St. Pete Life May/June 2021

Street Murals Provide Art Inspiration Special Feature Top Docs of St. Pete

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CONTENTS

MAY/JUNE 2021 l Volume 4 No. 6

Features

People to Watch: Ya La’ford ........................... 14 Ancient Antioch Mosaics at MFA .................... 16

66

Dining Out: Burnt Ends at Dr. BBQ ................. 24

Bay Pines Cemetery, Never Forgotten

Fashion & Mural Art: Art Inspirations ............. 26 Go Fetch: Dogs of the Burg ............................ 38 Special Section: Top Docs of St. Pete ............. 44 Good Burger: Chef Tony Mangiafico ................ 62 In Memoriam: Bay Pines National Cemetery .... 66 Yard & Garden: Water Wise Winners ................ 68

38

Hot Wheels: Land Rover Defender .................. 70

Dogs of the Burg

24 Time Flies When You're Having Rum

26

74

Art Inspirations

It's Game On

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“Emerald is made from beryl just like the gemstone aquamarine.”

“Emerald is- made from beryl just Adam Johnson-Weintraub like the gemstone aquamarine.”

GIA Gemologist - Adam Johnson-Weintraub GIA Gemologist

Follow @adamgemjohnson on Instagram Follow @adamgemjohnson on Instagram and tik tok for more gem facts and tik tok for more gem facts *Photo enhanced for *Photo enhanced for focus on jewelry

focus on jewelry

WELCOME TO SPL Spring hopes eternal, as they say, and hopefully, we are turning a corner in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. Perhaps one lesson we all have learned is the concept of self-responsibility when it comes to keeping ourselves and our loved ones healthy. This issue we introduce you to some of the area’s physicians in our “Top Docs” special promotional section, who may help you in your personal road to wellness.

Don’t miss the smashing art and fashion spread Art Inspirations, a collaboration engineered by creative artist and stylist Ro Martinez for St. Pete Life. Martinez was inspired by the city’s colorful street murals to bring together local fashion designers, hair and makeup artists, models and photographers to create this stunning photo shoot that represents St. Petersburg through and through. Of course, thanks go to the many painters who provided the artistic murals.

Finally, we pay tribute to Memorial Day and our fallen soldiers with a touching look at Bay Pines National Cemetery, St. Petersburg’s historic resting place for nearly 44,000 souls, all military veterans and their family members. A group of local photographers came together to provide images, with the assistance of cemetery administration. We hope it reaches out and touches you, too.

Happy reading,

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 Ernest Hooper/ Ro Martinez/ Nitish S. Rele Contributors

Dorian Photography

Valerie Bogle

CO-FOUNDER/BUSINESS MANAGER Ralph Zuckerman Want SPL delivered directly to your home or office?

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On the Cover: Jackie Zumba, owner of Jackie Z Style Co. in Sundial plaza Photo by: Steven Le TheePhotoNinja.com

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Have you ever been searching for beach front condominiums and found that most buildings on the Gulf typically offer tunnel-like layouts with limited views of the beach? When the owners of this exceptional unit found this one of a kind treasure in the boutique condo community of Utopia on Sand Key of Clearwater Beach, they were elated! This fabulous unit was uniquely built for the original developer who designed it with features no one else would have such as the amazing 62ft Gulf front balcony, additional storage and 1 of very few poolside cabanas!

When updating needed to be done, they found the ideal layout that offers not only an expansive 3 bedroom, 3 bath, 3150 SF floor plan, it also features floor to ceiling sliding glass doors that provides endless beach views from just about everywhere!

When the owners retired about two years ago they “decided to

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undertake a twelve-month floor to ceiling designer renovation to create the stunning contemporary beach home we had always dreamed of.” Their interior designer helped them choose just the right finishes to create this tranquil paradise including stunning Cambria quartz kitchen counters with a waterfall edge island, massive white tile slab flooring, an 8’6” linear contemporary fireplace and a 220 bottle wine cellar to name just a few of the designer details.

The owners say “We have thoroughly cherished our time here relaxing on our balcony, enjoying the pool and jacuzzi, and exercising and strolling on the quiet beach of Sand Key.” This stunning coastal contemporary condominium is offered by Tammy Campbell McNelis (Formerly Plummer) with the CPM Team and ReMax Metro for $2,825,000.

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Ya La’ford Artist / Educator / Visionary

SPL

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People To Watch

BY MARCIA BIGGS Ya La’ford can now add race car to her growing list of artistic accomplishments. With major art, murals and sculpture installations found across the country, and recently commissioned by the NFL as the 2021 Super Bowl artist to create artwork for all the NFL owners, the Tampa Bay resident became the first artist ever to be commissioned to paint an IndyCar. She took on the challenge, which was presented by VUSE, a sponsor for the Arrow McLaren team, April 22-25 during the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

La’ford’s signature bold geometric design came to life in two projects starting with painting a 6x12-foot canvas inspired by the city of St. Pete, the street race course and waterfront, with a pattern that she depicts as high vibrational energy. The piece now resides at the St. Petersburg Museum of History.

The full-size IndyCar was painted live trackside during the race, an exciting experience for La’ford who is passionate about creating an artistic language that connects diverse groups in one community through the power of the line. She jumped at the challenge to paint

PHOTO/CHRIS ZONA

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an IndyCar, creating those vibrational lines that could interconnect the viewers.

“Artwork transcends traditional space, so I found this a very attractive offer,” she said. “I wanted to challenge the viewers to reconsider their relationship between art, the city and racing. Art has the capability to do that; it’s a platform to connect and intertwine the community. I’ve been speaking about interconnectivity for over a decade now, and I think because of the circumstances of the past year and a half, we understand the need for that now.

Everyone can have their own relationship with art and create their own journey with the artwork.”

The artist incorporated sustainability into her work by grinding and filing various metal parts of the car that would have traditionally been thrown away – brakes, calipers, tire rims – and mixing them into spray paint producing an ingrained sparkle effect. “The idea of sustainability and repurposing allowed me to reengineer, reimagine and reintroduce,” she said. “It was a really amazing experience.”

ARTS & CULTURE

The Energy of Adversity leads to Creativity

BY BRENDA MCMAHON I am an artist. My job is alchemy. I turn earth into art. The most important part of any creative endeavor is to adjust to change. The fire of a kiln transforms clay, just as the pigments on a paintbrush transform a canvas. It matters less why we are changing; what is most important, I believe, is that we have the pliability to do so.

Since then, the Gallery expanded its hours from 3 to 6 days a week.

A group of artists and businesses picked up our earlier efforts to revamp our First Friday Art Walk and went forward full steam ahead.

Our October debut themed art walk was Metamorphosis: Art for Hope and Healing.

After 26 years as a ceramic artist I opened Brenda McMahon Gallery in Gulfport on May 1, 2019. The early days were slow, but nine months after opening, I began to find my stride. The slow foot traffic turned into a steady flow and by January, it seemed ‘season’ had begun. On March 22nd, a few weeks after whispers of Covid-19 began, Brenda McMahon Gallery was forced to shut down.

We began a workshop series called A Taste of Art. This provides an inspired space for visitors to get away from their lives and delve into the alchemy of art. Our ceramics, fused glass and painting workshops have been a huge success.

During the 6-week shutdown, we spent our time photographing over 200 art pieces, working to create an online gallery and inventorying the work of 15 artists. It was a monumental task. We went live within one month.

I wrote newsletters, posted on social media and reached out to custom clients. Sales began to pick up and custom orders began to flow. The community rallied behind our artists. What I thought would be the beginning of the end was in fact the beginning of a new now.

In January we began an Artist of the Month program to provide a stage for underrepresented voices. The power of the Black Lives Matter protests trickled down to an action I was able to take and now build.

In Gulfport, the gallery hopes to add to the symphony of voices calling for change. We aim to be the change we want to see, for if Covid-19 taught us one thing, it’s that we are all in this together.

Brenda McMahon is owner of Brenda McMahon Gallery in Gulfport.

She is also the founder of local fine arts collective ArtJones.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Antioch Reclaimed Ancient mosaic tile slabs, some buried outside the Museum of Fine Arts for decades, make their long-awaited debut.

PHOTOS/ MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS ST. PETERSBURG

Left, the mosaic slab entitled The House of the Drinking Contest was excavated from the floor of a villa in Antioch as seen on the photo mural.

BY MARCIA BIGGS It’s always interesting to see how museums select new exhibits in their never-ending quest to excite the public, attract new members and satisfy the older ones. The Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg has done a fine job in recent years under executive director Kristen Shepherd to shake things up regularly, bringing in a diverse array of unique exhibits from dead bugs to colorful modern commentary art and oversized origami to stunning jewels.

The new Antioch Mosaics exhibit turns attention to the museum’s antiquities, an important yet often overlooked collection. Ancient history and archaeology buffs, this one’s for you. There’s a crazy story behind the newly restored mosaic slabs which date from the 2nd to the 5th centuries AD, and some interesting artifacts from their excavation in the 1930s that make this small yet mighty show worth your time.

Antioch was the most dynamic, important ancient city of the Eastern Mediterranean. Founded around 300 B.C. by Seleucus I, one of Alexander the Great’s generals, its cultural prominence spanned centuries of change. First a Greek city, it became the capital of the

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Roman province of Syria from 64 B.C., and was ultimately home to the first Christian community. The city is now modern Antakya, a provincial capital of southern Turkey.

Organized by the Museum of Fine Arts in partnership with Princeton University, the exhibit tells the story of the excavation of Antioch, which was led by Princeton from 1932 to 1939. Most of the artifacts were eventually sold to museums and public institutions in North America and Europe. The documents, artifacts, photographs, and fascinating film footage played on a loop of the actual excavation reveal how Antioch and its suburbs were uncovered, exposing some 300 mosaic pavements.

The slabs were discovered covering the floors of the elegant private villas in the wealthy region and were given names accordingly such as The House of the Drinking Contest (hey, it was Greco-Roman times). Photographs of the home excavation sites have been enlarged and cover the gallery walls as floor to ceiling murals.

Princeton University Art Museum is lending complementary works to the collection including three sculptures, while Princeton Archives

ARTS & CULTURE

A mosaic slab, left, from The House of Ge and the Seasons. An aerial photo shows one excavation site.

is lending archival documents from the dig including original photos, letters, telegrams, journals and sketch books.

The exhibit is the second phase of a three-phase project for the MFA’s five mosaics. The first phase was recovering and restoring the ancient tiles, and the final phase will be installing them this fall in the Membership Garden, said Michael Bennett, the museum’s Senior Curator of Early Western Art and co-curator of the exhibit along with Andrea De Giorgi, Associate Professor of Classics at Florida State University.

Buried Mosaics Uncovered How two missing mosaic slabs were discovered at the museum is an intriguing part of this exhibit.

The five mosaic pavements on view were acquired from Princeton by the MFA in 1964, the year before the museum opened to the public. MFA’s first director Rexford Stead purchased the ancient artifacts for the museum and had them shipped to St. Petersburg, the very first art shipment to arrive at the MFA’s loading dock. From there the story gets quirky.

Three of the slabs found spots in the museum (one lived under the stage in the ballroom),

but decades later two major slabs were missing. “No written documentation of their whereabouts was found,” says Bennett.

“However, museum ‘myth’ had them buried for safekeeping beneath the east lawn.”

In 2017, new MFA executive director Kristen Shepard began research aimed at finding the missing pieces, and initiated a fundraising campaign to excavate and restore them. A year later an excavation team discovered them about 4 to 5 feet beneath the ground. “The largest mosaic had been placed on concrete with rebar by the original excavation team and weighed 2 tons,” said Bennett.

“We had to set up an outdoor tent and restoration lab on the lawn to work on cleaning and removing the concrete backing. It took an entire year.”

The mosaic designs are primarily geometric in design, made with colorful stones. The largest one, dubbed The House of the Drinking Contest, plays tricks on the eye like a kaleidoscope, it is “sophisticated geometry” by highly trained artisans, says Bennett.

Or maybe it was a drinking game? That’s one question that might never be answered.

Antioch Reclaimed continues through August 22; to find related events and programs go to mfastpete.org.

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ART BRIEFS

Summer in the City It won’t be the same this summer without American Stage in the Park at Demens Landing, but that doesn’t mean the well has run dry. Pack up a picnic and head to Williams Park downtown St. Pete for summer stage performances of “Romeo and Juliet in America (The One With the Happy Ending)” July 22 through August 1. Insert sighs of relief here.

American Stage will unveil the 2021-22 season and present an evening of entertainment, light bites and libations in a safe, sociallydistanced setting June 11 at 6:30 pm during the Raise the Curtain Gala: A New Era of Live Theatre. Presented by Raymond James at The Factory St. Pete, tickets to the fundraising affair can be purchased at americanstage.org/curtain.

Sneak Peek: Arts & Crafts Museum Delayed for several years now due to COVID and other reasons, the much anticipated opening of the Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement seems like it’s just off the horizon, like billowing clouds just close enough to touch when POOF another delay keeps us breathlessly waiting for the next announcement. Morsels of information are now surfacing, teasing us through digital newsletter releases with previews of the world-class private collection of local collector Rudy Ciccarello.

The five-story, 137,000-square-foot building by Alfonso Architects will hold 40,000 square feet of gallery space, a high-end restaurant and café, museum store, theater and event spaces. But the massive collection is what we can’t wait for -- many rare fine arts and oneof-a-kind decorative arts such as furniture, pottery, lighting, and metalwork created by the period’s most important and influential artists. In America, the Arts and Crafts Movement spread across the country from 1890-1930. The tenets of the movement – simplicity in design, honesty in materials, hand craftsmanship, and depicting the natural world – will make this a truly unique collection.

Get a preview of the collection at www.museumaacm.org Music at the James The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art is getting back to regularly scheduled programming (non-virtual). Live Music on Tuesdays returns from 5:30 to 7:30 pm; admission is only $10 and allows visitors access to the galleries (this is half price, folks).

Look for folk rockers Leon Majcen (May 25), Rebekah Pulley (June 22), bluegrass and folk by The Wandering Hours (July 13) and Max Watson (Aug. 17). Check the museum’s web site for updates on more concerts at thejamesmuseum.org.

Talks Are Back at SPMOH Local historians and authors are finally back at the St. Pete Museum of History for the monthly “An Evening of Wine, Words, and Wisdom” held the second Thursday of the month. Doors open at 6 pm and program begins at 6:30 pm; admission $10.

Here’s the lineup for 2021: May 13: Dr. John Arthur “Digging Weedon Island” June 10: Dr. Laura Harrison, “Egmont Key: Past, Present and Future” July 8: Dr. Anthony Dixon, “Florida’s Negro War: The Second Seminole War” August 12: Bob Kealing, “Life of the Party: Brownie Wise’s Tupperware Empire” Sept. 9: Dr. Gary Mormino, “Millard Fillmore Caldwell: Governing on the Wrong Side of History” Oct. 14: Dr. Brandy Stark, “Bay Area Ghost Stories” Nov. 11: Derek Donnelly, “Millard Fillmore Caldwell: Governing on the Wrong Side of History” December 9: Joy Harris, “The Joy of Cooking: Florida’s Culinary Delights” Face masks are required for entry; cash bar available. These events often sell out, so make your reservation early. Go to spmoh.com/happy-hour-with-the-historian

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TFO Grand Finale The Florida Orchestra makes it a wrap on one very challenging season – bravo! Final concerts all at Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater: May 22-23 Rhapsody in Blue with guest conductor and pianist Stuart Malina May 29-30 Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto No. 5 and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3, “Scottish” with conductor Michael Francis Go to themahaffey.com for tickets and more information.

Meet Local Realtor® Liz Heinkel Liz has been a member of the Coastal Christie’s Chairman’s Club since 2017 and received the highest level of achievement in 2020: The Pinnacle Club with over $60 million in sales in 2019-2020. She also holds the distinguished designation of the Christie’s International Real Estate Masters Circle and attends annual Christie’s conferences to keep up-to-date with the cutting edge of luxury real estate. Currently the President of the St Petersburg Rotary Club, Liz feels passionately about giving back to the community that has given so much to her.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of your career as a Realtor?

A: It’s the Rotary Club Motto: “Service Above Self ”. I enjoy helping families move on with the next stage of their lives. My job is to help facilitate a smooth transaction from start to finish.

Q: What do you consider your greatest achievement in your career?

A: Being listed in the “Top 25 Most Expensive Sales” for two years in a row in the Tampa Bay Area. In 2020 I had two of them; an Ovation penthouse sold for $6,650,000 and the top floor ONE penthouse sold for $4,700,000. In 2019 another Ovation penthouse sold for $6,849,000!!

Q: Tell us about the downtown St. Petersburg luxury condo market.

A: It keeps growing and growing! When my husband Larry and I moved here in 2004, the Parkshore Plaza and 400 Beach pre-sales were just beginning. Friends thought that we were crazy to move downtown. We said we loved it because of the beauty of our waterfront parks and the walkability to everything. Now, this desire has spread and the vibe of our downtown has caught on like wildfire! It’s the “IT” place to be!

Q: What is your greatest asset as a top producing Realtor in this area?

727.239.5623 LizHeinkel@CoastalPGI.com

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A: My knowledge of the area. The first 8 years of our life in St Pete were spent downtown.

We walked to work, the store, the movies and restaurants. As a result, I have great insight to offer clients on downtown condo living. We now live in Tierra Verde at Sunset Pointe, so I am able to help my clients compare benefits of downtown verses beachfront living.

Q: What are some of the challenges that you help your clients avoid or deal with?

A: One of the biggest challenges I face deals with clients who are very attached to their personal belongings. When selling your home you have to de-clutter and de-personalize to make it a more neutral environment so that the buyer can picture himself/herself living in your home. It’s hard for sellers to part with their treasures because it is the fabric of their life.

Q: Why St. Pete?

A: St Petersburg has a wonderfully long history such as the formation of the longest waterfront park connection which is third in the nation, or Baseball Spring Training which has been located in St. Pete since the era of old time favorites like Babe Ruth! We also have the largest Saturday Morning Farmers Market in the Southeast, and we are frequently rated the Top 10 Best Beaches in the world!

Q: What do you bring to the table?

A: Concierge Service. I hand-hold my clients through the process.

AND I always answer my phone!!

Q: What are your favorite non-profits that you support and why?

A: There are so many non-profits in need right now that I donate to a cause with every sale! The St Petersburg Free Clinic is our main source of giving, but we also support other human needs groups such as Ready for Life, The First Tee, Suncoast Voices, Brookwood and CASA. Additionally we are supporters of the Museum of Fine Arts and Great Explorations as well as Tampa Bay Watch, which is a vital organization that keeps Tampa Bay beautiful.

Call Liz for all your real estate needs!

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The root/bulb of the hair is the only part of the hair that is alive. It feeds from the blood vessels that bring information and nutrients from the systemic microcirculation. The hair and its bulb are in fact an antenna that is constantly sensing and detecting environmental signals emanating from the micro and macro environment. In many cases, the 34 page report reflects underlying environmental and dietary issues long before they present physically.

Yes, only 4 hair shafts with roots, plucked from the back of your head deliver a comprehensive 34 page report. Each page map reflects the personal environmental influences which could be impacting you and your wellbeing. The mapping covers the following categories and items.

Included in the Map is a 90-day Protocol. It is important to follow a 90-day food avoidance and nutritional program before remapping the hair and roots. Although the information is extremely dynamic, the physical impact of the changes made to diet and nutrition will take longer to evolve. The body produces proteins which produces cells. These cells repair tissues and systems, which finally have a physical effect on the entire body. The optimum time for these metabolic processes is 90-days.

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Elvira Wright, D.Ph, FAARM, ABAAHP www.WrightAesthetics.com • www.GetHealthandVitality.com 727-212-1755

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Digitally driven, epigenetic screening is non-invasive, fast and results-driven. Reports hold you accountable with a self-check assessment every 30 days. Nutritional choices, together with other lifestyle changes, are outlined for every category.

SPL HEALTH

Change your Thoughts…Change your Life!

I just finished a feature for News Channel 8’s Bloom series with Gayle Guyardo on ways to think more positively and counteract negative thinking. We all encounter negative thoughts and the daily self-talk we frequently engage in directly impacts the quality of our lives. With the proper skill set in place, you can change your thoughts and change your life! Our brains act like Velcro for negative thoughts. Research has shown that our brains have the tendency to focus more on the negative things in our lives versus the positive ones. This is called negativity bias.

One of my favorite strategies to challenge our negativity bias is by neuropsychologist Dr. Rick Hanson, and it’s called “Taking in the Good.” When you’re taking in the good, it’s important to acknowledge the emotional aspects of your positive experiences. There are three easy steps and the more you practice it, the more routine it can become for you:

Imagine that you have a presentation that requires your team of four to share feedback with you on your performance. Three of those people compliment your presentation and one person criticizes it. Which will you remember? If you are like most people, your mind will gravitate to the one person who criticized your presentation and that is due to negativity bias. When this happens many people tend to “get stuck” in the negative. Negativity bias can have long term impact on our lives, including being less happy or more pessimistic. It may also lead to depression and anxiety.

Negative experiences register in our brain immediately, as it helps us survive daily. Interestingly, we also possess the capacity to rewire the brain to appreciate and absorb more of the “positive” moments in our life and not ruminate on the “negative” moments.

We can reshape the brain’s neural pathways to savor the “good” moments by storing them in our emotional memory. We can also transform and implant those moments for retrieval to become stronger and happier.

Step 1: Deliberately seek out good experiences throughout the day. Pay attention to the positive experiences, however large or small, you encounter in your world. This can include the smell of coffee, a flower’s fragrance, watching a sunset, or catching the front parking spot. By simply savoring a positive experience, it helps activate the brain by cultivating an awareness of the good in your life.

Step 2: Enrich the experience. Sit with the experience for a minimum of 5 seconds, ideally 10-20 seconds. Be aware of the details—the way you felt, the time of day, or other elements of the moment. Notice the details.

Step 3: Absorb the experience. Use awareness to come from a place of appreciation for the experience. Allow it to really sink in and dwell in the situation.

The benefits of “taking in the good” is an investment in your own mental health. Through awareness and repetition, you will notice a shift toward a more positive view that will leave you more optimistic, more resilient, and more confident. You’ll garnish an appreciation of the world around you, too.

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Now Offering Services at our South Tampa Location 106 S Tampania Ave, Suite 100 Tampa, Florida 33609 813-444-4427 May/June 2021

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DINING OUT

Burnt Ends

Burnt Ends Tiki Bar at Dr. BBQ 1101 1st Avenue. S., St. Pete FL (727) 443-7227

Time Flies When You’re Having Rum PHOTO/MARCIA BIGGS

PHOTO/BURNT Ends

Authentic tiki drinks are the star attraction, but the PuPu Platter comes in a close second, at Burnt Ends Tiki Bar at Dr. BBQ.

BY MARCIA BIGGS Oh, the balmy breezes, the flaming tiki torches, the kick-butt rum drinks in those amusing glasses with the funny faces. The tiki experience has all but disappeared from the St. Pete scene until recently with the opening of Burnt Ends on the second floor patio of Dr. BBQ. Except for the flaming tiki torches (dim orange backlighting to simulate glowing embers is a safer alternative), this tiki bar does quite nicely to fill the Polynesian void downtown.

Thanks to a longtime desire by owners Roger and Suzanne Perry to create a tiki experience in the ‘Burg, the former non-descript deck bar has been lavishly renovated to take you away to some tiny Pacific island, complete with a thatch palm canopy, bamboo furnishings and beachy music to kick back and relax.

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Adventurous drinkers will also enjoy more under-the-radar libations including a Port Light, one of the few classic tiki cocktails made with bourbon, as well as a Saturn gin-based cocktail with falernum, passionfruit and orgeat. You may want to line up an Uber if you plan on ordering more than two.

Half the fun of imbibing at Burnt Ends is, of course, the fun of drinking from the coolest drinkware on the planet (which by the way is available for sale and flying out the door, says Hurst). Manly men, leave it at the front door. The night we were there, a table of nearly a dozen tattooed and pierced partiers were enjoying the specialty cocktails topped with frou-frou orchids and cherries.

Beverage director Dean Hurst, a 30-year industry veteran with dedicated interest in tiki, leads menu and creative development for the concept. Look for him behind the bar, meticulously mixing rum concoctions like a mad scientist (even using eye-droppers for precise measure). Hurst knows his stuff, having run the bar program at The Hukilau from 2014 -2019.

Be aware that you can’t order from the main restaurant’s barbecue menu — a limited Polynesian-inspired menu of lite bites complements the tiki cocktail menu. Not to worry. The Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Habanero Sauce is excellent, as are the Gochujang Sticky Ribs. Chili Garlic Smoked Wings have a kick, beware, and Pulled Pork Hawaiian Sliders come with plantain chips and Rum BBQ sauce.

This is one serious tiki cocktail menu – no rumrunners or pina coladas allowed. All liqueurs are top-shelf like the classic Mai Tai with Jamaican rum, dry curacao, fresh lime juice and housemade orgeat; the Bali Hai offering big, bold rum flavors matched with coffee and pineapple notes; Three Dots and a Dash, an ode to the famed Chicago tiki bar, which stands out for its use of Rhum Agricole, Martinique and Demerara rums, pimento, falernum, orange and lime juices, honey mix and angostura.

We enjoyed the pork steamed bao buns and the Burnt Ends (brisket) wrapped in bao bun, both presented at the table in bamboo steamers. I highly recommend indulging in the PuPu Platter to get a well-rounded tasting of the menu. It includes pork bao buns, sticky ribs, chicken satay, steamed potstickers, crab Rangoon and vegetable spring roll and is perfect for two.

Everything comes with tiki-inspired dipping sauces, one of Dr. BBQ’s calling cards.

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DINING OUT

White Wines

To Make You A Believer

BY WILL HOWARD Every day I talk to wine lovers and the conversation always seems to surround red wines. I think the conversation needs to start with whites for a few reasons. The value is excellent because whites are almost always less expensive than the same producer’s red counterparts. There is much less time required in opening, decanting, or aging a white wine before it’s enjoyed. And these wines are simply delicious. So if you’re not drinking some of these whites, then you really don’t know what you’re missing.

I have to start in Spain with a few winemaking wizards. I’m talking about Raul Perez (Sketch, Albariño), Eulogio Pomares (Zarate, Albariño), and Rafael Palacios (Louro do Bolo, Godello). All three of these winemakers were born into Spanish winemaking families.

They each understand that great wine starts in the vineyard. They each utilize unique winemaking practices. And they have all made a name for themselves, aside from their families’ reputations, in some very unique ways.

Sketch (Albariño, Rías Baixas) - Sketch is made by Raul Perez with old vine Albariño, ranging from 50-100 years in age. The wine is fermented with natural yeast and is aged in 750L casks for a year before bottling, without fining and filtering. This wine offers an incredible winemaker, old vines, and natural winemaking production, but that isn’t even the coolest thing about this story.

Raul Perez was one of the first winemakers to experiment with aging wine underwater. Seriously. Wine bottles in a cage at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean, requiring scuba divers to later retrieve them. This wine is fairly expensive for an Albariño, but worth it if you can find it. It runs about $70-$100 in retail.

Zarate (Albariño, Rías Baixas) - Zarate is made by Eulogio Pomares, 7th generation winemaker of this historical Albariño producer. Eulogio is a pioneer of organic winemaking practices in Galacia. His winery Zarate planted some of the oldest vines in Rías Baixas, some of which are over 150 years old vines. The vines from their basic (not a single vineyard) Albariño average about 40 years old. This wine is an incredible example of what Albariño can be

with a very approachable price. This wine retails for about $25-$30.

Rafael Palacios (Louro do Bolo, Godello, Valdeorras) - Rafael Palacios is the youngest son of D José Palacios Remondo, who founded Palacios Remondo of Rioja in 1945. His brother is Álvaro Palacios of Priorat fame. Rafael took a different route. Rafael focuses on the white varietal of Godello in Valdeorras. Rafael farms high elevation, steep, granite vineyard sites in Valdeorras.

The wine is rich, well balanced, and complex beyond the average Godello. This is a bottle that will convert a lot of Chardonnay drinkers to Godello. The wine is age-worthy, but it’s not required.

This wine retails for around $30.

A.J. Adam (Piesporter, Goldröpfchen, Kabinett, Riesling) Classic in style and technique, these whites pair well with food. The wine is made by Andreas Adam of A.J. Adam in Mosel, Germany.

Andreas revitalized the Dhron Hofberg back to its former Grand Cru status after taking over abandoned family vineyards in 2000.

Today A.J. Adams is executing the dream of once again thriving with the old vines of his family’s vineyard sites.

The vines of the Goldtröpfchen vineyard are 110 years old and sit high atop blue slate, clay, and sandstone soils. The wine is honey colored with mouth-watering acidity. There are flavors of sweet tangerine, apricots, baking spice, and wet stone. This wine would be perfect with blue cheese, barbecue, or Thai noodles. The wine probably retails around $50.

I really hope you get to try some of these incredible white wines. I think all of these incredible winemakers have shown that it’s not easy to make great wine. That could mean hand harvesting fruit on steep rock cliffs in Valdeorras or Mosel, tending to 150-year-old ancient vineyards, or even scuba diving to retrieve bottles from the ocean floor. You’ll always find an excellent wine when you start with people that work this hard to bring their vision to life.

Will Howard is Sommelier at Rococo Steak in St. Petersburg.

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FOOD BITES

Food Hall Debuts The Historic Manhattan Casino has a new baby worth celebrating. 22 South Food Hall, in the space formerly occupied by Callaloo, opened April 30. A grand tasting showed off not only the talent of new chefs and restaurateurs, but a sleek modern interior in an innovative space.

Located at 642 22nd St. S., 22 South offers food from a variety of vendors including VJ’s — named in honor of the late local businessman Vincent Jackson. It will feature new American cuisine and part of the proceeds from the restaurant will be donated to Jackson in Action 83 Foundation.

In addition to the food hall, co-work space run by Rising Tide Innovation Center is available for those who wish to plug in and stay a while. The Jordan Ballroom provides event space on the second floor. For updates on hours, check them out on Facebook.

Other 22 South Food Hall vendors are Three Generations creative soul food; Shokkan sushi, poke’ and burritos; Ray’s Vegan Soul, plant-based foods; Iriemon’ Jamaican grill; Betterway BBQ; St. Pete Bowls; and a coffee shop, Deuces Café. Metropolitan Ministries will bring its culinary training program to the Manhattan Casino.

Coming Soon Get ready for an explosion of authentic Portuguese food and wine when Fado opens at 435 5th Avenue N. at the location of the former Sake 23. The giant venue features two floors of seating plus outdoor dining areas.

Fado’s owners, Rui Borges and Sandra Andrade, were both born and raised in Portugal and own a similar restaurant, Lisbon, in Orlando. For updates, check them out on Facebook.

Beans & Barlour joins the Tropicana Field lineup of food vendors this season with boozy desserts and milkshakes. Beans & Barlour opened in the summer of 2018 as the first coffee and dessert lounge

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FOOD BITES in St. Petersburg featuring to-die-for alcohol-infused ice cream specialties.

They recently announced they will be relocating to the 400 block of Central Avenue in late June.

The historic Cordova Inn in the heart of downtown will open The Scott, a craft coffee and cocktail lounge, with a sophisticated Old Hollywood roaring 20’s theme to match the newly renovated lobby. Located at 253 2nd Avenue N., The Scott at Cordova Inn is rumored to be serving the barrel aged St. Pete based Hogg Batch Coffee. The Cordova Inn first opened as the Hotel Scott in 1921 and became the Hotel Cordova in 1923.

Oui to Local Brewer 3 Daughters Brewing announced that is has begun distribution in France of its popular Florida Hard Seltzer, making it the first American craft hard seltzer distributed there. “It is incredibly cool to me that a locally-

owned brewery in St. Pete is now one of the biggest distributors of hard seltzers in Europe,” said owner and CEO Mike Harting. “This is a process that has been in the works for a long time.” 3 Daughters Brewing’s distribution partners French Guys S.A.S. will begin an aggressive rollout across the country, backed by a heavy investment in a multimedia promotional campaign. Opened in 2013, 3 Daughters Brewing is one of the largest independently owned breweries based in Florida.

Benstock Competes on Food Network Fans of Il Ritorno and St. Pete Meat & Provisions will want to tune in to the Food Network on May 20 when executive chef and owner David Benstock competes in the hit series “Beat Bobby Flay.” Originally filmed in October 2019, the results of Benstock’s competition titled “Mission: Impastable” have been kept secret, while family and friends eagerly awaited the announcement of the episode’s airing, which is now scheduled for 8 pm on May 20. Benstock will go head-to-head with chef, food stylist and cookbook author Nicole Karr. The judging panel, composed of Bobby’s close friends and colleagues, will deliberate and determine who will face Bobby Flay in the final round. Benstock and his culinary competitor will dish out some spectacular Italian dishes in an attempt to beat Bobby.

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ART & FASHION

Art Inspirations Walking through the streets of downtown St. Pete, you’re instantly taken on a creative journey of mural art. With each brush stroke you’re transported to another time or place. This grand scale art is sure to attract you like a magnet to a myriad of colors and styles appealing to your senses.

Talented mural artists from around the globe have come here to transform ordinary walls into extraordinary works of art during the annual Shine Mural Festival.

St. Pete’s street art inspired me to put together a creative team of photographers, makeup and hair stylists, models and fashion designers, each one with their own distinct artistry. It was truly a collaborative effort culminating in a photographic visual journey. How will you be inspired?

Ro Martinez

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ART & FASHION

Faces

648 Central Avenue Artist: Bask (2014) Photo: Angela Mann Considered one of St. Pete’s top muralists, Bask’s signature graffiti art style featuring drips and scrapes is undeniable. The graphic grey, black and white mural has an aged feel. The look of vintage photos lined up is what gives this mural a twist and was our inspiration for a Cyndi Lauper-meetsMardi Gras look. Jacka Saldana who created the butterfly textured bustier and Monique McLaughlin who styled Lola’s hair collaborated to create a bold eclectic look reminiscent of the 1980’s.

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ART & FASHION

Pride and Love 2437 Central Ave. Artists: Chad Mize and Jay Hoff (2019) Photo: Gregg Walters Mize, a muralist and multimedia artist, and Hoff, an artist known for his LEGO creations, collaborated on this LEGO themed mural. The design of hands and large red heart embody Pride and Love as the name implies. By involving local LGBTQ youth and friends to aid in completing their colorful mural it became a community project.

The bright cheerful design was the inspiration behind our model Lauren’s look. She wears a hand-painted original t-shirt created by artist Anna Elvira Rodriguez. Monique McLaughlin finished the look with complementary hair and makeup.

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ART & FASHION

Diarchy 1100 1st Avenue N. Artist: Bekky Beukes (2018) Photo credit: Gregg Walters Muralist Bekky Beukes is known for her celestial female forms while examining dark, light and chaos. Her mural of two female skeletons leaning in with piercing eyes has dark underlying tones. This edge is a thing of beauty and what became our inspiration for the hair and makeup. Our creative team came together for artistic expression. Jackie Cupples created the colorful hair designs, Jacka Saldana designed the beaded bra and Monique McLaughlin put the finishing touches on with artistic makeup.

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ART & FASHION

Sewing Seas 1720 Central Ave. Artist: Taj Tenfold (2019) Photo credit: Thomas Long Tenfold, an illustrator, fine artist and muralist, uses his Jamaican heritage to evoke feelings of a Caribbean vacation in the Sewing Seas mural. Its vibrant splashes of color and beautiful woman wearing a turban was our inspiration. He is inspired by music and uses a variety of techniques to accomplish his artwork. Our model Latasia was dressed by designer Elizabeth Novais who created an elegant look with a flair perfect for day or evening. Jackie Cupples tied the head wrap and Monique McLaughlin created a flawless face.

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ART & FASHION

Jujmo’s Jungle 1701 1st Avenue S. Artist: Jujmo (2017) Photo: Angela Mann Illustrator and muralist Jujmo created this whimsical mural.

Her trademark style of blending cute critters with freeform color is evident in her work.

This fantasyland where cotton candy joins forces with happy pastel colored creatures was the inspiration behind our model’s playful look.

Lola’s hair braids in hues so sweet they look good enough to eat were styled by Monique McLaughlin who also created the body paint design along with the makeup to complete the look.

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ART & FASHION

Multicolored Lady 1720 Central Ave. Artist: Dasic Fernandez (2016) Photo: Thomas Long Dasic Fernandez is no doubt influenced by his birthplace of Chile and New York, where he has lived. His mural shows a woman in a dreamy pose enjoying falling rain painted in shades of blue, purple, orange, green and yellow, and looks almost as if it is floating upwards. The massive mural painted with saturated color against a black sky spans the width of the building. This imaginative concept was our inspiration. Jackie Cupples tied the silk head wrap and matching scarf into a top for an ethnic flavor. Elizabeth Novais dressed Latasia, our model, in black flowing cropped pants to complete the look. Monique McLaughlin added a special glow with makeup in shades of gold and orange tones inspired by the mural.

St. Pete Murals

A great way to experience St. Pete’s art murals is through a guided mural walk or bike ride. St. Pete Bike Tours offers 3-hour downtown bike tours at 10 am on Fridays. Learn all about the city’s vibrant arts scene and history during a sixmile tour, with a few stops for coffee and gelato. Open to ages 12 and older; cost $55.

Go to www.stpetebikingtours.com FloridaCraftArt offers bike and walking mural tours in the

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Central Arts District starting at the gallery on 501 Central Avenue. Weekly walking tours are 10-11:30 am Saturdays ($19 adults, $11 children); bicycle tours happen the first Saturday of every month from 9 to 11:30 am May through September and 2 to 4:30 pm November through April. Cost of $25 includes a Coast Bike Share, or $20 if you BYO bike.

Go to floridacraftart.org for more information.

Find a map of Shine Mural Festival at stpeteartsalliance.org/shine-mural-festival.

ART & FASHION

About Ro Martinez Ro Martinez is a visual artist who believes in creativity without restriction blending abstract and op-art with ease. She works with acrylics in her signature black and white mixing in a rainbow of colors inspired by her Colombian heritage resulting in unique pieces.

Creative Team Concept and stylist: Ro Martinez romartinezart.com Creative partner and makeup artist: Monique McLaughlin, moemakeup.com Hair stylist: Jackie Cupples @lilsoldierjack

Photographers Angela Mann, angelamannphotography.com Gregg Walters, piratemanphotography.com Thomas Long @longthomas2000

Designers

Anna Elvira Rodriguez, myartstyles.com Elizabeth Novais, laviebettallc.com Jacka Saldana, jackasaldana.com

Models

Devin Myler Latasia Tomlin Lauren Lich Lola Rogacheva William Berry

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SPL SPOTLIGHT Located in: Sundial St. Pete 113 2nd Ave N, St. Pete, FL 33701 (727) 258-4849 • jackiezstyle.com

“My biggest accomplishment is raising my daughter to be the caring, STRONG, smart, beautiful little human she is.”

Q: What was your inspiration for the Jackie Z concept?

A: I have always loved fashion and shopping so it was a natural fit. I started Jackie Z when I was 24 years old. I had been working in marketing prior, so I brought that expertise to the fashion world and combined the two. Jackie Z was the end result of my prior experience, and the beginning of the brand. Brian (my husband) convinced me on the “Jackie Z” brand because our clients love the personal service they get when they shop here. We started 10 years ago in downtown Sarasota with a smaller store and sold denim, shirts and dresses.

Never did I dream we would grow into the luxury brand hot spot we are today.

Q: What part of your background/education/ experience do you feel is key to your success?

A: I didn’t go to college, and started my first company at the age of 18. It was called JZ Marketing solutions. It was a marketing company for attorneys and doctors. But although it was lucrative, it wasn’t my passion. My passion was for fashion.

Q: What inspires you to succeed?

A: Well, nothing was given to me. I had a pretty hard upbringing.

My father had substance abuse issues and my mom was a single mother. When I was young, I had a small taste of the good life when my father started his own company, which quickly ended with his substance addiction. Around 12, my mom left my father and worked multiple jobs to support my brother and myself. I always liked the finer things in life, so realized at a young age if I wanted anything nice I had to work for it. I started my first job around 14, and by 16 had 2-3 jobs going all the time up until I was 24. I worked all day and night for the life I’ve always dreamed of, and the life I want my daughter to have.

Q: Why do you love being a business owner in St. Pete?

A: I love St. Pete because of its community. It’s been the best move we ever made. People here are so humble, hardworking and supportive. This community has backed me 100% and I wouldn’t be

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here without them.

Q: Your business model gives back to the community……….tell us about how you do that and some of your favorite causes you support.

A: It certainly does, I am involved in so many charities.

In fact, 2 years ago I chaired “A Pair to Remember” benefiting the Easter Seals and raised a record amount for the charity the year I ran the event. I also did their first ever fashion show, which was a huge success. This year alone I’ve done fashion shows for The Stuart Society, and Heals to Heel. Truly, I love giving back. I worked hard to get here and I know many others are struggling, so when we can give back we do. We’ve also worked with Casa, Alpha House, and Lamplighters. Really any charity that comes to me I always try to find something to give.

Q: Tell us about your product brands that you have launched .

A: Z Stacks is my bracelet company. We now wholesale all over the country and of course in our store and online.

Recently, we bought out another apparel company called TRACY NEGOSHIAN. Tracy and I were friends and she was ready to get out of retail/apparel so it was a natural fit. We now stock over 18,000 units of TRACY NEGOSHIAN and are wholesaling all over the country. Tracy and I plan to partner up and design an entirely new collection with the Jackie Z name launching in 2022. Think a mix of Alice & Olivia, Frame, Milly and Theory (all my favorites), so be on the lookout for that.

Q: Have you always carried menswear?

A: Yes, since we opened. Actually, when I first opened I carried more men’s then women’s fashions. Guess how I met Brian? He shopped in my store every single day!

Q: What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

A: Raising my daughter to be the caring, STRONG, smart, beautiful little human she is.

For wherever you want to go and wherever you need to be...

There Really Is a difference!

May/June 2021

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SPL FASHION

Bling Fling

Mix and layer jewelry to create your own individual style

BY MEGAN SIMONS Jewelry, there is not many of us who dislike it in one way or another.

Jewelry provides the easiest way to enhance everyday attire, to create evening appropriate looks, to add personal touch to any style. So, what are the current trends in jewelry?

For those of us who really love bold statement jewelry, now is the perfect time! This year we can leave out small delicate pieces, and daringly wear what’s exciting and sassy. Just put on a considerably basic outfit and try it out in front of a mirror with various pieces of jewelry from your collection. Create layers with necklaces and bracelets, experiment with different lengths and styles, it’s easier than you think. Simply collect a composition of necklaces and pendants of different lengths, textures and designs and try them on in different combinations to see what works.

My love for layers is divided into two categories: one contains meaningful medallions. There is more to medallions than just beautiful jewelry, they possess a brilliant ability to portray your personal preferences. They can have historical and geographical correlations referring to your roots or favorite places, they can disclose that you are a foodie or wine lover. You can communicate a religious message with a cross or your patron or reveal your interests such as music or horses.

However, primarily they simply state the most important message -- that you have your own, unique style unlike any other.

My other favorite is a combination of chains in gold, silver or bicolor,

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mixed together, from short, large and chunky to longer and more subtle.

Oversized, heavy chains are staples of today’s styles. When mixed with multiple length chains and adorned with small pendants, they offer a great arrangement that can be rearranged according to your mood and needs.

There is no limit of what you can create adding similar earrings and a few layers of bracelets. My favorite rule of mixing jewelry pieces is break the rules as you see fit, based upon your own personality.

All that being said, you do need to know when to stop, sometimes too much is, well, too much.

Statement jewelry sounds straight and forward enough, doesn’t it? There is nothing new in wearing bold and stylish jewelry, ancient cultures such as the Aztecs, Romans, and Egyptians used statement jewelry in ceremonies, rituals, to show divine favors and as a symbol of status. That’s the one awesome piece that intends to catch the eye and reveal your individuality. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish to change the look of the simplest outfit with one single piece of awesomely designed jewelry. And once you’re done with one outfit, throw on another one and start again.

Mother’s Day, what an ideal time to gift your mother or yourself with a beautiful new piece of jewelry that will trigger treasured memories and will be cherished for years to come. Isn’t it wonderful to have an excuse to spoil yourself with some new shiny things?

You’re welcome.

Megan Simons is owner of Pippa Pelure, a fine fashion boutique in downtown St. Petersburg, FL. Contact her at pippapelure@ tampabay.rr.com

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DOWNTOWN PARADISE DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN PARADISE PARADISE

A STUNNINGLY GORGEOUS CONDOMINIUM HOME ABOVE THE DOWNTOWN ST PETERSBURG WATERFRONT

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This in unit has the feeling of a the single family home, but located 8 floors above the beauty and vibrancy vibrancy of Vinoy of Vinoy Park,Park, so if you so ifare youlooking are looking for a for luxurious a luxurious homehome in a stellar a stellar location location but without but without never-ending the never-ending upkeep upkeep of a house, of a house, this may this be maythe beone. the one.

vibrancy of Vinoy Park, so if you are looking for a luxurious home in a stellar location but without the never-ending upkeep of a house, this may be the one.

Offered Offered at $2,850,000 at $2,850,000

Offered at $2,850,000

THE THE SALAMONE SALAMONE GROUP GROUP

THE SALAMONE GROUP

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Libby Salamone, Ron Salamone, Angela Mathias, Andrew Salamone

727-456-8093 727-456-8093 libby@stpete.pro libby@stpete.pro 727-456-8093

libby@stpete.pro WWW.STPETE.PRO WWW.STPETE.PRO

WWW.STPETE.PRO

SPL LIVING

Going to the Dogs

BY MARCIA BIGGS

Blu, St. Pete. Marina

A new coffee table book pays tribute to St. Pete’s pooches – and the city’s art and history

BY MARCIA BIGGS Ready for your close-up, my pretty? It won’t be long before 46 fourlegged friends make their debut in the full-color “Dogs of the Burg,” a 158-page coffee table book that is an amusing homage to St. Pete’s pampered pets. But the canines won’t be the only stars of this book. The historic places, art murals and dog-friendly social spots of St. Pete are uncovered in each of the 39 locations featured, making this one captivating walk around the ‘Burg.

Due to be available soon, “Dogs of the Burg” is the creative dreamchild of photographers Laurie Elmer and Knicki Lucrezi. The duo has been creating fine art pet photography from their Urban Dog Studio in Pinellas Park since 2019. An established freelance pet photographer, Elmer’s photos have been published in national calendars, web sites, Dog Fancy and other pet publications. Lucrezi’s background is in portrait photography.

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The dogs that appear were solicited via social media with owners paying a small fee for the photo shoot, said Elmer. A portion of the revenue from sales of the book will go to Fluff Animal Rescue based in Seminole.

Why this book now?

“I’m a St. Pete native,” says Elmer. “I love the history of St. Pete and have seen it through its ups and downs. So I was excited to see the rebirth of the city and the renaissance of the arts scene. And I love dogs. We are becoming known as a dog-friendly town, such a wonderful walkable city where most places welcome dogs. But a lot of people aren’t aware of the city’s rich history.

“Our goal was to photograph each dog in a different location in St. Pete, then include information on the history of that location. …

SPL LIVING It was also our goal to raise funds for Fluff Animal Rescue, they are an amazing dog rescue operation.”

Vintage photos provided by the St. Pete Museum of History (SPMOH) complement many location photos, such as the Seaboard Train Station (now the Morean Center for Clay), First Home Bank, Albert Whitted Airport, and Royal Theater in the Deuces. Historic background was written by local historian Ellen Babb, and Nevin Sitler, curator and director of education for SPMOH, was also instrumental, said Elmer. By the way, that’s his dog Taco with the Benoist airplane replica, shot at the museum, ready to take off with his red flying scarf.

Funk, Studios@5663, Pinellas Arts Village (Artwork by John Gascot)

Oh, it’s a dog’s life.

To order an advance copy of “Dogs of the Burg” or find sale locations, go to www. urbandogstudio.com. Laurie Elmer can be reached at (727) 328-4612.

Taco, St. Petersburg Museum of History

Gator, Fossil Park Fire Station

Top, Laurie Elmer, Knicki Lucrezi

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Transform the way you live and work.

THE TRI BRAIN® APPROACH

Tri Brain® is the applied neuroscience of revolutionary research of our three brains; head, heart, gut, that supports you to change and reshape your brains and nervous system to live a healthier, happier and more productive life.

BENEFITS OF THE TRI-BRAIN® APPROACH: Reduce Stress and Anxiety Build Resilience Achieve Clarity Harness Self Awareness

Achieve Emotional Agility Brain Health and Wellness Professional Development Personal Development

HERE’S WHY WE FOCUS ON ALL THREE: The Head

An understanding of how your brain functions allows you to better manage your thinking, emotions and behavior.

The Heart

The heart-brain plays a critical role in building resilience and improving cognitive function.

The Gut

The gut-brain connection has a significant impact on your cognitive vitality overall health and emotional wellbeing.

For more information or to schedule a conversation visit elizabethmarkie.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Uncertainty is unsettling to the brain. You may wake up in the morning with the sense that something feels wrong. It may be the influences of the pandemic, worry about family, finances or even about “not good enough-ness”.

As neuroscientist Dr. Judd Brewer states “You can’t take a shower to wash it off ”, but you can learn how your brain works so that it can work for you rather than against you. And, if you learn about your three, yes three brains, you can transform the way you live and work.

The brain in your head is not the only brain in your body. In fact, you might be surprised to know that you have three brains. In addition to the brain in your skull, your heart and your gut are also brains that influence how you respond to life experiences. The heart and gut are not capable of planning, imagining or creating like our cognitive brain. But our hearts and gut do have neurological systems that are capable of learning and retaining memory.

Because of this, they can well be considered additional “brains” that exist within our bodies. Understanding how and why your three brains function is foundational to achieving holistic wellness.

Have you found yourself captivated and habitually reacting to posts on social media? Keeping up with the most recent activity may be important but our brain’s natural attraction to novelty can result in distraction. Distraction, worry, anxiety, and other behaviors can become habits. Habits are actually our brains being efficient.

However, you may discover that your brain has established habits that are not in your best interest. Understanding how your brain works, you can apply this knowledge to shifting your behavior to improve your performance and incorporate mindfulness into your decision making and actions.

Aristotle said “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” The heart brain plays a critical role in building resilience and improving cognitive function. Emotions as well as many of our thoughts, result from the way our heart interprets the

sensations we receive. This part of Aristotle’s philosophy is where we get the term heartfelt. Centuries later, science has now realized that the heart is an intelligent, information-processing organ. Like our cognitive brain, our heart influences the way we perceive and respond to the world.

The signals that our brain receives from the heart affect several cognitive brain areas on a regular basis.

Parts of the brain involved in strategic thinking, behavior responses, creativity and even self-regulation all have inputs from the heart.

Though our cognitive brain is usually the one to call the shots, our heart brain has plenty to say in the final outcome. Understanding the intelligence of the heart and learning techniques such as HeartMath results in achieving a state of coherence where our physical, mental and emotional systems are in balance.

Ever have that “gut feeling”? Learning to “listen to your gut feelings” has been validated by science as a good idea. Like the heart, the gut actually sends information to the cognitive brain and this bidirectional communication influences not just your response to the idea of hunger, but your emotional and cognitive vitality as well. Understanding how this brain communicates and integrates with your head and heart brains results in improved decision making and enhanced emotional regulation.

Knowledge is power. The Tri Brain® approach will teach you how these centers of intelligence intersect and work together, enhancing the trilateral communication process. The results can be lifechanging.

Achieving mindfulness is a life long journey. Elizabeth Markie, author of Brains, Transform the Way You Live and Work and architect of Tri Brain®, Tri Brain® Wellness and Tri Brain Yoga® will support you on your journey with thought-full conversation, expanding your knowledge of self and others by making the most recent neuroscience discoveries of our three brains simple to understand and easy to integrate into your daily life or practice.

Try a new way of being.

Learn More, Be More, Visit Elizabethmarkie.com

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SPL NEWS St. Pete PrideFest 2021

St Pete Pride has worked to design a safe Pride Month with a twist.

Throughout the month of June, St. Pete PrideFest 2021 will host four themed weeks to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. Each weekend will hold signature events in outdoor locations, while all month long, over a hundred participating St. Pete restaurants, cultural institutions and retail partners will attract guests with events, discounts and Pride-friendly offerings.

Weekly themes are Outdoor Adventure Week, Family Week, Arts & Qulture and Taste of PrideFest. A Pride Run will be held June 5 (5K and Diva Dash), with a Family Day at the Pier on June 12, and Pride Picnic June 26 at Straub Park. Most events will be ticketed to enforce capacity regulations; find more information and tickets at www.stpetepride.org

Trop Dreams Final Four

Four finalists have been selected by the city for development of 86 acres around Tropicana Field. The four firms have a proven track record of executing large, mixed-use developments and will have an opportunity to showcase their vision for the site in the months ahead. Each development includes plans with and without a baseball stadium. Three initial public meetings for public input have already taken place, however eight immersive showrooms throughout the city present summaries of the proposals, renderings, and the ability to leave your input.

Visit these locations: North Library: 861 70th Ave. N. Mirror Lake Library: 280 5th St. N. JW Cate Rec Center: 5801 22nd Ave. N. Enoch Davis Rec Center: 1111 18th Ave. S. Thomas Jet Jackson Rec Center: 1000 28th St. S.

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SPL NEWS South Community Library: 2300 Roy Hanna Dr. S. Gladden Park Rec Center: 3901 30th Ave. N. Campbell Park Rec Center: 601 14th St. S. Find all information online and leave a comment by going to stpete.org/trop

Solar Co-op Deadline Extended

There is still time to learn about solar for your home and join the new Greater St. Pete Solar Co-op. Solar United Neighbors (SUN) of Florida has extended the deadline to join until May 28. The solar co-op is free to join and joining the co-op is not a commitment to

purchase panels. Solar Energy World has been voted by members to be the installation company, providing each co-op member with an individualized proposal based on the group rate.

Since December 2016, SUN has facilitated 67 solar co-ops in Florida.

The co-ops have helped more than 1,800 Florida families go solar and resulted in more than $59 million invested into Florida’s economy. Pinellas county residents interested in joining can learn more at the SolarUnitedNeighbors.org/stpete.

Support for Small Businesses

The Greenhouse St. Pete offers online workshops to help you get started in business or learn skills needed to succeed for established small business owners. Classes include How to Write Your Business Plan, How an SBA Loan Can Help Your Business, Tips for Advertising Your Business and introductions to social media for businesses including Facebook and Linked In. Got an idea you want feedback on? Every Wednesday at 9 am, you can join Virtual 1 Million Cups, an online pitch and intro session. Most classes and programs are free; to learn more go to stpetegreenhouse.com

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In this issue we support the doctors of St. Petersburg.

These medical professionals strive to heal members of our community on a daily basis. We salute them and their efforts during a particularly trying year.

“Wherever the art of Medicine is loved, there is also a love of Humanity.”

-Hippocrates

Medicines can cure, but a good doctor’s inspirational words can give the strength to fight from within.

Located at 2200 16th St. North in St. Petersburg, Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Medical Group Internal and Family Medicine provides you and your family with quality care for a lifetime of health. We offer convenient hours with same-day, next-day and virtual appointment options. Services provided by our board-certified doctors include care for acute illnesses, annual physicals, geriatric health, men’s and women’s health, newborn and pediatric care, and sports and school physicals.

Shari Anthony, MD – Family Medicine Dr. Anthony graduated from George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. She completed a residency in family medicine at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg.

Patrick Del Santo, DO – Family Medicine Dr. Del Santo graduated from Nova Southeastern

University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed a residency in family medicine at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg.

William Degan, MD – Family Medicine Dr. Degan graduated from the University of Miami School of Medicine. He completed a residency in family medicine at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Steven Seltzer, DO – Internal Medicine Dr. Seltzer graduated from Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed a residency in internal medicine at Suncoast Hospital in Largo, Florida.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call (727) 893-6201 or schedule online at BayfrontStPete.com/ MedicalGroup.

Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Medical Group Internal and Family Medicine (16th Street) PHOTO/BARRY LIVELY

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Dr. Rosana Lastra revolutionized pediatric care in the Tampa Bay area by opening the first and only full service house-calls pediatric practice led by board-certified pediatricians. As the founder and lead pediatrician at Head2Toe Pediatrics, Dr. Lastra is dedicated to providing families with expert quality care that complements the needs of today’s modern lifestyles, while bringing back the old fashioned doctor-patient relationship.

known for. To top it off, they love seeing how happy their kids get when the doctor comes to visit them at home!

Head2Toe Pediatrics’ direct primary care model provides in-home, concierge care for pediatric patients and their families, offering a personalized approach with 24/7 direct access to a board-certified pediatrician. For a monthly fee families get unlimited access to well visits, sick visits, vaccinations, procedures, labs and more. Families appreciate the personalized approach and highly value the shared decision making process that Dr. Lastra is well

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Dr. Lastra is bilingual in both English and Spanish. Other accomplishments include obtaining a Masters degree in medical sciences and having worked as an academic researcher, with various published papers and recognitions for her work. Dr. Lastra is actively involved in community projects and is an avid salsa dancer.

Her vast expertise and dedication to our community certainly make her one of our St. Petersburg’s Top Docs.

Dr. Lastra obtained her medical degree from Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine and completed her pediatric specialty training at the University of South Florida College of Medicine. Dr. Lastra is Board Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics.

Dr. Rosana Lastra - MD, MS, FAAP

Head2Toe Pediatrics • 727-209-7213 • www.Head2ToePediatrics.com • info@Head2ToePediatrics.com PHOTO/STEVEN LE THEEPHOTONINJA.COM May/June 2021

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Located at 603 7th St. South in St. Petersburg, Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Medical Group Internal and Family Medicine provides you and your family with quality care for a lifetime of health. We offer convenient hours with same-day, next-day and virtual appointment options.

Services provided by our board-certified doctors include care for acute illnesses, annual physicals, geriatric health, men’s and women’s health, newborn and pediatric care, and sports and school physicals.

Camila Avila, MD – Family Medicine Dr. Avila graduated from the University of Florida College of Medicine in Gainesville. She completed a residency in family medicine at Bayfront Family Health Center in St. Petersburg. She is fluent in English, Spanish and French.

Justin Thompson, MD – Family Medicine Dr. Thompson graduated from the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. He completed a residency in family medicine and a fellowship in sports medicine, both at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg.

Irina Scutaru, MD – Internal Medicine Dr. Scutaru graduated from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Romania. She completed a residency in internal medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Mercy Hospital. She is fluent in English and Romanian.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call (727) 553-7420 or schedule online at BayfrontStPete.com/ MedicalGroup.

Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Medical Group Internal and Family Medicine (7th Street South) PHOTO/BARRY LIVELY

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For over a decade, Dr. Jaime Kulaga has been the Bay Area’s licensed mental health counselor and life coach. She is the Author of the International book, The SuperWoman’s Guide to Super Fulfillment: Step by Step Strategies to Create Work-Life Balance, which is published and translated in over 15 countries.

Dr. Jaime has been featured world-wide for her expertise in work life balance, goal setting and reaching success. Dr. Jaime empowers people to get to the next level in life, relationships, and work. She holds her clients accountable in moving forward while guiding them to overcome barriers that may stem from the past.

Her work with individuals, couples and families has helped countless clients overcome anxiety, depression, and lack of motivation in life. Specialties include marriage counseling, teen issues such as bullying and social media management, as well as individual goal setting, building confidence and balance in life.

Dr. Jaime is a frequent mental health expert on national TV and radio. She is the goto motivational speaker for companies large and small that want to enhance the personal and professional lives of employees. Her workshops increase productivity, efficiency and create powerful and motivated teams.

Dr. Jaime Kulaga - PhD, LMHC

www.drjaimek.com • Jaime@mindfulrehab.com PHOTO/STEVEN LE THEEPHOTONINJA.COM May/June 2021

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Dr. Carol Sims-Robertson and staff at Divine Dermatology, PLLC provide high quality, personalized dermatology care, successfully treating a wide variety of hair, nail and skin conditions. Patients are offered the full spectrum of skin care services: skin cancer screening exams, diagnosis and surgery of skin cancers, moles and skin growths. She and her team provide expert acne care, psoriasis, eczema management and additional procedures such as chemical peels, injectable fillers, stem cell therapies, laser hair removal, hair loss treatments, microdermabrasion, all using the most advanced medical resources.

Dr. Sims-Robertson is a graduate of the University of California San Francisco’s school of Medicine, and completed a residency in Dermatology at Wayne state University after interning in Internal Medicine at Henry Ford Hospital. She was named Chief Resident at Wayne State’s Dermatology and Syphilogy Department in her Senior Year and was later appointed to Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at Wayne State’s School of Medicine.

Her welcoming nature, commitment to excellent medical care, diverse multicultural background and diverse experience allows Dr. Sims-Robertson to relate to each and every patient.

She carefully listens to patients’ concerns and excels in diagnosing and treating the most difficult cases. She is highly skilled in dermatology surgery and cosmetics, laser procedures, and Botox, Dermal Fillers, Mesotherapy and Sclerotherapy.

Dr. Sims-Robinson and staff welcome all ethnicities, genders, LGBTQ and all ages to Divine Dermatology. We offer virtual visits and in office visits.

Dr. Carol Sims-Robertson, MD

727.528.0321 • www.DivineDermatology.com

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Conveniently located on the Bayfront Health St. Petersburg hospital campus at 601 7th St. South in St. Petersburg, the specialists at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Medical Group Cardiology believe in a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach. The team works with each patient to provide individualized, compassionate care.

Cardiovascular Disease: George Blanco, MD, FACC Alexander Johnson, MD, FACC Michael Malone, DO, FACC Gregg Schuyler, MD, PhD, FACC Angela Turner, DO, FACC Peter Wassmer, MD, FACC

Our specialists provide routine care as well as treatment for acute and chronic cardiovascular conditions.

Cardiology services include cardiac consultation, valve and heart failure care, cardiac and catheterization intervention, peripheral artery and vein imaging and intervention, cardiothoracic surgery, electrophysiology, and structural heart disease care. In-office testing is available to include stress tests and ECG, nuclear imaging, cardiac and peripheral sonography, a Coumadin clinic and a pacemaker clinic.

Cardiovascular Disease & Interventional Cardiology: Ravi Korabathina, MD, FACC, FSCAI Andrew Rosenthal, MD, FACC Cardiac Electrophysiology: Daniel Masvidal, MD Cardiothoracic Surgery: Sotiris Stamou, MD, PhD, FACS To learn more or to book an appointment, please call (727) 893-6234 or visit BayfrontStPete.com/ MedicalGroup.

Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Medical Group Cardiology PHOTO/BARRY LIVELY May/June 2021

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Tired of Looking Tired?

Dr. Adam J. Scheiner is a world renowned Laser Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgeon. He has been a featured health expert on Dr. OZ, The Doctors TV Show, Howard Stern, The New York Post, as well as on local and national affiliates of Fox, CBS, ABC, and NBC. Dr. Scheiner has perfected a treatment for festoons—one of the most pervasive and often incorrectly treated forms of eyelid bags. He treats patients from around the globe with his RESET® Festoon Laser treatment.

Dr. Scheiner received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania and completed his internship at St. Barnabas Medical Center. He completed his Ophthalmology residency at the University of Pennsylvania’s Scheie Eye Institute. Dr Scheiner continued his studies in an Oculoplastic and Laser Facial Aesthetic Surgery Fellowship with Dr. Sterling Baker, the pioneer of Laser Eyelid Surgery. He often lectures to other doctors and contributes to books and periodicals about his techniques.

Dr. Scheiner’s Wall Street Journal & USA TODAY bestseller book, The True Definition of Beauty (available on Amazon), provides an insightful look into the nonverbal cues our appearances give and how we can optimize them to better communicate with the world around us.

Mention St. Pete Life Magazine for a complementary evaluation by Dr. Scheiner and his team. They look forward to seeing you in their office.

813-638-0226 new@adamscheinermd.com

Adam J. Scheiner, MD • Speciality: Eyelid and Facial Cosmetic Surgeon Tampa Eye Clinic • 4303 N. Gomez Ave, Tampa, Florida • www.adamscheinermd.com

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Located at 470 2nd St. South in St. Petersburg, Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Medical Group Family Medicine provides you and your family with quality care for a lifetime of health. We offer convenient hours with sameday, next-day and virtual appointment options. Services provided by our board-certified doctors include care for acute illnesses, annual physicals, geriatric health, men’s and women’s health, LGBTQ health, newborn and pediatric care, and sports and school physicals.

Craig Levoy, MD – Family Medicine Dr. Levoy graduated from the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa. He completed his residency in family medicine at Bayfront Health St.

Petersburg where he also served as chief resident. His clinical interests include full spectrum family medicine, pediatric and adolescent care, preventive health for men and women, LGBTQ health and HIV medicine.

Nazrah Franco, MD – Family Medicine Dr. Franco graduated from Boston University School of Medicine. She completed her residency in family medicine at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. Her clinical interests including preventive care and women’s health.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call (727) 893-6060 or schedule online at BayfrontStPete.com/ MedicalGroup.

Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Medical Group Family Medicine (2nd Street) PHOTO/BARRY LIVELY May/June 2021

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SPL TRAVEL

Blue Ridge Bliss

As our summer approaches, many Floridians look to escape the heat with a trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cool weather, breathtaking vistas and endless outdoor activities can be an enchanting vacation. For some, it may become a yearly tradition. For others, it’s the ideal permanent destination.

Tucked away in Burnsville, North Carolina nestled 4,400 feet up in the mountains sits Mountain Air. Miles of hiking trails and 6 parks, each with its own personality, make for daily adventures and nature discoveries.

Members and guests can experience a wide array of amenities, including a true mountain golf course experience. Many fly in to Mountain Air’s

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SPL TRAVEL own private runway, which is 2,875 feet long and the highest elevation runway east of the Mississippi. After a morning of golf and brunch you can fly out for other adventures or stay and enjoy the amenities.

Slickrock Village Green is walking distance from the runway and the heart of the Club. Family activities abound, and it also serves as a great place to meet, dine and entertain. The Mountain Market and Deli is located here offering groceries, a deli and grab and go meals along with a casual atmosphere. While Orville & Wilbur’s restaurant offers farm to table dining, and the Clubhouse’s menu is as breathtaking as its views. The Nature Center features a full time Naturalist and staff that educate locals and visitors about the local vegetation and wildlife. And for

families, the Chautauqua Family Center is an ideal place to spend some time at the movie theater, teen room or children’s activity center.

Members also enjoy a state-of-the-art golf Learning Center, updated fitness center and a full-service spa.

Located within 35 miles of Asheville and all that the Western North Carolina mountains offer, including rivers and streams for white water rafting or fishing as well as cultural and downtown dining experiences. National Parks provide seemingly endless options for hiking, rafting and exploring the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Private tours are now being scheduled and you can reserve yours by visiting www.MountainAirNC.com.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Get to the Heart of the Matter May and June each have a week to spotlight the many health issues that women and men face. None may be more important than cardiovascular health. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC.gov), more than 600,000 men and women in the United States die of heart disease each year making it the leading cause of death for both.

Rajiv K. Sharma, board certified in cardiovascular disease, adult echocardiography, nuclear cardiology, cardiovascular computed tomography and internal medicine, wants men and women to know that there is good news if they suffer with heart disease.

“We’re lucky in cardiology to have a lot of data-driven guidelines and constant research and innovation,” said Dr. Sharma, who recently joined BayCare Medical Group on the campus of St. Anthony’s Hospital. “I’ve always loved that we can ‘fix’ many of the cardiac problems due to the robust technological and theoretical evolution of the field.”

Dr. Sharma says that he knows patients are often worried when they must see a cardiologist. “I try to thrive in making people comfortable which I feel is extremely helpful to patients who are worried about seeing a heart doctor,” he said.

Although Dr. Sharma grew up in the Clearwater area, he graduated from the St. Petersburg High School International Baccalaureate Program. He developed an interest in medicine from watching his father, also a cardiologist, who he says is his mentor. Dr. Sharma earned his medical degree from the University of Lublin in Poland and completed his residency at The Jewish Hospital – Mercy Health in Cincinnati. He also completed a cardiovascular fellowship at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville.

To mark Women’s and Men’s Health weeks, we asked Dr. Sharma about the risk factors men and women face for heart disease; what doctors are learning about the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the heart; and the importance of patient “buy in” on heart health.

What are some of the most common heart diseases and conditions among men and women?

When we talk about the basis of cardiovascular diseases, generally referring to coronary artery disease “blockages,” heart failure, stroke and hypertension (high blood pressure) are all the most common. Lifetime risk for any individual of having such cardiovascular disease is in excess of 50% once they are older than

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30. Coronary artery disease blockages remain the leading cause of death across all socioeconomic strata in the United States and is often thought to be the leading cause of death in most developed countries.

Which of those tend to affect women more? Is there a reason why women might be affected more by some forms of heart disease than others?

Across the spectrum the same risk factors that affect men will also affect women (age, presence of risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, cholesterol issues, personal risk factors such as smoking, sedentary lifestyle, family history). Men tend to be higher risk earlier on. However, the post-menopausal state often results in an equalization of those risk profiles, although it is unclear what the exact mechanism is here. One thing that has been shown is that hormone replacement therapy is not protective and can actually increase risk of cardiovascular disease.

What are some of the other diseases that can stem from or can work toward causing cardiovascular disease, especially those that affect women most?

In terms of unique risk factors to women. The presence of polycystic ovarian syndrome and the use of combined progestin/estrogen contraceptives have been shown to increase cardiovascular risk.

Pre-eclampsia in pregnancy has been shown to increase future risk, gestational hypertension portends hypertensive risk and its associated consequences.

If you suffer from heart disease, does that mean you might have other health concerns as well?

In terms of other health concerns with cardiovascular disease, having it is multifaceted. Most people who have one part of it, whether it be stroke history or heart attack history, have several of its risk factors as well, such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, chronic kidney disease, cholesterol issues and are sedentary.

Cardiovascular disease often presents as a continuum of one step leading to the next, for example, having a heart attack leading to the development of heart failure which then leads to the development of rhythm issues. This can be extrapolated to other very common issues such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Studies in the late 2010s showed that many adults, especially men, don’t like going to the doctor. How important is it for

HEALTH & WELLNESS men and women to have a primary care physician? Will that relationship help lead to the discovery of heart abnormalities?

With regards to the primary physician, I would say it is essential!

Screening for basics of cardiovascular disease is mentioned in guidelines to start at the age of 20-21 essentially to risk classify individuals at the outset and to specifically identify and manage patients at higher than normal risk, such as those that have family history, known or unknown genetic conditions, or significant undiagnosed cholesterol/sugar issues. The name of the game is preventing end points of cardiovascular disease. The quarterbacks of that goal are the primary physicians.

Do we know yet how COVID-19 affects the heart and what longterm affects women or men might face?

In terms of how COVID affects the heart, this is still an ongoing focus of study and discovery. It seems clear that there are inflammatory changes that have been objectively established by advanced imaging techniques showing that the cardiovascular system is certainly affected. How to use that clinically is still being discovered but we see the gamut of cardiovascular complications with COVID, whether it be plaque rupture and heart attacks to rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation, weakening of the heart with resultant heart failure. It is unclear how suspected COVIDrelated cardiovascular complications will differ from the typical nonCOVID related presentations of these pathologies. The good thing is that many of these consequences can be treated but generally

patients end up needing to take medications for a prolonged period of time to keep issues from returning.

What else can people do to promote heart health or health in general?

Promoting heart health comes down to what we call primary risk factor reduction. This entails addressing “modifiable” risk factors, the ones you yourself can change, such as not smoking, maintaining ideal body weight, exercising, making sure blood pressure is well controlled, controlling diabetes if present and having a diet that is not too heavy on carbs and saturated fat. Non-modifiable risk factors can be tricky, such as family history or genetics but even in those situations, we have solutions to lower risk.

Tell us about the importance for patients to follow their doctors’ advice and become their own health advocates.

The paradigm of having patients “buy in” to the treatment is important. As mentioned much of cardiovascular risk depends on individual dietary, activity and extracurricular activities. Many patients can avoid needing invasive procedures down the line by putting in the work now and reaping the so-to-speak dividends later!

Picture of Health is a multifaceted approach to fostering wellness among our museum members and guests. This innovative approach to well-being, the first of its kind in the Tampa Bay area, allows us to harness the power of the Museum of Fine Arts’ galleries and gardens as a place of healing and solace for our members and guests. From our Museum on Prescription initiative and self-guided Mood Tours to our Sit, Stay, Heal therapy dog sessions in the Membership Garden, the MFA provides unique, safe and relaxing museum experiences with an eye toward improved wellness outcomes.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

USF Receives Funding to Study Alzheimer’s/Dementia in Healthy Adults The University of South Florida has received a $44.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to study whether computerbased brain training exercises can reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment as well as dementia, including Alzheimer’s, in older adults. USF’s Preventing Alzheimer’s with Cognitive Training (PACT) study will be the largest primary prevention trial to date.

“We are grateful for the willingness of the Tampa Bay community to support our efforts to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and dementia by participating in the PACT trial,” said USF site principal investigator Jerri Edwards, PhD, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral neurosciences at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine.

No proven treatments yet exist to cure or stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease afflicts 5.8 million Americans, including one in every 10 people age 65 and older, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

The five-year trial is expected to expand the study to enroll 7,600 healthy adults at various US locations who are ages 65 and older with no signs of cognitive impairment or dementia. Published research indicates that targeted computerized training can help maintain mental and physical function. In the breakthrough Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) study, healthy older adults randomized to receive such

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training had a 29% lower risk of dementia after 10 years than the untreated control group. Those completing additional training benefited even more; they were 48% less likely to show signs of dementia 10 years later.

With the PACT study, Dr. Edwards’ team seeks more conclusive evidence about whether and how computerized training can protect against age-related cognitive impairment and dementia.

Dr. Edwards emphasizes the need for more African-American and Hispanic/Latino study volunteers as the Alzheimer’s Association reports they are populations at highest risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

USF Health expects to continue enrolling participants across the Tampa Bay region in the PACT study over the next three years.

Study participants cannot have dementia or other neurological disorders, but a family history of Alzheimer’s disease does not disqualify an otherwise healthy person. Two initial supervised training sessions will be conducted onsite (with strict adherence to CDC guidelines for COVID-19), and study participants will complete the remaining brain training sessions independently at home over the next two years.

For more information, please visit the PACT study website at pactstudy.org or call (813) 974-6703.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Healthy St. Pete Are you one of the many who have gained weight or turned into a couch potato during the last year? It’s time to get up and move, y’all! The City of St. Pete’s Healthy St. Pete initiative presents professionally-led fitness workshops and programs for all ages and fitness levels. Check out these monthly classes: Yoga in the Park Enjoy a practice appropriate for all levels in a beautiful outdoor location 1st Saturday, 9-10 AM, Crescent Lake Park, 1320 5th St. N. Trail Run Fun Explore this hidden gem of the city while running, walking or jogging. 2nd Saturday, 9-10 AM, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S. Fun Fitness Boot Camp Cardio, core and bodyweight strength training with gorgeous views 3rd Saturday, 9-10 AM, St. Pete Pier, 600 2nd Ave NE. Get Fit St. Pete Neighborhood Walk 4th Saturday, 9-10 AM, various neighborhoods. Go to healthystpetefl.org to find locations.

Aqua Fitness Aqua jogging and swim drills open to anyone comfortable swimming one lap 1st Tuesday, 6-7 PM, Walter Fuller Pool, 7883 26th Ave N.

We Transform Communities We take action locally & globally.

Pickleball 101 Try out this paddleball sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis 2nd Tuesday, 6-7 PM, Coquina Key Park, 3595 Locust St. SE. Tai Chi Combines gentle physical exercise and stretching with mindfulness 3rd Tuesday, 6-7 PM, Northwest Park, 5801 22nd Ave. N. Exercise Zone Workout Learn how to utilize the Exercise Zone equipment in this total body workout. 4th Tuesday, 6-7 PM, Campbell Park Exercise Zone, 601 14th St S. To learn more, go to healtystpetefl.org.

Yoga On, Dude BYO mat and head to Sundial Courtyard in the heart of downtown every third Saturday of the month for a free yoga session from 9 to 10 am with an instructor from The Body Electric. Every first Wednesday BE offers free yoga at 7 pm under the Bending Arc at St. Pete Pier with donations going to various charities. All levels welcome. You can also join BE every Sunday at 10:30 am for Poolside Yoga at the Hollander Hotel, 421 4th Ave. N. and every third Sunday at 10:30 am at Green Bench Brewing ($15 advance, $20 at the door). These generally fill up which is why pre-registration is highly recommended; go to the BE Facebook page to learn more.

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Contact us through the website or call Sherri Crouse 304-416-2097 to find out how YOU can meet with us Fridays at noon at the SPYC. May/June 2021

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OVER 40 YEARS OF CULTIVATING CURATED ART EXPERIENCES Principal & gallerist Michael Murphy of Michael Murphy Gallery has a decades-long tenure of bringing serious cultural capital to the city of Tampa. With a notable and sterling reputation in the global art business, he has brought the world’s renowned artists to his prestigious gallery.

From rock stars to heralded emerging artists to the world’s most well-regarded masters, expressionists, contemporary and pop artists, the endeavor has never disappointed. The collectors and collections are both world-class and inspired. Michael Murphy is proud to continue this legacy of exceptional presentations with RENASCENCE: the revival of something that has been dormant...

CONTEMPORARY. EXPRESSIVE. EXTRAORDINARY.

Artist Amy Donaldson

Renowned artist Amy Donaldson accompanies her artwork for a limited engagement presentation May 22nd through June 12th at the Michael Murphy Gallery. The solo exhibition features an opening reception with the artist on Saturday, May 22nd from 6pm to 9pm.

Evident in each work is Donaldson’s strong sense of color and depth of feeling for space and light. The artist approaches her canvases in a uniquely additive and subtractive technique - an artistic process one may associate with sculpture as much as with painting.

The result is what the artworld has termed “a rare and fresh combination of the visual and the visceral” after her showings at Art Basel Miami.

Donaldson’s artwork powerfully expresses her personality: ”A revelation of color and light resonating from the heart of creation’s glory. Each brush stroke and every color placed on the canvas emanates from the depths of my spirit in an expression of the healing, joy, and perfect love found in Heaven’s Divine Light.

Every piece holds a presence in a pursuit to inspire the heart and turn the eye to a new expression of perfect love.“

“Resting Gently”

“Amazing Love”

A native of Florida, Amy Donaldson has exhibited throughout the world. Exhibitions in the great international cities have led to global recognition and loyal collectors. London, Paris, New York, Chicago, Brussels, Miami: the artist has developed a true following, which has led to her artwork’s inclusion in numerous notable private and public collections. She currently lives and works out of her studio in California.

Renascence

Revival After Dormancy A Solo Exhibit by Amy Donaldson Opening Reception | Saturday, May 22 from 6-9 pm Exhibit Runs | Saturday, May 22 - Saturday, June 12 2701 S. MacDill Ave Tampa, FL 33629 813.902.1414 www.mmgart.com gallery@mmgart.com

GOOD ‘BURGER

Tony Mangiafico Founder, St. Pete Fools Charities

BY MARCIA BIGGS Tony Mangiafico is living proof that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. As chef and co-owner of Gratzzi Italian Grille, one of downtown St. Pete’s most popular restaurants, he realized when COVID shut down most of the city in March 2020 that his staff and countless other unemployed hospitality workers would be struggling financially.

Mangiafico soon jumped into action and has not slowed down since. Even though Gratzzi closed to diners (other than pick-up), he set up a lunch distribution operation for laid-off hospitality workers.

Over 20 years as a downtown resident and restaurateur, his friendly demeanor, generosity and hard work had gained him a following of loyal customers, friends and business associates who pitched in to donate time, money and food for the meals that went out Monday through Friday for 10 straight weeks.

Mangiafico figures he and his crew of volunteers provided over 8,700 meals and delivered hundreds to frontline workers, police and fire departments, hospitals and other social organizations.

Funding for the entire operation was mostly out of his own pocket.

Yet Mangiafico shrugs it off. “So many people were struggling and especially the hospitality workers,” he said. “I had the means to help, so I did.”

Word of his generosity spread and he started receiving calls for financial assistance from needy individuals, families, nonprofits and charities. His pockets opened again. “I wanted to help the small guys, not the big ones that get a lot of money and publicity,” he said.

Then, in late 2020, he came up with an idea to do even more by enlisting his wide group of men friends, customers and business buddies. He formed the St. Pete Fools Social Club. “I always called them fools, just kidding around, a core

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group of guys,” he explains. “During COVID, I said there’s not much to do, let’s bring this to the next level, let’s help people out.”

Their first fundraiser in November was a Charity Ride to raise funds for Alpha House of Pinellas County and the family of Stryker Sullivan, who is battling leukemia and faced with mounting medical bills. It was a huge success with several hundred local bikers raising almost $15,000. Then he got a distress call from The Kind Mouse, a local nonprofit that assists families and children in Pinellas County with food insecurities and chronic hunger. They needed Christmas presents for children – could he help? Mangiafico put out the word to his Fools and on social media. “In three days, we organized and collected over 1,000 toys and gifts,” he says.

He decided to make the Fools an official charitable 501(c)3 non-profit – now officially called the St. Pete Fools Charities, with a mission to raise funds for other non-profits in Pinellas that offer support to the underserved such as victims of domestic abuse, sex trafficking and those with medical issues.

One caveat of all fundraisers is that all funds raised are spent on tangible items, such as supplies, furnishings, medical bills, shelter and transportation, he added.

Just recently, Mangiafico organized a fundraising golf tournament which was held May 2 at Bardmoor Golf & Tennis Club, hoping to raise $20,000 for The Kimberly House and Florida Resurrection House, both serving women and children. Within a week of announcing it, some 35 teams had formed, sponsors signed on and it was a complete sell-out.

Asked why he does it, he shrugs it off again. “ I don’t want anything in return,” he says. “If I can help, I will. You can’t take it with you.”

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SPL NEWS

St. Pete Locations Shine In New Video Series

The Don CeSar Hotel and St. Pete’s downtown murals get a role in the new dramedy video series “Life’s Rewards.” /Photos from Odyssey, the Studio at Miles Partnership

St. Pete and the beaches, along with some 20 other locales from Tarpon Springs to Safety Harbor, steal the limelight in the new streaming series “Life’s Rewards,” premiering May 10 on Amazon Prime Video. Produced by Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, St. Pete/ Clearwater Film Commission and VISIT FLORIDA, “Life’s Rewards” is the first original scripted series developed by destination marketing organizations for streaming services.

Cast and crew from the Tampa/Sarasota area were used in the production of the eight-part series that was written by Tom Crehan and directed by Damian Fitzsimmons. The kitschy dramedy which feature short 10-15 minute episodes, is a brand new genre of television marketing by a tourism organization aiming to spark viewer interest in the St. Pete/Clearwater area.

“When VISIT FLORIDA came to us with the idea of filming a series here, we liked the idea,” said Steve Hayes, president and CEO of Visit St. Pete/Clearwater.

“The timing seemed right with summer season approaching and people are getting much more confident traveling now that many are vaccinated (for COVID). …

Compared to a 30-second spot on TV, there is a lot more excitement generated with an eight-part series that you can watch over and over and share on social media.”

Filming took place during February and March at locations including

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The Don CeSar, downtown St. Pete, Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, the Hideaway Café, St. Pete Pier, Blur nightclub in Dunedin, Rumrunners at the Sirata and Whimseyland in Safety Harbor.

The storyline follows the life of Dan Kinney, played by actor Sebastian Rocha, as he adjusts to an unexpected shift in lifestyle and circumstance. A privileged son of a high-profile wealth manager, Dan had it easy, until he waged everything on a big gamble and lost. After a business trip gone bad, Dan is forced to live off the only two assets he has left — his unquestionable charisma and a massive cache of hotel points. He is left stranded at the Don CeSar on St. Pete Beach, but he must pick up the pieces of his former life and build anew.

Despite his overly ambitious narcissism, his clients, friends, and hotel employees recognize there is something worth redeeming at his core. Dependent entirely on others’ generosity and goodwill, Dan embarks on a hero’s journey with no shortage of drama and humor along the way, but abandoning his ego proves a lot harder than expected, as he discovers the true rewards of life are often achieved in unexpected ways.

Look for “Life’s Rewards” on Amazon Prime Video, GoUSA TV, and Places.Travel. Watch the trailer at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=G6gGiAOjLXk

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IN MEMORIAM

Never Forgotten

Each day, thousands of vehicles pass by on their way to and from the beaches, oblivious to the sign that announces Bay Pines National Cemetery. Nearly 44,000 souls, all veterans of the United States military, their spouses and in some cases children, rest here in St. Petersburg. Burials include casualties of the Civil War, Spanish American War, WWI & WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan, and Persian Gulf.

In 1933, the cemetery was dedicated and officially opened as a final resting place for those who died in the Bay Pines Hospital nearby. The cemetery was transferred from the Veterans Administration to the National Cemetery System on May 28, 1984, and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012.

A group of local photographers came together this year to create a visual tribute to the cemetery and our local fallen veterans in honor of this Memorial Day. Lead photographer Larry Busby of Gulfport, a US Navy veteran, organized the effort in conjunction with the cemetery administration. He was joined by photographers Eagle Finegan, Dorothy Smith and Thomas O’Connor.

IN MEMORIAM

Honorably discharged veterans , their spouses, and eligible dependents are still eligible to be laid to rest at Bay Pines (cremations only) by going through a pre-approval process or providing a copy of their other than dishonorable discharge documents to their funeral home or cremation service of choice. For information, call (727) 319-6479. The cemetery is open for visitation seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.

HOME & GARDEN

2020 Water Wise Awards Winning Yards Make Water Conservation a Priority

BY MARCIA BIGGS

the winners first and foremost based on how they use water in the landscape. Many will collect rainwater or stormwater, have Florida-friendly landscaping, minimize turf, use appropriate plants to attract pollinators and wildlife, and understand right plant, right place.”

Every year the City of St. Petersburg presents a Community Water Wise Award to recognize a resident or business that maintains an attractive, waterefficient landscape.

For 2020, two homeowners were presented with the mosaic glass yard stepping stone in a tie. We came along for the February award presentation with Chris Claus, water conservation coordinator for the St. Petersburg Water Resources Department, and several other staffers.

“What you will see is what I believe represent the recent trends in residential landscapes – the recognition of being a part of the natural world, and self-sufficiency,” Claus told me. “We select

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*** Along a street of tidy bungalows in Central St. Pete, Scott Bitterli and Jasmina Janjic have transformed a tiny front yard and sizeable backyard into their own gardens of Eden, filled with fruit trees, herbs, grasses, shrubs and flowers.

Take a stroll around and you’ll find papaya, fig, yucca, mulberry, elderberry, and sugar apple trees. In terracotta pots are

HOME & GARDEN lemongrass and citronella, aloe, turmeric, and ginger. Beautyberry and coffee plants offer berries for the birds, and cosmos nectar for the butterflies. Head to the back yard, past the rain cube and the compost bin to find pigeon pea, a Barbados cherry tree with pink blossoms outside the kitchen window, sunflowers, plantain, cilantro, cosmos, mint, and sage.

It’s a labor of love (and always a work in progress) for Scott, a permaculture designer, and Jasmina, who is studying to be a clinical herbalist.

As a lifestyle, the couple embraces sustainable living, so they had a vision for a homestead that would not only provide them with food and medicinal herbs, but would conserve water and be beneficial to wildlife.

When they started the project in summer of 2019, the front yard contained an oak tree and mostly grass. “For the first six months, we focused on rejuvenating the soil and creating a lively ecosystem,” said Scott. He obtained tons of city mulch (delivery by the city can be arranged), planted multiple fruit trees, drought tolerant and native pollinator plants, and a created a “keyhole” veggie garden out of salvaged red street brick. The keyhole veggie garden was inspired by urban keyhole gardens in Australia, said Jasmina.

“To build the soil in the veggie bed, we started with old oak logs from my parents’ house, added lots of compost generated on-site by collecting food scraps from local restaurants, some goat manure from a goat farm, local seaweed and homemade bio-char,” explains Scott. “Along the sidewalk, we added oak stumps to build a small retaining wall to keep soil and moisture from eroding from our yard.”

They installed drought tolerant groundcover like dune sunflower and sunshine mimosa to shade the soil and retain moisture. And they built and installed five 275-gallon “rain cubes” that collect water via gutters similar to rain barrels. “We only hand water and use the rainwater whenever possible,” he added.

Last fall, they started work on the backyard beds with all the same materials and techniques as the front, but focused on veggies and medicinal herbs. They also built an outdoor shower that runs off into a banana/ papaya/elderberry bed. *** Tucked away in the Riviera Bay neighborhood of north St. Petersburg, it’s difficult to see Karen Lieberman’s ranch home from the street. Visitors need only look for the splashes of red and yellow blanket flowers lining the curb, or the colorful hibiscus or crotons, the pink muhly grass waving in the breeze and the tall bromeliads.

Broad semi-circles made of pavers create welcome pads at the front curb with paths emanating to the back yard and the driveway.

Across the street, a similarly lush landscape resides. It’s the home of Dave Steiner, an avid home gardener who was happy to adopt his neighbor’s yard in his spare time, providing his overstock of plants and seeds, design ideas and sweat labor to transform her landscape into a similar oasis.

“It was mostly grass so I just started with a few beds,” says Steiner, as he points out a diverse array of drought tolerant and pollinator plants. Mulberry and moringa trees, beach sunflower and blanket flowers, porterweed for the bees and firecracker for the butterflies and beautyberry for the birds. Today the lawn is all gone and solar ground lights dot the front yard along the driveway leading to the front door.

The endeavor spread to the backyard, where Steiner installed a series of four olive barrels-turned-rain barrels and rigged up a gutter system and motor to allow Lieberman to hose water her beloved rose garden. He took PVC pipe and designed an underground pipe system that moved overflow rainwater underground to the front landscape.

“It slowly evolved that he took it all over,” says homeowner Lieberman, “and we were happy to have him.”

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SPL LIVING

Iconic, Rugged Defender Returns to Land Rover Lineup

BY NITISH S. RELE Land Rover has reached 23 years into its offroading history to revive its models Ninety and One Ten, the ultimate off-roaders, for the U.S. market. Designating its respective 90- and 110-inch wheelbases, the iconic square-jawed and rugged off-roading giants have once again been deemed safe for American drivers. Onand off-road motorists can again buy a new version of the purposebuilt vehicle that first rolled off assembly lines in 1948.

Under the clamshell hood sits an MHDV (mild hybrid with 48-volt lithium ion battery to store energy) 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 cylinder engine belting out 395 horsepower @ 5500 rpm and 406 pound-feet of torque @ 5000 rpm. The potent power train couples to a responsive 8-speed auto gearbox. Electric power steering provides superb driver feedback. It’s noteworthy that the nearly 5,035-pound vehicle can go 0 to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds with a top speed of 129 mph.

A permanent all-wheel drive delivers necessary torque to the rear wheels. The updated Terrain Response 2 now automatically picks one of several gears for the driver depending on road/weather conditions: General (for daily driving), Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/ Ruts, Sand, Rock Crawl and Dynamic.

A new addition is Wade Sensing. Credit an independent shortlong arm suspension with double wishbone front and integral rear suspension (raises the frame by 1.6 inches for easy ingress/ egress) for a remarkably supple ride on the 20-inch-wheel SUV. Tow capacity is a remarkable 8,201 pounds.

The Defender is designed for off-road conditions such as traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation, and water fording (35.4-inch depth). Skid plates will protect the front, transfer case and fuel tank. Check out the degrees: approach angle of 38, break over of 28, and departure of 40, with ground clearance of 11.5 inches, more than enough to instill confidence in the driver on those off-the-beaten-path trips.

Ensconced on the aluminum monocoque structure with its short overhangs is an upright front grille, flanked by rounded LED headlights housed in horizontal encasing. Alpine light windows in the roof (with black rails) keep its heritage alive. As do the

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trademark side-hinged rear tail gate and externally amounted spare wheel. If you are looking for the hidden shifter dial that would magically pop out in recent Land Rovers, it’s gone.

The Defender acquires a PIVI Pro infotainment with just a sole 10inch touchscreen for audio, phone and nav controls. An exposed magnesium cross beam with incorporated hand pulls in the center boosts the standing of the quintessential SUV. Just above the lockable glove box is a storage shelf for personal belongings.

Other comforts include dual-zone auto a/c, power tilt/telescopic steering column and panoramic roof, heated/cooled front seats, premium Windsor leather upholstery, and an astonishing 700-watt Meridian sound system.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution, blind spot monitor, hill descent control, stability and traction control, front/rear parking sensors, anti-rollover system, forward collision warning and lane keep system, two-speed electronic transfer case, rearview camera, daytime running lights, and tire pressure monitoring are standard.

With its off-road prowess, bold looks and open-air capability, this utilitarian workhorse is a tremendous and much-needed addition to the already-impressive Land Rover lineup. Jeep and the new Ford Bronco have their work cut out for them with the commendable rebirth of the Defender.

Nitish S. Rele, editor/publisher of Motoring Tampa Bay (motoringtampabay.com) and Khaas Baat (khaasbaat.com), is a former automotive editor/columnist for The Tampa Tribune. He can be reached at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

DEFENDER X (110) Wheelbase: 119 inches Length: 197.6 inches Height: 77.4 inches Width: 78.6 inches

Fuel capacity: 23.8 gallons City: 17 mpg Highway: 22 mpg Base price: $80,000 Price as tested: $85,750 Web site: www.landrover.com

SPL LIVING

1 Pier Means Business for One Community Entrepreneurs As visitors walk the St. Pete Pier’s Marketplace on a recent Sunday, they can easily spot vendors selling everything from Caribbean rum cake to exotic blouses and stylish sandals.

But the bargain hunters, casual shoppers and strolling onlookers can’t see the uplifting sisterhood represented in one of the vendor booths.

Analytics owner and One Community leader Gypsy Gallardo, City of St. Petersburg urban affairs director Nikki Gaskin-Capehart, and entrepreneur Tahisia Scantling. It’s a collective in which the women share space in the stall, but maintain their own business.

Gaskin-Capehart said they patterned the program after a similar initiative in Durham, N.C.

Consider the story of Courtney Miller. The former television marketing staffer started out simply staffing the 1 Pier by One Community stall in the Marketplace, but she found inspiration after witnessing the success of the initial entrepreneurs.

“I saw how well everyone was doing and I said, ‘I have a product.

Can I be one of the people in the booth?’” Miller explained. Now, after patiently moving up on the waiting list, Miller finds herself selling her own brand of shea butter-based skin moisturizer and body oils out of the stall.

Three St. Petersburg women envisioned such success when they came up with this special initiative designed to give AfricanAmerican women entrepreneurs the opportunity: Urban Market

“I am always thinking of low-cost startup ways for our black entrepreneurs, or expansion for our existing ones,” she said. “There was no doubt in my mind how big of an attraction the Pier was going to be and I desperately wanted our business owners to be able to benefit from the purchasing power that would be concentrated at the Pier each weekend.”

1 Pier by One Community started with nine original entrepreneurs selling a variety of products that ranged from eyewear accessories and hair products to high-end shoe apparel and signature desserts.

Gaskin-Capehart said since the reimagined St. Pete Pier opened last summer, some of the vendors have enjoyed tremendous success. Others did not get a boost but they did get the chance to test their entrepreneurial mettle.

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SPL LIVING Pete Pier, one of the recognized locations for businesses to be at in the downtown location. I think these business owners are doing what many will want to do and are trying to do. My hat goes off to them.”

“The concept is going well for many of the vendors,” she said.

“We now have three vendors who have expanded out of the stall into their own larger spaces. Two of them at the Pier and one in a retail location in South St. Pete.”

Helena Josephs of Island Flavors and Tings has expanded to her own stall, peddling her Jamaican rum and Calypso cakes to Pier visitors. And Agape Soles Shoetique now has its own storefront at 6025 Martin Luther King Jr. St. S. Keisha LongWatson (InSparkle Me), Safrone Presley (Glow Up Body Oils), Consuelo Mackey-Perry (Tabatha Exquisite Touch Hair Products & Salon) and Rene Edwards (Skin Kandii) also have successfully gone beyond their initial participation at 1 Pier.

It’s safe to say this booth has turned into a launching pad.

Esther Eugene of All Administrative Services provides the business administration oversight for 1 Pier by One Community. From her perspective “it’s the American Dream,” she said. “For anyone who has a vision and a heart to be an entrepreneur, it’s nice to see it come to fruition. Then you add on being able to do it at the St.

m contemporary d e r n

The collective has not only yielded positive dividends, it’s created some friendly help between the businesswomen.

Miller, the staffer turn vendor, came up with the idea for her products after traveling abroad.

Now the vendors who are expanding beyond the booth will sell some of those products.

Gaskin-Capehart says she takes great personal pride in 1 Pier

by One Community, both as a champion for entrepreneurs and as an African-American woman. However, she shouldn’t be alone in reveling in the success of the collective. The typical scene at the St. Pete Pier often proves to be one of the most diverse in all of Tampa Bay. It’s nice to know that diversity also can be found in those benefiting from the new Pier’s popularity.

Ernest Hooper is the vice president of communications for the United Way Suncoast, and a former Tampa Bay Times columnist. His public affairs program, That’s All I’m Saying, airs on WEDU-PBS.

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SPL LIVING

It’s Game On

With COVID Safety Measures in Place The Boys of Summer are back and after a year of distancing, sports fans are craving some live action. But all is not back to normal with COVID precautions and reduced attendance mandates still in place. Fans should know before they go what changes to expect this season.

be permitted in fans’ ticketed seats only.

Tampa Bay Rays Our 2020 World Series Champions have worked with Major League Baseball, Bayfront Health St. Petersburg, and local public health officials to increase health measures and create a safe experience while at the ballpark. If you plan to attend a game, be aware that much has changed in the time of COVID. Be sure to study up on new policies and procedures before you go to avoid any surprises. A few things to know:

• All fans including children and those who have been vaccinated, are required to wear a face mask at all times except when actively eating or drinking in the fan’s ticketed seat. Gaiters, bandanas, masks with ventilation holes, and other versions of face coverings are not acceptable.

• Most importantly, Tropicana Field remains cash-free this season, allowing for less contact between fans and staff. Mobile payments, Rays Pay via the MLB Ballpark app, and credit and debit cards are accepted for all ticket sales, concessions and merchandise. Tickets are available on mobile devices through the Ballpark app, which can be downloaded in the App Store or Google Play. Paper tickets and print-at-home tickets are not available or accepted. The app also offers mobile ordering for concessions and merchandise. Skip the lines, order on the app and pick-up your food, drinks and gear when they are ready.

• Capacity is reduced at Tropicana Field this year to allow for social distancing. Seating pods are staggered throughout the ballpark.

Fans may sit only in their ticketed seats. The 300 level of Tropicana Field will be reopened for the 2021 season, and the overall capacity will be limited to approximately 9,000 fans.

• Some concessions, bars, restaurants, party areas, activities and other facilities are closed for the season. Eating and drinking will

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• All staff and vendors are screened for signs or symptoms of COVID-19 before each game and are trained in protocols to promote the health and safety of attendees.

Tampa Bay Rowdies The Rowdies soccer organization continues to work with local public health officials to provide fans with a safe experience at Al Lang Stadium. A health and safety protocol includes socially-distant seating, mandatory face mask requirements and enhanced cleaning procedures taken by staff.

The Rowdies have a full slate of 32 matches of USL Championship planned this season with 16 home games. In May, they are playing four consecutive Saturdays. Tampa Bay enters the new season as the defending Eastern Conference champions and motivated to capture the league’s title after last year’s Championship final was cancelled.

At this time, only season tickets are being sold due to limited capacity. Single game tickets will become available at a later date, once protocols allow for the club to increase capacity at the stadium, according to a marketing official. Season tickets are sold in pods of two or four in order to maintain social distancing.

Concessions stands and bars will be cashless. Cash will only be accepted at the food trucks inside the stadium and by the mobile vendors walking through the stands. Fans must be in assigned seats while eating or drinking.

SPL LIVING

Woman’s Club Celebrates 100 Years of Serving St. Pete Back in 1913 when the St Petersburg Woman’s Club was formed, the 14 charter members had no idea of what a force they would become. They wanted a community gathering place. There was no television then, so town meetings, singing, plays and performances were the entertainment.

In 1928, landowner Perry Snell graciously donated a piece of rough, thick, primitive property on Snell Isle with little access other than a rickety wooden plank bridge. A few years later the beautiful pink Mediterranean building on Snell Isle Boulevard came to life.

Today, the club is a part of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), one of the largest women’s volunteer service organizations in the world. The club is a 501-C3 organization, and follows their Club Mission, “community service, civic participation, educational programs and preservation of our historical clubhouse.” The beautiful building is on the list of National Historic Sites, and is often used for weddings, corporate events and parties, which help support the upkeep of the building and fund some of the many charities the club sponsors.

This year the Pinellas County School District named the St. Petersburg Woman’s Club their Business Partner of the Year. Sallie House, Suncoast Hospice, The Kind Mouse, a number of homeless shelters and nursing homes, the SPCA, and local hospitals have all benefited from the group’s efforts. Members stay busy helping the community in a wide range of activities.

They make and fill Christmas stockings, Easter baskets, make

Barbara Sundholm, left, and president Cathy Allen at a ladies dinner.

bone pillows, quilts, supply meals for the homeless, mentor students, and conduct domestic and sexual violence awareness and prevention programs.

The Club divides its projects into Community Service Programs which include Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement and Outreach, Environment, Health and Wellness, and Education and Libraries to give the members a wide choice. Their fundraising efforts help to support many of the local charities, as well as the upkeep of the historical clubhouse.

The annual Garden Tea Party, which this year takes place on May 16, is a highly anticipated fundraiser. Also this year, an October Mystery Dinner Party is guaranteed to offer lots of laughs to attendees.

The members of the club find that while devoting most of their time to reaching out to the community, they are also making new friends, and they do know how to have fun. The membership has almost doubled over the last few years due in part to the many social activities. They play Mahjongg, bunco, bridge, board games, have ladies nights out, lunches, field trips and parties.

The Club is open to all women interested in making friends and helping our community.

General meetings are held the second Friday afternoon, and the second Tuesday night of each month September through May. For more information, check out www.stpetersburgwomansclub.org, call (727) 822-4982, or email the SPWC President Cathy Allen at cathy@allenhomedesign.com.

Barbara Lusco and past president Oneita Tinsley display some baby caps crocheted for Ronald McDonald House.

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SPL SCENE Art in Bloom The annual Art in Bloom weekend at the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg was held March 25-28, presented by the Margaret Acheson Stuart Society. The event kicked off with Flowers After Hours fundraiser, featuring dozens of floral interpretations of works in the museum’s collection.

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SPL SCENE

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SPL SCENE Project G.O.A.T Fundraiser St. Pete artist Geff Strik donated five unique hand-painted art goats inspired by the world’s legendary artists as part of his solo exhibit April 15 at Hotel Haya in Ybor City. Sponsored by Phil Yost of Compass Land & Title, the event was filled with city officials, celebrities and dignitaries from both sides of Tampa Bay. Proceeds went to Project G.O.A.T, the Global Offensive Against Trafficking.

Photos/Barry Lively

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SPL SCENE Children’s Dream Fund Ribbon Cutting The Children’s Dream Fund cut the ribbon on a new office on April 27. The day’s Dream Ambassador, Ryder Karppe, helped Mayor Rick Kriseman cut the ribbon, along with CDF Executive Director Cynthia Lake Farrell, Board Chair David Allen, District 3 City Council Chair Ed Montanari, and President and CEO of the St. Pete Area Chamber of Commerce Chris Steinocher. Ryder was also joined by his brother Caden Karppe.

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