St. Pete Life July/August 2022 by St. Pete Life

Celebrating 10 Years

2019 NATIONAL WINNER Entire House Under $250,000

Multiple Award Winning Contractor! • Certified Remodeler (CR) • Certified Remodeling Project Managers (CRPM) • Certified Lead Carpenters (CLC) • Universal Design Certified Professionals (UDCP)

Ever Wonder How To Get Started On Your Remodel Idea?

For most homeowners, purchasing a home is the largest investment of a life-time. Large remodeling projects often are the 2nd to 3rd largest investment made by homeowners. Therefore, it is vitally important to select a remodeling contractor that has the expertise and knowledge to help manage your investment. Most remolding projects de-rail right at the beginning because many remodeling companies simply do not have a procedure in place and are in a hurry to get you into a remodeling contract before many important decisions have been discussed. This is where King Contracting differentiates itself as one of the premier Design-Build Firms in Pinellas County! We follow a proven process that is an exciting journey, starting right with your dreams! First stop is to pick up a King Contracting Design and Sales Consultant, then the journey continues on as our other key personnel and suppliers come aboard to accompany you to the final destination! At the end of your journey, after working with you and our team members along the way, we will present you with an exquisite remodel of your home that you will enjoy for years to come! Below Are Basic Steps to a Successful Remodeling Project. Design & Develop: • Initial Consultation Meeting • Enter into a Development Agreement • Structure, layout, 3-D concepts are assembled • Develop the Scope of Work and Budget

Please visit our new showroom at 3931 Central Ave., St Pete, FL 33713 M-F 8:00am - 5:00pm Sat and after hours by appt only 727.914.6949 Call or stop by today! CGC#1520433

You Signed the Contract, What’s Next? • Go shopping! Actually, you don’t pay for or pick up anything, just enjoy making your selections at our wonderful vendor and supplier locations • While you’re doing that, we are finalizing plans and applying for permits • We are also busy with sub-contractors and vendors, readying the next step for your journey! When Does Work Start? • The Schedule will go “Live” in our production system once the following has occurred: • ALL selection items have been completed and approved in writing by you • Permit in-hand What’s Needed by Me? Relax, we will update you weekly with progress, even if you live out of town!

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CONTENTS

JULY/AUGUST 2022 Volume 6 No. 1

Features

Gio Swaby: Fresh Up ....................................... 16 People to Watch: Paul Wilborn ......................... 20 Guitar Stars: Seven C Music ............................. 24

Top Picks: Best of St. Pete............................... 44 Travel: Thirsty in North Carolina ....................... 56 Fashion: Breaking the Rules ............................. 64 Hooper: Chat with Leigh Davis ........................ 68 Hot Wheels: BMW 240i Coupe ......................... 72 Wine Cellar: Summer Sips ............................... 74 Eating Out: St. Pete Dining Guide ..................... 78

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July/August 2022

WELCOME TO SPL There is no question that St. Pete is back in business. We are growing, moving, shaking and in this issue, we salute The Best of St. Pete. This year’s poll is completely People’s Choice, we put out an online survey and welcomed thousands of responses. In many cases, the numbers were close, so we decided to present the top three winners in each category. Hold onto this issue; you can refer to it throughout the year. Another reason to keep the magazine around is our new Dining Guide, a comprehensive look at the most popular restaurants in St. Pete, Gulfport and St. Pete Beach. Refer to it when you have visitors or just looking for a new culinary experience. Our restaurant scene in St. Pete is exploding! The arts is a huge part our identity, and we are blessed to have such a wide array of museums and galleries bringing in major exhibits. In this issue, we visit the highly acclaimed Gio Swaby: Fresh Up exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts and drop in on St. Pete dad/son duo David and Joel Hosler who have opened up an amazing guitar shop and music venue in the Warehouse Arts District. We love when locals open businesses that make our city shine. Finally, if you are hankering for a summer getaway, we encourage you to check out Hendersonville, North Carolina. Our story explores the region in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and ﬁnds plenty to like, including wineries, breweries and historic places worth a visit. Have a safe and enjoyable summer!

PUBLISHER/CEO Beth Ann Drake EDITOR Marcia Biggs ART DIRECTOR Alicia Brown ADVERTISING Ed Barry Ad Director Betsy Phillips Senior Account Executive Debbie Radsick Account Executive CONTRIBUTORS Megan Simons Women’s Fashion Will Howard The Wine Cellar

Flourish Photography

Nitish S. Rele/Ernest Hooper Cindy Cockburn Contributors CO-FOUNDER/BUSINESS MANAGER Ralph Zuckerman Want SPL delivered directly to your home or oﬃce? Go to www.stpetelifemag/subscribe.

Beth Ann Drake

Publisher bdrake�stpetelifemag.com

Marcia Biggs

Editor editor@stpetelifemag.com

www.StPeteLifeMag.com

260 1st Avenue S. Suite 200-151 St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Adver tising: 813.447.9900 bdrake@stpetelifemag.com Editorial: editor@stpetelifemag.com

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On The Cover: Light summer dining with a view from the Birchwood Canopy.

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

Celebrating 41 Years

Testament to Vision, Craftsmanship, and Quality

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NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION

THE ULTIMATE DOWNTOWN DESTINATION The Residences at 400 Central is anticipated to be the tallest residential building on the West Coast of Florida and will capture breathtaking unobstructed views from Tampa Bay to the Gulf of Mexico. A collection of one to four-bedroom luxury residences and select penthouse options will contain floor-to-ceiling windows and glass balconies. Over 35,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor private residential amenities designed by world-renowned architectural firm, Arquitectonica.

STARTING IN THE $900s | SCHEDULE YOUR PRIVATE APPOINTMENT.

727-291-4580 residences400central.com S A L E S G A L L E RY L O C AT E D AT : 4 6 5 C E N T R A L AV E N U E , S T. P E T E R S B U R G , F L ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This is not intended to be an offer to sell, or solicitation to buy, condominium units to residents of any jurisdiction where prohibited by law, and your eligibility for purchase will depend upon your state of residency. This offering is made only by the prospectus for the condominium and no statement should be relied upon if not made in the prospectus. The images and artist’s renderings shown here in are conceptual only and are for the convenience of reference. The developer expressly reserves the right to make modifications, revisions, and changes as it deems desirable in its sole and absolute discretion.

Elevate Your Experience. mountainairnc.com

“I CAN WALK BAREFOOT ON THE BEACH AGAIN.” Local acupuncture clinic is treating peripheral neuropathy with incredible results.

Pain comes in many shapes and sizes. One of the most debilitating being the burning and tingling that comes with peripheral neuropathy. A disease that comes with years of shooting, stabbing pain that gradually ends in numbness balance problems and on occasion amputations. A disease that was once classified as irreparable. John G of Treasure Island was facing such a fate. “I stopped golfing. I wasn’t taking walks on the beach with my wife. I was living on gabapentin and antidepressants. Everywhere I went, my doctor, the specialists, the pain institute, told me there was nothing else they could do. How are you supposed to live your life knowing that everyday brings pain and suffering?” Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves, commonly caused by a lack of blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet. This causes the nerves to begin to degenerate due to lack of nutrient flow. Most peripheral neuropathy sufferers experience a heightened sensitivity to touch making it almost impossible for those diagnosed to even wear shoes, much less enjoy life. “It was like walking on sharp rocks. I barely left my recliner,” shared John. His experience is not uncommon for those diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy.

Helping to give people their lives back. Acupuncture is incredible at restoring blood flow and stimulating damaged nerves preventing them from dying off,” explains Dr. Gibbons. “We take our treatments a step further by integrating ATP Resonance BioTherapy™ which targets specific nerves in the body using micro current. ATP therapy is like watering a plant. This treatment will stimulate the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients to heal and repair. Three months later John is thrilled with his progress, “I can walk barefoot on the beach again.” Success stories like John’s are not atypical for the staff at Achieve Acupuncture. “We have an 80% success rate in treating neuropathy,” states Dr. Gibbons. The number of treatments needed to allow the nerves to fully recover will vary from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation. While John’s peripheral neuropathy is considered idiopathic meaning the cause is unknown, Dr. Gibbons treatments can also help people whose neuropathy is caused by diabetes or chemotherapy.

That is until he found Dr. Rebecca Gibbons of Achieve Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine of St. Petersburg.

“We have see tremendous success in treating neuropathy of all types through very personalized treatments, speciﬁcally tailored to treat each individual case.”

Dr. Gibbons and her staﬀ have pioneered a medical solution to treat neuropathy by eliminating or greatly reducing its symptoms.

To schedule your consultation and evaluation call 727-272-3587. For more information visit ww.achieveacuim.com

727.272.3587 701 49th St. N St. Petersburg, FL 33710 www.achieveacuim.com

SPL LIVING

Old World Charm Meets Modern Luxury

2296 Coffee Pot Blvd NE | Offered at $3,500,000 Ideally situated on two and a half lots on Coﬀee Pot Blvd NE in historic Grenada Terrace you’ll ﬁnd this majestic Mediterranean Revival, built by St Petersburg visionary, C. Perry Snell in 1926. The owners fell in love with the charm of the era and of course the views and location! While they loved the historic features of the estate, they wanted to have the modern luxuries enjoyed today so they painstakingly remodeled and updated the entire property over the last two years while working with the historic board to maintain the integrity of the home including expanding and adding a truly gourmet kitchen, creating a luxurious master bedroom with walk-in

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July/August 2022

closets and fabulous en-suite bath as well as adding an incredible outdoor retreat complete with large pool and spa, travertine deck and gorgeous covered outdoor living area. The owners love the fact that part of what makes their property unique is that they enjoy beautiful water views from most of the home and especially the outdoor entertaining areas! This property is exclusively listed by Tammy Campbell McNelis and The CPM Team with COMPASS FL. www.TheCPMTeam.com 727-455-2351

1967 Bayview Dr. | Tierra Verde | $7,998,000 6 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 9237 Total SQ

Old Florida charm meets modern luxury living on Florida’s West Coast. This private, Key West-inspired waterfront estate is ideally situated in the exclusive enclave on the East Shore of Tierra Verde and sits on nearly 1 acre of land with 159 ft of water frontage with sweeping ope water views!

Stunning, completely remodeled waterfront Mediterranean Revival situated on 2.5 lots in Old NE St Petersburg. This gorgeous estate has been tastefully modernized and features a new gourmet kitchen, formal living, dining, casual dining, sun room, an expansive family room, easily transitioned to a 4th guest bedroom, a 2 car garage and a water lot on Coffee Pot Bayou with dock.

Oﬀering The Finest Luxury Homes

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Life is Now, Love Where You Live CALL US TO FIND YOUR FOREVER HOME Tammy Campbell McNelis (Plummer) 727.455.2351 Tammy@TheCpmTeam.com

www.TheCpmTeam.com 200 Central Ave. St. Pete FL 33701

Not intended to solicit currently listed property © Compass Florida, LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information furnished regarding property for sale or rent or regarding ﬁnancing is from sources deemed reliable, but Compass makes no warranty or representation as to the accuracy thereof. All property information is presented subject to errors, omission, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the marketing without notice.

From Jeweler to

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Family-Owned and Family-Operated Jewelry Store for over 25 years.

skyline luxury

AT THE TOP OF THE AND THE HEIGHT OF

Artist’s Rendering

As could only be imagined by SB Architects, the Art House Penthouses bring downtown living to the height of luxury with up to 4,847 square feet of indoor and outdoor living. Soaring 11-foot ceilings, sweeping wraparound terraces, and an incomparable array of sophisticated amenities, amid the arts and culture of this celebrated waterfront downtown district. From the developers of Saltaire and ONE in St. Petersburg, Hyde Park House Tampa, and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota.

Artist’s Rendering of Penthouse A Great Room

Artist’s Rendering of Penthouse B Great Room

CALL FOR PRICING & INFORMATION Sales Hosted by Smith & Associates Real Estate 330 Beach Drive NE | St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-240-3840 | ArtHouseStPete.com

PRESENTED BY

Broker participation is welcomed and encouraged. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES TO BE FURNISHED BY A SELLER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. Prices, terms, and availability are subject to change at any time without notice. Images are artist’s renderings and may not represent the final building. Furnishings and fixtures are for display purposes and are not included with the residence. Actual improvements, including, recreational facilities and amenities, may vary from those shown and views may not be available from all units. The project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation requires prior qualification.

ARTS & CULTURE

Fresh Up

Gio Swaby celebrates black women in MFA exhibit PHOTO/MARCIA BIGGS

Artist Gio Swaby speaks about her large- scale work Gyalavantin’.

BY MARCIA BIGGS At first glance, the work of Gio Swaby appears to be sketches, outlines perhaps done in pastels or charcoal, all women portraying soulful attitude and confidence. But look closer and one realizes these are stitched portraits. Other larger canvases are fabric collages of life-size female silhouettes, faceless but fierce. All of them represent Black women, friends and family, who have touched the life of artist Gio Swaby in the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) exhibit Gio Swaby: Fresh Up. In her first solo museum exhibit, Swaby, a 31-year-old Bahamian native now living in Toronto, explores the intersections of Blackness and womanhood. It’s a show that has the MFA organizers a-twitter, considering the national buzz that’s been circulating since the artist’s sold-out gallery show in April 2021 in New York City.

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July/August 2022

Swaby’s acclaimed works are as hot as the Caribbean sun, being purchased by prestigious museums and private collectors, and a recent article in Harper’s Bazaar has literally dubbed her one of the trendiest Black female ﬁne artists of current time. Six major national museums, including the MFA, Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, have scheduled exhibits. Swaby calls her work a celebration of Black women, who have over the decades been stereotyped or generalized in art. “Fresh Up is a Bahamian expression,” she told a group of reporters at an exhibit preview. “It’s used to describe someone when you are looking particularly stylish, like ‘hey, you’re looking fresh up today!’ ” Fresh Up features work from three bodies of work. Swaby’s creative process starts with photo portraits of her subjects — mostly her

ARTS & CULTURE friends and sisters — and from them she creates outlines and figures on a sewing machine. Swaby credits her mother, a lifelong seamstress, with inspiring her to work with textiles and fabrics. Her series of Love Letters are faceless women all striking poses that show personal empowerment and self-awareness. Why no facial features? “I hope when Black women and girls see my work, they see parts of themselves reflected with reverence, care and love,” she said. Her New Growth series is an ode to Black hair. As Swaby tells it, her unique hair is a connection to her ancestry and the art of styling and hair care is a tradition shared by all Black women. These stitched portraits are studies on various styles and techniques that show Black hair as “a beautiful extension of ourselves.” Her large canvas series Pretty captures women in contemplative moments expressed through a pose, jewelry, hair and clothing. It’s interesting to note that the threaded line works are displayed on the reverse side of the canvas; it’s hardly noticeable unless one looks closely. Long loose threads emanate from various points on the person, flowing in all directions. Each thread is an interesting metaphor, or is it simply a thread? The viewer can determine the answer. Gio Swaby: Fresh Up continues through October 9 at the St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts. Go to mfastpete.org for tickets and more information. The exhibition is co-organized by the MFA and the Arts Institute of Chicago.

Fresh Up Dance Party

In celebration of the Bahamian “fresh up” attitude, the MFA presents a tropical-themed party from 7 to 10 pm July 29 featuring DJ, dancing, and Bahamianinﬂuenced cuisine and drinks. Don your best Going Out Clothes as you and your friends will be mingling with featured artist Gio Swaby! Looking for inspiration? Summery bright colors, ﬂoral prints, enamel jewelry, and straw bags are traditional. The party happens in the museum Conservatory; tickets are $30 for non-members with admission applied to the cost of a new membership. Go to https://mfastpete.org/event/fresh-up-dance-party/

Pretty, Pretty 8 is now part of the MFA collection.

New Growth 2 is a tribute to Black hairstyles.

July/August 2022

StPeteLifeMag.com

ARTS & CULTURE For the Love of Books

Beyond Words: Celebrating Books as Art is a juried exhibition at Florida CraftArt showcasing ﬁne handcrafted work by 36 artists from Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. Continuing through July 30, the 75 inventive works represent a broad interpretation of the concept of “book.” “Each book represents a personal story, a reﬂection of cultural heritage or international sensibilities,” says exhibit curator Cindy Bartosek. “There are thought-provoking pieces and conversation starters around social justice and state of the world issues. Some are pieces that stretch the imagination or relate personal joys and

sorrow; others remind us of the beauty and wonder of the world around us and its peril. Others take the book structure beyond everyday expectations, challenging our preconceptions of what a book is and can be.” “One Sheet Wonders: Folded Books from One Sheet of Paper,” a workshop led by curator Cindy Bartosek on Saturday, July 30, will be held from 10 am to 3:30 pm followed by an Artists’ Talk and closing reception at 4 pm. Visit FloridaCraftArt.org or call (727) 821-7391 to register. The Morean Arts Center pays tribute to books in Bookish, the theme of the 2022 Member Show opening July 9 during Second Saturday ArtWalk. The show’s artists were challenged to create work in any medium, based on a book—any book—christening the artwork the same title as that book. Nearly 200 works were submitted and will be on display at the Morean Arts Center galleries. The exhibit runs through August 25; go to MoreanArtsCenter.org for more information.

Cool Art Show

Hey, all you cool cats and kittens, the 33rd Annual Cool Art Show by PAVA (Professional Association of Visual Artists. Inc.) is back in the air-conditioned splendor of The Coliseum July 23-24. Expect over 60 artists to be showing and selling one-of-a-kind arts and crafts from ceramics and jewelry to photography and paintings. Here’s your chance to ﬁnd that unique piece of art for your home or oﬃce. This year’s show is adding a kids activity area. Did we say it’s free? Go to pava-artists.org for more information.

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Gio Swaby, My Hands Are Clean 4 (detail), 2017, Thread and fabric sewn on canvas, Collection of Claire Oliver and Ian Rubinstein

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ARTS & CULTURE Imagine a Summer Discount

If you have never visited the Imagine Museum, summer admission discounts for local residents should offer some inspiration. The contemporary glass museum’s Keep it Local Tampa Bay program is offering $7.50 admission all summer long for residents of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, and Sarasota counties. For a bit of added fun, bring the kids for a Summer Safari Scavenger Hunt and Journey of the Imagination tours offered daily for free with admission. Don’t miss seeing the Imagine Museum, it’s a gem in the Grand Central District.

SPL FAVES

The music continues all summer long at The Palladium Summer Series. A few of our faves: July 14 - Nate Najar & Friends Swing Into Summer with Daniela Soledade, John Lamb, Jeﬀ Rupert and Randy Sandke, 7:30 pm at the Side Door, tickets $25-$45. Added bonus: Brazilian singer Soledade premieres her new album “Pretty World” with special guest bossa nova legend Roberto Menescal and her band on Aug. 19 in Hough Hall. Aug. 5 – Selwyn Birchwood, Hough Hall, 8 pm, $20-$40 Aug. 12 – Eric Darius Unleashed Album Release Party, 6:30 pm, Hough Hall $25-$50

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July/August 2022

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ARTS & CULTURE

SPL

Florida Hustle

St. Pete arts ambassador debuts ﬁrst novel

SPL

People To Watch

BY CINDY COCKBURN How long did the novel take to write?

Paul Wilborn wears many hats. Perhaps best known as “Palladium Paul,” the Tampa native has been at the helm as executive director of the Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College since 2007 and lives in St. Pete with his wife, the film actor and model Eugenie Bondurant. Over the years, he’s led two popular bands – Paul and the Pop Tarts and Blue Roses. He also produced and performed the long-running American Songbook Series at American Stage Theater and was a founding member of the Radio Theater Project at American Stage. As a newspaper reporter, Wilborn has collected multiple awards from the American Society of Newspaper Editors and the Florida Society of Newspaper Editors during a journalism career that included stints at the Tampa Tribune, The St. Petersburg Times and the Associated Press in Los Angeles. He recently launched his debut novel Florida Hustle to rave reviews. Critics have lavished early praise on the book, calling it: “… an irrepressible Florida frolic filled with lost dreams, forlorn love, and horror movie lore.” ( Kirkus Reviews). Wilborn released a collection of short stories based on his earlier days hanging out in Ybor City. Cigar City: Tales From a 1980s Creative Ghetto, won the gold medal for fiction in the Florida Book Awards in 2019. We caught up with Wilborn at a recent book release party at Seven C Music in St. Petersburg. Where did you get the idea for Florida Hustle? After Friday the 13th came out in 1981 and made a ton of money, a lot of my young actor friends got hired for these B-grade slasher movies shot in Florida. They all went into the woods and got killed by some crazed “Jason” type. The movies were super low budget and went straight to drive-ins or video.

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Florida Hustle started as a screenplay back in 2002, when I was living in Los Angeles. I like the idea of a sheltered kid obsessed with a movie star. And I thought the world of cheap 1980s slasher movies could be a funny premise. I picked the idea back up in 2019. I took two years writing the book, and then another six months doing a final revise. It was finished in 2021, but I delayed the release in hopes we’d be beyond the pandemic and I could do live book talks. While COVID isn’t over, the world is back and book talks are live again. Why the Florida theme? The book is set in 1982, as the phenomenal success of Friday the 13th spawned a string of cheap slasher-film copycats, shot around the Sunshine State. I set the book in Palm Beach and West Palm because I lived there around the time in which I set the book, the early ‘80s. And later I roamed Florida as a reporter for the Tampa Tribune and the St. Petersburg Times, and used a lot of places and experiences from my reporting in the book. So it’s fiction, but based on my real experiences. Is this a horror book? While the book is set in the world of horror movies, it’s a comingof-age comedy, with a bit of an on-the-road storyline. I’m not writing a scary Stephen King book. Hopefully people will think it is funny and touching. As one reviewer put it: “Florida Hustle is a romp with heart.” Florida Hustle is published by St. Petersburg Press and available at Tombolo Books (St. Petersburg), Oxford Exchange (Tampa), and as a print and e-book on Amazon.com. Check out wilbornwrites.com for appearances.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Guitar Stars

A father-son duo brings a world-class guitar shop – and music venue – to the Warehouse Arts District BY MARCIA BIGGS

PHOTOS BY MARCIA BIGGS

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July/August 2022

ARTS & CULTURE From the outside, it’s an industrial looking warehouse, but step inside Seven C Music and the magic begins. A spacious room draws you in, shiny guitars hang from the ceiling, line the walls – acoustic beauties in African rosewood, Madagascar ebony, Tasmanian blackwood. At a couple workbenches, people are stringing guitars, picking, talking shop with customers. An inviting bar lounge with comfy seating and tables invites you to hang out with a beer, wine or coffee. Need strings? A consultation? There’s help behind the front counter. But in the back workshop is where the work gets done. That’s where Seven C Music co-owners David and Joel Hosler and their staff of guitar fixers extraordinaire are hard at work, bending over workbenches, fiddling with drills and glues and a myriad of other tools. On this particular mid-week afternoon, a few local musicians have come in for minor repair work. On weekends, things pick up. You may be lucky enough to catch an evening of live music featuring local

and regional musicians playing everything from folk and jazz to blues. On second Saturdays of the month, when the adjacent ArtsXchange is abuzz for Second Saturday ArtWalk with open artist studios and galleries, Seven C Music pulls up the garage door, sets up tables and chairs and invites the public to a wideopen live music party. It’s a toetapping and dancing-under-guitars kind of evening. Seven C: A Vision Hard work and determination by the father-son Hosler team led to a vision of the multi-functional guitar repair facility and community gathering spot. David Hosler has more than 40 years of experience designing, building and repairing stringed instruments. Both have extensive background designing and repairing guitars for Taylor Guitars, a leading national manufacturer in California. Even though David oﬃcially “retired” from Taylor in 2015 to move back to Florida (he grew up in Sarasota), he continued to do repair work from home. When his son Joel and wife Tiﬀany agreed to move to St. Pete from Southern California in 2016, Continued on next page

David (left) and Joel Hosler

July/August 2022

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ARTS & CULTURE they opened a small repair shop a year later on Haines Road. The work came pouring in. As master luthiers (a builder of stringed instruments), they were servicing national guitar manufacturers along with a growing community of Tampa Bay and regional musicians. They soon determined they needed more space and that’s when the Seven C Music seed was planted. “A friend encouraged us to look at the ArtsXchange campus because they wanted to incorporate all the arts from visual to dance to sculpture and music and they were anxious to have us here,” said David. “We gutted the building and we had a vision. We started with small workshops but knew we wanted to have concerts, and once we did concerts we knew we needed a beer and wine license.” In fall of 2020, despite a raging COVID pandemic, the Hoslers opened Seven C Music in a renovated 5,000-square-foot warehouse on 22nd Street S. in the epicenter of the Warehouse Arts District. They brought in master luthier Hunter Allen, and hired several other craftspeople to help service more than two dozen guitar manufacturers that ship them guitars to repair, such as Taylor, Martin, Fender, and others. “We’ve basically brought a Nashville style specialty guitar

Left, master luthier Hunter Allen works on a guitar in the workshop at Seven C Music. Below, Boho Sideshow performs during a Second Saturday ArtWalk concert.

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July/August 2022

ARTS & CULTURE shop to St. Pete,” says Joel Hosler. “Music is really thriving here. Our history and our knowledge between my father, myself, Hunter and a couple other apprentices … you don’t get this kind of experience unless you’re in LA or Nashville.” One thing they want to make clear, though, is they are not in the profession of restoring vintage guitars. “There’s a difference between restoration and repairing,” emphasizes David. “A lot of people come in with an old guitar they had in their closets. We are not trying to be a restoration shop. On older guitars you try not to replace or change parts. You don’t want to restore to brand new, it changes the sound, you want to keep vintage guitars in original condition.” Supporting local musicians and building a local music community is a driving force for the Hoslers. “Some days it’s like a barbershop in here,” jokes Joel. “Musicians like to come in and hangout … we’ll be roasting our own coffee soon.” But back to those guitars on the walls. Yes, they sell preowned and new guitars, too, and even a few banjos and ukuleles. In retrospect, Joel adds: “We knew we wanted to be different. … We’re here to enrich the community. We built this business a brick at a time and we want to create a place that makes people enjoy living here.”

Right, David Hosler works on a guitar with musician John Moore. Below, Tiﬀany Hosler oversees the coﬀee shop and bar at Seven C Music.

July/August 2022

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SPL LIVING

Get ahead of the game and be prepared

By DOUG KING Nothing is worse than trying to deal with all of life’s issues and then throwing in a visit by a hurricane. Get ahead of the game and start preparing your home now. If you wait until a storm is imminent, you will not be able to get everything done before you need to leave and/or before the storm hits. Here are actions you should take to secure your property and prepare for summer storms. Home Exterior • Start at one corner of your lot and walk the perimeter, working your way in toward your house. Look for dead trees and limbs. Have these cut down or trimmed as soon as possible. They become deadly missiles during high winds. • Check your gutters and downspouts to make sure none are loose. Tighten if they are. • Check your roof to make sure you do not have any loose shingles or tiles or that you might have a problem area that might be the cause of a leak during heavy, prolonged rain. Loose items, especially tiles, cause a lot of damage. (Call a licensed rooﬁng company if you don’t like climbing ladders.) • Check fencing; make sure there are no loose panels and that the gates are properly secured to the post structure. • Check around all windows and doors to see if there any gaps where wind-driven rain might penetrate. Caulk as needed. Replace any broken or damaged ones; consider getting Impact Resistant (IR) replacements or replacing all in your house with IR’s.

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July/August 2022

• Check awnings and shutters, make sure they are not loose or rusted where they could easily become dislodged during high winds. Repair as needed. • If you have a garage door and it is not reinforced for high winds, call a reputable garage door company and have them reinforce your door or install a new one to meet the wind codes for your area. This is one of the weakest parts of your home’s envelope. • If you have rolldown shutters that protect your windows and doors, test them to make sure they are in full operational mode. Fully close and open every one of them. Home Interior • Walk from room to room with a video camera or camera, recording all personal items in each room, including closets and garage. Make a copy, keeping one in your getaway bag. I suggest sending one to a relative that lives in an area not prone to hurricanes. • Identify a water-proof container that you can easily locate in a hurry. Put all valuable documents in the container such as insurance papers, wills, ﬁnancials and, of course, family photos. • Identify a large bag/suitcase that you can easily locate when in a hurry. This becomes your Getaway Bag. It would be wise to go ahead and stock it with batteries, ﬂashlights and several waterproof zip-lock bags. You can pack your other items when a storm is predicted to hit your area within one week. If a Storm is Approaching Once you have determined that you need to leave your house and/ or that a storm is heading your way, there are several things you

SPL LIVING should do to help reduce damage to your own property and to your neighbors.

Check gutters one last time. It’s probably too late to worry about the roof unless you can make repairs quickly yourself. Check fencing and gates one last time.

Start at one corner of your lot and walk the perimeter, working your way in toward your house. Look for dead trees and limbs once again. You may need to remove those yourself at this point since most tree companies are either booked solid or making their own preparations to evacuate. As you walk your property, keep working your way in towards your house. Decorative landscaping items such as small rocks, pebbles, lighting, gnomes and bird feeders/baths can also become missiles. Gather all of these and put in garage, closet or storage. For rocks, pebbles or other landscaping materials you cannot remove, stake down a landscape cloth (readily available at big box hardware) over these areas. Be sure to make the material taunt and that all stake connections are secure. This will keep those materials from disappearing in high winds and keep them from becoming missiles. Also remove any signs, such as real estate or contractor signs and all lawn furniture. If you do not have room for lawn furniture inside, tightly secure them with rope or chains to a sturdy tree in your yard. If you do not have a tree but do have a pool, sink your furniture in the pool, assuming it is indeed waterproof!

If you plan to leave Fill your vehicle(s) fuel tanks and pack two weeks of light-weight clothing (per person). Grab your Getaway Bag; check for batteries, flashlights and waterproof baggies. Add a lot of bottled water, a battery operated portable radio, toiletries, feminine products and games for children (with plenty of batteries). Assume you may be somewhere without power for two weeks. Grab your waterproof container with aforementioned important docs, adding other documents that you deem not replaceable (stock certificates, etc.) If you are in an area prone to flooding, put your furniture on blocks a couple of feet off the floor. Remove all items from the floor, stacking in closets as high as possible. This in case the water rises enough to enter your home. (This will not do much good if a direct hit of a Cat 3 or higher occurs.) Doug King, CR, MBA, CGC is NARI National Chairman of The Board 2021/2022.

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SPL NEWS PTB Preservation Winners Announced

Preserve the ‘Burg announced the winners of the 2022 Preservations Awards during a ceremony held April 27 at the Palladium Theater. Some 17 projects and people were recognized for their preservation eﬀorts. These awards recognize the people, associations and businesses helping to save and reuse the historic buildings and places that play a key part in St. Pete’s unique sense of place. Award winners are chosen from nominations submitted by the public, including building owners, neighbors and neighborhood associations, contractors and realtors. The winners are: Compatible Design - Local Historic District - 700 31st St. N, Allen Campbell and Craig Hepworth and Domain Homes Compatible Design - Non-designated Historic Neighborhood Hughey Home, 750 2nd St. N, Pam and David Hughey, EDAD Studio Maureen Staﬀord Award - New Light Restoration, owner Trevor Sieders Preservation Craftsmanship - Union Trust Bank, All Trades Historical Restoration Renovation/Restoration – Residential - 2710 2nd Ave. N, Andrew and Starr Blaser Renovation/Restoration – Institutional - St. Petersburg High School, Pinellas County Schools/Rowe Architects/Creative Contractors Renovation/Restoration – Commercial - Bodega on Central Smalley-Green Auto Building, 1180 Central Ave.; Blake Whitney Thompson, George & Debbie Sayegh (owners)

Renovation/Restoration of a Historic Landmark - Floridian Theater, Kevin Chadwick Adaptive Reuse – Residential - American Baptist Church of the Beatitudes, 801 28th Ave. N., Bluewater Builders/Jason Sanchez Sense of Place Community Storytelling - The Jack Kerouac House of St. Petersburg, Ken and Gina Burchenal Sense of Place Community Asset - Polish American Society, Roger Telschow and Monika Smolarczyk Accessory Dwelling Unit - 2500 Burlington Ave. N, Zach Curry Historic Sign Restoration - Ferg’s/World Liquors, Mark Ferguson Preservation Publication - “Sophie and Zack at Sunken Gardens”, Children’s Education Project; Sunken Garden Forever Foundation (SGFF) Preservation Education - Howard Knapp, Then & Now Posts Preservationist of the Year - Burt and Carol Kline, Historic Old Northeast Neighborhood Association (HONNA) Preservation Legacy/Lifetime Achievement - Howard Fenford Hansen, Howard Hansen

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SPL LIVING

Prepare Your Pets, Make a Plan for Storm Season BY DR. RIZAL LOPEZ, DVM The Tampa Bay area loves baseball, football, hockey and soccer season — hurricane season not so much. Expert indicators predict the 2022 hurricane season to have “above average” activity — including nine hurricane-force storms and four major hurricanes. The season continues through November 30. The time for you, your family and pets to be prepared is now.

Pet Tales

Keep your family and pets safe by knowing what to do in the event of an emergency and make a plan now. There are very few emergency shelters that accept pets and their owners, and they are never large or comfortable. You and your pets will handle the stress of an evacuation far better if you ﬁnd petfriendly hotels and motels, or can stay with friends or family.

At SPCA Tampa Bay we’ve had recent experience at our For-All shelter keeping our animals safe from Hurricane Irma and helping our partners in the Panhandle when they were impacted by storms. What helped us was a plan to keep our animals and our team safe and healthy.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for a potential storm: • Know your ﬂood and evacuation zones. In Pinellas County, go to PinellasCounty.org to check the ﬂood and evacuation zones near you.

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SPL LIVING • Plan where you’d go if an evacuation is necessary or ordered. Pre-registration is required to stay in a pet-friendly emergency shelter - call Pinellas County at (727) 582-2150 or download the registration form on the Pinellas County website and return it to Pinellas County Animal Services. The Pinellas County School Board and Pinellas County government provide the pet friendly shelter locations at Largo and Gibbs High Schools. • Never leave your pets alone if you have to evacuate. You won’t be able to get back to them due to storm surge or ﬂood damage. Your pets may end up being left alone for hours or days depending on severe weather, storm damage, downed power lines, road closures or other poor conditions. Wind or rain damage to your home and yard could also put your pets at risk for injury or escape in your absence.

Start planning now. Don’t wait for another storm to hit to ﬁgure out your plan for hurricane season. Contact SPCA Tampa Bay at (727) 586-3591 or spcatampabay.org for help and links to organizations to assist you in ﬁguring out the best plan for your family. Dr. Rizal Lopez DVM) is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Pinellas County Veterinary Medical Association, the Florida Veterinary Medical Association, and the Association of Shelter Veterinarians.

• Pack at least 3-5 days’ worth of supplies. Remember to bring essential items with you like your pets’ food and medications, bottled water, and their medical and shot records, as well as familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket. • Make sure your pet’s collar has the identiﬁcation tag on it and that your contact information on your pet’s microchip and tag are up-to-date. If you don’t know how to update your pet’s microchip, ask your veterinarian or the shelter where you adopted your pet to help you.

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July/August 2022

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ARTS & CULTURE

A Family Affair An art exhibit serves as a celebration of one family’s enduring passion for art BY MARCIA BIGGS

When Paul Nucci’s brother John passed away in 2020, he was understandably grieving. John held numerous jobs during his life but was also a hobby artist, so when John’s wife asked Paul to archive her husband’s collection, he was pleased to do so. What he found shocked him. He discovered far more paintings than he ever imagined, some 60 works of art that all represented a man with great hidden talent. He thought it was a shame that none of his brother’s work had ever been exhibited. “I began to think about it and I mentioned it to other members of the family,” recalls Nuccio, himself a ﬁne pastel artist for more than 50 years. “As I reached out, several began sending me artwork they had done. I realized there’s a lot of family members with quite a bit of artwork. It quickly became apparent that a family exhibit was the way to go. I thought what a great way to celebrate four generations of artists with their interests and passion and the idea grew from there.” Yes, four generations. It’s been said that artistic talent is hereditary and the Nucci family seems to conﬁrm that. Paul Nucci can claim 11 family members as artists dating back 90 years, not to mention a few grandchildren coming on strong. He is organizing a Nucci Family Art Exhibit which will be on display at Mirella Cimato Gallery at Opera Central July 7 though August 31.

All In the Family Nucci family members exhibiting in the show: Armand Nucci (1909 -1979) St. Petersburg FL Arturo Nucci (1912 – 2000) San Diego CA Alfredo Nucci (1915 – 2003) Daytona Beach FL John Nucci (1944 – 2020) Son of Armand – New Hope KY Mary (Nucci) Pompeo (1945 - ) Daughter of Alfredo – Punta Gorda FL and Marshﬁeld MA Paul Nucci (1950 - ) Son of Armand – St. Petersburg FL Joseph Nucci (1951- ) Son of Alfredo – Boston MA Andrea (Nucci) Adams (1977 -) – Daughter of John – Batesburg SC Michael Nucci (1971 -) Son of Alfredo - Vermont Adam Nucci (1973 - ) Son of Paul – Lake Charles LA Owen Nucci (1976 -) Son of Paul – San Diego CA

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July/August 2022

“The painting gene has always been in my family,” Nucci concedes. “My father, Armand Nucci, produced over 1,000 original oils in the 1930s. Sadly, most of them were lost after he returned to the states from World War II. Two of his brothers took up painting later in life.” Family members are spread across the country, and many will be dropping in throughout the show to reunite and reminisce. Works will include oils, pastels, acrylics, water colors, photography and found art. Nucci said most of the pieces will not be for sale; the exhibit is more of an homage to the Nucci clan.

ARTS & CULTURE “I wanted to share the wonderful artwork done by my family”, Nucci says. “So much of my family’s artwork has been forgotten and lost, I want to make sure that doesn’t happen again.” The Nucci Family Art Exhibit at Mirella Cimato Gallery runs July 7 – August 31 at St. Petersburg Opera Central, 2145 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg FL . The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 1 to 5 pm or by appointment by calling (727) 543-9190. The gallery will also be open during Second Saturday Artwalk from 5 to 9 pm on July 9 and August 13. Rainy Gion/Paul Nucci

Spanish Dancer/Armand Nucci

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July/August 2022

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ARTS & CULTURE On Stage

Stages won’t be dark this summer as two theater companies present food for thought. At American Stage, Dutchman presents a contemplative look at the political and psychological identity struggle between races in America, running June 29-July 31. Written by LeRoi Jones and Amiri Barak, directed by Erica Sutherlin, Dutchman originally premiered almost 60 years ago during the height of the Civil Rights movement. It’s set in New York City. For more information, go to americanstage.org FreeFall Theatre oﬀers a feel-good summer run of Neil Simon’s Rose and Walsh July 29-August 28. The touching comedy/romance uncovers the relationship between two aging literary ﬁgures from a beach house on Long Island. Check out freefalltheatre.com for tickets and more information.

Got a sweet tooth?

Do cupcakes brighten your day? You can be part of The Morean Arts Center’s popular annual Best Cupcake Contest on Saturday August 27 and help in the judging. This year’s contest will take place at the Morean Center for Clay in the Warehouse Arts District at 420 22nd Street S. First and second place awards will be given in all categories including Novice, Professional, Youth/Teen (Ages 10-16), Specialty (Gluten Free or Vegan) as well as the People’s Choice. From noon to 3 pm, the public can drop by the Center for Clay to select a to-go container of 12 or 24 cupcakes. Timed admission tickets can be pre-purchased via Eventbrite. All attendees are asked to take their cupcakes outside or home for tasting and judging. Winners will be announced at 3 pm, except for People’s Choice. Tickets are on sale at moreanartscenter.org/11th-annual-greatst-pete-cupcake-contest/

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SPL LIVING

Summer De-Lights

Go meatless for light and healthy summer entertaining

Summer’s here and the days of heavy meals are over. For a unique twist on the classic backyard burger, prepare Falafel Burgers with Cucumber Sauce which provides a plant-based way to emphasize nutrition at the center of your plate. Team it with a fruity version of salsa that goes perfect as a dip with tortilla chips or a side for the burgers. It features fresh citrus, mango and pineapple, lemon and lime plus a spicy bit of jalapeno.

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July/August 2022

SPL LIVING Falafel Burgers with Cucumber Sauce

Cucumber Sauce: 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and coarsely grated 2 cups plain full-fat Greek yogurt 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 small cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons dried dill 1 teaspoon kosher salt 2-3 tablespoons water Falafel Patties: 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, rinsed, drained and patted dry 1/4 cup sesame seeds 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced 1 red onion, halved and sliced 1 cup loosely packed cilantro 6 cloves garlic, peeled 1 jalapeno, sliced 3/4 cup chickpea ﬂour 4 teaspoons ground coriander 4 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 6 tablespoons grapeseed or vegetable oil 4 buns Lettuce and tomato (optional) To make cucumber sauce: Place grated cucumber in clean dish towel. Roll dish towel around cucumber and squeeze to remove excess liquid.

to chickpea mixture. Add ﬂour, coriander, cumin, salt and black pepper; mix well.

In bowl, mix cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, oil, garlic, dill and salt. Stir in 2 tablespoons water, adding more as needed until mixture is smooth and creamy. Cover and chill.

Heat oven to 375 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape chickpea mixture into four patties. In skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Cook patties 3 minutes, or until golden brown on bottoms. Turn over and cook 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

To make falafel patties: In food processor, cover and process chickpeas and sesame seeds until mixture is ﬁnely chopped. Transfer to bowl.

Transfer patties to baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes. Let patties cool 15 minutes. Place patties on buns and top with lettuce and tomato, if desired. Drizzle with cucumber sauce.

In food processor, cover and process carrot, onion, cilantro, garlic and jalapeno until ﬁnely chopped. Add vegetable mixture

Recipe/photo courtesy of Aramark; visit Aramark’s Feed Your Potential website, fyp365.com, to ﬁnd more ways to celebrate the season.

Citrus, Mango and Pineapple Salsa 1 ¼ cup fresh pineapple, diced 1 ¼ cup fresh mango, diced 2 tomatoes ½ red onion, diced 1 jalapeno, ﬁnely chopped 1 tablespoon coriander 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice Sea salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste Tortilla chips, if desired

In a large bowl, combine pineapple, mango, tomato, onion, jalapeno, coriander, lime juice, lemon juice and salt and pepper, to taste. With rubber spatula, mix all ingredients together. Serve with tortilla chips or as a side. Recipe adapted from becomingness.com For more fresh summertime recipes, visit culinary.net

July/August 2022

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SPL LIVING ADVERTORIAL

(727) 772-3458 BIGMANSMOVING.COM

Pictured are Josh and Brooke Anderson, owners of Big Man’s Moving Company. Big Man’s was recently voted the Best of St. Pete for the 2nd consecutive year and #1 Best Mover in Tampa Bay by readers of the Tampa Bay Times for the 3rd consecutive year.

Standing tall at 6’8, Josh Anderson is local giant and entrepreneur of Big Man’s Moving Company. He jokes, “Actually, my wife is the owner, I’m just the mascot!” Brooke Anderson adds, “He calls me the brains, and I call him the brawn.” The unique logo was designed by Josh’s friend, who he met in the military. After 14 years working in a corporate setting, the couple took their future into their own hands. As an engaged couple, a terrible moving experience with a local, well-known company fueled their vision for starting a detail-oriented, customer-centric, boutique moving company. “They arrived hours late without calling, scratched half our furniture, left a large item behind, and the bill was double the estimate. If this was the best company in the area, we knew we could do better. Hence, the vision for Big Man’s Moving Company was born. When we got married, we decided to pursue our dream of opening a family business, using wedding gifts to partially fund our ﬁrst 26’ truck!”

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Intensive training coupled with quality employees has led to the successful completion of over 6,000 local and out-of-state moves in under 5.5 years, and they’ve now expanded to 8 trucks. “We are very thankful for the community support, and for their referrals!” In fact, Big Man’s was voted the #1 Mover in Tampa Bay by readers of the Tampa Bay Times for 3 consecutive years. “Customer service is our #1 priority, and that includes the entire process from the ﬁrst point of contact to the completion of the move.” We believe in being proactive rather than re-active and helping our clients properly prepare for moving day. If a move is in your future, Bigmansmoving.com oﬀers must-ask insurance questions, pre-move planning, and money-saving tips. Open 7 days/week for free estimates, moves, and packing services. (727)772-3458

SPL NEWS Explore Museums, State Parks for Free Plan an excursion this summer to a local museum and get free admission for up to four thanks to the Pinellas Public Library Cooperative. Participating museums include Imagine Museum, The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, Leepa Rattner Museum of Art, Museum of Fine Arts, Dunedin History Museum, Florida Holocaust Museum, Great Explorations Children’s Museum, Henry B. Plant Museum, and the Tampa Bay History Center.

• Present the receipt from the library to museum staﬀ upon entry. The museum will retain your receipt. You may check the availability of passes by contacting your local library branch.

Be sure to plan your visit in advance, since the pass is valid for one visit within the 7-day loan period.

Things to know: • Each library location will receive a limited number of passes for checkout by library cardholders. Passes should be returned to the same library branch. • Each pass is good for one vehicle (up to eight people) and covers your entrance fee. Homosassa Springs Wildlife, Skyway Fishing Pier and Weeki Wachee Springs state parks are excluded from this promotion. • Pass is for day-use access only and does not include camping registration or any other fees.

How the museum pass works: • Each PPLC member library and its branches have two museum passes from each museum partner. Passes are available for checkout on a ﬁrst-come, ﬁrst-served basis. • Only one pass per museum may be borrowed at a time. Checkout by adult PPLC cardholders only. Admission is valid for up to 2 adults, and 3 children under the age of 18, in the same household.

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St. Pete Meat & Provisions is a family-owned butcher shop designed to provide St. Petersburg and surrounding areas with local, naturally nutritious and delicious meats and curated provisions.

Library card holders can also take advantage of the Real Florida Reader day pass program this summer which allows single-day free admission to a Florida state park.

July/August 2022

GIVEAWAYS NEW STATEMENT PIECES +

SPL NEWS News You Can Use

SunRunner stations are being built on both 1st Ave. N. and 1st Ave. S. downtown. You’ll see red pavement popping up on both avenues - don’t drive, park, or load/unload there or risk getting a ﬁne! Only PSTA buses and emergency vehicles are allowed to drive in the red lanes. Vehicles are only allowed in red lanes to make a turn. The SunRunner will be a new rapid transit bus line that will connect

downtown to South Pasadena and St. Pete Beach. It’ll be Tampa Bay’s first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project offering a modern, fast transportation service. To keep up on developments, check the official construction information page where you’ll find information about the project such as station locations, station types and timelines for various parts of the construction project. Projected start of operation is this fall. More at PSTA. net/sunrunner Fertilizer Ban It’ summer and the City of St. Petersburg fertilizer ban is back. The rainy summer weather can cause nutrients from fertilizer to reach bodies of water and lead to environmental issues like algae blooms, fish kills and water quality problems. To help prevent these environmental mishaps, the yearly fertilizer ban is in effect from June 1 - September 30. For complete information, check out stpete.org/fertilizer

Early Bird Gets the Sales

Early risers can hit the streets of downtown St. Pete in their jammies and score great deals and prizes on Thursday, July 21, at the annual Sunrise Sale sponsored by the St. Petersburg Downtown Business Association. The popular event begins at 6:43 am and continues throughout the day, as many merchants and businesses offer doorbuster sales and freebies. Look for yellow flags and balloons to mark participating businesses. Some restaurants will be featuring breakfast specials for hungry shoppers, too. Maps will be available at participating locations. Check for special offers and updates on Facebook at facebook.com/DBAStPete

Living Her Best Life

Debbe knew it was time to get help for her mom and she was unsure as where to turn. Her mom's dementia had progressed and taking care of her on her own was making life hard for both of them. They were both unhappy and Debbe was concerned for both their mental well being. Upon a suggestion from her friend, she visited Inspired Living. She was immediately impacted by the support they offered her and the vibrancy of life she witnessed. She felt confident in her decision to move her mom to Inspired Living and knows her mom will live her best life there. She sees her mom all the time and frequently comments on how happy she is. Debbe is relived and wished she had made this move sooner.

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We asked and you responded, St. Pete. Our second annual Best of St. Pete survey brought in thousands of responses, all voting for their top picks in categories from Dining Out and Drinking Out to Museums, Music Venues, Festivals and Events, Health & Wellness, Things to Do, Shopping and more. We invite you to save this issue for future reference. It’s clear that The ‘Burg is as vibrant and diverse as ever, and the choices are worth exploring! Marcia Biggs, Editor

StPeteLifeMag.com

Photo/VisitStPeteClearwater.com July/August 2022

BEST OF ST. PETE

Arts & Culture best PERFORMING ARTS VENUE

1 Duke Center for the Performing Arts-Mahaffey Theater 2 The Palladium 3 Studio@620

best PERFORMING ARTS 1 The Florida Orchestra 2 American Stage 3 FreeFall Theatre

best MUSEUM

1 The Museum of the American Arts & Crafts Movement 2 Dali Museum 3 Museum of Fine Arts

best INDEPENDENT ART GALLERY 1 Brenda McMahon Gallery 2 Morean Arts Center 3 Duncan McClellan Galleries

Mahaﬀey Theater

best PUBLIC ART 1 Shine Murals 2 Bending Arc 3 First Flight

Shine Murals

July/August 2022

StPeteLifeMag.com

BEST OF ST. PETE

best EVENT

1 Second Saturday ArtWalk 2 St. Pete Grand Prix 3 Shine Mural Festival

best FESTIVAL

1 Mainsail Arts Festival 2 St. Pete Pride 3 Shine Mural Festival

Second Saturday ArtWalk

Health best DAY SPAS/MED SPAS 1 Woodhouse Day Spa 2 Tranquility Wellness Spa 3 Spa Oceana at The Don CeSar

best FITNESS STUDIOS 1 Body Electric 2 YMCA 3 Orange Theory

best HOSPITALS Body Electric at Straub Park

1 St. Anthony’s 2 Johns Hopkins All Childrens 3 Bayfront Health

Working best CO-WORKING SPACE 1 Station House St. Pete 2 Thrive 3 The Factory

best RESOURCES FOR

ENTREPRENEURS

1 The Greenhouse 2 Tampa Bay Innovation Center 3 Entrepreneurial Academy

Station House

StPeteLifeMag.com

July/August 2022

BEST OF ST. PETE

Lifestyle best PLACE TO GET MARRIED

best PET SERVICES/CARE

best NON-PROFIT COMMUNITY

SERVICE

best HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICE

best NEW IDEA

best PRIVATE SCHOOL

1 Sunken Gardens 2 The Renaissance Vinoy 3 Don Cesar

1 St. Pete Free Clinic 2 Casa 3 Metro Inclusive Health 1 Affordable Housing 2 e-bikes 3 Deuces Rising

1 Woof Gang 2 Love My Dog 3 Bay Paws Pet Resort

1 Big Man’s Moving 2 Graham Landscape 3 Two Maids & A Mop

1 Canterbury 2 Shorecrest Prep 3 St. Pete Catholic High

best PLACE TO GET ENGAGED 1 Sunset on St. Pete Beach 2 Dali Avant Garden 3 Under the Bending Arc

Photo/VisitStPeteClearwater.com

July/August 2022

StPeteLifeMag.com

BEST OF ST. PETE

Fun Stuff

best OUTING

1 Saturday Morning Market 2 Fort De Soto Park 3 Weedon Island Kayaking

best DATE

1 The Pier 2 American Stage in Park 3 Cross-Bay Ferry

best GOLF COURSE 1 The Vinoy 2 Mangrove Bay 3 Pasadena Country Club

The Vinoy Golf Course

best THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS 1 Boyd Hill Preserve 2 Fort De Soto Park 3 Splashpad at the Pier

best BOAT CHARTER 1 Tierra Verde Boat Rentals 2 Tampa Bay Yacht Charters 3 St. Pete Beach Charters

StPeteLifeMag.com

July/August 2022

best PLACE TO TAKE VISITORS 1 The Pier 2 St. Pete Beach 3 St. Pete Waterfront Park Trail

BEST OF ST. PETE

Shopping best MEN’S BOUTIQUE 1 Sartorial 2 Tommy Bahama 3 Adventures in Paradise

best WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE 1 Pippa Pelure 2 Misred 3 Jackie Z

best WINE SHOP 1 4th and Vine 2 Book & Bottle 3 Lolita’s Wine Market

best VINTAGE/CONSIGNMENT 1 Designers Consigner 2 Vintage Marche 3 Vintage Modern

best OPTICAL/EYEWEAR 1 VIP Eyecare 2 Optic Shop 0NNAV/20AUHEye SOJ Center 32Pasadena

Sartorial

best UNIQUE HOME FURNISHINGS 1 DoMa Home Furnishings 2 Zazoo’d 3 Treehouse Gallery

July/August 2022

StPeteLifeMag.com

BEST OF ST. PETE

Dining Out best AMERICAN 1 Parkshore Grill 2 Brick and Mortar 3 Urban Stillhouse

best MEXICAN/SOUTHWEST 1 Red Mesa Cantina 2 Red Mesa Restaurant 3 Grand Hacienda

best SEAFOOD 1 Trophy Fish 2 Sea Salt 3 400 Beach

best ASIAN 1 La V 2 Hawkers 3 Mangosteen

best FRENCH 1 Left Bank 2 Cassis 3 Bacchus

Parkshore Grill

Left Bank Bistro

StPeteLifeMag.com

July/August 2022

BEST OF ST. PETE best ITALIAN 1 Pia’s Trattoria 2 Il Ritorno 3 Grattzi

best STEAKHOUSE 1 Rococo 2 Beau & Mo’s 3 Ruth Chris

best NEWCOMER 1 Wild Child 2 Taverna Coastale 3 Pia’s Veranda

best CASUAL 1 Doc Ford’s 2 Datz 3 400 Beach

best HEALTHY FOOD 1 Naked Farmer 2 Two Graces 3 Love Central

July/August 2022

StPeteLifeMag.com

BEST OF ST. PETE

best BISTRO

1 Bacchus 2 Lolita’s Wine Market 3 Novu

best BRUNCH 1 The Library 2 The Mill 3 Red Mesa Cantina

best BAKERY/DESSERTS 1 Cassis 2 Le Segunda 3 Craft Kafe

Bacchus

best COFFEE SHOP 1 Kahwa 2 Intermezzo 3 Beans & Barlour

StPeteLifeMag.com

July/August 2022

BEST OF ST. PETE

Drinking Out best LIVE MUSIC 1 Jannus Landing 2 The Floridian 3 Ale and the Witch

best BREWERY

1 3 Daughters 2 Green Bench 3 Grand Central Brewing

best LGBTQ 1 Enigma 2 Cocktail 3 Punky’s

best SOCIAL SCENE 1 The Birchwood Canopy 2 Mandarin Hide 3 Ale and the Witch

The Birchwood Canopy

best DOG-FRIENDLY 1 Dog Bar 2 3 Daughters 3 Green Bench

Dog Bar

Photo/VisitStPeteClearwater.com

July/August 2022

StPeteLifeMag.com

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Appalachian Cheers A North Carolina small town brings a taste of good times.

Western North Carolina has long been a popular retreat for Floridians, many choosing to retire here in the beautiful rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. But it’s also an easy getaway from Tampa Bay thanks to a non-stop one hour and 15 minute ﬂight on Allegiant from St. Pete/Clearwater International Airport into Asheville Regional Airport. With no time for a road trip, I was joined by a friend for a long weekend with our sights set on Hendersonville, just 22 miles south of Ashville. Our goal for this trip: Check out the burgeoning brewery and winery scene. In the last decade, Hendersonville has emerged from the shadows of nearby Asheville to become a tourist destination in its own right, known for its small-town charm, a diverse array of shops, museums and restaurants, and easy accessibility to wineries, breweries, and cideries. There seems to be something going on most weekends in downtown. Annual festivals are common, like the Garden Jubilee

StPeteLifeMag.com

July/August 2022

Photos/Visit Hendersonville

BY MARCIA BIGGS

every Memorial Weekend, an Antique and Vintage Show in June, a Chalk Festival in July, Home for the Holidays which runs November through December. The biggest tourist draw, though, is the North Carolina Apple Festival which brings thousands to Hendersonville over Labor Day weekend annually. North Carolina is the 7th largest apple-producing state in the nation and Henderson County grows more than 40 varieties of apples (hence the popularity of cideries). In 2019, the region was designated an American Viticultural Area (AVA) for its distinctive soil, climate and elevation which make it ideal for growing grapes. The area’s seven wineries produce classic wines from European vinifera grapes and French-American hybrid

SPL TRAVEL grapes, as well as sweeter wines crafted from grapes native to North Carolina.

memorabilia. It was all very interesting to learn about the beermaking and bottling process.

With the craft brewery industry booming for quite some time in Asheville, it was only a matter of time before nearby Hendersonville jumped on the bandwagon. There are now 11 breweries in the area, with a half dozen around downtown Hendersonville.

On our way into town, we popped into Bold Rock Hard Cider in Mills River. Since opening in Virginia in 2012, Bold Rock has become the nation’s largest independently owned cider company. The cidery in Mills River opened in late 2015 to take advantage of the local orchards.

Breweries on Tap First on our list was a visit to Sierra Nevada Brewery, just minutes from the airport and 10 miles from Hendersonville. Sierra Nevada is one of the largest craft breweries in the nation and well worth a visit. Up a winding road through lush woods, we were greeted by an attractive modern wooden chalet style brewhouse, fronted by a parking area awash in solar panels. Sierra Nevada is committed to zero waste, clean energy and other sustainability efforts, building this facility in 2016 as the first LEED platinum production brewery in the U.S. (The 2.5 megawatt solar array in the parking area is the largest in craft beer.) They compost onsite, capture rainwater to irrigate and flush toilets, and send spent grain to local farm lots for animal feed. I make a note to self: Drink more Sierra Nevada. Massive fermentation tanks rise from one end of the complex; but stroll behind the building and there is a park complete with walking trails, an amphitheater and a back patio with umbrella tables. Guided 45-minute tours of the brewing and bottling operation ($8) come highly recommended, but our timing was off. No worries. A self-guided tour allows visitors to explore the facility along enclosed walkways with explanatory signs, photos and lots of SN

It was fun to visit Bold Rock, in its rural setting dominated by the barn-like taproom. Visitors can order a hard cider, hard seltzer, hard tea or hard lemonade, all fresh from the tap. Walk upstairs for a viewing platform to see the actual fermentation room. Out back the crushing barn was quiet at the moment, but during harvest time, you can watch apples being delivered and crushed here. The choices of hard ciders are dizzying, so we ordered a couple flights to take outside onto the deck. Hard cider has a crisp, refreshing taste profile and low alcohol content, and various blends have hints of pineapple, blackberry or other fruit. Visiting a cidery like Bold Rock is a great way to explore hard ciders; on weekends they offer live music and family activities. Exploring Downtown Although plenty of cabins and cottage resorts, small inns and hotels are readily found, we desired lodging that was centrally located and within walking distance of Hendersonville’s Main Street. The Henderson is a 17-room historic inn just a block off Main run by acclaimed chef Michael Gilligan and wife Jeanne. A full breakfast is included with the room, served on the wraparound porch. It was the perfect way to start our days. The dinner Continued next page

The taproom at Sierra Nevada Brewing Photo/Marcia Biggs

July/August 2022

StPeteLifeMag.com

SPL TRAVEL restaurant, Harvey’s, is a locals favorite, offering casual porch dining featuring Chef Michael’s creative cuisine and top-notch craft cocktails (the Honey Lemon Drop Martini is perfection). From the Henderson, we walked around town exploring the quaint Main Street. One can’t walk by the infamous two-story Mast General Store, with its barrels of (formerly) penny candies, Appalachian crafts, jams and jellies, t-shirts and all manner of Southern charm without entering for a look-see. I picked up a few souvenir North Carolina honey bears for souvenirs and a jar of pepper jelly. Across the street, the Appalachian Pinball Museum was hidden in the back lobby of an office building. It came highly recommended and we weren’t disappointed. The arcade is filled with dozens of working pinballs machines dating back to 1962. It was a blast from the past, even though I was never a pinball queen it was a super fun way to spend an hour. For only $12 admission, you can play all day. Look for the big Coca-Cola mural on the corner of Main and Third and you’ve found Mike’s on Main. Originally a pharmacy circa 1900, the space has been restored to a sandwich and soda shoppe with 1950s decor, complete with spinning stools at the fountain counter where they sell malted milkshakes, hotdogs and burgers. Be sure to check out the wall of glass cases where the original apothecary jars and other artifacts are on display.

Where to Eat

In the name of research – and a mighty shopping thirst – we dropped in on two downtown breweries. D9 Brewing is everything an urban brewpub should be with high exposed ceiling, brick walls and an inviting bar with a large menu of very creative and very tasty brews such as Hakuna Matata (tropical IPA) and Whiskers on Kittens (blonde sour ale).

Season’s at Highland Lake Inn (Flat Rock, NC) - With a sophisticated country club atmosphere nestled in the woods, Season’s specializes in top-notch steaks, fresh seafood such as trout and perch, and organic produce, with an extensive wine menu.

A block off Main, we found Oklawaha Brewing on Friday night with a rollicking crowd, awesome live blues band and chalk boards filled with unique small-batch craft beers on tap. This is the place to find excellent German and wheat beers, sours and a great hard cider selection. Oklawaha has gained significant buzz for its awardwinning beers and great atmosphere and we dare say it’s all true.

Postero (401 N. Main St., Hendersonville) - What was once a bank in the center of downtown is now an upscale restaurant serving a curated menu of New American cuisine. An open kitchen, exceptional service and a lively bar make this a mustdine.

Hubba Smokehouse and Flat Rock Wood Room (Hendersonville) – For down-home slow smoked North Carolina barbecue, look no further than these local establishments. The Wood Room specializes in wood-ﬁred pizza, too.

D9 Brewing

Historic Hendersonville Downtown Hendersonville is on the National Register of Historic Places, dating to 1840. The town was named after Leonard

Appalachian Pinball Museum

Photos/Marcia Biggs

StPeteLifeMag.com

July/August 2022

SPL TRAVEL Henderson who served as chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court from 1829 to 1833. History buﬀs will enjoy the Henderson County Heritage Museum in the renovated Historic Courthouse on Main Street. Other nearby historic sites worth a visit include the Flat Rock Playhouse. Dubbed the Theatre of North Carolina, it’s celebrating 70 years of live stage performances this year. The professional nonproﬁt theater company in nearby Flat Rock draws visitors from as far as South Carolina who come to enjoy live musicals and dramas. The Playhouse is open from February through December. Just across the road from the Playhouse is Connemara, the estate of poet Carl Sandberg on 270 acres of gently rolling farmland. It’s a U.S. National Park, so maintained exquisitely with trails, a Visitor Center, and guided tours of the home where Sandberg was inspired to write his epic works until his death in 1967.

Goats at the Carl Sandberg Connemara estate

We enjoyed strolling the trails and visiting the barnyard and pastures where Lillian Sandberg dedicated her life to raising three breeds of champion dairy goats from 1935 to 1965. Their descendants are still here, lovingly tended by National Park rangers and volunteers who are happy to introduce you to them. When we arrived, several sets of baby goats were the star attraction. On the Wine Trail Burntshirt Vineyards offers a classic winetasting experience, with a light, airy tasting room where guests pull up to the bar to order from a list of the current offerings. Out on the patio, shaded tables beckon you to relax with a view of 20 acres of vineyards and the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge in the distance. The family-run operation was expanding when we were there, preparing to open a bistro and event space in a new building this fall. We were personally served by head winemaker Dave Fleming, who loves to talk about everything wine. Coming from the Northern California wine country, Fleming knows his stuff. The winery typically produces 15-20 wines each season, ranging from classic dry varietals such as cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, chardonnay and a dry rosé to sweeter wines such as Riesling, vidal blanc and port. There is definitely something for every taste at Burntshirt; tastings run $10 for 7 one-ounce pours or $15 for a flight of 5 two-ounce pours. Winery tours are at 2 pm daily and free. While we loved the postcard-perfect vineyard view from Burntshirt; we were blown away by the panoramic Blue Ridge vista from a 3,000-foot mountaintop at Point Lookout Vineyards. The drive to get there along winding backroads and rolling farmland gives one the premonition that you are headed somewhere special.

If You Go

The cavernous open-air tasting room is accented by an original stone ﬁreplace and is reminiscent of a modern ski lodge. Point Lookout is the place to go check out mead, a fermented alcoholic beverage made from honey. There are generally a dozen on the tasting menu, with notes ranging from orange blossom to raspberry, lavender and blueberry. We loved the chocolate cherry mead called Sweetheart, which could easily serve as a dessert wine. In addition, visitors can taste a selection of reds and whites: 6 one-ounce pours for $12.

If you plan to go brewery hopping and wine tasting, consider a Cheers! Trails Passport, available on the web site. The pocket-size guide with maps shows all of Henderson County’s cider, wine and beer venues. Get your Passport stamped at 12 of the venues, bring the completed Passport to the Visitor Center and score some swag. The cost of the Cheers Trail! Passport is $10.

For complete information on lodging, events, and things to do, check out VisitHendersonvilleNC.org.

July/August 2022

StPeteLifeMag.com

Old Florida can still be found. Originally built in 1935, nestled in the sand and directly on the beach, Bungalow Beach Resort is the most unique, boutique cottage experience on beautiful Anna Maria Island, Florida. Come for tropical breezes, swaying palm trees, clean crisp bungalows, warm gentle surf and the friendly staff of our award-winning beach resort. Family owned and operated for over 20 years.

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SPL FASHION

Easy Elegance A Chat With Florida Designer Julian Chang

Julian Chang, a very successful designer, resides in Miami, the fashion mecca of the South. I have known and admired him for years. His creative talents are undeniable and that combined with his focus on functionality and comfort make his designs irresistible. During his long career he has received many significant honors and awards. Although highly acknowledged and accomplished, Chang is still sweet and stylish, the one down-to-earth person I want to talk fashion with and the first person I seek out when shopping the markets of Atlanta, New York, Las Vegas and Dallas for my boutique in St. Pete. Chang was born and raised in Lima, Peru, and arrived in the United States unable to speak English, but with an acceptance to The Art Institute of Miami. He eventually established his own brand as an independent fashion designer and in 2016 opened his flagship boutique in Miami’s MiMo District. His collections are sold around the world and he is proud that all of his fashion is made in the United States.

What sparked your interest to become a fashion designer? Initially it was the excitement that those initial interactions with the industry generated in me, as well as my mother’s seamstress activities at home. Then, when I realized that I had creative and artistic talent, the thrill of design and being able to make people feel good about themselves drove me further into fashion. What is your designing process from concept to construction? My typical process is to move from inspiration to the creation of prints. From there the prints evolve into a natural creative process for the design of the garment, by draping the fabric I can begin to visualize the entire project, and then sketch the detailed design and the ﬁrst sample. What or who are your inspirations for creating your designs? My environment and my clients are a big part of my inspiration. Working with the people who tell me what they like and enjoy provides me with direction on terms of design.

Here I introduce you to my favorite hands-on designer Julian Chang:

Who is your style Icon? Easy; Tom Ford.

What was your ﬁrst fashion memory? My earliest memory is of my older sister as a fashion model. When she took me to some of her shows I was overwhelmed by the energy, glamour and the entire atmosphere, and still remember those feelings today.

What’s your personal style? My personal style is simplicity and comfort.

StPeteLifeMag.com

July/August 2022

How do you describe your brand’s aesthetics? Brieﬂy; modern with a classic twist.

SPL FASHION How do you choose your fabrics where are they sourced from? I spend a great deal of time studying trends in fashion shows, publications and then source the fabrics from all over the world.

work with and dress celebrities and incorporate their personalities into our designs. Also, being awarded the key to the city of Miami Beach was a big moment for me. There is no such thing as a bad fashion moment!

What can we expect in the next seasons? Deﬁnitely more colors and incorporating my designs for all body types. Encouraging people to be themselves with designs that will work for them.

How do you envision fashion in the future? Fashion is likely to evolve in several directions; ﬁrst increased attention to sustainability, then there will be more “looks,” more ways for people to express their personal feelings and sense of fashion, and ﬁnally more comfort.

What are the most important lessons you have learned in your business? While it is an old cliché,’ perspiration is 90% and inspiration 10%. There is no substitute for hard work and diligence, focus on the client, establishing and maintaining extremely high-quality standards. What were your best and worst fashion moments? My best moments are when I get to

What are your biggest dreams that you are yet to fulﬁll? I would someday like to dress the Royal Family. Megan Simons is owner of Pippa Pelure, a ﬁne fashion boutique in downtown St. Petersburg, FL. Contact her at pippapelure@tampabay.rr.com.

Julian Chang

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Enjoying 26 years of helping people buy and sell the finest St. Petersburg properties by providing exceptional marketing, international reach, and local expertise.

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Enjoy this extraordinary water view from your 3000 sqft home in the sky above Vinoy Park, and walk to the museums, restaurants, parks, and all that downtown St. Pete has to offer.

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Keep your Boat Behind your Home in Tierra Verde Stunningly Beautiful Views From This Executive Condo Stunningly Beautiful ViewsLocated From Executive Condo Don’t miss this waterfront, single-level, top floor condo in Tierra in theThis highly-desired Vista de Oro building, this condo

rra Located the highly-desired Vista condo Verde’s Anchor Cove, with deeded boat slipin & lift, gorgeous water has waterde viewsOro from allbuilding, three bedroomsthis and the main living area. water views, huge pool & hot tub, has water views bedrooms and living area. elevator, and so much more. from all threeGorgeous kitchen and tons ofthe spacemain in the perfect Isla location. Gorgeous kitchen and tons of space in the perfect Isla location. Slip with lift, large dogs welcome. 2/2, huge balcony. $775,000 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, and views for days. $995,000 $775,000 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, and views for days. $995,000

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Stunningly-Designed Home inthis Vinoy Place Located in the coveted Monte Cristo neighborhood on the Island Enjoy extraordinary water view from your 3000 sqft home in the land Enjoy this extraordinary water sky view your 3000 sqft home inparks, the paradise of Tierra Verde, this single-level, single-family home abovefrom Vinoy Park, and walk to the museums, restaurants, e sky above Vinoy Park, the museums, restaurants, parks, surprises with an exceptionally elegant design & bright open spaces.and walk and to all that downtown St. Pete has to offer. spaces. and all that downtown St. Pete has to offer. $1,450,000 2972 sqft, 3-car garage, large and lovely pool deck. 3 beds, 2.5 Baths, private elevator lobby. $2,750,000 1,450,000 3 beds, 2.5 Baths, private elevator lobby. $2,750,000

ighborhood on the Island el, single-family home design & bright open spaces. $1,450,000 ly pool deck.

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SPL LIVING

Connecting St. Pete Inspires Foundation Leader Davis Leigh Davis loves St. Petersburg. But she wants to love it even more. In an edition devoted to the Best of St. Petersburg, Davis’ story perfectly accentuates all the city’s highlights. She brings a love of art and a devotion to community to her role as director of donor and advisor relations for the Pinellas Community Foundation. Davis had lived in 11 different states, most recently in Missouri. She moved from New Orleans to St. Louis to care for her mother and when her mom passed after a short illness, she decided returning to New Orleans to mourn that death would not work. But where to go? She created a list of 12 preferences she wanted in a community. Warm weather with a beach and arts and culture topped the desirables, but it also included cost of living and other factors. A friend in Atlanta, another place Davis once resided, looked over the list and said, “I think this is St. Pete.” They agreed to spend a long weekend in the Sunshine City in January of 2017 and found an Airbnb in Old Northeast. “We had planned to be here for four days,” Davis said. “But by the middle of the second day, I was like, ‘I’m in. I’m here. I see it. I like it.’ It felt good to me. It took less than 48 hours.” What felt good? Everything. The glint of the water driving across the Howard Frankland Bridge first caught her eye, and the sight of dolphins flipping in the sunshine didn’t hurt. The architecture, the colors, the murals and the museums struck a positive chord. People of all ages and types dining at outdoor cafes resonated, and they added more when they struck up conversations with friendly smiles, directing her to the best restaurants and galleries. She found a home here five months later and started her personal healing process. In time, she would fall in love with the Saturday Morning Market, yoga in the park, drum circles and dancing on the beach. The laid-back fashion choices of flip-flops, shorts and sundresses suited her casual sensibilities.

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July/August 2022

That search, combined with her sense of service, led her to a range of community events and she eventually caught on as a volunteer at Studio@620. The selfdescribed “solutionist” loved the motto of the downtown venue: “The answer is always yes.” With a background in theater, non-profit administration and marketing, she started consulting with Creative Pinellas, the arts agency for Pinellas County, which led to a full-time position with that group in the later part of 2018. In March 2021, she joined Pinellas Community Foundation, where she continues to call upon her experience in community/audience development, communications and governmental relations. The foundation, which has awarded more than $42 million in grants since its founding in 1969, works to elevate nonprofits while helping individuals, corporations and civic organizations with their charitable giving plans. “We help people who want to help people,” Davis said. “We help people who want to do good in the community connect and find organizations that are doing good in the community.” The thread with all the positions was a connection to people. It’s that connection, and the ability of arts and culture to bring together different races, cultures and perspectives where she sees room for improvement in St. Petersburg. While she immediately fell in love with the city, it took her a while to come to grips with the racial and cultural divisions. She also knows there’s a North-South divide in Pinellas County. Davis wants to knock down the silos through understanding, mutual respect and empathy. “You know how some cities have a citizens academy where you can learn about the city and how it works,” Davis said. “Well, I would like to see that, but one that addresses the history of the neighborhoods and builds friendships that’s needed.” Davis draws inspiration from all the people working within and in partnership with the Pinellas Community Foundation to make the

SPL LIVING county stronger and bring diverse voices and ideas to the table. She notes they are choosing to do the work with joy in their hearts. It’s not drudgery for them. Or for her. “We’re really excited about it,” Davis said. “We like to share ideas, information and resources and we are always asking, ‘How can we be more expansive across the county? How can we be more inclusive of community? How can we build better partnerships?’ “Part of this has come from the population growth that we have experienced in Pinellas County. More growth means we have to figure out how to reallocate resources, but it’s not a negative. It’s an opportunity. Because we have these incredible organizations making positive change, while exposing some glaring discrepancies about oppressive systems and inequities. We have to talk, ,and more importantly, listen to those doing the work more. We have to find new ways of creating those types of dialogue and discussion.” And while talking and listening to community members can be key to making a great city greater, understand this. Leigh Davis is more than talk. After all, she’s a solutionist. And solutionists shine like the sun when problems get solved. That’s all I’m saying. Ernest Hooper is the vice president of communications for United Way Suncoast, and a former Tampa Bay Times columnist. His public affairs program, That’s All I’m Saying, airs on WEDU-PBS.

Primary elections will be held August 23. Register to vote, check your district (some have changed recently), registration status, request a mail ballot, locate your polling place at votepinellas.com

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July/August 2022

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Sold

6950 S Shore Dr S South Pasadena

MLS# U8149420

RECENTLY LISTED & SOLD for $2,200,000 Fabulous 2 Story 4 Bed/4 Bath/4 Car Garage 4,461 heated sq ft. This stunning property is located in Paradise Isle in South Pasadena!

4001 48th Ave S St Petersburg

For Sale

MLS# U8164087

For Sale

16109 2nd St East Redington Beach

RECENTLY LISTED OFFERED AT $1,425,000 3 Bed/2 Bath 2 Car Garage, 1680 heated sq ft. Located in the beautiful sailboat deep waterfront community of Maximo Moorings/Broadwater with newer dock & seawall

Call or Text 727.385.8869 Karen@LucasGroupRealty www.LucasGroupRealty.com

Contact me for all your real estate questions!

Living the Florida Lifestyle!

With Over 20 Years Listing & Selling Locally

MLS# U8164299

RECENTLY LISTED OFFERED AT $494,900 Fantastic location in Redington Beach with private beach access for residents.

SPL LIVING

Compact BMW 240i Coupe is a Blast to Drive BMW M240i xDRIVE Tires: P225/40R19 Wheelbase: 107.9 inches Length: 179.4 inches Width: 72.4 inches Height: 55.3 inches Fuel capacity: 13.7 gallons Mileage: 23 city, 32 highway Weight: 3,871 pounds Base price: $48,550 Price as tested: $57,295 Web site: www.bmw.com

BY NITISH S. RELE The 3 Series may be a bestseller and most popular BMW ever but potential buyers are missing out on another stellar ride from the German automaker. You just cannot overlook the second-gen 2 Series, particularly the M240i, in the small luxury car segment. For 2022, BMW has boosted the width, length and wheelbase for the brisk car, which can zip off 0 to 60 in a mere 4.1 seconds with top speed of 155 mph. So what if it is now available only as a coupe and not a convertible anymore? Under the hood of the stunningly handsome all-wheel-drive M240 resides a 3.0-liter twin-power turbo inline-6 cylinder gas engine cranking 382 horsepower @ 6500 rpm and 369 poundsfeet of torque @ 5000 rpm. It is mated to a flawless 8-speed auto gearbox, which is even more exciting with moves via the steering paddle shifters. Suspension is handled capably via a two-joint spring strut front and a 5-link rear system. However, the standard adaptive M suspension is specially tuned to enhance nimbleness and poise when pushing pedal to the metal. And the electric power steering with variable sport has a solid and communicative feel, keeping the coupe straight and watchful on curvy roads. A wide, slow-slung turbine-style kidney grille with vertical air flaps (open for increased cooling) is encircled by gorgeously contoured LED headlights while M sport brakes, blue calipers and the M logo will grab attention. Walk to the rear and you will notice trapezoidal tail pipe finishers and a clear black spoiler.

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July/August 2022

An 8.8-inch infotainment touch screen operated via the iDrive controller and a 5.1-inch instrument cluster point to a wellappointed and classy cabin. Further adding to the rich ambiance are touches of high-gloss black trim on the dash. Other minutiae include tri-zone auto a/c, power moon roof, anthracite headliner, power front sport seats, three-spoke leather steering wheel, 40/20/40 rear seat, and more. Dual front and side airbags, front knee and side curtain airbags are standard along with dynamic stability and traction control, four-wheel antilock brakes, electronic brake distribution and brake assist, rearview camera, active braking assist (lane departure warning, blind spot monitor/detect, rear-cross traﬃc alert, city collision mitigation), daytime running lights and tire pressure monitoring are standard. Barring a small trunk and a modest rear seat, the sensational M240 is a cool sporty luxury coupe to toss around at sharp turns or go cruising on the highway. You can rest assured it is German engineering at its ﬁnest on display. Nitish S. Rele, editor/publisher of Motoring Tampa Bay and Khaas Baat, is a former automotive editor/columnist for The Tampa Tribune. He can be reached at motoringtampabay@gmail.com

Local Experts. Global Reach.

“Caryn is a true professional. Her expertise and research as to the pricing of our home was invaluable. We were able to sell our home quickly to a highly qualified buyer and had a solid back-up offer in place through the closing date. Caryn worked tirelessly throughout the whole process. She did a fantastic job from start to finish.” -- T Burke, Owner 2063 Kansas Ave NE, Venetian Isles

SOLD with Multiple Offers / Under Contract in 48 Hours 2063 Kansas Ave NE, Venetian Isles $2,200,000

SOLD Over Asking Price with Multiple Offers / 5th Property Sold for Clients 1500 Beach Drive NE, Historic Old Northeast $1,550,000

UNDER CONTRACT with Multiple Offers 1016 2nd St N, Historic Old Northeast Offered at $1,295,000

NEW LISTING on Expansive Lot 1771 Serpentine Drive S, Pink Streets Offered at $1,475,000

BUY WITH US, SELL WITH US!

*Over $150 Million Sold | Top 1% Of Realtors® In Pinellas County Caryn Rightmyer, CNE, CLHMS, REALTOR® • 727.409.9696 Bill Caulfield, REALTOR® • 727.608.6435 Kim Vulpis, REALTOR® • 727.643.2709 CarynRightmyerGroup.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each ofﬁce is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate. *MLS Data $500K sold homes NE and Snell Isle past six months. **Source: Stellar MLS. ***Based on information from 2021 REAL Trends America’s Best Real Estate Professionals list for 2020 sales volume and transaction sides.

DINING OUT

Summer Sips Check out these light, fruity wines, perfect for hot-weather patio entertaining.

BY WILL HOWARD What wines are you reaching for this summer? If you’re like me, then you might find yourself searching for something new, interesting, and perfect for a barbecue, pool, or patio. In the heat of Florida summers there are definitely wines to sip and also some wines to skip. The best summer wines need to be refreshing, easy drinking, low alcohol, and lower in tannin. That means rosé, aromatic whites, and fresh reds are going to be best suited to the summer sunshine. These are my best summer sips: Summer is rosé season and the perfect place to start. Rosé is a style of wine that is pink in color. The color of a rosé wine is created by limited contact between the red grape skins and the white juice of the grape, resulting in pink wine. Rosé wines usually are more like drinking a white wine than a red wine. They generally have lower alcohol and low tannin, which means they’re great in the summer. My rosé wine choice is Ameztoi Rubentis, Getariako Txakolina (Spain). Ameztoi is an iconic producer of Txakolina (chock-ohLEE-nah) wines from Basque Country in northern Spain. The wines are very light (usually between 9.5-11.5% alcohol), high in acidity, have a slight effervescence, and are made from the indigenous grapes hondarrabi zuri and hondarrabi beltza. The flavor of this wine has loads of fresh strawberries and candied red fruits with a hint of orange blossoms and a juicy thirst quenching finish. The next-sipable style is aromatic whites. This includes any white wine that just jumps out of the glass when you begin to smell the wine. The usual suspects for aromatic whites include Riesling, Alberino, gewürztraminer, and Moscato, to name a few. I think this is a perfect style for summer because the wines are excellent served cold, typically low in alcohol, refreshing to drink, and you get twice the enjoyment from the wines because a good one is almost as great to smell as it is to drink.

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July/August 2022

My aromatic white choice is Rolly Gassmann, Riesling (Alsace, France). Rolly flies under the radar in the United States for a lot of Riesling lovers. The winery is nestled in the rural Rorschwihr village of Alsace. Rolly adopted a biodynamic philosophy of winemaking in the late 90’s and their Rieslings are usually off-dry, which is a touch sweeter than the typical dry Alsatian whites. The high acidity of the wine balances out the sweetness and gives powerful aromas of pear, melon, apricots, and honey, followed by tropical flowers and the characteristic petrol aroma of great cool-climate Rieslings. With all the barbecues, red wine can’t be left out of the summer wine conversation. Fresh reds are the direction to go in the summer. Here freshness means that the wines show quite a bit of fruit, have little oak intervention, and lower alcohol. All of this basically means that you would be more comfortable drinking this wine on the patio in the summer, rather than curled up next to a fire in the winter. The fruit brings approachability to the wine and brightens up the glass. Too much oak would bring overbearing tannin and more dark and heavy flavors to the wine. My fresh summer red is Raul Perez, Ulteria Saint Jacques, (Bierzo, Spain). A pinot noir from Oregon or Burgundy could have just as easily fit here, but I chose this wine because it is blessed with the greatness of Raul Perez and drastically overdelivers in its price range. Raul Perez has been awarded countless accolades, including Winemaker of the Year and Best Winemaker in the World. This wine is juicy, fresh, and precise, but also a touch smoky and earthy. This wine would work perfectly for a summer barbecue. Will Howard is Sommelier at Rococo Steak in St. Petersburg, FL

Casual Elegant Island Living Awaits You

5 Bedroom • 5.5 Bathrooms • 4975 sq ft, Solid Concrete Home • Whole House Generator Hurricane Compliant Windows and Doors 4 Car Garage • Oversized Saltwater Pool 13,000 lb Boat Lift Just minutes from award winning beaches and the vibrant downtown of St. Pete, this exquisite home unites extraordinary quality, stunning water views and casual elegant island living. Located in the exclusive, guard gated community of Bayway Isles. This smart home was professionally designed with only the ﬁnest materials and features a formal dining and a number of outdoor spaces to enjoy the spectacular waterfront. This custom home features superb architectural and interior design including arched solid wood interior doors, soaring 10’ ceilings, hand-made Mexican tiles and beautifully aged hand crafted wood ﬂoors throughout. This is truly a perfect turn-key home with exquisite attention to detail and no expense spared.

Offered at $6,499,995 Call or Text Vonda today to view this one of kind property.

Vonda Golub, Realtor® 727.465.8055 || Vonda.Golub@KW.com 360 Central Ave, Ste. 600

FOOD BITES Cap’s Steamer Bar & Grille is now open in the former space of MacDinton’s next to Jannus Live at 226 1st Ave. N. The open-air location right on the sidewalk (great for people watching) specializes in fresh seafood with a raw and steamer bar oﬀering fresh oysters, sashimi, peel and eat Gulf shrimp, tuna poke and conch salad. Cap’s opens at 5 pm Wednesday through Sunday. Roam is gaining buzz for exceptional global cuisine such as New Zealand Lamb Chops, Crab Stuﬀed Salmon with Cajun Cream Sauce, and the highly illusive Tomahawk ribeye, on a changing menu, along with a great happy hour featuring signature craft cocktails. The upscale eatery is open for lunch and dinner Thursday-Saturday from 4 to 10 pm, with Sunday brunch available from 11 am to 6 pm. Roam is located at 3405 34th Street North. Look for co-owner/brothers Joshua

Cap’s Steamer Bar & Grille

and Christian Jackson dishing up Chef Joshua’s magic from the kitchen. After nearly two years of sitting empty, the Station House ground ﬂoor space formerly occupied by Ichicoro Ane is ﬁnally getting new life with Good Fortune, an upscale Asian fusion restaurant and bar. The highly anticipated eatery is the latest concept of Stephen Schrutt of Hunger Thirst Group (The Avenue, Park & Rec, No Vacancy). A sushi bar, cocktail lounge, private karaoke room and outdoor patio are all in the works. Look for small plates, high-end craft cocktails, and an upbeat vibe. An opening date has not been announced. Butcher’s Mark, a new butcher shop featuring a wide selection of fresh cut meats and marinades, recently opened at 2400 4th St. N. in the same strip mall as the new Le Segunda Bakery.

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FOOD BITES

New Food Tours

The highly anticipated Southern Italian-inspired restaurant Bonu’ Taverna has ﬁnally opened in the coveted former location of Cider Press Café at 601 Central Ave. Mia and Mario Maccarrone have partnered with family and friends to completely redesign the space, bringing a casual yet trendy atmosphere, and a menu specializing in small plates, pinsas (specialty pizzas) and a wine listing overﬂowing with Italian wines. A large bar and bar menu with signature craft cocktails is aiming to draw in a late-night crowd. Bonu’ Taverna is open seven days a week; check out the menu at bonutaverna.com

Star Trolley has announced some fun new tours being offered regularly from downtown St. Pete if a minimum seat capacity is reached. A couple foodie tours include All About Italy (Fridays and some Sundays at 6 pm), where pasta making, cannoli eating and wine tasting are on the agenda, and All About Dessert (Sundays at 1:30 pm) featuring macaron making and coffee flights. Both tours will whisk guests to the home of a local chef in a sight-seeing trolley. For a complete schedule, prices and to make reservations, go to star-trolley.com/tours

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DINING GUIDE

St. Petersburg

Seafood 400 Beach Seafood and Taphouse Locally sourced coastal cuisine on the downtown waterfront. From seafood to steaks, salads and appetizers, a favorite for Sunday brunch and outdoor dining. 400 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 896-2400; 400beachseafood.com $$$ Trophy Fish - Drink Like a Fish is the moniker here, so be prepared for a casual nautical atmosphere, lively crowd and fresh local ﬁsh and seafood that changes daily. Dinner only; opens at noon on Saturdays and Sundays. 2060 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 258-7883; trophyﬁshstpete.com $$ Teak - With a spectacular view of the downtown skyline, Teak, at the tip of the St. Pete Pier, offers elevated casual dining for lunch and dinner. Florida-inspired cuisine runs the gamut from Cubans and paella to pan roasted grouper with citrus risotto and ginger guava BBQ short ribs. 800 2nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 513-8325; teakstpete.com $$$

to entrees like Cedar Plank Salmon and Banana Leaf Snapper. 610 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg (727) 857-8118; docfords.com $$$ Sea Salt - Upscale, urban and known for its raw bar and impeccably fresh seafood, this is the place to impress while enjoying a sunset over the downtown skyline. Located at Sundial, the airy and sophisticated eatery specializes in seasonal and organic ingredients, an extensive wine collection and craft cocktails. 183 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727) 873-7964; seasaltstpete.com $$$$ Island Grille & Raw Bar – Expansive waterfront dining focusing on fresh seafood, steaks, pasta, chicken, sandwiches and raw bar. Island Grille attracts a fun crowd of families, boaters and local sun-seekers who gravitate here for the food, tropical drinks and massive outdoor patio. 210 Madonna Blvd, Tierra Verde; (727) 767-0020; islandrawbar.com $$$

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July/August 2022

Ford’s Garage - Pull into this garage to ﬁnd a fun 1920’s service station (don’t miss a stop in the restrooms) with a great selection of prime burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, mac n cheese dishes, and craft beers. Indoor or outdoor dining. 200 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg (727) 295-3673; fordsgarageusa.com $$

Stillwaters - Casual tavern and late-night hotspot on Beach Drive offers a variety of classic American fare from steak and shrimp to burgers and chicken; known for a selection of sausages made in-house. 224 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 350-1019; stillwaterstavern.com $$

RumFish Grill – Known for its 33,500-gallon living aquarium featured on Animal Planet’s show “Tanked,” RumFish Beach Resort’s popular restaurant embraces marine life with a menu focused mainly on sustainable seafood and Gulf Coast cuisine. Dinner only, but a bar menu is available daytimes. 6000 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727) 329-1428 rumﬁshgrill.com $$$ The Hurricane Seafood Restaurant – The landmark Hurricane on Passe-a-Grille Beach has weathered a few storms, but still stands as a seafood mecca for tourists, groups and families. The fresh grouper sandwich and view from the rooftop bar are legendary. 809 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach (727) 360-9558 thehurricane.com $$

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille - Shorts and flip-flops are welcome at this popular waterfront eatery on the St. Pete Pier named after a character in Randy Wayne White novels. Seafood with a Caribbean flair includes crab cakes and fish tacos

American/Casual

MadFish – Look for the refurbished train dining car on Gulf Boulevard in St. Pete Beach and you’ve found MadFish, known for fresh seafood including oysters, mussels, Chilean Sea Bass, group, salmon and lobster tail. The casual diner is open for dinner only. 5200 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727) 360-9200 madﬁshonline.com $$$

Dr. BBQ - Don’t be surprised if grilling champ and TV food celebrity Ray Lampe (Dr. BBQ) stops by to say hello. His modern American ‘que is some of the best in town, with imaginative twists to housesmoked meats, awesome Southern desserts and ﬁnger-lickin’ sauces and sides. 1101 1st St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 443-7227; drbbqs.com $$ The Mill - A locals and tourists favorite for American style cuisine with Southern inﬂuence. Lively atmosphere, indoor and outdoor dining on a bustling stretch of Central Ave. Excellent craft cocktails and the home of the “Fonzworth Bentley,” a

DINING GUIDE $100 Wagyu beef burger. 200 Central Ave UNIT 100, St. Petersburg (727) 317-3930; themillrestaurants.com $$ Social Roost - Aptly named for its inviting casual ambiance, the Roost specializes in globally inspired chicken dishes and craft cocktails. Everything is fresh and made from scratch, from chicken samosas to the Peruvian Chicken and Chicken Tangine. 150 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727) 202-6113; eatatsocialroost.com $$$ Datz - Hearty and even sinful comfort foods from loaded burgers and fried chicken to pancakes and nachos. Leave your diet at home for the Nashville Chicken Doughnut. Lively and casual indoor and outdoor dining and drinking. 180 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 202-1182; datztampa.com/stpete $$

Golden Golden Spoon Spoon Awards Awards Florida Florida Trend Trend

Wine Wine Spectator Spectator Award Award of of Excellence Excellence

VOTED BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANT

22 South Food Hall - A variety of ethnic and American dishes from Spanish Chicken and Rice to Cajun Pasta and Southern Meatloaf are on the menu at St. Pete’s only downtown food hall. Family friendly with kids menu; lively nightspot with music on weekends. 642 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg (727) 592-1267 $$ Isabelle’s at the Historic Peninsula Inn- Named after the inn’s friendly resident ghost, charming Isabelle’s embodies classic Old Florida/Southern ambiance and cuisine. Specialties include Shrimp & Grits and Salmon Florentine. Ask for a seat on the covered verandah or in the lushly landscaped patio. Sunday Brunch is 10 am to 3 pm. 2937 Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL (727) 346-9800 isabellesgulfport.com $$

American/Fine

Parkshore Grill - Top-notch Beach Drive dining from fresh seafood to steaks, pasta and salads. Lunch, dinner and brunch served Saturdays and Sunday until 3 pm. Chef Tyson Grant is committed to serving local and sustainable meats and seafood and locally grown organic produce. 300 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 896-9463; parkshoregrill.com $$$ Rococo Steak - Fine dining in a sophisticated steakhouse with Executive Chef Jordan Buendia offering a chic twist on classic fare. Outstanding wine selection and service. 655 2nd Ave. S., St. Petersburg (727) 822-0999; rococosteak.com $$$$ Brick & Mortar - Rustic-chic dining in an intimate atmosphere, local foodies gravitate here for healthy American fare that changes seasonally. Dinner only. 539 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 822-6540 $$$ Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse - Upscale steakhouse overlooking the Sundial courtyard in the heart of downtown, Ruth’s Chris is a respected chain with a dedicated following who come for dependable steaks,

S teve Westphal & Chef Tyson Grant LUNCH & DINNER DAILY • INDOOR & OUTDOOR DINING PRIVATE PARTY ROOMS & BANQUETS UP TO 100

300 Beach Drive NE Downtown St. Petersburg 727.896.WINE 727.896.DINE

parkshoregrill.com July/August 2022

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DINING GUIDE chops and seafood specialties. 131 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727) 821-4139; ruthschris.com $$$

to the rooftop bar for an expansive oyster menu and selection of appetizers. 109 8th Avenue, St. Pete Beach (727) 228-1000; berkeleybeachclub.com $$$$ Castile Restaurant - Hotel Zamora’s elegant restaurant stylishly prepares a curated menu of New American cuisine including tapas, Spanish and Mediterranean specialties, steak and seafood. Select from indoor or outdoor seating with a view of the intracoastal; lunch and dinner. 3701 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727) 456-8660 $$$

Urban Stillhouse - Bourbon lovers will be in heaven and everyone else will be in awe at this rustic yet sophisticated distillery in the Warehouse Arts District featuring Chef Kenny Tufo’s renowned American modern cuisine. Dinner only Thursday through Saturday, brunch Sunday 11 to 4; reservations a must. . 2232 5th Ave. S., St. Petersburg (727) 440-8040; theurbanstillhouse.com $$$$ The Library - Tucked away in Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital with a distinguished English library setting, The Library is just the ticket for a quiet lunch or dinner or even a romantic night out. The creative menu is overﬂowing with healthy options such as Osso Bucco Risotto and Squid Ink Pasta with Blackened Shrimp. 600 5th St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 369-9969; thelibrarystpete.com $$$ Birch & Vine - Located in Beach Drive’s Birchwood Hotel, this ﬁne dining spot is helmed by Executive Chef Lee Aquino, known for his unique and globally inspired dishes featuring seasonal, organic and locally sourced foods. 340 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 896-1080; thebirchwood.com/birchandvine $$$ Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria - Charming winecentric dining with a top-notch curated menu of seafood, pasta and meats in a lively block of Central Avenue downtown. 241 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 827-7896; sauvignonstpete.com $$$ The Dewey at Berkeley Beach Club - Sophisticated yet casual dining in Pass-AGrille with a curated menu of reimagined beach cuisine, outstanding wine and craft cocktails. Downstairs is the main dining area; but for the ultimate sunset views head

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Grace - Upscale yet laid-back, this intimate dining spot offers modern American and Mediterranean cuisine, wine, and cocktails in the heart of Passe-A-Grille. Stop in for happy hour from 4 to 6 pm or treat yourself to a curated dining menu that runs the gamut from seafood and salads to pasta and steak. 120 8th Ave., St. Pete Beach (727) 317-4770 gracestpete.com $$$ Palm Court Italian Grill - A longtime favorite for its balmy location at the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort, Palm Court never disappoints with its signature Italian pasta and Mediterranean seafood dishes. Reserve a seat on the outdoor patio at dusk for a romantic dinner. 5500 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727) 363-2358 tradewindsresort.com/islandgrand-beach-resort/eat-drink $$$

vegetable gyoza are starters. 911 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 202-7010; buyarestaurants.com $$ Alesia - Fresh French and Vietnamese cuisine in a contemporary setting near the beaches. Salads, spring rolls and banh mi, pho bowls, curry and noodle dishes all lovingly made with fresh ingredients. 7204 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 345-9701; alesiarestaurant.com $$ La V - Healthy Vietnamese fusion café featuring a variety of entrees, salads, noodle bowls and stir frys. Some of the best pho in town, and a broad menu of boba tea. Wines and dessert make this a great place for lunch or dinner. 441 Central Ave., St. Petersburg ( 727) 820-3500; lavfusion.com $$ The Lemon Grass - Immense Asian tapas menu with sushi, rolls, Thai dishes, fried rice, noodles and much more. Popular for carryout via online ordering. 310 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 894-1111; lemongrasstapas.com $-$$

Ethnic/Global

The Maritana - The Don Cesar’s longstanding Maritana was renovated a few years ago, offering a sophisticated and intimate ﬁne-dining experience featuring modern Coastal cuisine sustainably sourced, and an extensive wine list. The perfect spot for late-night dessert and aperitif. 3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, dinner only (844) 338-1501, doncesar.com/ dining/maritana $$$$

Asian/Fusion

Hawkers - Asian street food kicked up a notch with craft cocktails and a young vibe at a popular Grand Central hotspot. Small plates and bowls are perfect for sharing. 1235 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 521-7235; eathawkers.com $$ Buya Ramen - Locals favorite for authentic Japanese tapas. Ramen bowls come with meat or soy-based broths, with crispy duck, braised short rib, pork belly or grilled chicken. Seaweed salad, bao buns and

Lingr - Highly imaginative Nordic and Asian-inspired menu is reflective of Chef Jeffrey Jew’s heritage. The new eatery is making waves for fresh sustainable seafood with a contemporary flair. Dinner only. 400 6th Street S., St. Petersburg (727) 471-6120; lingrrestaurant.com $$$ Cassis - Combining traditional French and American influences for brunch, lunch and dinner, this European-style café is a favorite people-watching spot at sidewalk tables

DINING GUIDE along Beach Drive. Carry-out French pastries and gourmet coffee and tea from the bakery. 170 Beach Dr., St. Petersburg (727) 827-2927, cassisstpete.com $$$ Left Bank Bistro - Charming setting in the Crescent Lake community, Left Bank offers accessible French-style fare indoors or outdoors. A great late-night stop for dessert and coffee; the intimate bar presents jazz on Thursday evenings; brunch on weekends. 1225 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg; (727) 256-1691$$$ Baba - It’s hard to ﬁnd more authentic Mediterranean cuisine than at this indooroutdoor casual dining spot in the heart of Kenwood. Be sure to visit the bakery for some goodies to take home. 2701 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 954-3406; eatatbaba.com $$ Chief’s Creole Café - Downhome Cajun and Creole favorites in a family-run café range from gumbo and jambalaya to red beans and rice, shrimp and grits and etouffee. 901 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 498-8979; chiefscreole.com $$

Grand Hacienda - Festive atmosphere and a massive menu of authentic Mexican fare that includes vegetarian and glutenfree. Family friendly, there’s something for everyone including breakfast dishes and a Margarita happy hour Monday through Thursday. 399 11th Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727) 256-9770; grandhaciendarestaurant.com $$

Ceviche - Since moving to modern new digs on Beach Drive, the Spanish tapasinspired menu maintains its authentic dishes and creative touches heavily leaning toward seafood and a Spanish-driven wine selection. 10 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 209-2299; ceviche.com $$$

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Red Mesa Cantina - Longtime fave for fans of fresh Mexican cuisine in a hip urban setting, come here to sit in the courtyard with a margarita or sangria and indulge in tacos, salads, enchiladas, quesadillas and burritos and bowls. 128 3rd St. S., St. Petersburg (855) 265-0812; redmesacantina.com $$ Renzo’s - Argentinian steakhouse with extensive menu of Latin American charcuterie and tapas, grilled meats, prime seafood and traditional pasta dishes, wines and desserts. Casual and group friendly, indoor and outdoor dining. 104 2nd St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 851-9983 $$$ Red Mesa - Not to be confused with the Cantina, the original Red Mesa offers fresh Mexican fare with inﬂuences of South and Central America, the Caribbean and beyond. Entrees include Filet Mignon Chimichurri and Ginger Crusted Salmon. 4912 4th St. N., St. Petersburg (727) 527-8728 $$$ Fado - Authentic Portuguese cuisine and wines heavily leaning toward seafood, meats and sausages in a modern setting. Love

on delicate ﬂavor combinations that make for a menu so delicious and extremely refreshing that you know the island is calling!

6000 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach | RumFishGrill.com | 727.329.1428 |

July/August 2022

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DINING GUIDE octopus? This is the place for you. 435 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727) 346-5389; fadofl.com $$$ Studio Public House - Fun and funky dining in an old gas station-turnedrecording studio-turned neighborhood English/American pub. Creative sandwiches, flatbreads, vegan and veggie, but you can’t beat the Madras Balti Curry and Dragonfire Vindaloo. 2950 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 873-6992; thestudiopublichouse.com $-$$ Sea Dog Cantina - Mexican favorites in a fun atmosphere include tapas, tacos, enchiladas, burgers, shrimp al carbon, fajitas, salads and more. Select from one of several dining rooms, or try to snag a table by the fountain on the patio. Margaritas and sangria are top-notch; a great date night spot. 2832 Beach Blvd. S, Gulfport (727) 914-0112; cantina.seadogbrewing.com $$

Italian

BellaBrava - Authentic Italian cuisine with urban ﬂair, the New World trattoria is lively and fun with beloved pasta dishes,

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Gratzzi Ristorante - Classic Italian cuisine in a warm, friendly environment. Choose from steak and seafood to traditional Italian favorites like Pork Ossobuco and Veal Saltimbocca. Known for their Cavatelli Bada Bing, pasta prepared tableside in a wheel of parmesan cheese. Dinner only. 211 2nd St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 623-9037; gratzzigrille.com $$$ Beau & Mo’s Italian Eating House Although considered a Chicago-style steakhouse, this family run dining spot has consistently won accolades for traditional Italian specialties like Linguini and Clams and Chicken Marsala. Classy yet casual, a lively atmosphere perfect for groups and families. Dinner only. 2924 5th Ave.N., St. Petersburg (727) 771-3690 $$$

Love Food Central - This small neighborhood café serves only vegan and gluten-free sandwiches, soups, salads and the amazing Awesome Burger (beet and black bean patty with an awesome sauce) that will inspire you to eat healthy more often. 2057 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 317-2034; lovefoodcentral.com $$ Golden Dinosaur – Voted Best Vegan Restaurant in Tampa Bay, The Dino serves an impressive menu of salads, sandwiches, tacos, Cubans and reubens, even chili, French dips and Beyond burgers, all made with meat substitutes. Betcha can’t tell the difference. Open 11 am to 7 pm daily; popular for carry-outs. 2930 Beach Blvd., Gulfport. goldendinosaurs.com $$

Taverna Costale - Coastal Italian dining from celebrity chef Fabio Viviani recently opened in the heart of downtown offers the perfect blend of a rustic Italian eatery, an energetic local tavern, and an upscale modern restaurant. Extensive wine list, craft cocktails and an indoor/ outdoor bar. Dinner only. 200 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 954-3863; tavernacoastale.com $$$

Il Ritorno - When owner/executive chef David Benstock beat TV chef Bobby Flay in a May 2021 episode, seats at this intimate downtown eatery were hard to come by. It’s still a good idea to make a reservation to discover Benstock’s fresh, modern Italian cuisine that simply brims with love and creativity. Dinner only. 449 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 897-5900; ilritornodowntown.com $$$$

woodstone oven pizza and great people watching from the sidewalk patio. 204 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 895-5515; bellabrava.com $$$

July/August 2022

Pia’s Trattoria and Pia’s Veranda – The Trattoria’s romantic indoor/outdoor dining rooms, excellent service and classic menu, make it one of the top Italian restaurants in the region. Favorites include a classic Beef Carpaccio from grass-fed cattle, Linguini Alla Vongole and Penne Quatro Formaggio al Forno. Across the street, a more casual sister location offers shady outdoor seating and live music daily. Both locations open at 4 pm. 3054/3038 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport (727) 327-2190; piastrattoria.com $$$

Healthy/Fusion Craft Kafe - Popular downtown coffeeshop and café specializes in glutenfree artisan pastries, quiches, pizza, salads and soups. Sit on the patio and watch the world go by. 200 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 256-8587; craftkafe.com $$

Wild Child - Named the Best New Restaurant of 2022 by the Tampa Bay Times, this coral pink neighborhood bistro meets all the requirements with creative cuisine, fresh and seasonal ingredients, and tiki craft cocktails all meticulously prepared and served. Tuna tostadas, jerk octopus, Peruvian seafood chowder are menu highlights. Indoor/outdoor seating; dinner only but open 11 am Sunday for brunch. 2710 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 954-7425; wildchildstpete.com $$$

St. Petersburg

SPL NEWS St. Anthony’s Unveils New $152 Million Patient Tower BayCare’s St. Anthony’s Hospital is celebrating its 90th anniversary with the opening of 90 private rooms on its St. Petersburg campus. The expansion, which began in 2020, adds approximately 143,000 square feet to the hospital’s campus. The tower project is part of a multi-year expansion, renovation, and relocation of hospital services. The hospital is now licensed for 448 beds. “The patient tower will enable us to meet the growing health care needs of the community we serve for many years to come,” St. Anthony’s President Scott Smith said. “Through this project, we also have improved access to care and enhanced the patient

experience by adding more private rooms.” The $152 million patient tower features calming art and warm décor placed in spacious rooms to help make patients feel at home. In addition, the project includes expansion, renovation and relocation of hospital services including non-invasive cardiology, three additional surgical suites, inpatient dialysis, new classroom and cafeteria and kitchen (moved from the ground floor). The completion of the six-story tower also marks the return of the hospital’s main entrance off Seventh Avenue N., which includes a covered drop-off area for weatherproof convenience.

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Join us for Friday luncheon meetings weekly at the St. Pete Yacht Club. If you want to know more about membership please call Sherri Crouse, our membership chair, 304-416-2097 Visit sprotary.org and come grow with us. Get involved to help our community and the world.

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SPL SCENE Jazzy Juneteenth Jubilee The St. Pete Coliseum was ﬁlled with sparkle and glitter for a sold out Jazzy Juneteenth Jubilee on June 19. The event was a fundraiser for the Woodson African American Museum.

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SPL SCENE St. Anthony’s Hospital Foundation Gala – A Night in Hawaii Nearly 300 people helped to raise $350,000 to be used to further the mission of St. Anthony’s Hospital’s new 90-bed patient tower that recently opened. The Gala was held May 7 at the Vinoy Renaissance.

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Live Inspired In St. Petersburg SOLD in Ovation!

Life Inspired.

180 Beach Dr NE #1801 • $4,000,000

176 4th Avenue NE • Starting at $1,999,900

“We’ve used Liz Heinkel on two transactions to date and both have gone superbly! Liz and the Smith & associates team are extremely knowledgeable and plugged in to the Tampa/St Pete Market. Her advice and recommendations were ﬂawless. We will certainly use her again in the future!” -H. Smith, Owner of Ovation Condo #1801

“Liz was spot-on about the potential value of our home and marketed it appropriately in order to generate maximum interest.This worked to our advantage and we sold above asking.” -- J Bookah

TAMPA BAY BUSINESS JOURNAL WHO’S WHO IN RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TOP AGENTS BY SALES VOLUME

Liz Heinkel, REALTOR® 727.239.5623 LHeinkel@SmithandAssociates.com

Refresh Your Style Remodel Your Home If you are looking to refresh your home with a remodel this year, Strobel Design Build may be the answer. Strobel Design Build is the most awarded design-build firm in the St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay areas. The Strobel Design Build team uses a handson process to ensure each of their clients receives a customized approach specific to their project and personality. The spring season is the perfect time to begin the process of refreshing your home's aesthetic. Whether your home is suffering from wear and tear or you would simply like to update certain elements, Strobel Design Build could be the perfect fit if you are ready to reinvigorate your home with a luxury remodel. Strobel Design Build is structured to undergo projects of all shapes and sizes, specializing in historic homes, FEMA coastal homes, universal design, and designer kitchens and baths. With over 40 years of experience building and designing in the Tampa Bay area and dozens of regional and national awards, Strobel Design Build has the experience and credentials necessary to excel at the custom home remodel of your dreams.

Our Design Build Services Designer Kitchens Designer Bath Outdoor Spaces Coastal Remodeling Additions Condo Renovations Historic Renovations Universal Design & Accessibility Upgrades

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St. Pete Life July/August 2022

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Eating Out: St. Pete Dining Guide