

Safety Harbor Art & Music Center 706 2nd St. N, Safety Harbor 727.725.4018 safetyharborartandmusiccenter.com December 18 – The Currys Society of Acrylic Painters Membership info / exhibit entry: 2808 Clinton St. S, Gulfport isap-online.com Studio Duvoe 727.271.5016 studioduvoe@yahoo.com facebook.com/gulfportart Creative play sessions and art parties for neurotypical and neurodiverse (Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.) children and adults SunTan Art Center at Don Vista Arts Center 3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 727.367.3818 facebook.com/suntanartcenter Celebrating 50+ Years Classes have resumed Town Shores Art Guild 3210 59th St. S, Gulfport townshoresart@gmail.com townshoresartguild.com Open to residents of Town Shores Treasure Island Art Guild treasureislandartguild.org Gallery Closed June, July, August Painting Workshops held weekly Wednesday – Anything Goes Thursday – Acrylic Painting Friday – Portrait Workshop – live model Veterans Art Center 6798 Crosswinds Dr. N, St. Petersburg 813.504.3092 vactb.org Provides opportunities for military and veterans to develop and showcase creative and artistic accomplishments Zen Glass Studio 600 27th St. S, St. Petersburg 727.323.3141 zenglass.com Offers glassblowing classes & workshops. Second Saturday ArtWalk St. Pete’s Warehouse Arts District

HANDS-ON MUSEUMS Glazer Children’s Museum 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa glazermuseum.org Created specifically for children 10 and under Through January 3 – Castle Builder Great Explorations Children’s Museum 1925 4th St. N, St. Petersburg 727.821.8992 greatex.org Where education and fun come alive First Sunday of month open special hours for special needs families. Limited hours ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

55


Events Saturday, December 19 – Third Saturday IndieFaire 5–9pm, Free, Beach Blvd., Gulfport. Features high quality local art and contemporary crafts from across a wide range of mediums, as well as jewelry and locally sourced botanicals in an outdoor and socially distanced manner along scenic Beach Boulevard. visitgulfportflorida.com Saturday, December 19 through Sunday, March 14 – Color Riot! Noon–5pm Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday/noon–8pm Thursday, Friday/ 10am–5pm Saturday, $10 –$20, Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. This exhibition celebrates the individualism and flair for experimentation in Navajo textiles from the last quarter of the 19th century. Features over 80 dazzling works. 727.894.4638 mfastpete.org Friday, January 1 – Gulfport First Friday Walk 5–8pm, Free, Beach Blvd., Gulfport. A juried event that welcomes emerging and professional artists in all media. The streets are lined with artisans, entertainment and gourmet goodies. Free live music. visitgulfportflorida.com

@CITY.FashionArtCulture

Saturday, January 9 – CITY: Fashion + Art + Culture 8–11pm, $125 – $275, Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. Experience the vibrant celebration of fashion, art, and culture. Watch the Museum transform into an energetic runway filled with fashions by internationally renowned designer Bibhu Mohapatra. All tickets include hors d’oeuvres, open bar, desserts, dancing, and valet parking. This event is 21+ only. 813.259.1720 tampamuseum.org

Saturday, January 9 – Second Saturday ArtWalk The studios and galleries of the Central Arts District, EDGE District, Grand Central District, Warehouse Arts District and downtown Waterfront Arts District will welcome visitors. Each venue will set their own Saturday hours. COVID guidelines will be in place at each individual venue. The ArtWalk trolleys will NOT be running due to not having enough space for social distancing. stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk Tuesday, January 12 – Florida Birds Through the Seasons (Zoom) 2pm, Free, Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Join host ecologist Brian Magnier for a presentation on what birds to expect in Florida in different seasons, as well as bird migration and navigation. 727.453.6500 weedonislandpreserve.org

Arts & Leisure Heritage Village 11909 125th St. N, Largo 727.582.2123 pinellascounty.org/heritage Free 21-acre living history museum Manatee Village Historical Park 1404 Manatee Ave. E (SR 64), Bradenton manateevillage.org Free open-air history museum Open by appointment MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry) 4801 E Fowler Ave., Tampa 813.987.6000 mosi.org Children’s science center Saunders Planetarium December 19 – Skywatch

MUSIC Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association Monday Virtual Night Jazz Hour 6–7pm aldowningjazz.com Clearwater Jazz Holiday Coachman Park 301 Drew St., Clearwater clearwaterjazz.com New Horizons of Gulfport, Inc. Gulfport Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport, Novice and intermediate bands mrjoemurphy@yahoo.com 727.656.1469 newhorizonsbandgulfport.org School of Rock St. Petersburg 2401 Central Ave., St. Petersburg Guitar, drum, singing, keyboard/piano lessons 727.871.7625 locations. schoolofrock.com/stpetersburg South Pasadena Community Band All-volunteer band 727.515.5407 southpasadenaband.com St. Petersburg College Gibbs Campus Music Center, 6605 Fifth Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727.341.4360 spcollege.edu/events

Friday, January 15 – Jay Leno 8pm, $40 – $99, Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 N McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater. Named America’s Favorite TV Personality in the 2009 Harris Poll, Leno is best known as America’s late-night leader for nearly three decades. 727.791.7400 rutheckerdhall.com

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” -Nelson Mandela 56

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Suncoast Jazz Society Wednesdays 6:30–9pm, Bilmar Beach Resort, 10650 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island 727.360.5531 sdjs.org Tampa Bay Symphony Performances in various locations 727.827.8087 tampabaysymphony.org The Florida Orchestra See venues for dates – Mahaffey Theater, Ruth Eckerd Hall & David Straz Performing Arts Center

50th Anniversary Season 727.662.7286 floridaorchestra.org December 5 – Tchaikovsky & Vivaldi for Strings – Free Live Stream 20 – Classical Christmas – Free Live Stream TomKats Jazz Orchestra tomkatsjazzorchestra.com

OPERA Florida Opera Festival Straz Center for the Performing Arts 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa operatampa.org Metropolitan Opera: HD Live Eckerd College, Miller Auditorium 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg Live high-definition broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera 727.864.7600 eckerd.edu/olli/opera St. Petersburg Opera Company 2145 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727.823.2040 stpeteopera.org Mornings, Afternoons, Evenings and Cocktails with the Maestro Various performance locations December 4 – Artist Recital Series: Jesse Donner 13 – Holiday Sparkle 18 – Artist Recital Series: Danielle Talamantes Sarasota Opera House 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota 941.328.1300 sarasotaopera.org December 6 – Macbeth – Opera Film 20 – The Nutcracker – Ballet Film St. Petersburg Opera Guild stpeteoperaguild.org The Matinee Opera Players 64th Way, Pinellas Park facebook.com/MatineeOperaPlayers The Pinellas Opera League Socialize and be entertained First Wednesday each month October – June pinellasoperaleague@gmail.com pinellasoperaleague.com

ECO | ZOOS | AQUARIUMS Alligator Attraction John’s Pass Village 12973 Village Blvd. A-D Madeira Beach 727.329.8751 kissagator.com Explore, learn & kiss a gator


Boyd Hill Nature Preserve 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg 727.893.7326 stpeteparksrec.org/boydhillpreserve Tram Tours Saturdays, Guided Tours, Classes December 5 – Bird Walk 12 – Kayak Clam Bayou 12 – Healthy St. Pete’s Trail Fun Run 12 – Pioneer Night 19 – Pioneer Night 19 – Paddle Lake Maggiore

Wall Springs Park 3725 De Soto Blvd., Palm Harbor pinellascounty.org/park/ 21_wall_springs.htm

Brooker Creek Preserve 3940 Keystone Rd., Tarpon Springs 727.453.6800 brookercreekpreserve.org Tram Tours Saturdays

ZooTampa at Lowry Park 1101 W Sligh Ave., Tampa One mile west of I-275 (exit 48) 813.935.8552 zootampa.org Through December 30 – Christmas in the Wild December 6, 13 – Sundays with Santa

Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater 727.441.1790 seewinter.com Rescue, Rehab and Release Home of Winter and Hope, stars of Dolphin Tale I & II Florida Aquarium 701 Channelside Dr., Tampa 813.273.4000 flaquarium.org Voted Second Best Aquarium in the United States by USA Today Readers’ Choice 2019 Fort De Soto Park 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde 727.552.1862 pinellascounty.org/park Mote Aquarium 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota 941.388.4441 mote.org Science, Education, Aquarium December 3 – Black in Marine Science Empowerment Panel St. Petersburg Audubon Society St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club 559 Mirror Lake Dr. N, St. Petersburg 727.753.9731 stpeteaudubon.org 101+ Years Conservation Meets 3rd Tuesday of each month December 15 – Online Speaker Series – How Shorebirds Saved the Horseshoe Crab January 9 – Field Trip – Walls Spring Park 19 – Online Speaker Series – Diamondback Terrapins St. Petersburg Shell Club Seminole Recreation Center, 9100 113th St. N, Seminole 727.867.6861 stpeteshellclub.org 1st Friday September thru May, 7pm Seaside Seabird Sanctuary 18328 Gulf Blvd, Indian Shores 727.391.6211 seasideseabirdsanctuary.org Free. Donations accepted. Tours.

Weedon Island Preserve 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Petersburg 727.453.6500 weedonislandpreserve.org December 12 – Diamondback Terrapins (Zoom) January 12 – Florida Birds Through the Seasons (Zwoom)

FERRIES Crossbay Ferry Connecting Downtown Tampa Aquarium Wharf to Downtown St. Petersburg Vinoy Basin Wednesday through Sunday November through April 727.273.5932 thecrossbayferry.com Egmont Key Ferry Fort De Soto Bay Pier $12.50 Children/$25 Adults 727.398.6577 tampabayferry.com Pirate Water Taxi Hop On, Hop Off, 15 stops along the Hillsborough River and Tampa Riverwalk. Prices vary. 813.390.3711 piratewatertaxi.com December 4 – 30 – River of Lights Cruises 19 – Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Cruise 31 – New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise Shell Key Ferry Fort De Soto Boat Ramp $10 Children/$20 Adults 727.398.6577 tampabayferry.com

Marsha Houck MA 40105 & www.2RedsMuscleMechanics.com MM 37417

Could Medical Massage Improve Your Life? • Hurts So Good Massage • Lymphatic Drainage • Reflexology • Assisted Stretch • Aromatherapy • Bamboo Fusion • Geriatric • Pre and Post Natal Massage • Ear Candling • Oncology

Email Marsha@2redsmusclemechanics.com or call

For Peace of Mind stop potential leaks at your door. For maintenance & Trouble-FREE leak prevention call... Leak Defense Systems USA

727-278-1175

A plumbing leak here...

...can spell disaster herre,

and every floor in be etween.

Installing the Lea ak Defense System can help p prevent damage from plumbing leaks.

Darrell Peters • LEAK DEFENSE SYSTEMS USA. LeakDefenseSystemUSA@gmail.com

Phone / Text 727.278.6106

Campas Cleaning, Inc. PROFESSIONAL WINDOW WASHING S ERVICE

727.481.1605 Licensed • Insured • Since 1989 Call for… FREE ESTI MATE

“BEST PRIC E$ I N TOWN”

NATURE Florida Botanical Gardens 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo Free. Friendly dogs welcome on leash. Open daily. Welcome Center is closed weekends & county holidays. 727.582.2100 flbg.org December 12 – Gift and Plant Sale Florida West Coast Orchid Society Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo 2nd Thurs, 7:30pm. Visitors welcome. Educational classes 727.420.7230 fwcos.org

Find out about the Competitive Rates and Special Benefits available through our agency for all your insurance needs! Ready to learn more? Contact our agency now! $$$ SEE HOW MUCH YOU COULD SAVE $$$ Call today for your FREE, no obligation quote. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

HOME • FLOOD • AUTO BUSINESS • COMMERCIAL

Independent Insurance Services

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

57


HOLIDAY EVENTS Red titles denote Paradise News recommendations. Through Sunday, December 13 – Christmas Carol 2.0! 7:30pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday/2pm Sunday, $10-$28, St. Petersburg City Theatre, 4025 31st St. S, St. Petersburg. In one night, Ebenezer Scrooge sees his past, present & future come to haunt him & discovers the true meaning of Christmas. A host of beloved characters come to life on stage in this spectacular annual production. 727.866.1973 spcitytheatre.org Through Saturday, December 19 – Sorry! Wrong Chimney! 7pm Fridays/2pm & 7pm Saturdays/2pm Sundays, $17 Members/$20 Nonmembers, Heritage Museum, 100 Beekman Ln., Tarpon Springs. Suspicions, hypnotism gone wrong, the notorious Santa burglar Kris Kreigle and his gun-toting fiancée, and a confused police officer all add up in a rollicking tale that is hilarious Christmas entertainment. tarponarts.org Through Wednesday, December 23 – Mighty Fine! Holiday Show and Sale 10am –5pm Monday – Friday, Free, Dunedin Fine Art Center, 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin. A collection of works from around the region that any of your friends or relatives would be DELIGHTED to find under their tree. 727.298.3322 dfac.org Through Saturday, December 26 – Annual Holiday Show: Spread Joy! 10am–5pm Monday– Saturday/noon–5pm Sunday, Free admission, Morean Arts Center, 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Features one-of-a-kind art, functional art, wearable art, hands-on art-making experiences and artful delights for every taste and budget. Explore the galleries and shop showcases. Select from glass art, clay, paintings, prints, fabric art, photography, fabric arts and more. 727.822.7872 moreanartscenter.org Through December 30 – Christmas in the Wild 4–10pm, $26.95 – $29.95, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, 1101 W Sligh Ave., Tampa. Families looking for safe holiday fun will be immersed into an outdoor seasonal adventure featuring twinkling lights, delectable holiday treats, and new jolly adventures. Select evenings. 813.935.8552 zootampa.org Through Thursday, December 31 – Holiday Boutique 2020 Florida CraftArt Gallery, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. The exhibition gallery presents handcrafted art and holiday themed pieces from artists throughout Florida. From gifts to Holiday decor by Florida talented artists, you’ll get a start to make the days magical. 727.821.7391 floridacraftart.org Through Thursday, December 31 – Victorian Christmas Stroll 10am–5pm, $8 – $16, Henry Plant Museum, 401 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. Experience the extravagance and grandeur of a Victorian Christmas at the former 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel. 813.254.1891 plantmuseum.com Through January 3 – Holiday Lights in Largo Central Park 5–10pm, Free, Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Dr., Largo. Stroll through Largo Central Park and escape into the show-stopping light display featuring over a million twinkling LED lights. Ferris Wheel & Jumbo Amusement Rides. $5 per ride. playlargo.com/special_events.php Through Wednesday, January 6 – Victorian Christmas Stroll 11am –3pm Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, $3/$5, Safford House Museum, 23 Parkin Ct., Tarpon Springs. Experience a traditional Victorian Christmas celebration at the historic Safford House, built in 1883 and beautifully decorated for the holidays. Masks are required and group size is limited. tarponarts.org Friday, December 4 through Monday, December 30 – River of Lights Holiday Cruises 6:20/7:20/8:20/9:20pm on select nights, $20 – $28, Tampa Convention Center (Pirate Water Taxi Home Dock: Stop #7), 333 S Franklin St, Tampa. View festive decorations, lighted bridges and other surprises along the Hillsborough River. This family-friendly event will include a visit by a jolly pirate elf, Christmas song sing-a-longs, and a chance to see snow flurries in Florida. Every child will have an opportunity to write a letter to Santa and drop it off in Tampa’s only floating mailbox. piratewatertaxi.com

58

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Arts & Leisure Garden Club of St. Petersburg 500 Sunset Dr. S, St. Petersburg 727.381.8920 gardenclubstpetersburg.org Ikebana International St. Petersburg Chapter 65 Chapel on the Hill Church – Evans Hall, 12601 Park Blvd., Seminole 3rd Monday, 10am–2pm, September to May. Ikebana – centuries-old art of Japanese floral arranging. 727.580.5470 ikebanastpetersburg.com December 5 – Demonstration from the 18th North & Central American Region Conference on Zoom 14 – How to Photograph Ikebana January 16 – Demonstration from the 18th North & Central American Region Conference on Zoom Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 1534 Mound St., Sarasota 941.366.5731 selby.org December 7 – Butterfly Workshop 9 – The Orchid Show – A Brief History of Botanical Art (Virtual Lecture) 9 – Virtual Floral Design 10 – Living Holiday Wreath 12 – January 2 – Lights in Bloom Sunken Gardens 1825 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg Adult and Child Horticultural Workshops 727.892.5715 sunkengardens.org December 6 – Veggie Gardening in Florida: Talk and Plant Sale

SERVICE | SOCIAL CLUBS FUN!! 2nd Saturday October thru April 9am–noon, Pasadena Community Church 227 70th St. S, St. Petersburg Sing songs you love Ages middle school on up bobd@pccumc.org Gulfport Lions Club Community Civic Organization 2nd and 4th Tuesdays 6pm Gulfport Lions Clubhouse 4630 Tifton Dr. S, Gulfport 727.871.1482 tbirdrob@yahoo.com Isle of Palms Civic Association Community Civic Organization 4th Tuesday 6pm Dinner/Mixer Treasure Island Community Center Shelly Ritchie 860.480.3035 iopca.org

Rotary Club of Gulf Beaches Tuesdays, Noon. Guests welcome. Cambria Madeira Beach Hotel 15105 Madeira Way, Madeira Beach 727.360.4350 gulfbeachesrotary.com Senior Solos 2nd Monday except July and August 1:30pm, Pinellas Park Senior Center, 7625 59th St. N, Pinellas Park. A social group of single folks 55+. Wally 727.544.7183 or loisjolley@aol.com Social Club of St. Petersburg Sons of Italy, 2500 34th St. S, St. Petersburg. Bocce, cards and social events. Open to the public on Mondays and for special events. majord1050@aol.com 727.323.2691 socialclubofsp.org Sparkling Clearwater Depression Glass Club 3rd Tuesday 6:45pm Clearwater Garden Club 405 Seminole St., Clearwater 860.614.7133 Stetson Tech Club Last Monday 3–5pm Gulfport Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport Join Stetson law students for their Tech Tips classes. RSVP 727.893.5671 St. Petersburg International Community of Astrologers (SPICA) 3rd Thursday monthly 7–9pm Blissful Beginnings, 9365 US Hwy 19 N Suite B, Pinellas Park 727.347.4737 St. Petersburg Lawn Bowling Club 536 4th Ave. N, St. Petersburg November to April, Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9:30am Free lessons available Oldest formally organized lawn bowling club in Florida 727.424.8906 stpetersburglawnbowling.org St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club Fridays, 7–11pm, Free. 559 Mirror Lake Dr. N, St. Petersburg A hip twist on an old game 727.822.2083 stpeteshuffle.com Suspended until further notice Suncoast Quilting Circle Wednesdays, 10am or 3rd Monday 7pm Pilgrim Congregational Church 6315 Central Ave., St. Petersburg suncoastquiltingcircle.org


Swiss Club 2nd Saturday 11:45am October thru May The Club at Treasure Island 400 Treasure Island Causeway, Treasure Island. 727.367.4511 swissclubstpetersburg.com Tampa Bay Surface Guild 2nd Monday, 6:30–8:30pm Good Samaritan Church 6085 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park Coloring, patterning, structuring and transformation of fabric, fiber and other materials surfacedesignguild.com The Contemporaries Support group of Members of Museum of Fine Arts. Monthly lectures, gatherings and field trips supporting contemporary artists of Tampa Bay. $50 yearly membership in addition to MFA Membership mfastpete.org The Treasure Island Historical Society 2nd Monday, 5pm September through May 151 107th Ave., Suite 2, Treasure Island facebook.com/ treasureislandFLhistoricalsociety Treasure Islettes Community Service Organization 4th Monday except June thru August Treasure Island Community Center 727.270.9024 tislettes@gmail.com treasureislettes.weebly.com U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach Promoting boating safety 2nd Monday except August Warren Webster Building 1500 Pass-A-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach Ron 941.400.6211 wow.uscgaux.info/content. php?unit=070-07-08 WordSmitten Writing Workshops 3rd Saturday, 1–5:30pm $15 session 800.727.6214 ext 101 meetup.com/wordsmitten Get professional help with your novel, memoir, short story

ATHLETIC CLUBS Clearwater/St. Petersburg Ski Club 2nd Tuesday 6:30pm, Sept. to May Mike’s Pizza & Deli Station, 13560 49th St., Clearwater. Pinellas County’s only ski club. 727.743.3108 snowsharks.org Mad Dogs Swim Wednesday night swims through summer, 6pm, Hurley Park Shelter, Pass-A-Grille Beach, 1600 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach. 727.582.1910 stpetemaddogs.org

Tampa Bay Beach Bums Beach volleyball for players of all levels tampabaybeachbums.com St. Pete Road Runners Member of Road Runners Club of America. Walkers, joggers, non-competitive & competitive runners. Monthly meetings, guest speakers, coaching, group runs, Grand Prix Series and social events. sprr.org

HEALTH Depression Bipolar Support Every Thursday 7pm Pasadena Community Church Life Enrichment Building, Classroom 1A 227 70th St. S, St. Petersburg Free, no registration, confidential 727.410.1569 dbsatampabay.org/index.html Jazzercise Exercise Classes Mondays and Wednesdays 5:30pm Treasure Island City Hall 120 108th Ave., Treasure Island First class is free 727.481.3995 eileen.fitnesssimple@gmail.com

HOLIDAY SALE

20% OFF

on Floral Centerpieces Coupon expires 31/202 20 12/3

Call (727) 367-1921 2525 S. Pasadena Ave., South Pasadena, FL 33707

Memory Café – Gulfport 3rd Monday 12:15–2pm Neptune Grille, 5501 Shore Blvd. S, Gulfport. Support for those suffering from dementia and their loved ones. RSVP 727.327.0167 sensol@seniorsmile.com or 813.384.7571 catemcarty@gmail.com Memory Café – St. Petersburg 2nd Monday 11am–1pm Carrabba’s St. Pete, 1951 4th St. N, St. Petersburg. Support for those suffering from dementia and their loved ones. RSVP 727.327.0167 sensol@seniorsmile.com or 813.384.7571 catemcarty@gmail.com Ostomy Support Group Last Sunday 2pm St. Anthony’s Hospital Auditorium, 1200 7th Ave. N, St. Petersburg. Learn all about the life-changing procedure. 727.657.0998 ostomy.org/st-petersburg-flostomy-support-group St. Anthony’s Hospital Various seminars and support groups 1200 Seventh Ave. N, St. Petersburg 855.269.4777 baycare.org/events Walking Club & Memory Café 3rd Friday 10–11am group walk Tyrone Sq. Mall/Food Court Entrance 11:15am–1pm Memory Café at Red Robin, 6901 22nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg For those with memory concerns & their loved ones. RSVP 727.327.0167 sensol@seniorsmile.com or 813.384.7571 catemcarty@gmail.com

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

59


Friday, December 11 – Holiday Movies in the Park – The Polar Express 6:30pm, $5, Horan Park, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. Each ticket provides enough space for up to 8 people to share. Grab your friends and family and enjoy a night under the stars. Make sure to come early and jump in on all the holiday fun and even shop from local vendors to find that perfect holiday gift this year. Market open from 5–9pm. For tickets and more information: 727.363.9245 spbrec.com Friday, December 11 and Saturday, December 12 – Happy New Year 5–8pm Friday/2–8pm Saturday, Free, The Studio@620, 620 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg. A short collaborative film created by a group of artists working together on Zoom and alone, searching for hope and new ways to connect. This pop-up presentation includes an exhibit of work from the three visual artists in the film –Carrie Jadus, Ana Maria Vasquez and Tony Wong Palms. 727.895.6620 thestudioat620.org Friday, December 11 through Sunday, December 13 – TFO: Holiday Pops 8pm Friday/2pm & 8pm Saturday/2pm & 7:30pm Sunday, $18 – $48, The Mahaffey Theater, 400 1st St. S, St. Petersburg. When you’re longing for traditional holiday favorites, there’s no place like The Florida Orchestra. Enrico Lopez-Yañez conducts. 727.662.7286 floridaorchestra.org Friday December 11 through Wednesday, December 23 – Next Generation Ballet’s Nutcracker Outdoor Wonderland 5:30, 7, 8:30pm, $33.50 – $58.50, Straz Center, 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa. An outdoor performance event that re-imagines the traditional holiday favorite through an immersive experience that will lead the audience through all the memorable moments of the ballet while strolling through the Straz Center campus. 813.229.7827 strazcenter.org Friday, December 11 through Thursday, December 24 – A Christmas Carol in Concert 6:30 and 8:30pm, $75/$99 per vehicle, freeFall Theatre Company, 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Outdoor, drive-in concert. Featuring songs from the production, performed by a cast of live performers along with multimedia and narration from the original novella, this is the perfect safe evening out during the holiday season. The audio of the show is broadcast to your vehicle via its radio or your smart device via a free app. 727.498.5205 freefalltheatre.com Saturday, December 12 – 35th Annual BCYC Gulfport Christmas Boat Parade 6:30 pm, Free viewing. Starts at the Gulfport Municipal Marina, heads to Williams Pier, Town Shores, Kipps Colony, Pasadena Yacht & Country Club, Pasadena Golf Club Estates. sailbcyc.org/ChristmasBoatParade Saturday, December 12 and Sunday, December 13 – Jingle All The Way Train Holiday Train Rides Times vary, $12, Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Dr., Largo. Board the miniature Largo Central Park Railroad and view various holiday scenes, decorations, and costumed characters. Each guest will receive a commemorative souvenir. Face masks required. Children must ride with an adult. playlargo.com/special_events.php Saturday, December 12 through Saturday, January 2 – Lights in Bloom: An Open-air Light Show! 6– 9pm, $7 – $35, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Guests will be immersed in the glow of more than two million lights, all in a safe and socially distanced outdoor Gardens-wide experience. Activities will include touchless face painting, balloon artistry, and photo opportunities. Not available December 24 and 25. 941.366.5731 selby.org Friday, December 18 – Holiday Movies in the Park – The Santa Clause 6:30pm, $5, Horan Park, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. Each ticket provides enough space for up to 8 people to share. Grab your friends and family and enjoy a night under the stars. Make sure to come early and jump in on all the holiday fun and even shop from local vendors to find that perfect holiday gift this year. Market open from 5–9pm. For tickets and more information: 727.363.9245 spbrec.com Saturday, December 19 – Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Cruise 6–7:15pm/7:30–8:45pm, $39.95/$49.95, Pirate Water Taxi, Tampa Convention Center (Pirate Water Taxi Home Dock: Stop #7), 333 S Franklin St., Tampa. Your ticket includes a 75-minute cruise with spectacular views of the boat parade and downtown Tampa. 813.390.3711 piratewatertaxi.com

60

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Arts & Leisure Wednesday Walkers 2nd and 4th Wednesday 9am Varying locations Sponsored by Gulfport Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport 727.893.1244

TOASTMASTERS Bay Pines Toastmasters Wednesdays 5:15–6:30pm C.W. “Bill” Young VA Hospital, Medical Center Auditorium (Bldg 20), 10000 Bay Pines Blvd., St. Petersburg 727.488.4941 baypinestoastmasters. toastmastersclubs.org Cool ‘N Confident Toastmasters Mondays 6:30–8pm St. Petersburg College – Gibbs Campus, 6605 5th Ave. N, St. Petersburg RSVP to attend: 850.228.0315 1526154.toastmastersclubs.org Exclusive online Zoom meetings Downtown St. Pete Toastmasters Thursdays 6:30–7:45pm St. Petersburg College, Room DC125, 244 2nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg Robert 727.417.5777 downtownstpetetoastmasters.com Exclusive online Zoom meetings Gulfport Toastmasters Wednesdays 6:15–7:30pm Gulfport Library, 5501 28th Ave. S, Gulfport 727.709.2183 gulfporttoastmasters.com Exclusive online Zoom meetings St. Pete Beach Toastmasters Thursdays 6:30pm Suntan Art Center (next door to Don Cesar) 3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach stpetebeachtm@gmail.com 813.609.2015 stpetebeachtoastmasters.com Exclusive online Zoom meetings St. Petersburg Toastmasters Tuesdays 6:15–8:30pm Rococo Steakhouse 655 2nd Ave. S, St. Petersburg stpetetoastmasters.org Exclusive online Zoom meetings Toast of the Bay Thursdays 7:30–8:30am St. Petersburg College 244 2nd Ave. N, Room #125 St. Petersburg toastofthebay.com Exclusive online Zoom meetings

THRIFT SHOPS Attic Shoppe 316 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach Run by St. Albans Church One of longest running thrift shops in St. Pete Beach. 727.360.5647 stalbanstpetebeach.org CASA Thrift Shop 1011 1st Ave. N, St. Petersburg Wednesday Seniors 55+ save 25%. Monies raised benefit the victims of domestic violence. Donations greatly appreciated. 727.828.1233 casa-stpete.org Creative Thrift Art Store (at Creative Clay) 1846 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg 727.825.0515 creativeclay.org/creative-thrift HEP Thrift Store 1212 N Betty Ln., Clearwater 10am–4pm Tuesday thru Saturday 727.442.9041 ext 330 hepempowers.org Pass-A-Grille Beach Community Church Thrift Shop 107 16th Ave. & Pass-A-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach. 727.360.5508 9am–noon Tue., Wed., Thur., & Sat. St. Vincent’s Church Thrift Shop 5124 Gulfport Blvd., Gulfport 727.321.7215 10am –2pm Wednesday thru Saturday All clothing half price on Thursdays Treasures by the Sea Church by the Sea 495 137th Ave., Madeira Beach 727.391.7706 10am–2pm Tuesday & Thursday

SPIRITUAL Gulfport Women’s Drum Circle Gulfport Beach west side near the Rec. Center. Dena Lebowitz 727.289.3380 denaleb@gmail.com 4th Friday, Winter 7pm/Summer 7:30 pm, Empowering and healing Sacred Lands 1700 Park St. N, St. Petersburg 727.347.0354 sacredlandspreservation andeducation.org Sunday tours, meditations, special events


Soothe Our Souls (S.O.S.) 4737 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 727.360.7411 sootheoursouls.org Provides complimentary sailing for seriously health-challenged people and their support groups Spiritual Conditioning Program 153 107th Ave., Treasure Island Pat Jano at 727.324.9222 Small group Bible study

MARKETS TUESDAYS Gulfport’s Tuesday Fresh Market All year 9am–3pm, October thru May 9am–2pm, June thru September Beach Blvd, below 28th Ave. S, Gulfport Live music. Second Tuesday Clothing Swap freshmarket@gulfportma.com WEDNESDAYS Madeira Beach Morning Market November thru March 9am–1pm 300 Municipal Dr., Madeira Beach 727.392.0665 madeirabeachfl.gov/ departments/recreation FRIDAYS 1st Friday Flea Market September thru May 9am–noon Gulfport Multipurpose Sr. Center 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport 727.893.2237 Closed until further notice Treasure Island Friday Market December thru April 9am–2pm, Community Center Park (behind Walgreens) 104th Ave. & Park Place, Treasure Island. Free parking, live music. 727.360.4121 islandneighborschamber.org

FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS Dunedin Downtown Market November thru June 9am –2pm John L. Lawrence Pioneer Park 420 Main St., Dunedin tampabaymarkets.com SATURDAYS St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market November thru May 9am–2pm Al Lang Stadium parking lot, corner of 1st Ave. S & 1st St., St. Petersburg 727.455.4921 saturdaymorningmarket.com SUNDAYS Corey Avenue Sunday Market October thru May 10am–2pm Live music, Shops open, Free parking, 74th Ave., St. Pete Beach 727.498.8778 coreyAve.com DTSP Sunday Market October thru April Noon–4pm Caddy›s on Central, 217 Central Ave., St. Petersburg dtspmarket.com Indian Shores Sunday Market November thru April 9 am–1 pm Indian Shores Town Hall, 19305 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores thebeachmarkets.com OTHER MARKETS Night Market St. Pete 5 times each year, 6pm The Side Lot 2133 2nd Ave. S, St. Petersburg sidelotstpete.com Vintage Marché All Year 1st weekend each month 9am–6pm Sat/9am–5pm Sun 2200 2nd Ave. S, St. Petersburg vintagemarche727.com/?page_id=705

Saturday, December 19 – Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker (Virtual Performance) 8pm, $24.99, The Mahaffey Theater, 400 1st St. S, St. Petersburg. Take this opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones and experience the smash-hit Holiday tradition in this ground-breaking debut. Take a trip backstage with the cameras for a look at how the magic is made. Hear it first-hand from world-class artists, designers, and the creators of this cherished production. See the full performance as captured on stage plus an up close look at the behind-the-scenes action. 727.300.2000 themahaffey.com

“We are like a snowflake, all different in our own way” –unknown

WADA Outdoor Marketplace NEW Second Saturday each month 6–9pm 515 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg warehouseartsdistrictstpete.org

45-minute orientation required. christi.snyder@rcspinellas.org 727.584.3528 ext 407 rcspinellas.org

VOLUNTEER

State of Florida Guardian ad Litem Program Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of FL, 14250 49th St. N, Suite 4000, Clearwater. Help abused, abandoned and neglected children 727.464.6528 guardianadlitem.org

AARP Various volunteer opportunities aarp.org/giving-back Daystar Life Center 1055 28th St. S., St. Petersburg Many volunteer opportunities available. To learn more: communityrelations@ daystar.com 727.825.0442 facebook.com/ DaystarLifeCenter Empath Health Suncoast Hospice Locations throughout Pinellas County Various positions. Training provided Ages 14+ years. 727.523.3440 empathhealth.org

Gulf Beaches Public Library 200 Municipal Dr., Madeira Beach 727.391.2828 gulfbeacheslibrary.org Gulfport Public Library 5501 28th Ave. S, Gulfport 727.893.1074 mygulfport.us/gpl

Marine Exploration Center 250 8th Ave. SE, St. Petersburg Looking for volunteers who are passionate about the marine environment 727.803.9799 ext 201 mecstpete.org Meals on Wheels 13945 Evergreen Ave., Clearwater Need volunteer drivers to deliver meals 727.573.9444 neighborly.org RCS of Pinellas County Positions needed at Food Bank, Haven of RCS, Grace House, Thrift Store. Helping families of hunger, homelessness and domestic violence.

Saturday, December 19 – St. Pete Beach Drive-by Holiday Parade Times and route TBD, St. Pete Beach. Make sure to step out of your front doors and wave to Santa as he cruises through the streets of St. Pete Beach. 727.363.9245 spbrec.com

Tampa Bay Watch 3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde rarndt@tampabaywatch.org 727.867.8166 ext 233 tampabaywatch.org

PUBLIC LIBRARIES

Friends of Strays 2911 47th Ave. N, St. Petersburg Non-profit, no kill shelter volunteers@friendsofstrays.org 727.522.6566 ext 107 friendsofstrays.com/home

Saturday, December 19 – Moscow Ballet’s Nutcracker Christmas Stream 8pm, $24 – $70, Van Wezel, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Take a trip backstage with the cameras for a look at how the magic is made, and hear first-hand from world-class artists, designers and the creators of this cherished production. See the full performance as captured on stage with a behind-the-scenes look. Virtual meet and greet opportunities will be available for purchase. 941.953.3368 vanwezel.org

St. Petersburg Free Clinic 863 3rd Ave. N, St Petersburg To schedule new volunteer orientation: volunteers@stpetersburgfreeclinic.org 727.821.1200 ext 114 stpetersburgfreeclinic.org

St. Pete Beach Public Library 7470 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach 727.363.9238 spblibrary.com St. Petersburg Main Library 3745 9th Ave. N, St. Petersburg 727.893.7724 splibraries.org

Saturday, December 19 – St. Peterburg Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker 2pm and 6pm, $25, The Mahaffey Theater, 400 1st St. S, St. Petersburg. Features dancing children, mischievous boys, a Siamese Warrior, toy soldiers, giant mice, sword fights, Snowflakes, Spanish dancers, Buffoons, Waltzing Flowers and the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. 727.300.2000 themahaffey.com Sunday, December 20 – Classical Christmas – Free Live Stream Concert 5pm, Free – donations accepted. Music to celebrate the season from history’s greatest composers including Mozart, Handel and Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite. Daniel Black conducts. Registration required. floridaorchestra.org

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

61


Saving Children Dying of COVID-19 By Deb Carson

While many children have symptoms similar to adults, some children with COVID 19 present with a type of severe inflammation (MIS-C) where they may experience days of fever, rash, low blood pressure, heart dysfunction, an altered blood clotting system, stomach issues, blood markers showing severe inflammation, and other manifestations. In such cases, oxygen, breathing support, steroids and antiviral medications may be administered. Hospital stays can be from a few days to weeks; severity is key to treatment and time in the hospital. “There are still so many things we don’t yet know,” says Dr. Anthony Sochet.

became apparent early in the pandemic when survival was reduced in COVID patients with significantly higher rates of blood clot development (VTE). Risk factors for VTE in children needed more research.

Dr. Sochet is a physician researcher with DTSP’s Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital’s (JHACH) Research Institute, leading the current study on blood clot prevention in pediatric COVID patients. His journey began in Pinellas and he’s glad to be back. He attended University of Florida, FSU Medical School, got his medical residency at USF, a fellowship at the Children’s National Health System in Washington, D.C., and a master’s from George Washington University. Sochet’s study is one of many JHACH research projects as part of the Baltimore-based Johns Hopkins Institutes for Clinical and Translational Research, a world leader engaging in cutting-edge research with $15 million per year in NIH funding to support investigators translating discoveries into practice.

Sochet says he is humbled by families’ willingness to participate. Children, already hospitalized, receive a medication that prevents life-threatening blood clots. “We had to design this study not only to protect the families but also the investigational team at all the participating sites. We use telemedicine when interviews and consent would normally happen in person. It’s cutting-edge research coordination in addition to cutting edge research.” Thirty days after discharge, the team follows up to see whether any side effects were experienced by these small patients.

“The research is what keeps me up at night and motivated the questions. JHACH’s Research Institute allows me to thrive in a variety of fields of interest, including the assessment of clot development in critically ill COVID patients.” Need for the study

When he’s not saving lives, Anthony Sochet is an avid singer, bass and guitar player and, with his physician wife, father to two children.

62

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Sochet teamed up with Institute Director Dr. Neil Goldenberg, Dr. John Morrison and 15 other U.S. sites. The study should be completed within three months, a modern marvel. He was astonished at how quickly the team mobilized, launching from “just a thought over coffee to actively enrolling patients in a matter of weeks. That is unheard of in academic medicine.”

As for a children’s COVID vaccine, Sochet says several are under development that will have to undergo safety evaluations in children just as in adults. “For now, preventative medicines will continue being given to help keep children from having severe complications, like clots. With time, learn more about who is at greatest risk. This helps us to understand the mechanisms of COVID; why some are severely ill when others are spared. Through well-designed research studies, we’ll be able to implement best strategies for prevention and treatment.”


ECO

By Nanette Wiser

Tampa Bay Watch’s Bay Grasses in Classes and MORE

ACCEPTING

OFFERIN G In v is a li g n Zoom Wh itenin

O

Most Major PP Dental Plans

g

Abdullah M. Allawnha D.D.S.

John H. Penny, D.D.S.

The Community Foundation of Tampa Bay awarded Tampa Bay Watch a $25,000 grant to support the Bay Grasses in Classes program (BGIC), to which Duke Energy Foundation also gave a $10,000 grant. Peter A. Clark, president and founder of Tampa Bay Watch, is grateful that both foundations chose to invest in Bay Grasses in Classes, one of the founding programs of Tampa Bay Watch. Over the last 24 years, the program has provided over 385,000 plugs of school-grown wetland grasses and helped restore more than 170 acres of habitat around Tampa Bay. BGIC allows middle and high school students to grow and maintain native wetland grasses at their school in a Tampa Bay Watch sponsored nursery. Students are responsible for checking salinity, pH, and monitoring the overall health of the plants. When the plants are ready to be transplanted, students harvest their school nursery and work side by side with local restoration practitioners to transplant their nursery-raised grasses at coastal restoration sites throughout Tampa Bay. BGIC coordinator Paige Lansky sums it up: “Students in the program are given the opportunity to directly improve their community by participating in hands-on restoration across Tampa Bay. Students learn about the significance of coastal ecosystems and become more engaged citizens.”

Family, General & Cosmetic Dentistry Advanced Dental Technology Reconstructive Dentistry Dental Implants Dental Laser Emergencies Welcome Credit Cards Welcome Financing Available

617 75th Ave., St. Pete Beach 727-33 6 7 - 3 3 1 3

www.centurydental.org

M a k e S o m e M e m o r ie s !

DOLPHIN LANDINGS 7 2 7 . 3 6 0 . 741 1

St Pete Beach

www.dolphinlandings.com

Sunset Sail • Dolphin Watching • Island Adventures Pvt. Charters Business or Pleasure

With the new grants, BGIC can fund public school trips and include alternative student groups (homeschool, school clubs) but until COVID restrictions are lifted, Tampa Bay Watch is creating virtual lesson plans and traveling “trunks” with programmatic educational materials, resources, and lesson plans that can be delivered to schools to replace the originally planned outreach visits. The Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center on the St. Pete Pier has recently begun to work with small groups (maximum of 25 students), conducting enriching in-depth marine science programs and field trips. Field trip experiences are around 1.5 hours in duration and include admission to the Exhibit Gallery. Program examples include a Pier into Plankton Lab, Invertebrate Investigation, Water Quality Lab, Coastal Plant Communities, Lion Fish Dissection Lab, Marine Food Webs, and Squid Dissections! For more information on small group exPIERiences, visit tbwdiscoverycenter.org, download a reservation form, or contact Audrey Mitchell at amitchell@tampabaywatch.org. Tampa Bay Watch recently hosted a DIY clean-up in honor of National Estuaries Week and the International Coastal Cleanup with 70 community volunteers walking 49 miles to remove 579 pounds of debris throughout the Tampa Bay region! The items recovered in the greatest quantities were food wrappers, bottle caps, and cigarette butts. Visit TampaBayWatch.org.

WELLNESS & WEIGHT LOSS

CBD

PRODUCTS

From $20

MASSAGE

PERSONAL TRAINING

Helios Health 31 57th St., St. Petersburg, 33710

SAUNA (727) 322-8883

www.ScottandZoe.com

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

63


PET HEALTH

By Dr. Scot Trefz, D.V.M. pills, and topical treatments kill mature fleas and larvae and should be used year-round to prevent infestations.

Common Pet Skin Issues and How to Treat Them Allergies, parasites, and infections can cause a variety of itchy skin conditions in pets. The most common include: Flea Bite Dermatitis - Fleas will feed on any warm-blooded mammal. Symptoms include round, red bumps on the skin, hot spots, scabs, and hair loss. You may even be able to see fleas or flea “dirt” in their coats. Fleas can spread to other animals including your pet rabbit, ferret, hamster, gerbil, or guinea pig. Treatment - Flea collars, sprays, baths, and ointments can kill fleas, but before using a flea product on a young, old, sick, or small animal, check with your veterinarian first. Some products may be toxic for these pets. Prescription chews,

Ringworm - Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes raised, red rings on the skin. Other signs and symptoms include a circular pattern of hair loss, dandruff, and scaly, crusty skin. Ringworm can be transmitted to people by pets. If your pet has ringworm, wash your hands after touching your furry friend and wash his or her bedding, dishes, brushes, and combs frequently. Treatment Creams, ointments, and medicated shampoo ease ringworm symptoms. Oral anti-fungal medication may be added. Allergic or Nutritional Dermatitis - Pets can suffer from allergies that can develop at any time in your pet’s life. Red, blistered, thick skin along with hair loss can be a signs of allergic dermatitis. This condition tends to make pets very uncomfortable. They scratch, rub against furniture or carpeting, or bite and lick their skin. Your pet may be allergic to pollen, ragweed, dust mites, mold, other airborne allergens or their food. Dermatitis can also occur if pets eat food

that doesn’t meet their nutritional needs. Treatment - Treatment for dermatitis depends on the cause, but may include immunotherapy, change in diet, antihistamines, medicated shampoo, soothing topical medication, corticosteroids, antibiotics or antifungal medication to treat infections that occur as a result of frequent scratching or licking. Scabies - Scabies (sarcoptic mange) occurs when microscopic mites find a home in your pet’s skin. Severe itching, rashes, red or flaky skin, and patchy hair loss can be signs of scabies. Although the infection frequently affects dogs, cats can get it too. Scabies is very contagious and can be spread through close contact with other animals. Wash your pet’s bedding and favorite resting spots frequently. In some cases, scabies can affect people. You may notice red bumps on your skin if your pet transmitted mites to you. Treatment - Your veterinarian can prescribe several treatments that kill the mites and ease your pet’s uncomfortable symptoms, including topical medications, injections, shampoos, and antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medication.

Bay Moorings Animal Hospital • Dr. Scot Trefz, D.V.M., Medical Director & Owner • 727-867-0118 • 3695 50th Ave South, St. Petersburg, FL 33711

www.baymooringsanimalhospital.com • facebook.com/baymooringsanimalhospitaldrtrefz

Thank You For supporting your local Paradise NEWS Reaching 60,000 online through social media, web content, weekly eblasts and more! 100,000+ Readership • 10 Issues Annually • 50,000+ Viewership call (727) 363-6888 • email sales@paradisenews.com 64

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com


FISHING

By Dylan Hubbard

170 John’s Pass Boardwalk, Madeira Beach • 727.393.1947 www.HubbardsMarina.com

FISHING

Why mess around? If you want to catch the big ones, reserve your spot now on board Florida’s most productive fleet to the Gulf of Mexico. Bait, ice, gear & help available every trip. 5 hr. Half Day • 10 hr. Full Day • Private Charters

RESERVATIONS: INSHORE – Trout action will continue to improve with cooling water temps. Look around grass flat areas where there’s a nice roll, drop off, pothole, or some sort of ambush spot they can hang to feed actively on all the passing bait. They are loving live shrimp or white bait but a variety of soft plastics like the DOA shrimp. The Sheepshead bite is heating up around the docks, pilings, and bridges. They love cut oyster, barnacles, fiddle crabs or small pieces of shelled shrimps on a 2ot hook with 20lb fluorescent for leader. Use a small split shot if the current requires it, but a free-lined bait is best. Flounder will also get better and better as the waters cool. They hang right on the sandy bottom and love live shrimp or small bait fish that venture close. Tripletail are biting well around the crab buoys along the shoreline. Great time to get out there and do some sight fishing. You may even run across the occasional cobia while cruising the buoys so be ready for him too! The tripletail love the live or even artificial shrimp tossed close to their buoy hideouts. Behind the occasional cold fronts, you can find these guys tucked up in the backwaters and bayous. Don’t forget the mullet run, as these large schools of fish flush out of the back waters the big snook and reds will follow the fish to ambush the stragglers and smaller fish. If you spot a school, work your baits from the middle of the school to the back edges and hold on tight. NEARSHORE & OFFSHORE - An approaching front had the hogfish foaming and ready to chew, we also caught some red grouper and tons of grey snapper, porgies, and sea bass too! Private charter trips have done exceptionally well on the hogfish, gags and red grouper plus plenty of lane snapper too. The red grouper bite seems to be out in the deeper near-shore waters while the gags are spread throughout. Blackfin tuna are picking up past 120ft of water and we should see more of these guys as the water continues to cool.

HUBBARDSMARINA.COM • 727.393.1947

DOLPHIN WATCH

You’ll see dolphin, manatee, ospreys and rare eagles on the area’s best narrated cruise. Your tour also takes you past stately area mansions. Sunset Cruise available with free beer & wine for adults.

SUNSET CRUISE Enjoy the wonder of Florida’s West Coast. Our Sunset trips down the intercoastal and out to the Gulf of Mexico include free beer and wine.

FT. DeSOTO FERRY TO BEAUTIFUL EGMONT KEY OR SHELL KEY

Snorkel the ruins of historic Ft. DeSoto and tour a working lighthouse. Walk the streets of a Spanish-American fort or go shelling on America’s #1 beach.

Kayaks & Paddleboards

RESERVATIONS: HUBBARDSMARINA.COM

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

65


Still here for your emergency lock work daytime Mon thru Fri. Keeping it safe for me and my clients! (727) 75-KEY-75 Stay Home! Be Safe!

(727) 755-3975 www.tommylocksmith.com

AT

Positive, Fun & Effective Training Methods Serving St. Petersburg & Barrier Islands __________________________

610.248.0467

theresa.reiter@gmail.com www.dogmandu.net

Get the Double-Czech Cleaning Guarantee Serving the Beaches for over a decade! Move In/Out • Post Construction Reliable • Monthly • Biweekly

Reputation foR euRopean thoRoughness

Cleaning Service LLC

GlowinG RefeRences AvAilAble

727

430-8826

We sell new houses priced $220,000-$250,000 Homes located 20-25 min from St Pete Beach Great for Investment Call / Text Alla Panteleeva cell 727-251-4004 Office 727-363-6000 More Info on www.flinvestrealty.us

ACCOUNTING ACCOUNTING •• BOOKKEEPING BOOKKEEPING CONSULTING CONSULTING •• TAX TAX SERVICES SERVICES 1120 Pinellas Bayway South, #204 • Tierra Verde, FL 33715 www.DavidStrickler.com • Email: djscpa1@aol.com

66

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

CLASSIFIED ACCOUNTING / BOOKKEEPING Construction, Veteran Owned & & TAX SERVICES Operated. Licensed and Bonded. Anastasiya Dycus, EA, CAA Michael 727.410.9879 Tax & IRS Help • Resolve IRS HEALTH & FITNESS Letters/Notices • Tax Preparation Acupunture & Herbs Seasonal Individual & Business • International Allergies, Hip & Back pain April Wang Clients Services • ITIN - 1135 Certified Chinese MD, (Tyrone Area) Pasadena Ave S, # 228, S. Pasadena, 6600 31st Terrace, St. Pete 33710 Admin@taxhelp123.com by appt. 727.384.4826 727.793.5419 Alzheimer’s Association - Worried David J. Strickler, CPA, PA, about your Memory? Offers FREE & djscpa1@aol.com 727.906.9600 Confidential Memory Screenings, BACKGROUND CHECKS CALL to schedule 727.893.5657 King Background Screening HEALTH Since 2006. Tenant & employee Health Insurance - Let me help you background checks. Full credit understand your options in Medicare, report, nationwide criminal, Health, Small Group, Life and and nationwide eviction. $50 Supplemental Insurances. See website for full details. Brandy Mayhew 727.433.4096 www.KingBackgroundScreening.com HEARING CARE Denise Anderson - Owner Anne S. Carter, Ph.D. 727.329.8852 Call/Text 941.284.4612 Don’t let Hearing Loss impact your life KingScreening@gmail.com complimentary screening, consultation BOAT & YACHT BROKERS & demo, 30 day trial, Pasadena Sea Beyond Marine Group – Miracle-Ear Hearing Center offering pre-owned Luxury Yachts, Offering hearing aids at no cost to Cruisers, Sport Fishing & Center federal workers & retirees Console Boats. Located at Port 32 Miracle-Ear.com 727.359.0950 Marina, 250 Madonna Blvd., Tierra HELP WANTED Verde, Eric@SeaBeyondMarina.com Postcard Inn - SPB has openings. 727.273.7000 Visit & apply.hospitalityonline.com/ BOAT DOCK RENTAL postcard-st-pete for details Marina Bay Docks Holiday Isle Marina HOUSEKEEPING & CLEANING & Town Center Marina 727.639.2862 Reasonable cleaning. Homes, madeirabaydocksinc.com windows, offices. Experienced and COMPUTERS & VIRUS REMOVAL insured. Pinellas county. 727.259.3558 Pinellas Family Computer Service Laddy’s Cleaning Service - on the PC & Mac Technician for your home beaches over a decade 727.430-8826 or business. Stephen Johnson A+ Laundry Wash Dry Fold Service sjohnson@pfcs.biz 727.803.0219 Laundromat - 7815 Blind Pass Rd, FURNITURE St. Pete Beach. Some Pickup/Delivery Paradise Lights on Corey Avenue Available. Call Lorri 817.681.7474 Wicker, Bamboo, Glass, Lighting Cleaning Is Our Passion - Maids, and much more! 401 Corey Ave., SPB Maintenance & More. Steadfast, 727.317.5513 Reliable, Best of Beaches service for GENERAL CONTRACTOR 25+ years. L/B/I 727.363.1074 Angelides Builders - Renovation & Experienced, Independent European remodeling, new homes, restoration, Lady, guaranteed quality service. design/build & solar certified Reasonable rates & references. Call Lic: #CBC058934 & # CGC 1523610 for free estimates. 727.564.1473 angelidesbuilders.com 727.394.8406 Home & Office Cleaning - Experienced, Complete Home/Business Remodel Efficient European Cleaning Lady, additions, baths, kitchens & Free Estimates, Great local references windows, design/planning. 10+ years Irina 727.481.1364 Superb quality & competitive $. INSURANCE Lic. CGC1518653 Academy Insurance - Full Lines - 727.466.7140 / 415.8075 Flood -Residential & Investment GHD Construction Property Specialist Call Rose New Homes & Additions rwainwright@academyins.net w/Solar Energy, Contact Tom. 727.343.0419 tsmith@GHDcsi.com Bentley DeNight Insurance Services 727.323.5119 x2004 can save $$$ on Flood Insurance HANDYMAN and can quote Homeowners, Auto Residential or Commercial Projects & Business Insurances 727.344.4500 Rental Prep Services or Complete JEWELERS Rehab. Refurbishment 727.337.6888 Diny’s Jewelers - Custom Designs, No Job too small or too large! restoration & repair; appraisals Concrete Poured, Furniture refinished, & more! 130 107th Ave., Terrazo floors diamond polished, Treasure Island (N of Clock Tower) DinysFlorida.com 727.513.3469 tile laid, Lighthouse Consulting &


CLASSIFIED LOCKSMITH SERVICES for a FREE Estimate. COVID SAFE Lock Repair Service Rescreen Rescue 727.348.4307 during daytime hours, weekdays. SEAFOOD & BUTCHER SHOP Vet owned. Tommy Locksmith Shaners Land & Sea Market @ P-A-G 727.755.3975 2000 Pass-A-Grille Way, St Pete Bch MARINE CONSTRUCTION 8am-7pm, 7 days 727.367.4292 Island Marine Construction - Docks, SOLAR (RESIDENTIAL Boat Lifts, Service, since 1997. SALES & CONSULTING) Licensed Marine Contractor, C-8463 @WatershedVisionsSolar – Certified. 727.363.7282 Independent. Woman-Owned. Free MASSAGE SERVICES Solar Assessment & Guidance. White Island Massage Therapy Glove Service. Be A Climate Hero! 1110 Pinellas, Bayway S, #210, Jill - WVSolar.jkw@gmail.com Tierra Verde MM31363 or Facebook World-Class Therapeutic Massage SLIDING DOOR REPAIR islandmassageonline.com Stop Struggling w/ Old Sliding Doors. 727.864.6688 We fix it to open for a fraction of the Studio & Mobile Massage Services cost of a new door. We replace Full Service - Relaxing windows too. Lic. C1050, therapeutic massage. From light YouTube.com/user/SliderRepairs to deep tissue. Your place or ours 727.265.3356 L.M.T. 49149 727.744.0254 TERMITES Helios Health – Scott (MA-25432) Cameron Termite & Pest Control & Zoe (MA-31664) offer massage, Inspections, Treatments and Tenting personal training and Infrared sauna Camerontermite.com 727.577.0789 therapy on West Central Ave. @ TOURS & TRANSPORTATION 57 St., St. Petersburg 727.322.8883 Paradise Tours & Transportation MEDICAL PRACTICE Call us 1st for your transportation Concierge Health & Wellness needs. We will take you where you 24/7 AccessPrimary Care Physician. want to go! Sightseeing tours and Gulf Club Medicine 727.310.0616 transportation around Tampa Bay. Full Spectrum Primary Care with focus 727.417.8036 on prevention. Dr. Ryan Baker BATS - Bay Area Taxi Service www.MillenniumPhysicians.com Download phone app, batsTaxi.com 2299 9th Ave. N, Ste 1A. 727.367.3702 727.618.2229 Free Beach Rides 727.776.7553 OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Treasure Island Airport & Shuttle 100 Corey Ave. Executive Office Space Service All Airports, Outlets Malls, Private furnished offices with utilities sports events, Hard Rock Casino, & janitorial, lounge w/high speed 727.543.1928 wireless, conference rooms, more Water Taxi - Tampa Bay Ferry & Taxi From $750/ month 727.498.2905 tickets & info visit PAINTING SERVICES info@TampaBayFerry.com Flo-Pro Painters LLC 727.337.6888 TampaBayFerry.com 727.398.6577 A Great Paint Job at a Fair Price-Collin TUTORING PERSONAL CHEF Portuguese & French Tutoring Hire a French personal chef and enjoy Conversational-Grammar-Literature dinner with your guests! Text or call Paristropical@gmail.com 571.435.5606 727.303.2541 PET SERVICES Piano lessons your home or my studio. CBD for Pets - Natures Pet Herbals All ages & styles, affordable, 25 years has a variety of CBD Hemp based of experience. 727.688.2782 products for you and your pets. Piano & Flute lessons in your home or Visit NaturesPetHerbals.com my studio. All ages. Experienced or call them 406.578.HEMP (4367) w/BA degree in music. 727.642.2169 Dog Training - A Trainer you and your baymooringsanimalhospital.com Dog will love - Dogmandu Family French lessons by French native Dog Training - Teresa All levels- Text or call 571.435.5606 dogmandu.net 610.248.0467 VINYL FLOORS PLASTIC SURGERY ScratchMaster Vinyl Floors are now Is It Time For An Eye Lift? available at Woody’s Kitchens & More Coundouriotis Facial Plastic Surgery 727.864.4819 and Laser Center 727.525.9900 WANTED-PIANO REAL ESTATE SERVICES Steinway Grand piano. 727.381.4400 Realty Experts, Byrne-Brylinke WELLNESS Senior & Veterans Discounts Offered (SHAKLEE-BASED CONSULTING) by TOP Local R. E. Services Co. @WatershedVisionsWellness – Full service help with Buying & Selling Independent Distributor & Call James for info. 727.612.9988 Woman-Owned. Accept Prove It SCREEN REPAIR Challenge. Be Healthier! Feel Better! Screen Repair for Pool Cages, Jill jkwenner@gmail.com or Facebook Patios and Lanais Call or text

MASSAGE

$75-1 hr • $90-90 min

Teresa Gandeza, LMT Call or Text 727.512.9414 MOBILE THERAPEUTIC Swedish Lower Back Deep Tissue Neck & Shoulders Pain Relief Reflexology Lic #MA76776 Aromatherapy

Jackie Grande Looks & Co. - The Salon

2525 Pasadena Ave S. (Corey Causeway) South Pasadena, FL 33707

Tuesdays - Saturdays Call for an appointment or just stop in and say “Hello”!

727.543.3289

P.O. Box 66330 • St. Pete Beach FL 33736

Fax (727) 367-8354 • www.BatsTaxi.com

Strategic Communications Writing • Editing • Digital/Web Content Social Media • Marketing • Public Relations & More

727.560.6209 | wiser86@gmail.com

SINCE 1994 Specializing in ...

Graphic Design: Ads • Brochures • Menus • Logos Website/Social Media Graphics On-location Photography info@janetnummi.com

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

67


by Bay Moorings Animal Hospital

ASTROLOGY by Sarah Lyons - Sirius Systems Astrological Services

May 2020 Astrology sarahlyonsastrologer.com ... | 727.347.4737 TAURUS: Relationships are in “Get Sirius About Your Future” the spotlight early on, talking things over for understanding then make adjustments. Reviewing finances and exploring several new earning possibilities comes later on. Energy goes resolutions GEMINI: Work and health is enhanced. into goals.and release what needs to go. December 2020 Astrology And, I can’t imagine a quiet New Year’s eve Relationships are newly energized and with aARIES: Leo Moon in the sky! take Eventhe with all beneficial. Education andfalls travel 2020 has been2020 a unique year to say the Relationships SCORPIO: Focus on are private life April Astrology Article of thespotlight current social restrictionsadjustments in place, rewarding bringinobligations. Money least! We have had planetary patterns with necessary then but activity the workplace. Adjust to we will surely enjoy a grand celebration in and values become your focus as you get presenting themselves that have not due to challenges and changes. family responsibilities and home projects. Although the whole world seems to havesome way as we say goodbye to the ready for the new year. occurred in hundreds of years. Conversations are pleasant; social life Resources may be enhanced. A new start year 2020! slowed down withsandwiched all that’s been going on This last month begins restricted. New financial plans due to CANCER: with relationships late this month can be Enjoy fun time then a new between withNO highretrograde energy planets we Eclipses actually have changes in values and future goals later on. sudden but serious. focus brings work and health to the activating the signsWe of do communication this month! have the big changes of SAGITTARIUS: Your own personal forefront. It’s time to get finances in order and understanding; whichtransit includes Mars and Saturn’s intomedia Aquariusnew year TAURUS: HealthMid-month issues may new surface. and make SAGITTARIUS: Social lifethe and is underway! a new plan. You are in full in all forms, travel, and foreign affairs. 10 days agotothough. can bring beginnings Travelcome may be restricted. Position focus.express Money may with an eclipse in yourcan moonfriendships spotlight asare youyour balance, It willjust be interesting see whatThis is revealed newitrules enforced sign! end Everyday lifemore becomes very busy with and feel breakthroughs! or bring responsibility. Finances both come and go. Conversations get and how all turns out byonto thishumanity year’s end!but also many enhanced duties. Finances are in the spotlight strong energy to find ways for us to combat but uncertain. Your own serious. Relationships are wvery pleasant. as your year closes. You enjoy family and fun! personal new year begins now; direction LEO: New pathshome, open in wellness and work Communication the money the issues atplanet hand.Mercury Venus, joins love and Romance and creativity get new energy! Sun inplanet, straightforward Sagittarius for may change; grow. that increases income. moves into fickle but dual Gemini Relationships are beneficial, karmic and three on weeks firstup daywith of more CAPRICORN: Inner world becomes the starting 3rd. Weon canthe come illuminated; reveals an understanding. may bring obligations. Career End theand yearposition with are December. We are outspoken, optimistic GEMINI: You are favored and popular CAPRICORN: one waynow to earn mid-month as restricting Saturn a spa getaway for a mental and physical and a than bit scattered withincome a lot onbut ourit goes Celebrate now! The spotlight on fun and romance highlighted; you’re in charge. Finances get fast. Partners mayand seem to bewe leaves your sign! Finances may increase health reset! minds.tooRestless to get out about, brings adjustments and challenges needed attention; plans. Health improves and stabilize. Relationships take the unavailable distanteven nowmore for many want to travel andorexplore so finances. Travel safely. New insight givesVIRGO: and Enjoy work is pleasant. and Newshort energy fills spotlight as your year ends. conversing visits. as thedifferent month progresses. reasons. The New Moon questions to old beliefs which allows romance and recreation later this month! Home and family matters take a new in Sagittarius begins the lunar cycle on letting goYou’re of oldready patterns. AQUARIUS: to set new goals direction. Work brings many options and the 14th and is a Solar Eclipse! And, on The Full Pink Moon in Libra on the 7th and may receive assistance! Saturn will AQUARIUS: or travel responsibilities. NewEducation goals for the futurecan the 15th, love and money planet Venus the events of the two weeks tohelp you CANCER: Home family in the need creative stimulatesolutions. deep thinking introspection. get serious and and Jupiter can are make Watch and finances and entersbrings outgoing, generous andlast adventurous a peakencouraging both personally globally. spotlight as beliefs getissues balanced. Lovequietly. and fun time are enjoyed, and your it easier to handle. Health may Partnerscelebrate Sagittarius our and holiday spirit Expect andchallenge work or duties to be may you tomay grow.need Enjoy some of energy is high. A serious tone prevails as more tosome be revealed and intense momentssurface and bringing much needed cheerful Finances your downtime alone. New, unexpected LIBRA: Saturn visits are yourenhanced. sign; pace yourself now. energytaking our way! place. We have been under a lot ofyour focus. Conversations and visits are highlighted. goals challenge finances but others may pressure in many ways and emotions can PISCES: A new Can love be fun Financial and serious, too; yes! Even bigger responsisupport you.option in education PISCES: concerns are surfacenews now this so bemonth, kind and carry on! opens. Travel is likely and enjoyable. Children and creativity are enjoyed. Your ble, serious Saturn begins its trek through addressed; groups, friends support. The communication Mercury visits HealthLEO: on allHighlight levels getsfalls needed attention. year ends with focus on career and status, Aquarius on the 17th! Thisplanet sign along on short trips, deep Homelife and family time enjoyable. impulsive Aries on 11th may go fast; watch your spending! & relationships, too.anything that holds with Taurus, Scorpio andthe Leo willfor getthe a next Moneyconversations. Friendships are enjoyed. homeIt’s time to clear out falls on love, creativity, and children daysfor so the quick words or decisions reality17check next couple of years. may FocusRelationships you back. Conversations awaken; as the year closes. become serious; strong SCORPIO: Enjoy being popular now! short Karmic will be paid rewards the bedues regretted later on.and Mid-month ones will continue, others meet their end.Mid-month trips are empowering. focus is on finances with new received during thisSun time. Optimistic, lucky strong Aries is also in a stressful A new position orincareer ARIES: Completion’s careeroption lend could plans. Homelife and family can grow and Jupiterplace also wanting visits Aquarius on the 19th expression. befocus empowering. time to on future goals! You are bring responsibilities. Work is demanding. but only for about 12 months. It can bring restless and enjoy travel. Begin an Spotlight falls on travel, higher education _______ these signs fortunate circumstances, but VIRGO: Income is front center as and your beliefs. On the 20th Sun enters program; open yourand mind. also freedom from the what holds youstable back. Tauruseducational you modify expenses and get with home and family thepartners center on where we slow down to become more Year ends universe; celebrate them. board. A hobby can be empowering. Mercury moves The intoNew conservative practical. Moon in Taurus on of your Work may add duties or chores overwhelm. Capricorn on the 20tha giving caution the 22nd begins new lunar cycle that has Sirius Systems Astrological Services TAURUS: New patterns in finances are to speech and thinking. The Winter New paths in education open and Sirius Systems Astrological Services a challenging start but ends with ease. beneficial. sarahlyonsastrologer.com Your career or position brings Solstice occurs on the 21st as the Sun include creativity. sarahlyonsastrologer.com one ofto thebegin financial signs, we can opportunities but with responsibilities. facebook.com/sarahlyonsastrologer entersBeing Capricorn the season. expect to see day newan methods implementedPractice safe travel habits. Spotlight falls on facebook.com/sarahlyonsastrologer And on Christmas indulgent Office: 727-347-4737 LIBRA: You are in the spotlight now; Office: 727-347-4737 conversation, learning, and philosophy as that will bring some relief to the Taurus Moon encourages feasting andconditions modify health habits and deal with home closes. fun! The Full personally Cold Moon in globally. Cancer Then, the year at hand and and family issues. Romance gets serious “Get Sirius about your future!” on theon29th is motivating us to make “Get Sirius about your future!” the 27th as April ends, thinking planet and hobbies practical. A new path in Mercury also enters into Taurus slowing finances brings sudden restrictions but ultimately empowers. our thoughts down to make more 68 DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com conservative decisions.


l

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM GHD COASTAL HOMES

The holidays are here, and it’s time to enjoy our families and friends and remember what “gifts” we have as Americans. Aside from the opportunity that we have as Americans for a first-class education for our children, we are blessed with what I consider one of the most important necessities in society–safe and sanitary housing for our families.

I certainly enjoy working with customers to build beautiful “upper end” homes along the Pinellas beaches, but few know that our company business plan, established in 1971, was to construct truly affordable housing for all income levels in Florida. For my 50 years in construction, we have built over 6,500 homes, a great percentage of which were for middle income Americans. Even more important to us, GHD Construction Services, Inc. has constructed thousands of apartments for those who can’t afford homeownership. Then too, not known by many, GHD is one of Florida’s leading providers of affordable rental housing for our Veterans and homeless populations. We are presently building affordable apartment projects in Sebring, De Funiak Springs, and Okeechobee, to help as best we can provide our veterans and lower income Floridians the affordable housing that they deserve. Proper shelter is paramount for stability for families in order for them to better their lives. Without that housing foundation, it’s hard to progress in life. It’s been 100 years since a direct impact hurricane has hit Pinellas County. It is certainly going to happen sometime in the future, as we recently dodged a bullet with Hurricane Eta. If you are considering building a home, my holiday recommendation is to build new and not spend your savings on extensive remodeling of grade level waterfront homes. Find an experienced builder that you can trust and invest

properly for your residential needs for your future. GHD Coastal Homes (a division of GHD Construction Services, Inc.) can help you find the right lot and price point for your budget. We have townhouses in Madeira Beach, just one block from the beach from less than $550,000 and have our single-family homes for those that want to live on the water. And a promise to as many Floridians as we can serve, GHD will continue to provide affordable housing for our much deserving vets and lesser income families. Giving back is not something we do just during the holiday season. The goal of providing affordable housing in all residential price ranges is becoming ever more challenging. Land prices have escalated sharply over the years, new government regulations and impact fees greatly increase home costs, and then the “Supply/Demand” equation of construction costs is very evident. FEMA has now issued new restrictions that greatly impact all housing. That is the reality of housing costs that have historically increased greatly over the decades. If you are considering a new home, you might want to meet with the builder of your choice now to avoid tomorrow’s higher housing costs. All of us at GHD Coastal Homes wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. GHD Construction Services, Inc. has constructed 6,500 homes since 1971, and announces our GHD Coastal Homes for the Pinellas Beaches. If you have any questions pertaining to new home construction, feel free to come by the GHD showroom, call at 727-954-8345, or email to: Info@GHDcsi.com. Meanwhile, look us up on our web site at www.GHDCoastalHomes.com.

ParadiseNewsFL.com | DECEMBER 2020

69


ENCOURAGING WORDS

By Dennis Merritt Jones

Discover the Wisdom of Equanimity in 2021 “Progress has not followed a straight ascending line, but a spiral with rhythms of progress and retrogression, of evolution and dissolution.” ~ Goethe As Goethe inferred, life is not a straight ascending ride but more like a universal roller coaster—an endless continuum of dips, rises, and spirals; of beginnings and endings . . . successes and failures . . . wins and losses . . . setbacks and advances . . . good days and bad days . . . peaks and valleys . . . light and darkness. There can be no doubt that 2020 offered us an opportunity to experience the dips perhaps more than the rises. However, in the human realm we can’t have one without the other because we need the contrast of one to give meaning to the other. We just need to remember that this is so and to keep moving ahead in 2021, whether we are on an “ascending or a bending” part of the ride. Life is rife with changes and challenges that perpetually come and go. Throughout the ages masters have described this universal principle as the “heartthrob” of Life, always pulsating in a circular manner that serves the creation, evolution, and, ultimately, the dissolution of all living things. What matters is our perspective of the process and understanding as to how it affects every area of our lives. The ancient wise ones have reminded us that all that “is” has a beginning and an end, where there is a period of rest (or restoration) between what was and what shall be. But they never described that period as a permanent stopping place. Just as the planets have cycles, our lives have cycles: day ends with night, night with day; summer ends with fall, fall with winter, and on it goes. In short, life is one wild ride on a universal spiral. The secret of the ages has been to experience the ride, the beginnings and the endings, the good and the bad, and not get 70

DECEMBER 2020 | ParadiseNewsFL.com

Life is not designed to be lived in a straight line. Moving up, down, and sideways is part of the ride– and keeping your balance is the practice of a lifetime. consumed by either the positive aspects or the negative. But how do we do this in a world where there appears to be so much chaos that pummels our senses and pulls us in every direction? The practice is called “The Wisdom of Equanimity.” Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness, and the word happy would lose its meaning if it were not balanced by sadness. It is far better to take things as they come along with patience and equanimity. ~ Carl Jung Equanimity is defined as “mental or emotional calmness or equilibrium.” In the context of this writing, equanimity allows us to stand where we are on the ride of life and simply “be” with it. In other words, equanimity is detached observation; it is the practice of being mindfully aware whether

we are leaning toward “whatever is” and favoring it, or, pulling away from “whatever is” and disfavoring it and then finding the balance of a neutral position that favors neither. The wisdom of equanimity can be applied when navigating our way through difficult times as well as when dealing with difficult people. It is a mindfulness practice that helps us be the observer of our thoughts and feelings before we act on them in a manner that we may later regret. In Buddhism equanimity might be considered an aspect of walking the middle path because it creates the perfect emotional balance required to stay on the ride and not be seduced by the polarity of life in the human condition. To cling to the belief that our life is supposed to continually progress in an ascending straight line causes much suffering. If today is a day of curves and bends rather than an ascending straight line, darkness rather than light, sadness rather than happiness, failure rather than achievement, remember that it must have an end just as it had a beginning. Equally important, remember that while it is not to be perceived as permanent, just as a roller coaster stops between rides, there is a period of rest in between the two. Take a breath and fully “be” in that sacred space. The wisdom of equanimity brings balance to our perspective; it allows us to breathe and experience the sacred gap—the space of what is—that lies between what was and what shall be, knowing as surely as night follows day, this too shall pass. Remember, there will be more peaks and valleys ahead on the spiral of life in 2021. This is truly great news because it means we’re alive . . . and that’s a ride worth staying on. Just remember to breathe and keep your balance! Peace, Dr. Dennis Merritt Jones Copyright © 2020 DMJ Presentations LLC www.DennisMerrittJones.com


SMITH IS HOME.

In times of change, we are always here. Smith & Associates Real Estate has been deeply embedded in the community and moving the real estate market since 1969. “For fifty years, Smith has focused on customer service and embracing innovation. More than ever, we are committed to using the most advanced technology available to help our clients buy and sell homes,” says Bob Glaser, President of Smith & Associates Real Estate. Start your search today at smithandassociates.com. Virtual Tours & Showings | Virtual Open Houses | Virtual Staging | Digital Property Ads | Neighborhood News G IN D N PE

I ND PE

NG PE

IN ND

G

2304 SUNSET WAY Pass-A-Grille $3,950,000 4 Bed | 4 Bath | 3,800 SF Traci Burns 813.833.7510

11 PARADISE LANE Paradise Island $2,100,000 3 Bed | 4 Bath | 3,788 SF Donald L. Taylor 727.513.7828

600 PASS A GRILLE WAY Pass-A-Grille $1,850,000 3 Bed | 3/1 Bath | 2,820 SF

909 BAYSHORE DRIVE Anclote River | Tarpon Springs $1,350,000 5 Bed | 3/1 Bath | 4,264 SF Sophia Vasilaros 727.430.0141

14939 1ST STREET E Madeira Beach $1,095,000 4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,476 SF Rebecka Calhoon 727.204.8891

16 FRANKLIN COURT S #B Marina Bay The Gardens $895,000 3 Bed | 2/1 Bath | 2,334 SF

IC PR

D CE DU E ER

10 FRANKLIN COURT S #631 Captivas At Marina Bay $770,000 3 Bed | 2/1 Bath | 2,437 SF The Grannan Group 727.209.7487

Hockensmith/Womack 727.422.6127

The Malowany Group 727.593.4699

I ND PE

400 64TH AVENUE PH #A Three Palms Pointe $750,000 3 Bed | 2/1 Bath | 1,973 SF Hockensmith/Womack 727.422.6127

3110 1ST STREET W #101 Casa Playa At Pass-A-Grille $1,590,000 3 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,250 SF Steven Reilly 727.455.4089

SALTAIRE Starting in the $800s 1,663 - 6,097 SF Saltaire Sales Team 727.240.3840

saltairestpete.com

NG

8470 W GULF BOULEVARD #511 Treasure Island $389,500 1 Bed | 1 Bath | 590 SF Donald L. Taylor 727.513.7828

3697 42ND WAY S #60 I Bermuda Bay $205,000 1 Bed | 1 Bath | 787 SF Tori Elvir 417.496.7920

OurGlobal Global Partners Our Partners

TAMPA | ST. PETERSBURG | CLEARWATER | BEACHES | LONDON | 727.400.3480 | SMITHORANGE.COM/BEACHES


Paradise News

PRSTD STD U.S. Postage PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT # 2397

ECRWSS EDDM

P.O. Box 66385, St. Pete Beach, FL 33736 727.363.6888 | ParadiseNewsFL.com Sign up for the weekly E-Newsletter “Discover Paradise”

Postal Customer in Paradise

INSIDE THE DECEMBER ISSUE 13 - INNOVATION DISTRICT 18 - HEALING WATERS 27 - ACTS OF KINDNESS 33 - TERRIFIC TEQUILAS 34 - DINING OUT 36 - HOME ENTERTAINING 37 - KIRK ADAMS & THE RIES BROS. 42 - DAY TRIPS TO FLORIDA SPRINGS 62 - SAVING COVID-19 KIDS

ND

LA LL IS

SNE

STUNNING! Exquisite, spacious, 2015 Snell Isle. 3,400+ sq ft, 4BR/3.5BA + office, open floorplan, chef’s kitchen, and oversized 2 car garage.

TEXT / CALL NANCY BAIRD (727)580-7622

ES

HOR

NS TOW

5+ ES 5

HOR

NS TOW

55+

SPECTACULAR WATERVIEWS! Panoramic views of waterways, 2 BR/2BA, updated kitchen and baths. Located in the cat friendly Manchester Building, full amenities, 55+. $234,900

TEXT / CALL BILL SAMPSON (727)776-7280

ONT ERFR

WAT

SWEEPING WATER VIEWS! Nottingham building, 1BR/1BA spacious unit, 1,060 sq ft. Come enjoy the direct waterviews in this 55+ active community. $189,900

TEXT / CALL BILL SAMPSON (727)776-7280

STUNNING WATER VIEWS! Spacious one bedroom with magnificent water and sunset views. All amenities of the desirable 55+ Point Brittany. $184,900 TEXT / CALL NANCY BAIRD (727)580-7622

DING

PEN

ISLA

INVESTOR’S SPECIAL! 3BR/1BA block home sits on 2 lots. Huge backyard, ready for you to make it your own. Call for details. $165,000

TEXT / CALL EMMAMUEL OWE (727)333-1266

E ISL

SUR

TREA

AND

TENNIS AND YACHT CLUB! This beautiful unit offers an open floor plan and incredible waterviews. 1BR/ 1.5BA with private balcony and covered parking. $269,000

TEXT / CALL MARCY WILLIAMS (727)458-7068

DEL

SOL

GOLF COURSE & WATERVIEWS! Spacious split-bedroom plan, 1,030 sq ft, 2BR/2BA furnished corner unit. Start enjoying the best of Florida living. $282,000 TEXT / CALL LINDA LOWE (727)488-9012

NER

COR

A

VILL

AWESOME WATER VIEWS! 2/2 Spacious 2nd floor corner unit, views of Boca Ciega Bay, upscale Bahia Pointe, lots of amenities - Small pet & 30-day min rentals allowed. $294,000 TEXT / CALL LINDA LOWE (727)488-9012

A Message to Our Customers: We are here for YOU! At Baird Realty Group YOU are our #1 Priority

• We take the safety of our customers and staff seriously. • We adhere to the Center for Disease Control Guidelines Regarding COVID-19 • We are OPEN and available to help you through these challenging times • You Can Continue Your Home Search Safely at www.bairdrealtygroup.com Remember: Social Distancing does NOT mean Social Isolation. Please contact us: 727-360-4900 with any questions or concerns regarding your current or future Real Estate needs or just to let us know how you are doing. Visit: www.cdc.gov for helpful information including COVID-19 symptoms. Search Tampa Bay Area Listings at: www.BairdRealtyGroup.com


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.