St. Pete Life Magazine, January/February 2025 by St. Pete Life Magazine

Rebuilding After The Storms

At King Contracting, we have 18 years of experience working in FEMA Flood Plains and stand ready to assist you if your home was damaged by the recent storms.

Planning for the Future

We are a Design-Build firm therefore we can help with any facet of home remodeling or custom building in flood areas as noted below:

• Remodel Existing Space - Although the 50% Rule seems complex (and it is), we can help you navigate through that if you plan to make repairs or perform regular remodeling tasks.

- We’ve helped dozens of homeowners in Pinellas County remodel in FEMA Flood zones for nearly two decades.

- The 50% Rule is not new and is no different now than it was before the storms.

• Building on top of your existing house so that the house becomes FEMA Complaint. Using existing exterior walls and reinforcing footers/walls at key locations, you can re-design your entire house floor plan and gain a huge storage/garage area! (And there are property tax savings vs new build if not increasing your SF area by more than 10%).

• Tear down and build a custom house so that the house becomes FEMA Complaint. No flood insurance (or minimal if mortgage co. requires it). Brand new, custom space, “fit and finish” exactly to your needs!

DEFINITIONS

• FEMA Compliant - 50% Rule does not apply but the use of waterproof materials are required for any portion of the structure that is located in the flood plain; those products must have a Florida Product Approval number.

• Flood Plain – any area that is below the Base Flood Elevation and is commonly notated in our area as A, AE, AH, AO, AR or A99. For coastal areas, they are designated as V or VE.

• Flood Zone – any area at risk from flooding, usually designated by Zones using letters A,B,C, D, V and X. Commonly known as Evacuation Zones.

• Base Flood Elevation (BFE) – an elevation determined by FEMA from years of data gathering and research. Basically, It is the number of feet above the Mean Highest High Tide for a given area.

• Flood Elevation Certificate will show the BFE for your property along with your actual floor elevations. Property surveyors provide this service, this is a musthave when building in a Flood Plain.

The house pictured in this ad was a tear down and new custom build in Venetian Isles; it survived the storms in great shape!

As a Design-Build entity, let us help you examine all the options and make decisions by focusing on facts, not social media myths and mis-directed comments!

Dazzling, Panoramic Views at Signature Place Penthouse NEW

Top floor Signature Place penthouse with 3 levels and magnificent views of Tampa Bay to the south and the Gulf of Mexico to the west. The main living space on the 1st level has 3 stories of windows that flood the room with natural light. An elevator connects all levels for a total of 5,270 square feet. Signature Place is known for its iconic style that looks like a sail mast and has been refreshed to its original splendor.

Stunning Water Views of Tampa Bay in the Old Southeast

NEW LISTING: 1519 Beach Drive SE, St Petersburg

This beautifully maintained 3 bed, 2.5 bath bungalow sits on a huge lot located just steps away from Lassing Park and minutes from downtown St Pete.

Offered at $1,400,000

Energy Efficient End unit townhome

1 Block from Beach Drive

106 Fareham Place N, Downtown St Pete

No HOA fees or Condo Association dues! Private 2 bed, 2.5 bath townhome with 1 car garage and enclosed backyard garden in a no flood zone.

Offered at $1,090,000 FOR SALE

Desirable Whispering Waters Community Located Adjacent to North Shore Park NEW LISTING: 1012 N Shore Drive NE, Downtown St Pete

Completely renovated first floor 1 bed, 1 bath lock-and-go condo with private garage and wrap-around screened-in porch offers easy, low maintenance living.

Offered at $499,000 FOR SALE

INSIDE

18 FIRESTONE GRAND PRIX: Roaring back to town.

22 PEOPLE: Lorielle J. Hollaway’s inspiring mission.

24 LISA UNGER: The bestselling author on her new book.

28 TOMBOLO BOOKS: St. Pete’s thriving local bookstore.

33 WOMEN IN BUSINESS: Our annual sponsored profiles.

44 BEYOND COASTAL: An artistic eye on home design.

56 WOMEN IN WINE: Local women making a big splash.

58 BLACK HISTORY: The Woodson’s reimagined mural.

70 EDITOR’S PICKS: Check out what we’ve got in store.

77 OUT & ABOUT: The dish on all things food and spirits.

On The Cover: The ladies of our annual Women In Business special advertising feature as photographed by Valerie Bogle, Flourish Photography.

From the Publisher

Happy New Year! With the turn of the calendar comes fresh beginnings and the chance to set new goals for the year ahead. We’re committed to continuing the high level of excellence we’ve achieved over the years while pushing ourselves to innovate, offering stories that matter most to our community with a healthy dose of fun and style!

You’ll also notice a bit of a design refresh. While we didn’t want a radical change, we found meaningful ways to update our look to better reﬂect the spirit of our community.

A significant change is a fond farewell and a warm welcome— Our long-time editor-in-chief, Marcia Biggs, has retired after many years as a trusted colleague and dedicated team member. We’ll miss her creativity, sense of humor and collaborative spirit. Fortunately, Marcia will continue to contribute her writing to SPL. Stepping into her role is Nick Steele, who has been a contributor for several years. Nick brings a wealth of editorial experience and an enthusiastic passion for our community. I am confident the magazine is in great hands under his leadership.

This issue also includes our annual Women in Business special advertising feature, celebrating a group of women who contribute to the city’s entrepreneurial spirit and overall well-being. While not an exhaustive list, it reﬂects the pioneering spirit of so many other women across the region who make St. Pete so special.

We’re energized for the future and excited to strengthen our relationship with the community, create meaningful new connections and find even more opportunities to engage with you this year!

Beth Ann Drake Publisher bdrake@stpetelifemag.com

Nick Steele Editor-In-Chief editor@stpetelifemag.com

PUBLISHER/CEO

Beth Ann Drake

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Nick Steele

ART DIRECTOR

Alicia Brown

ADVERTISING

Ed Barry

Ad Director / Photographer

Betsy Phillips

Senior Account Executive

Debbie Radsick

Account Executive

CONTRIBUTORS

Anne Zimmerman Briand

Pam Coyle / Rui Farias

Sean Goodrich / Ernest Hooper

Dr. Michael A. Malone / Nitish S. Rele

CO-FOUNDER/BUSINESS MANAGER

Ralph Zuckerman

Want SPL delivered directly to your home or office?

260 1st Avenue S. Suite 200-151

St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Advertising: 813.447.9900

bdrake@stpetelifemag.com

Editorial: editor@stpetelifemag.com

5,657 sqft, dock, slip, lift quick Gulf access, high and dry.

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2 waterside bedrooms plus an office, great amenities.

This home features high ceilings and open spaces in a highly-livable floor plan, all in an outstanding location.

2655 sqft, great outdoor space w/large yard and pool.

Large, deep water boat slip, pool, garage.

$889,000

Perfectly positioned along sought-after Grand Canal in Tierra Verde, this Pine Key townhome-style condo will not fail to delight. A rare top-floor, single-level penthouse that lives like a single family home, featuring 2295 sqft, nightly sunsets, and wide canal views. This high-and-dry one-of-a-kind Tierra Verde pool home has gorgeous water views and direct access to Port32 Marina.

Large boat slip with 20,000 lb lift, quick Gulf access. 2 master suites, plus extra bedroom, office, high and dry.

$1,395,000

$999,000

Mathias, Andrew

The Advantage of a Conﬁdent SMILE!

Confidence and creditability are critical in building professional and personal relationships. Surprisingly, one often-overlooked tooth that enhances both is a vibrant confident smile. Smile Rejuvenation, backed by advanced dental artistry, offers a powerful way for you to enhance your confidence and professional presence.

What is Smile Rejuvenation?

At the office of Roberto Macedo DDS MS PhD, a smile rejuvenation is a personalized, transformative process offered by a true specialist, a smile designer, a master prosthodontist. It involves a combination of procedures tailored to enhance your smiles aesthetics and functionality. Unlike the one-size-fit-all approaches of the past, modern smile rejuvenation is about creating a natural, harmonious smile that reﬂects your personality and goals.

Choosing the Right Smile Designer.

Partnering with a skilled professional is key to achieving results that align with your goals. Dr. Roberto Macedo, with his expertise in prosthodontics and smile design has transformed countless smiles. With an inoffice laboratory and master ceramist on site the process is streamlined, no need to wait for external fabrication of dental work. His personalized approach and collaboration with a master ceramist ensures every detail of your smile design aligns with your facial structure, preferences, and goals. Every smile not only enhances beauty but also supports functionality, giving his patients the tools they need to thrive in their personal and professional journeys. If you are ready to invest in yourself and your success, the journey starts with a smile! Please call our office at 727-345-2064 for a consultation.

“I am very happy with my big new smile!” - Sue

“Dr. Macedo is a perfectionist who enjoys his work.” - Lisa

Right On Course

The highly anticipated St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show is set to return to the downtown waterfront from January 16th to the 19th, bringing with it an exciting array of vessels, boating innovations and family-friendly activities.

By Nick Steele

After a challenging year marked by the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, this year’s event offers more than just a celebration of boating—it’s also a moment of healing and community support. The show’s organizers are committed to giving back, and a portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit Feeding Tampa Bay, an organization that’s been on the front lines, helping local communities recover. In collaboration with Tampa Bay area Emergency Operations Centers, Feeding Tampa Bay has been providing essential food, water, and hygiene items to those in need, and the boat show will serve as a key fundraiser to support these ongoing efforts.

Presented by Progressive, the show will be hosted at three iconic locations in the heart of downtown: the Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater, the Yacht Basin, and Albert Whitted Park. As the Gulf Coast’s largest boat show, it will feature an impressive lineup of everything from luxury yachts to sleek powerboats and sailboats.

One of the highlights of the show will be Hook the Future, a free fishing clinic for children presented by Captain Don Dingman. This fun and educational event will take place at 12 pm and 2 pm on Saturday, January 18th and Sunday, January 19th, offering kids ages 4-16 the chance to learn the basics of fishing in a hands-on, outdoor setting. Every child who attends will receive a complimentary fishing pole, giving them the tools to start their own fishing adventures.

You can also enjoy complimentary seminars on cruising, sailing and other marine-related topics from industry professionals like Kris Self and the ladies from Women Who Sail Tampa Bay.

Boating enthusiasts will also have the chance to explore exhibits showcasing the latest in marine technology and products. From state-of-the-art electronics and gear to sustainable boating solutions, the show offers an incredible opportunity to discover the newest innovations that are shaping the future of boating.

General admission is $22 for adults, while children 15 and under can attend for free. Veterans and active-duty military can enjoy complimentary tickets with proof of service at the door. The show runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on January 16-18, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on January 19. Tickets are available online only at stpeteboatshow.com

The Gold & Diamond Center is a family owned and operated one-stop shop for all of your jewelry & watch needs. From custom design work to repairs and maintenance, we provide in-house service to ensure the quality and safety of your pieces. Our opulent showroom located in the Northeast Shopping Center in St. Pete is brimming with exclusively hand-picked fine jewelry and watches featuring preowned luxury brands such as Rolex, Cartier and many more. Come in to for a personalized experience with a team you can trust.

Back on Track

The 21st annual Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, set for February 28 through March 2nd, is a three-day spectacle of racing, food and fun along the downtown waterfront highlighted by the NTT IndyCar Series’ season-opening race.

OOver two dozen of the world’s most elite drivers will battle in high-powered Indy cars on the 1.8-mile, 14-turn street course for 180 miles at the weekend’s headlining race on March 2nd, starting just after noon. For the first time on the St. Petersburg circuit, these cars will utilize hybrid power units built by Chevrolet and Honda providing drivers additional horsepower and overtake options. The jam-packed weekend schedule also includes competition from open-wheel racing’s rising stars in Indy NXT by Firestone, USF Pro 2000 and USF2000, plus fender-banging sports car action from the Mazda MX-5 Cup.

ver two dozen of the world’s most elite drivers will battle in high-powered Indy cars on the 1.8-mile, 14-turn street course for 180 miles at the weekend’s headlining race on March 2nd, starting just after noon. For the first time on the St. Petersburg circuit, these cars will utilize hybrid power units built by Chevrolet and Honda providing drivers additional horsepower and overtake options. The jam-packed weekend schedule also includes competition from open-wheel racing’s rising stars in Indy NXT by Firestone, USF Pro 2000 and USF2000, plus fender-banging sports car action from the Mazda MX-5 Cup.

and the surrounding areas. According to a study commissioned by Visit St. Pete-Clearwater, the 2023 Grand Prix generated an economic impact of approximately $61 million and last year’s event drew even more spectators.

“We are honored to organize this event each year and look forward to all the great fans from across the country and world joining us again in beautiful downtown St. Petersburg,” said Kim Green, co-owner, chairman and CEO of Green Savoree St. Petersburg, LLC, organizers of the Grand Prix. “With the recent challenges from the hurricanes and ongoing recovery happening for our community, it’s going to be a great weekend to enjoy as we get St. Pete back on track together.”

The weekend is often called “IndyCar’s version of Monaco” (in reference to the Formula 1 race held in the European city-state along the Mediterranean Sea) with its spectacular waterfront track winding through downtown, past yachts and the eyecatching Dali Museum. The race broadcast will reach a global television audience with millions of viewers worldwide in over 200 countries. A live national broadcast of Sunday’s IndyCar race will air on FOX (locally on FOX 13 Tampa Bay) for the first time as the new television partner for the series and Indianapolis 500.

The Grand Prix has long been a St. Petersburg tradition, a much-anticipated annual festival for both locals and visitors. The 2025 edition will give the community a welcomed economic boost as race teams, vendors and fans journey to Pinellas County

Pato O’Ward, the 2024 winner, will return to the “Sunshine City” to defend his title after retroactively being awarded first place weeks after the race. The Arrow McLaren driver, a fan favorite from Mexico, was declared the winner after Team Penske’s Josef Newgarden was disqualified by IndyCar officials for improper use of the “push-to-pass” overtake boost technology on his way to the checkered ﬂag. Newgarden, who previously won the Grand Prix in 2019 and 2020, will again challenge O’Ward along with other past St. Pete race winners on the grid, including Marcus Ericsson (2023), Scott McLaughlin (2022), Colton Herta (2021), Will Power (2010, 2014) and Graham Rahal (2008).

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

Race Weekend Kickoﬀ Activities

The racing action begins on Friday, February 28th, but the fun officially gets underway on Thursday, the 27th with two community events. As in previous years, runners and walkers will get the unique opportunity to access part of the racecourse during a 5K Run & Walk benefiting the Police Athletic League of St. Petersburg on the 27th. The 5K will start on Bay Shore Drive NE, adjacent to North Straub Park, where the annual IndyCar Party in the Park will be taking place at the same time. The party is free and offers a chance to get up close to the race cars, get driver autographs and enjoy other interactive features. Visit gpstpete5k.com to register for the 5K Run & Walk.

Additional Fan Activities

Festivities will also include a Speed Zone with interactive games and exhibits, a Fan Village, beer gardens, the Horse Soldier Bourbon Waterside Club ﬂoating bar in the bay (near Turn 11), driver autograph sessions and other special events. Paddock access is free on Friday, the 28th.

Tickets & Info

Both reserved grandstand seats and general admission tickets are available. Upgrade options include Pit & Paddock Passes

and the Rookie Racers program to give the youngest fans, ages 5 to 12, a unique experience. For tickets and full event information, visit gpstpete.com

Social Media

Follow along with all the action on Facebook, X and Instagram @gpstpete and tag using #FirestoneGP

Call for Volunteers

More than 450 dedicated volunteers are needed to support the Grand Prix. Those interested in being a part of this great St. Petersburg event should be available for the entire race weekend, able to attend training sessions and must be 18 or older. For more information, visit gpstpete.com/volunteer

Getting to the Race

A Park & Ride Shuttle Lot, special rates from SunRunner Rapid Transit, and The Looper Downtown Trolley and the Central Avenue Shuttle will all be available. Specific details and pricing on downtown parking and public transportation will be available at gpstpete.com and stpete.org

All information is subject to change. For the most current event updates and to purchase tickets for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding, go to gpstpete.com

17710 Gulf Blvd, #202 Redington Shores • Offered at $885,000

A rare opportunity for owning a beachfront residence with rental income. Boasting a turnkey, fully furnished interior, this meticulously maintained condominium is already set for short-term rentals throughout the upcoming 2025 season, making it an attractive option for savvy buyers. The Shores, distinguished by its boutique size with only 20 units, 2 bedrooms/2 baths, offers a serene and pet-friendly environment complete with amenities such as a heated pool, outdoor grill, and a relaxing lounge area. Recent upgrades include a BRAND NEW (May 2024) ensuite bathroom, recently updated with elegant Marble vanity, SVP waterproof Vinyl Plank flooring, and premium fixtures. Rest assured during storms since new sliding glass doors for the balcony. (both sets) & a new window in the Master bedroom were installed in the summer of 2024. With the Florida Milestone Inspection already completed and a financially strong association, it will ease any buyer’s concerns.

Owners love Brightwaters Blvd and are only selling because they are building four houses away. You’ll be neighbors! This spectacular Snell Isle waterfront residence is a boat enthusiast and car collector’s dream! Featuring a custom-built dock including a Neptune 24,000 lb. and 10,000 lb boat lifts and 6 car garage with air conditioned loft and double car lift. With minor preparations the owner was able to save the interior of the home, furniture and belongings from major damages from recent storms. The home was completely remodeled from top to bottom over the last few years. This contemporary residence offers 5,170 sq. ft, 5 bedroom/5 baths, which has an amazing master bedroom closet appearing in a home design magazine featuring 2 wardrobe islands, and a washer/dryer dryer for convenience. Only minutes to downtown St. Petersburg and 30 mins to Tampa Airport. 747 Brightwaters Blvd N.E. St. Petersburg • Offered at: $4,750,000 Your Luxury Waterfront

For the Love of Literacy

This ﬂedgling charitable organization is inspiring readers and building community by collaborating with key partners to amplify literacy and celebrate diversity in South St. Pete.

By Nick Steele

We chatted with Lorielle J. Hollaway, the founder of Cultured Books Literacy Foundation about the organization’s mission to inspire a lifelong love of reading and learning while honoring the rich cultural heritage of a critically underserved community.

“We make reading fun and accessible,” Hollaway explains. “We host events like storytimes, festivals, and teen workshops that bring books to life. Our goal is to inspire a love for reading while celebrating Black voices and stories from around the world. It’s all about building connections through books and culture. We focus on creating spaces where youth and families can see themselves in literature and appreciate the diverse stories around them. Our programs are welcoming, interactive and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our neighborhood.”

The foundation’s annual St. Pete Reads! Lit Fest is an outdoor family-friendly book fair that celebrates National Family Literacy Month. It is a full day of “reading fun” in collaboration with The Woodson African American Museum of Florida, St. Petersburg Library System, Florida Humanities, and the Gobioff Foundation. Attendees can meet and hear from a variety of authors through storytimes and panel discussions, participate in literacy-focused workshops, get books signed by local and national authors and

discover resources to help keep them reading long after the festival ends.

The city of St. Petersburg has officially recognized the first Saturday in November as St. Pete Reads! Day. Funding is provided, in part, through a Florida Humanities Book Festival Grant, with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

“Lit Fest is one of my greatest joys, bringing our community together with authors, workshops, and the magic of books,” Hollaway shares. “I dream big…I dream wide about how Cultured Books can nurture the literacy lifestyle within south St. Pete and I call on my community to help make those dreams a reality.”

And she says her passion has been supported by the community, even during the toughest of times.

“The St. Pete community is truly amazing. Even with backto-back storms last year, everyone—from neighbors to local businesses and community partners—came together to ensure this past November’s Lit Fest remained a vibrant event,” Hollaway offers. “Their dedication to creativity and literacy, despite personal challenges, shows the strong and positive spirit that makes our community special.”

For more information, follow them on Instagram and Facebook, email stpetereads@culturedbooks.org or visit culturedbooks.org

Portrait by Maria Flanagan

Delivering Holiday Joy to Local Families

Embracing the true meaning of social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg once again teamed up with our community to bring the spirit of Christmas to local families and children.

For more than 30 years, hundreds of donors, volunteers and staff have helped provide the magic and nostalgia of the Christmas season to families in need in our community. In addition to a live tree, ornaments, holiday dinner, books and toys, families receive complimentary programs and services throughout the year.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 SPONSORS FOR MAKING THIS EVENT POSSIBLE.

SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

IThe Thrill of It All

Lisa Unger, the New York Times bestselling author of 22 critically acclaimed novels, with books published in 33 languages and millions of copies sold worldwide, shares her inspiring journey as a writer and reveals how she came to call the St. Pete area home.

By Nick Steele

n person, Lisa Unger is as bright and breezy as a spring day in Florida. So, it may come as a surprise to learn that she is the mastermind behind a successful group of tensely wrought psychological thrillers that explore the darker side of human behavior.

Her easy smile and accommodating nature are on display as we sit down in the bustling Black Crow Coffee shop in the Grand Central District, next door to Tombolo Books— where she spends quite a lot of time engaging the community through signings, panel discussions and special events. What also is on display is her watchful eye as she discreetly surveys the scene and the people who swirl around us. One gets the sense that she knows where all the exits are and is ready to beat a hasty retreat if things go south. That’s partly because she is an adept observer of human behavior and part of being what she describes as an “extreme introvert.”

“That’s how I define myself,” she offers. “But when the

pandemic happened, and everything kind of went away, I was like, ‘Oh, maybe I’m not that much of an introvert.’”

This epiphany inspired her to create a YouTube interview series called Three Good Things, in which she spoke with fellow authors about their books and highlighted positive topics upon which to focus.

“I realized I have all these really strong relationships with people who I only see a couple of times a year at various events,” she recalls. “ And, all of a sudden, we couldn’t see each other anymore. That’s why I started doing it, to try to keep those conversations going.”

Unger, who is co-president of the International Thriller Writers Society, says her fellow authors are not competitive with each other, but more like an extended family.

“I have heard that other genres maybe are not the same, but the mystery/thriller folks, we wind up at all the same events and kind of come up through the industry together,” she says. “So, we

just try to support each other as much as we can.”

In Unger’s latest book, Close Your Eyes and Count to 10, a determined single mother enters “the ultimate game of hide-and-seek” through a social media competition, only to find herself unwittingly thrust into a ruthless fight for survival. The book will be released on February 18th and Unger will take part in a local launch event, presented by Tombolo Books, on February 24th at Coastal Creative.

Early praise calls it, “a compulsively readable story packed full of tension from the very first page.”

Born in Connecticut to a father who worked for Exxon, Unger’s family traveled quite a bit during her childhood, with stints living in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, before returning to the United States and settling in New Jersey. She attended NYU and began work on her first book at the age of 19.

“I’ve always been a writer,” she asserts. “You know, a reader first of course…I think most writers would identify as readers first. And I thought, that’s what I’m gonna do. My dad, who’s an engineer, was like, ‘No, that’s not a thing that people do. Don’t get to thinking that is a job, because it isn’t.’ So, I went into publishing because it felt like the closest thing I could do to follow my dreams without actually having any skin in the game. And I was good at my job, so, unfortunately, it just kept getting bigger and bigger and the time I had to write got smaller and smaller until I reached a point where I just wasn’t writing at all.”

That’s when she decided things needed to

change. “I was like, ‘Okay, I’m giving 110% of myself to a job that I don’t love.’ I had to get serious about my writing because, otherwise, I was going to look back in five or 10 years and say, ‘You never even tried.’ I couldn’t live with that. I could live with failure, but I wasn’t going to be able to live with never even having tried. From that point, I started writing every day. I had a lot of big changes in my life. I broke up with the guy who I was with for a very long time” she says. “About a year and a half later, at 29, I finished the novel I started when I was 19. I didn’t know what I was going to do with it, but I was just happy that I had finished it. Because a lot of people want to write a book, and they never do. So, I was like, okay, at least I did this much.”

It was during a visit to Key West to see a friend that she met her now husband, Jeffrey Unger, whom she affectionately calls her partner in crime.

“It was like this Shazam kind of love-at-first-sight moment,” she shares. “Within six months, we had both quit our big corporate jobs and sold our homes. Jeff was in IT and he could go anywhere…do anything.

The company that he chose was in the Tampa Bay area, so we came here. I took my book and sent it to my five ‘top choice’ agents and I figured I’d give myself one year to sell this book and to write another one. I was signed pretty quickly by my agent, Elaine Markson, and she brokered a two-book deal for me with St. Martin’s.”

That first book, Angel Fire, was published under her maiden name, Lisa Miscione.

Unger says she knew she was on the right path with her journey into publishing and felt at home in our area.

“There’s a very beautiful, vibrant, creative energy in St. Pete, a kind of high-energy vibration,” she muses. “You can just kind of

feel it in everything and it has only grown over the last 10 years.”

As a fixture on bestseller and “Best Book” lists, married to her best friend, with whom she is raising a teenage daughter, she’s living not a dream, but her original vision of what her life as a writer could be.

“I do feel incredibly grateful,” she offers. “I only knew that I wanted to be a writer, publishing books that hopefully someone other than my mom would like. The fact that my stories and my characters find their way into the hearts and minds of people is such an incredible gift. An amazing part of my own life is when, as a reader, I get lost in a story. The idea that I can give that to somebody, or many people, is really cool. The writing life also means a lot of blood, sweat and tears along the way, and some dizzying highs.”

Among the “highs” is the fact that Unger’s international bestseller, Confessions on the 7:45, is being adapted into a Hulu series starring Jessica Alba, written by Charise Castro-Smith and directed by Eva Longoria.

“They’re just an amazing team of women. I’m in awe. Jessica Alba and her team are the engine on the project. Now Eva Longoria is part of it,” she enthuses. “Charise, who is magnificently talented, is writing and that’s so exciting. As for my involvement, I’m available as much as they want for conversations about vision but I’m excited to see what their vision is. I mean, the book is mine and will always be. This next part is what the book has inspired.”

Unger will be the guest of honor at this year’s SleuthFest, a conference for mystery, thriller and suspense fiction writers, which will be held from May 14-18 at the Hilton Bayfront in St. Pete.

For more information, visit lisaunger.com

Unger with husband Jeffrey and daughter Ocean

Beyond the Books

The story behind Tombolo Books’ success is a true page-turner about a genuine love for books, a strong sense of community and plenty of hard work along the way.

By Nick Steele

In December of last year, an enthusiastic group of customers and authors gathered to celebrate the fifth anniversary of their community bookstore, Tombolo Books, a local, woman-owned, independent bookseller in the heart of St. Pete’s bustling Grand Central District.

Co-owners Alsace Walentine and her wife Candice Anderson, who have built a vibrant destination for book lovers and those seeking a unique literary experience have also managed to cultivate genuine connections within the community—as witnessed by the many enthusiastic patrons and community partners who turned out to celebrate with them.

“There was an endless amount of love in this bookstore,” Walentine says about the event. “We feel so grateful for this community of kind, generous, wonderful people. We’re proud to be a place that ‘feels like home’ for so many.”

But this isn’t an overnight success story. The foundation for this home has been many years in the making and started far from the Sunshine City.

“The story starts in Asheville, North Carolina,” Anderson shares. “That’s where we met 20 years ago. Alsace was working at Malaprop’s Bookstore, which has been there for over 40 years now.”

Malaprop’s is that region’s largest locally owned independent bookstore, nationally known for fostering a strong sense of community, and it has grown into a beloved destination where book lovers gather to discover new books, meet authors and participate in literary events.

Throughout her sixteen-year tenure at Malaprop’s, Walentine climbed the ranks from working as a barista in the store’s cafe to eventually becoming the manager and the author events coordinator. And then, a chance to replicate her professional success presented itself when their lives took an unexpected turn.

“I had a corporate career and I got recruited to move to Florida,” Anderson recalls. “I moved, and she stayed there because, if you’ve got a great bookstore job, you don’t leave it. Then she came and visited me and fell in love with St. Pete. She loved the climate, the beaches and the supportive arts and literary community…But she could also see an opening for an author-events focused, indie bookstore.”

They also quickly realized that the values of the local business community aligned perfectly with their own. Even before the bookstore opened, Walentine

established relationships with organizations like the Chamber of Commerce and Keep St. Pete Local. She even enrolled in a 10-week business course at the small business resource center St. Pete Greenhouse.

She recognized early on that there is a very strong “Go Local” movement here in St. Pete.

“I think the Go Local movement is hand in hand with the arts scene,” she offers. “People understand that it’s individuals that create a unique city.”

That led her to not only build a warm inviting space with a wonderfully curated selection of books and an engaging group of staff members, but to also forge meaningful relationships and partnerships with other local businesses and organizations.

“It’s been five years in this brick and mortar and seven years as a business, because we started as a pop-up,” Walentine explains. “COVID happened 90 days after we opened. So, all of a sudden, we had to pivot, shut down and deliver by bicycle, but having started as a pop-up, we were nimble enough to adapt. Candice came into the day-to-day a little bit later.”

In fact, a year after the opening of the Tombolo brick-andmortar, Anderson left her former career to work full-time at the business.

“It was very exciting for me because I met her in a bookstore and I’d always wanted to be a bookseller,” she recalls. “It was my secret dream. We joke about it, but there were times when we were in Asheville when I was like, ‘I’d really love to come work with you at Malaprop’s.’ And she was like, ‘No, now’s not a good time.’ I remember thinking, what do I have to do to get a bookselling job in this town?”

In addition to their impressive collection of titles and close relationships with local authors, they currently operate about nine book clubs, host story times for children, book signings,

launches and a slate of monthly special events.

What is most significant is that through the bookstore, they have brought a new energy to the community, as well as a place to find connections.

“It’s a wonderful way to spend your days—talking to people, listening to them, talking about what most inspires them or what they most need at that moment in their life,” Walentine shares. “It’s very personal and just a beautiful way to spend your days. I really love it.”

Anderson echoes the sentiment, pointing out that in a time when we spend so much time on our devices that we are hungry for real world engagement.

“I think that to find meaning in life, people need connection. And so in the same way that someone will show up for a tailgate market and feel like they’re engaging and serving their community, that is why people are drawn to the bookstore in a different way than they’re drawn to buying books online,” she asserts. “People want a human connection and that’s never lost on us.”

They take great pride in having created a space where people from all backgrounds can come together to bond, potentially making friends with others that they may not have realized they had anything in common with before visiting.

“People connect with each other all the time in the store and it’s beautiful to see,” Walentine explains. “This community has really developed, it morphs and changes. And each member affects one another. Oftentimes, we’re not the only ones hand selling books.

The customers are doing it. They bump into someone who is also looking and they want to help. I love to see that, because they’re getting a little moment of bookselling themselves.”

But the best bookstores are never just stores. A white

paper from Ryan L. Raffaelli of the Harvard Business School titled Reinventing Retail: The Novel Resurgence of Independent Bookstores attributes the public’s desire for shops like Tombolo to the “3C’s.” And Walentine and Anderson seem to know these factors by heart. In short, they are “community” built through the idea of consumers supporting their local economy by shopping local; a focus on “curating” inventory that allows them to provide a more tailored customer experience through the personal relationships they cultivate, rather than filling the store with only trending bestsellers, while helping their customers discover up-and-coming authors and unexpected titles; and “convening” customers with likeminded interests— offering signings, lectures, children’s story times, book clubs and participating with other key events out in the community.

“Our engagement with other organizations in the community is very deliberate,” Anderson reveals. “Synergy is kind of an overused word, but we put our support behind the things we like and partner with those whose mission we share, for instance the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, the University of South Florida and The Museum of Fine Arts. It’s fulfilling in two ways, because we get to support and work with organizations that we’re excited about and it’s good for sharing audiences and customers. It allows us to get our message to other places and lets people know we’re here. As an independent business, we get to do it very intentionally.

And if you’re wondering about that name.

“I wanted something unique,” says Walentine. “A name people would remember.”

After hours of brainstorming and perusing Gulf Coast terminology, she settled on the Englishappropriated Italian word, tombolo (pronounced “tombuh-loh”), because it means a sandbar “connecting an island to the mainland,” in the same way bookstores connect readers to stories, authors and the community.

In January, Tombolo has events scheduled with Gloria Munoz for her debut YA novel, Deborah G. Plant, who will introduce a neverbefore-published novel from beloved author Zora Neale Hurston, podcast hosts Jen Smith and Jill Sirianni of Frugal Friends celebrate their debut book and author Amy Buchanan debuts her first novel. In February, they will host a graphic novel workshop with local author and illustrator Jarod Roselló of the Super Magic Boy series and present a highly anticipated launch party for Lisa Unger’s latest book at Coastal Creative.

For more information, visit tombolobooks.com

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Presented by:

Valerie Yost Compass Land and Title

For over two decades Valerie has been in the title industry, and she assisted in founding Compass Land and Title in 2005. “The best part of being a title agent is being a party to the largest purchase of someone’s life, a home.”

Compass Land and Title has earned multiple awards within the title industry, including highest dollar volume and lowest claim rates, as well as the Good Burger award from the city’s Chamber of Commerce. Being part of a team that feels like family is important to her. “The best beneﬁt is watching co-workers develop and succeed.”

A St. Pete resident for over twenty years, Valerie adores the ‘Burg. “The beaches and pier, the museums and the restaurant scene mixed with our diverse residents make the ‘Burg a wonderful, funky community.”

Giving back to the community is also a big part of what she does. Her involvement encompasses the Arts Conservatory for Teens, Museum of American Arts & Crafts Movement, The James Museum of Western Art and the Shine Mural Festival. “St. Petersburg as a city is enriched by the culture our art scene offers, and I enjoy being a part of it all.”

When she’s not working you can ﬁnd Valerie in physical training, cooking, collecting art, or gardening. “More than anything I love being outside and watching the wildlife, especially the birds. We have a beautiful city with charm and fun and I love St. Pete!”

CARYN RIGHTMYER PREMIER SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

A depth of real estate market knowledge, a commitment to all customers, twelve years of outstanding real estate service, 37 years of successful sales experience, and an exceptional code of ethics has helped the Caryn Rightmyer Group with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty become one of the most sought after real estate teams in St Petersburg.

Caryn holds the designations of Certiﬁed Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, Certiﬁed Negotiation Expert, Accredited Buyer Representative and Million Dollar Guild member and maintains a passion for real estate, making her a consistent awardwinning top producer in the St Petersburg real estate market since 2012. Caryn is ranked in the top 1% of Realtors in Pinellas County with $190 Million in Real Estate Sales.

A resident of St Petersburg for over 45 years, Caryn’s roots run deep in the community. She has an extensive repeat customer base and her loyal customers retain her as their “Realtor for life”, counting on her for professional advice, closing multiple transactions with her and becoming an important asset as they manage their real estate portfolios.

“I love selling real estate. 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!”

Denise Antonewitz, PA

Keller Williams Antonewitz Home Team

For almost thirteen years, Denise has been making dreams come true for clients in her hometown of St. Pete. After a lengthy career as a dental hygienist she decided to start a new career in real estate. She jumped in feet ﬁrst and hasn’t looked back since.

“What I love most about my career is your success is directly tied to your effort. It’s empowering to know that the sky’s the limit if you’re willing to put in the work. I’m also a people person, so the chance to build lasting relationships while helping others is incredibly rewarding.”

Denise recently worked with a couple whose children had moved out, and they were ready to downsize from their large family home. “We carefully found a smaller, more manageable property that was still close to their favorite spots. The joy on their faces when they found a place that felt just right for this new phase of their lives was priceless. It’s rewarding to know that I helped them make a smooth transition during such a signiﬁcant life change.”

Recognized as the Top Women Producer in Tampa Bay by her peers, Denise has been acknowledged year after year by Keller Williams as a Top Performer. She is consistently ranked in the top 1% of all realtors in the Tampa Bay area.

“I am inspired by the idea of making a positive impact on others. Whether it’s through my work, my relationships, or small daily acts of kindness, I wake up with the goal of bringing something good to the world each day.”

“All of your Real Estate Needs from A-Z!”

360 Central Ave, Suite 600 St Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 204-3138

www.AntonewitzHomeTeam.com

Stefanie Barrett Lead Designer at Strobel Design Build

My journey as a designer has been shaped by a passion for both the built environment and the natural world. I grew up surrounded by the history and architectural diversity of the Midwest.

My professional path began in 2003 in Chicago with a prominent design-build ﬁrm. It was there that I discovered the intersection of architecture and interior design. I worked on various projects that exposed me to a broad range of design styles. These years gave me a strong foundation in traditional architecture, as well as the ability to incorporate modern and innovative elements.

In 2006, I made a bold move, leaving the Midwest for California where I reﬁned my design sensibilities and learned from some of the best in the industry. Contributing to projects that ranged from coastal residences to urban high-rises, I gained experience in Tudor, Colonial, Traditional, Mission, Art Deco, MidCentury Modern, Coastal, and Industrial designs.

In 2018, my family and I relocated to Florida and I found my professional home with Strobel Design Build, where I have had the privilege of leading design projects ever since. My role allows me to blend my design background with the company’s focus on quality craftsmanship and clientcentric solutions. Every project I take on is an opportunity to craft spaces that are not only aesthetically beautiful but also functionally thoughtful and sustainable.

At home, I’m a wife and the proud mother of a beautiful 8-year-old daughter. Creativity is nurtured through balance, and for me, that balance comes from my family, my passions, and my ongoing commitment to helping animals in need.

Christina Holtz

Bay Paws Pet Resort

Christina Holtz began her entrepreneurial journey in 2019 when she established a luxury pet hotel, Bay Paws Pet Resort. Inspired by her family’s legacy of success in the human hotel industry and the cutest little dachshund named Wrigley, Christina carefully curated Bay Paws’ services to deliver the same high standards of customer service, operational excellence, and commitment to innovation to our four-legged friends! What started as a single location has blossomed into a thriving business with three, soon to be four locations: Clearwater/St. Pete, Ybor City, Trinity and Wesley Chapel. Bay Paws offers boarding, daycare and grooming services. It also works with local rescues and hosts adoption events. The growth of Bay Paws is a testament to the Tampa Bay community that truly values the bond between people and their pets!

Christina is a Certified Professional Animal Care Manager (CPACM) through the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC). She obtained a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Loyola University of Chicago and a J.D. from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles. She is barred in California, Illinois and Washington, D.C. She resides in South Tampa with her fiancee and their two dachshunds, Wrigley and Bentley.

Kym Coyle

Charles Rutenberg Realty

A proud St. Petersburg native, Kym Coyle has been a force in the real estate industry for two decades. Her outstanding achievements include being named the number one agent at Charles Rutenberg Realty, earning recognition as one of the Top 1% of Realtors, and securing a spot among the Top 10 Realtors in Pinellas County. With nearly $300 million in residential real estate sales, Kym has built an impressive legacy in her ﬁeld.

Kym’s real estate journey began shortly after college when she discovered her passion for the industry through a personal project. Renovating and selling her first home not only yielded a significant profit but also ignited her enthusiasm for the complexities of real estate transactions. This experience revealed her natural talent for identifying a property’s potential and transforming it into a valuable asset. What started as a financial venture quickly became her true calling.

“Real estate is more than just buying and selling homes,” Kym shares. “It’s about combining my love for properties with a strategic approach to investments. I’ve developed a sharp eye for evaluating homes based on their location, design, and structural integrity. Recognizing that a home represents both a personal sanctuary and a long-term investment, I strive to guide my clients with a thoughtful and informed perspective.”

Kym’s dedication goes beyond transactions. She finds immense fulfillment in helping clients navigate life-changing moments, whether it’s finding the perfect home or facilitating a seamless sale. “The greatest reward is seeing the joy on my clients’ faces and knowing I’ve contributed to such a significant milestone in their lives. It’s those moments that make all the hard work worthwhile.”

Through her commitment to excellence and a genuine passion for her craft, Kym Coyle continues to set a high standard in the St. Petersburg real estate market.

Kelly Strom Managing Broker/Owner Pink Chair Realty

Kelly is the founder and managing broker of Pink Chair Realty, a new concept brokerage. Together with her husband Josh, they specialize in all things property management and sales. For them, real estate is not just a transaction but a passion!

Kelly’s journey started in Lincoln, Nebraska. Each Christmas, Kelly’s family jumped in the station wagon, driving to some balmy, Florida locale. It was the highlight of their year. After attending the University of Nebraska, Kelly found her way back to Florida, this time permanently. She began a career in Industrial Psychology, but real estate was always her passion. Kelly purchased her ﬁrst investment property while in graduate school and kept adding to the portfolio.

When she met Josh, they bonded over a shared love of real estate. Josh’s background in accounting and construction combined with Kelly’s expertise in investing and property management made for a dynamic pairing. They both believed real estate was about more than a plot of land or an avenue to build wealth. Usually, it’s the culmination of a dream. With this in mind, Pink Chair Realty was born.

Kelly plans for measured growth by adding 3-5 realtors with a similar passion. Not only agents but Pink Chair partners who benefit from sales leads as well as profit sharing. When thinking about vision, Kelly says finding the right home or vacation rental is like a pink chair on a beautiful beach - it creates those feelings of peace, happiness, and contentment. Whatever the dream, Kelly and her burgeoning Pink Chair team aim to help clients find their uniquely perfect spot!

Stacey Ellis, CFP®

Financial Advisor, RBC Wealth Management

With over 20 years of experience in Wealth Management, Stacey has always had a passion for financial literacy and helping clients feel comfortable and confident with their finances. Her approach to wealth planning begins with listening, to understand what is truly important to the families she works with. Through this understanding she aims to help clients visualize their optimal retirement.

Stacey enjoys working with likeminded women in their pursuit of financial independence and strives to provide financial peace of mind. She is grateful to be at a firm that values and appreciates the role of female financial advisors and has been a proud long-standing member of the Women’s Association of Financial Advisors at RBCWM. “I love what I do. It’s incredibly rewarding to make a meaningful difference in clients’ lives. I believe women chose to work with me because they trust that I will always act in their best interests.”

She obtained the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation with the goal of elevating the quality of advice she can provide. As a secondgeneration Florida Gator, Stacey attended the University of Florida, graduating with a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science degree in ﬁnance, magna cum laude.

A native Floridian, Stacey moved to St. Petersburg in 2001 and feels blessed to be part of such a wonderful, thriving community. She enjoys time with her kids Reese & Ryder and supporting their love of sailing at SPYC.

Sharon Mahoney Events By The Glass Making Wine Approachable

one glass at a time

Sharon Mahoney curates wine and spirits events for enthusiasts to students. Signature events include wine tastings, private dinners, walk around tastings, and a classroom series ‘Wine Education Happy Hours’. Many guests refer to these classes as ‘edu-tainment’ as they make wine education fun and approachable. Collaborating with local chefs for dinners and food and wine pairing classes their in-home events are perfect for any gathering.

Sharon started her wine studies six years ago as a ‘second chapter’ to her 25 plus years in retail. Diving in with both feet, she secured accreditations in all major organizations in the wine industry. “I love learning about new wines, wine regions, and wine making. Sharing that information in a fun and approachable way is what inspires me.” says Sharon.

The best part of her job? “Introducing and engaging with guests with new wine and wine regions they have never explored. The ‘A-ha’ reactions during our events is what keeps us going. Wine is fun and, in a sense, a global passport. Wine is community.”

She holds a Diploma in Wine and Spirits and is a Certified Educator for WSET. She is a Certified Sommelier through the Court of the Master Sommeliers, and holds certifications through the Society of Wine Educators, Wine Scholar Guild, and is currently pursuing her Master of Wine.

Sharon works with events both large and small such as 100 Women Who Care and Dress for Success. On a larger scale, she has produced fundraisers for the Dali and St. Petersburg Museum of History.

“Every day provides a new opportunity to introduce someone to a new wine, spirit, or wine experience. I also have several projects and collaborations in the works I’m so very excited to share our enthusiasm and passion for wine and spirits with the St. Pete community in 2025.”

MELODY STANG REAL ESTATE BROKER, OWNER

Melody Stang, a distinguished ﬁgure in the luxury real estate realm, stands as the founder and driving force behind Melody Stang Realty, Inc., a boutique real estate company established in early 2005. Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown St. Petersburg, Melody specializes in the niche of Downtown real estate properties, where her expertise and ﬁnesse shine.

Boasting an impressive track record of over $195,000,000 in sales, Melody has garnered acclaim for her prowess in selling listings and orchestrating impeccable matches for investors, catering to both primary residence seekers and second home buyers. As a resident and real estate professional in Pinellas County for over 30 years, Melody’s depth of experience is a testament to her intimate knowledge of the residential real estate market across Downtown St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, and throughout the Tampa Bay Area.

Beyond her professional achievements, Melody earned the distinguished title of “Princess” in 2004 from The Queen’s Court Inc., a non-profit organization. This recognition was bestowed upon her for contributing over 2500 volunteer hours to various charities in Pinellas County, which she continues to do. Melody has contributed to children’s charities for over 30 years. Her commitment to fundraising and charitable endeavors remains unwavering, reflecting her enduring passion for serving others. In 2021, Melody was named one of Tampa Bay Magazine’s “Women of Accomplishment” and is a distinguished member of the Dali Guild and the Stuart Society of the Museum of Fine Arts. In her leisure moments, Melody indulges in the finer aspects of life, and relishing the myriad of outdoor activities offered by the captivating St. Petersburg downtown waterfront. Melody is passionate about building relationships and spending time with her family. She enjoys bike-riding and pickleball and is a longtime member of the The Vinoy Resort, where she is often seen swimming, training or entertaining clients. Melody Stang is not just a real estate professional; she is a connoisseur of luxury living in the heart of St. Petersburg.

Lisa Farmer Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

A Realtor for over 11 years, Lisa is currently with the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing. She has been named a Tampa Bay Real Estate producer and won a top producer award in her Sotheby’s office. Lisa graduated from Syracuse University with a marketing degree and a master’s in education.

Her passion for real estate is fueled by the relationships she builds. “What I love most are the relationships that I have built with my clients. Many of them I have stayed in touch with and have done multiple real estate transactions with. These friendships are invaluable.”

Staying involved in the community, she loves being a board member of the Snell Isle Property Owners Association. “I live in Snell Isle and felt it was important to volunteer the time to the HOA to make Snell Isle the best it can be.” Animal rescue organizations also hold a place close to her heart as her three dogs were all rescued. She is a Guardian Angel and sponsor in the Pet Pal Animal Shelter Pit Project.

When asked why she loves St Pete, the list is extensive. “I love the Gulf beaches, the downtown area and all that it has to offer. Something for everyone with a beautiful backdrop!”

When she’s not working, Lisa is committed to balancing her health and well-being. She begins her day with a workout and gratitude. “Being grateful is a powerful motivator for me. Reflecting on the positive aspects of my life set the positive tone for the day.”

Dr. Rosh

Roshni Ranjit-Reeves, MD

Oculofacial Surgery and Cosmetic Laser Institute

As a double board-certiﬁed oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Rosh combines unmatched skill with cutting-edge technology to help you look and feel your best. Specializing in laser-assisted eyelid surgery, Dr. Rosh delivers precise, minimally invasive surgical solutions tailored to your unique goals.

A pioneer in her ﬁeld, Dr. Rosh understands that rejuvenation is about more than appearance—it’s about conﬁdence. Her innovative techniques not only restore natural, youthful aesthetics but also address functional concerns, such as improving vision impacted by aging eyelids.

With a patient-ﬁrst philosophy, Dr. Rosh offers personalized consultations to understand your needs and create a treatment plan as unique as you are. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures results that are subtle, natural, and transformative.

As a trailblazing woman in business, Dr. Rosh is passionate about empowering others to embrace their potential. She understands the balance of juggling professional aspirations and personal self-care, offering a trusted space where women can conﬁdently invest in themselves.

Whether you’re seeking a refreshed appearance or relief from droopy eyelids, Dr. Rosh is your partner in achieving stunning results with a compassionate touch.

Redeﬁne beauty, elevate conﬁdence, and trust your vision to a leader in Oculofacial Surgery. With Dr. Rosh, your transformation begins today.

Lutz: 24420 State Road 54 South Tampa: 2007 W. Swann Ave 813-303-0123

www.doctorrosh.com

Blanka Prusova-White

Tampa Bay’s Waterfront Luxury Real Estate Powerhouse

In the Tampa Bay waterfront real estate market, most clients simply know her as Blanka. With a reputation built on trust, tenacity, drive, and effortless European elegance, Blanka goes beyond selling homes—she specializes in coastal and waterfront properties that capture the essence of Florida’s sunshine, water, and reﬁned living.

Blanka’s concierge-style service is built on a philosophy of quality over quantity, offering a highly tailored, one-on-one approach that guarantees her clients’ needs are always the top priority. Whether it’s a Gulf-front estate, a hidden beach gem, or a sleek downtown condo, Blanka consistently delivers exceptional results with precision, class, and a personalized touch.

As part of the exclusive invitation-only Coastal Properties Group International and Forbes Global Properties, Blanka offers her clients access to a powerful, worldwide network and unparalleled exposure. This afﬁliation complements her long-time local expertise and global reach.

Originally from Prague, Blanka brings a reﬁned European perspective combined with her marketing degree and a profound understanding of the highend market, allowing her to craft the perfect strategy and branding for every property. Proudly calling Tierra Verde her home, Blanka possesses intimate knowledge of the area’s waterfront market and its most sought-after beach properties, making her the trusted go-to expert for those seeking the best water views and the true Florida lifestyle.

A consistent top producer and multi-time Agent of the Year award winner, Blanka has earned her reputation as one of the region’s leading experts. Beyond real estate, she is an active member of the Rotary Club, a past president of the Tierra Verde Business Partnership, and a passionate supporter of many local causes.

Beyond

Coaﬆal

Interior designer Michelle Jennings transforms St. Pete spaces into curated, oneof-a-kind homes that perfectly capture the personal style and individuality of her clients.

By Anne Zimmerman Briand

Michelle Jennings doesn’t mess around with clutter. True to the design adage “Less is More,” she ensures that every element in her interior designs serves a purpose—a central tenet of her philosophy. “My niche is warm minimalism,” she explains. “When everything has a place, I have a clearer head, and I want to offer that experience to my clients. I want them to walk into a space that feels good. Warmth comes through art, materials and approachable fabrics—things that function well for their lifestyle. For a space to truly work, it must be both functional and aesthetically beautiful.”

Building on this foundation, Michelle enjoys exploring the richness and personality that art can bring to a space. Whether her clients are avid collectors or simply have one cherished piece, she uses their artwork as a foundation, building cohesive and meaningful designs around it. “We can build the entire space around a fabulous piece of art,” she says. “Art provides an inspiring jumping off point, and from there, we bring in warm, functional materials and bold color to create something truly unique. “I love when clients come to me with an art collection or an appreciation for unique pieces.” She adds. “If you have a great art collection, let’s collaborate and create a space as extraordinary as the pieces you love.”

Designer Journey

After earning her degree in interior design and architecture, Michelle began her career in commercial design. As a junior designer, she observed the senior designers— especially men—working directly with clients, leading conversations, and shaping the outcomes of projects. Watching others take charge helped her recognize her desire to connect directly with clients and design spaces that truly reﬂect a personal touch.

“I realized I wanted that kind of connection with the people I was designing for,” she reﬂects. That realization set her on the path to entrepreneurship.

Following in the footsteps of her grandparents to start her own company, she was warned that the road to success could be bumpy. “I knew starting my own business could be a rough road, and sometimes feast or famine, but it felt like a message from above—like this was what I was meant to do,” she says. Despite the risks, Michelle persisted. “I spent years building this business, gaining confidence and eventually knowing I could be a successful business owner. The moment I realized I was worthy of living my dream, everything started to work. I had to invest in myself—getting

an office outside of the house, sending my child to private school. It all came down to feeling capable and worthy.”

Signature Success

One of Michelle’s signature design techniques is pairing boldcolored walls with striking pieces of art. “There was a time when everything was whitewashed, but bold colors can completely transform how a piece of art is perceived. It gives artwork a whole new life,” she says. Her projects move beyond the expected

“For a space to truly work, it must be both functional and aesthetically beautiful.”

coastal aesthetic of St. Pete homes, offering more depth and a sophisticated, globally inspired design. “I want to elevate St. Pete beyond the typical beachy look,” she asserts. “I pay attention to the architecture of the home itself, so if we are working in a 1920’s bungalow or a sweet condo downtown, the inside and outside talk to each other, so we are connecting the dots between eras, architectural styles, and interior design. That’s when we can really elevate an interior to great design.”

One standout project was a renovation at Bayfront Tower, a downtown St. Pete high-rise. Michelle worked closely with her clients to merge two adjoining units into a single, luxurious home. The process required reimagining the entire layout, leaving only the original structural columns intact. The result was a warm, hotel-like retreat that perfectly reﬂected the couple’s lifestyle and needs. Key features included a chef’s kitchen tailored to the husband’s passion for cooking. “The owners trusted me completely, and that trust allowed us to create something exceptional,” she reﬂects.

As Michelle continues to make her mark on the local design scene, she’s eager to collaborate with more clients who value unique, one-of-a-kind spaces that truly reﬂect their personal style and individuality. She believes that the best projects are those built on trust and collaboration, where she can bring her vision to life alongside her clients.

Visit www.mjdesignsﬂorida.com for more information. Anne Zimmerman Briand can be reached at anne@annezimmerman.com

Speciﬁcations

Tires: P245/60R18 all-terrain

Wheelbase: 110.9 inches

Length: 189.1 inches

Width: 78.6 inches

Height: 72.2 inches

Suspension: MacPherson

strut front, multilink rear

Steering: electric power rack and pinion

Fuel capacity: 19.5 gallons

Mileage: 19 city / 24 highway

Bigger & Better

Whether you’re eager to explore uncharted terrain or prefer the smooth comfort of city streets, the Passport TrailSport is a versatile, family-friendly SUV that seamlessly combines rugged oﬀ-road capability with sophisticated styling.

By Nitish S. Rele

Many may not realize that the original 1994-2002 Honda Passport was, in fact, a rebranded Isuzu Rodeo. Fast forward to 2024, and the Passport has returned—bigger, better, and more impressive than ever. Positioned between the compact CR-V and the larger Pilot, this midsize SUV leaves a far more lasting impression than its predecessor. Sharing its powertrain with the Honda Pilot and Ridgeline, the Passport boasts a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers 280 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 262 lb-ft of torque at 4700 rpm. It comes standard with Honda’s exclusive Intelligent Variable Torque Management AWD, which optimizes torque distribution to keep the Passport steady in challenging weather or road conditions.

For those who prefer fewer trips to the pump, the Passport features variable cylinder management, which enables the engine to operate in either three- or four-cylinder mode, depending on demand. This, combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission, results in a drivetrain that is both smooth and responsive. The Passport is also well-equipped for hauling, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,332 pounds. The TrailSport trim, designed for off-road enthusiasts, can conquer mud, sand, dirt, snow, and rocky terrain with ease, thanks to its off-road-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires.

A distinctive orange TrailSport emblem graces the mesh grille, while a crossbar divides the LED headlights, highlighted by a gloss black finish. Inside, the cabin balances simplicity with sophistication, with coral-colored stitching featured on the

leather-wrapped steering wheel, seats, and door panels. The TrailSport logo also appears on the front seat headrests and ﬂoor mats. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, with numerous storage compartments and an expansive center console. The interior includes a 10-way power driver’s seat, a four-way power passenger seat, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, an 8-inch infotainment system, a 215-watt, 10-speaker audio system, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a power moonroof—all included as standard.

Safety is a top priority with the Passport, which comes equipped with dual front and side airbags, a side curtain airbag with a rollover sensor, vehicle stability assist with traction control, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution, a multiview rear camera, adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot information with cross-traffic monitor, side-impact door beams, active head restraints, an electric parking brake, a tire pressure monitoring system, and daytime running lights.

Whether you’re venturing off the beaten path or staying on paved roads, the Passport TrailSport is fully equipped for the journey. With 8.1 inches of ground clearance, this midsize SUV easily handles steep and rugged terrain. Coupled with Honda’s reputation for reliability and durability, the Passport TrailSport is an ideal choice for those seeking adventure without sacrificing comfort.

Nitish S. Rele, the editor/publisher of Motoring Tampa Bay and Khaas Baat, can be reached at motoringtampabay@gmail.com

Women In Wine

A rich tapestry of women is quietly shaping the local wine scene—curating wine lists, educating the next generation of sommeliers, and bringing unique, artisanal wines to our community.

By Pam Coyle

Every wine tells a story, from the place the grapes were grown to the people who helped guide the wine into the bottle. There is a process to get from that bottle to our glass; including our own story of acquiring it and enjoying it. If that bottle was purchased locally, chances are that some of our local women in the wine profession helped make it happen. This is a part of their story.

A restaurant sommelier’s goals during a dinner service involve finding a bottle of wine for their guests that fits what they are looking for. One of the most exciting and challenging parts of the job is curating a wine list that is unique, yet well-rounded and wellsuited to the food and the clientele of the restaurant.

At Book + Bottle, they “love to find and introduce our guests to exciting new grapes and wine regions,” says Heidi Kipkowski, the shop’s certified sommelier and wine educator. She met Terra Dunham, owner of Book + Bottle, when the two were in search of a study group, and together with a mutual friend, decided to start their own. As a “bookstore with wine and a wine shop with books,”

it is also a coffee café that can undoubtedly lend itself to studying wine and learning something new—even trying something new. They offer wine club memberships and monthly events, including wine tastings and a daily happy hour.

Naturally, wine-focused restaurants and boutique shops typically offer higher quality selections than what you can find at a grocery store. That’s where distribution companies like XXI Wine & Spirits and their sales consultant, Kaitlyn Duke, come in.

“I can walk into any establishment, whether it’s an intimate natural wine bar or a bustling Michelin Star restaurant, and I know I have plenty of wines that fit that concept,” says Duke. When she is not visiting clients around Tampa Bay, she can be found hosting wine tastings at places like Mazzaro’s, Bar Chinchilla and The Wine House + BBQ in Gulfport. “I see a younger generation of consumers who are excited to explore the world of wine. They’re adventurous and are really into skin-contact wines, pet nats and wines from regions that offer great value.”

All of this wine has to get to Florida somehow. “I created Wine

Journeys Imports specifically to bring smaller, artisanal wines to Florida,” says Dona Stewart. “And, because I wanted to be able to drink these wines myself!” Stewart is one of the first women in the Tampa Bay area to start her own wine importing business, all in the midst of back-toback hurricanes. She is bringing in wines from small family wineries, some even woman-led, and has hand-selected them to complement our Florida lifestyle. They can be found at Sauvignon Wine Locker, American Trattoria, Book + Bottle and St. Pete Cellars.

The women in the wine profession in St. Pete extend beyond these types of businesses to include private and corporate catering events, inhome tastings and educational events. Many of these are led by Sharon Mahoney, owner of Events By The Glass. Mahoney loves “sharing the excitement and joy of a new discovery that [her guests] in turn share with their friends.”

Mahoney has successfully completed training with multiple certified wine organizations and is a Wine and Spirit Education Trust educator. For this reason, and many others, many hospitality professionals and wine enthusiasts turn to her.

When asked, all of the ladies I spoke with said that the local women in wine are extremely supportive. Of course, this is just a sampling as there are many wine-centric, women-run businesses in our area. Mahoney says, “Together, we make a difference in the future of wine in our community.”

The St. Pete restaurant and retail scene continues to expand “which provides an opportunity for our community to explore, savor, and learn about wine, one glass at a time,” says Mahoney. We can all agree that wine is best when shared with others. That goes for our knowledge, stories and new discoveries as well.

Pam Coyle is a sommelier at Sauvignon Wine Locker and Trattoria in downtown St. Pete. She can be reached at pamanncoyle@gmail.com

The Wine Key

A glossary of some terms mentioned in this article.

A Michelin Star restaurant is an establishment that has been awarded one, two, or three stars by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional cooking, service, and ambience

Skin-contact wines are white wines made like red wines. They have had extended contact with their grape skins during fermentation, which gives the wine its color. Depending on how long the juice ferments with the skins (from a few hours to months), these wines are typically orange in color, ranging from straw yellow or amber to a peachy/tangerine hue. The skins also give these wines more characteristics of a red wine (a bigger, bolder body and more tannins) while maintaining the acidity of a white wine.

Pet Nat (short for petillant naturel) is a naturally sparkling wine made with minimal intervention from the winemaker. Nothing is added during production, and nothing is filtered out at the end. The wine is bottled while still fermenting and sealed with a crown cap, which traps carbon dioxide and creates the bubbles. Pet Nats are typically low in alcohol (around 10–12% ABV) and contain less sugar than other sparkling wines. They tend to be fruity, fresh, and slightly less effervescent than traditional champagne.

A Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) educator is someone who trains future instructors for WSET, a global organization that provides education and qualifications for wine, spirits, beer and sake.

Book + Bottle

Honoring History

As we celebrate Black History Month, we reﬂect on the importance of recognizing and celebrating the historic contributions of African-Americans all year long. I chatted with The Woodson Museum’s Terri Lipsey Scott to discuss the ongoing work to preserve Black history and the museum’s role in promoting this vital narrative.

By Ernest Hooper

The three words emblazoned on the Ninth Avenue asphalt in front of St. Petersburg’s Woodson African-American Museum of Florida represent so much more than letters decorated by local artists.

Woodson executive director Terri Lipsey Scott affectionately refers to the declaration “Black History Matters” as the welcoming mat for the museum, a 365-day invitation to the community to recognize that Black stories must be preserved, elevated and included in the annals of time.

“This phrase asserts that Black history is not a footnote or an optional chapter in our collective story—it is essential and integral to the understanding of our nation’s greatness,” Lipsey Scott explains. “By proclaiming ‘Black History Matters,’ we challenge efforts to ignore or minimize the contributions of Black people throughout history.”

In the 21st century, some may consider acknowledging these contributions to be a given but those who know the origins of Black History Month feel compelled to keep these inspiring stories front and center. Like many others, I often speak at schools about Black History because we know there was a time in this nation when the positive impacts of African Americans went unrecognized.

As the African proverb states, “Until the lions have their own historians, the history of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.”

The commemoration arose out of Carter G. Woodson’s desire to “emphasize not Negro History, but the Negro in history.” A noted historian and the second African American to ever earn a doctorate degree from Harvard, he created “Black History Week” in 1926, framing the commemoration around the February birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas.

Eventually, the nation expanded the celebration to Black History Month.

It is a cornerstone of education and a call to action, urging recognition of the past and present contributions of African Americans throughout the entire year.

Yet how the history is taught continues to be a subject of some controversy. Questions abound around the state’s educational focus on African-American history. Some fear that educators choose to underscore these chapters only to imbue guilt on a new generation of white children. However, I think it’s critical to deal with all the unvarnished truths of our history. Each and every ethnicity in our great melting pot must feel they’re seen and that their stories hold relevance with every American. It’s through this acknowledgement that we can learn from past mistakes and create greater unity.

Black History Matters

“History creates a space where those who have been marginalized can see themselves in the fullness of their humanity, celebrated and honored for their contributions to society,” Lipsey Scott says. “It’s a mirror reﬂecting not only the greatness of the past but also the potential of the present and the promise of the future.”

Luckily, she is continuing to lead the way for the many St. Petersburg residents who promote African-American history. The museum, housed in a former public housing community center, serves as a beacon of Black art, history and culture, despite its current limitations in structure.

The Woodson will continue to exhibit The Beacon of Hope in February. It is a statue of Harriet Tubman, the historic abolitionist and activist who helped slaves escape to freedom through the famed Underground Railroad. Crafted by the Wofford Sculpture Studio, this is the first time it has appeared in Florida.

“Harriet Tubman’s legacy represents courage, resilience and unwavering determination—qualities that continue to inspire us today,” Lipsey Scott explains. “Her life’s work as a liberator and advocate for freedom resonates deeply, not only with the struggles of the past but also with the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities.”

Lipsey Scott’s unwavering determination sustains her drive to bring a new Woodson Museum to fruition. Once ticketed to be a part of the historic Gas Plant District renovation and the new Rays baseball stadium, the future of a new facility was uncertain at press time. However, the conﬂict arising out of Hurricane Milton’s impact on Tropicana Field could not dent her confidence.

“Whether tied to the stadium deal or through other avenues, this project has captured the hearts of countless individuals and organizations committed to seeing it realized,” she offers. “I believe in the collective will of our community to make this dream a reality.”

Ernest Hooper is Chief Communications Oﬃcer at United Way Suncoast and a former writer and editor at the Tampa Bay Times.

Be Heart Smart

February is American Heart Month, a perfect time for everyone—especially women—to give their heart health a little extra attention. Looking to boost your heart health? It all starts with what’s on your plate.

By Michael A. Malone, DO

Breakfast in the car on the way to school and work, quick lunches between meetings, a rushed trip through the drive-thru on the way home from soccer practice — it’s all too easy to get sucked into convenience when it comes to our diets.

However, frozen and processed foods, fast-food meals and restaurant takeout often are high in added sodium and saturated fats, which can lead to a number of cardiovascular concerns including hypertension and high cholesterol.

The American Heart Association recommends two easyto-follow diet plans to keep your heart healthy: the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and the Mediterranean diet. Both emphasize eating more fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains and lean proteins. There are some key differences, but these diets prioritize whole foods and heart-healthy fats over processed products. They also are ﬂexible and adaptable and have the singular goal of preventing heart disease and stroke.

DASH Diet

The DASH diet is based on research by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Its goal is to help you lower

or maintain blood pressure by reducing sodium intake. Along with eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, DASH limits full-fat dairy products, high-fat meats, sugar, alcohol and tropical oils.

As with many such eating plans, the DASH diet provides specific guidelines regarding portion and serving size. A 2,000 calories-a-day diet looks like this:

• 6 to 8 servings of grains, mostly whole grains

• 4 to 5 servings of vegetables

• 4 to 5 servings of fruit

• 2 to 3 servings of dairy

• 2 to 3 servings of fats and oils

• Up to 1 serving of lean meat, poultry or fish

• 4 to 5 servings per week of nuts, seeds and legumes

• Up to 5 servings of sweets a week

The DASH diet also provides a dietary chart that details serving sizes and takes into account factors such as age, activity level and gender.

Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean Diet is inspired by the traditional eating

habits of countries around the Mediterranean, like Spain, Greece, and southern Italy. Studies have shown that people from these regions have substantially lower rates of chronic disease and longer life expectancies, due in great part to how they eat. The Mediterranean diet recommends eating:

• Plant-based meals with small amounts of lean protein

• Whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and legumes

• Fish and other seafood

• Olive oil to prepare food

• Food seasoned simply, without sauces and gravies

• Red wine, in moderation

Steps for Success

Stay on track with either of these heart-healthy diets by following the following steps:

1. Do your homework. Talk to your doctor and discuss any recommended foods and a particular meal schedule they may suggest given your overall health.

2. Plan your weekly meals and snacks. Meal prepping is a way to avoid making bad choices, so shop for the week ahead in advance and prepare a menu that can act as a roadmap to healthy eating. Have a plan in place for healthy options that you can order when you eat out. Take a look at the menu online so you can make a more thoughtful choice, instead of deciding on the spot.

3. Take your time. Your body may need time to adjust to the added fiber and reduced sugar, so don’t be surprised if you experience temporary discomfort or changes in energy and digestion. These symptoms are usually shortlived and will subside as your digestive system adapts.

4. Add in exercise. The American Heart Association also recommends 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Even a brisk walk around the block each day, combined with a healthy diet, can help improve your cardiovascular health.

Dr. Malone is board certiﬁed in internal medicine and cardiovascular disease and serves as director of the Heart Failure Clinic at Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital in St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.bayfronthealth.com

Historically Speaking

Did you know that Hillsborough County, formed in 1834, was a huge county? It originally encompassed the area that would later be divided into Polk, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, De Soto, Hardee, Highlands and, lastly, Pinellas counties. But the division of these counties, especially for Pinellas, was no easy task. Previously known as West Hillsborough, Pinellas faced challenges in transportation and local tax revenue. By 1906, a movement began to formally secede from Hillsborough. Urging support for Pinellas County’s freedom, William L. Straub, editor of the St. Petersburg Times, published the Pinellas Declaration of Independence in 1907. The Florida House of Representatives introduced the measure multiple times, but Tampa-based senators ignored it. Don C. McMullen, a native of Clearwater, won a Senate seat in 1909 and secretly supported the move in 1911. After four years, the Florida Legislature approved the separation and Pinellas County became a reality on January 1, 1912, with Clearwater as the county seat. The name comes from the Spanish words Punta Pinal, which means “point of pines.”

Content supplied by the St. Petersburg Museum of History.

Localtopia

For the 12th year, St. Pete’s largest community celebration will showcase all things local.

On February 2nd, from 10 am to 5 pm, crowds will ﬂock to Williams Park for the popular annual festival, which features over 300 independent local businesses and community organizations. Everything at the festival is locally produced and sold, from artwork and plants to a diverse selection of food and beverages.

This free, one-day event, organized by the nonprofit Keep St. Petersburg Local, highlights many of the Sunshine City’s most beloved artists, small businesses, and community organizations.

While the heart of the festivities is Williams Park, the celebration extends to the surrounding streets as well. Over 60,000 festival-goers attended last year’s event.

Some of the offerings from local makers and merchants include handcrafted goods, self-care products, books, vintage

items, home decor, jewelry, items for pets, apparel, and accessories.

There will be delicious local eats and beverages, live music from local bands, deejays spinning between sets, street performers, demonstrations, and activities for all ages.

Keep St. Petersburg Local has been hosting Localtopia for the past 12 years. The nonprofit organization, founded by a group of local independent business owners and citizens, is dedicated to fostering a thriving local economy and a unique community by nurturing connections and raising awareness about the importance of buying local.

Although the event is family-friendly, it is not pet-friendly. Organizers insist that you leave your pets at home due to the large crowds.

For more information, visit localtopia.keepsaintpetersburglocal.org

Speakers Who Inspire

On December 10th, the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg welcomed Pulitzer Prize finalist and New York Times Magazine writer Linda Villarosa for an impactful presentation on racial disparities in healthcare. The event, part of the Foundation’s “Speakers Who Inspire” series, which is free to attend and open to the public, created the opportunity for necessary conversations around the intersection of race and health.

During the presentation, Villarosa, a powerful voice in journalism and public health, illuminated the ongoing issues and provided firsthand accounts of how this pervasive issue continues to impact the care Black Americans receive across the country.

Her critically acclaimed book, Under the Skin, explores how structural racism has shaped health outcomes. Recognized as one of the best books of 2022 by NPR, The Washington Post and The New York Times, Villarosa’s work continues to inspire conversations and has prompted much-needed research, dialogue and calls for action. Villarosa’s 2018 New York Times Magazine cover story, ‘Why America’s Black Mothers and Babies Are in a Life-or-Death Crisis,’ exposed the stark realities Black mothers and babies face in the healthcare system. It sparked a pivotal moment in the national conversation on Black maternal health.

At the event, Villarosa delved into the themes of her book and article, illustrating how structural racism has shaped the healthcare system and its ongoing impact on Black communities. After her

talk, she participated in a lively Q&A session, guided by Dr. Kanika Tomalin, President and CEO of the Foundation. This allowed the audience to ask questions and dive deeper into the issues.

What Villarosa’s work demonstrates is that there is still much to be done to address racial health disparities. While the discussions surrounding a presentation like this can often be difficult to have, they are essential to creating positive change. The Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg has created a crucial platform for addressing public health issues that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. By putting a spotlight on Villarosa’s work, the Foundation is encouraging the community to engage in meaningful dialogues that inspire change.

The event wrapped up with a book signing, giving attendees the opportunity to meet and interact with Villarosa. It was a transformative evening, leaving many attendees inspired and motivated to advocate for change. By hosting speakers like Villarosa, the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg furthers its mission to foster dialogue, education and awareness.

“Hearing Linda’s thoughts—hearing what she thinks about solutions that might aid our work to create a stronger more equitable community is a first step…but then the work really starts and we come together to craft these solutions in ways that make us a stronger place to live,” Tomalin offered. “Building awareness about issues is critical to resolving them.”

For more information, visit healthystpete.foundation

Detail from a print depicting Carolina parakeets (Plate 26) from Birds of America, by John James Audubon

Pup Playdates

Whether you are a past adopter or a future one, there are some paw-some local events you need to know about.

Glow Up

St. Pete’s annual Healthy Fit City 5K and 1-Mile Walk will return to downtown on Saturday, February 3rd. Hosted by Healthy St. Pete, a division of the St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department, the 7th annual Glow in the Park event will take place in North Straub Park at 400 Bayshore Dr. NE, beginning at 5 p.m.

This annual event promotes health and wellness while encouraging collaboration among local organizations. A diverse array of local vendors will be on hand to provide information on wellness resources available throughout St. Pete.

Registration for the 5K race includes a complimentary T-shirt, race bib, medal, and a “glow kit” for those who register by January 8th. Early registration for the 5K is $25, with registration closing on February 3rd at 11:59 pm. Day-of registration is available for $30, depending on availability. For those participating in the 1-mile walk, registration also includes a race bib, medal, and “glow kit” if registered by January 8th. The early registration fee for the walk is $10 until February 2nd at 11:59 pm, with day-of registration available for $15, subject to availability.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the distribution of Play Packs throughout the St. Pete community. These include interactive sports equipment, an at-home social and emotional learning curriculum and activity ideas designed to keep kids active and engaged.

Scholarships for race registration are available. To learn more, contact Meagan Young of Healthy St. Pete at meagan.young@stpete.org.

Registration is open and participants can sign up online at healthystpeteﬂ.com

The Humane Society of Pinellas will be hosting a “Doggie Reunion” event on January 26th from 11 am to 1 pm in the dog park at Clearwater’s Crest Lake Park. If you adopted a dog from the Humane Society this is your opportunity to meet up with other adopters and share your stories. Staff and volunteers will be there, handing out fun freebies and taking photos to commemorate the occasion. Visit humanesocietyofpinellas.org for more information.

They will also be participating in the second annual “Plenty of Paws Dog Lover & Dog Adoption Valentine’s Speed Dating Event” on February 1st from 1–4 pm. This event, which is being organized by Breck Pribyl for her 501c3 charity dedicated to her rescue dog Stewie, whose rescue you can follow on Facebook or Instagram at @acutienamedstewie, will benefit other area rescues and take place at several locations simultaneously, including Pinellas Ale Works which will host both the Humane Society and Pet Pal Animal Rescue, Wild Roots St. Pete with Skyway Dachshund Rescue and Rags to Riches Rescue, as well as Limbo Chi Rescue at the Clay Center of St. Pete. Each venue will provide complimentary or discounted drinks and have Valentine-inspired photo ops. Tickets are $20 per person and available on Eventbrite before the events or for purchase on the day at the venue check-in tables. There will also be raﬄes and a silent auction. All proceeds go directly to the

participating rescues.

“Whether you’re looking for love or just want to meet fellow dog enthusiasts, this event is for you,” Pribyl offers. “Enjoy great company and, who knows, maybe even find a furry friend to adopt.”

For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/PlentyofPaws

Breck

Pribyl, Stewie & Stanley, image courtesy of Breck Pribyl

Surreal Visions

Exploring the transformative impact of Surrealism on photography, The Subversive Eye: Surrealist and Experimental Photography from the David Raymond Collection at the Dali Museum, examines how artists employed innovative techniques such as multiple exposure, solarization and unconventional framing. The exhibition traces the global reach of surrealist experimentation, drawing connections between the avant-garde movements across Eastern Europe, Germany and Japan. It highlights over 100 rare works by 50 visionary artists spanning from 1925 to 1948 by artists including Eileen Agar, Manuel Álvarez Bravo, Dora Maar, Lee Miller, Osamu Shimihara and Man Ray.

“Photography was a vital tool for Surrealists to blur the lines between reality and imagination,” said show curator and Senior Curator at The Dalí Dr. William Jeffett. “As The Dalí celebrates the centennial of Surrealism, this exhibition highlights how artists used experimental techniques to challenge perceptions and explore the subconscious, transforming photography into a powerful medium of expression.”

On view through May 4th, the exhibition presents a carefully curated selection of avant-garde works from the collection of artist, filmmaker and internationally recognized art collector David Raymond.

Visitors are invited to engage with interactive experiences, including a “Photo Studio” where you can capture surrealist-inspired photographs using your smartphone. Additionally, the museum’s popular Dream Tapestry AI experience offers a unique opportunity to explore personal dreams, transforming them into artistic visions captured in black-and-white photographs.

For more information, visit www.thedali.org

Mystery Girl

You likely know Linda Hurtado as the Emmy-winning news anchor at Fox 13, but did you know she has been living a double life as a successful author?

Portrait by Andy Bloxham

Picture it— a determined reporter is thrust into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse with an ingenious serial killer, racing through the streets and hidden tunnels of Ybor City during the chaos of the annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival. This is the gripping premise of All the Captive Girls, a standalone book in a series of fast-paced thrillers that comes out on February 17th. Early reviews have hailed it as a “whiteknuckle thrill ride” that “grabs you by the throat and never lets go,” calling it a “riveting” and “heart-stopping adventure” from start to finish.

Hurtado says she’s been writing since high school but became serious about it around ten years ago.

“I joined writers’ groups, attended conferences and met an editor at one of those events. Entangled Publishing published my first book Alive at 5 in 2015, under my pen name Linda Bond. People always ask why Bond,” she explains. “My uncle was James Bond. Not the sexy movie character—My James Bond was a law professor. I write thrillers, so the name worked. When

you say Bond, you know you’re getting action adventure, a little romance and lots of fun.”

After two decades in Tampa, Hurtado and her husband sold the home where they raised their five children and relocated to St. Petersburg. Now settled in Tierra Verde, with a boat right in their backyard, they delight in spending time out on the local waterways.

“Is there any more beautiful place than our St. Petersburg? St Pete is a small town with that big city feel and an ever-changing plate of interesting dishes to feast on and I’m not just talking about food!” she offers. “My favorite thing about the St. Pete area is how culturally diverse it is. From its many museums to a variety of places to eat from Doc Ford’s near the St. Pete Pier to the Tiki Bar in the Skyway Marina district to Egmont Key, we never run out of exciting things to try here. As an author, I also dig two fabulous local bookstores— Tombolo Books and Books & Bottle.”

For more information, visit lindabond.com or order All the Captive Girls on Amazon.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday is observed annually on the third Monday of January through the federal Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. In 2016, Advantage Village Academy (AVA), an organization dedicated to educating, empowering, and enhancing the lives of individuals through initiatives promoting self-sufficiency, financial stability, and economic development for disadvantaged youth, hosted the first MLK Jr. Family Fun Day in St. Pete. The event sought to revitalize the holiday’s significance and was an overwhelming success. In response, the City of St. Petersburg partnered with AVA in 2017 to reimagine both the MLK Jr. Family Fun Day and Parade, culminating in the creation of St. Pete’s annual MLK Dream Big Celebration.

The festivities will kick off on Friday, January 17th with a banquet at the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park from 7-10 pm. Seating is limited, so contact AVA’s office at (727) 321-7919 to register. On Sunday, January 19th at 4 pm, a marching band showcase will take place at Gibbs High School, featuring college bands from Tuskegee University, Savannah State University, Albany State University and others. Tickets are available through Advantage Village Academy. The Dream Big Parade will be held on Monday, January 20th from 11 am to 2 pm and will travel East to West through the heart of downtown on 1st Avenue South, culminating at Tropicana Field. There will be a festive procession of ﬂoats representing various organizations that embody the spirit of Dr. King’s vision and lively performances from local marching bands.

For more information, visit mlkdreambig.com

Sound Choices

Radio St. Pete and Sunshine 96.7 FM oﬀer a variety of great local programming and music, keeping listeners informed about what’s happening in our community.

In a fascinating recent episode of the Historically St. Pete podcast, host Rui Farias, the executive director of the St. Petersburg Museum of History, talked with news director Nanette Wiser about the curious history of Doc Webb and St. Pete’s iconic Webb’s City, the “World’s Most Unusual Drug Store.”

tinyurl.com/RuiFarias

Tune in anytime to hear that episode or browse the 8,500 interviews, podcasts or 20+ music shows, showcasing local singers, songwriters and bands such as Alicia Crawford, who recently debuted her new CD. There’s always someone interesting on Lunchtime Conversations, Monday through Saturday from noon to 1:30 pm, which features interviews with musicians, artists, local leaders and non-profit organizations.

MLK Celebration

concerts, festivals, and fun happenings from downtown St. Pete to the beaches. And from the downtown studio of THRIVE DTSP, Radio St. Pete broadcasts live sports shows from Ferg’s, including high school sports and On the Tee.

On her weekly Let’s Go Guide, Wiser previews upcoming events,

Search for podcasts and blogs anytime at radiostpete.com/podcast-archives

We love the tailored silhouette of a great suit. This DoubleBreasted Side Stripe Set at Pippa Pelure is giving us the perfect blend of chic styling with a modern athleisure twist.

Right On Course

With features on powerful women and powerful watercraft in this issue, we went on a hunt for some standout items at our local shops that reﬂect conﬁdence, modern sophistication and a discerning eye for quality.

By Nick Steele

There’s something so right about these Max Mara “Bridge” round sunnies at Dillard’s Tyrone Square that adds an element of polished appeal to any look.

Hammitt

Bag at Dillard’s Tyrone Square combines rich pebbled leather, brushed gold hardware and a perfect blend of laid-back sophistication and functionality.

This Wool Felt Safari Hat at Pippa Pelure exudes subtle sophistication, elevating any ensemble with its timeless style.

The

“Tom” Leather Shoulder Hobo

Elevate any outfit with DIFF Eyewear’s “Becky IV” Polarized Cat Eye Sunglasses in amber tortoise at Dillard’s Tyrone Square

Meticulously hand-beaded, the Smooth Sailing Crossbody Bag at Pippa Pelure is a beautifully crafted, portable work of art.

These intricately crafted 14 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Cut Sand Dollar Earrings from the Gold & Diamond Source bring a touch of sand and sea to any ensemble.

We love that you can spend the day in comfort and still look stylish with Chico’s Zenergy® Luxe Cashmere Blend Ankle Pants that bring a luxe look to active wear.

Set sail in style with Chico’s Two Pocket Knit Jacket in passport blue with a nod to the styling and impeccable detailing of a classic Chanel cardigan.

Our friends at Sartorial recommend this sleek Lorenzoni Full Zip Jacket and coordinating cargo pant as a cutting-edge upgrade for modern yachting and boating.

Comfort meets performance with the Stretch 5-pocket Pant at Style Clothing. Crafted for effortless movement, it offers superior ﬂexibility while maintaining a sharp, polished appearance.

Casual Confi dence

For the modern man, we’ve curated a collection of pieces to help you chart a course toward a blend of functionality and style with a spirit of contemporary casual.

Does it get any cooler than the relaxed elegance of this retroinspired Robles Knit Button Down at Style Clothing?

With a list of great features from the lightweight, all-season rubber soles to the neoprene performance lining, you’ll be ready for anything in these handsome Countryaire Hand Finished Saddle Leather Plain Toe slip-on shoes with non-tie elastic laces at Style Clothing.

Taking design cues from the golden age of travel, this waterresistant Avion Chronograph Brown Leather Strap Watch from Citizen at Dillard’s Tyrone Square is perfect for the outdoorsman who values style.

You can’t get more seafaring than the sporty styling of this Cremieux Braided Stripe Stretch Belt at Dillard’s Tyrone Square.

Financial Futures

Want to set your kids up for success? Teaching them

ﬁnancial wellness early equips them with the tools they need to thrive in the future.

By Sean Goodrich

Icannot believe it’s already 2025. It feels like 2024 ﬂew by in a blink of an eye, and it is time to sit down to start thinking about our goals for another year. Our goal for 2025 is to teach our kids about all things financial. So many kids, especially teens and young adults, get their financial education from social media “inﬂuencers” instead of from their families. It is crucial to teach our kids the practical money lessons that 99.99% of hardworking families rely on to provide for their families. Here’s how to get started teaching kids about money.

Building the Foundation

Teach children the value of spending in line with your family’s values. Some families instill these lessons through philanthropy, such as supporting causes they care about, while others might focus on travel, education or experiences to underline meaningful spending.

Get Kids Hooked on Money

Introduce young children to coins and piggy banks, ideally clear ones, so they can watch their savings grow. Teach them the difference between needs and wants by playing games that highlight the differences between needs (like food) and wants (like toys).

Teach Through Experience

Pay your kids a commission instead of an allowance. The difference is that kids are paid a commission when they complete chores (work) and not paid if they don’t do them. This ties money to their effort and achievement, teaching kids’ real-world lessons about earning. If they have a “want,” like a video game or toy, have them calculate how long it will take to earn the money through a commission, and then encourage them to earn it themselves instead of buying it for them. Delayed gratification is a learned skill.

Introduce Budgeting

Turn budgeting into a weekly family meeting where everyone, including the

kids, decides what is most important. This is another opportunity to teach the concept of needs over wants, while setting achievable financial goals, such as saving for a bike or video game by a specific date.

Encourage Earning Opportunities

Inspire your kids to go beyond the commission you pay them for doing chores by earning extra money for helping neighbors with tasks like pet sitting or yard work. This fosters initiative and an entrepreneurial mindset.

Inspire Your Kids to Give Back

Encourage your kids to donate a percentage of their commission/income to charity. Whether you call it tithing or giving back to the community, this helps your children understand that there are always others who are less fortunate.

Lessons for Older Kids

As children mature, introduce more advanced concepts:

• Credit Basics: Explain borrowing, interest, and how debt can affect finances.

• Real-World Costs: Encourage them to pitch in for expenses like gas or phone bills.

• Tracking Finances: Teach them how to use budgeting apps to manage spending.

• Investing: Let them track a stock or the S&P 500 index to get a feel for how the market works.

• Compounding: Have your kids use AI to run a projection to demonstrate how compounding makes your money grow faster. For instance, if they invested $100 a month in the S&P 500 from now until age 65, what would the result be?

Sean Goodrich is a certiﬁed ﬁnancial planner for Raymond James through Goodrich Wealth Planning. He can be reached at sean.goodrich@raymondjames.com.

Delicious Dispatches from Our Vibrant Community

Catalan Mushroom Bisque from the recently released The Dalí Museum Café Gala Cookbook, a charming celebration of Spanish-inspired cuisine that lets readers experience ﬁrsthand the delectable creations of the museum’s beloved Café Gala.

T What’s Cooking

he Dalí Museum recently published its first-ever cookbook, inspired by Salvador Dalí’s homeland.

The Dalí Museum Café Gala Cookbook takes readers on a vibrant culinary adventure through Spain. The cookbook was created by the museum, with contributions from Chef Chuck Bandel of Café Gala and Museum Director Hank Hine.

Named in honor of Salvador Dalí’s wife and muse Gala, this charming 203-page hardcover book features signature dishes from Café Gala, such as La Tortilla, Gazpacho, Roasted Carrot Hummus, and Spanish Almond Cake. Each recipe is paired with a rich story and cultural significance, showcasing Chef Bandel’s expertise with dishes ranging from classic tapas to hearty soups, savory meats, and indulgent desserts.

Foodies, home cooks and fans of the iconic artist can go on a delicious journey through 55 carefully crafted recipes that capture the essence of Catalan and Spanish ﬂavors.

“Cooking is, in itself, a process of transformation,” notes Hank Hine, Dalí Museum Director, in the cookbook’s introduction. “Just as Salvador Dalí saw the world as ﬂuid and ever-changing, cooking transforms raw elements into something entirely new, inviting the same sense of wonder and metamorphosis we find in art.”

Beautifully illustrated with Chef Bandel’s photography, watercolor artwork, and select pieces by Dalí, it blends the worlds of art and gastronomy into a truly unique experience. Each page invites you to savor the ﬂavors and history of Spain from the comfort of your own kitchen.

The cookbook is available for $39.95 at the museum shop and online at shop.thedali.org

Elliott Aster Blooms

The iconic Vinoy Resort and Golf Club’s latest addition is a sophisticated steak and seafood restaurant from Michelinstarred chef Lee Wolen. It is being billed as a new culinary destination on the waterfront in downtown St Pete.

Elliott Aster offers a refined dining experience that seamlessly blends innovative cuisine with the luxurious ambiance of the hotel’s Mediterranean Revival-style architecture. The restaurant’s name is a nod to both a native Florida wildﬂower and Gene Elliott, the real estate developer who played a hand in the creation of the Vinoy.

Chef Wolen, known for his acclaimed Michelin-starred Boka restaurant in Chicago, brings his exceptional culinary vision to the new fine dining venue. He honed his craft at some of the world’s most renowned restaurants, including El Bulli in Spain, Eleven Madison Park in New York City and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxford. Following a successful tenure at the Four Seasons Palm Beach in the early 2000s, he is excited to be back in the Sunshine State.

In keeping with the property’s history, Elliott Aster offers both an elegant indoor dining room and a beautifully scenic waterfront patio. Wolen was drawn to the hotel’s charm and storied past and wanted to create a space that both embraced and enhanced its legacy.

“I am truly honored to be opening a restaurant in St. Pete, a place that holds a special place in my heart,” Wolen shared. “Having stayed at The Vinoy with my family and experiencing its rich history and charm, it feels like the perfect setting to create something truly special.”

The menu features “thoughtfully sourced” ingredients and

expertly crafted dishes, from steaks cooked on a woodburning stove—like a 45-day dry-aged prime bone-in ribeye and a 48 oz Bistecca alla Fiorentina to share—to Italianinspired and fresh seafood delicacies like King Crab Tagliatelle, as well as an antipasti bar.

As the Vinoy prepares to mark its centennial anniversary, Elliott Aster is poised to become a central piece of the resort’s revitalized offerings.

“We are thrilled to welcome Elliott Aster to the Vinoy as part of the final phase of our extensive renovation and expansion,” said Vanessa Williams, General Manager of the Vinoy. “Boka Restaurant Group’s vision, paired with Chef Wolen’s remarkable talent, is a perfect match for our dedication to exceptional hospitality. This exciting new addition will offer locals and visitors alike an extraordinary dining experience.”

For more information, visit elliottaster.com

New In Town

Late last year, after eight successful months at the culinary incubator Foodie Labs where up-andcoming chef entrepreneurs lease kitchen space, Chef Taoufik “Touf” Abdelmoula launched his highly anticipated French-Moroccan fusion restaurant, Cybel, earning enthusiastic praise from critics and diners alike. Known for introducing St. Pete to “French tacos,” Chef Touf blends the rich culinary traditions of France and Morocco, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Cybel is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week from 11 am to 11 pm at 2735 5th Avenue N. in Historic Kenwood.

Located at 397 Fifth St S., in downtown St. Pete, Exquisite Bistro offers a selection of curated wines, craft beers, signature charcuterie boards and small plates in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Owner Kevin Ollier says he wanted to bring a touch of European ﬂair to the city and create a place where guests could unwind, savor and connect.

In December, the popular fast-casual restaurant chain Sweetgreen opened a new location at 1114 Central Ave. in the Edge District. The restaurant offers a variety of made-to-order options, including fresh salads, warm bowls and protein plates. All dishes are prepared using locally sourced produce and organic ingredients, delivered fresh each morning. The health-conscious eatery is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, offering ample seating indoors and several sidewalk tables for outdoor dining.

Bird’s-Eye View

Sparrow is a new restaurant and lounge atop the Moxy Hotel by Marriott at 1234 Central Avenue in the new EDGE Collective mixed-use development near Tropicana Field.

Nicholas Pantuliano, chief development and chief operating officer at PTM Partners, one of the project’s developers, bills it as “a stunning space that will serve as the heart of the Edge District’s bustling nightlife.”

From the cocktails to the decor, Sparrow takes some of its cues from its namesake predecessor at The Dalmar Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, but with a distinctly St. Pete point of view.

Wurzak Hotel Group President Jake Wurzak explains that while there are similarities to the original location, this iteration is tailored to our community.

“It’s not a cookie-cutter concept,” he offers. “We’re just bringing the ethos of what Sparrow is to St. Pete.”

The space has a distinctly 1950s/1960s American Modernism vibe with a variety of cozy seating areas. The menu includes Asian-fusion offerings, sushi, bao buns and some traditional American fare like the 12-ounce New York strip steak.

The beverage menu offers an extensive array of handcrafted creations, like the Edge on Central and the Dali’s Surrealist Dreams cocktails, developed to celebrate the city. They also offer an assortment of wines and beers. They even have artisanal sake available by the glass or bottle.

Sparrow’s most compelling draw may be the exterior terrace tables, which offer stellar views of Central Avenue and the lively rooftop pool bar lined with colorful cabanas. Wurzak describes it as a “place you’ll want to ‘camp out’ in for hours.”

Sparrow is open Thursdays from 5:30 pm to midnight and Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 pm to 2 am. Due to limited capacity, reservations are strongly recommended.

Also located in the Edge District, Bar Mezzo at 1049 Central Ave. is the newly opened sister bar to the popular Intermezzo Coﬀee and Cocktails, just a short walk away at 1111 Central Ave. Intermezzo maintains its charm as a cozy coffee shop by day, transforming into a relaxed wine and cocktail lounge in the evening. Meanwhile, Mezzo stands out with its selection of premium spirits, seasonal cocktails and a reputation for crafting some of the most inventive drinks in town.

The Good ‘Burger Awards / Floridian Social Club / November 13, 2024

“This year, we’re all winners!” declared Chris Steinocher, CEO of the St. Pete Chamber of Commerce, as every nominee received an award for the first time in 12 years. Presented by the Bank of Tampa and Compass Land & Title, the annual event celebrates the people, businesses, and organizations that make our community thrive.

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Paws for a Cause / Ruth Eckerd Hall / October 4, 2024

Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the Humane Society of Pinellas hosted its festive annual gala to raise crucial funds to support homeless pets at the area’s largest no-kill shelter. The event included adoptable dogs and offered guests the chance to enjoy an elegant evening filled with dinner, cocktails, and dancing.

WADA Futurescape Gala / Urban Stillhouse / November 6, 2024

The Warehouse Arts District Association’s festive evening raised funds to support the development of a new arts education tool, assist WADA artists recovering from storm damage and make necessary repairs and improvements to the campus.

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Suncoast Jazz Festival / Sheraton Sand Key Resort / November 22-24, 2024

The Suncoast Jazz Festival hosted three days and nights of live music performances by national and international artists across three stages to mark their 34th annual celebration of jazz. Photos by Steve Splane.

Smartly Dressed / The Coliseum

December 12, 2024

Attendees at the 46th annual fashion show presented by the Margaret Acheson Stuart Society benefiting the Museum of Fine Arts presented guests with a community fashion show titled Passport to Paris with looks from Dillard’s International Plaza.

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Arts Annual Hurricane Relief Fundraiser / The Gallery at Creative Pinellas / December 7, 2024

Creative Pinellas launched “Still Shining” at their annual fundraiser, featuring 25 Pinellas County artists who created unique pieces to honor the region’s resilience after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Based on the event’s success, they will distribute $20,000 to local artists and arts organizations affected by the storms. Photos by Sandra Sonik.

Storm Resistant Home Solutions with Strobel Design Build

When deciding on FEMA-compliant upgrades, a common question arises: should you elevate your existing home or start anew with a custom build? Each choice offers unique benefits based on factors like cost, project timing, and personal preferences. Elevating your current home allows you to preserve its original character while enhancing its resilience, making it a practical option for homeowners who are deeply connected to their property. On the other hand, building a new home provides the freedom to start fresh, ensuring every detail is crafted with modern safety standards and personal comfort in mind.

Custom-built homes allow for a fresh start, offering modern designs tailored to your unique lifestyle and location. From advanced flood-resistant foundations to sustainable building materials, Strobel Design Build ensures that every new construction meets rigorous FEMA standards while also reflecting your vision for a dream home.

H OME LIFT WORK

INTERIOR RESTORATION

STARTING AT: $225 / PER SQ F T

T HIS INCLUDES ELEVATING THE ENTIRE HOME STRUCTURE’S GROUND FLOOR, ENCOMPASSING EVERY SQUARE FOOT THAT IS “UNDER ROOF .”

* F ULL GROUND FLOOR ELEVATION

* COMPLETE ENCLOSURE OF GROUND FLOOR

* INTEGRATION OF EXTERIOR ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS

S TAR TING AT: $115 / PER SQ F T

F OR HOMES AFFECTED BY STORM-RELATED DAMAGE SUCH AS FLOODING INTRUSION, WE’LL RESTORE IT TO ITS ORIGINAL CONDITION

* COMPLETE STORM DAMAGE REPAIR

* FULL INTERIOR RESTORATION

* NOTE: LAYOUT CHANGES OR ADDITIONAL

STRUCTURAL WORK MAY AFFECT FINAL COST

Storms and flooding can leave homes in disrepair, causing both visible and hidden damage that impacts safety and comfort. At Strobel Design Build, we specialize in comprehensive interior restoration, meticulously returning storm-affected homes to their original beauty while integrating modern improvements.

Our restoration process addresses every aspect of your home, from structural repairs to aesthetic enhancements. Whether it’s repairing water-damaged walls, restoring floors, or cabinetry and fixtures, our skilled team ensures that every detail is handled with care and precision.

Beyond simply repairing damage, we focus on building resilience into your home. By incorporating advanced materials and techniques, we help protect against future storms while enhancing the overall functionality and style of your space. With Strobel Design Build, your home becomes more than just a restored property—it’s a renewed sanctuary designed to stand the test of time.

Our commitment goes beyond meeting FEMA standards—we strive to exceed expectations by delivering homes that provide safety, style, and long-term peace of mind. Choosing Strobel Design Build means partnering with a team dedicated to turning your vision into reality. Let us help you reimagine your home and create a space where memories can flourish for years to come.

Are you ready to invest in a home that stands strong against the elements? We specialize in hurricane-rated new home builds designed specifically for the unique lot sizes found in the breathtaking Tampa Bay area, including barrier islands and flood zone properties.

Contact Strobel Design Build at www.StrobelDesignBuild.com/contact-us and submit an inquiry.

Alternatively, give us a call at (727) 201-3038 CBC 125735

Bayfront Health is now Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital.

A new name, for a new century of care. Three years ago, we welcomed Bayfront Health into the Orlando Health family of hospitals. Since that time, we’ve been making steady investments in Bayfront Health and the St. Petersburg community to improve the quality of care and your patient experience, with expanded services and access to more top specialists. And we are proud to add our name. Stay tuned for even more good news to come.

OrlandoHealth.com/Bayfront

St. Pete Life Magazine, January/February 2025

Rebuilding After The Storms

Planning for the Future

DEFINITIONS

INSIDE

From the Publisher

The Advantage of a Conﬁdent SMILE!

What is Smile Rejuvenation?

Choosing the Right Smile Designer.

Right On Course

Back on Track

Back on Track

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

Race Weekend Kickoﬀ Activities

Additional Fan Activities

Tickets & Info

Social Media

Call for Volunteers

Getting to the Race

For the Love of Literacy

Delivering Holiday Joy to Local Families

IThe Thrill of It All

Beyond the Books

Luxury Open Air Event Facility Awaits You and Your Guests

Valerie Yost Compass Land and Title

CARYN RIGHTMYER PREMIER SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

Denise Antonewitz, PA

Christina Holtz

Bay Paws Pet Resort

Sharon Mahoney Events By The Glass Making Wine Approachable

MELODY STANG REAL ESTATE BROKER, OWNER

Dr. Rosh

Roshni Ranjit-Reeves, MD

Beyond

Coaﬆal

Designer Journey

Signature Success

Speciﬁcations

Bigger & Better

Women In Wine

The Wine Key

Honoring History

Black History Matters

Be Heart Smart

DASH Diet

Mediterranean Diet

Steps for Success

Historically Speaking

Localtopia

Speakers Who Inspire

Pup Playdates

Glow Up

Surreal Visions

Mystery Girl

Sound Choices

MLK Celebration

Right On Course

Casual Confi dence

Financial Futures

Building the Foundation

Get Kids Hooked on Money

Teach Through Experience

Introduce Budgeting

Lessons for Older Kids

Delicious Dispatches from Our Vibrant Community

T What’s Cooking

Elliott Aster Blooms

New In Town

Bird’s-Eye View

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WADA Futurescape Gala / Urban Stillhouse / November 6, 2024

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Suncoast Jazz Festival / Sheraton Sand Key Resort / November 22-24, 2024

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Storm Resistant Home Solutions with Strobel Design Build

H OME LIFT WORK

INTERIOR RESTORATION

Articles inside

Mystery Girl