St. Pete Life Nov/Dec 2021 by St. Pete Life

Are you thinking about

REMODELING

2019 NATIONAL WINNER Entire House Under $250,000

Awards HTTB0220.005

• FEMA 50% Rule Remodeling Specialist

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Home is where the heart is for the Holidays

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! - Richard and Julie

M A LO WA N Y G R O U P

Tampa Bay Luxury Real Estate w w w. M A LO WA N Y G R O U P .c o m

E X C E P T I O N A L S E R V I C E · U N PA R A L L E L E D C O N TA C T S S U P E R I O R R E S U LT S PE

Saltaire Condo

820 Sand Pine Drive NE

Listed at $2,600,000+

Listed at $1,075,000 / Sold for $1,200,000

DOWNTOWN ST. PETE

PLACIDO BAYOU

Buyer Represented

O n e S t . Pe t e r s b u r g , # 3 0 5

1 3 6 B a y Po i n t D r i v e N E

Last Listed at $1,599,000

Last Listed at $1,050,000

DOWNTOWN ST. PETE

SNELL ISLE

R E BE CCA & F RANK M ALOWANY B R O K E R - A S S O C I AT E S TOP 1% REALTORS IN PINELLAS COUNTY 1 1 0 0 4 TH STREET N, ST. PETERSBURG

DIRECT

(727) 593 -4699

CONTENTS

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 l Volume 5 No. 3

Features

People to Watch: Desiree Noisette ................... 14 Holiday Happenings ........................................ 16 Art Review: Warhol’s West ............................... 26

Holiday Fashion: Star Appeal ........................... 32 American Stage: A New Season ........................ 42 Holiday Entertaining ....................................... 52 Holiday Gift Guide ........................................... 62 Hooper: Ode to 22 South Food Hall .................. 66 Hot Wheels: Volvo S90 Recharge ...................... 70

Street Beat: 2021 Shine Murals ......................

60 4

StPeteLifeMag.com

November/December 2021

WELCOME TO SPL As 2021 comes to a close, we at St. Pete Life have much to be grateful for. It’s been a rough year for many, and our heartfelt sympathy goes out to those who have lost loved ones and endured challenging times during the COVID pandemic. It’s with a sense of hope and optimism that we look forward to closing the door on this year, and starting fresh in 2022. Speaking of starting anew, what better way to feel good about yourself than making a statement with holiday fashion that has “Star Appeal.” Our cover turns up the stage lights, thanks to fashion writer and stylist Megan Simons who took her crew to St. Pete’s Mahaffey Theatre to show off some dazzling outfits with drama galore. We think you’ll enjoy the show. We are happy to report that the season is coming back in more ways than one, with lots of holiday events to report in this issue. Look for the familyfriendly Winter Beach with ice skating, music, movies and more at The Pier to open Nov. 20. The popular Enchant Christmas at the Trop returns, and festivals are back from Shopapalooza and Festivals of Speed to the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Straub Park. It’s so good to be getting back to the streets, so plan to join the festivities. Oh, and mark your calendars for Dec. 31 when the popular First Night St. Pete takes over downtown with music, arts, children’s activities and fireworks. Finally, for those ready to host get-togethers, we offer some entertaining cocktails and recipes perfect for holiday brunch. And don’t miss our Holiday Gift Guide, with a look at some unique gifts. 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

Flourish Photography

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

Beth Ann Drake

bdrake�stpetelifemag.com Publisher

Marcia Biggs

editor@stpetelifemag.com Editor

StPeteLifeMag.com

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

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November/December 2021

On The Cover:

Star Appeal Fashion from Pippa Pelure Photo by Shawn Smith Photographix Location: Mahaﬀey Theater

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For a physician referral: SAHJointPain.org

21-1832228-1021

BR E A K ING BOUND A R IE S : PHO T OGR A PHER L EE MIL L ER Celebrity model. Groundbreaking artist. Fearless war correspondent. Through her photographs, witness the life of a woman unfettered by convention.

TheDali.org

residences400central.com

LUXURY LIVING IN THE SKY ELEVATED NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE HEART OF ST. PETERSBURG, FL

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

St. Pete’s Luxury Remodeling Contractor

Before

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Holiday Fashion Starts Here With our store wide holiday sale up to 40% off ﬁne jewelry and watches.

Visit our showroom and enter to win a $5,000 pair diamond stud earrings and/or men’s $1,600 Tag Heuer watch.

Gold & Diamond Center NorthEast

S t. P e t e r s b u r g

727.896.3000 GoldAndDiamondStPete.com 222 37th Ave N. St. Petersburg In Publix shopping center 4th St N

Family-Owned and Family-Operated Jewelry Store for over 25 years. Not afﬁliated with Rolex USA.

A LIFE TIME OF A DV EN T U R E

Of course it’s beautiful up here this time of year. But the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina offer a year round calendar of adventure and discoveries. Skiing in the winter. Paddling in the spring. Festivals in the summer. And a tapestry of color every fall. And owning a home in the destination mountain community of Mountain Air allows you to enjoy the mountains 12 months out of the year.

CUSTOM HOMES, HOMESITES & CONDOMINIUMS

Contact us today and learn how you can sample A Taste of Mountain Air for yourself. We look forward to your visit. MOUNTAINAIRNC.COM | 828.682.8200 | INFO@MOUNTAINAIRNC.COM

SPL LIVING

Desiree Noisette

Mermosa Wines, Founder & President

ST. PETERSBURG — It all began with her great-grandmother Celestine, a penchant for mermaids and a swimwear boutique off Beach Drive. Entrepreneur, visionary, and a chaser of dreams, Desiree Noisette is on a journey that she never imagined in 2012, when she opened Cerulean Blue, the swimwear boutique which later became Mermosa. The mermaid was an integral part of her muse, it appeared on her logo (and still does) and she even played the part – appearing in full sparkling mermaid regalia at social events (and she still does). A few years later, Noisette’s desire to create a playful bubbly wine to serve to customers led her to the Willamette Valley in Oregon and a new path in the wine industry. In 2017, after a year of trips to learn about winemaking and some 300 taste tests, she presented her first Mermosa wine to her customers, and soon realized the refreshing white sparkling wine with a hint of orange and pineapple juices was a big hit … and the demand was rising. She closed her swimwear boutique in 2020 (“the best thing I ever did,” she admits), rearranged her finances, and dived head first into making wine. In Oregon, industry veterans invited her to their homes and facilities. “They helped me learn the ropes, taught me how to formulate wines, shared 60 years of winemaking experience and sent me on a journey,” she relates. Today, Noisette is the first Black woman in the state of Florida to own a licensed winery – Mermosa. She has expanded her line to three wines styles — Mermosa, Mersecco and Noisette Rosé — which are sold across the country in wine shops and liquor stores (Florida, Oregon, Texas, and other Eastern states from Georgia to Maine), and served in a number of restaurants. Mermosa wines even made it onto the shelves of big retailers like Sam’s Club, Walmart and Total Wine in certain states. “Since my first release of wines, I made some tough operational changes to position Mermosa for scaling into major retailers,” she says. “I consolidated winery operations in Oregon, invested in a

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November/December 2021

SPL

People To Watch team of industry professionals to help me learn the business side of this very tough industry and I passionately, and strategically, advocated for a spot on the shelves of major retailers.” She says her goal now is to grow the brand to an international level, expanding to 20 states in 2022 and all 50 states the following year. These days, Noisette travels around the country promoting her wines at festivals and events and visiting retailers. “I go to Oregon about every four to six weeks,” she says. She has a marketing and social media person on board, and is hiring Mermosa Ambassadors across the country to work festivals and events to promote her wines. In her hometown of Jacksonville, she partnered with Chef Melanie Cuartelon from Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa to create food and drink recipes, which are featured on her social media pages. From her home in St. Petersburg, she works with her husband Aaron Davis on distribution and sales, creating business plans and a vision for the future. “He’s a trusted advisor and solid resource on the business side,” she says. With two young children, she is forever grateful to nearby family who help out. Just this past June on Juneteenth weekend, Noisette ﬁnally celebrated the release of Mermosa wines in South Carolina, where her enslaved great grandmother Celestine, a Haitian immigrant, forged her own life with her beloved husband, Phillipe, and seven children. Honoring Celestine’s life was her inspiration for the swimwear shop and now her Mermosa wine brand, says Noisette. It’s a story of strength and independence, romance and new beginnings, of creating one’s destiny. Celestine was a mermaid in her own sea, as Desiree sees it. “She was the original mermaid and inspiration in my life; she has always been that life force. ” To ﬁnd locations where Mermosa wines are sold, go to mermosa.com where you can also see Celestine’s story in a video. Desiree Noisette can be reached at dnoisette@mermosa.com

The Time To Start Holiday Shopping is Now from the comfort of your home

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Rolex Yacht-Master II, 44mm (Model: 16680)

18k Yellow Gold Case, Bi-Directional Rotating Blue Cerachom Ceramic Bezel surrounding a White Dial,18k Yellow Gold Oyster Bracelet

Rolex Submariner “Smurf”, 40 mm (Model: 116619)

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HOLIDAY EVENTS

Holiday Events On Stage It wouldn’t be the holidays without some Sparkle. St. Petersburg Opera’s Holiday Sparkle returns this year at two diﬀerent venues, with two evening performances at Opera Central (Thursday, Dec. 16 and Saturday, Dec. 18 at 8pm; tickets $30 to $250 for VIP table) and two afternoon performances at Cage Brewing for those who prefer outdoor seating (Saturday, Dec. 11 and Sunday, Dec. 12 at 3 pm; tickets $35). A special family-friendly POPera version will be presented at 3 pm Sunday, Dec. 19, in North Straub Park (VIP seating $35, or BYO seating and pay what you can). Get in the holiday spirit with a lively cast of singers and dancers and a wide array of catchy tunes. Go to stpeteopera.org for tickets.

St. Pete Opera’s Holiday Sparkle

American Stage presents a twist on the classic Dickens tale with “Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol,” December 8-January 2. In his version, Marley is escorted by a spritely creature along the pathway to redeeming his soul – by helping to save the one man on earth who was more greedy and sour than himself. Times and ticket prices vary, go to americanstage.org. FreeFall Theatre, 6099 Central Ave., presents “The Night Before,” a family-friendly holiday performance, from Dec. 3-24. It’s snowing in sunny Florida when a group of friends and a surly house cat named Stephen Sondheim gather around the piano for a night of fun, music and games. Tickets at freefalltheatre.com.

The Palladium presents Nate Najar’s Jazz Holiday, a night of swinging holiday jazz, on December 10 at 8 pm. Guests include Brazilian singer Daniela Soledade adding a bossa nova twist, along with local and national jazz favorites. Seats are $40 and $30. For tickets go to mypalladium.org

Look for these holiday shows at Duke Center for the Arts – Mahaﬀey Theater: Cirque Dreams Holidaze – Nov. 30 at 7:30 Dazzling family holiday spectacular wraps a whimsical, Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus artistry.

Also coming to the Palladium: St. Petersburg Ballet performs The Nutcracker, Dec. 3-5 in Hough Hall. General admission tickets are $25.

The Florida Orchestra performs Holiday Pops – Dec. 11 at 2 and 8 pm featuring the Lumina Youth Choir. Handel’s Messiah is on for Dec. 18 at 8 pm

Pinellas Youth Symphony performs a Holiday Concert on Nov. 21, tickets are $10 general admission, $2 students and children.

ChristmasLand Live! with British tenor Jonathan Antoine – Dec. 23 at 7:30 pm

Light up the Night The annual downtown Christmas Tree Lighting will take place with Mayor Rick Kriseman on Saturday, Nov. 27, from 5 to 8 pm in Straub Park. A parade prior to the lighting at 6:30 pm will culminate at the North Straub Park Christmas Tree Lighting where Santa will join the mayor.

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November/December 2021

HOLIDAY EVENTS

New Year’s Eve First Night St. Pete is back and ringing in the new year with a family-friendly celebration of the arts throughout downtown St. Petersburg on December 31. The Interactive Art Park returns to South Straub Park with hands-on exhibits and fun for all ages, live music, silent disco, a scavenger hunt, aerial arts, fire jugglers, street performers, a peace flag project, sea creature puppet procession, Bubble Stomp with Ann Kelly of WDUV and much more. The St. Pete Pier will host a First Kids Celebration and St. Pete Opera will perform at Christ United Methodist Church. The newest addition this year is a Monarch butterfly installation. The first 500 people to participate in the “Seeds of Hope” installation will receive a packet of native milkweed from saveourmonarchs.org. Fireworks at 8 pm and midnight. Entry into 12 different venues requires the purchase of a First Night St. Pete button. Advance button purchases until December 30 are $12 adults, $5 children 5 and up; day of event tickets are $20 adults, $10 children 5 and up; VIP package is $100. Go to www.FirstNightStPete.com for tickets and updated information. The Movement Sanctuary

It’s a Miracle Once again, Intermezzo Coﬀee & Cocktails will be transformed into “the biggest and best Miracle to date,” says owner Jarrett Sabatini, when the popular Miracle With Mezzo opens November 22 for the holiday season. The holiday-themed cocktail pop-up bar held at select bars in cities around the globe, features innovative holiday themed libations served in specialty holiday mugs and glassware which is also available for purchase. Classic Miracle cocktail favorites back for the season include the Christmapolitan, Christmas Carol Barrel, Snowball Old-Fashioned, Jingle Balls Nog and more. Until December 31, Intermezzo with be “over the top” with Christmas decorations and twinkling holiday lights in a magically curated space, accompanied by a soundtrack of holiday songs. In addition, Sabatini has planned appearances by musical guests and the following fun events: Oﬃcial Launch - Black Friday Nov. 26 at 5pm Ugly Sweater Party – Thursday, Dec. 2 at 6pm Songs Around a Christmas Tree with J.T. Brown – Dec. 8 at 7pm Christmas Jazz and 50’s style Cocktail Party with Nate Najar – Dec. 14 at 7pm

November/December 2021

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HOLIDAY EVENTS

Gifts Galore Head to The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N., November 20-21, for the Tampa Bay Holiday Market presented by Tampa Bay Times. Admission and parking are free. Shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts is fun and easy, with a diverse array of vendors oﬀering hand-made arts and crafts. Hours are 10 am to 5 pm; go to tampabayholidaymarket.com Two days of shopping madness, music and fun combine in the annual Shopapalooza Festival Nov. 27-28 at Vinoy Park. The popular weekend event will be ﬁlled with 300 artisans, local makers and small businesses, live entertainment, children’s activities, four outdoor food halls, a Christmas Village, and more, sponsored by LocalShops1 and the City of St. Pete. Admission is free; hours are 10 am to 5 pm both days. Go to shopapaloozafestival.com for more information.

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HOLIDAY EVENTS

Looking For A New Adventure?

The St. Pete Pier is transforming into a waterfront Winter Wonderland for the inaugural Winter Beach celebration starting November 20. The centerpiece promises to be a full-size 4,000-square-foot ice skating rink, along with festive holiday music, photos with Santa, and “snow” days. Weekly themed skating nights will include a silent disco, 80’s and 90’s music nights, Pride Night, holiday movie nights, Santa Hat Skate, and a New Year’s Eve Midnight Skate. A ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration will kick oﬀ the Winter Beach on November 20 at 3 pm; the public can take a spin on the ice until 11 pm (for a fee). The rink will be open daily through Jan. 17. Hours of operation will vary, with special events happening many days of the week. Admission to Winter Beach is free, however tickets are required to ice skate. Tickets are available for advance purchase for $17, and include 75-minute access to the rink and skate rentals. For more information including tickets, visit winterbeachstpete.com.

Enjoy guided trail rides with friends and family. Experience the outdoors with a guided trail ride in some of Florida’s most beautiful state parks. Visit Alaﬁa, Sydney Dover Park, Lower Green Swamp Preserve and Old Welcome.

Training Boarding Lessons Trail Rides Transportation Parties and Events Team Building Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Gift certiﬁcates available

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November/December 2021

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L ve The Life You’re Living The Nolen

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• 31 luxury residences one block off Beach Drive in Downtown St Pete • 1 or 2 residences per floor with no shared walls & private foyers • Designer finishes, state-of-the-art appliances • Modern amenities include heated pool & spa, outdoor kitchen, fire tables, cabanas, fitness center, club room & concierge • Green-certified community • 10.8’ & 11.8’ ceilings in all residences • 3-story parking garage; 2 car garage & storage in full floor residences

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795 Collany Road #405, Tierra Verde • $2,595,000

Concierge Service: Helping Clients from Listing to Close Liz Heinkel, REALTOR®

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727.239.5623

LHeinkel@SmithandAssociates.com

www.LizHeinkel.com

Let's get Let's getyou youthe the perfect perfecthome hometo to host theholidays. holidays. host the Whether you’re a first-timehomebuyer homebuyer or or looking Whether you’re a first-time lookingfor foraa bigger home hostyour yourfamily familyand and friends, friends, I’m bigger home toto host I’m here herefor for all your financing needs. This is one of the most all your financing needs. This is one of the most important transactions you will ever make, and I look important transactions you will ever make, and I look forward to building lifelong relationships with all of my forward to building lifelong relationships with all of my clients. clients.

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O: (727) 451-9632 | C: (727) 501-3534 Rate.com/jeffcrain | jeff.crain@rate.com 360 451-9632 Central Ave., Suite 390, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 O: (727) | C:Third (727)Floor, 501-3534 360 Central Ave., Third Floor, Suite 390, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval.

Jeff Crain NMLS ID: 377726; FL - LO5147. NMLS ID #2611 (Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Jeff Crain NMLS ID: 377726; FL - LO5147. NMLS ID #2611 (Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Enchant Christmas

The dazzling show returns to light up Tropicana Field this holiday season ST. PETERSBURG - Last appearing in 2019 to often sold-out crowds, the holiday extravaganza Enchant Christmas returns to Tropicana Field from Nov. 26 to Jan. 2.

the Trop, makes the logistics of shipping, installing and presenting the show a tad easier for Hutson. Working hand-inhand with Tropicana Field management and caterers is a win-win, she says, with everything from maintenance to parking and food service being handled by the stadium.

The indoor stadium will be transformed into a massive light maze, with glittering trees towering to 80 feet high and largerthan-life ornaments. New this year is a Magical Night Sky projected on the dome ceiling recreating a North Pole night with thousands of animated synchronized lights. “The dome will really create a magical atmosphere,” relays Nancy Hutson, the general manager of Enchant Christmas St. Petersburg. “It will appear to be nighttime all the time, so even if people come earlier in the day, they’ll feel like they are there at night under the twinkling stars.” This is Hutson’s first year organizing the gargantuan show which is trucked in on semi-trailers and employs hundreds of people to build, engineer lighting and sound, staff the production and act as characters and entertainers throughout the month-long event. A Tampa Bay resident, she has experience in theme park project management and coordinating the myriad details of an event big enough to fill the indoor stadium with holiday decorations and installations, an ice skating trail, food and beverage vendors and an artisan Christmas market. The fact that Enchant Christmas was held successfully in 2019 at IF YOU GO Purchase tickets early as St. Pete is the only Enchant venue in the Southeast, and is expected to sell out on weekends. Some weekdays are closed. Select a date and time when you buy online tickets.

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November/December 2021

“We start the build process on November 1,” she says. “This is the largest light maze in the world and building the ice skating trail all takes a month to transform the stadium.” Visitors will reserve a day and time when purchasing tickets online, she adds, which will help with crowd control, reduce lines and allow some social distancing. Masks will be optional for both visitors and staff. “We are following the safety protocols set forth by Tropicana Field. There will be sanitizing stations throughout and it will be a cashless event.” Money machines will allow people to exchange cash for a VISA debit card. Enchant presents a Christmas story where visitors are invited on a journey for “The Mischievous Elf” to help him find the important gifts he has misplaced in the maze. Of course, Santa awaits children at the end. Strolling entertainers and a stage on the ground level will provide live music, food and drinks. For adults who want to relax and enjoy the view, a mezzanine complete with food buffet, cash bar and private lounge areas is available for a higher ticket price.

Various admissions are available, not including tax and facility fee: General admission - $32/$35 for seniors and adults, $25 children ages 3-17 Star Experiences - Brunch (from $70), Dinner (from $90), a 21+ Lounge (from

$79), and Premium (from $165) In addition, private suites are available for groups and parties. Go to enchantchristmas.com and select St. Petersburg for more information and to purchase tickets.

SPL HEALTH

The New Generation in Skin Rejuvenation.

The New Generati Skin Rejuvenati

A youthful look, smooth and glowing skin have become one of highest demands in the aesthetic industry. Not only women, but men as well are looking for innovative options to treat sings of aging.

A youthful look, smooth and glowing skin have b highest demands in the aesthetic industry. Not o men as well are looking for innovative options to aging.

The most sought after procedure for ﬁghting those pesky lines is injections of neurotoxins. There are a few options available: Botox, Dysport and Xeomin. These diﬀerent preparations of botulin toxin are used in cosmetic practice and have unique properties, giving them certain pros and cons.

The most sought after procedure for ﬁghting tho injections of neurotoxins. There are a few option Dysport and Xeomin. These diﬀerent preparation are used in cosmetic practice and have unique pr them certain pros and cons.

The second procedure that drives clients to medical offices are fillers, especially for lips. Dermal fillers, are a medical device approved by the FDA to create a smoother and fuller appearance in the face, cheeks, chin, lips, and back of the hands.

The second procedure that drives clients to medi ﬁllers, especially for lips. Dermal ﬁllers, are a me approved by the FDA to create a smoother and fu the face, cheeks, chin, lips, and back of the hands

Microneedling has been in the aesthetic market for decades. By creating a “controlled microinjury” it provides collagen and elastin remodeling, leading to improved skin texture and tone. Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy to heat targeted tissue under the surface of the skin, triggering the natural production of collagen. It is a non-invasive treatment used to lift and tighten loose skin.

Microneedling has been in the aesthetic market f creating a “controlled microinjury” it provides co remodeling, leading to improved skin texture and Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy to heat targete surface of the skin, triggering the natural produc is a non-invasive treatment used to lift and tighte

A cosmetic RF machine uses radio frequency waves in administration of treatments such as blemish removal, skin rejuvenation or getting rid of unwanted hair. An RF Machine is used mainly for administering skin tightening treatments for people suﬀering from sagging skin. Lasers can help on variety of levels to resurface the skin by repairing damage caused by the sun, aging, or scars. The following issues can be treated using a customized approach. • Brighter Skin Tone • Fine Lines • Improved Skin Texture • Pigment Reduction • Décolleté Care

• Age Spots • Sun Spots • Freckles • Actinic Keratoses • Mild to Moderate Sun Damage. A new generation in treatment of aging skin is to add the power of secretomes, small vesicles from stem cells. Secretomes are harnessing the science of exosomes and contain proteins, collagen, keratin, elastic ﬁbers and hundreds of growth factors. Application of secretomes has been found to reduce downtime after laser and other aesthetic treatments which can result in signiﬁcant redness. Possibilities and options for face and body rejuvenation are endless. Consult your doctor or aesthetic specialist to discover which treatment would be most suitable for you. ADVERTORIAL

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November/December 2021

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SPL NEWS

Good News/Bad News

Are you a book borrower from the Pinellas Public Library system? Listen up. The Good News: As of October 1, 2021, borrowers are not being charged overdue ﬁnes. Additionally, all past overdue ﬁnes are eliminated. Loan periods and the number of items that can be borrowed have not changed. Fees for lost and damaged items will remain on borrower accounts until they are paid.

Making Waves

The seasonal Cross-Bay Ferry has launched its fifth season transporting passengers between downtown St. Petersburg and Tampa’s Channelside District. Service will continue through May 22; later evening departures will be available for the first time, with final departure times from Tampa as late as 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. First departures from St. Petersburg will start at 4:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. on Saturdays, and 11 a.m. on Sundays. Final departures from Tampa will be at 10:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7:30 p.m. on Sundays. Look for the ferry docked next to the Vinoy Marina across from Straub Park. For tickets, schedules and additional information, check out thecrossbayferry.com.

The Bad News: When items are 10 days overdue, accounts are blocked, and borrowers are billed the replacement cost of the item(s) plus processing fees. Borrowers with blocked accounts are not able to borrow any library materials, including electronic items via Libby/Overdrive. When items are returned in good condition, accounts are unblocked, and all fees are removed. For more information, visit pplc.us/ﬁnefree or contact your local library.

Thinking of selling your home over the holiday season? • Motivated buyers shop all year round but winter buyers are more serious • Less competition during the holidays • Homes show better during the holidays • Festive Neighborhoods are more welcoming

• The holidays tend to bring out the warm and fuzzy feelings in buyers • More relocation buyers due to year-end job transfers • Winter sales are often quick and proﬁtable • End-of-year tax breaks

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Happy Holidays from our family to yours.

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Call Us today to sell your home! (727)204-3138

November/December 2021

SPL NEWS

St. Pete Stories

St. Pete writer Bill DeYoung is releasing another entertaining history book that takes a deep-dive into the unusual people, places and things that made the Sunshine City such a unique place to live in the 20th Century. “Vintage St. Pete Volume II” (St. Petersburg Press) is out just in time for holiday gift giving with stories of the pink palaces (the Vinoy and the Don CeSar), the heroes (aviator Tony Jannus, kiddie TV host Captain Mac) and the Big Tourist Dreams that never quite came true. Some 22 all-new stories, many of them eye-opening, include Bob Dylan’s hotel TV taping, Tom Petty’s concert on the Don Cesar’s rooftop, the Route 66 series, and the making of John Candy’s classic comedy “Summer Rental.” The book is scheduled for release on December 9; go to stpetersburgpress.com to purchase.

Campaign Announced for Woodson Museum

The Woodson African American Museum of Florida (The Woodson) and Pinellas Community Foundation (PCF) have joined forces to raise $27 million for a new and expanded museum. Formerly known as The Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, the new museum will be the ﬁrst newly constructed landmark museum in Florida dedicated to celebrating African American history, art, and culture. The new museum is planned on 5.5 acres of city-donated land along 22nd Street S., known as The Deuces, which is a few blocks away from The Woodson’s current location. The museum inspires and enlightens people who seek to learn more about the untold or rarely celebrated stories and contributions of African Americans. The vision for the new 30,000-square-foot building, designed by renowned Blackowned Huﬀ + Gooden Architects, in partnership with Wannemacher Jensen Architects, is the result of a broad community discussion with museum experts, co-sponsored by the City of St. Petersburg.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Delve Into the Western Works of Pop Art Icon Andy Warhol PHOTOS/MARCIA BIGGS

Warhol gave classic American icons a place in history, such as Howdy Doody, The Wicked Witch from “The Wizard of Oz” and Uncle Sam.

BY MARCIA BIGGS The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art can notch another blockbuster exhibit to its belt with Warhol’s West, a mighty powerful collection of works that lassos you in from the moment you enter the gallery. Warhol’s signature celebrity portraits in vivid colors (Marylyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Liza Minelli, John Lennon, to name a few) are a trademark of the eccentric New York artist who died in 1987 at age 58, and in this exhibition we learn of the artist’s attraction to the great “celebrities” of the American West.

the same image. He had a lifelong fascination with Hollywood and celebrities, creating some of the most recognizable images ever produced.

Andy Warhol was an undisputable legend in 20th Century art, a founding member of the pop art movement, often challenging the very deﬁnition of art. A printmaker, painter, and ﬁlmmaker, his career began in the 1950s as a commercial illustrator, producing advertising and window displays for New York retailers. Warhol began using advertisements and comic strips in his paintings, such as Mickey Mouse, Campbell’s soup cans and Brillo boxes, utilizing bright colors, stencils and repeating

While Warhol’s attraction to American celebrities is well documented, even his ardent fans may not know that he had a lifelong passion for the American West. His penchant for wearing cowboy hats and boots and collecting Western art is well documented. In Warhol’s West, we get an in-depth look at his work in this genre. Topics stretch from early works that show Warhol’s graphic design skills in movie posters and advertising in the 1950s and 1960s, to classic images of the Myths series –

Sometimes serious, sometimes whimsical, Warhol’s West is ﬁlled with surprises. It’s a pleasure that most of the paintings are 3 feet by 3 feet, allowing the viewer a clear look into the dimensional screenprints. The entire gallery experience is eye candy, with works mounted on ice cream color walls.

In Sitting Bull (1986), Warhol used a photograph from 1881 for inspiration. The series details the steps in his screenprint process.

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November/December 2021

ARTS & CULTURE Howdy Doody, The Wicked Witch of the West, and Uncle Sam. His last major project, Cowboys and Indians (1986) is a series of 14 screenprint portraits of Western legends such as Geronimo, Annie Oakley, Sitting Bull, John Wayne and Theodore Roosevelt. The artist started his process with a photo of the person as inspiration. The museum takes the extra step of juxtaposing the original source photos with the finished works of art. For example, we see Warhol’s interpretation of General George Custer next to the famous photograph by Mathew Brady. A fascinating offering is the series of Sitting Bull screenprints along one wall which show the step-bystep process Warhol used to create his final Sitting Bull image. When not using iconic photos for inspiration, Warhol often invited his celebrity subjects to his studio where he took Polaroids to use as source images. For the eyecatching The Witch (1981), Warhol invited actress Margaret Hamilton, who play the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz, to his studio and told her to recreate her classic, frightening cackle as he took Polaroids. The result is scary, titillating and humorous all at once. A fun interactive part of the exhibit allows visitors to create their own pop art selfie, with the multicolored Warhol-esque image popping up on a nearby wall. It can be sent to you via email, too. Oddly enough, this act of inserting oneself into a pop art image seems akin to looking at yourself through the eyes of Warhol himself. It’s all part of the mystical, mythical experience found in Warhol’s West. The exhibit is on loan from the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville, GA, and the Cochran Collection in LaGrange GA and will be on display through January 9.

Visitors can create their own pop-art image in the style of Andy Warhol using a digital camera.

The Cowboys and Indians series (1986) includes portraits of American legends such as John Wayne and Teddy Roosevelt.

The James Museum has come up with programming to complement the Warhol’s West exhibit. Drop-In Art: Screen Printing – Learn more about the process Andy Warhol used to create his colorful Pop art prints. Make a silkscreen of your own to take home; open to all ages. Space is limited, make a reservation at the admissions desk upon your arrival. Tuesday at 2 pm, 3 pm and 6 pm; and Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm and 3 pm. Artist Talk by James Warhola, Andy Warhol’s nephew speaks on “Uncle Andy & Other Stories,” Nov. 6 at 2 pm

Lifelong Learning Series – In this three-part lecture series, art historian Dedee Aleccia explores elements of the mythic West and Andy Warhol’s personal connections to it. Registration required. Warhol & the Mythic West, Dec. 1 at 1:30pm Warhol’s Western Icons, Dec. 8 at 1:30pm Warhol’s Inﬂuence on Western Artist, Dec. 15 at 1:30pm

November/December 2021

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SPL LIVING

Discover the Real Tampa Bay With New Eco-Tours PHOTOS/TAMPA BAY WATCH DISCOVER CENTER

BY MARCIA BIGGS ST. PETERSBURG - Tampa Bay can mean a lot of things, but to really know Tampa Bay, well, you gotta get in it. Stretching between Pinellas and Hillsborough and Manatee counties, Florida’s largest open-water estuary is on our doorstep. It’s the life force that fed the Tocobaga Indians hundreds of years ago and continues to sustain us today as a source of food, providing transportation and leisure. But how much do you really know about Tampa Bay? Tampa Bay Watch, the non-profit that runs the Discovery Center at the St. Pete Pier, wants to enlighten you through their new Discovery Center Eco-Tours. Each one-hour tour explores the nearby waters, trawling for critters and then searching for whatever wildlife may appear. Since July, the new 45-foot USCG-certified catamaran has been offering public tours and school field trips seven days a week as part of their mission to educate the public about the wonders and fragility of Tampa Bay. Our guide this day was Tampa Bay Watch lead biologist Savannah Gandee, who is a font of information and fun facts on the inhabitants of the bay from marine critters to birds, dolphins and manatees. A few minutes out from the Pier we stop and a net is tossed. For three minutes the boat trawls, and when the booty is pulled aboard it’s examined, documented, presented for a brief show and tell, then returned to the bay. This data on the trawl haul is performed daily to determine the health of the bay and its inhabitants, says Gandee, with research made available to Florida Fish and Wildlife. This particular day the haul was mostly dark algae embedded with a few dozen teeny tiny crabs. The heavy algae was a result of recent storms and water conditions, Gandee explained. The bay here is very shallow averaging 3 to 6 feet depending on tides, making it a good place to trawl. Most everything netted is small since it’s a shallow estuary.

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After returning the haul back to the bay, we continue on toward Snell Isle and Coﬀee Pot Bayou and Bird Island, a well-known mangrove island rookery. It’s a roosting spot for brown pelicans, egrets, ibis and cormorants and today we have a good occupancy rate. Gandee tells us about the importance of red and black mangroves and how the root system serves as a nursery for tiny marine life. And she points out the various birds who have come to roost and tells about their nesting activities. More than two dozen species of birds, including brown pelicans, several types of heron and egret, roseate spoonbills, cormorants and gulls make their year-round home along Tampa Bay’s shores and small islands. As we head out away from the rookery we search for any sign of dolphins, but none appear. “We truly never know what we are going to see,” she tells everyone, “which is why it’s called wild-life.” There is, however, a lot of seagrass ﬂoating, which presents an opportunity to talk about the types of seagrass and their importance in the bay ecosystem. Seagrass is the sole food source for the manatee, Gandee tells us, and it’s facing some challenges with pollution and climate change. As we head back to the Pier, a balmy breeze keeps us cool as downtown gets closer. Wispy clouds kiss cerulean blue skies and the bay sparkles before us like the gem it is. I thank the heavens I live in this paradise with an even greater appreciation for Tampa Bay. Tours runs daily from the pier directly behind Doc Ford’s restaurant at the St. Pete Pier; times vary. Tickets can be purchased online, at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center or at the boat. Eco tour prices are $22 adults, $14 children, $19 seniors, military and teachers; children 3 and under are free. Go to tbwdiscoverycenter.org

NextHome FINALIST

KENT RODAHAVER BEST REALTOR

Helping St. Pete Move at The Speed of Life

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www.StPete5StarRealtor.com || Direct 727-301-7300 Learn what your neighbors have to say about Kent • www.LearnAboutKent.com

CARYN RIGHTMYER, REALTOR, CNE, CLHMS TALK TO AN EXPERT • REAL ESTATE HOT TOPICS

Q&A with CARYN RIGHTMYER Why do you love selling real estate? I started selling real estate ten years ago and just love it. Every transaction is different, every listing unique and I thrive on the energy of the hunt for a home for a Buyer or helping a Seller market and sell their home to appeal to the widest number of Buyers for top dollar. I grew up watching my father run sales teams and create marketing campaigns for luxury yachts, so sales is in my blood! I utilize skills I learned not just as a marketing major at Florida State University, but also from being a top producing pharmaceutical sales rep along with the time I spent working with families relocating to St Petersburg as the Assistant Director of Admissions for Shorecrest Preparatory School.

in the nation for growth! We are seeing growth fueled from Buyers who are now free to work remotely from anywhere choose to move to our vibrant city, Buyers who are looking for a second vacation home, and Buyers who are in the traditional process of downsizing, upsizing or changing home locations within the city.

I have a knack for moving complicated real estate transactions to the closing table and enjoy the negotiation process. I pride myself on professionalism and integrity, and as a result, have an extensive repeat customer base that are like an extended family.

How do I compete if I am NOT a cash Buyer and will need a loan? Reach out to your mortgage broker and see if they offer a service where your loan application and financials can move through the formal underwriting process prior to making an offer. We are seeing more mortgage brokers offer this option as a way to even the playing field for non-cash, qualified Buyers. By doing this, you can position your offer as a cash offer because you are already financially approved to receive your loan. This option works best for those who are strong financially and have solid credit.

Is it time to sell my home? Tampa/St. Petersburg experienced explosive growth in the past year and a half, and we have more Buyers than standing inventory. According to the Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2022 report, St Petersburg ranked number 5

In the downtown luxury condo market, 69% are cash Buyers and are outpacing those using conventional loans. Also, days on market for St. Petersburg residential homes are low with 28 days on average to sell a home. Typically, three months was the average time to sell. With Buyers outpacing the amount of standing inventory, creating a Seller’s market, now is a great time to sell.

*MLS data past six months homes/condos sold at $1Million+ in St Petersburg

NEIGHBORHOOD EXPERTS Our Success through the Years in the Northeast & Snell Isle Neighborhoods 106 Homes Sold in Northeast & Snell Isle $108 Million in Sales Volume to Date in Northeast & Snell Isle 67% Repeat or Referral Business in 2021 18 Days - CRG Average Days on Market: 28 Days - MLS Average Days on Market* 28% of our Transactions were Oﬀ Market Properties Found for Our Customers in 2021

Local Expertise. Global Exposure. Proven Results. OVER $145 MILLION SOLD | TOP 1% OF REALTORS® IN PINELLAS COUNTY REAL TRENDS AMERICA’S BEST LIST, TOP 1.5% OF REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS IN THE UNITED STATES**

Caryn Rightmyer, CNE, CLHMS, REALTOR® 727.409.9696 Bill Caulfield, REALTOR® 727.608.6435 Kim Vulpis, REALTOR® 727.642.2709 CarynRightmyerGroup.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each ofﬁce is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate. *MLS Data $500K sold homes NE and Snell Isle past six months. **Source: Stellar MLS. ***Based on information from 2021 REAL Trends America’s Best Real Estate Professionals list for 2020 sales volume and transaction sides.

HOLIDAY FASHION

Star Appeal Make your appearance nothing less than unforgettable this holiday season

Casablanca PHOTOS BY SHAWN SMITH PHOTOGRAPHIX Taken at Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaﬀey Theater

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HOLIDAY FASHION

Some Like It Hot November/December 2021

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HOLIDAY FASHION

A Star is Born

Very merry music for all Raymond James Pops

Holiday Pops

With Tw Matine o es !

A jolly good time for the whole family. Featuring Sleigh Ride, Ave Maria, White Christmas and more. With Mela Dailey on vocals and the Lumina Youth Choirs. Bob Bernhardt conducts.

Special Concert

Handel’s Messiah Half Page Ad

Fri, Dec 10, 8 pm, Straz Center Sat, Dec 11, 2 pm & 8 pm, Mahaffey Theater Sun, Dec 12, 2 pm & 7:30 pm, Ruth Eckerd Hall

Hallelujah! The holiday hit for nearly 300 years is back. Featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. Michael Francis conducts. Fri, Dec 17, 8 pm, Straz Center Sat, Dec 18, 8 pm, Mahaffey Theater Sun, Dec 19, 2 pm, Ruth Eckerd Hall

Special Concert

Holiday Brass

The incomparable brass and percussion sections of The Florida Orchestra bring festive favorites such as Sleigh Ride, The Nutcracker, classic carols and more. Todd Craven conducts. Sat, Dec 18, 8 pm, Palladium Theater

Give the Gift of Music A Florida Orchestra gift certificate hits all the right notes for any occasion. Whether it’s a Beethoven performance or a rock concert, the gift of music fits perfectly every time.

FloridaOrchestra.org | 727.892.3337 or 1.800.662.7286 TFO-St Pete Life MagazineNovDec.indd 1

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Rebel Without a Cause November/December 2021

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HOLIDAY FASHION

Breakfast at Tiﬀany’s

Stylist - Megan Simons/Pippa Pelure Owner Attire & Accesories - Pippa Pelure Boutique/Sartorial Inc Photography - Shawn Smith Photographix Hair & Makeup - Laurel Mona/Ooh Lala Makeup Artistry Models- Carina Pelivan, Laurel Mona, Solange Gorleku, Jelani Martinez

We Transform Communities

We Solve Problems

We take action locally & globally.

16 Million Volunteer Hours Each Year

No challenge is too big for us.

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Over $100,000 Raised for St Pete Free Clinic.

The Rotary Club of St. Petersburg welcomes our new Corporate members.

If you want to know more about membership please call Sherri Crouse, our membership chair, 304-416-2097 Visit sprotary.org and come grow with us. Get involved to help our community and the world.

Save The Date! 38

Salty sands Rotary Run. 5k, 10k, Fun Run April 30th, 2022 at Ft Desoto. Money raised will beneﬁt local Environmental non-proﬁts to make our Waters cleaner and safer.

Join us for Friday luncheon meetings weekly at the St. Pete Yacht Club. StPeteLifeMag.com November/December Visit sprotary.org and 2021 come grow with us. Get involved to help our community and the world.

SPL FASHION

Mix and Match

Make a Statement Wherever Your Life Takes You a Statemen Make Casual or dressy, many of us are delighted to be able to travel again, either to see family for upcoming holidays, to visit exotic places, go skiing in the mountains, celebrate New Year’s Eve with style, or just to go away because we can. Wherever your destination is, make sure you feel organized, confident, and prepared. The best garment pieces to take with you are the reversibles. Printed on one side pants or dresses for the day, and solid colors for the evening on the other. Jeans or trousers and jackets are a simple must and very trendy. A sparkly top will have multiple functions, you can wear it with denim during the day or with a long skirt for a fancy night. Casual or dressy, celebrate all holidays in a style that fits your personality. Your style is an extension of you, whether in the tropics or snowy mountains, home or at a glamourous gala, dress according to your destination. One universal guidance is that you simply can’t have enough sparkles on New Year’s Eve! Glitter is another big yes, whether it’s on your makeup, shoes, jeans, or accessories. Comfy in Two. Why shouldn’t you be cheerful and feeling confident as you welcome 2022. Two-piece outfits offer unlimited alternatives, and you’ll find yourself in an outfit that is as comfortable as it is stylish. Get one brightly colored, silky pink halter top and pair it with black and white, checkered sequin pants. Black high heels are a perfect addition to that combo and if you dress it up with black jewelry your confidence is irrefutable. If that’s not satisfying, go for a beautifully textured, richly fuzzy,

and full-length ball skirt added to the same pink top. You can also reverse the occasion with leather leggings and a shiny blouse. Done in One could not be any easier. Embrace a jumpsuit as your effortless dream attire if you want no fuss with a sophisticated fashion statement. Wide-leg pants will add movement to your dance steps. Off the shoulder styled top in a silver shimmer jumpsuit is so easy to accessorize. From all the available options, my favorites are metallic shoes, chunky statement necklaces, shiny belts, and sparkly clutchs. Can you see that magnificent woman entering the room? It’s you! Date Night. Mini or midi, it’s your preference, but the one sparkly dress is always an easy choice in a style that is the most flattering for your body type: Pick an A-line for pear shape, wrap style for apple shape, and any design for the hourglass figure. This season pastel colors are a huge trend. We have the delightful lavender, sweet pink, charming mint, captivating blue, and many more to choose from. A Glamorous Affair needs lots of glitz and glam. Your gown should twinkle top to bottom, it should exclusively emphasize every move you make. For additional drama, besides gorgeous jewels, try adding a spectacular fur stole, sensually hugging your shoulders in gentle and chic embrace. Just so someone could whisper in your ear – would you dance with me? Megan Simons is owner of Pippa Pelure, a fine fashion boutique in downtown St. Petersburg, FL. Contact her at pippapelure@tampabay.rr.com.

November/December 2021

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Old Florida can still be found.

Built in 1935, what was once a small set of army barracks in the sand would later become homes to many local Floridians before eventually becoming a vacation destination. As the years turned to decades the property ebbed and flowed like the gulf tides with every new owner. Each leaving their mark, eventually creating what is now Bungalow Beach Resort, possibly the most unique, boutique cottage experience on Anna Maria Island.

800.779.3601

BungalowBeach.com

Want to see more? Follow us at bungalowbeachresort

JENNIFER THAYER BEST REALTOR

WORK WITH THE BEST! 2020 Best Of The Bay - Creative Loaﬁng Over $198 million in sales since Jan 2019 Over $116 million in sales YTD 2021 Top 1% Pinellas County Agents #1 Agent In Downtown St. Petersburg Ranked #34 in the State of Florida *Stellar MLS total sales

Jennifer Thayer, PA Keller Williams Realty St. Pete Cell: 727-729-2699

ARTS & CULTURE

‘I Am Standing Where I Need to Be’ American Stage Ushers in a New Season, New Era With Producing Artistic Director Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj BY CINDY STOVALL When it became clear, after six remarkable seasons, that Stephanie Gularte would depart her position at American Stage as producing artistic director due to a diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa, the search for her replacement began in earnest. And the bar was set pretty high – high enough to merit an eight-month search. With unanimous and enthusiastic approval from the board, the staff and Gularte herself, American Stage Theatre Company ended the lengthy search this past summer and new producing artistic director Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj. His award-winning career as a playwright, director, producer, and activist has been well documented and nationally recognized (www.rajendramaharaj.com). Most recently, Maharaj was a finalist for the highly prestigious Eugene O’Neill Play Conference, for his play “I Don’t Have a Gun, Stop Shooting.” He came to us directly off a gig as assistant director for a production of Terence Blanchard’s “Fire Shut Up in My Bones,” at the iconic Metropolitan Opera House.

So, the choice from American Stage’s perspective, was made. But with such a groundbreaking resumé, and positions in larger markets, why did Maharaj choose US? “You know,” he explains, “I am at a point in my journey as an administrator and as an artist that I carefully curate where I want to be and where I think I can be the most useful. I know that I am standing where I need to be.” “As I contemplate being in this role for our sapphire 45th year, I fully appreciate the sacriﬁce and vision of my predecessors that got us to this point. So, I honor them as I move forward on my own path.” Vision for the Future Maharaj has the distinction of being the ﬁrst BIPOC (Black, Indigenous People of Color) artist at the helm of American Stage. “I feel very humbled,” he says. “When I sit in the chair, I come as one, but as Dr. Maya Angelou said, I represent 10 to the 10th power.”

“It was a dream come true,” Maharaj begins, “because in the 130-plus year history of the Met, they had never done an African American opera from a living composer/lyricist/directing team. To know that we were a part of history that will allow a new generation of these artists to have it just a bit easier because we opened that door – well, I imagine it’s a feeling that an artist like Sidney Poitier must have had.”

I asked Maharaj how his personal history as artist and activist will inform his vision for American Stage going forward. “I grew up, as all of us, beneﬁtting from the civil rights movement in this country. I knew that the arts played such an important role for artists like Sidney Poitier, Diane Carroll, James Baldwin, Lorraine Hansberry, and Harry Belafonte – one of my personal heroes. And so, to be able to continue that legacy in my generation, to see the empty space as an opportunity for us to gather, to be awakened, challenged, and uplifted, to know that we are better because we have artists who have points of view, though they may not be your point of view, allows us to have the opportunity to grow.”

It became clear through our interview, that Rajendra Maharaj will bring the same inspired vision, a quest to broaden inclusion in content, expanding audience accessibility in the process, to his role at American Stage.

“I think as we come back to the theater and after everything our nation has been through, theater really reﬂects the times and the country. It behooves us to be able to see the activism and the art kind of marry— to be bold in our choices.”

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ARTS & CULTURE Bold indeed. At the time of this interview, Maharaj had been on the job a mere 10 days. But already, he is making his mark and has hit the ground running. ”It’s been a whirlwind, you know,” he chuckles. “I’m learning a lot – I’m growing a lot. I think we’re on the precipice of something so much bigger than we can even imagine. Coming out of the pandemic and the Black Lives Matters movement, people are hungry to come to the theater – to be enlightened, to be challenged and to be entertained. American Stage will provide that, absolutely.” Reﬂecting on America Already, in those 10 days, Maharaj’s leadership impact is felt. He has personally selected two of the productions that will be a part of the 2021-22 “For the Love of Theater” season: “The Odd Couple,” which opened October 27, and Amiri Baraka’s “Dutchman,” a political parable depicting race relations during the 1960’s, will be the season ﬁnale. Maharaj explains his choice of the Neil Simon classic which has a twist from the original. “In the play, Simon refers to present-day New York. Well, in presentday New York, people are living in pods, and the population is even more diverse,” he says. “So, we have an opportunity now to go a

little further by our casting – to show the true America. I want to, without changing a line, uplift the original values, but put it in a new context, so that a person of color can see themselves reflected in this production in a way they might not have before.” “That’s the legacy of great theater – that it speaks, not only to the past, but to the present and reflects the evolving values of today,” Maharaj continued. “Hopefully that evolution brings us to a better, more diverse, more equal, more inclusive world. After all, the name American Stage is not lost on me. I want our programming, our artists, our community, our board and our administration to be able to say that we reflect America!” “Dutchman” will be the first Amiri Baraka play performed in St. Petersburg. “I think it’s a great example of bringing together race, faith and the world we live in. It’s important because American Stage has and will continue to embrace a vision that explores new classics and new playwrights – those that represent different communities.” Maharaj summed up his perspective on life and art with a story: “I spent some time in New Orleans, and when I was down there, one of the folks I met was this amazing old woman. She was an African American chef. She marched with Dr. King. She marched with Malcolm X. She said to me, ‘You know, life is gumbo. Everyone adds a new thing and it all tastes good in the end … but you gotta keep stirring.”

Coming Up “The Odd Couple” is a contemporary, multicultural interpretation of the beloved story of two mis-matched roommates, directed by Adam Mace. The Neil Simon comedy is set in the summer of 2021 in New York City. Audience members are invited to join Producing Artistic Director Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj directly following performances on Nov. 4, Nov. 11 and Nov. 18 for Beyond the Footlights: Talkback for a conversation reﬂecting on the themes, connections and ideas that we share. Guest panelists with relevant voices have been invited to join in. 2021-22 American Stage Season The Odd Couple – through Nov. 21 Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol - Dec. 8-Jan. 2 21 Century Voice Play Festival – Jan. 7-9 and Jan. 14-16 School Girls – Or the African Mean Girls Play – Feb. 2-27 Footloose the Musical – American Stage in the Park – April 6- May 8 Staying Safe American Stage is asking all patrons to follow COVID protocols for the 2021-22 season which include wearing masks at all times while indoors. Reduced capacity audiences and spaced seating are in eﬀect. Visit the web site for complete details. www.americanstage.org

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SPL HEALTH

How to Manage Holiday Stress Set a holiday budget in advance: Many clients created unnecessary anxiety by exceeding his/her holiday spending budget. Scale back and remind yourself what truly matters most is not the perfect gift, but spending time with the people that we love the most. Set a realistic spending limit.

Over the years, I’ve been blessed to have shared fond family memories of the holidays. Growing up, one of my most favorite memories was my dad dressing up like Santa each Christmas Eve. Many of us can recall favorite memories created with family and friends. With family gatherings, gifts, holiday parties, and traveling, holidays can be a very stressful time for many and even more stressful for those struggling with anxiety or those who’ve experienced loss. Here are some tips to optimize your emotional well-being and lessen the holiday stress, expectations, and pressures we often place on ourselves: Set realistic expectations: No holiday event is perfect! When we create unnecessary pressure on ourselves to make sure that everything is perfectly executed, we become more stressed, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Often perfection creates unnecessary anxiety. Lighten the load on yourself by asking others to help. Use an anchor technique such as “It’s ok if it’s not perfect, what matters most is being surrounded by the people I value.” Don’t let perfection get in the way of enjoying your holiday season! Take time for yourself: Self -Care is NOT optional, it’s a necessity. Make sure you are keeping a regular sleeping, eating, and exercising routine or schedule . Others beneﬁt when you feel less stressed. Take a brain break. Create a “joy“ list of activities that you enjoy the most like walking in nature, watching a holiday movie, catching the sunset, getting a message, planning an outdoor activity like golf or tennis, or arranging a casual get-together with friends. Self care is a gift that you can and should give to yourself.

Be fully present: Research shows that people remember experiences over things. Being present in the moment and spending quality time with the people who matter the most to you is way more meaningful than presenting the perfect meal or gift. Set an intention to be in the present moment this holiday season. Take a few minutes to take notice and observe the smells, sights, and sounds of the season. Don’t overcommit: Too many commitments can cause anxiety. Being able to say no allows you to free up your time to truly commit to the things that matter the most to you. Simply say, “While I appreciate the oﬀer, I just can’t this year.” Resist the urge to overexplain. No explanation needed. Get support: If you are feeling lonely, anxious or depressed during the holidays, please know that we are here to help you. Please contact McNulty Counseling and Wellness at 727-344-9867 (St. Petersburg location ) or 813-444-4427 (Tampa Location) Wishing you Wellness and a Happy Holiday Season! Carolyn McNulty, LMHC, GAL

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Ideally situated in boater’s the home heart of the OldIdeally Northeast, this stunning 3/2 3/2 A rare opportunity to purchase a true on the Grand situated in the heart of the Old Northeast, this stunning home combines the functionality of a modern home classic style Canal. With rebuilt covered dock and oversized pool, this one is home combines the functionalitywith of a modern home with classic style and architecture perfect for your waterfront lifestyle. so revered in this neighborhood. and architecture so revered in this neighborhood. 2 Blocks to the water, 3 Bedrooms, giant porch, huge bonus spaces. 4 blocks $1,350,000to downtown. 2 Blocks to the water, 4 blocks to downtown. $975,000 $975,000

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This Monte Cristo iconextraordinary offers perhaps the best viewswater on the islandview from Enjoy this your 3000 sqft in the Enjoy this extraordinary water view fromhome your 3000 sqft home in the from three levels of unparalleled living. Enjoy theand open Gulfwalk over the to thesky sky above Vinoy Park, museums, parks, above Vinoy Park, andrestaurants, walk to the museums, restaurants, parks, top of Pass-a-Grille and stunning nighttime views.St. Pete has to offer. and all that downtown and all that downtown St. Pete has to offer. $2,495,000 Thisbeds, home went 2.5 under contract on day one. 3 Baths, private elevator lobby. 3 beds, 2.5 Baths, private elevator lobby. $2,750,000 $2,750,000

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ARTS & CULTURE

Chamber Players are Back

Classical chamber music fans will be happy to know that the Palladium Chamber Players are back in action. Founded by Jeﬀrey Multer, artistic director and concertmaster of The Florida Orchestra, the Palladium Chamber Players series has been bringing world-class chamber music to the Hough Hall stage since 2013. Performances are at 50 percent capacity with general admission $35. All concerts are at 7:30pm: Dec. 8 – Mile-End Trio plays Schubert and Arensky Jan. 9 – Mile-End Trio with guest violist Derek Mosloﬀ March 16 – Juilliard String Quartet March 22 – The Original Palladium Chamber Players April 6 – The Chamber Players with guests Natalie Hoe, clarinet, and Jessica Guideri, violin May 4 – Edward Arron and Jeewon Park in Recital Visit mypalladium.org for tickets and more information.

Keep History Alive

Documenting history is a mission of the Florida Holocaust Museum and the new exhibit Dimensions in Testimony takes great strides in this direction. Pre-ﬁlmed videos allow museum goers to ask questions of survivors of the Holocaust, prompting real-time responses as if they are in the room with you. The new high-tech exhibit is part of a pioneering project of the USC Shoah Foundation to document eye witnesses and integrates advanced ﬁlming techniques, specialized display technologies and next generation natural language processing. For a sneak peek, check out the Leslie Stahl interview on 60 Minutes from April 5, 2020, on YouTube. For museum and exhibit information, go to thefhm.org SM

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Jerry Uelsmann, Leaf Over Water (detail), 1977, Gelatin silver print, Extended loan from Collection of Carol A. Upham

ARTS & CULTURE

Rush to the Opera

St. Pete Opera has announced a new last-minute Student Rush program for Mainstage Operas at the Palladium. Students with current ID are eligible for $10 tickets at the Palladium box office 30 minutes prior to each Mainstage opera on a first-come first-serve basis. Limit one ticket per student, based on availability. Mark your calendars for Semele (Feb. 4-8) and La Fille du Regiment (June 3-7). Go to stpeteopra.org

Beukes Atelier Opens Dr. MLK Jr. Street North is becoming quite the hip haven and even has its own name — the Uptown Arts District. Joining Leslie Curran’s Articles Art Gallery and MIZE Gallery is renowned artist Bekky Beukes who opened Beukes Atelier, 511 Dr. MLK Jr. Street North, in late September.

ArtJones Returns

ArtJones, Gulfport’s annual open art studio tour, has announced the roster of ﬁne artists for the two-day event on December 4-5. It’s the ﬁfth year and largest tour to date featuring 30 artists, which includes four emerging artists and the group’s inaugural ArtJones Scholarship Award winner. The self-guided tour allows visitors an intimate look inside the working studios of Gulfport’s arts community. The artists will spread throughout 12 studios in an event easily navigated by car, bicycle or on foot. We highly recommend incorporating a visit to Gulfport’s diverse array of restaurants and bars, if time allows.

African Twins by ArtJones Scholarship Winner Michele Ingram

ArtJones, an independent artist-run collective, is invitation-only and spearheaded by Gulfport artist and gallery owner Brenda McMahon. “As we celebrate our ﬁfth year, we are thrilled to unveil both our emerging artist program and a new scholarship to give a platform to underserved voices in our arts community,” she said. Hours are 10 am to 5 pm Saturday and 11 am to 4 pm Sunday; for a list of artists and a map to participating studios, go to artjonesstudiotour.com and check Facebook and Instagram for updates.

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Simply Escape Awhile

Announcing the new season at the always surprising FreeFall Theatre made us a bit nostalgic – the outdoor productions during pandemic madness were just too much fun. Nonetheless, the upcoming season has moved back indoors with six mainstage shows and promises not to disappoint. Dames at Sea – Oct. 22- Nov 21 The Night Before – Dec. 3-24 Fatboy – Jan. 28-Feb. 27 Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill – March 25-April 24 A Skeptic and a Bruja – May 20-June 19 With a ﬁnal production TBA. FreeFall Theatre opened the season with the singing and dancing For descriptions of each production and to purchase tickets, go to freefalltheatre.com. musical Dames At Sea. It continues through Nov. 21.

Creative Pinellas

Creative Pinellas presents their Arts Annual fundraiser November 13-14 at the Gallery at Creative Pinellas, 12211 Walsingham Road in Largo. Enjoy live music and dance, live painting, performance art and literary presentations. More than 100 artworks created by over two dozen Pinellas artists will be on display and available for purchase. Hours are 1 to 4 pm Saturday and Sunday, with a special Evening of the Arts from 5 to 8 pm Saturday. Tickets are $10 single event, $25 weekend pass. Learn more at ArtsAnnual.org.

Continuing through Dec. 20, Creative Pinellas is bringing work by leading Pinellas County artists to hotels around Pinellas County. Beyond the Walls, a project spearheaded by SPL arts writer Cindy Stovall, features seven artists with individual exhibits at the Belleview Inn, the Birchwood and Teak, Sheraton Sand Key Resort, Hyatt Place downtown St. Pete, the Fenway Hotel in Dunedin, Sandpearl Resort and Springhill Suites in Clearwater Beach. Be sure to stop by and tell them SPL sent you.

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SPL LIVING

Holiday Entertaining When guests arrive for a New Year’s Eve get-together, will you be ready? After a month of big holiday dinners, New Year’s Eve can be a relief by serving light appetizers that don’t require endless hours of cooking and baking. Simply plan your menu around healthy ﬁnger foods and desserts, and offer guests plenty of sparkling drinks and non-alcoholic beverages. These appetizers and cocktails are courtesy of Desiree Noisette of Mermosa Wines. She enlisted celebrity mixologist Melody Maria of Wine on Wheels to curate the cocktail using her sparkling wine Mersecco, and Chef Melanie Cuartelon from Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa created the apps.

Happy New Year

Mersecco 24K Gold Sparkler 5 oz Limoncello (or lemonade) 5oz ginger liqueur (or ginger simple syrup) 4-5oz Mersecco Garnish: Sparkler-style cocktail pick Popcorn (any ﬂavor) Pour the Limoncello and ginger liqueur into an old-style coupe glass and top with Mersecco. Carefully slide 4-5 pieces of popcorn onto the pick and rest over the rim of the glass. Cheers!

Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites 3/4 cup cream cheese (do not use the light cream cheese) 2 tbsp Greek yogurt Zest from 1 lemon 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1 tbsp minced fresh dill 1 garlic clove, grated or minced Pinch of sea salt 2 cucumbers - you can slice these or use a microplane for long strips (as pictured) 5 oz smoked salmon Freshly ground pepper Whip cream cheese through sea salt with a mixer until whipped. Transfer to a piping bag ﬁtted with a star attachment (OR use a plastic bag and cut off the tip if you don’t care about fancy). Put cucumber slices on serving tray (or curl up your cucumber strips to form mini cups). Place salmon and piped cream cheese on top and garnish with a little more of the fresh dill and cracked pepper.

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November/December 2021

SPL LIVING Cranberry Brie Bites PHOTO/BRUGAL 1888

1 can crescent dough (in a sheet) Brie - cut into 1 inch cubes (you’ll need 12) Whole berry cranberry sauce Rosemary or thyme Toasted pistachios (shelled) Honey (optional but delicious) Cut the pastry sheet into 12 even squares. Place into a lightly greased mufﬁn tin. Top with brie cubes, 1-2 teaspoons whole berry cranberry sauce, and your fresh herbs. Bake at 375 degrees for about 12 minutes, until pastry is golden brown. Top with chopped pistachios and optional drizzle of honey. Who can resist a juicy red strawberry dipped in chocolate, especially when they are dressed up in mini tuxedos. These Tuxedo Strawberries are perfect for a holiday party and fun to make. Be sure to use the best quality dark chocolate you can afford, semisweet or darker. Select a white chocolate with high cocoa butter content for ease of dipping. Large strawberries with fresh, bright green stems are a must. Tuxedo Strawberries 24-30 strawberries, fresh 6 oz white chocolate 8 ounces dark chocolate Wash and dry the berries completely, do not remove stems. Melt chocolate either in a double boiler or the microwave. For microwave, melt in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until all pieces are melted. Dip the strawberries completely ﬁrst in melted white chocolate, let them dry a few minutes, then dip them again a couple times, at opposing angles, in melted dark chocolate to create the jacket. Hold onto the stem or the shoulders as you dip.

For a specialty rum cocktail that’s not shy, try this festive offering from Brugal 1888. It’s a unique mix of premium rum produced in the Dominican Republic, combined with corn liqueur, lime juice, cilantro syrup and egg white. Brugality 1.5 oz Brugal 1888 1/2 oz Nixta Corn Liqueur 3/4 oz lime juice 1/2 oz cilantro syrup* 1 egg white

Use a piping bag or a tiny cut-off corner of a zip lock bag stuffed with the melted chocolate to add the bow tie and buttons. You can also try a toothpick or chopstick. Place on a piece of wax paper and let dry for 10-15 minutes, until hardened.

Spoon of Amaro di Angostura bitters Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds. Double strain using a Hawthorne and mesh strainers into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with red pepper ﬂakes.

Chill the berries for at least 20 minutes to help the chocolate set. They taste best when served closer to room temperature. To store, line an air-tight container with wax paper and place the berries in a single layer. Cover with another layer of wax paper and store in a cool spot, preferable not the refrigerator.

*Steep 20 sprigs of cilantro in 32 oz. of water and 32 oz. of sugar over medium heat for 10 minutes. Separate cilantro, cool and store liquid in a refrigerator up to 7 days.

Recipe and photo from simplyrecipes.com /Image: Elise Bauer

November/December 2021

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SPL LIVING

Everybody Loves Brunch Plan now to impress your guests with a casual yet festive holiday brunch.

Ricotta Puff Pastries with Strawberry Compote Recipe adapted from Milk Means More 2 sheets puff pastry 1/2 cup, plus 1 tablespoon, heavy cream 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided 1 tbsp ground cinnamon 1 tbsp water 1 package fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced 1/2 cup part-skim or whole milk ricotta cheese 1/4 cup powdered sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Heat oven to 400 F. Cut both puff pastry sheets into nine squares. Make slit in corner of each square toward middle of pastry. Fold corners to other corners to create pinwheel shape. Brush pastry with 1 tablespoon heavy cream. Combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and ground cinnamon then sprinkle on each puff pastry.

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November/December 2021

Bake 12-15 minutes until pastry is golden brown and raised. Strawberry Compote: In medium saucepan on medium to high heat, pour in remaining granulated sugar and water. Once sugar is dissolved, pour in fresh strawberries. Bring mixture to boil then simmer 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until strawberries are broken apart and sauce is semi-thick. Let chill in refrigerator 2 hours. In medium bowl, using mixer, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside. In separate medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until ﬂuffy. Return whipped cream to ricotta mixture and whip 1-2 minutes until mixture is light and ﬂuffy. Spoon ricotta cream into center of each puff pastry pinwheel. Spoon strawberry compote in middle of ricotta mixture.

SPL LIVING

Prepare this amazing French toast casserole the night before your brunch. Then pop in the oven to bake in the morning to serve it warm and gooey.

It’s hard to beat a fresh, oven-baked breakfast to start the day, especially one loaded with sausage and eggs complemented by the sweetness of diced apples and maple syrup.

Overnight Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Nonstick cooking spray 1 package (20 oz) French bread, cubed, divided 1 can (20 oz) apple pie ﬁlling 9 eggs 1 cup half-and-half 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 cup powdered sugar, plus additional (optional) 2 tablespoons milk, plus additional (optional)

Maple Breakfast Braid 1 package (16 ounces) breakfast sausage ¼ cup maple syrup 2 eggs, beaten ½ cup green onions, sliced 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced 1 ½ cups dry herb stufﬁng mix 1package (17 1/4 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed 2 egg whites 1 teaspoon water

Spray 8-by-8-inch glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Heat oven to 400 F.

In baking dish, add half of cubed French bread in bottom of dish. Pour apple ﬁlling over bread. Top with remaining cubed French bread. Set aside. In medium bowl, whisk eggs, half-and-half and cinnamon. Pour evenly over bread. Cover with aluminum foil and chill overnight. In the morning, heat oven to 325 F. Remove foil and bake 50-60 minutes. Let cool 10-15 minutes. In small bowl, whisk powdered sugar and milk. Add additional, if needed, until pourable glaze is reached. Drizzle over casserole before serving. Servings: 12

In large bowl, combine sausage, syrup, beaten eggs, green onions, diced apples and stuffing mix. Dust surface with flour; roll out pastry sheet to 12-by-18-inch rectangle. Transfer pastry to large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon half of sausage mixture down center of pastry. Make 3-inch cuts down sides of pastry. Fold one strip at a time, alternating sides. Fold both ends to seal in filling. In bowl, beat egg whites and water; brush over pastry. Repeat steps for second pastry sheet. Bake 25-30 minutes, or until brown, rotating pans after baking 15 minutes.

A traditional drink that’s easy to make when entertaining, this version ditches the celery stick and complements the spicy beverage with cheese-ﬁlled perogies and bacon.

Wooden skewers 6 cheese-ﬁlled perogies, baked according to package directions 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy

Pierogi Bloody Mary 1 tsp red pepper sauce 1 bottle (64 oz) tomato juice 2 cups vodka 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tbsp lime juice Ice

In large pitcher, combine red pepper sauce, tomato juice, vodka, Worcestershire sauce and lime juice; stir well. In glasses, pour over ice. Using wooden skewer, garnish each Bloody Mary with a cheese-ﬁlled perogy and bacon slice.

All recipes from Culinary.net. For more recipes, including video instructions, visit Culinary.net. November/December 2021

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DINING OUT

Move Over Christmas, Wine Holidays Are Here BY WILL HOWARD Celebrate wine this season by recognizing some of these amazing national and international wine holidays. Most wine lovers won’t need any excuse to open a bottle, but with this list there is some help in picking the right one, or at least the right grape. International Merlot Day November 7 Merlot is most widely planted in France, especially Bordeaux. The blends from the right bank of Bordeaux are primarily merlot, the most planted varietal with about 56% of vines throughout all of Bordeaux. Merlot is also successfully grown around the world in countries such as Australia, Argentina, and America. My top merlots for Merlot Day are Napa Valley’s Pahlmeyer Merlot and Pomerol’s Chateau la Conseillante. Jayson Pahlmeyer planted his vineyards in Napa Valley in 1986. He called upon a renowned team, including Helen Turley and David Abreu, to put Pahlmeyer on the map. Pahlmeyer Merlot is an exceptional example of the quality of merlot that can be produced in California and stands amongst the top merlots in America. Chateau la Conseillante is situated in the heart of Pomerol on the right bank of Bordeaux. This region has been synonymous with merlot for centuries and produces some of the most prized wines in the world. Chateau la Conseillante is an absolute must have for Bordeaux lovers. International Tempranillo Day November 11 International Tempranillo Day will certainly be celebrated throughout the Iberian Peninsula. The grape is indigenous to Spain and has over 60 other names, such as Cencibel, Tinto del País, Tinta de Toro, and Tinto Fino. On November 11, grab one of your favorite Spanish reds and chances are you’ll be drinking tempranillo. One of my favorites is Granja Remelluri, Grand Reserva from Rioja Alavesa. Remelluri is home to the most beautiful and historical vineyard

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November/December 2021

sites in Rioja, and the wines display the nobility and ﬁnesse of Tempranillo in Spain. National Zinfandel Day November 17 National Zinfandel Day is celebrated in America to commemorate our country’s long history with zin. America’s oldest vines to still produce wine are gnarly old-vine zinfandel plantings located in Amador County, California, and date back to 1869. Not quite the oldest, but probably the coolest American old-vine zinfandel is from Martinelli’s Jackass Hill Vineyard. These vines were planted around 1890 and are incredibly steep with up to a 65 degree incline. It’s easy to see how they came up with the name for this vineyard. It takes a certain type of person to drive a tractor on that steep of a hillside. Beaujolais Nouveau Day November 18 Beaujolais Nouveau Day is a huge celebration for the release of Beaujolais Nouveau wines in southern Burgundy’s Beaujolais region. These wines are meant to be enjoyed as quickly as possible after their release. The wines are made from Burgundy’s other red varietal, gamay. This wine holiday is not celebrating the Crus of Beaujolais, such as Morgon, Fleurie, or Brouilly. Instead this is almost a harvest party because the wines are released within about three weeks from still being grapes on the vine. Look for the ubiquitous Georges DuBoeuf Beaujolais Nouveau this fall. Cabernet Franc Day December 4 Cabernet Franc Day is celebrated on December 4 in remembrance of the passing of Cardinal Richelieu, who is credited with bringing cabernet franc cuttings to the Loire Valley of southwestern France in the 17th century. Cabernet franc is a parent grape to cabernet sauvignon and is widely planted as the sole red varietal in many regions of Loire Valley to this day. The greatest cabernet franc producers in Loire Valley today include Bernard Baudry, Clos Rougeard, Yannick Amirault, and Charles Joguet. I recommend drinking any of their red wines on December 4, but Clos Rougeard is one of the most coveted producers of SaumurChampigny in Loire Valley. Look for Clos Rougeard, Le Clos, Saumur-Champigny Rouge to really celebrate Cabernet Franc. Will Howard is Sommelier at Rococo Steak in St. Petersburg, FL

Comfort and Joy Give Holiday Cheer When You Adopt - A - Manatee ®

1-800-432-JOIN (5646) savethemanatee.org Photo © David Schrichte

SPL EVENTS

On Stage Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater has a full schedule of entertainment leading into the holidays and beyond. For times and tickets, go to themahaffey.com or call the box office at (727) 308-5100.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

Café Tacvba with Special Guests Diamante Electrico– Friday, Nov. 12 QYK Guitar Pull – Sunday, Nov.14 Cirque Dreams Holidaze – Tuesday, Nov. 30 Champions Of Magic – Thursday and Friday, Dec. 2 & 3 Martina McBride: The Joy of Christmas Tour – Sunday, Dec. 5 Broadway Rocks The Who – Friday, Dec. 10 at 8pm Lewis Black: It Gets Better Every Day Tour – Friday, Dec. 17 The Family Blessing – Sunday, Dec. 19 Jonathan Antoine: ChristmasLand Live – Thursday, Dec. 23 State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine presents Cinderella – Sunday, Jan. 2 Tyler Henry: Hollywood Medium – Friday, Jan. 7 Ledisi Sings Nina – Wednesday, Jan. 12 The Doo Wop Project – Thursday, Jan. 13 PROUD Tina: The Ultimate Tribute to Tina Turner – Friday, Jan. 14 Erasure: The Neon Tour – Sunday, Jan. 16 Pink Martini featuring China Forbes – Tuesday, Jan. 18 The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston Starring Belinda Davids – Friday, Jan. 21

STYLISH + STATEMENT PIECES DOWNTOWN ST. PETE TAMPA BAY’S MOST AWARDED OPTICAL

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SPL EVENTS Returning for its 17th year to St. Petersburg’s waterfront, Festivals of Speed will take over Vinoy Park on Sunday, January 23, from 10:30 am to 4 pm. The event promises a colorful day of more than 200 exotic, luxury and classic cars, both vintage and contemporary, along with muscle cars, motorcycles, and collector’s vehicles of all makes and models. The event, which is presented by Bert Smith Porsche, is always a crowd pleaser, attracting enthusiasts and car clubs from across the Southeast. Visitors can experience automotive designs by Porsche, Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, Aston-Martin, BMW, Mercedes, McLaren and more. Awards are presented near the end of the afternoon in various categories. Space is still available for individuals to display. Advance tickets are available for $20 general admission, or $125 VIP, which includes an exclusive section featuring food, open bar with high-end spirits, and seating. Children 12 and under are free. Go to festivalsofspeed.com and click on St. Petersburg for more information.

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FURNITURE+LIGHTING+ACCENTS

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November/December 2021

SPL EVENTS

Gulp Coast Beer at the Pier Craft beer lovers, rejoice! The Florida Brewers Guild with support from Visit St. Pete Clearwater will be bringing the Gulp Coast Beer at the Pier Festival to St. Pete on Saturday, Nov. 13. The event, which will be located at the Pier’s Family Park (adjacent to the Bending Arc lawn) will allow for acres of open-air space for this socially distanced event. Participating Pinellas County breweries include Bayboro Brewing Co., Big Storm Brewing Co., Gulfport Brewery, Unreﬁned Brewing, Grand Central Brewhouse, Grindhaus Brew Lab, Anecdote Brewing Company, Cycle Brewing, Rapp Brewing Co., 3 Daughters Brewing, Pinellas Ale Works, If I Brewed the World, Southern Lights Brewing Company, Brighter Days Brewing Co.,

Mad Beach Brewing, Troubled Waters Brewing, SESH, 7venth Sun Brewery, Green Bench Brewing Co., Mastry’s Brewing Co., Flying Boat and more. In addition, guests will enjoy food vendors, live music, games and other activities such as “beer talk” sessions. Beer at the Pier is a 21+ event and admission will be in two sessions – afternoon and evening. Each session oﬀers three hours of unlimited sampling. The ﬁrst session will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. (12 p.m. early entrance for VIP) and the second session, from 6 to 9 p.m. (5 p.m. early entrance for VIP). Tickets for both sessions are available for $30/$35/$40 general admission and $55/$65/$75 VIP. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit beeratthepier.com.

Grand Prix Moves to February The Firestone Grand Prix will race around the streets of downtown St. Petersburg a little earlier next year. The annual event featuring the NTT IndyCar Series will now be held Feb. 25–27, 2022. It was previously scheduled for March 10–12. The change is to ensure a network television spot and guarantees the city will host the ﬁrst and opening event of the 2022 IndyCar season. “We appreciate our fans’ patience as we’ve all had to navigate the challenges of the last two years,” said Kim Green, co-owner and CEO of Green Savoree St. Petersburg, LLC, organizers of the race. “Having the paddock back open and the grandstands full again is going to be tremendous.” Tickets sales begin Nov. 17. Go to gpstpete.com for tickets and more information.

Impress Your Guests at Your Next Event

Custom built furniture for you. Half Page Ad Chef Holvin will go to your event and cook the Paella of your choice in front of your guests. You’ve never seen anything like this. We are the ﬁrst in the Tampa Bay area!!! Food and entertainment guarantee for the success of your event.

Call or Text: 727-282-4412 ChefHolvin@DaliPaella.com www.dalipaella.com

Paella Valenciana $16.00 per person Paella Marinera $25.00 per person

Timeless Design Quality Crafted & Hand Built Beautiful Hardwoods Repairs & Reﬁnishing

Put a bow on a custom Holiday Gift for that special loved one.

Joseph Furniture Co. LLC

820 26th Ave. North • St. Petersburg In Crescent Heights

404-432-4811

joe@josephfurniture.com • www.josephfurniture.com November/December 2021

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Holiday Gift Guide Whimsical host gift, sure to be remembered, available in fun pastels with a hint of shimmer. Hand-made locally and available in three heights, and a dozen color shades, call to order yours. $35-$60 each Joseph Furniture Company sales@josephfurniture.com St Petersburg, FL 404-432-4811

Asymmetrical Clock (Melon) by Diane Bragg, $125 Brenda McMahon Gallery 2901 Beach Boulevard South Gulfport 518-692-7742 www.brendamcmahongallery.com

Ladies Cartier Ballon Bleu 28mm Model W69010Z4, $3,200 Basel Time www.BaselTime.com

Holiday Massage Special

727.202.6006 • www.flfarmacy.com 2370 Dr. MLK St. N. Saint Petersburg, FL 33704

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November/December 2021

Custom pillows make great gifts! These 20x20, durable, washable pillows are indoor/outdoor and can also be customized with any color, city, and coordinate combo. Made in Florida, USA. $65. Tipsy Mermaid 105 1st St S St Petersburg, FL 33701 www.tipsymermaids.com

60 minute massage - Neuromuscular, Deep Tissue, Neonatal, etc. Limit 1 per person. Expires 1/31/2022 Florida’s Natural Farmacy Call or Text: 727-202-6006 www.ﬂfarmacy.com

Shop Local This Holiday Season

Chef Holvin will go to your event and cook the Paella of your choice in front of your guests. You’ve never seen anything like this. We are the ﬁrst in the Tampa Bay area!!! Food and entertainment guarantee for the success of your event. Paella Valenciana $16.00 per person Paella Marinera $25.00 per person Dali Paella Call or Text: 727-282-4412 ChefHolvin@DaliPaella.com www.dalipaella.com

Pure virgin wool throw is softly napped and the perfect size to curl up with on the sofa or toss in the car. Each one is still woven in our American mills and comes with a convenient leather carrier. 52” x 66” plus 3½” self-fringe, 100% virgin wool Sartorial Inc 400 Beach Drive NE Unit # 169 727-290-6783 www.sartorialinc.com

WOW!!! 6 months in the making...These exquisite, hand selected, GIA certiﬁed fancy colored diamonds were submitted to multiple of our designers right here in the USA. This necklace features 200 hand made pieces that were then put together to create and complete this unbelievable Juleve masterpiece! After waiting half a year, it has now arrived and available for viewing at Gold & Diamond Source in Clearwater, FL. Retail: $349,999 Gold and Diamond Source 3800 Ulmerton Road Clearwater, FL. 33762 www.GoldandDiamond.com 727-573-9351 Inquiries email: VIP@GoldandDiamond.com

Earrings- sterling silver, 14k, freshwater pearl and grenadilla wood from recycled clarinet. $175.00 ArtJones Open Studio Tour December 4 & 5 For more information go to www.artjonesstudiotour.com

November/December 2021

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

BuDhaGirl All Weather Bangles® are weightless, soundless, waterproof and TSA proof. Groups of 3 - 9 in various colors. Handcrafted in Thailand - each is a labor of love. $80 to $125. z•aa dress up studio 727-605-0450 Available online at www.zaastyle.com 578 1st Ave N. St Pete 33701

3ct Diamond Tennis Bracelet Enjoy this handcrafted piece of jewelry to match and exceed your expectations $2,599 Gold & Diamond Center 222 37th Ave. N St. Petersburg 727-896-3000 www.goldanddiamondstpete.com

Wild Nature Jar: Sunrise” by Brenda McMahon, $265 Brenda McMahon Gallery 2901 Beach Boulevard South Gulfport 518-692-7742 www.brendamcmahongallery.com

THE MFA HANDBOOK OF THE COLLECTION FEATURING MORE THAN 200 WORKS OF ART Available for purchase or with membership packages.

Purchase the Handbook or a Deluxe Membership package that includes 12 months of membership + the Handbook. Pricing: From $45 Museum of Fine Arts Learn more: https://mfastpete.org/gift

All gift cards purchased over $20 will receive 1 free glass of champagne or house wine for the purchaser per visit. The Studio Call or Text: 727-873-6992 www.thestudiopublichouse.com

Feel Like A Queen - This beaded leather crossbody bag is richly embellished with glass beads and studs to give you the royal treatment every time you wear it. That and much more available at Pippa Pelure Boutique 500 Beach Dr Ne 727-623-0926

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November/December 2021

Gift Card $20

2950 Central Ave. St Pete 727.873.6992 • www.TheStudioPublicHouse.com

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813.638.0226

SPL LIVING

An Ode to Resurrecting 22 South Food Hall, Manhattan Casino PHOTO/ERNEST HOOPER

Editor’s note: Our creative columnist offered up this poetic verse after a recent visit to 22 South Food Hall. It’s open. It’s 22 South Food Hall, and it’s open inside the historic Manhattan Casino on 22nd Street. It’s open to satisfy hungry appetites. It’s open to feed Midtown’s community soul. It’s open to bring more life and love to “The Deuces.” It’s open with offerings from multiple restaurants, including Louie’s Italian Eatery, Harper’s Hamburgers, Betterway BBQ, and Irie Mon Jamaican cuisine. It’s open despite the original food hall concept going awry after the surprising death of lead partner and former Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Vincent Jackson. It’s open because a group of men and women couldn’t imagine another promising concept shuttering its effort at the Manhattan. It’s open because they wanted to turn their discussions at a larger political think tank into uplifting action.

It’s open because these would-be entrepreneurs, who dubbed themselves the Urban Collective, saw too much potential in the concept and too much promise in the area’s revitalization.

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November/December 2021

It’s open because as one of the Urban Collective members, Ella K. Coffee, said: “When you have a building built by a former slave, I think it’s worthy of us stepping in and saving it.” It’s open because Elder Jordan, Sr. didn’t just build a dance hall that would eventually host the likes of Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, he built opportunity, as St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman likes to say. It’s open for aspiring employees who want to learn more about the front house and back house of the restaurant business. It’s open for aspiring chefs who would like to someday transition to their own brick and mortar venue. It’s open for those who like their ribs with smoky flavor, and their baked beans on the sweet side. It’s open for a columnist who wants to bring home a tasty jerk chicken dinner to his significant other. Happy wife, happy life.

It’s open for people who like their burgers small in size and big in flavor. It’s open for foodies who like to stuff themselves with stuffed shells. It’s open for diners who like a clean and spacious indoor dining area.

SPL LIVING It’s open for folks who want to sit outside and take advantage of the cooler fall temperatures. It’s open for workers who want to wind down with a “Manhattan Margarita,” a “Southside Sunset” or a “Gypsy Sunrise.”

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

It’s open for supporters willing to accept this is still a work in progress. It’s open to hosting private events. It’s open to provide entertainment, such as periodic comedy nights, jazz events and reggae soirees. It’s open for a neighborhood that so deserves a successful dining/entertainment option. It’s open for a group that so deserves the support of the neighborhood. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. It’s 22 South Food Hall at 642 22nd St. S. And it’s open for you.

REDISCOVER GULFPORT

Chef Inspired Gastro Pub Dishes...Beers & Wines

God Save the Curry If you’re dreaming of the Chicken Tikki Masala or Balti Madras Curry from the now closed The Moon Under Water, wake up and smell the spice. Former Executive Chef Mike Crippin of the popular British restaurant on Beach Drive has opened The Studio Public House in a former recording studio in Grand Central District.

Half Page Ad

A broad menu of pub grub & more: • Piled-High Sandwiches • Creative Salads - including our awesome Curry Chicken Salad • Beer & Wine Selections

• Indian & British Faves - including Vindaloo, Bangers & Mash, Shepherds Pie • Kid’s Menu • Live Music on Weekends

Coming this Fall - British Style Fish & Chips

Just look for the colorful British bulldog mural on Central Avenue. There’s even a kid’s menu. Cheers, mate!

2950 Central Ave. St Pete 727.873.6992 www.TheStudioPublicHouse.com Follow us on social media

www.visitgulfportflorida.com | @visitgulfportfl Rediscover Gulfport Ad-SPL-4x5-April2021.indd 1

4/19/21 7:41 PM

Mention This Ad & Receive 1 Free House Wine Or Champagne with any Purchase Over $10! Expires December 31, 2021

November/December 2021

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SPL LIVING

Wreaths of Joy Nothing welcomes in a season more than a cheery, welcoming wreath on a front door. Stacy O’ Rourke, a crafter in St. Pete Beach, fulﬁlls wreath fantasies by creating one-ofa-kind custom wreaths guaranteed to make anyone smile. Her company, Amelia’s Wreaths of Joy, can be found on etsy.com. Prices average from $80 to $135.

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November/December 2021

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ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP:

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fr,riella & NiS-: Kraster t)qwn Bro'«r:1\ Daniela Soledade & Nate Najar iQ Jomes Buggs ( Toured Glenn tv'\iller'Orchestra) And More: Bor� & Sax Bourlesque Show Cory Van Valin (Magic Show)

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Official sponsor:

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INSURANCE

SPL LIVING

Volvo S90 ‘Recharge’ Powers Up Flagship Sedan S90 (RECHARGE T8) Wheelbase: 120.5 inches Length: 200.4 inches Suspension: double wishbone front, integral axle rear Steering: electric power rack and pinion Drive modes: AWD, eco, hybrid, individual, sporty Fuel capacity: 15.9 gallons Gas only: 30 mpg Electricity + gas: 60 MPGe Weight: 4,673 pounds Base price: $60,050 Price as tested: $70,640 Web site: www.volvo.com

BY NITISH S. RELE Pitched in 2017 to replace the S80, Volvo hit a home run with the more powerful and capable S90. Fun to throw through corners on even the most challenging roads, the midsize luxury sedan turns in 0 to 60 in a mere 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 112 mph. Reassuring brakes, solid steering feel and inspired handling ensure your safety in this all-wheel-drive and plug-in hybrid called Recharge. Under the hood a 2.0-liter inline-4 turbocharged and supercharged engine cranks out an enormous 400 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 472 pounds-feet of torque @ 5,400 rpm. A rear electric motor and a center-mounted 11.6 kWh lithium-ion battery can take the midsize luxury sedan nearly 21 miles before the 34 kW starter generator kicks in gas. The 8-speed auto gearbox operates with impeccable logic in any untoward situation. And the startstop feature (auto engine stop when the vehicle halts) ensures substantial savings in fuel. Up front, LED headlights and daytime running lights shaped like Thor’s hammer surround a revised silver-matte waterfall grille with a chrome frame. The centered, updated Volvo iron mark suggests a conﬁdent and athletic stance. Hidden exhaust tips along with a refreshed tail lamp design and trunk lid further enhance the overall appearance. The jet-like cabin provides eye candy, mainly the 12.3-inch instrument digital display of the rounded speedometer and tachometer, and fuel, temp and driver information center readings.

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November/December 2021

Volvo Sensus infotainment, with a distinct vertical 9-inch display touch screen, is essentially made up of four tiles: navigation, media, phone, and user-deﬁned. Activate one and watch it expand while keeping the other tiles visible for future use. Wood inlays on dashboard, center console and doors give the S90 an opulent feel. A plethora of lux and comfy accoutrements include power moon roof, leather-wrapped tilt/telescopic steering column, four-zone auto a/c, 10-way power heated and cooled front seats, and 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space. Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes, anti-whiplash front seats, pedestrian/cyclist/large animal detection, semi-autonomous driving called Pilot Assist, rear park assist and camera, side impact protection, dynamic stability and traction control, three-point safety belts with pretensioners for all, lane departure warning and driver alert control, City Safety (brakes automatically to help prevent a rear-end collision), tire pressure monitoring system, and daytime running lights are standard. Displaying remarkable agility and handling, and an appealing cabin bar none, the S90 is the perfect ﬂagship sedan for Volvo. Lest we forget, the Swedish carmaker’s much-touted and renowned safety features make this exciting ride a no-brainer. Nitish S. Rele, editor/publisher of Motoring Tampa Bay and Khaas Baat, is a former automotive editor/columnist for The Tampa Tribune. He can be reached at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

AWARDS CEREMONY PRESENTED BY

ARTS & CULTURE The 7th Shine Mural Festival, organized by the St. Pete Arts Alliance, took over the streets of downtown Oct. 15-24, resulting in 19 new murals. Local, regional and national artists, and a team of community volunteers, worked tirelessly (and creatively) to add to over 200 colorful wall paintings that have made St. Pete a true City of the Arts.

Aurailieus Artist / Zen Glass Studio / 600 27th St. S

Mwanel Pierre-Louis / Green Bench Brewing / 1100 1st Ave. N.

Photo/Edel Mohr

Emily Ding / Rob Graham Enterprise / 100 7th St. S

Woes Martin / New Dawn Coffee Co. / 2343 Emerson Ave. S

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November/December 2021

ARTS & CULTURE

Jason Harvin / Rick Noll Properties / 1211 1st Ave. N.

Jared Wright / Colony Grill / 670 Central Ave.

Jujmo / A-1 Recovery / 2221 5th Ave. S

Ricky Watts / The Factory St. Pete / 2622 Fairﬁeld Ave. S.

Case Maclaim / 2641 Central Ave. Condos

Photos by Jenee Priebe and Mark Rapien November/December 2021

StPeteLifeMag.com

SPL SCENE

Bayfront Health Mural Painting A mural dedicated to all health care workers who served on the COVID-19 frontlines was painted during the Shine Mural Festival by nearly 200 staﬀ and medical personnel from Bayfront Health, assisted by lead artist Leo Gomez./Photos by Bari Becker

Photo/Jimmy Fashner

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Call us today for a free quote. 813-748-8806• www.TampaBayJanitors.com

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November/December 2021

We at A&A’s Complete Janitorial, Inc., take our job very seriously. Cleaning is one of the most important parts of our lives and we take immense pride in taking care of your cleaning needs allowing us to provide you with the highest of quality services.

and furniture upholstery cleaning.

1. We are professional and experienced: We have over 10 years of experience and training in cleaning the toughest stains and dirt, correctly! We know how to treat sensitive materials with proper cleaning agents, keeping your home/office floors clean and hygienic throughout the year. We also specialize in flood extraction,

3. We use industry grade and eco-friendly cleaning supplies: We believe in supporting our environment and keeping safe those we love. Our products are biodegradable and safe. The cleaning detergents are carefully selected for every individual type of service. We make sure our solvents are safe for kids and pets alike.

2. We never compromise on quality of service: All ﬂoor cleaning services include state-of-the-art truck mounted steam cleaning, deodorizing, spot removal and furniture relocation.

SPL SCENE

Suenos de Dali

Photos by Erin Nutini Photography, courtesy of The Dali Museum

Photos by Erin Nutini Photography, courtesy of The Dali Mus

Dreamer Sponsor and guild member George Stovall showcases hand painted egg that auctioned oﬀ for $1,000 to support the fundraising event.

Guild Members Bob and Roxanna Fall with Dreamer Sponsor and Guild members Bob and Linda Pugliese.

Muse Sponsors Carlos and Beverly Yepes with guests.

Dali Museum Guild President and Dreamer Sponsor Lana Schutte-Tetzlaﬀ with husband Ray Tetzlaﬀ and guests.

Dali Museum Guild Members Philip Piser and Diane Shea-Piser dressed in inspired Lee Miller apparel.

Dali Museum Members Philip Piser and Diane Dali Museum Guild Members Butch and Maureen KolarGuild and John and Mary Shea-Piser dressed in inspired Lee Miller apparel. Stachnik

November/December 2021

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SPL SCENE

2021 Good ‘Burger Award Winners Every year the St. Petersburg Chamber allows the people to nominate and vote in the Good ‘Burger Awards. Thousands cast votes in various categories, nominating St. Pete residents, businesses large and small, organizations, cultural institutions, charities and non-proﬁts, and others who have proved their selﬂess commitment to making a positive impact in our community. The 2021 Good ‘Burger Awards were presented on Nov. 4 to the following: Arts & Culture: Imagine Museum Eats & Treats: Harvey’s 4th Street Grill Community Conscious: Grassroots: St. Petersburg Free Clinic Makers & Creators: Great Explorations Children’s Museum Pelican Personality: City of St. Petersburg Trailblazers & Change Agents: Southside Fresh Market Cool Companies: Small: St. Pete-Clearwater Intl Airport (PIE) Cool Companies: Large: Eckerd College New Biz on the Block: Grand Central Brewing Most Valuable Burger: Stan Arthur, Founder of I Love St. Pete

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The staff of St. Pete Life Magazine want to wish everyone a safe and happy

Holiday Season.

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November/December 2021

Newly Renovated!

Nov. 12, 2021 7pm - 10:30pm

VIP 6pm

Beneﬁting the Old McMicky’s Farm Foundation

Featuring The Stormbringer Band Iconic Rock N’ Roll Special Honored Guests and Ceremony Tampa Bay Recipients of the Purple Heart Medal Come out to a beautiful, completely renovated luxury barn set on a picturesque 40 acre lake. Enjoy craft beers, wine, seltzers, cider and distilled spirits with great entertainment, great food and friends. Do something new, different, and fun – and support a great cause.

Tickets and Details at www.OldMcMickys.com

SPL SCENE

Tampa Bay Food Fight The 5th Annual Tampa Bay Food Fight, pitting top chefs from St. Pete and Tampa, took place Sept. 28 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Event Center. Several hundred from both sides of the bay cheered on their teams, who were challenged with secret ingredients and judged by a panel of celebrity judges. The fundraiser for Metropolitan Ministries is used to fund student scholarships in the charity’s Culinary Arts Program. Mayors from both cities were on hand for the ﬁnal showdown, with the City of Tampa being named the winner.

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November/December 2021

SPL SCENE

Children’s Dream Fund On October 21, Red Mesa Events in St. Petersburg hosted a Havana Nights fundraising event in honor of Dana R. Veytia to beneﬁt Children’s Dream Fund.

November/December 2021

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Happy Holidays And Happy New

Year

FROM THE STROBEL DESIGN BUILD TEAM

before

trobel Design Build has received numerous awards for their home remodeling projects in the St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay areas. As a well-awarded State Certified Building and Remodeling Contractor, the team at Strobel Design Build use their hands-on process to ensure that each of their clients receives a customized approach to their specific remodeling project. This holiday season, gift yourself the luxury home remodel of your dreams with the Strobel Design Build team. Strobel Design Build works directly with their clients to make their dream home a reality. Specializing in sophisticated, luxury home remodeling projects, Strobel Design Build is able to provide award-winning remodeling solutions to all of their clients. From single-room renovations to entire house remodels, the team at Strobel Design Build works directly with their clients to provide the home renovations they have always dreamed of.

The Strobel Design Build team has over 40 years of experience building in the St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay area and is currently Tampa Bay’s most awarded design build firm. With multiple awards from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), Strobel Design Build has the experience and credentials necessary to complete the sophisticated luxury home remodeling projects that their clients dream of. Strobel Design Build’s secret to success lies in their process, which combines client involvement, continued education, and industry best practices for seamless design and remodeling projects. At Strobel Design Build, the designers provide concierge-level service, ensuring that once a project is finished their clients are left with the home remodel that they have always dreamed of. Be sure to treat yourself to the luxury home remodeling project you have always dreamed of this holiday season with help from the expert team at Strobel Design Build. Call or visit the Strobel Design Build website for more information.

Strobel Design Build Specializes In: • • • •

Additions Coastal Remodels Condo Renovations Designer Bathroom Remodels

• • • •

Designer Kitchen Remodels Historic Renovations Outdoor Spaces Universal Design

OUR Design Build PROCESS From architecture and design to contstruction, your ideas will come to life all under one roof.

DESIGN

BUILD

INITIAL CONSULTATION

before

SIGN CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT

SIGN DESIGN AGREEMENT OUR

PRE-PRODUCTION

Design Build

PROCESS

From architecture and design to contstruction, DESIGN PHASE CONSTRUCTION PHASE your ideas will come to life all under one roof.

DESIGN

BUILD

I N I T I A L C O N S U LTAT I O N

PRECISION ESTIMATING

SIGN CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT

SIGN DESIGN AGREEMENT

PRE-PRODUCTION

DESIGN PHASE

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

WARRANTY

Mark Zdrojewski

Strobel Design Build President Mark Zdrojewski

For a FREE consultation on your remodeling project, give us a call at (727) 201-3038 For a FREE consultation on your remodeling project, give us a call at (727) 201-3038 CBC 1257352 1257352 or visit visit our our website website www.S.StrobelDDeSignbbuilD..com •• CBC or P R E C I S I O N E S T I M AT I N G

WA R R A N T Y

www

trobel

eSign

uilD com

Strobel Design Build President